When you’re looking for the perfect RV, there are a lot of things to consider. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’ve put together a list of the most important factors to think about when choosing your new home on wheels. So read on and find the RV that’s perfect for you and your family!
There are many different types of RVs to choose from, so it’s important to decide what kind of RV lifestyle you’re looking to explore. Do you want something luxurious with all the bells and whistles? Or are you looking for something more simple and budget-friendly? There are also a variety of sizes to choose from. Do you want a fifth wheel, travel trailer, Class A, or an camper van? All of these factors will help you narrow down your search and find the perfect RV for you.
The first thing to consider is how often you’ll be using your RV. If you plan on living in it full-time, then you’ll need to make sure it has all the amenities that you need to live comfortably on the road. This includes a kitchen, plenty of storage space, a bathroom or two, and a comfortable bed. It was very important to us that everyone had a specific sleeping area. While it may seem like it’s no big deal to pull out a couch or using the dinette, it can become a nuisance night after night if you are traveling for extended periods.
We also knew that we wanted an RV with a lot of storage space. We didn’t want to have to leave anything behind when we went on our trips. So, we made sure to find an RV with plenty of cabinets, drawers, and even an outside storage area. If you’re only going to use your RV for occasional vacations, then you don’t need to worry as much about amenities. You can get away with a smaller RV that doesn’t have all the bells and whistles. However, you still want to make sure it’s comfortable and has enough storage space for all of the camping gear.
While picking the type of RV, you will want to consider the vehicle that you will need to accompany that RV. If it is a trailer you’ll need the truck to be big enough to tow it, or if in class A, what car will you be towing. Make sure your vehicle can handle the weight and size of your RV also. Don’t rely on other people to help you with this. Research your specific RV and vehicle to make sure they are compatible. If you’re not sure, always err on the side of caution and get a bigger or more powerful vehicle. By our calculations, our truck is working at 60% capacity towing our fifth wheel. With that formula, we feel we have the ability to extend its lifespan and not overwork the truck.
The next thing you need to consider is where you’ll be using your RV. If you plan on doing a lot of off-roading/Overlanding or boondocking, then you’ll need to make sure your RV is up for the challenge. This means finding an RV with good ground clearance and all-terrain tires. If you’re mostly sticking to paved roads, you don’t need to worry as much about this. If you plan on boondocking, ensure your RV has plenty of battery power and any solar panels you might need to recharge. Some RVs come with four-season features like insulated walls, and this is helpful when you are RVing in cooler temperatures.
Will you be working in the RV? Many full-time RVers work remotely. If you plan on working from your RV, you want to make sure you choose a floor plan where you can have a designated workspace. For us, we have converted a corner spot in our bedroom for Jerome to work, and that way, he can close the door at times when the family is being too loud or he has a zoom meeting.
Finally, and more importantly, you need to consider what kind of budget you have for your RV. RVs can range in price from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s important to have a budget in mind before you start looking. This will help you narrow down your search and find the perfect RV for you.
Bonus Tip! If you can visit an RV show, do it! This is a great way to see all the different types and brands of RVs in one place. You can also talk to people who own RVs and get their opinion on what type is right for you. It’s easy to compare different models and amenities side by side. You will want to take many pictures as well as notes about the different features. It can be overwhelming but go back and look at your favorites a few times. That way you can make sure the layout, price, and features are what you are looking for.
So there you have it! These are the most important factors to consider when choosing your perfect RV. So get out there and start shopping! And don’t forget to enjoy the journey!
