Airline pilots launch mobile lodging venture, expanding to nine RVs

After a lackluster personal rental, pilots Carrie and Brian Smith invested roughly $782,000 to acquire seven RVs, later expanding the fleet to nine, and spent an additional $23,000 on linens, kitchenware and other guest comforts. Operating as Suite Glamping Adventures, they list the vehicles on Outdoorsy and market the offering as a mobile version of Airbnb, noting that longer stays are more profitable than three-day trips.

Their inventory includes models from 22 to 32 feet, with larger units attracting most bookings while smaller ones suit couples. Business is highly seasonal, with spring break busy, August slow due to Texas heat, and a dip in January and February; they also earn occasional high-value contracts, such as a $9,500 rental for a Dutch radio crew covering the 2026 World Cup. The venture generated about $114,000 in 2024 and $95,000 in 2025, and the Smiths aim for at least $150,000 a year as they refine operations and pursue more corporate work. Although not yet profitable because of loan payments, insurance, maintenance and platform fees, the enterprise provides tax deductions and asset accumulation for the high-earning pilots with college-age children.