Now that I have one long trip down the east coast and back, I think I can pass on some things I have learned. I hope that this will help calm any nerves you may have concerning buying an RV.
Driving an RV.
We bought a 35 foot class A, so it looks like a bus, but is on a truck chassis and so drives like a truck. I find that the more I drive it, the more comfortable I get. Now it is quite easy to drive, other than in small parking lots, I have few concerns about handling it. I would advise new owners to be very aware of the height of their vehicle. Ours is 12 feet 7 inches, which I call 13 feet, so I that I’m always sure that I will fit.
Emptying the black tank.
This was a big concern before we purchased the RV. I had the idea that emptying the black and gray tanks would be very difficult and a source of entertainment for observers. This idea came from others and RV movies. But after watching every video I could find, I knew enough that my first time performing the task was easy! Now that I have done it several times, I really don’t see the why this seemed so difficult before. We have a video covering the entire process.
Using the RV systems.
We are still learning how to use all of the items unique to an RV, such as the electrical system. I still find it difficult to know how much electricity I can use when boondocking (not being hooked up to power or water). The batteries and solar panel only provide a limited amount of power, so we have to choose what items we need to use when not plugged into power. Water is much easier since we can carry up to 100 gallons, it’s never a problem.
Traveling in an RV.
As you might expect, an RV opens up new destinations. We have stayed at RV campgrounds, state parks and wineries. It has been a great experience, and we are planning to see so much more of the US. Having an RV adds to our comfort level traveling. We like to have our own bed and bath, especially at this time. So far, the state parks are our favorite place to stay because we enjoy the outdoors. It’s nice to have a comfortable place to return to after a long hike!
Planned RV Upgrades.
Now that we have hundreds of miles under our belt and several campsite stays, we have a good idea about what we consider important upgrades. The upgrade list has changed from what we thought when we started. We will be getting some new items as we go along our journey, but upgrades are pricey. RV owners have to choose what is most important to them.
Meeting other campers.
We have found that our neighbors at the campsites have been very friendly, helpful and full of advice. The RV community is exactly that, a community. We have met people from all around the US, and even one that has owned the same type of RV that we now own. They love to stop and talk about anything and everything. It’s been very helpful on many occasions because if we are having a problem, someone else has had the same problem before.
Even though we have had this RV only a month and a half, we have already had some great experiences! We are enjoying our trips from the time we walk in the door. I would highly encourage anyone with an interest in this lifestyle to get into it as soon as you can. I has been so much fun for us and we are using it as much as we possibly can.