We are often asked, “Why don’t you travel to the US or other countries by motorhome?” We haven’t in the past almost 12 years because we’ve spent most of our time outside the US, making owning or renting an RV impractical in another country for an extended period.
We are also not interested in renting an RV for short periods when we can easily travel outside the US using other means of travel, which provides us with a broader range of locations, safety, and cost options. Most certainly, traveling in the US in an RV is appealing, but neither of us, at our age, has any interest in the responsibility, cost, and upkeep.
In 1978, after subdividing some land in Minnetonka, Minnesota, I traded one of the vacant lots for a 36-foot King’s Highway Motorhome. As a single mom of two boys, I learned to drive and maintain it, and we often traveled the US, often with friends joining us, when I had time to take vacations while running my business.
Eventually, after realizing we wouldn’t use it as often as I would have liked, I rented it, off and on for a year, eventually selling it for a reasonable price. The experience left me with a dislike for traveling by RV based on the work required to set it up and take it down at various RV sites, with what seemed to be constant maintenance along with the cost of fuel.
Early on, before we decided to travel the world, we investigated purchasing a motorhome but lost interest when we both realized the cost would be prohibitive in today’s world since we aren’t campers and would have preferred modern conveniences over “roughing it.”
Over the years, we have met many travelers and friends who have reveled in home-free travel, living full-time in a motorhome. We commend those who made this big decision, but it wasn’t for us.
Today, we share our perspective of traveling by motorhome, RV, or camper, offering this unique experience with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown:
Advantages
- Flexibility and Freedom: You can travel at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and change your plans on the go. This flexibility is one of the biggest perks of motorhome travel.
- Cost Savings: While the initial cost can be high, you save on accommodation and dining costs. Campsites are generally cheaper than hotels, and you can cook your own meals.
- Comfort and Convenience: Modern motorhomes are equipped with many amenities like beds, kitchens, and bathrooms, providing the comforts of home while on the road.
- Closer to Nature: Motorhome travel allows you to stay in scenic locations such as national parks, beaches, and mountains, bringing you closer to nature.
- Family and Pet-Friendly: Traveling with family members and pets is easier. Everyone has their own space, and you can bring along your pet without the hassle of finding pet-friendly accommodations.
- Social Aspect: Campgrounds and RV parks can be very social places, offering a sense of community and the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers.
Disadvantages
- Initial Cost and Maintenance: Purchasing a motorhome is a significant investment. Additionally, maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs can add up.
- Driving Challenges: Motorhomes can be difficult to drive, especially for those not used to handling large vehicles. Parking can also be a challenge in urban areas.
- Limited Mobility in Urban Areas: Large vehicles can be impractical in cities, making it difficult to navigate narrow streets, find parking, or access certain attractions.
- Fuel Consumption: Motorhomes generally consume more fuel than regular cars, making long-distance travel expensive.
- Upkeep and Storage: Motorhomes require storage space when not in use. Additionally, maintenance can be time-consuming and costly.
- Dependency on Campsites: While you can park almost anywhere, for overnight stays with amenities like water, electricity, and waste disposal, you often need to stay in designated campgrounds.
- Weather Dependence: Traveling by motorhome can be less enjoyable in bad weather, as it limits outdoor activities and can make driving more hazardous.
In summary, motorhome travel can be an enriching and flexible way to explore, but it comes with cost considerations, driving difficulty, and maintenance, none of which are appealing to our lifestyle.
Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, July 23, 2014:
