Ah, life on the open road! What’s not to love? There’s the freedom, the adventure… the kids fighting in the back and demanding to know if you’re “there yet.” OK, maybe a road trip isn’t exactly a flawless family vacation. Still, we’re intrigued about the idea of renting an RV and taking the kids to everything from historic national monuments to the world’s coolest roadside attractions, playing games and listening to tunes along the way. Renting an RV is a fantastic way to tour the country — without having to unpack seven suitcases at each hotel.
Renting an RV and planning a successful vacation can be tricky, however. What’s the best way to get started? Is that thing hard to drive, and how do you know if an RV vacation is right for your family? We turned to RV experts for practical first-time tips for families.
Q: Why should we take an RV family vacation?
A: “An RV rental vacation is a good choice for families,” says Jaimie Hall Bruzenak of RV Lifestyle Experts. “It is usually less costly. You save money by preparing meals in the RV and spending less per night to camp at an RV park or campground than you would at a hotel. Also, children can be easily entertained while traveling. It’s also more convenient. You can stop easily for bathroom breaks without getting out of the RV. The children’s toys, clothes, washroom and snacks are right where you are exploring and playing, so there’s no need to return to a hotel. There are lots of fun things to do right at a campsite while parents relax. If you visit a national park, you can camp there and save driving time, plus they have activities and programs geared to children. Other families will probably be camped where you are, too, making it even more fun for the kids.”
Q: What’s the first step to renting an RV?
A: “You can narrow down the pool of options by asking yourself some basic questions,” says Rob Tischler, owner of Allstar Coaches. “How much of your vacation budget do you want to dedicate to an RV and the RV resort or campground? Do you want to tow your personal vehicle behind the RV? What amenities or on-board entertainment systems are important? These answers can help you eliminate RVs that don’t have what you need and select which services are best suited for your getaway.”
Q: How much do RV rentals generally cost?
A: “Pricing for RV rentals varies based on type and size of the specific RV you choose,” says Tischler. “Smaller RVs (entry-level Class C units) generally run between $1,300 to $2,000 per week. Larger RVs (Class A diesel coaches) generally cost $3,000 and up per week.”
You can reduce fuel costs by not covering as many miles and by staying in one or two places where the kids will have plenty to do. If you can travel during the school year, you’ll find that some RV rental companies offer discounts on the price or the mileage.
Q: Do I need a special license or any training to rent an RV? Is the RV difficult to operate?
A: “You don’t need a special license,” Bruzenak advises. “Most people rent a Class C, which is on a truck chassis so it’s like driving a truck. You do need to be aware of your height and length to avoid overhead obstacles and allow enough room to turn. Dips into parking lots and gas stations can cause you to drag if you have a long overhang in the back. You want to choose an entrance that isn’t too steep and approach at an angle, if possible. Also, be sure you can see how you will get back out of a gas station or parking lot before entering. When going to an RV park, double-check the direction with them and don’t rely totally on your GPS.”
Q: RVs look like they have limited space. Will my family feel cramped spending a week in one?
A: “RVers, at least in nice weather, live and play outdoors. You’ll probably want to eat outside, maybe play games outside on the picnic table or take advantage of the recreation facilities where you are staying or visiting,” says Bruzenak. The RV is primarily for moving from place to place, sleeping and using the bathroom facilities if no restrooms are available. Unless you run into terrible weather for several days, spending a week in an RV should not be a problem. Parents should be prepared with decks of cards, board games, DVDs and books for children to read in the event there is extended bad weather. Plus, have some alternative activities in mind, if possible. Each person should have a place for their things that is separate from other family members — a drawer, a section of the closet or a shelf.”
Q: What are the best kinds of destinations for RV family vacations?
A: “National parks and state parks are wonderful places to visit on an RV family vacation,” says Bruzenak. “They usually have campgrounds and plenty to do. An RV vacation is a chance to see natural wonders and historic places. The West is an excellent region for an RV vacation. You’ll be driving back roads, so it’s easy to pull over for snack or lunch time, even if there are no restaurants in sight. In some areas in the East, conditions will be more crowded, and it won’t be as enjoyable driving — especially in beach areas. Additionally, some people enjoy going to an RV park or resort that caters to children and has a swimming pool and activities for kids.”
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