Traveling on
your terms
Making the switch to RVing
RVing has always been a way to travel on your own
terms, with some added exibility and comforts of
home along the way. Since everyone has had to
think a little differently about how we travel, more
and more people are realizing the value of having
more control and how RVs may be the best way to
travel more freely. Take your travel back!
Whether you’re craving more quality time with
friends and family, working more remotely than
ever, have a pent-up itch to travel, or are still a little
unsure, an RV will allow you to get away your way,
comfortably and safely, from now on. And if you’re
still a little uneasy about other modes of travel, you
aren’t alone, According to a January 2021 Harvest
Hosts survey, 69 percent of respondents won’t feel
safe on a plane in 2021, 56 percent in hotels and
just 19 percent plan to travel internationally.
We’re going to break down some of the differences
between what we’ll call “traditional travel” and
RVing so that you’re comfortable with and prepared
for exploring this fun and exible mode of travel.
What we’ll cover:
• Why RVing
• Renting vs. buying an RV
• The different types of RVs
• Getting where you’re going
• The people
• Sleeping arrangements
• Packing
• Transporting large cargo
• Dining
Many travelers are discovering what
RVers have known for a long time
There are the clear benets of traveling in an RV: no crowds or lines, fresh air and wide open spaces, full control of food,
bountiful opportunities to exercise and exible scheduling. But it’s not until you’ve been out there a time or two that you
realize the other perks of having an RV. Not only is RV travel convenient, but time away in nature provides a boost to the
mind, body, soul and wallet (relative to other modes of travel) we can all use. Consider these stats from recent reports.
45% 82% 45% 94% 94%
of campers say
camping has a great
impact on their ability
to spend time
with family.
of parents think
camping has had
a positive effect
on their children’s
school education.
of campers say it
has a great deal of
impact on their ability
to reduce stress in
everyday life.
of RVers typically
spend less than
$75/night on
the road.
of teens are
enthusiastic
about camping.
For more RV
stats click here.
Common
Should I rent or buy an RV?
If you’re not ready to buy just yet, renting could be the way to decide if it’s right for you. But it’s important to set
realistic expectations and realize that renting an RV can be a very different experience than owning your own.
And in some cases, the amount spent on the rental could be a sizeable down payment on your own RV. And with
nancing options available, it might be better to skip the rental “test run” and just dive into your own adventure. Here
are eight of the factors to weigh before you make the decision to rent:
Cost - The overall price of an RV rental for a
week can be anywhere between $1,000-$3,500,
1
depending on where/from whom you rent and
the type of unit you rent. What’s more, it’s hard to know
the exact amount of money you’ll spend.
Sanitization - When you rent, you might not
have the same peace of mind as owning your
2
own unit. While rental companies are stepping
up in terms of safety measures, you’re still using a unit
that other people have lived in—as recently as the day
before.
Familiarity - It takes time and exploration to
learn about your RV and all of its ins and outs.
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When you own your RV, you can practice setting
up camp at a nearby campsite for a day/night or even
boondocking in your backyard.
Personal items - Rental RVs generally come
bare. That means no linens, kitchen necessities,
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and cleaning supplies. Those who own, on the
other hand, can hit the road with less hassle because
those essentials are already stored and ready to go in
their RV.
RV rental fees
Security deposit
One-way fee
Additional miles
Additional days
Cleaning fees
Insurance
Generator use
Fine print - When it comes to renting an RV,
the number and variety of additional fees can be
3
shocking. While a savvy renter will have visibility
to some of these fees during the research/rental quoting
process, many are not disclosed until the nal bill at the
end of your trip.
Features and convenience - Keep in mind,
rentals are not representative of the nishes,
4
design, and amenities you’ll get if you buy.
Rental units are designed and manufactured to be
“bare-bones.”
You might want to consider visiting your local RV dealer before you rent. They’ll walk you through the latest features
and oorplans and answer any questions about RVing or the RV lifestyle. If you still prefer to rent before buying,
you’ll at least have baseline knowledge and have seen other units for comparison.
Furry friends - One of the best things about
RV travel is that it’s easy to take your four-legged
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family members with you. But if you’re renting,
that might not be an option. If it is allowed, it will likely
incur additional fees.
Trip preparations - RV renters should be
prepared to spend at least an hour on each
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end of their trip at the RV rental counter. Once
you have the keys and are ready to go, you’ll still
need to load up your RV—and unload and clean
at the end.
Bedroom and
kitchen kits
Dumping fees
Propane
Return fuel charge
The dierent kinds of RVs
MOTORIZED THE BASICS
LENGTH (FT)
PERFECT FOR
PRICE
RANGE
Built on a specialized chassis with
Class A
Class B
Class C
exceptional interior details and
entertainment features. Combines all the
comforts of home with affordable luxury.
They may look like a conversion van, but
Class B amenities put a van to shame.
Easy to drive.
Built on an automotive chassis with a wide
body and recognizable overhead bunk in
the front.
TOWABLES THE BASICS
Small enough to be towed by most
Micro
trailers
Travel
trailers
vehicles and stored easily. Simple to
use and set up just about anywhere.
Low maintenance.
Smaller models can be towed by
crossovers, larger by pickup trucks or
SUVs. Includes all the basic conveniences
of home. Easily detached for use of tow
vehicle while away.
21 - 44
15 - 22
21 - 38
LENGTH (FT)
WEIGHT (LBS)
Length: 8 - 25
Weight (unloaded):
1,000 - 2,500
Length: 10 - 40
Weight (unloaded):
1,600 - 12,000
All-seasons travel for weeks at a
time (with special prep). Big families,
empty nesters–pets too–travel,
explore and unwind comfortably
Urban explorers, traveling to events
or overnight trips
Cross–country trips and towing a
small vehicle to make runs in to town
or more easily explore everything a
new desination has to offer
PERFECT FOR
Couples or small families, long
weekends and spontaneous
getaways
Small families who like to spend
more than just a couple days away
and looking to explore beyond the
campground
$60,000 $750,000
$60,000 $130,000
$40,000 $235,000
PRICE
RANGE
$5,000 $22,000
$8,000 $100,000
Towable only by pickup trucks with an
in-bed hitching mechanism. Elevated front
Fifth
wheels
Toy
haulers
*Measurements and prices reect industry averages (not just Jayco units) and uctuate year to year
end for bi-level oor plans. Provide the
comforts and space for all types of travel.
Easily detached for use of tow vehicle
while away.
Sleeping and cargo space in one. Rear
fold-down ramp for easy loading and
unloading of bikes, ATVs, jet skis, sporting
goods, photography equipment, etc.
Length: 20 - 45
Weight (unloaded):
7,000 - 16,000
Length: 20-45
Weight (unloaded):
4,000 - 16,000
Those who want to take all the
comforts of home–and some of the
luxuries–on the road for extended
periods of time
Couples and families who like to
combine camping with activities
that require extra storage space
for equipment/gear
$15,000 $160,000
$10,000 $175,000
The journey
WHAT’S DIFFERENT
RVs are quite the luxury on travel days. In
motorhomes you can move easily from the
driving cabin to the living area for a snack, a
bathroom break or some shut eye. A common
design rule is to have the refrigerator, bathroom
and bedroom accessible even when slide
rooms are in. No matter what type of RV
you end up with, they sure make pit stops
comfortable if you need an extended break.
PRO TIP
Most campsites are affordable, but, believe it
or not, there are even FREE options should
you be on a long haul and need a place to
park for a night between destinations. You’ll
often see RVs in the parking lots of casinos,
truck stops, Walmarts and rest areas. It’s a
good idea to talk to someone in charge at the
property, just to make sure it’s acceptable
and safe.
ere are FREE options
should you be on a long
haul and need a place to
park for a night.
The people
WHAT’S DIFFERENT
Congested airports, train stations and hotel
lobbies can be stressful. The campground is
anything but. You’ll nd a communal feel at the
campground; campers are generally a helpful,
kind, positive and generous bunch. You’ll
often nd smiles and calm at the campground,
as opposed to the understandable anxiety
and haste you nd in lines at the airport or
crowded hotel elevators. The campground is
also as diverse as it’s ever been. Research
has shown that people of all different ages and
ethnicities are turning to RVing as a way to
nd new experiences, relax and spend quality
time with friends and family.
PRO TIP
It’s easy to social distance and still introduce
yourself to your campground neighbors
when you arrive. Not only are you likely to
nd like-minded and friendly folks, but also
someone who’s eager and willing to share
some rewood or help guide you as you park
your RV.
People of all dierent
ages and ethnicities are
turning to RVing.
Sleeping
Larger RVs can sleep
upwards of 10.
ere are other RVs that
are built for just two,
oen called “couples’
coaches.”
WHAT’S DIFFERENT
Larger RVs can sleep upwards of 10. It might
take three or four traditional hotel rooms to
accommodate a group like that. That said,
there are other RVs that are built for just two,
often called “couples’ coaches.” This variety
is why oorplan selection is typically the rst
consideration for RV shoppers. What’s more,
a surprising number of models feature queen,
and even king mattresses. Plus, having your
own sheets, pillows and blankets makes
resting at camp more comfortable than you
may have thought.
PRO TIP
To the untrained eye, oorplan names can
appear to be an oddball combination of letters
and numbers. But there actually is a method
to them; and if you learn it early, you can save
a lot of time by being able to quickly recognize
the designs and sizes you know you like. There
isn’t a standard, but in many cases the number
reects the length and the letters can indicate
key features. For example, the Jay Flight
28BHS (pictured) has about 28 feet of oor
space and features a bunkhouse and slide.
Packing the everyday gear
WHAT’S DIFFERENT
You can take a lot more of your own stuff with
you. Instead of being limited by a tight trunk or
baggage allowances, many RVs include huge
exterior storage compartments for campsite
gear. Inside you’ll also nd inventive storage
spaces under beds and dinettes, pantries and
even walk-in closets in some larger units. You’ll
nd hanging hooks, modular shelving and
wall netting to optimize space for all your gear.
You’ll nd inventive storage spaces under beds and dinettes,
pantries and even walk-in closets in some larger units.
PRO TIPS
If there are certain things you know you can’t
travel without, take them with you to the
dealership to see how they t in the units you
look at. Also, before that rst trip, you’ll want
to mind your unit’s weight capacities and be
sure you pack in a way that balances the RV’s
load for easier and safer travel.
Transporting large cargo
WHAT’S DIFFERENT
Worry not, jet ski, ATV, snowmobile or antique
enthusiasts. There are RVs built specically
to carry large toys, gear and collections like
yours and provide comfortable living spaces
all in one. In the business, we call them toy
haulers. No need for an extra trailer; say
“goodbye” to expensive shipping or rental
fees at resorts.
PRO TIP
Pay close attention to the specications of
the garage area: measurements, insulation,
ramp functionality and weight capacity, tiedown rings, bonus storage, how the oor is
built, etc. These factors determine both how
much of your favorite gear you can bring as
well as how well it is protected and secured
during transport and at camp.
Dining
WHAT’S DIFFERENT
For the traditional vacationer looking for
a low-stress experience, hotel cooking or
visits to touristy restaurants can be anything
but. Campsite cooking, on the
other hand, is quite simple—
and a lot of fun for the whole
family. Today’s RVs offer large
refrigerators and freezers,
pantries and tons of counter
space so you can bring your own
favorite recipes or create new
ones on the grill or campfire.
Today’s RVs oer
large refrigerators and
freezers, pantries and
tons of counter space.
You aren’t limited to jam-packed restaurants
or market prices, plus you have the chance
to experiment with fresh, local ingredients.
The experience of cooking
over an open fire or at your
RV’s outdoor kitchen is
a truly special one and a
great learning opportunity
for the kids—not to mention
the fully functional interior
kitchen many offer.
PRO TIP
Prepping meals before you hit the
road is a great way to save time and
money at camp. A visit to our blog, the
Jayco Journal will offer you all kinds
of creatively simple and delicious
recipes. Or, you can take our quick
cooking quiz and receive recipes and
tips tailored for your unique style.
Freedom at
its nest…
RVing gives you the opportunity to customize your
travel experience or adjust on-the-y whenever
the urge hits. Go where you want, when you want,
in more comfort than ever before.
From the initial investment—trailers can cost
as little as a few thousand dollars and can be
nanced—to what you eat, who you travel with
and the experiences you enjoy, traditional travel
simply can’t compete with the exibility and cost
control RVing offers. That’s not even to mention
the health, wellness and educational opportunities
the campground can provide for the whole family.
If you’re considering giving the RV lifestyle a try, we
here at Jayco hope this will help you get out there
and do it with condence and eager anticipation.
Happy camping!
More RV
knowledge
If you’re interested in learning more about RVs, how they’re built and the lifestyle in general,
here are some other resources you may nd helpful.
• The Denitive RV Buyer’s Guide
• 20 Things to Find Out from Your RV Dealer
• The online Buyer’s Guide tool
• Our blog, The Jayco Journal
• Find your nearest Jayco dealer
www.jayco.com
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