14. The Future of Camping and RVing

Let’s face it. The world is changing. Regardless of your views on big issues like climate change, global warming, the next ice age or the zombie apocalypse, the green movement is here to stay. It will direct our future energy supply, the cars we drive and the homes we live in. It will certainly have an impact on how we enjoy travel, recreation and the great outdoors.

So, What Is The Future of Camping and RVing?

Several things make us believe the future of camping and RVing will bring serious change. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

• Future EPA fuel mileage requirements will force even more efficient cars, with lower tow ratings. Check out this article in Car and Driver to gain some perspective on the issue. At least one former EPA director has admitted the goal of making the internal combustion engine obsolete by 2050.
• Gas is cheap. Cheaper than it’s been in years. But, if you think it’s going to stay this way, Kris and I have some magic beans we would like to sell you. That big dually pickup and honking huge 5th wheel is going to be even more expensive to buy and operate.
• Population growth will cause more pressure to be placed on the recreation areas the government protects. The emphasis on leaving your campground in better shape than you found it will be emphasized even more. Also, reservations for “prime” destinations like Yellowstone will be required several years in advance. Many of the top picks are already booked a year in advance.
• Diesel engines are facing extinction. The World Health Organization has declared war on the diesel engine. The new smog equipment alone costs more than a gasoline engine, and the requirements are getting tougher. We will be pushed towards other alternatives as these high mileage workhorses slowly go away. Here’s  great article at Carthrottle.com for a little insight.
• Smaller, lighter and more aerodynamic RVs are entering the marketplace every day. The trend for things like the Cowboy Camper will increase. This style of no overhang campers is making a big comeback these days.
• Not everyone is willing or able to spend $150,00 or more on a higher end motor home. There will have to be alternatives other than the big class C motor home, for less money. Something you can add options to as you can afford them.
• The end of the traditional camp fire. Between the concern for clean air and the increased fire danger with more campers in the woods, alternatives to the traditional wood burning, sparks flying camp fire will become more popular, if not mandatory.

Camping and RVing is here to stay

Make no doubt about it, we all love travel, camping, RVing and exploring the great outdoors. Kris and I still prefer to do it with a solid walled RV, equipped with a full sized bed and bathroom. It’s up to the creativity of the RV industry to offer smaller, lighter RVs that will meet the future needs and desires of the future. Along with some non-traditional future offerings, Kris and I look forward to the improvement of offerings in a few other segments.

• The next level of teardrop trailers will be an evolution in minimalist RVing with many more creature comforts.
• The modular camper offering where you buy your RV, then add upgrades as you can afford them.
• Better plans, parts and suppliers for the do-it-yourself RV builder.
• A big market for older, smaller vintage campers in rebuildable condition.
• A new round of great gear for car campers and tent campers.

Pickup VS Jeep

Kris and I talked about the possibility of replacing our current pickup and camper with a jeep and a small trailer. It’s just in the discussion phase now, but you never know where the future will bring. It does make for some interesting conversation though.

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