So You're Ready to Drive an RV

Are they hard to handle?
“It’s different—not difficult,” says Kevin Broom, a Recreation Vehicle Industry Association spokesperson. “Today’s motor homes come with automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes.”

Are all motor homes the same?
Nope. There are three types. Type A looks like a bus. Type B (such as the one used by our writer) resembles a tricked-out van. Type C is a truck­motor home hybrid. Mileage is between 5 and 18 mpg.

How do I find a rental outlet?
Check the yellow pages or visit www.rvra.org for a searchable online rental directory.

How much will it cost?
Luxury rigs range from $90 to $200 per day; more modest travel trailers run $28 to $85. Multiday deals are usually available. You’ll pay a fee for the number of miles you drive (some companies sell miles as a package), and you’ll pay for your own gas. Generators (used in places without electrical hookups) cost about $3 per hour. Thinking about buying? “A new RV will cost anywhere from $4,000 to $400,000 depending on size and amenities,” says Broom, “but you can often find good deals on used RVs.”

What about campgrounds?
Campgrounds range between $10 and $50 per night, though five-star digs charge up to $200. For holidays, book well in advance. Carry a good campground guide such as Woodall’s North American Campground Directory, 2007 ($23.95 at bookstores; $11.95 at www.woodalls.com).

How do I get started?
Call 888-467-8464 and order a free getting-started DVD or CD-ROM. The 40-minute program walks newcomers through the basics of renting, trip planning, and campground amenities. Or go to www.GoRVing.com, a one-stop website for novices.