Depending on the length of your RV road trip, traveling can get expensive quickly. The cost of a road trip all depends on how comfortable and how well you plan on eating. If you are the simple and frugal type, then you will be able to take a very affordable road trip.
 
Gas is a hot topic right now. Gas prices hit an all time high over the summer and are slowly beginning to drop. The best place to get gas on a road trip is outside of town at the truck stops. They will also have diesel if your RV requires it. Not all convenient store gas stations inside a community will have diesel. Diesel tends to be cheaper than gas, but with the recent gas prices even diesel has been expensive. Gas stations in towns tend to be more expensive as well. There is not a lot that you can do about the gas prices except be prepared for them. Gas on the coasts also tends to be more expensive than gas in the central states. Many big gas chains offer frequent fueler cards and these are great if you are going to be filling up often.
 
While you are pumping your gas, you should always check your oil. This is especially true if you will be traveling three thousand miles or more. Travelers should always have their oil changed before hitting the road out of home. Checking your oil along the way insures that your RV is not burning oil or leaking oil. Driving with the mind set of saving gas also helps. Avoid gunning the engine when unnecessary. Use your cruise control while on long stretches of highways and try to maintain consistent speeds. Depending on the terrain that you are traveling in you may or may not save gas. Rough terrain and lots of hills will cause your RV to burn more fuel. Watching how much weight you pack and tow on your RV will also have an effect on how much gas you are able to save on a trip.
 
Traveling in the RV takes care of your lodging and there are a variety of hook-ups in all communities. You may also look into investing into campground memberships as well. There are many memberships that have locations spread across the country. You will be able to stay at these locations for free. These are great for even part-time RV campers as they can travel to many different places throughout the year. Full-time RV campers will feel at home at a myriad of these campgrounds. During the peek season, you may be limited to one week or two week stays. During the off-season, you may be allowed to stay for up to three weeks. Whether or not you need a site with sewer hook-ups will also have a difference on the price you pay at campgrounds and RV parks. Sewer hook-ups generally cause RVs to be parked closely together and they will inhibit your view of nature from your RV.
 
Some campground sites may not provide hook-ups but will allow you to park overnight. You will have to depend on your RV's generator, batteries, water tanks and wastewater tanks. If you are only staying for a night this should not be a major concern. If you are unable to find a campground nearby and you are exhausted, you may also park at a truck stop or even a Wal-Mart for the night. Truck stops can be somewhat loud, but you should be able to park and get a good rest before continuing on.
 
Cheap entertainment can easily be found in a variety of communities. National parks have yearly memberships that you can purchase for around $50. These will get you into all of the national parks. Many national parks also have RV hook-ups and you may have to pay to stay overnight but your membership will cover your entrance fee. Some parks have entrance fees that are $20 or more, so if you use your membership enough it will pay for itself. There are also usually free museums in many communities and those offer a chance to learn about the town you are visiting. Visitor centers are also very informative and they can provide you with local area attractions.
 
To save money on food pack a cooler of fruits, sandwiches and other snacks for the road. You will most likely get tired of what you brought with you, so an occasional restaurant stop is fine. Mixing up eating out with eating out of the cooler or RV refrigerator will help keep you from getting burned out on your RV food. Many travelers will also eat fairly light meals. Light meals at restaurants are often inexpensive and healthier.
 
No matter where or how you travel, you will be able to make your trip affordable by following these RV tips. Your trip and the cost of the trip all depend on how long you plan to be gone and what you plan to do on the trip.

Whether you are considering being a part-time RVer or a full-time RVer, there are a variety of issues that must be covered before you hit the road. If you plan traveling part-time, these issues will be easily resolved. If you plan on being a full-timer, then you may have a more difficult time figuring these aspects out.
 
Banking these days on the road is easier than it was ten years ago. Today, there are many nationwide banks that you can join. You will be able to use these banks at all of their locations across the country. Banks like Bank of America and Wells Fargo are great for RVers. There is bound to be a branch in every city in the country. The debit card has also revolutionized banking as well. You can keep track of your expenses as you would a checkbook, but without the checks. Many RVers just simply use their credit card and pay the bill off every month. Deposits can be made electronically into your checking account and you will always have access to your money through your debit card. Credit card bills can also be paid electronically via your checking account as well. Either part-time or full-time RVers will be able to benefit from the ease of banking with modern technology. You can still write checks or purchase traveler checks if you want, but debit cards and credit cards make things so much easier these days.
 
Bills are also easy to take care of if you have a checking account. Credit cards, utilities, Internet and cable can all be paid online through your checking account. You can have your bank set your account up so that all of your bills are automatically debited from your account, all you have to do is make sure there is money in your account. You will simply receive a paper statement in the mail showing the amount that was deducted from your checking account. Mortgages and property taxes can also be set up to be deducted from your checking account. Many banks will offer you lower interest rates on loans and purchases if you have them set-up to be automatically deducted from your checking.
 
There is a variety of mail forwarding services available to RVers. Whether you are going to be gone for six months or a year, you will be able to have your mail forwarded to wherever you are. For a monthly fee, the service will sort your mail for you and forward you the rest. You can even view your mail on the Internet. You are able to view not only what is in your mailbox but also who has sent you mail. You may then select which pieces of mail you would like to have forwarded to you. You will then fill out shipping information for your next stop and they will send your mail either first class, FedEx or USPS. Your estimated postage cost will be given to you before you finish. If you do not have Internet access, you may call the forwarding service and they will provide you with your mail information over the phone. If you do not wish to use a mail forwarding service, there is always the option of a post office box or forwarding it to a family member. However, the post office will complain if you let your mail build up. Family may or may not care if you have your mail sent to them if you are only going to be gone for a short time. Many full-timers use the mail forwarding service.
 
Not everybody who decides to go full-time will have the funds to keep their travels going. Many people will take small jobs or work from home on their computers. There are several RVer jobs that will allow you to live your RV lifestyle on the road and still travel. The first is work-camping. Work-camping is essentially working for the campground in exchange for a free or discounted campsite or wage. Campground work might include office work, maintenance, housekeeping, reservations and sales. Other work-campers might work at amusement parks, national and state parks, wildlife preserves and marinas. There is also an organization called Workampers and they help promote the RVer jobs and lifestyle.
 
The second type of RV job is seasonal jobs. RVers often find work at Christmas tree farms or retail lots. Some RVers may take jobs in town in small retail stores for the winter and in the fall RVers may work for pumpkin patches. There are also seasonal jobs at flower shops, garden stores, fishing communities, ski resorts, lake resorts and farms.
 
The third popular job amongst RVers is property caretaker positions. From housesitting to estate management, RVers have done them all. Tasks may include yard and garden work, housekeeping, pet care, and house sitting. There are also positions at resorts, ranches, hunting and fishing lodges.
 
The successful RVer will be able to sustain their life on the road through a variety of different positions. They will be able to travel and see various communities while also being able to work and become a part of different communities and cultures. There are many options available to make your RVing lifestyle work for you; you just have to find your niche.

So, you have decided that you are ready to take the leap into the full-time RV lifestyle. There are many emotional aspects that will take place during the process of making this decision. There will also be many emotional aspects that your families will have to adjust to as well. All of these aspects will be covered as we explore the emotions of breaking the news and building support.
 
If the RV lifestyle is your dream then there is no reason not to make it a reality if you can afford to do so. You will experience many emotions over leaving friends, family and your home. These feelings are perfectly normal and you will adjust to these things overtime. You will also have the opportunity to make new friends on the road and in campgrounds whom will soon become a new family to you. The feelings of leaving family and friends depend mainly on how close you are with them. If you talk to them on a daily basis and spend time with them consistently, then it is going to be more difficult to leave those people. Breaking the news to these people will be tough, but with modern technology there is no reason that you can't keep in touch. Some of your friends will be incredibly happy for you while other will think you are crazy. The RV lifestyle is often difficult for people to grasp, as they have never thought of it as an option. 
 
Communication will be key in keeping in touch with your friends and family. Your friends and family will soon become interested in your travels and they will look forward to your calls or emails. This communication will also become more meaningful to you as you will want to tell them about your latest trip or excursion. Don't be surprised if you have difficulties contacting friends and family, as you will probably think about them more often than they think about you. This is normal and due to the fact that they are busy with life while you are enjoying life. Email is conveniently available to you as it is to your family. There are numerous hotels, libraries and coffee shops that have wireless Internet and all you need is a laptop with a wireless adapter. At some hotels you will be able to pick up a wireless connection in their parking lot.
 
Leaving your community and selling your home is another difficult step into realizing the full-time RV lifestyle. You will begin to realize that you have many ties to your community and that you depend on many people in your community. From your hairdresser to your doctor, you will miss these people but the flexibility of the full-time RV lifestyle means that you will be able to come back and see these people again. You are bound to travel back through your own community many times to visit friends and family. You often do not realize how many people have impacted your life in a community until you leave it. Selling your home for any reason is hard. There are many memories in your home and it is difficult to move out. You also spent half of your life purchasing your home as every other American does. Just remember to focus on why you are leaving and that the full-time RV lifestyle means you will have a new home that can go with you wherever you want.
 
Taking on the full-time RV lifestyle also means that you will have to liberate yourself from all of your personal belongings. The best way to deal with the emotions of leaving stuff behind or getting rid of it all together is making several different piles. Make piles of stuff that you can take with you, make a pile of stuff that you would like to store, and make a pile of stuff that you need to throw away. Consider taking your throw away pile to the local Goodwill or Salvation Army. This will let you have the feeling that somebody else will enjoy those belongings more than you would and you are not being wasteful. Women tend to have a harder time leaving their belongings behind. If you have special collections of items, consider giving them to friends and family for display purposes in their home and for safekeeping.
 
Leaving a traditional lifestyle is difficult because there are so many unknowns. You will begin to have second thoughts and fears but you will have to remain strong and focused. The fear of the unknown is normal, but remember that you are going to be much happier when you are able to hit the road and live a new life.
 
Building support from your family may also be difficult. Some family may be confused as to why you would want to live in an RV, but other family will make sure that you plan to visit them. You can help build support from your family by telling them this is your dream and this is what will make you happy. They will appreciate that and support you in your decision. So, off you go, it's time to hit the road.

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Many people dream of traveling in their RV for weeks at a time. They enjoy hitting the road and seeing what lies ahead. They also want to be able to keep their home while they are gone as they will be back home for holidays and certain times of the year. One way of making sure that your home is safe and cared for while you are away on your road trip is to hire a live-in house sitter.
 
Live-in house sitting has become popular in the past few years as more people are traveling for longer periods of time. The house sitter temporarily lives in your house and cares for the house as if the house was there own. Instead of leasing the house out with all of your belongings, a house sitter will watch your house rent-free. The house sitter insures that the house will stay secure, clean and maintained. They will mow the lawn and take care of gardens. They will even take care of your pets that are unable to travel with you. The house sitter does not pay rent but may pay the water, electric and gas bills.
 
The benefits of a house sitter are various. These benefits include such items as your mail being taken care of, bills are paid, and lawn watered and mowed, maintenance of gardens and pools. For a house sitter, these are the services that they provide. House sitters keep you from having to impose on friends and family for long periods of time. There is also visible activity in the home. This will insure that your home stays secure. Burglars are more likely to attempt to rob a home that has been consistently dark and the mail has piled up. House sitters are actively living in your home and they insure that the lights are changed, televisions come on and the mail is collected. A lot of house sitters also work from home, which is extra security as they are home most of the time. There are also insurance issues with homes when you are going to be absent for a long period of time. House sitters insure that your insurance policies are complied with.
 
Depending on the length of time you will be gone, you will also be able to save money by having a house sitter watch your home. House sitters do not typically pay utilities for periods of two weeks or less. House sitters will pay your utilities for periods of 60 days or more. You will be able to save $750 on a 3-month stay and $1,430 on a 6-month stay if you do not have pets. If you do have pets you will still save as you will not have to board them and they can stay at their own home. You will be able to save close to $4,320 for a 6-month stay on pet care. Kennels are not very fun for pets and the nightly prices that they charge will end being astronomical, especially if you have very large dogs.
 
A few exceptions exist in the realm of house sitting. For very short house sits that are less than 60 days, the house sitter does not usually pay utilities. The sitters bear the cost of moving in and out for a short period of time. If the homeowner also requires an excessive amount of utilities such as watering horses, cows, etc. the homeowner generally shares this expense. If the homeowner requires animals to be fed, the homeowner should either stock up on feed or reimburse the house sitter. These are the types of situations that the homeowner and house sitter would discuss and make an agreement on.
 
House sitters will also only use what you want them to use. They often bring their own mattress, linens, towels, personal items, toilet paper, food and computers. Typically the use of entertainment centers and washer and dryers are used. If you do not want those items used they will make arrangements for their own items to be used. They also bring their own food. Anything that they must use of your such as dryer sheets, they replace before they leave. They are also generally flexible and they will move if your plans change as long as they receive notice. They also agree not to go on vacations or leave the house unoccupied.
 
Homeowners who enjoy traveling over the summer and for long periods of time will benefit greatly from a house sitter. They will care for your property as if it was your own. They will also take care of pets, livestock and your bills. They are better than leasing your home because they do not pay rent and they have nowhere else to go making house sitting an ideal opportunity for RV lovers.

The decision to buy your first or upgrade your current RV is an important decision that requires careful planning and preparation. There are many RVs on the market and they all offer different amenities. You will need to decide what you are going to use the RV for and what amenities you require while you are on the road.
 
For first time RVers, it is difficult to determine which RV is right for you and your family. You first must decide how much you are willing to spend on the RV. You will want to determine your budget and get pre-approved for a loan on your RV. RVs are considered luxury items, so you will need good credit to get the best loan amount and interest rate. After you are pre-approved through your bank or lender, you will then be able to start visiting dealerships and RV shows to see what is available in your budget. You will want to be careful with your budget because not only do you need to be able to buy the RV, you need to be able to afford to vacations in it.
 
The next step to find your RV is to take your time shopping. You will not want to rush this decision because as soon as you buy one you will find a better RV at a better price. Talk with dealers, RV show salespeople, current RV owners and research them on the Internet. You will want to be sure that the RV you choose is really worth what it is being sold for.

Ask yourself and your family what they want in the RV. Determine what level of comfort you desire as well as what you can't live on the road without. There are numerous amenities to choose from and the more you choose, the more expensive the RV will be. Here are a few options for your RV:
- Beds (Twins, bunk beds, full, queen or king)
- Number of rooms
- Full bath with shower or a whirlpool bath
- Refrigerator plus freezer and ice maker
- Microwave/Convection Oven
- Dishwasher
- Trash Compactor
- Washer and Dryer
- Air Conditioning and Furnace
- Upgraded insulation for different weather conditions
- Upgraded BTU with heated tanks
- Full entertainment centers with indoor and outdoor speakers
- Satellite dish
- Internet stations
- GPS (Global Positioning Systems)
- Security System
- Patio Awnings
- Slide outs for extra living space
- Driver's seat with heater and massage
- Basement storage
- Carrying racks
- Fireplace
- Rooftop Sky Deck
 
Many of these options are appealing but the may not be necessary for the first time RVer. Many full-time RVers live without many of these amenities while other want all of the amenities of home. While you are determining what amenities you desire, remember that more amenities are available on brand new RVs while used RVs may have limited options.
 
You should also consider what type of camping your family enjoys while deciding on an RV. If you like to rough it in the woods, it may be difficult to park a Class A RV or get it into the woods for that matter. State and federal parks have different sizes of campsites for RVs and may or may not include hook-ups. If you want full service hook-ups with sewer, Internet, electricity and water, you will most likely have to live in close proximity with other RVers. These are all personal decisions that you will have to make before purchasing your RV. Read books, magazines and website for more information on camping available to RVs. Your decision all depends on how much you like to rough it when you camp and how many amenities you need while on the road.
 
For first time RVers, you may consider purchasing a gently used RV. You will generally want to steer clear of old RVs as they may have mechanical problems that you don't know about unless you know their whole history. Remember that although you want to save on your RV budget, you want to be able to get to where you are going and back home! You may be able to save a lot of money on a gently used RV if you buy it from the owner. If you are new to RVing, a gently used RV is generally your best bet.
 
You will also have to research insurance and operating costs. There are insurance charges, finance charges, maintenance and camping fees that must be taken into consideration before purchasing your RV. If your purchase a fifth-wheel or caravan RV, be sure to check with your auto insurance to see if it will be covered with your vehicle. You may also want to see if you can insure the RV on your homeowner's policy.

Have you ever wanted to travel west or maybe east? Have you ever wanted to travel north or south? The RV road trip lifestyle allows you to travel in any direction you want. There are various ways of planning a road trip and one way may appeal more than others. Deciding on a road trip can be difficult when there is more than one other person involved in the discussion and you may find it difficult to please everyone. Road trips can also have many functions. Do you need to travel back home and visit family you haven't seen in a while or do you just need to get away for a while? These are the types of questions you should ask yourself while deciding on the perfect road trip.
 
After finding some answers to these personal questions it is time to start planning. The first step in planning is identifying the purpose of your road trip and deciding on a destination. No matter where you go you will have an ultimate goal and you will need to decide on what that goal is. Decide how much time you are willing to take and how much you are willing to spend. You should also decide on any specific attractions that you might want to see while on the road. All of these factors will play into your destination and how long it takes to get there and back home. Deciding on these factors will tell you how much planning lies ahead of you.
 
The next step in deciding on a road trip is the route that you want to take. After you have your destination in mind you will need to start planning stopovers. You will need to decide how far you can drive safely and where you should stop. At the same time, you want to decide if you want to take the back roads or the highways. For example, if you feel safe at six hours, then you should find a campground or RV hook-up site that will suit your needs for that night. You may also choose to spend a day in each stopover and see the local attractions and get a taste of the culture. Taking the back roads is fun to the courageous souls while others like to stick to the beaten path. You may also enjoy taking a famous route such as Route 66 or the Oregon Trail.
 
After deciding on a route and the stopovers you want to take, you should then look into the local attractions in those areas. You may never know when you might find something interesting and this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see it. For example, Two Guns, Arizona has the meteor crater. The meteor crater even has its own radio station that tells you the history of the crater while you explore the massive hole. There are also novelty and souvenir shops on the road to the crater. The crater is only six miles south of Interstate 40 and is between Two Guns and Winslow, Arizona. There are several sights like this one located all across the country and this may be your opportunity to see them.
 
While deciding on stopovers and attractions, you should let everyone put in ideas as to where to stopover. After all ideas are in place, you can begin plotting your route to the different attractions there are to see. Visit different websites and look for brochures while you travel. These will provide great information on the sights to see in different communities. You can even begin a collection of brochures for future road trips of places you would like to visit in the future. While you do this, you can also find places to stay such as campgrounds and RV parks. Campgrounds and RV parks are great because since you are in your traveling RV you can just stop, hook-up and enjoy the scenery or a new community.
 
RV road trips offer enormous flexibility. You don't have to worry about check-in or checkout times at hotels and you don't have to pay for anything but food, gas and souvenirs. You have all that you need in your RV and you always know where the nearest restroom is! You really don't even have to eat out if you don't want to. RVs road trips are so flexible that if an emergency comes up at home all you have to do is turn around and go back. Remember that while deciding on a road trip, do your best to include the attractions and stopovers that the family wants to make. Kids get really bored traveling and if you can mix it up with a stopover here and there, the trip will go a lot smoother for everyone in the RV.

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Living on the road can be a fun and exciting experience; however, there are a few responsibilities with family and pets that make traveling more difficult. These issues depend on your age and your situation. If you are retired and your children are grown with children of their own, then the RV lifestyle may not be too difficult for you as you can visit them whenever you like. If you are a young family and you want to travel with your children, then you will have a different set of responsibilities that you will have to cope with while on the road. Pets, whether you are retired or not, only add to the RV lifestyle and can be enjoyable or difficult.
 
Traveling and living the RV lifestyle as retirees is completely different from traveling as a young family with children. As retirees, you may pick your next trip to be near your family and you are able to correspond events with your itinerary. You will have the flexibility to pick up and visit any family that you want and work them into your vacations. If there is an emergency and you feel that you must go visit family, you have the flexibility to do so. Sometimes you may be too far away from family, but with technology you can easily call them from cell phones or email them. Many retirees will allow their children to travel with them for summer vacations and this is a great way to spend time with your grandchildren if they are old enough to travel.
 
Traveling with children full-time is a completely different story. Children have many needs and these will have to be covered while you are on the road. Many families who have chosen the RV lifestyle like the flexibility and the adventures. Most families also home school their children while on the road. Most people are familiar with home schooling and it has become increasingly more popular and schools are accepting home schooling as well. Traveling to different historical sites and areas also help with education of your children. You will be able to find interesting subjects for your children while on the road. They will be able to learn all the basics such as mathematics, science, history and more. Children will become self-motivated to find learning experiences while they are on the road. They will have life changing experiences that many children are not exposed to.
 
As the children grow and they want to go to college, they will have to records of their education. You will need to keep records to make their education equivalent to a high school education. More home-schooled children are being accepted into college as they are seen as good students. They do require that they complete a certified home school program and therefore you may need to invest in this area if your children are interested in attending college.
 
There is also the situation of socializing children while on the road. The advantage to children who travel is that they will meet a variety of different children everyday. They will have plenty of socialization and they will be able to spend time with those children on extend trips. With the Internet and email, children will be able to keep contact with the different children that they meet across the country. You will also be able to discuss their feelings and desires as they grow.
 
There are many retirees and young families who have pets. They may have them from their previous home and they are a part of the family who couldn't be left behind. The main concern for pets is that they need regular stops to use the bathroom and their size. You are limited on the space and weight in your RV and your pet's size and weight will have to be considered. It may not be a wise idea to travel with two large Labradors, for example, unless you absolutely can't live without them. If you don't RV full-time you may consider leaving pets with friends or family. Pets can be kenneled but the cost of boarding is astronomical for an extended period of time. You will also need to insure that your pets are up to date on vaccinations and that you can provide documentation of that. Pets should also be microchipped in case they escape and are picked up the local humane society or dog pound. They will scan for the microchip and will call you. Pets can also be left in your RV as they would be left in a house. If you are concerned about them being destructive, you can limit their area through the use of baby gates or harnesses. Pets can be great companions on RV trips, just be sure that they are safe and have the appropriate tags and vaccinations.
 
The RV lifestyle is fun and can be made even more enjoyable with family and pets. Before embarking on such RV trips be sure that you will be able to live in such close proximity of each other and with limited privacy. The close space of an RV puts additional strains on families and you should be prepared for these situations.

RVing has opened doors to a new world of friends and family. Many senior RVers look forward to hitting the road and being able to visit friends and family that they haven't seen in years. They also have the opportunity to meet new fellow RVers and share their experiences in RVing and traveling the country. Meeting new friends and "new" family add to the value of your RV as you can pack up and meet them whenever you are ready. RVers can also meet their friends and family at specific destinations and spend time with them at campgrounds, all because of the flexible RV.
 
RVers are an independent group but they love to get together and show off their RVs and share their travel experiences. There are many clubs for RVers to join and many of them are primarily social clubs. They organize activities and entertainment at various campgrounds across the country. Other RV clubs are for individuals or couples that share an interest in a particular brand of RV or particular interests. There are also clubs that offer RV support, discounts and magazines. There is no limit on how many clubs you can join when you love to travel in your RV. Many RV clubs plan caravans and rallies. These clubs allow members to get together and have parties and social events at various exotic locations across the country.
 
RV rallies are another great way to find other RVing friends. There are both national and local rallies that are held by most camping clubs. Many clubs will sponsor an area rally once a month as well as national rallies during the peek vacation season. At these rallies, RVers will meet new friends as they are led on tours to many historical and cultural areas. Rallies also include a lot of socializing through cookouts, dances, dinners, crafts, games and sporting events.
 
RV caravans and tours will lead you on an RV journey into Alaska, Canada and Mexico. RVers travel together in groups and are led by "wagonmasters" who know the area and the best stops. The wagonmasters also set up campsites and will help RVers find mechanical help or spare parts if they require them. Caravans may travel for as long as a month or more.
 
You will also meet a variety of friends down the road. You may have camped next door to a nice couple and you really hit it off. Now, when they are going to be whatever neck of the woods you are in, you can camp together and visit about the places they have been and seen since the last time you talked. You can also meet up with other friends and family at campgrounds for the holidays. You can visit with each other and cookout a special Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner. You can share cookies and candy with the kids a couple of RVs down from yours. Many RV friends have email and cell phones and no matter where you are in the country, you can still talk to them and find places to meet up.
 
Many young families with children have also adopted the RV lifestyle. Many campgrounds have swimming pools and playgrounds. Children love to make new friends, especially ones that are from different states and countries. The possibilities are endless for children to make new friends. Young parents can also make friends with parents of other children. They often have the same interests and the RV brings them all together. They are living the same RV lifestyle as you and they often have great tips and ideas for your RV lifestyle. Children with Internet access will enjoy having email pen pals and friends to send postcards to. Children will also enjoy traveling the country and they will want to continue traveling, as they become adults. 
 
The Internet has also done a great job of bringing fellow RVers together. There are numerous forum boards and blogs where RVers can meet new friends. You can chat and talk with your new online RV friends and meet them at certain destinations. Many RVers are posting their own websites as well and encourage new RVers to make friends and spend time with them as you would your family. Your fellow RVers are also able to help you out with any RV problems you may have and offer you advice on your next destination.
 
Everybody loves to meet new friends and seeing new places. The RV lifestyle allows for that flexibility. If you have family you need to visit you can pack up camp and stay in their driveway. If you want to visit friends in a different state, you can pack up camp and visit them. If you have other RVing friends, you can contact them and meet in a central destination between the two of you.

The full-time RV lifestyle is great for some, but the full-time lifestyle often means that you miss important events in your family life. There are many ways that you can compromise with your family on important events in your family's life. You can spend the time alone, go home and visit loved ones or take your family with you. You may even choose to spend important events and holidays with your new RVing family.
 
There are many full-time RVers who enjoy visiting different cities for the holidays. Depending on how close you are to your family, you may have to compromise with them on these events. For example, spending Christmas in warm Florida might be your idea of a great holiday, but your family in New York might want you to come back and visit. There are many different locations that are great for RV vacations during the holidays. Many families are strict about their holiday traditions and you may be the outcast for changing things up, but this is the lifestyle that you have chosen and your family should understand.
 
Different full-time RVers handle holidays in different ways. Many RVers fly back and visit family. Others spend the holidays with their new family of fellow RVers. Either way you work your holidays, you should compromise with your family. Many RVers will spend every other Christmas with their family and travel on the other years. The great thing about RVing through the holidays is that you are able to send small souvenirs to family from all of your different travels. You also have the opportunity to visit different churches for each holiday. If you can't make it back to your family for Thanksgiving, there are always potluck meals with your new family at the RV campground.
 
You don't have to be alone at the holidays if you are not close to your family. There are many other couples and families who enjoy the full-time RV lifestyle. Many campgrounds hold events of their own that you will be able to participate in. From Thanksgiving dinners to Easter Masses, you will be able to find companionship with the people who share your interests. The holidays are more stress free when you are enjoying the RV lifestyle. Many women still enjoy baking and making desserts at the holidays in their RVs. Bake some cookies and share them with your campground neighbors. They will appreciate the kindness and friendliness.
 
If your family doesn't mind traveling over the holidays, you might decide to just take them with you! Look into renting RVs for other families and you can all take an RV vacation together. You can decorate your RV for all the major holidays and enjoy the time together either somewhere warm or for a snow-white holiday. The trip itself will make a great gift and you can enjoy the local traditions of a small community or just get away for a while to reconnect with your family. Nothing brings a family closer than spending time together and having to be creative with the holidays. Some campgrounds will also allow you to have a guest site during the holidays. This will allow you to enjoy your family and the RV lifestyle during the holidays.
  
Other events that are hard to miss include high school and college graduations and new babies being born into the family. If you are unable to work these events into your travel itinerary, you are better off sending postcards, letters, souvenirs or money for these events. Call and congratulate your family and they will appreciate knowing that you remembered their big day and that you care.
 
The full-time RV lifestyle is flexible and it allows you to pick up and go whenever you need. It is inevitable that at some times you are not going to be able to make across the country for family events, but your family should understand that this is your lifestyle and sometimes things don't always work out the way you want them to. Another great fact about the RV lifestyle is that when you are able to make it to your families home, you have everything you need with you and you are able to stay with them for longer periods of time than you would if you had to stay at a hotel.
 
There are many ups and downs to the RV lifestyle and you don't always make it to the important events. The important thing is that your family knows you still care about them, love them and that you will be there whenever you can. Even if you have to live in there driveway!

Whether you are a new RVer or an old hand, there always comes a time when you find that there are a few "necessities" that you have been missing out on. Campgrounds have also been known to change their rules, which means that you may have to invest in a few extras on your RV. Traveling will also be hard on your car whether the vehicle is towing or being towed.
 
Valve extenders are a must have. You will need valve extenders to reach the inside tires on your dual tire sets. Without valve extenders you will have to crawl under your RV to reach those tires. They are also useful if you need to add air to the inside tires. You will be able to hook up your extenders to any air source. Experienced RVers recommend that you invest in a good set of steel valve extenders.
 
Another necessity is a few boards or the interlocking polypropylene boards for leveling. Life in an RV is much easier when you don't feel like you are going to roll off the bed or walking at an angle. Your refrigerator and freezer will also work better when they are leveled. If you opt to use your own boards, use boards that are 2" x 8" x 16" beneath each tire. You will also want to be sure to have enough boards to add to the inside tires so that the RV is not strained. Jacks will also help the RV stay more stabilized when there is a lot of movement inside the RV. Boards will also help keep your RV from sinking into the ground should the ground be soft.
 
Non-flapping devices are handy if you plan to leave your awning out during the day. These devices attach to the awning at the support bar. Windy weather will cause major damage to your awning, so you are better safe than sorry. If really windy weather threatens, you are probably safer to roll the awning up. Patio drapes may also be added to your awning to help increase the level of shade that you will have when your awning is unrolled. This will also make your awning patio cooler when trees are scarce or non-existent.
 
While you are inside your RV and it is not hot enough to run the air conditioning. You will be able to prevent rain from coming into your windows with window awnings. Window awnings also help keep the sun from coming through as well. Tinted windows will also help drastically reduce the amount of heat the sun allows into the RV.
 
Vinyl-coated polyester rugs are also very handy for helping to reduce dirt being tracked into the RV. These rugs can be placed under awnings for an increase in carpeted living space. These rugs are also helpful, as the water will run through the rug versus being soaked up by the rug. Rugs inside the RV will also help prolong the life of your RV's carpet and they are easier to clean at car washes, etc.
 
"Y"connectors are also very handy for increasing your water availability. Most RV hook-up sights only have one water source and you will be able to extend the use of that source with the connector. You may also want to invest in a water regulator to keep high water pressure at the campsite from damaging your RV's plumbing system. Water hose extensions will also help you reach hook-ups that are not very convenient. You do not want to use a typical garden hose, as they will heat the water inside the hose. There are also water heaters available from the dealership that will heat your water tanks with the flip of a switch. These are very handy and will prevent you from having to light a pilot light with a lighter in the rain.
 
Voltage indicators and surge protectors are essential for protecting your electronics and preventing fires. Many campsites may have bad wiring and you can test the voltage with a ground regulator prior to hooking-up your RV. Plugging your voltage indicator into the 120-volt wall plug will show you if there are any discrepancies in your voltage.
 
Many parks also require that you use a plastic doughnut ring to hook-up your sewage. If you do not have one of these, most campsites will sell one to you. To avoid paying high campground prices, you should invest in one prior to leaving. The campsites prefer that you do not hook-up your sewage hose directly to their site and the doughnut provides a barrier.
 
As for car care, you will want to insure that your vehicle is up-to-date on tags and licenses. If you are traveling outside of the U.S. you may also need an insurance policy that extends to your car. If you are traveling in a towing vehicle, remember to check your tire pressure regularly and look for heat in any of the lug nuts. You will also want to be sure that you perform regular oil changes and check your fluids. Many one-stop oil change facilities include other fluid checks on your vehicle. They might even vacuum out your vehicle and wash the windows.
 
Traveling in your RV will be made a little more fun and convenient with these handy little necessities. You will find that through your travels, you might like other extras that you will want to invest in.

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Traveling the highways and back roads are fun, but you get to a point to where you can't drive anymore and your tummy is starting to rumble. You don't want to eat out for every meal and sometimes you are nowhere near a campground. Sometimes you have to set up camp in some unconventional places.
 
Wal-Mart, believe it or not, is a boondocker's paradise. Boondocking is when you set up camp and you don't have any hook-ups. Boondocking is also known as free camping. You have to depend on your RV's batteries and generator to provide you power and water. Seasoned RVers don't generally pack all the food that they require for their trip, so Wal-Mart has many features for the RVer. Super Wal-Marts are open twenty-four hours a day. This means that no matter what time it is, you will be able to stop in and pick up a bite to eat. There are numerous food ideas at Wal-Mart as most operate as grocery stores these days. You can have yourself a fresh salad with dressing and some fresh meat from the deli. Eating light and cheap will help to stretch your budget a little further for your trip. Wal-Mart can also be a great place to set up "camp" for the night. The parking lots are lighted and there is always people coming and going. Lock your doors and close the curtains in your windows and you will be able to have a good nights rest. The next morning you might decide to pick up some fruit and sandwich meat for snacks later on down the highway. Buying the food you need as you go will save you precious refrigerator space as well as be a little easier on your budget.
 
Flying J Truck Stops are also good friends of RVers. They too are open twenty-four hours and are frequented by people all night. You can fill up your gas tank and get a bite to eat at the restaurant. You can also boondock in their parking lots as well. Flying J Truck Stops also tend to have Internet access in the restaurant or at their payphones. This is a great time to check your e-mail and alert your family to your recent adventures. Flying J Truck Stops have been noted to have lower gas prices as well. Most of them also have a separate RV parking area that is away from the semi-trucks.
 
Camping World stores will also allow overnight parking, but you should check with the store prior to parking for the night. Camping World also figures that you will buy something from them and they generally allow overnight stays. Certain stores in certain cities may not allow overnight stays due to crime areas, etc.
 
Kmart was one of the first stores to allow overnight parking for RVers. Asking the store manager for permission is always a good idea before setting up. The manager will often alert the security staff and will have them keep an eye on you overnight. Shopping malls may also allow you to stay the night if you are visiting the stores, movie theaters or restaurants. They too will often have the security guards keep an eye on you.
 
Places to avoid are often rest stops. They sound like nice quite places to sleep, but they can be very dangerous. There is no security and you are very vulnerable when you are sleeping. Many RVers have had people try to break into their RVs only to scare the burglars off with a hunting rifle or some other method of producing fear. If you choose to stay the night anywhere, it is best to use a busy location and be aware of your situation. You are better safe than sorry and it is wise to stay where you know you will be safe.
 
There are numerous campers and RVers on the Internet. Search the Internet before embarking on your trip to find excellent boondocking destinations. If you have a GPS system you may be able to find coordinates for excellent boondocking sites. You may also find numerous databases on different sites across the country that will allow you to boondock.
 
Boondockers should also be responsible while enjoying free camping and free overnight stays. This means that you should only spend the night in the Wal-Mart parking lot-not a week. If you do boondock in a parking lot, it is common courtesy to thank the establishment by purchasing something from the next day. RVers once received a bad reputation for taking advantage of parking lots that allowed you to spend the night. Other RVers have been seen helping round up shopping carts out of the parking lot and picking up litter. Many Wal-Marts, however, are putting up signs restricting RVers from parking in their lots. Make sure that you are allowed to park their or your goodnights sleep may be disturbed.

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RVs allow you to take the trip of a lifetime. You will have the opportunity to explore new cities and discover the unknown. At first you make think that you will want to visit every museum along the way or every giant ball of yarn. Your mind will race with all the exciting events that you are about to embark on. The reality is that there is so much to do and see that if you focus on the depth of the trip you may miss out on the breadth of the trip.
 
There are opportunities awaiting you at every turn of the highway. There is so much to do that many frequent RVers suggest that you pick a theme for each trip you make. This will help you focus on your final destination and you will still have fun in between. For example, you may decide that you want to hit every odd museum on the way to Phoenix, Arizona. This is a good starting point because you want to be able to find your destination and see all the interesting sites in between. For long trips, you may be able to throw in a few more ideas such as all of the major baseball parks from Chicago to Los Angeles and then throw in a few historical monuments and National Parks. Despite the plans that you may have there is always something that will keep you from seeing everything you want to see but at least you will still be able to enjoy your trip without stressing out over every nook and cranny in the US you can find.
 
Here are few example themes that will help you plan your trip and will still allow you time to enjoy your destinations. 
- Travel down the famous highways (Route 66, Alaska Highway)
- Play a game of golf at every golf course along the way
- Follow the Lewis and Clark Trail or the Oregon Trail (You could even throw in some cattle trails)
- Visit all the breweries along your trip
- Ride all the famous roller coasters
- Visit all the Major League Baseball Stadiums
- Visit all the National Football Stadiums
- Visit all the College Football Stadiums
- Visit historic houses
- Visit an antique shop in every town you stop in
- Visit museums in every state
- Visit State Capitols
- Visit different lakes
 
There are a variety of trip themes that you can pick from. Just find something you are interested in and get the directions on how to find them.
 
Try not to over plan your tip. There will always be an obstacle somewhere and if you have it all planned out you will have holes in your itinerary. Don't try to plan every day of the trip either as you will stress over time and other constraints. The RV lifestyle allows this kind of flexibility and if you decide that you want to explore a particular city or community a little more feel free to spend an extra day there. Often times, you will enjoy the stops that you didn't plan more than you would the ones you did plan.
 
A great piece of technology that will help you find all the sites on your theme is a GPS system. Many GPS systems have menus for attractions, restaurants, museums, etc. You just pick where you want to go and the GPS will tell you how to get there. They are very handy for cities that you don't know very well and they will tell you where to go turn for turn. In fact, you will learn to have a great appreciation for this handy device.
 
Planning every day of your trip is very tiring. You may want to look at various patterns of travel. The hub and spoke approach is handy because you can set up your RV camp in one city and use your car to explore it. You can look up that city's different attractions and come back to camp at the end of the day. These are great trips because you don't have to break down camp as often and you still do a lot of exploring. The other method of travel is just to continue on straight ahead. You will have to stop and set-up camp more often, but you will see something new and different everyday. Your travel style depends greatly on your health and fitness. Breaking down camp every day or even every other day is tiresome. You may even need to find a nice sunny spot and take a break from your travels.
 
Whatever your travel style, you will find that if you spend more time exploring a few locations instead of non-stop traveling you will enjoy your trip more and will have still seen a lot of great places and attractions.

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Whether you are an experienced RVer or a new RVer, there are many options available for you to enjoy a successful RV road trip. You always want to have a plan on your final destination, but remember the RV lifestyle is all about the flexibility that the RV provides you. Here are a few tips on how to travel on a plan without getting bogged down in the details.
 
1. Map your destination
Always have a final destination in mind, but don't be afraid to follow the road less traveled. There are many routes that are historical and can still be traveled and you will still end up in your ultimate destination. For example, do dream of driving the Old Route 66? Hop onto Interstate 40 and off you go. For much of the route, Route 66 is interstate, but there are still old parts of the mother roads that will take you through the famous small towns of Route 66. Taking old Route 66 may add to your travel time, but you will have the opportunity to see a unique part of the country. GPS navigation systems are also handy if you get a little too far off the beaten path.
 
2. Prepare a list of possible stopovers
Preparing a list of possible stopovers is always a good idea. This list will allow you to know where you can spend the night should you get tired of driving. This will allow you to stop and hook-up your RV and live off of its amenities. If you are unable to hook-up, remember that you are using your RV's batteries and water. These will have to be recharged sooner or later. Great stopovers include all the odd museums you see on billboards, visitor centers, famous restaurants, historical markers and other odd sites on the side of the road. Visitor center are great because they have information for the whole community and you will often find brochures for various attractions.
 
3. Prepare for safety
Always stock your RV with a first-aid kit or supplies. Keep the first-aid kit in an outside storage compartment just in case you can't get inside the RV. The kit should include some basic supplies:
- Bandages
- Ointments
- Pain relievers
- Insect repellent
- Scissors
- Any must have medications for specific medical conditions
- Flashlight
- Paper and pens
- Disposable camera in case of accidents
- Cell phone and charger (you can't always have a spare one, but if you both have a cell phone store one for emergency use)
 
4. Check your checklist
You are always going to forget something for a road trip, but hopefully you won't forget anything to important with a checklist. Pre-trip your RV and look for anything you might need to buy before you leave, anything that is broken, the levelness of your RV, tires, water systems, gas systems, and electrical systems. Also, don't forget comfort supplies like your hairdryer, lawn chairs, CDs, DVDs, etc.
 
5. Prepare your children and pets
Be sure to have stopovers planned for both children and pets. They will get cabin fever easily and will need to get out and stretch. Find parks, outdoor attractions and rest stops where children and pets can get out and play. Be sure that your children know how to get back to the campsite from various spots such as playgrounds and swimming pools.
 
6. Have a back-up plan
Sometimes your travel plans don't work out the way you expect them to. There will be bad weather or construction and you may have to adjust your plans. This is where the freedom of the RV comes into play. You can turnaround go somewhere else if you need to. You have many options in an RV. You may be disappointed in not being able to make it to your final destination, but at least you have back-up ideas. Use the brochures you picked up at the visitor center and let the kids pick something to see. Also, some models of GPS systems have attractions menus and they will give you precise directions on how to get them.

There are various resources available for planning your RV trip. Check out RV websites, magazines and books. There are numerous campsites and not all of them are covered online and in books. A lot of the sites you might find by accident. Make notes on all of your travels so that you can remember to use them later. Having a general plan is a great idea if you no what direction you want to head in but you are flexible about how you get there.

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Most RV breakdowns are preventable if you make the necessary adjustments before embarking on your RV trip. Coach Net is a popular roadside service provider and they will provide you with emergency roadside assistance. They have also found that the majority of RV breakdowns and accidents could have been easily avoided. Coach Net and RV dealers encourage you to review your maintenance procedures. They encourage RVers to service the RV early and to check the system operations.
 
Engines problems are among the top thirty one percent of roadside assistance calls. Engine problems are generally minor problems such as incompatible coolants, dirty filters or improper fuel. RVers must change their engine oil often as well as check other fluids such as transmission fluids. Check air filters for dirt and grime. Changing your air filter will also help you save a little on gas as well. Most engine problems are not catastrophic and can be prevented by regular maintenance.
 
The second most common roadside assistance call is for brake and suspension system problems. Doing a little research can prevent modern air brakes and suspension problems. Read your owner's manuals prior to adjusting suspension systems and air breaks. Many RVers unknowingly empty the air out of their air brakes in the campsite while leveling their RVs.
 
The third most common roadside assistance call is for batteries. Checking your batteries often and replacing them when necessary will help to prevent battery issues. If your RV is in storage or at an RV park, you should be sure to charge your engine battery every seven to ten days. Your house batter will automatically charge while the RV is plugged into hook-ups, however, you will want to check the water level in the battery every week. If you have power problems while at a campsite, the problem is generally with the hook-up.
 
The fourth most common call is for slide-outs and leveling systems that will not retract. These systems will stick if they are not used very often. You will want to test these systems prior to leaving for your trip so that you will not be stuck at the campsite later.
 
The fifth most common call is for the electrical AC 110-volt. RVs should typically work fine with the appliances they come with, however, adding to the appliances may cause an electrical drain in the RV. If you are turning on outside appliances, be sure to turn off appliances elsewhere. This is also true for rooftop air conditioners and before turning them on; you should turn something else off. Appliances that typically cause electrical problems include hairdryers, coffeemakers and blenders.
 
To prevent on the road accidents, wise RVers will attend an RV driving course. You will learn how to drive your "big rig" and you will be able to maneuver your RV more safely. They will also teach you how to properly haul a trailer, back and park. Driving courses will allow you to see how fast you will be able to maneuver your RV and how suddenly it will stop. High cross winds and semis passing you can also cause predicaments for RVers.
 
Typical RV accidents include RVs being crunched into the bottoms of overpasses or parking garages. These occur because drivers underestimate the height of their RV. Placing measurements of your RV around the driver's seat will help you to remember the height of the RV and avoid costly accidents. RVs also have really large blind spots. Mirrors should be adjusted so that you won't cut someone off or hit a car on the highway. Have another person walk around the RV and show you where your blind spots are. RVs also have a wider turning radius. Avoid bumping curbs as much as possible. Your tires will thank you and you won't feel ridiculous. You also never know what might be on the curb and you may hit something.
 
Weight is a huge consideration in driving your RV. Your RV must first be properly packed and loaded to avoid leaning and tipping. Your RV's weight also means that you will need more time for stopping. You will require a longer following distance and stopping distance than the vehicles in front of you. You will need to be aware of the traffic and you may need to possibly pull over and let other traffic by you if you must drive slowly.
 
Properly preparing both your RV and yourself will insure that your RV season is a fun and safe one. Remember that your RV is just like you car and must be properly maintained. Check all hoses and fluids before hitting the open highway. If your RV has been parked for a while, you may want to take it to an RV shop for a good check over before your trip.

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You have decided to plan an RV road trip, but how do you find information on where to go? There are numerous resources available for first-time RVers and full-time RVers. There are various print resources including magazines and books. There are also thousands of websites on RV traveling for the beginner or the experienced. These resources will help guide you across the country and they will also give you great tips on caring for your RV or travel trailer.
 
Trailer Life is a magazine designed for the RV travel trailer. This is a monthly magazine for enthusiasts who are sixty years or older. RVers will find information on fifth-wheel trailers, folding trailers, motorhomes and other parts and accessories for your travel trailer and RV.
 
MotorHome Magazine is also a monthly magazine for the dedicated motorhome enthusiast. This magazine is dedicated to motorized RVs including Class A and C motorhomes, camping vans and customized buses. This magazine will provide you information on various brands of RVs and motorhomes as well as tips on caring and repairing your RV.
 
Highways Magazine is the official publication of the Good Sam Club. This magazine will keep you up-to-date on the latest Good Sam Club information and events. This magazine subscription is free when you join the Good Sam Club as well.
 
RV View Magazine is published five times per year. They provide you information on travel, maintenance, events and new products. They also offer discounts for President's Club members.
 
Coast to Coast Magazine keeps you up-to-date on the best resorts and upcoming events for RV enthusiasts. They look at a full line of RVs, Motorized RVs, RV dealers, RV accessories and travel trailers. Their website also provides online trip routing.
 
RV Today is a television show that has become the authority in RV travel. They will show you the latest models of RVs as well as the latest hot destinations to travel to in your RV. RV Today can be found on the OLN (Outdoor Life Network).
 
There are hundreds of RV books available. There are books on buying RVs, books on planning trips, driving your RV and more. There are even RV cookbooks! Visit the Rvbookstore.com site for hundreds of RV titles. They even have a book to find all the Wal-Marts. Handy book titles include:
- Driving Your Motorhome Like a Pro
- Buying an RV the Smart Way 

- Wal-Mart Locator 
- Easy RV Recipes
- Dinghy Towing
- Free Campgrounds
- Explore the Next Exit Before You Exit

There are thousands of Internet sites for RV enthusiasts. If you search RV on Google you will find over one hundred million websites. There are various websites on RV financing, buying an RV, full timing, RV accessories and more. Beginner RVers will also be able to find route guides and stopover information. There are also numerous websites for planning road trips and planning road trip themes. You will find RV dealers and websites who are experienced RVers. Be sure to check out any website that is by a full-time RVer. They always have useful information on their websites. Many of the full-time RVers have also found ways to make money while on the road and RVing.
 
Experienced RVers are the best way to find out information. If there are any experienced RVers in your family or friends, try to get as much information out of them as possible. If you are new to RVing and you haven't been on the road in one, consider renting an RV for the weekend and take your family out. This will give you a good idea if RVing is right for you and your family. Some families are not able to live in that close of proximity of each other and it doesn't always work out for them. Many experienced RVers have websites and will post information about themselves and their travels. They may also have suggestions for recommended reading, styles of RVs and attractions. They will be able to provide you with expert advice and many are very happy to email you answers to any questions you may have.
 
If you are considering buying your first RV, you should definitely use these resources before buying an RV. The idea of going out and buying an RV sounds easy, but there is more to the purchase than you realize. Using published resources and information from individuals and dealers will help you find the RV that is right for you. You want to be able to buy the best RV you can afford and still have money left over to take your vacation.
 
Remember that nothing beats good research. You will be able to make the best decisions about purchasing and RV and taking trips in RVs. Just do the necessary research before you take the leap!

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You have decided that you would love to travel the country in a RV or take a few weekend trips with the convenience of a RV. So, how do you go about finding a good deal on a RV and what kind of budget are your going to need? Even individuals on a limited budget are able to enjoy the flexibility and the lifestyle that the RV offers.
 
The first step in deciding on a RV and a budget is to decide what you are going to use the RV for. Do you dream of traveling across the country and being gone for weeks at a time? If so you may consider looking into financing a new RV. If you only plan to have a couple of weekends here and there and maybe a two-week trip, then you may consider looking into a used RV. Go online, to the library and to RV dealers to see what is available to you. Start with the smaller RVs or used larger RVs and see if they will fit what you have in mind. If you only intend to use it for weekends or short trips, then you don't have to invest a lot of money into the RV.
 
After deciding what type of RV will fit your needs you will want to check with your insurance company. If you are purchasing a RV that is a trailer like a fifth-wheel or camper trailer, you will want to make sure that your towing vehicle's insurance will cover you. Also, you may want to see if you can put the RV on your homeowner's insurance for protection while on the road. Your insurance company should be able to help you find the best insurance that fits your needs.
 
Maintenance and repairs are often necessary on your RV. To save on the maintenance budget, you may want to learn how to do them yourself. Your RV manual will tell you when you will need to provide maintenance on your RV. There are many books and information available on the web on how to maintain and repair your RV. Oil changes and other repairs will add into your budget in the long run.
 
The rising cost of gas can also put a strain on the budget. You only use gas when you are on the road traveling. If you want to take a quick weekend vacation, look for campgrounds that nearby. This will save you travel time and gas money. You will also have more time to enjoy the vacation. Look for nearby lakes, rivers and state parks that will allow you to camp overnight. Also, look into campground memberships that will offer you camping discounts. There are a variety of memberships that have locations all across the country and many may be close to your home. Gas is also cheaper at truck stops than at your regular convenience stores. Truck stops will also have diesel while other gas stations may not.
 
If you have decided to buy a new RV for long road trips, you may look into different financing options. The major consideration in RV purchases is that RVs are considered luxury item. Considering that an RV is a luxury item you will need to have good credit to qualify for this purchase. Generally, you will need to have better credit to purchase and RV than you would a car. Most brand new RVs sell for at least $35,000. Banks, credit unions and independent finance companies will help you determine what you qualify for and what they will allow you to borrow to purchase a RV. You will also need to have your financing set-up prior to shopping for RVs. By doing so you will make the dealer have to beat your bank's interest rate on the loan. You will also want to research the true value of the RV before purchasing. Try not to get too excited during the shopping process so that you will remember to do all of the necessary research prior to purchasing your RV. If you are able to make a fairly large down payment, you may be able to keep your interest rate down.
 
There are also several amenities that will add to your expense as well. Slide-outs in RVs raise their price significantly, so if you can live with out one you will save money. Also, remember that you may need to make adjustments to your car so that you will be able to tow it with you. You may also need to purchase a car dolly or trailer and this will add to your overall cost.
 
Purchasing your first RV is an exciting experience and it is easy to get caught up in the moment. Remember to keep a level head and do all the necessary research. This will allow you to stretch your budget as far as you can go.

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RVs are like any other vehicle or home. You are required to have liability insurance on RVs. Specialized RV Insurance is a blend of both auto and homeowner's insurance. The price of specialized RV insurance is generally less than your standard auto insurance. For many RVers, your RV is your full-time home and not having your RV would leave you with very few options. Your RV also stores all of your life belongings and necessities so it is important that you know your RV has adequate insurance coverage.
 
There are a variety of features that are covered under specialized RV insurance. The first is Total Loss Replacement (TLR). If your RV is totaled and you have TLR, your RV will be replaced with a new one or will pay you your RV's initial purchase price. The amount you are paid back on your RV will depend on the age of your RV. Coverage is the major difference between your RV's insurance and your auto insurance. Your auto may not necessarily be replaced for you if it were totaled.
 
Agreed Value Coverage is offered on RVs that are considered classic coaches or conversion vehicles. You should have your RV appraised if it is older or provide your insurance company with a bill of sale. Supplying one of these documents will lock in the value of your RV up front when you purchase insurance.
 
Full-Timer Coverage is for RVers who live in their RV full-time. This insurance is designed for the full-timer who is open to major exposures due to not having a homeowner's policy. This insurance will cover the unique needs of the full-time RVer including personal liability, additional living expenses, and stored personal belongings.
 
Personal Contents Coverage covers personal property is stored in your RV. This includes housewares, tools, clothing, sporting goods and other RV supplies. The homeowner's policy generally provides coverage on belongings that are damaged in a collision. There are specialty policies that will allow your stolen or damaged items to be replaced at the full replacement cost.
 
Disappearing Deductible Coverage is designed to reward the good RV drivers. This coverage generally reduces the drivers comprehensive and collision deductibles. These deductibles may be reduced by twenty-five percent of your original deductible for each claim-free year. After four years without a claim, you will pay no deductible on your claim.
 
Add-on and Tow Dolly Coverage is designed to cover RV items such as awnings, antennas, racks and satellite dishes. Tow dollies and trailers are often included in your coverage as well.
 
Emergency Travel Expenses cover the rental of a car or hotel room while your RV is being repaired or replaced from an accident. If your RV is irreparable, the policy may also cover your airfare back home.
 
Vacation Liability covers the different risks that are involved in the RV lifestyle. Some companies will cover your entire vacation experience. Accidents such as injuries in your campsite may also be covered.
 
24-hour Emergency Roadside Assistance comes with most policies and insurance companies will often cover the cost of having your RV towed. These policies will often cover your towing vehicle if your RV is a trailer or fifth-wheel.
 
Here are a few RV Insurance professionals that you may choose to investigate:
- RV Insurance Professionals
  www.rvinsurancepro.com
- Gilbert RV Insurance
  www.rv-insurance.com
- Twin Peaks RV Insurance
  www.twinpeaksinsurance.com
- Adventure Mexican Insurance
  www.mexadventure.com
- RV Protection
  www.rvprotection.net
- Explorer RV Insurance Agency
  www.explorerrv.com
- RV America Insurance
  www.rvinsurance.com
 
If you are traveling into Mexico or Canada, you may need to supplement your current insurance policy. Supplementing your existing policy is important because there are not many US or Canada insurance companies that will cover any damage or theft to your RV while you are out of the country. Mexican authorities do not recognize US and Canadian Liability Insurance and you may suffer your RV or vehicle being confiscated or detained by Mexican authorities. If you are towing a vehicle or trailer, you can add those onto your policy as well. However, if you intend to unhook your towed vehicle and drive it while in Mexico, you must purchase a separate insurance policy for that vehicle.
 
There are a variety of specialized RV insurance providers. Your dealer, RV club and various Internet sites will point you towards the RV insurance company that is right for you. If your RV is a trailer, check to see if your auto liability insurance will cover the trailer RV or if your RV insurance will cover the towing vehicle. Most RV insurance companies are well versed and have experience in RV claims handling. You may never have to file a claim, but accidents happen and it is reassuring to know that your beloved RV is covered and that your claim will be handled by professionals.

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Your RV depends on several systems that are intricately designed to fit beneath your RV while still supplying you with electricity and fresh water. These systems are very intricate and should be taken care of properly. There are also several ways that you can supplement your RV systems as well such as solar panels to help you generate electricity.
 
All RVers need fresh and clean water. You will have to use your water for sinks, the toilet and drinking water. You will need to invest in a few supplies to help insure that your water is fresh and pure. There are special potable water hoses for RVs that will keep your water from getting warm in the sun as well as picking up that plastic hose taste. You will also need a pressure reducer, as your RV cannot handle high water pressure. High water pressure will cause pipes and joints to burst wherever they are weak. You will also need a filter to insure that the campground water is safe to drink. Prior to hooking up at the campsite you will want to expel some water from your water source. This will insure that any debris, bugs, etc. are washed out prior to hooking up your hose. Next, you will want to hook up your water hose and flush it out as well. You will then hook-up your hose with the filter either directly on the water source or between the hose and the RV. You will want to sanitize the tanks if you have not used your system before or if they have not been used in a while.
 
RV dumping is probably the most dreaded experience. There have been so many horror stories of RV dumpings gone wrong. To insure that you don't have any problems in this area, here are a few steps to follow. Always start with your black tank before the gray. The black tank holds waste while the gray tank holds the soapy water from your sink. Things will generally flow better if you allow the tank to fill up half way prior to dumping. You should also invest in some sort of support system for your hose such as a slinky support. This will insure that your hose does not get clogged in any low places. If you have not yet purchased your RV, look for a sewage flush system. This will allow you to be able to flush out your tank. The system will spray water into the tank while your tank empties your sewage. After you dump your black tank, dump your gray tank, as this will allow the soapy water to flush out your hose.
 
If you enjoy boondocking and camping where there are no hook-ups you will eventually need to depend on either solar power or generators. Generators are convenient as you can have all the power you need, whenever you need it. Many campsites may limit how long you can run your generator, as they are pretty loud. You may not be able to run them at night. Older generators are not recommended for this reason. Generators also require a lot of fuel and if you run out of gas you may not have any power depending on where you are camping. Generators also produce fumes that many people in campsites may not enjoy. You will also have to expand your battery capacity with a generator so that you can store your power when you are unable to run your generator. If you intend to use AC appliance you will most like need an inverter.
 
Solar panels are a more environmentally friendly option and they are quite. Solar panel technology has increased over the past few years and has become more efficient. As long as the sun is shining you will be able to have power. There are different sizes of solar panels that may be placed on your roof or the ground around your RV. Panel sizes include 80 and 120-watt sizes, which are great for roofs, as well as 240 and 480 watt size solar panels. In order for your solar panels to work properly you will need a bank of deep cycle batteries. Many solar retailers will provide you with work sheets to help you determine the size of your system. There are several options to choose from with the solar panels including portable systems that will pop-up in modules. Solar panels also allow you to save money on fuel, as you will need to provide fuel to your generator. Shaded locations may have difficulty with solar panels being able to access direct sun all day. You should always have a back-up plan and you may need to look for a hook-up at a campsite. If you are looking for the ultimate and most power you can get, you can combine the use of solar panels with generators.
 
You will need a deep cycle battery bank and possibly an inverter if you use either a generator or solar panels. These batteries are different from auto batteries and are designed to be drained and recharged over and over. You should discharge the batteries to below about half of their capacity for the best performance. Your battery capacity will depend on your generator and solar power use. The Kirkby book will help you determine the battery sizing system you need for your RV. Your battery system will also need a charge controller. This will insure that your batteries are not overcharge and many controllers will include temperature protection as well. If you plan on operating AC appliance you will most likely need an inverter. Many appliances will not function on low-end inverters so you may need a mid-range inverter. You will also want to get the highest rated efficiency that you can afford. Many RVers are able to wire and install their own systems but your dealer may offer this service as well.

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Nobody likes to think about what bad could happen while you are on your RV trip. You think that surely everything will be just fine, but then you slip on the stairs and break your tailbone or ankle, etc. Are you prepared with proper medical insurance and emergency contacts if something like this were to happen to you?
 
You need to always have contact with someone while you are the road. Today, too many people are disappearing without a trace and all because they didn't tell anybody where they were traveling. Keep in contact with your friends and family and by all means have a cell phone. Cell phones will work regardless of whether or not they are on a plan or activated. 911 will work on any cell phone.
 
If you are on any prescription medications, you will want to have a back-up supply of them in your first aid kit. There are several online drug companies that are convenient for RVers. Alert your doctor to your change in lifestyle and explain to him that you will be on the road. Many doctors will call or fax your prescription into an online drug company for you. The drug company will then ship your medications to wherever you tell them you are located. You will want to either plan where you will be a few days in advance or alert your campground that you will be receiving a package. Most medications and even contacts will have to be signed for when they are delivered. You will also want to insure that you have medical documents in your RV should you be in an accident. You may also choose to wear a bracelet with your allergies on it, just in case.
 
You will also need to check with your insurance and see if there are any restrictions on your care while traveling. There are HMO plans that will have strict limits on your care. Most full-time RVers have insurance through a former employer; if you do not then insurance will be a major expense for you. Many full-timers also carry complete medical records with them. They take them to any doctor that they see while they are on the road. They also send copies to their doctor in their home location or home base. This allows their doctor to keep up-to-date on their health situation. PPO insurance will allow you to use anyone in their network. You will want to have a list of available doctors in your area or call your insurance company when you need to go to the doctor. Using a PPO doctor or hospital will insure that you are covered by your insurance.
 
You will also want to have a list of emergency contacts in your RV. These contacts are mainly for the 911 paramedics or doctors that will care for you should you have an accident and not be able to communicate. These numbers will allow the doctors to contact your family and let them know of your situation. You may also want to take a first aid and CPR class before you leave. This will insure that you will no what to do should your spouse or partner have a heart attack while you are traveling. They will also tell you what to do if they are behind the wheel of your RV when it occurs.
 
You will also want to have a first aid kit on your RV. It is best if you keep your first aid kit in the outside compartment should you not be able to get inside for some reason. Many people include an extra cell phone for dialing 911 only. The phone does not have to be activated to work. You will also want to have a flashlight and extra fire extinguisher with the first aid kit. You typical first aid kit should include:
- Band-Aids of all sizes and shapes
- Painkillers
- Triple antibiotic creams
- Alcohol pads

- Gauze
- Ace-bandage
- Indigestion medicine
- Snake bite kit
- Cotton swabs
- Eye Wash
- Eye Pads
- Ice bag
- Povidone Iodine preps
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Plastic gloves
- Burn wrap
- CPR mask
- Face Mask
 
First aid kits can be purchased in kits that are already filled. You will then only have to refill the kit as you use it. You will also want to check expiration dates on medicine regularly to insure that they are not old.
 
You are better safe than sorry by preparing ahead of time for medical emergencies. Senior citizens should check their insurance coverage carefully and be sure that they will be able to receive any prescription medication on the road and preferably in bulk amounts. Being prepared may be the difference between life and death.

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Whether you are a full-time RVer or a part-timer, saying goodbye can often be hard. This is especially true if you are going on a long trip and you are not going to see your family for some time. Staying in touch with your family is not as hard as it used to be.
 
Telling your friends and family goodbye can often be difficult. You will begin to feel many emotions about not seeing them as often and not talking to them as often. However, if RVing is your dream, then you should follow your heart and hit the road. Many of your friends and family may feel as though you are being irresponsible or unrealistic but they will have to understand that this is your dream and you are ready to see it through. Life is about accomplishing your dreams and being happy, so if you think RVing will do it for you by all means try it out. Telling friends and family about your decision can be difficult but you will feel better once you get it out and they understand your motives.
 
You will not only have to say goodbye to friends and family but also to many of your belongings. You will be able to save a few things, but you will need to have plenty of room in your RV for all the new things you will acquire while on the road. For the items that you cannot bear to part with, you will want to put them in storage. You may also want to put some pieces of furniture in storage just in case you decide that the RV lifestyle is not for you. You will be able to have any storage fees deducted from your checking account while you are on the road.
 
Traveling the country will give you the opportunity to see and learn about places you thought you would never see. You may even find a favorite part of the country and decide to spend a little more time there. There are numerous RV parts around all of the major cities and if you bring your car along you will not be limited to just the campsites. When you see all that you want to see, you can move on to the next campground and explore that community as well.
 
As you travel there are various ways to keep in touch with your friends and family. Digital cameras and the Internet have made it very easy to send photos to your family via e-mail and even cell phones. Your friends and family will soon be jealous of the many exciting places that you will get to visit in your RV. You will also be able to receive your mail while you are on the road. There is always the option of having your friends and family collect your mail, but mail duty can be troublesome after a few months. If you know that you will be in one location for a while, then you will be able to have your mail forwarded directly to your location. If you are not going to be in one location for an extended period of time, you can have your mail forwarded to a service and then they will priority ship it to you wherever you are.
 
The Internet has become huge with RVers. There are many RVers who are taking advantage of the various hook-ups with phone lines. They are able to use the phone lines for dial-up Internet services. For RVers who are on the go frequently, Flying J Truck Stops often have phone jacks hidden away in a corner for the truck drivers. Some truck stops also have phones that are 'data read' and have a RJ-11 phone jack on their phones. Most truck stop phones require that you have an 800 number for Internet access. Check with your ISP to see if they have an 800 number that you can use. The local number for your service may not work at truck stops. If you can't use either, you can often use a calling card. You may have to test out your calling card prior to embarking on your trip. Another option is Starbucks stores and other coffee shops. If you purchase a coffee, you may be able to use their service for free or pay a small fee. Most e-mail providers will allow you to access your e-mail via web mail these days. If you have a wireless adapter, you have many options available to you. There are many hotels that allow you to use their wireless Internet; you can often pick up these signals in their parking lot. There are also many airports with Internet ready pay phones and wireless areas. Kinko's also has computers that are connected to the Internet but you will have to pay an hourly fee to use them.
 
There are many ways to stay connected with your family and they will soon be jealous that they didn't have the RV idea first.

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The RV community is extremely active on the Internet. There are a variety of resources available to RVers for planning their getaways. The subject over planning and how much you should plan is a somewhat controversial subject, as many believe in planning every moment while others prefer to be more spontaneous. Either way it is a good idea to have a destination in mind and to work towards it throughout the trip. Navigating your way to your destination has become easier than ever with the numerous global positioning devices that are available for use in personal cars and RVs.
 
Some families and RVers choose to carefully plan their trip and there are various resources available on the web to do so. These resources are great if you plan on taking long trips across the country and into areas you have never traveled before. FreeTrip.com is a great site for planning your trip and making detailed itineraries. They offer scenic and toll-free trip plans across North America. There are also several memberships that are handy for RVers. These include Happy Camper and Passport America and combined the membership for these are about $50. These memberships offer half price fees at thousands of campgrounds across the US.
 
Navigating your RV no longer consists of old paper maps and another person to read you directions. Global positioning systems (GPS) have completely changed the world of RVing. These systems are an investment in your RV and despite their high cost they are well worth it. GPS systems allow you to enjoy your travels more and feel more secure. GPS systems have also made traveling safer as you no longer have to drive and try to read the map. GPS systems will talk to you and tell you where to turn and exit. They also have built-in maps to assist you in finding specific streets and intersections. Many GPS systems will call roadside assistance for you and others include DVD players. GPS systems are also available that do not depend on roads. Often you may be in a campground or other unmarked road and you will need to find your way back. Some GPS systems are able to retrace the path that you took and will help you out of tight situations. There are a variety of different styles of GPS systems including ones that are handheld for hiking and biking. Other GPS systems will mount to your dashboard or windshield.
 
GPS systems are also great for finding local attractions in cities that you don't know. There are over one million points of interest in GPS systems and they are organized in a variety of different categories. If you want a zoo, you go to zoos and select the one you want. The GPS system will then tell you how to get there from wherever you are currently located. GPS systems are also great for finding specific addresses. They will allow you to type in a specific address and they will begin telling you where to go. Once you begin traveling with a GPS system, you will never use another map again. They are even handy for the city you live in.
 
If you are not fortunate to have one of the great navigational devices, there is always the map and tour book option. If you must use a map, try to buy a new map. New maps should be up-to-date on any road changes that may have occurred in the past few years. Before hitting the road, you will want to be sure that you have your maps and books ready for the day ahead. Your navigator should be able to tell you the exit numbers so that you will know when to get off the highway. A good tip for using exit numbers is that when you know the last exit number in a state, you will be able to determine how many more miles until you will be leaving that state. You will also want to be sure that your navigator knows how to read the road map. The legend on the map will explain the different signals and some maps may have scenic routes and exit numbers. Road atlas, campground directories and truck stop directories are very helpful as well. If you are traveling in a caravan and you provided the itinerary, you should give the other drivers a list of exit numbers and stops on the trip. Having this information will make it easier for them to navigate their own RV rather than just following you.
 
No matter how much planning you do, it is always a good idea to have a final destination in mind. Plotting that route will allow you to keep track of your travels but will also allow you to explore along the way. Once you discover a handy GPS system, you will never pick up another map. GPS systems are a good investment if you plan on spending a lot of time in your RV and you will definitely appreciate them at the end of your stress free trip

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Small trips and big trips both have their advantages. Deciding one over the other is difficult if you don't have many responsibilities at home, but if you are just looking to get away from home for a little while then the decision may not be so hard. Small trips are great for weekend getaways or short vacations while one big trip can incorporate so many fun activities. RVs offer all the flexibility that you could possibly desire out of either trip.
 
Small road trips that only take a couple of hours or so are great for weekend getaways. They are very easy to plan and you can often do them spontaneously. Often small road trips that aren't very far from home are great for couples looking to get out of the house or taking the kids for some weekend fun. Most communities have parks, lakes or forests nearby that make for fun and short weekend trips. If there are any of these near your home, then you have just planned a simple RV road trip. All you really have to do is pack some clothes and food in a cooler and hit the road in your RV. Small trips are great opportunities to get the kids out of the house and into nature as well. We spend so much time being busy at home that we forget that the great outdoors is only a couple of hours out of town. You have everything you need in your RV and you will probably only have to go grocery shopping prior to the trip.
 
One big trip can be a lot of fun as well. One big road trip can be anywhere from four or five days to four or five weeks. This gives a family with children the opportunity to plan small attractions and stopovers that will keep the kids curious. You can incorporate family and other events into big trips as well. Big road trips do call for more preparation. You will need to plan a route and plan where you are going to stay, but the time planning is well worth the time in the RV and on the road. RVs allow flexibility as well, so if you have been driving for a few hours and you get tired, there is no reason you can't stop and take a nap wherever your are. You can hook-up your RV at many different lakes and rivers and spend a day at each fishing and enjoying the outdoors. Big road trips allow you to see a lot more than small trips but they do require more time, gas and planning. Small trips allow a little more flexibility as you are generally not too far from home.
 
Planning your road trip, whether small or big, should incorporate many attractions and stopovers. Children enjoy seeing new places and it is good to get out of the RV and stretch your legs. Unless you are very spontaneous, you may want to have a sort of itinerary to insure that you don't linger in too many places too long. Big trips are generally better planned and you will tend to have a schedule you want to keep.
 
Either style of RV r