Independence Without Isolation
At 70, Merron McAvoy thought retirement might mean slowing down. Instead, it became the beginning of something bigger – an open road, a rolling home and a community she now calls “invaluable”.
She had travelled before, back when she was married, always drawn to the comfort of having her own space on the road. So when life changed, she didn’t see a reason to give that up.
“I didn’t want to travel any other way,” she said. “Sleeping in my own bed, having my own things, it just made sense.”
What she didn’t expect was how much her world would expand when she joined the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA).
At its core, CMCA is built for people like Merron, travellers who want independence without isolation. The organisation offers practical support like vehicle insurance, roadside assistance and access to low-cost camps, dump points and dedicated RV stops across Australia.
But for Merron, the real value goes far beyond logistics.
“They’re always thinking of ways to make it better for us,” she said. “You feel secure knowing that.”
That sense of support matters, especially for those stepping into solo travel for the first time.
The Solos: A Network Like No Other
It was through CMCA that Merron discovered the Solos Network, a special interest group for members travelling on their own.
The Solos group brings together hundreds of like-minded travellers through organised rallies, bush camps and informal meetups. A recent rally drew nearly 300 people.
There’s also a constant line of communication. Through their Facebook group, Merron can post where she’s headed – say, Brisbane – and instantly connect with others travelling the same way.
“You’re never really alone,” she said.
What makes the experience work, Merron said, was the balance.
There are times she travels completely solo with quiet stretches of road, her own pace, her own schedule.
And then there are moments best shared, like walking to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko with a group – something she’s not sure she would have done alone, especially while preparing for hip surgery.
Or joining others with four-wheel drives to reach places she couldn’t access by herself.
“Sharing those experiences together, it makes them even more special,” she said.
A Whole New Life on the Road
For Merron, the benefits of CMCA, and the Solos Network in particular, aren’t just social. They’re deeply personal.
“It’s extremely important. It really changed my lifestyle,” she said.
She’s travelled across the country, visiting her four children scattered along the east coast and in South Australia. And for her family, there’s reassurance in knowing she’s part of a wider network.
She’s also seen what it can do for others, especially those who didn’t expect to be travelling alone.
“Some people have lost a partner and had to completely change their life,” she said.
“They come in feeling a bit lost and it gives them happiness they didn’t think they’d have again.”
That mindset has opened the door to new friendships and new adventures. Group trips to Tasmania, shared road journeys, even cruises with friends she’s met along the way.
“I’ve found my tribe,” she said.
For anyone wondering whether to take the leap, solo or otherwise, Merron doesn’t hesitate.
“I’d always encourage people to give it a go,” she said. “We’re very fortunate to have this lifestyle and to have something like CMCA behind us.”
Because for her, this isn’t just travel anymore, it’s a whole new life on the road.
