Laughing Through the Frost

Funny thing about our year-long adventure: we promised the kids they’d see snow on the road. ❄️ So naturally, where did it happen? Texas. 🤦‍♀️ We trekked all the way to the winter wonderlands of Wisconsin, Michigan, and Minnesota, only to hit mild 60-70 degree temps. Heck, on Halloween in Traverse City, Michigan, it was 65 degrees, and half the family was rocking shorts and tees! Guess the joke’s on us, but at least we can say Texas delivers... sometimes.

Let’s face it—Texans and snowstorms just don’t mix! ❄️ Down here, we’re used to mild winters with the occasional chilly day, not full-on ice and snow. When temperatures drop below freezing and the roads turn into skating rinks, it’s a whole new level of chaos. Without fleets of snowplows or stockpiles of road salt, even a little ice can bring everything to a halt. Schools shut down, grocery store shelves empty in record time, and most of us huddle indoors, hoping the power holds out (looking at you, 2021 Snowmageddon). Cold weather might not be our strength, but we sure know how to make the best of it—with plenty of hot chocolate, cozy blankets, and maybe a glass of wine to warm us up! 🍷☕

When temperatures plummet and snow blankets the ground, staying warm in an RV might seem like a challenge—but it doesn’t have to be! Whether you’re winter camping by choice or braving an unexpected storm, there are plenty of ways to stay cozy, combat the cold, and make the most of your time indoors. After surviving more than a few icy adventures (hello again, 2021 Snowmageddon!), I’ve learned some tried-and-true tips that work just as well in your RV as they do in your home—no matter how low the mercury dips. ❄️🚐

Winter RVing can be magical—snow-covered landscapes, cozy evenings, and the distinct joy of realizing you packed more marshmallows than socks. But staying warm, battling the cold, and surviving indoor days with your family takes a bit of strategy (and a sense of humor). Here’s how to turn your RV into a snug winter wonderland while keeping your sanity intact!

1. Stay Warm Inside the RV

Because no one wants to feel like they’re living in a popsicle.

Insulate Windows and Doors: Stick Reflectix on the windows and pretend you’re in a spaceship while blocking drafts. Bonus: thermal curtains = instant fort-building materials.
Heated Rugs and Blankets: The phrase “fighting over the heated blanket” might become your family’s new winter sport.
Portable Space Heaters: These are lifesavers, but remember—no one likes a heater that sets off the RV smoke alarm. Safety features are your BFF.
Skirting the RV: Fancy RV skirting or a DIY job with leftover pool noodles—either way, keep that cold air out.

*The family: bundled up like we’re starring in a survival movie. ❄️ The wild card: out there living their best frostbite-to-hot-shower fantasy. 😂 Every RV family has that one!*

2. Winterizing Your RV

Because frozen pipes = RVing nightmare.

Protect Pipes: Foam insulation, heat tape, or wrapping them in your old Christmas sweaters (kidding...sort of). We bought a heated waterhose plus covered all the goods (electric, water softener, and pipes) with our unused bike tent, gotta take advantage of the items we have on hand. Keep those pipes cozy!
Tank Maintenance: Adding RV antifreeze to your holding tanks is like giving them a warm hug.
Roof Inspection: Sealed vents = heat stays in, and no surprises from uninvited snow guests.

3. Combat the Cold and Snow

It’s all fun and games until snow piles up on your RV roof.

RV Furnace Tips: Treat your furnace like a VIP—clean, maintain, and keep it humming.
Dealing with Snow: A snow shovel for the ground and a roof rake for above will have you feeling like a pro snow-clearer.
Ventilation: Crack a roof vent slightly so condensation doesn’t turn your RV into a rainforest. We also invested in two dehumidifiers to keep this RV as dry as a desert—like nose-bleed dry. But hey, no moldy surprises here!

4. Family Fun Indoors

When it’s too cold to venture out, make the RV the coziest spot around.

Movie Marathons: Snuggle up and let the kids pick the movie lineup (yes, even if it’s Frozen... again).
Crafts and DIY Projects: Glitter, glue, and chaos. Check YouTube for snowflake crafts! But hey, memories are being made!
Cooking Together: Nothing says bonding like arguing over cookie shapes or whose stew recipe is better.
Games and Puzzles: The more competitive, the better—because nothing warms up an RV like Monopoly arguments.
Storytelling Nights: Share family stories or make up your own. The sillier, the better!
When all else fails, ipads for the win!

5. Make the Most of the Outdoors

When the cabin fever sets in, bundle up and brave the cold.

Snow Play: Who can build the goofiest snowman? Bonus points for including kitchen utensils. Ours choose hot dog pokers!
Winter Hikes: Trail blazers by day, hot cocoa drinkers by night.
Stargazing: Winter skies are clearer than your windshield after a thorough Windex session. Marvel at the stars—and keep an eye out for shooting ones!

Stay Safe, Stay Warm, and Stay Fun

Winter RVing is all about embracing the season’s quirks—because nothing beats family time, even when it’s chilly. With these tips (and a little humor), you’ll stay warm, protect your RV, and make memories that will keep you smiling long after the snow melts.

Happy (and toasty) travels! 🚐❄️✨

A Funny Guide to Staying Warm and Cozy in Your RV This Winter