What is a recreation vehicle (RV)?
An RV is a vehicle that combines transportation and temporary living quarters for travel, recreation and camping. RVs are either motorized (motorhomes) or towable units (folding campers, truck campers, travel trailers and fifth-wheels). RVs offer a wide range of amenities to suit different budgets, needs and tastes. Starting prices can be as low as $4,000 for folding camping trailers and truck campers. Roomy travel trailers begin at $8,000. Prices for motorhomes start around $48,000 for compact Class C models and $58,000 for Class A motorhomes.
Why do people choose and use RVs?
Family appeal-RVing is fun for adults and children alike. In fact, families that frequently vacation by RV report that it fosters an increased sense of togetherness and helps improve family communication. Louis Harris research found that 95 percent of parents who own an RV said RVs are the best way to travel with family and children.
Affordability-RV vacations are more affordable than travel by personal car, commercial airline or cruise ship, according to a recent vacation cost comparison study conducted by the travel and tourism research firm PKF Consulting. Even factoring in RV ownership costs, and considering resulting tax benefits, a family of four can spend 26 percent to 74 percent less when traveling by RV.
Flexibility and convenience-RVs offer a convenient, hassle-free way to travel. For busy families who want to escape the stress of everyday life, owning an RV can make every weekend a mini-vacation. Kept packed with essentials, RVs are ready to travel at a moment's notice.
Comfort-With fully equipped kitchens and baths, rooms that slide out at the touch of a button, central air and heat, TVs, VCRs, surround sound stereos and more, today's RVs provide travelers with all the amenities of home while on the road.
Lure of the outdoors-RVers can enjoy the mountains, beaches, parks, popular tourist attractions and small towns whenever they want, without giving up the comforts of home. With the new sport utility travel trailers and motorhomes, RV travelers can easily haul their ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles or other outdoor vehicles right on board.
Versatility-In addition to travel, camping and outdoor recreation, RVs are being used year-round for a wide variety of purposes, like shopping, tailgate parties at sporting events, pursuing special interests like horse, dog and antique shows, and other hobbies.
The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (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. For more information, visit MARVAC's Web site, www.marvac.org. 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.
