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RV Days Are Long & Years Are Short
January 21, 2026 — by Gary Wheeler
I remember when I was a kid, the month of December seemed like the longest month of the year. It probably had to do with counting every single day how many days were left before Christmas. The reality is, I probably counted them multiple times a day. I also watched all those Christmas shows on TV that did nothing but remind me of what was coming.
The older I get, I realize that while the days might be long, it’s the years that go by so fast. I’m not exactly sure when it started, but I think it was shortly after I had my first child. Then came child #2—preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, and high school all rolled into one. College followed, which meant an empty nest, but even then—since you never stop parenting—time was still going. And, oh yeah… grandkids.
So how does this apply to RV’ing?
I have the privilege of using an RV in my job as I travel to RV event after event. I’ve probably towed over 250,000 miles in a fifth wheel—maybe more. And I can tell you, the days can be long, but the years are short.
What makes the days long?
• Scheduling shows and rallies and making my travel plans
• Loading my trailer with all the RV gear, displays, literature, and rally materials
• Planning what to share at the rally or show seminar for RV’ers
• Pre-trip inspections before I hit the road, then driving 8–10 hours just to get to the campground
• Spending what seems like half the day setting up—leveling, wheel chocks, slides, cords, hoses, awnings, decks, picnic tables
• Setting up my tent or booth at the show or rally
• Trying to remember to eat lunch
• Working the rally or show—some can go until 8:00 or later in the evening
• Doing on-site installations at some of the rallies
• Handling email and phone follow-ups after hours
• Tearing down to hit the road back to the office
What makes the years short?
• The excitement of traveling to different parts of the country—even if I’ve been there dozens of times before
• Getting paid to enjoy the RV lifestyle
• Breaking in a new fifth wheel—I’m on my third one now
• Going back to my favorite campgrounds
• Meeting old, familiar friends on the road
• Making new friends
• Helping people understand how upgraded products can help them enjoy the RV lifestyle even more
• Helping RV’ers solve problems that have been bugging them
• Getting feedback from RV’ers who appreciate quality products and quality service
• Having dinner or social time at the rally
• Finding time to visit local attractions when I have a little spare time
• Taking my wife to rallies whenever I can
• The excitement of planning my next travels
I could go on and on about what makes the years short, but for me, the RV’ing lifestyle is a big part of it. This lifestyle helps me realize it’s not about accumulating things, but rather developing friendships and sharing experiences. It’s understanding that it’s okay to slow down and take in all the amazing parts of the country. It’s recognizing that there’s an even greater sense of community in the RV lifestyle. And it’s knowing that I enjoy what I do, who I get to do it with, and the fun of meeting RV’ers all across the country.
See you down the road — happy trails, y’all.
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