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![]() RV Innovation May Energize Market Carbon Footprint of RV Vacation, 50% That of Airline/Car/Hotel Vacation Way To Go RV Travel May Be Up, But RV Sales Are Down D.C. to Montreal via a Jayco Melbourne Class C Motorhome |
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NEWEST AND BEST IN THE RV WORLD top |
If you think you have seen everything available in the world of RVing, then think again, because when the 57th Annual California RV Show opens on October 16 at the Fairplex in Pomona, Calif., it will boast a number of new and exciting RVs. Running through October 25th, one of the exciting features of this year’s show will be well-known outdoor adventure expert, environmental pioneer and “Green RVer,” Brian Brawdy and his “Green” Lance Camper. A former New York City police investigator turned outdoor adventure expert and author, Brian has parlayed his passion for the outdoors into expertise on everything from family camping to emergency preparedness to backcountry survival. Determined to find ways of reconnecting people with their planet in a healthy and sustainable way, Brawdy’s mission is to educate kids and adults alike to get outside, get dirty and breathe fresh air. “Some may be surprised to find how eco-friendly RVing is,” says Brawdy. “I’m showing off my Green RV to make this point.” Brawdy also says that he already sees other RVers at local campgrounds doing their part to conserve water and electricity, recycle and buy paper items instead of plastic. “We can all do a little more. And a little from all of us is all it takes,” explains Brawdy. With the purchase of his first RV, Brian outfitted it with equipment to harness the natural energies of the sun, wind and rain – solar panels, a wind turbine and rain filtration system – along with the latest in electronic navigational and weather-forecasting equipment. Brawdy relies on solar and wind power to provide additional energy for those necessary gadgets and the RV’s living systems. Another interesting new way to enhance your RV travel is the Patio Stacker. Showing as a guest specialty vehicle, the Patio Stacker is far more than just an ordinary trailer. It can carry two tiers of toys and has a covered patio loft that is great for entertaining and delivers a spectacular roof top 360° view. The cargo box includes a hydraulic floor lift that allows double stacking of toys such as quads and motorcyles on the raised level and a sand buggy on the bottom. Measuring 102"x21'x11', the Stacker provides plenty of room for your toys. Featuring tandem 7,000 lb. torsion axels with electric/hydraulic disc brakes, 16' aluminum modular wheels, a 14' hydraulic Stinger car lift and a rear ramp door with dual spring assist, the Stacker can be towed by a motorhome or a moderate-sized truck. In addition, inside, it boasts a built-in Craftsman toolbox, cabinets for storage, a workbench with a stainless steel top and sink, four floor tie downs and two floor storage boxes. The 50-gallon fuel tank is equipped with a high volume pump and two nozzles for personal remote refueling of the toys. The 91-gallon water tank with automatic pump facilitates toy clean up before you head home. Stainless steel guard protects the lower edge finish from rock dings. Once the cargo box is empty and you are ready to go topside, simply push a button and the hydraulic system lifts the roof and counter top “up” and brings the staircase with black coin non-skid tread “down”. It is fast and effortless. Great for entertaining, the loft has a built-in barbeque, lights, a counter, a non-slip floor and a sound system. Much safer than standing on the roof of your motorhome and more comfortable as the roof provides a sun shade, the Stacker will give your family and friends many hours of enjoyment at the racetrack, out in the desert, at sporting events or anywhere you vacation. When you are ready to come down for the day, the hydraulic system neatly puts everything back in place. All you have to do is lock it up for the night. Also new this year is the Galileo RS Travel Trailer. Debuting in California this unique unit is a high end, “capsule-shaped” all-fiberglass 21-foot trailer resembling a spaceship. Combining exceptional attention to detail with innovative uni-fiber construction methods, it has been designed to create the first true Recreational Solution. This Recreational Solution brings contemporary styling and eco-eyed concepts to the forefront of the recreational marketplace. The Galileo RS combines a distinctive aerodynamic exterior with unique interior features such as: eco-friendly cork flooring, solar panels, recessed lighting, Bose sound system, Sony Bravia HDTV, unique molded cabinetry, Mysteria countertops and Euro-style interior and much more into the realm of what is destined to become the definition of mobile innovation. The Galileo RS is the solution for the customer with higher expectations. Weighing in at 4,900 pounds, this great little trailer is easy to tow and perfect for lots of fun-filled RV travel. And these are only a few things that you will find at this year’s California RV Show. Be sure and come by and see the newest and best in RVing. California RV Show tickets are only available at the Gate. Regular prices are $6, $5 for seniors, 18 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Discount coupons good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com. Monday through Thursday, adults and seniors are admitted for just $1. No coupon is needed and no discounts apply on Dollar Days. Active Duty Military with Government ID are Free. There is a Fairplex charge for parking which is: Cars $9 and RVs $12. This is subject to change by Fairplex management.
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BOASTS OVER 140 SWEEPSTAKES PRIZES top |
When the 57th Annual California RV Show opens its gates at the Fairplex in Pomona, Calif., October 16-25, it will boast over 140 Sweepstake prizes including one very special Grand Prize. Headlining this year’s sweepstakes is the all-new Lance Model 1881 Travel Trailer. A famous name in slide-in truck campers since 1965, Lance has earned an outstanding reputation for quality, innovative styling and reliability. Recipient of the prestigious Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) Quality Circle Award for product excellence from the RVDA (Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association), this popular company has expanded their line this year to include ultralight travel trailers. The Lance 1881 travel trailer has a front walk-around queen bed with a large rear bath that includes a roomy wardrobe and lavatory sink. There’s no shortage of storage – with a large storage area beneath the front bed. The 1881 also features a fully-appointed galley, three burner stove, dual basin sink, a comfortable face-to-face seating dinette, a tandem axle chassis, aluminum-framed construction, and is ideal for those quick getaways. Weighing in at an ultralight gross dry weight of 3242 lbs, this trailer can be towed by a wide varied of vehicles. Its interior 18-foot length allows plenty of room for a family of 4 to camp. Nicely equipped with 30 gallon fresh, gray and black water tanks, two five gallon propane tanks, refrigerator, furnace and a full bath, your family will definitely enjoy all the fun and excitement of RV travel. In addition to the Lance trailer Grand Prize, 10 lucky winners will receive a 3-day trip to Avalon on Santa Catalina Island with accommodations by Hunt & Associate Realtors Rentals. Located just 26 miles off the Los Angeles Coast, this beautiful spot is perfect for a fun-filled getaway. Thirty show goers will also win the use of an RV for three days courtesy of El Monte RV Rental. If you have never been RVing, this is the perfect opportunity to discover the pleasure of the RV mini vacation. And last, but not least, names will drawn every hour throughout the run of the show for a 2-night stay at the Riverside Resort and Casino in Laughlin, NV. One hundred show attendees will get this great chance to win a mini-vacation. Winners may choose from a hotel stay or an RV park stay at Riverside Resort and Casino. Riverside Resort Winners must claim their prize daily. It’s easy and fun and you can sign up at the show. No purchase is necessary. The Lance trailer, Catalina trips and El Monte RV Uses will be given away on Sunday, October 25 at 3 pm. Need not be present at the drawing to win these three prize types. Complete sweepstakes terms and conditions are on the entry form. California RV Show tickets are only available at the Gate. Regular prices are $6, $5 for seniors, 18 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Discount coupons good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com. Monday through Thursday, adults and seniors are admitted for just $1. No coupon is needed and no other discounts apply on Dollar Days. Active Duty Military with Government ID are Free. There is a Fairplex charge for parking which is: Cars $9 and RVs $12. This is subject to change by Fairplex management.
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CHAMPION RACER KENNY COOLBETH top |
On Saturday morning, October 24, visitors to the 57th Annual California RV Show will have the chance to meet a very special guest...3-Time AMA Grand National Champion Kenny Coolbeth. Show tickets are only available at the Gate. Regular prices are $6, $5 for seniors, 18 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Discount coupons good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com. Monday through Thursday, adults and seniors are admitted for just $1. No coupon is needed and no discounts apply on Dollar Days. Active Duty Military with Government ID are Free. There is a Fairplex charge for parking which is: Cars $9 and RVs $12. This is subject to change by Fairplex management. |
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RVing is all about having fun and when the 57th Annual California RV Show comes alive October 16-25 at the Fairplex (LA County Fair, Hotel, Exposition Complex) in Pomona, it will provide a an all encompassing view of all the newest and best in RVs and RV products to enhance your RV experience. With the current economy, more and more Americans are looking for ways to cut costs without giving up their family getaways and RVing definitely fits the bill. Whatever your family’s interests or hobbies are, RV’s provide the perfect means of travel. They offer plenty of space, all the comforts of home, room for your pet, flexible schedules, the ability to bring along your favorite toys, games, etc. and most importantly, cost far less than other types of vacations. Family friendly and affordable, RVing offers families the ability to roam in comfort without any stress. You can come and go exactly as you please without the worry of long lines and hassle of today’s airplane travel? The schedule is yours to set the way you want. And RVing brings your family closer together and the you get to see the country through your kids eyes which gives you a whole new look at things. In short, RVing is an extremely fun, surprisingly affordable way to get away and enjoy life. You can get a whole new perspective of everything that is available in RVs at the California RV Show. And to make it even better, you can drive your trade-ins to the show and get a free appraisal. The local dealers working in each manufacturer’s booth need your used RV, offer on-the-spot financing and aggressive pricing to earn your business. Camping is available at the “Fairplex KOA” adjacent to the show. For reservations, call 909-593-8915. Additional camping is also available at “East Shore RV Park” in San Dimas, adjacent to Bonelli Regional Park on Puddingstone Lake. Reservations are a must and can be made by calling 800-809-3778. Show tickets are only available at the Gate. Regular prices are $6, $5 for seniors, 18 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Discount coupons good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com. Monday through Thursday, adults and seniors are admitted for just $1. No coupon is needed and no discounts apply on Dollar Days. Active Duty Military with Government ID are Free. There is a Fairplex charge for parking which is: Cars $9 and RVs $12. This is subject to change by Fairplex management. |
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WHAT: 57th ANNUAL CALIFORNIA RV SHOW. WHEN: 10 EXCITING DAYS! Friday, October 16th thru Sunday, October 25th, 2009. WHERE: Fairplex – L.A. County Fair, Hotel & Exposition Complex, Pomona, CA. SHOW HOURS: 10AM – 6PM Daily. DESCRIPTION: The largest and longest running RV Show in California, the CALIFORNIA RV SHOW is the only major recreation vehicle show solely owned and sponsored by RV manufacturers. It is THE PLACE to go for all your RV wants and needs and to see all the new 2010 models and buy at manufacturer discounted prices. This once-a-year gigantic display and sale showcases hundreds of towable and motorized recreation vehicles. Boasting incredible show prices, it is California’s ULTIMATE ONE-STOP SHOPPING CENTER for travel trailers, motorhomes, 5th wheel trailers, slideout truck campers, buses, mini-motorhomes, folding camping trailers, toy-carrying trailers and park models. Factory and California dealer representatives will be on hand to answer all your questions and explain the advance technology offered in recreational vehicles. Acres of vehicles, products, services and special events all located in one area allow you to browse and shop at your leisure. Enhance your RV ownership and travel with the newest and best in products and accessories. Be sure not to miss the 40,000 square foot tent filled with exciting RV products and accessories. SEMINARS: One off the highlights of the CALIFORNIA RV SHOW is a full program of daily seminars designed to enhance all your RV experiences. Hosted by some of the country’s top RV experts, these seminars are filled with hundreds of really good tips and helpful information. SWEEPSTAKES: One of the most popular features, this year’s CALIFORNIA RV SHOW will offer a number of exciting prizes, including Gas Cards and mini vacations to be given away during the course of the show. TICKETS: Adults $6.00; Seniors $5.00. 18 and under free when accompanied by an adult. Active Duty Military with Government ID are Free. Tickets on sale at Gate only. DISCOUNTS: Discount coupon, good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com or in the October issues of most RV magazines. DOLLAR DAYS: On Monday through Thursday only, admission for adults and seniors will be just $1. CAMPING: Camping is available at the “Fairplex KOA” adjacent to the show. Prices are $60.50 including tax per night with full hookups. Spaces go fast, so be sure to call 909-593-8915 right away for reservations. Additional camping is also available at “East Shore RV Park” in San Dimas, adjacent to Bonelli Regional Park and Puddingstone Lake. Standard spaces range from $44 to $49, depending on location and lake view spaces are $46-$49. Prices are for two people. Tax is additional and pets are $3 each per night. Both views offer full hookups. Reservations are a must and can be made by calling 800-809-3778. PRODUCED BY: Recreation Vehicle Industry Association – RVIA. HOTLINE: For 24-Hour recorded show information call, 951-274-9215. INTERNET: www.CARVShow.com |
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RV travelers do more than just hit the road in
their vehicles. RVing families get outside and walk, bike, jog, rollerblade and hike — whether it’s down small-town streets, over
miles of trails, or through landscaped campgrounds. According to RVIA’s Campfire Canvass survey of owners, 70% of RVers say they are more active on RV trips than other vacations. Not surprising. RVers are sociable people who walk throughout the campground to meet their “neighbors” and talk about the newest vehicle innovations. RVers also say they specifically travel by RV to participate in outdoor activities like hiking and nature walks. The most recent Campfire Canvass survey shows what activities top the list for RVers — 76% like to hike/walk, while 48% enjoy biking. However you look at it, RVers are on the move. But cardiovascular benefits are not the only health dividends to be had. According to an anthropological study of RV enthusiasts, RVers said they were both physically and mentally healthier and happier than their non-RVing counterparts. In fact, a study conducted by a health psychologist at SUNY Oswego found that taking vacations reduces the risk of heart disease, and, that spending quality time with a spouse or significant other actually lowers a person’s blood pressure. RV vacations are great pressure valves to let off the built-up steam of everyday life. Increasing activity while on the road, escaping stress, recharging batteries, and bonding/reconnecting with family members all help to explain why RVers feel happier and healthier than if they didn’t RV. In addition to enjoying time with the family members they bring along, 60% of RVers report that they make trips to relax and to catch up by visiting family and friends. RVs reduce vacation stress by allowing travelers to control their own schedule and timetable, by keeping the family relaxed in familiar surroundings, and by making spur-of-the-moment getaways possible by leaving the RV packed with the staples needed to head out of town with little planning. And, since rest contributes to overall physical health, sleeping in a familiar, comfortable bed plays a major role in recharging the body’s batteries, something most travelers say they can’t obtain by staying in strange hotels along the way. The fact that RVers can continue to adhere to their diets and solid nutritional habits is also a factor in their healthier lifestyles. Maintaining everyday eating patterns is something not easily accomplished while waiting around airport terminals, staying in hotels, and eating in restaurants. RVs make mealtime decisions easy because not only are they equipped with on-board pantries and cabinets for non-perishable storage, ovens/stoves and microwaves for cooking, and refrigerators/freezers to store your favorite meal ingredients, but also, RVs boast ample power and storage for food processors, blenders, convection ovens and other preparation essentials. So stock the RV pantry and frig, grab your gear, a pair of comfortable shoes and your favorite traveling companions, and hit the open road because good health can’t be found in a bottle, but it can be found in an RV campground. Be sure and visit the California RV Show and find out even more. Show tickets are only available at the Gate. Regular prices are $6, $5 for seniors, 18 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Discount coupons good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com. Monday through Thursday, adults and seniors are admitted for just $1. No coupon is needed and no discounts apply on Dollar Days. Active duty military with ID are admitted FREE. For 24-hour recorded show information, call 951-274-9215 or visit www.CARVShow.com. |
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Attendance at RV shows around the country
is providing evidence that interest in RVs remains high, despite the economy. More than 44,000 people attended the Florida RV Super Show; 35,000 came out for the Utah RV Show; and 30,000 showed up for the Maryland RV Show. The large crowds at these shows and others have pleasantly surprised organizers and dealers, who say that people are not just looking at RVs, but buying them, too. “Our sales were up 20 percent over last year’s (Maryland RV) show,” says Charlie Wolf, sales manager for Beckley’s Camping Center. “People are still buying RVs. They still want to go camping, get away and have fun.” Tim DeWitt, executive director of the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds, said attendance at the recent Flint Camper & RV Show was up 25 percent over last year. He attributes the increase to consumers recognizing that there’s never been a better time to buy an RV. “This is a buyer’s market,” he says. “You can negotiate with dealers, who are discounting heavily.” In addition to the great bargains that consumers are finding at shows and on dealer lots, they also appreciate the value that RVs offer. Even in a recession, RV travel is the most affordable way to go. Tim Lundy, 40, of Feasterville, Pa., is an example of someone taking advantage of the market and getting a great deal. He recently bought a 40-foot 2009 fifth wheel trailer, an upgrade from a 28-foot travel trailer. “I shopped for several months and there’s definitely a lot of great buying opportunities out there,” says Lundy, who works for the Philadelphia Electric Company. Buyers who meet income requirements also will be able to take advantage of the new federal stimulus plan that provides for a deduction of sales tax on the first $49,500 of a new motorhome purchase. “This is the kind of consumer incentive that will help increase demand in what is already a buyer’s market with the great bargains out there,” says Richard Coon, president of the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). “Plus, loans to purchase the vast majority of RVs are treated like mortgages – the interest is tax-deductible.” Buyers with good credit and a substantial down payment are obtaining loans to buy RVs. Coon is optimistic that the new stimulus package will ease the credit crunch and encourage more lending, which will be good news for more consumers. According to a 2008 travel-cost comparison study by international travel and tourism experts PKF Consulting, family RV trips are 27-to-61 percent less expensive than other types of vacations, even factoring in RV ownership and operating costs. Reports from RV retail shows indicate that shoppers are impressed with new RV products that are smaller, lighter, and more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient than previous models. “RVing is a tremendously popular lifestyle that will endure through these tough economic times, because it’s the most cost-effective way for families to have a great vacation,” says Coon. “Solid traffic at RV shows and the innovation going on within our made-in-America industry are signs that the long-term outlook remains positive.” The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (www.rvia.org) is the national association representing approximately 500 manufacturers and component suppliers producing approximately 98 percent of all RVs made in the United States. Visit GoRVing.com for more information about RVing and to watch a video on how to get started RVing. Be sure and visit the California RV Show and find out even more. Show tickets are only available at the Gate. Regular prices are $6, $5 for seniors, 18 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Discount coupons good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com. Monday through Thursday, adults and seniors are admitted for just $1. No coupon is needed and no discounts apply on Dollar Days. Active duty military with ID are admitted FREE. For 24-hour recorded show information, call 951-274-9215 or visit www.CARVShow.com. |
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As Americans become more aware of the need to live a sustainable, green lifestyle, RV manufacturers are working to meet the challenge with design innovations and technological advances. Every year manufacturers introduce a variety of new features to enhance the RV experience and meet the consumer wants. This year is no exception. The California RV Show at the Fairplex (L.A. County Fair, Hotel, Exposition Complex) in Pomona provides RV enthusiasts with the place to preview the newest and best built RVs on the market today. A myriad of different RV models, layouts, and features provide an incredible array of options and price ranges. In short, there is an RV for every taste and budget. Running the gambit from economical small trailers to deluxe luxury coaches, today’s RVs are far different than those of years ago. In fact, if you come right down to it, the very first RV was actually a covered wagon and there is definitely no comparison. With the current trend toward all things green becoming more desirable, manufacturers are innovating with new materials and technology to make RV travel more earth fiendly. Lighter gross weight vehicles, smaller light-weight trailers that can be towed by smaller SUV’s and trucks, solar-powered living space and supplemental solar power are available from a number of manufacturers. Winnebago and Fleetwood offer motorhomes built on a Dodge Sprinter chassis for increased miles per gallon. Country Coach has an all electric coach house and EPA low emissions diesel engines are featured in all their motorcoaches. In fact, the entire RV industry has made significant strides in recent years to develop diesel systems that are cleaner and more efficient. Thanks to state-of-the-art diesel engines, cleaner-burning fuels, effective emissions-control systems, and advancements in the fuel injection system, it would take 60 truck chassis RVs sold today to equal the soot emissions of one 1988 truck chassis. Data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that the level of diesel particulates in the air fell by more than 37 percent during the 1990s. Coachman RV is testing a full-size motorhome that is powered by biodiesel fuel and has an electrical system that operates on solar power. In addition, they are also testing a Sportscoach® Elite that employs a hydrogen generating system to produce a portion of its fuel. In addition to new technology, RVing is actually are much greener than one would think. Because of limited space, RVers tend to shop only for what they need, conserve on water, use rechargeable battery power, plus they use old fashion solutions like awnings, fans and natural breezes. For example, think about your water usage at home. Typical morning showers use approximately 2 gallons per minute and the average shower is 5 minutes. This translates into consumption of 10 gallons of water. In an RV, knowing that water and waste tank capacity is limited, RVers take short showers and use less than 4 gallons each. RV toilets flush with a few cups of water, compared to a home toilet that takes many gallons. Meals are simpler, so there are fewer dishes to wash. Propane water heaters are small and only turned on to heat water for a few minutes a day around shower and dish washing times – compared to heating water 24 hours a day at home. Conserving fuel is another important aspect of green RVing. Drivers who travel at the speed limit, get better fuel mileage. According to the Iowa Energy Center, over 50 percent of the energy required to move a vehicle down the road is spent overcoming aerodynamic drag (pushing air out of the way). When driving faster, the aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance increase. Consequently, the fuel economy decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Each 5 mph over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas. (Note: Energy Center’s cost savings are based on an a fuel price of $2.91/gallon, so with higher fuel prices the fuel penalty for speed is even more dramatic.) Another mpg enhancing trick is lightening your vehicle’s weight by reducing the contents. RVers permanently stock the rig with the basic necessities and safety equipment and only add the “extras” as they are needed for an outing – then take the extras out of the RV and store them at home. There is no need to carry your holiday decorations around 12-months a year! Travel with empty gray and black water tanks. Evaluate if you need a full tank of fresh water. Every 100 gallons of liquid weighs about 800 pounds A lighter load, no mater how you achieve it, means better gas mileage. Another choice RVers make is to shop at local farmers markets, road side stands, etc. not only is the produce fresh, but buying locally helps support the local economy and the foods typically have less packaging, which translates into less trash. All in all, with the new RV technology and all the things RVers do to live a more sustainable lifestyle, RVing is actually greener than you’d think. Be sure and visit the California RV Show and find out even more. Show tickets are only available at the Gate. Regular prices are $6, $5 for seniors, 18 and under are admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Discount coupons good for $2 off on Friday through Sunday are available on the Internet at www.CARVShow.com. Monday through Thursday, adults and seniors are admitted for just $1. No coupon is needed and no discounts apply on Dollar Days. Active duty military with ID are admitted FREE. For 24-hour recorded show information, call 951-274-9215 or visit www.CARVShow.com. |
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STUDY SHOWS top |
RESTON, VA — Despite record-breaking fuel prices, typical RV trips remain the least expensive type of vacation, according to a new study comparing vacation costs. |
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LESS THAN AIR/HOTEL TRIPS top |
Preliminary results of a new study show that RV vacations are more environmental friendly than flying and staying in a hotel, in terms of carbon emissions. |
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| RESTON, VA — Recreation vehicles (RVs)
are as much at home on the virtual information highway as on a country road. Now dozens of Internet sites devoted to
RVs and RV travel provide valuable online resources and gathering places for RV enthusiasts and newcomers alike,
even those considering buying or renting their first RV. The most comprehensive web source is www.GoRVing.com, created by the Go RVing Coalition of RV manufacturers, component suppliers, dealers and campgrounds. Designed for first-time RV buyers and renters, this user-friendly website describes the variety of RVs available and allows you to search for RV dealer locations and rental resources, as well as order a free 18-minute getting-started video of RV buying tips. From the Go RVing website you can link to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Associations (RVIA) website at www.rvia.org and browse the manufacturer directory, RV retail show calendar, industry news, maintenance tips, market trends, photo gallery and RVIA's online bookstore. Additional links take you to websites by the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA), www.rvda.org; its subsidiary, the Recreation Vehicle Rental Association (RVRA), www.rvra.org; and the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC), www.gocampingamerica.com. RVDAs site shares information on locating and contacting RV dealerships nationwide; RVRAs provides U.S., Canadian and European listings of over 270 RV rental companies, as well as consumer tips on renting; ARVCs offers campground information for 3,700 member properties. Many other RV websites are useful to consumers and travelers alike. For instance, leading RV companies have sites showcasing their products and services. Publishers of RV-enthusiast periodicals put their magazines and newsletters online to reach readers more easily on the road. In addition, many RVers post online travel logs to document their travels for fellow enthusiasts. Still other sites facilitate dialogue and information exchanges among RVers -- through discussion forums chat rooms, bulletin boards, and classified ads. Access to the Internet is a boon for frequent RVers with its many vacation-planning resources, including online reservations for campgrounds and rental agencies. Even when traveling, RVers can access online maps, travel alerts and weather reports. E-mail and online resources are more portable than snail-mail and paper literature. Internet access also provides timely communication with friends and family, who can conveniently leave travelers e-mail messages when they dont have a regular phone number. Campgrounds increasingly feature telephone connections as part of their RV hook-up service, so travelers can get dial-up Internet access when they stay overnight. Some are introducing wireless modems or kiosks with high-speed Internet access. For Internet access while on the road or from campgrounds without connections, some RVers rely on cellular communications systems. Satellite telephone systems are available for RVers outside areas covered by cellular service. For your reference, here are some other popular RV travel-related websites:
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RESTON, VA — Driving or towing a recreation vehicle (RV) is easier than many newcomers think and opens up a world of on-the-road travel adventure. Experienced automobile drivers already possess the necessary skills. Motorized RVs typically come equipped with automatic transmission, power brakes and power steering. With proper attention to the differences in vehicle size, height and weight, you'll find it fun and easy to take the wheel of a conversion vehicle or motorhome. Towing skills are also readily acquired for the various types of towable RVs. Recreation vehicles do not require a commercial driver's license for personal use. In some states, the very largest RVs may require a special test for a different class of driver's license. top Whether you will be driving a motorized RV or towing and RV, you should:
Drivers towing a folding camping trailer or travel trailers also should:
Whether you're driving a motorhome, conversion vehicle or other tow vehicles, make every trip a safer one by buckling up your safety belt and making sure passengers are secured too. Wearing a safety belt is the single most effective thing you can do to prevent serious injury and death in a traffic accident, according to the National Safety Belt Coalition. |
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10 CELEBRITIES WHO ENJOY THE RV LIFESTYLE top |
| RESTON, VA (February 2007) — RV travel is more popular than ever, with ownership at a record high, according to research by Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). People enjoy the comfort, convenience, control and freedom that RVs offer. Take Olympic skier Bode Miller, for example. At the recent World Cup Skiing competition, Miller said he’d rather stay in his RV than in the team hotel, and that he preferred his own bed and food. Miller is one of many high-profile athletes and celebrities who are passionate about RVing. Here’s a list compiled by RVIA of 10 well-recognized people who have been quoted in news outlets on their love of RVs:
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WILL RISE THIS SPRING/SUMMER top |
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RESTON, VA (May 2, 2007) — Recreation vehicle owners are pumped up about the upcoming travel season and plan to use their RVs more this spring/summer than they did last year, according to a new study. |
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RVShoppersDirect.com top |
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RVShoppersDirect.com, a division on NCRI, announced in September 2008 the launch of its brand new video-driven, multi-media content delivery system directory available for the RV enthusiast online. Through the Power of Video! Visitors come to RVShoppersDirect.com to find and to research RVs. The site offers dynamic multi-media video content as well as comprehensive, searchable information of RVs. |