The Family Motor Coach Association, better known as the FMCA, has been around for over 50 years. They’ve hosted dozen of FMCA conventions over the years all over the United State, and thousands of RVers flock to these famous events.
So what happens at a FMCA convention? And should we put one on our own travel calendar?
Now that the FMCA has welcomed travel trailer owners into its membership, these are definitely questions we’ve asked ourselves. So we invited Doug Uhlenbrock, FMCA’s event director, onto the show to tell us more about what happens at these famous conventions.
He also gave us lots of info about the next FMCA convention, taking place in Minot, North Dakota this August. You can find out more about that event here.
You can listen to the interview with Doug by pressing play at the top of this article. Or you can listen to the entire episode in your favorite podcast app.
We became members of the FMCA last year almost immediately after they began accepting towable owners. Now, after talking to Doug, we know that we’ll attend the next convention that’s in our neck of woods.
{If you’re thinking of becoming FMCA members, make sure you check out this article we wrote about the organization. The FMCA is also offering our readers $10 off the yearly membership price when using code RVFTA19. You can learn more here.}
Why are we so sure one of these events is in our future?
Here are the five reasons to attend an FMCA convention…
Take the RV Basics Workshop
We always talk about how the steep learning curve of RV ownership can keep folks from truly enjoying RV travel. The FMCA offers attendees the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of all the RV systems. Knowledge is power, amiright??? The two and a half day course is run by industry experts and takes place right before the main convention festivities. We’ve been RVing for 10 years, and we would sign up for this program in a hot minute. Learn more about the RV Basics Workshop here.
Go to RV Driving School
The FMCA partners with the RV Driving School to provide convention attendees the opportunity to become more confident, safer RV drivers. Over the years, so many folks have asked us if we can recommend a class for RV driving basics. Unfortunately, in many parts of the country, these are few and far between. We love the fact that you can attend a fun event and learn how to be a better driver! You know what we love even more? The one-day RV Backing Class option!!! You can learn more about the RV Driving School here.
Attend the Educational Seminars
Okay, okay. We may be teacher nerds who love a good seminar. But we know a lot of other RVers are also. The FMCA packs the convention schedule with a wide range of educational talks by industry and lifestyle experts. Dive into the nitty gritty with talks on “Cummins Engine Operation and Maintenance” and “RV Weight and Tire Safety.” Make sure you are financially protected by attending the “Understanding Your Insurance Policy” seminar. Or dream about a future life on the road at a “Full-Time RVing Lifestyle” talk.
Enjoy Live Entertainment
FMCA prides itself on pulling out the stops with their live entertainment, which is scheduled throughout the day and into the evening hours. Listen to an inspirational talk by Captain Sully Sullenberger, or dance to the timeless songs of The Spinners. Lexi Wyman and Soulshine are also making an appearance in Minot, South Dakota. We would personally love to attend the FMCA Supersized Book Club, where author John Bayer will be leading a discussion on his book 15 Months of Winter: My Year in North Dakota.
Meet other RV Fanatics
It takes one to know one, right? RV fanatics are a special breed and there’s nothing we love more than meeting other RV enthusiasts. The FMCA conventions offer so many chances to socialize with happy campers. Think corn hole tournaments and happy hours for days…
Minot, North Dakota is a bit too far for us to tow our trailer this summer for the 2019 FMCA Summer Convention. But a little birdy tells us that one of the 2020 conventions will be a lot closer to our home base in the northeast. And if that’s true, we’ll be registering ASAP. Hope to see you there…
And until then, we’ll see you at the campground!
Stephanie + Jeremy
