Today, on Redhead Mom, I’m sharing a partnered guest post about how to plan a last-minute winter RV trip.
Winter doesn’t have to mean staying cooped up at home. With a little strategy and the right gear, you can plan a memorable last-minute RV trip in just one day—even with kids in tow. Whether you’re chasing snow-covered landscapes, visiting family, or escaping the holiday rush, a winter RV adventure offers flexibility, comfort, and quality family time. The key is knowing what to prioritize: destination, safety, warmth, and kid-friendly comforts. Follow this step-by-step guide to get rolling by tomorrow morning.
Choose a Nearby Winter-Friendly Destination (1–2 Hours)
Start by picking a destination within a 2–4 hour drive. This minimizes travel time and reduces the risk of weather delays.
Great options include:
- National or state parks with winter camping (e.g., Big Bend, Cuyahoga Valley)
- Mountain towns with holiday markets or sledding hills
- RV resorts with full hookups and indoor amenities
Use apps like The Dyrt, Boondockers Welcome, or Hipcamp to find available sites with electric and water hookups—essential for winter comfort. Filter for locations with cell service if you need to stay connected.
Book Your Site (Before 10 AM)
Popular winter RV spots fill up fast, especially near holidays. Book early in the day to secure a spot. Many campgrounds offer same-day reservations online.
Look for parks with:
- Heated bathhouses
- Wi-Fi access
- Proximity to grocery stores or pharmacies
Pro tip: Call the campground directly—sometimes they have last-minute cancellations not listed online.
Step 3: Pack Smart: The 1-Hour Winter RV Checklist
You don’t need to pack everything—just the essentials.
Use this condensed winter RV camping checklist to stay warm, safe, and sane:
Clothing:
- Thermal base layers (wool or synthetic)
- Insulated jackets, snow pants, hats, and gloves
- Extra socks (especially for kids)
- Non-slip, waterproof boots
Safety & RV Prep:
- Antifreeze (for plumbing if not using heat tape)
- Ice melt or sand for traction
- Extra batteries for lights and devices
- Jumper cables and tire chains (if heading into snow zones)
Kid Comforts:
- Favorite books, tablets, or travel games
- Snacks (crackers, fruit, granola bars)
- Cozy blankets and sleep sacks
- A high-quality humidifier for a baby to prevent dry air irritation in heated RVs
Food & Drink:
- Easy meals: instant oatmeal, soup, pasta, pre-cooked chili
- Hot cocoa, tea, coffee
- Water bottles and insulated mugs
Pack in labeled bins for quick access and minimal clutter.
Prep the RV (2–3 Hours)
Before hitting the road, ensure your RV is winter-ready:
- Check the furnace – Run it for 15 minutes to confirm it heats evenly.
- Inspect water lines – Use heat tape or insulation to prevent freezing.
- Fill freshwater tank – Avoid relying on frozen spigots at the site.
- Charge devices – Power banks, tablets, and cameras should be fully charged.
- Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors – Critical for enclosed spaces with heaters running.
If you’re using a generator, make sure it’s fueled and functional.
Plan Simple, Kid-Friendly Activities
Kids thrive on routine and fun.
Plan a few low-effort activities:
- Build a snowman or have a mini snowball fight
- Roast marshmallows at the campfire (if allowed)
- Play board games or watch a movie inside
- Go for a short nature walk with a scavenger hunt (find pinecones, animal tracks)
Keep the schedule flexible—naps and downtime are part of the adventure.
Set Up a Cozy Sleeping Zone
Make bedtime easy by preparing sleeping areas before dark:
- Pre-warm the RV with the furnace
- Lay out sleeping bags or extra blankets
- Use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the heated air and prevent dry skin or congestion
- Keep pajamas, books, and nightlights within reach
For older kids, let them “claim” their bunk with a favorite stuffed animal or pillow.
Stay Safe and Warm on the Road
- Drive cautiously – Check weather and road conditions before departure.
- Keep emergency supplies—blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and snacks — in the cab.
- Take frequent breaks – Let kids stretch, use rest stops, and stay hydrated.
If temperatures drop below freezing, avoid boondocking without full hookups—your tanks can freeze in a matter of hours.
A last-minute winter RV trip with kids is not only possible—it can be magical. With a clear plan, the right gear, and a flexible mindset, you’ll create warm memories even in cold weather. From snowy mornings with hot cocoa to bedtime stories under twinkling lights, these moments are what family adventures are made of. Use this guide, stick to your checklist, and hit the road with confidence. Adventure doesn’t require perfect planning—just a full tank, a warm heart, and a destination within reach.