Introduction

If you're looking for something different, why not consider renting a RV? It's something that your entire family can enjoy. Today's RV's aren't anything like they were 10 or 20 years ago. They now come equipped with every type of luxury you can imagine. If you've never considered renting an RV for a great getaway, then consider it now.

RVs are spacious. Depending on the model you rent they can comfortably sleep from 4 to 8 individuals. Some come equipped with leather furniture, DVD players, televisions, enormous beds, full-sized showers, and all the pots, pans, dishes, glassware, silverware, appliances and bedding you need. Better still, renting an RV means no destination is out of reach.

When renting an RV you get the best of both worlds. You get affordable accommodations that are amazingly comfortable, plus you have a vehicle you can use for sightseeing. You don't have to worry about long lines at the airport, delayed trains or any of the other security issues now involved in traveling.

Recreational Vehicle Operating Tips

Before renting an RV, thoroughly check the vehicle inside and out for any existing damage. If there is damage, be sure to bring it to the attention of the RV rental operator and make sure the existing damage is listed on the rental agreement.

If you are renting an RV for the first time, the RV rental operator might suggest taking an hour or so to go over safe operation of the vehicle. Together with the RV rental operator, you might wish to practice starting, stopping, turning, backing up and parking. The RV rental operator should also ensure that all brake lights, headlights, tail lights, directional signals and belts are operating properly and that all tires are properly inflated before allowing you to leave the premises. You can also expect the RV rental operator to give you a thorough orientation of the RV to demonstrate all of its features. For example, you'll need to know how to:

1. Safely secure dishes, luggage and other items while traveling.
2. Operate any pop-outs and slide-outs.
3. Use the toilet and flush out the holding tanks.
4. Hook the RV up to water and electrical outlets.
5. Ready the sleeping quarters.
6. Use the generator.
7. Use the RV's side and back view mirrors to identify obstacles.
8. Winterize the RV (if necessary).
9. Operate the air conditioning unit, the refrigerator and other appliances.
10. Set the brakes.
11. Shut off the gas supply.

RV Safety Equipment

1. Emergency road kit (flashlights, batteries, first aid kit, prescriptions, non-perishable food, bottled water, pet food and portable weather radio).
2. Road maps and guidebooks of the areas you plan to visit.
3. Fire extinguishers.
4. Warning devices to set at night if the vehicle is in any way disabled.
5. Cell phone with fully charged back-up batteries (or a way to charge the battery).
6. Contact information for the RV rental company including numbers to call in case of an accident.
7. Weather radio receiver.
8. Smoke alarms.
9. Insurance. If the RV is not already insured by the owner, you may need to obtain a rider from your insurance agency that will cover the recreational vehicle.
10. Spare tire.

Safe Driving Practices for Recreational Vehicles

1. Allow plenty of extra room to prepare for stopping. The RV is considerably heavier than what you are used to driving and it will take you longer to safely stop.
2. If possible, never slam on the brakes.
3. Before leaving a parked position, make sure all items inside the RV camper are safely secured. Completely shut all cabinets, drawers and doors. Make sure all steps and jacks are up, and that all canopies, cords and hoses are properly secured.
4. Carefully check out your surroundings, especially before you back up. By doing so, there is less chance that you will back into a tree branch or stump, sign, bicycle, or other type of obstacle that might cause considerable damage to the RV. When necessary, have someone stand behind the RV camper and safely guide you.
5. Know the height of the RV so that you can safely travel beneath bridges.
6. Drive in the right-hand lane except when you need to pass or turn.
7. If your RV is causing a vehicle back-up behind you, pull over at the next opportunity to allow others to pass.
8. If the RV experiences some type of mechanical breakdown, move as far off the road as possible.
9. Never operate the RV while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
10. Never operate the RV when you are tired.
11. Never allow someone who does not have the proper training to operate the RV.
12. Never overload the RV.
13. Plan an escape route and make sure exits are never blocked.

Useful RV Links

• RV Safety & Education Foundation
• Everything RV
• RV Tips
• Recreational Vehicle Buyer's Guide