Rv Travel: Exploring The Open Road Freely?

RV travel has become an increasingly popular way to get around, with more than nine million US households now owning an RV. The COVID-19 pandemic has also fuelled interest in RVs, with sales and rentals dramatically increasing as people seek safer ways to travel.

However, there are some important rules and regulations to be aware of before hitting the road. For example, it is illegal to sleep, walk around or even be inside certain types of RVs while they are moving. There are also restrictions on where and for how long RVs can be parked, and some states require special licensing for larger vehicles.

Despite these considerations, RVs offer a convenient and flexible way to travel, providing all the comforts of home in a mobile setup.

RV travel is a convenient and cost-effective way to get around

RV travel gained popularity during the pandemic, as people sought safer alternatives to air travel and large gatherings. This trend is expected to continue, with analysts predicting a 1.1% increase in industry revenue through 2026 as people continue to opt for domestic trips.

RV travel is cost-effective as it eliminates the need for flights and hotels, allowing travellers to save money and extend their time on the road. Additionally, RVs provide access to nature and remote locations that may not be accessible by car.

RVs come in various types, including motorhomes, campervans, coaches, caravans, and trailers, offering different amenities and levels of luxury. They can be rented or purchased, with prices ranging from a few thousand dollars for pre-owned trailers to over $500,000 for top-of-the-range motorhomes.

While RV travel is a convenient option, it is important to consider the rules and regulations that vary by state. For example, there are restrictions on RV length, width, and height, and some states require special licensing for larger vehicles. It is essential to research and adhere to the regulations of the specific states you plan to visit.

RV travel provides a unique opportunity to explore new places while enjoying the comforts of home. With proper planning and consideration of local regulations, RV travel can be a cost-effective and convenient way to create memorable experiences.

There are different types of RVs, including motorhomes, campervans, and caravans

Drivable RVs

Drivable RVs are typically built on a truck or van chassis and are usually more expensive than towable RVs. They include:

• Class A motorhomes: These are the biggest and most luxurious drivable RVs, often associated with comfort and built on a truck chassis. They can be powered by gas or diesel engines and are constructed on a specially-designed motor vehicle chassis. They are perfect for long trips and cross-country adventures.
• Class B motorhomes: Also known as campervans, these are the smallest drivable RVs on the market and are built on a van chassis. They are nimble and fuel-efficient, making them perfect for small groups and couples.
• Class C motorhomes: These are built on a van chassis with the living space constructed around the cab. They are versatile, easy to drive and park, and offer a flexible living and sleeping space. They are also more affordable than Class A motorhomes.

Towable RVs

Towable RVs are pulled by a separate vehicle and can be categorised into two types:

• Fifth-wheel trailers: These are the biggest towable RVs and are connected to the bed of a truck using a fifth-wheel hitch. They are popular for full-time living and often have two levels, with the upstairs level housing the bedroom or a bunkhouse area. They offer a lot of storage space and unique features like bunk houses and sleeping nooks.
• Travel trailers: These are the most popular type of non-motorized RV and come in various sizes, from tiny jelly bean-shaped models to larger house-on-wheels versions. They are versatile and can be towed by a variety of vehicles, making them a good option for those who want to camp in different locations.

Other types of towable RVs include pop-up campers, tiny travel trailers, and truck campers.

RVs can be rented or bought, with prices varying depending on features and age

RVs come in all shapes and sizes, and the price can vary significantly within the same type of RV, depending on features and age.

Small RV or trailer rentals can start at $100 to $200 per night, while the most expensive luxury RVs can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to buy.

If you're looking to rent an RV, you can expect to pay, on average, $150-$250 per night for a Class A motorhome, $100-$200 per night for a Class B, $100-$200 per night for a Class C, $50-$125 per night for a travel trailer, $60-$150 per night for a fifth wheel, and $95 per night for a micro trailer.

The cost of renting an RV will also depend on factors such as seasonality, location, and mileage.

When deciding whether to rent or buy an RV, consider how frequently you plan to use it and whether you want a custom experience. Buying an RV can be a significant expense, and you'll need to factor in maintenance, storage, and other costs. On the other hand, renting an RV may be more costly in the long run if you plan to use it frequently, and it may not offer the same level of customisation.

If you decide to buy an RV, consider purchasing a used one to reduce the cost. You can also apply for an RV loan, but you may need a down payment.

Whether you rent or buy, there will be additional costs to consider, such as gas, kitchen supplies, insurance, and campground fees.

RVs have different licensing rules and regulations, which vary by state

Some states, like Arkansas, Connecticut, Hawaii, Kansas, New Mexico, and Washington, D.C., require a commercial driver's license (CDL) for vehicles over a certain weight or length. For example, in Arkansas, a CDL is needed for vehicles weighing over 26,000 pounds. On the other hand, Connecticut requires a CDL Class B for a single vehicle over 26,000 pounds and a CDL Class A for multiple vehicles with a combined weight over 26,000 pounds.

Other states mandate a non-commercial special driver's license for larger RVs. For instance, California requires a Class B license for vehicles over 26,000 pounds or 40 feet, and a Class A license for towing over 10,000 pounds. Meanwhile, North Carolina requires a Class B license for a single vehicle over 26,000 pounds and a Class A license for multiple vehicles with a combined weight over 26,000 pounds.

There are also states that don't require any special licenses to drive or tow an RV, regardless of its weight or length. These include Alabama, Montana, Alaska, Nebraska, Arizona, New Hampshire, and many others.

It's worth noting that, in addition to weight and length restrictions, some states have unique requirements. For example, Michigan has a Recreational Double "R" Endorsement, which is needed if you want to tow a fifth wheel and a trailer, though this is reportedly an uncommon scenario.

Before embarking on your RV journey, it's crucial to consult your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to confirm the specific rules and regulations for your state. This will ensure that you have the correct license and endorsements, making your travels safe and legal.

RVs have restrictions on where they can be parked and for how long, which also differ by state

RVs are a convenient way to pack up your home and go, but they do come with some parking restrictions. While there are no state laws prohibiting RVs from parking on the street, local laws and ordinances may restrict how long they can remain there. These laws vary from city to city and even between neighbourhoods, so it's essential to check the regulations in your specific location.

In some cities, RVs are prohibited from parking on residential streets overnight. For example, in San Diego, RV owners can obtain a temporary parking permit that costs $1 per day, with a maximum of 72 permits per year. On the other hand, cities like Portland, Oregon, do not allow RVs of any size to park on their city streets for more than eight hours at a time.

Even when RV parking is allowed on residential streets, there may be time restrictions. For instance, in New York City, RVs can park in one spot for 24 hours before they need to find a new location. Additionally, some cities may have rules prohibiting RV parking during certain hours, such as when street cleaning or construction work needs to be done.

The size of an RV can also be a factor in parking restrictions. If an RV is too large and parked on a small residential street, it may block traffic and be prohibited for that reason. In such cases, RV owners may need to find alternative parking options, such as in their driveway or backyard, if local regulations permit.

It's worth noting that some cities and neighbourhoods have more lenient RV parking regulations. For example, in Billings, Montana, RVs can be parked in driveways, side yards, or backyards as long as they don't obstruct sidewalks or encroach on neighbouring properties.

When it comes to overnight parking, RV owners also have the option of staying at campgrounds, RV parks, or even private homes, if allowed by local regulations. Additionally, some casinos, truck stops, and stores like Walmart may offer free or low-cost overnight RV parking, although this varies by location.

Frequently asked questions