Decide what kind of RV works best for you

If you’re new to RVs, you’ll want to choose the best model for your needs. For example, if you’re planning to travel with the whole family, you may want a larger Class A or B motorhome with more features. If it’s just you and your dog, you could consider towing a travel trailer or a fifth-wheel or pop-up camper with your car if your vehicle can handle the added weight. If you’re undecided, research your options and try out different models to see what size and style work best for you. 

If you’re considering buying a new RV or making repairs to a pre-owned model, you could look into an RV loan, which offers fixed terms and predictable monthly payments. You can get started on your RV adventure and pay back your loan over time.

Try out your RV close to home

While you might want to head off on a cross-country road trip right away, it may be better to stay close to home while you get your bearings. Particularly if this is your first time driving or traveling in an RV or you’ve chosen to rent or buy a different model than you’re used to operating, you’ll want to spend time getting familiar with the vehicle and how it works. If you’ve never driven a motorhome before, it can take some getting used to, especially depending on the size, and it’s important to practice driving before you leave home.

Also, if you discover any issues or decide it’s not the right fit for you, you’ll be in a better position to get the help you need instead of looking for a mechanic or replacement vehicle on the road. 

Plan ahead for a smoother journey

Even if you’re taking a short weekend trip, it’s important to do as much pre-planning as possible. Think about the route you’ll take to your destination, where you’ll spend the night along the way and what kinds of activities you want to do. If you’re planning to stay at a campground, make sure you book ahead of time, especially during high-travel months or holidays, as spaces can be limited. 

Estimate your driving time and distance every day so that you know approximately how long you’ll spend on the road and where you plan to stop to rest along the way. You may want to get to your destination before it’s dark so that you can set up and relax before bed, but spending all day behind the wheel is a quick way to exhaust yourself.  

Don’t forget to check the weather before you leave and think about where and when you’ll stop to refuel, buy supplies or do laundry if you’re on a longer trip. Basic needs, like where you’ll get water and how to dispose of sewage and waste, are also important to keep in mind.

If questions come up as you’re planning your first few RV trips, ask a friend with more RV knowledge or look for an RV community chat or forum online.  

Make time to get organized 

Part of planning ahead is organizing the items you need to bring with you. Particularly if you’re trying to stick to a budget, you’ll want to avoid stopping along the way to buy things you forgot at home.

Keeping a checklist on hand can help you stay organized. You might even want to have a few checklists going for different categories: food and groceries, toiletries, clothing, outdoor wear, gear for activities, first aid and medical supplies, RV tools and so forth. Add items as you think of them, but don’t overdo it — remember, there’s only so much room in an RV. Try to stick to the essentials. 

If you’ve recently purchased an RV, don’t feel you have to spend a ton of money outfitting the interior before your first trip. Traveling in your vehicle a few times will help you figure out how you can make the most of the space you have and what kind of supplies you actually need.

Have fun and enjoy the ride

Being a new RV traveler could be overwhelming in the beginning, especially depending on the type and size of RV you choose. But by figuring out which model is best for you, trying it out close to home, planning ahead of time and getting organized, you can make the first few trips less stressful and more enjoyable. 

Take steps to prepare so that you can make the most of the experience. You’ll be an RV pro before you know it. 

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