Camper vans & powder dreams
As winter sets in and the mountains don their snowy mantles, we at 8 Ball campers eagerly anticipate the thrill of carving through fresh powder and camping under the pristine stars. For those seeking a unique and adventurous way to experience the slopes, the combination of an 8Ball camper van and the alpine wonderland of the French Alps create a perfect recipe for an unforgettable snowboarding or skiing expedition.
Picture this: a cozy camper van parked against a backdrop of snow-laden pine trees, a panoramic view of the French Alps, hundreds of runs just waiting to be conquered. This is what we live for.
For our mission this year we chose Morzine, nestled in the heart of the Portes du Soleil ski area, it offers an idyllic setting for a winter escapade. Known for its pristine slopes, charming alpine architecture, and vibrant après-ski scene, Morzine is a haven for snow sports enthusiasts. Doing your ski/snowboard trip in a camper van adds a layer of freedom, adventure and flexibility to your trip. Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air, sipping on a hot cup of coffee, made on your stove and stepping out of your van directly onto the snow-covered terrain. With a camper van as your mobile base, you have the freedom to explore different parts of the Alpes ski areas and choose your favourite spots to ride and chase the snow to different resorts.
Let’s spin back to the beginning of our trip, just getting there is easier in a van. All your gear, all your food, everything you need in one place, just get packed and get on the road. We usually finish work, get to the channel tunnel, we get a late tunnel, then drive till we want to sleep. Pull over into a French services, we like a decent size services, some of the little aires pull ins are quiet, but some dodgy stuff has happens in these, Google it and stay at your own risk. You want to stay safe so we like to choose a safe location in a services that can supply good coffee and croissants in the morning. Next day crack on early and you can get a ride in the afternoon.
Ski resorts in the Alpes are pretty easy going about letting you stay in the resort car parks, some are free, some aren’t but most let you stay there. Park your van in one of the designated areas and use the resort’s efficient transportation system to navigate to the village and reach the ski lifts, or sometimes you can park right next to a lift. Bonus. We love doing a trip this way as it keeps costs down and gives you freedom to follow the snow. Wake up, good coffee, first lift, last lift, Apres ski, pop top, sleep repeat.
When it comes to camper van logistics there’s a few things to consider:
- Heater, you need one to comfortably do a ski trip in the Alpes, we have done it with and without and with is a much happier experience. Always think worst case scenario. If it rained one day and was cold on the night would you want to put on frozen/wet gear in the morning? No you wouldn’t We fit Webasto diesel heaters and these are perfect.
- Consider how you carry your boards, they fit in the van fine, but having them secured on a Gel VW rack with a snowboard mod at the back of the van is a good option to keep your living space free and your boards safe.
- Have decent sleeping kit, it can get very cold, ensure you will stay warm. Sleep in thermals and let your body warm the sleeping bag. Don’t sleep in your snowboard socks, if they are damp from sweat your feet will get cold. Drinking alcohol on a night can make you colder, but that’s a step too far, enjoy the apres ski!
- Have snow chains, make sure they fit, make sure you have tested putting them on before you go. Figuring out how to put snow chains on for the first time half way up a snowy pass holding up a queue of angry french drivers is no fun.
- Have a ‘grab bag’ to travel with we like to have a small bag we can get our hands on at anytime that’s not buried in your packed kit. A change, toiletries, warm hat, multitool, gloves if you need to put on snow chains in freezing temperatures that kind of thing. Just makes things easier if you’re stopping to kip on a long drive or sorting a problem.
- Make sure you have the usual French driving regs, UK sticker, high vis, triangle etc etc.
We also like to plan a stop on the way back to stop it being such a mission home, maybe stop at Dijon or Reims to get a decent meal, some decent mustard or a champagne tour and a bit of culture, the fun doesn’t have to stop when you leave the snow.
In conclusion, taking a camper van on a snowboard trip to France or any ski resort in Europe is an exhilarating way to blend the freedom of the open road with the excitement of carving down pristine mountain slopes. The unique combination of mobility, comfort, and breathtaking alpine landscapes creates an experience that transcends the ordinary. So, gear up, hit the road, and let the Alp1s be the canvas for your winter masterpiece.
