Why Rush It? You're Retired!

Above, during my 2026 Metropolis, Illinois trip, my first night's
stop was at a KOA in Williams, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The nice thing about retirement is that while traveling in the RV, one isn't in a hurry to get somewhere. At least they shouldn't be.

Retirees can take their time and enjoy the sights along the way. An added benefit is flexibility, where detours can be made and if one particularly likes an RV park so much that can add an extra night or two to enjoy it.

Above, flexibility allowed me to check out places such as Meteor Crater in Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Generally, when I am driving somewhere, my rule of thumb is to get an early start (I'm an early riser anyway) and get to the the day's overnight stop in the afternoon. There's one thing I don't like doing, and that is to set up camp after dark. By getting to the stop while the sun's still out, one can enjoy the rest and sit outside (weather permitting) with a cold drink or even coffee and relax. It is refreshing and make the next day's drive easier.

Above, after a day's drive, time to relax at the KOA in Springfield, Missouri. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I prefer a day's drive in the 300 to 450 mile range. I've gone over 500 miles in a day, but I found I am worn out by the end of the day. I'm retired, so why push it?

Above, flexibility allowed me to visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower
Presidential Library in Abilene, Kansas. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Naturally, everyone's different. Some like to keep their day's drive under 300 miles and some don't mind driving 500 miles. It's whatever one feels comfortable with.