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Gweedo's avatar
Gweedo
Explorer
Dec 12, 2017

Got my spot picked out for Dec 18th-20th

Taking my son out for a couple nights to a KOA.. Full hookups so no worries there.. and an indoor pool/hot tub/mini golf/go karts/ECT.. ok its really just a spot to park my HTT and enjoy some stuff with my son.. lol

Just thought I would ask if there are any other "things" I should be aware of as I haven't taken the HTT out in the cold, ever.. I don't have the PUGS for the canvas so its going to be cold, I will be bringing two plug in electric heaters and electric blankets for sleeping.. Then all the usual stuff, I plan to winterize when I get back from this trip as my HTT has a new parking spot next to the house (figured if I am going to move it, I may as well use it while its hooked up!!)..

Thanks..
  • bikendan's avatar
    bikendan
    Explorer
    Jan 01, 2018
    We camped in Yosemite, a number of years ago.
    One night it snowed overnight and snow covered the PUGs.
    It chilled the top of the tent end and we still got condensation, even with a vent cracked open.

    So even PUGs have their limitations.
  • Gweedo's avatar
    Gweedo
    Explorer
    Jan 01, 2018
    ah ok.. I thought it was condensation.. I used the AC for a little to pull some of it out, and cracked a window at one point.. Just never been cold weather camping before..

    My bathroom fan switch went bad and only works if you hold the button (cheap design), plus its so loud that I bet the neighbors could here it.. On my to fix list..

    The last night it dropped below freezing as the rain and clouds left the area.. It got cold..

    To sum it up yes I need Pugs..
  • bikendan's avatar
    bikendan
    Explorer
    Jan 01, 2018
    Gweedo wrote:
    Question.. Is there a preferred method to help the canvas be more water proof? It Rained so hard that the drops would hit the canvas and then the ever so slight "condensation\seepage" on the inside would hit me in the face..


    And where can I go Boondock camping in NW Oregon? Any info on that subject would be great!! thanks guys..


    The inside condensation is NOT water seeping through the canvas.
    It's a result of humans breathing inside a trailer closed up as tight as a submarine. Common newbie mistake in hybrids, especially in cold weather.
    And since Oregon has very high humidity, it makes it even worse.

    First, you need PUGs
    Second, you need to allow for air movement. Most hybrid owners crack open a roof vent and unzip a corner of a tent end window.
    Third, turn the bathroom vent fan on low to help with air movement.
  • Gweedo's avatar
    Gweedo
    Explorer
    Jan 01, 2018
    Question.. Is there a preferred method to help the canvas be more water proof? It Rained so hard that the drops would hit the canvas and then the ever so slight "condensation\seepage" on the inside would hit me in the face..


    And where can I go Boondock camping in NW Oregon? Any info on that subject would be great!! thanks guys..
  • mdcamping's avatar
    mdcamping
    Explorer
    Dec 22, 2017
    Good to hear your making the best of it! Having a good attitude is half the battle! :C

    Mike
  • Gweedo's avatar
    Gweedo
    Explorer
    Dec 20, 2017
    All good so far.. its only been down to ~38 degrees according to the weather app I use.. one heater and both electric blankets is the ticket.. It poured down some SERIOUS rain last night too.. Kept me up but my kiddo slept like a champ.. No issues with power using all three together and phone/tablet chargers, and my laptop.. The internet here is a totally different subject though..
  • scottsnider's avatar
    scottsnider
    Explorer II
    Dec 18, 2017
    I would say don't try to have the two electric heaters and the electric blanket on at the same time or you will most likely blow a fuse or circuit breaker. The guy before me in my HTT tried just 2 electric heaters and blew the circuit breaker and almost started a fire. I got one of those propane buddy heaters for inside and keep a window and vent open. Also got some insulation for the tent ends all three sides and the roof. Something to think about.
  • mdcamping's avatar
    mdcamping
    Explorer
    Dec 16, 2017
    If you have the room and if it is going to be that cold you might consider turtling your hybrid. Temperature extremes between outside and inside may cause your canvas to sweat. In addition, makes it more problematic drying out the canvas for winter storage after your trip has ended.

    Regardless, hope you have great trip! :C
    Mike
  • Lwiddis's avatar
    Lwiddis
    Explorer II
    Dec 12, 2017
    After this trip your son will be ready to enjoy some boondocking..away from TV, internet, street lights, another camper 7 feet away, and wildlife viewing etc.

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