5. No Exit (2022)
Stuck in a blizzard at a highway rest stop with a group of strangers, the protagonist of No Exit discovers a kidnapped child in a car, leading to a high-tension thriller that will chill you to the bone. This film combines the claustrophobia of confined spaces with the bleakness of a winter storm, making it an exemplary road trip horror movie. It’s a nail-biter that’s perfect for a snowy night in.
Where to Watch:
4. Wind Chill (2007)
In Wind Chill, a simple ride home for the holidays turns into an eerie fight for survival against both natural and supernatural forces. The film’s use of a desolate winter landscape as a backdrop for its haunting story makes it a standout in the winter horror movie genre. It’s a spooky, suspenseful journey that will make you appreciate a warm, safe home this holiday season.
Where to Watch:
3. Whiteout (2009)
Whiteout takes the concept of travel horror to the extreme, setting its thrilling murder mystery in the stark, unforgiving landscape of Antarctica. The film combines the isolation of the icy wilderness with a gripping plot, making it a unique and chilling watch. It’s a cool choice for those who like their holiday horror movies with a side of icy intrigue.
Where to Watch:
2. Snowpiercer (2013)
Imagine a post-apocalyptic winter on a train that never stops – that’s Snowpiercer for you. This film blends elements of sci-fi and horror, creating a riveting story set against a backdrop of a frozen Earth. It’s a visually stunning, thought-provoking film that adds a dystopian twist to the travel horror movie genre.
Where to Watch:
1. The Shining (1980)
Last but definitely not least, The Shining is a masterpiece of winter horror movies. Set in an isolated hotel blanketed in snow, the film’s chilling atmosphere is as iconic as its storyline. It’s a psychological horror that delves deep into the human psyche, making it a perfect film for those who like their Christmas with a side of cerebral terror.
Where to Watch:
From haunted highways to terrifying trains, these movies prove that sometimes, the scariest part of the holidays is the journey itself. Whether you’re a fan of Christmas horror movies or just love a good travel horror story, these films are sure to add some chill to your winter nights. So, the next time you plan a holiday trip, remember: the real terror might just be the journey.
Can you think of more wintery or Christmas-themed road trip movies? Recommend them in the Nightmare on Film Street Discord!