Here at Indie Campers, we reveal our top tips for making sure both kids and adults have fun during winter activities.
Sabrina Riechers
A winter road trip with the whole family may seem difficult at first glance, we tell you the best tips that you will be well prepared and there will be no boredom during the trip. The colder months especially offer you and your family the chance to take advantage of places and activities that are only available at this time of year!
Camping with your family in the winter is a unique experience! You can enjoy beautiful views and winter activities without the hustle and bustle of summer travelers. To avoid boredom on your winter road trip, we've put together a list of winter activities you can do as a family during a road trip.
Exciting activities for your winter trip
Ice skating
Ice skating is a fun activity for the whole family. In the colder months, it's easy to find ice rinks in Europe, with almost every city offering one. Research the area your winter trip will be going to and pack your skates. If you don't have your own, you can also rent them locally.
Visit Christmas markets
Just like ice rinks, there are also Christmas markets in many European cities. From giant Ferris wheels and delicious food to mulled wine and impressive Christmas lights, these markets are guaranteed to be an experience on your winter trip.
You can find the most beautiful Christmas markets here.
Build a snowman
If you are camping in a snowy area or want to make a stopover on your winter trip, building a snowman with the kids is almost a must. This is a fun activity for kids to let off steam. If you're up for a challenge, forget the snowman and build an ice sculpture in the shape of a dog or a car. It takes longer, but the results are all the more entertaining. Finally, of course, don't miss a classic snowball fight.
Immerse yourself in nature
Use the opportunity of the winter trip to teach your children about the local plants and geology. Take them on a scavenger hunt for natural objects like rocks or leaves and encourage them to identify the type of object they find. Take a plant book with you and try to name the different plants you find along the way. This is a fantastic way to introduce your children to nature and you will learn something at the same time. Be careful not to damage the fauna and flora, though.
This kind of activity can be done in any weather, as long as you dress properly.
Wildlife watching
Getting to know nature can also mean watching wildlife. Watching the movements of the animals can be a special experience for everyone. Just make sure you always keep a safe distance, both for you and the animal. Watch them from a distance and don't make any noises or sudden movements that might startle them. Keep an eye out for birds too – not only are they beautiful animals, but their behavior can be surprising.
Play outdoors
Outdoor games are not only fun, but also a great way to stay warm outside during a winter trip. Choose games that involve a lot of movement on your part.
Winter sports
Winter sports are not only for professionals. All ski resorts offer trails (and some even courses) for those who just want to have fun with the family on their winter trip. Whether skiing, snowboarding, sledding or rock climbing, winter sports are a great way to get out and have fun during a winter trip.
If you have your own gear, make sure you choose a roomy vehicle that has enough space for the gear. Indie Campers has a good selection of large motorhomes suitable for transporting sports equipment without compromising the comfort of your family. If you don't have sports equipment, choose a destination with an equipment rental shop nearby.
Warm up by the campfire
A campfire is a camping classic that brings the whole family together and can't be missed on a winter road trip. You can ask your kids to help you gather wood and then sit by the fire while you roast marshmallows and tell fun stories.
However, campfires should only be made at designated campfire sites in campgrounds to maintain safety for all.
Cozy movie night
After a long day of games and sports in low temperatures, there's nothing better than a relaxing evening in a heated campervan. Pack some warm blankets for your winter trip, because then you can make a warm and cozy nest for yourselves. Then you can watch a movie, read books, or play games together. A hot cocoa warms you from the inside.
A winter road trip in an RV can quickly become boring without planned activities for kids, read through our suggestions and pick the most suitable ones for your family. Also, remember that a cozy and warm atmosphere in the RV will make your winter trip all the more enjoyable! On Indie Campers you can find the right models for your next winter camping trip.