RESTON, Va. — Despite record-breaking fuel prices, typical RV trips remain the least expensive type of vacation, according to a new study comparing vacation costs.

PKF Consulting, an international consulting firm with expertise in travel and tourism, found that “typical RV family vacations are on average 27 to 61 percent less expensive than other types of vacations studied.”

Even factoring in RV ownership and fuel costs, the study reveals that RV family vacations tend to be significantly less expensive than other types of vacations.

“This study re-affirms what RVers have long known, that RV vacations deliver greater economic value compared to other types of vacations,” says Richard Coon, president of the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). “RV vacations continue to be the most affordable way for a family to travel because of the tremendous savings on air, hotel and restaurant costs. And these savings offset the cost of fuel.”

Steve and Vivian Damron of Byron, Ga., won a brand-new 2009 Coachmen Special Edition 17RD travel trailer in our 2008 travel trailer giveaway!

All they had to do to enter was to come to the dealership and fill out the entry form in person.

Thank you to all who entered!

People who bought a tractor-trailer or an airplane probably wouldn't put either on their car insurance policy, since both are specialty vehicles which require specialized coverages and claims handling.

Then why, when asked, do more than half of RVers surveyed report having added their RV to their car insurance policy?

Here are the top reasons people prefer vacationing in RVs.

• RVs cost less than most other forms of family vacations.
• They are ready to go on a moment's notice.
• The vacation begins when the RV is pulled out of the driveway -- no waiting in airport lines.
• They offer families the opportunity to share the adventure of open road travel.
• The route and destination can be changed with no financial penalties.