For many people, the May long weekend signals the start of summer travel and summer camping. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first motorized recreational vehicle, or RV.

Last year, sales plummeted 30 per cent and this year it seems people are starting to hit the road again.

Just a few years ago, Hollywood gave us their treatment of being on the road in a jumbo motor home and how a dysfunctional family comes together while sharing life's problems. The movie was called RV. It captured some of what the RV industry sells - a lifestyle blending freedom of the open road and camping in what can be a luxurious high-tech home on wheels.

David Woodworth is a historian on the RV industry. He says "technology has always been a big part of RV. The vehicles have always reflected the latest in technology of the society and the time they were created."

The industry has also reflected tough times. Wars and depressions have always battered the business. Last year, RV sales were the worst in 38 years. Sales have rebounded this year and in Canada it's estimated 14 per cent of families own an RV of some sort.

At Ottawa Camping Trailers, Ron Blackburn's family has been selling RV's for nearly 50 years. One of the staples has been the hardtop camper trailer with fold out sides.

"It really started the business and continues to be popular," he said.

The industry is producing an ever expanding variety of models. Just like the car industry they try to have a product to fit every need. From a pop up trailer that can be set up in 25 seconds, with room for two or three people, or how about what he calls "the loft series."

At a cost of $32,000, you get a pull along camper with an upper level for the kids sleeping area. Then there are converted vans and trucks an up to the large motor homes the size of a city bus.

Or how about a $98,000 fifth-wheel unit that needs a big sturdy pick-up to pull its seven-ton weight. It can be used year-round and includes an electric fireplace. All of them make super efficient use of space for storage and to offer the likes of air conditioning, washers and dryers, and even dishwashers, plus satellite TV and internet.

Melanie and Mike Johnson upgraded to a large fifth-wheel. Like 40% of RV'ers they have small children. They like the chance to explore and to be with their children

"It is all about family time for us, that is what's important. We leave our cell phones behind and spend time as a family," he said. 

"We can just spend time with our kids without distraction. We can go looking for lady bugs or butterflies do whatever we want and the cost is worth it. You just can't put a price on quality family time," said Melanie. 

The biggest units can cost well over $100,000, even $200,000. They may only get eight miles to a gallon of gas but Blackburn says: "If you have to ask how much fuel it will cost, you likely can't afford it and you should be towing another smaller vehicle to do your driving around when you get to your destination."

Canada's RV industry recently asked the federal government to help find some new way to make financing available for buyers. They say the industry is key to things such as tourism and should get some assistance.