Choosing the Right RV

Choosing the right RV can make your camping trip much more enjoyable. Here are a few things to consider: 

Think about your travel style and how many people will join you. Smaller RVs are easier to drive and park, ideal for couples or solo travelers who move often or visit places with limited space. Larger RVs offer more living and sleeping space, making them suitable for families or those staying in one place longer.

Size considerations

• Small RVs (up to 20 feet) are a good choice for solo travelers or couples. They are easy to drive and park, but have less living space.

  
  

• Medium RVs (20 to 30 feet) balance comfort and features for small families, while remaining easy to drive and park.

  
  

• Large RVs (over 30 feet) are best for families or groups who need plenty of space. They can be harder to drive and park, and some campgrounds may have size limits.

Type

You can choose a motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth wheel. Each type has its own pros and cons.

• Size and layout: Check how the living and sleeping areas are arranged. Some prefer separate sleeping spaces for privacy. Slide-outs add room at your campsite but also increase weight and take up space.

  
  

• Lifestyle and activities: Choose an RV with features that match your travel style. For example, if you enjoy cooking outside, look for an RV with an outdoor kitchen or entertainment system.

  
  

• Budget: Include maintenance and fuel costs, not just the RV's price. Larger motorhomes use more fuel. New motorhomes range from $60,000 to several hundred thousand dollars. Maintenance can cost $500 to over $2,000 annually, depending on condition and use. Insurance may cost $1,000 to $2,000 per year. Factor in these expenses to understand total ownership costs.

Websites like RV Trader and Camping World offer a wide selection of new and used RVs. New RVs come with the latest features and a manufacturer’s warranty, which can give you peace of mind, but they cost more, and like cars, their value decreases significantly the moment they're driven off the lot.

Used RVs cost less up front and don’t lose value as quickly, so they’re a good option for first-time buyers or anyone on a budget. However, they might need more maintenance or repairs, and older models may lack the latest features. Think about these points to help you decide what’s best for you.

Motorhomes

Pros:

• Easy to drive and move, and passengers can use the RV’s amenities while on the road.

• A good choice for people who travel often or want a self-contained home on wheels, featuring slide-outs, high-end appliances, entertainment systems, and custom finishes.

• Good for beginners, especially Class B and C models, which are easier to handle.

Cons:

• Usually cost more, starting at about $60,000 for a new base model.

• Class A RVs get about 5 to 10 miles per gallon.

• If you want to explore the area with a separate vehicle, you’ll need to tow a smaller car behind the RV.

Fifth Wheels

Pros:

• Usually have bigger living spaces and higher ceilings.

• More stable to tow because the hitch is in the truck bed, which spreads the weight more evenly.

• Great for people who plan to stay in one place for a long time.

Cons:

• You’ll need a strong truck to tow them.

• They can be heavy and harder to move in tight spots.

• They may cost more than travel trailers.

Travel Trailers

Pros:

• Usually, the most affordable and budget-friendly choice.

• Lighter than fifth wheels, so you can often tow them with a smaller, less expensive vehicle.

• After you unhitch, you can use your tow vehicle to explore the area.

Cons:

• They take more time and effort to set up at each stop, including hitching, unhitching, and leveling.

• They can be hard to tow and back up, especially if you’re new to RVing.

Other factors to consider

• Travel plans: If you’ll be moving often, a smaller RV is more practical. If you want to stay in one place for a while, a larger RV can be more comfortable.

• Towing capacity: If you choose a towable RV, ensure your vehicle can handle its weight. Exceeding your vehicle’s towing limit is unsafe. Check your owner's manual or the manufacturer's website for accurate towing specifications. This helps you make safe, informed choices.

• Amenities: Larger RVs usually have more features, such as full kitchens with an oven and microwave for cooking and full bathrooms with a shower, toilet, and sink.

  • Some RVs offer extra conveniences, such as a separate shower or two bathrooms for more privacy. Smaller RVs may have more basic features.

    
    

• Campground restrictions: Some campgrounds limit RV size, so having a smaller RV can give you more choices of places to stay.

Tips for choosing

• Rent first: Try renting different types of RVs before you buy to see what works best for your family. Consider using rental platforms like Outdoorsy or RVshare, which offer a wide range of options and locations. Local dealerships may also have rental programs for weekend trips or longer holidays.

  
  

• Prioritize needs: Decide which features are essential, like enough beds for everyone. Consider bunk beds for kids or sofas that convert for guests. Families may need storage for toys and sports equipment, such as bikes or kayaks. Couples with pets might want pet-friendly flooring, built-in kennels, or easy-to-clean surfaces.

  • Look for RVs with plenty of storage and smart solutions like under-seat compartments.

    
    

• Comfort and convenience: Look for features that make your trip more comfortable, such as air conditioning and heating, especially if you’ll be traveling year-round.

Happy Glamping!