Chifeng aims to lure more self-drive tourists

Besides the increasing popularity of self-drive tours, RVs capable of accommodating a family are also finding favor.

Wu Xianglin, 57, joined an RV-share platform in May and later drove to Ordos, Beijing, Shanxi and Shandong provinces with her husband.

"Nowadays, traveling by trains or planes is not novel, so we are eager to get some other experiences," says the Baotou native.

"With an RV, we can sleep and cook in the vehicle, so there's no need to waste time and money on restaurants and hotels during the trip.

"Also, China has abundant tourism resources for us to explore, which is perfect for RV tours."

Wu also says that the platform has 2,800 RVs across the country and travelers can rent one for 1,000 yuan per day.

"To purchase an RV may not be feasible for many families, but sharing one is affordable," she says.

Shi Yongjun, a RV seller in Chifeng says that local people seldom get chance to use RVs. So, the self-drive festival is a good way for them to be exposed to this mode of travel.

"Last year, we sold over 10 RVs in Chifeng, and most of the buyers were middle-aged people who have money and time on their hands." says Shi, an RV enthusiast who drives to Hainan province every November for an annual RV exhibition.

"Hainan has constructed advanced camping sites for RV travelers which is lacking in Chifeng, says Shi.

"I hope enough camping sites and parking space can be built for this emerging form of transport in China."