Holiday time is nearly upon us, and we are all starting to think about what Thanksgiving and Christmas are going to look like this year.
Before you book those pricey airline flights, finalize your holiday plans, or write off a late fall-early winter vacation as too expensive, consider the use of your RV. Yes, even in the cold-weather months, and especially during the holidays, it can come in handy.
Reduce travel stress.
Holiday stress is real, but if you own an RV, it doesn’t need to apply to your method of travel to reach those joyful celebrations.
If you’re planning to fly, you are at the mercy of the airlines cancelling for poor weather and no refunds on your tickets. By watching the weather and being flexible with your departure and return dates, you can use the RV for traveling to and from your intended destination. You may be able to camp someplace new along the way if the drive is substantial or the weather isn’t cooperating, inviting even more opportunities to have an adventure. Maybe you want to incorporate adventure into your plans, such as choosing one of these items on our winter bucket list.
Bring gifts along.
Packing up an RV gives you more room to pack those Christmas presents. No more overloaded vehicles where you can’t see out the back window or extra suitcase that may or may not make it to Christmas morning. You know you have everything you need.
Your own retreat.
An RV serves as your own personal abode as long as you can keep yourself warm, whether that’s using a generator or hooking up to electrical either at somebody’s home or at a local campground. No hotels, no guest rooms needed. You have your space and your belongings, including that favorite pillow, already with you. Check with your intended hosts about options for the RV, and if there aren’t any, check nearby campgrounds to see if they are open and what amenities are still operational.
The RV can be ideal if you want to bring pets along as well, which gives them a space of their own while you’re enjoying other festivities they may not be invited to. Just don’t leave on any personal space heaters while you’re away.
FAQs
Can the RV be winterized and still usable for holiday travel?
Yes, you don’t need to reverse the winterization process if you’ve already taken care of it. If staying at a campground, electrical is really all you need. A water hookup, depending on the forecast, may or may not be a good idea anyway because of the chance of freezing. Plan to use bathroom and shower facilities outside the RV rather than depending on your own.
What about bad weather, am I going to get stuck?
Winter driving in an RV has its share of seasonal risks, but like in any other season, it takes common sense and planning to ensure you reach your destination and return home safely.
How do I plan for a winter road trip in Michigan?
Rather than rewrite everything here, visit the article on our website that discusses this more in depth: www.michiganrvandcampgrounds.org/safety-tips-fall-winter-camping-trips/.
How can I make RVing for holidays more fun?
Invite others into the RV for hot cocoa and cookies or host a movie night for the kids. Decorate the interior of the RV a little bit to help get yourself and anybody who visits to get into the spirit.