In the midst of winter and need an escape? A cozy cabin in the woods is the perfect solution!
As someone who lives on the Massachusetts coast, I love escaping to the mountains for a weekend getaway. There's something special about being surrounded by nature and cozying up in a cabin.Â
Last year, I was lucky enough to experience the perfect opportunity to escape and indulge in the ultimate hygge experience with a fire, hot chocolate, and warm socks.Â
And you know what? It made me realize that sometimes, the best part of a trip is simply enjoying the cabin itself!Â
So, if you're looking for ideas for the best cozy cabin getaway, I've got you covered.
Keep reading for my tips on booking a cabin, what to bring, and how to embrace the cozy lifestyle.
Let’s get into it.
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To have the perfect cozy cabin getaway, it is crucial to book the perfect cabin.Â
Below are some suggestions on where and what to look for when booking your ideal place.
5 Tips For Making The Most Out Of Your Cozy Cabin Getaway
TIP 1: GET THE COZY CABIN – WHERE TO LOOK AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Where to Look:
1. Airbnb: Ensure you filter your search by selecting "place to yourself" and other desired requirements. Check out the Airbnb link to our favorite place in Poconos.
2. VRBO: Similarly, filter for your desired requirements.
3. Destination Cabins: Google search for rental cabins in your desired destination. Sometimes, local cabin rental companies may not list on Airbnb or VRBO.
What to Look For:Â
When finding the perfect cabin rental, it's crucial to think beyond just the cabin's aesthetics.
pay attention to details such as the cabin's location and accessibility. Consider the distance from other activities or the nearest town or grocery store.Â
A wood-burning stove or fireplace can add extra comfort to your stay.Â
Additionally, ensure the rental is fully equipped with everything you need for meals or warm beverages. Â
While a hot tub is a great addition, it's not essential.Â
Pro Tip:
Review previous guests' reviews to understand better what to expect. This can help you anticipate surprises and ensure a great stay.
TIP 2: GET GROCERIES (OR MAKE A LIST TO PURCHASE)
To truly make the most of your cabin experience, having all the necessary groceries on hand or a detailed shopping list is crucial. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy leisurely mornings and cozy evenings by preparing delicious home-cooked meals.
 Here are some meal ideas that you can try:
- Make a hearty soup/ stew early in the trip so you can eat it throughout your stay. Try this 1- Pot Tuscan Style Beef and Lentil soup from Minimalist Baker.
- Prepare something quick and easy, like one pan-baked ziti, for the days you return from your adventures.
- Add extra warmth to your meals by making baked potatoes with chicken or roasting veggies in the oven.
- For breakfast, try warm oatmeal with honey, nuts, fruit, or pancakes to start your day.
Pro Tips:
Don't forget to bring hot cocoa fixings, such as mini marshmallows, spices, chocolate, and cinnamon sticks for garnish.Â
Pack your favorite blends if you are a coffee lover or enjoy tea during the day.Â
Remember that mountain towns may not always have specialty items for your meals. Therefore, bringing the bulk of your groceries is best if you're driving to the cabin.
TIP 3: PACK APPROPRIATE CLOTHING
Remember to pack your warmest and coziest winter clothes for your upcoming getaway. You can go all-out with your flannels, beanies, and gloves, especially if you're driving and can afford to bring bulky items.Â
For added warmth, layer up with a tank top, then a flannel shirt, followed by a sweatshirt, and top it off with a puffy jacket, vest, or wind-resistant outer layer. Don't forget to bring fleece-lined tights to wear under your jeans with warm socks.
Here are a few absolute necessities that you should pack:Â
mid-weight flannel shirts
sweatshirts
snow boots
beanies
gloves
Lots of COZY SOCKS (yes, they are a must-have). I recommend checking out Dicks Sporting Goods, REI, LLBEAN, and even Amazon for socks.Â
For added warmth, make sure to pack a puffy jacket or outer layer. I prefer the LLBEAN Bayback insulated jacket, but you can browse LLBEAN and REI for more options.
*This is not an exhaustive list, so please pack destination and weather-appropriate items.Â
PRO TIP:
Also, remember to pack cozy pajamas and slippers. These slippers are perfect for keeping your feet warm and providing good arch support.Â
If there's a hot tub, make sure to pack a swimsuit. I recommend this swimsuit.
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TIP 4: PACK COZY-SPECIFIC AND ACTIVITY-SPECIFIC ITEMS
Before you head to the cabin, make sure you pack all the necessary items for both indoor and outdoor activities. Remember that you might spend your mornings and evenings at the cabin, so remember to bring items to help you relax while the fire is burning in the background. While some cabins come with various supplies, such as board games and books, others may not; double-check the listing to see what is included and what you might need to bring.
Our place had an entire cupboard filled with board games and a shelf of books, which was amazing!Â
Consider bringing:
A good book.
A journal for your thoughts.
Crafting supplies.
Deck of cards, puzzles or other board games.
Gear for snowshoeing, sledding (check to see if your Cabin rental includes these), skiing, or maybe hiking and biking gear, depending on the weather.
Firewood- because tending to the fire is an activity. Bring enough firewood to keep you warm during your stay.
Pro Tip:
Not all cabins are well-stocked, so read through the listing again to see what is included and anything you might want to supplement.
TIP 5: GET IN THE MINDSET
As you prepare to leave for your trip to the cabin, it's essential to get into a cozy mindset. You will likely need to slow down and relax at the cabin. Once you unpack, take a moment to warm up the cabin if it's not already warm, and then take a few deep breaths to help yourself relax.
If you find it difficult to unwind and always need to be doing something, don't worry; you're not alone.
There are plenty of ways to keep yourself occupied and busy while still enjoying the peace of the cabin.Â
You could make delicious food, prepare warm beverages, knit, paint, read, or tend to the fire. These activities can be both satisfying and calming, allowing you to enjoy your vacation experience fully.
It's important to remember that "The cabin is the experience" and that it's okay to indulge in a guilty pleasure. This is your vacation, and you have the power to do whatever makes you happy.
If you don't want to relax, that's perfectly fine too. You can take charge of your vacation and have a great time doing whatever you please. The key is to enjoy your time to the fullest and to make the most of your well-deserved break.
Looking for more getaway tips, tricks, and guides?
The Wandering Tourist Blog is packed full of all the things you might need when planning your next adventure! CLICK HERE to browse the blog and find what you need.
And if you’re looking for extra help planning your next getaway? We’re here to help!