RVers face parking crunch along interstate

RVers who like to overnight at truck stops and rest areas on the interstate are finding greater competition for space these days. In a May 1 article, the Wall Street Journal reported that thanks to a robust economy, more large trucks are on the highways delivering goods. But the number of places where truckers can stop to rest isn't keeping pace.

"On any given night, the shoulders of interstates leading into big cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Baltimore are lined with long glistening strands of parked 18-wheelers," the article says. "These are the trucks that couldn't get a space in nearby rest stops or truck stops because those roadside oases are already packed with resting big rigs."

This means fewer overnighting opportunities for RVers at the busier rest and exit areas. It also means that RVers who do find a spot might irk weary truck drivers looking for some place to pull over.

To avoid adding to the congestion and to foster good relations with truckers, try to park in narrow, tight places where the big rigs can't fit. If you do park in the same areas as trucks, be sure not to hog more space than you need. For instance, don't stop in the middle of a vacancy, thus leaving too little room both fore and aft for anyone else.

The more conflicts we cause, the more parking restrictions we're going to see down the road.