Last month, more than 47,000 people flocked to Hershey, Pennsylvania for “America’s Largest RV Show.” There were hundreds of new RVs on display and most of them were for sale. This is the first chance many prospective RV buyers have to see new model-year RVs. It is where repeat and first-time buyers alike can come to ask questions, compare features, and daydream about their next purchase.
If you have just purchased or are about to purchase your first RV, you’ll want to keep reading. We talked to some of our favorite “road warriors” to share their tips for new RVers.
8 Years RVing
“Take your time, be patient, and enjoy the moment. Even when things are going wrong there is something in that moment to be thankful for; it could even be a learning experience that you can apply for a later trip. We learn so much about the areas we travel to and about ourselves, enjoy those miles in between trips to sit and chat while watching beautiful scenery go by.”
6 Years RVing
“Take your time with driving. We can spend a ton of time and money (fuel is our number 1 cost) driving. We have found that 300 miles is a good daily limit for moving. It allows us to not be under pressure to get somewhere and we can always decide to drive further if we want. Most stories also come from the journey too, not just the destination. We travel without reservations as well, it works for us but ist doesn’t always work out when we get to busy areas during certain seasons. Be flexible and enjoy the ride.
7 Years RVing
My advice for new RVers is to take it slow and start out close to home. Take your first few trips somewhere within an hour of home if possible. Practice in RV campgrounds because you are going to want to get your practice in somewhere you can also easily run back home and get what you forgot… because it’s going to happen the first time. Then, go 3-5 hours away for a few reps. After that, get out and enjoy the open road. Take your time and never rush. Rushing causes stress and stress ruins a good time.
3 Years RVing
“This one is easy because we had to learn it the hard way. The number one piece of advice we would offer beginners is: do not rush out and buy everything all at once!”
Check out Hank and Lola’s top 5 pieces of gear they ACTUALLY use.