1. Flying State Flags at Every Campsite
It used to be that every RV site had a flagpole showing off where campers came from — a proud tradition that helped spark friendly conversations. Today, many campgrounds discourage tall flagpoles due to safety concerns and visual clutter. Plus, as RV parks get more crowded, there’s simply less space to stake out big displays. Instead, people are connecting through apps or campground events rather than by reading each other’s flags.
The shift isn’t just about rules — it’s about changing priorities. Modern campers often want a more natural, minimalist setup that blends into the landscape. Some newer RVers also prefer privacy over broadcasting their hometown. It’s a small example of how the RV community is evolving from loud-and-proud to laid-back-and-connected.
2. Running Generators All Day
A decade ago, hearing the hum of generators was part of the campground soundtrack. But as solar panels and lithium batteries become standard, that noise is fading fast. Many RV parks have also introduced quiet hours or outright bans on generator use to protect the peaceful atmosphere. Campers are adapting with tech that’s cleaner, quieter, and more efficient.
The shift to renewable power isn’t just about convenience — it’s about culture. Campers increasingly care about sustainability and want to leave a smaller footprint. Using solar setups also makes boondocking easier, since you can stay off-grid without disturbing nature or your neighbors. The once-constant buzz of engines is giving way to the quiet hum of modern efficiency.
3. Decorating Sites with String Lights and Lawn Ornaments
Once upon a time, over-the-top campsite decorations were a badge of pride. From flamingos to twinkling lights, these displays made sites feel like mini fairgrounds. But with power restrictions and new campground aesthetic rules, those glowing setups are losing favor. Today’s campers are keeping things simple and focusing on natural ambiance instead.
It’s partly about practicality — setting up elaborate decor takes time and storage space that many full-timers don’t have. Campgrounds are also trying to reduce light pollution for stargazing and wildlife. A few subtle solar lanterns are in; big plastic inflatables are out. The shift reflects a broader move toward mindful, minimalist camping experiences.
4. Paper Maps and Brochures
Every seasoned RVer once had a glovebox full of maps and campground directories. But GPS and RV-specific travel apps have made those bulky paper guides nearly obsolete. Real-time updates on closures, fuel stops, and reviews make digital tools more accurate and convenient. As a result, campground check-ins rarely involve handing out printed materials anymore.
This change is saving trees and simplifying logistics. Some parks even have QR codes at check-in stations instead of printed maps. Tech-savvy RVers appreciate the instant info, though a few still keep paper maps for backup in no-service zones. The balance between old-school reliability and modern convenience defines today’s travel habits.
5. Rigid Check-In Rituals
It wasn’t long ago that RVers had to show up by 5 p.m. sharp to avoid losing their spot. Now, with online reservations and self-check-in systems, those strict rules are easing. Many parks have installed automated gates or digital kiosks that let campers check in on their own schedule. This flexibility has made spontaneous travel more accessible.
The shift caters to how people travel today — less rigid and more tech-driven. Campground hosts still exist, but their role is now more about community and less about paperwork. Late arrivals can settle in quietly without waking the whole park. The digital age has streamlined even the simplest camping traditions.
6. Saving Spots for Friends
It used to be common to rope off extra sites for a caravan of friends coming later. These days, most parks won’t allow that — reservations are too competitive, and occupancy rules are stricter. With the boom in RV travel, holding spots just isn’t fair to others looking for a space. So now, group camping requires advance coordination instead of improvised saving.
This change reflects how demand has reshaped campground culture. Sites book up months ahead, so the “save-a-spot” tradition just doesn’t fit the modern system. Group campsites or rally areas are the new go-to for traveling parties. It’s less spontaneous, but far more organized and equitable for everyone.
7. Relying on Cash-Only Campground Payments
Cash once ruled campground transactions, from site fees to firewood. But with contactless payment systems and campground apps, physical money is fading fast. Most parks now use online booking portals, and even small independent campgrounds have mobile readers. It’s faster, safer, and easier to track for both campers and owners.
The pandemic accelerated this transition by pushing for touch-free systems. Campers have embraced the convenience of prepaying before they arrive. It also reduces misunderstandings about rates or cancellations. The old “cash in an envelope” system is becoming a nostalgic relic.
8. Potluck Dinners with the Whole Campground
Community potlucks were once a highlight of RV life — everyone brought a dish, and friendships formed over casserole. But health concerns and busier travel schedules have made these events less common. Campgrounds now favor organized, catered events or food truck nights instead. It’s still social, but in a more structured and sanitary way.
The decline isn’t about unfriendly campers — it’s about practicality. With more full-timers working remotely, people don’t always have time for communal cooking. Plus, dietary restrictions and hygiene standards have made shared meals trickier to manage. The spirit of community remains, but the form it takes has evolved.
9. Printing Membership Stickers on RV Windows
Campers once showed off every club they belonged to with a collage of stickers on their rig. Escapees, Good Sam, KOA — those logos told a story. But modern RVers often prefer a cleaner aesthetic or worry about privacy and resale value. Membership verification is now handled digitally, making the stickers unnecessary.
It’s part of the broader digital migration in RV culture. Loyalty programs track discounts through apps or license plates instead of windshield clutter. New RV designs also discourage exterior stickers because of finish damage. What was once a point of pride now feels a bit dated.
10. Washing RVs at the Campground
It used to be fine to give your rig a good scrub wherever you parked. Now, most campgrounds prohibit washing to conserve water and avoid runoff pollution. Instead, travelers use designated wash stations or waterless cleaning products. It’s a reflection of growing environmental awareness within the RV community.
Modern RVers understand that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword — it’s part of responsible travel. Parks want to protect local ecosystems and reduce maintenance costs. As a result, that Saturday wash tradition has quietly faded. Eco-friendly wipes and portable sprayers are the new normal.
11. Using Two-Way Radios for Caravaning
Before smartphones, CB radios and walkie-talkies were essential for keeping a caravan together. They provided instant updates on turns, stops, or trouble. But with GPS tracking and group chat apps, that kind of analog communication is disappearing. Few new RVers even bother installing CB systems anymore.
The change is driven by convenience and reliability. Cellular coverage is much broader, and communication apps offer richer features. Plus, fewer travelers are part of large caravans these days — small groups and solo trips dominate. The old “breaker, breaker” chatter is mostly nostalgia now.
12. Leaving Porch Lights On Overnight
For decades, a glowing porch light was the universal “we’re home” sign in campgrounds. But light pollution awareness has changed that custom. Campers are turning lights off or using motion sensors to protect dark skies and wildlife. Some parks now even request that exterior lights stay off after quiet hours.
This trend also reflects changing tech — LED lights and solar fixtures make illumination smarter and more targeted. Campers appreciate better visibility without blinding neighbors. Stargazing has become a popular nighttime activity, making dark surroundings more desirable. The glow of the porch light is dimming, but for good reason.
13. Keeping a Big Collection of Campground Souvenir Mugs
Collecting mugs or patches from every stop was once a rite of passage for RV travelers. But as minimalist living takes hold, many are ditching the clutter. Space in an RV is precious, and travelers now document memories through digital photos or social media instead. The physical mementos just don’t fit the mobile lifestyle anymore.
This doesn’t mean sentimentality is gone — it’s just evolving. Many RVers still commemorate special places, but through digital scrapbooks or lightweight keepsakes. It’s part of a move toward traveling lighter and living simpler. The spirit of collecting remains, even if the shelves are empty.
14. Relying on Campground Bulletin Boards for News
Every RV park once had a corkboard full of announcements, local tips, and lost-and-found notes. But now, that info lives on campground apps, social media pages, or text alerts. Digital tools keep campers updated in real time, making bulletin boards mostly decorative. Some parks still keep one for nostalgia, but it’s rarely checked.
The change highlights how connected the RV world has become. Wi-Fi and smartphones have replaced the need to walk to the office for news. It’s faster and keeps everyone informed no matter where they’re parked. The humble bulletin board has officially gone digital.
This post 14 Outdated RV Customs That Are Fading Fast in Modern Campgrounds was first published on Greenhouse Black.
