Camping World is not for Teardroppers

Each time we drive on I-80 through California, we pass by the massive and tempting Camping World, but have never stopped. Camping World (with locations around the country) touts a multitude of camping accessories, tools, supplies and sometimes large RV and trailer sales lots. When we finally pulled off the highway to check it out, I was really excited and that excitement soon turned to disappointment.

Camping World does not cater to teardrop trailer owners. Sure, they've got everything from camping furniture and grills to GPS and satellite systems, but everything is geared toward the large RV or trailer. I mean REALLY large trailers. Beyond 30 feet seems to be the norm for this store, which even had an interior design and upholstery department in the back.

Granted the store did have a few cool items for teardropping including cast iron pots and small lanterns, fans and heaters, but many of their items are only available online and can't be viewed in the store. Suffice it to say, I was in and out of the store in about 15 minutes—empty handed.


The funny thing is, many of their items proudly display logos and icons with the quintessential teardrop or tiny standy trailer on them. I don't think anyone wants to drive around with a 45 foot, white fifth-wheel bumper sticker on their tow vehicle.

6 comments:

  1. My wife loves camping world i do not. I agree with you it is geared for large RVs and deep pockets.As i have neither i avoid going there.We went there looking for a16 to 20 foot small camper and they acted like wasnt worth their time to show us one.

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    1. I agree. I really felt out of place at the store. I felt the same way by a certain RV dealership in my town. I went to them for some issues with my battery connection and when they saw my trailer they actually laughed me out of the parking lot. I went down the street to their competitor.

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  2. I picked up a folding stool but was also disappointed at feeling like an outsider while shopping there. I find that stores who cater to tent campers are much more user friendly to our tribe. I think we can only feel something like personal satisfaction and maybe pity that we don't need some of the somewhat complicated thingies that Camping World carries for big rigs. Love my teardrop!

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    1. Yes. I feel I get better ideas and/or products from the basic Wal-Mart, Target, IKEA, Sportsman stores. The shoppers at Camping World really seemed to need to load up.

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  3. Ah, the simple life of a teardrop traveler!

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  4. I’m about to take off on my own trip around Australia in a couple of months … I love the teardrop! But I haven’t seen any here, just the old fashioned caravan which looks a bit similar …mostly feasable in camping

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