RV Travel Increasing Among Hispanic American Families

(Sept. 38, 2003) — Isaac and Connie Hernandez and their sons have long known the joys and benefits of RV travel. The El Paso, Texas family bought their first RV four years ago and have already traded up to a larger model.

The Hernandez family is among a growing number of Hispanic Americans who find the RV lifestyle appealing. According to a study by Harris Interactive for the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association, among those who identified themselves as members of an ethnic group, Hispanic Americans are most likely to consider purchasing an RV.

“When we travel in the RV, it’s like having our home with us,” says Connie, 39, a radio station account executive. “It’s more convenient than staying in a hotel and more affordable than flying.”

“When you’re traveling, nothing beats sleeping in your own bed,” adds Isaac, 41, a police officer in El Paso.

Last year the Hernandez family traded in their 28-foot travel trailer for a larger one with more bells and whistles. They believe it’s one of the best investments they’ve ever made.

“When we first started RVing, we were mostly taking weekend trips to the mountains,” says Connie. “But last year we took a two-week trip to California and decided we needed something bigger.”

Traveling with their two sons, Nathan, 3, and Isaac, Jr., 17, the Hernandezes appreciate the added space in their new RV, which has three rooms — living room, bedroom and kitchen — that slide out or expand by three feet at the push of a button.

“With the three slideouts, our RV is bigger than my first apartment,” says Connie. “And it’s great for taking along snacks and tapes for the VCR, and toys for our younger son.”

The Hernandez family stays mostly at RV campgrounds while on the road, and enjoys the friendly nature of fellow RV owners, who share the Hernandez’ passion for RV travel.

“RV owners are polite and helpful,” says Isaac. “I once pulled my RV over to the side of the road just to take a break and an RV owner stopped to see if I was okay. That kind of attitude is typical of RV owners.”

Do Mr. and Mrs. Hernandez have any advice for someone interested in buying an RV?

“Start with something small that fills your needs to begin with,” says Connie. “Then, if you like it, you can upgrade to a bigger RV. And I always tell friends to get something with a slideout because it gives you that much more room.”

RETURN TO RV TRAVELER NEWSLETTER INDEX