Recreational Vehicles

Lesson 1: Let Me Introduce You To RVs

Types of Recreational Vehicles

This lesson will cover vehicles that do not have their own motor to make them move. You must “tow” them on or behind another vehicle. This type of vehicle is generally considered to be a trailer.

The first type of RV is the "POP-UP":

These are small trailers that when opened become sort of a tent on wheels. The solid top rises up from the solid bottom and the fabric sides unfold to complete the tent. They usually have an overhang on the front and back to make the sleeping areas. Typically they sleep 2 to 8 people and contain minimal kitchen and storage facilities. Price for these units go from $4,000 to nearly $15,000 depending upon size and amenities.

Advantages for these units: They are usually of smaller size, which allows towing with a smaller truck or SUV. They cost less than most other types of RV’s allowing a somewhat economical entry to RVing.

Disadvantages of these units: The size limits privacy and storage. There are usually no toilet facilities. The fabric sides make them less secure for you and your possessions and they provide less protection from the weather. These units are built for weekend or short term camping with a minimum number of people. Ya gotta like being outside.

The next type of RV is the “TRUCK CAMPER":

Often called "slide-in campers” these slide in and are carried in the back of a pickup truck. These units are like trailers without wheels. They must be lifted into and out of the back of a truck in order to move them. These can sleep up to 8 people. They also contain minimal kitchen facilities but do sometimes contain toilet facilities. Cost ranges from $8000 to more than $20,000.

Advantages: These units are more secure and better adapted to the elements. These units are still relatively inexpensive and they are easy to set up and take down compared to the pop-up. Some states don’t require a separate license tag for these campers, as they don’t actually travel on the road. This type of camper is ideal for two people for a couple of weeks on the road or weekend camping but you must be very good friends for anything longer.

Disadvantages: these units being of small size limit movement to one person at a time inside the unit. Families with older children or families larger than four really need to think hard before considering this unit. Also, they still don’t offer a lot of storage space. They are not well suited for long trips on the road.

The next type of RV is the “TRAVEL TRAILER":

This is the typical trailer that is towed behind a truck with what is called a bumper hitch. That is a hitch at bumper level at the rear of the vehicle. The travel trailer can range from 16 to nearly 40 feet in length. Cost is from $10,000 to nearly $60,000.

Advantages: depending on size and appointments these units can support your needs from weekend outings to living fulltime. These units normally have all the amenities that you would find in a home, save for the size. These RV’s can have separate bedrooms and full baths.

Disadvantages: Most of these travel trailers require a heavier tow vehicle, one that is or has been specifically set up to tow. Unlike the fifth-wheel the trailer is susceptible to the sucking sensation you get when a semi passes you in the same direction. Backing one of these takes practice and patience.

The next type of RV is the “FIFTH-WHEEL":

This type of RV has an overhang in the front to allow the towing point to be in the bed of a pickup truck. It is a little weird looking but this arrangement is the safest towing set up. These tend to be larger vehicles more suited to long-term use. These units run from 26 to 38 feet and cost $15,000 to $100,000.

Advantages: lots of room, high ceilings, usually have separate fully appointed bed and bathrooms, lots of storage, apartment sized refrigerators. These units are best suited for those families that want to take to the road for longer periods.

Disadvantages: must have a heavy-duty truck and a special hitch to tow these units. As with the trailer backing one of these monsters can be a bit tricky.

Prices quoted above were taken from personal experience and other sources such as "RV Trader" and "Kelly Bluebook".

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