Fernweh Big Thing Basecamp 2026

A 71-year-old woman in Texas died from primary amebic meningoencephalitis caused by Naegleria fowleri after rinsing her nose with unboiled tap water from a motorhome tank. According to the CDC, infection occurred over four days before symptoms appeared, despite no recreational freshwater exposure. Although the amoeba was not detected in water samples from the motorhome or campsite, disinfectant levels were insufficient and turbidity exceeded standards. The case highlights risks of using tap water for nasal irrigation and the need for water quality maintenance in RVs.

A trailer towed by a pickup truck caught fire on Interstate 75 in Hamilton County, Tennessee, causing stored fireworks to detonate. The driver pulled over after noticing smoke, and the fire quickly spread. Traffic was halted in both directions; no injuries have been reported.

A fire in unincorporated Lockport Township, Illinois, on February 2, 2026, spread through a detached garage, outbuildings, a motor home, and several passenger vehicles. The blaze also reached the exterior of a house but was quickly extinguished. Occupants evacuated safely and are being assisted by the Red Cross. The cause is under investigation.

More Americans over 50 are opting for motorhome life. Patty Gill, 52, and her husband visited all US states in five years, saving over $100,000. Beverly Brown, 63, has lived in a converted van since 2019.

Gone Mobile Vans from Costa Mesa, California, has unveiled an off-road camper van based on a long-wheelbase all-wheel-drive Ford Transit. The wheelbase length is 3.76 meters. The vehicle is aimed at the summer season.

The Carolina Coastal Motorcoach Resort near Holden Beach, North Carolina, will feature about 90 motorcoach lots with optional casitas—small house-like structures. Amenities include a clubhouse, pool, and pickleball courts on a 17-acre lake. Owners can live year-round in both RV and casita. Opening is set for September 2026.