It’s time for the 2010 Hershey RV Show to get the first peek of the 2011 models. The show is in Hershey Pennsylvania and is open to the public from September 15th through the 19th. In its 42nd year, it is said to be “America’s Largest RV Show” and debuts many of next years’ travel trailers and motorhomes from the RV industry.

The show literally covers a lot of ground, over 21 acres, so be prepared to spend a couple of days and wear sturdy shoes. The layout is very friendly to visitors and showcases recreational vehicles by manufacturer rather than by dealer. This is unique to this show and provides the opportunity to see most, or all, of a manufacturer’s offerings all in one convenient spot.

Best Tip

Bring a camera or video camera to take pictures of what you like, or even what you don’t like. This is a very effective way of taking notes because, as the saying goes, a picture’s worth a thousand words. Take pictures of models, prices, dealers, modifications, furnishings, colors, signs – you name it.

Make sure the camera is easy to use and carry, or else it won’t be utilized. If you don’t already have one, check out the sleek Canon SD780IS point-and-shoot 12.1 megapixel camera that shoots HD Video too. It includes a 3x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilizer. The LCD viewer is a large 2.5” that is easy to see, but still fits comfortably into your pocket. This Canon packs big features into a little package and is under $200 at Amazon.

Cost

The entrance fee is $8 for adults each day, but if you go at least 2 days be sure to get a 3-day pass for $16. There is a $1 off coupon on the official website and other pricing information available. If you pay in advance you can use a credit card, otherwise it is cash only at the gate.

Parking during the day is free. Just follow signs to parking locations each day.

Camping

There are more than 30 campgrounds that are less than 60 miles away, including one under 2 miles away that offers a free shuttle to the Show. For more information checkout the campground list with contact details for each location. A list of nearby inns is also provided in case you are there to select and drive home a new RV from the show.

Parking Overnight

Limited dry camping is available for $25 per night at a designated parking lot at the complex. There are approximately 100 spaces for the duration of the show. No reservations are available and you pay at the gate, which is open 7am to 7pm. Be sure to see Overnight Parking Details for more information if you are considering this option.

No Pets

Except for service animals, pets are not allowed at the show. The RV show’s organizers have arrangements with kennels to offer $10 per day services.

Seminars

A history exhibit celebrating the 100-year anniversary of motor homes includes a 1910 Model T with a Telescoping Apartment. The history of commercial RVs is also presented as one of more than 40 seminars scheduled throughout the event. Other topics include: buying tips, travel adventures, maintenance, and working and learning on the road.

Exhibitors and Show Maps

Two exhibitor show maps are available. The first map is the outdoor layout of parking, general facilities and the manufacturers’ allocated spots. There are nearly 60 manufacturers and almost 80 dealers so be sure to look at the listing and map so you don’t miss anything.

The second map is of the indoor accessory exhibitors in nearly 120 booths. These exhibitors include: RV parks and campgrounds, RV finance and loans, RV insurance, mobile satellite and internet services, RV cooking, RV associations, RV accessories, and more.

The Weather

It’s more than two weeks away as of the time of this writing, but predictions are for highs around 72 degrees and lows around 50 degrees. These temperatures are quite comfortable for dry camping, so boondocking might be a great option when the show starts. Whatever you choose – get out and enjoy a tremendous RV show!

Find Out More

The 2010 Hershey RV Show is sponsored by The Pennsylvania Recreation Vehicle & Camping Association where you can find more information.

Largest RV Show in the country

If you’re in Florida in mid-January, be sure to attend the 2010 Florida RV SuperShow. Every type of RV will be available so it’s a fantastic chance to see a huge variety, all in one place.

For some of the best motorized small RV’s, don’t miss the Born Free, Winnebago, and Road Trek booths. Each has some exciting new products in their 2010 line-ups.

There will be travel trailers galore and even truck campers to explore. Just download the RV Show’s Map and see all the great exhibitors for yourself.

Tips to get the most out of your day

• Wear comfy supportive shows because you’ll want to see all that you can

• Check out the Show’s exhibitor layout first thing to make sure you don’t miss any of your “must see” RV’s

• Also note any seminars that you plan to attend along with the times and location

• Take notes by way of a camera or video rather than brochures and notepads. Take pictures of signs, people, RV’s, floorplans, products, pricing and dealers that you are interested in. The signs in particular are great reference for later research.

• Bring a quality small pocket camera that offers wide angle to get the whole RV layout, but can also zoom in for the details.

• If you prefer video, you won’t go wrong with a small pocket camcorder that slips easily into your pocket or small purse.

Information

Website: http://www.frvta.org/florida_rv_super_show.asp

Dates: January 13 through January 17, 2010

Times: 9am-6pm, except the last day Sunday, which closes at 5pm

Location: Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa

Not in Florida?

No worries, we’ll go for you and add some of the highlights of the show to our site. Let us know if you have a must see RV that you’d like us to cover.

2009 Hershey RV Show

If you’ve been waiting to see the 2010 RV models, then head over tomorrow to the 41st Annual Pennsylvania RV & Camping Show. This is a great opportunity to see more than 200 companies showing off their best products. It’s billed as America’s Largest RV Show and is really two shows in one. Not only is it the famous Hershey RV Show for the Public, it is also a popular RV industry Trade Show.

What to See

Get an event pass to see it all. All types of RVs are represented from small RVs like pop-up trailers, truck campers, Class B and Class C RVs to the large Class A motor homes. Be sure to check out RV makers Born Free, Leisure Vans, Phoenix, Pleasure-Way, Roadtrek, and Winnebago among others. And spend some time to see what Freightliner has in store for the RV market with its future electric chassis.

Everything related to the RV industry is represented at the Hershey RV and Camping Show. There’s no better time to see the best of the business all in one place. Whether you’re looking for information on campgrounds, camping equipment, bedding, kitchenware, cooking, insurance, finance, clubs, satellite, towing, and well just about anything relating to RV and camping, you’ll find it here.

Public seminars are available covering a variety of topics. Look through the schedule before exploring the RVs because you may find a subject that you don’t want to miss. Presentations cover trips, maintenance, renovations, buying tips, and many others. Use the seminar schedule to take planned breaks during the day as well.

What to Bring

Wear comfortable shoes and clothing because the RVs occupy a space over 26 football fields. Bring a little daypack, or a small backpack, that you can wear comfortably, but that is not bulky – this will make getting through crowded spaces easier. Bring a small digital camera to take pictures of products or ideas that you don’t want to forget. Also take a small notebook and pen. Save room in the pack though because you’ll want to be able to carry brochures that you pick up along the way.

General Show Information

Adult tickets are $8, but check the RV Show’s website for discounts (click on their graphic above). Parking is free and shuttle service is available. The show runs from Wednesday, September 16th through Sunday, September 20th. Hours are 9 am to 8 pm Wed-Sat, and 9 am to 5 pm on the last day, Sunday. Pets are not allowed, but pet sitting and kennel services have been arranged. Be sure to call ahead using information from the website.

Stay up to date with the latest RV industry information to get the most of your RV experience. If you can’t make it to the show, then stay current with MotorHome Magazine delivered to you.