More Americans than ever are vacationing by hitting the road in RVs and with good reason. When you consider the cost of the average family vacation, RVing is an economical choice. With the price of airfare and accommodations, a traditional vacation can cost thousands of dollars. According to GoRVing.org, a family of four can save up to 61% on vacation costs over other types of vacation travel.
An affordable way to travel and stay
Since your RV is your lodging and food is prepared in your kitchen, your travel expenses are minimized. If you’re concerned about the current gas prices, don’t let the size of recreational vehicles fool you. Today’s RV models are manufactured to be more fuel efficient than ever. If you’re towing your RV, you only have your family vehicle fuel costs to consider.
Pet owners will appreciate the savings on kennel costs when Rover gets to ride along also. Just be sure to check the campsite's rules regarding pets before beginning your trip. Visit Bark Buckle Up for lots of great tips on traveling with pets.
Gas cost can be cut down even further when stay close to home. Considering the fact that there are over 16,000 campsites nationwide, chances are you have one nearby. And you don’t have to sacrifice entertainment, amenities or activities. Most campsites include pools, group classes, hiking, convenience stores and laundry facilities. Once you arrive at your campsite destination there's little reason to drive anywhere else.
Pop-ups and other towable models
If you already own an RV or can borrow or rent one you’re all set. If you’re in the market for an RV there are some considerations when shopping around. There are RVs for just about every family size and budget. If you’re thinking about getting a towable model, and don’t have a heavy duty truck, a folding camping trailer, or pop-up is a good choice. Pop-ups are light weight and can be towed by most family vehicles; even small cars. Checking your car owner’s manual will provide information on towing guidelines and restrictions.
When it comes to folding or pop-up campers, these little power houses may seem small, but they open up to offer generous living, dining and cooking spaces. A new folding camping trailer generally runs between $5,000 and $13,000. Other towable models include truck campers, fifth wheels and travel trailers. Prices range between $3,000 and $65,000.
Motorized RVs
Motorized travel trailers are the cream of the crop when it comes to RVs. For the ultimate in luxury you can enjoy your travel vacation in style and lavish comfort. Towing the family car behind is easy and convenient. Motorized travel trailers are usually 21 to 40 feet long and cost between $50,000 and $500,000.
Planning your next family vacation around an RV trip to a national or state park is an affordable way to relax, unwind, spend time with your family and commune with nature. The National Park Service has some great information on their website. They also suggest calling your intended destination before leaving to ask about reservations, permits, regulations, activities and services.
Sources
- Go RVing, Why go RVing, easy on the pocket, accessed July, 2011
- The National Park Service, Map and Guide, accessed July, 2011
Susan Barton - Susan Barton writes articles, Web content and more. Please visit her at http://www.lovesleftovers.com and ...
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