How comfortable are you driving a motorhome versus a trailer?
There's much to be said for both camps. On one hand, many RVers feel that driving a motorhome is not much different than piloting a large truck or SUV, and in fact, is easier to park in a campsite than a 23-foot truck pulling a 30-foot trailer.
For trailer enthusiasts, the fact that the truck/trailer combo pivots in the middle makes it easier to get around sharper bends in the road (keeping in mind those older campgrounds, especially in the mountains, which are built around massive trees and towering boulders).
But no matter whether you're driving or pulling, always beware of wind. Always.
How important is easy access while en route?
There's no contest when it comes to activities while on the road. The motorhome is the clear winner. Because in a motorhome, you don't have to pull over for a bathroom break (except for the driver, of course!)... the potty is right down the hall. With a trailer, you'll need to pull into a rest stop or gas station, or stop at the side of the road and run back to the porta john you've been pulling with you.
In a motorhome, it's easier to make snacks or take a nap. Everything you need is right with you (although take care moving about while you're underway). In a trailer, everything you need is close behind you. But you still have to stop and get out to get to it. Not fun in a thunderstorm.
How convenient is the set up and take down?
Once you arrive at your destination your first order of business is setting up camp. In a motorhome this can be as simple as leveling the rig with electric jacks and hooking up the utilities. To depart, simply reverse the steps.
With a trailer you have a few extra steps. Such as leveling the unit, unhitching, lowering the stabilizing jacks and then connecting to shore power and water. And like the motorhome, takedown is the reverse. Still, for many campers it's this ritual of set up and knock down that they enjoy; "real camping" that just can't be appreciated by motorhome jockeys.
While some of these camping rules are considered standard at most campgrounds, others simply come from experience. Be sure you follow these unwritten rules, and any others you learn along the way, if not for yourself, for your fellow campers who are looking to enjoy their time away, too.
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