Exposing GARBAGE Workmanship In The RV Industry

I've seen it all now.

RV Travel has posted an article and video on a "COVID Camper" that has parts and systems held together with... get this, zip ties! 

I am so glad I bought my Winnebago when I did (back in 2015) as I have had no issues with it.

The article begins with:

Depending on how recently you have shopped for a new RV, you may or may not be shocked at the video below from RV Tips & Travels, one of our readers’ favorite RV YouTube channels. In it, they expose some of the astoundingly poor workmanship in the RV industry that has sadly become all too common.

RV build quality has been a major concern for a long time, but it got worse due to the work shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of this shortage, RV manufacturers were forced to hire inexperienced builders. The term “COVID camper” was born from the lack of build quality during this time. But as you’ll see in this video, it’s NOT getting any better.

I have long had the belief that buying a good-quality used RV is far better than many of the new RVs currently on the market. For me, this video only reinforced that opinion.

Even more shocking than the garbage workmanship in the RV industry is the fact that they don’t even seem all that concerned about hiding it. It was on public display at the Florida RV SuperShow, where this video was filmed.

 

To read more, go here.

New Class C RVs Perfect For Families

Above, a Winnebago Class C RV on display at the California RV Show. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Lately, I have been noticing ads and news reports on RV and travel shows around the country. The reason for this is because RV manufacturers unveil their new models this time of year.

RV Life has posted a list of ten 2024 Class C RVs for 2024 best suited for families. 

Like everything else, they are more expensive than ever. Keep in mind that manufacturers suggested retail prices (MSRP) are only that, suggested. One can get a new RV for much less. Usually, offers of around 20-25 percent off the MSRP can get one into new rig.  

RV Life begins with:

The snow may be falling outside, but this is the time of year the RV industry debuts new models for the new year. Plenty of RV brands have announced details about their new lineups. If you’re in the market for Class C RVs, you’ll love the huge selection of family-friendly options.

Class C RVs have been a staple in the world of family camping for many years. They feature an overhang above the driver’s cabin, which usually holds an extra bunk. This built-in sleeping space has made them a popular choice for family camping trips.

If you’re interested in buying a Class C RV, you’ll have a lot of options. Some are compact and can only accommodate about four people. But others can host up to 10 passengers, as well as all the essential amenities you need for a memorable trip. Below, we’ve selected a few of the best models to look for in 2024.

To read more, go here. 

Class A RV vs Class C: Which One Is Right For You?

Above, my 2015 Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22R in West Yellowstone. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We're coming into the time of the year when RV shows open around the country and people are selling their old RVs or newbies are looking to buy one.

If one is of the last category, they should ask themselves, "Should I get a Class A or Class C motorhome?"

RV Life has posted an article discussing the pros and cons of Class A and Class C motorhomes.

Personally, I have a  2015 Winnebago Minnie Winnie 22R Class C motorhome. Frankly, it suits me just fine and it has been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned.

The RV Life article begins with:

If you’re looking for a new RV, you may have narrowed it down to a Class A or Class C motorhome. These are both popular builds that have some similarities. However, they have pros and cons that are worth considering. Of course, the best vehicle is the one that fits your situation.

These motorhomes are the most common ones to find on the market nowadays. Class B motorhomes (aka camper vans) are great for short-term journeys, but they aren’t suitable for large groups or extended camping trips. Before you can find the perfect RV for you, it’s time to compare and contrast Class A and Class C motorhomes.

To read the article, go here.

Tips For Attending An RV Show

Above, new motorhomes on display at the California RV Show. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Whether or not one is in the market to buy a new RV or just like to browse around and sit in on demonstrations of cooking gadgets, attending an RV show is a lot of fun.

If anyone hasn't been to an RV show, RV Lifestyle has an article with 13 pro tips for attending one.

They begin it with:

Jennifer and I love attending RV shows. We hit many of the biggest and best RV shows every year, and smaller shows, too. It’s a great way for us to stay up-to-date on the latest innovations in the RV community to share with our RV Lifestyle community.

We also attend RV shows because we really enjoy them! We often run into fellow RVers we’ve met on the road, and it’s a great place to make new friends, too.

I know the thought of milling through a crowded convention center and parking lot can seem overwhelming to some. After all, it’s not uncommon to have to wait in lines to enter new models or have to squeeze through to see new RV products.

But the crowds aren’t always that bad. Plus, there’s a great deal you can do to prepare for an RV show before you arrive and before every day you attend.

I will share those tips with you so you can make the most of attending an RV show.

To read more, go here. 

Full RV Lots: Looks Are Deceiving

Above, the California RV Show before the pandemic. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

These days, when one drives past an RV dealer's lot and sees a "full" lot, he/she may think that there's no shortage of RV for sale.

Looks can be deceiving and a new article by RV Travel gives the reasons why.

They begin with:

RV dealer lots around the country are slowly starting to refill, but things are far from normal despite what RVers are seeing as they pass dealer lots along the highway.

The Enumclaw RV Show in Washington state recently announced it was canceling the show, originally set for July 28-31, after being informed that RV dealers and manufacturers wouldn’t be able to provide enough RV inventory at the show.

“The popularity of RVs has resulted in significantly reduced inventory levels for the industry in 2022,” says a statement on the Enumclaw RV Show website. “As a result, the unfortunate decision to cancel the 2022 Enumclaw RV Show had to be made as there were just not enough RVs to display and provide an exceptional show.”

The company that operates the Enumclaw RV show also manages RV shows in Seattle and Puyallup, Washington. Those shows went forward earlier this year, but dealers had so few new rigs to display, they were allowed to bring used rigs to the shows to mix in with the new. 

What's going on? 

Read further to find out by going here. 

When Is The Best Time To Buy A Camper?

Above, the California RV Show in 2017. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Spring is a little over a month away and people are starting to think about what they're going to do for vacationing.

Some are considering getting an RV for traveling as flying and cruises are petri dishes for disease.

But when is the best time to buy a camper?

RV Life posted an article on just this question.

They begin it with:

When is the best time to buy a camper? The answer to that question depends a lot on inventory, time of year, and market expectation. 

Of course, you want to get a good deal, but let’s face it, you really want to get an RV and get out on the road. Slow down, take a deep breath, and consider when is the best time to buy a camper. Good research will save you money in the long run.

To read more, go here. 

2022 Quartzsite RV Show January 22 - 30

Above, dry camping in Quartzsite, Arizona last year. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The near-border town of Quartzsite, Arizona is home to one of the biggest RV shows in the country. The next one is coming up this month and the organizers are expecting record attendance. 

I have been to Quartzsite twice, both last year. The visits were not for the RV show, but for clampouts of the Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus. 

I have heard of the Quartzsite RV show for year and have considered attending. Thousands of RVers attend and dry camp out in BLM and other lands near the RV show site. The town has many RV parks available as well.

RV Life has posted and article on the upcoming RV show. 

They begin it with:

The Quartzsite RV Show is advertised as the largest gathering of RVs in the world. The upcoming event for 2022 is scheduled for January 22-30. Every day there will be vendors, events, and shows running from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Due to the increasing demand for RVs and RV products, the event runners expect 2022 to be one of their biggest years ever!

Ever since COVID-19 sprung up, the RV industry has been growing in size and popularity. More and more people turned to campers so they could freely travel and create a home away from home. As such, the demand for new products has continued to grow, so RV shows are more important than ever. With the influx of new RVers, the 2022 event is expected to be one of the biggest on record.

If you love the RV lifestyle and want to connect with others who feel the same way, the Quartzsite RV Show could be a great destination for you. You can enjoy the warm weather, check out the new releases, and get off to a great start in the new year. There is a ton to explore this year!

 To read more, go here.

Before Buying, Go To An RV Show First

Above, RVs on display at the California RV Show in Pomona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

In the market to buy an RV? What is the best way to compare RV brands and to check out different RV dealership?

The answer is simple: Go to an RV show first!

This is a topic in RVTravel and it is one that everyone who is considering buying an RV should do.

They begin with:

RV shows, like boat shows, are intended to introduce new model year RVs and help disseminate RV-related information to the consumer. These shows are typically scheduled during the slower time of the year, the winter months (though they do occur year-round), to help jump-start the RV dealer’s selling season. RV dealers from miles away bring their wares to these shows.

For the buyer, RV shows put everything you need to see and learn about under one roof, making it the ideal environment to conduct research and make informed RV buying decisions. I mentioned that RV dealers come from miles around – this includes local RV dealers from the area where you live. If possible, try to buy from an RV dealer within a reasonable distance from where you live. This makes it much easier to get service and warranty work done on the unit.

The most important concern is to only deal with a reputable RV dealership.

Even though I already have a motorhome, I still like going to RV shows to see the new models and to see what new gadgets there are available. Good deals on gadgets can be found at RV shows.

To read more, go here. 

RV Shows During A Pandemic

Above, the California RV Show in Pomona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For the past few weeks, I've noticed some ads for RV shows around the country. This raised the question, "Can they hold RV shows during a pandemic?"

Apparently, I was not the only one wondering this as a new article is in RVtravel asking the same thing.

It begins with:

While performing research for this article I came across the heading “Despite a Global Pandemic, RV Shows Must Go On” in a blog post written by Kyle and Olivia Brady of drivinvibin.com. This is a thought-provoking statement, as many ponder the fate of 2021 RV shows during the ongoing pandemic.

Producing RV shows for a living, the topic of 2021 RV shows and what they will look like is of great interest to me.

I have corresponded with venues and other show promoters, and researched what different states are permitting. Following are insights into 2021 RV shows and what you will likely experience if you choose to attend one. Because, like it or not, the 2021 RV show season is about to begin.

To read more, go here. 

Skyrocketing RV Sales

Above, new RVs on display at the California RV Show. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The desire to get out on the road is driving people to flock to RV dealers to buy a recreational vehicle.

A dealership in Anthony, Texas is a prime example on the surge in RV sales.

From KVIA:

ANTHONY, Texas (KVIA) — The coronavirus pandemic has kept many families inside their homes for extended time for months. Now, as summer continues, many are aching to hit the road and get out of town. 

The only problem? COVID-19 cases continue to spread. 

The dilemma has led many to consider safer travel alternatives like RVs, which can allow for more social distancing and the touching of less surfaces that might be infected.

Lang Crawford, who owns Anthony RV Center, has been in the business for about 14 years. He told ABC-7 he has never seen demand like he is seeing right now.

“Generally we'll stock 50 to 60 units and I'm all the way down to 10,” he said. 

Crawford said his business slowed down when the pandemic began, but sales have since skyrocketed.

To read more, go here. 

Coronavirus News Affecting RVers

Above, Window Rock Veterans Memorial Park is one of the Navajo Nation's tribal parks that are closed. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The many closures caused by the pandemic of the coronavirus (most of which are an overreaction) is affecting everyone to some extent. This also includes RVers. 

RVTravel has posted a list of coronavirus news that affects RVers.

Here's a snippet:

Due to New Mexico state banning public gatherings in response to coronavirus, all New Mexico State Parks are now closed to overnight camping. All 35 state parks will remain open for day use. The overnight camping ban will expire on April 9 unless extended. Visitors with overnight camping reservations will be issued a full refund. For details visit the State Parks website. 

U.S. National Parks and their facilities remain open during the coronavirus epidemic in the United States while National Park Service (NPS) officials await further guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, agency staff said Thursday. 

The Navajo Nation is moving to close all Navajo Nation Tribal Parks, including four popular sites in Arizona, due to concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus. Closures in Arizona include Four Corners Monument, Little Colorado River Tribal Park, Canyon de Chelly Campground, and Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park, also known as Antelope Canyon.

There's a lot more news, including a list of the RV shows that have been cancelled.

To read more, go here. 

Winter 2020 RV Shows

Above, the California RV Show that's held in October annually. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If one is in the market for a new RV or just want to look, winter is prime season for RV shows across the nation.

RV Life has complied a list of 20 RV shows that will be coming up in 2020 that they recommend attending.

They begin with:

Winter is the prime time to visit your local RV show and see the latest RVs, travel trailers, and accessories on the market. You can get a look inside all the RVs on display, talk to industry experts, and watch live product demonstrations and seminars. 

These winter RV shows coming up in 2020 will have everything from motorhomes and campers to boats and accessories for sale. If you’re looking to upgrade (or downsize) your RV, now’s the time to get a great deal on the special show prices. Be sure to mark your calendars and get your tickets ASAP!

To read more, go here. 

GoRVing Launching "Kick Off to Camping Season" Campaign

Above, The Beast at the KOA Kampground in Springfield, Missouri. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The push is on!

Go RVing is launching the first-ever campaign to get more people out camping in a recreational vehicle.

Globe Newswire reported:

SALT LAKE CITY, March 12, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Designed to ignite consumer interest and drive traffic to RV dealers nationwide as the spring/summer vacation season approaches, Go RVing is launching a new multi-million dollar Kick Off to Camping Season campaign to coincide with RVX: The RV Experience, a new national trade show that opens today and runs through Thursday, March 14 in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

The industry’s most innovative new products will be introduced to consumers when the RV Reveal at RVX: The RV Experience is livestreamed through a custom microsite on GoRVing.com later today from 1 – 3 PM MT at Salt Lake City’s Salt Palace. Built to highlight the livestream video, the site will also feature video content captured at RVX, and messaging about the versatility of RV vacations.

To read more, go here. 

Scottsdale Boat, RV & Outdoor Sports Show

SHOW DETAILS   |   DIRECTIONS   |   INVITE A FRIEND

VIEW OUR UPCOMING 2019 SHOW SCHEDULE ▸

Getting The Most Out of A RV Show

Above, a Jayco Class C on display at the California RV Show. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Around the country, we are in the midst of the RV show season. If one is planning to attend a show, they should read an article by RV Life on how to get the most out of their visit.

They begin it with:

Previously we looked at 5 Important Things You Should Look For In An RV Show. In this entry, we will look at getting the most out of your day at an RV show. 

Here are 5 tips to help you plan your visit.

To read more, go here. 

Scottsdale Boat, RV & Outdoor Sports Show

SHOW DETAILS   |   DIRECTIONS   |   INVITE A FRIEND

VIEW OUR UPCOMING 2019 SHOW SCHEDULE ▸

What To Look For In A RV Show

Above, the exhibit "tent" at the California RV Show in Pomona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Right now, around the country it is RV show season.

Like anything else, some RV shows are better than others. Fortunately, RV Life has an article with a list of five things to look for before attending a RV show.

They start it with:

It seems like there is an RV show about every weekend this time of year. How do you know which one you should attend? 

The following are five things you should look for when deciding what RV show to attend this season.

Above, larger shows with more dealers attract factory representatives to answer questions. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here. 

2019 RV Shows

Above, a Winnebago Class C on display at the California RV Show held in October in Pomona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We're in the Christmas season, and once that's over, the RV industry will be heating up with RV shows around the country after New Year's.

RV Life has posted a list of 30 RV shows around the country that potential buyers, or just browsers, can enjoy in 2019.

They begin with:

With the New Year comes new RVs and accessories. Winter is the prime time to visit a local RV show and see the latest RV models and aftermarket products. You can get a look inside the RVs and trailers on display, talk to industry experts, and watch live product demonstrations and seminars. 

These winter RV shows will have everything from motorhomes and campers to boats and accessories for sale. If you’re looking to upgrade (or downsize) your RV, now’s the time to get a great deal on the special show prices.

To read more, go here. 

How To Choose The Right RV and Dealership

Above, RVs of all kinds at the Trailer Village RV Park in Roswell, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If you are in the market to buy a recreational vehicle, it is something that great thought should be put into before purchasing.

Those who are experienced RV owners already know (for the most part) what to look for when shopping (a RV show is the best place to compare units and brands) for a RV. Such was my case when I purchased my Winnebago Minnie Winnie. I previously owned a pop-up trailer (tent trailer) and a micro-mini Class C motorhome.

The Daily Sentinel has an article on how to choose the right RV and dealership (not all are created equal).

They begin with:

Recreational vehicles are a great way to see the country and allow owners the freedom to travel, perhaps spending time with far-flung family or spending family time up in the mountains. 

They are great for fun and vacations, but they are a huge investment. And investing in one is a lot more complicated than buying in a car. 

Your first step in purchasing an RV is to ask yourself what you would like to do in your recreational vehicle. Are you using it to travel the country or do you want to be out in the desert away from it all? What sizes and styles do you prefer? Are you partial to purchasing a new or used RV? 

Are you planning on using your RV for weekend trips, week-long vacations or as a second home in the winter, where you'll be in an RV park somewhere sunny and snowless? Perhaps you're ready to sell your home and live full-time in an RV. 

The more time you spend in your RV, the more carefully you need to consider your purchase. For full-timers, it may feel like you're buying real estate.

To read more, go here. 

Not All RV Buyers Are Happy Campers

Above, The Beast in West Yellowstone, Montana. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When I bought The Beast three years ago, I at least had some experience in owning an RV. I had previously owned a pop-up camping trailer (also known as a tent trailer) and a micro-mini motorhome.

Many people out there aren't so experienced or so lucky. They are buying RVs without thoroughly doing research.

When I bought my Winnebago, I knew ahead of time that Winnebago had a good reputation for workmanship. Even with RV manufacturers with good reputations, problems can and do crop up. When I went down to San Diego to buy mine, I looked it over from top to bottom before handing over the cash.

Thankfully, all this paid off as I have had no problems with my Minnie Winnie 22R except for a bathroom ceiling vent that "glued" itself shut. That was taken care of under warranty.

PR Web posted an article on how people can get into trouble when buying their first RV.

It reads in part:

EDMONDS, WASH. (PRWEB) FEBRUARY 14, 2018 

Spring is on the way and many Americans’ thoughts are turning to summer camping trips with recreational vehicles. But they’re doing more than just thinking, they’re buying: RV sales reached a record high in 2017 with more than 500,000 new units shipped to dealers throughout the United States. The problem, says one RV consumer advocate, is that too many RV shoppers are making bad buying decisions. 

Chuck Woodbury is the editor of http://rvtravel.com and the host of the Better Business Bureau DVD “Buying a Recreational Vehicle,” available at many public libraries. He recently sold his condo near Seattle to travel full-time in a 32-foot motorhome. 

Every RV, he says, is manufactured essentially by hand, on an assembly line of workers who build and install individual components. “There’s a lot of room for mistakes especially now when RVs are selling so fast that manufacturers are rushing to keep up with demand. Many buyers are getting stuck with workmanship issues so serious their new RVs can’t be used for weeks, even months, while awaiting repairs.” 

He cites a recent survey at his website that showed the seriousness of the problem. “More than one-fifth of the more than 1,400 readers who responded described the workmanship on their RVs as poor or terrible. That’s just not acceptable. Do you think Boeing could get away with that? Would you step on one of its planes?” 

The RV industry fights state lemon laws, he says, “so there is typically no help there.” He urges new RVers to consider buying a used unit, where the previous owner has worked out the problems. 

Woodbury advises buyers to inspect an RV they’re considering, whether a motorhome or travel trailer, from top to bottom. “Hire an RV technician to examine it carefully, even if it’s brand new. It will be the best money you spend.” He advises to never buy on impulse. 

Another thing people should do: go to a RV show and use that opportunity to inspect the workmanship of RVs of several manufacturers. It will pay off in the end.

Above, the 2017 California RV Show in Pomona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here.