RV Christmas photo Tom Ipri
By Cassandra Redding
The holiday season seems to come so quickly after the arrival of autumn, which creates a challenge for the best of us. But the for those who are spending the holiday season in an RV, the challenges to make the season special may seem even greater. However, the benefits and rewards are there, if we just take the time to create them. Here are some tips.
Be thankful. Remember how lucky you are to be able to live the RV lifestyle. It’s a definite privilege that not everyone can partake in, and even though you may be far from home and what you are used to, you are on an adventure.
Remember traditions. To make your RV holiday is as fantastic as possible, take some time to figure out how you can adapt your holiday rituals to fit the RV experience. Decorate your RV with tinsel, lights and small wreaths. Maybe you can’t have the same size tree as at home, but put up a small tree on a table and decorate it with a few simple touches. Perhaps with some new souvenirs you’ve picked up on your travels. You can still sing carols – perhaps over the glow of your flashlight or lantern instead of the fireplace at home.
Adapt the cooking and baking. Can you cook a holiday dinner over the campfire or in a Dutch oven? Perchance a small chicken instead of a turkey - or possibly you can organize dinner with your fellow RVers and each take on a holiday favourite. Many campgrounds that are open for the holidays also hold holiday events and put on a special meal. Make the most of your holiday by celebrating with the new friends you’ll meet at the communal table.
Be prepared. RVers should always carry an emergency kit that includes items such as blankets, a first aid kit, flashlights, matches, and water. But, it’s even more important during the holiday season, when poor weather is much more common.
Enjoy the weather. If you follow the sun to a special snowbird locale like Florida, Arizona, California or Mexico, you will have plenty of opportunity to be outside. Celebrate the holiday by jumping in the pool or ocean – instead of that cold pile of snow.
There are many ways to celebrate the holiday season while RVing – just remember that even though you might not be home, you can still find, and create, plenty of holiday cheer, lights and magic.