Written by Emily Uhland | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin
RV
There Yet? L
Picture this — a peaceful night, sleeping under the stars, surrounded by natural wonders and the comfort of your own bed, waking up to birdsong, hiking adventures and welcome solitude. Sound appealing? More than 11 million people in the U.S. agree with you, and that number is climbing quickly. Eleven million American households own recreational vehicles, however less than two years ago that number was only 8 million. Interest in RV travel and ownership has surged, in large part due to the coronavirus pandemic health and safety concerns. Dave Hofert, owner of D & H RV & Marine dealership in Apex, has felt that growth in his professional and personal life. “The RV industry added 3 million units to the registry in 18 months,” Hofert says. “The whole economy has changed. I don’t go to my office anymore. I can work from anywhere. I might as well work from the beach. “RV travel is safe travel. I don’t have to worry about (businesses) being closed. I don’t have to wear a mask in my RV,” he says. continued on page 20
18 February/MARCH 2022