You finally did it. After countless hours of watching ASMR camping videos on YouTube, you decided to either buy or rent your very own RV. It’s an idea you’ve been toying with for a long time and eventually decided that you may as well give it a try. The joys of RV camping are obvious for all to see - but how do you book your first trip away?
RV parks make the most sense as they offer a secure location for you to stay overnight. However, some parks are much more suitable than others, so you need to know what to look for before you spend your money.
Some RVs are more advanced than others, which means they may contain lots of amenities themselves. That being said, you’ll almost always need access to a water supply. Most RV parks will provide this when you park up - but consider any other amenities that are important to you.
Cheap RV parks may tempt you with their rates, but if they don’t provide the amenities you need, then you’re basically wasting money on a bad experience. Look for luxury RV parks if you have a long list of essential amenities - cheaper parks are better when your RV is already fully equipped with everything, and you can be self-sufficient.
Here’s the thing: RV trips shouldn’t cost as much as hotel stays. If they do, then you should question why you’re staying in an RV park. If it’s the same price (or cheaper) to park up and stay in a hotel, then that’s obviously the smarter choice.
Make sure the campsite has your essential amenities
Some RVs are more advanced than others, which means they may contain lots of amenities themselves. That being said, you’ll almost always need access to a water supply. Most RV parks will provide this when you park up - but consider any other amenities that are important to you.
- Do you need a gas supply, or does your RV come with one?
- Have you brought a portable generator, or will you require electricity?
- Are you staying for a long time? If so, will you need a place to do laundry?
- Does your RV have a shower, or will you need bathroom facilities?
Cheap RV parks may tempt you with their rates, but if they don’t provide the amenities you need, then you’re basically wasting money on a bad experience. Look for luxury RV parks if you have a long list of essential amenities - cheaper parks are better when your RV is already fully equipped with everything, and you can be self-sufficient.
Compare the prices against other accommodation options
Here’s the thing: RV trips shouldn’t cost as much as hotel stays. If they do, then you should question why you’re staying in an RV park. If it’s the same price (or cheaper) to park up and stay in a hotel, then that’s obviously the smarter choice.
Keeping that in mind, make sure to compare the price of any RV parks against nearby accommodation options. Again, most of the time, the RV campsite should be cheaper. Be even more vigilant during off-season travel because some hotels have big discounts. There is no point booking an RV site if it costs more than traditional accommodation.
It’s really easy to find an RV park with all the amenities you need and a lovely rate. It looks perfect, so you go ahead and book your stay. Fast forward to your vacation and you realise the place is an absolute dump. It’s either in a bad location or the owners aren’t very nice people.
You have a terrible experience, and it’s all because you read their website and nothing else. Always check reviews before booking to see what other campers have to say about the place. If the campsite has an overwhelmingly positive reception, then you know it’s a good one.
Always check reviews before booking
It’s really easy to find an RV park with all the amenities you need and a lovely rate. It looks perfect, so you go ahead and book your stay. Fast forward to your vacation and you realise the place is an absolute dump. It’s either in a bad location or the owners aren’t very nice people.
You have a terrible experience, and it’s all because you read their website and nothing else. Always check reviews before booking to see what other campers have to say about the place. If the campsite has an overwhelmingly positive reception, then you know it’s a good one.
Booking the wrong RV parks during your first RV trip will leave a sour taste in your mouth and it might also give you an unfair view of RV travel because of your overnight stay. So make sure you look for these three things before booking anything; it’ll help you find a suitable and enjoyable place to stay! (Image source: 1 and 2)
