Set a budget for your road trip. Rental fees and gas will be among the more expensive considerations if you're renting. If you're an RV owner, you'll still have to pay for maintenance and any damage done on your trip. Call or visit the websites of local rental agencies to find special promotions, discounts and incentives. Fancy RV models can be costly to rent and the basic models provide all the necessary amenities. A typical C-class motor home is easy to maneuver and provides adequate space. Standard options include air conditioning and heat, beds, a toilet and shower, microwave, table, small stove and mini-refrigerator.
Choose a suitable destination, factoring in time and distance. Road trips are fun because the journey is as important as the destination, but having an exciting destination will make the trip even better. Your destination should be a place that can be navigated in an RV and shouldn't be too far to reach comfortably on your trip. An RV road trip should be flexible enough to allow for spontaneous decisions along the way. You can stop to enjoy a lovely mountainside, lake resort or hidden valley whenever you want.
Stock the RV with supplies. Load up on practical items you'll need, including bedding, dishes, pots and pans, cleaning supplies, soap, towels, toiletries, fishing poles, sports equipment, games, electronics, tools and food. To minimize the amount of cleaning required, use paper paper cups and plates and plastic utensils.
Plan the driving route. You'll be free to enjoy the trip if you pick a safe and driver-friendly route to take. Avoid single-lane roadways and areas that may be windy or impassable because of snow and ice. Select an interstate or other major highway with well-defined exits and regular gas stations. An atlas or a website such as MapQuest or Google Maps will list all the major routes. Choose one that offers activities and adequate rest areas for weary or adventure-seeking passengers.
Locate camping sites that offer easy waste disposal, parking and bathroom facilities. Some sites also have swimming pools, miniature golf and sports facilities for RV travelers. Research the location, cost and available amenities before you hit the road, but don't feel as though you have to stick to campgrounds. RV travel allows vacationers the option of parking at locations stumbled upon along the journey. Flexible travel schedules and built-in housing arrangements allow you to stay the night at the beach or a mountain hideaway--just make that it's legal to park overnight, or you could face fines.
