People Are Quitting RV Life! Is a Mass RV Exodus Coming?

[@GratefulGlamper]

Hey there! Thanks for watching this video on why people are quitting rv living! If you enjoyed it, please don't forget to subscribe to our KZbin channel! → kzbin.info/door/FuE6zYaSBoN3jDDgxuVRgw Here is the blog post to go with this video → gratefulglamper.com/why-people-will-quit-rv-living/

[@rebeccastout3626]

Hi there! I just subscribed today (thought I already was because we’ve watched many of your videos) sorry! Anyway, you mentioned that your friend might be selling their Class A Diesel pusher. We are retiring and have our house on the market (in Washington State) after raising a family for 34 years. We will be in the market to buy and want to see some sites someday soon! Is there a safe way I could send you my cell # to give your friend in case they may be willing to sell? Thank you, Rebecca Stout

[@GratefulGlamper]

@@rebeccastout3626 check our Grateful Glamper Facebook page. I posted the link for the their class A for sale on RV trader. Thanks for subscribing!

[@GratefulGlamper]

@@KayGx Good point - thanks for watching :)

[@OurAmericanTravel]

Just subscribed thanks for sharing this information. We just got started about 6 months ago.

[@98dcarl]

Sounds like it’s just the opposite, since campgrounds are full. Doesn’t that mean more people are starting and not quitting?

[@thegan9143]

Not many camp grounds that I've seen seem like anything more than a concrete or gravel field full of other RVs, not my thing. I like to camp where there isn't really anyone around.

[@GratefulGlamper]

👍🏻

[@HIZGINE]

Good you camp in those places, that will leave more camp grounds for us

[@thegan9143]

@@HIZGINE Did I hurt your feelings or something? My point was that many campground are just parking lots, not much in the way of trees of space around you, more like a trailer park. I prefer more wild spaces.

[@bru1015]

Me too, but most RV’s can’t go to those places. 😊

[@amandablevins6809]

@@thegan9143 I agree. Most of the time I would rather be away from groups and crowds.

[@mikegleeson8733]

The problem really isn’t the campgrounds, it’s the size of area needed to accommodate a massive RV with hookups etc. Van-lifers with smaller vehicles, especially those with solar energy, are able to go the stealth route making it a lot easier.

[@StellarFella]

Yes. You hit it right on the head.

[@buda3d2007]

Exactly, then the hassle of me moving a giant house on wheels kicks in and how restricted it is partly because it’s cumbersome to look after and partly because it draws so much attention, unlike stealth mode vehicles being cheaper and able to blend into suburban areas when you want a little more civilizations mixed in with the off grid remote experience. RVs are nice in theory, but very restrictive in practice.

[@searching4shambhala]

Yep! We Fulltime in a 29’ with no slides. We can squeeze in usually at most parks.

[@metatechnologist]

Fifth wheels can be larger than houses lol.

[@StellarFella]

@@buda3d2007 - '... restrictive in practice ... ' That says it all.

[@MK-ti2oo]

We were raised camping, hunting, fishing etc during the 80's and I think things have changed a lot. We were taught leave no trace, to respect nature and other people out enjoying it, we never would've had generators running all night or loud music blasting, walking right through other people's sites. We knew you don't jump in the water where people are fishing or drive a boat close to their lines or create wake. I think the influx of people that don't know these things, or the the ones coming from the city to a remote area and forming a tiny rambunctious RV village are more to blame for people not wanting to do this anymore. We camp host and honestly, the disrespect for other people and nature are a bigger problem. We take loads of trash off the mountain from campers each week, they dump their garbage, their toilets, no one wants to walk through and step in human feces or find pads and tampons thrown in the woods while hiking. The other issue I see is that people think this is an easier, cheaper life. Unless you're coming from L. A. or new York or something with crazy high cost of living, that's not true unless you are very, very self sufficient. If you pay for sites, it's very costly. If you're off grid, you had better hope you can fix anything that happens or be able to pay insane repair costs, which are more frequent than any sticks and bricks and far more inconvenient. If you're rig goes into shop for a month (it's nothing for shops to have your rig for 3 months at a time for minor repairs) can you afford to stay in a hotel? Maintenance on a rig and tow vehicle are costly and seemingly constant.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for the comment- very sad that people are trashing camping area and natural areas 😞

[@bluezauza]

These are also all the reasons why in Portugal, where I live, camping in the wild or vanlife started to be frown upon. We used to be a very easy going country when it came to camping either just with tents or with vans. All you had to do was ask a farmer for permission to camp there or park, be respectful to the locals, shop at their local stores, or even if you wanted to help every now and again with the crops or a build, clean up a beach and all was good. Sadly local people on the more popular places got really annoyed with the overall very bad behaviour of vanlifers or campers, and started demanding the local authorities to take action and the local tourism folk ( hotels, hostels, camping parks) saw in the bad behaviour an opportunity for profit and they also started demanding for the authorities to be have a more heavy hand with campers, to force tourists to use their businesses.

[@mc12358]

@@GratefulGlamper I am not a camper, but I live near a national forest, and dumping/littering is a HUGE problem. It's almost 2022, we only have one planet, I don't understand why people can't learn to have some basic respect for the environment.

[@GratefulGlamper]

@@mc12358 that is super sad.

[@puchski1]

I agree MK! I bought my first travel trailer in 1974. Used to be that if you broken down boon docking it would be awhile before help came along. Now you need to use your turn signals out an a gravel/dirt road and once you get to a site you know about, most likely it will be trashed!

[@terry3193]

Ive been camping and RVing for 40+ years and I agree with your thoughts, however, this crowding, lack of campgrounds, service providers, and especially the need to plan and reserve in advance has been happening for the past 3-4 years. Nothing new. COVID might have heightened this but planning 6 months to 1 year in advance started years ago.

[@kathleenrutherford733]

I do think that most places are restricted more now, like the Walmart issue are closing per homeless people taking advantage of it, as well as more people are out and about

[@HardChair]

Totally agree! I have worked at a campground for six years. In the beginning we would have fifteen or twenty spots open every weekend (not including holidays). I noticed in 2019 we would only have two or three open, if any.

[@sgt.stedenko8746]

If you can buy a rv worth more than any house a ..used to be called hippie, bum,homeless nomad actually living the life because they see it's far easier and cheaper to live in a metal house vs a wooden, brick & mortar home. People out 5 and 10 yrs plus long before a movie and now fad got the wealthy traveler involved. People used to be able to find spots in campground easy..until wealthy complain about ppl in vans,cars tents and usually like new 20 year old rigs with average 20 -64,000 miles on it and no matter impeccable condition. Once old camper the wealthy person rarely had time to use and abuse..leaving a 20 yr old camper totally like new. The 10 yr law does nothing but gentrification to the campgrounds now as most the neighborhoods poor have been pushed out of as well. Not to mention more ppl driving past fellow travelers instead of stopping to help. Save the house buying once home and camp on vacation or in own yard and save yourself money. I have watched several wealthy kids come to work in fishing industry in Alaska. They quit the canneries and processing business because all the rough edges ppl they work with or dirty far from even a Econo Lodge type living quarter which most are thrilled to sleep free. I had a boat captain tell me in 1997 ..long before crab shows that he will hire ex cons and military (grunts ) every single time over a college kid . Ppl need money, conditioned (sadly) to be alone, not miss ppl, used to being gone and danger. Ppl usually from hard labor jobs or farming. No officers out of college here and unless from Alaska or own the company... your daddy and social/economic status means os much as the little crab tossed back in the ocean. Workamper been around since 1984 this Is a huge improvement of financial and emotional well being for the Original Nomads most of started out do to necessity and just happens to be awesome all in one. If your tow vehicle cost more than the home most nomads used to rent..not own..and you can safely go back to the life you had and not have to live in the rv you ran out and bought well just rent a nice one next time you decide to run out and rough it. Bob Wells is famous now and in his 70s with several shows. He still doesn't have a class A. Stay home quit bumping poor survivors out of work at campground and you still have neighborhood housing authority if you wanna complain about someone and "junky suspicious vehicles" or teens smoking pot you can call on. Perfect example is Quartzsite meet up. Check out comments and questions like " I hear lots of tacky ppl there" " are people sleeping in cars and homemade campers" are there class a spots even?? The founder of the whole deal you are inquiring about was never rich, he still lives in a van and never dreamed he would ever see million dollar nomads in 3 million dollar class a come pulling up at that. Do you go to Sturgis and ask "could there be all rednecks or even Hells Angels there" or just Wild Hogs???

[@theespjames4114]

I did the RV life early in our marriage. It was fun and exciting for 6 months. Then we longed for roots and a stable home and land

[@williamjktkd]

@@dianjane rude buddy lol I actually appreciate the info 😂😂😂

[@jaedonhurles3623]

I don't get how some men die without soil to pass on to their children and grand children.

[@theespjames4114]

@@jaedonhurles3623 I’m just hoping I can pass on freedom to my children?

[@youdontknowmyname3357]

@@jaedonhurles3623 it's only so much soil for sale. Eventually ppl won't be able to buy due to ppl not selling or the rich buying it up

[@tonykartracer8032]

Yeah, I think the novelty of living and roaming wherever you feel like wears off when you start to realize that you lack stability in life and having family members judge you as such.

[@richardowens9061]

My takeaways from this video are: 1 - There is a growing opportunity for those who want to open their own RV park(s). 2 - There is a growing opportunity for those who want to become an RV technician - either independent or working for a dealership/service center. 3 - There are increasing incentives to make your RV better equipped for boondocking. 4 - There are going to be some excellent opportunities to buy great RVs at great prices, as those who cannot adapt to the changes get rid of their RVs. Thanks, for the video!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for watching

[@terrygross7390]

Spot on.

[@sillysillytom]

fantastic, perceptive takeaways!

[@kathleenrutherford733]

Absolutely

[@LittlesBigsAdventures]

Yes, yes, yes, and yes! Precisely!

[@ajfletcher8350]

My wife and I left NC the last week of July in our truck camper . We had zero reservations and only had one time when the campground we pulled into was full. The owner was nice enough to call a competitor down the road and hooked us up. This was in the middle of corn country in central Illinois. We traveled for 10 weeks. No problem. It helps to have a small RV. We can fit just about anywhere.

[@jonothandoeser]

Yeah but gas prices will soon be $5.00 a gallon. Imagine a $500.00 tank fill up!

[@ajfletcher8350]

@@jonothandoeser gas prices have fallen 38 cents this week alone in Raleigh < 2.97 gallon

[@jonothandoeser]

@@ajfletcher8350 Come to LA! OPEC is not going to increase production! You will soon see.

[@twobeagles1365]

I Hope you had a great time !! Enjoy life while you can... Plandemics will come, Plandemics will go.... The elite's are very fortunate, but very Stupid - ignorant people ... What benefit do they have if they gain the whole world ( Money- Greed )but lose their only Soul ?? !! They too will Die one day !

[@scottrobbins2093]

Same here...Arctic Fox 811...no problems

[@gswartz58]

I started camping in a tent in the mid 80s, bought my first pop-up in 96. After a couple of pop-ups the kids grew up so I was ready to give it up. A car trip and hotel costs in 2016 convinced me to by a used diesel pusher. So I still love traveling, and some camping in my rv but with so many people rving now... well I miss the peace and quiet that I used to get. It seem like the new generation want to party at night with lots of lights. I still enjoy the camping but miss seeing the stars and listening to nature at night.

[@GratefulGlamper]

We’ve noticed the “weekender” crowd tends to stay up later than we do. 😂😂 We stayed at a national forest campground outside of Yellowstone that was great for peace and quiet. Thanks for watching.

[@johnh7899]

Amen

[@greglane3401]

BIDEN gave everyone just enough money to buy a canoe or kayak. The rivers are packed with partyers. Peace and quiet is a thing of the past. So much for enjoying nature.

[@kengruz669]

@@greglane3401 Jesus, Greg. Do you find a way to usurp every peaceful discussion and work it so you can blame the President for something? jeesh...

[@davewallace718]

@@kengruz669 Well, Biden has given America a lot to complain about in the few months he has been occupy ing the White house. In case it hasn't affected you yet, give it time.

[@charlycheer]

I am a new flight attendant as of two weeks ago lol and I have been living in my RV since February. My new “why” is that it just makes sense. I will be away from home 3 to 4 days a week straight and it doesn’t make sense to pay rent for a place I’m living at only half of the time. RV life makes even more sense to me now that I became a flight attendant.

[@debbiebrugman4543]

Congratulations. Sounds like the perfect choice for you. Wishing you blessings and years of traveling joy in your new career.

[@JJ-sv9kh]

I’m so looking forward to when they all start going back to their ocean cruises!!

[@paulshamblin6260]

I don't get the cruise thing. Get a tiny room at the mall bc there's a good restaurant? I'm a 600mph plane, taxi, hotel guy.

[@howisitgoin4267]

Me too

[@ericginpa]

@@TugIronChief yea definitely, stock market at an all time high, ppl will be back to going on fancy vacations instead of camping.

[@leroybrown9873]

I’m sure the port of calls are as well. Picking broke peoples pockets and selling fake drugs to the locals just gets you in a fight.🤣

[@lukebuchwald9252]

@@TugIronChief Commie Trump took over the economy and 30 million Americans lost their job in March 2020 and half never got them back --- Mighty Biden is cleaning up the MESS that Tax Dodger Donnie left

[@leahhorak7219]

My husband is retired Military and we try to stay at the military campgrounds. Here lately they have been full. We have been Rving for along time and never had any problems with finding a spot. That is until the virus. We will never throw in the Rv towel though.😁 Hope my kids don't get sick of mom and dad staying in their driveways. Happy travels everyone.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Driveway moochdocking is always a good time! And we’ve done our fair share of that type of “camping” too. Happy travels.

[@TD907-r5e]

I have been Rving since 76, go with the flow, be flexible.

[@mozberg2191]

Yup, I started in 2004 and same thing happened back then, there was a time for years when everything was booked. With social media, everyone has a platform to complain about it, but i feel like there's always a cycle, and there's always new folks, and seasoned folks who come and go. Just like you said, you have to be flexible and go with the flow...i have no problem booking anything in California on any given week, in sold out campgrounds.

[@GratefulGlamper]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@VannaMae]

Absolutely

[@Sas_HeatherC]

this isn't unheard of.

[@AshaMae]

Exactly! You cant live this lifestyle without being flexible.

[@Aurora81689]

Not gonna lie. I seriously think the housing market plays a factor. You make good money but it isn’t good enough to buy a house

[@GratefulGlamper]

Housing (especially in some areas) is getting pricy, that’s for sure.

[@donsullivan6199]

Yes so buy a camper to live the rich life.

[@greg925911]

@@donsullivan6199 with no cares, kinda dropping out of the system

[@buda3d2007]

Leaving the matrix right now is very appealing

[@robertalonzo5725]

Think California

[@travisthomas3326]

I've been full timing for 9 months in a 43ft fifth wheel. Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, New Mexico, California, Arizona. Staying on average 1-2 weeks at a time in one spot. Not one reservation has been made. What I've noticed is reservations have been made by RV'ers and 30-40% are never met. I call a couple of camp grounds when I get into the area and 100% of the time I find a spot. We are sovereign beings = we get that which we desire = keep manifesting beautiful campsites surrounded by fantastic people ❤

[@GratefulGlamper]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@Oldcrow77]

I’ve never really called it camping when you have a 40 foot house with a microwave and a big screen under you. And parked outside of a Walmart.

[@TheJalapeno2010]

It’s called GLAMPING I Love ❤️ it! Refused to sleep in a tent on the ground. I tried it for the first time 3 yrs ago. Never again …

[@egregg57]

We have seen this starting to happen years ago. This is our 22nd year. The first 5 years of RV'ing we just drove to one of three of our favorite places to go and got a site. That started to go away and never got better. When COVID hit and people realized that a self-contained unit would let them get away, that was the nail in the coffin for affordable prices as well. It got nuts!

[@karmacounselor]

That is what I noticed too....the covid camps changed everything...

[@WhiteLotusOm]

I sold my 30’ class A this past Feb which was my second RV over the years as I was so sick and tired of poor quality control especially with THOR and long wait times at service centers. Then along came real estate millionaires trying to cash in on baby boomers buying new RVs and they start buying up campgrounds, doubling fees and turning the campgrounds into RV parking lots with no family atmosphere. You either can’t find a place to stay, can’t stay over 10 days or they have sites crammed so close where you are almost on top of each other. I was also paying monthly storage fees for my RV that started out at $149 a month and within just a couple of years now costs $300. Had enough and decided I didn’t need this expense or stress anymore as others have taken the joy out of what used to be an amazing family experience. I do not regret saying goodbye to this RV lifestyle that the RV industry are destroying from the inside out through pure greed!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Wow! Thanks for sharing and easy to see why you decided enough is enough

[@davenstorm7271]

I was just wondering since you had a 30 foot class A. You had only 1 roof ac . I'm new and thinking about buying our first motorhome wanting to buy a class A. But afraid to buy the shorter class A cause I'm worried that the 1 ac unit isn't going to be enough to keep it cool in the RV , could you please share your experience and how well just 1 ac did , and how well just having 30anp power was like! Thank you.. any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[@PineGeri]

We had NO issues getting campsites this summer…of course we always made reservations but not always so far in advance BUT it also depends on where one is going. We had reservations for dry camping at OshKosh Air Show but getting to/from AZ we made reservations a couple months in advance. But….coming back we did on the fly maybe a day or two in advance. What we discovered…1: 1 nighter campsites are the least desirable and closer to busy roads; 2: Even in areas where big events are happening…best to stay a longer time to get the better sites 3: Seems cash payments for sites goes a long way rather than card payments 4: midwest and central states are the easiest to get into last minute…not the popular tourist areas. KOA’s are more expensive but dang they do offer a LOT at their campgrounds but hey, we don’t have kids and so most of the amenities are wasted .. we just don’t use them. FINALLY….when one sees “FREE WIFI” …it means good luck with our WIFI…cuz you probably won’t get zip! 🤣

[@GratefulGlamper]

We learned the WiFi lesson early on. Thanks for the comment - great info.

[@PineGeri]

@@GratefulGlamper yes…we applied for and put deposits down on Starlink….but no equipment yet…thinking that will be good for home and RV BUT……not sure that’s a good idea…what do you guys do?

[@ernie7065]

very true comment

[@davemacgyver573]

All true, especially the wifi part.

[@willr7849]

Of course they are, all of the RV life social media posters only show the positives. We also live in a society now that is hostile towards people parking their RV anywhere that isn’t a campground.

[@topout26]

I bought my own Rv lot in a 50+ community on Texas coast very convenient no reservations, no check in or out times, no moving 5th wheel, no rolling around dump tanks to empty, I can rent out my lot if I choose too as well.

[@corky52360]

Such a great video! We’ve owned a few RV’s since the 90’s and always went on the fly. Stopped when we were tired of driving. My husband has just retired and our house is in escrow and we’re looking for our rig. Our why is to leave California and headed to Arkansas. We get to mooch dock with family until we get our footing so to speak. We just don’t want to own property right now. We’re following the guide that keeps telling us to stay the course. The changes don’t deter us. We’re getting out of California!!!😊

[@anybodyoutthere3208]

Great comment. We are almost in the same spot as you as far as this journey. But were in AZ. Not giving up full-timing. Nope. I got out of CA back in 2014. Never been happier. Much luck to you on your journey~

[@corky52360]

@@anybodyoutthere3208 Thank you so much! We’re so ready for this! Glad you got to leave in 2014. We feel like we’re getting out by by the skin of our teeth. Wishing you all the best on your journey. Blessings to you and your family and that you find your rig soon. Arizona is beautiful.😊

[@anybodyoutthere3208]

@@corky52360 I have family and friends in CA still and they are all looking at options to flee I guess you could say. Especially after what happened on the 14th to CA. Safe travels~

[@GratefulGlamper]

Best wishes in your journeys!

[@corky52360]

@@anybodyoutthere3208 I have used that word many times. Hope they get out soon. Absolute disaster here.

[@dustinwright92]

As a traveling welder I stay in my 5th wheel trailer. Currently working near Boise Id. I was lucky enough after joining a local face book group to find a lady that had a space on her property. I had to move an old camper out of the space and then back mine in. I also wired in an additional 50 amp breaker for my buddy to plug in his trailer. We pay $700 / month each. All our coworkers had to leave their campers in Texas and stay in hotels.

[@kingtut5923]

Wow only 700 per month , she is doing you a favour.

[@MowBeta]

$700/mo each.... Geez!

[@LiLBitsDK]

700 month? sheesh you can get a nice apartment for that

[@izzie-digs-in]

@@LiLBitsDK Really? Where?

[@LiLBitsDK]

@@izzie-digs-in several states in USA, several countries in Europe etc.? avoid commiefornia and other giant cities and you can get quite nice stuff for fair money

[@windellstephens9359]

There are many factors, too many to cover in a short video, as to why folks are going to start leaving the camping lifestyle. The first thing is to consider why so many joined in the last 18 months. And now as the world slowly gets back to normal, those folks are going to return to their motel rooms and condos. Most were weekenders, we've been camping three times recently here in SC, and Sunday through Thursday the campground was maybe one third full. Another factor, and perhaps this sounds hateful but I believe it to be true, is that a lot of the newbies have no clue about campground etiquette. It appears many believe they can hook up the TT, go to the state park and party all weekend, stereo blasting and neon all over the site while their dogs (and sometimes children) run free. You touched on a main factor however, and that is maintenance and upkeep. Most newbies don't have a clue, it's not just hooking up and going. Great video, keep up the good work!!

[@seabliss22]

Ditto to everything you said.

[@StellarFella]

You must maintain everything systematically. These rigs don't last forever.

[@trvman1]

It will take 5 years or so because Covid is going to be around for quite some time and a new "version" could be just as bad as the 1st version and no vaccine. When things get back to normal there will be a FLOOD of RV'S on the market and people will have to sell at a loss or it will be a "take over the payments" sale. Many may just walk away leaving the banks to deal with it. They are built cheaply, and way over priced. They will be like boats, happy when you got one, but even happier when you sold it. At least the people who got a pull behind a vehicle RV will have a much better chance to sell then the one's who got one with an engine. 3 buck a gallon gas and 10 to 12 miles to the gallon if lucky. That's 90 bucks just to go 300 miles and that's if you don't have a diesel engine.

[@HIZGINE]

Yes, I'm hoping by 2023 there are a lot of Great Buys on 2 year old 5th Wheels..

[@HIZGINE]

@@trvman1 In Atlanta Ga the city it's $4.00 a Gallon..

[@stewartbrann2980]

Great advice as we are about to hit the road full time after Christmas! Been watching many videos and there are dozens of RV channels similar to yours that have actively marketed the RV lifestyle for years encouraging people to get out there and RV. More and more of those same channels are now making videos complaining that there are too many people RV-ing. Can't have it both ways. You aren't one of those channels complaining, and I appreciate you laying out the situation and solutions for us.

[@LindaCasey]

You would have LOVED it in my day (50s, 60, 70 & 80s) .. we could set up camp out in the middle of nowhere, on the side of a mountain, next to some remote lake or on the side of the road under a tree if need be without paying for a spot. Free style camping I believe it's called

[@jim87vette]

I search out obscure places on less traveled roads. Seems to work out for the most part. I boondock 90% of the time now. I agree the used market will be flooded with units in a year or two.

[@sandyfishgirl]

That could work out to be a good “buy” time for us ☺️

[@j.l.salayao8055]

Yeeyyy! More rv choices sooner or later.

[@freespeech4all723]

I retire in 13 months. I'll start shopping in 9 months. 🥳

[@locutus8496]

My second solution: Hop in the sailboat and sail off to a quiet cove to drop anchor. (Doesn't have to be a big expensive boat. I've owned older inexpensive sailboats over the years ranging from 14 to 35 feet. I've downsized from the 35 footer to a much easier to handle 15 footer.)

[@Thomas-er2uw]

If the price of gas keeps increasing a lot of people will be camping in there driveways.

[@practicalman45]

$4-$5 per gallon fuel cost is NOT RV friendly! Good luck to you, stay safe...

[@bennyhill5775]

Thank Sleepy Joe for all the BS that's been going on the last 6 months!

[@mikecoulter5243]

Lets go Brandon!

[@twobeagles1365]

If you have to worry about fuel costs... Get rid of the RV.!!

[@berlingschert3255]

Yes, there is an increase in ownership, but I think the real reason is that unfortunately people have learned that they cannot stay cloistered in their homes anymore due to COVID and truly need interaction with Nature to become sane again. So be patient, as we all need to patient with each other.

[@tmb9126]

and many just got to have an RV Traveling channel here on KZbin! I mean, if we don't post here on KZbin or Facebook, did it really ever happen?

[@matt75hooper]

I did not participate in the Covid19 Dempanic. And I wont participate in any others they have planned. "Cloistered in their homes". Good God what a terrible way to live. First thing you do is stop believing anything the Swamp Govt says.

[@adventurelifewithbob2960]

The more people hear about how great something is, the more they will get involved. This process (which has happened to more than just RVing) usually ruins it for everyone. Hopefully, life will return to normal someday and most will go back to staying at home.

[@pellsoul897]

Yep. Its true. Factoring in folks who have been evicted from their homes during the pandemic and hence now living in their cars/trucks you really see the potential demand and need for camping areas.

[@MessianicJudaism]

I'm a boondocker. Never had a problem with finding a place to park and camp. I've been rving full-time for 7 years. My parents have been rving nearly 20+ years. Coming soon to castle Rock, wa a 200 rv site is being built with a 200 family apartment complex.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Glad to hear another campground is being developed.

[@lbeck119]

What state??

[@billykennedy492]

He's talking about Castle Rock, Washington.

[@casper3130]

I seen this coming years ago in my area at which is mostly where I and my family camp. I started watching and purchased a 1.8 acre lot less than 3-4 minutes from the boat landing that had septic, electric and water from a past mobile home on it. Friends say they have to book a year in advance to get a camp spot if they get lucky enough to get a chance to book a camp spot. All we have to do for the kids to use the play ground and or swimming area and or to launch my boat is go to our property. There's 5 other couples in my area that seen it coming that did the same thing so we've all got to know each other and know who's in the area when there. I spent 16k for the property and in 2020 had a 12x30x42 metal storage building built for 21,500 to keep the boat, toys, camper and lawn mower in. It cost 146 annual property tax, 660 a year to keep the water and electric on which is cheaper than having it turned off and on seasonally and my annual park pass is now a lifetime pass that cost me 99 bucks. So, it cost me 806 a year plus what we spend while camping and we never have to worry about anything if and when we go as it should be.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Sounds like a great set up!

[@casper3130]

@@justincasesomethinggoeswrong Yep but better than not having a place to go to at all and now that I've Put a 16x80 mobile home on it with a huge covered screened in front porch the family all come and love it. The kids love sleeping out in the screened porch watching spooky movies then getting up in the morning and going swimming. All we hear from the kids of the families in our family is when are we all going back to the Lake which this year we've been going just about every weekend, it's been Great!😊

[@richardkelley3644]

I have been camping since 1963 when my dad bought a tent. My mother had been tent camping since the 1930's. He bought a truck camper in 1965. Have loved it ever since. We have a 26 foot pull camper. Love it. I am 72 years old & retied.

[@GratefulGlamper]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@paulab984]

I said in mid-2020 that around Christmas of 2021, all these new "COVID" RVers will realize they're making payments on something they're not using plus paying to store it and they will be selling. It's going to be interesting

[@epicelements5528]

I went from RV to vanlife and it does make it easier. I think if it’s financially doable for RV’ers, getting a bigger lithium battery bank with a huge inverter with solar would enable you to be more off grid in BLM land and other free camp sites. It’s one change that would help. Then you wouldn’t have to worry about plugging in all the time. 😁

[@timsteinkamp2245]

Very true, put the AC in the basement and cover the roof with panels. It also keeps the rigg cooler.

[@epicelements5528]

@@timsteinkamp2245 Absolutely!

[@lynns8057]

Why do people need those bus size campers. It's greed.

[@epicelements5528]

@@lynns8057 when I first went RV I thought there was no way I could ever live in anything smaller. Because of my lifestyle and consciously wanting to become more minimal I decided to try vanlife. It has worked perfectly for me. Living that small is not for everyone. To sustain a nomadic life style some are only willing to go big RV small 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@timsteinkamp2245]

@@lynns8057 There is the consideration of how many people are in the unit. Do you mean one? I live in a 36' with a 20" x 16' slide behind the driver and feel it is just right. I've lived in it for 15 years but also appreciate living in a 1000' apartment. I don't see anything greedy about it. Next ask how many storage sheds a person is allowed.

[@catdaddy3728]

Sell everything to full time rv? No thanks. Got to have a "home" to go to and one to leave to go rv'ing... Just my opinion. We rv with a travel trailer, go to state parks only, just our preference... Love it. Look forward to going, AND look forward to going home. Gotta have a homebase. Just our opinion.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Having a home base is super nice. Thanks for watching and the comment

[@ChristopherKnN]

Home is where the hookups are.

[@prillyg]

"The Why" is so important. I'm not RVing yet but might in another 10 yrs. Right now I have a horse rescue and the troubles that show up "the why" is very important to keep putting one foot in front of the other. I deal with challenging horses that have been badly abused and unhealthy horses. Always something happening here. whether it's animals, home, or vehicles.

[@LiLBitsDK]

bless you for caring for the horses, we need more people like you

[@prillyg]

@@LiLBitsDK thank you. i'm super blessed to have them in my life

[@maryhamilton2053]

Been camping all my life. RVing 52 yrs of my life. Just booked my vacation 9 months ahead. Gotta do it for now. Once the jet setters can fly everywhere again after Covid the RV world will see their backside exiting the RV travel lifestyle. Hallelujah!!

[@andyschrack4466]

This was an issue back in the 1980's as there were not as many campgrounds as there are now. My dad sold his fifth wheel because of it. My son has had fairly good luck, he goes all over Alabama, Tenn, Georgia, and Florida. So far, we have been able to do all the RV repairs at my house, so lucky in that regard. I do not own an RV because of this fact. I'm not a patient person. My son truly enjoys RV'ing so far.

[@tonyrodgers6730]

Well, I think you are spot-on! My wife and I both work full time at a Regional Hospital in Western Kentucky. We have HAD to plan way ahead since we started camping around 3 years ago. We had to arrange our “off” work schedule way in advance too. So that being said, we have stayed at some incredible and iconic locations since we started camping. And we have more upcoming (because we are almost always “planning”). AND you’ve given me encouragement as I have already “planned” early retirement and am enrolled in the NRVTA RV mechanic certification program! I’ll finish up in May. I hope I can still support or lifestyle financially as we continue to enjoy exploring this great planet!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Great plan! Thanks for watching

[@RicardoRoams]

I agree you must adapt to change. And change has always been occurring. Over the years, I've seen a lot of change when it comes to camping and RVing. Back in the early 60's, when my family first spent summers tent camping around the country, you didn't need reservations in National Parks like Yosemite. We would arrive in the afternoon, pay our fee and pick a site to our liking. We once did a 9,000 mile trip around North America. We had a rough idea of where we wanted to go but more often than not we were just winging it. Those days are long gone! Most campers back then were actually using tents or pop up tent trailers. With the advent of the truck camper, modern camper van and behemoth motorhomes, more people are now going to National Parks, State Parks, National Forests, etc. Many of those people would never have visited if they had to sleep on the ground in a tent. I was lucky. I saw most of the more popular National Parks when I was younger and ridiculous crowds were not yet a problem. I'm now 70 years old and still camp in a tent. When the weather is really bad or I'm in Grizzly country, I sleep in my Jeep. I know that most people would never camp my way and that's fine. And I actually prefer more remote places away from the big crowds anyway. Another big change is many young people today are refusing to wait for retirement to travel the country. They are choosing full time van life now! Wireless and solar technologies allow for this flexibility. Nation wide gym memberships also provide peace of mind knowing there is a shower probably in the next town if you want it. I do believe that once COVID gets more under control, many people will give up the RV life and go back to air travel and cruises.

[@sgt.stedenko8746]

Younger people are watching people die after reaching the age of enjoyment . Plus most on my bucket list would be off list by 70. I cant do 80% of it with fake knees and shoulder surgeries orthopedic shoes and cant ride a chair or little scooter to the bottom of the grand canyon 😮😅 Im not really young at 49, but I just watched my dad spend 5 months of the 16 hes been retired at Christ hospital fighting for his life after traveling QA nuclear plants 40 yrs ..his dad survive sunk in a sub hit by a Jap Zero (bullet) ricochet and 72 hrs hearing buddies chewed up by sharks, then reenlist in the army and finish a jump master with near 10 combat jumps as Airborne Ranger . He worked at GM 43 yrs and died 11 months after retirement from cancer picked up at Bikini Atoll bomb test from picking up the dead animals out on the ships to test radiation. My moms father did better he worked champion international paper 50 years snuck onto employment at 16 yr old. He did live 27 months. Both houses sold directly after one grandma a new boyfriend from church and lived with him. That cycle stops here and now . With the talks of SSI being gone and estimated to be near 40% shy of amount owed to new recipients and roofers with no formal education making far more than average college graduates and evil running amok on decent ppl morals,religions and brain washing in elementary no pledge, prayer nor mention of any perceived God, only #s going up since the 80s is inflation and redicouls rent even and gentrification pushing the avg joe further into rural areas that the wealthy will have their own serving their Big mac .. Its just not a work or school buy house kind of U.S. I've always worked jobs where I spend more nights in a motel than a house that a campground was heavenly if boondocks. The world has always been ending they say, but at 49 this is worst overall I can remember. Even during the great depression society wasnt a Barnum and Bailey show 24/7 ...or so I've read. Out west is a good place to be right about now or in the wilderness and mountains. If you can hunt and shoot at least fish and can process your own meal ..even first some cook own meal and far from any city centers or suburbs ..you'll be much better off. Gangsters cant camp or even take apart & clean own weapons or..someone else new gun and nothing to loot out there except the belongings of a experienced mountain Man or Womans few but important belongings. It's hard to sneak up on a outdoorsman when you've never even camped in a tent . When gas cant start your fire and you only start a fire to profit from some poor souls misfortune as a protesting looter you are gonna be in trouble and they'll come for someone else's security. Just hope you dont encounter a once enslaved (starting around yr 86O ) no 1 ...yes yr eight hundred and sixty brutiilized, killed and starved then treated like garbage and pushed out of cities not housed and fed Scots Irish/Irish man from hills of Kentucky shooting squirrel with a .22 rifle received on 9th birthday after proving safe and efficient with my shotgun. I pray for you you find food before ever reaching me if somehow the coyotes howl doesn't send them fleeing or health doesn't fail ya then no Ak , Uzi , 9 , fo fo ,gonna help ya against my non AR style weapon will reach out to ya long before you see me .

[@charlespriddle4294]

Thank You! Good information. I believe the rise in fuel prices will kill the RV industry. My prediction is gas/diesel will be over 5 dollars a gallon, making this unaffordable for most. Inflation will also be a main factor. If you want to live this life of RVing start scaling back, way back. Minivan type setting.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Really hoping diesels doesn’t go that high, not just for us but for all of the trucking companies. It will make prices higher on EVERYTHING as things have to be transported.

[@HelloWorldRobnLisa]

All relative to be honest. Yes fossil fuel prices are going up and will continue. But, if you look at the past 15 years, prices, overall, remain well below the yearly cost of living increases (i.e. 2008 avg gallon retail was $3.57). Also, "electric" will be here sooner then you believe. I personally am not a fan of it, but the RV industry is already spending a lot of R&D money on hybrid platforms, and full electric platforms. Major trucking manufactures have already put some of these vehicles on the road as part of long term Beta projects. Remember the early 70's Gas shortages did not kill off RV manufactures, nor have the multiple recessions and market crashes in the past 40 years. It may not look like what we are used to, but the RV lifestyle will continue going forward.

[@roguesovereignrogue9124]

This one aged well. Spot on and it’s going to be much higher than $5 by this summer.

[@fish9654]

My wife and I are done too expensive, good luck too all of you!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Best wishes!

[@CampMegabea]

yeah , pretty much everything you said is true , Walmart , lowes are seeing a lot more overnight action because nobody want to book a vacation 18 months in advance.. desert dry camping is best place to go anyway ... rule to live by , u pack it in , you pack it out.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for watching

[@genericwatcher2439]

I hope a mass exodus is coming! My current issues are: 1) Prices are sky high, I am not sure I will able to afford replacing my RV when it wears out in a few years. 2) The people camping are not as nice. EVERYONE used to be so awesome at campgrounds, I am finding too many people who are miserable or walk around like the campground is their private resort, they have no courtesy (cutting through campsites, staying up to 2 am playing music, leaving trash around, extra traffic for kids to avoid from grubhub and food delivery drivers to RV parks, etc...) 3) Yes, agree that if you are not getting your reservations in months ahead of time, it is hard to get them.

[@debbiehardee4597]

With all the excessive stuff that's going on within the campgrounds that, I feel falls on the owners/management. They own it, control it, change it! If someone isn't following the rules & regulations of the campgrounds they can be asked to leave. If they don't leave the owner can request law enforcement to escort them off property. If they fail to remove their RV, it can be towed off, @ the expenses of the RV owner! I've seen that happen & that was in 2008. If management doesn't enforce the rules then there's nothing you can do, except..move on.

[@elephantear7659]

wow, sad to hear about these things.

[@jasoncarpp7742]

I agree. I love listening to music 🎶, but not obnoxiously loud! I try to keep my music just enough for the people in my circle can enjoy, but still respect the neighbours.

[@Bobtree6853]

I feel where you are coming from. I'm a backpacker and tent camper. There is a similar situation in that world. Probably not at the same level though. l like seeing more people backpacking, but I don't like some of their disrespect and disregard for the basic tenents of the hobby. Such as, "leave no trace". If you pack it in, pack it out. Don't feed the (wild) animals. It does not help. In fact, it causes more harm to animals. Especially in bear country. Feeding or not securing your food properly is pretty much a death sentence for that bear. Respect people on the trail. Thankfully, the backcountry is still out of reach.

[@georgekline1899]

Great video and you hit the nail on the head for sure! We tell friends and family all the time that if they don’t or can’t understand electrical, plumbing and mechanical systems and be able to repair them yourselves then you have no business owning an RV🙄 Unless you have a bottomless bank account! If you can’t make general repairs around a sticks and bricks then maybe your best option is a hotel room for vacations instead of an RV👍🏼

[@dr.detroit1514]

Good stuff to know. I've been tent camping since 1975. Both motorcycle and four wheeler cross country trips. Finding space hasn't been a problem, all I need is any 6x10 patch of flat ground for the tent. But at age 68 and with various itises, my bones are getting a bit sensitive to the rocks and roots, and so have been considering finally going camper or rv. Maybe bad timing, I should probably just get an air mattress, Ha Ha.

[@Gman-qm6bv]

Started RVing in 1973. We have always been able to pull into a state or commercial park with no reservations and pick our spot any day of the week. Today, we camp on our kinfolks property when we visit them. We use a travel trailer more for a guest bedroom (TT is parked next to our house on our acreage) and use the fridge for overflow food from our house when I buy too much food from the grocery store.

[@mnight207]

Most people want a home and a little land. Not traveling forever. Yeah, it's fun to go out for weeks at a time...but you get back to a neighborhood and park your mobile home is the best thing ever.

[@ricecakeboii94]

I plan on getting a truck & van life it. Remove the backseats & place an ikea bed. Go stealth mode with a tinted Toyota Tacoma & park in a secluded area. No need to plan, pay, or reserve campsites. Only advantage of a RV is that in-vehicle shower & toilet.

[@alicecherry227]

Not everyone wants to go back to a neighborhood. My family did suburbia life for 2.5 years and absolutely hated it. We don’t want anything to do with it. Plus, my kids thrive in virtual school environment.

[@mnight207]

@@alicecherry227 I agree....I hate suburbia. I love city life. It's one of the things my wife and I truly disagree on.

[@jameskennedy673]

Being a Texan, ❤️your tee shirt, you’re talking about RV Techs, I’m a handyman & do all my repairs myself. I know that some people are not a handy person. We’re not ones who want to be in a cramped camp ground. You’re right about the younger generation who either wasn’t taught to be respectful or now that I’m an “adult” I’ll do what I want by partying all night. ❤️your information, keep’m coming 👍👍

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thank you 💙 God Bless Texas!

[@EmilyTienne]

We have a one acre lot behind the house. We do all our RVing there. No scheduling BS, no towing a car, we go potty in the house. The wife hates road trips any how.

[@BlueSky-ff4oy]

That's hilarious but perfect.

[@BlueSky-ff4oy]

So, that RV outing would start like this?: Shall we get away for the weekend? Sure, I'll go set up the lawnchairs. 😂

[@marymckay7154]

@@BlueSky-ff4oy so funny...love it.

[@canyonero2050]

So why are you watching this video?

[@EmilyTienne]

@@canyonero2050 I dunno. Guess I want to see how you all are handling this cramped RV situation.

[@nataliehansen6865]

Thank you for ending this video asking us why we are choosing this life. I am currently in the process of planning my future life on the road. And it’s scary!! There’s a lot of information I need to gain, lots and lots of money I need to save, and a lot of unknown answers to questions I have. But when I think about why I want to do this, the answer is clear and the journey does seems a bit more manageable! As someone who grew up in an abusive home, then had multiple abusive relationships in my young adult life. The reason I want to do this, is for me! For the opportunity to rediscover myself, to reconnect with my love for environmental sciences, to spend more time with my dog, to step away from the consumerism, but most importantly to prioritize my happiness, not others. I know this is the path that I need to take! Knowing my “why”, gives me a sense of security and puts me a little more at ease! And hopefully with everybody hanging up the towel, I’ll be about to find a trailer in my budget! Keep your fingers crossed for me! Thanks for sharing all of this information! Looking forward for your future uploads! 🙃

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for watching and for sharing! Best wishes in your travels and maybe we will see you out there.

[@sideshowdrummer]

I tricked out my Ford Transit so I really don't need the RV parks but I use them occasionally so I'm stealth and still ready to rock and roll

[@ritabergeron793]

My husband and I are contemplating RV lifestyle. This video is opening our eyes. Very helpful!!!! Thank-you for this video!☺️

[@hammer48ful]

I think a lot of the problems people are having booking campsites is where you live and camp. We just came off a week of camping on Cape Cod MA and the campground was 3/4 empty. We like to dry camp which eliminates a lot of people and we have a small camper which makes it easier to get into a lot of places. Our problem is finding places that are open farther into the season so we can enjoy fall and early winter camping in the north east.

[@GratefulGlamper]

We’ve noticed many campgrounds in the north close in October..? That does make a difference in finding a spot. Thanks for watching

[@pinhorobinson]

I live in MA and camp mainly in New England-I agree it's a problem!

[@andrewb2111]

@@GratefulGlamper Look for campgrounds that cater to temporary work crews. I know of one in my area that stays open year-round for the guys who set up wind turbines. Most of them have homes down south but while up here working, stay in their RV's. You'll need a skirt and a couple utility heaters under the trailer. I camp on my own land, and it routinely gets -20 degrees F here. No problems with pipes freezing using 1' foil coated foam board but that's not something most travelers will carry with them. Without the board and heaters, pipes freeze up quickly ... more so when it's windy. That's why they close up in October here. As a kid I can remember trick or treating in blizzards with snow boots on.

[@lmccurry78]

I wonder how many of the 11 million owners have them sitting in their yard inoperable. We see a lot of those around where we live in Western NC/ Eastern TN

[@GratefulGlamper]

Yes, we see many in storage too.

[@Sas_HeatherC]

you cant math rvs that are in driveways. our town is full of them

[@scottdowney4318]

Sitting there unused, means neglected and rotting away. Plus some campgrounds have a 10 year rule, no older RV allowed. So that RV you just bought has a short life of limited use, and then it sits till you have to get rid of it.

[@marktwaine9344]

@@scottdowney4318 those camp grounds will change....or close up....

[@sandramagill3877]

Retired couples frequently prefer to travel when kids are in school

[@seabliss22]

Fall camping has always been out favorite

[@robertcolpitts4534]

This is when we prefer to travel. Kids are in school and most people are headed back to work. Rarely have we had trouble finding a place to stay even on short notice.

[@glutenfreejoe6099]

Growing up we had our first Pop Up Skamper camper trailer in 1972 and traveled to many State Parks National Parks and Commercial Campgrounds over the years including multiple cross country trips. We then as a family got a 22' Hard Sided RV Camper Trailer. I am amazed how much RVing has grown over the past 10 years.

[@tombrennan6312]

After 4 years full timing I sold my motorhome recently and it was one of the better days of my life. I have a nice apartment and have done quite a bit of traveling by car staying in hotels. I notice too my Hilton and Hyatt stock is doing well.

[@tombrennan6312]

@Luke People use the term adventure loosely. Bernal Diaz plunging into Mexico with Cortes in 1519 with failure meaning death on a heathen altar--that was an adventure. Driving a motorhome to the Grand Canyon.... nah, not so much.

[@keithsaunders1046]

That was a great video. I have a friend that is a RV tech at huge dealer near us. (even if they did recently sell out to Camping World) He makes good money because he's got knowledge in so many different trades. Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and general automotive. This is a skilled field for kids to look at for employment. Even careers. You know how loyal we are to businesses that provide quality service. I'm an apparel screen printer and embroiderer. My business revolves on happy repeat business. I've been in business for 31 years and some of my customers have been loyal for 20+ years. Great post. And safe travels.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for watching and great points about the trades being great skills for the coming generation

[@RoamingwithRover]

I agree, it’s harder to find places to stay. And weekends are booked. So you can find a place during the week but scrambling for weekends dates. Also, boondocking spots are disappearing also. So many cities are banning overnight stays! They want our money but make it impossible to travel.

[@unclebillscamping]

I think this will stabilize soon. Usually there is a steady trickle into the rv market but when Covid restrictions hit there was a surge in everything related to camping. As the newness wears of and restrictions ease i think a lot of people will wind up selling or parking them and it will probably feel like it happened all at once. Its just like when people buy a boat and at first your at the lake every other weekend but after a few years or so its on the side of the house gathering mold. On the plus side parks are making tons of money for much needed improvements and soon there will be a saturated used rv market.

[@HelloWorldRobnLisa]

I like your thinking Uncle Bill and agree 100%!!!! The RV Industry (like many industries) was not ready for the past 2 years. Honestly, who was?? So, many of the things covered in this video are a snap-shot view verses a true 5 year view. Technology is the one thing that I feel she nailed spot on though. App's and virtual view services are going to be the "norm" going forward. And yes, Planning is an absolute "must" for anyone traveling in the post 2020 world. But, having been around for a while myself, these situations cycle in and out of public favor. Also, younger people who are now full timing because of the work remote aspect, will eventually cycle back to being somewhat land-locked. A few of the early 2010'ish KZbinrs and Influencers are no longer living the full time lifestyle as an example. My wife and I will be joining the part-timer's in 2024, but am not worried one bit about being able to travel as we will want to. Cheers!

[@dionnahfreyer8164]

I really hope so. That's what I've been hoping will happen.

[@camperpat]

Hello from Tennessee. I started camping in 1965 . I started Rv camping in 1977. I stayed at a seasonal park for years. I now only travel part time from home. I try to only camp Monday to Thursday. Stay away from weekends. The state park’s in Wisconsin were always full on the weekend back in the 80’s and still are. I enjoy your videos. Take care!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for watching

[@Threedog1963]

With an abundance of people owning RV's now and the shortage of campgrounds, sounds like we should have invested in building / buying a campground instead of buying an RV. As far as planning way ahead now. It's been that way in some state parks we've been to in Texas for a long time. We like Garner State park. Texas state parks have an eleven month window for reservations. To get into Garner State park, you have to have a few people on different computers on day 330 before you want to get the reservation for and just start trying as soon as the window opens. And, it was that way when we went there in the early 90's.

[@flowrob6861]

Given your info , i'll stay in my Econoline van . Having used truck campers in 70's through 80's , didn't take long to see Challenges with trailers , Pusher units .

[@shaneelsdon6356]

The major problem is if you were to go to the full campground, you will find it with LOTS of empty spots yet they say they are full. Point in case we are at Balloon fest and there are several empty spots. I can not think of one campground that I have been in this year that hasn't had RV sights sit empty for days or weeks while we are there.

[@peterpiper487]

I've been van camping for many, many years and I've never had to rent a camp spot.

[@barryrhodes1454]

I'm in Florida and have been Rving since 1977. Yes I have seen some changes. The biggest thing is to decide if you are camping or just moving a luxury box to sleep in for a few days. I have camped all over the Ocala National Parks and if choose to give up the luxury of a home and learn definition of camping for a few days your family can have a great time. I have met nice people from all over the country. I have found they will find a place in their area because they are familiar with their local area and can pull some strings and locate a good place for you when you are in their area.

[@sillililli01]

If you haven't noticed, there are more and more people, living full time in RVs, having lost their homes, their livelihood, etc. Where I live RV parks are filled to capacity with people living year round in these parks. It's not a matter of vacationing, it's a matter of survival. These are people who were doing well in life, the beautiful home, usually an acreage, and the RV in the driveway ready for the next vacation get away. However, when things went south in their industry gas/oil, they were facing bankruptcy and losing their homes, they took off on the road with their RVs. Some are staying put in these parks, others are living a nomad life, having to keep moving. So, if you are finding it difficult to find an RV park that has a vacancy, it's more than likely got a few full timers.

[@MelissaR784]

This is true. When you see people settling up camp in big parking lots and neighborhoods side streets get permanent parked residents, these people are surviving homelessness.

[@broncobill3902]

We predicted this and that’s why we sold our toy hauler when prices were high. Sold our 2 year old truck and 5th wheel for more than what we paid…..yes we bought both of them new. Now we are on the look out for a class A or super C. Waiting on our son to finish high school and go off to college. 👍🏽

[@natureobsession3566]

@@vnabors1 what type of class c you have? I am interested

[@RelativelyRichLife]

@broncobill smart move 👌🏽 can't believe how much used rvs and trucks are going for these days.

[@tansielexingtonstoryyokai8790]

Great video. THANKS. From 1994 - 2002, my ex-husband and I (late 30's) went off-grid in a 35ft fifth wheel and Dodge Ram. Today, NO ONE could do what we did. All the places we boondocked are gated. Now, with a new husband (mid 60's) we are 17 months into full-time in a 34' 1999 ClassA. Totally different gig. Being flexible, planning & open to 'not knowing' is the key. Much harder and expensive this go round cuz we're older. I love the lifestyle !!!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for sharing! Best wishes in your journeys

[@DisabledNomads]

The pandemic has made an impact. Lots of people now working remotely. Several times this past summer (2021) we had a really hard time getting into the rv resorts that we're a member of. Never had a problem like this before. Even with a 120 day reservation window. During the labor day holiday we ended up having to moochdock at a friend's house. We're full time RV because we lost our house in 2017 when the owner died. We're on social security which isn't much. We sold everything we owned and bought an RV. We found that a resort membership was very affordable "rent" so we go from park to park. We also wanted to be able to go south for the winters. We decided to bring purpose to our life by providing ADA reviews of the free or low cost places we visit, when we can.

[@grantgerdes2882]

There are so many variables when the pandemic hit our nation which Fauci needs to be in front of a judge btw.. I work at 4RIVERS EQUIPMENT, I kept my job, which construction kept going so I noticed alot of RV's on the road, and I'm still plugging away with our inflation...crossing my fingers the gold goes higher...

[@jasoncarpp7742]

That's the bullshit thing about Social Security, they don't allow anyone to save enough money to live, let alone enjoy life.

[@sheilacollins9384]

I'm a dedicated tent camper. Thank goodness. RVs don't feel like camping to me. Rather, they are little houses that roll around. It makes sense that there's a shortfall of spaces to park them in; there would have to be massive improvement in an accommodating infrastructure. And who could/would prepare adequately for this huge increase in RV interest?

[@eugeneray4970]

We’re on our 5th camper now we live in this one full time we love it don’t always need to stay in a camp ground generators are good to have that’s what fresh water tanks are for and they do have dumping stations in a lot of places its just were you are going most of the time that you find this problem but the young generation have a right to camp to I have been camping since the late 60s

[@HighCountryRambler]

Been RVing for nearly 60 years, mostly boon-docking and can say, nothing has changed in 60 years in my RV lifestyle, and I doubt it will, other than road traffic and the price of rigs.. Hopefully these videos might clear up some congestion in our favorite spots so we don't have to drive so far to avoid the crowds in the wilderness..

[@farflung956]

I've been camping since the 70's. When traveling cross country a campground wasn't necessarily needed. Raising my children on the road in busses, vans, and trailers in the 80's was easy. Plenty of places to go, not a problem. Now is so hard! How to plan ahead 6 months?! Will it rain all that time? It is really sad, not so free. Guess to many folks are doing it.

[@ChrisZwolinski]

Did our first RV vacation ever over the summer in the upper peninsula of Michigan in a rented Class A. We did a full hookup "fancy" campground (2 days), a nice KOA (2 days), a state park boondock (4 days), a private campground (3 days) and a Harvest Host for an overnight stop on the way home. The weird number of days were due to late planning and lack of spaces. Except for the battery dying in the state park because we stayed out visiting way too late, we had a blast. Everyone was very nice and friendly at every location we visited. Even the manager at the state park was in a joking mood when he got his son to bring over a generator from another campground they managed to help get our slides in I don't think my boss would be too thrilled at me being on the road full time (jealous more than anything else), but I haven't been in the office for 19 months now except to clean out my desk and take everything home. We'll try the rental route again, with a trailer hopefully, next summer to get the different "feels" of traveling and camping. We'll keep ours eyes open for deals too though.

[@lindellhuffman2851]

We just returned from a month long trip, Kansas,Colorado, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas City. None of the places we stayed were full capacity. Granted we did make reservations ahead ,but did not experience any problems getting a spot to the point we were without a campground. We travel with a 25 ft travel trailer.

[@retrodog63]

Supply and demand. That's all it is. The growth of the RV market is tied to the pandemic. Since it didn't end yet, the demand for a vacation that is relatively safe is in high demand. Pure and simple.

[@koalabear6722]

RV LIFE SEEMS to be hard. You have to park it somewhere and pay unless its public land. We can do all those things but still have a HOME to come back to. Brick and stick is solid. Memories made in the HOME LIFE a place for tour kids to come back to at any life. Different strokes for different folks. Also, you never stop paying for RV life, it's very pricey.

[@GratefulGlamper]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@josephpetrick3499]

We bought five different pieces of off grid land in five western states and plan to rotate and camp on these pieces full time with our RV. We own it, no problem.

[@okgirl5514]

One reason RVing is more popular at the moment is because of the housing issues everywhere. Renters are selling houses bc its a sellers market. As well, since renters cannot evict, they are selling their houses. Apartments where I live (in a large city) are very full and go quickly. Renters/apartments are being more stern on the requirements to rent. So if you have any issues on your credit or evictions within 7 years you are homeless.

[@meaganelli943]

@Ok Girl that is true. I'm in an Extended Stay because of a bad rental situation from 6 years ago.

[@steve0321]

I think COVID has driven a lot of this. It's a way of getting out without flying etc. Wonder if that will change when travel gets back to normal. I'm seeing a lot of fairly new RV's for sale online, wonder if the new has worn off for some....

[@GratefulGlamper]

I think it has....

[@alexwyler4570]

Another possible reason? i think a lot of people no longer want to buy some landlord his 19th or 50th house. They rather live in a van than rent. This is what i hear in my neck of the woods.

[@tombrennan6312]

@@TugIronChief In a political system with free elections and a wide franchise the market and body politic are the same people. Thus government is a means by which the free market makes corrections.

[@tombrennan6312]

@@TugIronChief That is not an argument.

[@UPdan]

My father went through 3 RVs before he realized it wasn't the RVs, he just didn't like pulling, parking and campgrounds. He lost a lot of money figuring that out.

[@stevewillis5692]

My wife and I travel as she is a travel nurse in our fifth wheel, we just started this about a year ago and so far we have been able to find a place to park. (our fingers are crossed lol) Tho in Washington we had to park in a guys yard for his metal shop lol

[@HeRacesTheSun]

The pictures you'll see in RV brochures & ads, are near the exact opposite of what one will experience in RV's in real life. Brochure front cover often shows a whole family, of course looking euphorically happy, at the shore of a glass smooth mountain lake, 2 kayaks, and of course a large roaring campfire, this is the illusion presented. Reality is at a KOA campground, one of the first entrance signs says 'NO OPEN FIRES ALLOWED' then you'll be placed on a concrete slab, surrounded by other RV's, no privacy at all unless you hide inside, and the concrete slab you rented per day is not much less expensive than say a motel 6. What happened? This is not what the brochure pictured. The results are that you now realize, and understandably, you fell for the romance of the brochure pictures, you believed the illusion that by simply buying an RV, you would step into the picture of the happy family at the mountain lake with 2 kayaks and the roaring campfire. It is possible to make some of that illusion a reality by making a reservation at a state park at least a year in advance for this type of secluded mountain lake RV spot. But likely no open fires allowed. People have gone on a few trips in their RV, found it is much more work than ever imagined, and now it will be parked next to their house for many years while it deteriorates sitting outside in the sun & weather. A few will be able to face reality and sell it. But many or most simply can't let go. Find them parked liked this, you see them everywhere, they've not been used for a while, months, years, and you ask the owners about this? "When was the last time you used your RV? Do you like the RV life? The typical answers you will get are... "Oh yes, we love it. We've not used it for 3 years, but we sure will go on more trips with it" These folks are the ones who can't let go of the illusion, the romance of the idea, but all the hard work involved in getting ready for a trip, and after returning, is just too much work to do again. Where I live in southern Arizona, I ride my bike or ATV around, and about 1/3 of the homes on property have the obligatory RV or motor home just sitting there, can tell it's not be used in years, likely won't be used again, and is slowly deteriorating & fading in the hot desert sun, of course many under a carport especially put up just for the will never use again RV, and the typical reflective foil inside the huge front windows. I know, I had an RV that I took out to my 40 acres by the mountains, it was heaven while out there. But all the work involved to do this? After my 3rd year, and 4 trips out there, I would feel exhausted just thinking about getting ready for another trip, and all the work after coming back home again. I resisted selling it for 3 years, with the typical thought of... "We will go out there again for a least one more trip" After 3 years of never doing that again, tired of feeling sad & guilty I wasn't using it every time I looked at it or walked past it, it was hard & sad listing it for sale. Even more sad when it was bought and saw it drive away, but I knew I was letting go of a romance & illusion that I would use it again. I put the cash in my bank, and about a week later I felt at peace, content, and light because a load had been lifted off my sub conscience. My view was... "Hey I did that several times, it was great! But it was far more time & work than I ever imagined, and I also feel great I was able to let it go, not be like so many who can't let go and it just rots on their property" And I highly suggest if one is contemplating getting an RV, first watch the movie with Lucille Ball & Dezi Arnaz called... 'The Long Long Trailer' It does a great job at showing REAL life in an RV.

[@rickhiggins6521]

OMG How old are you? I'm 77 and barely remember The long long trailer when I was a kid. haha Very good suggestion though. Been there ,done that.

[@jaedonhurles3623]

dawg TLDR

[@jw6180]

Wow, thank you for your honest and accurate assessment. Well said!

[@hitmanhite]

I got out and don’t regret a second of it. Air B&B has worked out sooooo good for us. We were in Yellowstone one weekend and in Smoky Mountain the next. Flew out of DFW, paid $69 one way each, stayed in 2 awesome secluded cabins, and were home within 3 hours. Those 2 trips would have taken us FOREVER to drive the RV there, gobs of fuel, and white knuckling that 40 footer the whole way. Sold the RV for WELL OVER what I paid 3 years ago. Get out while you can, lol. Numbers don’t lie. Really feel bad for the folks that sold their home for a few years to go on the road, man in this market it’s going to SUCK to get back in, lol. You might be stuck.

[@hitmanhite]

Oh and I checked the campgrounds at both locations, and they laughed when I asked if there were any sites available. Get out now.

[@clagster1]

nobody cares about your air b&b crap this an rv post

[@geraldf1463]

If the economy goes in the tank or fuel goes out of sight. you will have no problems getting a site.

[@summerwinter2012]

8 miles to the gallon....

[@coffenut]

I am still hoping to move to full-time but I keep putting it off for just this reason. I do not like planning ahead. I never have. Even when I travel overseas, once I have the visa, I enjoy just winging it .... and I have to admit that I don't people and the purpose to me of camping/rving is to get away from people. I am really hoping that once travel opens up, people will do a mass exodus and discover that they enjoy hotels far more than the outdoors.

[@sewgatormomm]

Anywhere that we wanted to camp (and we’ve been camping since we were kids in the 70’s) has always required a reservation months in advance. This is nothing new.

[@ChristianTravelers]

We've been RVing since 1995 and half-timing (6 mo. / year) since 2016. We got into a Thousand Trails membership early in our RVing and have gotten used to planning 3-to-6 months in advance. We also do a lot of boondocking. So, we're pretty okay for finding places to stay. What we have currently run into is the lack of ability to get problems fixed. We were In South Carolina in early June and a few problems developed all at once. Our small 25'6" Class A was drivable so we headed to our home base in Florida. Well, we are still here! All we have done for the most of summer is cancel reservations and previously planned RV routes. Looks like we are now cancelling up through the week of 10/11 and now praying we can get started the week of 10/18. The lack of adequate mechanics for us has hit home. We won't quit - our "why" is very strong - but it is very frustrating!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Yes, it can still be frustrating even when your why is strong. Thanks for watching and for the comment

[@pierre-rose7783]

And so it goes, it seems that everything is just getting harder and more complicated. I considered getting a small RV, but now I'm glad I didn't, because I noticed too that the nicer campsites were always booked, and some need upto 1 year in advance booking, and I just don't want to get into all that hassle ! Oh and campsites are looking g awfully crowded these days too.

[@JollyGreen79]

If you're ok with boondocking there are places to escape on a last minute kind of basis all over the place. It just takes some scouting and knowing where to go. I agree, the resort/campground style camping has drastically changed. It's very hard to find established places to go. But if you don't mind going off grid and know what you're doing, there's always places to go and they're typically far less populated. It takes some knowledge on how to get the most out of your rig off grid but it can be done quite comfortably without giving up too many amenities.

[@GratefulGlamper]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@brikshoe6259]

I'd guess about half of my neighbors have an RV of some size. I'm also guessing the plan is just to use them for bugging out. Point is, I would guess that only a fraction of those 11 million RVs are on the road at a given time. Totally agree with your point about being able to fix it; if you do not have mechanical skills or are scared of a wrench or a multimeter, you might want to reconsider investing in a tenement on wheels.

[@HelloWorldRobnLisa]

Nailed it sir.

[@craigwiess1656]

Living full time in a RV is not as easy as some think, especially in the winter. Some try older RVs and find out quickly repairs can be costly. Then finding camp grounds that allow larger RVs. In a few years there will be a lot of used campers and RVs on the market.

[@LittlesBigsAdventures]

We just started our Full Time RV Life about a month ago. We are originally from Nebraska and have traveled northeast so far. We utilize a few different options including Harvest Hosts, State Parks, and Thousand Trails. The summer was a bit interesting to book out, but we’re currently fully booked through to the end of August which includes stays in NE, SD, WI, IL, IN, PA, NY, NH and ME. Surprisingly, NE and IN were actually the most difficult to find options for, which we found odd just being in the Midwest! We found a place in ME for 3 weeks, so not too many complaints here. We will make it work because we are absolutely head over heels with this new lifestyle!

[@GratefulGlamper]

Awesome! Charity’s family is originally from Omaha 😉

[@LittlesBigsAdventures]

@@GratefulGlamper That’s where Bailey’s from! That’s awesome.

[@hydrazi]

We just got back from Mollidgewock campground in NH. It's beautiful, serene, quiet and right on an incredible river. We are tenters but most of the people there had RV's. However, it is a complete boondocking situation. No hookups at all and no generators allowed. There were plenty of spots.

[@trvman1]

The way camping should be. LOVE the campsites that you can only get a small RV in and 80% of the people will be tent campers. Most of the time you don't have to worry about noise at night because if it's a state run campsite, they usually give people 1 warning, happens again, you are gone. They drive around all evening. I have seen people thrown out. You walk to the bathrooms and to get water and the further away you go from those, the less likely you will have anyone camping next to you. Now this was before Covid, hope those days come back.

[@johnsplaceglenview]

With the new solar generators I am not afraid!

[@desert_moon]

I'm a pretty spontaneous person in general but when it comes to long road trips I always plan them out, especially when I have kids with me. I'm a bit more spontaneous if I'm by myself but still loosely plan things.

[@troynoall793]

I've been RV camping from the early 80's. There are more campgrounds now than 40 yrs ago. This year is the first year that campgrounds are overbooking to take advantage off the RV boom. I personally like a bit of space and quiet when I'm camping aka...relaxing.

[@mcfa0251]

I've been looking for this sort of video to be practical about RV, Minimalist living. Since 2018 we've had a 15 ft. Lil Guy Mini Max, 2020 a 19 ft. Keystone Bullet and this month Feb 2022 we'll have a 25 ft. 2021 Big Foot. Its been great to visit folks with the travel trailer, our own space, no motel bill, and 1/3 the cost to stay. But if things are as you point out seems like there will be a sort of "foreclosure" in RVing as there was in housing 20 yrs ago. Anyway thanks for the video and the reality check. I'm weary of rehabing the house (40+ yr old, 1500 sq ft manufactured home), but its paid for, no mortgage, though we rent the space it sits on.

[@GratefulGlamper]

Thanks for watching