Pilots Turn RV Rentals into a Post-Retirement Business Venture

Carrie and Brian Smith, both airline pilots, were inspired to improve on a subpar RV they rented during a 2023 Iowa bike ride, prompting them to start Suite Glamping Adventures. Within months they formed an LLC, financed and purchased seven Class C motorhomes, and stocked each with household items to offer a higher-end glamping experience. The fleet, named for their seven children, allowed them to provide multiple vehicle sizes and maintain backups, helping them sell out the first week after launching in February 2024.

Initial hurdles included only three of the RVs being winterized, leading to $16,000 in freeze damage, and the need for reliable storage and maintenance solutions. In late 2025 they bought 2.5 acres to house the growing fleet and are constructing covered storage to rent to other owners. They now rely on contractors for cleaning and repairs and use the Wheelbase system to coordinate bookings on Outdoorsy. While still close to breakeven, the pilots anticipate annual revenues of $150,000-$250,000 and hope the business will provide income and a new pastime after their mandatory airline retirement.