RV rentals and sales soar due to wanderlust during a pandemic

Remember those RVs your grandparents and their friends had? Well, they’re back but they’re nothing like your grandfather’s. Covid-19 has changed how families vacation and now RVs are the newest trend in travel. We’re talking solar fueled, wifi-enabled, sleek modern designed vehicles. Let’s take a look at where you can rent or buy one in Birmingham as well as some cool features you’d never expect.

RV rentals—the comeback story we didn’t see coming

As many of us try to keep our distance and avoid crowds, RV sales have seen a 650% increase according to CNET. It makes perfect sense once you think about it. Air travel and public transportation aren’t the safest methods to get around right now. Your car probably doesn’t have enough room to make everyone happy on a road trip. And that’s where the mighty RV comes into the picture.

“March was pretty much nonexistent due to quarantine and uncertainty. Once things started to open back up and people got tired of sitting at home, there was a huge spike in rentals. We’ve seen record-breaking months and an increase of over 400% in sales. There’s an upward trend and people are realizing that RVs and campers are a fun, safe and convenient way to travel without having to worry about germs or cancellations. You can keep to yourself and be out in nature”.

Gearbox Adventure Rentals

Where to get your RV in Birmingham

Storyteller Overland

Storyteller Overland’s motto is “It’s more than a van…It’s a way of life” and I couldn’t agree more. These just aren’t your typical vans with outdated 80’s upholstering. These are luxury vans that allow you to adventure freely so you can make some lifelong memories.

Their MODE4x4 Van Series is made to go anywhere, do anything and be adventure-ready at a moment’s notice. It truly is luxury living on the go.

Let’s take a look inside:

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• Address: 109 West Park Drive Birmingham AL 35211
• Contact: Website | 888.999.7442 | Facebook
• Rates: Find yours at a local dealer

Gearbox Adventure Rentals

Gearbox Adventure Rentals allows you to rent, build or buy your own custom camper van. They have three models available to meet any adventurer’s needs.

Their vans come complete with a furnished kitchen. We’re talking a stove, plates, utensils, pot, pans, cups and even a press to stay caffeinated. Add-ons like paddle boards and camp chairs are also available.

Let’s take a look inside:

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• Address: 1620 Carson Road N Birmingham, AL 35217
• Contact: Website | 205.379.0027 | Facebook
• Rates: $180 – $250 to rent per night

Airstream of Birmingham + Dixie RV Superstore

If you’re searching for your next vacation vehicle, Airstream of Birmingham and Dixie RV Superstore probably have it. They sell RVs, Airstreams and travel trailers of all sizes.

Purchasing your own allows you to decorate and renovate to your liking. Let’s take a look at some impressive Airstreams:

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• Address: 1150 George Roy Parkway Calera, AL 35040
• Contact: Website | 205.509.3707 | Facebook
• Rates: $40,000 – $250,000+ to buy and own a unit

Tiffin Motorhomes & Burton Campers

If you’re looking to go the more traditional route with something a bit bigger than a van, check out Tiffin Motorhomes and Burton Campers.

Let’s take a look at this super-luxe, dream machine

If you thought the previous options were nice, just wait until you get a look at Living Vehicle’s 2019 Ultimate Off-Grid Vehicle. If you’re willing to spend $300,000+ on a camper, this one is for you. I just wish my family had this one instead of the outdated van that we took to Disney World. A girl can dream, right?

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Some of the luxury amenities include:

• WiFi hotspot + dedicated router with a 2+ mile range
• SONOS surround sound audio system
• Home theater with a 4k HD 43” Samsung TV system
• In-unit washer and dryer
• Stainless steel appliances
• Solar panels
• Mobile office
• Spa bathroom

RV living is trending in Birmingham and we’re here for it

Move over tiny homes. RV living is having its moment in the spotlight. Some Birmingham natives are opting for a home on wheels.

Last year, we took a sneak-peek into tiny RV living as we followed two local families who traded their house for full-time RV life. You can read about Ashley Gann, Birmingham’s only female chief meteorologist, and the Glasgow family’s journey, here. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be inspired to start living the van life yourself.

Have you rented a RV or Airstream due to the pandemic? Tell us about your experience on Twitter @now_bham + Instagram @BhamNow.