Hershey RV Show
After three visits to the Atlanta RV and Camping Show, I can now recognize the same models, the same show layout, and even the same cheesy Georgia Bulldog decorations. So this year, I decided to try a different venue in hopes of seeing some models not typically demo’ed at the Atlanta show. What better venue than “America’s LARGEST RV Show” in Hershey, PA? I was getting serious this time…I even bought the three day pass!
The Giant Center Floor
The Hershey show offers over 1,000 RV models on display, after-market exhibitors (for upgrades and modifications,) and practically an entire Camping World inventory of gadgetry. It even warrants its own HGTV episode every year. Over 35,000 people take the opportunity to kick the tires, try out the bucket seats, and recline in the rockers. But I might have been one of the few, the not-so-proud, to actually close myself in the shower and sit on the throne (plastic-covered, of course!)
There is something for every size and taste, from the tiny towables to the monster motor homes, and everything in between.
"Much larger inside!"
Tour "Monster Bus" wins Best in Show
The demographic was even more varied, as I was surprised to see that there were just as many baby carriages navigating the narrow aisles as scooter chairs.
Wheels in all sizes!
I would love to be able to answer the question, “What’s new for 2012?” but my best answer to that question would be “I AM!” This lifestyle is so new to me that I can’t yet pick out the latest features and upgrades. But the most frequent buzz words seemed to revolve around cabinetry (variety of wood finishes and hydraulic hardware,) external paint and graphics (full body paint versus industrial white with graphics to fill all the spaces in between,) and external window treatments (automotive insulation, flush mount, and “graphics-wrapped.”) Other attention-getters were retractable screen doors, kitchen islands on casters, and bunk beds for the kids.
"Please remove shoes to enter"
My objective at this giant show where manufactures premier their new 2012 models at 2011 prices was to find out as much information as possible without actually getting down to that uncomfortable pointed question from the salesperson, “Just how much COULD your budget afford?” I often learn just as much from the spectators as the salesmen themselves, so one of my favorite things to do is hang out inside a particular model and eavesdrop on the conversations between family members. The most frequent comment continually heard from one spouse to the other is “NO WAY!” as features like fireplaces and washer and dryers give way to budget and towability. The most frequent comment from the younger set? “This wallpaper is hideous!” But my absolute favorite of all was the stuffy old lady who complained and ranted to the salesman in the $500M Class A motorhome, “WHAT??? No built in cutting board in this one? Forget it!” I swear, I think she was serious! That, along with the requirement to remove my shoes on the marble floor qualified as “Most Outrageous.”
My intent was to focus on the smallest possible of all options that would afford me the greatest mobility, yet still offer enough comfort to enjoy a couple of rainy days without sending me running out into the pouring rain just to escape all the brown and beige. This had me spending most of my time in the mid-sized units known as the “Class C’s.” Believe it or not, price is not directly correlated to size, as some of the small van-sized vehicles with a higher “fit and finish,” or craftsmanship, can cost more than the plush penthouse models.
To answer that awkward salesman’s question, “Just how much COULD your budget afford?” the answer right now is “None of them!” But as one salesman quoted, “Ninety-seven percent of all buyers who purchase to full-time either sell or trade their RV within the first three years.” ….which hopefully leaves me with a big “Used” market!
Here were my top three personal choices:
Winnebago View Forward
Winnebago View 24J
Phoenix Cruiser on Sprinter Chassis
Phoenix Cruiser Interior
Nexus Phantom is new to market
Nexus is more reasonably priced because they sell only factory direct.
That Nexus does look nice; but how frightening, “save $22,000!” Is this good or bad news, he, he.
I am trying to guess how large the Class C refrigerators generally run. I forgot to quiz about that. I know that once you get out in the boonies, you can never have too large a refrigerator (at least for me, he, ha, ha). In fact, that is likely the only thing slightly troubling when I ponder hitting the road, how much I take it for granted that a giant super market is just down the street from where I live. However, if one is on the go all the time, that’s great about the US because while driving most places a market seems never too far away. You may have to go for a little scooter too if you go the class C route. I guess a bicycle would do too. So, so many things to consider to find something that fits “just right”. It blows my mind. Glad it is you that is doing the shopping now.
Well what a great experience. It sounds like you had both a productive and fun time. Will be anxious to hear when and if you make your decision. I am guessing it is not going to be a real easy one.
Thinking back to my first and only old RV I bought which was was always and still is falling all to pieces really, I guess my pimp-out tale might be the best way to paint a picture of my own needs. To the generic appliances I added a sink sprayer, ripped out the old refrigerator, made a larger hole to hold the largest one made for Rvs, added a small TV & small surround sound, and doubled the battery bank. Oh yea, added extra fan and electric heater plus small battery operated whisp fans that run on 12V. Many fun days and nights with that setup. Never really longed for much more, well maybe a wind mill charger and a solar bank.
Yes, I was thinking about the little scooter option. How far did you ever venture out on yours? I would probably already have one now, if only I had a place to store it.
With all those pimp-out modifications, you would be a hero in today’s blogosphere. haha!
In upstate Arkansas, Joe & I once rode a 50cc and an 80cc Honda 70 miles to get a couple of cases of beer! Priorities!!!
Suzanne, If you’ve decided that a Class C is the way to go, check out Lazy Daze. I doubt they were at the show. They have a fabulous repuation for building quality RVs with quality products. They also have a very active forum of owners.
Thanks for the tip, Di. I have looked at them, as I hear a lot of good things. But I don’t think they make a diesel, do they? I really have my feet firmly planted at the diesel pump! haha!!