Canadians May Think Fuel Prices Loony, But Not Putting It in Garage Yet

A survey of Canadian drivers indicates that while high road fuel prices are taking a sting, it hasn't caused them to leave the car--or the RV--parked in the garage. It does mean that many are changing their plan of attack, which could have an effect on visitors this summer.

The survey is part of an overall look at Canadians attitudes toward oil prices published in Oilweek Magazine. The survey done by hoteliers, indicated that the number of Canadians who planned a domestic trip was down from 78% last year to 70% now. Financial reasons and higher gas prices topped the list for the lower rate of travel.

While the survey was for all drivers, Oilweek rousted out opinions of Canuck RVers. Like their 'Lower 48' counterparts, many are still planning on using the RV, but may adjust their plans to account for the higher fuel prices. Fred Wright of Toronto recently traded up to a new fifth-wheel trailer, a towable RV, as he and his wife Suzanne like to visit various parks around Ontario.

"I only get about seven miles per gallon (about 34 litres per 100 kilometres) when I'm pulling the trailer, so we've decided after this summer we'll put it at a seasonal park and only take it out once a year," he said.

If a large number of Canadians take this stance, it may be a great time for Americans (who have the fuel money to burn) to check out some of the attractions up north, eh? With fewer rigs in those park treasures, the farther you'll be able to see.

Photo: Alberta Highway 16 by laszlo-photo on flickr.com

B.C. Gets Off The Dime on RV Park Declines--But Is It In Time?

Last December we reported that there were serious concerns about the decline in the number of RV parks throughout the province. Over a three year period nearly 10% of available RV park "spaces" had vanished, largely due to increasing land values and the resultant sellout by park owners.

Now a group of government and industry folk concerned about the future of BC's tourism have sent the provincial Tourism, Sport, and Arts Minister a wish list of recommendations to try and turn-around what could be a one-way downhill trip to declining tourist revenues.

Among the recommendations was making more provincial land available for RV use and allowing local governments to decide whether or not to allow boondocking. The group also recommended upgrading RV sites in popular campgrounds to better accommodate the needs of newer RVs. Perhaps stating the obvious, the reported noted,"The baby boomer generation's move towards retirement and desire to travel is the major force affecting the RV market and as a result, demands for quality, comfort and services at RV parks will increase."

The work group report recommends their suggestions be implemented within three years. But with the Summer Olympic Games slated for Vancouver in 2010, and all 217 spaces at the only RV park in nearby Burnaby reserved out, three years might be a bit late.

Photo: wildernesscommittee.org