RV Podcast

This week on the RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland takes a hard look at one of the biggest frustrations facing RV owners today: service department problems at some of the nation's largest RV dealer chains.You'll also hear about the extreme weather that disrupted RV travel from the Great Lakes to Texas, California's new effort to crack down on ghost campground bookings, a major fire-risk recall affecting many Tiffin motorhomes, an important wildlife safety reminder following a Yellowstone bison attack, and why catalytic converter thefts are once again targeting RV owners across the country.Every story in this episode is fully researched, independently sourced, and explained in plain English, along with practical takeaways you can use to travel smarter and more safely. Complete source links are available in the transcript tab above.If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps other RVers discover the show and supports the work we do every week to keep you informed.The RV Trip Dashboard we talked about is at RVLifestyle.com/TripDashboardThanks for listening, and as always... Happy Trails

Episode #625 - RV Insurance Done Right, the New Maintenance Tracker, and Slowing Down on the RoadAre you actually covered for life on the road? Matt Jacobs, RV Product Manager at Progressive Insurance, joins Mike to break down the coverage RVers need, the mistakes people make when buying it, and why insurance is one of the topics that comes up most in our Facebook Group.Also this week: the launch of the RV Maintenance Tracker, a one-time-purchase app for logging every service, tire check, and repair in one synced place. Find it at RVLifestyle.com/maintenance.Then, two listener questions: whether Starlink is worth adding to your setup if you're not working from the road, and how Mike and Jennifer have adjusted their travel pace in their 70s, including the "330 Rule" that changed how they plan travel days.Jennifer is taking the week off to recover from knee replacement surgery.Links mentioned:RV Maintenance Tracker: https://RVLifestyle.com/maintenanceFree daily newsletter: https://RVLifestyle.com/newsletterSend us your questions: https://RVPodcast.com (Contact link)

This week on the RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland looks at a surprising new trend that may shape the future of camping in America: communities increasingly pushing back against new RV parks and campgrounds.We also cover:• The worst RV sales numbers of the current downturn and why used RVs continue to outperform new inventory.• Why Grand Design and Coachmen are both betting big on luxury Class C motorhomes.• The return of rising fuel prices and what renewed Middle East tensions could mean for summer travel costs.• The story of a small Colorado camper van builder that sold out its entire production run months ahead of schedule.As always, every story featured in this episode is fully sourced and documented in the show notes at RVPodcast.com so you can verify the facts for yourself.If you enjoy the podcast, please consider leaving a review. It helps other RVers discover the show and means more to us than you know.Safe travels, and we'll see you Wednesday for Stories from the RoadDULL TRANSCRIPT WITH ALL STORY SORUCES. CLCK THE TRANSCRIPT TAB AT THE TOP OF THIS DESCRIPTIOM

Brand-new RVs are being liquidated in the middle of peak camping season, and that's just the beginning.In this week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland examines why the RV industry is facing growing challenges, what the newly announced Patrick-Lippert merger could mean for RV owners, and why record Fourth of July crowds created chaos in many National Parks.Also this week:• A look at the latest RV safety recalls • Expanding public campgrounds that could make reservations easier • An inspiring story about one RVer who accomplished an incredible National Park milestoneEvery story featured in this episode is fully sourced. Click the transcript tab for complete show notes and links to every article referenced.Be sure to subscribe to the RV Lifestyle Newsletter at RVLifestyle.com for daily RV news, travel inspiration, and practical advice delivered free to your inbox.

For years, we dream about retirement. We imagine freedom, open roads, and finally having the time to do everything we've always wanted. But what happens when that day finally arrives?In this episode of Stories from the Road, Mike and Jennifer share an honest conversation about what they've discovered in the second half of life. After more than 15 years of RV travel, they've learned that retirement isn't really an ending, it's the beginning of a whole new adventure.They talk about slowing down without giving up, finding purpose beyond a career, making time for family, embracing curiosity, and why some of life's greatest moments happen when you stop rushing to the next destination.Along the way, they answer your RV questions, share practical travel advice, and reflect on the friendships, experiences, and unexpected lessons the RV lifestyle has brought into their lives.Whether you're already retired, planning for retirement, or decades away from it, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder that the best years of life may still be ahead.In this episode:Why retirement isn't the finish lineLearning to slow down without stoppingThe importance of purpose at every ageHow RV travel changes the way you see America and yourselfJennifer answers a listener's question about preparing for full-time travelMike answers an RV technical question from a listenerFor complete show notes, visit RVPodcast.com.Join our free daily RV Lifestyle newsletter, delivered every morning by 7:30 a.m. Eastern, at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter.

For years, we dream about retirement. We imagine freedom, open roads, and finally having the time to do everything we've always wanted. But what happens when that day finally arrives?In this episode of Stories from the Road, Mike and Jennifer share an honest conversation about what they've discovered in the second half of life. After more than 15 years of RV travel, they've learned that retirement isn't really an ending, it's the beginning of a whole new adventure.They talk about slowing down without giving up, finding purpose beyond a career, making time for family, embracing curiosity, and why some of life's greatest moments happen when you stop rushing to the next destination.Along the way, they answer your RV questions, share practical travel advice, and reflect on the friendships, experiences, and unexpected lessons the RV lifestyle has brought into their lives.Whether you're already retired, planning for retirement, or decades away from it, this episode offers a thoughtful reminder that the best years of life may still be ahead.In this episode:Why retirement isn't the finish lineLearning to slow down without stoppingThe importance of purpose at every ageHow RV travel changes the way you see America and yourselfJennifer answers a listener's question about preparing for full-time travelMike answers an RV technical question from a listenerFor complete show notes, visit RVPodcast.com.Join our free daily RV Lifestyle newsletter, delivered every morning by 7:30 a.m. Eastern, at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter.

This week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition is packed with practical information to help you travel smarter.Mike explains why slowing RV sales could create exceptional buying opportunities, looks at what will likely be the busiest Fourth of July travel week ever, breaks down where fuel prices are headed, explains the latest Starlink changes affecting RVers, and wraps up with two travel center stories you'll definitely want to know before your next trip.Full Transcript Available with sourcesA complete transcript of this episode is available in the Transcript tab at RVPodcast.comHave a question for a future episode?We love hearing from listeners. Send us your questions, comments, or story ideas through the Contact link at RVPodcast.com. Your question may be answered on a future podcast.Don't forget to subscribe to our free daily RV Lifestyle Newsletter at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter and join our private, ad-free RVCommunity at RVCommunity.com.Happy Trails!

Wall Street has discovered camping.Across America, investment firms, private equity groups, and large corporate operators are quietly buying family-owned campgrounds at an unprecedented pace. The result is changing the camping experience many RVers have enjoyed for decades.In this episode, Mike and Jennifer explore how campground consolidation is reshaping RV travel, from rising campsite rates and resort fees to stricter rules and less personal service.You'll hear from a family campground owner who continues to reject multimillion-dollar offers to sell and learn why independent campground owners are facing increasing pressure from investors eager to capitalize on the booming camping industry.Also in this episode:• Jennifer shares a personal update on her upcoming knee replacement surgery• The story behind one campground family's decision to stay independent• Tips for finding and supporting family-owned campgrounds• RV Question of the Week: What to do after driving away with your power cord still plugged inIf you've ever wondered why camping feels different than it used to, this conversation may explain a lot.Click the transcript tab for complete show notes and resources.RESOURCES MENTIONED:Campbuddy App - https://rvlifestyle.com/campbuddyOur free newsletter - https://rvlifestyle.com/newsletter

The RV industry is chasing the wrong generation. While manufacturers court 30-somethings with outdoor TVs and influencer campaigns, the buyers who are actually writing checks right now look nothing like the people in the ads.Last week I sat around a campfire in Hocking Hills, Ohio with 88 members of our RVCommunity. I asked how many had bought a new RV in the past year. Eleven hands went up. A 12th would have, but he was out on a six-mile hike. He was turning 70.That tells you everything the sales charts do not.In this episode we dig into who is really driving the RV market right now, what experienced RVers actually want that manufacturers keep missing, the quiet but alarming shift happening in our national parks, and a dramatic rescue on the Appalachian Trail that is a reminder of exactly why preparation matters out there.Read the companion blog post on RVing in the second half of life at RVLifestyle.com - link below.Here is the complete episode, start to finish.THE RV PODCAST - MONDAY NEWS EDITION Episode Air Date: Monday, June 23, 2026 - 6:00 AM Approx. Running Time: 25 Minutes Host: Mike WendlandTHE LAST GENERATION THAT KNOWS HOW TO TRAVEL ...and why the RV industry keeps ignoring themOPENLast week I was sitting around a campfire in Hocking Hills, Ohio, with about 50 members of our RVCommunity.com.I asked a simple question: how many of you have bought a brand new RV in the last year?Eleven hands went up. A 12th would have, but he was out on a six-mile sunset hike - and he was turning 70 that summer.This was happening while the RV industry is posting some of the worst wholesale shipment numbers in over a decade.Which raises a question the people running this industry ought to be asking themselves: who exactly are they building RVs for?Because I can tell you who is actually buying them. And they look nothing like the people in the ads.OPENINGGood morning and welcome to the RV Podcast Monday News Edition. I'm Mike Wendland.Eighteen Emmy Awards. Thirty-plus years covering everything from wars to the White House to consumer affairs. And for the past 15 years, living the RV lifestyle myself with my wife Jennifer in every type of rig you can imagine, coast to coast, all 48 contiguous states.Today's show is a little different. Instead of leading with a breaking story, I want to start with something I witnessed firsthand that I believe tells you more about the real state of the RV market than any press release you will read this year.And if you want to go deeper after you listen, I have been writing about this topic at RVLifestyle.com for the past several weeks. We have been exploring what it means to RV in the second half of life - the freedom, the community, the mindset, and yes, the ways the industry keeps getting it wrong. There is a link in the show notes. I think you will recognize yourself in it.Here is what is happening on the road. And here is what the industry is getting wrong. Let's get into it.LEAD STORY: THE LAST GENERATION THAT KNOWS HOW TO TRAVELThe RV industry is having a rough year. A really rough year. And the numbers tell the story fast, so let me give them to you and move on, because the real story is not the numbers. The real story is who is still out there buying and camping while those numbers grind downward.Wholesale shipments are down more than 13 percent through the first four months of 2026. Retail sales off 14 to 15 percent from last year. The industry's own forecast, just revised downward again this month, now projects this as one of the worst years for new RV sales in over a decade.So who is still buying?Here is what I can tell you from 15 years in this world and from what I saw last week in Hocking Hills. The people who are still writing checks for new RVs, right now, in the worst market in a decade, are the people the industry seems most determined to pretend do not exist.Baby Boomers. Older Gen Xers. People who grew up reading paper maps. Making reservations by phone. Talking to strangers when they got lost. Fixing things with their hands. Navigating real uncertainty with nothing but experience and nerve.According to industry research, Americans 50 and older remain the primary customer segment for RVs. Many are retirees fulfilling long-held travel dreams, and that population is still growing as the tail end of the baby boom ages into retirement. These are people with home equity, disposable income, and something even more valuable: the time and the confidence to actually use what they buy.And yet when you look at the ads. When you watch the Go RVing campaigns. When you walk the floor of any major RV show and look at the marketing materials stacked at the booths. You see toned and trendy 30-year-olds doing yoga on the roof of a Class B. You see influencers with ring lights and perfect hair. What you do not see is the 68-year-old retired engineer who just dropped $95,000 on a new fifth wheel and is headed to Alaska.That is a real blind spot. And I think it is costing the industry real money.Here is what I saw at our Hocking Hills rally. Eighty-eight people, ranging from their 50s into their 80s. Riding bikes and e-bikes and scooters. Hiking up and down some of the most spectacular terrain in the Midwest. One of our members, a retired RV technician, got under a fellow member's trailer and repacked the wheel bearings on the spot. Another couple spent an afternoon giving scooter lessons to anyone who wanted to learn.Nobody was stuck. Nobody was panicking. When something broke, someone fixed it. When someone needed help, someone helped them. These are people who grew up problem-solving before there was an app for it. And they brought every one of those skills out here.I asked how many had bought a new RV in the past year. Eleven hands went up. Twelve if you count the man who was out on a six-mile hike at 70 years old.This is happening while the industry chases 33-year-olds with solar panels and TikTok aesthetics.I am not saying younger buyers are not important. They are the future and we need them. But the marketing case being made inside RV boardrooms right now, that the 50-plus buyer is yesterday's news, is demonstrably wrong. And in a market this soft, you cannot afford to ignore your most reliable customer.I wrote about this at length over at RVLifestyle.com. It is part of an ongoing series we have been running on RVing in the second half of life. The link is in the show notes. If today's lead story speaks to you, that post will too.STORY 2: WHO IS ACTUALLY DRIVING THE MARKETThe demographic picture of who owns and buys RVs is more complicated than the ads suggest, and it is worth understanding.The median age of RV owners has come down in recent years. Younger buyers were absolutely part of the pandemic surge. Millennials and Gen Z now represent roughly 22 percent of RV owners - the same share as Baby Boomers - which tells you something about how quickly the demographics shifted during COVID.But here is what the industry sometimes misses in that data. Younger buyers came in during a period of historically low interest rates, flush pandemic savings, and work-from-home flexibility. Those conditions no longer exist. The buyers who are proving most resilient in this market are the ones who are not dependent on 7 percent financing to make the purchase work.Industry analyst Earl Hunter Jr., founder of The Unity Folks, put it bluntly in a recent trade publication outlook piece. He said the biggest trend in the RV industry right now is, simply, lack of growth. And that the industry has not figured out why emerging demographics and nontraditional consumers have little to no interest in the RV lifestyle.That is a real problem worth solving. But while the industry works on reaching new audiences, there is a generation of experienced, well-capitalized, deeply motivated buyers out on the road right now who built this market and are still carrying it. They deserve a little more respect than a supporting role in someone else's marketing story.STORY 3: WHAT EXPERIENCED RVers ACTUALLY WANT - AND WHAT MANUFACTURERS KEEP MISSINGI want to tell you one more thing from Hocking Hills, because I think it reveals something important about the disconnect between what the industry is building and what experienced RVers actually need.During our campfire conversation, I asked people what features they most use in their current rigs. What do they love. What they would change.Nobody mentioned outdoor TVs. Not one person. This is notable because outdoor entertainment has been one of the most aggressively marketed RV features of the last several years. Manufacturers have been loading up rigs with outdoor TVs, outdoor kitchens, outdoor speakers. The assumption is that RVers want to recreate the suburban living room experience outside.Our members were out hiking six miles. They were packed into a campfire circle talking to each other. They were fixing each other's trailers. The last thing they wanted was a television.What did they talk about wanting? Better towing stability. Improved service networks. Simpler systems that do not require a software update to turn on the hot water. Quality that lasts. And dealers who actually know the products they are selling.These are people with decades of RV miles behind them. They know exactly what they need and exactly what they do not. When you have that kind of experience, you stop being impressed by features and start being impressed by reliability.The industry could learn a lot by listening more carefully to the people who have been doing this the longest....

Ticks are having a banner year across much of North America, and that has outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and RVers paying close attention.Most people know about Lyme disease. But far fewer have heard of Alpha-Gal Syndrome, a tick-borne condition that can suddenly make you allergic to red meat and trigger severe, even life-threatening allergic reactions.In this episode of the RV Podcast, we revisit one of the most important health interviews we've ever done.RVer Fred Church shares the remarkable story of how a single tick bite changed his life forever. What started as what seemed like food poisoning after eating a hamburger soon turned into a frightening medical mystery involving swelling, vomiting, intense itching, and a diagnosis that left him unable to eat many of the foods he had enjoyed his entire life.Fred explains how Alpha-Gal Syndrome develops, the symptoms he experienced, how he was diagnosed, and the precautions he and his wife Kathy now take whenever they head outdoors.The timing of this conversation couldn't be better. Earlier this summer, Mike had a tick embedded in his face that required a dermatologist to make an incision and use two stitches to remove it. The doctor told him he had already removed dozens of ticks from patients this season.Whether you're exploring hiking trails, walking the dog around the campground, sitting around a campfire, or simply enjoying the outdoors, this episode is a powerful reminder that tick prevention is more important than ever.If you think the only tick-borne illness you need to worry about is Lyme disease, this conversation may change your mind.In this episode:• Fred Church's personal Alpha-Gal Syndrome story• The symptoms that led to his diagnosis• How a tick bite can trigger a red meat allergy• What RVers and outdoor travelers need to know• Practical tick prevention strategies• Why tick-borne illnesses are becoming a growing concernThis is one of those episodes that could make a real difference for you, your family, and your travels.Also in this episode, answers to your questions about:Whether a Combo or a separate washer and dryer is best for an RVandHow to best learn how to drive an RVGet the RV Lifestyle Newsletter at https://rvlifestyle.com/newsletter

This week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition covers five important stories every RVer should know about.First, a major recall affects more than one million Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators, including many popular tow vehicles used behind motorhomes. Owners are being advised to park affected vehicles outside due to a potential fire risk, even when the ignition is off.We also look at new vehicle restrictions at Zion National Park that will prevent many larger motorhomes and fifth wheels from using the scenic Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway and tunnel route. If Zion is on your travel plans this year, these changes could affect your trip.Plus, diesel fuel prices have finally started moving lower, but many RV owners are still running into an outdated pay-at-the-pump system that makes filling large tanks unnecessarily difficult.In this episode you'll also hear the remarkable story of how investigators finally identified human remains discovered more than two decades ago in Olympic National Park, thanks to advances in forensic genealogy.And finally, the RV Industry Association has quietly lowered its 2026 shipment forecast, creating what may be the best buyer's market RV shoppers have seen in years. We'll explain what the numbers mean and how they could work in your favor if you're considering a purchase.Along the way, Mike shares updates from Hocking Hills, Ohio, where RVCommunity.com members are gathering for the summer rally, and explains why these community events continue to be one of the most rewarding parts of the RV lifestyle.Links, sources, and additional resources for every story are available through the transcript tab.Happy Trails!

What should every RVer carry in their first aid kit? What medical emergencies are most common on the road? And when is a health issue serious enough to seek immediate help?This week on Episode 616 of the RV Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Richard Raborn, a retired physician, lifelong RVer, and member of our RV Lifestyle Community. Dr. Raborn shares practical, real-world medical advice for RV travelers, including how to prepare for health emergencies, what medications and supplies belong in your RV, and how to stay safe when you're far from home. It's one of the most useful conversations we've had for anyone who travels by RV.We also tackle two listener questions that many RVers will relate to:• Linda and Don, both recently retired, want to buy an RV and travel the country, but their adult children think they're crazy. Jennifer explains why your late 60s may actually be the perfect time to embrace the RV lifestyle and why waiting for "someday" can be the bigger risk.• Gary from Tennessee wonders whether the 200-watt solar package on his new travel trailer really makes him "energy independent." Mike breaks down the truth about RV solar systems, batteries, inverters, and why many RV buyers are getting an unrealistic picture of what factory-installed solar can actually do.Plus, we share an update as we pack for our RVCommunity.com Summer Rally in Hocking Hills, Ohio, and talk about why the friendships formed through RVing may be the greatest benefit of the lifestyle.In this episode:✓ Dr. Richard Raborn's RV medical preparedness tips✓ What belongs in an RV first aid kit✓ How to handle medical issues on the road✓ Is 68 too old to start RVing?✓ Why RV travel may be ideal for retirees✓ The truth about RV solar marketing claims✓ Battery banks, inverters, and boondocking explained✓ RV Community updates and rally newsFor complete show notes, visit RVPodcast.com.Subscribe to our free daily newsletter and get RV tips, travel ideas, news, and inspiration delivered to your inbox every morning by 7:30 AM at RVLifestyle.com/newsletter.

What happens when trusted RV influencers, battery manufacturers, dealers, and content creators collide?In this week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland takes a deep dive into two of the most talked-about controversies in the RV industry right now, including the Battle Born Batteries lawsuit against popular YouTube reviewer Will Prowse and the growing questions surrounding the Wingman Wisdom/Bish's RV dispute.But this episode goes beyond the headlines.Mike shares his perspective after more than 40 years in journalism, examining the growing influence of sponsored content, affiliate marketing, hidden conflicts of interest, and why RV consumers need to be more careful than ever about who they trust online.Also in this episode:• Battle Born Batteries maker Dragonfly Energy sues YouTube creator Will Prowse• Questions surrounding transparency and influencer compensation• The Wingman vs. Bish's RV controversy and conflict of interest concerns• Why disclosure and trust matter in today's RV media landscape• The surprising leadership shakeup at Lippert Components and what it may mean for the RV industry• New economic data showing the RV lifestyle now contributes an astonishing $159 billion annually to the U.S. economyThis is one of the most thought-provoking RV News Editions we've ever produced, touching on issues that affect every RVer who relies on online reviews, recommendations, and industry reporting.???? Subscribe to our free daily RV newsletter:RVLifestyle.com/newsletterNew RV tips, travel ideas, campground discoveries, gear recommendations, and RV industry news delivered to your inbox every morning by 7:30 AM.

Summer heat can be tough on RVs.If you've ever wondered why your RV air conditioner struggles to keep up, why your refrigerator doesn't seem as cold as it should be, or what you can do to improve performance during hot-weather camping, this episode is for you.Mike and Jennifer welcome Will Troyer, Director of Product Management for GE Appliances' Recreational Living Division, for an in-depth conversation about RV cooling systems.Will explains how RV air conditioners and refrigerators work, why they perform differently than residential appliances, and what RVers can do to stay comfortable and keep food safe when temperatures climb.Along the way, Mike and Jen answer listener questions, share practical summer RV tips, and announce the release of their brand-new North Carolina RV Travel Guide.You'll come away with useful, actionable advice that can help make your summer travels cooler, safer, and more enjoyable.Free Daily RV Newsletter:RVLifestyle.com/newsletterNorth Carolina RV Travel Guide:RVLifestyle.com/NorthCarolina

Welcome to the June 1, 2026 Monday News Edition of the RV Lifestyle Podcast. I'm Mike Wendland, and this week we have a show that every RV owner needs to hear before they hit the road this summer.We start with a story that I believe goes a long way toward explaining one of the biggest problems facing the RV industry right now: quality control. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration just released the May 2026 recall report, and it covers nearly 15,000 RVs across more than a dozen separate recalls. And before you assume this is routine housekeeping, let me tell you what is on this list. A Tiffin motorhome with a fuel tank punctured by a screw during manufacturing - NHTSA's own guidance says to park it outside and away from structures until the repair is done. A Jayco motorhome missing the water heater safety valve entirely - not defective, just absent. A Winnebago Solis with a propane hose routed directly over the exhaust heat shield. Grand Design Lineage motorhomes with two separate recalls in the same month - unsecured seats and solar panels that could detach at highway speed. And a long list of brands - including our own Brinkley Model Z - with shock bolts that were never properly tightened at the factory.Here is the part that matters most: manufacturers are not required to notify owners immediately. Some of the letters for these recalls are not going out until July. Two months from now. You should not be waiting. Go to NHTSA.gov, enter your VIN, and find out right now whether your rig is on this list. It takes thirty seconds and it could save your life or someone else's. We cover every brand affected, every defect, and every manufacturer phone number you need.From there we move to our RV Blunder of the Year, and I want to be upfront with you: this one comes with an asterisk. According to Cowboy State Daily, someone driving an RV pulled into the Maverik gas station in Montrose, Colorado, and emptied their black water tank - the toilet waste tank - directly into the station's underground diesel fuel supply. Not the dump station that was right there on the property. The diesel tank. We dig into what is actually confirmed, where the sourcing falls short, why the station's silence is a little suspicious, and why the story is worth telling regardless of whether every detail holds up. The lesson at the end of it applies to every new RVer on the road this summer.Then we get into the April 2026 RV industry shipment numbers, and they are not pretty. Total shipments came in at just over 29,000 units for the month - down more than 17 percent compared to April of last year. Through the first four months of 2026, the industry is running nearly 13 and a half percent behind 2025's pace. Towable RVs - the heart of the market - are down more than 20 percent year over year. We connect those numbers directly to the quality control failures we covered in the first story, because they are connected. Consumer confidence does not survive a steady diet of recall lists like the one we just walked through. That said, there is a genuine bright spot: motorhomes finished April up 13 percent compared to last year, and Park Model RVs jumped nearly 30 percent. We break down what those numbers mean and what to watch for the rest of the summer.We close with a story that felt like a breath of fresh air after everything else this week. Alliance RV - one of the most respected independent manufacturers in the business, known for their Paradigm, Avenue, Valor, and Delta lines - just held their seventh annual owner rally in Goshen, Indiana. Nearly 400 rigs and 800 owners showed up. And when someone from the audience asked founders Coley and Ryan Brady straight out whether they planned to sell the company, the answer was a flat no. Ten-plus years of runway ahead, their words. In an industry where Thor Industries and Winnebago have absorbed so many brands it is nearly impossible to keep track, Alliance is planting a flag and saying they are building something different. We tell you why that matters and what it means for RVers who value buying from a manufacturer that still has skin in the game.

This week on the RV Podcast, it's Questions From the Road.We're answering listener questions about RV life, travel planning, campground strategies, RV technology, and some personal behind-the-scenes questions as well.After more than 15 years on the road, we've learned a few things, sometimes the hard way, and in this episode we share honest, practical answers drawn from real RV experience.Topics include:• Trip planning and travel routines• RV tech and connectivity• Campground and routing questions• Lifestyle decisions and lessons learned• Personal questions from listenersIt is real conversation, real RV life, and hopefully some helpful encouragement for your own travels.Thanks for listening to the RV Podcast with Mike and Jennifer Wendland.

This week on the RV Podcast News Edition, Mike Wendland digs into four stories every RVer should be paying attention to.First up: Is Camping World really in trouble? Rumors of bankruptcy exploded online after comparisons were made to the collapse of marine retailer West Marine. Mike separates the facts from the fear and explains what's really happening inside the RV industry right now.Then, Yosemite National Park is becoming a crowded mess. Reservation systems are gone, traffic is piling up, vandalism is increasing, and many park employees are sounding the alarm about what this summer could look like.Also in this episode: Why are RV owners staying home? KOA's CEO just revealed a troubling trend inside the camping industry. More RV owners than ever are using their rigs less often, or not at all. Rising travel costs, fuel prices, campground fees, and economic uncertainty are changing how people camp.And finally, some good news. In a world where so many people feel isolated and disconnected, camping may be one of the best antidotes to loneliness. New research shows RVers and campers are forming friendships and community connections unlike anywhere else.This is the RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition for May 26, 2026.Stories Covered:

Should you buy a used RV instead of a new one?This week on Episode 610 of the RV Podcast, Mike and Jennifer talk with Tom MacAllister, an avid RVer who flips RVs as a hobby and has developed a sharp eye for spotting both bargains and disasters.Tom explains why many first-time RVers may actually be better off buying used, especially in today's market where new RV prices continue to climb and depreciation hits hard the moment a rig leaves the lot.In this episode, you'll learn:How to inspect a used RV before buyingCommon red flags that scare experienced buyers awayThe biggest pricing mistakes RV sellers makeHow to avoid expensive surprises after purchaseWhy some older RVs may actually be built better than newer onesTips for getting the best value whether buying or sellingMike and Jen add their own perspective from years of RV ownership and travel, with candid stories about what they've learned buying, trading, and living in RVs over the years.If you've ever wondered whether new is really better, this episode may change the way you shop for your next RV.

Good morning, and welcome to the RV Lifestyle Podcast Monday News Edition. I'm Mike Wendland - journalist, multi-Emmy Award-winning reporter, and a guy who's been living the RV lifestyle for more than 15 years.This week, something a little different.Over the past few months, we've been getting a steady stream of listener questions and feedback about some bigger, harder topics. Not just "where should I camp next" stuff. Real questions about the state of the RV industry, about prices, about quality, about the future of our National Parks, and about whether social media is selling people a fantasy version of this lifestyle that doesn't match reality.So today, I'm going to tackle seven of the biggest ones head-on.No spin. No cheerleading. Just straight talk - the same way I tried to do things in a thirty-plus year journalism career.This is the Monday News Edition of the RV Lifestyle Podcast, dropping every Monday morning at 6 AM with news, industry developments, campground updates, and National Park happenings that matter to RV owners and travelers. It's one of two episodes we do each week. Jennifer joins me every Wednesday on Stories from the Road, with destinations, interviews, and your questions.► If you want help planning and organizing your own RV trips, we have put all our guides, tools, RV travel apps and checklists together in one place.You will find it all https://rvlifestyle.com/plan

Last week, Jennifer and I got brutally honest about some of the dumbest, most expensive, and most embarrassing mistakes we've made in 15 years of RVing. We talked about broken gear, costly blunders, rookie mistakes, and the kind of RV disasters that make you want to crawl under the camper and hide.And wow... did that strike a nerve.RVers from all over the country wrote in with stories of their own. Bent tailgates. Sewage explosions. Torn awnings. Backing disasters. Fuel mistakes. Near misses. And plenty of “please tell me nobody saw that” moments.So this week, Misery Loves Company.In this episode of the RV Podcast, we're sharing some of the funniest, most cringe-worthy, and painfully relatable RV mistakes sent in by fellow RVers, along with what caused them, what they learned, and how you can avoid making the same mistakes yourself.If you've ever:• Dumped your tanks wrong• Forgotten to retract something before driving away• Misjudged a turn or campsite• Backed into something• Made an expensive RV mistake you'll never admit publicly......this episode is for you.Because every RVer has a story. Usually more than one.Plus in this episode:• RV tips to help you avoid costly mistakes• Listener stories from the road• Smart lessons learned the hard way• A few laughs at our own expenseListen now and discover why sometimes the best RV lessons come from the worst RV mistakes.#RVLife #RVPodcast #RVMistakes #CampingFails #RVLiving #FifthWheel #Motorhome #TravelTrailer #RVTips #FullTimeRV

Most RV buyers think the negotiation is over when they sign the paperwork.It's not.In this week's RV Podcast News Edition, Mike exposes the hidden RV sales tax trap that can cost owners thousands of dollars for years after buying their rig, even if they negotiated a huge discount. Some states tax you on the ORIGINAL MSRP, not what you actually paid. And almost nobody warns buyers before they sign.But that's just the beginning.Also in this episode:• A new bipartisan bill in Congress could eliminate taxes on RV loan interest• The federal government is opening more public lands to hunting and trapping, including some national park areas• Winnebago unveils a jaw-dropping $332,000 luxury overlanding rig designed for extreme off-grid adventure• Two terrifying bear attacks in national parks remind RVers why wildlife safety matters more than everAnd before the news starts, Mike shares details about a live interactive workshop happening Thursday night:RV Problems on the Road, Fixed Fast, designed to help RVers avoid breakdowns and trip-ending problems before Memorial Day weekend.If you own an RV, plan to buy one, camp on federal land, or travel in bear country, this is one episode you do not want to miss.Subscribe and follow the RV Podcast for trusted RV news, consumer reporting, travel stories, campground tips, and real-world RV advice from Mike and Jennifer Wendland.Listen now and stay informed before your next adventure.Happy Trails!

We've made a lot of RV mistakes over the years… but these eight? They cost us a jaw-dropping $26,000.In this episode, we're getting real and sharing the costly, embarrassing, and sometimes downright scary mistakes we've made on the road, from a $16,000 fuel disaster to a tailgate crunch, a campsite mishap, and one very icy near-disaster that could have ended much worse.The truth is, none of these were bad luck. Every single one was preventable.If you're new to RVing, or even if you've been doing it for years, these lessons could save you thousands of dollars, a whole lot of stress, and maybe even your safety.Here's what we cover:• The $16,000 fueling mistake that forced us to replace our truck• A simple hookup error that cost $7,000 in seconds• Why rushing into a campsite can cost you big• The embarrassing backing mistake in front of a crowd• How ignoring the weather almost tipped our fifth wheel• Why driving too far leads to costly decisions• The checklist mistake that shattered a window• The fuel habit that nearly left us strandedAnd the big takeaway? RVing isn't hard… but it is unforgiving if you're not paying attention.Learn from our mistakes so you don't have to pay for them.Also in this episode"Travel tips to make your next trip smootherOur RV Question of the Week, with a practical answer you can use right away to save on fuel costs (especially diesel)A featured RV destination to inspire your next adventure- The Great Lakes Shoreline TourRESOURCES MENTIONED:The RV Trip Dashboard app we made - https://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboard Our May 14 workshop on Fixing Problems on the Road - https://rvlifestyle.com/workshopDeparture Day Checklist - https://rvlifestyle.com//DepartureAppThe Great Lakes Shoreline Travel Guide - https://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboardhttps://gasguddy.comhttps://gasguru.comhttps://truckerpath.comhttps://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboardGet a free quote from Wholesale Warranties: https://wholesalewarranties.com/rvlif... Find unique overnight spots at farms, ranches, wineries, and more - use code RVLDEAL for 40% off: https://RVLifestyle.com/rvovernights

Travel season is here — and so is $6 diesel. This week's Monday News Edition covers five stories that every RV traveler needs to hear before they hitch up and head out.What we cover this week:Fuel Prices: The Surge That Could Change Your Summer Plans National diesel is at $5.62 and climbing. Regular gas jumped 34 cents in a single week — the biggest weekly run-up of the year. Real RVers are already shortening trips and canceling plans. Mike breaks down the numbers and gives practical advice for budgeting your 2026 travel season.Boundary Waters: A Historic Public Lands Decision For the first time in American history, Congress used the Congressional Review Act to overturn a public land protection order — lifting a 20-year mining ban near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota. No mine is being built tomorrow, but the legal precedent is one every camper and public lands user should understand.Theodore Roosevelt National Park Goes Cashless As of May 1, cash is no longer accepted at TRNP campgrounds. Reservations through Recreation.gov are now required. If you have a trip planned to North Dakota this season, here is what changed and what you need to do before you arrive.A Chinese Company Just Reinvented the RV The Feixiang "Flying RV" looks like a normal compact motorhome on the road. Park it, hit a button, and the entire upper level rises on hydraulic legs — doubling the living space from 200 to nearly 400 square feet. Mike watched the video twice. Links are in the show notes.Camping World Q1 Results: Two Trends Worth Watching Revenue hit $1.35 billion, but the real story is buried in the details. CEO Matt Wagner used the phrase "K-shaped economy" to describe what he is seeing at dealerships right now — and a new Costco partnership is about to open a customer pipeline no other RV dealer has.All stories are sourced and linked below.Links and Show Notes:RV Trip Planning Dashboard: https://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboardLive Workshop - How to Handle RV Problems on the Road Fast (May 14, 7PM Eastern, $10): https://rvlifestyle.com/workshopAAA Gas Prices: https://gasprices.aaa.comBoundary Waters Mining Decision: https://www.eenews.net/articles/trump-signs-resolution-favoring-mining-near-boundary-waters/Theodore Roosevelt NP Cashless Notice: https://www.nps.gov/thro/learn/news/theodore-roosevelt-national-park-to-move-to-cashless-fee-collection-starting-may-1.htmFeixiang Two-Story RV Video: https://rvbusiness.com/video-chinese-company-built-a-2-story-transforming-rv/Camping World Q1 Results: https://rvbusiness.com/camping-worlds-wagner-pleased-with-q1-performance/Subscribe for new episodes every Monday and Wednesday. Monday: News Edition - the stories shaping RV travel right now. Wednesday: Stories from the Road - tips, destinations, and the RV lifestyle.The RV Lifestyle Podcast is the longest-running RV lifestyle podcast in the United States. Hosted by Mike Wendland, an 18-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, every story is sourced, fact-checked, and told straight.RVLifestyle.com | RVPodcast.com | RVCommunity.com

What happens between the big RV rallies? That is where the real magic often begins.In this episode, we talk with RVer Jeff Neumann about the growing trend of mini meetups, those small, informal gatherings organized by everyday RVers that are quietly transforming the lifestyle. These casual get-togethers are helping people build deeper friendships, stay connected on the road, and turn quick festival encounters into lasting relationships.We will explore how mini meetups work, why they are becoming so popular, and how you can find or start one yourself no matter where your travels take you.Plus in this episode:Travel tips to make your next trip smootherOur RV Question of the Week, with a practical answer you can use right awayA featured RV destination to inspire your next adventureIf you have ever felt like the best part of RVing is the people you meet, this episode will show you how to keep those connections going long after the rally ends.Subscribe, share, and join us as we celebrate the friendships that make the RV lifestyle so special.

This week's RV news is big. A congressional hearing reveals what really happened when the Grand Canyon burned. A potential mega-merger could reshape every RV on the road. Bears are attacking hikers at the most visited park in America. And the national parks are opening - with some major changes you need to know before you go.In this episode:The Dragon Bravo Fire scandal: did the NPS let it burn on purpose? Congress wants answers.Fire season is already here - Southeast RVers, there are campfire bans in effect RIGHT NOWPatrick Industries and Lippert in merger talks - the two companies inside your RV want to combineBears attacked six hikers at Great Smoky Mountains in two weekends - here is what not to doGrand Canyon North Rim reopens May 15 after the most destructive fire in park historyGlacier National Park drops its reservation system for 2026 - finallyAcadia, Yellowstone updates - and an RV height warning Acadia visitors must hearNew episodes every Monday (News) and Wednesday (Stories from the Road). Subscribe so you never miss one.Join our community at RVCommunity.com - ad-free, no algorithms, just RVers. Plan your next trip at rvlifestyle.com/plan

Ever wonder what really goes on behind the scenes at an RV dealership? This week, Mike and Jennifer sit down with Nick Schmidt of Sunshine State RVs for a hilarious and eye-opening conversation about the wildest, most unbelievable customer stories you'll ever hear. "Crazy RV Buyers" - you have to hear these to believe them.Plus: Jennifer shares practical tips on keeping your RV bathroom fresh (hint: it all starts with water). Mike and Jennifer highlight one of America's most peaceful and historic road trips - the Natchez Trace Parkway, 440 miles of slow, scenic, billboard-free driving from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi. And they answer a listener question from Matt and Becky in California: how do you run your air conditioner without tripping your RV breakers?In this episode:Crazy RV Buyer stories with dealer Nick Schmidt of Sunshine State RVsJennifer's RV Know-How: keeping your black tank and bathroom odor-freeTrip of the Week: the Natchez Trace Parkway, RV-friendly and big-rig approvedQ&A: managing 30-amp power so your A/C doesn't kill your microwave and coffee makerPlanning a Natchez Trace trip? We've driven it from both ends and put everything into a complete 7-day RV travel guide - campgrounds, stops, mileposts, and more: https://RVLifestyle.com/natcheztraceJoin the RV Lifestyle Community - ad-free, twice-weekly livestreams, workshops, rallies, and thousands of fellow RVers: https://RVCommunity.comGet a free quote from Wholesale Warranties: https://wholesalewarranties.com/rvlifestyleFind unique overnight spots at farms, ranches, wineries, and more - use code RVLDEAL for 40% off: https://RVLifestyle.com/rvovernightsShow notes and more: https://RVPodcast.com

Jennifer and I just spent a week doing hands-on reviews of six small motorhomes - Class Bs and compact Class Cs. And I have some things to say about what they cost. Strong things. Things that have been building for a while. We are going there today - including a hard look at the manufacturers who are trying to capture the low end of this market with rigs that are, frankly, not worth what people are paying for them.Then - tariffs. On April 6th, new steel and aluminum duties took effect. And if you thought that Winnebago or that Newmar was already out of reach - this story is not going to make you feel better.And we close with a story about 193 million acres of public land and a federal agency reorganization that could change how - and whether - you access your favorite camping territory.Check out RVCommunity.com for a no ads, hassle free online community made up of real RVers.Get our Trip Planning Bundle - 4 apps in one money-saving bundle - RVLifestyle.com//WebAppBundleSee the transctipt tab for complet6e shownotes, lins and sources to everything in this episode.

Episode 600 of the RV Podcast is here, and we are marking the milestone with a packed episode.Mike and Jennifer are on the road near Gainesville, Florida, prepping for their spring rally with RVCommunity.com members in St. Augustine, and they have a lot to share.First, Love's Travel Stops has been quietly building something big for RVers. Full hookups, dog parks, and campgrounds were just the start. Now Love's is offering tires and batteries to RVers who need them on the road. Jim Wheeler, Love's Director of RV Operations, joins us to explain why Love's keeps expanding its commitment to the RV community.Then Mike and Jennifer make the case for New Mexico as one of the most underrated RV destinations in America. Carlsbad Caverns, Roswell, Santa Fe, Taos, and the remote Gila region - this is not a drive-through state. It rewards the RVers who actually stop.Jennifer shares her first-night campsite setup routine, the simple approach that avoids the frustration of trying to do too much when you are tired and just arriving somewhere new.And Tom from Arizona asked about cargo carrying capacity - and the answer may surprise you. This is one of the most misunderstood numbers in all of RVing, and ignoring it can affect your braking, your tires, and your safety every mile you drive.Six hundred episodes. Twelve years. We are just getting started.Show notes and links at RVPodcast.com

Is glamping quietly pushing RVers out of campgrounds?That is the question we are tackling in this week's RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, and the answer may change how you plan your next trip.Across North America, more campgrounds are replacing traditional RV sites with cabins, yurts, and high-end glamping units. It is changing availability, pricing, and even the overall camping experience. We break down what is really happening and what it means for RVers.But that is just one of the big stories this week.We also cover a major shift in the RV market and a new safety requirement that is long overdue.Here is what is in this episode:00:00 Welcome and our journalism standards01:06 Campground reservation workshop invite02:11 TPMS will be required on all towable RVs by 202805:52 Why morning light matters more than ever after 6010:04 Used RV prices are dropping, what it means for buyers and sellers13:26 Is glamping forcing RVers out of campgrounds?19:37 Wrap up and key takeaways19:54 RV Trip Planning Dashboard and resourcesIf you are an RVer, a future buyer, or someone planning trips this season, this episode will help you understand where things are heading and how to stay ahead of the changes.???? Join our live workshop:How to Get Campground Reservations Without the StressRegister at RVPodcast.com/workshop???? Plan your trips smarter with our RV Lifestyle Trip Planning Dashboard:RVLifestyle.com/tripdashboardAs always, every story is sourced and verified. Full show notes are available at RVPodcast.com.

They thought RV life would be freedom and adventure…Instead, they got breakdowns, detours, and the kind of bad luck you can't make up.In this episode, we talk with a full-time RV couple who say they have the “best bad luck” of anyone they've ever met. From mechanical failures to unexpected setbacks, their journey is filled with moments most influencers never show.But here's what makes their story powerful…They didn't quit.They adapted. They laughed. And they kept going.This is the side of RV life you don't see on Instagram, the real-life challenges, the frustrating moments, and the lessons that only come when things go wrong. It's part of this week's episode 598. Also this week:Our Trip of the Week is an epic road trip - California's Pacific Coast Highway. We break it down for you ,so you don't break down.And in our question of the week, we discuss whether it's too late for summer campground reservations. Here are links to the respurces we share:The RV Lifestyle Travel Planning Center - https://rvlifestyle.com/planWholesale Warranties - https://wholesalewarranties.com/rvlifestyleRV Overnights - https://rvovernights.com/rvlifestyleThe Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Coast Highway - https://rvlifestyle.com/pacificcoasthighwayThe RV Reservations April 16 workshop - https://rvlifestyle.com/workshopQuestions or comments to Mike & Jen: Use the cntact link at https://rvpodcast.com

Campgrounds are pulling tricks you need to know about. A California RV fraud case just got a lot bigger - and a lot worse.Diesel prices are doing something that historically makes RVers cancel trips.A state just tried to quietly hit motorhome buyers with a tax that has nothing to do with luxury. And there's a new campervan from the other side of the world that might just change how you think about where this industry is heading.Cuttrnt RV stories that matter because they affect your life on the road.Emmy Award-winning journalist Mike Wendland breaks it all down on this week's RV Lifestyle Podcast Monday News Edition - the longest-running weekly RV lifestyle podcast in the U.S.New episodes every Monday and Wednesday at RVPodcast.com.Got a tip, comment, or question? Reach us through the contact link at RVPodcast.com.

What if one simple weekend could completely change the direction of your life?That is exactly what happened to Julio and his family.In this episode of the RV Podcast, we share the incredible true story of a couple who had never RVed before, took one short weekend trip… and came back completely transformed. Today, they own a Class A motorhome and are building a whole new lifestyle around travel, family, and freedom.If you have ever wondered whether the RV lifestyle is really worth it, this story might be the answer.???? Plus in this episode:Our Trip of the Week: Coastal Maine RV Adventure - https://rvlifestyle.com/maineCampground tips, routes, and must-see stopsHow to sanitize your RV fresh water system (step-by-step)This is one of those stories that reminds you why we travel in the first place.???? PLAN YOUR NEXT RV TRIPGet our RV Trip Planning Dashboard:???? https://rvlifestyle.com/tripdashboard???? JOIN OUR LIVE WORKSHOP (APRIL 16)Campground Reservations Without the Stress???? https://rvlifestyle.com/workshopFree for RV Lifestyle Community members???? JOIN THE RV LIFESTYLE COMMUNITYNo ads. No drama. Just helpful RVers.???? https://rvcommunity.com???? MORE FROM THE RV PODCASTNew episodes every week:Monday: RV News EditionWednesday: Stories from the RoadSubscribe and never miss an episode.

Gas prices are spiking - but are RV travelers actually cutting back? We asked our community, got more than 300 responses, and the numbers tell a surprising story. Plus: the RV loan trap that is costing buyers thousands without them knowing it, why Winnebago's latest earnings report matters to every RV owner and buyer, a behind-the-scenes look at the company that builds the insides of your RV and just invested seven figures in a giant design studio, and a new Washington State law that finally clears up a legal headache for fifth-wheel owners.In this episode:The RV Loan Trap: how dealer financing really works, and how to protect yourselfWinnebago is back in the black - and here is why that matters to youPatrick Industries debuts a massive digital design studio in ElkhartWashington State fixes the fifth-wheel length measurement messOur community fuel price poll results: nearly two-thirds are not cutting backAll sources and show notes are at RVPodcast.com.Subscribe for two new episodes every week - the Monday News Edition and Wednesday Stories from the Road.Ready to plan your next adventure? Our RV Lifestyle Trip Planning Dashboard gives you everything in one place - routes, budgets, campgrounds, and checklists. One-time $29, no subscription. RVLifestyle.com/tripdashboard

Are long RV drives putting your health at risk?In this episode of the RV Podcast, we take a closer look at something most RVers never think about... the hidden dangers of long driving days. From circulation issues to fatigue, we share practical, real-world tips to help you stay safe and feel better behind the wheel.But that is just part of the story.We also take you along on a beautiful Michigan Lower Peninsula RV adventure, one of our favorite trips. From the Detroit area and world-class stops like The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village, all the way up to the Mackinac Bridge, the Tunnel of Trees, and Traverse City, this is a route every RVer should experience at least once.And with fuel prices hitting hard, we also share smart, simple ways to save money at the pump, including apps and strategies we personally use every time we travel.Plus, we highlight a must-have tool that can make every travel day smoother and less stressful.In this episode, you will learn:The real health risks of long RV driving days and how to avoid themA step-by-step Michigan RV route packed with incredible stopsSimple ways to save on diesel and gas while travelingA proven system to make departure day easier and stress-freeHelpful Resources Mentioned:RV Lifestyle Planning Center Store https://shop.rvlifestyle.comMichigan Lower Peninsula Adventure Guide https://rvlifestyle.com/LPUltimate RV Departure Day Checklist https://rvlifestyle.com/DepartureGuideBudget Planning app. https://rvlifestyle.com/budgetRV Trip Planning Dashboard https://shop.rvlifestyle.comJoin our private RV Lifestyle Community https://RVCommunity.comLeave us a message or question https://RVPodcast.comCenter for Vein Restoration https://www.centerforvein.com/Open Road fuel discount https://www.myopenroads.com/ Loves Travel App https://www.loves.com/promos/download-app Gas Buddy https://www.gasbuddy.com/

This week on the RV Lifestyle Podcast News Edition, we are covering the stories that actually matter to your life on the road - and we are not pulling punches.TARIFF CHAOS IS HITTING YOUR NEXT RV We dig deep into the regulatory whiplash that is hammering RV manufacturers right now. It starts with a piece of wood you have never heard of - lauan plywood - and expands into a full picture of how cascading tariffs on steel, aluminum, and imported materials are forcing manufacturers to make pricing decisions in the dark. We also cover the composite alternatives some builders are quietly pivoting toward, and why this mess may actually change how RVs are built for years to come.A FLORIDA FAMILY'S RV EXPLODED. HERE'S WHAT EVERY RVer NEEDS TO DO RIGHT NOW. A 32-foot travel trailer in Lecanto, Florida exploded earlier this month, sending two adults and two children to trauma centers with severe burns. The cause is still under investigation. We use this story to share a number that should stop every RV owner cold - how many RV fires happen in this country every single year - and walk you through a practical spring safety checklist you need to complete before your first trip of the season.THE WORLD IS A MESS. AMERICANS ARE GOING CAMPING. Despite economic uncertainty, trade war anxiety, and a broad pullback in international travel, campground operators across the country are reporting strong advance bookings heading into summer. We tell you why right now is actually a great time to be an RVer - and why you need to book your summer sites this week before they disappear.WE COULDN'T FIND THE RIGHT TOOL. SO WE BUILT IT. Jennifer and I looked at every trip planning app on the market - The Dyrt, Campendium, RV Life, AllStays - and none of them did what we actually needed as full-timers. So we built our own. The brand new RV Lifestyle Trip Planning Dashboard just launched this weekend. It is a web-based planning hub built from the ground up for RVers - route mapping, campground logging, your own ratings and notes, rig specs, travel journal, and a searchable history of everywhere you have ever been. All in one place. On every device you own. We tell you the whole story - and there is a full walkthrough video waiting for you at RVLifestyle.com/tripdashboard.A DEALER CLOSED ITS DOORS. CUSTOMERS CAN'T GET THEIR RVS BACK. We close with a consumer warning story out of California that we see play out in this industry several times every year. An RV dealership in Lockeford abruptly shut down, and customers are now telling the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office they cannot recover their money - or in some cases their own rigs. We walk you through the warning signs that were publicly visible before this happened, and give you a practical checklist for vetting any dealer before you hand over a dollar or a set of keys.LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:RV Lifestyle Trip Planning Dashboard: https://RVLifestyle.com/tripdashboardRVCommunity.com membership: https://RVCommunity.comRV Industry Association tariff updates: https://www.rvia.org/news-insights/latest-tariff-developmentsU.S. Fire Administration RV Fire Data: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/statistics/reports/where-fires-occur/snapshot-rv-fires.htmlNational Park Service RV Fire Safety: https://www.nps.gov/articles/p52-rv-fire-safety-101.htm

Buying a new RV is exciting, but according to veteran RVer Janice Smith, your first stop shouldn't be a cross-country trek. With 34 years of experience and **16 different RVs** under her belt, Janice joins Mike and Jen to reveal her "must-do" ritual for every new rig: the **Shakedown Trip**.In this episode of *The RV Podcast*, we dive into why this short initial trip is the single most important thing you can do to save your future vacation (and your sanity). Janice shares exactly what she looks for, the common "new rig" issues she's caught, and why even the most expensive units need a trial run.### ???? In This Episode:* **Stories from the Road:** Janice Smith on the art of the "Shakedown Trip" and her 3-decade journey through 16 RVs.* **Travel Tips:** Essential advice for your next adventure.* **RV Q&A:** We answer your burning questions about the RV lifestyle.* **Destination Spotlight:** An epic guide to the **Blue Ridge Parkway**—a bucket-list drive every RVer needs to experience at least once.**Release Date:** March 18, 2026**Hosts:** Mike and Jen Wendland-### ✨ Resources & Links* **Join the RV Lifestyle Community:** https://rvcommunity.com* **RV Lifestyle Store**  https://shop.rvlifestyle.com* **RV Trip Budget Planner:**  https://rvlifestyle.com/budget*** Ultimate RV Trip Packing List Tool**  https://rvlifestyle,com/packingapp***RV Lifestyle  Guide to the Blue Ridge Parkway** https://rvlifestyle.com/blueridge**Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE and hit the ???? to join us on the road!**> "The best way to enjoy the road is to be prepared for it." — Janice Smith

Fuel prices are skyrocketing, a roadside favorite is under fire, and the RV industry just saw a massive sales drop.In this Monday News Edition, Mike Wendland breaks down the massive jump in diesel and gasoline prices following military strikes in the Middle East. What does a $5.00/gallon reality mean for your summer road trip? We do the math so you don't have to.Plus, we look at why Buc-ee's—the "king of the road stop"—has been handed a failing grade by the Better Business Bureau. Is the brand losing its touch with the RV community?In this episode:00:00 - Intro & RVCommunity.com01:15 - Fuel Price Hammer: The real cost of an 8,000-mile trip05:40 - Buc-ee's Flunks: Why the BBB gave them an "F"10:12 - RV Industry Crisis: New and Used sales are cratering13:25 - Major Recalls: Ford, GM, Newmar, and Grand Design (Do-Not-Drive!)17:50 - Google Maps Gemini AI: A new co-pilot for RVers?RESOURCES MENTIONED: ???? RV Budget Tool: Calculate your trip costs at RVLifestyle.com/budget ???? Join the Community: Connect with fellow RVers at RVCommunity.com ????️ Check your VIN: Stay safe at NHTSA.govSubscribe for more RV news and lifestyle tips! #RVNews #RVLifestyle #FuelPrices #Bucees #RVRecalls #RoadTrip2026

Episode 590 of the RV Podcast Stories from the Road Edition takes you back in time as we share the story of what may have been the very first RV influencer, from 50 years ago. Long before YouTube, social media, and blogs, there were travelers finding ways to tell the story of life on the road, and in this episode, we look at one of those pioneers and why his story still matters today.We also share our RV Trip of the Week to Colorado, one of the most beautiful summer RV destinations in America, with towering mountains, scenic drives, cool temperatures, and unforgettable camping experiences. And we answer a common question from RVers everywhere: How do you control sway, bounce, and that unstable feeling while driving down the road? We talk about what causes it, what gear can help, and what practical steps can make your travels safer and more comfortable.If you love RV stories, practical travel advice, and discovering the people and places that make this lifestyle so special, this episode is for you.Subscribe for more RV Lifestyle content, travel inspiration, and real-world RV advice from Mike and Jen.#RVLifestyle #RVPodcast #RVLiving #RVTravel #StoriesFromTheRoad #ColoradoRVTrip #RVTips #RVSafety

What is really happening in the RV dealership world right now, and what does it mean for RV buyers and owners?We call it The Great RV Dealership Land Grab... Why Bigger isn't Necessarily Better.In Episode 589 of the RV Podcast News Edition, we breakdown the dealership consolidation wave reshaping the RV industry, from Camping World's financial struggles and leadership shakeup to the rapid expansion of Blue Compass, General RV, and Campers Inn. We explain who is winning, who is hurting, and why bigger is not always better when it comes to service, pricing, inventory, and your overall RV buying experience.Also in this episode: fuel prices are spiking just as spring travel season begins, national parks are heading into peak season with fewer staff, and a California county may become the first in the state to officially allow full-time RV living on private property.Join us live for the Spring Prep Workshop on Thursday, March 12 at 7 PM Eastern.Non-members: $10RV Community members: FreeSign up at https://RVPodcast.com/workshop

If you have ever spent time in campgrounds, you have probably seen them, the friendly “campground cats” who wander from site to site, charming travelers along the way.But what happens when one of those cats chooses you?In this episode of the RV Podcast Stories from the Road, we share the heartwarming true story of Hitch, an orange tabby who walked into a Kentucky campsite last fall and never really left.Janie and Jeff Green were camping with their 13 year old dog, Newman, when a friendly stray appeared, strolled right into their RV, curled up on their bed, and even snuggled beside a very surprised dog. The cat had been living at the campground for nearly two years, relying on passing RVers for food and affection.As winter approached and their departure date grew closer, the bond deepened. The campground host encouraged them to take the sweet little hitchhiker with them.And they did.This is a story about unexpected connections, second chances, and the beautiful surprises that make the RV lifestyle so special.In this episode, we also share:Our Trip of the Week, Route 66 in its Centennial YearWhy this is the perfect year to drive the Mother RoadDetails about our brand new 217 page RV Lifestyle Guide to Route 66Our RV Question of the WeekAnd how you can be part of our private RV CommunityIf you love inspiring RV stories, campground life, and the freedom of the open road, this episode is for you.Tell us in the comments:Have you ever met a campground pet that stole your heart?Learn more about our Route 66 RV Travel Guide here:https://rvlifestyle.com/route66Join our private RV Lifestyle Community:https://rvcommunity.com Visit our central hub for show notes and more:https://rvpodcast.comSubscribe for new RV stories and RV news every week.

Campground prices have exploded - and the experience hasn't kept up. In this week's RV Podcast News Edition, we're calling it what it is: the Campground Quality Collapse. A brand-new analysis of 609,000 pricing data points across 2,100+ private campgrounds shows the national median nightly RV site rate is now $62.10, up dramatically from pre-pandemic prices of $35 to $45. We'll tell you who's behind it, what corporate consolidation and dynamic pricing mean for your travel budget, and what you can actually do about it.We also dig into the biggest RV industry story of the week: Thor Industries is reorganizing its brands, and Tiffin Motorhomes is now under Jayco's authority. What does that mean for Tiffin owners and buyers? We have the details - including the untold story of Leigh Tiffin's quiet 20-month exit plan.Plus: RV shipments dropped nearly 11% to start 2026, Camping World posted $6.4 billion in sales but saw its stock crater, and Love's Travel Stops just made their rewards program available to all drivers with real fuel savings for RVers.Every story is fully sourced. Show notes and links at RVPodcast.com.

Some journeys change your destination. Others change your life.In this deeply encouraging episode, we share a powerful Story from the Road that reminds us why the RV lifestyle is about more than travel, it is about purpose, healing, and discovering what is still possible.We share Janet McKinney's remarkable journey after losing her husband and lifelong RV travel partner. Together, they built a life around adventure and the freedom of the road. But when tragedy struck, Janet faced overwhelming grief and an uncertain future.Instead of giving up on the dream they shared, Janet found the courage to keep moving forward. She embraced the road again, discovered renewed purpose, and learned powerful lessons about resilience, hope, and healing along the way.Her story is honest, emotional, and incredibly inspiring, a reminder that even after loss, new beginnings are possible.:Our RV Trip of the Week destination suggestion to inspire your next adventureAnswers to your RV questionsPractical RV lifestyle tips and insightsEncouragement for wherever your journey takes youWhether you are planning your next trip, navigating life changes, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode will speak to your heart.For more information on our workshop about getting your RV ready for spring go to https://rvpodcast.com/workshopTo get our RV Travel Guide on Utah National Parks go to https://rvlifestyle.com/utahFor information on the RV Community see https://rvcommunity.com

This week's RV Podcast News Edition tackles five stories that cover a lot of ground, starting with a topic the rest of the RV media won't touch: the growing RV homelessness crisis.From Michigan lawmakers debating whether campgrounds can serve as housing solutions, to San Francisco banning large vehicles from city streets, to the quiet erosion of overnight parking at places like Cracker Barrel, this issue is reshaping public policy in ways that affect every RVer on the road.We also dig into a major CNBC investigation revealing how RVs have become a housing safety net in Silicon Valley, where even full-time workers are living in aging rigs on public streets because they have no other option.On the good news front, the National Park Service has officially dropped timed-entry reservation requirements at Yosemite, Arches, and Glacier for 2026. If those parks have been on your list, the reservation window is gone. We break down what that means practically and what to expect when the summer crowds arrive.We also have the full story on Leigh Tiffin's sudden resignation from Tiffin Motorhomes and his move to luxury dealer group NIRVC. He finally broke his silence this week, but the timeline tells a more complicated story: a 20-month negotiation happening behind the scenes, a plant closure affecting 140 workers, and Thor quietly consolidating control over what was once a true family brand.And we close with a look at why 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest RV travel years on record - and why you need to make sure your rig is ready before the campgrounds fill up. Our free Spring Prep Workshop is March 12th at 7 PM Eastern. Details and your free Spring Maintenance Book are at RVLifestyle.com/workshop.

What happens when kids grow up traveling full-time in an RV?At this year's Florida RV Supershow in Tampa, we met the youngest RV YouTubers we've ever encountered, Dean and Gertie from the Dean and Gertie Explore the World YouTube channel. Their story is inspiring, eye-opening, and a powerful example of how the RV lifestyle can transform a family.In this episode of the RV Podcast, we talk with Dean and Gertie about life on the road, roadschooling, and what it is really like growing up in an RV. We also visit with their parents, Jeff and Monica, who made the bold decision to leave the corporate rat race behind and choose a lifestyle focused on freedom, travel, and family connection.You will hear:What life is like for kids growing up in an RVHow roadschooling works and why it helps children thriveWhy this family chose full-time RV livingThe lessons travel teaches young mindsHow the RV lifestyle can strengthen family relationshipsIf you have ever wondered what full-time RV life looks like for families with children, this conversation offers a fascinating look inside.

The RV industry saw major developments this week — including a shocking leadership change at Tiffin Motorhomes, new RV manufacturer acquisitions, widespread truck and chassis recalls, and growing confusion about national park access.In this week's RV Podcast News Edition, Mike breaks down what these stories mean for RV owners, buyers, and travelers heading into the 2026 camping season.???? This Week's RV News:???? Leigh Tiffin resigns from Tiffin Motorhomes — what it means for the brand???? Alliance RV acquires Midwest Automotive Designs⚠️ Major recalls affecting tow vehicles and motorhome chassis????️ National park confusion, access issues, and policy changes???? Leadership changes impacting the future of America's national parksIf you own an RV, plan to buy one, or are preparing for spring travel, these updates could affect your next trip.Live Workshop — Get Your RV Ready for Camping SeasonJoin Mike live for a hands-on session covering systems checks, maintenance, and spring prep.???? Details: RVPodcast.com/workshop

Traveling full-time in your RV doesn't mean your mail has to vanish into thin air. In this episode, we break down exactly how experienced RVers handle mail forwarding so you never miss important documents, packages, or correspondence while you're on the road.In This Episode:How RV mail forwarding services actually work (and which ones to watch iout for)The real costs and logistics you need to know before signing upTips for managing important mail, bills, and packages while travelingYour questions answered: The single most important RV maintenance check you can't afford to skipTravel tips from 15+ years of full-time RV livingAnd much more!Whether you're planning your first RV adventure or you're a seasoned traveler looking to streamline your mail system, this episode gives you the practical, no-nonsense guidance you need.EPISODE RELEASED: February 11, 2026Got RV questions? Drop them in the comments below, and we might answer them in an upcoming episode!CONNECT WITH US:Join RVCommunity.com for exclusive content and member benefitsSubscribe to our podcast for weekly RV news and stories from the roadFollow our travels and get authentic RV lifestyle advice

This week's podcast delivers a hard-hitting reality check for RVers.:- We break down a viral insider video from a top RV dealer CEO who openly calls out price gouging, overproduction, copycat designs, and why so many buyers end up upside down faster than they expect. If you are shopping, or even thinking about it, this one matters.- We also cover an RV recall blitz affecting more than 18,000 RVs across multiple brands, including fire risks, fuel leaks, and labeling errors that should have never made it past quality control.- Plus, a growing warning for RV travelers as aging water systems cripple access at Big Bend National Park and other popular National Park destinations.- Our take on Love's expanding RV hookups, convenient but noisy and pricey- How AI is being used for RV Travel PlanningNo spin, no fluff, just straight talk about the RV lifestyle. Listen to the Monday News Edition wherever you get your podcasts or at RVPodcast.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Geneva Long, CEO of Bowlus, to talk about legacy, passion, and the unexpected path that led her to revive one of America's most iconic RV brands.Nearly 100 years ago, the original Bowlus Road Chief helped inspire Airstream and changed the way the world thought about travel trailers. For decades, Bowlus existed mostly as legend. Today, it has been reborn as a luxury, design driven, off grid capable trailer that honors its past while embracing the future.Geneva's connection to Bowlus began long before she became CEO. As a young girl, she traveled with her parents in a lovingly restored 1935 Bowlus, an experience that sparked a lifelong love for the brand, the open road, and the craftsmanship behind it. That childhood journey stayed with her through a world class education at the Wharton School, and eventually led her back to Bowlus, not as a nostalgic fan, but as the leader guiding its next chapter.We recently did a full walk through review of the stunning modern Bowlus trailer, but after hearing Geneva's personal story, we knew it deserved its own spotlight. This conversation goes beyond RVs. It is about choosing legacy over convention, passion over the expected career path, and how one family road trip helped bring an American icon back to life.

Starlink has quietly changed its privacy policy, and RVers are pushing back. In this RV Podcast News Edition, we break down what the update means, why it matters, and what RVers should know.We also cover Yosemite's Firefall without reservations, flat RV industry sales and what that means for buyers, important RV recalls, shifting RV travel trends, Michigan reopening 10 state campgrounds, Costco's RV buying confusion, and the rise of dynamic pricing at campgrounds.No hype. No influencer drama. Just straight talk for real RVers.

As he approaches his 91st birthday, legendary broadcaster Mort Crim proves that curiosity and adventure do not retire.Last summer, while in the middle of a cross-country RV journey, we caught up with Mort as he traveled America in his Class B Winnebago Travato with his cat Groucho. That journey is now complete, and in this follow-up conversation in RV Podcast Episode 578, Mort reflects on what the road revealed about America, aging, grief, and healing.Mort shares how seeing the country firsthand, through campgrounds, small towns, and everyday conversations, gave him a very different perspective than the one often portrayed in the media. He also speaks openly about how RVing helped him work through the grieving process after losing his wife, providing space, movement, and purpose during a difficult season of life.Now, with that chapter behind him, Mort is already making plans for a busy 2026 RV travel season, proof that living small and moving often can keep life expanding at any age.This is a thoughtful, deeply human conversation about resilience, perspective, and why the RV Lifestyle can change far more than your address.Also this week, Mike and Jen answer your RV Questions, including how much snow an RV roof can handle.

RV PODCAST NEWS EDITIONEpisode 586 - January 26, 2026Hey everybody, welcome to the RV Podcast News Edition. I'm Mike Wendland, and this is where we cut through the press releases, the hype, and the corporate spin to talk about what is really happening in the RV world.Now, quick programming note. If you are listening to this later in the week, we are watching a massive winter snow and ice storm that has affected campgrounds, travel plans, and even caused park closures across large parts of the country. Winter storm Fern has affected a huge swath of the country, 2,300 miles long, from Texas all the way to the East Coast. Ten states have reported more than a foot of snow. Many areas reported in excess of a half inch of ice. In some areas, an inch was reported, bringing down tree limbs across power lines. Well over a million customers have lost electric power and some may be without it for a week or more because of infrastructure damage and terrible road conditions.And as the snow, ice, and sleet slowly move off the eastern coast today, a massive cold front of arctic air is plunging much of the nation to dangerously cold temperatures. In the south, where temps rarely go below freezing, single-digit readings are being reported this morning.Obviously, this has affected many thousands in the RV Community. Fulltimers, even snowbirds who thought they were escaping the worst of winter in the mod south, are struggling to stay warm and keep the water running.The full affect of this storm is still be assessed but from everything we've been able to learn, RVers in the affected areas are reporting frozen water pumps at many campgrounds, propane shortages in the most affected areas and in some cases, no power. We've had reports from dozens of RVers impacted by the snow and overall, most say they are getting by. Most laid in plenty of bottled water, extra food, and made sure they had full tanks of propane and extra fuel for generators. One RVer - John, who lives in his Alliance fifth wheel in Missouri - said his biggest challenge was all the snow and ice piled on top of his slide out. He says the frigid air behind the snow isnt going to allow much melting and he is planning to get a ladder to clear the snow off.In Arkansas, a full-time couple - Sarah and Jim - said they wish they followed their friend's advice to haul their Jayco south towards Florida. “We have gone through two tanks of propane so far and the roads are so bad we can't get out to get them filled.” Her campground still has electricity but she said the lights have flickered and she expects she'll have to switch to generator power as the ice on the power lines is not melting.Perhaps the best assessment came from Ted, a Tennessee fulltimer, who lives in a fifth wheel on his own property along the Tennessee River.. “Most of us know what to do,” he said. “We can handle a week without power. We have a full fresh water tank and I have a 100 gallon propane tank to supplement the tanks in our rig. So we're dressed in heavy clothes and have extra blankets on the bed. This too shall pass.”Let's hope soon.Sop the storm dominates the RV news this week. But coming up, RVers are demanding a real voice with manufacturers, not a hand-picked group of industry insiders, and the response to that idea has been overwhelming.We will look at why campground reservations feel harder than ever to get, even as more parks are built. We will take a closer look at what is really happening in state parks, where long overdue upgrades are coming with some real tradeoffs. We will talk about used RV prices finally settling back toward reality.And we will have a little fun calling out how RV manufacturers keep copying each other's ideas, sometimes so closely it is honestly laughable.Before we get started…. a quick word about the RV Lifestyle Community at RVCommunity.com.If you are tired of ads, algorithms, and social media drama, this is different. It is a private, ad free community built by RVers, for RVers. Real conversations, real advice, real friendships.It is social media the way it SHOULD be.Learn more at RVCommunity.com.STORY 1 — It's Time RVers Had a Real VoiceFor years now, RVers have been talking among themselves about what is wrong with today's RVs.Too many quality issues. Too many poorly designed floorplans. Too many features that look great on a showroom floor but fail miserably in real life.And too often, it feels like no one in the industry is really listening.That thought hit home last week after a listener sent us a message that stopped us cold. He asked a simple but powerful question.Why don't RVers have a direct voice with manufacturers?With massive consolidation among RV manufacturers and dealers, buyers now have fewer real choices than ever before. You walk onto a mega dealer lot and see hundreds of rigs, but when you look closer, many are variations of the same designs, built by the same corporate parents, with the same lingering quality concerns.For many people ready to buy, the problem is not just price.It is confidence.They do not see the RV they actually want. And they are afraid to buy because of what they hear about reliability and workmanship.That is a terrible place for any industry to be.So it raises a bigger question.Who is speaking for real RVers?Right now, manufacturers mostly hear from dealers, sales teams, investors, and marketing departments.What is missing?Us.The people who actually live in these RVs. The ones who discover what works and what fails after thousands of miles of potholes, rainstorms, campground hookups, and real world use.Most feedback today is scattered across Facebook groups, YouTube comments, and forums. Thoughtful insights get buried in noise.That is not a system designed to build better RVs.It is a system designed to build frustration.So here is the idea that sparked a huge response.What if RVers spoke with one clear, organized, constructive voice?Imagine a live, moderated RVer Town Hall. Not a complaint fest. Not a shouting match. A serious conversation where experienced RVers present real world recommendations to manufacturers.Full timers and part timers. Fifth wheels and motorhomes. Retirees, families, weekend travelers.Talking about what actually matters.Build quality. Smarter layouts. Easier maintenance. Durability over decoration. Designs that match how people really camp.If structured properly and promoted well, manufacturers would pay attention. When customers speak thoughtfully and collectively, industries listen.Before we build anything like this, we want to hear from you.If you had five minutes with RV executives and engineers, what would you tell them?Not angry rants.Real ideas.Leave us a voicemail or send us an email at RVPodcast.com. We may feature your ideas on the podcast and use them as the foundation for a future live RVer Town Hall.This is not about tearing down manufacturers.It is about helping them build RVs that truly serve the people who buy them.Because the best RVs will not be created in boardrooms alone.They will be created when real RVers are finally heard.TRAVEL PLANNING WORKSHOP PROMOBefore we move on, a quick reminder.On February 5, I am hosting a live RV Travel Planning Workshop. This is where I walk you through how to plan smarter routes, find better campgrounds, avoid common mistakes, and build trips that actually match how you want to travel.It is practical, hands on, and you will walk away with a plan you can use immediately.Details and registration are available through our site, and I would love to have you join me.STORY 2 — Campgrounds Are Expanding, But Reservations Are Tighter Than EverHere is something RVers keep asking.If more campgrounds are being built, why does it feel harder than ever to get a reservation?On paper, things look good. New private parks are opening. Existing parks are adding sites. States are investing in infrastructure.But in practice, availability feels tighter than ever.RVers are traveling more often and staying longer. More parks are shifting toward monthly and seasonal stays for predictable income. Reservation systems make booking easier, but also more competitive.The result is a paradox.More campgrounds exist. But fewer open dates feel available.For RVers, this means planning earlier, being flexible, and sometimes looking beyond the most obvious destinations.STORY 3 — State Parks Are Upgrading, With Strings AttachedState parks are getting long overdue upgrades.New electrical systems. Rebuilt bathhouses. Extended sites for larger rigs.But these improvements come with tradeoffs.California has seen higher fees and reservation windows that fill in minutes. Florida has fewer first come, first served sites. Michigan's modernization brings 50 amp service and sewer hookups, but also higher nightly rates and tighter booking rules.Better infrastructure. Higher costs. Less spontaneity.State parks are still incredible values, but the old days of pulling in on a whim are fading fast.STORY 4 — Used RV Prices Are Finally Coming Back to EarthUsed RV prices continue to soften.Inventory is up. Buyers are cautious. Dealers are negotiating again.But buyers are selective.Condition matters. Maintenance records matter. Build quality matters.This shift is healthy. Confidence is returning, and patience is finally being rewarded.STORY 5 — Manufacturers Keep Copying Each Other, And It's Getting ObviousNow let's have a little fun, because this is one of those things you cannot unsee once you notice it.RV manufacturers love to talk about innovation.But if you walk a major RV show floor, you quickly realize how much copying is really going on.Case in point, the dinesk, that combination dining area and desk that slides, expands, and adapts depending on how you are using it.It was a standout feature in Brinkley RV models, clever, functional, and genuinely useful for how people live and work on the road.Fast forward to the Tampa RV SuperShow.Suddenly, a new Montana ad is showcasing a remarkably similar setup. And Winnebago rolls out a new towable with a nearly identical movable desk and dining combo.Coincidence? Not likely.And here is the part that makes industry veterans chuckle. Brinkley itself has been told that their dinesk concept resembles a similar idea introduced years ago by another fifth wheel manufacturer.In other words, the copying goes back generations.This is how the RV industry often works. One company takes a risk. Others watch carefully. And once the market responds, suddenly everyone has their own version.Sometimes that is healthy competition.But other times, it leads to stagnation. Instead of improving the idea, manufacturers simply replicate it, sometimes poorly, sometimes without understanding why it worked in the first place.The real opportunity here is not copying.It is listening.RVers know what features actually improve life on the road. They know what gets used every day, and what becomes a gimmick by the third trip.If manufacturers spent more time listening to real RVers and less time copying the rig across the aisle, innovation might actually mean something again.CLOSINGWhen you step back and look at all of this together, a pattern emerges.RVers want better built rigs. They want campgrounds they can actually access. They want state parks that balance upgrades with affordability. And they want to be heard.The RV lifestyle is thriving, but growth brings pressure. How the industry responds now will shape the next decade of RVing.Thanks for listening. We'll be back Wednesday with another Stories from the Road episode.