Hygge On Wheels: Winter RVing And Päntsdrunk Serenity

 

Whether you’re an avid winter weekend camper or a full-time RV enthusiast, there’s no better time than the present to embrace a little hygge. Hygge (pronounced hue-guh) is a Danish concept centered around the art of creating a sense of well-being through warmth, coziness, and contentment in your surroundings.  

At its essence, hygge is about finding joy and comfort in life’s simplest, everyday moments. Whether you’re sipping a cup of hot cocoa by the fire or snuggled into a soft, warm blanket enjoying a delightful book, hygge is about cherishing the small pleasures that make life meaningful. 

Craft an inviting, hygge-inspired environment with soft, warm lighting; battery-operated soft-glow candles; warm color schemes; plush textiles; and comfortable furnishings such as soft throw carpets that can be rolled up easily on the move. Add soft throw blankets and fluffy pillows to your seating and sleeping areas. Soft, muted colors, like warm grays, light brown, and beige, can enhance the cozy ambience. 

Whether you find yourself in the cold of northern states or the warmth of southern regions, embrace the hygge concept of “slow living.” Take the time to relax and savor the present moment. Don’t rush from one destination to another. Instead, appreciate the journey itself. Slow down, take in the natural beauty around you, and breathe in the fresh, crisp winter or salty air. Stop and enjoy the moments of tranquility that winter brings, such as the silent fall of snowflakes or the sound of your footsteps on a sandy beach. 

Consider activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness. Reading an enjoyable book by the fireplace, playing board games with loved ones, or simply sipping a hot cup of cocoa while watching nature unfold are all perfect hygge-inspired activities, warming your body and soothing your soul. 

When the weather doesn’t allow for an outside adventure, there’s something magical about getting lost in a captivating story. Create a small reading nook complete with soft cushions, a soft rug, blanket, and good lighting. Choose books that warm the heart and soul, perhaps stories set in winter wonderlands or tales of adventure and exploration. Don’t forget a hot mug of your favorite drink. 

Warm, soothing drinks like herbal teas, mulled wine, or hot apple cider are perfect for sipping by the fire, especially on chilly winter evenings. Allow the scents and flavors to envelop your senses in a comforting embrace. 

Set aside time for board games with your travel companions, savoring moments of fun and laughter. Opt for games that foster connections and cherished moments, cooperation, and friendly competition, creating an atmosphere of togetherness and bonding. 

Hygge extends to nourishing our souls with warm, hearty, and comforting meals. The act of cooking itself is a wonderful hygge experience, as it is a way to slow down and appreciate the process of creating something delicious. Dishes such as soups, stews, and casseroles fill your RV with wonderful aromas, adding to the cozy and inviting atmosphere. Try cooking together with your travel companions to make it a shared experience. 

Coorie, the Scottish response to hygge, and kalsarikännit and päntsdrunk as defined by Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “a drink at home in your underwear,” epitomizes the essence of letting go and embracing your true self without pretense or performance. Are you feeling a little nostalgia coming on?  

To truly immerse yourself in the hygge experience, consider these winter essentials for your RV:

• Cozy soft blankets, throws, rugs, for wrapping yourself in comfort. Battery-operated or electric candles with a soft yellowish glow adding warmth. 
• An essential oil diffuser filled with warming oil blends, such as Now Essential Oil blends [https://www.nowfoods.com/products/essential-oils ]. —Candy Cane , Sugar Plum, Spiced Cider Fall, Woodland Walk, Peace & Harmony, or Good Morning Sunshine — adds an intimate olfactory experience.  
• Warm slippers, wool socks, and flannel clothing to complete the overall coziness. Engaging in Päntsdrunk? Perhaps some warm thermal underwear (hey, I am not judging).  
• A good selection of your favorite reads and board games to keep you entertained during the evenings, to either get lost in the adventure or foster togetherness and bonding with your fellow travelers. 
• Create a playlist of your favorite soothing tunes to set the mood. From jazz to classical compositions, your choice of music can enhance the atmosphere and bring about a sense of tranquility. 

By harmonizing these cozy Nordic philosophies with the Danish concept of hygge, you’ll discover the perfect ambience for your winter RV journey — a melody of serenity and enchantment. Embrace every moment and bask in the profound sense of well-being that accompanies an adventurous life on the open road. Cheers and Happy New Year! 

Karen Langston is a full time RVer, certified mind-body specialist, and holistic orthomolecular nutritionist specializing in functional modalities to tame the belly storm. She loves hitting the road in search of Class A backroads, good food, and quirky adventures. Join her adventure at https://karenlangston.substack.com/about