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5 Reasons to Travel By RV Rather Than Flying

Published on May 31st, 2020
This post was updated on June 22nd, 2022

Everyone should experience traveling the country in an RV. There is no other way of travel that compares. You can enjoy the scenic wonders of nature without compromising on comfort no matter where you travel.

If you love RVing, you’ve probably found yourself aboard a commercial jet at one time or another, thinking to yourself, “I sure wish I was 30,000 feet below, cruising down the highway in my coach.”

And you’re not alone. Millions of people would choose the freedom of the open road over a cramped airplane any day.

Nevertheless, there are those out there who feel that traveling the “friendly” skies is the way to go. For those folks, we’ve compiled a list of reasons why hitting the road almost always beats taking flight.

1. When You’re Up in the Sky, You Miss the Journey

One of the best things about over-the-road travel is the time spent on the way to your destination. The road trip games, bonding with family and friends—not to mention the sights and sounds you encounter driving across the United States and Canada.

Visiting new places and experiencing new adventures is one of the great things about the RV lifestyle. From the fields of green and gorgeous mountain ranges, to the soaring skylines and unforgettable landmarks, it doesn’t get any better than life on the highway.

2. Riding in a Coach Is Much Better Than Flying Coach

Up in the air, you’re forced to spend hours on end confined to a narrow seat in a cramped space. Turbulence is a nightmare that is often unavoidable, and if you aren’t lucky enough to land a window seat, the only scenery involves the people sitting just inches away.

A motorhome or trailer, on the other hand, are roomy, plush oasis where everyone rides first class. You choose the movie, and can even take a nap in your own bed.

3. On the Ground, You’re in Control

When you board a flight, you’re no longer the leader of the ship. You’re told when you can get up and walk around, and snacks are limited to a bag of peanuts and can of soda—if you’re lucky. Should you need assistance, you have to rely on a flight attendant who is likely exhausted, jetlagged, and irritated from dealing with rude passengers.

With an RV, however, you’re the captain, in charge of everything from the speedometer to what’s playing on the radio.

4. With an RV, You Can Bring It All

Sure, flying will get you there, but you’ll be leaving a whole lot behind. Save for some luggage and a small carry-on bag, you won’t be bringing much with you on a plane other than a few essentials and some travel-size toiletries.

Get there in an RV, and you and yours will arrive with all of your gear, including your entire wardrobe, camping, and recreation supplies—and even your pets.

5. RVing Just Plain Costs Less

In many cases, traveling by RV adds up to a less expensive family vacation.

According to an RVIA.org comparison study, a family of four can save 25-59 percent on vacation expenses traveling by recreational vehicle, while couples can save 11-46 percent, even after fuel and ownership costs are considered.

The same study also found that vacationing in an RV was 45 percent less expensive than an upscale vacation, taking into account both airfare and hotel accommodations.

This post may contain affiliate links or mention our own products, please check out our disclosure policy here.

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