January Means Outdoors Shows

If it’s January, it’s time for outdoor shows. This weekend is the Chicago Boat, RV & Sail Show, all that’s left of the much lamented Strictly Sail show that we used to go to every year at Navy Pier. Although it’s big, it’s not really camper-friendly unless you’re interested in the really huge travel trailers and Class C diesel pushers, but it does kick off the season. Of more interest to people who are actually interested in the outdoors are going to find more at the next shows coming up. The 50th Annual Chicago RV & Camping Show is coming back to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, February 15-18. But the best value for the money last year was the Greater Chicago RV Show January 19-21 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center: A great selection of travel trailers and RVs, plus an equally great selection of gear – and much more accessible to those who aren’t in the market for six-figure RVs equipped with enough bells and whistles to make your home seem dumpy by comparison. If you’re looking to get outside and enjoy the outdoor life, either of these two shows will be a good place to check out.