Today we went to have our RV checked our prior to our next adventure in July.  Ironically today I also came across an article in Redbook magazine about a family that took its firstGreat American Road Trip.

Similar to the author, Gail O’Connor, I too spoke the words, “there’s no way I’m going on an RV vacation.”  After all, we always enjoyed the luxury of 4 and 5 star hotels when we traveled, why would I want to ‘lower my standards?’  I’ve since eaten those words.  Not only had we gone on an RV vacation in a rented RV many years ago but we have since purchased one of our own and I’ve never regretted the purchase since.

Ms. O’Connor’s article spoke to her new found realization of the benefits of vacationing in an RV.  She and her family of 4 enjoyed many of the same things that we have enjoyed trip after trip.  Although I’m certain RVing isn’t for everyone, it was a pleasant surprise that it was for us and since this has become our vacation of choice, I’d love to share some of the reasons you should consider renting an RV for your next outing.

The first is pretty simple.  There is no luggage to schlep around.  You simply take the clothing and bedding items that you want to take from your home right into the RV.  Surprisingly there is plenty of drawer and hanging space in all the various sizes of RVs you’ll find out there.  I’ve actually gone as far as purchasing separate standard items (underwear, towels, sheets, blankets, pillows and sleepwear) that remain in the RV trip after trip.  The same is true for all basic kitchen items.  All the items that you would have in your kitchen at home, I’ve duplicated and kept in the kitchen in our RV.  And yes, that includes a coffee maker and bar set up!  When it’s time to go I have each family member select and bring the clothes that they need (mostly on hangers) and simply hang them and we’re ready to go.

The other benefit of traveling in your ‘mobile home’ is that the kids (passengers) are never bored.  They have the freedom of movement, able to stretch their legs, grab a snack or board game and occupy themselves while you’re reading the road.  This has ceased the ‘are we there yet?’ whines from the back seat.  This is a pleasant change indeed.

Another great benefit of traveling in an RV is that you are never bound by a hotel reservation or making a plane.  You are able to stop and go as you see fit.  The journey is often as great as its final destination.  With the height of an RV you’re able to see roadside attractions that are often missed when driving in a car.  Plus, you’re never far from a campsite so if you wish to stop and explore an area, you can.

The O’Connor’s shared a same experience as we had.  While traveling and enjoying some small Florida towns, we passed our original destination and found ourselves needing a place to park and sleep.  So we did what others before us had done- we slept in a Wal-Mart parking lot.  Yep, they welcome RVs at all Wal-Marts across the nation.  You simply park at the outer edges of the parking lot, put your generator on and call it a night. And of course there’s the added benefit of just running in in the morning or evening for any last minute items you may want.  (Needless to say, I took plenty of photos of that one to share with my Northern family and friends).

Another benefit is in meeting so many wonderful people along the way.  Unlike staying in a hotel, RVers like to sit outside of their ‘homes’ always waving or starting conversations with those that pass by.  Often they’ll even invite you over if they see your license plate is from a state that they come from or one that they heading too.  I’ve never been greeted as much as I have while at camp grounds.  They’re also the most helpful folks.  They’re quick to offer assistance should they see you’re having a bit of difficulty in setting up the campfire or awning.  It’s just unbelievable to me the difference I’ve experienced so far in the friendliness from our stays at the Mandarin Oriental to the KOAs on the east coast!

When living in an RV (even if just for a week) you learn to live with only what you will use.  It was a big realization to all of us how little we actually need in order to have a very functional good time.  From our clothing to our décor, to the game and sporting items you will use, you take only what you need.  Clutter and RVing just don’t cut it.  I’ve actually transferred this lifestyle choice to my home.  Less is more!

Now all of these benefits do come easier if you complete the preparation necessary before venturing out.  Make certain you plan by bringing all essentials.  Suggestions for these can be gotten from experienced campers, RV retailers or the campgrounds for which you’re going to visit.  Also make certain you have enough to entertain the kids in case there’s down time.  I have a checklist that I use before every trip to make certain I don’t forget a thing.  Map your trip as well.  The best web site that we’ve found so far is www.GoRVing.com.  They offer all sorts of ideas and suggestions for the novice and experienced camper.

If you want to try this experience for yourself, contact www.cruiseamerica.com or www.elmonterv.com.  Both are reputable and offer a wealth of information about the RV experience.  If you still have any hesitation at all, simply write me about your concerns and I can share with you what a wonderful experience owning an RV can be and what I hope we’ll be doing with ours in the future

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