Nostalgia for old campers is growing by leaps and bounds as more people realize the relaxing benefits of getting away from the city in their own retro "home on wheels." They remember trips with their parents and neighbors to see the Grand Canyon or the Smoky Mountains and want to recreate the experience with their own kids. Other families choose to restore old campers as family projects they later use for economical road trips.
Vintage campers come in decrepit, unkempt versions and in showroom-quality models. While it's fun to buy an RV that's pristine and road-ready, many people gain a great deal of enjoyment and pride from restoring a "junker" camper into a wheeled thing of beauty.
Here are 5 tips to remember when buying or restoring a vintage RV.
Make a Practical Choice
If you've been dreaming of a vintage camper for a while, chances are you've already chosen the brand and model you want to own. You may want a camper just like the one your parents had, or you may be in love with a mid-century design.
Whether you want a gleaming Airstream, rounded Shasta, or iconic Western Flyer, you should understand the space, mechanical, and towing limits of your desired rig. Can it accommodate your entire family? Do you own or plan to purchase a vehicle tough enough to tow it? Choose an RV that will handle your needs and the road conditions where you plan to travel.
Join Clubs and Forums
There are numerous groups in California and across the country where you'll find all sorts of information, DIY tips and events involving the use and restoration of vintage campers. Most of these groups have websites with forums where members are free to ask questions. These forums are great places to read about the ways others have solved their RV issues.
Some clubs and organizations offer campground discounts and other benefits to people who travel the country in their campers year-round. They also host shows and meet-ups where vintage RV owners put their campers and trailers on display. These events are great places to check out the variety of vintage campers out there, especially if you haven't made a choice yet.
Be Willing to Compromise
It's not always possible to completely restore a vintage camper or trailer with original parts. In some cases, the designs of appliances and other components do not meet modern safety codes. In other cases, the original equipment or parts can't be found or easily machined.
Be willing to accept modern updates in your vintage RV. A better engine, plumbing system, and driving experience are worth the disappointment of losing authentic elements that weren't made well. Compromise when you add more beds and comfortable seating by using materials in decor that matches the period when your camper was made.
Research Vintage-Friendly Campgrounds
There are some campgrounds and camping resorts that aren’t compatible with quirky or vintage RVs and trailers. Avoid disappointment by calling ahead to learn whether or not your rig is welcome.
Vintage RV clubs offer online lists of vintage-friendly campsites to make it easier for you to locate campgrounds along your route. These campgrounds are located all over the U.S. and welcome all types of campers, trailers and RVs.
Use and Enjoy Your Antique Camper
Whatever you do, don't wrap your vintage RV in a plastic cover and show it only to visitors. A camper or trailer is meant to be used and enjoyed. Take it to the local camping park or to a music festival. Let household guests spend the night inside.
A bit of wear and tear is worth the satisfaction of enjoying the great outdoors in your refurbished dream RV. If you're worried about dirt and grime on your upholstery or other furnishings, talk with our knowledgeable restoration team
at RV Service Center of Santa Cruz to learn about fabrics, paints, and coatings that are easy to keep clean and tidy.
