Deb Peterson: A Jayco Family of Companies Pathfinder Embracing the RV Lifestyle

April 1, 2025

A Lifetime of RVing

For Deb Peterson, RVing has been a part of life since childhood. Now retired, she and her husband embrace this lifestyle, sharing their love of the open road with friends and family. Their 2024 Jayco Jay Flight 210QB has become the perfect home on wheels, offering them the freedom to explore at their own pace. One of their greatest joys is taking their grandchildren on trips each summer, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The Freedom to Explore

The RV lifestyle has allowed Deb and her husband to visit family and friends across the country, making stops along the way to experience the beauty of the United States. Their goal is to visit as many National Parks, Monuments, Battlefields, and Historical Sites as possible, using their National Parks Passport book as a guide. Their travel trailer provides the ultimate flexibility, allowing them to stop for picnics, take breaks, and enjoy unexpected sights that might otherwise be missed.

From Tents to Travel Trailers

Deb’s first camping experience was in a tent, but over the years, she and her husband upgraded to various campers, including pop-ups and small travel trailers. Before embracing RV life, they often stayed in hotels or used timeshares, which came with rigid schedules, flights, and less freedom. Now, with their travel trailer, they can create their own timeline and explore at their leisure.

Smart Travel Choices

Being a member of KOA and Thousand Trails has introduced Deb to travel discounts she never knew existed. These memberships have made RVing more affordable and convenient, helping them maximize their travel experiences. Each year, they map out different routes to visit family in states like South Dakota, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Washington, and Vermont.

Community and Connection

One of the most rewarding aspects of RV life has been the friendships they’ve built along the way. The camping community, both online and in person, has been an incredible source of connection and support. Attending Jayco Jubilee in Tampa, FL helped expand their social circle, and they look forward to future gatherings with new friends.

Unforgettable Destinations

Deb and her husband have checked off a bucket-list destination by camping in the Florida Keys. They gravitate toward coastal areas and remote locations, with some of their favorite spots including Assateague, MD; New Bern, NC; St. Augustine, FL; Fort DeSoto, St. Petersburg, FL; and Huntington Island, SC. No matter where they travel, they cherish the ability to stop whenever they like and take in the beauty around them.

The Joys of Flexible Travel

Unlike rigidly structured vacations, RVing allows Deb and her husband to travel with a mix of planning and spontaneity. They usually have a final destination in mind but allow for detours and impromptu stops along the way. They affectionately call this their “travel ADD,” joking that they’re always chasing new adventures. Journaling their travels and documenting their experiences on social media has become a cherished way to reflect on their journeys.

A Day in the Life on the Road

A typical travel day starts with coffee and breakfast, followed by a discussion about the day’s plans. If they’re on the road, they check the map for interesting detours. If staying at a campsite, they explore nearby attractions or relax with friends and family. Midday, they stop for a picnic lunch, ensuring a leisurely and enjoyable journey. Evenings are often spent around the campfire, reminiscing about the day’s adventures and planning the days ahead.

Lessons Learned and Advice for New RVers

Looking back, Deb wishes she had known how much her needs would change over time—she’s owned three RVs in the past seven years! Her best advice for those considering RV life is to ask plenty of questions, visit RV shows, and rent an RV before making a purchase. She also emphasizes the importance of proper insurance, warranties, and ensuring that the tow vehicle is suitable for the trailer.

Embracing the Lifestyle

RV life has profoundly impacted Deb, providing her and her husband with a relaxed and fulfilling way to travel. Compared to the hustle of flying and staying in hotels, RVing has offered them unmatched freedom and flexibility. Their biggest motivator remains the ability to spend quality time with their grandchildren, taking them on unforgettable camping trips filled with campfires, s’mores, and card games.

Looking Ahead

With so many miles left to explore, Deb and her husband continue to embrace the endless possibilities of RV life. They love the spontaneity of travel and the incredible experiences that come with it. Whether visiting family, discovering new National Parks, or making lifelong friends on the road, their journey is far from over. The road ahead is filled with adventure, and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

Follow Along Deb’s Journey:

Facebook: Deb Peterson

Instagram: @debdpeterson

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Deb Peterson: A Jayco Family of Companies Pathfinder Embracing the RV Lifestyle

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