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.
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.
If you’ve never been to Texas, why are you waiting? Texas is a big state with a big heart and offers incredible adventure. The landmass is a whopping 268,597 square miles (a little larger than France), so it’s time to get going and see what all the talk is about.
For the whole experience, you need to spend time roaming around the Lone Star State. Traveling in your RV is an excellent way to visit all the places that pique your interest. Whether you want to relax by the shore, visit beautiful cities, listen to live music, or get out in nature, Texas is the best state for full-time RVers.
Natural Spaces in the Best State for Full-Time RVers
If you plan to visit the coast, be sure to check out Padre Island National Seashore. This national park is the largest undeveloped barrier island in the world that is abundant with wildlife and sea creatures that inhabit the tidal flats.
Stay at a nearby luxury RV resort, so you have extra time to explore the dunes and swim in the Gulf of Mexico. Catch a beautiful sunset on popular Mustang Island and keep your camera handy for some memorable shots.
Historical Sites
When in San Antonio, you must remember to visit the Alamo. This cultural institution is a global treasure for all who visit. Join a guided tour to learn about the Spanish mission’s vibrant history and the famous people connected to the Alamo’s story.
The famous Riverwalk is steps away, so plan to meander this beautiful city feature. There’s lots of shopping and great food to enjoy along the path, making this another reason Texas is the best state for full-time RVers.
Cultural Experiences
Head to “Big D” Dallas to experience one of the finest collections of artworks by the Spanish masters at the Meadows Museum. You can browse the artistry of Goya, Murillo, Picasso and Ribera, to name a famous few.
The Texas State Capitol is the seventh-largest building in the world, constructed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style. Its red-granite exterior is breathtaking and worth the trip. Stay at an RV park in the area and find out why “Keep Austin Weird” is an apt slogan for this unique city.
Musical Venues
While Austin is billed as the Live Music Capital of the World, you’ll find great music throughout the state. From concert halls to honky-tonks, Texas has a thriving music scene, which is why it leads the pack as the best state for full-time RVers.
Gruene Hall in Hill Country is the oldest dance hall in the state that features both budding and famous artists playing to excited crowds ready to two-step the night away. Park your rig outside the hall and head next door to the Gristmill Restaurant before the show. Try the best onion rings on the planet as a starter.
Plan Your Travels Around the Best State for Full-Time RVers
The Boston Group manages premier RV properties across the state of Texas. Our parks and resorts feature excellent facilities and amenities for our visitors. Contact us to learn more about our portfolio and see why we believe this is the best state for full-time RVers.
Young adults are the fastest-growing group of RVers in the country. They are ditching the sticks and bricks and opting for a nomadic life, traveling the country in a house on wheels. With remote work becoming increasingly common, young adults are finding fewer reasons not to join more than 1 million people living full time in an RV in the U.S. For those considering making the move, it’s important to know some of the pros and cons before taking the leap.
Living Full Time in an RV Has Its Perks
RVing is no longer just for snowbirds or vacationing families. There are several perks for young adults who choose this lifestyle.
Save Money
Approximately 66% of high school graduates attend college right after finishing their secondary education, racking up an average of $37,000 in student loan debt. One of the appeals of moving into an RV is the ability to save some cash.
Though it can get expensive to rent a campground spot on a nightly basis 365 days per year, many people find parks that offer monthly long-term rates. These rates make living full time in an RV much cheaper than paying a mortgage or rent. Additionally, RV parks often offer additional amenities, including:
Free Wi-Fi
On-site laundry
Shower and restroom facilities
Community use facilities
Walking trails and dog parks
Exercise facilities
With these kinds of perks, you get the benefits of living in a residential community at a more reasonable rate. You can take the money you save and stash it away or use it to pay off debt or have more fun.
Spend More Time in Nature
One of the biggest draws to nomadic life is spending more time in nature. Often, living full time in an RV allows you to explore the country’s most scenic environments. Whether you prefer mountains, deserts or beaches, you can find a place to park your rig. There is no better way for an adventure-loving young adult to see and experience it all than by living in a home on wheels.
Follow the Good Weather
In Texas, the phrase, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes,” is appropriate. In most areas, you don’t want to wait around for weather you like. Winters in the Northeast can be harsh, while summers in the Southwest are brutal. When you’re living full time in an RV, you don’t have to wait. You can chase your idea of perfect weather around the country.
Find Freedom
Many young adults who choose the RV life wax poetic about the freedom life on the road affords them. When you opt for minimalism, you aren’t tied to the trappings of consumerism. You don’t have to earn as much money to maintain the traditional, modern lifestyle, which means you can work less and have more free time to do what you love. What’s more, it takes a lot less time to clean a rig than it does a house!
Work With a View
For most young adults, living full time in an RV doesn’t mean you don’t have to have a job. It just means you have more freedom to choose where you work. With today’s technology, remote work is getting easier to find. Your rig becomes the ultimate office with a view, and when you get bored with one view, you can change it without looking for a new job.
Full Time RV Life Has Some Drawbacks
If you look at social media to learn about RV living, you may get the idea that there are no downsides to this lifestyle. Before you decide whether living full time in an RV is the right choice for you, you should have a clear picture of what the cons are.
Connecting Isn’t Always Easy
While it’s great to get away from the hustle and bustle of modern life, it’s still important to make connections with other people. When you move your home from location to location regularly, it’s harder to build a network of friends and people you can trust. Many young adults rely on social media or organized RV groups to connect with fellow nomads.
Breaking Down Is a Risk
When your home has an engine and other mechanical parts, it’s going to break down. Living full time in an RV requires the patience and flexibility to cope with the inevitable flat tires, worn-out parts and mechanical failures. Some repairs you can learn to take care of yourself, but others may require you to find someplace else to stay while your rig is in the shop.
Sticking to a Schedule May Be Hard
When you work from home, and you can take your home to the most beautiful spots in the country, it can be challenging to make a schedule and stick to it. With the outdoors calling, you may be tempted to take to the trails rather than attend to your job. Living full time in an RV requires some degree of self-motivation and -discipline.
Working Remote Presents Challenges
Remote work doesn’t work without a good Wi-Fi connection and cell signal. Remote locations often have neither. However, most modern, full-service RV campgrounds have Wi-Fi in the park, making it easier to log in to your job. You’ll also appreciate the Wi-Fi on those rainy days that keep you inside your rig.
Finding a Place To Stay Can Be Challenging
Living full time in an RV usually means changing your home base regularly. With so many people taking to the roads these days, it can be hard to find your next campground. During the summer months, America’s top destinations book up early. In the winter, snowbirds and full-timers alike flock to the southern and southwestern regions of the country, where winters are mild. Be prepared to plan ahead.
Living Full Time in an RV Is Possible With Texas Campgrounds
Many young adults living full time in an RV choose to spend time in Texas. This state offers a wide range of environments to suit every taste. The Boston Group manages campgrounds in some of the most desirable locations in the Lone Star state, and we offer monthly rates and numerous amenities that appeal to full-timers. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our campgrounds.
