Automobiles continue to evolve at a rapid pace. With the introduction of new designs and features, vehicular usage has also gone beyond travel. With advancements in the technology sector, the automobile industry has observed some extraordinary vehicles – never before seen or anticipated. One of the shining examples of extended auto usage is a recreational vehicle (RV). These vehicles are unlike any other vehicle one would see roaming on the road. However, a rather unconventional vehicle requires extra looking after particularly if you are a new owner.
New RV owners, we have you covered. We will go through some effective RV beginners tips to help new owners with the entire experience of buying and owning a recreational vehicle.
What is a Recreational Vehicle (RV)?
A recreational vehicle or RV is a van equipped with living facilities such as a sleeping area, washroom and kitchen among others. Also referred to as a motorhome, the vehicle provides a living space to the owners. RVs are noticeably greater in size and most of them have greater towing capacity as compared to conventional vehicles.
People mostly use RVs for recreational trips for which they take extra luggage and camps. The different types of RVs provide people with a choice to select a vehicle best suited to their needs and budget. Additionally, ample living space inside the van makes room for overnight stays at different camping sites.
Types of RV
Before we get to the RV beginners tips, it is important to know the type of these vehicles available in the market. Let’s have a look at the different types of RVs.
- Class A Motorhomes
- Class B Motorhomes/Campervans
- Class C Motorhomes
- Fifth-wheel trailers
- Pop-up campers
- Tiny travel trailers
- Toy haulers
- Travel trailers
- Truck campers
Class A, B and C are driveable vehicles. While the other trailers of different kinds of trailers are usually towed to their destination.
RV Beginners Tips
Similar to preparing a caravan for a road trip, taking an RV out for a journey requires some extra considerations. Let’s go through effective RV tips for beginners to help with the entire buying and owning process.
DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE BUYING AN RV
Whether buying a new or a pre-owned RV, it is important to do your research. An RV with more space is likely to cost more. Therefore, know how much space you need. Additionally, different types of RV come equipped with different specs and features.
Look out for one suited to your needs and budget. Go through different dealerships and their offerings before making the final call. Proper research and exploring the options can also help you avoid used car scams. Moreover, you can always rent an RV and get real-time experience of driving the unique vehicle.
KNOW YOUR USAGE
Knowing the usage can help make a better call before buying an RV. For across-the-country trips, a motorhome is a viable investment option. Conversely, you can opt for a towable trailer if you want an RV for camping trips.
Additionally, if money isn’t an issue, it is better to go for a larger RV. A bigger RV may cost more but the extra space accounts for a comfortable ride for all passengers.
TAKE A PRACTICE RUN
Driving an RV is a whole different experience. It can particularly be difficult for people who have never driven a heavy vehicle. That said, it is advised to take a test run on some empty or designated practice space before hitting the road.
The new and advanced traffic cameras in the UAE among many other features identify traffic rule breakers. Therefore, get the hang of the vehicle beforehand and avoid getting in conflict with the law.
MAKE WIDE TURNS WHEN TOWING A TRAILER
For people opting for a towing trailer, it is essential to understand the turns. Towing an RV trailer requires precision and driving expertise. One of the most effective RV beginners tips is to take wide turns.
Make the turns wider than you would normally do. This also gives a better idea of how much the trailer is swinging. Knowing how to turn with a trailer can allow you to conveniently travel on different roads safely.
ARRIVE AT THE CAMPSITE BEFORE NIGHTFALL
It is one of the most effective tips for first-time RV drivers. For the first RV trip, it is better to leave a bit early to reach your destination before nightfall. Setting up a camp and parking your RV at a comfortable spot may take time. Therefore, it is important to do these things while the sun is still out.
If your journey involves travelling after the sun has set, there are some night driving safety tips to help you reach your destination safely.
FOLLOW THE RV TRIP CHECKLIST
An RV or any vehicle trip can become inconvenient without being fully prepared. Before planning a road trip, be sure to follow the checklist to avoid any inconvenience on the road. Listed below are some of the things to keep a check on for an RV trip.
- Food supplies
- Fuel supplies
- Tool kit
- Awnings
- Vehicle health
DRIVE AND PARK SAFELY
Taking an RV out for a trip comes with a set of challenges – parking being one of them. The camping sites usually have designated parking spaces but it is better to do your part to ensure RV safety.
When driving through green areas, keep an eye out for the trees. As RVs have higher roofs, there are more chances of tree branches damaging the vehicle. Take a different route if that’s a possibility. Moreover, parking a car under trees may lead to damage. Try looking for a safer place for your RV.
PLAN YOUR REPAIRS
RVs are different from conventional vehicles and so is their maintenance. Repairing an RV is not just expensive but can be time-consuming too. One of the effective RV beginners tips is to plan your repairs.
Some repairs may take a fair amount of time and you may have to reschedule the trip. To avoid any such inconveniences, have your RV inspected beforehand.
CHECK THE RV SEALS
Inspecting the RV seals before heading out for the journey is also among the RV tips and tricks for beginners. RVs serve as moveable homes and are prone to damage such as leakage in windows and roofs.
Thoroughly check the trailer’s roof, windows and doors for any signs of leakages. This can be a great help if you encounter uncertain weather conditions during the trip.
PACK ACCORDING TO THE JOURNEY
The many car parking hacks help fit more items in the car’s boot. However, for an RV space isn’t a problem. RVs have ample space to accommodate passengers, luggage and other items.
Among the many effective RV packing tips for beginners, one is to avoid overstuffing. Although there’s ample space in an RV, you should never overpack. Excess weight leaves an RV more prone to damage. Moreover, this can also cause premature wear and tear of components. Therefore, pack as per your needs to enjoy a hassle-free journey.
These are all the effective RV beginners tips for new recreational vehicle owners. An RV comes with lots of benefits and offers a unique travel experience. The many picturesque venues and camping sites in the UAE allow visitors to have an RV trip experience.
If an RV sounds like the right thing for you, browse through these used RVs for sale in the UAE and have your pick.
Moreover, there are some interesting road trip kids activities to keep the young ones and family engaged and entertained during the journey.
Road trips aren’t limited to RVs. You can easily find some vehicles with ample cargo space, off-roading capabilities and advanced features to make a memorable road trip. Scroll through these used cars for sale in the UAE and select a suitable vehicle as per your needs.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for beginner vehicle owner tips and more.
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