Planning Your First RV Roadtrip? Do These 10 Things
With summer comes inevitable travel. But in the summer following a year-long pandemic, methods of travel are looking a little bit different. People are ready to return to their favorite destinations but aren’t quite prepared to trust air travel and other people. Understandably so. After being cooped up in the house for the better part of a year and a half, many people are going outdoors.
1. Rent the Right RV for you.
Choosing the right RV is key to a positive experience. You don’t need a special license to rent an RV, but factors such as family size, whether you want to tow it, or need a bathroom play a role in your choice. Click here for our tips. Renting on a peer-to-peer platform like Mighway lets you search by the type of RV and amenities you want, and see vehicle photos, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting in advance.
2. Always take a practice drive
Many find driving an RV easier than they thought, but practice is important. Get in the driver’s seat and adjust the mirrors, seat belt height, lumbar support, and armrests so you’re comfortable, and make sure you can quickly turn your head to see in all directions. Then take it for a drive around a big carpark, practicing backing up, turning, braking, and parking. It’s good to have a partner to help you back up. Then try a drive on the road.
3. Remember your RV's height
Generally, the average height of a Class A RV is 10-14 feet, which is 2 feet shorter than the average overpass height. However, be aware that fast food drive-thrus, most parking buildings and some railroad/traffic bridges have only 10-foot clearance. So please find out the exact height of your motorhome and tape it to the dash in numbers large enough to see clearly while driving.
4. Pack lightly and use soft luggage
Pack light and use soft carry bags, which are easier to store. Be sure to secure them so they don’t become a safety hazard. Don’t forget your comfy bedding/pillow with enough blankets for the cooler nights when you don’t want to run the furnace.
5. Plan out your fuel stops carefully
Stopping off for fuel at a regular gas station is generally a bad idea, as it’s tight to maneuver and easy to get in or cause an accident. As you plan your trip, find larger fueling stations to accommodate your motorhome. Having someone outside the motorhome guiding you as you pull up to the pump is also a good idea.
6. Plan your route to minimize stress
A lot can be said for spontaneity, but it’s best to plan out your RV trip, especially if it’s your first. Make sure the roads you are traveling are safe for your RV size, and pre-book spaces at RV resorts, especially during the high season. Reservations day to day can fill up fast, and if you’ve been driving all day you want to rest easy with the amenities you desire.
7. Don't be too ambitious
One of the biggest rookie mistakes is driving too much. Instead, make regular stops for bio breaks, food, and fun local attractions. Take a couple of days to unwind in each destination and do off-the-grid activities like hiking or biking. These unrushed, in-the-moment adventures inspire relaxation and reconnection.
8. Bring portable snacks and easy recipes
The great outdoors can whip up the appetite. For safety and sanity, it’s best to pack portable snacks you can keep between stops. Bring easy recipes—such as barbecue and s’mores—to make on the road. You can bring a portable grill, and many campgrounds offer barbecues. Most RVs feature kitchenettes where you can prepare simple meals as well. Check out Mighway’s favorite camping recipes.
9. Spend some nights in an RV park
Although RVs can go for a few days without recharging, being without hookups can get old fast. Make sure the house batteries are charged before evening “quiet time” when loud generator usage is not allowed. Choose an RV park with full hookups, and fun activities such as playgrounds, golf, concerts, kayaking, pools, clubhouses and more. It’s nice to have upgraded bathroom and shower facilities, as RV showers are good for four uses. Also, running the furnace drains the battery overnight in cold weather, so it’s good to have electric hookups.
10. Don't skimp on insurance
Even with the best planning, things can go wrong, so insurance is not the place to save money. Instead, make sure your rental company offers insurance. Mighway offers free basic insurance with each rental and a premium option covering road service, repairs, claims, and potentially replacement vehicles, which other peer-to-peers can’t provide. No matter what company you use, better safe than sorry!
