They say that at least once in your life, you should try to hit the road and go on a major road trip. Have you tried it before? Are you thinking about going on a road trip once more? Today, road trips are much more convenient. You don’t need to cramp yourselves in a tiny sedan. You can rent a camper or an RV and go from one end of the country to another. As long as there’s land, you can take the camper with you.
Do you need a special driver’s permit or training to drive a camper? Most states do not require a special driver’s license to allow you to drive a camper or an RV. It’s not like flying a helicopter where you need to enroll in flight training. Driving an RV is a bit like driving your sedan or minivan, too. And it, of course, depends on the kind of RV you are going to get.
Motorized vs. Towable RVs
Motorized RVs have motor engines. You don’t need to hitch or unhitch the “trailer” from the truck or car when you reach the camp. A motorized RV has all the living functions that one needs in a camper. This is easier to drive for first-time RV drivers. It will feel like driving a van or a pickup truck. It may be hard to maneuver a vehicle with another one in tow.
Towable RVs, on the other hand, are hitched to a truck or car. The size of the truck or car depends on the size and weight of the RV or camper. These are cheaper compared to motorized RVs. However, when you reach your destination, you will have to unhitch the trailer so you can drive the tow vehicle to other parts of the town. This is also a great thing since you don’t have to carry such a large vehicle when all you have to do is buy supplies in the nearest town.
Primitive Camping vs. Glamping
If you want to experience primitive camping, you can get or rent a pop tent or a travel trailer. If you prefer glamping, try an airstream or a big Class A. The latter will have all the amenities you need to camp glamorously. You can have a resort-style camping experience because a camper like an airstream will feel like your home.
State Parks vs. RV Parks
Staying in public state parks means having access to beautiful sceneries. This is also the more affordable of the two options. State parks are great for those who love outdoor activities. The only downside to this is that state parks cannot accommodate large campers. You have to choose one that’s about 35 feet or less. Most parks will only welcome a camper that’s 32 feet or under.
On the other hand, full-amenity RV parks have internet services and are nearer to towns. They can accommodate big rigs, though you have to check your destination first. Not all RV parks have 50-amp power, so check before you make your way there.
Permanent vs. Off-the-grid
Permanently living in an RV means you’re going to hook or park the RV in one place. You need a camper than has all the living amenities you want. Imagine your day-to-day living. What kind of amenities you would love to have? Sure, there’s a public bathroom in RV parks, but that may not be the kind of convenience you’ll want to give up.
You can also choose to live off-the-grid. This means you’ll take your RV wherever you want to go, provided that the RV can take on the rough road. You will need a camper with a large holding tank and solar capabilities. There will be places where you cannot get electricity (especially if your camper is too big). A solar panel on your camper’s roof will help you stay connected to the rest of the world no matter where you park your RV on.
Alone vs. Family and Pets
Are you going to hit the road alone or will your family be accompanying you on this trip? Are there going to be pets? Remember that some RV parks prohibit pets and children. You should check out where you can park your RV for the night if the parks aren’t going to accommodate the rest of your family. Traveling with children and pets is harder, but it’s well worth the sacrifice to see your kids get amazed at the gorgeous scenery. And really, this is an adventure of a lifetime for them.
Ask yourself these questions before going on that major road trip. Living in an RV for a few days or weeks is no joke. Make sure everyone (yourself included) is prepared for a trip like this. Furthermore, get the best RV that will fit your needs and wants.
