Believe it or not, there is a correct way to layer your clothes. Base layer, mid layer, outer layer. The key is to make sure your core is warm at all times. Don’t forget to pack socks, gloves, and a beanie to keep your extremities warm.

We have heaters in our vans for good reason! As long as you start the night with at least a quarter tank of diesel, it should be no problem to run your heat during the night. Each heater has a timer to automatically shut it off, so you can keep some fuel in the tank for the morning.

This is a fun way to explore and stay warm at night. Hot Springs, natural or man made, often have campgrounds nearby. Why not spend a night or two of your trip soaking in warm water? Not only does it add a unique element to your trip, but we guarantee that if you spend a few minutes in the hot springs before bed, you’ll be one happy camper crawling into your sleeping bag.

Have a campfire (but make sure you’ve double checked on any fire bans in the area!) and sip on a warm drink while you’re at it! This is what we call #doubletime. Warm your outsides and your insides, all at once!

Wool, fleece, and synthetic materials will be warmer than cotton. Avoid packing your bag full of cotton layers and instead, try packing a fleece sweatshirt and a down jacket! Synthetic base layers are great items to wear underneath heavier outer layers. These fabrics will trap body heat and provide warmth that goes a whole lot further than cotton will.

We know those places like the Grand Tetons are ever-so-tempting with those snow capped peaks…but for your own comfort, we recommend considering a route that takes you South. Ever woken up among the cacti in Saguaro National Park? To the incredible desert sunrise hues in Death Valley National Park? The waves crashing in San Diego, CA? You can’t go wrong no matter where you go, but for the comfort of #vanlife, we recommend warm(er) climates.