This site is a guide to RVing for beginners: choosing the right type of RV, learning to drive and tow safely, setting up at a campground, understanding power, water and waste systems, insurance and rentals, and the simple habits that make a first trip go smoothly. The articles below go into specific topics. This page is the overview.

Choosing the right RV

• Class A motorhomes: the largest, bus-style units with the most space, and the most to learn about driving.
• Class C motorhomes: built on a truck chassis with an over-cab bed; a popular rental for families.
• Class B camper vans: easy to drive and park, but compact.
• Travel trailers and fifth wheels: towed behind a truck or SUV, so you can unhitch and use your vehicle separately. The tow vehicle must be rated for the trailer’s weight.
• Pop-ups and teardrops: light and simple, good for trying RV camping on a budget.

Renting before buying is the best way to learn what you like. See a beginner’s guide to RV setup, safety and choosing the right RV. The RV Industry Association has general information on RV types.

Driving and towing safely

• Know your height, length and weight. Write the height on a note near the driver’s seat and watch for low bridges, gas station canopies and tree branches.
• Allow much more stopping distance than in a car.
• Watch your tail swing when turning; the back of the RV swings wide.
• Take wide turns and use mirrors constantly.
• Plan fuel stops at stations that can fit you.
• Check tire pressure before every travel day. Tire failures are a common RV problem; see NHTSA’s tire safety information.
• Practice in an empty parking lot before your first trip.

See how RV safety courses reduce crash risks.

Setting up at a campground

1. Check the site for overhanging branches, slope and the location of hookups.
2. Level the RV with leveling blocks or built-in jacks. See leveling blocks for beginners.
3. Chock the wheels.
4. Connect power through a surge protector.
5. Connect fresh water with a drinking-water-safe hose and a pressure regulator.
6. Connect the sewer hose securely, but keep the black tank valve closed until it’s time to dump.
7. Extend slide-outs and awnings last, after checking for clearance.

Understanding RV systems

Electrical

RVs typically use 30-amp or 50-amp shore power, plus a 12-volt battery system. Running too many high-draw appliances at once, such as the air conditioner, microwave and hair dryer, can trip breakers. Learn which appliances can run together. See avoiding circuit overloads and RV electrical safety.

Water and waste

Fresh water comes from a hookup or onboard tank. Wastewater goes into gray (sinks and shower) and black (toilet) tanks. Dump black first, then gray to rinse the hose. Use RV-friendly toilet paper and tank treatments.

Propane

Propane often runs the furnace, water heater, stove and sometimes the refrigerator. Turn it off while refueling, make sure detectors work, and learn to recognize the smell of a leak.

Insurance and rentals

Your auto insurance may not fully cover an RV you rent or own. Read rental agreements carefully to understand what damage you’re responsible for, what the rental company’s coverage includes, and what deductibles apply. See insurance responsibilities in RV rental agreements and protecting your trip with insurance.

A starter packing list

• Surge protector, drinking-water hose, water pressure regulator and a sewer hose kit with gloves.
• Leveling blocks and wheel chocks.
• A basic tool kit, flashlight, duct tape and spare fuses.
• A tire pressure gauge and a fire extinguisher.
• RV-safe toilet paper and tank treatment.
• Extension adapters for different power hookups (30 to 50 amp, or 30 to 15 amp).
• Outdoor chairs, a mat for the entry, and a small first-aid kit.

Many rentals include some of these items, so ask what’s provided before you buy anything.

Campground etiquette

• Respect quiet hours and keep generators to allowed times.
• Don’t walk through other people’s campsites.
• Keep pets leashed and clean up after them.
• Leave the site cleaner than you found it.

Planning a first trip

• Start with a short trip close to home.
• Book campgrounds with full hookups for your first few nights.
• Reserve popular public campgrounds early through Recreation.gov; the National Park Service lists camping options in the parks.
• Make a departure checklist: steps up, antenna down, slides in, hoses stowed, propane off, doors locked.

See unpacking, troubleshooting and finding community support.

For trip ideas, see the guides to New Mexico travel and Arizona travel. For the basics in one place, see the complete guide to RVing for beginners. The newest articles on this site are listed below.