Written By: Gracie Alexander
Naked Bear RV Service and Repair
If you're the type of person who enjoys the feeling of being home but still want to explore the great outdoors, RV camping may be the activity for you!
This is a simple guide for newcomers who are looking to start RV camping but don't know how to go about it.
RVing is a fun and affordable way to go camping while keeping the comforts of home compared to other vacation options, and with the variety of RVs and trailers available today, I'm sure you can find one that fits your needs perfectly. If you're a complete newbie when it comes to RVing, this simple guide is for you.
Info covered on this page:
-Tips
RV Camping?
Firstly for those who don't know what 'RV' stands for, it means 'Recreational Vehicle' which could be motorhomes, campervans, travel and camper trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, popup campers, and truck campers. A RV is a motor vehicle or trailer which includes living quarters. If you want to go camping in an RV you don't have to buy and own one, there are plenty of companies you can rent an RV from or you can directly rent from some one who owns a RV.
Pros of Renting a RV
In some states in order to own a RV you need a RV Ownership License which can be on the pricey side along with purchasing a RV. If its your first time RV camping, renting gives you the opportunity to see if you enjoy the activity with out having to go all in. Renting also lets you test out different types of RVs and allows you to decide which style is best for you. You also don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs and insurance that comes with owning a RV.
RV Renting Cons
Where there are pros, there are cons. Renting means charges like daily rates end up piling up towards the end of your trip meaning you probably wont camp as long as you want unless money isn't a huge concern while camping for you. Like many living spaces like apartments that have a rules and restrictions against your furry friends, renting rules are similar depending on where you're renting from. Not being able to bring your pet on your camping trip could cause complications. When renting you also have to be cautious to not damage any part of the RV because the damage fees can be pretty hefty.
RV Ownership
If you know exactly what you want and plan to spend a considerable portion of the year RV camping, buying an RV would be a good investment. Some states require you to purchase When you own your own RV, you can do what ever you want to it. If you want to remodel the whole thing, go for it; if you want to bring all your pets along on your camping trip, do it! During the winters is a good time to get your RV since the demand isn't as high so you could get it for a good price. It's also wise to purchase a used RV because they cost less much like how buy a new and used car goes.
Campgrounds
When picking out a campground you want to be aware of the hookup situation which means the water, electricity and sewer connections. There's full hookups where the water, electricity, and sewer connections are provided at the site. Partial hookups mean the site only offers water and electricity which is most campgrounds, or it could mean only electric is offered. No hookups would be as you expect, there are no services offered and are usually located on public land operated by Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forestry Service or Army Corp of Engineers. Camping at a campground with no hookups is also know as "dry camping."
There are also campgrounds that offer other activities such as swimming pools, a place to do your laundry, children and dog parks, and Wi-Fi.
Essentials:
First aid and roadside emergency kit
Kitchen needs (cooking equipment, trash bags, containers, etc.
RV water hose
Personal care necessities
Tire pressure gauge
Leveling blocks
Outdoor activity needs
Tips:
Cautious of tail swing
Have a plan for if a roadside emergency occurs
Make sure your RV is in good health before going on your road trip
Don't overload your RV
Remember to have fun while camping to make all the pre-work worth.
Naked Bear RV Service and Repair specializes in RV repairs and if you ever run into a problem that you need fixed take a stop by, we're located in Woodstock, VA! Contact us HERE!
