Print out this worksheet and use it, as well as the
information following, to help you determine how, when and where you want to use an RV. This information may help you minimize costly mistakes.
1.
Will you be towing something with the RV? Yes No
If you plan to tow a boat, a car, a snowmobile,
a dune buggy, etc., towing a travel trailer or fifth-wheel won't
be practical.
2.
Number of people using the RV? __________
Regular basis:
Adults
Children
Occasionally:
Adults
Children
If your children are very young, the answer to the "children" side
of the question should be straightforward. If you have teens,
however, the question arises regarding how often or, more importantly,
how long will they be interested in RV trips? Try to be realistic
and not allow "how you would like things to be" overcome your
knowledge of "how things are." If you have any doubts, put older
kids under "occasionally."
3.
Types of use planned?
Weekend camping
Vacation trips (two weeks or less)
Tailgate parties (sports events, etc.)
Day trips (beach, picnics, etc.)
Extended travel (more than 2000 miles or two weeks)
Extended use, without travel
Use as second car
Question 3 gets to the heart of the matter. Your answers here
will dictate in large part the type and size of RV that will be
appropriate for you. In most instances, several or even all of
these categories may be checked off. If so, establish your priorities.
What will be the RV's primary use? It may help you to number the selections
above, putting the most important one first.
4.
Types of camping planned?
Remote (no facilities)
Primitive (minimal facilities)
RV parks (full facilities)
This question requires a bit of self-analysis as to just what
kind of camping you really like and realistically will do. Clearly,
remote camping is not for everyone. Would you be willing to simply
drive down a little side road, find a wide spot and pull over
for the night? More importantly, would you and/or your family be comfortable
with that type of camping? Primitive campsites, such as those
in national forests, are some of the prettiest available, but
they generally have size restrictions and few or no hookups.
5.
What are your hobbies, interests, sports?
A.
___________________________
C.
___________________________
B.
___________________________
D.
___________________________
As you list these, consider the amount
of storage space each one might require.
6.
What accommodations will you make to store your RV?
In yard
On street (local regulations)
Storage yard
(monthly rent: $_______)
Sometimes this question is overlooked. If you haven't had any
experience in this area with a previous RV, you might have to
do a bit of investigation into parking regulations where you live,
dimensions of space available for parking, and/or the cost of
storage.
7.
If you decide to purchase an RV, what is an affordable price range?
$_________
What monthly payment can you afford? $_________
Not all of us can simply draw out of a savings account the entire
price of an RV and pay for it right up front. In fact, some of
us don't even know the price range we can afford, but we do know
how large a monthly payment we can handle. To help you determine
your requirements, check out "Loan Options."
Personal Needs
When evaluating size requirements for your RV, consider privacy
of the occupants as a major factor. Time spent in the unit is
another important item. For very short periods of time, most of
us can tolerate too little space. But as time periods extend,
the amount of space required by each person increases -- both
in the area of comfort and privacy, and also when it comes to storage.
Short-term use, such as day trips or tailgate parties, doesn't
call for a great amount of space, but it does mean a minimum amount
of setup will be a real advantage. Extended travel has very nearly
identical requirements as short-term use, but with economy of operation
and driving ease added. As the time of use increases, the number
of people who will use the unit on a regular basis starts to be
a more important factor. Also, the style of camping you are interested
in will have a bearing on size. If you're interested in backroads
and out-of-the-way campsites, a large-size RV can be a hindrance.
If you have checked extended periods of use on your worksheet
(Question 3), this will affect size as much as any other single
factor. If this includes periods of time beyond a couple of months
at a stretch, for all intents and purposes it is the same as full-time
living. In general, this kind of use will call for the largest
RV you can afford. If your RV must also serve as a second car,
that will affect the type and size you select. In this case, a
large-size RV definitely will be a detriment in urban traffic.
(Any of the trailers will allow the tow vehicle to be used as
a second "car.")
As you start to narrow down the RV categories, be sure
to check our glossary of RV terms.
You will need to address such details as floorplan and storage
space (inside and outside) requirements, and the degree of self-containment.
Full self-containment simply means being able to park without
any outside facilities or hookups. This would include full bath
facilities; adequate freshwater supply, along with black- and
gray-water holding tanks (black for the toilet, and gray for the
wash basin, sink and shower); propane tanks to power the refrigerator;
stove and furnace; plus 12-volt battery power for the lights,
exhaust fan(s) and furnace blower. A generator is usually considered
part of a complete self-containment package. While total self-containment
is not absolutely necessary, it is certainly nice to have.
As you define your various requirements and consider your financial
situation, the type and the size of RV that will meet your needs
will become more clear. Then it's simply a matter of selecting the
style and brand you like best -- and start smart shopping to put
yourself on the road for years of enjoyment in your new lifestyle! --Jeff Johnston
Yes