THIS HOLIDAY SEASON, over 28 million RVers plan to hit the road. If you aren’t one of them, why not? With air travel costs soaring and delays still making headlines, the open road is looking better than ever. This winter, a road trip might be the most relaxing, rewarding, and cost-effective way to celebrate the season.
So if you haven’t considered an RV trip — or how to use your RV this winter — we’re covering where to go, which RVs are the best for hosting, and much more. Whether you’re heading to a favorite campground decked out in holiday lights or traveling cross-country to see family, here’s everything you need to prep for an RV-friendly holiday.
Key Takeaways
- RVing offers a relaxing and cost-effective alternative to holiday air travel, and RVs with spacious kitchens make preparing festive meals on the road feel like being at home.
- Holiday destinations—from Florida’s Space Coast to the Smoky Mountains and Arizona desert—shine this time of year, and choosing the right campground means balancing availability, amenities, and proximity to seasonal attractions.
- Whether you’re hosting guests in your driveway or hitting the road yourself, RVs provide flexible sleeping arrangements, extra living space, and self-contained comfort—perfect for moochdocking, family visits, or even short-term rentals during the holidays.
Holiday Meals At the Campground
The stakes are high for holiday meals, but dinners in an RV can be every bit as special as the ones you make at home—especially when your kitchen is designed for it. Though some kitchens are better suited for a family affair than others. Residential appliances, solid surface countertops, open layouts, and versatile dining options all go a long way to making your holiday in an RV feel more like home.
We’re highlighting a few RVs with spacious kitchens, island prep space, and even outdoor cooking setups that make campground hosting easier and better suited for the camp chef in your group. From roasting the ham to baking pies, there’s plenty of room to celebrate right from your campsite with these models.
A Front Kitchen with A View
Rockwood Signature 8263MBR
Images by Forest River
You don’t need a massive RV to enjoy a spacious kitchen. Front kitchen layouts like the Rockwood Signature 8263MBR provide a more substantial cooking setup, even in an RV under thirty feet long. Front kitchen floor plans typically include extra counterspace and easy, central access to your refrigerator, oven, and microwave. Plus, when you’re shuffling from project to project, no one is walking through your space.
On the 8263MBR, you’ll enjoy wraparound solid surface counters with a section that doubles as a bar (great for hosting guests), and a conveniently mounted TV that makes it easy for the whole crew to watch the game. And the front cap has a window for extra natural lighting. If you’re looking for a front kitchen in this lineup that’s better suited for hosting a larger group, the Rockwood Signature 8339FK adds a kitchen island, a table and chairs, and a remarkably spacious pantry.
A Classic Fifth Wheel for Holiday Cooking
Keystone Montana 3910RK
Like a front kitchen floor plan, the rear kitchen setup ensures you have a designated space for food prep, which is ideal for holiday get-togethers. And there’s arguably no better rear kitchen setup than the Montana 3901RK, which provides an elevated kitchen from which you can gaze down on your guests in the living room to make sure all are fed, comfortable, and happy. With countertop space on all four sides, you have your own domain, complete with a residential refrigerator (18 cubic feet of cold storage with an ice maker), an oven range, cooktop, convection microwave, and an oversized deep stainless steel sink. While pantry space should be a given on this size RV, we’re glad the 3910RK offers plenty.
A Compact Family Dining Option
Thor Freedom Elite 19HE
If you think a smaller motorhome can’t host a holiday meal, the Freedom Elite 19HE might change your mind. At just over 20 feet long, it’s true that a compact Class C won’t offer the expansive cooking and prep space of larger rigs—but this one makes up for it with a smart focus on dining together. The standout feature is the rear booth dinette, which replaces the traditional rear bedroom and converts easily for sleeping at night. It’s a clever layout that gives the whole crew a place to gather for meals, conversation, or a round of cards. Cupholders tucked behind the armrests free up table space, making the setup even more meal-friendly.
And while the kitchen is compact, the essentials are all here: a two-burner cooktop, a convection microwave with air fryer, and a 12V refrigerator. In other words, everything you need to put together a solid holiday meal—without needing a 30-foot coach to do it.
What Makes a Good Kitchen RV?
If the previous RVs have you thinking about upgrading your current kitchen setup, consider what really makes a good RV kitchen. First, it’s helpful to consider how the kitchen’s placement in the RV floor plan will work with day-to-day living. Think foot traffic, access, and how far cooking smells will travel. For example, a kitchen located right next to your bedroom can result in lingering scents.
Then, from an ergonomic standpoint, what’s it like to work and cook in the kitchen? Are appliances or workspaces cramped, awkward, or too small? Finally, storage, counterspace, appliances, and fit-and-finish are four easy things you can measure when comparing RV kitchens.
- Storage: Look for full-extension drawers, overhead cabinets, deep pantries (or multiple pantries), hidden storage, and pull-out shelves. RV manufacturers can get pretty creative, and you’ll want to have a spot for everything from spices to appliances.
- Counterspace: Not only do you want sufficient counterspace for cooking prep, but the quality of your countertops matters a lot. Solid surface countertops are best, followed by pressed countertops.
- Appliances: It’s easy to check the size of the refrigerator, but you should also know how it’s powered (12V, etc.) and what that means for keeping food cool. More and more manufacturers are including extras like air fryers and cup rinsers.
- Fit and finish: Cabinet doors should feel solid and close cleanly without rattling, hinges should be sturdy, and drawer slides should operate smoothly even when fully loaded. Look for tight seams on countertops and backsplashes, and flooring that can handle the inevitable spills and foot traffic. Lighting like LEDs under cabinets or over prep areas also makes the space feel more finished.
Altogether, these considerations give you a good read on how the kitchen will stand up to years of cooking, cleaning, and holiday hosting.
Where To RV Travel During the Holidays
So, are you convinced to hit the road yet? Whether you’re chasing warm weather or snow-covered views, some of the best RV destinations truly shine during the holidays. Think Florida’s Space Coast, Gatlinburg’s winter lights, or Arizona’s desert campgrounds, to name a few.
The Great Outdoors RV Nature & Golf Resort
If a balmy, coastal holiday suits your fancy, it’s tough to beat this Great Outdoors resort on Florida’s east coast. Located in Titusville, Florida, there’s enough on-site to keep you busy for a long weekend or extended winter vacation. From golf to fishing to sports courts, not to mention nature trails and excellent birdwatching opportunities, everyone can enjoy their preferred daily activities before gathering for a holiday meal.
There’s also plenty to do nearby, as this resort is within convenient driving distance of attractions like the Kennedy Space Center, the Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier in Cape Canaveral, the American Space Museum & Walk of Fame, and the Canaveral National Seashore.
Top RV Park Amenities:
- On-site, 18-hole public golf course
- Pet-friendly with enclosed run & grooming service
- Cocktail lounge, restaurant, and snack bar
- Olympic-sized swimming pool
- Shuffleboard, bocce ball, tennis, & pickleball courts
Smoky Bear Campground & RV Park
If you’re looking for a mountain holiday getaway with plenty of outdoor recreation and indoor attractions nearby, make this Gatlinburg RV park your holiday basecamp. Set under 15 minutes from the heart of town, this park offers an ideal location for exploring two of the more locally preferred parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Choose the nearby Cosby entrance to access less-traveled hiking trails to attractions like the Mt. Cammerer Lookout Tower. Alternatively, use the Greenbrier entrance for access to trails that lead to the Messer Cabin or Ramsey Cascades. Always check weather and trail closures at this time of the year.
And even if trails are closed or hiking isn’t your thing, there is plenty to enjoy down in Gatlinburg. Recurring events like the downtown district’s Winter Magic and the Gatlinburg SkyPark’s Lights over Gatlinburg span the holiday season. Additionally, venues like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg Space Needle host special events that will require more advanced planning, but are well worth it. Explore Gatlinburg’s winter events calendar for more info.
Top RV Park Amenities:
- Fully heated and air-conditioned clubhouse (great for family reunions or holiday parties!)
- Free book and DVD lending library
- Community space with a fire pit and playground
- Seasonal pool and hot tub
Get tips for RV camping in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Towerpoint Resort
Those seeking a 55-and-up desert holiday experience will love the amenities at Arizona’s Towerpoint Resort. Managed by Cal Am Resorts, this vibrant resort is packed with amenities. From its on-site Cactus Bar & Grill to a bevy of classes hosted in its various facilities, you’ll have plenty to choose from—yoga, Zumba, water aerobics, wood carving, etc.
Located in Mesa, Arizona, this RV park’s location offers excellent proximity to the larger Phoenix metro area. You’ll find unique cityscapes to explore in Mesa itself, along with nearby Chandler, Tempe, and Scottsdale. But because it sits conveniently on the outskirts, you’re also within convenient driving distance of nearby natural attractions like Granite Reef Recreation Area, Usery Mountain Regional Park, and Lost Dutchman State Park.
Top Amenities:
- Outdoor therapy spa and Olympic-sized swimming pool
- Two ballrooms with themed dances, parties, line dancing, and live music
- Shuffleboard, bocce ball, tennis, & pickleball courts
- RC truck road racing course, batting cages, and golf driving range
What Makes a Good Holiday Campground?
During the holidays, campgrounds fill up fast, prices fluctuate, and amenities vary more than you might expect. Whether you’re looking for festive fun, quiet relaxation, or a convenient basecamp near family or attractions, these key considerations can help you ensure a memorable and stress-free holiday camping experience.
- Availability and Price: Holiday weekends and winter breaks are peak camping times, so booking early is essential. Check reservation systems well in advance and be aware of minimum stay requirements or holiday rate increases. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may find better deals just before or after the busiest days.
- Location and Proximity to Attractions: Consider the type of holiday experience you desire. Do you prefer a peaceful, wooded retreat or a campground close to family gatherings, holiday events, or local attractions? Consider drive times to nearby destinations, restaurants, and grocery stores, especially if you’ll need last-minute supplies.
- On-Site Amenities: Holiday camping often means spending more time at the campground, so being excited about the on-site amenities is important. Look for campgrounds that offer heated common areas, decorated gathering spaces, community events, or even simple comforts like reliable Wi-Fi and clean bathhouses. RV resorts might feature extras like hot tubs, fitness rooms, or holiday potlucks—perfect for staying cozy and social.
- Quality of Facilities: The holidays often bring inclement weather, so facilities like heated restrooms and insulated water hookups make holiday camping safer and more enjoyable. Well-lit and well-maintained roads, as well as lighted dump stations, also contribute to a smoother stay, especially if you’re arriving after dark or in freezing conditions.
- Good Company: The campground itself can set the stage, but the people you travel with truly make the experience. Whether it’s family, friends, or your favorite furry travel companions, prioritize shared activities and connection over logistics. A cozy campfire with the right company often matters more than the perfect campsite view.
Ultimately, a good holiday campground balances comfort, convenience, and connection. The right spot gives you everything you need for a relaxed stay—but it’s the memories you make with the people you care about that turn any campsite into the perfect holiday getaway.
Best RVs for Hosting at Home
Already have guests coming to you? RVs make the perfect on-site guest suites. Destination trailers, toy haulers with convertible garages, and motorhomes with multiple sleeping spaces offer privacy and comfort for friends or family. Additionally, the extra kitchen, bathroom, and climate control ensure everyone’s comfort without overcrowding your home.
Campsite Reserve 20JW
Invite guests to stay in their very own tiny home! With its multi-level layout, the Campsite Reserve 20JW is ideal for hosting a family—there’s room to sleep up to six comfortably. Kids can fight over the lofted sleeping areas while parents enjoy a private sleeping area on the ground level. Plus, that built-in rear patio is the perfect place to stop wet winter clothes and muddy boots before they come inside!
Cougar 360MBI
The Cougar 360MBI is a luxurious 5th wheel with serious hosting potential. Highlighted by a central bonus room featuring a tri-fold sleeper sofa and a lofted sleeping space above, it also allows you to convert the living area into a guest space, thanks to a second sleeper sofa. Plus, you’ll have no trouble preparing holiday meals in this residential-style RV kitchen!
Coleman 25EZF
Images by Camping World
For a motorhome option with multi-use sleeping spaces, check out Thor’s Coleman 25EZF Class C RV. This compact motorhome features a unique twin-to-king bed conversion in the rear, meaning small families can convert the king bed for the parents with kids sleeping in the cabover bunk or on the convertible dinette. However, if you need it as a crash pad for a group of kids, you have two twin beds in the rear, a large over-cab bunk, and an extra-deep dinette, which together provide a total sleeping capacity of five little ones with ease.
What Makes a Good RV for Hosting Guests?
From sleeping arrangements to storage space and entertainment options, the best RVs for hosting strike a balance between comfort and functionality. Here’s what to look for when selecting (or preparing) an RV to accommodate guests.
- Sleeping Space and Privacy: A good host ensures everyone has a comfortable place to sleep. Look for RVs with convertible dinettes, tri-fold sofas, or bunkhouse floor plans that provide extra sleeping options. Separate sleeping zones—like a private bedroom or loft—allow everyone to have their own space.
- Spacious Living Areas: Floor plans with slide-outs, open kitchens, or U-shaped dinettes create room for group meals and evening gatherings. Even small details—like swivel chairs, movable tables, or an electric fireplace—can make the space feel more inviting for entertaining.
- Kitchen Capacity and Convenience: The holidays often revolve around food, and your kitchen should keep up. Larger refrigerators, generous counterspace, and an oven or convection microwave make meal prep easier. An outdoor kitchen is even better, as it keeps some traffic out of the main cabin and lets guests mingle while cooking.
- Bathroom Access and Capacity: Nothing tests hospitality like a crowded bathroom. If possible, choose an RV with a larger main bathroom or a bath-and-a-half layout. Check holding tank capacities as well—you’ll want to plan for the demand of multiple guests.
- Storage and Organization: Guests come with luggage, coats, and gifts, so adequate storage is essential. Pass-through compartments, under-bed storage, and accessible cabinetry help keep the living space uncluttered. Consider bringing collapsible bins or hooks to make temporary storage even easier.
A good RV for hosting guests doesn’t have to be the biggest model on the lot—it just needs to be thoughtfully equipped and arranged for comfort. When everyone has space to sleep, relax, and enjoy the festivities, your RV becomes more than a vehicle—it becomes a true home for the holidays.
Moochdocking Tips for the Holidays
Moochdocking is when you park your RV at a friend’s or family’s home or property—ideally for free. It may involve being completely self-sufficient, unless utilities are offered. Here are some tips for being a moochdocking RV guest that will get invited back the next time they host:
- Setup & Courtesy: Always get permission first, clearly communicate expectations, and be respectful of your host’s property, utilities, and privacy—treat the stay as a privilege, not a right.
- Preparation Is Key: Plan by bringing essential gear, such as adapters, hoses, propane, and leveling blocks, so you can be fully self-sufficient and minimize your impact on your host’s home systems.
- Utility Management: Arrive with full fresh water and empty waste tanks. Limit electrical draw to prevent tripped breakers and plan to dump tanks elsewhere. Bring adapters, hoses, and surge protectors for safe connections.
- Safety & Legality: Park on level ground, check for hazards such as low power lines, and research local ordinances or HOA rules to ensure your RV stay is permitted and within time limits.
- Host-Friendly Habits: Keep visits short unless invited to extend them, use your own Wi-Fi if possible, and maintain good communication so that your hosts feel comfortable welcoming you again.
If a parking space is available, moochdocking is a great way to join holiday gatherings without overtaxing your host.
Learn more about how to moochdock.
Renting an RV for Yourself or Family
If you don’t own an RV—or need one for your guests—consider a holiday rental. Platforms like Good Sam RV Rentals make it easy to find travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes for short-term use. You can even have the RV delivered and set up at your home or campsite, giving everyone space while keeping the holiday spirit close.
Use these additional resources to travel safely and maximize enjoyment when RVing during the holidays:
- How To Host Holidays in an RV
- Charming Christmas Villages for an RV Getaway
- Guide to RV Christmas Decor
Are you RV camping this holiday season? Let us know where you’re heading and who you’re traveling with!
