RV Podcast - Stories From The Road

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.

They planned a short RV adventure. It turned into a life-changing journey.In this episode of The RV Podcast, we sit down with the Shinpaugh family, a family of four who hit the road in 2016 thinking they would travel for a few years. Instead, they quietly built a whole new life on wheels, homeschooling their kids, running their businesses remotely, and making the road their normal.They share the real story behind going full-time as a family, including:What surprised them most after their “temporary” RV trip never endedHow they balance work, school, and family life while travelingThe challenges no one talks about, and how those hard moments made them strongerWhat it really takes to build a sustainable life on the road as a familyThen we shift gears and break down what just happened at the Florida RV SuperShow, our 14th time attending the biggest RV show in the country.We cut through the hype and share our two biggest takeaways from the show, including:Why Brinkley RV had the best display at the entire show, and why their low-pressure, owner-driven approach stood outWhy we came away encouraged that real quality still exists in today’s RV marketThe motorhomes and towables that impressed us most, including Grand Design’s Lineage, lighter-weight Coleman fifth wheels, and the futuristic Lightship and Pebble trailersWe also answer your RV lifestyle questions and catch you up on our latest travels on the road.This episode is packed with inspiration, industry insight, and real-world RV living, whether you’re dreaming, planning, or already rolling.Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss our two weekly episodes:Mondays, RV Podcast News EditionWednesdays, Stories from the Road and in-depth interviews

Hey everybody, welcome to the RV Podcast News Edition for Monday, January 19, 2026. I’m Mike Wendland.This is where we cut through the noise and bring you what’s really happening right now in the RV lifestyle and the RV industry. Five stories this week, and taken together they paint a clear picture.The RV world is not just changing. It is restructuring.Let’s get started.STORY 1. TAMPA SUPERSHOW AND THE MEGA-DEALERS GET EVEN BIGGERThe Florida RV SuperShow wrapped up this weekend in Tampa, and once again it was the Super Bowl of RVing. Huge crowds, massive inventory, and a lot of signals about where the industry thinks things are headed.One number really stood out.Lazydays RV, now operating as Lazydays RV powered by Campers Inn, announced it brought more than 450 RVs to the show. Four hundred and fifty units on the grounds. There were over 1,300 new models here. That means Lazydays, if it really bought that many uits - I didnt count them - accounted for a third of the total new units on display.That is more than confidence. That is making a statement and claiming market power.It highlights how the biggest RV chains keep getting bigger. Camping World, General RV, Blue Compass, and Campers Inn have all been aggressively buying up smaller dealerships across the country.In many markets, those big names now sit next to each other, or even across the street from one another.That kind of saturation creates brutal competition and raises a serious question. How many stores can a market really support?What we kept hearing in Tampa is that 2026 may be the year underperforming locations start quietly closing.We already saw a preview late in 2025 when Camping World abruptly shut down its store in Escanaba, Michigan.For shoppers, this environment cuts both ways. There is more inventory and more choice, but dealers are under pressure to move aging stock. That pressure can work in your favor, if you negotiate wisely.STORY 2. INFLUENCER FATIGUE. THE MARKETING MODEL IS BREAKING DOWNAnother major theme at the Tampa show had nothing to do with floorplans.Influencer fatigue.By our count, there are now at least 500 so-called RV influencers. Probably more. Anyone with a cellphone camera can claim the title, and many have.For years, manufacturers poured money, free gear, and perks into this system.But saturation has changed everything.Behind the scenes, RV manufacturers and marketing teams are saying the influencer model no longer delivers like it once did. They report being flooded with demands for free RVs, guaranteed commissions, and paid travel just to show up.There are clear signs of a pullback.Winnebago has ended relationships with some influencers. Keystone RV has done the same.The issue is trust. When every product is “the best ever,” audiences stop believing any of it.I overheard it firsthand in Tampa. Outside the influencer building, one man said, “I’d be an influencer too if they gave me free stuff. But since that hasn’t happened, I don’t trust what any of them say. Free stuff and money can buy anything.”That comment captures the problem perfectly.STORY 3. TARIFFS ARE HAMMERING MANUFACTURERS, AND ROADTREK MAY BE THE HARDEST HITAnother major topic of quiet but intense conversation at the SuperShow was tariffs and the damage they are doing to certain RV manufacturers.Start with Europe.The Italian manufacturer Wingamm has been trying to bring compact Class B style motorhomes into the U.S. market for at least the last four years. At one point, the tariff hit on a Wingamm imported from Italy was estimated at roughly $70,000.That nearly killed the effort.The tariff has since been restructured into a fixed import fee announced in mid-2025, about $9,500 on the Oasi 540.1 and roughly $11,100 on other models. Even so, Wingamm has now turned to crowdfunding to help finance its U.S. market entry.Canada is being hit even harder.Many popular Class B vans sold in the U.S. are built in Canada. Tariffs stack up at every step.A prime example is Leisure Travel Vans.Their Unity models use Mercedes Sprinter chassis and major components built in Germany, shipped to Canada, assembled there, and then exported to the United States. Tariffs apply to the chassis, the imported parts, and the finished vehicle.Industry sources say tariffs alone are adding at least $20,000 to the price of a Leisure Travel Vans motorhome. The new Mercedes Benz model that introduced at the show last week was sticker shock on steroids. It’s show price was $272,000. For a B + van. Over a quarter of a million dollars! Yikes. And then there’s Class B campervan maker Roadtrek, made in Ontario.Roadtrek’s situation may be the most severe.The company has struggled since 2019, following a massive financial scandal involving its previous owners that ended in bankruptcy. Roadtrek is currently owned by a French RV company that took control as part of that restructuring.Since then, Roadtrek has faced repeated Mercedes Sprinter chassis shortages, production disruptions, a weak market, and the loss of key personnel.Most recently, Roadtrek lost its longtime National Sales Manager, Mike Williams, widely known across the industry and to customers as “Canada Mike.” He has now joined Sunshine State RVs in Gainesville, Florida, where some are already calling him “Florida Mike.”That is a significant loss of leadership and visibility for the brand.At Tampa, the buzz was everywhere. Roadtrek is struggling badly, and many insiders believe the company may be for sale again. Nothing official, but the talk was constant and came from dealers, current employees,  and industry veterans.Tariffs are a huge reason for all of this pressure.STORY 4. MORE CONSOLIDATION, MIDWEST AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN LIKELY TO BE SOLDAnd speaking of major brands being in play, we’re hearing strong indications of another significant acquisition.Multiple sources tell us that Midwest Automotive Design, a high-end builder of luxury Class B motorhomes on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter platform, is about to be sold.The buyer, according to what we’re hearing, is Alliance RV.Alliance RV was founded in 2019 by industry veterans Ryan and Coley Brady and is best known for its Paradigm line of luxury fifth wheels. The company has built a reputation for high-quality construction and strong customer loyalty.Midwest Automotive Design is a powerhouse in the luxury van segment. It is known for models like the Passage and Luxe Cruiser and has also built private-label vans for Ultimate Toys, Chinook, Holiday Rambler, Fleetwood, and American Coach under the REV Group umbrella.This is not a small boutique operation.If confirmed, this move would signal Alliance’s expansion beyond towables into the premium motorized market.It reinforces the larger pattern. The RV industry is entering a major consolidation phase, with strong operators positioning themselves to acquire respected niche brands as costs rise and margins tighten.STORY 5. ZION NATIONAL PARK WILL RESTRICT LARGE RVS ON A KEY ROUTENow an important heads-up for anyone planning a Southwest RV trip.Zion National Park has announced a major change taking effect June 7, 2026.Large vehicles will no longer be allowed to travel through the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, including the famous tunnel.Vehicles longer than about thirty-five feet, wider than seven feet ten inches, taller than eleven feet four inches, or weighing more than fifty thousand pounds will be prohibited. The long-standing escort system for oversized vehicles is being eliminated.The Park Service says the road was never designed for modern RVs and that safety concerns drove the decision.You can still visit Zion, but many large motorhomes and fifth wheels will need alternate routes or off-site parking.This is a major planning issue for RVers heading west.BONUS STORY. HONDA OFFICIALLY ENTERS THE RV SPACE WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT TRAILERAnd here’s one of those moments when we get to say, we told you so. This is a BONUS STORY THIS WEEK.Two episodes ago, we reported that Honda was quietly working on something big in the RV space. Now it’s official.Honda has unveiled the Base Station Prototype, an all-new lightweight travel trailer designed by Honda engineers at the company’s U.S. research and development centers in Los Angeles and Ohio.This is not a rebadged camper. Honda says the Base Station Prototype brings segment-first innovations that only Honda can deliver.The stated goal is to “democratize outdoor adventures.” In plain English, make RVing accessible to more people.Honda designed the Base Station to be towed by many of the most popular vehicles in America, including crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, as well as electric vehicles such as the Honda Prologue and Honda’s upcoming 0-Series SUV.That is a major shift.Most lightweight trailers still require full-size trucks or large SUVs. Honda is aiming directly at the millions of households that already own smaller vehicles and have been priced out of RV ownership.Honda also says the Base Station will remain competitively priced in the lightweight travel trailer segment, signaling this is not just a concept vehicle but a serious market entry.If Honda follows through, this could reshape the entry-level RV market in a very big way.And as soon as we can see one in person, you know we’ll bring you a full report.CLOSINGAlright. That’s this week’s RV News Edition of the RV Podcast. For links, documents, and deeper background on every story we covered today, be sure to check the show notes on our website at RVPodcast.com. That’s our central hub for everything we do, podcasts, blogs, videos, and our community.You can also leave us a voice message, comment, question, or tip right there on the site. We read them all, and many of them help shape future episodes.And a quick reminder that on February 5, I’ll be hosting a live, interactive RV Travel Planning Workshop designed to help you plan smarter trips, avoid costly mistakes, and travel with confidence. You’ll find all the details and registration info

Most RVers are doing it wrong. They're tripping breakers, wasting propane, and turning out mediocre meals because nobody ever taught them how to actually use their RV kitchen.In this week's conversation, RV Kitchen Expert Evada Cooper cuts through the confusion and delivers the insider knowledge you need. Discover which appliances are actually worth upgrading (and which ones are just marketing hype), learn the proven techniques for cooking restaurant-quality meals in your rig, and finally understand how to manage your electrical system so you can cook without constantly resetting breakers.The game-changer? Evada breaks down exactly why your convection oven is the secret weapon you've been ignoring, and shows you step-by-step how to master it. This isn't theory: it's practical knowledge from someone who's cooked thousands of meals on the road and knows what actually works.Whether you're tired of eating out, frustrated with your current setup, or just want to expand your mobile cooking skills, this episode delivers real solutions. Stop settling for campground cuisine and start enjoying the meals you deserve.Key Topics:The appliance upgrades that actually matterElectrical management strategies for serious cookingConvection oven mastery: techniques and timingCommon RV kitchen mistakes and how to avoid themGourmet meal planning for limited spacePerfect for both new RVers setting up their first kitchen and veterans ready to level up their cooking game.

The RV world always has back-channel stories and simmering controversies, and in this News Edition of the RV Podcast, we break down a couple of those stories and why they matter to RVers.In Episode 582, we dig into the growing backlash over the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees RV Club, where longtime members say a once-beloved community is being hollowed out in the name of profit. We examine what private equity ownership really means for RV clubs and why this story has struck such a nerve across the RV community.We also take a close look at major shake-ups in RV technician training. The sudden and unexplained departure of the president of the RV Technical Institute has raised serious questions at a time when the industry desperately needs qualified RV service techs. On top of that, we report on the reported sale of the National RV Training Academy in Texas and what it could mean for future RV tech education.There is more confusion at America’s national parks as new entrance fees for international visitors are causing delays and long lines at park gates. With staffing shortages already stretching the National Park Service thin, we explain what RV travelers should expect and how to plan ahead.And finally, Marcus Lemonis may be gone from Camping World, but he is still very much in the headlines. An arbitrator has ordered Lemonis to pay more than $14 million in damages tied to his role on the TV show The Profit. We look at what this ruling means and how Camping World may navigate an increasingly competitive RV dealership landscape without him at the helm.This is the RV Podcast News Edition, released every Monday morning with insider news, industry developments, and issues that directly impact RV owners and travelers. Our main podcast, Stories from the Road, drops every Wednesday with interviews, destinations, and listener questions.Now let's dive into this week's news.Harvest Hosts vs. Escapees: A Membership Meltdown StoryIf you want to see what happens when private equity gets its hands on a beloved RV community, look no further than the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees RV Club. The internet is on fire with member complaints, and the details are jaw-dropping.Here's what's got everyone fired up: In July 2024, Harvest Hosts acquired the management and operations of Escapees RV Club, including the popular Xscapers subgroup for working-age RVers. What happened next has become a textbook case of how private equity-backed companies can effect beloved community organizations.Full disclosure: we've been an affiliate of Harvest Hosts for many years, and the company used to be, but no longer is, an advertiser on this podcast. We're also an affiliate of RV Overnights, a Harvest Hosts competitor that sponsors our Wednesday podcast.Jen and I really like Harvest Hosts and have used it many times. But this story still needs reporting. Because it illustrates what happens when big money gets involved in startups and independent businesses.First, you need to understand that Harvest Hosts is no longer a small, founder-funded RV startup. It is a private equity-backed platform designed to grow, consolidate, and eventually deliver a strong return to investors. In 2021, it reportedly received about $37 million in growth capital and it has been growing and expanding ever since.One of the most biggest acquisitions wasin 2024, when it bought the Escapees Club, which was a family run club started in 1978 by Joe and Kay Peterson, two full-time RVers who were traveling with their family and wanted a way to stay connected with others living the nomadic lifestyle. It grew and grew, was later turned over to Peterson family relatives who eventually sold Harvest Hosts. There was worry and grumbling from members simmering for a long time but most recently, just before Thanksgiving, it turned in to a dumpster fire. According to reports from members and a detailed timeline compiled by concerned community members, Harvest Hosts terminated the Xscapers convergence director and other Escapees staff just two days before the scheduled Thanksgiving convergence. That’s what they called their gatherings - convergences. They told attendees they'd still have a place to park but the event would no longer have a host or the Xscapers brand attached to it. Imagine planning your entire holiday around an event, traveling to the location, and then being told the people running it were just fired.But it gets worse. Harvest Hosts then cancelled several future Xscapers convergences and meetups, seemingly everything except the one annual Bash event, often with little or no notice, according to Facebook group posts. For context, these convergences and gatherings were the main draw to the club for many members. The community-focused events, where working-age RVers could connect with others living the nomadic lifestyle, were what made Xscapers special. Members had planned their entire travel schedules around these gatherings.The pricing controversy adds insult to injury. An email from Harvest Hosts CEO Joel Holland promised "we're not changing the price of an Escapees membership, it's still just $49.95" while simultaneously announcing that Escapees would be folded into a $179 All Access membership bundle. Angry members called this classic bait-and-switch language designed to confuse them about what they're actually getting.When members started speaking out about what was happening, things took an even darker turn. Members report that Harvest Hosts began actively censoring and deleting complaints in the online groups they now control. Long-time community members said they were being banned. According to member accounts, they're even banned members from the public Facebook page simply for voicing their concerns about how the company is handling criticism.The complaints on Trustpilot paint an even darker picture. One review states that Harvest Hosts has "decimated" the community and fired loyal Escapees employees, calling it a "classic Manhattan Private Equity gut job" backed by Stripes, LLC. The review notes that "the only thing harvested here was the goodwill of a 40-year-old club." Stripes was the equity group that handled that private equity investment into Harvest Hosts.Adding fuel to the fire, Harvest Hosts hired Chris Smith as Senior Director of Community & Events, someone who members point out oversaw the worst membership decline in FMCA history during his eight years as Executive Director & CEO there. Members are questioning why leadership with that track record is now running their organization, especially given the mass cancellations and firings that followed his arrival.Long-time Escapees members feel completely betrayed. This wasn't just any RV club. Escapees was founded in 1978 by the Petersons and for over 40 years, it built a reputation as a member-first club where volunteers ran regional chapters and gatherings felt like family reunions. In their acquisition announcement, Harvest Hosts explicitly promised to retain Escapees employees, continue community events including "Xscapers Convergences," support Facebook groups, and be "good and earnest stewards of the Escapees and Xscapers brand." The controversy highlights a growing and troubling trend in the RV industry: venture-capital-backed companies buying beloved community organizations and strip-mining them for profit. Members on online forums say Harvest Hosts has essentially gutted Xscapers and taken away the big thing that made it worth joining. The pattern is clear: cancel the expensive community events that members loved, fire the staff who built relationships with those members, silence anyone who complains about it, and then act surprised when the core community revolts. As members point out, the people Harvest Hosts has made the angriest are precisely the community leaders and engaged members who made Xscapers worth joining in the first place.As one community member put it: "What kind of company cancels a paid Thanksgiving event that has been planned for months, that many people built their holiday plans around and traveled to, with just days' notice? A company that is making poor business decisions for profit and doesn't realize they are destroying the asset they've purchased with their own hands."The situation is being discussed across Reddit, RV forums, and has even found its way into Google's AI overviews. Despite Harvest Hosts' apparent attempts to censor and ban critics, other members are making it clear: they will not be silenced or ignored. The controversy highlights a growing and troubling trend in the RV industry: venture-capital-backed companies buying up everything in sight. Over the past 20 years, private equity firms like Bain Capital, Alliance Holdings, American Industrial Partners, and others have acquired some of the biggest names in RV manufacturing, dealerships, and services - including Heartland, REV Group, Fleetwood, Monaco, Roadtrek, Grand Design, Lazydays RV Center, and yes, Camping World. Investment banking firm Jackim Woods & Co. has tracked more than 65 private equity transactions in the RV sector over the last two decades. The goal is always the same: buy a mid-size company as a "platform investment," then triple or quadruple its size over 5-6 years through acquisitions and cost-cutting. While some of these deals have created jobs and improved operations, the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees shows the bumpy road this consolidation wave can create- when community and culture become subservient to profit margins and "operational efficiency."Sources:Community member timeline and documentation: Facebook groups and posts tracking the controversy - https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=excapers%20escapees Member reports of event cancellations and censorship: Facebook group discussions - https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=excapers%20escapeesRVForums.com discussion: https://rvforums.com/threads/harvest-hosts-buys-escapees-rv-club.18663/Trustpilot reviews: https://www.trus

In this episode’s conversation, we’ll hear from a fulltime RV couple who happen to also be fitness and healthy living experts. They’ll share some startling information for us… How the RV Lifestyle Can Wreck Your Health. But how a few simple tweaks in your daily habits can do an amazing Before and After transformation for you.We had some fun using AI to do a before and after exaggeration image for us. But… what we learn this week is pretty eye-opening.We were very interested in what they said about how we can actually do some things that counteract the effects of agingAnd we were struck by what happens after you sit behind the wheel of an RV for a few hours.Plus, we’ll share a Destination of the Week suggestion for you - the Kofa Wildlife Refuge in Arizona. And we answer a question about camping availability oin Florida in February.

We're excited to launch a brand new podcast to keep you informed faster. The RV Podcast News Edition drops every Monday morning at 6 AM with the latest developments in the RV industry, camping world, National Parks, and everything affecting the RV lifestyle. This edition, Episode 580, covers What;'s Changing for RVers in 2026:From the controversial new "America First" pricing at National Parks that triples annual pass costs for international visitors, to Ford's game-changing 700-mile range extender concept for the F-150 Lightning, to the reality that lithium power systems are becoming baseline equipment rather than luxury upgrades as new alternatives to lithium are about to head to market, this episode gives you everything you need to know about what's happening right now. Our main show, the RV Podcast: Stories from the Road, continues every Wednesday morning with the deep dives, interviews, and travel stories you've come to expect. Complete show notes with links to all sources are available at RVPodcast.com, your hub for everything we do: blogs, community access, videos, and all our podcast episodes going back almost 12 years.Hetre are links to the main topics we discuss:National Parks 2026 Changes:Department of Interior Announces Modernized National Park Access: https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/department-interior-announces-modernized-more-affordable-national-park-accessHigher Fees for Nonresidents: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/us/snplus/news/2026/01/02/changes-to-access-to-the-country-s-national-parks-kicked-off-in-the-new-year--including-higher-fees-for-nonresidentsThree Big Changes for National Parks: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/3-big-changes-americas-national-080141812.htmlWhat Visitors Should Know: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Travel/visitors-national-parks-2026-free-days-digital-passes/story?id=128845389RV Industry Forecast:RVIA Market Expected to Trend Upward in 2026: https://www.rvia.org/news-insights/rv-market-expected-trend-upward-2026RVIA Forecasts Modest Growth: https://camperreport.com/rvia-forecasts-modest-growth-heading-into-2026/Current RV Industry News and Trends: https://crowsurvival.com/current-rv-industry-news-and-trends/RV Technology and Innovations:RV Industry 2026: Used RV Values Reset + New Tech: https://www.bishs.com/blog/rv-industry-2026-used-rv-values-reset-new-tech-new-brands-and-big-buyer-shifts/Current RV Industry News and Trends January 2026: https://crowsurvival.com/current-rv-industry-news-and-trends/New Products and Brand Expansion:The Hottest RVs and RV Shows of 2026: https://blog.campingworld.com/news/the-hottest-rvs-and-shows-of-2026/Camping Trends:Camping Trend Predictions 2026: https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/media-centre/press-releases/2025/camping-trend-predictions-2026/Top 12 Camping and Hiking Trends: https://meetglimpse.com/trends/camping-hiking-trends/Australia's Camping Boom Expected to Skyrocket: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/australias-camping-boom-expected-to-skyrocket-in-2026-revolutionizing-domestic-travel/KOA Annual North American Camping Report: https://koa.com/north-american-camping-report/RV Shows and Events:RV Show Calendar 2026: https://www.rvlifemag.com/rv-show-calendar-2026-usa-events/Florida RV SuperShow 2026: https://www.frvta.org/show/florida-rv-supershow/Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show 2026: https://www.stresslesscamping.com/rv-shows-and-rallies/quartzsite-2026

In this episode, we speak with an RVer who took more than 5,000 travel photos on her smartphone in just one year. She shares a surprisingly simple and creative way to turn those forgotten images into organized, meaningful memories you will actually enjoy, share, and keep for years to come.Plus, we will dive into the RV News of the week, including a look at a major and costly change to national park admission fees for visitors from outside the U.S.And in our Question of the Week, we’ll talk about tow/haul mode and why it's such a great feature for Rvers towing travel trailers and fifth wheels.