If you desire to travel the open road in an RV but don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. RVs are large, tricky vehicles to maneuver and consist of many types, sizes, and floorplans. Further, RVs require precise navigation, a decent income, and regular maintenance. If you’re overwhelmed by what it takes to become an RV owner, it’s good to know the ins and outs of purchasing, maintaining, and driving one before you get started.
1. Know What You Want
There are RVs of all floorplans, features, amenities, sizes, and more. It can be challenging to narrow down your wants and needs in a recreational vehicle, but the more you know what you need, the easier shopping will be. The decision can be made when you determine what you’ll use your RV for, where you will go, and who you will commonly travel with. For example, if you’re planning primarily solo trips, multiple beds are likely unnecessary. However, if all your trips are with friends or family, you’ll likely want excess sleeping space. Research different sizes and floorplans online to get a feel for what you can afford and like.
2. Create a Budget
Just like any vehicle, RVs aren’t cheap. You’ll need to create a budget to determine your affordable price. Most people finance their RV, meaning they pay monthly until the purchase price is paid off; the only downside to financing is that you have to pay extra fees in interest charges. You can create a budget by subtracting your monthly expenses from your income. Don’t forget to include disposable income as well; you don’t want to be left without spending money after paying bills! You can then filter RVs by price to see what kind of vehicle you can afford.
3. Take In-Person Tours and Test Drives
Targeting a used RV across the country can be common, but there may be better choices on many occasions. You will want to tour the RV in person and get a test drive under your belt. RVs can be difficult to maneuver, even for seasoned drivers. Additionally, online photos can be photoshopped or posed to exclude glaring issues purposely. If you can find an RV dealer or seller closer to you to visit in person, it’s definitely recommended.
4. Create a Maintenance Schedule
RVs need regular care and maintenance to run and last long like other vehicles. Take your RV into the shop for regular inspections and maintenance. Create a calendar with reminders if you need help remembering to maintain your car. RVs require oil changes, brake replacements, tire rotation, tire replacements, and much more. Additionally, when you first purchase your vehicle, you will want to take it for an inspection to see if there are any issues immediately.
5. Make Your First Road Trip Short
No matter where you purchase your first RV, it will take a while to get used to driving it. Additionally, you never know when any issues will become known once you hit the road. For your first trip on your RV, consider traveling a close distance to your home in case any emergencies pop up. You don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road far from home on your very first trip! Your first trip should be a test run for how you drive and experience the vehicle. Being close to home can be a safety net for this trip.
6. Practice Driving
Before going on an extensive RV adventure, make sure you practice driving your RV, especially if you’re not used to driving larger vehicles. Even if you’ve driven a truck or RV before, a new model or different size can feel much different once you’re behind the wheel. On your way home from purchasing the RV, take your time and practice driving the vehicle. Head to empty parking lots or backroads to understand how your RV takes turns, curves, and reverses.
7. Keep It Clean
Your RV’s appearance will wear and tear with time as well. You can protect your RV's interior and exterior by regularly cleaning it with RV-safe cleaners and soap. Routinely detail, vacuum, and wipe down the interior of your RV, including underneath any seats, the dashboard, the toilets, etc. Frequent washing and waxing of the exterior of your RV can keep it looking pristine. Efficient parking maneuvers and paint protection film can help protect your RV from scratches, dents, and paint damage. RVs are pretty large, so you can hire help with cleaning and maintaining the appearance of your vehicle if necessary.
8. Consider a GPS
RV-specific GPS devices can inform you where it’s safe to bring a larger vehicle like an RV. These GPS devices are great for all RV owners, as you can avoid narrow roads or roads without the ideal amount of clearance. You can prevent significant RV damage or accidents with an RV GPS.
9. Take Your Time
When you’re behind the wheel of an RV, don’t rush. You’re supposed to enjoy the drive and the trip; in an RV, the journey is part of the experience! Additionally, taking it slow can allow you to get used to driving and maneuvering your large vehicle. There is no need to rush or abuse the speed limit in vehicles like these. Taking your time is particularly important during your first drive.
10. Create an RV Checklist
It can be challenging to remember to pack up every part of your vehicle before heading to a new destination. RVs often require stabilizer jacks to be removed, tailgates to be closed, and awnings to be folded down before hitting the road again. When you’re new to RVing, remembering every aspect of RV cleanup can be tricky, so a checklist can come in handy. You can double-check that everything is properly folded and put away before damaging your RV with improper cleanup practices.
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