Design Within Reach is now selling an Airstream model with its own brand of design flair. When I first read about it I was irritated. To me, RVs of all shapes and sizes represent everything that is wrong with consumers and our culture of convenience. Why do people feel the need to cart their earthly possessions around behind them when they vacation? What is the attraction in creating a microcosm of one’s home life in the pursuit of “getting away from it all”?

To my horror, the more I think on the DWR Airstream design the more I find myself appreciating its clean efficient use of space and tasteful decor. Somehow it seems to appeal to my design sensibilities, curses! Nevertheless, I will not allow myself to be lulled by its siren song of materialism – and remain resolute that my vacationing and enjoyment of the outdoors remain free of a portable kitchen, recessed halogen lights, and Nelson Ball Clock.

When it comes down to it, for $50k I can travel to so many places not reachable by the National Highway System, without buying something that most closely resembles a ball and chain – bouncing along behind my vehicle.

An Airstream spotted in the wild, not far from home