Five Things Every Rv'er Should Know

Four years ago, with the twist of a wrist, the 450 hp Cummins engine turned over and made a deep rumbling sound that signaled the beginning of my ownership of a big rig motorcoach. Prior to that turn of the ignition key, I had never driven anything larger than an SUV. Now, here I was driving a forty-three’ rig with a Jeep Wrangler attached. So much to learn but how? The salesperson answered that by saying, “seat-time”. Oh, was he right.

Fast forward, four years later and over 35,000 miles of road trips in the United States, that seat-time has given me some insight into driving one of these 8-wheeled rolling homes. I would like to share with you the five things every Motorcoach owner should know.

1.????Never be in a rush

a.????When you are driving a large motorcoach, do not be in a rush to get to your destination. Driving a big rig demands your full attention to the road conditions, other drivers and your rig’s systems. This is tiring and you should never push yourself beyond your ability to safely manage your driving environment.

b.????Let me reiterate that driving a big rig and being seated high up with a great view of the road gives you some advantages, but it also gives you the opportunity to see how poorly most drivers drive their cars and trucks. Most car drivers have no clue that a 25+ ton vehicle does not stop on a dime and its driver does not want to see you speeding around the right side of their vehicle to cut them off and pass. Driving my rig made me a better driver overall because of the heightened awareness and care necessary to maintain control of the motorcoach.

c.????Ever sit in an airport for hours while you wait for your flight to land? Well,?road construction and accidents are the motorcoach equivalent. I once sat on I-20 in West Texas for four hours after a deadly accident shut down the interstate. It’s part of the RV’ing life, so even your best-laid plans of getting to your destination are only an ETA – ESTIMATED Time of Arrival.

2.????Expect the unexpected

a.????You are driving an exceedingly complex vehicle that combines a home with a moving vehicle. Anything can and will eventually happen. Let me stress that, it will happen. You may have a DEF head die, a slide-out may get stuck, or a tire blowout just for example. It will happen during your ownership so be prepared to be resourceful when on the road. Don’t just rely on a roadside assistance provider. I have had several cases where they were so overwhelmed that they could not respond immediately. Be prepared to arrange your own roadside assistance. Know who your chassis manufacturer is, your engine manufacturer, your transmission manufacturer, and your motorhome manufacturer’s 1-800 number. They are your top-of-mind information to know.

3.????Never come into a RV park at night

a.????Trying to park a big rig in the dark is asking for trouble! Daylight and a good spotter aiding you into your space are the best way to be safe and give you peace of mind. Oh, and my wife, my co-pilot wants me to add when she says “stop”, STOP! Don’t ask why, just stop. I’ll admit to that blunder and striking a shore power post. Lesson learned.

4.????3.30 rule

a.????A good rule to follow is the 3:30 rule. Either drive no more than 330 miles a day or be at your daily destination by 3:30 in the afternoon. This way you can enter a RV park during daylight hours and get set up and rest for tomorrow’s drive. Have a beer, grill a steak and get some rest. Tomorrow is another day of adventure.

5.????Plan your route

a.????Get a RV-specific GPS system. Low clearance, twisty roads await you otherwise and you are not able to drive like your rig like a car. Way too many YouTube videos of RV’s striking the bottom of railroad overpasses.

And finally, just enjoy the freedom of going where you want, when you want, and that you can take your own home with you. No airports, no hotels just your own space with those you love. In the end, follow these rules, take a deep breath and know it will all resolve with a little patience and road smarts. Happy trails to you!

Ed Prins, AIA, is an architect and corporate real estate executive and is a passionate RV’er. He loves exploring the country with his wife and two Maltese, Belle and Coco. He was mesmerized by RV’s since he was eight years old when his Dad took him to a car show in NYC. This bucket list item caught his wife by surprise and after some hesitation, she too has taken to the full-time motorcoach life.