The Straight Skinny On Campers And Recreational Vehicles
What were once commonly known as campers—large motorized vehicles with living quarters self-contained—have now experienced a switch in common nomenclature. The popular term for at least 15 years has been recreational vehicle (RV). Regardless of the term you use, these behemoths of the highway have risen in popularity over the last two decades. The major reason for this trend is due to the ease and relatively inexpensive price associated with renting a camper or RV. In turn, that has led to an increase in the number of RV parks—areas where you can pull in, hook up to water, electric and sometimes sewer connections—so you can utilize your camper as -Vacation Central”, a base of operations for your adventures. Although for many people the terms -camper” and -recreational vehicle” are interchangeable, there is actually a difference. A camper can most specifically refer to a truck camper shell, which is a camper top that fits over the bed of any commercial truck. These types of campers are broken down into fifth-wheel trailers (a camper designed to be towed by a medium duty or pickup truck with a fifth wheel coupling) and a travel trailer (a standard camper that is designed to be hauled by a larger vehicle, such as a heavy duty truck) and a hybrid trailer (a mix between a standard travel trailer and a fold out tent). The RVs usually take into account any motorized home on wheels. The divisions here are: Class A Motorcoach (constructed on either a commercial truck or bus chassis or a specially designed motor vehicle chassis, Class B Campervan (built into a conventional van) and a Class C Motorhome (built on a truck chassis with an attached cab section). Perhaps the most widely known brand of recreational vehicle is Winnebago, a product of the company of the same name from Forest City, Iowa. In fact, many people still refer to motorhomes using the generic term, "Winnebago." That company became a pioneer in the RV industry in the early 1960s. Other manufacturers include Roadtrek; Fleetwood Enterprises; Newmar Corporation; Monaco Coach Corporation; Coachmen and Starcraft RV. Seven million households in the U.S. now own campers and RVs, many purchased new. These campers and RVs can cost from less than $10,000 to $50,000. Some have prices that run more. The largest Class A motorhome with all of the options and features can cost from $100,000 to $650,000. Renting an RV or camper can run as low as $60-$90 a day for a compact unit (22-24 feet in length) that can sleep a family of four (much less than one hotel room would cost in many cases charging prime in-season rates, especially in popular tourist areas like the Grand Strand of South Carolina) up to $250 or more a day for the largest models with all the amenities. Most camper and RV rental businesses in South Carolina usually always have a bargain rental offer to various locations or time periods. Discussing these deals beforehand with a reputable camper and RV dealer can help you save money. When choosing a camper or RV you will have so many options to consider that you may be overwhelmed. Some factors that many potential buyers consider when buying an RV or camper are safety, comfort of ride and handling, daily needs (food, bathroom facilities, sleeping compartments or bedrooms, etc.), fuel efficiency or ease of operation. Let your expert South Carolina RV help you choose from the various models and sizes. The one factor about which most people are interested are the many RV and camper "floor plans" from which to choose. Perhaps you are looking for a smaller version that is the perfect size for couples. There are models available that are just right for two people who just want to get away. Others are just right for small and larger families looking to get away for summer vacation. If you are looking for a travel trailer, you will find there are various models that can be easily be towed by your truck or car. One of the best ways to determine this is to take a camper or RV out for a test trip. Spending a little time with a camper or RV, doing the activities you like to do, will give you the best way to compare. This is especially true for those looking into a camper or RV purchase for the first time. Some will find that they don’t enjoy the lifestyle as much as they anticipated. A used camper or RV not only saves money over a new one but also offers better features with a variety of choices at a far more affordable price than a new one. The value of a used camper or RV is determined after taking into account the age, overall condition and the possible depreciation. While buying a used camper or RV, you should gain access to the pertinent information regarding all these factors. You should also look into the future and consider the resale value of a used camper or RV, especially if you have the opportunity for an even better unit. For this reason some experts suggest not to consider a camper or RV that is more than a year old. Purchasing a camper or RV, whether new or used, is best done at a reputable South Carolina dealer. The simple explanation for doing this deals with the warranty or a guarantee that a dealer can offer as opposed to a private seller. On the other side of the coin, it is these same private individuals that may give you the best deal. Make your decision on what is best for you by carefully considering your individual circumstances before buying. Let's look at the numbers. While you will pay to park at a campsite, the cost is far less (between $15-$100 depending on the site) in the end than what you'd spend on hotel rooms. Experts say if you calculate using the lowest possible rates--camp site ($15), RV camper rental ($60-$90/day), and food ($30), it could cost as little as $135/day for a brood of four to travel by camper (excluding the cost of gas). That's a savings of $115 per day. Perhaps the biggest problem associated with RV campers is the fact most only get between 10-15 miles per gallon. However, the best part of what you gain in savings can be used to compensate for any higher gas prices. These advantages include not having to move one’s belongings in and out of motel rooms or even rent multiple motel rooms. It also allows RV campers to sleep in a bed in which they are comfortable rather than submitting themselves to the differences in sleeping comfort found in hotel beds. Being able to prepare food that you purchase from a store saves money compared to eating in restaurants. In addition, campers and RVs provide more organized living space and better protection from the weather than a tent. At a minimum, campers and RVs typically contain beds, a table, food preparation and storage areas. Larger models will also contain add full bathrooms, refrigerators, living areas, master bedrooms, etc. Some campers and RVs with added bells and whistles can also feature satllite TV, slide-out sections and awnings, or the option of towing a small car behind the camper. Many South Carolinians with campers and RV stay at RV parks, most of which feature electrical, water and sewer service—known as full hookups. They also sometimes feature cable television and wireless Internet access. Since the competition for the camper vacationer dollar is heating up, a number of RV parks are now offering amenities such as swimming pools, game rooms and even destination-resort activities such as horseback riding. However, there are those individuals who use their campers and RVs to truly experience out-of-the-way locations in remote rural areas. This is called boondocking. And in many cases (except where overnight parking is prohibited by local ordinance) Wal-Mart stores allow campers and RVs to park in their lots for free. In South Carolina, the state park service has also moved to accommodate this camper and RV trend by constructing more hookups at its various locations around the state. Also many people with campers and RVs stay at city parks, county parks, and national parks. Recently, state statistics from the Department of Parks, Tourism and Recreation showed that eight percent of the 15% of South Carolinians who traveled with a camper or RV stayed at a South Carolina state park. Many camper and RV travel experts suggest that you should plan ahead to make certain your trip is as enjoyable as possible, especially if you are using your camper or RV on a trip for the first time. The urge by many to have a relaxing and inexpensive vacation in an otherwise stressful world makes traveling in a camper or RV a cost efficient and enjoyable way to go. It also comes with the added benefits of wide open spaces during your journey, making it perfect for families or larger groups. Talk to a South Carolina camper and RV dealer today. The open road is calling you!Types of campers and RVs
New camper and RV purchase and rental costs
Purchasing a new or used RV camper
Camper and RV operational costs and savings
Advantages to camper travel
Preparing for a camper or RV trip
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