The Ultimate Guide to Your First RV Trip
Outdoor camping is a staple of American life. In fact, many would say it’s the best way to experience America’s frontier. But not everyone wants to have to deal with tents and sleeping bags. Many people turn to RVs for the outdoor camping experience with a modern, luxurious twist. You’ll be able to hike, kayak, hunt, and any other activity you’d want to do while camping, and still have somewhere warm and comfortable to come back to at the end of the day or a proper kitchen to prepare meals.
But if you’ve never used an RV before, choosing one and then using one can be a little intimidating. Here at Charlie Obaugh RV, we want to help get you started.
We’ve provided some pro-tips for choosing the right RV and then making sure you’re ready to go on the big day. Read through and then stop by our showroom in Staunton, Virginia to check out the models we have in stock. We proudly serve all future and current RV owners from the areas of Waynesboro, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, and Lexington, Virginia.
PICKING OUT YOUR FIRST RV
First thing’s first: you’re going to need an RV. There’s a lot that goes into choosing an RV, so pay attention. Start by deciding what type of RV works best for you. There are many differences between the various styles. For example, towable RVs include styles like travel trailers and fifth wheels. They each use different types of hitches, which will indicate the kind of tow vehicle you can use. They also feature some of the best amenities, but a travel trailer keeps everything to a streamlined bare minimum (for the most part) while fifth wheels are generally the more luxurious option. If you don’t want to mess with towing at all, you can look at motorhomes. Keep in mind, though, motorhomes contain their own engine and therefore have their own set of problems to anticipate.
You’ll also want to consider how many people will be regularly camping with you. If it’s just you and maybe one other person, a simple travel trailer or Class B motorhome are probably sufficient, especially if you can live without the TVs and other high-class amenities. However, if you have a slightly bigger family, or have many friends you’ll be bringing along, you’ll need to consider something bigger so everyone can sleep and rest comfortably.
And of course, your budget is going to play a huge factor in what you invest in. The bigger and more luxurious the RV, the more expensive it probably is. In fact, many of the premium RVs, such as high-class fifth wheels and motorhomes, can cost over $100,000. A good way to save money is to consider used models. Even gently used RVs can cut off a significant amount of the overall price and can still provide you with everything you need.
Still can’t decide? Ask your dealership about renting. We highly recommend renting for first-time users as driving or towing an RV can be difficult, and you don’t want to find out the hard way that towing a fifth wheel is too difficult for your skills. Renting is also a good idea if you don’t intend to camp on a regular basis as it may save you money in the long run.
WHAT TO BRING WITH YOU
Once you’ve picked out an RV, you’ll want to make sure you’re totally prepared for the trip. But since you’re essentially packing a home away from home, you may be at a loss as to what you’ll need to use. Keep in mind, you’ll also have a finite amount of space to store everything. We recommend starting with the essentials. This includes dishes, cooking ware, and linens. In the weeks leading up to your trip, make note of the items that will be useful to you in your RV. Think about the regular activities you’ll be doing and all the supplies they’ll need. Take campfires, as an example. If you intend to build them regularly, make sure you have the wood to sustain them through the evening. You’ll also want matches or a lighter to start the flames and, if you intend to cook food or roast marshmallows, invest in the cooking supplies you’ll need and all the food.
This brings us to another essential. Make sure your RV is stocked with appropriate safety gear. You’ll want the basics, including fire extinguishers, tool boxes, extra parts, a non-electric radio, first aid, and anything else you might find necessary to ensure the safety of you and your passengers. All of these things are especially important if you’re going far from civilization and may not be able to hop down to the nearest town for help and supplies. After a while, you may find it pertinent to leave certain supplies in your RV so you don’t have to hassle with moving them back and forth (dishes, cleaning supplies, tools, etc.)
WHAT TO LEAVE BEHIND
So you’ve got your RV and it’s fully stocked with all the essentials. Now it’s time to consider what is an appropriate luxury item to bring along and what you can leave at home. Some things you’ll definitely want, like pictures and decorations to give your RV a little touch of home. And there are other luxuries you’ll have to think a little harder about. For example, fancy coffee machines and sporting equipment are tempting to bring along, but think hard before you do. You don’t want one of these items to be the tipping point on your RV’s weight limit or take the place of something more essential.
But the one thing you should always leave behind is a work laptop or other work-related materials. Camping is vacation time! Don’t let the real world get in the way of your relaxing time outdoors. It should just be you, your loved ones, your RV, and Mother Nature. So visit Charlie Obaugh RV Center in Staunton, Virginia to start your RV adventures today. We welcome all patrons from Waynesboro, Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, and Lexington.