According to the RVIA (Recreational Industry Association), 55% of us took an RV holiday vacation for Thanksgiving weekend. My wife and I did. How about you?
In the RVIA’s Holiday Travel Intentions Survey, the results show that 20 million Americans are planning to go RVing throughout the holiday season. This is a 30% increase over 2022. But that’s not the most interesting part of this news, according to the RVIA survey.
Not all will hit the road though. 56% of those planning to use an RV this holiday season will park it at home and use it for guest accommodations. 49% will use it as an extra kitchen for food prep and storage.
“20 Million Americans Planning An RV Holiday Vacation,” The Recreational Industry Association
After reading this, the light bulb went off in my head. What better way to infuse some festive holiday spirit than by embracing the versatility of an RV? From vans to fifth wheels and everything in-between, any recreational vehicle can be transformed into a mobile haven of holiday joy!
Creative and Festive Ways to Use an RV in the Holiday Season.
From spreading cheer through campground caroling parties and festive potlucks, to creating a traveling RV light display and hosting RV park crafting nights, your rig can be a hub of holiday merriment.
Here are some ways I may turn my RV into a cozy retreat that spreads cheer this season. You can do the same with any of these ten ways to create RV holiday vacation magic at home or on the road..
Make It a Mobile Winter Wonderland
Transform your RV into a winter wonderland with festive decorations.
The goal is to create a cozy and festive atmosphere that captures the magic of the season.
Organize an RV Park Caroling Party
Spread joy to fellow RVers by organizing a caroling party at your chosen RV park.
Show a Christmas Movie Marathon Under the Stars
Utilize the outdoor space around your rig by hosting an RV holiday movie marathon under the stars. If you are in a colder or rainy climate, you can hold movie night in the RV park covered pavilion or reservable shelter at a state park.
Host a DIY Ornament Crafting Night
Gather friends and family inside your rig or the RV park clubhouse for a festive crafting night to make DIY holiday ornaments.
Not only does this activity spread holiday cheer, but it also provides participants with unique keepsakes.
Set Up a Campground Secret Santa Exchange
Organize a Secret Santa gift exchange at your campground. Create a sign-up sheet and encourage other RVers to participate. You are certain to make some new friends along with the fun.
A Secret Santa party fosters a sense of community, and adds an element of surprise and delight to the holiday season.
Host a Festive Potluck Dinner
Organize a festive potluck dinner with your RV community. Encourage fellow RVers to prepare and share their favorite holiday dishes.
This communal meal fosters a sense of togetherness. Everyone can enjoy a variety of seasonal treats while swapping stories and creating lasting memories.
And don’t worry; cooking a holiday meal in your RV doesn’t have to be hard. There are plenty of easy RV meals you can make in a tiny kitchen.
Coordinate a Traveling Light Parade
Maybe take it up a notch and join in a community led event like a lighted tractor parade or an evening Christmas parade. This is great holiday fun, where vehicles large and small are decorated with lights and driven down main street for the enjoyment of young and old.
You can even turn it into a friendly RV holiday competition with your fellow RVers. Compete in categories like “Most Creative Display” or “Best Use of LED Lights.”
Chase the Snow in Your RV
If you’re a fan of a white Christmas, plan a trip to a snowy destination. Head to a winter wonderland where you can experience the magic of snowfall, build snowmen, and engage in winter sports.
If you have never tried cold weather RVing, here are some winter camping tips to get you started. Once you and your RV are equipped for cold weather, be ready to embrace the unique charm of celebrating the holidays surrounded by a pristine blanket of snow.
Volunteer for a Holiday Cause
Spread holiday cheer beyond your RV community by volunteering for a local holiday cause.
Whether it’s serving meals at a community kitchen, participating in a toy drive, or helping decorate a local shelter, volunteering adds a meaningful dimension to your holiday celebrations. It’s a wonderful way to give back to the communities you visit during your RV travels.
While it is always better to give than receive, you might be receiving a little gift too, as your travel costs while volunteering are likely tax deductible.
Host a New Year’s Eve Campground Countdown
Welcome the New Year with a campground countdown celebration. Coordinate with fellow RVers for a synchronized countdown to midnight.
Even if you don’t plan to take a trip this holiday season, your RV can make a great extra bedroom for guests. It’s a terrific place to store Christmas presents, serve as a second kitchen, or just a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle.
Take an RV Holiday Vacation Wherever Your Wheels Take You
The holiday season is a time for joy, connection, and creating lasting memories. Your RV, with its mobility and adaptability, provides a unique canvas on which to paint your holiday adventures.
Whether you’re parked in a snowy mountain retreat, a coastal campground, or a desert oasis, the creative ways to use your RV during this festive season are as boundless as your imagination.
Embrace the magic of the season, share it with your fellow RVers, and create a holiday experience that goes beyond the ordinary. After all, the road less traveled often leads to the most memorable celebrations.
