More and more couples have discovered RVs as a means to relaxing and adventurous travel.

As colder weather begins to set in, thousands of snowbirds prepare for their annual migration south to warmer climates. And while the migration pattern of these “birds” is not unlike a flock of geese — with people from this area heading for the warmth of Arizona or the California desert — it is wheels that will take them south, not wings. For those unfamiliar with the term, a “snowbird” is a person who lives in a northern climate during the summer months and travels south to reside for the winter. The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) estimates that the United States has nearly two million recreation vehicle (RV) snowbirds — 16 percent of all RV owners — who escape the snowy states each year and steer their RVs south.

RV snowbirds have discovered the best of both worlds — they can take an exotic vacation to beautiful destinations and still enjoy all the comforts and conveniences of home no matter where they end up. Whether they are returning to their favorite campground for the winter or moving every few weeks to explore a new region, RV snowbirds have the freedom to go wherever, whenever.

Once defined only as retirees in their 60s and 70s, today’s RV snowbirds have been joined byab early- retiring army of Baby Boomers in their mid- to late-50s who also wish to spend their winters cruising America’s byways. In fact, an industry survey found that inspite of high gas prices, the significant increase in RVing Boomers in recent years has helped drive U.S. ownership of RVs to record levels. More and more of these mature adults are finding that today’s RVs offer an attractive mix of comfort, flexibility and affordability that allows them to spend their retirement years exploring the country and meeting new people.

And it’s not just the age of snowbirds that is shifting — other characteristics of RV snowbirds are changing as well. While earlier snowbirds were likely to settle in their favorite park or campground for three to four months at a time, today’s snowbirds are much more active. Campground owners report the average stay has shortened in recent years because more snowbirds are choosing to move every few weeks to explore a new region.

For this dynamic group, the annual RV trip to the Sunbelt states is not simply a way to escape the cold but also a flight of discovery. Rather than dash south on the most direct interstate, snowbirds prefer to take a more leisurely route, enjoying the attractions and scenery along the way. And thanks to state-of-the-art motor homes, truck campers and towables, today’s snowbirds are able to venture off the beaten path to more remote locations without giving up the familiarities of home.

For more information on the snowbird lifestyle or the benefits of traveling via RV, visit www.funroads.com.