While cleaning my RV today, I found myself feeling grateful for some of the features it has; like a central vac system, built-in dishwasher, and washer/dryer. It made me think back to when we first started RVing 17 years ago. Back then, it was just the two of us in a 23 ft tow-behind we used for a few weekend camping trips each year. Fast forward to today, and we’re a family of five living full-time in a 42 ft fifth wheel.
Our needs have changed so much over the years, and so have the features we look for. That’s the thing about RV ownership, there’s no one-size-fits-all. The “right” RV depends on your season of life, how you plan to use it, and what comforts matter most to you.
If you’re shopping for your first (or next) RV, here are some things to consider:
Start with How You’ll Use It
Full-time living: Look for 4-season insulation, larger tanks, washer/dryer hookups, residential fridge, solar/inverter setup, lots of cupboards for storage.
Weekend/seasonal trips: Keep it simple; lighter weight, easier setup, smaller tanks. Extras like an outdoor kitchen, power tongue jack, and auto-leveling are nice to haves.
Who’s Traveling?
Adults only: Couples’ coaches with rear living and extra bedroom storage.
Little kids: Bunkhouse with doors for naps, room for a pack ’n play, tub/shower combo, dinette.
Teens: Separate bunk room with doors, USB ports, storage, maybe a half bath.
Towable or Drivable?
Towable (travel trailer, 5th wheel, toy hauler)
Pros: More space per dollar, simpler drivetrain, lower maintenance
Cons: Requires the right tow vehicle, hitching/unhitching learning curve
Drivable (Class A, B, C)
Pros: Easy setup, passengers can ride inside, tow a small car
Cons: higher insurance/maintenance costs, fewer options for family floor plans.
Budget
Purchase: RV price, taxes, hitch, brake controller
Setup gear: Surge protector, sewer kit, hoses, wheel chocks, TPMS, backup camera (optional)
Operating costs: Insurance, storage, campground fees, fuel, maintenance
Upgrades over time: Second A/C, solar, lithium batteries, slide toppers, bike racks
Try Before You Buy
Before making the leap, it’s a smart idea to rent a similar floor plan for a weekend. This gives you a real-world feel for the space and helps you figure out what you truly love and what doesn’t work for your family before making a big investment. Another step that’s worth every penny is hiring a certified RV technician or inspector for a pre-purchase inspection, whether you’re buying new or used. Even brand-new RVs can leave the factory with issues like plumbing leaks, misaligned slides, or faulty seals, while used models may hide costly problems such as roof damage or soft floors. Spending a few hundred dollars upfront can save you thousands in repairs later and gives you peace of mind that your RV is road-ready.
📍 Worth the Stop
We’re getting ready to head to the Hershey RV Show in Hershey, PA from 11/10–11/14 to network for our business, Fireside RV Rental. Have you ever been? It’s one of the largest RV shows in the country, featuring the newest floorplans, tons of vendors, and enough to keep you busy for a couple of days. If you can’t make it this year, definitely put it on your calendar for next year! And while you’re in the area, don’t miss Hershey’s Chocolate World for a tour of the factory and the freshest candy you’ll ever taste.
🚐 RV Tip of the Week
Backing into a campsite can often be the most stressful part of the day, especially after hours on the road. To make it easier, try to arrive before dark. I also take the kids and dogs out of the truck so my husband can focus on backing in and setting up without interruptions.
🛒 Add to Cart: My Current Faves
The cute and cozy coloring books are perfect for both kids and moms, fun to enjoy together while listening to an audiobook, or for keeping little hands busy coloring while you read aloud during school time. This Spooky Cozy one is perfect for the upcoming fall season.
📚 What I’m Reading
Last week I finished Someone Knows by Vi Keeland is a gripping thriller about a professor who begins receiving chapters from a student’s manuscript, chapters that mirror the darkest secrets of her own past. Drawn back to her hometown, she must confront old ghosts while uncovering who is behind the mysterious pages. It’s worth the read! Get it for FREE on Kindle Unlimited.
📬 Before You Go…
If you enjoyed this week’s edition of Roadtrips & Reading, you’re going to love what I have to offer in The RV Mom’s Club, upgrade to paid now, to get access to a full year for only $40!!!
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🚐 RV Trip Routing & Itineraries
Pre-planned monthly routes with campground recommendations, must-see stops, and activity ideas
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📖 Book Club for RV Moms
A curated monthly book pick (fiction or non-fiction)
Fun extras: themed recipes, decor ideas, or crafts tied to the book
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