Caravanning: Chinese tourists hit the road

Beijing's All in Caravanning 2016, China's largest exhibition of RVs andmotor homes, held over June 1820, attracts a record number of visitors and exhibitors fromhome and abroad. Xu Lin / China Daily

Liu says affordability is its appeal. Most models cost from 220,000 to 280,000 yuan.

"Some consumers feel proud to drive a domestically manufactured RV to overseas destinations," he says.

"Many foreigners are surprised, too."

The company also focuses on after-service with a network of 1,000 repair and maintenance shops, Liu says.

"It'll take time to cultivate the market," he says.

"RVs aren't used so often because people only have time to drive during holidays."

So, rentals are becoming popular in China, he says.

People want the unique experience before they retire or have enough money to buy one.

This promotes the lifestyle.

German Konstantin Abert enjoys aspects of China's RV culture such as barbecues.

The 48-year-old has organized RV trips to China 10 times since 2006.

Travel has become easier because of improvements in roads and the internet, he says.

"The Chinese are curious about our RVs and like to have a look around. They are friendly, and we often take photos of each other," he says.

"When you wake up, the windows offer different views. And no hotel can offer such a feeling."

Contact the writer at xulin@chinadaily.com.cn