In 2021, RV ownership hit a record high, with 11.2 million households owning an RV. That’s an increase of 62 percent over the last two decades.
Why is RV camping so popular nowadays? For starters, it allows you to explore nature without sacrificing home comforts. And you get to do it while saving on vacation costs, even with fuel and other expenses factored in!
That said, this type of vacation requires some research to do right. Here are the main things you should know about camping with an RV.
Should You Rent or Buy an RV?
If you’re only going on an RV road trip a few times a year, renting makes more sense than buying. Renting also gives you a chance to see if you enjoy RV camping in the first place. Plus, you get to test different types of RVs.
If you have extensive RV experience and know what you want, you’re better off owning an RV. That gives you a chance to tune it to your liking, including customizing its interior design and amenities.
Don’t forget that you can also rent out your RV when you’re not using it. That can be a lucrative side hustle, especially if you’re buying a luxury model. For example, here’s the best Keystone fifth wheel that you can get.
RV Campgrounds
The main factor in choosing an RV campground is what type of “hookups” it provides. Hookups include water, electricity, and sewer access. RV camping without hookups is also known as boondocking or dry camping.
Different campgrounds will also offer different amenities. These include WiFi, swimming pools, dog parks, and so on. The more hookups and amenities a campground has, the more crowded and expensive it will be.
Before going on an RV vacation, it’s worth checking that your campground of choice is big enough for your RV. Some campgrounds also don’t allow entry to older vehicles, so keep that in mind.
What to Bring on Your Trip
When packing for a family camping trip, you’ll want to ensure comfort and convenience. Essential items include:
• First aid kit
• Pillows and bedding
• Dishware and silverware
• Personal care items
• Light sources
• RV water hose
• Tire pressure gauge
• Leveling jacks
• Recreation items
If you’re renting your RV, ask if some of these items are already included. This is particularly common if you’re renting from a private owner.
Final Preparations
One common mistake RV owners make is overloading their RV. That can cause bent axles, tire blowouts, and structural damage. Before you get going, determine your load-carrying capacity and stick to it.
Another thing you should do before you hit the road is a thorough inspection of your rig. That includes checking tire pressure, towing hookups, and signal lights. If you’re driving a large RV, practice backing up a bit as well.
Camping With an RV Is a Great Time!
As long as you follow our tips, you should have a fun time on your trip. And don’t forget: camping in an RV is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Enjoy it and take in the scenery as much as you can!
Want to know even more about camping with an RV? Check out our guide on choosing the best RV campground!
In 2021, RV ownership hit a record high, with 11.2 million households owning an RV. That’s an increase of 62 percent over the last two decades.
Why is RV camping so popular nowadays? For starters, it allows you to explore nature without sacrificing home comforts. And you get to do it while saving on vacation costs, even with fuel and other expenses factored in!
That said, this type of vacation requires some research to do right. Here are the main things you should know about camping with an RV.
Should You Rent or Buy an RV?
If you’re only going on an RV road trip a few times a year, renting makes more sense than buying. Renting also gives you a chance to see if you enjoy RV camping in the first place. Plus, you get to test different types of RVs.
If you have extensive RV experience and know what you want, you’re better off owning an RV. That gives you a chance to tune it to your liking, including customizing its interior design and amenities.
Don’t forget that you can also rent out your RV when you’re not using it. That can be a lucrative side hustle, especially if you’re buying a luxury model. For example, here’s the best Keystone fifth wheel that you can get.
RV Campgrounds
The main factor in choosing an RV campground is what type of “hookups” it provides. Hookups include water, electricity, and sewer access. RV camping without hookups is also known as boondocking or dry camping.
Different campgrounds will also offer different amenities. These include WiFi, swimming pools, dog parks, and so on. The more hookups and amenities a campground has, the more crowded and expensive it will be.
Before going on an RV vacation, it’s worth checking that your campground of choice is big enough for your RV. Some campgrounds also don’t allow entry to older vehicles, so keep that in mind.
What to Bring on Your Trip
When packing for a family camping trip, you’ll want to ensure comfort and convenience. Essential items include:
• First aid kit
• Pillows and bedding
• Dishware and silverware
• Personal care items
• Light sources
• RV water hose
• Tire pressure gauge
• Leveling jacks
• Recreation items
If you’re renting your RV, ask if some of these items are already included. This is particularly common if you’re renting from a private owner.
Final Preparations
One common mistake RV owners make is overloading their RV. That can cause bent axles, tire blowouts, and structural damage. Before you get going, determine your load-carrying capacity and stick to it.
Another thing you should do before you hit the road is a thorough inspection of your rig. That includes checking tire pressure, towing hookups, and signal lights. If you’re driving a large RV, practice backing up a bit as well.
Camping With an RV Is a Great Time!
As long as you follow our tips, you should have a fun time on your trip. And don’t forget: camping in an RV is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Enjoy it and take in the scenery as much as you can!
Want to know even more about camping with an RV? Check out our guide on choosing the best RV campground!
