Beyond the Wheel

In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we sit down with Stephanie Whittington, Senior Product Manager at Winnebago, to discuss one of the most anticipated adventure vehicles to hit the market: the all-new Winnebago ARKA. Stephanie shares the story behind the ARKA’s development, the growing adventure truck segment, and how Winnebago designed a vehicle capable of taking travelers farther off the grid while still delivering the comfort and convenience RV owners expect. From heated floors and hydronic heating to a massive lithium battery system and true four-wheel-drive capability, the ARKA is designed to be a self-contained basecamp for adventure. In This Episode Meet Stephanie Whittington • Senior Product Manager for Winnebago’s Backcountry Adventure Portfolio • Oversees: Revel EKKO ARKA • How her passion for camping, hiking, skiing, and full-time RVing influences product development What Is the Winnebago ARKA? • Winnebago’s first entry into the growing Adventure Truck category • Designed for travelers who want to venture far beyond traditional campgrounds • Combines off-road capability with premium residential comfort • Built as a true off-grid basecamp for extended adventures Why Winnebago Built the ARKA • Growing demand for more independence from campgrounds • Customer feedback drove much of the vehicle’s development • Designed for adventurers graduating from: Rooftop tent setups Truck campers Off-road trailers Overlanding rigs • Four years of development and testing before launch Chassis and Off-Road Capability • Built on the Ram 5500 diesel chassis • Available in: Standard cab Crew cab • True four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing • Zero-torsion frame design allows the coach and chassis to flex independently on rough terrain • Integrated inclinometer system through Winnebago Connect • Designed for remote campsites, trailheads, and backcountry exploration Comfort Meets Capability Stephanie explains how the ARKA balances ruggedness with luxury, including: • Heated hydronic floors • Four independently controlled heating zones • Continuous hot water • Single-fuel design powered entirely by diesel • Spacious interior with premium materials • Large refrigerator and ample counter space • Innovative hidden bath design • Massive shower for a vehicle of this size Flexible Sleeping Arrangements • Twin bed configuration • Queen bed configuration • King bed configuration • North-south sleeping layout • Molded roof design allows occupants to sit up comfortably in bed • Large windows and sky hatch for stargazing Off-Grid Power System Standard Overland Package Includes: • 8.4kWh Lithionics lithium battery • Expandable to 16.8kWh • EcoFlow Power Hub • 3.6kW inverter • 800 watts of roof-mounted solar • Expandable to 1,200 watts of solar • Three-alternator charging system • Ability to recharge from 10% to 100% in less than two hours of driving Climate Control and Four-Season Performance • Elwell Timberline 2.0 hydronic heating system • Heated floors • Heated tanks and plumbing • 20,000 BTU DC air conditioner • R-15 roof and floor insulation • R-12 wall insulation • Rated for temperatures from -10°F to 120°F Storage and Cargo Flexibility • Full-height rear gear garage • Modular U-shaped lounge and dinette system • L-track cargo tie-down system • Flexible storage for: Bikes Climbing gear Skis Snowboards Kayaks • Additional storage inside the crew cab Towing Capability • Tow rating up to 15,000 pounds • Ideal for: Jeeps Boats Side-by-sides Utility trailers Key Specifications at a Glance • Ram 5500 Diesel Chassis • Adventure Truck Platform • True 4WD with Low Range • 60-Gallon Fresh Water Capacity • Up to 16.8kWh Lithium Battery Capacity • Up to 1,200 Watts Solar • Heated Floors • Four-Season Capability • 15,000-Pound Tow Rating • Up to 26’7″ Overall Length (Crew Cab) To learn more about the Winnebago ARKA click here: https://www.winnebago.com/models/arka The post Inside the All-New Winnebago ARKA with Stephanie Whittington appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Inside the All-New Winnebago ARKA with Stephanie Whittington appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

This week on Beyond The Wheel, Kenny and Sean dive into what they’re seeing across the RV industry as the 2026 travel season ramps up. From shifting buyer behavior and changing campground trends to the rise of off-grid adventure rigs, this episode explores where the RV market stands right now and where it may be headed next. The conversation covers everything from dealer inventory and financing pressures to reservation fatigue, dry camping growth, and whether RVs are becoming too complicated with modern technology. Kenny also shares thoughts from recent time spent around the all-new Winnebago ARKA and the growing demand for true adventure-focused RVs. Topics in this episode include: Reactions to the Winnebago ARKA after Overland Expo Sean’s recent outdoor adventure trip Current shifts in RV buyer behavior Dealer inventory, pricing, and negotiating leverage Financing rates and affordability concerns The used RV market reset Why premium adventure rigs continue to grow The rise of solar, lithium, internet connectivity, and off-grid capability Whether RVs are becoming too dependent on technology Campground reservation fatigue and rising camping costs Love’s, Flying J, casinos, public land, and overnight travel strategies How social media is shaping RV expectations Why smaller RVs and vans continue gaining popularity Factory lithium, larger battery systems, and the off-grid power race Towables still dominating overall RV sales Why manufacturers may finally be listening more closely to customer feedback The episode also includes predictions for where the industry could be heading next, including affordability concerns, younger buyers entering RVing differently, and whether simpler RVs may eventually make a comeback. Questions discussed during the show: Would you buy new or used right now? Are campgrounds becoming too expensive? What RV trend are you tired of? Would you prioritize luxury or capability? Are RVs becoming too tech-heavy? Thanks for listening to Beyond The Wheel. If you enjoy the show, make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with fellow RVers and travelers. Safe travels. The post Driver’s Edition – State of the RV Market & Industry Trends appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Driver’s Edition – State of the RV Market & Industry Trends appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

Camping isn’t slowing down—but it is changing. In this episode, Kenny and Sean break down the latest findings from the 2026 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report by Kampgrounds of America and talk through what these shifts actually mean for RVers, campground trends, and the future of the industry. This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about how—and why—people are choosing to camp today. Read the Full KOA Report  http://koa.uberflip.com/i/1544394-2026-koa-camping-and-outdoor-hospitality-report/57? What We Cover in This Episode Camping Is Still Huge—But Stabilizing Over 50 million households are camping The post-pandemic surge didn’t collapse Is this the new normal for the industry? Why People Camp Has Changed Shift from budget travel → mental reset Rise of “unstructured outdoor wellness” Are RVers actually unplugging… or just relocating their lifestyle? The Rise of Glamping Nearly 1 in 3 campers are glamping Many new campers start here Is glamping feeding RV ownership—or replacing it? Renting vs Owning More campers are choosing rentals over ownership Flexibility is becoming more important than commitment What this could mean for RV sales long-term Slower, Longer Travel Fewer trips, longer stays Shift toward more intentional travel Impact on campgrounds, fuel, and how people use their RVs A Generational Divide Younger campers: Experience-driven Renting and glamping Older campers: Ownership-focused Returning to camping Are we looking at two completely different camping worlds? Campgrounds Are Changing More resort-style amenities Higher prices across the board Less middle ground between budget and luxury Is this pushing more RVers toward boondocking? What This Means for the RV Industry Are manufacturers building for the right buyer? Does the future lean toward: Smaller rigs? More flexible setups? Rental-friendly designs? Key Takeaway Camping isn’t declining—it’s evolving. The biggest shift isn’t how people camp…it’s why they camp. Join the Conversation Are you seeing these changes where you camp? Are campgrounds getting more expensive? Are you noticing more glamping setups? Would you rent an RV instead of owning one? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear what you’re seeing out there. Listen & Follow If you enjoy episodes like this, be sure to: Subscribe to Beyond The Wheel Share with a fellow RVer Leave a review—it helps more people find the show The post The State of Camping in 2026 – What the KOA Report Really Tells Us appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post The State of Camping in 2026 – What the KOA Report Really Tells Us appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

RVing Time Capsules: How RV Travel Has Changed in the Last Decade How has RVing changed since we first hit the road? In this episode of Beyond the Wheel, Sean and Kenny look back on their RVing journeys — Sean starting in 2014, Kenny in 2016 — and compare those early days to how travel looks today. From rookie mistakes and outdated gear to today’s must-have technology, they reflect on what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and what trends caught them by surprise. The conversation then shifts forward: where will RVing and Overlanding be in another 10 years? Will we see electric rigs, smarter systems, or new cultural shifts that redefine life on the road? What you’ll hear in this episode: How our first years of RVing looked vs. today Gear that became obsolete — and the upgrades we can’t live without Surprising trends in RV culture and community Predictions for what RVing/Overlanding will look like in 2035 Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting out, this episode is a chance to reflect on your own “RVing time capsule” — what you’ve left behind, and what you’ve added along the way. Link to MilitaryCampgrounds.US  We want to hear from you! Share your must-have gear and your predictions for the future of RVing by emailing us at Kenny@beyondthewheelpodcast.com Sean@beyondthewheelpodcast.com .The post RV Time Capsule appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post RV Time Capsule appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

Summary In this episode of Beyond the Wheel, Sean and Kenny delve into the intriguing world of RV legends, campground myths, and strange experiences encountered on the road. They explore various myths surrounding RV camping, including campground codes, overnight parking policies, and the role of technology in monitoring RV behavior. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with the paranormal and the impact of imagination while camping. Listeners share their own stories, adding to the rich tapestry of RV lore. The episode concludes with a call for listener engagement and future topic suggestions. Takeaways Some campgrounds may keep track of guest behavior. Walmart and Cracker Barrel likely do not keep lists of RVers. Dump station rumors often stem from outdated app information. Strange noises in RVs can often be attributed to wildlife. Imagination plays a significant role in interpreting sounds while camping. Conspiracy theories about RV components may not hold much truth. Technology tracks our movements for marketing purposes. Listener stories reveal the eerie side of RV camping. The RV community thrives on shared experiences and stories. Engagement with listeners is crucial for future episodes. Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time.The post Tales from the Slide-Out appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Tales from the Slide-Out appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

In this episode of Beyond The Wheel, we’re joined by Jeff and Shrinka from Overland Outfitters—makers of premium, handcrafted storage solutions for Jeeps, overland vehicles, and RVs. You’ll hear how their company combines rugged function with vintage style, and how their mission extends far beyond just selling gear. Jeff shares the design process behind their leather-and-canvas products, including details on how their real-world overlanding experience shapes each item. Shrinka opens up about the company’s origins, rooted in providing jobs and economic opportunity in her home country of India. We also talk: The difference real materials make (leather, canvas, military-grade acrylic) How product ideas come from actual trail use Their expansion into Sprinter vans and compact RVs Why they don’t mass produce and how that allows for flexibility The role of community feedback in refining new gear What’s trending in the overlanding world Whether you’re a Jeep owner, a van lifer, or just love handcrafted gear, this one’s worth a listen. Guest Links: Overland Outfitters Website Overland Outfitters on Quadratec Jeff’s Design Threads on Expedition Portal Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time.The post Overland Outfitters: Vintage Style, Rugged Function appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Overland Outfitters: Vintage Style, Rugged Function appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

Episode Summary In this episode, we sit down with Michael Davis, the founder and one-man operation behind Hard Impact Designs. Michael shares how frustration with rooftop tent installs led him to invent a game-changing quick-release mounting system. What started as a DIY sketch on graph paper evolved into a durable, multifunctional solution now trusted by overlanders and beyond. Michael opens up about the startup grind—from prototyping in Atlanta to securing overseas manufacturing, dealing with tariffs, and navigating the patent process solo. He also explains how his mount system, originally built for rooftop tents, now supports everything from recovery boards to road showers and catering carts. Whether you’re a gearhead, weekend warrior, or aspiring inventor, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insight. What You’ll Learn How a personal pain point led to an innovative mounting solution The challenges of solo entrepreneurship in the overland gear market Why Hard Impact Designs’ bracket system is more versatile than you’d think Tips for testing, manufacturing, and surviving the patent process Why community feedback helped shape the final product Links & Resources Hard Impact Designs Website Email Michael: michaeld@hardimpactdesigns.com Follow on Instagram: @hardimpactdesigns YouTube: Hard Impact Designs on YouTube TikTok: @hardimpactdesigns Have comments? Reach out to us through our Contact Us page. Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today! We hope you enjoyed this video and wish you safe travels, but before you hit the road could you do us a favor and leave us a review or rating on your favorite podcast platform? These ratings help the show get ranked and makes it easier for new listeners to find us.  Take care all and we will catch you next time. The post Revolutionizing Roof Rack Mounts with Michael Davis of Hard Impact Designs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Revolutionizing Roof Rack Mounts with Michael Davis of Hard Impact Designs appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.

Episode Summary:Buying your first RV is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. In this episode of Beyond the Wheel, we break down everything you need to know to make your first RV purchase a smooth and confident experience. Whether you plan to be a weekend traveler or planning full-time RV life, we share essential tips to help you choose the right rig, avoid costly mistakes, and get the most value for your budget. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why defining your “why” is the first step to choosing the right RV The real cost of RV ownership—beyond the sticker price Pros and cons of different RV types: Class A, B, C, travel trailers, and more The difference between must-have features and nice-to-haves How to test and inspect an RV before you commit Where and when to buy for the best deals Insider tips on negotiating, financing, and avoiding buyer’s remorse Resources Mentioned: RV Inspection Resources (NRVIA) RV Shows Calendar https://weretherussos.com/rv-shows/ Facebook RV Groups & Forums: Great places to ask questions and learn from seasoned owners Episode Highlights: Intro: Why RV buying can be intimidating—and how we’re here to help Know Your Why: Your travel style should drive your rig choice Budget Breakdown: Don’t just look at the price tag—think long-term RV Types Explained: Match your lifestyle to the right class or trailer Features That Matter: Forget the bells and whistles—focus on function Test Drives & Inspections: Trust, but verify—check everything Where & When to Buy: Dealership vs. private party vs. RV shows Quick-Start Advice: Rent before you buy, hit some shows, learn the ropes Listen Now Whether you’re buying your first RV or your third, this episode will save you time, money, and frustration. Hit play and let’s get rolling! Stay Connected Subscribe to Beyond the Wheel on your favorite podcast app Leave a review—it helps more RVers find the show Have questions or tips? Email us or reach out on social media Sponsors Battle Born Batteries Looking to get out there and stay out there? Battle Born’s lithium-ion batteries are here to power your RV, marine, and off-grid adventures. Designed as easy drop-in replacements for traditional lead acid, these reliable solutions have 2-3x the power, charge 5x faster, are 1/5th the weight, and last 10x longer. Offered in various models in unique sizes and shapes, ranging from 50Ah to a robust 270Ah, and backed by a 10-year warranty, Battle Born Batteries are built to fit your needs and power your experiences.   On the road, on the water, and off the grid … Reliable power is here! Shop now! Wholesale Warranties Buying an RV is a huge investment, and you want it fully protected. But what if your RV breaks down? The cost of repairs can be incredibly high, and you may not have the money to cover it. Wholesale Warranties offers affordable policies for RVs up to 20 years old. This is a more age-lenient policy than most RV parks we have stayed in. They have a wide selection of plans and policies so that you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Their policies are backed by a team of experienced professionals dedicated to helping you maximize your investment. Get a free quote today!The post Tips for Buying Your Next RV appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.The post Tips for Buying Your Next RV appeared first on Beyond The Wheel.