Advertorial: RVing, the perfect family getaway

It's no secret that Canadians are increasingly embracing the RVing lifestyle. In fact, Statistics Canada reveals that RV sales in Canada have jumped over 60 per cent in the last three years alone. Sure, baby boomers are contributing to this trend, as most would expect. However, Go RVing Canada reports that 67 per cent of RV owners are under the age of 55 - proving that young families are buying into the lifestyle in droves.

Why are Canadians eager to jump into their recreational vehicle and tour the country? The answer is fun, freedom and flexibility!

When RVing, you have the option of going where you want to go, when you want to, while having the possibility of altering your plans on a whim. Is your busy work schedule making it hard for you to orchestrate your family's Friday evening departure? No, problem, just leave the next day - something you wouldn't be able to do if your vacation plans involved taking a flight. Are the kids having so much fun at a given site that they don't want to leave? No problem, just stay a few extra days. When RVing, you aren't at the mercy of a definite schedule. How refreshing!

Furthermore, Canadian families find RVing appealing because of its cost efficiency. Imagine all the money you can save by cooking in your RV rather than having to spend on three meals a day in a restaurant for an extended period of time. You also save on accommodations. Campgrounds will charge approximately $25 to $50 a night for you to park your RV; whereas hotels will easily cost you $100 or more for a night. When travelling with a family, you will without a doubt spend hundreds less while RVing compared to a more traditional vacation involving flights, hotels and eating out.

So how can you get your family into the RV lifestyle?

• Visit www.gorving.ca, the one-stop shop for all your RVing-related needs. The site will provide you with RV buying tips, lists of RV shows taking place around the country, as well as links to RV dealers and campsites.
• Find a local RV dealer who will rent you a unit. Renting an RV for a week or two is a great way to get introduced to the lifestyle and to figure out which type of RV is right for your family's needs. Click here for more info on renting.
• Attend an RV show. These shows generally take place from January to April and will give you the opportunity to visit hundreds of different RVs under one roof.

Finally, ask yourself key questions to determine which RV is right for you.

For example:

• Do you plan to use your RV all year round? Will you be making trips in the fall and winter, or just use it for summer vacations?
• Will you be making long trips? Do you expect to do a lot of highway driving, or will you be using your RV off-road in remote locations for such things as fishing, hunting, hiking or skiing?
• How many beds do you need? Who will be with you on your trips? Adults or children? Do you need extra sleeping accommodation available once in awhile? Do you have anyone with disabilities or special requirements? How much privacy do you need? Do you mind having to make up beds every night in your living area?
• Click here for a complete list of tips on choosing an RV.

After having done some research, bring your findings to your local RV dealer who will assist you in selecting the right RV for your family's needs.

Good luck and have fun on your next RVing family adventure!