RV ownership is all about freedom, adventure, and the open road—until your trusty home-on-wheels suddenly decides it’s had enough. A flat tire, a busted water pump, or an electrical gremlin can turn a dream trip into a roadside nightmare.

That’s why we asked our readers in a recent newsletter poll: “Do you have a backup plan for unexpected repairs?”

The responses were… let’s just say, optimistically unprepared. If you missed this poll, don’t worry—there’s always another one coming! Make sure to vote next time so your voice is heard (and so we can all judge each other’s life choices together).

The Results Are In—And They’re a Little Terrifying

According to our highly scientific (and slightly concerning) poll:

  • 67% of RV owners have no backup plan for unexpected repairs
  • 33% claimed they were ready for disaster.

That means two out of every three RVers are out there just hoping their rig won’t break down in the middle of nowhere. Bold strategy, folks.

The “Wing It and Pray” Approach

Let’s be real—RV repairs are expensive, unpredictable, and often involve swearing at a stubborn bolt in 100-degree heat. So, it’s no surprise that many owners adopt the “I’ll deal with it when it happens” philosophy. After all, why stress about a blown transmission today when you can panic about it later, on the side of a mountain with no cell service?

The 33% Who Actually Have a Plan (AKA the Overachievers)

To the prepared 33%—we salute you. You’re the ones with emergency funds, roadside assistance on speed dial, and a toolbox so well-stocked it could double as a mechanic’s garage. You probably also floss daily and remember to rotate your tires. Show-offs.

Why Are So Many RV Owners Flying by the Seat of Their Pants?

Our theory? Denial is a powerful thing. Between the cost of gas, campground fees, and that fancy outdoor grill you had to have, it’s easy to pretend repairs won’t happen to you. Plus, admitting you need a backup plan means acknowledging that your beloved RV might, in fact, betray you at any moment—and that’s just too heartbreaking to face.

The Takeaway: Maybe Start Thinking About a Plan?

Look, we’re not here to shame anyone (okay, maybe a little). But if this poll tells us anything, it’s that most RVers are rolling the dice on repairs. So, do yourself a favor—tuck away a little emergency fund, join a roadside assistance program, or at least pack an extra fuse. Because nothing kills the vibe of a scenic overlook like your RV loudly announcing, “I quit.”

Now, who’s ready for the next poll? “How many times have you cried over a broken RV part?” We’re guessing… a lot.