Deciding between a motorized coach or towable can be fun and overwhelming
Rewritten by Joseph Garnett, Jr. - From the Archives
July 20, 2015
Educate yourself.
They come in all shapes and sizes. The RV that’s right for you is based on your personal preferences, how you plan to use it and budget. It is best to learn what is appealing and also what is practical.
Ask questions.
- How many people will the RV accommodate?
- Will the RV be used for weekends or will there be long-term trips or destination stays?
- If you have any other recreation vehicles, will you be towing those too?
- When you visit various campgrounds, will you be using hookups or boondocking in out-of-the-way places?
Do you know your tow vehicle?
Once you have decided on a towable RV, it is imperative to make sure you know if the vehicle you will use has the necessary capacity to pull and stop the trailer you want. Make sure you know the Gross Vehicle Rating (GVR) for your RV. The GVR is the maximum operating weight/mass of a vehicle as specified by the manufacturer. Gross vehicle weight ratings take into account the base curb weight of the vehicle plus the weight of any optional accessories, cargo and passengers. A vehicle should never be loaded beyond the manufacturer's listed GVR.
Perform maintenance before the trip.
Make a checklist and follow it diligently. It is important to check everything around two weeks before your trip to allow time for any necessary repairs. This also avoids any last-minute emergencies.
- Tires
- Brakes
- Bearings
- Lights
- Batteries
- Water Systems
- Tanks
- Appliances
- Flues
- Roof
- Hitches
- Windows
If you’d prefer some expert care, come see our RV service technicians at Lazydays Tampa or Tucson. We’ll get your RV in tip-top condition for your road trip.
Plan your trip and travel routes.
Also, using a GPS, maps and digital tools can help plan a safe journey.
Be Smart When Storing Your RV
Once your travels have come to an end, be sure to store your RV, dry, empty and sanitize all tanks. To avoid moisture in the lines or ice maker causing mold, leave the fridge door open. Empty all the cabinets and storage compartments. Close the shades, turn off appliances and cover the tires. By following these tips, you will be able to avoid major and emergency repairs, making for some safe and exciting memories in your travels.
Come See Us at Lazydays When You’re Shopping
With one of the largest RV inventory selections in the world, Lazydays is ready to help you find your perfect RV. Come see all that we have to offer in Tampa or Tucson and hit the road in the RV of your dreams.
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