We love the questions our readers send Mark and his insightful answers for our “Ask The Expert” sessions!
I’m getting into the RV world for the first time. Is it more economical to have a travel trailer or motorhome?
Each individual needs to purchase the RV type best suited for them. Determine how you plan to use the RV and select the type of RV that best fits your needs. From an economical standpoint, you might want to consider a good used RV as your first RV. If you are planning to travel cross-country full-time, I would select a motorhome over a travel trailer. If I planned to stay at one location for longer durations, and/or only use the RV a few weekends a year, I would consider a travel trailer over a motorhome.
As with everything there are pros and cons to both. For example, if you choose a motorhome, how will you get around when you arrive at your camping destination? Will you tow a small vehicle behind the motorhome? The expense of towing a car can add up quickly. You also need to consider the upkeep and insurance of a motorized RV. If you purchase a travel trailer or fifth wheel trailer, you will need a truck capable of safely towing it. Trucks that can safely tow trailers cost a lot these days. Not to mention the proper hitch components. There are other expenses too, but I think you get the point.
Research the type and size of RV best suited to your specific needs, purchase an RV within your budget, consider additional expenses and make sure there is enough discretionary income left to get out and enjoy your new or new-to-you RV.
Can you tow a small fifth wheel trailer with a half-ton truck?
There are fifth wheel manufacturers who advertise models that can be towed with a half-ton truck. What they leave out are all of the important details. So, before you purchase a half-ton truck to tow a fifth wheel trailer, do your homework. One important consideration is the truck’s rear axle rating. When you put the trailer’s hitch or pin weight (up to 25 percent of the trailer’s weight) on the rear axle of the truck it’s easy to exceed the axle rating. And not to confuse matters more, you also need to look at the Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of the truck. This number represents the maximum amount of weight the fully loaded truck and fully loaded trailer can weigh when combined. Calculating truck and trailer weights gets complicated, but it is extremely important you get it right. With all this said, there are some half-ton trucks that can tow smaller lightweight fifth wheel trailers, but it’s up to you to find the right truck/trailer combination.
Are there any new trends to look for in the RV industry?
If I were younger, I would invest in campgrounds. What does this have to do with new trends, you ask? It’s not so much new trends in RVs, as it is with where all the new, younger RV buyers can go and stay in their RVs. The problem is many people are buying RVs at a staggering rate, but campgrounds aren’t exactly meeting the younger generation of campers’ expectations.
A recent study found that the average age of existing RV parks is 40 years old and many lack amenities that new-age digital nomads take for granted. All I can say is, modern-day RV parks are in high demand, but there is low supply. Investing in reimagined campgrounds catering to modern-day younger campers would be a great investment!
Enjoying This Article? It’s from the
GIRL CAMPER MAGAZINE
Sign up and receive DIY projects, and more!
This Ask the Expert article by Mark Polk was originally published in Girl Camper Magazine.
By Mark Polk
Mark Polk of RV Education 101®, a trusted RV expert and educator, has spent the past 25 plus years educating millions of RV consumers on how to properly and safely use and maintain their motorhomes, travel trailers, 5th wheel trailers, all known as RVs through RV Education 101s vast offerings of RV training material found at rvonlinetraining.com
Connect with us!
Girl Camper Magazine: Subscribe to Girl Camper Magazine here! Girl Camper Magazine
Events: Check out upcoming Girl Camper Events – you can attend events in any chapter!
Main GC Facebook Group – Join over 430,000 like-minded women in our public Facebook group! Girl Camper FB Group
Facebook Page – This is our public Facebook page, where we will share Girl Camper news. Girl Camper
