What is a myth? Merriam-Webster defines a myth as a traditional story of ostensibly historical events that serves to unfold part of the world view of a people or explain a practice, belief, or natural phenomenon. Wikipedia says a myth is folklore where the main characters are usually gods, demigods, or supernatural humans. Finally, Dictionary.com defines a myth as any invented story, idea, or concept; an imaginary or fictitious thing or person.
While RV myths have nothing to do with demigods (it’s not likely Thor will show up at your campsite); here are five of the most common myths about RVs and the truths that bust those RV myths.
Pickup Trucks Can Tow Any RV
All pickup trucks are not alike, nor do they all have the same towing capacity. If you were building a house, you wouldn’t use a sledgehammer to pound the nails, nor would you try breaking up old concrete with a claw hammer. In the same manner, never assume you can tow any RV with any pickup truck. It’s not an RV myth that there are smaller RVs and even lightweight RVs that can be towed with an SUV or minivan. However, the more length and amenities you add, the heavier the RV gets. Larger travel trailers, those with multiple slide outs, and bunkhouse trailers certainly need a truck for towing. There are some lightweight fifth wheels, but many fifth wheels can weigh up to 20,000 pounds and some luxury RVs that can be downright massive. Bigger RVs need bigger trucks and not just any pickup truck will do! So you can see why it’s important to know the weight of your RV and also know the towing capacity of your tow vehicle. When you’re looking for an RV, to get the right fit for your pickup truck, it’s important to check the ratings of both your tow vehicle and the RV you’re considering. You can work with a dealer if you have questions. Ultimately it’s best if you know your vehicle and its capabilities well before you purchase your RV. The last place you want to be when this RV myth is busted is trying to drive your new RV off the lot with a pickup truck that can’t tow it!
RVs Are Expensive
While there are some luxury or destination RVs that can range in price to nearly that of a small house, saying that all RVs are expensive is simply an RV myth. It is impossible to judge the cost of RVs in such a sweeping generalization. The price range is immense. In fact, some RVs are just a few thousand dollars, especially used.
RV myths aside, the fact is you can always find something to fit your budget. What determines the price is what you want out of an RV. Doing your homework is a key ingredient to the perfect RV purchase. Keeping in mind that an RV purchase isn’t as permanent as you may think, what fits your needs today may not be the best RV in as little as 3-5 years as your family dynamics change.
RVs Aren’t Good for City Travel
Another RV myth is that RVs are only good for the open roads or remote campgrounds. City limits are not off limits to RVs! Most cities in the United States are favorable to RV travel. However, the larger the RV, the less recommended it is to drive it all around town for sightseeing – this is where a toad comes in handy! Still, RVs can still maneuver most city streets, especially with a little practice. The key is to know where you are going and plan your route in advance to cut down on the chances of getting stuck in a tight spot and becoming less than popular with the local traffic! How to avoid too-narrow streets and low-clearance bridges? As the saying goes, there’s an app for that! In addition to all the RV-friendly apps, there are free resources like Google maps that can alert you to construction or road hazards. Plus, if you camp 20-30 minutes outside a big city, you can generally take public transportation into the heart of the city for some great sightseeing.
If you prefer being in the heart of it all, there are some large cities that boast RV parks within minutes of popular attractions or downtown areas, you’ll just need to do your homework and plan ahead. Keep in mind that there are some places even allow free overnight parking, big potential savings for trips. These free overnight adventures range from parking lots to private property, but always call ahead to confirm that they allow boondocking. Remember to plan ahead (there are no RV hookups) and be sure to leave your boondocking space as clean – or cleaner – when you depart than it was when you arrived. Practicing good camping etiquette ensures that the joy of free overnight parking doesn’t end up becoming an RV myth!
RVs Are for “Off the Grid”
Types It’s true that RVs let you go off the grid if that is the type of camping you enjoy. However, more often than not, the amenities offered at RV parks such as Wi-Fi, electrical hookups, water and sewer hookups, and even data plans, allow you to use modern gadgets and stay connected anywhere.
RV camping in groups can provide as much of a social experience as you want. Many RV resorts even offer on-site attractions such as water parks and zip-lining. There are also luxury RV parks that boast amenities like tennis and basketball courts, heated swimming pools, spas, hot tubs, fitness centers, putting greens, pet parks, and more! Some of these places are off the chart, not off the grid. So there goes that RV myth!
RVs Take the Fun Out of Camping
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to camp and each has its own benefit. Just like the price range varies from a few thousand dollars up to that of a small home, the range of fun you can have camping with an RV is only limited by your taste, imagination, and sense of adventure.
There is absolutely nothing about owning an RV that stops you from setting up a tent and sleeping in the great outdoors! In fact, RVs expand your options, extend your camping season, and can provide a retreat when you need it from extreme weather. If you travel extensively, an RV can provide a mobile “base of operations” from which you can take short excursions.
The definition of roughing it differs from camper to camper, as does the definition of camping fun. The idea that RV takes the fun out of camping is simply an RV myth. An RV only adds more options to your camping experience!
Contact RV Wholesale Superstore
The professionals at RV Wholesale Superstore are ready to help you find the perfect RV for you and your family. Visit us in-person at 5080 W. Alexis Road, in Sylvania, OH or call us at (419) 786-1126
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