❄️ Winter Storm Prep: Why We Headed to the RV to Stay Warm

Our rig encased in ice

When a winter storm starts moving into Texas, it doesn’t take long for us to start paying close attention. Ice, freezing rain, and dropping temperatures can create dangerous conditions quickly — especially when you’ve experienced what that can look like firsthand.

As forecasts began calling for freezing rain and temperatures dipping into the mid-20s and even the teens, we knew this wasn’t something to take lightly. While our sticks-and-bricks home is comfortable most of the time, it has one major weakness during winter storms: power outages. And when the power goes out, so does the heat.

So instead of waiting and hoping for the best, we made a proactive decision — we packed up and headed to the motorhome.

For us, the RV offers something our house can’t during situations like this: built-in backup systems. With a full tank of propane, a generator, and fuel to keep it running, the motorhome becomes a reliable source of heat and security. It gives us peace of mind knowing we can stay warm, keep the lights on, and most importantly, keep our pets safe and comfortable.

This decision wasn’t made lightly — it comes from years of experience. Having lived through harsh winters in the Northeast, we’ve learned that ice storms can be far more disruptive than snow. Ice can bring down power lines, make roads impassable, and leave areas without electricity for extended periods of time. Preparation isn’t just helpful — it’s necessary.

As the storm rolled in, we settled into the RV and began to “hunker down.” Outside, conditions steadily worsened with freezing rain and bitter cold temperatures. Inside, though, we were warm, safe, and prepared.

Over the next several days, we monitored the weather, adjusted as needed, and kept our routines as normal as possible. Even with work responsibilities continuing, having a dependable environment made all the difference. It allowed us to focus on what mattered instead of worrying about losing heat or power.

By the time the storm passed and temperatures began to rise, we were reminded once again why flexibility is such an important part of this lifestyle. The RV isn’t just for travel or vacations — sometimes it becomes your best backup plan.

This experience reinforced something we’ve come to believe over and over again: preparation brings peace of mind. Whether it’s keeping propane topped off, maintaining your generator, or simply having a plan in place, those small steps can make a big difference when conditions turn unpredictable.

Winter storms may not be as common in Texas as they are in other parts of the country, but when they do arrive, they can pack a punch. And for us, having the RV ready to go means we’re never caught off guard.

Sometimes, the smartest move you can make… is simply being ready to move at all.

Our horse, the one with the neon green blanket seems to love the freezing weather.

The day after... everything is in ice even the grass crunches.