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Follow the Races in an RV for Extra Fun

It may be too cold to think about at this time of year, but whether you're a fan of stock car races, such as the events hosted in Talladega, AL, each summer, or more into the excitement of NASCAR speed, it is not too early to consider your vacation plans for 2009, especially if you plan to follow the races in an RV. Why would anyone do such a thing? There are many reasons, from saving money on airfare and hotel bills, to reconnecting with family. Here's a broader list of why RVing from race to race might rock your world:

· Instant Community: Racetracks are havens for RVers, with miniature communities cropping up literally overnight, with all the comforts of home. If you're traveling with children, there are other kids for them to play with; and if you want to meet other RVers, you'll have ample opportunity. Some tracks allow RVs on the infield, and NASCAR fan Stacie Pearce describes that experience as being, ".like a huge family, or a summer party, with your own pillow at the end of the night."

· The Best Seats in the House: If you're parked in the infield, you can literally watch the race from the roof of your RV, along with 10-15,000 other families doing the same thing, and if you're camping in an RV park near the track, you'll often be able to arrange for premium tickets at the same time that you purchase your site reservation.

· No Racetrack Traffic: Even those staying not on the track, but merely near it, generally won't have to fight traffic to get in and out of the event venue. Why not? Many RV part operators cater to racing fans and operate shuttles to and from the event. One track in southern California drops it's RV customers at the gate, and will keep making trips back home after the event, "until everyone is back."

· Live Like the Drivers Do: The RV experience isn't limited to racing fans. Many drivers travel in RVs during the season, and stay in a private compound at the track. By doing this, their families can come along, and the compounds offer everything from daycare and laundromats to exercise facilities and church services. For some drivers with hectic schedules, bringing their families on the road is the only way they can spend any time with them.

· Get Up Close and Personal: While the drivers park their RVs in private compounds, some tracks - Talladega definitely - invite VIP fans to tour the "hospitality" village and visit with their favorite drivers for a moment or two. Granted, you don't have to be an RVer to qualify, but you're probably going to be much closer to the front of the line if you're already camped in the infield.

Any Special Precautions? Aside from knowing the sale dates for the racetracks you plan to visit, there isn't a lot of race-specific preparation you need to make before taking off on your road trip, but there are a few:

· Buy tickets: Make sure you have tickets for the races you plan to attend. Remember that advance tickets are less expensive.

· Insurance: If you're not a full-time RVer, you'll need to check with car insurance companies to make sure you have enough liability coverage, as well as coverage on the contents of your RV. (Some standard insurers don't offer RV coverage.)

· Reserve your site: Some racetrack RV parks begin selling for the 2009 season this week, so you'll want to be prepared.

Spending the summer following the races - or even just camping in an RV for one race - is a great way to share time with your family, while enjoying a sport that you love. Planning the trip in advance will only increase the fun.

Last Updated on 05/19/09
By George Campbell or Greg Fish
Email: neracing@neracing.com