Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time camper, one of the most incredible things about owning an RV is turning it into a recreational reward that you look forward to camping in. You don’t have to be an expert nor do you have to hire an interior decorator to make your RV look cozy, fun, and stylish! An RV can be your canvas to express yourself, the seasons, and more.

Although gutting and renovating an RV can be fun to imagine, it requires creative and practical to give your RV a new look and achieve the best results on any budget. Check out our top tips for how to decorate an RV for every budget.

Keep It Simple

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A common mistake most new campers make when they are eager to decorate their RV is shopping for a surplus of knick-knacks they believe will look good inside their RV. This can easily lead to an RV appearing cluttered. When in doubt, remember less is almost always more. With simple ideas, any RV can be decorated and look fantastic regardless of the budget. Look for items that due double-duty and have more purpose than one, like a cutting board that doubles as a sink cover.

Swap Out Fixtures

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Disguise an older camper with new fixtures or hardwar to give it a modern look or a theme. Try using lightweight parts, or interior items designed specifically for RVs to stay within the safe weight limits for RV travel. A visit to the nearest hardware or recreation store allows a great opportunity to see the size and installation requirements of fixtures before buying them. Check out these easy RV interior lighting updates.

Throw Blankets

Image: Camping World

Throw blankets can make any bed or sofa look stylish (and comfortable!) within seconds. If you are not sure what kind of bedding set will look most appealing in your RV, try a throw blanket on a white comforter set and see how you feel about it. Give it a few days or weeks before making the plunge for all-new bedding. Who knows? The layered look might be more your style in the end. 

Route 66 RV Resort in Albuquerque, New Mexico, puts a modern and luxurious twist on a historic road trip. Located off the legendary “Mother Road” (also Interstate 40) the resort brims with state-of-the-art luxuries, including a resort-style pool and luxury sites with 100-amp hookups. Guests can hop on a shuttle to the neighboring Route 66 Casino Hotel, which bustles with slot machines and high-stakes tables.

To the west of Route 66 RV Resort, Albuquerque, the largest city in New Mexico, treats visitors to charming neighborhoods with historical buildings, many from the route’s golden age. There’s also a dynamic art scene and restaurants that serve up the finest Tex-Mex food in the Southwest. Food lovers can discover new flavors from centuries-old recipes passed down through the generations or delve deep into Native American history. 

The Route’s Roots

Connecting Chicago and Santa Monica, California, the “Main Street of America” was made famous in part by the homey diners, colorful neon signs and quirky hotels that greeted motorists in every town. Albuquerque was no exception, and the stretch of Route 66 that runs through the city keeps this vibe alive. Along this corridor, which follows Central Avenue through town, several shops and restaurants celebrate the route that has guided motorists across North America since the 1930s. 

The last thing anyone wants to consider when planning an RV vacation is the possibility of fire. However, a little prevention goes a long way to ensure a safe and trouble-free holiday. It’s worth it, so take the time to ensure you’re protected.

The video above covers the essential safety equipment for all RVs. Below, we’ll discuss the causes of RV fires and provide a few safety tips for fire prevention.

RV Fire Safety On the Road

According to FEMA, approximately one in eight fires responded to by fire departments in the United States is a highway vehicle fire, which includes recreational vehicles. After accidents, mechanical failure in one of the following areas contributed to most of these fires: the engine, running gear, or wheel area of the vehicle.

The most important prevention for mechanical fire is to maintain your RV or tow vehicle’s electrical system and mechanical components. Here are a few critical things every RV owner should check before each trip to reduce the chances of a fire while traveling:

Ensure all hoses are tight and there are no cracks to avoid flammable liquids igniting in the engine area.Keep the engine compartment clean of excess grease and dirt that increases the chances of fire under the hood.Ensure there is adequate insulation around electrical wiring.Overheated tires and brakes can also cause fires.Check for proper inflation of all tires and utilize a tire pressure monitoring system.Refer to your vehicle’s service logs to verify you’re up to date on all service items, including brake inspections and axle maintenance.Do not drive with the propane on. It can increase the danger if an accident or other mechanical fire occurs.Ensure your fire extinguisher is securely mounted within 24 inches of your main entry/exit and isn’t expired. RV fire extinguishers must be replaced every 12 years.Check RV electrical extension cords for proper polarity (especially when brand new).

It is equally important to know what to do in case a fire occurs while you’re driving to your destination.

Travelers from all over the world marvel at the red rock formations and sandstone arches that dominate the Mars-like landscape at Arches National Park. 

Located in southern Utah in the town of Moab, the park covers 76,500 acres and has over 2000 arches within its borders – the highest concentration in the world. The surrounding Moab area is a destination for rock climbers, mountain bikers, off-road enthusiasts, and geology buffs. 

There is something new (or, rather, very old) and exciting waiting around every corner of the Colorado River that runs along the park’s southern border. Arches National Park sees over one million visitors each year. Because of its popularity, a trial timed-entry permit system was implemented for April – October 2022.

RVing in Arches National Park is an experience like none other. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Why Visit Arches National Park in an RV?

Photo by LHBLLC via Shutterstock

With 18 miles of scenic driving within the park and its location in Moab, Arches National Park is the perfect RV base camp for a classic American southwest adventure. There is a campground within Arches National Park that accommodates RVs up to 40 feet in length, but it can fill up quickly.

Picture this: you’ve planned the perfect getaway with your significant other or your family while the kids are on a break from school. You’ve scoped out the most romantic destination with a wine tasting for two, or landed on a family-friendly spot that has an adventure suitable for all ages.

It’s far enough away to require traveling but not so far that you have to spring for airfare or worry about carry-ons. In fact, the journey itself begs for an RV road trip. There are sights to see and miles to collect along the way, making the location the cherry on top once you arrive.

So, how will you get there? The best way possible, of course — in a sprinter van.

What is a Sprinter Van?

Image: Ewa Studio / Shutterstock

Chances are you’ve seen a sprinter van on the road without even realizing that’s what you were looking at. A light commercial vehicle designed to carry passengers or cargo, a sprinter van can be used in a variety of ways, with the goal of getting from point A to point B in style and comfort.

Ranging in size depending on passenger or cargo capacity, a sprinter van marries luxury and convenience like nothing else on the road.

In 1932, outlaw couple Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow fled to Carlsbad, New Mexico, to find sanctuary from the cops. Granted, most of us would disapprove of how they made a living (robbing banks), but you have to admit: they had good taste when it came to picking a hideout.

Most visitors to the region would agree. The area surrounding Carlsbad, in particular, consists of scenic desert hills with legendary historic sites and state and national parks in every direction. Ninety years after Bonnie and Clyde’s visit, the small city, nicknamed the Pearl of the Pecos, continues to thrive as an oasis in the desert. The town has pleasant, treelined streets with friendly residents and the wide Pecos River flowing through it. Excellent restaurants, water recreation and microbreweries keep visitors busy.

Bonnie & Clyde’s RV Getaway RV Park

Bonnie and Clyde’s RV Getaway RV Park, named after the infamous couple, puts travelers close to everything this region offers. Located eight miles north of Carlsbad and nestled in a 30-acre ranch, the park surrounds visitors with sweeping views of Southwest scenery. The 40-space park treats guests to roomy spaces that accommodate slideouts. Guests enjoy friendly service and ample picnic shelters, grills and tables. 

The park is kid-friendly, with a safe environment and a playground for burning off energy. Anglers can hone their skills in the park’s fishing pond. A coin-operated laundry is available, and full-hookup sites powered by 30- and 50-amp power keep RVers comfortable. The Wi-Fi supports streaming and is available for two devices per overnight site.

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Propane is an essential fuel source for RVs. It is used to operate appliances like your water heater, furnace, refrigerator, oven, and cooktop, and it’s especially vital when you’re boondocking without electrical hookups. 

Because it’s a flammable liquid, you need to know how to connect propane and safely turn it on, and that’s true whether you’re renting an RV or you own a new motorhome. So let’s cover the basics of RV LP systems and how to use them. 

The Different LP Containers and Their Locations

Cylinder Location on Travel Trailer Photo by Camping World

There are two types of LP containers: DOT cylinders and ASME tanks. DOT cylinders are the removable type on most travel trailers and fifth wheels. ASME tanks are the type that are permanently mounted to the frame or floor of motorhomes and accessed through an exterior compartment door.

DOT = Department of TransportationASME = American Society of Mechanical Engineers

On travel trailers, you’ll typically find DOT cylinders mounted to the trailer’s tongue or, in rarer cases, to the rear bumper. On fifth wheels, the cylinders will usually be found inside a storage compartment.

As long as wheels have been around, people have been living in vehicles — or out of them. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, “van life,” has become the newest iteration of this tradition. Many wanderers are taking to vans, school buses, and RVs to live out the life of their dreams.

These days, van life is more about taking control of your life, carving out space to pursue your curiosities on your own terms. Ultimately, van life is more than a lifestyle — it’s a mindset.

Step One to Living Van Life: Find the Right Rig

Jupiter in front of their Freedom Elite RV

Full disclosure, this process can be time-consuming and stressful at the beginning. However, it’s best not to rush it. It’s an important decision and you want to choose the right van for you.

Make a list of the things that you need in a tiny space — the ability to stand up, bed size, kitchen space, etc. — and weed out any options that don’t meet those. If you’re stuck or torn between a few, try some on for size. Good Sam’s RV rental platform will allow you to try different types of RVs, from Class B’s (the most “van” like RV out there) to big ol’ Class A’s. 

In this phase of the journey, you can determine what the van life will look like for you. Will you be a part-timer, full-timer, or weekend warrior? Are you planning to build it out yourself, or do you want something move-in ready? Will you need to tow another vehicle for grocery grabbing and excursions?

Want to get more out of your RV? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.

When you get to an RV park or campground, one of your first steps requires knowing how to stabilize your RV. Properly stabilized, your recreational vehicle won’t sway back and forth when the kids jump around inside after too much sugary dessert. 

Travel trailers are stabilized using jacks, fifth wheels utilize what’s called landing gear, and many motorhomes are equipped with leveling systems that both level and stabilize your RV. 

Remember, stabilizing jacks and landing gear are NOT meant for leveling your RV. Leveling an RV must be completed before stabilizing your RV and requires leveling blocks and the proper orientation of your tongue jack. 

So, before you learn how to stabilize your RV, watch this quick video on how to level your RV first. 

When you see a large luxury RV driving down the road, it’s natural to wonder, ‘do you need a special license to drive an RV?’ With modern motorhomes being comparable in size to semi-trucks, it’s a legitimate question to ask. 

For most RVs, you’ll only need a valid driver’s license to rent an RV and drive it legally, but some states or RV types will require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or another type of special license. 

Whether you’re looking to rent a class A motorhome with Good Sam RV Rentals or you’re shopping for a sizable RV yourself, here’s what you need to know about driving and maneuvering recreational vehicles.

What Are The Different Types of RVs?

If you’re new here, let’s begin with an overview of the various RV types and classes:  

Motorized RVs

Class A RVs: The largest motorhomes, sometimes stretching up to 40 feet long. Class B RVs: The most compact motorhomes and the best options for van life.Class C RVs: The “Goldilocks” of motorhomes. Most are easier to drive than class A RVs while offering more amenities and room than class B RVs.

Towable Campers

Towable campers include travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and pop-up campers. Truck campers are kind of in their own category, but they still rely on you having a truck that can handle the camper’s weight. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious way to give your family a home away from home without spending a fortune on building a vacation home, these destination trailers for sale today are the best option. You’ll find each unit is packed with amenities and features that you’ll love! Plan your next big vacation with your family in one of these luxurious destination trailers.

There are more destination trails for sale at a dealer near you.

2022 Crossroads Hampton HP364MBL

You’ll feel like your family is spending a weekend in the Hamptons no matter where you park this CrossRoads Hampton HP364MBL destination trailer. Inside, you’ll find sleeping space for up to eight, with a private bunkhouse that features a set of bunks and plenty of storage space. There’s even a loft over the bunkhouse for additional sleeping space.

Additional Features:

Loft AreaPrivate BunkhouseTwo Bunk BedsKitchen IslandFireplaceExterior KitchenThe master bedroom features a bay window that will make it easy to enjoy the view.

2023 Crossroads Hampton HP388FKL

Another excellent option for weeks away from the buzz and bustle, this CrossRoads Hampton HPFKL destination trailer offers a double loft with plenty of sleeping space for the kids. You’ll love that the front kitchen features a bar with stools that are ideal for a quick breakfast before heading to bed. In the master bedroom, you’ll get a great night’s sleep in the king bed that’s set into a slide for additional sleeping space.

Additional Features:

When it comes to your RV, leaving it plugged in for long periods of time may not be the best idea. It can cause issues with certain appliances (see RV refrigerator basics) and leave your RV susceptible to electrical issues if you’re not protecting your system with a surge protector.  

Whether you’re renting an RV or have decided to purchase one, RV power can be confusing for even the most advanced RV enthusiast. Fortunately, you’re in the right place to break through that fog of confusion.

Should you leave your RV plugged in all the time? No. Well, “not quite,” is the short answer. The longer answer? Read on for more details to ensure your RV continues to run smoothly.

Understanding the Basics of RV Power

PC Camping World

It’s important to know how your RV is powered and how to ensure that power is used and maintained. There are two power systems that supply power to an RV: DC power which uses 12-volt direct current, and AC power which uses 120-volt alternating current.

12-volt DC power from your battery bank (whether lead-acid, AGM, or lithium) can power things like lights, fans, your tongue jack (if it isn’t manual), and water pumps.

An out-of-this-world scene awaits those interested in RVing Saguaro National Park near Tucson, Arizona. You’ll find yourself surrounded by miles of giant cacti covering a starkly beautiful landscape. A forest of 60-foot-tall saguaro cacti stands as sentries across the Sonoran Desert, like soldiers in an army of colossal succulents.

These amazing plants take hundreds of years to grow and can only be found in southern Arizona and a small part of southern California, making this place a truly magical destination that must be seen to be believed. It’s an unusual landscape of living wonder, full of spine-covered vegetation in a harsh setting, but in need of preservation for the generations still to come.

To help you plan your visit, here’s our guide to RVing Saguaro National Park in Arizona.

Why Visit Saguaro National Park in an RV?

Photo Credit: Nate Hovee/Getty

The park is split in half by the city of Tucson. The east side exists within the Rincon Mountain District and receives more moisture than the west side in the Tucson Mountains.

Both areas protect an amazing desert environment that includes prickly pear, cholla, ocotillo, barrel cactus, and, of course, the giant Saguaro cactus. It’s also home to an astounding variety of wildlife. Roadrunners and rattlesnakes are common here, but so are bobcats, deer, black bears, and mountain lions.

Like most things in life, you can’t learn all there is to know about RVing until you give it a try. When you do, you’ll learn that some myths about RVs and the RV lifestyle are greatly over-exaggerated or downright false. The truth about RV living is that it’s different for everyone. But debunking these common RV myths will help you create realistic expectations if you’re thinking of buying your first RV or renting an RV for the first time.

RV Lifestyle Myths

Most aspiring RVers are attracted to the lifestyle over everything else – the freedom to roam and explore. While others question the RV lifestyle, influenced by myths about RV living that just aren’t true.

Myth 1: Full-Time RVing is Hard

Truth: Depending upon your definition of hard, this one could go either way. Is RVing more difficult than maintaining a sticks-and-bricks home? No, but it’s not necessarily easier, either. When you’re living on the road, your lifestyle is different than when you’re in a stationary house. Traveling in an RV takes adjustments, like having to downsize your belongings or limit long showers if you’re boondocking, but we think they’re well worth it for the ability to travel with the comforts of home.

Check out more information about becoming a full-timer before hitting the road:

An Authentic Budget Breakdown of Full-Time RV LivingEssential Camping Gear According to Full-Time RVersFull-Time RV Life or Part-Time RV Life: How to Know Which is Right for You

Myth 2: RVs Aren’t Good Living Spaces for Pets

Truth: Not only is this false, but it’s unfair. Our pets crave a life of adventure just as we do. It’s important to create an interior space that your pet will love and research pet-friendly campgrounds before you arrive. With a little effort, your RV will be more than a good living space for your pet — it will be great.

Good Sam has added 53 new Good Sam Campgrounds to its network, expanding your chances of finding savings and value on the road. Good Sam members can save big with the 10 percent discount, and while you’re exploring, discover all of the RV campgrounds in the Good Sam Network.

If you’re not a member, joining is simple: Purchase a membership at any Good Sam Campground, or sign up online. Check each campground’s link to determine seasonal availability and to make reservations.

Arizona

Grand Canyon Oasis RV Resort & Glampground, Flagstaff

Immerse yourself in the world of glamping, an approach to camping that seamlessly blends luxury with the great outdoors. Located near the east entrance of the Grand Canyon north of Flagstaff, this resort has ample RV spaces in an awe-inspiring setting.

Village Camp Flagstaff, Flagstaff

Surrounded by national forests and beautiful views of Humphreys Peak — the highest mountain in Arizona — the 10-acre park offers an escape into cooler temperatures during the summer months or playtime in snow during winter days.

Family with a barking dog, shouting kids. I can understand family-friendly campgrounds. They’re meant to be raucous and kid-friendly. That’s the fun in them. But a dog that barks at everything that moves? Really? Strategy: Keep a pair of earplugs on hand.

Redwood National Park in California is one of the only places on Earth you can still find coastal redwood trees. The park is home to a string of forests, beaches, and grasslands, giving visitors diverse scenery and activities. 

Photographs of the Redwoods might spark your initial interest, but there’s nothing like experiencing them in person. It’s truly a magical place to explore, and even a drive through the park will leave you breathless.

Why Visit Redwood National Park in an RV?

Exploring nearly endless groves of the world’s largest and oldest trees can feel like somewhat of a spiritual experience. It feels as though you’ve stepped into a completely different world, and you can’t help but feel a deep connection with nature.

All of your senses will be heightened. Not only will the sheer size of the trees amaze you, but the fresh, cool air and smell of the forest will be something you’ll remember forever. When amidst these majestic giants, the peace and quiet you’ll feel is incredible.

The park has so many other reasons to visit, including its wildlife and the wide variety of plant species. Redwood National Park’s range of habitats makes it home to many rare animals and birds, some of which are on endangered species lists.

What a relief that cooler temperatures are finally here. It’s a welcome change of seasons and a perfect chance to comfortably explore the best dark-sky destinations in the Southwest. Whether you’re headed to the sunny Southern California coast or gathering with winter Texans on the Gulf Coast, the most popular winter snowbird journeys are often filled with stargazing under crystal-clear skies.

A Short List of the Best Dark Sky Destinations in the Southwest

The Southwestern desert has inky-black starry skies all year. But if you’re a weather wimp like me, exploring them in fall and winter is much more appealing. As an astronomy fan, I enjoy planning our travels around the International Dark-Sky Association’s Dark Sky Site Directory. It’s a great resource for locating North America’s darkest skies and also includes a list of dozens of Dark Sky Parks near popular winter snowbird destinations. My favorite places in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas include:

Arizona: Saguaro National Park

If you hide from winter in Arizona, take a break from your usual spot and head south to Organ Pipe National Monument. Located two hours west of Tucson, Organ Pipe is not only an International Dark Sky Park, but is also an International Biosphere Reserve. The dual designation means that along with a peaceful stay underneath Southern Arizona’s darkest skies, you can also experience one of the few intact, undeveloped slices of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. It’s a two-for-one deal that takes your breath away with the starriest skies at night and untouched desert scenery by day. There’s a rustic, RV-friendly campground inside the monument, but Ajo Heights RV Park offers full-hookup comforts just minutes from the park entrance.

alifornia: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Of all the camping adventures I’ve been on, the ones I cherish the most are the adventures with our kids.

Don’t get me wrong. Before children, my husband and I went on some epic camping trips across the country. However, now that we have two toddlers, camping feels meaningful and impactful for the kids too. But traveling with children is also challenging. There is a lot more planning involved, and packing up the RV often feels like we’re moving to another house — almost. 

For our family, the most important things while RVing are eating, sleeping, and exploring. I’ve narrowed down our favorite essential camping gear for kids which has helped our family enjoy the camping experience more. 

Safe Place to Sleep

It might sound obvious, but we all need a safe place to sleep at night. If your RV isn’t equipped with the right kind of beds for the age your kids are, then you need to adapt. Thankfully, there are lots of portable bed options that make it easy to create a safe place to sleep while on the go.

Snuggle Nest Portable Infant Lounger

Snuggle Nest Portable Infant Lounger

We are big fans of portable “cribs” for babies. Think of it as a bassinet on the go. The Snuggle Nest Portable Infant Lounger can be folded up for easy transportation. Depending on what you prefer, it can be placed next to you on your RV bed, on the ground, or outside on the grass as a place for your littlest campers to lounge and hang out. 

RVing in Mammoth Cave National Park is truly unique, as the park’s marquee feature is unlike anything else in the national park system. As its name implies, the park’s focal point is the world’s longest known cave system that’s more than 400 miles long. 

Even at that length, there are new sections still being discovered. According to Molly Schroer, the park’s Public Information Officer, another six miles were recently added, and “there’s no end in sight.” 

For that reason, it might not offer the same instant drama as other national parks. You don’t drive up and immediately see a memorable mountain range, historic fort, or one of the biggest canyons in the world. You must work just a little harder to immerse yourself into the beauty of this park – but it is worth every bit of the effort.

Why Visit Mammoth Cave National Park in an RV?

Photo by Ko Zatu via Shutterstock

Whether you’re exploring the cave itself or engaging in some other adventure, it’s great to have an RV as a base camp in this park. Two campgrounds in the park allow RVs and private campgrounds for RVs in the nearby gateway (and aptly named) communities of Park City and Cave City.

The incredible cave that is the park’s namesake (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is full of intriguing chambers, tunnels, stalactites/mites, and domes. It runs under four Kentucky counties, extending well beyond the park’s boundaries.