Winter Camping with an Electric Car: Tips for Power, Safety, and Comfort
Ever thought about winter camping with your electric car and wondered, “Will it work?”
Good news—it absolutely can. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just testing the waters, electric cars bring some serious perks to the table for winter camping. But it’s not without its quirks.
Let’s break it down: power consumption, safety, warmth, comfort, and a few gear hacks from MKCAMP, the go-to brand for electric car camping.
1. How Much Power Does Winter Camping with an Electric Car Use?
The big question everyone asks: “Will I drain my battery overnight?”
The answer depends on a few things:
Temperature Settings: Running your car’s heater at full blast can consume anywhere from 1-3 kWh per hour. If your car has a camp mode (like Tesla), it optimises this, using around 1 kWh per hour.
Battery Capacity: Most electric cars come with batteries that are more than enough for a night or two. For example, a 75 kWh battery could keep you warm for 30+ hours in camp mode and still leave enough juice to drive out.
Extra Devices: Charging gadgets, lights, or running additional appliances will add to the consumption, but modern EVs handle this well.
Tips to Reduce Power Usage:
Precondition your car before bedtime.
Use a tailgate tent (like MKCAMP’s custom design) to insulate and trap warmth.
Pack an external power source if you’re camping off-grid.
2. Is Winter Camping in an Electric Car Safe?
Yes—but here’s what you need to watch for.
Ventilation: Make sure the air vents in the car aren’t blocked. If you’re using a tailgate tent, leave some small openings for airflow to prevent condensation.
Battery Management: Aim to have at least 20-30% battery left when you’re ready to leave. This gives you a safety margin for unexpected weather or detours.
Driving Conditions: Winter camping often means icy roads, so keep tyre chains or winter tyres on hand.
Bonus Safety Gear:
An emergency kit (first aid, flashlight, jumper cables).
A heated blanket compatible with your EV’s USB ports.
Portable CO2 detectors, just to be extra cautious.
3. How to Stay Warm and Comfortable
Comfort is king when camping in the winter. Trust me, waking up shivering isn’t fun.
Here’s the cheat code:
Tailgate Tent: MKCAMP’s Tesla-specific tents seal to the back of your car perfectly, creating a cosy insulated space.
Car Mattress: A fitted car mattress makes a world of difference. MKCAMP offers customised options that work with Tesla models and other EVs. No cold spots, no awkward gaps.
Insulating Layers: Lay reflective insulation under your mattress and add a thick duvet or sleeping bag.
Want to feel luxurious? Add some inflatable furniture or string up fairy lights. Camping can be rugged and stylish.
4. Is Camping with an EV Actually Convenient?
Surprisingly, yes.
With an electric car:
You don’t need to worry about carrying propane tanks or refuelling.
It’s whisper-quiet, so you can camp in peace.
Camp mode (or similar settings) automates comfort and energy efficiency.
Combine this with MKCAMP’s luxury camping gear, and you’re set for a hassle-free trip. Inflatable beds, portable kitchens, and compact furniture take your setup to the next level.
FAQs
1. Can I charge my EV while camping?
Yes, if there’s a charging station nearby. Some campsites even offer EV hookups. Otherwise, carry a portable solar panel or external battery as a backup.
2. How cold is too cold for winter camping in an EV?
Most electric cars perform well in sub-zero temperatures, but extreme conditions (below -20°C) may reduce battery efficiency. Preheating and keeping the battery above 50% helps.
3. Do I need special gear for camping in my EV?
It’s not mandatory, but gear like MKCAMP’s tailgate tent and custom mattresses make a massive difference in warmth and convenience.
4. Is an EV more eco-friendly for camping?
Absolutely. You’re reducing emissions by skipping petrol or diesel-powered generators, making your trip greener.
Wrapping It Up
Winter camping with an electric car is not only possible—it’s amazing when done right.
With the right setup, like MKCAMP’s tailored gear for Tesla and EVs, you’ll stay warm, comfortable, and safe while making the most of your car’s features.
Give it a try this winter. Just pack smart, keep an eye on your battery, and let your EV take the adventure to the next level.
Got questions? Drop them in the comments or check out MKCAMP’s full range of camping gear for electric cars.
