If done correctly, RV travel is one of the most incredible adventures combining a love for road trips with camping. But before you hit the go button on RV travel, here are things to consider before leaving on your first RV road trip.
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RV Travel: Things to Consider Before Hitting the Road
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Traveling the countryside in your RV provides all the creature comforts of home while enjoying the adventure of experiencing new destinations. Think of the incredible places you’ll travel, hauling all your necessities along with you.
The convenience of RV travel includes having your bedroom, kitchen and bathroom in your “backseat.” No need to book into a hotel room at each road trip destination, carry-on your luggage or unload and then re-load your car. RV travel is a fancy way of camping (called glamping).
If RV travel is in your future, then consider these things before hitting the road.
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Get the Right RV
When deciding to travel in an RV, it is advisable first to identify the most suitable vehicle to use during your camping. First consider where you will go, how far, and the number of people who will travel with you.
For example, a Class A RV is a viable option for a large camping group. On the other hand, a campervan RV would suffice for a solo traveler or a couple. Choose the right RV for your travels to ensure the best possible road trips.
Find RV Friendly Routes
For a successful road trip with an RV, identify and plan the possible routes to follow. Check out the roads from a map and make the necessary arrangements. Track an RV friendly route.
TIP: Google maps is one of the best free RV Apps.
Part of creating a route to follow is including maps. Lay out both a physical plan and even use your Google maps to save you from any unforeseen circumstances.
Bookings on Camping Sites
If you’re an adrenaline lover who appreciates traveling by the seat-of-your-pants, you may have to step out of your comfort zone with RV travel and pre-plan.
According to the RV Industry Association, due to the COVID-19 crisis, “According to the research, 46 million Americans plan to take an RV trip in the next 12 months.” That equates into camping sites fill up quickly — especially now that so many are buying RVs and planning road trips.
Book camping sites well in advance to ensure you have somewhere to park your RV. The inconvenience of traveling hundreds of miles only to be sent away at the gates due to lack of space will not be worth it.
Some camping sites have intense competition with bookings for months before an available space comes up.
Considerations on Renting
RV Rental or buying are two fundamental factors to consider using an RV travel.
Renting is most suitable if you are looking for a casual weekend with your friends at a camping site. It would be best to consider the cost of renting an RV by comparing different agencies to find one that suits your budget. Typically, the prices will depend on the type of RV you choose.
However, if planning to spend time on the road camping, buying an RV would make more sense.
Be Open to Boondocking
When your journey is filled with delays, occasionally you may not make it to your preferred camping site before the nightfall. When that happens, consider boondocking in an unexpected place for cheaper or free alternatives.
What is boondocking? It’s the camping off-the-grid, rather than in RV parks or campgrounds with facilities, such as water, electric or sewer. The RV Industry Association also refers to its as dry camping, free camping or wild camping, according to RV Industry Association.
While there are rules for boondocking, it is not illegal on public grounds, and even Walmart parking lots have become popular locations for RV travelers.
Check Mileage for Gas
Getting stranded in the middle of nowhere without gas is a nightmare you’ll want to avoid. Therefore, it is advisable to check on the mileage you will cover to prepare your RV gas needs adequately. Additionally, it is also ideal to find out near locations of gas refilling stations to avoid any inconveniences in your journey.
Tools for Breakdown Emergency
Sometimes, a breakdown may happen to anyone. Insert an instance, and it is advisable to have an essential equipment tool bag to help you rectify the situation and get back on the road in no time. RV rentals have the upper hand as you can call the representative to help if you have a breakdown to make further arrangements.
Poor Cleaning Could Cost You
Remember that an RV offers a portable bathroom. Therefore, it is up to you to carry out the essential care to uphold proper bathroom function. Embrace adequate care for your waste tanks. Don’t turn a fun camping experience into an unbearable stinky atmosphere — enough said.
Safe Driving
Consider the terrain you are driving on to avoid any inconveniences. Additionally, before conducting an RV for your trip, it is advisable to have a practice session to enhance safe driving. You wouldn’t want to get stuck in your camping site when you can’t perform essential driving tips. Additionally, it is advisable to practice parking and reverse with an RV before embarking on your trip.
Another essential consideration to make with an RV is to keep all your windows closed to eliminate any dust from entering into the vehicle, which also doubles up as your accommodation area. Furthermore, always remember proper leveling of the RV after parking is advisable to prevent any misfortunes.
Additionally, before leaving the station, a walk- through confirming different RV vehicle features will save you the hustle of having a breakdown due to features like a flat tire. Plus, always remember to ensure all storage compartments are closed before getting behind the wheel. A scenario where you have your belongings going up in the air when you hit a bump is not admirable.
Budgeting for RV Travel
Another critical aspect to consider is the overall budget for the whole trip. Whether traveling solo or with your family, formulate a budget plan and stick to it. RV travel budgets might include camping site fees, food, and gas money for the round trip. Budget accordingly for unexpected expenses, such as RV breakdowns and towing.
Ultimately, RV travel offers one of the best fun-filled, thrilling, and adrenal intriguing experiences create memorable road trip memories.