Cheri and I did some research and looked into our crystal ball to predict what RV living and camping will be like in 2020. We also heard from our Facebook Group members and viewers on YouTube. Watch the full video here!
We believe RV living and camping will actually be more popular in 2020 and going forward. Other forms of travel just don’t lead to social distancing like cruises, flying, hotels, etc. Plus you know who the last person was in your RV or camper….you! And you know who cleaned it last.
Camping and RVing is some of the most natural social distancing there is. See our new ‘social distancing’ T – shirts!
We believe there will still be safe ways to camp and RV this year. And we think it is important to get out in nature, get some sun, exercise, etc. But just do it responsibly and safely.
We also think RV living and camping is going to look different this year. There will be more demand and less places open because of lack of social distancing opportunities. Many public areas in RV parks and campgrounds will remain closed like restrooms, playgrounds, and pool areas. Some campgrounds are limiting reservations to self-contained RVs only, which could make it more difficult for tent campers to find a camping spot this year.
There will be an immediate surge in camping and RVing as the lockdown ends in different areas of the country. There is pent up demand and a shortened season, especially in the northern states. With millions of American not working and no school, it could be like a stampede! In one example, A Pennsylvania Jellystone campground nearly sold out all 155 spaces in 3 hours after getting an unexpected OK to re-open.
Tom from Facebook says “As soon as something opens we are off for some R&R!”We hear that loud and clear Tom!
TIPS FOR RVING AND CAMPING IN 2020:
Spend extra time on regular maintenance before your trip. With the traditional camping season being shortened in many areas, you wouldn’t want to lose any more time due to an unexpected breakdown or maintenance issue.
Kevin from Facebook says “We have ours (RV) in the driveway now doing some maintenance and upgrades. Can’t wait to get out. Just say the word and we are off.”
Consider traveling closer to home. In my home state of Minnesota the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends traveling closer to home, but it’s not a requirement.
Chip from Facebook says “We camp every year over 4th of July. Hoping we still can but if not, the area is close enough that we can just drive to it every day.” We’ve heard that as well. Even if camping is closed in your area, you hopefully will be able to take day trips to get out in nature.
Plan your whole trip in advance! Don’t fly be the seat of your pants like we used to do. But also be flexible, you may have to change your trip because of Covid-19 hot spots, etc. Have a plan B, C, etc. Try our favorite RV travel apps like RV Trip Wizard!
Stephen from Facebook says “We start the end of June till 9/2, hope they let the campground open up.”
And Eric adds “we have reservations starting May 15th in Lakeport Michigan. Have not received any cancellation notices yet. Hoping we can go…”
Raymond says “Hopefully we have 6 weeks reserved as long as they open the campground up.”
And from YouTube, Jimmy says “State parks are opening May 1st reservations for campsites May 11th in South Carolina….. “ Cheri and I have a monthly spot to ride out the storm here in the panhandle of Florida. So we cancelled our Florida State park reservations in June through Reserve America.
Check campground closures on our favorite camping apps like RV Trip Wizard. Be sure to call ahead to confirm reservations before you leave just in case the online information has not been updated.
Before you leave, check for travel restrictions that may be put into place by states that have not fully opened.
For shorter camping trips, try to stock up for your entire trip. Be aware that supplies could be low in some areas or out-of-stock. Some campground stores or local outfitters could be closed for supplies.
Practice safe fill ups at fuel stations, I always have Clorox wipes with me. At your campsite, consider wiping down or using disposable gloves on the power pedestal and water facet.
Visit tourist places in off peak dates and times if you can, if an area looks too crowded, avoid it.
As we’ve mentioned before, we have a monthly spot for now in Cheri’s favorite place on earth, the Destin, Florida area. Beaches are reopening today, so beach tribe is happy again! See our new Beach Tribe and Mountain Tribe shirts!
As always, we are not experts. This is just our opinion. We want to know what your plans are for the upcoming RV and camping season. Are you changing your plans in 2020 or is it full steam ahead? Let us know in the comments. As always, stay safe and healthy everyone! Thanks for subscribing to our blog and on YouTube!
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Guys your beautiful humans. As an ordained minister if you guys have talked about it. I’d love to marry you both on beach at sunset in Florida. You guys are so good together. Think about it. I’m always up for a joyous ceremony and would be epic awesome to do as a live video. Hehehe blessings from Bear and Mel……wheels that heal.
Hope you guys can find great places to stay and enjoy your travels. God bless
We had reservations at our state park for 5/7 and they closed again a week before. We were lucky enough that a private campground is still open and were going there. We traded in for a brand new Grand Design this year and really want to camp. Its been a long winter. I enjoy watching your shows and we are seriously thinking of full timing in our future, hopefully not too far down the road.
We absolutely love watching your YouTube videos and have learned so much. You both have such a positive attitude and it amazes us that even when problems arise, you always keep your cool! Thank you for what you are doing for the RV community. We hope to join you soon as full-timers. God Bless!