OKEMOS, Mich.-Discover what 30 million Americans already know … recreation vehicles offer a fun and affordable way to vacation with kids. Today, nearly 8 million U.S. households own at least one RV-a 15 percent increase over the past four years and a stunning 58 percent gain since 1980.
A vacation, even with just a family of four, can become quite expensive. There are costs for transportation, lodging, food-and don't forget the entertainment. Amusement park tickets, museum admission, historic tours, boat rentals, etc. all add to vacation expenses. A recent study by PKF Consulting found that RV family vacations are, on average, 26 to 74 percent less expensive than travel by personal car, airline or cruise ship. Even if you consider the rising fuel prices, RV vacations remain the most economical.
The RV combines your transportation, lodging and restaurant all in one. RVs come fully equipped with state-of-the-art kitchens, bathrooms, central air and heat, queen-sized beds, entertainment systems and more, allowing you to bring all the comforts of home when you travel. Many provide kid-friendly areas with bunks, extra storage and additional entertainment systems.
Campgrounds, like other resorts, offer something for everyone-swimming pools, playgrounds, game rooms, boating, fishing, nature trails, planned activities and more! There are over 1,000 campgrounds in Michigan, located near popular destinations, along major tourist routes and even in metropolitan areas.
Replace family memories of airport delays, cramped hotel rooms and expensive restaurants with those of scenic drives, comfortable, amenity-filled campgrounds, campfire cookouts and outdoor adventures. RV owners surveyed by Robert Hilton Associates cited the most important benefits of family camping are bringing the family closer together, having new experiences and teaching a respect of nature.
For more information about an RV vacation with your family, visit the Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) Web site, www.marvac.org. MARVAC is celebrating its 65th anniversary, making it one of Michigan's oldest trade associations. MARVAC is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging growth in the recreation vehicle and private campground industries while contributing to the quality of Michigan tourism. MARVAC, 2222 Association Drive, Okemos, Mich. 48864-5978; 517.349.8881.
For additional information, please visit our All About RVing section of this web site. Here you will find various articles spotlighting the people and places that makeup the RV and Camper lifestyle.
