If you are planning a cross country road trip in a campervan this summer then renting an RV is the most effective and safe way to travel instead of hauling all your necessities at the back of your pick-up truck. Renting an RV not only gives you the freedom of travelling where you want when you want while enjoying considerable homely comfort, but it also saves your money from eating out, and keeps you safe and sheltered while you are on the trail. However, before you hire that campervan and drive it out, you need to know and understand a few things about such trips and how to manage tricky situations that trips like these may present to you. Here are some essential dos and don’ts that you need to keep in mind:
- Bigger is not always better: Try and have a rough idea at least where you want to go. Once you have that in your mind rent your RVs accordingly. It is better not to rent a big and bulky RV if you are travelling alone or as a couple. Unless you are in a group, or have a family full of kids hiring a big RV is usually not advisable. Small RVs are not just good on highways but are particularly helpful in twisted narrow roads too. Also remember the bigger your RV the more your expenses for towing it.
- Caravan Insurance: Make sure before hiring your RV you check out the full details of its insurance policies. If your campervan is not insured then you must have it insured for the said period of your travel. Remember caravan camping can be far more fun and enjoyable if you are safe and secure not just inside the campervan but also outside it. Insuring your RV can be really useful on the road against any unprecedented event. If you personally own an RV then this could be a great investment opportunity too for you and your family. There are different kinds of insurance policies available regarding RVs. They range from basic insurance that covers general repair and damage aspects to policies which cover expenses for emergency accommodation, medical clause, to loss of property.
- Pack with caution: Remember you should not pack what you do not need. Packing and storing in RVs can be an ordeal if you have too much stuff. Although most campervans have an elaborate storage system, they also come with all the basic necessities like dishes, utensils, cutleries etc. Only pack and store what you think is a must. Remember you will be on the road, granted not always near civilization, but if you require something while you are on trial, you can always park and buy them at the local gas station.
- Late comers suffer: If you are thinking of this take it very seriously, because most RVers are early birds. They start at the wee hours of the morning, so if you want a good pitch for yourself, start as early as possible to lay pitch at the earliest and a little far away from the toilet. Also remember that if you have friends in other vans then set up your pitch considerably closer to them. This way you will be able to enjoy yourself far greater than isolating yourself at the farthest corner.
It is always great fun to camp while you are on the move. However, safety precautions and certain camping etiquettes are essential to make such a trip of yours a flaming success. Thus it is recommended that you must abide by these general rules to avoid anything that might result in souring your otherwise great holiday.
Photo by nate bolt