Big Events Driving Travel Destination Decisions This Summer
This summer, a wave of excitement is sweeping across the country as people eagerly plan their vacations. Road trips and beach getaways remain popular, but a noticeable trend is emerging: travelers are now planning their destinations around major concerts and sporting events. These events are not just about the main attraction; they offer unique experiences that include camping, especially RV camping.
Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping outside your window, stepping out of your cozy RV, and feeling the crisp morning air. With amenities like comfortable beds, fully equipped kitchens, private bathrooms, and climate control, RVs offer a home-like experience in the great outdoors. This means you can enjoy a restful night’s sleep, prepare meals easily, and stay comfortable regardless of the weather.
In addition to comfort, RVs provide better protection from insects, wildlife, and harsh weather, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable camping experience. Setting up camp is a breeze; while tents require time and effort to pitch, RVs are ready to use almost immediately. Plus, the extra storage space in an RV allows you to bring along all the comforts and necessities you desire without the hassle of packing light.
The Rise of Event-Driven Travel
The pandemic significantly altered how we travel and seek entertainment. Now, there’s a pent-up demand for live events and experiences. People are eager to attend music festivals, sports tournaments, and other large gatherings that promise excitement. These events are not confined to urban settings but are often held in scenic outdoor locations that offer camping opportunities.
Music Festivals and Concerts
1. Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, Tennessee
Bonnaroo is a prime example of how music festivals can drive travel decisions. Held on a 700-acre farm in Manchester, Tennessee, Bonnaroo is more than just a music festival. It’s an immersive experience with camping as a core part of the event. Attendees can choose from various camping options, but RV camping stands out for its convenience and comfort.
2. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, California
Coachella is another iconic festival that draws thousands of music lovers from around the world. Located in the desert landscape of Indio, California, Coachella offers camping options that cater to both tent and RV campers. The RV camping area provides amenities like power hookups, showers, and restrooms, making it a preferred choice for those looking to enjoy the festival in style.
While Lollapalooza is set in the urban environment of Chicago, many attendees choose to extend their stay by camping at nearby campgrounds. Renting an RV allows festival-goers to enjoy the convenience of the city during the day and retreat to a comfortable camping setup at night.
Sporting Events
The Indianapolis 500, one of the most prestigious motor races in the world, attracts fans from far and wide. The event, held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, offers a range of camping options, including RV camping. With an RV, fans can enjoy the race and the vibrant atmosphere without worrying about accommodation logistics.
The Daytona 500 is another major sporting event that draws huge crowds. The Daytona International Speedway provides extensive camping facilities, including RV sites with hookups. Renting an RV for the Daytona 500 allows fans to fully immerse themselves in the event, enjoying tailgating and other festivities.
3. U.S. Open Golf Championship, Various Locations
The U.S. Open Golf Championship rotates its location each year, often in scenic spots. RV camping is a great way to experience the championship up close. Many golf courses have nearby campgrounds, and some even offer on-site RV camping.
Here are some of the common locations for the U.S. Open Golf Championship that often allow for RV camping:
Pebble Beach Golf Links, California: Nearby RV parks and campgrounds offer convenient options for RV camping.
Torrey Pines Golf Course, California: There are several RV parks in the San Diego area that provide access to the golf course.
Chambers Bay, Washington: The nearby area has RV camping options that cater to visitors.
Erin Hills, Wisconsin: Local campgrounds and RV parks are available for those attending the event.
Pinehurst Resort, North Carolina: The region has various RV-friendly campgrounds.
Burning Man is a unique event held in the Black Rock Desert. The harsh desert environment makes RV camping a preferred option for many attendees. With an RV, you have access to essential amenities that make the experience more comfortable.
Electric Forest combines music, art, and nature in Rothbury, Michigan. The festival’s forested setting is perfect for camping, and RVs provide a convenient way to enjoy the event without sacrificing comfort.
3. Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, South Dakota
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the world. Held in Sturgis, South Dakota, the event offers extensive camping facilities, including RV sites. An RV allows you to enjoy the rally and the scenic beauty of the Black Hills.
Many NASCAR events, such as the Coca-Cola 600 and the Brickyard 400, offer RV camping options. These events often have dedicated camping areas with amenities that make RV camping a popular choice among fans.
These locations typically have nearby campgrounds and RV parks that provide the necessary amenities for RV campers. Make sure to check the specific event’s official website or local RV parks for detailed information and reservations.
The Benefits of RV Camping
With the rising popularity of event-driven travel, RV camping has become a favored option for many travelers. Here’s why:
Comfort and Convenience: RVs provide the comfort of home with amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, and comfortable sleeping areas. This is particularly beneficial for multi-day events where access to clean facilities can be limited.
Flexibility: Renting an RV offers flexibility in travel plans. You can move from one event to another without the hassle of packing and unpacking multiple times.
Cost-Effective: While the initial cost of renting an RV might seem high, it can be more economical than booking hotels, especially in high-demand areas during major events.
Closer to the Action: Many events offer on-site RV camping, allowing you to stay close to the action and not miss out on any part of the experience.
RV Rentals and Setup
One of the significant advantages of renting an RV for your event-driven travels is the convenience of delivery and setup. Many RV rental companies offer delivery services, where the RV is delivered and set up at your chosen destination. This service eliminates the need to drive a large vehicle, which can be daunting for first-time RV users. Here’s how it works:
Select Your RV: Choose an RV that fits your needs and the size of your group. There are various options, from compact campers to luxurious motorhomes.
Book Your Site: Reserve a spot at the event’s camping area. Ensure it has the necessary hookups if you plan to use amenities like electricity and water.
Delivery and Setup: The rental company will deliver the RV to your site and set it up, ensuring everything is ready for your arrival. This service typically includes connecting the RV to utilities and providing a walkthrough of how everything works.
Enjoy Your Stay: With the RV set up, you can focus on enjoying the event. The convenience of having a comfortable and well-equipped base makes the experience more enjoyable.
Pick-Up: After the event, the rental company will return to pick up the RV, saving you the hassle of packing up and driving back.
Tips for Renting an RV
Book Early: Major events attract large crowds, and RV rentals can sell out quickly. Book your RV and camping spot well in advance.
Know the Amenities: Different RVs come with different amenities. Ensure your rental has the features you need, such as air conditioning, a kitchen, and a bathroom.
Understand the Costs: Be aware of all the costs involved, including rental fees, delivery charges, and campground fees.
Check the Rules: Each event and campground has its own rules and regulations regarding RV camping. Make sure you’re familiar with them to avoid any issues.
Plan for Hookups: If you need electricity and water hookups, ensure your chosen campground or event site offers these facilities.
This summer, let the excitement of major concerts and sporting events guide your travel plans. By opting for RV camping, you can enhance your experience, enjoying the best of both worlds – the thrill of the event and the comfort of home. Whether it’s a music festival in the desert, a race at a historic speedway, or a unique gathering in the desert, an RV can provide the perfect base for your adventures. So, get ready to hit the road, make unforgettable memories, and enjoy the ultimate summer experience.
