Retirement marks a new chapter in life. More flexibility coupled with less responsibility can present the opportunity for retirees to pursue their interests, like travel. For a growing number of older Americans with the travel bug, this includes exploring our nation in a recreational vehicle (RV) or camper.
Traveling in an RV allows you to see the country’s diverse terrain and unique sights while enjoying some of the comforts of home. You don’t have to worry about booking a sometimes-costly plane ticket or hotel room, nor do you have to live out of a suitcase as you travel to different destinations. However, for older adults, there can be both pros and cons to camping and RVing that should be carefully weighed.
The rising popularity of RVing among older adults
Camping has been called the recession-proof vacation. According to The Dyrt’s 2025 Camping Report, 2024 saw the second highest number of American campers ever at 81.1 million (the high was 84.8 million the previous year). And strikingly, a third of all of those campers (32.9%) were 55 and over: 16.2% were age 55 to 64, and 16.7% were age 65 or over.
Another interesting survey finding: Among the 55 and over group’s top camping destinations were our national parks with 79.1% including destinations like Yellowstone, Glacier, and Great Smoky Mountains on their itineraries. “Open road exploration” was also a top travel goal for 73.6% of the age 55+ campers.
But those in the age 55+ set aren’t usually roughing it when they camp. The Dyrt report found that 61% of campers 55 and over listed an RV or camper as their primary accommodation type, which is 50% higher than the average camper.
Indeed, a significant portion of all RVers are retirees — 24% — according to a 2025 RV demographic study, highlighting the appeal of this lifestyle among older adults. And they are using their RV for an increasing number of days each year. In 2021, the median household used their RV just under three weeks a year (20 days). In 2025, that median number jumped 50% to 30 days — a full month out of each year spent RVing!
>> Related: Retirement Community Travel Programs Meet Retirees’ Sense of Adventure
The call of the open road
The trend of retirees and other older Americans embracing RV travel and camping is gaining momentum, offering a blend of adventure, flexibility, and simplicity. There are a number of benefits that contribute to the growing popularity of RVing among older adults. For example:
Freedom merges with flexibility
If setting your own itinerary and stride is up your alley, RVing might be for you. This style of travel allows older adults to set their own pace, staying in a certain location for more or less time as desired. The mobility of RVing and camping also enables them to explore diverse destinations, offering a sense of adventure and the opportunity to experience different cultures and environments.
A more affordable senior living option
For some people, RVing can reduce their senior living expenses, such as those associated with maintaining a traditional home year-round, or for snowbirds, maintaining two residences. Costs such as property taxes, utilities, and home repairs may be minimized (or even eliminated for full-time RVers). However, it’s essential to consider RV-related expenses that will be incurred instead — things like fuel, campground fees, and maintenance.
>> Related: Senior Living Affordability: A Top Priority For Choosing a Retirement Location
Simplified lifestyle on the road
Just as we’re seeing the growing popularity of the “tiny house” movement, downsizing to an RV encourages a minimalist approach to life, focusing on essential possessions and experiences over material accumulation. This simplification can lead to reduced stress and a greater appreciation for life’s simple pleasures while also providing personal space and some of the comforts of home while on the road.
Community and social opportunities
Much like motorcyclists or Jeep drivers, the RV community is well known for its sense of camaraderie. Retirees and other older adults who embrace the RV lifestyle often find a sense of belonging through interactions at campgrounds, RV clubs, and social events, fostering new friendships and shared experiences.
>> Related: The Value of Community at a CCRC
Possible bumps in the road to consider
However, the RVing lifestyle also comes with its own unique set of senior living-related considerations — some of which are advantages while others may be cause to pump the brakes.
Access to health and care services
Traveling frequently can complicate access to consistent healthcare — not to mention access to acute care in emergency situations. Older adults who choose to spend extended periods of time in their RV or camper must plan for medical needs including things like staying up to date with preventative care and filling prescriptions. Ensuring access to any necessary long-term care-type services can be an added challenge on the road, especially if such needs arise unexpectedly.
Older adults must also verify that they have adequate health insurance coverage for care when they are away from home. Although standard Medicare is widely accepted by healthcare providers across the country, Medicare Advantage plans typically have coverage limited to specific geographic regions.
Maintenance and repair costs
While living in an RV or camper will likely mean a cost-savings over living in a regular home, there are still associated expenses to factor into your senior living budget. For example, just like any vehicle, RVs and campers require regular maintenance, and unexpected repairs can be costly. Retirees considering full-time or frequent RVing should budget for upkeep and be prepared for the responsibilities of maintaining their vehicle.
And don’t forget about the cost of fuel. Most RVs’ and campers’ miles per gallon fall into the single digits. When gas prices are high, this can mean a major spike in travel costs.
>> Related: Are You Wasting Money by Living in a Home That is Too Big?
Space constraints
Many older adults are looking to downsize during retirement, leaving behind the cost and maintenance that often comes with the average house. And while a smaller home may be desirable, living in an RV typically means adapting to a substantially smaller living space.
This adjustment can be more challenging than expected for some people, especially those accustomed to larger homes. There’s no denying that living in an RV or camper will mean close quarters, particularly for couples. Effective organization and a shared willingness to downsize are crucial in order to happily embrace life on the road.
Emotional and social adjustments
We’ve frequently written about the importance of social opportunities and interpersonal relationships as we grow older and the positive impact they can have on health. Conversely, feelings of loneliness and isolation have been shown to be detrimental to older adults, both mentally and physically.
While RVing, camping, and travel in general offer the chance to meet and socialize with new people, it can also lead to feelings of isolation, especially when traveling alone or in remote areas. While maintaining connections with family and friends, and engaging with the RV community can help mitigate loneliness, it is important for older adults to remain in touch with their emotions and address any feelings of isolation.
>> Related: The Senior Loneliness Epidemic & Solutions to “Cure” It
Charting a course for retirement enjoyment
Including RVing or camping in your retirement plan can present an exciting opportunity for adventure and a departure from more traditional senior living. However, it’s essential to go in with your eyes wide open.
Older adults considering the RV lifestyle should thoroughly assess the impact this decision may have on their financial situation, health needs, and personal preferences. Before embarking on your RV journey, weigh the benefits against the potential challenges so you make a fully informed decision that aligns with your unique retirement goals.
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