Are you considering purchasing an electric vehicle as your next car but are unsure whether it will fit your lifestyle? If you love to spend time in the great outdoors, an electric vehicle might be a great option. Due to the growing number of electric cars, many campgrounds have begun to offer the necessary amenities for environmentally conscious drivers.
Hybrid and electric vehicle sales have skyrocketed in the last few years, reaching 800,000 in 2021. As more manufacturers join the electric car craze and options increase for consumers, this number will grow.
You may have noticed electric vehicle charging stations popping up near grocery stores and gas stations in your area. These charging stations signal a response to changing times. Fortunately, the camping industry is changing to accommodate EVs, too.
Can You Go Camping With Your Electric Vehicle?
You can take your EV camping, and your options are increasing. Many campgrounds have begun to recognize the growing number of electric vehicles on our roads, and they’ve started to adapt accordingly. Some have even installed electric vehicle charging stations to make EV camping easier. It is advised to always use a designated EV charging station to ensure the safety of your vehicle and the electrical infrastructure.
While 50 amp sockets that power RVs can technically recharge an electric vehicle, we don’t condone charging an electric car this way. Always contact the campground where you want to stay or visit their website to learn more about charging options for your electric car.
How Electric Vehicles Have Changed the Camping Industry
The camping industry may see even more significant changes as more nature lovers opt for electric vehicles and plan camping trips with their new cars. Some RV manufacturers are even pioneering ideas for electric RVs. Winnebago Industries has conceptualized the e-RV, a fully electric vehicle with a comfortable lodging space in the back.
In a short time, you’ve seen electric vehicles bring change to city streets. They may also change outdoor spaces as campgrounds adjust to the growing demand for suitable electric vehicle solutions. RV manufacturers like Winnebago are even beginning to conceptualize electric RVs.
With all these changes, electric vehicles may be the future of camping.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles When Camping
If you’re still hesitant to consider electric vehicles and camping with them, learning more about the benefits might help you make your decision. When you bring your EV camping, you can:
- Save money on fuel: You want an affordable experience when you camp. Since electric vehicles and hybrids use little to no gasoline, you can save the money you would have used on gas and store it up for your next camping trip.
- Refuel from your campsite: Traditional cars require a trip to the gas station to get more fuel. With many campgrounds adding electric vehicle charging stations and others offering RV plug-ins, you may be able to recharge without even leaving the campground.
- Protect the environment: Fully electric vehicles produce no tailpipe emissions. The lack of emissions allows you to protect the outdoor spaces you love when you drive through them in an electric car.
- Save time on repairs: Electric motors often require less maintenance than traditional combustion engines. Enjoy your time spent camping and the smooth operation of your vehicle.
With all these benefits, maybe now is the time to consider buying an electric vehicle and camping with it.
Camp With an Electric Vehicle at KOA
Unsure where to camp with your electric vehicle? Try the Kampgrounds of America. With a nationwide selection of campgrounds with Cabins, private camping and RV hookups, we have a spot for you, wherever your electric vehicle takes you. Find a KOA near your destination and contact the campground for more information regarding bringing your EV.
About the Author: Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America is the largest system of open-to-the-public campgrounds in the world, with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in Billings, MT in 1962, KOA’s family of campground brands – KOA Journey, KOA Holiday and KOA Resort – today serve more than a million camping families each year. KOA is dedicated to “connecting people to the outdoors and each other” by providing people with a variety of camping experiences and the information they need to make the most of their camping trip. Read more of their camping and travel resources by visiting KOA.com/blog.
