5 minute read
Recreational Vehicles
The Call of the Open Road
BY NADINE WONG
“I must say it has created a stir in the neighborhood,” says Bonnie St Julien, the proud owner of a “new-to-her” 25-foot 2020 Leisure Wonder Travel Van. When deciding on her travel plans, Bonnie visited a local RV dealership to explore different units. This helped her understand the size, options, and features that might suit her needs.
Bonnie is interested in touring and exploring various locations, making navigation and parking in towns and cities important. This ruled out lengthy Class A units. She also didn't want to put away a bed every day, which is common with Class B vans, leading her to consider smaller Class C units. Since she’ll be traveling alone with her dog, without a spotter, and isn’t skilled at vehicle repairs, she focused on a newer midsize RV.
To ensure she was comfortable with a smaller Class C unit, Bonnie rented a 25-foot RV for 8 days. This experience helped her learn basic operations, navigate small cities, mountains, ferries, and more. She and her dog enjoyed traveling, camping in parks with and without services, and plugging in at friends’ homes. However, she didn’t like the gas consumption through the coastal mountains. Cost of the recreational vehicle was another factor.
Bonnie settled on a few key factors for her purchase: a lightly used unit with low kilometers, a recent model with solid service records, passed inspection by a qualified RV technician, and a diesel engine for lower running costs, despite higher servicing expenses. She opted for the Ford Transit chassis over the Mercedes Sprinter due to the increased unit cost and servicing.
The model she chose suits two travelers, has twin beds that can convert to a queen, offers moderate storage, and can haul an e-bike in the exterior storage garage. It includes a few bells and whistles and thinking about hitting the road with her dog lights her up inside. That’s how she knew it was the right RV for her.
After speaking with Bonnie, I realized that choosing an RV is a big proposition.
So off we go to talk to Craig Little, who founded Arbutus RV in 1988 with a single location in Mill Bay. The business has since expanded to six sales and service locations and an additional service center in Ladysmith. Craig shared that Arbutus RV has become the largest RV dealership in BC and possibly Western Canada, attributing their success to offering a full range of services across Vancouver Island, making it convenient for local customers.
Craig noted a significant evolution in the RV community, with a boom during COVID-19 as people sought outdoor travel options. Travel trailers became popular, and there was a rise in the camper market and full-time RV living due to affordability and the island’s climate. The trend of working from home also spurred the "van life" movement, allowing people to be mobile while working. Tiny homes have gained interest, though local regulations can be challenging.
The average age of RV buyers has dropped to around 42, as younger families recognize the benefits of RVing for family vacations and bonding. Arbutus RV’s customers range from retirees to young families, making the business fulfilling as they share the excitement of families preparing for quality time.
Choosing the right recreational vehicle (RV) depends on travel preferences, budget, lifestyle, and trip type.
Travel Preferences:
• Weekend Getaways: A teardrop trailer is ideal for short trips, especially for solo travelers or couples. These small, lightweight trailers are easy to tow.
• Extended Vacations or Road Trips: A travel trailer or fifth wheel suits longer trips. They offer amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, making them great for families. Note that a fifth wheel requires a truck with a special hitch.
• Full-Time or Long-Term Living: A Class A motorhome is perfect for fulltime living or extended trips, offering all the comforts of home. Alternatively, a Class C RV provides a balance of space and maneuverability.
Physical Condition: Consider ease of access, bed setup, and the ability to lift heavy items.
Budget: Pop-up campers and used RVs are affordable options. Pop-up campers expand to allow more living space and can be towed by most vehicles. Used RVs can save money but should be thoroughly inspected. Consider your current vehicle's towing capacity; smaller SUVs and cars can tow lightweight options like teardrop trailers, while larger trucks are needed for fifth wheels and heavier travel trailers.
Additional Considerations: Think about outdoor space for a canopy and storage for a portable barbeque, bicycles, water toys, and furniture. Also, consider where you will store your RV when it’s not in use.
Try Before You Buy: Renting different RV types is a good idea to experience various models firsthand. RV enthusiasts often share insights into their experiences with different RV sizes and models.
I’m ready to take on the challenge and find the right RV for me and ‘hit the road’. Want to join me? Happy Travels!
