Why RVing is Good For You, Your Wallet, and the Environment.

With the rising gas prices and these turbulent economic times, one of the first things many current RV owners – and prospective ones too – may say is, “Gosh darn it, but RVing is looking to be more of a costly and expensive pastime than ever.”

I beg to disagree. RVing is not still one of the most economical travel and/or lifestyle choices you can choose- but also a very environmentally friendly one as well. In fact, we predict that RVs will continue to rise in popularity in the coming years, and not just with the baby boomers either!

It goes without saying that staying in your very own RV is much cheaper than staying at a hotel, motel, or resort. Even with gas prices, RVing still saves a ton of money.

But did you also know that in many ways, RVing is also friendlier to the environment? Yes, it’s true that towing your RV does use up more gas. But there’s still no argument that constructing and running a big hotel overall carries a much larger carbon footprint than the RV lifestyle. Living in a smaller space saves much more energy overall, so remember: the gas tank is just one aspect, but it’s not the whole.

And it goes without saying that towing an RV somewhere uses a lot less gas than a plane! In fact, when compared to the typical airline/rental car/ hotel vacation, there’s no contest: just read this recent study which used the carbon calculator methodology (developed by Conservation International) to show the softer environmental impact of RV vacations.

To offset any guilt you may be experiencing about filling up that gas tank, be as earth-friendly as you can when on the road. Reduce, recycle, and reuse. Use non-toxic cleaning products, and be conscientious about what kind of waste you generate and water that you put into the ground. Bring bikes with you, shop at farmers’ markets, and buy locally. Did you know that you can even put solar panels on your RV? Now that’s a real win-win situation for everyone!

RV manufacturers are also becoming increasingly innovative, designing lighter-weight and more energy-efficient RVs. Most ultra-light RVs can are towable behind any 1/2 ton truck, with an aerodynamic design and sturdy aluminum construction that is as strong as it is lightweight. Energy conservation is also key, which is why new RV models also put a premium on the design that keeps the heat (or the cool) inside where you want it. As demand increases, we’re happy to see manufacturers competing to create innovative lite models that don’t skimp when it comes to comfort, amenities, or style.

One of the best things about the RV lifestyle is that it enables you to get closer to nature, not hide from it in a padded hotel room. RVs can still be marvelously comfortable, private, and even luxurious- but they also allow you to enjoy the beauty of your natural surroundings. The joy of sitting around a campfire. The rustling leaves in the trees. The scenic vistas that are right at your feet. The twinkling stars in the nighttime sky. That’s why when it comes to RVing, you can be a weekend warrior and an eco-warrior at the same time, saving money while also protecting our environment.

This article is brought to you by Lakeshore RV, a proud online retailer of lightweight travel trailers and fifth-wheel RVs from the top brands in North America.