Is the open road calling you? If so, an RV rental gives you the freedom to go where you want and have the comforts of home when you take a vacation. Best of all, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort when you stay at a luxurious resort with all the amenities you desire.
RV popularity continues to grow each year because of the flexible travel options and direct access to the great outdoors. People appreciate satisfying their wanderlust while having a comfortable place to live in as they roam. Learn how to select the right RV for your trip.
Why Is an RV Rental a Great Vacation Choice?
RVing is opening up new travel opportunities. There are numerous benefits of renting an RV for your next trip:
Get reasonable RV prices for individuals and families
Set the pace of your trip
See lots of new and out-of-the-way places
Bring the pets
Try different RV resorts and parks
Travel in comfort
You don’t have to leave your site due to poor weather conditions, and RV camping offers a safe way to store belongings when you go on excursions.
How Do You Choose the Right-Size RV for You?
Choosing the right RV size depends on the number of people and pets traveling together. These are the types of RVs available for rent:
Class A: This is a large, deluxe motorhome with all the conveniences of modern living. In most cases, you need to park these in resorts that accommodate the size.
Class B: This RV rental has lots of great amenities packed efficiently into a smaller living area. These models are popular due to the ease of driving and parking in resorts.
Class C: This is the smallest drivable RV that often includes a convenient over-the-cab bed. The Class C is an excellent choice for families, given the option of turning living areas into sleeping spaces.
Fifth wheel: This large and luxurious tow-behind trailer has lots of interior room and the ability to unhook and leave it at an RV site. These rigs need ample space to park, much like a Class A.
Travel trailer: This is a small tow trailer with fewer amenities but a good option for easy travel. You still have the important creature comforts.
Pop-up camper: This handy little camper is great for a fun family trip. This model provides comfortable sleeping arrangements while the focus of your getaway is the outdoor experience.
If you plan to take your animals, research rental companies that allow pets in the vehicles. Check how many and what types of pets are allowed and what deposits and fees are required.
Where Can You Get Rental RVs?
The growth of the RV industry in recent years has produced a need for RV rental businesses. Two of the top rental companies with their own fleet of vehicles are Cruise America and Good Sam. Another popular rental option is to rent from an RV owner. RVshare and Outdoorsy coordinate rentals of all types of recreational vehicles between owners and prospective renters. Road Bear is a company that deals exclusively with the rental of luxury RVs.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of an RV rental varies widely. The greatest cost determination is what is comfortable for your budget and meets your travel needs. Here are some essential factors that affect prices:
Size of RV
Type of RV
Age of the unit
Location of the rig
Length of rental
Season of rental
Many RV rental websites calculate a projected cost for you based on the RV type and vacation dates. Fuel expenses need to be figured into your trip budget. Gas can be costly depending on the miles you plan to drive. You may be required to pick up insurance to cover possible unit damages and losses. Typically, reputable companies offer insurance in the rental package for an additional fee.
Do You Need a Special License To Drive an RV?
You can drive most RVs with a regular U.S. driver’s license. If a vehicle is over 26,000 lbs., you need to check with the DMV in your state about the type of license required to operate the vehicle. If you are unfamiliar with driving a large vehicle, it is a good idea to get some instruction before beginning a trip. The weight, height and length make a big difference in how these units handle on the road.
Some schools offer hands-on training courses that teach you how to operate an RV rental. You can also take the RV on short drives before embarking on a trip to get a feel for the rig.
Where Can You Stay?
Looking for places to stay on your vacation is a fun part of RVing across the country. A Texas RV resort provides a unique experience because of the urban centers, cultural attractions, parks, restaurants and beaches that make this state a favorite to visit.
Do research beforehand to find a park with resources and activities for the whole family. Look for sites that provide plenty of space for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
What Should You Do Before Returning an RV?
Make an appointment to return your RV to the rental dealer. Make sure that a company representative does a return check of the vehicle to verify the condition (inside and out) and the mileage. It is always a good idea to take pictures that show the vehicle’s condition upon delivery and return.
Find the Right Places To Visit in Your RV Rental
The Boston Group has properties that are the perfect destinations for relaxing vacations. If you decide to go with an RV rental, you want to visit places with wonderful grounds, fun things to do and the best urban and natural spaces.
Our properties are conveniently located throughout the Lone Star State so that you can choose a favorite spot or several for an exciting getaway. Contact us to learn about our property portfolio, and we will help you find the right destination for a memorable trip!
Americans are snatching up campers and motor homes and taking to the U.S. highways and byways in increasingly large numbers. Total households that own an RV now top 11 million, and the rental market is also active, with peer-to-peer markets showing a 650% increase in interest over the past decade. In 2019, the findings in one survey indicated that 28 million people intended to travel in the spring and summer months that year.
When you tour in a recreational vehicle, you take your sleeping and living quarters with you wherever you go. It’s easier to plan your trips when RV parks are plentiful anywhere you go, but knowing what to take on your journey is more involved than packing a suitcase. We’ve created an RV essentials checklist so you can assemble everything you need for your next adventure.
An RV Essentials Checklist for the Rig
One significant difference between packing for most trips and preparing to travel in a camper is that you need to include items for the rig. While some of these essentials may be similar to what you need when you tent camp, others are unique to RV travel.
Rig Setup Necessities
Setting up camp for a recreational vehicle is more involved than simply pulling into a parking space. You want to make sure you have everything you need to operate your traveling hotel and maintain comfort at each stop. Your RV essentials checklist for setup should include:
A 30- or 50-amp extension cord
An adapter to convert 50-amp power to 30-amp or vice versa
Surge protector
Blackwater and gray water sewer hoses with extensions, connectors and hose support
Water hose rated for RVs with no lead or other harmful materials in them
Water filter to attach to your hose and a water pressure regulator
Leveling blocks or chocks
Basic tools to make adjustments and repairs
Make sure you have a tire pressure gauge to check your tires regularly on your trip. You may want to include items such as a small air compressor to top off low tires and a hitch lock if you have a travel trailer.
RV Essentials Checklist for Inside the Rig
If you stay at hotels, resorts or home rentals, most of the non-personal items you need are already there for you. This may also hold in rental RVs for many necessities. However, whether you rent or own your recreational vehicle, your checklist should list everything that allows you to live with ease while on your trip.
Kitchenware
One of the benefits of RV travel is being able to cook rather than dining out for every meal. Make sure your kitchen is stocked with necessities:
Pots and pans, cooking utensils, plates and bowls
Measuring cups and spoons, as well as can and bottle openers
Drinking glasses, including your favorite coffee cup, travel mug and reusable water bottle
Seasonings and cooking oil
Aluminum foil, plastic wrap and sandwich, storage and garbage bags
Coffee maker or tea kettle
Cleaning supplies, including dish soap, dish towels and sponges
Paper towels, napkins and food storage containers
While you will undoubtedly find reasons to head out to a grocery store during your travels, it helps to do some basic menu planning. You can then stock your cabinets and refrigerator with staples and ingredients that allow for easy meal prep when you need it.
Bed and Bath Items
Your RV essentials checklist should include the items you and your fellow travelers need for a comfortable stay. It’s easy to overlook bed and bath supplies so make sure the following are on your list:
Enough pillows for everyone
Bed linens, including extras in case you need to change out during your trip
Comforters or quilts
Extra blankets if you’re traveling in the chillier months or to cooler climates
Bath and hand towels
RV toilet paper and hand soap
Bathroom cleaning supplies
Laundry bag and laundry supplies
Even if you keep some of these items in your RV throughout the season, it’s still good to include them on your list and visually check to make sure you have them in stock before every trip.
RV Essentials Checklist for Recreational Items
You may be on the go often during your travels or plan to participate in the recreational events at your destination RV resort. However, you should still take along items to enjoy hanging out at your campsite. Some ideas to consider include:
A portable grill with the fuel and cooking utensils you need
Portable fire pit and camp chairs for everyone
Skewers for making s’mores
Sunscreen and personal bug repellant
Campsite bug repellant, such as citronella candles
Bicycles, skateboards or kick-scooters
Outdoor games, such as cornhole, horseshoes and Frisbee
Indoor pastimes, including books, movies, board games, cards and coloring books
If you’re traveling with kids, make sure you take along entertaining things for them to do inside the rig since the weather doesn’t always cooperate for outdoor fun.
RV Essentials Checklist for Personal Items
As with any other type of travel, your checklist needs to include personal items. While you can get most of what you need along the way should you forget something, it’s far easier to take what you already have and save your money for the fun stuff. The following list should give you a good idea of items to carry along:
Toiletries, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap and razors
Sleepwear, undergarments and socks, including hiking and walking socks
Swimwear and gear, such as goggles, flip-flops or water shoes
Any hats you might want to wear
Shoes for activities you plan, including comfortable hiking or walking shoes
Appropriate pants and shorts for the climate and your itinerary
Short- and long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts or sweaters
Rain gear, light jacket and warmer outer layers, if cooler temperatures are even a remote possibility
Be sure your list also includes any specialty items you need for your trip.
RV Essentials Checklist Complete: Plan Your Next Getaway
Now that your RV essentials checklist is in hand, it’s time to plan your next adventure. Texas is an ideal destination that provides something for everyone. The Boston Group’s RV parks and resorts are located throughout the state’s popular tourist destinations. Get in touch today to learn more about what we have to offer.
Hitting the road to see the country by RV is a popular way to travel. You have three options on where to stay: campgrounds, RV parks and luxurious RV resorts. Choosing the one that meets your specific needs gives you a vacation to remember rather than one filled with regrets. Take the time to research ahead of time to discover the best camping location for your trip by following these five tips.
1. Accommodates Your RV
Not all locations can accommodate motorhomes or large 5th wheel trailers, and this isn’t something you want to discover at the check-in point. Instead, check out the websites of RV parks in advance to confirm there is a place for your rig. Then, when you find one, go ahead and make a reservation so you know your spot is confirmed.
No matter what size RV you have, check out what type of hookups are available at the campsite. Some locations only offer electrical hookups, which could be at a lower capacity than you need to power your rig.
2. Allows for Your Desired Stay at the Camping Location
Many RV campgrounds and parks have a 14-day limit on stays, particularly in the busy summer months. If you desire to spend a month or two in one spot, search in advance for a place that gives you a longer option, preferably one that offers a gated area for long-timers.
3. Fits Within Your Budget
The cost of a night’s stay varies widely depending on the park’s location and amenities. A more primitive campsite with no hookups is considerably less expensive than a large site with full hook-ups at an RV resort. Make sure the one you select fits within your travel budget.
4. Offers Helpful Amenities at the Camping Location
RV parks and resorts offer large campsites on scenic grounds so you don’t have to leave the property to have an enjoyable trip. They often include many onsite amenities for you to enjoy, such as:
Heated swimming pool
Gameroom
Fitness center
Laundry facilities
Clubhouse with scheduled activities
Dog park
Playground
You pay more at these resorts, so make sure you can use and enjoy the amenities before choosing a luxury location.
5. Has Positive Reviews Online
Looking at a campground’s website gives you details about the location along with campsite photos and the available amenities. Although this is a great way to give you an idea about the park, the best way to decide if you want to stay there is to check out the online reviews. Reading the rating and comments from someone who has stayed at the park gives you a more accurate picture of what you can expect.
Discovering the RV camping location that’s the best choice for your trip allows you to relax and enjoy your stay. Doing this research ahead of time saves you from unpleasant surprises later.
The Boston Group offers luxurious RV parks and resorts in Texas, whether you want to be close to attractions or away from it all. Contact us today to learn more.
When the mood for RVing strikes, you need to consider ideas about places you want to visit. Camping parks in Texas provide a great home base for an RV adventure. The state is 268,597 square miles of fascinating history and breathtaking terrain.
Aside from having plenty of space to explore, the Lone Star State offers rich cultural diversity found everywhere from museums to music to food. When you dust off your wheels, choose from camping parks in Texas for your next vacation. Use these ideas to pinpoint your destination.
Decide What To Do Before Choosing Camping Parks in Texas
Texas is a big, beautiful land with much to do. While it can feel overwhelming to plan a trip, here are ways to break down your itinerary.
Visit Natural Spaces
Texas truly has it all when you want to get out in nature. Hill Country and the Gulf Coast are two areas to put on your list. Hill Country is the region of southwestern central Texas, mainly located between Austin and San Antonio. The Texas wildflowers are in full bloom in the spring and create a breathtaking roadside palette of colors. There are plenty of hiking paths and spring-fed swimming holes to experience.
If you head for the coast, visit the Padre Island National Seashore. This Texas wonder boasts the world’s longest barrier island that remains undeveloped. Relax by a fire in the evening at a nearby RV resort with all the amenities for a fun and comfortable trip.
Choose Food Destinations
Texas is home to some of the country’s best restaurants and food trucks. It’s not unusual for people to look for camping parks in Texas because of the culinary choices. Many of the most popular places in the state range from Dallas to San Antonio and over to the coast. If you are a dedicated foodie, do an online search for food tours. Be sure to book a stay at a local RV park so you have plenty of time to enjoy the flavors of an area.
Go for the Music
Live music is a proud Texas tradition. Whether in a concert hall or a dancehall, you’ll hear tunes that keep you coming back for more stays at camping parks in Texas. Austin is known as the live music capital of the world, so be sure to stop by one of its famous venues to take a listen. You’ll likely hear some lore about great musicians, such as Janis Joplin and Stevie Ray Vaughan, whose legends still echo throughout the city.
Discover the History
No trip to Texas is complete without a visit to the Alamo. The famous mission in San Antonio draws 2.5 million visitors every year. Learn about the events and the individuals who gave their lives to the cause.
Take a stroll on San Antonio’s famous River Walk with a captivating history. Plan to have a meal or drinks so you have time to appreciate this treasure.
Use a Great Resource for Camping Parks in Texas
The Boston Group manages the best camping parks in Texas. We have beautiful RV resorts with the amenities RVers desire for vacations or long-term stays. Contact us to learn about our portfolio of RV properties.
Scenic RV Park Camping. Few Camper Vans in Remote Location. RVing Theme.
Types of RVs: What’s The Best Fit for You?
More than 11 million households have discovered the benefits of owning an RV, and more than 90% of those take at least three short trips per year. Though the data isn’t yet finalized, projections indicate that 2021 was a record-breaking year in RV sales. An estimated 576,000 units were sold, easily surpassing the previous record of 504,600 set in 2017.
Recreational vehicles offer convenience, flexibility and comfort. Planning trips is easier when the place you rest your head each night has wheels. It isn’t hard to see why they’re so appealing, but with so many styles, how do you know which one is right for you? There are several types of RVs, and each one has characteristics and features that set it apart from the others. Once you understand how they differ, it is easier to narrow down your options.
The Tow-Behind Types of RVs
The first type of camper many people invest in is the kind you tow behind their vehicles. You can find ones in any size and with many features and conveniences.
Pop-Up Campers
The pop-up camper is a lightweight and compact trailer. When not in use, it folds up into a shell. Many of these have a hard-sided bottom, but the upper half consists of a combination of fiberglass and canvas. They look like a cross between a trailer and a tent. They come equipped with kitchens and places to sit and sleep. Some even have small bathrooms.
Travel Trailers
Of all the types of RVs, travel trailers are the most popular. In 2018, people bought 3.5 times as many travel trailers as the next biggest seller, fifth-wheels. These campers quickly attach to a hitch on a vehicle or truck. You can even find ones that are light and small enough to tow behind a bicycle!
Micro travel trailers often contain the bare minimum, with a bed and sometimes a kitchenette accessed from the outside, while the largest ones have everything you need for a family getaway. Many have sides that slide out when you’re parked, providing more room for living. While they’re easy to hook up to the hitch, they’re less stable than a fifth-wheel but also less expensive.
Fifth-Wheels
Fifth-wheels are one of the types of RVs that offer travelers the kind of space you find in large motorhomes but in a tow-behind vehicle. Despite the name, the trailer does not have five wheels. The term refers to the shape of the hitch that it attaches to in the bed of a truck. These trailers are more stable than travel trailers and have higher ceilings and two levels. Fifth-wheels tend to have less storage than travel trailers.
Toy Haulers
Toy haulers are huge tow-behind campers, but the back section is set up to allow you to carry your “toys.” People who like to take their motorcycles or off-road vehicles on vacation can benefit from a toy hauler. The back opens up as a ramp, making it easy to load and unload. Once the cargo is unloaded, the back area can be converted to a seating or dining space.
The Drivable Types of RVs
Motorhomes are recreational vehicles with engines. These all-in-one units make it easier to pick up and go since you don’t have to attach a trailer to your car. However, if you decide to tow a vehicle, you still have to take the time to hitch it up.
Class A
Class As are motorhomes built on a bus or commercial truck chassis. They’re heavy-duty vehicles that offer a smooth ride and plenty of space for families. They come in lengths ranging from 25-45 feet. Longer lengths require owners to find RV parks that can accommodate big rigs. These RVs often have slide-outs, which create even more room. They have full kitchens, plenty of sleeping areas and overhead cabinets. There is storage underneath, and sometimes an additional outdoor kitchen and television.
While these types of RVs are loaded with amenities, they are the most expensive recreational vehicles on the road. They also take some getting used to when driving in towns, especially the larger ones. With more vehicle behind you, you need to adjust your turns to accommodate or risk clipping a post or running over a curb. In some states, if you own a Class A that weighs more than 26,000 pounds, you need a commercial driver’s license. Class A vehicles often run on diesel gas.
Class C
Another popular drivable recreational vehicle is the Cass C RV. These are built on van chassis and have an over-the-cab compartment. Many families like these types of RVs for the additional sleeping area they provide. The space over the cab is often a dedicated bed, though in some models you can opt for extra storage instead.
You can find Class Cs as short as 20 feet to as much as 35 or 40 feet long. They tend to be easier to handle than Class A RVs but may not ride quite as smoothly. Slide-outs are standard on newer models, providing extra living space, but they tend to have less room overall than Class As. They are also less expensive.
Camper Van
Camper vans are types of RVs that are also known as Class B recreation vehicles. These are often smaller than Class Cs, with less living space, headroom and storage. They have compact quarters, but you can get them in sizes up to 20 feet long.
They frequently come equipped with kitchens, though some may be more like kitchenettes. They may also have a toilet or wet bath (a bathroom where the shower, toilet and sink occupy a single stall). They are maneuverable and easy to park, as they usually fit in standard parking spots.
The Place To Vacation for All Types of RVs
Now that you know more about the different types of RVs, you can choose a style that fits your needs. No matter which kind you choose, Texas offers plenty of options for camping on your next vacation getaway. The Boston Group manages RV parks in some of Texas’s most desirable locations, offering a wide range of amenities, full hookups and a warm, Lone-Star welcome. Get in touch with us to learn more about our Texas RV parks and plan your next trip.
