RV Road Trippin’ In The USA: A Beginner’s Guide
Author J.R.R. Tolkien famously wrote, “Not all who wander are lost.” But if you don’t prepare for an adventure on the open road, you may find yourself in a bind.
RVing has become quite the popular way to travel these days. There’s something uniquely special about having a home on wheels and the freedom to roam wherever your heart desires. As appealing as it is, RV travel isn’t something to jump into without proper planning.
If the idea sounds like your style, we’re here to help start prepping for a journey of epic proportions. This guide will provide tips and tricks for RV beginners to plan the ultimate road trip adventure.
Planning Your RV Route
The fun usually starts behind a computer screen as you begin dreaming up the perfect RV route. Will you blaze your own trail or follow one of the classic all-American road trips? Think carefully, as you don’t want to waste time and gas backtracking or taking the long way between destinations (unless there’s something nice to see along the detour!)
Here are some of the most iconic RV travel routes crisscrossing North America:
Route 66: Chicago to Santa Monica
This legendary highway stretching from Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier is certainly a popular choice. Make stops to marvel at quirky roadside attractions and snap pics of retro neon signs dotting the 2,400-mile path. Wander through artsy districts in Oklahoma, take in the Painted Desert’s vibrant hues, and don’t miss a photo opp at the endpoint marker in sunny California.
Pacific Coast Highway: Washington to California
If you prefer crashing waves to desert vistas, cruise along the rugged Pacific coastline on this iconic 1,500-mile route. Beach bum your way past lighthouses, harbors, and state parks filled with towering trees, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of urban action in cities like San Fran and LA.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Virginia to North Carolina
For an Appalachian adventure, traverse 469 miles of lush ancient mountain landscape along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here, you’ll find blue-hued vistas and explore charming mountains and waterfalls in Shenandoah.
Florida Keys Scenic Highway: Miami to Key West
In the mood for tropical vibes? Island-hop your way down the Florida Keys Scenic Highway route. Snorkel vibrant reefs, get your land legs back to explore Key West’s culture and history, and don’t miss those iconic Mile Marker 0 photo ops.
Alaska Highway: Dawson Creek, BC to Delta Junction, AK
Last but certainly not least – escape to nearly 1,400 miles of rugged wilderness and mountain grandeur up the Alaska Highway. Snap pics of caribou and moose amidst impressive peaks before reaching the tallest one in Canada’s Kluane National Park. Your epic ends at the official Alaska Highway endpoint in little Delta Junction, Alaska.
Choosing the Right RV
The RV you select can truly make or break your travel experience out there. Bigger motorhomes feel oh-so luxurious but can’t access more remote locales like their little camper van cousins.
Class A Motorhomes
The biggest and most decked-out option – we’re talking slide-out rooms, full bathrooms, gourmet kitchens…the works! Ideal for larger groups embarking on extended trips. These are built on a bus chassis and require a special license to drive. Fuel and maintenance costs will be higher with these beasts.
Class B Motorhomes (Camper Vans)
The smallest and most nimble RV style. These compact homes on wheels are built on a van chassis. Perfect for solo travelers or couples wanting to get off the beaten path. What you sacrifice in living space, you gain in drivability and places you can park overnight.
Class C Motorhomes
These mid-sized motorhomes strike a happy balance for small groups wanting a bit more room than a camper van without going full Class A. More amenities than a van, yet still easy enough to drive.
Understanding RV Campgrounds and Regulations
One of the best parts of RVing is having the flexibility to camp anywhere, from Walmart parking lots to scenic state parks. Research site details like electric and water hookups or reservation policies in advance, especially for popular destinations. And be sure to pull in before sundown to get camp set up and acquainted with the surroundings before dark.
It’s also wise to brush up on common campground rules so you don’t ruffle any feathers. Common guidelines include:
- Adhering to quiet hours (usually 10 pm to 7 am)
- Keeping your campsite clean and tidy
- Properly disposing of trash and waste
- Respecting your neighbors’ privacy and space
- Controlling your pets and cleaning up after them
Handy apps like Campendium can assist with finding everything from boondocking sites to luxury resorts.
Gas Stations and Fuel Planning
Fuel is, unsurprisingly, one of the biggest expenses when it comes to RV travel. To avoid any mishaps, you must understand your RV’s fuel efficiency and tank capacity. Map out fuel stops along your route to pinpoint the best gas prices.
As for when you’re on the road, try to fill up before your tank dips below the halfway mark. Running low on fuel in a large rig can be a serious scare! Having to detour to a station not suited for big vehicles is less than ideal.
Eating In or Dining Out?
RVing is like bringing your kitchen along for the ride. Still, you have the option to eat out, exploring the culinary scene at the various stops you make along the way. Split this arrangement how you want to, depending on what makes the most sense. Either way, be sure to stock cookware and essential gadgets like an instant pot, grill, or coffeemaker.
Budgeting Your Adventure
There’s nothing worse than having to cut your adventure short or turn back early because funds ran dry. Proper budgeting is crucial for a smooth journey down the open road. When RVing, you need to account for everything.
Be sure to tally costs for:
- Fuel (factor in MPG and current gas prices)
- Campground/RV park fees
- Food and beverages
- Activities and entertainment
- Unexpected repairs or maintenance
- Souvenirs/shopping
- Parking, toll roads, etc.
Once you map your route, do research to estimate costs for each category. Then, establish a daily budget that seems reasonable and provides some wiggle room. Having an emergency fund is wise, too, for unforeseen delays or breakdowns. Saving up some extra cash means you can handle surprises without derailing your entire adventure.
Packing Essentials
Preparing for comfort, practicality AND maximizing storage all factor into packing for RV travel. Bring weatherproof layers, bedding, outdoor entertainment items, and space-saving solutions. Consider packing for weather variability, site amenities, long stretches of time in the rig, and activities at stops along your route too.
Important Documentation
Confirm all drivers have a valid license for operating your RV’s size vehicle. Bring the registration, insurance papers and warranty too. If you’re planning to cross the border up to Canada or down to Mexico, don’t forget your passport!
It’s also a good idea to keep campground and reservation confirmations easily accessible.
Driver Designations
Next, get everyone licensed and comfy behind the wheel before setting out. These behemoths handle differently than the family sedan on a Sunday drive! Since you’ll be rolling for many miles, it’s best to map out rest stops every few hours to take driver-duty rotations.
We always recommend limiting consecutive time behind the wheel to prevent road hypnosis, fatigue, and accidents. Having a few designated drivers means everyone gets downtime to enjoy the ride.
Understanding RV Toilets
This may sound innocuous, but knowing your recreational vehicle’s toilet inside and out will make life easier on the road. Study that owner’s manual to avoid, ahem, crappy situations down the line! For instance, use only RV-grade toilet paper and cleaning chemicals. Empty the black water tank at designated dump stations – not just anywhere.
Home Preparation
After counting down the days, it’s finally time to hit the road! But don’t just lock the door and go – hire a pet sitter, hold mail, and pause subscriptions first. Pay bills ahead, mow the lawn, and find peace of mind by getting home affairs in order before adventuring.
Listen to the Call of The Open Road
Exploring this beautiful country by RV allows you to chase adventure at your own pace.
As you set out on your RV adventure, know that you’re not alone. Leisure CW is here to support you every step of the way. As a trusted RV repair and upgrade service, Leisure CW offers expert assistance to keep your home on wheels and in top condition. From routine maintenance to custom upgrades, our technicians are dedicated to ensuring your RV is ready for wherever the road may take you.
Now start planning your RV route and get ready to hit the road!
