Like most of Florida, the Daytona Beach area is a place that many snow birds flock to when winter hits in their home states. We have people that come from many northern states, as well as from Canada, seeking the sunshine and great quality of life that the area offers. Many of those people head this way in their RV or travel trailer, but at times get discouraged because they can't find a place where they can make a reservation. 

Here are some tips to help you reserve a spot for your RV or travel trailer in the Daytona Beach area:

• Plan it out. This may not always be possible, but if you know you are headed to this area during the winter, then reserve a spot early. Many popular RV parks get booked quickly for the winter months, because there are so many snow birds that come to the area. The earlier you can make the reservation, the better selection you will have in what's available for you.

• Look around. Many people are aware of one or two popular RV parks, but they overlook smaller ones that may be a few more miles away. There's a good chance you get a space reserved in the winter if you go to Port Orange, for example, but many people don't think to look there. Yet Port Orange is minutes south of Daytona Beach and the RV parks will put you around a 10 minute drive from the ocean.

• Timing matters. If you are trying to book a space during Biketoberfest or Bike Week you will have a difficult time. Most RV parks are booked solid during these times in the Daytona Beach area. But don't be discouraged! During the week of those events, look for a park right outside the county, heading more instate, or look at one of the areas around here, such as Blue Spring State Park, Flagler Beach, Merritt Island, or heading toward Orlando. There are some great places to camp that are more inland and will likely have openings, such as Wekiwa Springs, and Crystal Lake Recreation Area.

• Ask the locals. Sometimes it's difficult to choose an RV park when you are states away from it. If you are unsure and want more information, ask the locals. Find a Facebook page that is geared toward the locals in that area and ask them to post the question asking for feedback about that particular RV park or the location of it, or if they can recommend others in the area. You'd be surprised what you can find out by doing this. People are usually  happy to provide this valuable feedback, which can save you a lot of time, money, and help give you a more enjoyable time.

• Give them a call. If you find a place you are interested in reserving at, but they say they are fully booked, give them a call. You may be able to put your name on a back-up list in case anyone cancels their reservation, and you can ask them what other place they could recommend in the area. They may be able to give you a good referral since they are not available.

Finding the RV park for your vacation or winter stay doesn't have to be difficult. There are plenty of places to choose from if you are willing to be a little flexible with the location. And that flexibility may just save you money and open the doors to exploring a whole new place here in Florida, whether you are visiting the Daytona Beach area or beyond!