Looking to Rent an RV - 5 Things You Need to Know

The recreational vehicle (RV) industry has experiencedstay - This is important for several reasons. The most
a record boom since the turn of the 21st Century asbasic of these: you must make sure that the
increased numbers of "baby boomers" have enteredcampgrounds and RV parks you plan to use have the
the "leisure time" industry. Most of these new 35-54facilities you need for your vehicle and for the
year old first-time RV enthusiasts can visit their localmembers of your group. It may be best not to rely just
RV dealer and, in a matter of minutes, drive away withon the brochures and Web sites for the parks and
a motorhome or camper that will probably take carecampgrounds. A phone call to ask two or three basic
of their camping and travel needs quite adequately. Butquestions about facilities and activities may uncover
the chances of giving your family an enjoyable trip aresome hidden problem or some lack of amenities that
greatly increased if you cover these five things tocan change your plans. Tip: Confirm your reservations!!!
know for a successful RV rental. (There are certainly4. Understand the differences in recreational vehicles -
other suggestions and details, but the following fiveHave a working knowledge of the basics of RV
seem to be on the list for just about everyrentals. There are several different types of RV,
experienced RV'er.)including, campers that pull behind your car or truck or,
Don't plan your next RV excursion or make a newif you decide to take your own vehicle, a towed
RV purchase without a review of the following 5camping trailer or "pop-up" camper. Your vehicle must
simple considerations:be suitable for pulling a camper and you will need a
1. Consider the interests and needs of all family andsafe, strong hitch (in addition to a stable wiring
friends - This will help eliminate many of the issues thatharness). There are three basic classes of RV: A, B,
can come up during the trip. Just about everyand C. These types are differentiated by size, the
experienced RV traveler (and most rental companies)amount of interior room in each, and the different
urge the first-time renter to have a planning meetingamenities offered. A few minutes of study should point
with family and friends before attempting to rent anyou toward the type of RV that will best fit your
RV. Just an hour or two some evening or on afamily's travel vacation needs.
weekend well before going to the rental company or5. Include alternative transportation in your vacation/RV
RV dealer will be time well spent. Encourage familyplans - Unless you are pulling a smaller camping trailer
members, including children, to write down what theythat you can disconnect from your car you may need
would like to have in an RV that will be their vacationto plan for another way of getting around when you
home. Make a list from these suggestions and ideasfinally arrive at your destination. While it may be
and take the list with you when you talk with the RVpossible to get along without another vehicle when you
company.are driving a larger motorhome, experienced RV
2. Ask a lot of questions - This is great advice in everytravelers routinely tow a small car, bring along a small
purchasing situation. The bottom line is this: a lot ofmotorized scooter or two, or even pack a couple of
information is better than too little information when itgood bicycles. Enjoyment of your vacation can truly
comes to spending money. When you are selecting adepend on how you handle the transportation needs
travel vehicle that will be your home for a week orthat arise once you arrive at a final campground or
two, you need to clear up any doubts about up-frontRV park.
costs, hidden costs, features of the RV, how toAccording to the RV Industry Association (RVIA) one
perform the basic set up and so on. Most experiencedout of every three first-time RV renters eventually
RV travelers will emphasize that reputable RV dealersdecide to purchase an RV in the future. Remember, no
and rental companies will be happy to answer any andmatter which RV you decide to rent or own, some
all questions you have. Your contact with the companyplanning and brainstorming will make the experience go
should allow all the time necessary to make sure youmore smoothly. Making note of the five considerations
are comfortable with your rental before you driveabove will go a long way in ensuring your first RV
away.rental experience is the most satisfying it can be. And
3. Know where you're heading and how long you willmost importantly, your family will thank you!