It sounds like you and I might share a bit of weather luck! I just bought a new car, and during my first week of owning it, it hailed. So if you’re anything like me, first of all, I feel for you. Second, no matter how perfectly you plan your RV camping trip, the odds of getting caught in the rain are pretty high.
But here’s the good news: Rainy days don’t have to ruin your adventure. In fact, they can be the perfect opportunity to slow down, recharge, and make the most of your cozy RV setup. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected and turn drizzly forecasts into memorable ones. For even more tips, inspiration, and everything else RV-related, explore our Pinterest boards! Here are some of my favorite rainy day activities while camping in an RV.
PLAY SOME GAMES
One of our favorite ways to pass the time on rainy days is by diving into games. My husband and I are big fans of the classics—chess, checkers, Uno—you name it. Our most recent obsession is the Nintendo Switch, which has become a staple in our RV. We’ve loaded it up with nostalgic favorites like Risk, Monopoly, and Mario Party, turning gloomy weather into game night heaven.
We also keep a simple deck of cards on hand because you can never go wrong with timeless games like War or Rummy. And when my godchildren join us on camping trips, I always pack their favorites too—Candy Land, Trouble, and Jenga are always a hit. Whether you’re into board games, card games, or digital fun, indoor RV games are a perfect way to keep everyone entertained when the rain rolls in.
HOBBIES
If you’re anything like me, finding time for your favorite hobbies can be a challenge with the hustle of daily life. That’s why I love rainy days while camping—they give me the perfect excuse to slow down and dive into something creative. I like to pull out my painting supplies or work on a decoupage craft while listening to the peaceful rhythm of rain on the roof. It’s incredibly relaxing!
Rainy days in the RV are also great for other quiet hobbies like puzzling, knitting, journaling, or even writing that book you’ve always talked about. Whether you’re into arts and crafts or just want some cozy downtime, rainy day RV hobbies are a wonderful way to make the most of an indoor camping day.
MEAL PREP
I’ll be real with you—I’m not the biggest fan of cooking in an RV. The kitchen space is tight, and if I can cut down how many times I need to cook, I absolutely will. So when rain keeps us indoors, I make the most of it by knocking out our weekly RV meal prep. Getting meals ready in advance means more time outside once the sun comes back out!
Now, if you do love to cook, rainy days are the perfect time to crack open a recipe book and try something new. Whether it’s a cozy soup or a one-skillet meal, rainy day cooking in an RV can actually be pretty fun. And if nothing else, use the quiet time to plan your meals for the week—because we all know making food decisions while hangry is not the vibe.
MAINTENANCE
While I’m busy with the meal prepping, my other half takes advantage of the rainy day by tackling some much-needed RV maintenance. Let’s be honest—traveling puts some serious wear and tear on your rig. He’ll fix things like squeaky cabinet hinges, swap out busted water fittings, or tune up the air conditioner. Taking care of these little RV repairs when you’re stuck indoors helps avoid bigger headaches down the road.
Rainy days are also the perfect excuse to spruce up the inside of your camper. Thinking about RV interior upgrades? Now’s the time to hang those new curtains, install some shelf liners, or reorganize your storage bins. It’s a great way to make your space feel fresh without stepping outside.
CHORE TIME
When it comes to chores, I’m the queen of “I’ll do it tomorrow.” But let’s be real—rainy days are the perfect time to tackle those RV chores you’ve been putting off. Folding the laundry that’s been sitting in the corner all week? Not a bad way to make use of being stuck indoors. Since I’m already in the kitchen doing meal prep, my go-to chore is the dishes. My other half? He’s a saint—he takes on cleaning the bathroom, which is hands-down my least favorite job.
Rainy day RV cleaning doesn’t have to be a total drag. You can always use the downtime to reorganize your pantry, declutter your cabinets, or finally take care of that overflowing junk drawer. Sure, it may not be the most exciting of rainy day RV activities, but trust me—when the skies clear and your rig is sparkling clean, you’ll be glad you did it. I always am… even if I grumble the whole way through.
EXPLORE
For some people, being stuck indoors just isn’t an option—and I get it. If you’ve got the ability to drop your camper and go explore, a rainy day can actually be the perfect excuse to see what’s nearby. One of the things we love most about traveling is experiencing new places, so we like to use days like these to explore local attractions near the RV park. From museums to antique shops to the local mall, you might be surprised by what the nearest town has to offer. It’s a great way to learn about the culture of the area and break out of the cozy (but sometimes cramped) confines of your home on wheels.
And if the town doesn’t have much to see—or you’ve already seen it all—consider going for a drive. I wouldn’t recommend it during a full-on storm, but on those gentler rainy days, cruising down scenic country roads can be incredibly peaceful. It’s a simple way to enjoy the beauty of the journey, reconnect with your partner, and make the most of your rainy day RV travel adventure.
CONNECT WITH FAMILY
We’re all guilty of getting caught up in our own little world while on the road. But if you’ve got internet access at your RV park, a rainy day is the perfect excuse to reconnect. Use this downtime to call your friends, FaceTime family, or check in with loved ones who are thinking of you. I know my mom always appreciates hearing from me during our trips—it gives her peace of mind knowing we’re safe and doing well.
It’s also a great time to update your social media. Share those trip highlights you’ve been meaning to post, give a peek into your RV lifestyle, or just have some fun and make a silly TikTok. Whether it’s messaging friends or sharing your adventures online, staying connected while RVing helps make those rainy days feel a little less gloomy and a lot more meaningful.
Don’t let a little rain put a cloud over your camping trip! Rainy days can actually be some of the most rewarding parts of RV life—offering a chance to slow down, catch up, and connect with the people (and passions) that matter most. Whether you’re knocking out chores, diving into hobbies, or enjoying some classic family game time, there’s always a silver lining.
So next time the skies open up, don’t stress—embrace it! You might just find that these quiet moments become some of your favorite camping memories.
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