Checklist for Snowbirding

It’s that time of year – the time when most RVers either revel in the memories of the summer camping season and wait for spring, or become Snowbirds and head to warmer weather for the winter.

If you’re the latter, there are some things to consider and to take care of before packing up for the winter. For those who have done this before, it’s routine, but for someone new to Snowbirding, there is a good way to do it.

First of all, Snowbirds are simply people going to warmer climates for the winter – like birds traditionally fly south for the winter. Once, the Snowbird lifestyle was considered only for the wealthy and the famous. Today, however, the Snowbird lifestyle is for anyone, and includes many RVers. Some of the most popular destinations in the United States for RVing Snowbirds are Florida, Arizona and Texas.

But before you hit the road, there are some things you should do.

First, know where you’re going. Don’t expect that just because it’s winter there won’t be many RVers. That’s just not true. In fact, according to the American Camper Profiles & Perspectives study, conducted by the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds (ARVC), 5 percent of active campers are Snowbirds, as are 11 percent of total RV owners.

So, make your reservations!

And, decide what to do with home services while you are gone, including mail delivery. You can have the U.S. Post Office hold your mail, but if you have bills and other items that you need to take care of on a regular basis, you may want to consider a mail service. These services send your mail to you at your snowbird destination, and can change that destination if you’re moving from one RV location to another during the winter months. Just make sure you check out the service you’re using and get references.

Most RV clubs offer mail services to their members including the Family Motorcoach Association (FMCA), the Good Sam Club and the Escapees RV Club.

Another thing to consider is whether or not you’ll need employment while away from home and enjoying the warm-weather region.

Working RVers – known as Workampers™ - find temporary employment while on the road. These jobs can be found through newspapers, online listings, and other options, but Workamper News is a service that caters directly to RVers. Many of the listings handled by the newspaper include positions with campgrounds and RV parks, theme parks and a variety of other venues. Payment for positions varies, and sometimes may include the value of a site when working at RV parks. Make sure you understand all the terms and that the compensation is at least equal to the applicable minimum wage, according to Workamper News.

For those who aren’t seeking employment, check out your destination area to ensure you’ll be happy in your home away from home for the winter months. Talk to others who have visited your destination and ask for recommendation of things to do. And remember, many of the Snowbird destinations cater to an older crowd, so take them up on their activities and outings. Remember, they know the area and their business is keeping their winter guests happy.

Once you have all your details in place, leave your cares behind with the cold weather and enjoy the winter sun.

Next month we’ll look at whether there is a winter season for traveling RVers or families who still like to take their rigs out for the weekend.