Is RV camping sustainable?
mom and dad deliriously happy it’s the weekend! 1970’s
I grew up RVing throughout the 1970’s. Some of the most memorable experiences of my childhood. My father guarded his camper like it was gold. He was the captain of his ship. It gave him such joy. He would often say, “vacation begins the second we pull out of this driveway”. Often referring to his job as “the stress factory” RVing became his escape. We were fortunate to enjoy many family vacations from quick shore getaways to long extended Florida holidays. Sometimes we would go away on a moment’s notice for a long weekend to the Pennsylvania mountains. We would set up camp on a small patch of land and enjoy the quiet and solitude of the surrounding nature.
Pennsylvania, camping with the family 1970’s
At first glance of the RV. You immediately think “gas guzzler” . Although, they don’t get the same mileage as the hybrids of today they are environmentally conscious. Today’s RVs are built to be lighter, aerodynamic, they come in several sizes and more efficient designs. Manufacturers today use green textiles, renewable woods and power solar LED light fixtures. Some 80% are non-motorized and use the more efficient diesel fuel.
Is RV camping luxury? I say yes...if you’re comparing it to tent camping. You have large bed with a mattress, cook stove, refrigerator, entertainment unit, awnings. Some have slide outs that expand the living areas.
As noted on the GoRving.com website they have encouraged the below suggestions to travel sustainable:
Always use marked RV campsites so as not to damage natural habitats.
Recycle as you travel at the campgrounds or through community programs. Take note of local recycling categories; they may be different from those followed at home.
Minimize the use of disposable dishes, cups and utensils. As convenient as they seem, they create an abundance of trash.
Keep campfires small to minimize the amount of ash and pollution. Don’t put anything into the fire pit that will not burn.
Observe fire rules, which may change daily with weather conditions.
Use nontoxic cleaning supplies and tank additives.
Where pets are permitted, keep them indoors or use a screw-in stake. Tying them to trees can damage fragile bark.
Work with nature. In hot weather, use natural shade, awnings and canvas covers instead of the AC. In cold weather, park where the RV will be protected from north and west winds and warmed by sun exposure.
A recent survey showed that more than two-thirds of RVers minimize water use on trips, almost half recycle more on RV vacations than on other types and nearly half turn off home utilities before they hit the road.
In addition, 94% of all RVers travel with 2-7 people, meaning the vehicles get more people miles per gallon.
For more information on where to rent a RV. Where to stay and just about any information you need visit GoRVing.com
Even if your first RV adventure isn’t perfect. You may stumble a bit. I guarantee you will create a family trip they will never forget.
One final note. RV travel can be described as a form of Slow Travel. This is a concept that encourages travelers to stay in one destination longer to slow down and enjoy the local surroundings instead of jumping from one town or city to the next.
