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?

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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.

Take luxury everywhere you go when you travel in these incredible RVs available at RVingPlanet.com. You’ll love that traveling with these amazing fifth wheels, toy haulers, and more that will make you feel like you’re traveling in a five-star resort wherever you go. Learn more about the features and amenities you’ll love below.

Take home this Alliance Paradigm 382RK fifth wheel today.

2023 Alliance Paradigm 382RK

This Alliance Paradigm 382RK fifth wheel offers the perfect combination of a couple’s coach and plenty of space for entertaining. The dual opposing slides in the living room offer plenty of space for watching the big game with family and friends. Additionally, the sofas provide pull-out beds so that you can sleep up to six. Meanwhile, the master bedroom features a private master bathroom with a spacious shower and more.

Additional Features:

Rear KitchenBath and a HalfMaster SuiteMiddle Living AreaFireplaceGet a great night’s sleep wherever you go in this king bed.

2022 DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites 39DBRS3

Another excellent way to travel when you don’t want to leave your creature comforts at home is the DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites 39DBRS3 fifth wheel. The full and half bath design makes it easy to keep everyone comfortable while you host friends and family at the campground. Additionally, the spacious kitchen will help you feel like you’re cooking in your own home, so feel free to make your favorite signature dishes.

Additional Features:

Being labeled by John Muir as “a rival to Yosemite,” Kings Canyon National Park has a lot to live up to. It does so in grand style. With the deepest canyon in the nation (hence, the park’s name), the largest grove of Sequoia trees still in existence, and rock formations not unlike Yosemite, Kings Canyon on any scale is a land full of excesses. It is partnered with neighboring Sequoia National Park but stands on its own as a natural gem within the national park system.

Kings Canyon, the country’s fourth national park, encompasses stunning landscapes and exhilarating activities for all to enjoy. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails, mountaintop experiences, and rushing rivers, this is a true nature lover’s park. Come to revel in the solitude of the high country and absorb wildlife and wilderness in the country’s deepest canyon.

Why Visit Kings Canyon National Park in an RV?

There are only two roads in Kings Canyon, but they both lead to campgrounds that allow RVs. Having your home with you on this trip would be advantageous after a day of hiking or fishing.

Come back to your own kitchen, fry up the trout you reeled in earlier in the day, and then enjoy an evening around the campfire. You can view spectacular night skies and retreat to your own bed to rest up for tomorrow’s adventures!

When to Visit Kings Canyon National Park

Image: Shutterstock

The park is open year-round. There are a number of activities offered in every season, from hiking to snowshoeing and rock climbing to cross-country skiing. The weather can vary and change quickly throughout the park. As you change elevation, the temperature can fluctuate by 20 to 30 degrees. You could easily see spring flowers in the foothills and then snow in the Giant Forest all at once.

With nearly 3.2 million annual visitors, Indiana Dunes National Park was the ninth most visited National Park in 2021. It is marked by towering sand dunes overlooking the shore of Lake Michigan, beautiful beaches, and a very diverse ecosystem. 

This national park might be the fifth smallest by landmass, but it is also the fifth most biodiverse park in the country. And that’s just a small sampling of why RVing in Indiana Dunes National Park is a very sought-after experience. 

Why Visit Indiana Dunes National Park in an RV?

Photo by Sarah Quintans via Shutterstock

The midwest isn’t known for beautiful sandy beaches, but come summer, Indiana Dunes National Park has many incredible spots for freshwater swimming. Within the 15 miles of picturesque shoreline, nine designated beaches are absolutely perfect for cooling off. 

If you are interested in the biodiversity of Indiana Dunes National Park, you’ll be thrilled to know that 1,960 different species call this park home — including rare and endangered species. Of the rare plant life, you’ll see Black Oak Savannas, carnivorous plants like the American Pitcher, and 43 different types of orchids that call this area home. 

Indiana Dunes National Park’s 15,000 acres of land is actually split in half by Indiana Dunes State Park. The state park has another 2,182 acres and three more miles of Lake Michigan coastline to explore with similar features as the national park. Whether you only go to Indiana Dunes National Park or you visit both parks, there will be plenty to see and do in the area.

There are many reasons you might burn through your propane: big outdoor barbecues, camping in cool temps and cranking your RV furnace, running your RV refrigerator when boondocking, and more.

No matter how good you are at conserving propane in your RV, you’ll eventually need a refill. Luckily, Good Sam members save 15% when refilling propane at Camping World locations. That kind of savings can really add up.

Tips for Conserving Propane in Your RV

In addition to this member perk, there are a few very easy ways to reduce propane usage so you can keep your RV adventures rolling — and save money too.

Tip #1: Put Reflective Foil on your RV Windows

Photo by Camping World

Your RV isn’t insulated like your home — most RV windows are not double-pane. Most of the heat loss in your RV happens through your windows. The more heat that’s lost through your windows, the more propane you will burn to keep your RV at a comfortable temperature.

Travel trailers and motorhomes built with dual-pane acrylic windows help to minimize heat loss. But if your RV features single-pane windows like most, adding reflective foil is a great way to reduce heat loss and conserve propane.

One of the most overlooked ways to spruce up your outdoor patio area is with a patio mat or outdoor rug. But not anymore! With the wide range of outdoor RV patio mats and rugs available these days, taking your patio from basic to beautiful is easier than ever.

Enjoying the outdoors is perhaps the biggest perk of the RV lifestyle, so why not ensure your patio checks every box on the list of must-haves for an incredible space. Whether you’re looking for a small accent rug or a large statement piece, your choice has the power to drastically transform your outdoor area.

Where to start? With the ultimate guide to patio mats and outdoor rugs, of course.

Where are You Putting Your Patio Mat or Outdoor RV Rug?

Image: Chase & Lindsay

Before deciding the type, size, or design of the outdoor rug you want, you first must decide where to put it. The surface under your rug often determines the other factors. There’s nothing worse than finding the perfect patio mat only to discover it won’t work in your intended space.

Here are the three most popular surfaces that outdoor rugs are placed on, along with a few things to keep in mind when choosing your rug.

Perhaps one of the most underrated states in the country, “The Land of Infinite Variety” affords visitors the chance to witness spectacular landscapes, Old West history, abundant wildlife, and Native American cultural sites. From the Black Hills and Badlands to the rolling plains and river valleys, South Dakota is the perfect spot to escape the crowds and enjoy nature’s solace.

National and State Parks

Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park, located near the town of Wall, comprises over 244,000 acres of colorful spires, striped buttes and expansive grasslands. It’s renowned not only for its otherworldly beauty but also as one of the world’s richest fossil beds. Long before the arid badlands were formed, the region was part of an inland sea. Beginning in the late Cretaceous Epoch, roughly 75 million years ago, the landscape evolved when the sea receded, leaving behind clay, silt and sand. Water flowing from the Black Hills eroded this changing landscape, carving out the valleys, canyons, buttes and spires you see today. The colorful stripes within these formations not only tell the tale of time, but they also hold the answers to the first inhabitants of this area. Although no dinosaurs have been found within the park, creatures like saber tooth cats, rhinoceroses, mammoths, three-toed horses, camels and giant marine predators called mosasaurs have been found.

The park is also rich in human history, as evidence of early nomadic people dating back over 10,000 years. These Paleo Indians were big game hunters, and the valleys provided the perfect hunting grounds while the top of the badlands wall served as a lookout for enemies and wandering herds. In addition to oral traditions, further evidence of these early inhabitants has been found in the arrowheads and tools they left behind from hunts and the remnants of their campfires along stream banks. If you’ve wondered how the badlands got its name, you can credit the Lakota people who dubbed the area “mako sica,” which roughly translates to badlands. Later,  French trappers referred to the region as “les mauvaises terres a traverser” — bad lands to travel through, as they found the extreme temperatures, lack of water, and rough terrain hard to navigate.

One thing that every RVer needs to be conscious of is the height of their rig. Unfortunately, not every RV will fit under every bridge or overpass. If you choose to ignore the height of your RV, you can experience disastrous results for your RV’s roof.This is true of all types of RVs from travel trailers and fifth-wheels to small Class B motorhomes and Happier Campers all the way to monster Class A motorhomes.

Here are some tips and information to remember about your RV’s height.

Figure Out and Know the True Height of Your RV

The owner’s manual for your RV will list the actual dimensions of your RV and this includes the height. However, the height listed in the owner’s manual may not always include appliances and additions to your motorhome. For example, If you have a roof rack, a roof-mounted AC unit, or an antenna of some kind, then there’s a good chance the height listed in your manual will be inaccurate.

Instead of going with the number listed, or estimating how much your roof rack or roof-mounted AC unit adds to that number, get your tape measure out. Measure to the top of the roof from the ground when the RV is sitting on a level surface. From there, get on top of the RV and measure any items or appliances that are attached to the roof. Doing this will give you the true height of your RV.

Afterward, you need to make sure anyone who drives or tows your RV knows the true height of the vehicle.