Airport Van Rental opens franchise in Chicago, expands US network

Remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur caused flash flooding at Gulfport Luxury RV Resort in Gulfport, Mississippi, trapping guests in their RVs and damaging vehicles. Water levels rose to four feet, waking visitors like Wesley Borne from Hammond, Louisiana, who was alerted by a neighbor banging on his camper door. Members of the Southern Elite RV Club went door-to-door to warn others and assist with evacuation.

Italian manufacturer Wingamm has updated its compact Oasi 540.1 motorhome for the US market. Built on a RAM ProMaster chassis (the American Fiat Ducato), it accommodates 2–3 people. The body uses a single molded rear panel to prevent water and dust ingress. Standard features include underfloor heating, a Victron energy management system, up to 700 W alternator charging, and a fully electric interior. The base price is $192,500 (about €167,000), below the average for comparable US models.

A fire broke out shortly before noon Saturday at the Sun Retreat camping and RV site on Route 72 in Barnegat, New Jersey, and was contained by 1 p.m., according to a local police official. No further details were released. Fire crews from Barnegat, Eagleswood, and Manahawkin responded. Evacuated tenants declined to comment.

Jeremy Patton, 47, was arrested in Santa Rosa, California, for setting an occupied RV on fire. The standoff lasted several hours; police used a drone and less-lethal munitions. No injuries reported.

Manuel Vega, a 66-year-old Ecuadorian businessman and former president of Deportivo Cuenca, is traveling across North America in a motorhome named Firpo Camper, built with his son. The journey started in Cuenca in February 2026 and includes attending World Cup matches in the US. The motorhome, based on a Peugeot Jumper, features a shower, toilet, kitchen, and solar panels. Plans include a trip to Alaska in 2027 and a return to South America in 2028.

Only In Your State has listed common mistakes when renting an RV. Recommendations include choosing the right class (A, B, or C) based on group size and trip length, inspecting cleanliness and mechanical condition before departure, and reviewing the rental agreement for hidden costs such as insurance, deposits, pet fees, and mileage limits. Additional tips emphasize learning to drive the large vehicle and bringing a generator for boondocking.