If you’re a full-time RVer or you enjoy the fall too much to put away the RV just yet, and you have kids in tow who don’t want to miss out on Halloween festivities, there are choices for trick-or-treating so that you don’t have to!

  1. Visit friends or family. Make sure your trip plans include stops to see friends and family along the way, even more so around the holidays. With Halloween being the holiday that starts it all off, make time to visit family or friends who have kids who still go trick-or-treating. It’s a good excuse to visit, your kids will love collecting their treats with other kids they know, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your kids are in a familiar area.
  1. Go downtown. Many businesses in downtown areas – cities and towns – have special trick-or-treating nights, usually the Friday or Saturday before Halloween (or on Halloween if you’re lucky). Large cities, of course, probably have more to offer, but you might be compromising safety. Here’s a list of U.S. cities with the best trick-or-treating. In Michigan, check with chamber websites of the towns you’ll be nearest to, or make a special trip to a Michigan town simply to participate in the fun.
  1. Make a reservation at a campground that will be hosting festivities. This is the simplest method. Stay at a campground, private or state run, for Halloween weekend. You can usually expect costume contests, pumpkin carving, games, crafts, site decorating contests, and of course, trick-or-treating. These campgrounds fill up quickly, so you typically need to make your reservation during the summer. However, some campgrounds will allow you to join in the fun for a small fee even if you’re not staying there as a guest. Call the office and make sure to check in when you arrive.
  1. Go to the mall. As with downtown areas, many major shopping malls host trick-or-treating events. Check the mall website for more information.

Check out this article about MARVAC Member Campgrounds that host Halloween events, including trick-or-treating on the weekends leading up to the big day.

 

Safety Tips

  • Bring a flashlight, even if it’s before dusk, in case you are out after dark. A light will also help passing motorists be able to see you. Have your children carry flashlights or glow sticks.
  • Stay on the sidewalk or the side of the road, unless streets are blocked off.
  • Remind your kids to not enter into anyone’s home, even if they are invited.
  • If you have older kids, set a time and meeting place if they will be going off on their own, even if they have cell phones.
  • Drive extra cautiously if you will be arriving or departing when other trick-or-treaters will still be out.
  • Check your child’s treat bag for anything suspicious. Homemade treats may need to be removed entirely just to be safe.