RV Travel Rising Among Hispanic Families

The Hernandez family of El Paso, Texas is passionate about RVing

September 25, 2007--Isaac and Connie Hernandez are so passionate about RVing that no destination is too far away. "If we could RV to Hawaii, we would," says Isaac, a 46-year-old police officer from El Paso, Texas.

Until a trans-Pacific Ocean highway is built, Isaac, his wife, Connie, and their three sons are content making frequent weekend trips in their RV to a mountain resort in New Mexico, about two hours from their home.

The Hernandez family is among an increasing number of Latino Americans who find the RV lifestyle appealing. Among Latinos, more than half say that RVing is a good way to reconnect with nature and build lasting memories with family, according to a study by the Southeastern Institute of Research.

The Hernandezes can attest to the joys and benefits of RVing. "We love it because we don't have to deal with the hassle of airports, lost luggage or worrying about transportation once we get there," says Isaac. "With our RV, we have our own transportation, sleep in our own bed and have our own sheets."

"It's more affordable than staying in a hotel or flying," adds Connie, 44, a radio station account executive. "With kids it would cost $200 a pop at a hotel, plus food."

The Hernandezes bought their first RV in 1999, a basic folding camping trailer, and have upgraded twice since then. They currently own a 32-foot fifth wheel travel trailer.

Traveling with their three sons; Nathan, 7, A.J., 2, and Isaac, Jr., 21, the Hernandezes appreciate the roominess of their RV, which has three areas living room, bedroom and kitchen that expand at the push of a button.

The Hernandez family enjoys the freedom and flexibility that RVing offers. In addition to weekend and spur-of-the-moment trips, the Hernandezes typically make at least one big journey each year. This summer they plan to visit Corpus Christi, Tex., on the Gulf Coast, a 560-mile trek from El Paso. And they're already planning an 1,100-mile trip to Yosemite next summer.

"We love RVing," says Isaac. "Weíll never stop doing this. There are so many places we want to visit, like Virginia Beach, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine. I can't wait until we retire when we'll have even more time to RV."

Do the Hernandezes have any advice for those interested in buying an RV? "Start with something small that fits your needs," says Connie. "As your family grows, you can upgrade to a bigger RV. I always advise people to buy something with at least one slideout to create more space."

Those thinking about RVing for the first time can order a free 'getting-started' DVD or CD-ROM at GoRVing.com or 1-888-Go RVing. They can also surf the website for lists of Go RVing dealers and campgrounds in their area, as well as RV shows, publications, rental sources and clubs. Or write to: RVIA, P.O. Box 2999, Dept. P, Reston, VA 20195.

RVIA is the national association representing more than 550 manufacturers and component suppliers producing approximately 98 percent of all RVs made in the United States.