Summary
The top reason many RVers give up on the lifestyle is towing. Towing consists of using your car to pull a trailer behind you. 5th wheel RVs, travel trailers, and campers are some examples of recreational vehicles you can tow. With the growing popularity of teardrop trailers, many believe they can tow, whether they are truly prepared or not. It takes time to learn how to tow, and for some drivers, the learning curve can seem daunting. Consequently, they either walk away from RVing or opt for motorhomes as an alternative.
Towing can be a significant hurdle for some, but fortunately, driving a motorhome is an alternative worth considering. Let’s delve into the specifics of motorhomes and trailers to determine which option aligns with your travel needs.
What You Need to Know About Driving a Motorhome
Motorhomes are self-propelled RVs equipped with built-in engines, allowing for easy navigation. They tend to rank among the most expensive types of RVs on the market but offer full living accommodations, including bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, and ample storage space. Their customization options make them a versatile choice for travelers seeking comfort on the road. Many retirees, full-time RVers, and telecommuters are now embracing the freedom of living on the road and exploring diverse destinations.
When operating a motorhome, it’s important to acclimate to its size. Maneuvering around train tracks, making turns, and changing lanes can be more complex due to blind spots. However, once you get accustomed to the handling of a motorhome, the experience can become much more enjoyable and is a viable alternative for those who find towing a trailer challenging.
Pro Tip: Motorhomes now come in various sizes and price points, making them more accessible to average consumers. You can find a motorhome comfortable enough for your adventures by visiting local RV dealerships for personal tours.
What You Need to Know About Towing a Trailer
Towable RVs encompass any recreational vehicle that must be towed by another vehicle. These types of RVs hook up to a truck and can be trickier to handle, especially when turning or merging. Depending on the size of your trailer, you might be able to tow it with a vehicle as small as a motorcycle. However, investing in a larger trailer, like a 5th wheel or an expandable travel trailer, can increase the difficulty level until you’ve gained sufficient experience.
When towing, it’s crucial to recognize that the trailer may not react in unison with your towing vehicle. If you are unfamiliar with handling sway or instability, it can lead to potential accidents. This reality can deter some potential RVers who must adapt to new driving dynamics. Fortunately, many RV dealerships and automotive associations provide courses on best practices for towing, which can alleviate some concerns.
Pro Tip: Towing is possible even with smaller vehicles, and you may be surprised to discover that your vehicle is capable of towing despite not having an official tow package.
Should You Learn How to Tow Before You Decide?
The decision to embrace the RV lifestyle often hinges on personal comfort levels. Fortunately, resources are available to assist in learning how to operate a motorhome or tow a trailer. Some states may require passing a towing class before registering an RV, while others may only offer voluntary practice opportunities.
If you are considering purchasing an RV, your budget will likely influence your choice, often limiting options for motorhomes initially. Many dealerships allow prospective buyers to test towing RVs on their lots, which can provide valuable insights into your comfort and skill level.
Learning the ins and outs of towing isn’t always straightforward, but with dedication, it can be accomplished. The best way to learn is through hands-on experience rather than solely relying on instructional videos or classes.
Start by practicing towing in your neighborhood, then progress to mastering backing up and parking the RV. The time invested in learning how to tow will ultimately enhance your confidence in managing any challenges that arise during your adventures.
Which RV Option Is Right for You?
For those willing to invest time in mastering towing, trailers present a more affordable and practical option for first-time RVers. On the other hand, motorhomes cater to individuals seeking a long-term investment for full-time RVing or retirement purposes.
Not everyone can easily navigate the complexities of towing. Therefore, it’s essential to review all available options, gain practical experience in towing, and make an informed decision based on your comfort and confidence level.
