Affinities and nostalgia are what drive the vintage Airstream enthusiast. Not only is an Airstream RV pretty to look at and admire, but for many people the sight of an Airstream represents something more.
Created in the 1930s, a time affected by depression and then by war, the Airsteam trailer was a means for people to escape their troubles and enjoy the simplicity of life. The Airsteam design was so popular back then that the Airstream Company was only one of just a few trailer companies to be a success during those financially difficult times. That success has carried on into modern day.
Just as the Airstream was a beacon of hope and possibility back then, the vintage Airstream today is looked at in the same manner. For those who are passionate about the large, shiny, aluminum capsules, they will tell you that this particular type of RV represents something more. What that something is, is different for each of us. For some it’s freedom and adventure, the ability to be on the open road, with no schedule and no responsibilities. For others it triggers feelings of home, such as comfort and security; they have a familiar place to relax and retire for the evening. For others it is cooking smores on the campfire, watching your daughter master riding a bike, meeting new friends, connecting with old ones at the same campgrounds and perfect family photographs. All those experiences are ones that are cherished forever.
While we may not be able to sum up exactly what it is about a vintage Airstream, any time one passes by our eyes follow it and we sigh. Overall a beautiful old Airstream makes us long for simpler times, treasured memories and the ability to seek more of the good stuff.
Fortunately, we are not alone in our feelings. Once you are in the Airstream world of RVing, you will find that there are many Airstream aficionados out there. They may currently own a vintage, or simply be an admirer of the oldies but goodies. Either way, you can connect with your Airstream peers by touring or by joining organizations such as the Vintage Airstream Club (VAC). The VAC considers a vintage Airstream to be anything older than twenty five years. They join discussion groups to get tips on anything from finding accessories for their vintage Airstream to troubleshooting those quirks that come with owning an older RV to finding the next vintage RV rally. As with any passion, it certainly helps to talk to people who have a similar interest to keep your enthusiasm high. There are even classifieds so a person looking to buy a vintage Airstream has a good place to look for one.
When a vintage Airstream enthusiast “rescues” and restores an old Airstream in need of attention, the results are hard earned with a large amount invested in labor and parts. However, the results are impressive and the effort admirable. For those who have restored a vintage Airstream there is a great sense of pride. They have taken something that may have perhaps been considered useless or unwanted and turned it into a gem. You have worked hard on something and can see that your efforts have resulted in a great accomplishment.
When it comes to vintage Airstreams, there seem to be two different kinds of owners. There are the “purists”, those individuals who are dedicated to the true vintage Airstream. They maintain original parts and any changes that need to be made are done in an as accurate a restoration as possible. Then there are those who can’t help but add some newer, non-vintage luxury items into their remodels. Some may chose to completely change the layout. They may upgrade the cabin’s cabinets or install a television. Whichever category you may fall into, the ownership of an old Airstream is something to enjoy.
So while there may not be many of us who can claim to have seen the hard knocks presented in the 1930s and the emergence of the Airstream, we are fortunate that the quality and classic good looks of the vintage has allowed it to live on into modern day. The old Airstreams allow us to partake in times that are simpler, more relaxing and will be treasured for more than a lifetime.
So, you are interested in joining the ranks of the Airstream owners? What was it about these silver beauties that caught your eye? Their shiny exteriors or all the fun the people inside seem to be having? Regardless of how your interest began, there are several options out there for those who are shopping for a used Airstream.
First you should do some simple research about the Airstream reputation. What you will find is that Airstreams have been around since the 1930s. Their sturdy, aerodynamic build and classic good looks have endured for decades. Not only is their aluminum aircraft-like design long-lasting, but there are people out there who prefer vintage Airstreams over owning a brand new one!
When you buy a used Airstream you are buying a RV that has been tried and tested. Someone has already taken it around the block and worked out the kinks. Likely the previous owners installed some updates while the Airstream was in their care. If you find an RV that has been well taken care of, the savings of buying used can be worth it. It is still in good condition, but because it simply isn’t new off the dealership lot you reap the savings.
Depending on the age and use of a previously owned Airstream, likely the typical items that have needed replacing have already been taken care of. When you do need to make repairs, because of Airstreams ongoing popularity, replacement parts are easy to find. You can find these parts and services through your local RV or Airstream dealer. If you yourself are confident in your knowledgeable of repair you can save even more money should the particular vehicle you are considering need attention. If you run into a problem and you need extra help, there are several Airstream sources to consult. At the Wally Byam Caravan Club (WBCC) Airstream owners will find a discussion board where questions can be asked and answers can be found. If you buy from a dealer you may have a warranty included in your purchase that will cover certain parts up to a certain time. Even if you buy used a limited warranty may be offered.
One of the downfalls of buying a used Airstream is that it will have been indeed used. With use come dents and scratches on the outside and spills and wrinkles on the inside. The one good thing about not having a perfectly new RV is that you will be less likely to cry over the next blemish you cause to your Airstream.
Anyone selling a used Airsteam, whether you are buying from a dealership or an individual, should be able to tell you what the most recent owners exposed it to such as kids, pets or smoking. Some of these factors may be deal breakers for potential buyers and you will have to keep looking.
An advantage of using a dealership that sells Airstreams is that you can let them know what you are looking for and they can keep an eye out for you. Other good sources to consider are RV websites where you can find classifieds. There is a large selection of used Airstream motorhomes and trailers available.
Should you decide you are looking for a project and want to personally tailor or restore an Airsteam, you want to naturally buy one that has this kind of potential. Because the exteriors of these particular RVs are so durable, you can buy a used one in the size you want and then drastically change the interior to fit your individual needs. The options are almost limitless.
Lastly, an excellent reason for buying a used Airstream is that it allows people on a budget to enter into the special world of RV travel. If you have a budget and yet have your heart set on an Airstream, buying used is the way to go. With all the benefits of buying used, it is prudent to mention that just like buying any other used item, there are some downfalls in not buying brand new. However, with a quality item such as an Airstream and the availability of parts, knowledge and support, if you chose to embark on this journey likely you will be pleased with the results. Happy shopping!
The Great Depression wasn’t a time of frivolous extras, but surprisingly, this was the start of the Airstream travel trailer. In a coincidence of occurrences, the dismal state of the economy, combined with the United States government working towards creating a standardized highway system, combined with people’s desire to escape their troubles, allowed for the perfect introduction to American road travel.
Typical of many “greats”, the Airstream company began humbly and somewhat accidentally. Wally Byam, a young magazine publisher, published an instruction guide outlining how to build your own camping trailer. Many readers attempted to follow the camping trailer guide yet ran into difficulties and then complained to the magazine. In an effort figure out where his readers were encountering problems, Wally set out to build his own trailer in his backyard. Upon near completion of each trailer, Wally would end up selling it to someone, causing him to continuously restart building another trailer from scratch. With each new trailer Wally would begin making additional improvements and start calling his designs “Airstreams”.
Some of the improvements Wally made to his version of the trailer included making the camper tall enough for people to stand up while inside of it. Imagine the luxury of being able to stand upright rather than stooping uncomfortably! Other extravagances started making their way into Wally’s trailers such as a dinette that could convert into a bed, sensibly maximizing all use of space. Trailers were outfitted with a container so there was a water supply on hand and gasoline stoves allowed for cooking better, delicious meals while traveling or camping.
Wally’s personal history of traveling, serving as a merchant marine, graduating from law school, becoming a publisher, led him to create - of all things - trailers in his backyard, allowing him to understand not only the comforts of travel, but the physics of it as well. This knowledge, combined with his association with William Hawley Bowlus, a pioneer airplane designer, helped Wally improve on the aerodynamics of his creations. His trailers were originally made out of plywood, but as they became more developed, he started to incorporate ideas borrowed from the aircraft industry. Wally shaped his trailers so they were curved and sleek, better to disperse the flow to air around its body. He also focused on the weight of his trailers, to better improve their towing strength. However, it wasn’t until 1936 that the trailer took on the look that will forever be worn by an Airstream. This particular model was named the “Clipper” and was a very advanced and luxurious trailer for its day, featuring a riveted aluminum exterior, the ability to sleep four passengers and even power electric lights.
The Clipper came with a hefty price tag, especially considering the depression era. Despite the expense, however, demand was high for an Airstream. The unique trailers increased in popularity until a few years later when the country was once again diverted by World War II. The war required that the country’s resources, especially items such as tires, aluminum and gasoline, be collaborated and conserved. At this point, Wally turned his attention from making recreational vehicles to lending his skills to the war effort. The time Wally spent assisting in the war effort increased his understanding and knowledge of trailer fabrication. Once the war ended and the country’s economy turned around, the Airstream trailers took off in popularity once again.
From the very beginning to the current day, there are a number of different types of Airstream recreational vehicles now on the road. They come in a multitude of different sizes and styles. Because of this, there seems to be an Airstream that fits most every traveling desire. People today still chose Airstreams because of their classic good looks and their comfortable layouts. Evolving to continuously meet the needs of its appreciative audience, the Airstream’s quiet, and unintended beginnings have brought many people much happy traveling. And the rest is, as we say, history!
Traveling by Airstream is a unique way to live life. It’s a little like being a turtle with just your small home on your back. You have to be willing to give up the notion that your home stays in one place but instead can come with you. You have to want to see magnificent places and do exciting things. You need to be willing to go with the flow and problem solve when lost or experiencing a change in plans. To hit the road in an Airstream for a long period of time requires a fair amount of independence, adventure and flexibility.
The size of an Airstream allows you to have the comfort of home in a more condensed version. Living in just the space you need is often quite liberating. In our consumption based society, it feels quite nice to whittle down your possessions to fit into your new space. When you misplace an object in your Airstream, there is usually less area to search than in the average single family home! It is also less space to clean! Soon you will find that all you need is exactly what you have.
The beauty of traveling by RV is that your own house goes everywhere with you. You can visit a number of wonderful places and yet still sleep in the same bed every night. You have comfort, you have security, and you have your own belongings. When you compare this to camping with a tent, setting up an Airstream at a new camp sight is relatively easy. When you pull into a campground all you usually have to do is plug a few things in and put chocks behind the tires as an extra precaution to keep the wheels in place. And presto! Home sweet home!
Many people chose Airstreams so they can take their furry family members with them on the road too. Due to the longevity that is usually found with traveling by RV, having a comfortable home for Fido is important. Because Airstreams are so luxurious, pets feel right at home. They can have their beds, their toys and either air conditioning or heat, depending on the outside temperature. The ability to bring your pet along on trips guarantees companionship and security. Most RV campgrounds do allow dogs as long as guardians follow the rules regarding leashes, barking and clean up. However, keep in mind that many state parks do not allow dogs on trails, so be sure to check everywhere you visit to see if your pups are welcomed.
As you travel around by Airstream, be prepared to make friends along the way. They may be friends for five minutes or friends for a lifetime. Usually this friendship begins because you are towing around a shiny, bullet shaped, aluminum capsule. Such a unique object tends to catch the eye and interest of people it passes. So when you pull in to the gas station to fill up, be prepared for curious strangers to approach and inquire about your Airstream. If you are a new Airstream owner, this may seem strange in the beginning as many of us are not used to people we don’t know walking up to us and initiating conversation. In the beginning, you may be eager to talk about your pride and joy, however after a while this can also become somewhat tiring when it occurs over and over. Remember, people are simply enthusiastic and interested. You are essentially a spokesperson for a different way of life, one that many people don’t have the opportunity to partake in, so if you can’t be beamingly receptive, at least try to muster politeness.
Interest in your recreational vehicle of choice will also follow you to the RV campgrounds. The folks you will find at an RV park are personable, interesting people so they have a natural inclination to initiate conversation. Everyone there has something in common, their decision to travel around by RV, and everyone likes to see what other fun toys are out there. Many are curious, so be prepared for your neighbors to ask if they can peek their head in your RV to take a look. Have your answer prepared ahead of time so that you can answer within your level of comfort.
One of the benefits of a campground is that usually there are a number people around so those extra eyes and ears should decrease the chances of an RV break-in. However, do keep in mind that just like a car or a house, break-ins and theft is always a possibility. Any time you leave your Airstream lock your doors and make you’re your windows are secure. You may want to consider not bringing along items on your trip that are valuable, whether fiscally or sentimentally. Quite often certain papers are important to have along, such as information about insurance or medical records. Make sure to have copies of these important papers in a different secure location so that if something happens to the ones you have along there are backups. It is also a good idea to let family members or friends know of the whereabouts of your current and upcoming locations.
Life in an Airstream is exciting, scenic and relaxing. Many people attempt to make this way of life a permanent thing. By either retiring from your profession or having a career that you can take on the road allows this possibility. For many who can’t make that kind of commitment to their Airstream quite yet, they are content with using their RV as much as they can, likely with the hopes of making it an Airstream way of life in the future!
Fabricating trailers is how the company Airstream got their start back in the 1930s. Wally Byam, a young publisher, worked for a “how to” magazine where they published a guide on how to build a travel trailer. From there, Wally began building several different trailers in his own backyard, each one better than the last. These trailers were so popular that a company called Airstream was started. To this day Airstream is one of the best known creators of recreation vehicles!
Airstream trailers are often chosen by those who crave exploration and adventure because of the trailers ability to travel easily while at the same time providing the comforts of a home. Smaller than a motorhome, Airstream trailers vary in sizes but generally fall into the lengths of 16 feet to 34 feet. Because these trailers are sturdy and lightweight, they are ideal to tow with an appropriate vehicle.
When it comes to choosing which Airstream trailer best suites your needs here are some questions to consider: How often will you be using your trailer? Will you be taking it out for weekends or will you be hitting the road for longer stretches? How many passengers will usually be traveling with you? What kind of activities will you be participating in? What types of campgrounds would you like to stay at? How large of a trailer are you comfortable towing and what type of towing vehicle will you be using?
Likely any Airstream dealership or RV show you visit will have plenty of knowledgeable representatives on hand help you answer any questions. It is an excellent idea to get information from a professional. However, by going in prepared, these representatives will be better able to assist you in your search for the perfect Airsteam trailer. There are many different trailer options out there and they range from brand new to previously owned.
Airstream trailers are often appealing because they are easy to tow. They come with easy hookup to the towing vehicle and easy setup once at the campsite. Because trailers are smaller than moterhomes, there is more flexibility in the places they can go. Some campsites are cozier, more private and have rougher areas than others. If you hope to take advantage of the more secluded, hidden gems, you may want to go with a smaller trailer.
Another advantage to towing is that when you want to do more exploring from your home base you can simply unhook the towing vehicle and take off without having to lug your trailer with you everywhere you go. This makes sightseeing and visiting popular tourist destinations a little less stressful.
Even though Airstream travel trailers are smaller and lighter, they still have the comforts people are looking for in a home on wheels. Trailers can feature kitchens with refrigerators and stoves, bedrooms with full beds and bathrooms with showers. Trailers allow for security and privacy when traveling. There is never the need to unpack and your pets are always welcome!
When deciding what size of an Airstream trailer best suites your needs consider how many people will be traveling with you. The bigger the trailer the more beds you are able to create and the more room to store your recreational equipment. In fact, Airstream makes certain trailers dedicated to towing toys such as motorcycles, all terrain vehicles and other adventure gear. These specific trailers are outfitted with rugged textured floors, tie downs and electrical outlets.
Airstream travel trailers are available in many different levels ranging from standard décor and layout to high-end design. You can get them with just the bare bones of amenities all the way up to flat screen televisions, stainless steel appliances and buttery soft leather couches. All of them have the classic Airstream aluminum skin exterior as well as advanced insulation. And all of them are geared toward making the most of your time out there enjoying life and making memories!
Rather than buy a brand new Airstream some people prefer to buy a used Airstream and make it new!
Because Airstream exteriors are so durable in strength and classic in appearance, they have been a sought after recreational vehicle since their creation in the 1930’s. Today, brand new Airstream models are quite impressive. Some have large bathrooms and luxurious leather couches. However, those options can be too expensive for some people’s budgets and for others they may relish the thought of taking an old Airstream and returning it to its former glory.
Buying a used Airstream, with the intention to restore the exterior, interior, or both, is one way some individuals can get their dream RV. Other people are looking for a project either for fun, for an investment, or both. Some people chose to restore an Airstream so they can customize it to their individual needs. Perhaps you need extra aisle space or want to put in more kitchen cabinets or make the bed a queen instead of a double. A customized RV will be perfectly suited to your lifestyle, making your travels and adventures more enjoyable. Whatever your reasons, if you have the skills needed to renovate an old Airstream you have almost limitless options available to you.
Should you decide to embark on the journey of Airstream restoration, you can rest assure that you are not alone in your endeavor. There are many other people like you out there in the world and you can find them through local RV clubs in your area or larger Airstream clubs such as the Wally Byam Caravan Club (WBCC). By connecting with people who have Airstream restoration in common with you they can lend ideas, support, problem-solving and praise.
A restoration project begins by judging the extent of your project and the condition of the Airstream you are working with. If you are working on the exterior of an Airstream, you will want to research how to care for aluminum siding that is dented, scratched, or dull. You may need to work on overhead fans, awnings and door latches and become familiar with trailer brakes, leveling jacks, propane tanks and hookups. You will want to learn how to weather proof old windows or replace them all together.
For those trying to keep the true identity of a vintage Airstream they may need to be a little more attentive to the small details and search higher and lower for certain parts than someone who is restoring without the same intense goal. If you are seeking as much of an authentic restoration as possible there are many sites, including the Vintage Airsteam Club, to consult for ideas and suggestions.
When it comes to restoring the interior of your Airstream there is a little more room for imagination and creativity. Skills in the areas of design, carpentry, upholstery, mechanics, electrical and plumbing are needed. Design is the first step involved with restoration. There are many model floor plans available out there but likely someone starting a renovation project has their own ideas in mind to help personalize or maximize the space. Carpentry is needed for moving and rebuilding structures such as cabinets, seats and bed frames. There is also usually a fair amount of upholstery in an RV ranging from cushion seats, benches and curtains. If you can sew you will be able to save yourself the expense of hiring a professional to do the work. Mechanical, electrical and plumbing knowledge is crucial when working with the many different parts that give an Airstream a cool refrigerator, a hot stove, working lights and flowing water from the faucet. Possessing these skills will also help you trouble-shoot the many stumbling blocks you are likely to encounter when taking on a big, yet exciting, project such as RV restoration.
Other important factors to consider in your project are time, energy and finances. Perhaps you are trying to adhere to a timetable so your renovated Airstream will be available for use by a certain date, or maybe you have embarked on a more leisurely time frame, either way a large restoration project is going to take up a fair amount of personal free time. Working on projects such as this can be both emotionally and physically demanding due to the amount thought and strenuous activity involved. While you may be able to save a lot of money doing your project yourself a restoration doesn’t come cheap so be prepared to invest money into the Airstream.
It is important when working with an older RV to make sure that it is structurally sound to hit the road. As the restorer you have the responsibility to ensure the safety of both the people in the Airstream as well as those with whom you share the road. If you have any questions or doubts consult a professional.
While an Airstream restoration project is a big job to tackle, know that your efforts will be well worth it. You and your loved ones will have the enjoyment of taking it on the road and while out there your restored Airstream will be admired by many!
Pretty, sparkly things have a way of getting our attention. That’s exactly why a woman will gaze at the sparkling diamond on her finger or someone will stoop to pick up the quarter off the sidewalk as it glistens in the sun. And that’s also why some people will fall silent when a shiny Airstream RV passes by.
Airstreams have a unique look. Their full-bodied aluminum siding cannot be missed as they cruise down the road. An Airstream is recognized by its unique shape and exterior, so for that reason alone it is nice to keep up a pretty appearance! And even more importantly, just like any other investment, it pays to take care of your RV. Proper maintenance will help guarantee many years of enjoyment ahead. With regular upkeep, you will also have a better idea of the condition of your vehicle. You will become familiar of what dings and dents are new, any parts that need replacing, or how often you need to polish it to keep it looking its best.
Be forewarned: Polishing your Airstream is a time consuming and arm tiring endeavor! It is recommended that you invest in a random orbital buffer to help get the job done.
The other materials necessary for this task are fairly simple: You will need a basic automotive wash, masking or painter’s tape, approximately half a dozen buffing pads (“polishing” pads are optional, depending on your preference), polishing compound and a ladder.
The first thing you want to do is give your Airstream a good wash as you normally would and then let it dry completely. You want to start with a squeaky clean RV because if you have any dirt or sand on your vehicle you could get scratches when buffing.
After your Airstream is dry, use the tape to prevent polish from getting anywhere you don’t want it to go, such as onto windows, any plastic or wood object affixed to the RV and any other fine detailing that would be dulled by polish. Accidentally getting polish on objects is easy…and a lot more difficult to get off! Take the tape and either directly cover these off-limits areas or put the tape just in front of them so you don’t cross over.
Now you are ready to start using the polish itself. Apply the polishing compound directly onto the buffing pad (using a putty knife to scoop it onto the pad helps keep this messy job a little tidier!) Depending on your strategy and your efficiency, you may find it more rewarding to do one small section at a time. Now that the polish is on the pad, hold the buffer against the Airstream, turn it on and let it do its work! After a couple passes with the buffer, change out the pad for a clean one (or a polishing pad), put that on the buffer and shine’er up!
Ideally you will have amble room to move around and easily reach all parts of your Airstream. Before climbing on top of your vehicle be sure to check with a dealership to find out what the load baring capabilities are for your particular model. If you are able to stand on the roof take precautions to avoid scratching or denting the top (and of course, don’t fall off!)
If you find that after polishing an area the results aren’t satisfactory, you may need to use a rubbing compound before the polishing compound. There is also the possibility that your aluminum has a clear coating over the top (if you purchased your Airstream secondhand you may not know if there is one.) If your RV does have a topcoat, your polishing efforts will be for naught as this coat will prevent the ability to polish what is underneath. In this situation, rather than waste your time and energy, you will need to seek professional help to spiff up your Airstream with its clear coating.
If you don’t know if you have a clear coat on your exterior one of the easiest ways to find out is by taking a clean, soft rag, dab some polish on it and buff - in quick back and forth motions – onto a small, hidden spot on the Airstream. Just like polishing silver jewelry or silverware, the rag will turn black as the tarnish comes off. If this is the case then you do not have a clear coat.
Polishing your Airstream is a little bit of work, but the results are worth it! Afterwards you will have a beautiful RV that will catch the attention of people as you pass by!
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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How many extras you want to add to your Airstream RV is entirely up to you. There are accessories that you many consider a “must” which other RVers may consider optional, and vice versa. Some of these accessories will immediately come to mind upon the initial purchase of your Airstream and the necessity of other accessories will only come up through actual use of your RV.
Many people who live life on the road for a long duration prefer to have their Airstream outfitted with many of the items you would find in a house. This includes a small kitchen. The ability to store and make your own food is cost effective and offers a huge benefit over staying in hotels. Usually the appliances in these kitchenettes are smaller versions of the standard sizes, such as miniature refrigerators and stoves. The more room you have to work with, the bigger these appliances can be. Some of the bigger Airstreams also come with microwaves. The size of the Airstream also determines how big of a water container you can carry. Unlike most situations many of us are used to, in an RV there is a limited amount of water, so it is possible to run out! The same can be said about the tiny bathrooms and the amenities offered there. If your Airstream comes with a bathroom, there is a certain commitment made for maintenance and upkeep. If you use the toilet the storage tank does eventually need to be emptied when full. This method has been fine-tuned in the most recent years, but it is still a slightly less than desirable task! Fortunately, if you do opt not to have restroom on your RV, many campgrounds have very nice facilities.
Because optimal use of space is crucial in an Airstream, clever systems have been created. Quite often dining areas also turn into sleeping quarters. The advantage to this is it makes space multi-usable. Depending on your traveling needs, your personal interests and your towing capacity, you can have a smaller RV. The downfall is that if that is your only place to eat and the only place to sleep, you have to spend time transforming them into one of the other when needed.
Televisions can be found in almost any size Airstream. While recreational vehicles are designed around living on the road, and the reason most people take to the road is for the sights and adventures found there, night does fall. Reading, talking, campfires and games are great ways to fill the evenings, but sometimes a little mindless entertainment is desired. In order to get television reception, an RV needs to be outfitted with a satellite. If you don’t want to spring for that extra expense, get a DVD player so that you can watch movies.
Of course part of the appeal of traveling in an Airstream is that the great outdoors is considered your backyard. Many people who are Airstream enthusiasts are also avid outdoors people. They like to partake in activities such as biking, grilling and stargazing. Depending on what strikes your fancy, you will want to include bikes, grills, telescopes, radios, and exterior lights. Very commonly, on those nice evenings, you most likely will want a couple of comfortable lawn chairs and your own s’more stick. Door mats at the doorways are a great way of preventing the outside from coming with you when all your outdoor activities are done. A few good flashlights are handy for those night time jaunts to the loo or exploring things that go bump in the night – boo!
Awnings are often used on some windows as a way of keeping the Airstream cooler in warm temperatures and also granting a little more privacy in the cozier campgrounds. There are a variety of different awnings that fit your style of Airstream and they come in different colors.
Depending on your duration at certain locations, you may want to decorate your Airstream. To add a little flair to your abode, you can order things such as party lights in a variety of styles including the ever popular flamingo or even tiny plastic Airstreams models. Some people decide to invest in a sign with their names that they can stake out in front of their “lawn” as a way to introduce and welcome your fellow RVers.
Again, how many and of what types of accessories you decide to have depends on your personality, destination and attitude. The good news is that they are out there and all it takes is a little exploring on the internet to help you decide. Just keep in mind, before spending tons of money, you may want to take Betsy once around the block to see if a blinking “Welcome” sign is truly a must have.
The notion of living in a home on wheels is not a particularly new concept. Think back to early European pioneers exploring North America: They traveled around in their covered wagons on…that’s right, wheels!
These wagons, pulled by a team of horses, provided a means of transportation. Great distances were more comfortably traveled as these wagons rolled from one location to the next. They provided living quarters and shelter for their passengers, protecting them from the rain, cold, sun and wild animals. Often these travelers moved around in groups of several wagons, offering each other companionship and support along the way.
Today an evolved wagon exists. It is called a motorhome, and rather than being pulled by horses, it is pulled by a powerful engine. Early motorhomes started in Canada in the early 1900s where they were built on truck bodies. By the 1920s the motorhome had been introduced to the United States. A motorhome today is essentially exactly as its name suggests: It is a home with a motor!
And it’s a good thing these all-in-one motorhomes come with powerful engines because these days homes on wheels are quite large, elaborate and expensive. Not to be confused with mobile homes, motorhomes are a recreational vehicle sought after by those who are looking for the adventure of living and exploring the open road.
For individuals who expect to spend a lot of time traveling, Airstream motorhomes are chosen because they offer all the comforts of a standard home, but on a smaller scale. These large vehicles are selected for their ability to provide amenities such as bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens and eating areas. People like them because they can take their stuff with them everywhere they go. They can travel to see new places and never have to unpack!
Another benefit includes the ability to easily travel as a group. The large size of an Airstream motorhome means that there will be room for several people. This is ideal for a family or people who want to bring along their pets. Motorhomes come with both heating and cooling, so not only can you yourself be comfortable, but if you want to go explore you can safely leave Fido behind. Motorhomes are also more secure than a tent. You have the ability to lock the door and the windows. In a motorhome, mild inclement weather is no problem to escape. Inside your Airstream you will be able to make use of your living room, where you can watch the television, or your kitchen, where you can make a snack. Sitting in a damp tent or a boring hotel room isn’t nearly as enjoyable as gathering around the kitchen table for a game!
The social aspect that comes with visiting campgrounds is often a prominent part of this lifestyle. Fellow RVers are generally very friendly people, so it is easy to strike up conversations and make new friends. Many Airstream organizations have rallies and other gatherings to foster relationships and provide good times.
There are many great things about owning a motorhome, however there are some down sides to it as well. While expenses are lower because campground sites are usually significantly less expensive than a hotel and with the option of making meals in your kitchen you will spend less eating out, the cost of purchasing an Airstream RV is often quite high. Many people who chose to live a motorhome lifestyle often use it as their primary home. The cost of fuel is also another factor to consider when comparing traveling by motorhome verses car.
A motorhome is also less mobile in certain situations than a car or truck. Parking a motorhome at a campground site is usually not a problem, but what if you want to take a trip into town? What about finding a parking spot in a crowded parking lot or spending hours in traffic where you need to constantly switch lanes? Traveling solely by RV may limit the places you can go. Because of this, often you will see an Airstream motorhome towing a car.
Driving a motorhome is also something that some people may not enjoy. An Airstream motorhome is as aerodynamic as can be, but they are still large. A driver of a vehicle such as this really needs to be comfortable with the dimensions of their RV and constantly aware of his or her surroundings.
The Airstream motorhomes do not have the newer “slide outs” that other motorhome companies have started putting in their RVs in an effort to give the inhabitants even more space when parked. But what the Airstream motorhome does have is classic lines, looks and layouts.
Finding an Airstream motorhome may be difficult because the company only made these models in the 1980s and 1990s. It is quite possible that at some point the company will come out with new motorhomes again, but as of now their brand new recreational vehicles are focused on trailer models.