WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

Winter Campervan Rentals

We founded Moterra in Jackson Hole, so winter exploration runs deep in our veins! Every year we receive numerous requests from clients for winter rentals, wanting to take full advantage of their multi mountain passes (Ikon, Epic, Mountain Collective etc), or take a long weekend trip to the mountains. Traveling in a van in the winter looks very different from summer adventures. We want to be sure that you fully understand what those differences are and what you can expect when renting a Moterra Campervan in the winter.

All renters who will be driving through or camping in freezing temperatures are required to let us know in advance of your reservation so that we can ensure that both you and the van are properly prepared.

What to Expect

Deactivated Water Systems: These vans are not insulated in the same way your house might be and as a result, there are many potential freeze points in the water system which can lead to lasting damage. With this in mind, we winterize and deactivate the freshwater systems for any reservation that will be traveling through temperatures below 28° F. We will equip you with a refillable 5-gallon container, prefilled with potable water which can be used for drinking and dishes instead.

Opting Not to have the water system deactivated: We are often asked if it’s possible to opt not to have the systems deactivated. The answer is yes, but we want to ensure you know the risks. Should you opt not to have the water systems winterized, and damage occurs as a result of freezing temperatures, the renter will be held responsible for the full cost of repair, including items damaged by water and any loss of use charges if a subsequent reservation is affected, regardless of the functionality of other van systems (i.e. heaters). We recommend airing on the side of caution but understand that there are circumstances in which it might make sense, and therefore want to make the option available.

Keeping Warm: All vans come equipped with either an inbuilt heater, which pulls directly from the diesel tank in the van or a portable propane indoor heater. We would be happy to send you with additional bedding to ensure that you sleep comfortably! Please note, while these items will provide warmth, being in a van during winter will not feel equivalent to being indoors and you will likely still want to layer up! (Pro Tip: Nothing feels better than slippers after a day of snow boots!)

Using the Pop Top: The pop tops are intended to sustain no more than 100 pounds and you might be surprised how heavy snow can be! For those renting pop tops, it will be your responsibility to ensure that the pop-top is completely clear of snow accumulation before raising, or while the pop top is up. The pop top has canvas siding, and while this is weather-proof, it is not insulated.

Ski Equipment

Skiing equipment is not permitted inside the van. If you intend on bringing skis, snowboards, or any other equiptment with sharp edges, they must be stored using a 2” hitch-mounted rack. You are welcome to bring your own or rent one from us ($20/day). Renters will be held responsible for any damages that occur on the interior or exterior of the van as a result of snow sports equipment.

Driving Conditions

All vans that we send into winter conditions will have four-wheel drive capabilities with all-season tires. It is the renter’s responsibility to understand the forecasted climate and the associated road conditions. Renters who may be traveling through storm conditions are required to have chains that are compatible with the vans tire size (LT245/75R16). Chains may be available for purchase at your Moterra pickup location (please let us know in advance so that we can prepare!).

Renters will be held responsible for any damages that result from driving regardless of road conditions.