People aren’t just turning to RV-ing for the freedom it provides, but for the potential stress-reducing effects of living a smaller, fuller life. “Communication with nature can soothe weary minds and souls, and that’s what many people have been wanting, especially since the pandemic,” says Chris Coleman, owner of RV Talk. In fact, research has found that being in nature reduces anxiety and depression and aids in positive social interactions.
That being said, your moving the whole Life in a tiny trailer isn’t for everyone. There are some unconventional factors that take some getting used to—namely, living in a small space. I currently live in my Airstream Bambi, which is about 170 square feet, and I share that space with my partner and small dog. It gets a little crowded at times, but as part of RV life, I spend a lot of time outside in nature even when I’m working. The freedom this lifestyle provides, as well as the ability to see the most beautiful parts of the country, has reduced my stress levels and made me re-evaluate my life goals prioritizing my mental health.
If you’re curious about the RV lifestyle, jumping into it can prove to be a risky investment. Yes, you should research makes and models, and visit local showrooms to get a feel for the physical space. But I recommend booking a vacation at an RV resort or trailer hotel to test the waters. Cook your own meals, work, and live in a trailer like home to get a taste of what the lifestyle will be like full-time. Sure, some resorts can be a little more glamorous than the typical RV experience (sadly, not all places have a nice pool or drive-in theater). But it can give you a taste of that nomadic life to help you decide if you want to do it full time, not just on your PTO.
curious? Here are some great RV resorts and hotels around the country to try:
AutoCamp (multiple locations in CA, MA, and NY)
With properties across the country—including Yosemite, Cape Cod, and Joshua Tree—Autocamp is the perfect way to experience iconic Airstream living in a completely natural environment. These beautifully renovated trailers feature spa-inspired bathrooms, a charming patio, and kitchens with all the necessities. While the design deviates from what you’d get from the factory, these 31-foot Airstreams are dropped in the middle of lush landscapes to give guests the sense of solitude RVers experience everyday. Plus, the company plans to add more properties in 2023, so you can check places like Zion National Park and Asheville off your bucket list.
Action Backstage (Boston, MA)
Finding an RV park in a big city is impossible, so experiencing a trailer hotel in the heart of a historic metropolis is a true treat. Opening this September, Backstage at Boston’s Verb is an extension of The Verb Hotel built from a fleet of old trailers at Fenway Park. While you won’t experience the majesty of being immersed in nature, unique accommodations will provide a little insight into living in a small space.
Yonder Escalante (Escalante, UT)
Located in the middle of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah, Yonder is perhaps the most magnificent place to experience RV living. Personally, this is my very favorite place to sit on my Airstream. For guests not leaving their home, book one of the property’s newly renovated vintage Airstreams for a few days. These cleverly designed trailers don’t have fixed bathrooms like most RVs; However, the property’s bathhouses are so luxurious that you won’t notice it. Expect amenities like beautiful outdoor showers, Dyson hair salons, pools and hot tubs, and a drive-in theater. The sky outside is breathtaking, so be sure to set up outside to watch the sunset.
Flying Flag Buellton (Buellton, CA)
Located in the heart of Santa Barbara’s wine country, Flying Flags Buellton is conveniently located off Highway 101 in California and will give guests a glimpse of what it’s like to stay at a campground for a few days. This is a great place to experience trailers from 22 to 28 feet, which are on the small side. While these adorable vintage trailers have been renovated, the layout is similar to what you’d find in a typical RV. Plus, each residence comes with a private yard, patio, and grill so you’ll have plenty of outdoor space.
Hotel Luna Mystica (Taos, NM)
High desert locations are my favorite places to camp in the country when it’s not 100+ degrees outside. Hotel Luna Mystica blends the spiritual influence of the desert into each of their individually designed vintage trailer accommodations. New Mexico is known for its wide open skies and breathtaking stargazing, so make sure to put your deck to good use at night and get lost in the solitude of the sparkling night sky. You are only a short drive from Taos (town center and skiing area).
Junebug Retro Resort (Weaverville, NC)
Asheville is a wonderful place to camp because you get the best of city life and hill country scenery. Junebug Retro Resort is designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time by mirroring what each of their vintage trailers would have looked like when they were created. The 50-acre property gives guests ample opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with downtown Asheville just a short drive away. If RV renovations are your thing, be sure to visit Junebug to get a feel for what it’s like to live in an older model trailer.
Kate’s Lazy Desert (Landing, CA)
B-52’s guitarist Kate Pearson is no stranger to RV life after touring on the road for years. She decided to create a little piece of paradise in the form of Kate’s Lazy Desert in the Mojave Desert. The intimate property includes retired airstreams available for rent just a few miles from Joshua Tree National Park. Each RV has its own personality and beautifully painted murals. Aside from the bespoke artwork, these trailers mirror the layouts you’d get from the current Airstream. With sizes ranging from 19 to 30 feet, it’s a great way to get an authentic experience of how you might live in space. Doesn’t hurt that you’re close to all that hiking and adventure Joshua Tree has to offer!
Marfa Yacht Club (Marfa, TX)
Airstream life has its own sub-culture and you can’t really understand the community until you immerse yourself. At the Marfa Yacht Club, you can rent the actual Airstream as it comes when you purchase it. Just four minutes from the small artsy town of Marfa with sweeping views of the Chianti and Davis Mountains, and includes a heated pool, bocce court, and clubhouse. When you decide you want your own Airstream, the property also has spaces for guests who prefer to BYO Airstream.
Vintage Trailer Resort (Dayton, WA)
Within a short drive of Oregon’s stunning coastline are the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley. Located smack dab in the middle of this beautiful area, The Vintage Trailer Resort has all the amenities of a brick and mortar hotel with the seclusion of glamping. Each vintage trailer comes with bikes, an outdoor grill, and a firepit for late night s’mores. Most of these RVs have been refurbished, but they still have the same layout as you would find from the current model.
Waypoint Ventura (Ventura, CA)
What’s better than waking up in a hotel by the sea? actually wakes up in Beach in your own rig. Waypoint Ventura is a California glamping collective located so close to Ventura Beach that you can savor the salty air. The property features a variety of vintage trailers that will give you a glimpse of what beach life is like — with delightful proximity to the great coffee shops, restaurants, and antique shops of downtown Ventura.
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