It’s All About Comfort

One of the main reasons that we purchased an RV is so that we could travel and enjoy the outdoors more often while still maintaining a certain level of comfort.  Similarly, it provides us with a space to leave our dogs safely (we don’t like to travel without them).  It is funny how as we get older we become more discerning.  Although we are willing to rough it, it is certainly nice to get into a comfortable bed after a long day of hiking and have somewhere to get out of the rain, especially if you are taking longer trips.  As you look at RVs, it is important to know what features and amenities you will require in an RV before you purchase one.  Here are some of the things you should consider:

What size bed do you need? – For many people one of the main reasons to have an RV is so that you can enjoy the outdoors and still sleep comfortably.  Therefore, it is important to consider the size bed you will need.  Likewise it is important to consider the layout of the bed.  One of the first trailers we purchased had a queen sized bed.  This was plenty of space for the two of us since we were small.  What we did not consider was the configuration of the bed.  The bed sat in the back of the trailer and had solid walls on both sides.  Although the bed was large enough for the both of us, without open space on both sides there was no way to stretch our arms and elbows while sleeping.  Because of this configuration, we spent a lot of time invading each other’s space and banging the walls when moving around at night.  Needless to say, it was less than comfortable for any longer than a weekend.

Is the shower tall enough?  - When we purchased our first trailer we were thrilled that it had a shower.  The problem was we never tested it.  It was significantly higher than the floor and when we stepped into it we would hit our heads.  While showering, we had to bend in a slumped over position, which was inconvenient and uncomfortable.

Do you need a tub? – We didn’t consider this when we purchased our first trailer but it turned out to be an important question.  Thankfully our trailer did have a tub and when our dog found a comfortable mud puddle to lie down in, the tub came in extremely handy when it was time to bathe her.

Outdoor shower? – Many RVs come with outdoor showers, but not all do.  This feature can come in handy if you need to wash off the dogs or kids after a day of biking through the mud before letting them into the RV.

Is the refrigerator/freezer large enough? – If you are planning on weekend camping only, the answer is probably yes.  If you are planning on longer trips, consider how you are going to manage (look for future articles addressing this issue with tips on how to manage on longer trips).

Entertainment indoors and out? – For many people the reason for getting an RV is so that you can enjoy the outdoors while still maintaining a certain level of comfort.  For others an RV is used for tailgating at sporting events.  If you are a tailgater, then chances are you want a TV to watch the pre-game show and a stereo for entertainment while partying.  Many RVs now offer televisions with a door to the outside where you can swivel the television to switch between indoor and outdoor viewing.  Other more expensive RVs have a compartment with a television for outdoor use.  Similarly, you may want to consider whether or not you require outdoor speakers for your stereo.

How will you power all your goodies? – Many people assume that RVs are self sustaining units that have everything you need to survive for days in the middle of nowhere.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  Unless you are planning on staying at campgrounds with an electrical hookup at all times, you may be sorely disappointed.  Some RVs come with a generator to help power your RV; however, a generator is often noisy, smelly and can ruin the aesthetics of the outdoors or belch CO2 into your tailgating party.  Similarly, the batteries that come with new RVs are barely sufficient to keep your RV powered overnight without recharge.  Therefore, do you need a generator, solar panels, or an inverter to power your toys? (look for some of our other articles that discuss installing solar panels.)

Is the air conditioner sufficient?  -  If you are camping in desert states such as Arizona, where we live, this is an important question.  Although most RVs come with an air conditioner, many larger RVs come with roof vents that double as a second location to install an air conditioner. 

Other Amenities you may wish to consider:

• Ice maker

• Microwave (most RVs come equipped with one already)

• Dishwasher

• Hydraulic Leveling System (so you don’t have to crank the levelers by hand)

• Entertainment center features:  surround sound, flat panel TV, DVD player, satellite TV, satellite radio

• Computer desk

• Rooftop deck

• Rear view camera for backing up (several aftermarket devices also exist)

• Slideout’s for more space

• Faux fireplace (we recommend a campfire J)

• Bay windows for enhanced views

• Washer & dryer

• Security system

Part 4 - Doing Your Homework

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