Baby boomers have long been recognized as a generation on the move and many of them have plans to pick up the pace even more in retirement.

They’re flying overseas for exotic African safaris, European river cruises and walks atop the Great Wall of China.

But they’re also staying closer to home, getting an up-close-and-personal view of the nation they grew up in, perhaps along two-lane roads, stopping for the night at some secluded campground. For those trips, many will use recreational vehicles.

RV sales have spiked in recent years due to several factors, including an improving economy and more boomers retiring.

“RV sales will benefit as aging baby boomers continue to enter the age range in which RV ownership is highest,” noted the authors of a 2012 report from the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association.

Boomers are drawn to RVs because they have, in general, always been drawn to travel.

Baby boomers, in fact, are America’s most traveled generation, even to this day, according to the AARP Public Policy Institute.

“When they were younger, baby boomers traveled more than older people, and now that they are older, they travel more than younger people,” according to a recent report from the institute.

The increase in interest by baby boomers has certainly been good news for RV dealers and manufacturers, but destinations, too, are adjusting to the influx of boomers.

RV travel is still camping, but many baby boomers are now accustomed to traveling in style so campgrounds are modifying their offerings as a result.

Many RV resorts have in recent years added wellness centers and exercise classes — two trends that have long been popular with baby boomers. Others offer concierge service, elegant dining halls and lighted tennis courts.

Some resorts have added live shows and musical acts to draw in boomers.

The Rocky Fork Ranch Resort in Eastern Ohio offers an indoor pool, fitness center and sauna.

Baby boomers also enjoy their technology so many campgrounds now offer cable TV and free Wi-Fi. It’s not exactly roughing it, but it’s certainly something many boomers don’t want to surrender while away from home.

“The baby boomers have arrived … and RV parks and resorts are responding by providing a greater variety of activities and entertainment,” Paul Bambei, president and CEO of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds recently told RV Business magazine.

The RVs themselves these days also allow for luxurious travel. The big ones can be 40 feet long and cost $200,000 or more.

Some have maple cabinetry, satellite-fed LCD TVs, washer and dryers and even fireplaces. All in all, “camping” isn’t what it used to be and boomers are enjoying the change.

information written by RICK ADAMCZAK, The Daily Reporter

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Great news for us RVers out there. Gas prices are predicted to fall this year. I guess we will have to wait to see if this actually happens or not. But I’m looking forward to getting out to my favorite campgrounds…. Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

NEW YORK (AP) — At least gasoline should cost you less in 2013.

Hamburger, health care and taxes are all set to take a bigger bite out of the family budget this year. But drivers’ annual gas bills are expected to drop for the first time in four years.

Forecasters say ample oil supplies and weak U.S. demand will keep a lid on prices. The lows will be lower and the highs won’t be so high compared with a year ago. The average price of a gallon of gasoline will fall 5 percent to $3.44, according to the Energy Department.

“Everything is lining up to lead to softer prices this year,” said Tom Kloza, chief oil analyst at the Oil Price Information Service.

That would still be the third-highest average price ever. But a discount of 19 cents per gallon from 2012 would save the typical household $205 this year and free up $25 billion that could go instead to restaurants, malls or movie theaters — the kind of consumer spending that accounts for 70 percent of American economic activity.

“It’s a little benefit to the economy, and it’s a little more reason the Fed doesn’t have to worry about inflation,” said James Hamilton, an economist at the University of California at San Diego who studies energy prices.

Forecasters caution that they can’t predict other factors like Middle East tensions, refinery problems or hurricanes along the U.S. Gulf Coast — in other words, the same events that caused gasoline prices to spike in 2011 and 2012. Any or all of those troubles could crop up again in 2013 and push pump prices above last year’s record average of $3.63 a gallon.

The government expected gas to average about $3 during 2011. Then came the Arab Spring, which included the shutdown of Libya’s oil production. Oil prices shot up, and gasoline averaged $3.53 for the year. The government’s forecast for last year also turned out to be too low, by 18 cents per gallon.

And, Hamilton said, consumer spending might not see a boost from lower gasoline prices because most Americans will be paying higher taxes. The expiration of last year’s payroll tax reduction will cost an extra $579 for households making $40,000 to $50,000 in 2013, according to the Tax Policy Center, a non-partisan Washington research group.

But after average gas prices rose in 2010, 2011, and 2012, a little relief will be welcome in 2013.

Gas prices set records each of the past two years for a few reasons. Global demand has risen as the developing economies of Asia, Latin America and the Middle East burn more gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. At the same time, unrest in the Middle East has sparked fears of widespread supply disruptions in a region that produces a quarter of the world’s oil. That makes traders willing to pay higher prices up front for oil as a way to protect against possible dramatic price spikes in the future.

In the U.S. last year, several refineries and pipelines had problems that reduced gasoline supplies, especially on the West Coast and in the Midwest, helping to push pump prices even higher.

This year, global oil demand is expected to rise slightly again, but increased production, especially in the U.S., should keep supplies ample. The U.S. Energy Information Administration said this week that American production will grow next year by 900,000 barrels per day, the nation’s biggest single-year increase ever. By 2014, U.S. production will reach its highest level since 1988.

At the same time, U.S. gasoline consumption is back down to 2002 levels because of more fuel-efficient cars and the tepid economy. It isn’t expected to rise this year or next, according to the Energy Department.

That means the U.S. will need to import less oil, which will increase global supplies and help tamp down prices somewhat.

The current average retail price of gasoline is $3.31 per gallon, 6 cents lower than last year, according to AAA, OPIS and Wright Express. AAA predicts gas won’t surpass $3.80 a gallon this year.

The peak last year was $3.94, reached in April. The auto club also says average pump prices could drop as low as $3.20, a level that the country hasn’t seen since February 2011.

Tom Kloza of OPIS expects price differences between regions of the country will remain large, and local prices could be volatile as supplies build and dwindle. In Utah, drivers are paying $2.88 per gallon on average, while in New York drivers are paying $3.75. Just in the last four months, gasoline supplies on the West Coast fell to their lowest level in a generation, then rose to where they are now, their highest level in a generation.

AAA forecasts the national average will peak between $3.60 and $3.80 in the spring, then drop to between $3.20 and $3.40 by mid-summer. It will rise again during the hurricane season along the Gulf Coast, the nation’s oil-refining hub, before moving lower toward the end of the year.

It’s that up-and-down movement that will dictate drivers’ moods. Drivers tend to remember what they paid for their last fill-up — not that they may have paid a little less a year ago, Hamilton said.

“People have a short reference point,” he said.

___

Jonathan Fahey can be reached at http://twitter.com/JonathanFahey .

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Most Pennsylvanians know that RVs and campers fall into two general categories, according to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association. However to help you remember, we have compiled a list of the all the major classes of RVs.

Tow-able RVs, which are designed to be towed by a motorized vehicle (car, SUV, van or pickup truck) and are of such size and weight as not to require a special highway movement permit. They do not require permanent on-site hookup. These include folding camping trailers, truck campers, travel trailers and fifth-wheel travel trailers.

Motorized RVs, which are built on or as an integral part of a self-propelled motor vehicle chassis, combining transportation and living quarters in one unit. These include class A, B and C motor homes, which all must be driven to your destination.

Examples of each type are listed below.

Tow-able Trailers

• folding camping trailer — A lightweight unit with sides that collapse for towing and storage. The folding camping trailer combines the experience of open-air tent camping with sleeping comforts, basic conveniences and weather protection found in other RVs.

• truck camper — A unit loaded onto, or affixed to, the bed or chassis of a pickup. The truck camper is popular for back-road journeys, accessing remote locales and family recreational camping.

• travel trailer — A unit designed to be towed by a car, van or pickup by means of a frame hitch, the travel trailer provides all the comforts of home and is perfectly adaptable for weekend getaways, family vacations and full-timing.

• hybrid/expandable travel trailer – A lighter weight unit designed to provide you with hard sides that can be towed by a car, van, suv or truck by means of a frame mounted hitch. Provides the conveniences of a full size camper, but offsets the weight by having tip out, or fold down canvas tent end bedding areas.

• fifth-wheel travel trailer — Designed to be affixed and towed by a pickup equipped with special hitch in the truck bed, these two-level units can provide the greatest living of all tow-able RVs. Fifth-wheel travel trailers come equipped with all the comforts of home, and are perfectly adaptable for weekend getaways, family vacations and full-timing.

Motorized Coaches

• class A motorhome — Also commonly referred to as the conventional motor home, it is the largest, most luxurious of the motorized RVs — a virtual “home-away from-home” on wheels, fully loaded and equipped for short trips, lengthy vacations and full-timing. It’s entirely constructed on a bare, specially designed motor-vehicle chassis.

• class B motorhome — Also commonly referred to as the van camper, it is a cargo van that has been customized to include temporary sleeping, eating and bathroom facilities.

• class C motorhome — Sometimes referred to as a mini-motorhome, it provides the conveniences of a larger motorhome in a scaled-down version and at a lower price. It is built on an automotive manufactured van frame with an attached cab section.

Information found at RV Terminology by HGTV.

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RVers look for this logo

CAMP HILL, Pa. — Pennsylvania now welcomes RVers with the official “RV Friendly” logo designed to let travelers know which businesses can accommodate their RV, the Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association reported today.

The state recently adopted the popular “RV Friendly” highway sign logo for use in the state’s local business logo program. The RV Friendly Sign is a highly visible, round, bright yellow reflector sign with “RV” in the center. It is designed for roadside businesses – such as gas stations, restaurants, tourist attractions and lodging/camping facilities – to place on their existing highway gas-food-lodging logos indicating their ability to provide adequate space and resources for RVers.

“We are so excited that the RV Friendly logo signs have been approved,” Rebecca Lenington, executive vice president of PRVCA. “We’ve been working on this for a while and feel it is a win-win for both RVers and local businesses.”

The RV Friendly signs prove to be a valuable tool for RVers since they can easily tell which businesses are convenient for them to shop, eat or fuel up. Businesses must meet certain requirements in order to be RV Friendly such as having high canopies, an adequate turning radius, and 12 foot wide lanes. For a complete list of criteria, contact Loisrae Graybill at the PA Logo Trust at 717.412.4378.

SOURCES: Greg Gerber(RVdailyReport)/Pennsylvania RV and Camping Association press release

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People go camping for many reasons, but one of the main reasons is to enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, strolling, fishing or swimming when we are camping we want to enjoy the great outdoors. There are several plants and animals that we need to watch out for and avoid when we are out in nature. Three of these plants include poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. With a bit of knowledge you can keep an eye out for these and you will know what to do if you happen to come in contact with them. The old adage of “leaves of three, let it be” could be used for poison ivy and oak, but not poison sumac.

Poison Ivy

Poison ivy is found throughout much of North America, primarily to the east of the Rocky Mountains. It grows in wooded areas, predominantly around edge areas, on exposed rock, in open fields and as underbrush. The identifying characteristics of poison ivy include a cluster of three almond shape leaflets, reddish hairs on the vine and no thorns. If you do come into contact with poison ivy it will cause itching, red inflammation and possibly blistering. To treat exposure, over the counter medicines such as Calamine lotion and home remedies such as oatmeal baths and baking soda can help to relieve the irritation.

Poison Oak

Poison oak can be found from Virginia west to Texas and Oklahoma. It is an upright shrub with three leaflet clusters and grows in thickets, forests and dry, sandy fields. Exposure to poison oak causes similar symptoms to poison ivy; itching, red inflammation and blistering. Treatment is also similar to poison ivy, over the counter lotions, oatmeal baths and baking soda.

Poison Sumac

Poison sumac is the most toxic of the three plants. Contact with poison sumac will cause more lengthy and painful skin eruptions and irritation. Poison sumac is found in wet areas, such as swaps, bogs and flooded areas in the eastern United States and Canada. Unlike poison ivy and oak, poison sumac is found in the form of a small tree or shrub. The plant contains greenish leafs that are oblong in shape with 7-13 leafs per stem. It also has grey fruit or berries.

For more information regarding these three plants visit http://www.wikipedia.com.

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Experience a Pennsylvania RV show like no other…

At the York RV Show, there are over 75 exhibitors related to the Recreational Vehicle lifestyle! Whatever your interest or budget, there will be plenty to see. With late Winter/Spring manufacturer pricing incentives and being the last show before camping season make this show the perfect time and place to compare and shop.

Grab a pencil and a piece of paper before you come. The results are in after years of surveying and statistical gathering, RV ownership and travel is very affordable. Making a purchase at the York RV Show, still allows you time to buy for Spring delivery, and a Summer full of camping and family travel enjoyment. This unique show promises to be bigger and better than ever with over 30,000 square feet of indoor display space spread out over two buildings. And Lerch RV will be occupying a large section of that display area. We will once again be displaying over 20 units. All from industry leading RV manufacturers; Keystone RV Company and Open Range RV. We will have on display some of these great brands: Open Range, Open Range Roamer, Open Range Light, Montana, Sprinter, Springdale, Summerland, and Copper Canyon to name a few. Also on display will be 40 campgrounds showcasing their facilities and 20 vendors offering products to enhance your RVing experience and lifestyle.

York RV Show Hours:

• Friday, March 9
  11AM to 9PM
• Saturday, March 10
  10AM to 9PM
• Sunday, March 11
  11am to 5PM

Resorts, Campgrounds, and RV lifestyle accessories surround the RV displays with vacation destination ideas plus fun.

Admission is $8.00 per person with children under 12 admitted free. Balloon designing clowns will be on hand to entertain the children. There will also be games, door prizes, and camping weekend giveaways. However if you contact the Lerch RV Sales Team, we can provide you with a discount coupon. During the show you will find bingo games for free weekends of camping, camper games, instant door prizes, camping package prizes and strolling clowns to entertain children of all ages.

The York Expo Center is at Carlisle Avenue in the city of York. If traveling Interstate 83, get off exit 22, take Route 30E. Follow signs to Fairgrounds/Expo Center.

Your Lerch RV Sales Team looks forward to seeing you there.

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Preview

New RV owners usually have a lot of information to digest. There is so much to learn about owning, operating and maintaining a RV. Unless they know someone who can teach them all there is to know, these new RV owners are on their own to figure it all out.

Consider your first RV your training RV. This is where you will learn the ins and outs of how to operate propane, holding tanks, plumbing, electrical and backing up.

It helps you discover whether you prefer the convenience of full-service RV parks or dry-camping in primitive campgrounds, more commonly known as boon-docking.

Your ‘training camper’ teaches you how to equip, furnish and pack an RV. You learn just how much interior storage space (closets, cabinets, drawers) you really need (is there ever enough?). It reveals how critical the size and accessibility of the outside storage bays can be and the importance of cargo-carrying capacity and towing capabilities. Not to mention sleeping capacity as well. Did you really need the bunk beds?

It helps you determine what floor-plan, features and accessories would best suit your RVing lifestyle and needs. And if you really enjoy all that you learn about the world of RVing, there will be another new RV!

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

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