Travelling by van in winter: the complete guide to a successful road trip

Travelling by van in winter offers a unique experience: driving along snow-covered landscapes, savouring the calm of the cold season and enjoying milder days away from the summer crowds. With a well-prepared vehicle and practical advice, your winter adventure becomes as comfortable as it is unforgettable.

An accessible adventure with the right preparation

Before you hit the road, you need to prepare meticulously. Travelling in winter can't be improvised: you have to anticipate the coldadapt your organisation and get to know the real challenges of the season. With a little forethought, this experience can be transformed into a smooth and captivating adventure.

Why more and more travellers are trying it out

More and more travellers in van winter for an authentic road trip. Less traffic on the roads, more freedom to park and snow-covered destinations in peace and quiet appeal to lovers of nature and tranquillity.

Travelling by van in winter means rediscovering France in a whole new way, with its sparkling mountains, deserted coastlines and charming villages.

Preconceived ideas about winter vanlife

Many people think that winter driving is uncomfortable or risky. However, with the right equipment (insulation, heating, snow tyres), your van becomes an ideal mobile cocoon for winter weather.

HorizonVan-UP-L2-van-amenage-renault-trafic

Preparing your van for winter

Preparing your van for the cold season guarantees comfort and peace of mind. Horizon modelsVan of Glénan Concept Cars incorporate specific solutions such as multi-layer insulation, the heating stationary Webasto and the heated upper bed, for cosy nights even below 0°C.

Thermal insulation

Thermal insulation is essential for keeping warm. Glénan Concept Cars vans benefit from reinforced insulation of the walls, floor and pop-up roof, limiting heat loss and condensation.

  • - Multi-layer insulation panels.
  • - Insulating curtains (thermal and acoustic) for windows.
  • - Insulated cover for pop-up roof.

Stationary heating

A heating stationary is essential against the cold. Horizon modelsVan are equipped with a Webasto fuel system, with an altitude kit for reliable starting at up to 2,000 m, silent and economical.

  • - Consumption of 0.12-0.24 l/h
  • - Possible programming

Managing humidity and condensation

Condensation threatens winter comfort. Glénan Concept Cars features optimised ventilation and moisture-repellent materials.

  • - Rot-proof insulation
  • - Breathable cotton roof canvas

Safety and driving in winter conditions

Safety comes first in winter. Slippery roads, short days and reduced visibility demand vigilance. Adopt these reflexes for serene driving in the most demanding conditions.

Suitable tyres and snow equipment

Equip your vehicle properly before you leave. Choose the right tyres winter or standard snow chains. Don't forget to check your coolant and windscreen washer fluid levels. Finally, take a scraper, a headlamp and a first-aid kit on board to cover all eventualities.

Anticipating the weather

Anticipate snow-covered roads and climate change.

  • - Check the daily weather reports.
  • - Make sure you have a plan B for parking. Note that few campsites are open out of season.
  •  - Ride in daylight for better visibility.

Energy autonomy

Cold weather affects batteries. The lithium batteries fitted to Glénan Concept Cars vans are particularly resistant to low temperatures, but it's a good idea to have a solar panel on board to remain autonomous.

rangements-optimises-fabrication-artisanale-achat-fourgon-amenage-glenan-concept-cars

Where to travel in a van in winter?

Winter opens up a wide range of horizons for your trip in a converted van. Sea, mountains or countryside: each destination reveals enchanting landscapes, far from the hustle and bustle of summer.

Sea, mountains, countryside

Tailor your itinerary to suit you.

  • - Sea: Atlantic or Mediterranean coast in mild sunshine.
  • - Mountains: Alps, Pyrenees or Massif Central for skiing and relaxation.
  •  - Countryside: Snow-covered villages and quiet regions for a relaxing getaway.

Examples of itineraries in France

Get inspired by these winter road trips.

  • - Savoyard: Annecy - Les Arcs - Chamonix.
  • - South-West: Bordeaux - Arcachon - Dune du Pilat.
  • - Brittany: Quimper - Crozon - Côte des Légendes.

Support for Glénan Concept Cars

Glénan Concept Cars provides expert support throughout France. Specialising in fitting Renault Trafic with HorizonVanwe offer vans that are built to withstand the harsh conditions of thewinterwith top-of-the-range comfort and reliability.

Our pre-departure advice

Have your vehicle serviced by our team of experts. They'll tell you all about the best practices and equipment for your winter journeys during a dedicated appointment.

Vehicles and facilities adapted to winter conditions

Discover HorizonVan designed for cold :

  • - Complete insulation and insulated cover.
  • - High-performance Webasto heating.
  • - Microperforated heated bed and insulating curtains (depending on pack).

Monitoring and technical expertise

Benefit from a responsive after-sales service: seasonal checks, assistance and maintenance for total peace of mind.

Travelling by van in winter offers precious freedom, between temperatures and magical landscapes. With HorizonVan from Glénan Concept Cars, enjoy made-to-measure comfort for a safe and dynamic holiday.

Go to our van configurator to create HorizonVan that's just like you!

And if you'd like a full presentation and advice on your project from one of our experts, you can find our 2 to 7-seater converted vans in our showrooms of Quimper, Bordeaux and Lyonor contact us directly l'Atelier Glénan for fitting accessories to your HorizonVan.

FAQ

1. Can you sleep comfortably in a van in winter?

Yes, thanks to the reinforced insulation and Webasto stationary heating of our HorizonVanYou'll be able to enjoy a well-deserved rest and continue travelling even at 0°C.

2. What equipment is essential?

If you're going on a winter holiday, check before you leave that your tyres are in good condition (chains or snow tyres), and that your stationary heater and lithium battery are working. If you still want to enjoy the roof tent and its large bed, don't forget to get our isothermal cover.

3. Where to go in France this winter?

France is even more beautiful in winter, so head to the Alps for a sporting break that combines skiing and hiking, or Brittany for its calm and rough seas, or the south for sunshine and a milder climate.

4. How do you manage condensation?

We strongly recommend that you air your Glénan Concept Cars van every day when you travel in winter.

5. Do I need a special permit?

No, a B licence is all you need, with equipment snow in the areas concerned.