The concept of living life to the fullest isn’t a new one.  After all, the Airstream trailer has been part of the American vacation since the 1930s.  However, there are several differences between attitudes then verses that of the modern Airstream adventurer. 

For example, back then, based on traditional work and lifestyle attitudes, recreational vehicles were often used for two weeks in the summer - the kids were out of school and dad would cash in on his two week vacation.  Or an RV was purchased when a couple met retirement age.  Fortunately, our attitudes about work and living have shifted.  We have realized the importance of living in the now and doing it for as long as we can.  For many of us this includes seeing the sights and experiences offered from life on the road.  Airstream travel is no longer constrained to just the retired or summer vacationers.  

When it comes to having the adventurous spirit to travel by recreational vehicle, you either have it or you don’t.  Sometimes it starts early in life, maybe as a child your parents took the family around the county in the RV during the summer.  For others, the inkling that there is a different type of life out there wiggled its way into your mind as a shiny silver submarine passed you on the road.  All who are bitten by this RV travel bug are usually forever thankful that they discovered what is out there.  Some are able to make a permanent switch.  Maybe they are retired or able to work from the road.  For others it may be a momentary switch from normal life, perhaps for a weekend, the summer, or a few months.  For all, once they have had a taste of the open road they will likely not forget it.  They will find a way to stay there, or make plans to get back someday.

Fortunately, there are ways to find other people like yourself.  One of these clubs is the Wally Byam Caravan Club (WBCC).  This club is dedicated to anyone who owns a trailer or motorhome created by Airstream.  Through WBCC, Airstream owners will find information about caravans.  Caravans are organized trips where participants BYOA (bring your own Airstream) and explore an outlined area, such as a specific area of a state.  Caravans can last a few days to a few weeks.   At these excursions participants will find adventure, excellent comradery and good memories. Due to the organization of the leaders who plan the excursion and the financial discounts given to those caravanning, the cost of taking part is likely to be significantly less expensive than taking the same journey solo.  At their website www.wbcci.org, WBCC members can find several caravan options. 

Also popular with Airstream owners are rallies.  Rallies are essentially large, organized gatherings where people who have a common interest (in this case, Airstreams) and do lots of other activities besides talk “Airstream”.  Food is often involved as well as crafts, games and recreational activities.  Membership to WBCC does need to be applied for and one of the requirements is the ownership of an Airstream recreational vehicle.  Included with your membership are other discount options, such as RV insurance, ten yearly issues of the Blue Beret newsletter and access to many other kinds of activities and discussions geared towards those who participate in the Airstream lifestyle.   

Another dedicated Airstream organization is the Vintage Airstream Club (VAC).  This organization recognizes those who have put blood, sweat and tears into vintage Airstreams (twenty five years or older), as well as those who simply admire the classic look.  At their website www.airstream.net, VAC members are able to find Airstream related events, such as parades or rallies, taking place around the United States.  There is a discussion panel where other Airsteam enthusiasts can lend consul and exchange ideas with their peers.  Membership also includes the Vintage Advantage, the bi-annual VAC newsletter.  With no requirement to actually own an Airstream to join, the VAC is a great place to find people who know extensive Airstream history and are very eager to talk!

Perhaps we can credit the Airstream with being the pivotal turning point between living a life of work with a little adventure verses living adventure with a little work.  Such an interpretation we will leave up to the individual, but anyone on the road will attest to their preference for it.  They will talk about their sense of freedom and the incredible sights.  They will mention their bond with their travel partner(s), their new friends, fabulous memories and fantastic stories - all of this without having to leave the comforts of their very own home!    

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