Beyond the Wheel

Beyond the Wheel
  • 4.7 (36)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A podcast about RV travel, products, manufacturers, destinations, and lifestyle. We explore behind the scenes of everything that makes RV travel possible.

  1. APR 30

    The State of Camping in 2026 – What the KOA Report Really Tells Us

    Camping isn’t slowing down—but it is changing. In this episode, Kenny and Sean break down the latest findings from the 2026 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report by Kampgrounds of America and talk through what these shifts actually mean for RVers, campground trends, and the future of the industry. This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about how—and why—people are choosing to camp today. Read the Full KOA Report  http://koa.uberflip.com/i/1544394-2026-koa-camping-and-outdoor-hospitality-report/57? What We Cover in This Episode Camping Is Still Huge—But Stabilizing Over 50 million households are camping The post-pandemic surge didn’t collapse Is this the new normal for the industry? Why People Camp Has Changed Shift from budget travel → mental reset Rise of “unstructured outdoor wellness” Are RVers actually unplugging… or just relocating their lifestyle? The Rise of Glamping Nearly 1 in 3 campers are glamping Many new campers start here Is glamping feeding RV ownership—or replacing it? Renting vs Owning More campers are choosing rentals over ownership Flexibility is becoming more important than commitment What this could mean for RV sales long-term Slower, Longer Travel Fewer trips, longer stays Shift toward more intentional travel Impact on campgrounds, fuel, and how people use their RVs A Generational Divide Younger campers: Experience-driven Renting and glamping Older campers: Ownership-focused Returning to camping Are we looking at two completely different camping worlds? Campgrounds Are Changing More resort-style amenities Higher prices across the board Less middle ground between budget and luxury Is this pushing more RVers toward boondocking? What This Means for the RV Industry Are manufacturers building for the right buyer? Does the future lean toward: Smaller rigs? More flexible setups? Rental-friendly designs? Key Takeaway Camping isn’t declining—it’s evolving. The biggest shift isn’t how people camp…it’s why they camp. Join the Conversation Are you seeing these changes where you camp? Are campgrounds getting more expensive? Are you noticing more glamping setups? Would you rent an RV instead of owning one? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear what you’re seeing out there. Listen & Follow If you enjoy episodes like this, be sure to: Subscribe to Beyond The Wheel Share with a fellow RVer Leave a review—it helps more people find the show The post The State of Camping in 2026 – What the KOA Report Really Tells Us appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post The State of Camping in 2026 – What the KOA Report Really Tells Us appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    50 min

  2. APR 15

    RV Service: Where to Go, What to Choose, and What It Really Costs

    RV service is one of those topics every RVer deals with, but few feel fully prepared for. In this episode, we break down the real-world options available when something goes wrong, or when it is time for routine maintenance. From traditional service centers to mobile techs, DIY repairs, and new players entering the space, this is a practical, no-nonsense look at what works, what does not, and how to make the right call when it matters most. What Sparked This Episode The conversation starts with recent news from Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores expanding into RV battery and tire service. This shift signals a potential change in how RVers handle service on the road, especially when speed and convenience matter. The Reality of RV Service RVs combine the complexity of a home and a vehicle, which means more systems and more opportunities for things to fail.Common challenges include: Long wait times at service centers Parts shortages Scheduling delays Being displaced from your RV during repairs Knowing your options before something breaks can save time, money, and frustration. Service Option #1: Traditional RV Service Centers (Dealers & Shops)Best for: Major repairs and warranty work Pros: Certified technicians Access to manufacturer support and parts Required for many warranty repairs Cons: Long wait times (often weeks or months) Higher labor costs Less urgency due to high volume May require leaving your RV behind When to use it: Structural issues, slide problems, or complex electrical systems Warranty-covered repairs Diagnostics that require specialized tools Service Option #2: Mobile RV TechniciansBest for: Convenience and faster turnaround Pros: They come to you Often quicker scheduling More personalized service Opportunity to learn during the repair Cons: Limited to smaller or mid-level repairs May not handle warranty claims Skill level varies Parts sourcing can delay completion When to use it: Appliance issues, plumbing, or electrical fixes On-the-road breakdowns Problems you want handled quickly without moving your RV Service Option #3: DIY RepairsBest for: Cost savings and control Pros: Lowest cost Immediate turnaround Builds knowledge and confidence Full control over quality Cons: Risk of mistakes Potential to void warranties Requires tools and time Not all repairs are DIY-friendly When to use it: Routine maintenance Simple fixes like fuses, filters, or minor electrical issues Situations where you are remote or off-grid New Option: Service at Travel CentersCompanies like Love’s are introducing: Battery replacement Tire service for RVs Why it matters: Nationwide locations Potential for no-appointment service Designed specifically for travelers Pros: Fast and convenient Easy access along major routes Cons: Limited scope of services Still new, consistency may vary Not specialized beyond basic repairs Warranties and Service StrategyUnderstanding how warranties affect your options is critical. Considerations: Manufacturer vs extended warranties Required service locations Pre-authorization requirements Reimbursement vs direct billing Pros of using a warranty: Significant cost savings Cons: Longer wait times Limited flexibility More paperwork and approvals Real-world takeaway:Sometimes it is faster and less stressful to pay out of pocket rather than wait on warranty approval. How to Decide: A Simple FrameworkAsk yourself: How urgent is the issue? Can I safely drive? Is it covered under warranty? Do I have the skills and tools? Quick breakdown: Urgent + simple → Mobile tech or travel center Complex + warranty → Service center Simple + confident → DIY Pro Tips from Experience Build a relationship with a reliable mobile tech Learn your RV’s core systems (12V, water, propane) Carry essential spare parts Stay ahead with preventative maintenance Document everything for warranty claims Key TakeawayThere is no single “best” option for RV service. The most experienced RVers use a mix of service centers, mobile techs, and DIY depending on the situation. The more you understand your options, the less stressful RV ownership becomes. Join the Conversation Share your RV service stories with us!  Have you used a travel center like Love’s for RV service yet? The post RV Service: Where to Go, What to Choose, and What It Really Costs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RV Service: Where to Go, What to Choose, and What It Really Costs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    48 min

  3. APR 2

    What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update)

    If you’ve been watching the RV market lately, you’ve probably noticed things feel a little different.Inventory is shifting. Prices are stabilizing. And there’s a lot of mixed messaging about whether now is a good time to buy, sell, or wait. But before we even hit the main topic, this episode starts with a couple of real-world conversations from the road and the campground that set the stage for everything happening in the industry right now. Pre-Show Conversations Disney’s Fort Wilderness Changes Sean shares his recent experience at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and what he’s seeing on the ground. We talk about: The evolving feel of Fort Wilderness Ongoing updates and construction The upcoming Lakeshore Lodge and how it could reshape the campground experience It’s a great real-world example of how even iconic campgrounds are evolving to meet changing traveler expectations. Hanging Out with James from The Fit RV We also talk about a recent visit and YouTube video collaboration that Kenny did with James from The Fit RV. James gave Kenny a shop tour as Kenny interviewed him on what it takes to build a shop at your home and how he uses his shop to create products such as the Americanizer. Shop tour video: https://www.thefitrv.com/blog/tour-the-fit-rv-shop-or-just-hang-out-for-an-hour/ In This Episode Once we jump in, we break down what’s actually happening across the RV industry in 2026. No hype. No doom and gloom. Just a clear look at the trends shaping the market right now. We cover: The latest RV shipment numbers and what they really mean Why motorhomes and towables are moving in different directions What major manufacturers like Winnebago Industries, Thor Industries, and REV Group are seeing How campgrounds and camping styles are evolving The growing divide between younger and older RVers What all of this means if you’re thinking about buying or already own an RV Key Takeaways The RV market is not crashing, but it is rebalancing after the COVID boom Motorhomes are holding stronger than towables, especially at higher price points Manufacturers are shifting toward a lower volume, higher margin strategy Camping demand remains strong, but how people camp is changing Younger campers are driving growth in glamping and high-end RV resorts, while older RVers tend to stick with more traditional and budget-conscious travel A Shift in Camping Culture One of the biggest trends we’re seeing is how different generations approach camping. Younger travelers are more focused on the experience. They’re choosing visually appealing destinations, upgraded campgrounds, and higher-end RV resorts that are easy to share on social media. Meanwhile, many longtime RVers are sticking with a more traditional approach, focusing on value, simplicity, and familiarity. Camping isn’t just about getting away anymore. For a lot of people, it’s about how that experience looks and feels. What This Means for You If you’re thinking about buying: You may have more negotiating power than in recent years Inventory is improving Financing still plays a major role in affordability If you already own an RV: Values are holding better than expected Especially for motorized units The market hasn’t slowed down. It’s just become more selective. Episode Sources & Industry Data • RVIA February 2026 Shipment Reporthttps://www.rvia.org/reports-trends/rv-shipment-reports/2026-02/february-rv-shipments-top-29000-motorhomes-22 • RV Industry Trends & Newshttps://gorvrentals.com/blog/latest-rv-news-march-2026 • Thor Industries Market Updatehttps://www.rvnews.com/thor-industries-swings-to-profits-in-quarter/ • RV PRO News Feedhttps://rv-pro.com/news/ • Winnebago Market Coveragehttps://www.wsj.com/business/earnings/winnebago-revenue-rises-as-price-hikes-counteract-lower-sales-volume-31fc174f • REV Group / Industry Analysishttps://www.investors.com/news/rv-sales-thor-industries-earnings-tho-stock-rev-group-outlook-revg-stock-wgo/ • MarketWatch Industry Insighthttps://www.marketwatch.com/story/winnebagos-stock-rockets-to-biggest-gain-in-45-years-as-younger-buyers-eye-rvs-f489854d • The Dyrt Camping Trendshttps://thedyrt.com/press/four-out-of-five-campers-increase-camping-frequency-during-retirement/ • Glamping Trends Overviewhttps://www.glampingshow.us/magazine/younger-camper-trends/ Listen & Follow If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow the podcast and share it with someone who’s thinking about RV life or already living it. Because right now, the RV market isn’t throwing a tantrum… it’s just growing up a little. The post What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update) appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update) appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    50 min

  4. FEB 12

    RV Myths Busted

    There’s a lot of noise out there about RV life, and not all of it is true. In this episode of Beyond The Wheel Podcast, we’re busting some of the most common RV myths and sharing what life on the road actually looks like. From where you stay, to who you meet, to the real costs involved, this is a reality check for anyone curious about RVing. Whether you’re RV-curious or already rolling down the highway, this episode separates fact from fiction. What We Cover in This Episode Why RV myths exist and how they shape expectations Myth #1: You must stay in campgrounds Boondocking, dispersed camping, and unique overnight stays Myth #2: RV life is lonely Community, friendships, and unexpected connections on the road Myth #3: RVs can’t handle extreme weather Staying comfortable in heat and cold with the right setup Myth #4: RV life is always cheaper Real costs like fuel and maintenance How budgeting actually works in RV life Final thoughts and a fun sign-off Who This Episode Is For Anyone considering RV life New RVers sorting fact from fiction Full-time or part-time RVers nodding along saying, “Yep, that’s true” Connect With Us If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who still thinks RV life only happens in campgrounds. See you down the road. The post RV Myths Busted appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RV Myths Busted appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    31 min

  5. JAN 29

    So You Want to Be an RVer?

    Thinking about becoming an RVer? Already on the road and wondering why it still feels harder than expected?This episode is for you. RV life looks simple from the outside, but the reality hits fast once plans change, weather turns, budgets stretch, and things break. In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we break down what it actually takes to become an RVer and stay sane doing it. This isn’t about what RV to buy or which gadgets to install. It’s about mindset, flexibility, planning, and budgeting for real life on the road. What We Cover in This Episode Flexibility Is the Real Skill Why rigid schedules don’t survive RV life and how learning to plan in pencil makes the experience more enjoyable and far less stressful. Keeping Your Cool When Things Go Wrong From breakdowns to bad weather, things will go sideways. We talk about what actually goes wrong most often and how experienced RVers stay calm while new RVers panic. Planning Without Overplanning How to plan the things that matter like routes, fuel, height, power, and access without killing the fun by over-scheduling every mile and minute. Budgeting for Reality, Not Instagram The real costs of RV life, why budgets should be ranges not fixed numbers, and the expenses nobody mentions when you’re just getting startedIs RV Life Really for You? Honest talk about who thrives in RV life, who struggles, and why there’s no “right” way to do it. Key Takeaways Flexibility matters more than gear Calm decision-making beats control Overplanning creates stress, not safety RV budgets are unpredictable by nature RV life evolves and that’s normal Final Thought Becoming an RVer isn’t about being ready.It’s about being adaptable. Join the Conversation If this episode helped you, share it with someone who’s RV-curious or just starting out.Have a “first RV disaster” story? We want to hear it. Follow Beyond The Wheel for more honest conversations about RV life, the industry, and what really happens once you hit the road. The post So You Want to Be an RVer? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post So You Want to Be an RVer? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    36 min

  6. JAN 15

    Why Keeping Your RV Beats Buying New

    Everyone keeps asking us when we’re upgrading.The truth is… we already did. In this episode, Kenny and Sean get real about why they are both still traveling in RVs that are years old and why, for most RVers, keeping what you already own and upgrading it smartly is often a better move than buying brand new. Kenny’s Class A just turned ten years old. Sean’s rig is over five. Between the two of them, they’ve logged thousands of miles, countless repairs, upgrades, and lessons that no sales brochure can teach. This conversation isn’t anti new RVs. It’s pro smart ownership. If you’ve ever felt pressure to trade in your rig because it feels outdated, this episode will change how you look at what you already own. In this episode we cover • Why the RV industry constantly pushes the “upgrade cycle”• How social media makes perfectly good RVs feel old• The hidden costs of buying new that no one talks about• Why knowing your rig is more valuable than owning a new one• How targeted upgrades can outperform a brand new RV• The stress and uncertainty that comes with new ownership• When it actually does make sense to buy new• Why most RVers don’t need a new RV, they need a better version of the one they already have Why this matters RVs are not phones.They are houses that go through earthquakes. New does not automatically mean better. Often it just means unproven. By keeping and upgrading their rigs, Kenny and Sean have built RVs that are tailored to their exact travel style, off grid needs, and comfort. That knowledge, reliability, and confidence is something money cannot buy off a dealer lot. Who this episode is for • RVers feeling pressure to upgrade• Full timers trying to stretch their budget• Weekend campers who love their current rig• Anyone who wants less stress and more time on the road The big takeaway Most RVers do not need a new RV.They need a smarter version of the one they already have. The post Why Keeping Your RV Beats Buying New appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Why Keeping Your RV Beats Buying New appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    37 min

  7. JAN 1

    Beyond the Wheel – Driver’s Edition Dec 2025

    Steady Sales, Strategic Moves, and a Market Growing Up In this Driver’s Edition episode of Beyond the Wheel, Kenny takes listeners behind the scenes of the RV industry to unpack what’s really happening right now. Using recent shipment numbers, dealer dynamics, and major industry moves, this episode cuts through the noise to explain where the market stands and what it means for buyers, owners, and anyone watching the RV space. This isn’t a boom-and-bust story. It’s a look at an industry maturing, recalibrating, and adapting to a more intentional consumer. In this episode, we cover: Recent RV shipment numbers from the last quarter and what they actually signal Why wholesale shipments and retail sales don’t always tell the same story How buyer behavior has shifted toward payments, value, and long-term ownership Why some RVs are being heavily discounted while others hold firm on price Inventory pressure, floorplan costs, and the reality dealers are managing today What types of RVs are still selling well and why Interior and upholstery trends driven by real-world use, not showroom flash Quiet but meaningful changes in RV build philosophy and serviceability RV technology that genuinely improves the camping experience The Lazy Days shakeup: how Camping World and Campers Inn split the dealership group What dealer consolidation means for consumers, service, and the future of the industry Key takeaways: RV shipments show stability, not chaos Buyers haven’t disappeared, they’ve become more selective Dealer consolidation reflects tighter margins and a more disciplined market The most important RV improvements today are often the least flashy Whether you’re shopping for your next rig, considering upgrades, or just want a clearer picture of where the RV industry is headed, this Driver’s Edition gives you the context you need without the hype. The post Beyond the Wheel – Driver’s Edition Dec 2025 appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Beyond the Wheel – Driver’s Edition Dec 2025 appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    41 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    When Your Dog Becomes an Author – The Story Behind Belle’s RV Adventures

    In this special episode of Beyond the Wheel, Sean flips the mic and interviews Kenny about the creation of his first children’s book, Belle’s RV Adventures. What started as life on the road with a dog named Belle turned into a children’s book designed to spark curiosity, imagination, and a love for travel. Kenny shares why he decided to turn Belle’s real RV travels into a story for kids, what the self-publishing process actually looks like, and what surprised him most about becoming a first-time author. This episode pulls back the curtain on the creative process, the emotional side of launching a book, and how storytelling can connect families to the RV lifestyle in a whole new way. In This Episode, We Cover: Why Belle became the main character How real RV travels inspired the story The decision to create a children’s book Lessons learned from self-publishing What this book means for families who love adventure What’s next for Belle’s RV Adventures About the Book Belle’s RV Adventures is a children’s book told from the perspective of Belle, a curious dog who experiences the world from the passenger seat of an RV. The story celebrates travel, discovery, and seeing the world through fresh eyes.  Get the book here:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G42HQH59 Don’t Forget If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves RVing, travel, or reading with their kids. The post When Your Dog Becomes an Author – The Story Behind Belle’s RV Adventures appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post When Your Dog Becomes an Author – The Story Behind Belle’s RV Adventures appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

    39 min
See All (224)

4.7
out of 5
36 Ratings

About

A podcast about RV travel, products, manufacturers, destinations, and lifestyle. We explore behind the scenes of everything that makes RV travel possible.

Information

  • Creator
    Beyond the Wheel
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    224
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Wheel

You Might Also Like