The pleasure, the freedom of living in a recreational vehicle and the possibility of going wherever the road may take you are the stuff of dreams. But before you jump into the RV world, here are seven considerations that will help you choose the right vehicle for you and your family.
Before you begin, gather the family members, take a sheet and a pencil to write down your choices and answers.
What do you want to do with your RV?
Are you hoping to take a road trip across the country or do you plan to use your RV for weekend camping trips? Also important, how many people should the RV accommodate?
Having a clear idea of what you will be using your RV for will help you narrow down your options which can be many. For example, an RV trailer that you pull behind a truck might be a better option for weekend trips. If you’re planning extended trips (or plan to live in your RV permanently), then you’ll want to look for amenities that will make your trips more comfortable.
Frequency of trips
How often do you plan to travel in RV? Some owners use their RV for family summer vacations, others like snowbirds to escape the winter months or use it as a second home.
Motorhome or trailer?
More spacious, the motorhome can be driven alone and maneuvers more easily than a trailer which requires a vehicle capable of towing it. Although more expensive, the former generally offers more amenities well suited to extended trips.
Another advantage of motorhomes is that they can tow a passenger car. This gives you the flexibility to park your motorhome at a campground and then use your car to get around and explore the attractions of the area.
What types of motorhomes?
Built on a bus or truck chassis, Class A motorhomes are the most expensive, but they have the amenities and enough space to take the whole family on a long trip. They often feature a full living room, kitchen appliances and sometimes even a washer and dryer. They usually have at least 2 sliding chambers for more space.
Resembling an oversized van, Class B models can offer luxury amenities, but in a more compact size, without sliding extensions, and are generally less expensive.
Easily recognizable by their berth above the driving position, class C models offer better fuel consumption than class A, but not as good as class B. They are distinguished by their sleeping space for 4 to 8 people, amenities similar to Class A and their ability to tow a car.
Three trailer choices
Light and robust, classic caravans (or trailers) can be towed by many passenger vehicles. The amenities will depend on how much you are willing to invest. If you like to leave your trailer at the campsite and explore, this is a great option.
Fifth wheel trailers attach to a special bracket in the center of a pickup truck bed, making them incredibly stable. If you plan on taking long trips to a campsite or riding in the mountains, this is a great option.
Third type, caravan tents (or trailer tents) remain the most economical choice. Light, simple and perfect for more or less long trips, they can be towed by a large number of vehicles.
Inspection and maintenance
Even if it’s straight from the factory (and especially if you’re buying it used), you’ll want to make sure your RV is 100% safe and in working order. Careful inspection is a must before setting off on a trip.
Ask about
Visiting online RV communities is a great way to learn, to discover incredible destinations with people who have made it their way of life.