Focus on your hobbies and interests to meet other RVers

There are many special interest sub-groups within RV clubs

by Carol Ann Quibell — January 09, 2012

When an RVer suddenly finds himself or herself alone it can be overwhelming in so many ways. The thought of RVing without your significant other may seem impossible. It doesn’t have to be, although some say they feel like fifth wheels when in groups made up of couples.

Many single RVers belong to RV clubs for singles, which may lead to finding new travel partners or others with the same interests. By joining these groups the single RVer will have a special network of support they can turn to when they have any questions.

However, rather than limiting yourself to just clubs for singles, why not focus instead on what you like to do or participate in? Then find other RVers who like the same thing. If you are busy doing things you enjoy, you may find that being single is not an issue.

There are sub-groups in many clubs whose focus is on amateur radio, computers, four-wheeling, genealogy, geocaching, writing, bird watching, prospecting and metal detecting, quilting, rock collecting, square dancing, sewing, work camping, volunteering and even wood carving. There seems to be a group for almost every topic possible.

Volunteering

Volunteering your time on a worthwhile project not only gives you a purpose, it gives you an opportunity to become involved with a group of people in a common cause. Habitat for Humanity builds homes for people in need and there are many RVers who can swing a hammer.

Square dancing

Almost every city or town has a square dance club and visitors are always welcome. A search for square dancing on Google should lead to a number of resources. If you plan to be in an area for some time, contact the local club and see if you can join them while you are there.

Outdoor recreation

If you love the outdoors, you are not alone. There are thousands of others who would love to take a hiking trip, catch a fish, kayak a river, plan a four wheeling adventure or find a rare bird. By belonging to an RV club you can send out a request for information from the group or ask if others are interested in joining you or possibly meeting up with you along the way.
Rather than limiting yourself to just RVers, turn your search toward the activities. As an example, if your plans include taking your RV to Alaska next summer, contact the chamber of commerce, tourist bureau or community recreation centre for events you can attend or join while there.

Geocaching

An outdoor treasure-hunting game using GPS-enabled devices, geocaching can be a lot of fun and involves people from all over the world. It can give an RVer a purpose to their travels and allow them to meet others who enjoy searching for treasures.

Don’t give up RVing

I have had the opportunity of speaking with a couple of RVers who recently lost their partners and don’t want to give up their RV travels. Their lives have been turned upside down and they are unsure of what changes they need to make to continue traveling happily.

By focusing on the destination and pre-planning, RVing does not have to be lonely. Get involved, take a chance, and acknowledge that it will take some work on your part. RVing can continue to be something to look forward to, whether you are by yourself or with a partner.

Solo clubs

lonersonwheels.com has 50 regional chapters in the U.S. and Canada. This club has been active since 1969 with rallies, campouts, caravanning and lots of support for its members.

escapees.com/solos/ You must be a member of the Escapees to join their very active solo group, but for anyone who wants to connect with other active RVers this organization is something to be considered.

rvingwomen.org This club has 16 chapters with women from both Canada and the U.S. as members. It doesn’t matter whether you own an RV or are just dreaming of having one, this group offers support and friendship to its thousands of women members.

rvsingles.org Wandering Individuals Inc.