Easy RV Trip Planning: Preparing for Your Next Adventure
RV trip planning can feel overwhelming. Scheduling fuel stops, meals, and overnight accommodations, while trying to add fun and adventure, can quickly become a logistical headache. Budgeting for the trip, ensuring personal safety, and managing unexpected issues can add to the stress. Identifying these challenges early will help you plan a well-organized and enjoyable RV adventure.
This article will guide you through the essential steps to plan your trip effectively, from route mapping to safety precautions. We’ll share tips and tools to make your RV trip planning easy and stress-free, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.
For over 20 years, the road has been our home. We’ve navigated countless routes and explored many destinations, always with a solid plan. Our experience gives us the confidence to say “Good planning makes all the difference”.
Ready to start planning? Let’s dive into our expert guide and get you on the road.
Budgeting Your Trip
Establishing a budget is the first step in RV trip planning. A travel budget contains expenses for fuel, overnight accommodations, meals, recreation, and other incidentals like firewood or boat launching fees.
Creating an emergency road fund can save you from scrambling. Unexpected expenses like repairs, maintenance, personal injuries, or sudden family emergencies requiring a return home can arise anytime.
Setting aside dedicated funds prepares you to handle unseen financial situations without disrupting your travel plans. A financial cushion provides peace of mind and keeps your adventures on track.
Tips for Creating a Travel Budget
Like many of you, we are budget-conscious. Having a clear financial picture before hitting the road helps us decide where we want to go and what we want to do.
Fuel is our largest expense. Before we head anywhere, we calculate how much fuel we’ll need for the trip. For instance, when planning a trip to Southern California, knowing that our fuel costs for a round-trip cross-country journey could easily reach $2,500 heavily influences our decision to drive. We may consider changing our destination to somewhere closer and reappropriate the fuel money into an over-the-top experience or luxury campground.
Two easy ways to determine your travel budget are:
- Set the amount you want to spend and plan your trip within that budget.
- Forecast your trip’s cost and set that money aside.
Knowing your budget will help alleviate financial stress by accounting for some known expenses while also preparing for unexpected costs.
One helpful tool is the RV Trip Wizard. This app allows you to input your destination and calculate costs for fuel, campgrounds, meals, and more. This app helps you see your expenses accurately and avoid financial surprises while traveling.
Of course, a simple spreadsheet will give you similar results.
We use our RV Travel Planning Budget Form. The form provides spaces for both estimated costs and actual costs incurred. With this information at hand, cost projection becomes easier and more accurate.
You can grab a copy of our RV Travel Planning Budget Form RIGHT NOW!
Choosing Your Destination
Choosing your destination is the most fun part of the RV Trip planning process. With so many beautiful destinations, narrowing your list may take a lot of work. Consider these important factors to help you become clear in planning a realistic RV travel itinerary.
Travel Time: Length of RV Trip
Not all of us can plan for unlimited time on the road. Sometimes it may be a two-week vacation, or it could be planning a six-month cross-country road trip. Either way, It’s necessary to schedule and plan for both travel days and vacation time.
For instance, a round-trip road adventure from the Mid-Atlantic region to Yellowstone National Park can take 11 days of driving. For a schedule-conscious traveler with only 14 days of vacation, this leaves just 3 days to explore the park.
To maximize time at your destination, consider adjusting your driving schedule. This could mean longer driving days and fewer stops, giving you more time to enjoy your final stop.
StroTip
3-3-3 Rule Is Only a Suggestion
The 3-3-3 rule of RVing suggests driving no more than 300 miles a day, arriving by 3 PM, and staying at least three nights at each location. This rule is designed to make travel more enjoyable and less stressful. However, it doesn’t always work for everyone.
Some RVers prefer more flexibility, have tight schedules, or desire to cover more ground in a day. Traffic, late starts, and eagerness to explore multiple destinations may also disrupt this guideline.
Flexibility and personal preferences should guide your travel plans.
Distance
In RV Trip planning, calculating the distance between your starting point and final stop is fundamental. For some people, vacation doesn’t start until they reach their destination, while others enjoy the journey. No matter your style, calculating distances can help prevent overdriving and fatigue, and helps keep your fuel budget on track.
Tools like Google Maps and MapQuest are great for preliminary calculating of distances and travel times, especially if you are focused on reaching a specific destination.
For more detailed planning, RV Trip Wizard is an excellent tool. The trip planning app helps calculate distances considering time and distance as key factors. The Trip Wizard provides a radius map based on your distance parameters and daily drive time preferences.
For example, you can set the wizard to drive 5 hours a day, and it will outline a map showing how far you can comfortably travel. Similarly, you can specify the number of miles you want to drive in a day, and it will create a map based on your travel style.
Destination
Now that you have the foundation for your road trip, choosing a destination is the next step. If you’re like me, you have a bucket list of places you want to visit. Pick a few and apply the budget, time, and distance factors discussed.
Balancing travel days and vacation time adds to creating a more fulfilling experience.
Don’t worry if you don’t have a specific location in mind. Consider your hobbies, or experiences you enjoy. Whether it’s hiking, biking, boating, or drinking wine, you can easily find locations to support your lifestyle and hobbies.
Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest are fantastic resources for finding beautiful locations. There are plenty of travel groups, and pages, that are both destination-specific and lifestyle-specific. Try searching a popular hashtag like #kayakingfloridasprings or #lakeoftheozarks.
Likewise, internet search engines like Google and Bing are helpful. For example, you can ask Google, “What are the best wineries in Virginia” or “What are some weird things to do in Amarillo, TX?”
Ask your family and friends where their favorite destinations are. Not only will this give you some ideas, but it also creates a great topic for conversation.
Finally, discover even more beautiful RVing destinations in our other blog posts! We share insider tips, breathtaking locations, and must-see spots that will inspire and enhance your travel adventures. Don’t miss out on our expert advice and recommendations to make your next RV trip unforgettable. Check them out now!
Choosing a destination is about finding the right balance. Using these tips, you can pick a destination that fits your budget, allows ample time to explore, and keeps your driving days manageable.
Mapping Out Your Route
With your destination chosen, the next important step is mapping out your route. Proper planning provides a more enjoyable time for everyone, by avoiding potential roadblocks while making the most of your travel time. Let’s explore the best tools and apps for route planning and tips to keep your trip on track.
Tools and Apps For Route Planning
For RV Trip Planning, we use a variety of tools and apps. Like many of you, we prefer to avoid big cities and costly tolls. The back roads and byways are more scenic, but they may not be practical or safe for RVers. With length, height, and weight restrictions on roads, RVers should use RV-specific tools. These are some of our recommendations:
RV Life Pro
RV Life Pro has many features that help make RV Trip planning a breeze. The trip wizard allows users to preset their RV dimensions, daily travel hours or miles, and budget. You can add points of interest, track your campground reservations, and even plan multiple trips.
The map shows private and state campgrounds, casinos with campgrounds, and stores that may allow overnight RV parking. The trip wizard will also design your route for more efficiency. We recently started using the GPS and have found it very reliable.
Other helpful features include campground reviews, master classes, and RV-inspired forums. If you aren’t using the RV Life Pro app, we highly recommend trying it.
RV Life Pro has a free 7-day trial and you can grab it right here!
Rand McNally Atlas
Nothing beats an old-school Road Atlas. Even with today’s technology, travelers are likely to experience lost cell service, a dead phone battery or you may forget to download a map to use offline.
This road atlas will help guide you along the truck routes and avoid being lost in the wilderness or dark desert highways. The truck atlas is geared for bigger rigs and RVs, to help you keep away from city streets or smaller roads with restrictions.
The laminated pages are compatible with dry-erase markers. We often mark our routes as part of our RV Trip Planning process. Then, we wipe the pages clean when we are finished.
Road Trippers
Roadtrippers is an essential RV trip planning tool, helping RVers find RV-friendly routes and avoid low clearances or narrow roads. With access to millions of points of interest, you can discover campgrounds, restaurants, scenic spots, and unique attractions along your journey.
For the general road trip community, Roadtrippers offers comprehensive planning features, including detailed itineraries and personalized recommendations. Whether you’re in an RV or a car, Roadtrippers makes every road trip memorable.
Try Roadtrippers for FREE right here!
Finding Campgrounds
It is reported that there are over 15,000 campgrounds in the United States. With so many campgrounds, finding one should be easy. However, finding the right campground for your adventure may take some research.
When choosing a campground, there are several key factors to consider to guarantee it meets your needs and accommodates your rig. First, check the site options: pull-in and back-in sites can affect how easily you can park. Verify the campground’s rules align with your requirements, such as pet policies and the 10-year RV rule. Look for essential hookups like water, sewer, and electric (30 or 50 amp) to match your rig’s needs.
Amenities like Wi-Fi, showers, and laundry facilities can enhance your stay. Doing your homework beforehand can help you avoid unpleasant surprises creating a smooth camping experience.
Here’s what you can expect in most cases:
National Park Campgrounds
It’s no wonder why our National Parks are so popular. From towering mountains to deep canyons, and even underwater mystery, our National Parks are full of wonder and magic.
They can also be extremely crowded and almost impossible to book a campsite, especially during the “in season”. Unlike resorts, National Park Campgrounds have limited amenities, partial or no hook-ups, and may come with size restrictions.
On the other hand, who needs Netflix and cell service when you can have a midnight picnic while listening to the rushing water at Yosemite Falls? I know which one I would pick all day long!
You can make reservations directly through the National Park website.
State Park Campgrounds
Camping in State Parks can be an economical choice for RVers and outdoor enthusiasts.
You can enjoy hiking, fishing, and watching wildlife in beautiful natural surroundings. Additionally, state parks often provide spacious sites, clean restrooms, and hookups for RVs, making them a comfortable and budget-friendly option for a memorable outdoor experience.
While there are usually plenty of unoccupied sites, making reservations can be difficult. Most states offer a “pre-season” booking window for in-state residents. It is not unusual for the more popular parks to fill before the general season window opens.
Most state park camping reservations can be made through reserveamerica.com and/or recreation.gov. Remember, you can always call the park directly if you have questions.
StroTip
Don’t believe everything you hear.
All campgrounds are not booked all the time. Our travel schedule is very often last-minute planning. Even though we have a big rig, we have found some great sites at the last minute.
It is not unusual for cancellations in National Parks and State Parks. Call the campground and ask, especially if you are looking for a same-day reservation.
You might just find an amazing site.
Commercial Campgrounds
Commercial campgrounds offer amenities and conveniences catering to both short-term and long-term RV travelers. These campgrounds often provide full hookups, including electricity, water, and sewer, as well as facilities like laundry rooms, showers, and Wi-Fi. Many also feature recreational amenities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and community rooms, making them ideal for families and groups.
Additionally, commercial campgrounds are typically located near popular tourist destinations, attractions, and major highways, providing easy access and convenience for travelers. Their well-maintained sites and comprehensive services create a comfortable and hassle-free camping experience, making them a popular choice for RVers looking for a blend of nature and modern comfort.
Apps like RV Life Pro, CampgroundViews and Passport America can help you find commercial campgrounds that fit your style and budget.
Boondocking
Boondocking, also known as dry camping, is a form of camping without hookups such as water, electricity, or sewer. This type of camping often takes place on public lands, such as those managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), or in remote areas away from developed campgrounds.
Boondocking offers a unique opportunity to enjoy nature in its purest form, away from the crowds and in serene, often stunning landscapes.
The primary appeal of boondocking is its economical and adventurous nature. Since there are no fees associated with most public lands, it’s a budget-friendly option for campers. However, it requires self-sufficiency, you must bring water, manage waste, and generate power.
Finding great boondocking sites may be more difficult than finding traditional campsites. Campendium is one of the best websites for finding boondocking campsites.
Online communities will often share information and help you discover some amazing “off-grid” camping.
Harvest Hosts
Harvest Hosts is a popular membership for traveling RVers, offering unique overnight stays at a variety of locations. With a Harvest Hosts membership, you can camp overnight at participating wineries, breweries, farms, museums, and golf courses, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional RV parks.
We appreciate the hospitality and the serene settings these Harvest Hosts locations offer.
Whether sampling local wines, exploring a farm, visiting a museum, or playing golf, Harvest Hosts provides a delightful alternative to crowded rest stops and parking lots, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Boondockers Welcome
Boondockers Welcome allows fully self-contained RVers to camp overnight on participating hosts’ private property. As traditional RV sites become more expensive and harder to find, this membership is gaining popularity.
Hosts generously offer their driveways and backyards to weary travelers, providing a safe and friendly place to stay.
We’ve discovered some amazing spots through Boondockers Welcome, enjoying the hospitality of our hosts and the unique settings they offer. It’s a nice alternative to conventional RV sites, often providing quieter and more personalized experiences.
HipCamp
HipCamp is another great option to commercial campgrounds. They offer unique campsites on private land for a memorable experience. Finding a one-of-a-kind campsite through HipCamp can make for a fun adventure, with Hosts often providing expert advice for exploring the area.
The program is a valuable resource for finding camping spots, many of which are more affordable than traditional campgrounds. HipCamp offers a variety of unique locations and experiences, from secluded spots to city-adjacent driveways.
Staying with locals has its advantages, especially when visiting a new city. Whether you’re looking for a great location close to the city or a peaceful retreat on a farm, HipCamp can connect you with unique spots you might not find elsewhere.
Quick Overnight Parking Options
Sometimes, all you need is a quick overnight parking spot to rest before hitting the road again. Whether you’re looking for a safe place to sleep or a convenient stopover, there are several stores that allow free overnight parking.
For a comprehensive list and tips on where you can park your RV overnight, check out our blog post here. This guide will help you find the perfect spot for a restful night so that you’re ready for the next leg of your journey.
Packing and Preparation for Your RV Trip
Packing and preparation are key for a successful RV trip. Start by gathering essential items: safety gear like a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and roadside emergency kit are non-negotiables.
Before departure, stock your kitchen with cookware, utensils, and food storage containers for convenient meal preparation. Include entertainment or activities such as books and games. Secure your outdoor gear like bikes or kayaks.
You may not need all of these for each trip, but packing them sure beats not having them.
Personal items are equally important. Pack enough clothing and toiletries. Remember to fill any prescriptions before you leave. Keeping a well-organized medicine cabinet can prevent unnecessary stress on the road.
Before hitting the road, conduct thorough pre-trip maintenance and checks.
Inspect your vehicle by checking tires, brakes, and fluid levels to certify everything is in good working order. Test all systems, including water, electrical, and propane, to avoid surprises during your journey.
Creating a comprehensive checklist for packing and preparation can help you stay organized and ensure nothing is forgotten. This list should cover all essentials, from clothing and personal items to RV-specific gear and tools. Proper preparation helps give you peace of mind knowing you’re well-equipped for any situation.
Staying Safe on the Road
As an RVer, you face unique challenges that can turn your adventure into a stressful experience if you’re unprepared.
Finding yourself stranded on the side of the highway due to a blowout can be terrifying. Ignoring evacuation orders only to hear sirens signaling imminent danger is frightening. RVs, being lightweight, can struggle in strong winds, making weather awareness necessary.
Additionally, personal safety can be compromised if you encounter unsafe areas or wildlife.
Severe weather, road incidents, and health emergencies are real risks on the road. To stay safe, it’s essential to use reliable navigational aids, keep informed about weather conditions, and have access to emergency assistance.
Navigational Apps
RV Trip Wizard
As we previously stated, RV Trip Wizard is an essential tool for RVers, helping to avoid tricky situations like low clearances and narrow streets when towing. It allows you to plan your route based on your preferences and provides campground reviews, helping you find suitable places to stay. It calculates expenses to help you stay on budget, making financial planning easier.
The best part is the ability to organize multiple trips effortlessly, streamlining your travel planning and keeping all your details in one place. This tool enhances your RV experience by giving you a smoother, more enjoyable journey.
We use RV Trip Wizard and a Garmin Truck GPS when navigating unfamiliar territories. Apps like Google Maps and Waze are designed for standard passenger vehicles. Using them may lead you to a sticky situation, through an alleyway or low-clearance bridge. Stay safe and use an app specifically for RVers.
Roadside Assistance and Repair Resources
When planning your RV trip, make sure you have roadside assistance. Confirm that your policy includes RV-specific services like truck and trailer towing, tire changes, roadside mechanical services and technical support.
Roadside assistance can be a lifesaver when stranded with a flat tire or mechanical failure. Knowing you’re covered for these situations can provide peace of mind and help you handle unexpected challenges on the road.
Always review and understand the details of your coverage before embarking on your journey.
Weather and Emergency Preparedness
Severe weather, such as hurricanes, tornadoes, flash floods and wildfires, can be devasting. Staying informed and prepared is crucial for safety. Utilizing weather apps can provide real-time updates and forecasts to help you navigate these challenges.
It’s encouraged to avoid potential weather patterns, like hurricanes along the southern coast, excessive heat in the desert during summer, blizzard conditions in the north during early winter, and even high wind conditions, but it’s not always possible. Being prepared by staying abreast of weather conditions can help keep you safe on the road.
WeatherBug
WeatherBug is a user-friendly app that provides detailed weather information, making it perfect for RVers. It offers an easy-to-read hourly forecast, helping you plan your day with precision.
The app also includes features like real-time alerts, radar maps, and extended forecasts to keep you informed about changing weather conditions. With WeatherBug, you can anticipate weather changes and make adjustments for a safe and enjoyable journey.
AccuWeather
AccuWeather is a comprehensive weather app ideal for RVers, offering detailed forecasts to help plan your travels. One standout feature is the 60-Minute MinuteCast®, which provides minute-by-minute weather updates for the next hour. This feature is useful for anticipating immediate weather changes and making real-time decisions.
AccuWeather also offers extended forecasts, severe weather alerts, and radar maps, keeping you up to date about upcoming weather conditions throughout your journey.
Drive Weather
Drive Weather is a useful app for RVers, providing real-time weather forecasts along your planned route. It shows weather conditions such as rain, snow, and wind at specific points on your journey, helping you make informed decisions about when and where to travel.
The app offers route adjustments based on weather to avoid hazardous conditions, making for a safer trip. Additionally, it provides details on temperature and road conditions, enhancing your overall travel planning.
Personal Safety
Personal safety is paramount when RVing, especially in remote areas where wildlife and human intruders pose real risks. Keep cell phones charged, and have extra water, blankets, and working flashlights within easy reach.
Never approach wildlife, and properly store food to avoid attracting animals. A properly stocked first aid kit is essential for handling minor injuries promptly. Leaving no room for dangerous situations means being vigilant and prepared. Secure your RV when you’re away and be cautious about your surroundings.
Always make sure someone knows your route, and where you are headed. Have regular check-ins with family or friends. Taking precautions helps keep you safe.
Maximizing Your RV Experience
Managing travel days and rest days is vital to creating an enjoyable RV trip. Balance driving time with relaxation to avoid burnout.
Along the way, seek out fun activities and attractions to enrich your journey. Visiting local landmarks, parks, and festivals can add excitement and memorable experiences.
Connecting with an RV community like Escapees can enhance your travels. Join social media groups like Facebook and Reddit to share tips, ask questions, and find meetups with fellow RVers. Engaging with the community can provide valuable insights and support, making your adventures even more rewarding.
Conclusion
Planning an RV trip involves careful budgeting, choosing the right destination, mapping out your route, and packing wisely. Staying informed about weather and road conditions, taking safety precautions, and connecting with an RV community like Escapers are key to a successful journey.
Ready to start planning your adventure?
Travel Safe and Adventure Often!