The pleasure, freedom of living in a recreational vehicle and the ability to go wherever the road takes you are the stuff of dreams. But before you jump into the world of RVs, here are seven considerations that will help you choose the right vehicle for you and your family.
Before you begin, gather family members, take a piece of paper and a pencil to write down your choices and responses.
What would you like to do with your mobile home?
Are you hoping to road trip across the country or planning to use your RV for weekend camping trips? Also important, for how many people should the mobile home have space?
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, a camper trailer that you tow behind a truck might be a better option for weekend trips. If you’re planning longer trips (or want to live in your RV permanently), you should look for amenities that make your trips more comfortable.
frequency of trips
How often would you like to travel with the motorhome? Some owners use their RV for family summer vacations, others like Snowbirds to escape the winter months, or even use it as a second home.
RV or trailer?
The motorhome is more spacious, can be driven alone and is easier to maneuver than a trailer which requires a towing vehicle. Although more expensive, the former generally offers more amenities that are well-suited for longer trips.
Another advantage of motorhomes is that they can tow a car. This gives you the flexibility to park your RV at a campsite and then use your car to get around and see the area attractions.
What types of mobile homes?
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 have a full living room, kitchen appliances, and sometimes even a washer and dryer. They usually have at least 2 sliding chambers for more space.
Class B models, which resemble an oversized van, can offer luxury amenities but in a more compact size, without sliding extensions, and are generally less expensive.
Easily recognizable by their bunk above the driver’s position, the Class C models offer better fuel economy than Class A, but not as much as Class B. They are characterized by their sleeping accommodation for 4 to 8 people, equipment similar to the Class A and its Can tow from a car.
Three trailers to choose from
Light and robust classic caravans (or trailers) can be towed by many passenger cars. Amenities depend on how much you are willing to invest. If you like to park your caravan and explore at the campsite, this is a great option.
Fifth wheels attach to a special bracket in the center of a pickup truck bed, making them incredibly strong. If you plan to make long trips to a campsite or go horseback riding in the mountains, this is a great option.
The third type, caravan tents (or trailer tents) remain the most economical choice. Light, simple and perfect for journeys of greater or lesser length, they can be towed by a large number of vehicles.
Inspection and Maintenance
Even if it’s factory direct (and especially if you’re buying it used), you want to make sure your RV is 100% safe and working. A careful inspection is a must before embarking on any journey.
to ask about
Visiting online camper communities is a great way to discover incredible travel destinations with people who have made it a way of life.