Friday is finally here, which means the weekend is just around the corner. Before heading off on your next adventure, we have a rundown of the latest news from the RV and camping industry. Here are the biggest stories that you may have missed this week:
Photo Credit: Thor Motors
Thor Motors Reveals 2026 RV Upgrades: We’ve entered that time of the year when the major RV manufacturers start to reveal the big updates and upgrades coming to their vehicles in the coming months. This past week, Thor Motors has been doling out that information over the course of several days, focusing on Class A, B, and C models, along with diesel coaches. We’ve compiled all of those updates into a single article, which you can read here.
Airstream Shares 2026 Updates, Too: Airstream also got on the new model-year upgrades bandwagon this week, announcing new features coming to its travel trailers in 2026. Every towable in the current line-up is getting a refresh of some degree this year, with many models getting improved air ducts for better airflow and higher-quality backup cameras. The Basecamp gets a substantial update with the X-Package—which includes all-terrain tires, better ground clearance, and more—is now standard across the line. The Globetrotter and Classic get a security camera, while the latter also receives a much-improved couch. Check out the full story here.
Photo Credit: Grand Design
Grand Design Debuts New Lineage Series M Floor Plan: Grand Design’s foray into the motorized space has been an impressive one, with the Lineage Series M line being especially noteworthy. This week, the company revealed an all-new floor plan that continues the Class C model’s already established legacy for luxury and performance. Highlights of the 25TK layout include an upscale bathroom with a patent-pending AquaHaven rain shower, a bed that converts between two twins and a king, and a full-width rear passthrough cargo bay. Check it out here.
Photo Credit: Aliner
Aliner Adds Truck Camper to Its Line-Up: Best known for its innovative and affordable pop-up A-frame towables, Aliner has announced that it is expanding into the truck camper space. This week, the brand announced the arrival of the Switchback, a lightweight (just 375 lbs) slide-in model that utilizes the brand’s A-frame architecture. Features include a full-size bed, lockable storage, and a garage-friendly design. Learn more here.
Sprinter, Transit, or ProMaster—Which is Best?: If you know anything about camper vans, you probably already know that most are built on either the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit platforms, with a few—but growing—number riding on a Ram ProMaster chassis. So which one is the best option for Class B owners? That’s the age-old question that GearJunkie looked to answer this week. I won’t spoil the results, but will say the final choice came down to which one was easiest to get serviced. Find out which model won out by clicking here.
Photo Credit: Wes Walker
Camper Vans Continue to Be Popular Options: While we’re on the topic of Class B campers, it seems these models continue to be a hot topic. According to RV Trader, these motorized rigs remain at the top of the most-searched list, with Winnebago holding the number one spot. The Flying W is followed by Thor Motors, Roadtrek, Airstream, and Pleasure-Way. Winnebago has three models in the top five searches as well, with the Travato, Solis, and Revel all making the cut.
New Go RVing Travel Campaign Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday: America’s 250th birthday may not be until next year, but Go RVing is kicking off the celebration early. The organization dedicated to promoting the RV lifestyle has launched a new travel campaign dubbed “RV 2 50” that offers a coast-to-coast adventure with a set of destinations hand-selected to provide an inspirational, historical, and educational look at the US. The campaign includes travel guides for the entire journey, which could take up to six months to complete. Find out more here.
Photo Credit: welcomia/Getty
Gain Boondocking Skills at Hershey RV Show: Planning on attending the Hershey RV Show? Want to gain new skills and knowledge for boondocking in your RV? You’re in luck because industry veteran and camping expert Dave Helgeson will be on hand conducting seminars. Helgeson will conduct several educational talks focusing on boondocking basics, where to find places to camp, safety, and more. He’ll also give a chat on RV basics, including essential system maintenance, use of individual appliances, and prepping for your first camping trip. Find out more here.
AEONrv Hits the Road to Showcase New Flagship Model: RV start-up AEONrv is going on a road trip to show off its latest model. The company announced that it will be appearing at a number of events in the coming weeks, allowing interested customers to check out the new rig in person. The brand’s latest camper will be on display at Overland Expo Mountain West in Loveland, Colorado, Aug. 22-24, and wraps up at Overland Expo East in Arrington, Virginia, Oct. 3-5, with several other stops along the way. Check out all of the locations here.
Photo Credit: Storyteller Overland
RVs in the News: RVing, and the vehicles that make it possible, have gone mainstream. This week, a pair of stories related to the RV space made headlines in non-traditional RV media. Those include a story in Alabama’s Springfield News Leader about Storyteller Overland and its rugged GXV rig. Meanwhile, legendary design magazine House Beautifulshared some impressive RV interiors, noting the amazing use of space to provide comfort and amenities. Check that story out here.
Trump Administration’s Sweeping Tariffs Go Into Effect: After talking about—and teasing—tariffs on most other countries for months, the Trump Administration finally followed up on that promise yesterday. As of August 7, 2025, import taxes as high as 50% are now in effect for the majority of US trading partners. Currently, the average tariff rate for US consumers is 17%, which is the highest it has been since the Great Depression. How this will impact the RV industry remains to be seen, but automakers have already felt the pressure with brands like Stellantis and Ford taking billion-dollar hits to their profits. Hopefully, most manufacturers can weather the storm and continue delivering top-notch products at reasonable prices. Stay tuned as this story will likely continue to unfold for weeks and months to come.
That’s all for this week. See you next Friday for another edition of our weekly RV news roundup.
The calendar says it’s Friday, which means it’s time for another edition of our weekly round-up of the latest news from the RV and camping space. Here are the biggest stories from the past seven days that you might want to know about:
Photo Credit: THOR/Harbinger
Thor Wins Major Award for Hybrid Class A Model: We’ve shared news on Thor’s exciting Test Vehicle, which rides on a hybrid gas-electric chassis co-developed with Harbinger Motors. This week, the RV manufacturer earned further recognition when it took home a “World Changing Ideas” award from Fast Company. The annual awards are given out to businesses and other organizations that are tackling the biggest issues of our day. In this case, Thor’s prototype—soon to be a commercial product—promises a 500-mile range using an onboard gas generator to charge its hybrid battery packs. Read more here.
Photo Credit: Storyteller Overland
Storyteller Overland Wins an Award, Too: Thor wasn’t the only RV manufacturer taking home prestigious honors this week. Alabama-based Storyteller Overland also gained some much-deserved recognition in the form of a 2025 Red Dot Award. The brand’s excellent GXV Hilt off-road vehicle was spotlighted, with the awards jury saying: “The GXV HILT convincingly combines robust construction with functional features and contemporary comfort.” We agree with that statement wholeheartedly.
Outside Van is Moving: For 18 years, Outside Van has been building unique Class B camper vans in Portland, OR, but later this year it will relocate to Gainesville, GA. The company was purchased by Fox Factory Holding Corp. in 2021, and the move will streamline operations and manufacturing. Our friends at RV News have more information here.
Image Courtesy of Hillary Bird
GearJunkie Shares “10 Van Life Truths Everyone Should Know”: While we’re on the subject of camper vans, GearJunkie posted an interesting story this week about what it’s actually like to live in a Class B model for extended periods of time. The article is called “10 Van Life Truths Everyone Should Know,” and it includes tips on how to find good campsites, the best ways to maintain relationships, and why you should make sure the toilet is depressurized before opening it at altitude. There is a ton of wisdom to be found here, especially for those who dream about #vanlife and are aspiring to join that crowd. Read it for yourself here.
Hipcamp Announces Best Places to Camp in America for 2025: If you need to find a great place to camp in the US, Hipcamp has always been a great option. But this week, the online discovery and booking service announced the 2025 Hipcamp Awards, revealing the best places to camp in the country. The awards are broken down into several categories—including tent camping, RV camping, glamping, and more—with some truly outstanding locations getting the nod. We won’t spoil the winners here, so you’ll have to head over to the Hipcamp website to discover them all for yourself.
Keystone Puts New Furrion A/C to the Test in Death Valley: The advances in RV air conditioning technology have been incredibly impressive over the past few years, with A/C units getting more powerful and energy-efficient at a steady pace. Case in point, Keystone RV recently traveled to Death Valley to put the new Furrion Chill Cube through its paces. The new unit produces 18,000 BTUs and comes with a variable-speed compressor, soft start capability, and is reportedly very quiet, too. So, how well did it perform in the notoriously harsh conditions of Death Valley? Check out the video above to find out.
Dometic Reveals Unrestricted Cooler Collection: Dometic is well known in the RV industry for its excellent line of powered coolers. But the company makes a wide range of other products for use at the campsite and in the outdoors. This week, that catalog expanded even further with the introduction of the Unrestricted Collection of soft coolers. The new product line-up includes two totes (regular and XL), two backpacks (regular and small), and a duffel. The bags are all made from durable 100% recycled Cordura and use PrimaLoft Gold insulation. Each is available now starting at $140.
Image Courtesy of Manu Reyes/Getty
New Report Spotlights Trends for Modern RVers:Newbook, a company that creates property management software for campgrounds, has released its RV & Camping Consumer Insights Report for 2025, revealing some interesting trends in the process. The report was compiled from a survey of over 1,000 American RVers, with some surprising trends coming to the forefront. On a higher level, the results show that RVers are most interested in quick getaways closer to home, and value clean facilities and good internet connectivity as much as they do beautiful landscapes and traditional camping experiences. Dig a little deeper into the stats, and you’ll find that 78% of campground guests expect high-speed wireless internet. Other interesting notes include Gen Z and Millennials are four times as likely to book a tent camping trip compared to Baby Boomers, while 64% of travelers now book their trips online, with younger age groups leading the way in that category, too. Read more here.
That’s it for this week. Join us again next Friday for another rundown of the biggest news from the RV industry.
Let’s be real: vehicles are just tools. Whether you’re in a land-yacht-sized RV, a two-seat sports car or a big-bodied minivan, you just need to get where you’re going, safely and on schedule. On two wheels, four wheels or more, they’re merely a means to an end.
Whatever! We all know this is “true,” but not true in a deeper sense. Especially when it comes to the epic form of travel known as the road trip, we all recognize that vehicles are not created equal. Many will get you there. Few will get you there in style. And only the most beloved (or notorious) rigs in America’s century-plus history of road-tripping truly changed how we travel.
We set out to celebrate those vehicles. We started with big, frankly out-of-control lists of trucks, vans, RVs, muscle cars, you name it. Then we argued. (The Lamborghini Countach was a fraught topic.) We let the journey shape our list’s destination. (Three Fords? Yep, three Fords.) We winnowed. We ranked. We asked a few friends to ride along.
Here, in reverse order, are our choices for the ten iconic road trip vehicles that made travel what it is today.
Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive
10: The Ford F-150 — Big and Rich
The Era: 1975-Present Classic Version: Early ’90s models have a special something. Total Sales: More than 41 million! Telling Detail: Several bed lengths reflect a heritage of workhorse versatility. Cultural Moment: Hard to pick one, so we’ll go recent: Robyn Ottolini’s 2020 pop-country hit “F-150.” The late nights, the bonfires…
Michael Charboneau, contributor to the Los Angeles Times, Men’s Journal and others, writes:
If there’s any vehicle that can claim the title of “quintessential American truck,” it’s the Ford F-150. In a production run that spans nearly 80 years, more than 41 million F-series pickups have been sold. Today, you can find them everywhere from remote construction sites to suburban strip mall parking lots.
Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive
And yet somehow, this truck is not merely commonplace. In fact, the F-150 has long been my unattainable crush. When I was a kid, my dad had a green 10th-gen model. Although I never drove it, I did enjoy a fateful ride in the bed while he shuttled my buddies and me to an adjacent neighborhood for trick or treating. Gliding down the street with tree branches passing overhead, the wind gently rushing in my ears—that sold me on the magic of a pickup.
My crush deepened in high school. As a teenager I wanted nothing more than a regular-cab Bullnose (produced 1980-86, distinguished by its prominent grill and square headlights). To me, the rig’s clean, straight lines and blocky shape were perfect. These trucks looked solid and timeless; built to work, beautiful in their simplicity. I pored over listings online, dreaming about cruising with the windows down, my girlfriend beside me on the wide bench seat. I vividly recall falling for a handsome long bed with a red and silver paint scheme. Unfortunately it was in West Virginia, hundreds of miles away. At 16, I had no money anyway.
What would I have done if I got it? Probably what most people do: drive the hell out of it. Whether you slide a camper in the bed, tow a trailer or just toss a blanket in the back to look up at the stars, the F-150 is an ideal workhorse for exploring. It’s not sporty or fast, but it can promise one thing: It’ll get you there.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
9: Winnebago Brave — Land of the Free, Home of the…
The Era: 1967-2016 (Multiple reintroductions) Classic Version: 1974 model with “thermosteel construction.” Total Sales: ≈150,000+ Telling Detail: The trademark “eyebrow” over the front windshield. Cultural Moment: In the 1996 film Independence Day, Randy Quaid’s character drives a 1967 Brave
The 1967 Winnebago Brave sent seismic shockwaves across the RV industry. Not only was this motorhome easy to drive with ample interior space, it also came with a long list of standard features, all at a surprisingly affordable price. As a result, it quickly became a smash hit, giving Winnebago its first major success in the motorized RV category.
But the Brave’s influence went well beyond being a popular option for weekend camping trips and cross-country family vacations. As other manufacturers scrambled to duplicate Winnebago’s success, the motorhome’s boxy design and distinctive profile replaced the more van and
bus-like designs that came before it. As a result, the Brave became the template for nearly all of the coaches that followed it, with its influence still felt across the RV industry to this day.
Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive
8: Ford Mustang — Born to Run
The Era: 1964-Present Classic Version: 1965 convertible. Total Sales: 10+ million Telling Detail: The famous galloping wild horse badge. Cultural Moment: Steve McQueen’s 1968 Highland Green Mustang GT Fastback in the classic film Bullitt
With their distinctive looks and overabundance of power, American muscle cars, like the Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Pontiac GTO, are the stuff of open-road fantasy. But for our money, nothing beats the dream of climbing behind the wheel of a classic 1965 Ford Mustang convertible, dropping the top and heading out for a long cruise up the coast. Any coast.
Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive
First introduced in 1964, the Ford Mustang has been an American institution ever since. And while competitors have come and gone, this car remains a Ford stalwart. The original model came with a 271-horsepower engine and could do zero to 60 in 5.9 seconds. (Not bad for $3,163.) From the get-go, this car oozed cool, quickly becoming both a pop-culture and road icon. Today, this pony can still run, and the current convertible is as drool-worthy as ever.
Photo Credit: GM Archives
7: Chevy Suburban — Suburban Cowboy
The Era: 1934-Present Classic Version: 1973 Custom Deluxe Total Sales: 10+ million Telling Detail: Extra-long rear side window, lighting up “the way back.” Cultural Moment: In 2019, the Suburban became the first vehicle awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for its recurring prominence in the movies.
Few vehicles have occupied so many roles—and so much of America’s automotive attention—for so long. Released in 1934 in the era of woody station wagons, the Suburban offered something novel, or at least distinct. Neither a station wagon nor a truck, it eschewed wood for steel paneling and was marketed to both families and business owners with goods and people to move. Chevrolet called it the “Suburban Carryall”, a rig ready for a new generation of road tripper and laborer.
The 20th Century would go on, and the Suburban would go with it, ultimately becoming the world’s longest-utilized automobile nameplate. In the ’50s, the Suburban was first featured in the movies, and has since made more than 1,700 appearances. In the ’70s, it ushered in the modern era of SUVs, a role that would make it a practical choice for parents and police, just as common in high-speed chases as it was at soccer fields. Twelve generations later, like any true star, the Suburban can play most any part.
Photo Credit: Centro Documentazione Alfa Romeo Ariese
6: Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GT — That’s Amore!
The Era:1927-1954 Classic Version: 1929 GT model Total Sales: 3,000 Telling Detail: The 6C name nods to the six-cylinder engine. Cultural Moment: This Italian icon won numerous major European races throughout its production history.
On road, on track, in whatever era of its three-decade life, the Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 swaggered with style and power, speed and performance. But it was the 1929 GT edition that bent road-trip history to its will, adding a dash of luxury and comfort to the mix. As one of the first vehicles purpose-built for long-distance travel, it helped promote the idea that driving wasn’t just about getting from point A to point B.
Photo Credit: Centro Documentazione Alfa Romeo Ariese
Perhaps more importantly, this was the first automobile to carry the “GT” or “Grand Tourer” designation—and far from the last. In the decades that followed, everyone from Ford and Chrysler to Porsche and Ferrari built a touring-focused “GT” car of some sort. Most of those models followed the 6C 1750 template, marrying performance and comfort to deliver a road-trip-worthy driving experience. And while this vehicle may not be as well-known as some of the others on this list, they all owe it a debt of gratitude.
Photo Credit: Subaru
5: Subaru Outback — Home Ranger
The Era: 1994-Present Classic Version: The 2001 stands out, with many still on the road. Total Sales: About 3 million in the U.S. as of 2024. Telling Detail: All-wheel drive, whether you need it or not. Cultural Moment: In 1994, Paul “Crocodile Dundee” Hogan introduced this model with a confident Australian twang: “This here is the all-wheel-drive Subaru Outback.”
Kimberly King Parsons, author of acclaimed novel We Were the Universe, writes: When my family and I fled New York for Portland in 2017, the Subaru welcoming committee was idling curbside at the airport. The taxi line: Outback. The rental lot: Outback. Our new neighbors: an Outback with a “Coexist” sticker. By week two, I’d developed a tic—pointing out Outbacks to my kids, who’d long stopped caring. “There’s one! There’s another! My god, there’s a convoy!” The migration from Queens to this Subaru sanctuary felt like stumbling into some automotive monoculture where variety had been sacrificed to the gods of practical wheel clearance. We’d traded concrete canyons and subway grime for mountains that made us gasp and waterfalls so perfect they seemed computer-generated. We needed a car to match our new surroundings, something that wouldn’t fl inch at mud or judge us for tracking pine needles into its footwells. Soon enough, we bought a (very!) used Outback of our own. The kids named it Roo.
Photo Credit: Subaru
What nobody tells you about the Outback is how it beautifully embodies the charming paradoxes of the nation’s crunchier corners. (Subaru love runs strong in New England and the Rockies. In the cities of the Northwest, it’s almost impossible to look to the middle distance without seeing one, or seven.) It’s a vehicle designed for rugged adventure that may spend most of its time in Trader Joe’s parking lots. The all-wheel-drive system that Subaru made standard is both sometimes utterly necessary and often overkill—you’re prepared for apocalyptic weather events and driving conditions, and you can get to the coffee shop to chat about them.
We loved the wheels off of Roo, and recently traded her in for an electric van. These days I look at Outback drivers with gentle affection and nostalgia. Maybe that’s what makes it an icon: its role as the first chapter in so many outdoorsy road-trippers’ journeys. The Outback was our gateway to something with more batteries, more smugness, more rooftop solar. But I sometimes miss that sturdy wagon. Our van has impressive range, but it lacks that sense of belonging, that quiet announcement of Pacific Northwest citizenship that comes standard with every Outback. Lucky for us, we still have 17 reusable grocery bags and a forgotten kombucha rolling around somewhere under the passenger seat.
Photo Credit: Stellantis
4: Jeep Wagoneer — It’s Yelling Timber
The Era: 1962-1993 Classic Version: 1984 Grand Wagoneer Total Sales: 500,000+ Telling Detail: Long body, high clearance. Cultural Moment: In season three, episode two of Breaking Bad, Skyler White’s 1991 Wagoneer sits in the driveway as Walt throws a pizza on the roof of his house.
In 1962, decades before luxury SUVs would become the most popular residents of American driveways, the Jeep Wagoneer broke automotive ground. Catering to drivers looking for space, utility and comfort, the Wagoneer wasn’t just an early SUV. It was one of the most reliably innovative vehicles of its time. The early models introduced features like power steering and braking, ceiling lights, automatic windows and air conditioning. In the decades to follow, the distinctive woody exterior would define the Grand Wagoneer models featuring V8 engines and Quadra-Trac four-wheel drive systems.
As the era of station wagons gave way to minivans in the ’80s, the stalwart SUV remained a favorite among America’s well-heeled travelers. But while the Wagoneer was an early innovator, its body barely changed over the decades and it was discontinued in 1993. Then, after nearly three decades on the shelf, the Grand Wagoneer reemerged in 2022 as a high-end SUV ready for a new era of automotive luxury.
Photo Credit: Airstream Heritage Center
3: The Airstream Clipper — Silver Gets the Gold
The Era: 1936-1941 Classic Version: The original 1936 trendsetter. Total Sales: Unknown Telling Detail: The riveted aluminum construction, a tribute to aircraft engineering. Cultural Moment: In 2024, the Airstream Heritage Center exhibited “Clipper #1.”
Mattew Every, Contributor to Field & Stream and Wildsam and sometime Airstream resident, writes: The travel trailer is, by its nature, a nostalgic genre of vehicle. The phrase brings to mind throwback campsites and endless summers on the road. The reason for this, if you had to pick just one, is Airstream. Travel trailers have an inherent retro appeal, yet most of them on the road today look completely different than their predecessors. Most, except for Airstream—which, despite advances in technology and design, stays true to the aesthetics of Wally Byam’s 1930s design for The Clipper.
When I was confronted with a sprawling lot of new trailers at a dealership in 2020, I don’t exactly know why I landed on a Bambi, the Clipper’s 20-foot baby sibling. There was just a pride of ownership that I knew I’d have a hard time finding in another vehicle. It felt like a good pair of jeans, an L.L.Bean canvas tote, a Zippo lighter or a sturdy leather jacket. I knew it would wear in rather than wear out, and I couldn’t wait to watch it get better with age after every adventure.
With thousands of miles logged on my Airstream in the past five years, I can say I made the right decision. My Bambi doesn’t have any slide-outs or giant televisions or a whole lot of space compared to many trailers today. But open the door and you’ll feel right away that it’s something of quality. The Airstream has always been built to last. Mine has only gotten better with age. Every dent or scuff in the floor serves as a reminder that I’ve been places. And it’s those reminders that make an otherwise cold, riveted metal capsule feel like my home on the road.
Photo Credit: Greg Gjerdingen via WikiMedia
2: Dodge Caravan — Mini to the Max
The Era: 1984-2020 Classic Version: 2005, featuring Stow ‘n Go seating storage. Total Sales: 14 million+ Telling Detail: Crosshair grille. Cultural Moment: In 1996, MotorTrend magazine names the Caravan the “Car of the Year.”
Vans existed before 1984. But until then, no one had released one geared toward families, short enough to fit in a garage, low enough to make loading kids a breeze, nimble enough that it would feel like driving a compact car around America’s suburbs. Enter Lee Iacocca, the wily auto exec who had been dumped by Ford because, among other reasons, he’d been pushing for this concept. When Iacocca joined the lagging Chrysler in 1978, his team started designing a “minivan” atop a car chassis. Six years later, it would hit the market as the Dodge Caravan, alongside its near-identical cousin, the Plymouth Voyager.
Both were legendary vehicles—and the first-ever minivans—but it was the Caravan that left an indelible mark on family travel, becoming one of the country’s best-selling vehicles during its nearly 40-year run. (In 2019, the Caravan accounted for 54 percent of all minivans sold in the United States.) With its sliding doors, collapsible rear seating and ubiquity on roads across the U.S., the Caravan changed the way families thought about journeys near and far.
Photo Credit: Ford Heritage Archive
1: Ford Country Squire — King of the Road
The Era: 1950-1991 Classic Version: 1966 model with Magic Doorgate. Total Sales: 1.8 million Telling Detail: Distinctive wood paneling, Cultural Moment: A 1979 Country Squire was the stand-in for the “Family Truckster” in National Lampoon’s Vacation.
Number one? Hear Us Out:
It was the 1950s. The war was in the rear-view mirror, the country rode high on optimism and everybody liked Ike. Middle-class income was on the rise; road trip culture was taking hold thanks to the president’s ambitious Interstate Highway System. Cross-country sojourns and family vacations were all the rage.
It was a time that changed how we travel in this country, right up to today. And the vehicle of that moment, more than any other, was the Ford Country Squire.
With its signature wood-grain paneling, expansive cargo space and room for eight, the Country Squire became a symbol of suburban success. This car—or one of its many imitators—found its way into countless driveways. And even when parked at a white picket fence, it hinted at the freedom of the open road. The “woodie” station wagon even played a direct role in the rise in popularity of the national parks as family destinations. During the 1950s, visitation at those iconic locations rose to over 25 million a year, on its way to 80 million just a decade later.
This wasn’t Ford’s first station wagon, of course, but it would become its most successful. The vehicle first rolled off the assembly line in 1949, although it wasn’t officially branded as the Country Squire until two years after that. By 1953, its trademark wooden side panels were replaced with simulated wood-grain metal, which remained a distinctive feature across eight generations. By the end of the 1950s, the wagon was selling 25,000 units a year, before reaching a peak of 143,000 in 1973. By that point, it had already achieved icon status—a true piece of Americana.
By the time the Country Squire was retired in 1991, it had been in production for over 40 years. By then, our appetite for station wagons had been supplanted by the ever-increasing demand for minivans and SUVs. But there is no doubt that this car left an indelible mark on American culture, becoming the most recognizable road trip vehicle to ever roam the country and creating an entire genre of road-trip rides.
We are deep in the dog days of summer, but the news continues to the RV and camping industry news continues to flow at a rapid pace. It was another interesting and busy week on that front. Here are a few stories you may have missed:
Texas Association of Campground Owners Raises Funds for Food-Damage Relief:As we all know by now, this past week has been a very difficult one for everyone living in Texas, where strong and sudden floods caused millions of dollars in damage to homes and personal property, while also claiming the lives of at least 120 people. Some of the damage impacted several central Texas campgrounds, completely wiping several locations away. Now, the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO) is raising funds to assist those owners with getting back on their feet. The goal is a modest $30,000, with $25k already being raised as of press time. If you’d like to lend a hand, you can donate here.
Photo Credit: Barish Baur/Getty
The Dyrt Shares the Top 10 Best Locations to Camp in the US for 2025: Looking for some new suggestions on where to go camping over the final months of 2025? Online campsite discovery platform The Dyrt is here to help, offering up its picks for the ten best places to camp across the US this year. The locations were selected based on ratings and reviews from Dyrt members, who have a database of tens of thousands of campgrounds across the country. Needless to say, it wasn’t easy distilling it down to just ten entries, but the locations honored are among the very best places to camp. Not all of the sites are RV-friendly, but they earned a spot thanks to stunning wilderness views, excellent amenities, outstanding features, or a combination of all of the above. Check out the full list here.
Photo Credit: iKamper
GearJunkie Has Everything You Need to Know About Camping in an EV: Just like a regular car, truck, or SUV, an electric vehicle can make an outstanding option for camping. EVs usually offer plenty of onboard power, near-silent running, and are better for the environment. But there are a few challenges to overcome, most notably how to keep it charged while staying at a remote campsite. This week, our friends over at GearJunkie took a look at the pros and cons of camping in an EV, providing excellent inside info on what to expect. The article is surprisingly comprehensive and shares a lot of great tips for towing, charging, and chilling. You can read it here.
Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze/Getty
Can You Use Cruise Control While Towing?: Have you ever wondered if it is safe to use your cruise control while towing a travel trailer or fifth-wheel? Turns out the crew over at Jalopnik wondered the same thing, and recently shared an article exploring that very topic. What did they find? Essentially, most basic cruise control systems won’t account for the added weight of a towable, but will still maintain whatever speed is set for it. Newer, more sophisticated adaptive cruise control options are much smarter, however, and can adjust their settings to accommodate the additional weight. That’s due in part because those systems will also slow down and speed up the vehicle based on the traffic around them. These “smart” cruise control systems are safer and better equipped for the job. That said, it’s entirely up to the driver as to whether or not they trust a computer with such a heavy and complicated job.
Tariff Turmoil Continues: The uncertainty and unease surrounding President Trump’s tariff policies continued apace this week, in part due to moving deadlines and shifting numbers. As you may recall, the administration announced sweeping tariffs on nearly every country back in April, but delayed implementation of most of those taxes in order to negotiate new trade agreements. The deadline for the resumption of the new tariffs came and went this week, with most now delayed until August 1. Those include a new 50% levy on all copper imports, which will likely impact the price of appliances, electric vehicles, and other electronics. Also, the President threatened Brazil with a 50% tariff due to ongoing legal actions against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The country—which the US enjoys a trade surplus with—has promised to match those tariffs in response. All of this continues to have a ripple effect on the economy and manufacturing, which could take months to play out. For up-to-date info on all tariff news, click here.
Photo Credit: Posnov/Getty
Foreign Visitors May Have to Pay Higher National Park Entry Fees: While we’re delving into politics, a new executive order issued by the White House this week calls for higher entry fees for visitors who are not from the US. The EO doesn’t institute the increased fees itself, but instead calls on Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to develop a plan to start charging more for foreign travelers looking to enter and explore America’s national parks. According to some estimates, the proposal could raise an additional $90 million per year for the National Park Service. Click here to learn more.
Canada Eliminates Surtax on Motorhomes: In other import tax news, Canada has removed a 25% surtax on American-made motorhomes shipped north of the border. This applies to both new and used models and paves the way for US companies to see improved sales there. The move is largely seen as a way to bolster flagging sales at Canadian RV dealers, many of which have had a difficult time sourcing inventory. The reduced pricing should help all around. Read more here.
That’s it for this week. See you next Friday for another round-up of the latest RV-related news.
Another week has come and gone, and once again we have plenty of news to share. Here are the biggest stories from the past few days that you might want to know about:
Photo Credit: Zhanna Muzalevskaia/Getty
National Go RVing Day is Tomorrow: Saturday, June 14th, has been designated as National Go RVing Day by the RV Industry Association. This is an annual event designed to celebrate the joys that come from camping in an RV and the benefits it brings to travelers. June just also happens to be National Camping Month and Great Outdoors Month, so unless you have something else going on this weekend, why not head out for an impromptu camping trip? Our friends at Good Sam can even help you find a place to stay.
Photo Credit: Lance Camper
Lance Camper is For Sale: There was big news from REV Group this week, as it was announced that the specialty vehicle manufacturer is planning to sell Lance Camper. The plan was revealed as part of REV’s quarterly earnings call, in which the strategic sale of Lance was discussed as the brand looks to “concentrate on scalable operations with stronger competitive positioning and margin potential.” No word on potential buyers, but discussions are ongoing. Read more here.
RV Trader and Harvest Hosts Join Forces: One of the biggest stories from the RV industry this week is that RV Trader and Harvest Hosts have announced plans to integrate their respective platforms. RV Trader is one of the largest online resources for buying and selling new and used RVs, while Harvest Hosts is a member-based organization that connects users with unique places to camp in their RVs. In the coming months, the two companies will start sharing data, creating a way for users to purchase a motorhome, camper van, or towable, while also finding places to camp while on the road. Stay tuned to both sites to see how this unfolds. And to find out more, click here.
Photo Credit: Harvest Hosts
Harvest Host Sees Surge in Member Travel Activity: In other Harvest Hosts news, the company reported a significant surge in activity amongst its members, resulting in a record number of stay requests from mid-April through May. For May alone, that number topped out at 61,738, which is much higher than in 2024. The rest of the year is looking good, too, as HH says it expects record-breaking numbers throughout 2025. RV Pro has more.
Campspot Says Short “Pop-Up Escapes” are the Hot Travel Trend of 2025: Online campsite discovery and booking platform Campspot says that short, one- to three-day camping getaways are all the rage for 2025. The company joined forces with Pilot Flying J convenience stores to survey travelers and found that almost nine out of ten respondents said they are planning just such a trip this year, with 91% indicating they’ll take a local camping trip rather than an international vacation. Further data shows that these kinds of experiences resonate especially well with Gen Z and Millennials, with 73% and 75% of those age groups opting for just such a trip, respectively. Read more here.
Photo Credit: welcomia/Getty
RVezy Sees Jump in American Bookings: More RV-industry trends, this time from RVezy, a website that facilitates peer-to-peer RV rentals in Canada. This week, the company said it has seen a 300% spike in bookings from American travelers heading north of the border. That puts it on pace to shatter previous records heading into the busy summer season. It is also in contrast to the number of Canadian travelers coming to the US, which has seen a dramatic drop in recent weeks.
Photo Credit: Ford Motors
Transfer Flow Launches 2025 Summer Photo and Video Contest: Summer is still officially a week away, but that hasn’t stopped our friends at Transfer Flow from launching their 2025 Summer Photo and Video Contest. In fact, the aftermarket fuel tank systems manufacturer has been taking submissions since May 18. But if you haven’t entered yet, don’t worry—the contest runs through July 31, giving you plenty of time to send in the best images from your adventures. Just capture a photo of your vehicle and Transfer Flow system in some amazing place or on some wild adventure and submit it for review. Winners will be reimbursed for their fuel tank and any accessories they purchased at the time. For full rules and details, click here.
China’s Caravan Salon Event Sees Record Crowds: If you need further proof of RVing’s continued growth in popularity, look no further than the 2025 Caravan Salon event held last month in Beijing. The RV-focused gathering saw 18,268 attendees, which may seem relatively small compared to some of the biggest events held stateside. But that number represents a 51% year-over-year growth rate, which is definitely impressive. RV News has more here.
Redarc Launches High Capacity BCDC Charger: Looking to improve the performance of the batteries in your RV? Redarc’s latest product is designed to do just that. This week, the company that specializes in automotive and RV charging solutions launched its new BCDC Alpha100 R, which is a 100-amp battery-charger from direct-current (BCDC). The device brings a lot to the table, including auxiliary charging, start battery recovery, a built-in smart battery monitor, and the ability to use extra solar power to maintain or revive a dead battery. All of this in a compact, easy-to-install form factor. Find out more here.
That’s it for another edition of our weekly RV news round-up. See you next Friday for another look at the biggest stories taking place in the RV camping space.
Another week has come and gone, and as usual, there has been a lot of news from the RV and camping industries. So, before you head off into the weekend, here are a few stories you may want to know about.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
The SylvanSport Vast Wins an Award for Great Design: North Carolina-based SylvanSport received some major recognition this week when it took home the Good Design Award in Transportation from the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design. The company’s Vast travel trailer earned that honor for being “the epitome of design and product excellence.” The camper was lauded for its tall ceilings, comfortable queen-size bed, composite construction, and other features and functionality. We felt very much the same about it when we reviewed RV, which you can read here.
Tickets are Now Available for Hershey RV Show: The self-proclaimed “America’s Largest RV Show” is set to return on September 10-14 in Hershey, PA. Starting this week, those wishing to attend can now purchase tickets for the event, which promises to be an interesting one once again this year. If you’re planning on buying an RV this year, it may be worth it for you to plan a visit to Hershey in September. The discounts available at the show are always outstanding and well worth the price of admission.
Photo Credit: Keystone RV
Keystone RV Announces Brand Refresh: Expect Keystone RVs to have a little different look in the coming months, as this week the company announced a brand refresh. That starts with embracing the tagline “Proven in the Wild,” which embraces Keystone’s long history of making RVs built for camping, while also leaning into the growing popularity of off-grid, remote adventures. The company will also have a redesigned logo, which includes a wedge-shape designed to evoke the Keystone namesake. Finally, the company is inviting fans and outdoor enthusiasts to share their stories of outdoor adventure using the hashtag: #ProveninTheWild.
Hipcamp Names Its 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America: Looking for some new places to camp this summer? Hipcamp may have you covered. The campsite discovery site and app has announced its 50 Favorite Places to Camp in America, with a great mix of well-known and hidden gem locations to stay. To create the list, Hipcamp staff analyzed the data from over 500,000 campsites in every state and found the best places to stay on private lands, public parks, and RV campgrounds. Check it out here.
Photo Credit: Larry Crain/Getty
Love’s Travel Expands Offerings for RVers: Love’s Travel Stops have always been RV-friendly, but over the past few years, they have taken steps to further embrace the community. To that end, a number of their locations have gotten upgrades recently in an effort to appeal to more RV travelers. Those upgrades include everything from newly remodeled showers, larger restrooms, onsite laundry facilities, and more diverse food options. Some stores have even installed full RV hookups, making them an enticing place to stay on longer trips. RV Pro has a full rundown of which Love’s stores have recently been upgraded. For a full list of Love’s locations that are RV-ready, click here.
Thousand Trails Kicks Off “100 Days of Camping” Campaign: Thousand Trails—a website that specializes in finding RV campgrounds, cabins, and other campsites— is inviting travelers to take part in the 100 Days of Camping this summer. There are roughly 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and the annual ad campaign—which has run for ten years—encourages people to get outside. Of course, Thousand Trails would prefer it if you stayed at one of their affiliated sites, and to help you do that, it’s offering discounts throughout the summer, as well as prize giveaways. The company is also holding a contest with campers encouraged to share photos of their summer travels with the hashtag: #100DaysofCamping. Find out more here.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Trump’s “Big, Beautiful Bill” Would Cut 5,500 National Park Service Employees: If passed as is, President Trump’s proposed 2026 Federal budget would cut more than 5,500 jobs from the National Park Service. According to National Parks Traveler, the fine print on the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill” indicates that NPS staffing would be reduced from 13,648 people now to just 8,130 people in the coming year. This would put the Park Service—and by association the national parks themselves—at risk. That large of a drop in staff would likely lead to a further backlog of maintenance and construction, reduced working hours, longer lines at the entrance, and more. Fewer park rangers would also mean less safe environments in general, with fewer people around to offer assistance or conduct a search and rescue operation. Read more about the cuts here.
Aluminum and Steel Tariffs Double to 50%: Staying on the subject of President Trump’s policies, this week he announced the doubling of tariffs on aluminum and steel imported to the US. Those metals will now be subject to a 50% tax from all countries, except the UK, which still sits at a 25% levy. Considering aluminum and steel are used in the construction of many RVs, the impact on this industry could be big. Expect pricing to go up on a wide variety of goods in the wake of these new taxes.
That’s a wrap for this week. Join us again next Friday for another round-up of the latest RV news.
Summer is nearly here, and the busy travel season is just around the corner. In June, we’ll even celebrate National Go RVing Day, which is designed to raise awareness of RV travel and the joys of living the RV lifestyle. This year, that day falls on June 14, and in preparation for that date, Go RVing has launched a new media campaign that not only includes the beautiful video above but also a sweepstakes that promises to give away “the Ultimate RV Getaway.”
Photo Credit: Go RVing
The new marketing campaign encourages RVers to go “Just Beyond Your Door,” with encouragement to not just go camping, but to embrace all of the great activities that go along with it. From hiking and biking to exploring new locations and immersing yourself in local culture, RVing can be the gateway to many adventures. Best of all, your motorhome, camper van, or travel trailer is the perfect base camp for those excursions, providing all the comforts of home even when you’re on the road.
The above video is at the center of the new campaign and will appear across a number of streaming services, including Netflix, Hulu, Peacock, Amazon Prime, and others. The 30-second ad was produced using a high tech process that uses a massive LED volume state technology to produce realistic backgrounds for any location—real or imagined. The same technology is used by Disney to create its hit Star Wars show The Mandalorian. Here, it’s put to good use showing all of the opportunities that the RV lifestyle has to offer.
Photo Credit: cookelma/Getty
Another important element of the Go RVing media campaign is the launch of a fantastic giveaway. The organization—which is dedicated to promoting RVing in all of its forms—is giving away some wonderful prizes to help RVers embrace the travel season ahead. The top prize includes a $2,500 gift card for an RV rental, a $2,000 gift card to purchase gas, reserve a campsite, get food, and partake in activities. The winner will also get a Go RVing swag bag that features a hammock, water bottles, and other items. To sign up, simply click here and fill out the online form. This “Ultimate RV Getaway” sweepstakes closes on June 8, with the winner being announced on National Go RV Day.
Hit play on the video above to generate some inspiration for your next RV adventure, then head over to the Ultimate RV Getaway page to sign up to win the prize. And don’t forget to embrace your adventurous side and go just beyond your door.
America’s national parks—a mainstay for family vacations, cross-country road trips, and RVers—are under threat like never before. Last week, the Trump Administration released its preliminary budget objectives for 2026, which included massive budget cuts for the National Park Service that would impact staffing, maintenance, and general operations. The budget plan also floats the idea of ceding control of some national parks to the states, effectively removing them from NPS oversight and demoting them from the National Park System altogether.
President Trump’s proposed 2026 budget includes a $1.25 billion reduction to the Park Service’s funding. That includes a $900 million cut to the operating budget, a $197 million cut to the Historic Preservation Fund, and a $77 million reduction to further recreation and preservation funding. It also includes a $73 million cut to park construction, most of which is focused on repairing, expanding, and improving existing infrastructure to enhance visitor experience.
Taken as a whole, these budget cuts could have a devastating impact on the National Park System. Historically, the Park Service has often been underfunded, which has led to understaffing and a backlog of maintenance issues. Recent legislation—like the Inflation Reduction Act and the Great American Outdoors Act—has tried to address some of those issues, with some progress being made. Now, much of that work looks to be undone, and the future of the park system looks more uncertain than ever before.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
According to the Park Service itself, the National Parks contributed more than $55.6 billion to the US economy in 2023 alone, supporting 415,000 jobs in the process. Many of those jobs—and revenue—support the gateway communities that are found just outside of the park boundaries. The NPCA says that in order for the Trump Administration to hit its budget numbers, as many as 350 park sites could be eliminated. The impact that could have on the travel and tourism sectors surrounding those locations could have deep and long-lasting consequences.
The final budget plan isn’t due until later in the month, at which time more details will likely be revealed. It will take much longer for the impact of the budget cuts to be felt, should they be approved by Congress. It isn’t hard to predict what impact those cuts could have, however, with under staffing and lack of updated infrastructure being the most obvious. It is highly possible that some areas of the parks could be closed to visitors, and campsites could be shut down, as well. Long lines, staggered entry times, and fewer Park Rangers onsite are already a reality, but those conditions will likely be further exacerbated.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
The budget process is in full swing, and the White House has made it clear it is looking to cut costs in far-reaching ways. But for a variety of reasons, the National Park Service should not be one part of the federal government that should be slashed. The NPS not only safeguards some of the most beautiful and wild places in the country, it helps make those places accessible to visitors. And, as already noted above, the parks deliver a lot of benefit back to the country’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue and creating hundreds of thousands of jobs.
To be fair, budget cuts won’t take all of that away, but it would have an undeniable impact on the country. And once these things are lost, what hope is there for getting them back?
Stay tuned for further news on this development. If you’re motivated to help save the parks and what they have to offer, consider contacting your representatives in Washington. Also, stay connected with the National Park Conservation Association for more insights.
It has been another very busy week in the RV industry, and beyond. With so much to cover, we’re going to dive right into this week’s news. Here are a few items that may have flown under your radar.
Tariffs are On Again, Off Again: Last week, we noted that President Trump had announced broad and sweeping tariffs on nearly every country on the planet, with tax levies on imports ranging from 10% to as high as 84% depending on the country. This week, the administration made an abrupt change of direction, announcing on Wednesday that most of those tariffs are now paused for 90 days, with China being the lone exception. That country will now face 125% tariffs as the trade war between it and the US continues to escalate. Why are we reporting on tariffs in our weekly news round-up? Because these fluctuating taxes are leading to increased prices, which will likely be seen in the cost of new RVs, but also parts used in repairs, add-on accessories, fuel, and more. We have a continuously updated article on this very topic, which you can find here.
Photo Credit: Escapod
Escapod Launches New Teardrop Built for Mountain Bikers: Teardrop trailer manufacturer Escapod revealed a new variation of its popular TOPO2 model this week, with a very specific target audience in mind. The TOPO2 MTB is built specifically with mountain bikers, with special features for that crowd. Those features include a custom hitch that pivots the built-in Küat bike rack out of the way to access the galley kitchen The rig even comes with a bike repair kit conveniently integrated in that galley. Check out our full coverage of the new trailer here.
GearJunkie Provides First Look at the AT Overland Aterra Truck Camper: Sometimes we get so caught up in Class A motorhomes, camper vans, and travel trailers that we forget how popular and versatile a good truck camper can be. That isn’t the case over at GearJunkie, where this week the team published a first look the new AT Overland Aterra. The slide-in model gets high marks for its lightweight and durable construction, not to mention its customizable interior. And with an MSRP of about $30,000, it has an attractive price, too. Read the full article here.
Photo Credit: THOR/Harbinger
Harbinger Builds 100th Electric Truck Chassis:Harbinger Motors—a company that builds electric chassis for the RV and shipping industries—announced that it had hit a major milestone this week. The brand has now produced 100 EV chassis, some of which have been shipped to THOR Industries for testing and possible inclusion in an upcoming electric RV model. Up until now, Harbinger hadn’t even announced that it had begun production on the vehicle platform, but now the company believes it has positive momentum on its side as it continues to ramp up its production capacity. More details can be found here.
All-Electric Pebble Flow Travel Trailer Now in Production: Speaking of milestones, another electric RV went into full production this week. Pebble, the company behind the Pebble Flow travel trailer, announced that it has also commenced production of its high-tech towable. The first models will begin shipping to customers later this spring, delivering an all-electric camping experience unlike any other. Read our full coverage here.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Robb Report Picks the 16 Best Camper Vans: This week, luxury lifestyle website Robb Report shared its picks for the best camper vans for road tripping. The list includes several of the usual suspects, including the Airstream Atlas and Winnebago Solis. But it had a few fun surprises, too, like the inclusion of the VW ID. Buzz upfit from Peace Vans and Stoyteller Overland’s Beast MODE. Check out the full list—which includes some models not readily available in the US—here.
Camping World’s Coleman Travel Trailers are the Best Selling Towables for 2025: RV dealer and accessories retailer Camping World is touting the sales of its popular Coleman travel trailer line through the first few months of the year. The company says that these models are best-selling towables by unit volume through the end of February, with brisk sales in both new and used models. The lightweight and affordable campers mark a success for Camping World, which partners directly with manufacturing partners on the production of these RVs.
Photo Credit: nüCamp
NüCamp Celebrates 20 Years of Adventure: Lightweight towables and truck camper manufacturer NüCamp is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. As part of that celebration, the brand will be sharing exclusive content on its website throughout the year, helping current owners and future NüCamp fans to learn more about the company’s heritage and values. The site currently tells us to “stay tuned for more,” with updates soon to follow. While we wait for further news, we want to wish the entire team at NüCamp congratulations on its continued success.
KOA Report Shows RV Industry Getting Stronger and More Resilient: The Kampgrounds of America2025 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report is out, and it has some good news for the RV industry. The report shows that interest in RVing—both buying and renting—continues to grow, even as distinct generational preferences reveal themselves. During the pandemic, the number of RV households in the US rose to a record 15 million. Last year, that number settled back to 10 million, which is where it was headed pre-pandemic. For 2025, RV ownership is expected to see a modest increase, with 1 in 5 non-RVers saying they’re considering buying a rig of their own. Rentals are also expected to increase by a similar margin, with Millennials and Gen Xers most likely to rent a vehicle. Also of note, 22% of current RV owners expect to upgrade to a new model in the near future. To read more of the report, click here.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Outdoor Industry Unites to Prevent Sale of Public Lands: The Trump Administration, along with Republicans in the House and Senate, is looking to make tax cuts from the President’s first term permanent, while also adding more tax cuts moving forward. The problem is, those cuts will create a shortfall in federal funds. One of the solutions that they’ve come up with to cover that shortfall is to potentially sell some public lands to the private sector. Unsurprisingly, that hasn’t gone over well with the outdoor industry, which views access to public lands as vital to Americans. This week, The Conservation Alliance announced Brands for Public Lands, which is made up of more than 60 companies that have come together to oppose the sale. You can read more about those efforts here.
That’s all for now. Join us again next Friday for another review of the latest news from the RV and camping industry.
Whether you’re an avid RVer, someone new to the lifestyle, or just interested in checking out the latest motorhomes and travel trailers, attending an RV show can be a lot of fun. After all, RV expos are a great place to see the newest vehicles firsthand, compare them to one another, and decide which models most fit your needs. You’ll also get the chance to explore the latest design innovations and industry trends, while chatting with knowledgeable sales staff and brand ambassadors.
On the other hand, if you’ve never been to an RV show before, it can all be a bit overwhelming. Even the smallest shows have rows and rows of vehicles on display, often requiring several hours just to get around to all of the models you want to see. Add in large crowds, a noisy environment, and overly enthusiastic salespeople, and it’s easy to get sensory overload.
But fear not! For the most part, RV shows are a celebration of RVing in all of its forms, with plenty to see and do. Beyond just wandering through dozens of new campers, you can also interact with vendors that support the lifestyle, attend educational seminars, and connect with fellow RVers, too. And if you happen to be in the market for a new RV, you can even save thousands of dollars off MSRP.
But before attending an RV show, we have a few tips that might help you get the most out of your time. Read on for more.
Photo Credit: McCaig/Getty
Why Do You Want to Attend an RV Show?
Before you go to an RV show, ask yourself why you want to attend? If you want to go just to see some new vehicles, you’ll likely have a great time checking out the latest models. That’s especially true if there are some high-end luxury coaches on display. In which case, you can attend the event at your leisure, wandering through the expo hall or outdoor grounds, checking out any RV that catches your attention. Your goal is probably to have fun, enjoy the event, and come away more informed about RVing in general.
On the other hand, if you’re attending an RV show with plans of potentially purchasing a new RV, you’ll want to approach the event in a very different way. While you’ll still have a good time checking out a range of vehicles, you’ll mostly want to stay focused on the models that appeal to you and fit within your budget. Chances are, that will keep you plenty busy, as there could be dozens of options to explore. Even if you’re interested in a few specific models, there will likely be multiple floor plans to check out and—depending on the size of the show—it could take more than one day to see them all.
If you’re at the show to buy a new rig, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. Not only will you be exploring a number of RVs, you’ll also be talking to salespeople as you haggle over the price and discuss potentially trading in your current RV. At larger RV expos, like the Florida RV SuperShow or the Hershey RV Show, that could potentially take two or three days. So, be patient and give yourself plenty of time to collect all of the information you need. After all, buying an RV is a significant investment, and you’ll want to feel comfortable that you’re making the best decision possible.
Photo Credit: Mike Watson Images/Getty
Dress Appropriately
When deciding which RV show to attend, check to see if the event is indoors, outdoors, or a mix of both. In each case, you’ll want to dress appropriately. That means cushy, supportive walking shoes and clothing that will keep you comfortable. Inside, the environmental conditions will be dry and accommodating, so dress for the season. If the show takes place outside, check the weather conditions and dress for the expected temperatures. If rain is in the forecast, bring an umbrella or rain jacket, because the show will go on even if Mother Nature isn’t as accommodating as she could be.
Make a Plan
Once again, if you’re attending the show without any intentions of buying an RV, you can feel free to wander around as you see fit. But if you are looking to purchase a new vehicle, it makes sense to come up with a plan ahead of time. This will help you use your time more efficiently, allowing you to stay focused on interacting with the brands you are interested in, while checking out the RVs that most meet your needs and budget.
Visit the website for the show a few days before you plan to attend. The site should have the hours that the show is open for each day of the event, and it will also list all of the brands and manufacturers who will be on hand. Some expos will even provide a map of where those exhibitors are located at the show, making it easy to track them down once you get there. This will help you make the most of your time, potentially keeping you from crisscrossing the expo grounds multiple times in search of a specific manufacturer. By carefully plotting out where each brand you want to visit is located, you can avoid wasting time by wandering aimlessly.
If you know the type of RV that you’re interested in—motorized vs. towable, for instance—you can further narrow down which brands and models are of interest before you arrive at the show. Check out the manufacturer websites to research the options that most make sense for your needs. You can further refine that search based on your budget, but keep in mind that you may be able to stretch your dollar further at the show. Many dealers are willing to price their models substantially lower at an RV expo as they look to move inventory while connecting with an engaged audience.
Photo Credit: welcomia/Getty
Come Prepared
You can make the most of your time at the expo by being as prepared as possible. That means bringing all of the notes from your pre-show plan, including which manufacturers and models you most want to see. But it also includes having the information about your current RV close at hand, including make, model, floor plan, optional add-ons, and so on. This will speed things along if you are trading in that vehicle, and help the sales staff get you the best deal possible.
On that note, if you are trading in an RV, it also helps to have a good sense of the value of that vehicle ahead of time. Do some research online to see what your current model sells for at used RV sites or when buying directly from an owner. Some dealers offer tools to assist with that process, providing trade-in values for a wide range of vehicles. This can be helpful when attending an RV show, as you’ll have a better sense of your current rig’s worth. If you’re not happy with a trade-in offer from one dealer, see what you can get elsewhere or even consider selling it yourself.
Being prepared also means coming to the show with a notebook and pen—or a mobile device—so you can take notes. You’ll be seeing a lot of RVs and it can be incredibly overwhelming at times, with specific models sometimes blurring together in your brain. That’s why we prefer using our smartphone or a tablet, as you can not only take notes, but easily add photos, too. This will help you keep track of the vehicles that interest you the most, allowing you to come back to explore them further later in the day. It’ll also help you to eliminate models that may not fit your needs, helping you to further whittle down your choices.
Spend Time in Your Top Choices
Once you’ve narrowed your list of potential candidates for your next RV, spend some time in each model. Sit, relax, soak up the atmosphere, and thoroughly explore the floor plan. Take note of the things you like and don’t like about the specific models, and consider what each brings to the table. Don’t be afraid to hang out in the rig for as long as you like. This is a major purchase, and you want to make sure you’re making the right choice for you and your family.
Photo Credit: no_limit_pictures/Getty
Be Ready to Wheel and Deal
After you’ve picked out a favorite model or two, it’s time to chat with a salesperson. Not only will these people be very helpful in answering any questions you have about an RV, they’ll likely be the ones taking you through the sales process once you’re ready to buy. At some shows, that process can involve some haggling on price, while other events will simply have “final pricing” already displayed on the vehicle. But the discussion will also include potential optional add-ons, trade-in pricing, delivery charges, financing options, and so on. In other words, it can take some time to figure out the final cost of the RV, often requiring some back and forth with the salesperson, even if haggling isn’t involved.
Keep in mind, until you’ve signed on the dotted line, you’re not committed to purchasing any RV. You can always take the offer sheet with you and think about it over lunch or even overnight. You can even chat with other dealers and manufacturers to see if they can match or beat the deal, allowing you to find the best all-around price possible. Always take your time and consider all of your options. When you’re ready, the sales staff will be more than willing to help you finalize the purchase.
Image: Bruce Challgren
Have Fun!
Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind when attending an RV show is to have fun. That can be challenging sometimes, especially if you’re there to purchase a new camper and have spent all day wandering the aisles in search of the perfect model. But don’t let that stress you out so much that you don’t enjoy the event. After all, you are there to find a vehicle that will make your life more enjoyable. Enjoy the food, attend a seminar, catch some live music, chat with RV manufacturers, tour motorhomes and fifth-wheels that aren’t in your price range—all of that can be incredibly enjoyable, so savor it while you can.
And of course, many big RV shows actually have camping on—or near—the premises, allowing you to really immerse yourself in the expo experience. That’s a great way to meet other attendees, swap notes on your favorite vehicles, and more. If you have the time and inclination, bring your current rig and make a weekend out of the experience.
That’s it! Now go find an RV show near you and start planning your visit. We have a list of popular options that you can read up on here.
Another week has come and gone, which means we have a lot of news from the RV and camping industries to go over before heading into the weekend. Here are a few things that happened over the past few days that you might like to know about:
Trump Administration Announces Sweeping New Tariffs on Most Countries: The biggest headline of the week—both in and out of the RV industry—is the Trump administration’s sweeping new tariffs. One Wednesday, the President announced a baseline of a 10% tax on all goods imported into the US, with much larger levies against some of the country’s biggest trading partners. This move is likely to have a long-term impact on the RV industry and the economy as a whole, with prices set to go up on cars, computers, clothing, fresh produce, and more. To read more about these new tariffs, click here. And check out our ongoing coverage of how these import duties might impact the RV space here.
Photo Credit: Airstream
Outside Names Best Trailers, Truck Campers, and Van Conversions of 2025: The fine folks over at Outside magazine have made their selections of the best RVs of 2025. Well, the best travel trailers, truck campers, and van conversions, anyway. The list curiously leaves off Class A and C models. But if you’re interested in learning what the mag’s picks are for best van conversion, minimalist camper, off-road trailer, and luxury rig, you can read the results here. We won’t spoil the winners, but will say the Airstream Trade Wind did take the luxury category.
French Manufacturer Debuts Hybrid Camper Van Models: A French RV manufacturer called Challenger Motorhomes has launched a line of hybrid camper vans that look to be game changers in terms of driving range. The X line of rigs includes the X150 and X250, both of which sleep up to four people and come with a wet bath, innovative onboard storage, and a well-equipped kitchenette. But most importantly, the rigs have hybrid gas/electric motors that give them a 559-mile range. That’s pretty impressive for any RV, let alone ones that look as comfortable as these do. No word if these Class B models will come stateside, but Autoevolution has a profile of them here.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Winnebago Teams Up with Minnesota Twins to Give Away an RV:Winnebago—in conjunction with the Minnesota Twins baseball team—has come up with a unique way to give away a boat or RV. Earlier this week, the company launched the “Hit it to Win it” sweepstakes, by parking an RV on the far side of the fence in right field at Target Field. If a Twins player manages to hit that vehicle with a home run ball, some lucky person will get to choose the RV or boat of their choice from the Winnebago catalog with a value of up to $200,000. You can sign up to win by attending a Twins home game visiting Gate 34 or online here.
Photo Credit: Amazon/Project Kuiper
Amazon Set to Launch Starlink Competitor Next Week: It has been a long time coming, but Project Kuiper is finally ready to get off the ground. The Amazon-owned company will deploy 27 satellites next week, with the entire batch getting launched into orbit on April 9 aboard an Atlas V rocket. Those satellites are the first step towards building a true competitor to Starlink, bringing another option for internet access while camping. Eventually, Project Kuiper hopes to build a network of 3,200 satellites to blanket the globe, offering up to 100 Mbps downloads. That’s slower than Starlink’s theoretical top speed, but in practice, both services should operate similarly. Expect more information in the future, including pricing. Engadget has information on the initial launch here.
The Dyrt Says Solo Camping Continues to Grow in Popularity: We’re up to the point in our weekly news round-up when we share an interesting stat of the week from The Dyrt. This week, the online campground discovery platform continued to share insights from its 2025 Camping Report, this time with an emphasis on solo camping. The annual rundown of the latest trends from the camping industry indicates that for the third year in a row, solo camping has grown in popularity. According to the survey, 30.6% of respondents said they camped alone for at least one night in 2024. That’s up from 29.8% the year before, and 18.8% in 2001 when The Dyrt first started tracking these numbers. What draws these individuals to solo camping? According to the report, 69% say they enjoy the solitude, while not having friends and family available (50.6%), and camping just being part of a longer solo trip (25.9%) were also cited. Also, almost half of those solo campers say they did bring their dogs with them. Find out more here.
Photo Credit: Coleman
Coleman Launches New “Pro” Line of Coolers to Take on Yeti: The Coleman cooler was once a staple at every campsite, but in recent years, this trusty brand seems to have been supplanted by the likes of Yeti and other premium cooler manufacturers. Now, the company is striking back, launching the new Coleman Pro line of coolers that are lighter than the competition, while still performing at the same high level. In fact, these new models are said to be even more durable than Yeti. The lineup includes both hard- and soft-side options in a variety of sizes. Best of all, they have more consumer-friendly prices, too. Check out the entire Coleman Pro collection here.
Young RVers are More Adventurous and Diverse:Go RVing continues to share insights from its 2025 RV Owners Demographic Profile, this time taking a look at Millennial and Gen Z RVers. This year’s report showed that those two groups tend to be the most diverse at the campsite, with 42% of respondents identifying as being from a minority group such as Hispanic-Americans, African-Americans, Asian-Americans, and LGBTQ+ members. The report also noted that young RVers also tend to gravitate towards boondocking, seeking new travel experiences, and taking part in exciting activities. RV News has further insights here.
That’s it for this week. See you next Friday for another edition of our weekly RV news round-up.
If you’ve been around the RV space for any amount of time, there is a good chance you’ve heard of the “3-3-3 RV rule.” But if you’re new to RVing, you may not have been introduced to this concept before or at least haven’t had it explained. Essentially, this “rule” is more of a set of guidelines meant to keep you safer on the road and more relaxed at the campsite. So, what exactly is the 3-3-3 rule? Read on to find out.
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What is the 3-3-3 RV Rule?
There are several variations of the 3-3-3 rule, but all of them share the same goal—ensuring safe travel and maximizing comfort and relaxation. The most common version of the rule states that you should never drive more than 300 miles in a day, you should stop every three hours to take a break, and you should arrive at your campsite before 3:00 p.m. Often, the rule also suggests that you stay at your destination for three days, allowing yourself time to rest and recharge before returning to the road.
Now that we’ve explained the basic tenets of the 3-3-3 RV rule, we can take a look at each of the guidelines to better understand their importance.
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Limit Driving to 300 Miles Per Day
If you’re hitting the road in a comfortable car, truck, or SUV, 300 miles of driving may not seem like a lot. But if you’re behind the wheel a large Class A or Class C motorhome, or in a truck towing a travel trailer or fifth-wheel, your highway speed will be noticeably reduced. Add in traffic, road construction, potential detours, and a few stops along the way, and it can easily take five or six hours to cover that distance. That’s a lot of time in the driver’s seat, where remaining hyper-aware of your surroundings and changing conditions can be both mentally and physically exhausting.
If you’re making a cross-country RV road trip, limiting your driving distance to 300 miles a day will certainly add additional days to your trip. If you’re crunched for time and need to travel further in a day, be sure to share the driving duties with someone else. This will help you stay fresh and alert, while reducing stress. On shorter trips, adhering to the 300 mile limit ensures you get to your destination safer and more energized.
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Take a Break From Driving Every Three Hours
Often when we hit the road, we’re in such a hurry to get to our destination that we end up driving for hours at a time, only stopping when we need to refuel. This approach does allow us to cover longer distances at a faster pace, but it also leads to stress, tension, and fatigue. To stave off those conditions, consider stopping every three hours. This gives you a chance to get out of your vehicle, stretch your legs, and breathe in some fresh air, all of which are good for mind and body.
There are plenty of reasons you might want to stop while on the road for extended periods. For instance, you can pull over at a convenience store to grab a snack and a drink, or stop at a restaurant for lunch along the way. You can also go for a short walk, visit a roadside attraction, or take in that silly tourist trap you’ve always been curious about. The point is, anything that can get you out from behind the wheel—even for a brief time—can be refreshing. Take as little or as much time as you want before resuming the journey.
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Arrive at the Campground by 3:00 PM
There are a number of reasons why arriving at the campground by 3:00 p.m. is a good idea. For starters, if you don’t have a reservation for the night, getting to your destination early gives you a better chance of nabbing a first-come, first-served campsite. It’ll also give you plenty of time to park your RV and set up camp before dark. You may even have a few hours of daylight left over to take advantage of the campground amenities, like taking a dip in a pool, going to the gym, or just enjoying a beverage while watching the sunset.
This rule is also about showing respect for your neighbors at the campsite. When someone arrives late and tries to set up camp after dark, it can be noisy and disruptive to those who are already there and are trying to relax or even sleep. Getting to the campground early avoids that situation and allows everyone to enjoy their vacation time more thoroughly.
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Stay at Your Destination for Three Nights
This may be the hardest of all of the 3-3-3 RV rules to adhere to. After all, our road trips are often all about seeing as much of the country as we can while en route to a specific destination. But if you have the time and inclination, spending three nights at each of the places you stop along the way brings a lot of benefits. For example, it allows you to slow down, take your time, and truly explore the locations you’re visiting. It also gives you time to relax and unwind before resuming the journey. Driving long distances can take a toll on the body, and stopping for a few days will help alleviate those annoying aches and pains.
It is also important to keep in mind that packing and unpacking your RV takes time, keeping you busy upon arrival and prior to departure. Extending your stay makes that process less stressful and easier to handle, giving you quality downtime to actually enjoy the places you are visiting.
So, that’s the 3-3-3 RV rule in a nutshell. Keeping these guidelines in mind as you plan your next road trip can bring plenty of benefits, including more rest and relaxation and less stress. After all, RVing should be about having fun and enjoying the journey as much as we do the destination.
