10 Beginner-Friendly RV Tips For Seniors
- Rent Before You Buy. Some seniors invest in an RV as soon as they retire. ...
- Choose The Right RV. ...
- Prioritize Safety Features. ...
- Automate As Much As Possible. ...
- Take Insurance Into Consideration. ...
- Consider Your Medication Needs. ...
- Only Use Designated Campsites. ...
- Join A Club. ...
- Check-In With Family And Friends. ...
- Travel Slowly. ...
Full Answer
Is it dangerous for senior citizens to Go RVing?
RVing is generally safe. As long as you set camp inside RV parks, national parks, and state parks you are typically safe from harm. Avoid remote areas where you cannot get help in case something happens.
When is the best time of year to buy a RV?
Winter is the best time to buy an RV. Few people are buying RVs when it’s cold and the snow is falling, so dealerships are willing to cut great deals in January and February to keep the RVs moving. In addition, many people sell their used RVs after their summer and fall road trips, making finding an RV within your budget even easier.
What is the best RV for living full time?
What Makes a Class A Motorhome Great for Full-Time Living?
- Space. Class A motorhomes are often the larger of all the types of RVs available and offer more living space.
- Freedom to Travel. Having a motorhome is ideal if you enjoy traveling as you can quickly pack up your entire living space.
- Cost of Living. ...
- Easy to Sell. ...
What is the best RV to live in year round?
The Best 5th Wheels for Full-Time Living
- Grand Design Solitude. Grand Design is a company well-known in the camper and RV industry, so it’s no surprise to see their Solitude model at the top of our ...
- Coachmen Chaparral Fifth Wheel. The Chaparral Fifth Wheel from Coachmen could be an excellent choice for those looking to fine-tune and perfect their model.
- KZ Durango Gold. ...
- Jayco North Point. ...
Bring Tools and Spare Parts
Don’t try to become a moving auto parts store! That being said, you do want to carry basic tools and spare parts. Many times RVers are getting away...
RV Size – Don’T Clutter Your Space
RVs come in all sizes … from cute little teardrop trailers to diesel pusher motorhomes that are bigger than the typical New York City apartment! Yo...
Reserve Your Spot and Plan For Tank Dumps
Know if your RV spot has full hookups or if you have to fill fresh water and empty your holding tanks at a remote station. Be sure to have necessar...
Don’T Get Locked Out and Prepare For After-Dark Setup
Some campgrounds are open 24/7, others have quiet hours and actually lock the gates during those hours each night. Know the gate hours or you may n...
Leave The Dispersed Camping For Another Day
We absolutely LOVE dispersed camping but I would not recommend it with a new-to-you RV. It’s a good idea to get a few “full hookup” trips under you...
Rent Before You Buy
Some seniors invest in an RV as soon as they retire. While this often works out for those who are experienced RV adventurers, it’s a good idea to rent first if you’re new to the RV lifestyle. Renting an RV allows you to test out the RV experience without a huge financial commitment.
Choose The Right RV
Before buying or renting an RV, it’s a good idea to research its features carefully. Consider factors such as the type of trip you plan on taking in the RV, its duration, the level of comfort you prefer, and your budget when choosing the right RV option for you.
Prioritize Safety Features
If you purchased an RV, install some safety features such as a handrail or sufficient lighting before you hit the road. On the other hand, if you’re renting an RV, try to find a vehicle with no interior steps and sturdy, non-slip outdoor stairs.
Automate As Much As Possible
Just because you’re hitting the road doesn’t mean you need to leave the luxuries of home behind. “Many RVs offer automated lighting, heating, and cooling systems,” explains Eric Thompson, a lifestyle blogger at Essay Roo review and Essay writer. “You could also bring a smart voice assistant on the road with you.”
Take Insurance Into Consideration
Regardless of whether you want to rent or purchase an RV, you’re going to require insurance. The cost of insurance for owning an RV can be a lot more than most seniors expect. On the other hand, if you’re renting an RV, it’s a good idea to check your renter’s insurance coverage.
Consider Your Medication Needs
If your medication is delivered directly to your home, it’s important to plan ahead before you set off on the road. Ask your doctor if you can receive your medicine in advance to take on your RV adventure with you. However, if this isn’t possible, you might need to plan your trip around your scheduled doctor’s visits.
Only Use Designated Campsites
As a beginner to RVing, it’s crucial to always stick to designated campsites for your safety. These campsites also tend to have a lot of other seniors who might be more experienced in the RV lifestyle and can offer useful tips.
What is the best RV for beginners?
Sometimes, the best RV for beginners is a mid-sized motorhome, which doesn’t require much in the way of special driving skills and offers a large amount of creature comforts.) 2. Give yourself time to get acclimated.
What is the difference between RVing and camping?
Because the word “RVing” covers a whole wide range of camping experiences… and some of them bear very little resemblance. For example, RVing in a small pop-up camper is a more rugged, close-to-nature adventure, whereas RVing in a 45-foot diesel pusher can make it easy to forget you’re “camping” in the first place.
How to set up an RV?
This checklist includes the most important points you’ll go over when setting up camp at an RV park or campground: 1 Upon arrival, pull up in the designated area to complete the check-in. As an RV newbie, you can ask for guidance getting parked and set up. 2 Scout out your lot or site beforehand to see if you need to back in and how to position your vehicle properly aligned with hookups for electricity, water and waste. Check for branches and obstacles and make sure any awnings or slide-outs have enough room. 3 When you’re settled, engage the parking brake and apply leveling blocks and chocks. If you have a trailer, disconnect it and stabilize the hitch. Unfold your pop-out or remove the travel locks and engage the slide-outs. 4 Connect electricity and watch for the right amperage required for your RV. Switch your vehicle (and appliances) to shore power instead of batteries. Set up your power bank for charging if needed. 5 Connect your RV to the potable water source. At this point, you won’t need the internal water pump if you have one. 6 If there is sewer service, run your sewer hose from the sewer drain outlet to the campground sewer (wearing latex gloves!). 7 If you have gas for cooking or heating, you can open the gas supply valve. 8 Check that all connected cables and hoses are stowed neatly to prevent tripping. Extend your awnings and TV antenna if you have them and then settle in!
Why do people prefer a camper van over a motorhome?
A: Many people prefer a motorhome or camper van for their RV because they enjoy a solution where everything is contained in a single vehicle. Opposed to that are trailers, pull-behinds, fifth wheels or truck campers where the living / sleeping compartment is separate from the vehicle.
What is a membership in a camping club?
A membership in a camping or RV club offers discounts at participating campgrounds and RV parks as well as other benefits and is worth considering if you plan to make use of these sites a lot.
How does downsizing a recreational vehicle help?
Just like with any trip, packing and loading your recreational vehicle is an art. Downsizing can help you save space and weight, but you also don’t want to miss essential necessities and basic comforts. To strike the balance that’s right for you, think of stowage and storage solutions and where everything will go.
What is RV show?
RV shows and conventions are opportunities to see a lot of different vehicles up close, though for buying, you local dealer might have a better price. Use an overview of RV vehicles to find the right size and type for you.
Where is Richard from Outside Pursuits?
Richard is a co-founder and the chief editor of Outside Pursuits. Passionate about the great outdoors, Richard spends much of his time in Colorado enjoying skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, cycling, hiking, and camping. When at home in Florida, he is most often found in the water. He loves water sports such as paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. He is a certified scuba diver. Because of his wealth of knowledge and experience, Richard has been invited to contribute articles to many outdoor-focused websites, such as Florida Rambler, and has been profiled on travel websites such as JohnnyJet.
Is RV travel cheaper than regular travel?
RV travel is not necessarily cheaper than taking a regular vacation where you pay for flights and hotels. You’ll have large initial costs for the vehicle (or down payments) and equipment.
What are some tips for RV driving?
One of the most commonly forgotten RV driving tips is that you will probably be “taller” and “wider” than you are used to, so practice driving in some wide open spaces and watch for height clearances under bridges, underpasses, low-hanging branches and anything else ABOVE your path of travel.
Is it important to practice camping?
Also, don’t forget to secure your RV from rolling while parked and level it. “Practice camping” is really important for limited mobility camping. For people with physical body limitations, testing your body is just as important as testing your process, packing and patience.
Can you overlook your weight when you are a first time RV owner?
It can be easy to overlook your weight if you are a first time RV owner. Your vehicle has published load limits … know what they are and don’t exceed them … It’s a camping safety thing!
Do RVs have high water pressure?
Some campgrounds and RV parks have high plumbing pressure and you don’t want to damage your RV plumbing as a result. Water Filters allow you to filter out contaminants and reduce bad taste, odors, sediments, bacteria, chlorine and more. Water Wye Valve Inline Water Pressure Regulator RV Water Filter. 6.
Can you use a generator to power an RV?
You can either use a generator or you can operate off of your RV batteries. If you operate using your RV batteries, you will need to keep them charged with solar panels. Check out our Portable Solar Panels For RV Camping VIDEO post for more information.
Is a campground plug always female?
RV plugs are always female … campground receptacles are always male. You will need several different adapters to ensure that you are able to connect to electrical power wherever you go. Make sure you have the proper plug or adapters for the receptacle at your specific camp spot, here are some examples….
How important is staying organized in an RV?
Stay Organized. Staying organized is more important than almost anything for seniors on the road. It does not matter how old you are, staying organized will allow you to keep things straight. Your RV is not a huge space, but you would be surprised how easy it is to lose things in it if you are not careful.
Why are motorhomes so popular?
Motorhomes are very popular among seniors for several reasons. These rigs combine the vehicle and living area in a single unit. This will save you from needing to unhitch and hitch every time you get to a new campground. This is even more of an advantage if you are planning on moving around from campground to campground often. Additionally, you can tow a smaller car behind your motorhome with a simple hitch that is easier to connect. Then you can use that car when your RV is parked at the campground, allowing you to travel around the area with ease.
What are the downsides of RVs?
Get A Handrail for the Entry Steps. A big downside to RVs is that they are much higher off the ground than your average vehicle. The wheels are much larger so it could be more difficult to get into the RV. You might need to take a big step to get inside, which can be difficult for some people.
How much is a lifetime senior pass?
United States citizens and legal residents over the age of 62 are eligible to purchase a lifetime pass for $80 or an annual senior pass for $20. Compared to the $80 annual pass, that is quite the deal. 7. Stay Organized. Staying organized is more important than almost anything for seniors on the road.
What happens when you retire as a senior?
When seniors retire, they have freedom on a level they have not had in their entire lives. When you are a kid you are told what to do and where to go. Then when you are an adult, you have responsibilities like working and taking care of kids. In both stages of life, you are restricted in what you can do in some ways.
What happens if you get an RV?
When you get an RV you will not realize how many places you are going to visit, but you will be traveling all over the place. Therefore, you will sometimes end up in areas where your cell phone has no service . So, you will need a way to communicate with others when this is the case. The best solution to this problem is to purchase a satellite phone.
Can you go camping at night?
When you are out at a campground in the middle of the woods during a night, it unsurprisingly is difficult to see. As a result, you will not be able to go for a nighttime walk if you want. However, if you keep a headlamp near your door you will be able to leave your RV and safely explore the area at night.
What is the best thing about RV trips?
The great thing about RV trips is that they can be focused on a destination or the journey itself. From coastlines and mountain ranges to historic routes and National Parks, there are endless expeditions you can take with your motorhome!
How many people can sleep in a Class A motorhome?
Class A. Class A motorhomes are on the larger end of RV choices, ranging from around 26 to 45 feet in length. These vehicles can sleep up to eight people and have extra room for standing, moving about, and activities. Most come equipped with a small kitchen area, a shower, and a toilet.
What is a Class B motorhome?
Class B motorhomes, also called “campervans,” are mid-size RV’s which pack a living space into a cargo van. At just under 20 feet, most Class B motorhomes can comfortably sleep 2-4. Although they commonly include a sitting room, kitchenette, and toilet, these amenities are usually quite compact so to fit within the frame. Class B motorhomes can be purchased; however, some RVers choose to build-out their own cargo van by making their own modifications or having a specialist install an RV kit into the vehicle.
What are the amenities of a motorhome?
However, you’ll find most motorhomes on the market today have luxury upgrades such as air-conditioning, heating, televisions, surround-sound speakers (interior and exterior), built-in recliners, and more.
How much does a Class C RV cost?
Price: You can find most Class C RV’s within the $50,000 – $100,00 range.
How many people can fit in a truck camper?
Though these campers are popular among couples, some have the capabilities to accommodate up to six people! Most truck campers will have a large sleeping area as well as a small living space.
What are the different types of motorized RVs?
There are three main types of motorized RVs: Class A, Class B, and Class C.
Answers about Age and RVing and being too old for the RV Lifestyle
ANSWER: The answer to this is an unequivocal NO! Age and RVing is not an issue – unless there are health or physical reasons that would make it dangerous to drive.
Senior RVers speak out
Patricia: We are 73 and just bought a 25ft class c. Use to have a 40 ft diesel pusher for twenty years. We got rid of it a year and a half ago. Missed the freedom to travel. So bought something smaller.
Curious about the gear, gadgets, accessories, and RV products Mike & Jennifer use and recommend?
On this RV Lifestyle Travel blog, our RV Podcast and our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel, we mention all sorts of RV-related products and gear that we use, So we created a special page links to them. We update this all the time. CLICK HERE to go to it directly.
Why do people go RVing?
Some like a weekend camping trip; others travel the country; even others follow the sun, enjoying their retirement on the move or seek adventure in remote areas, and some enjoy being off-the-grid. You’re able to travel wherever roads can take you while bringing your own home and surroundings with you.
What to do when looking for an RV?
With the huge selection to choose from the most important thing you can do when looking for an RV is planning and research. Because the word “RVing” covers a wide range of camping experiences, some of them barely resemble camping at all. RVing in a small teardrop or pop-up camper is a more like the camping experience you think of compared to RVing in a 45-foot diesel pusher which can make it easy to forget you’re “camping” in the first place.
What do you need to pack for an RV?
You don’t need to pack everything including the kitchen sink, but you do want to carry basic tools and spare parts you might need for your RV. Make sure to bring along a good assortment of wrenches, ratchets, sockets, screwdrivers, spare fuses and other goodies to keep things going. Most RV beginners are getting away from the craziness of city life and escaping for some rest and relaxation in quieter places. Remember, the further away from services you are the more self-reliant you’ll want to be.
What is a Class A motorhome?
Motorized RVs. Class A: Our first RV was a Class A motorhome. These are the big rigs that look like buses, with a flat nose and large windshield up front. They can range from around 25 feet to 45 feet, and come in both gas and diesel models.
Do RV clubs save money?
RV memberships can save you a lot of money if you use them wisely. They can also provide you with a built-in community, since you’ll run into like-minded travelers at member campsites like Harvest Hosts. Some, like Escapees, even offer additional services like mail forwarding and permanent addresses for domicile. Check out our Escapees RV Club Review for more information.
Do RVers need internet?
Internet connectivity is a big topic for nomads. Even retired RVers who just want to keep in touch with family and stream the occasional TV show have a lot of challenges. And if you are running a business or holding down a full-time job on the road, the stakes of getting internet connection right are high.