How to Live the RV Life

The RV life has captured the attention of many a vacationer and those looking for a different way of life. Young families, empty nesters and retirees alike find this down to earth hobby quite appealing. Many people decide it's actually the best way to see the country. So if you like the lure of the open road, but also crave the comfort of having your own bed, a recreational vehicle and the RV life may fill the bill.

Things You'll Need

• A sense of adventure
• A love for the outdoors
• A recreational vehicle

Instructions

1. Rent your first home on wheels. Enjoying the RV life doesn't require a huge up front expenditure. If you have never gone camping or stayed in an RV park, resist the temptation to buy a recreational vehicle. You may choose something too large, two small, or the wrong style. RV rental dealers are easy to find, so if you are itching to live the RV life, first test the waters and take a vacation in an RV. Among all the units available for rent, one will be just right for you.

2. Get some practice. Living the RV life requires you to learn to drive or pull an RV. This is quite a different experience from driving a car. If you have never driven a truck, even the rental truck variety, ask the dealership that rents you an RV to provide a lesson or two, and then go home and practice turning and parking in an open area. There's nothing that signals you are new to the RV life more than pulling into a fast food restaurant or up to a gas pump, then finding there is no easy way to get out.

3. Map out your trip. Don't take roads for granted anywhere along your route. While trying out the RV life, consider whether you want to suddenly find yourself maneuvering a 30 foot long RV on major city streets or on narrow mountain roads. If driving an RV is totally new, it's best to stick with major highways and marked roads, and find out all you can about the route before embarking.

4. Make a reservation. While it's not always necessary to reserve a space in the RV park of your choice, depending on the time of year there may not be a site available, or if there is, it may not have the full hookups (water, electric and sewer) that you are requesting. If your first encounter with the RV life is a vacation, a disappointment in the accommodations could easily determine how much you enjoy yourself.

5. Weigh the pros and cons of RV life. Expect a bit of setup when you get to the RV site, such as leveling the unit, hooking up to electric and water, setting up the sewer hose, and taking out the awning. At the end of the stay you will be doing these things in reverse and pumping both the grey and black water out through sewer hose before you leave. If you've towed your car behind the motor home, you will be taking care of getting it on and off the tow dolly. This experience is sure to determine whether you book your next vacation in a hotel or another RV park.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice backing up the RV before taking it out on the road. Once you reach the RV park, there is always someone who will help if you need to back into your site. Many people love the RV life because it's so easy to make friends.

• Consider a used recreational vehicle for your first purchase. There is a very good selection in the secondary market. Go online to scout out bargains.

• Your recreational vehicle will need insurance. Check with your automobile insurance company. You may be able to add the RV to your policy.

• An RV is a major purchase. Look at your budget and investigate financing options before making a commitment. Be realistic about what you can afford. You can live the RV life on a budget or by going all out.