Our first RV trip: The pros, cons and true cost of renting one
Our First RV Journey: Balancing Adventure and Comfort in a Motorhome
Our first RV trip - Travel choices often reflect the personalities of those involved. For our family, the decision to embark on a road trip with an RV felt like a compromise between two distinct preferences. My introverted 12-year-old daughter preferred the familiarity of home, while her extroverted sister thrived on the excitement of exploring new places. This dynamic usually required careful planning to satisfy both, but our first RV adventure with RVshare—a platform akin to Airbnb—offered a solution that balanced the best of both worlds.
The RV Experience: A Mobile Basecamp
Choosing an RV rental service was a game-changer for our travel routine. Unlike traditional hotels, which demand frequent movement between locations, the RV provided a stable basecamp that moved with us. This setup allowed the family to stay connected without the stress of constantly relocating. The unit we rented, an East to West Entrada from a Las Vegas-based couple, was a mid-size Class C motorhome with a layout reminiscent of a U-Haul but with added living space. Its bunk bed over the cab, queen-sized bed at the rear, and a dinette that converted into a third sleeping area created a versatile environment for four people.
One of the most appealing aspects of the RV was its self-contained nature. The well-equipped kitchen, featuring a 3-range gas stove, a convection microwave, and a solar-powered refrigerator, eliminated the need for grocery shopping during the trip. This was particularly beneficial for our family, as it allowed us to prepare meals without the hassle of packing or transporting food. For instance, we made breakfast tacos and fettuccine Alfredo in the RV, which saved time and money compared to dining out.
Another standout feature was the full bathroom with a separate shower. This was a relief compared to smaller RVs where the toilet and shower often shared the same compact space. The convenience of having a private restroom, even during midnight bathroom breaks, was a small but significant comfort. It also meant less disruption for the kids, who typically cramped in the back seat during car trips.
Unexpected Challenges: Wind and Mechanical Issues
Despite the many advantages, our journey wasn’t without its hurdles. One of the most surprising challenges was the vehicle’s aerodynamic design. While the RV was spacious and comfortable, its less-than-ideal shape made it vulnerable to strong desert winds. During our trip through Nevada’s open plains, gusts up to 55 mph created a noticeable sway and made driving more demanding. My husband took the lead most of the time, as the wind occasionally made me feel uneasy.
On the mechanical front, the generator malfunctioned after our first day on the road. However, this wasn’t a cause for alarm, thanks to the 24/7 roadside assistance included in our RVshare booking. The service, provided by Quest, helped us troubleshoot the issue via video call, and the generator was eventually restored by the end of the trip. The RV owners were responsive and helpful, which eased our concerns about being stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Parking also presented its own set of challenges. While the RV’s size offered flexibility, navigating tight spaces required careful planning. We opted for oversized campsites whenever possible to avoid crowding, and during backing maneuvers, someone always had to step out to guide the driver. Even with rear-view and side cameras, the learning curve for handling an RV was evident. Over time, I’m confident we’ll become more adept, but for now, extra caution is necessary.
Cost Breakdown: Is RV Renting Worth It?
Cost was a key consideration, and the experience proved that RV travel can be competitive with traditional road trips. According to RVshare’s analysis of over 1 million bookings, the average rental price hovers just above $210 per night, with rates varying depending on the unit and season. For our five-day trip, this cost added up, but it was offset by the savings on meals and accommodations.
We spent $333 on groceries and snacks for the entire journey, a stark contrast to the typical expenses of hotel stays and dining out. This figure doesn’t include our final meal in Las Vegas, which cost more than the total amount we’d spent on food throughout the trip. The ability to cook and control our budget was a major plus, especially for families aiming to minimize travel costs.
However, the cost of an RV isn’t always straightforward. While rentals can be cost-effective, factors like fuel, tolls, and campground fees may add to the overall expense. For example, our full-hookup campsites, which provided electricity and water, were a small but necessary investment. Additionally, the rental included insurance and maintenance support, which is a valuable perk for first-time travelers.
Conclusion: A New Perspective on Travel
Our first RV trip was a blend of convenience, adventure, and minor inconveniences. It allowed us to travel at our own pace, enjoy the comforts of home, and create lasting memories without the stress of constant relocation. The experience highlighted the pros of renting an RV, from its flexibility to its cost-efficiency, but it also underscored the cons, such as the need for careful navigation and the impact of weather.
For families with mixed preferences, an RV can be the perfect middle ground. It caters to the introverted desire for comfort while offering the extroverted thrill of exploration. The key takeaway is that RV travel requires a balance of preparation and adaptability. With the right rental, like the Entrada, and a clear plan, it’s possible to transform a road trip into a seamless, enjoyable experience. As we reflect on this journey, we’re already considering our next adventure—this time, maybe with a slightly larger unit for more space and even more comfort.
"The generator stopped working after the first day of our trip, but we didn't consider it an emergency because we'd booked full hook-up campsites for the entire trip, so we had power when we needed it." – Original traveler’s experience
Ultimately, the decision to rent an RV depends on individual priorities. If you value flexibility and a home-like environment, it’s worth exploring. But if you’re concerned about mechanical reliability or the learning curve of driving a larger vehicle, thorough research and planning are essential. Our experience with RVshare gave us a taste of what’s possible, and while it wasn’t perfect, it was a step in the right direction for our family’s travel goals.