Vannin' Home Forums Van shows and Events National Truck-In 2018 Nats - Question(s)

Hi Everyone,

I need some advice from the experts! I really want to go to the Nats this year. This will be my first since 1982 (I was 10!) and it is only about a half hour from where I was born and raised! The problem is that I can't make it all the way from Northern California with my van (time off, slow roll, etc.). The website says you can't get in without a van, or riding in with someone.

I'm curious to know your thoughts on whether I'd have a problem getting in, how I can get in, and will I be okay to camp on my own without a van, etc.? I suppose I could rent a uHaul van, but that isn't very appealing for obvious reasons. Another option I'd be happy to do is cover registration for anyone willing to have me ride in with them.

Any thoughts or advice is greatly appreciated!

You'll need a van.
Every Nats I've been to has had a hand full of rental vans in attendance. U-Haul, Home Depot, Penske, etc.... No shame attached. Many vanners have done this when their vans were under construction or being rebuilt. Vanners from over seas sometimes do this as well.
People fly in, rent a van, go by Wal-mart or Cabelas (for a cheap cooler, an air mattress, beer, bread and bologna ) and drive in. It can be uncomfortable in the summer heat but no worse than camping anywhere else that time of year. AND you'll be among the best people on earth.

Well put Catfish!

Any updates?

I'm resigning myself to the rental van option and starting to scope out the trip based on that.

No updates?

Minivan is a nice rental option - and a full size air mattress fits just right in a town & country with all the rear seats down. CYA There!