Recreational Vehicles 101 - Types of Campers, Part I

You have decided that it is time for you to reconnect with nature.  The idea of sleeping on the ground with nothing but a thin layer of cloth between you and the elements (and large animals) does not appeal to you, however.  You've decided that an RV is the right thing for you, but you're not sure what the difference is between a travel trailer and a fifth wheel.  Don't worry!  We will introduce you to the different types of recreational vehicles available!

Class A Motorhome

The class A motorhome is, to put it in the most basic of terms, an RV in the shape of a bus.  They are typically very roomy, featuring all of the comforts of home - kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, entertainment center, and even central air/heat.  Most have at least one slide-out wall to make an area more spacious, and have a more than adequate amount of storage space both in the camper and in external compartments.  It is also possible to tow a vehicle or trailer (to haul a boat, 4-wheeler, golf cart or whatever it is that you'd like to bring with you) with a class A unit. 

Class B Motorhome

What RV Will Be Best For Me?

Being the savvy shopper that you are, you know that the best time to go shopping for an RV is between the months of November and January.  Camping season is over and "clearance prices" are in effect.  You've already committed to buying a camper.  Now you need to figure out what type of camper would fit your needs best.  By answering the following questions, you should be able to zero in on your perfect unit.

• What will you be towing your unit with?

• By determining how much weight your vehicle can pull, you can narrow down the type of camper you should consider buying.  First, find out what the towing capacity of your vehicle is (this should be in the owner's manual).  Second, take away approximately 10-15% from that number (many towing capacities were calculated without taking passengers, equipment, etc. into consideration).  Finally, subtract the additional weight of whatever you are bringing with you (food, propane, hitch weight, etc.).  The remaining number is what your vehicle can safely tow.  (This is just a guideline - one of our salespeople can give you more precise information about staying safely within your towing capacity).   
• How many people would you be camping with?
• If you will be camping alone (or with one other person) you may prefer to stick to a smaller unit.  Of course, if you intend to camp with the whole family, a unit with bunks would better suit your needs.
• What amenities do you want your camper to have?
• Are you looking for something that does what you need it to do or are you looking for a unit with all of the bells and whistles?  Basic campers will have the necessities - standard appliances, bed, bath, radio, etc.  On the flip-side, there are campers that have a ton of extras, such as a skylight in the shower, a glass shower enclosure, an outside shower, an outside grill.  Some even have fireplaces.
• New or Used?  What is your price range?
• If you're looking to stay under a certain amount, consider looking at used campers.  Many times, campers are taken in on a trade and they are in great condition.  You can save money on a unit that is as good as new simply because it was "pre-enjoyed".  When setting your price range, leave room to move and remember that financing is available - you do not have to come in with thousands in your pocket to buy a unit outright. What a lot of RV shoppers do not know, is that the interest on an RV loan is actually tax deductible as "home mortgage interest".  (Check out more information on tax deductible interest here). 

Being able to answer the questions above will be extremely helpful when you head out to your RV dealership.  They are some of the same questions that any good salesperson will ask you.  If a salesperson does not at least ask you what your towing capacity is, be wary - that's one of the most important things to consider in your purchase and directly affects your ability to tow a camper safely!

Cold Weather Camping

Cold weather doesn't frighten you.  You're not afraid of a little bit (or even a lot) of snow.  The challenge that winter brings to camping thrills you.  You'll use your camper all year long, without going south to warmer weather, and nothing is going to stop you!  We like your style.  Of course, if you want to avoid becoming an iced RV'er, it is important to take the necessary steps to keep yourself safe and having fun.

One thing to consider when RVing during the winter is where you'll be doing it.  Will the temperatures remain above freezing for the duration of your trip?  Or will they drop below freezing?  If the destination you're choosing runs the risk of freezing and sub-freezing temperatures, you'll want to make sure you are prepared.  Keep your holding tanks, pipes and lines from freezing by using heaters specifically designed for them.  Our online parts store sells a few of these items (search for: "pipe heaters" and/or "holding tank heaters"). 

Another thing to keep in mind is the cost of keeping your RV heated using your propane stores or a generator versus paying for a full hook-up at a campground.  The difference in cost between these two options is minimal at best so, unless you're looking for a real Survivor-esque adventure, why not choose a campground?  The extra amenities you'll have access to, such as TV and WiFi, would make any slightly higher cost well worth the investment.  Always call ahead to make sure the campground you choose is open before heading there!  

If you will be going to an area known for heavier snowfall and icy conditions, or a mountainous area with steeper inclines, make sure to have chains for your RV tires (just like you would for a truck or car).  Some places even require chains during winter camping, so have them on hand just in case. 

We've had campers recommend heated mattress pads and heated blankets (low amp draw).  Some have also suggested space heaters and using sleeping bags made for cold weather as blankets.  Thermal shirts and pants, extra socks and extra blankets will help keep you warm as well.  Advice to follow can vary depending upon where you're actually going, so research the area you're going to before heading out.  You'll give yourself a much better idea of what items are must-haves and what items are completely unnecessary.

With the right amount of preparedness, camping during the winter can be just as much fun as camping during warmer times of the year, so don't let a little bit of cold weather keep you indoors! 

Types of RV Inspections

Just like any other vehicle, RVs need to be inspected on a yearly basis.  What most people don't realize is that there are numerous inspections that can (and need to) be done on an RV at least twice a year. 

There is, of course, the mandatory yearly state inspection.  During this inspection the brakes (including the emergency brake), tires, drums, wheel bearings and outside lights (marker lights, brake lights, turn lights, etc.) are checked to ensure they are all operational.  If any of these things are not working as they should be, they will need to be repaired before an inspection sticker can be issued.

In addition to the state inspection, there is the sealant inspection which is, perhaps, one of the most important inspections done on an RV.  Water damage to an RV is one of the number one service issues faced by RV owners and it is not usually an easy nor cheap repair.  Manufacturers recommend that you perform a sealant inspection every 90 days to ensure that there are no water leaks.  Silicone products should not be used at all - they do not bond with the material on the camper and will peel right off.  With rubber roofs, self-leveling lap sealants are recommended.

A third inspection that is done on RVs is the appliance inspection.  This inspection is done to ensure that your refrigerator and water heater are functioning on both gas and electric.  The furnace and air conditioning units are also checked to confirm they are working properly.

The best time of year to do this is mid-autumn to early spring, when your unit is not being used.  If you decide to wait until early spring to do your inspection, MAKE SURE YOU DO SO AT LEAST A FEW WEEKS BEFORE YOU PLAN TO START CAMPING again for the year.  That way, if there are any issues that need to be taken care of, they can be fixed before you take your camper on the road and before they interfere with your plans!

If you have questions regarding what type of inspections you should have done on your camper, or to schedule an inspection, give us a call!  We're always happy to help you keep your camper in tip-top condition!