It's raining, it won't stop, and you had a route or the beach planned. It's one of the small low points of motorhome travel, but it doesn't have to ruin the day. With the right attitude, a rainy day can turn into one of the most enjoyable of the trip: the camper becomes a cosy shelter with the sound of rain in the background. Here are some ideas to make the most of it.
Enjoy the "cabin" plan
There's something deeply comforting about being warm and dry inside the camper while it rains outside. Use the time for things you never get round to: reading, watching a series or film, board games or cards with the family, cooking something nice without rushing, a nap. Rain is the perfect excuse to do nothing and enjoy it.
Indoor plans outside the camper
If you feel like heading out, rain is ideal for the "roofed" plans that feel like too much effort in the sun:
- Museums and monuments: the best day to visit them.
- Historic town centres (with a good waterproof jacket).
- Thermal spas: the contrast with the rain is perfect (see thermal spas).
- Covered markets, wineries, local food.
Get pending things done
- Plan the next few days of your route.
- Batch cook to have meals ready (see batch cooking).
- Tidy up and do small maintenance inside.
- Work or study if you need to (see internet in the camper).
Watch the humidity and the power
A day cooped up with everyone inside generates a lot of condensation: ventilate even if it's raining (crack a window slightly) so things don't steam up or grow mould (see condensation). And keep an eye on power: spending the day with lights, screens and heating on adds up, and if it's raining the solar panel barely produces, so watch the battery (use the calculator).
In summary
A rainy day doesn't ruin the trip: it's the perfect excuse for a "cabin" plan indoors or for that roofed visit outside (museums, spas, historic centres). The step to take today: next time it rains, instead of moping, embrace the quiet plan inside the camper or make the most of that indoor visit you'd been putting off; just remember to ventilate against humidity and keep an eye on the battery. Combine it with condensation.