What happens when you combine the maneuverability of a camper van with the interior space and flexibility of a Class C motorhome? In this episode of Beyond The Wheel Podcast, we welcome Amelia Sheckler from Winnebago to discuss one of the company’s newest innovations, the all-new Winnebago Elora/Resa. Amelia takes us behind the scenes of the vehicle’s development, explaining the design philosophy behind the Elora/Resa and how Winnebago created a motorhome that blends the compact footprint of a camper van with the comfort and functionality of a Class C. We also discuss the engineering decisions, innovative layout, sleeping capacity, storage solutions, and why this compact RV feels much larger than its exterior dimensions suggest. If you’ve ever wondered whether a camper van or a small Class C is the better choice, this episode offers a fascinating look at a vehicle designed to deliver the best of both worlds. Topics Covered • Amelia Sheckler’s role at Winnebago• The inspiration behind the new Elora/Resa• Is it a camper van or a Class C? Understanding the differences• How a cutaway chassis differs from a traditional van chassis• European design influences behind the Elora/Resa• Exterior dimensions and overall footprint• Interior layout and how it creates a surprisingly spacious feel• Large windows and maximizing natural light• Sleeping arrangements and passenger capacity• Storage solutions and cargo space• Ram 3500 chassis and vehicle specifications• Why the Elora/Resa is designed for both everyday driving and extended travel• Who the ideal Elora/Resa owner is• What makes this platform different from other compact RVs Elora/Resa Highlights • Approximately 20 feet long for exceptional maneuverability• Built on the Ram 3500 chassis• Seating for up to six passengers• Sleeps up to four people• Residential queen bed conversion• Compact exterior with Class C interior advantages• Large panoramic windows for outstanding visibility and natural light• Designed to blend van accessibility with greater interior comfort Learn More Interested in learning more about the all-new Winnebago Elora and Resa? Explore floorplans, features, specifications, photos, and more on Winnebago’s official product page: Winnebago Elora & Resa: https://www.winnebago.com/models/elora-resa-family About Amelia Sheckler Amelia Sheckler is the product design manager at Winnebago for the Elora/Resa and joins us to share the story behind the development of the all-new Elora/Resa, offering insights into the design process, engineering decisions, and the vision for this exciting new addition to the Winnebago lineup. Connect With Beyond The Wheel Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us continue bringing you conversations with the people shaping the future of the RV and outdoor recreation industries. Follow Beyond The Wheel Podcast for more interviews with manufacturers, engineers, innovators, and outdoor industry leaders. Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you on the next episode. The post Inside Winnebago’s All-New Elora/Resa with Amelia Sheckler appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Inside Winnebago’s All-New Elora/Resa with Amelia Sheckler appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we sit down with Stephanie Whittington, Senior Product Manager at Winnebago, to discuss one of the most anticipated adventure vehicles to hit the market: the all-new Winnebago ARKA. Stephanie shares the story behind the ARKA’s development, the growing adventure truck segment, and how Winnebago designed a vehicle capable of taking travelers farther off the grid while still delivering the comfort and convenience RV owners expect. From heated floors and hydronic heating to a massive lithium battery system and true four-wheel-drive capability, the ARKA is designed to be a self-contained basecamp for adventure. In This Episode Meet Stephanie Whittington • Senior Product Manager for Winnebago’s Backcountry Adventure Portfolio • Oversees: Revel EKKO ARKA • How her passion for camping, hiking, skiing, and full-time RVing influences product development What Is the Winnebago ARKA? • Winnebago’s first entry into the growing Adventure Truck category • Designed for travelers who want to venture far beyond traditional campgrounds • Combines off-road capability with premium residential comfort • Built as a true off-grid basecamp for extended adventures Why Winnebago Built the ARKA • Growing demand for more independence from campgrounds • Customer feedback drove much of the vehicle’s development • Designed for adventurers graduating from: Rooftop tent setups Truck campers Off-road trailers Overlanding rigs • Four years of development and testing before launch Chassis and Off-Road Capability • Built on the Ram 5500 diesel chassis • Available in: Standard cab Crew cab • True four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing • Zero-torsion frame design allows the coach and chassis to flex independently on rough terrain • Integrated inclinometer system through Winnebago Connect • Designed for remote campsites, trailheads, and backcountry exploration Comfort Meets Capability Stephanie explains how the ARKA balances ruggedness with luxury, including: • Heated hydronic floors • Four independently controlled heating zones • Continuous hot water • Single-fuel design powered entirely by diesel • Spacious interior with premium materials • Large refrigerator and ample counter space • Innovative hidden bath design • Massive shower for a vehicle of this size Flexible Sleeping Arrangements • Twin bed configuration • Queen bed configuration • King bed configuration • North-south sleeping layout • Molded roof design allows occupants to sit up comfortably in bed • Large windows and sky hatch for stargazing Off-Grid Power System Standard Overland Package Includes: • 8.4kWh Lithionics lithium battery • Expandable to 16.8kWh • EcoFlow Power Hub • 3.6kW inverter • 800 watts of roof-mounted solar • Expandable to 1,200 watts of solar • Three-alternator charging system • Ability to recharge from 10% to 100% in less than two hours of driving Climate Control and Four-Season Performance • Elwell Timberline 2.0 hydronic heating system • Heated floors • Heated tanks and plumbing • 20,000 BTU DC air conditioner • R-15 roof and floor insulation • R-12 wall insulation • Rated for temperatures from -10°F to 120°F Storage and Cargo Flexibility • Full-height rear gear garage • Modular U-shaped lounge and dinette system • L-track cargo tie-down system • Flexible storage for: Bikes Climbing gear Skis Snowboards Kayaks • Additional storage inside the crew cab Towing Capability • Tow rating up to 15,000 pounds • Ideal for: Jeeps Boats Side-by-sides Utility trailers Key Specifications at a Glance • Ram 5500 Diesel Chassis • Adventure Truck Platform • True 4WD with Low Range • 60-Gallon Fresh Water Capacity • Up to 16.8kWh Lithium Battery Capacity • Up to 1,200 Watts Solar • Heated Floors • Four-Season Capability • 15,000-Pound Tow Rating • Up to 26’7″ Overall Length (Crew Cab) To learn more about the Winnebago ARKA click here: https://www.winnebago.com/models/arka The post Inside the All-New Winnebago ARKA with Stephanie Whittington appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Inside the All-New Winnebago ARKA with Stephanie Whittington appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

What if the future of RV construction isn’t wood at all? In this episode of Beyond The Wheel Podcast, we sit down with Sean Petterson, Co-Founder and CEO of Supersede. We discuss a material that could change the way RVs, trailers, boats, and even homes are built. Sean shares how his experience building innovative products led to the creation of Supersede, a structural panel made from recycled plastic designed to replace traditional plywood. We discuss the challenges of water damage, weight reduction, sustainability, supply chain issues, and what it takes to convince manufacturers to move away from materials they’ve relied on for generations. Topics covered include: • Why Supersede was created• The limitations of traditional plywood in RV construction• The use of recycled plastic in structural applications• Waterproof and rot-proof building materials• Weight savings and efficiency benefits• Sustainability and recycling initiatives• Adoption challenges within the RV industry• Future applications beyond RVs and trailers• What the future of RV construction may look like Learn more about Supersede: Supersede Official Website Supersede manufactures structural sheathing products made from recycled plastics designed to be waterproof, rot-proof, termite-resistant, and fully recyclable. The company’s focus is on providing sustainable alternatives to traditional wood-based building materials. Connect with Beyond The Wheel Podcast Subscribe for future episodes featuring leaders, innovators, and experts from across the RV and outdoor recreation industries.The post Supersede: Could Recycled Plastic Replace Plywood in RVs? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Supersede: Could Recycled Plastic Replace Plywood in RVs? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

This week on Beyond The Wheel, Kenny and Sean dive into what they’re seeing across the RV industry as the 2026 travel season ramps up. From shifting buyer behavior and changing campground trends to the rise of off-grid adventure rigs, this episode explores where the RV market stands right now and where it may be headed next. The conversation covers everything from dealer inventory and financing pressures to reservation fatigue, dry camping growth, and whether RVs are becoming too complicated with modern technology. Kenny also shares thoughts from recent time spent around the all-new Winnebago ARKA and the growing demand for true adventure-focused RVs. Topics in this episode include: Reactions to the Winnebago ARKA after Overland Expo Sean’s recent outdoor adventure trip Current shifts in RV buyer behavior Dealer inventory, pricing, and negotiating leverage Financing rates and affordability concerns The used RV market reset Why premium adventure rigs continue to grow The rise of solar, lithium, internet connectivity, and off-grid capability Whether RVs are becoming too dependent on technology Campground reservation fatigue and rising camping costs Love’s, Flying J, casinos, public land, and overnight travel strategies How social media is shaping RV expectations Why smaller RVs and vans continue gaining popularity Factory lithium, larger battery systems, and the off-grid power race Towables still dominating overall RV sales Why manufacturers may finally be listening more closely to customer feedback The episode also includes predictions for where the industry could be heading next, including affordability concerns, younger buyers entering RVing differently, and whether simpler RVs may eventually make a comeback. Questions discussed during the show: Would you buy new or used right now? Are campgrounds becoming too expensive? What RV trend are you tired of? Would you prioritize luxury or capability? Are RVs becoming too tech-heavy? Thanks for listening to Beyond The Wheel. If you enjoy the show, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with fellow RVers and travelers. Safe travels. The post Driver’s Edition – State of the RV Market & Industry Trends appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Driver’s Edition – State of the RV Market & Industry Trends appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

Overlanding has exploded in popularity over the last few years, but is it just another social media trend or is it changing the future of RV travel for good? In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, Kenny and Sean take a deep dive into the rapid growth of overlanding, why so many travelers are being drawn to it, and how the RV industry is responding. The guys discuss how overlanding has evolved from a niche off-road hobby into a broader lifestyle focused on self-reliant travel, off-grid camping, and exploring places beyond the traditional campground. They also talk about the differences between the polished version of overlanding seen on Instagram and the reality of traveling remote roads, managing resources, and dealing with the unexpected. This episode also covers: Why overlanding has become so popular How social media helped fuel the movement The rise of off-grid and adventure focused RVs Why more RVers are seeking dispersed camping and remote travel The reality of overlanding versus the online image Responsible travel and protecting public lands Whether overlanding is becoming too expensive How vehicles like the Winnebago ARKA fit into the future of the market Where the overlanding industry may be heading next Whether you are a hardcore off-road enthusiast, a weekend explorer, or simply curious about why adventure vehicles are suddenly everywhere, this episode offers a realistic look at one of the fastest growing trends in the outdoor industry. Sources & Reports Mentioned Overland Expo KOA Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report The Dyrt Camping Report RV Industry Association (RVIA) Statistics The post The Growth of Overlanding, Trend or the Future of RV Travel? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post The Growth of Overlanding, Trend or the Future of RV Travel? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

Camping isn’t slowing down—but it is changing. In this episode, Kenny and Sean break down the latest findings from the 2026 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report by Kampgrounds of America and talk through what these shifts actually mean for RVers, campground trends, and the future of the industry. This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about how—and why—people are choosing to camp today. Read the Full KOA Report  http://koa.uberflip.com/i/1544394-2026-koa-camping-and-outdoor-hospitality-report/57? What We Cover in This Episode Camping Is Still Huge—But Stabilizing Over 50 million households are camping The post-pandemic surge didn’t collapse Is this the new normal for the industry? Why People Camp Has Changed Shift from budget travel → mental reset Rise of “unstructured outdoor wellness” Are RVers actually unplugging… or just relocating their lifestyle? The Rise of Glamping Nearly 1 in 3 campers are glamping Many new campers start here Is glamping feeding RV ownership—or replacing it? Renting vs Owning More campers are choosing rentals over ownership Flexibility is becoming more important than commitment What this could mean for RV sales long-term Slower, Longer Travel Fewer trips, longer stays Shift toward more intentional travel Impact on campgrounds, fuel, and how people use their RVs A Generational Divide Younger campers: Experience-driven Renting and glamping Older campers: Ownership-focused Returning to camping Are we looking at two completely different camping worlds? Campgrounds Are Changing More resort-style amenities Higher prices across the board Less middle ground between budget and luxury Is this pushing more RVers toward boondocking? What This Means for the RV Industry Are manufacturers building for the right buyer? Does the future lean toward: Smaller rigs? More flexible setups? Rental-friendly designs? Key Takeaway Camping isn’t declining—it’s evolving. The biggest shift isn’t how people camp…it’s why they camp. Join the Conversation Are you seeing these changes where you camp? Are campgrounds getting more expensive? Are you noticing more glamping setups? Would you rent an RV instead of owning one? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear what you’re seeing out there. Listen & Follow If you enjoy episodes like this, be sure to: Subscribe to Beyond The Wheel Share with a fellow RVer Leave a review—it helps more people find the show The post The State of Camping in 2026 – What the KOA Report Really Tells Us appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post The State of Camping in 2026 – What the KOA Report Really Tells Us appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

RV service is one of those topics every RVer deals with, but few feel fully prepared for. In this episode, we break down the real-world options available when something goes wrong, or when it is time for routine maintenance. From traditional service centers to mobile techs, DIY repairs, and new players entering the space, this is a practical, no-nonsense look at what works, what does not, and how to make the right call when it matters most. What Sparked This Episode The conversation starts with recent news from Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores expanding into RV battery and tire service. This shift signals a potential change in how RVers handle service on the road, especially when speed and convenience matter. The Reality of RV Service RVs combine the complexity of a home and a vehicle, which means more systems and more opportunities for things to fail.Common challenges include: Long wait times at service centers Parts shortages Scheduling delays Being displaced from your RV during repairs Knowing your options before something breaks can save time, money, and frustration. Service Option #1: Traditional RV Service Centers (Dealers & Shops)Best for: Major repairs and warranty work Pros: Certified technicians Access to manufacturer support and parts Required for many warranty repairs Cons: Long wait times (often weeks or months) Higher labor costs Less urgency due to high volume May require leaving your RV behind When to use it: Structural issues, slide problems, or complex electrical systems Warranty-covered repairs Diagnostics that require specialized tools Service Option #2: Mobile RV TechniciansBest for: Convenience and faster turnaround Pros: They come to you Often quicker scheduling More personalized service Opportunity to learn during the repair Cons: Limited to smaller or mid-level repairs May not handle warranty claims Skill level varies Parts sourcing can delay completion When to use it: Appliance issues, plumbing, or electrical fixes On-the-road breakdowns Problems you want handled quickly without moving your RV Service Option #3: DIY RepairsBest for: Cost savings and control Pros: Lowest cost Immediate turnaround Builds knowledge and confidence Full control over quality Cons: Risk of mistakes Potential to void warranties Requires tools and time Not all repairs are DIY-friendly When to use it: Routine maintenance Simple fixes like fuses, filters, or minor electrical issues Situations where you are remote or off-grid New Option: Service at Travel CentersCompanies like Love’s are introducing: Battery replacement Tire service for RVs Why it matters: Nationwide locations Potential for no-appointment service Designed specifically for travelers Pros: Fast and convenient Easy access along major routes Cons: Limited scope of services Still new, consistency may vary Not specialized beyond basic repairs Warranties and Service StrategyUnderstanding how warranties affect your options is critical. Considerations: Manufacturer vs extended warranties Required service locations Pre-authorization requirements Reimbursement vs direct billing Pros of using a warranty: Significant cost savings Cons: Longer wait times Limited flexibility More paperwork and approvals Real-world takeaway:Sometimes it is faster and less stressful to pay out of pocket rather than wait on warranty approval. How to Decide: A Simple FrameworkAsk yourself: How urgent is the issue? Can I safely drive? Is it covered under warranty? Do I have the skills and tools? Quick breakdown: Urgent + simple → Mobile tech or travel center Complex + warranty → Service center Simple + confident → DIY Pro Tips from Experience Build a relationship with a reliable mobile tech Learn your RV’s core systems (12V, water, propane) Carry essential spare parts Stay ahead with preventative maintenance Document everything for warranty claims Key TakeawayThere is no single “best” option for RV service. The most experienced RVers use a mix of service centers, mobile techs, and DIY depending on the situation. The more you understand your options, the less stressful RV ownership becomes. Join the Conversation Share your RV service stories with us!  Have you used a travel center like Love’s for RV service yet? The post RV Service: Where to Go, What to Choose, and What It Really Costs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RV Service: Where to Go, What to Choose, and What It Really Costs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

If you’ve been watching the RV market lately, you’ve probably noticed things feel a little different.Inventory is shifting. Prices are stabilizing. And there’s a lot of mixed messaging about whether now is a good time to buy, sell, or wait. But before we even hit the main topic, this episode starts with a couple of real-world conversations from the road and the campground that set the stage for everything happening in the industry right now. Pre-Show Conversations Disney’s Fort Wilderness Changes Sean shares his recent experience at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and what he’s seeing on the ground. We talk about: The evolving feel of Fort Wilderness Ongoing updates and construction The upcoming Lakeshore Lodge and how it could reshape the campground experience It’s a great real-world example of how even iconic campgrounds are evolving to meet changing traveler expectations. Hanging Out with James from The Fit RV We also talk about a recent visit and YouTube video collaboration that Kenny did with James from The Fit RV. James gave Kenny a shop tour as Kenny interviewed him on what it takes to build a shop at your home and how he uses his shop to create products such as the Americanizer. Shop tour video: https://www.thefitrv.com/blog/tour-the-fit-rv-shop-or-just-hang-out-for-an-hour/ In This Episode Once we jump in, we break down what’s actually happening across the RV industry in 2026. No hype. No doom and gloom. Just a clear look at the trends shaping the market right now. We cover: The latest RV shipment numbers and what they really mean Why motorhomes and towables are moving in different directions What major manufacturers like Winnebago Industries, Thor Industries, and REV Group are seeing How campgrounds and camping styles are evolving The growing divide between younger and older RVers What all of this means if you’re thinking about buying or already own an RV Key Takeaways The RV market is not crashing, but it is rebalancing after the COVID boom Motorhomes are holding stronger than towables, especially at higher price points Manufacturers are shifting toward a lower volume, higher margin strategy Camping demand remains strong, but how people camp is changing Younger campers are driving growth in glamping and high-end RV resorts, while older RVers tend to stick with more traditional and budget-conscious travel A Shift in Camping Culture One of the biggest trends we’re seeing is how different generations approach camping. Younger travelers are more focused on the experience. They’re choosing visually appealing destinations, upgraded campgrounds, and higher-end RV resorts that are easy to share on social media. Meanwhile, many longtime RVers are sticking with a more traditional approach, focusing on value, simplicity, and familiarity. Camping isn’t just about getting away anymore. For a lot of people, it’s about how that experience looks and feels. What This Means for You If you’re thinking about buying: You may have more negotiating power than in recent years Inventory is improving Financing still plays a major role in affordability If you already own an RV: Values are holding better than expected Especially for motorized units The market hasn’t slowed down. It’s just become more selective. Episode Sources & Industry Data • RVIA February 2026 Shipment Reporthttps://www.rvia.org/reports-trends/rv-shipment-reports/2026-02/february-rv-shipments-top-29000-motorhomes-22 • RV Industry Trends & Newshttps://gorvrentals.com/blog/latest-rv-news-march-2026 • Thor Industries Market Updatehttps://www.rvnews.com/thor-industries-swings-to-profits-in-quarter/ • RV PRO News Feedhttps://rv-pro.com/news/ • Winnebago Market Coveragehttps://www.wsj.com/business/earnings/winnebago-revenue-rises-as-price-hikes-counteract-lower-sales-volume-31fc174f • REV Group / Industry Analysishttps://www.investors.com/news/rv-sales-thor-industries-earnings-tho-stock-rev-group-outlook-revg-stock-wgo/ • MarketWatch Industry Insighthttps://www.marketwatch.com/story/winnebagos-stock-rockets-to-biggest-gain-in-45-years-as-younger-buyers-eye-rvs-f489854d • The Dyrt Camping Trendshttps://thedyrt.com/press/four-out-of-five-campers-increase-camping-frequency-during-retirement/ • Glamping Trends Overviewhttps://www.glampingshow.us/magazine/younger-camper-trends/ Listen & Follow If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow the podcast and share it with someone who’s thinking about RV life or already living it. Because right now, the RV market isn’t throwing a tantrum… it’s just growing up a little.The post What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update) appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post What’s REALLY Happening in the RV Market Right Now? (2026 Update) appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

There’s a lot of noise out there about RV life, and not all of it is true. In this episode of Beyond The Wheel Podcast, we’re busting some of the most common RV myths and sharing what life on the road actually looks like. From where you stay, to who you meet, to the real costs involved, this is a reality check for anyone curious about RVing. Whether you’re RV-curious or already rolling down the highway, this episode separates fact from fiction. What We Cover in This Episode Why RV myths exist and how they shape expectations Myth #1: You must stay in campgrounds Boondocking, dispersed camping, and unique overnight stays Myth #2: RV life is lonely Community, friendships, and unexpected connections on the road Myth #3: RVs can’t handle extreme weather Staying comfortable in heat and cold with the right setup Myth #4: RV life is always cheaper Real costs like fuel and maintenance How budgeting actually works in RV life Final thoughts and a fun sign-off Who This Episode Is For Anyone considering RV life New RVers sorting fact from fiction Full-time or part-time RVers nodding along saying, “Yep, that’s true” Connect With Us If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who still thinks RV life only happens in campgrounds. See you down the road. The post RV Myths Busted appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RV Myths Busted appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

Thinking about becoming an RVer? Already on the road and wondering why it still feels harder than expected?This episode is for you. RV life looks simple from the outside, but the reality hits fast once plans change, weather turns, budgets stretch, and things break. In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we break down what it actually takes to become an RVer and stay sane doing it. This isn’t about what RV to buy or which gadgets to install. It’s about mindset, flexibility, planning, and budgeting for real life on the road. What We Cover in This Episode Flexibility Is the Real Skill Why rigid schedules don’t survive RV life and how learning to plan in pencil makes the experience more enjoyable and far less stressful. Keeping Your Cool When Things Go Wrong From breakdowns to bad weather, things will go sideways. We talk about what actually goes wrong most often and how experienced RVers stay calm while new RVers panic. Planning Without Overplanning How to plan the things that matter like routes, fuel, height, power, and access without killing the fun by over-scheduling every mile and minute. Budgeting for Reality, Not Instagram The real costs of RV life, why budgets should be ranges not fixed numbers, and the expenses nobody mentions when you’re just getting startedIs RV Life Really for You? Honest talk about who thrives in RV life, who struggles, and why there’s no “right” way to do it. Key Takeaways Flexibility matters more than gear Calm decision-making beats control Overplanning creates stress, not safety RV budgets are unpredictable by nature RV life evolves and that’s normal Final Thought Becoming an RVer isn’t about being ready.It’s about being adaptable. Join the Conversation If this episode helped you, share it with someone who’s RV-curious or just starting out.Have a “first RV disaster” story? We want to hear it. Follow Beyond The Wheel for more honest conversations about RV life, the industry, and what really happens once you hit the road.The post So You Want to Be an RVer? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post So You Want to Be an RVer? appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.