How to Pick the Right RV for Your Summer Adventures

Whether you’re a digital nomad or planning your family’s summer vacation a little differently this year, it’s no secret that packing up an RV and heading out on an open road exploration is the perfect way to spend the summer. But if you're new to the world of RVs, you might find it a little challenging to decide on the rig that best aligns with your lifestyle. Thankfully, here at Country Camping, we’ve been servicing the Okanagan, Kelowna, Kamloops - Shuswap areas for over 30 years. We’re proud to carry a vast selection of new and pre-owned destination trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers and travel trailers. If you're not quite sure what type of RV you’ll need for your next RV summer adventure, keep reading!

Weight Vs. Towing Capacity

Weight distribution is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for an RV. What kind of vehicle will you be driving? Most pickup trucks and mid to full-sized SUVs can tow enough weight for the average travel trailer or fifth-wheeler, but it’s essential that you find out what your current vehicle’s towing capabilities are and be sure to only look at RVs that align with that. The last thing you need is to fall in love with an RV only to find out your SUV’s limitations in actually towing it. Additionally, you’ll need to account for the weight of all the cargo your trailer, as well as your vehicle, will be carrying!

Type of RV

Getting a residential vehicle isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. From motorhomes to travel trailers, there are many different types of RVs, each with its own design and features. Depending on your lifestyle and the kind of adventure you plan to embark on, it’s important to find an RV you know will complement that.

• Travel trailers are the most common type of RV. They are the least expensive and come in smaller sizes, capable of being hauled by almost any vehicle with a towing capacity. Travel trailers are also the easiest kind of RV or manufacturers – and RV aficionados alike - to build.
• Motorhomes are perfect for being your literal home away from home, equipped with all the key amenities you need, like a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom.  Motorhomes are usually manufactured first as a bare chassis (nothing more than a powertrain). On top of this bare chassis, coach manufacturers build their version of a house on wheels - everything from the floor, roof, all four walls, and interior finishings.
• Fifth-wheel trailers are very popular with people who live in their RVs for an extended period. With their wide-open living spaces (including high ceiling height) and comfortable layouts, it's no wonder they are popular.
• Pop-up campers, truck campers, and small travel trailers are often the best way to ease into the RVing lifestyle. For those looking for more room, investing in a mid to large travel trailer or fifth-wheel RV is the way to go. 

Seasonal Vs. Four Season

Are you planning to stow away your rig in the winter and save it for summer fun? Or, will you be camping out in the fall and winter months or perhaps living the snow bird life and travelling south of the border with the temperatures dip? It’s important to consider the time of year you expect to use your RV – because, again, you’ll need a rig to match!

Seasonal RVs, while fully engineered to handle the elements, are not typically designed to respond to a multitude of environmental conditions. Equipped with proper insulation, cooling, and heating, a four-season travel trailer is a camper you can live in summer, spring, winter, and fall! However, if you plan on reserving your RV for summer in the sun, a seasonal rig might be your best option.

RV Comforts and Amenities

Now that you have a good idea of the kinds of RVs available to you, now comes the fun part! Since your new RV will be your new home away from home, you’ll want to ensure it’s fully equipped with everything you need to make you feel comfortable. Whether you plan to live off the grid or prefer luxury living, consider the features and amenities that are important to you. Some things to consider include:

• Toilet type (indoor vs. outdoor) and shower
• Cooking space and food storage
• Sleeping quarters, both size and arrangement (are you travelling solo, with your spouse, or with your family of 5?)

If you have more questions about what to look for in an RV, the team here at Country Camping RV will be thrilled to help! Browse our inventory online today, and don’t hesitate to drop us a line or stop by our lot to get any of your questions answered about how to get the most out of your RV summer adventures!