What We’ve Learned From Airstream Ownership.

When we envisioned Airstream ownership, we viewed it as the key to unlocking adventure on the open road.  In hindsight, our initial excitement might have been fueled by a touch of naivety. Our previous camping experiences were limited to childhood family trips and evolved to car-camping with a tent.  It wasn't until our children left the nest that we graduated to RVing, specifically Airstream ownership. 

Airstream ownership can lead you to many rewarding adventures or down the road of regret. Which path you travel is really up to you.

Watch Here

If you are considering Airstream ownership or currently own an Airstream but having regrets, we want to share some of our lessons learned during our own Airstream journey.  We'll delve into both the joys and the realities of our Airstream journey to help you decide if it’s right for you as well as provide some insights into realistic expectations.

TOP 10 - Lessons Learned

Lesson 1: There's No Such Thing as a Perfect Airstream 💯

Every Airstream, new or vintage, has its own quirks and personality. Don't get discouraged if yours isn't flawless.  Embrace the imperfections – they make your Airstream unique! This doesn't mean major issues are to be ignored, but a minor dent or a finicky cabinet latch shouldn't deter you from the joys of Airstream ownership. If you are still considering which Airstream is right for you, check out the video link below as we share some insights that may help with your decision.

With so many Airstreams available, deciding which one to buy can be overwhelming. In this video, we provide five fundamental questions that will help you identify the Airstream that fits your needs.

Watch Here

Lesson 2: Beware of Social Media 🎥

If you are dreaming of Airstream adventures based on the latest social media feeds and YouTube videos, you are likely going to be disappointed. We should know, we make YouTube videos 🤣. Don't get us wrong, the Airstream lifestyle can be incredible, but social media posts are carefully crafted snapshots, and not the whole story. Imagine pulling into a crowded campground after a long drive, only to find there's no water. The reality is, Airstream travel has its ups and downs. That's why we strive to show both the highs and lows in our videos for a more transparent look at the RV travel lifestyle.

Lesson 3: Every Airstream Leaks…or Will Leak 💦

We'll just say it: Airstreams leak. It's a fact of life, almost a rite of passage. Water will find its way in through windows, rivets, or even seemingly random spots. While frustrating, leaks are usually fixable. The key is to find the source of the leak quickly and address it to prevent major water damage.  We faced this exact problem recently and created a video series that details our step-by-step troubleshooting and repair journey. In the end, we were able to find the leak and complete the needed repairs, but this leads us to the next lesson learned.

Water leaks can cause significant damage to your Airstream. We spent several weeks locating our leak and repairing the damage it caused.

Watch Here

Lesson 4: Routine Maintenance 🛠️ is Your Friend

Just like your home or car, your Airstream requires regular scheduled maintenance to stay in tip-top shape. Over the years we have created a checklist of tasks and set aside dedicated time for upkeep (early Spring & late Fall).  If you are willing to conduct the scheduled maintenance yourself, you can save money and time by avoiding the dealerships. However, if routine maintenance isn't something you are confident in do yourself or you just don't have the time, make sure you find a qualified technician to keep up with the required repairs.

Maintaining your Airstream doesn't have to be difficult. With just a like knowledge and some time, you can save some money, keep your Airstream in tip-top shape, and reduce unscheduled repairs.

Watch Here

Lesson 5: Right Tools, Right Job 🧰

While there's often more than one way to repair an Airstream, there's definitely a "wrong" way. Make sure you have the proper tools and materials for the job before diving into any repair. Investing in the right tools will save you time and frustration in the long run.  Over the years, I continue to add tools to my Airstream toolbox.  Much to the dismay of my wife 😳  If you are interested in the tools we use, we created a video of the "essential items" we carry when traveling, covering about 90% of our needs. This is by no means a complete list, but it is a collection of the most essential tools that every Airstream owner should consider.

If you're a new Airstream owner or a seasoned veteran, there are some essential tools that your should carry when traveling. Here is my list of the tools we never leave home without.

Watch Here

Lesson 6: Be Curious and Willing To Learn 🤓

With a little research and guidance, most Airstream repairs are within the reach of the average owner. Having some basic DIY skills will definitely come in handy, but don't let a lack of experience hold you back. The Airstream community is incredibly supportive and there is tons of resources online, from YouTube tutorials to dedicated Airstream forums. There is also a great sense of accomplishment that comes from fixing something yourself, and the knowledge and confidence you gain will be invaluable down the road.

Lesson 7: Join A Local Airstream Club 🧭

If you're not already an Airstream Club member, you should consider joining. The Airstream community is a wealth of knowledge. Talking to other Airstream owners, joining online forums, and connecting with your local Airstream club can provide a sense of community, camaraderie and a great network of like-minded travelers. Local club members are great resources and can be invaluable for learning how to care for and enjoy your Airstream. Besides it's great fun to Rally with fellow Airstreamers!

Airstream Clubs are great sources of information and an opportunity to connect with fellow Airstream owners.

Watch Here

Lesson 8: Find the Right RV Technician 👈

No matter how handy you are, there will inevitably be repairs that are beyond your expertise. That's where finding a qualified and trained Airstream technician becomes invaluable. We recently had our Airstream worked on to address a looming front end separation concern we had.  This repair was clearly beyond our level of ability and experience.  We decided to look for a certified Airstream technician with specific experience in body repairs.  After asking around, we found an Airstream repair facility on the East coast that could handle our repairs.  A reputable and skilled technician can diagnose and fix complex issues efficiently, saving you time, money, and frustration in the long run. They can also be a valuable resource for preventative maintenance tips and keeping your Airstream in tip-top condition.  We used Broken Rivets RV Service in Ashland, VA to address our Airstream repair and were very happy with the results.

Not every repair can be completed by an Airstream owner. That is why it is important to know what repairs you are comfortable in completing yourself and which repairs require a certified Airstream technician.

Watch Here

Lesson 9: Manage Your Expectations - A Reality Check

The Airstream price tag might suggest a trouble-free experience, but that's simply not reality.  Just like million-dollar homes and luxury cars, every Airstream will require occasional maintenance and repairs.  During our first year of full-time Airstream travel we had a reality check and quickly learned that we needed to manage our expectations. However, don't be discouraged by some online negativity about high cost and poor build quality of Airstreams. We found our Airstream to be worth the investment, but with the understanding that components are going to break and regular upkeep is part of the RV ownership experience.

During our travels, we share everything that broke on our Airstream. Some repairs were minor, while others were major, but that’s real life. With some basic maintenance skills and a positive attitude you can enjoy the Airstream lifestyle.

Watch Here

Lesson 10: A Positive Attitude Is Key 🔑

When it comes to owning an Airstream, dealing with leaks and unforeseen repairs can truly test your patience. It's not uncommon to feel frustrated when faced with these challenges, but it's important to keep in mind that there is a solution for every problem that arises. Instead of letting yourself become overwhelmed by these obstacles, try to maintain a positive outlook. Remember, the joy and satisfaction that come with owning an Airstream far surpass the occasional bumps in the road that you may encounter along the way. At a recent Airstream International Rally, we had the opportunity to talk with several RV travelers and who shared several Airstream stories and laughs along the way.

Meeting and talking with fellow Airstream owners is a great way to laugh and maintain a positive attitude.

Watch Here

Conclusion: The Lasting Rewards of Airstream Ownership!

Sure, your Airstream journey will have its bumps, unexpected repairs, and challenges you don't see coming. But with the right mindset - the memories you create will far outweigh any frustrations. Imagine the thrill of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and the connections you'll forge along the way – that's the true magic of Airstream ownership. We hope you enjoyed this post and we'd love to hear your thoughts on Airstream ownership and the lessons you've learned on the road.

Happy Camping & Safe Travels

Rick & Lisa