The Different Types of RV Camping

RV camping is a popular past-time for many outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s a weekend trip up into the mountains or a summer spent exploring the entire country, RV camping allows you to visit almost any location without sacrificing the comforts of home.

Motorhomes today are designed to match any adventurer's taste or needs. From large motorhomes with multiple sleeping spaces to small campervans capable of heading off-road, there’s an RV perfect for every style of adventure.

Not only are RVs extremely varied in their design and styles, but how RVs are used can look completely different depending on the camper. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the popular types of RV camping and what you should consider about each style. At the end of the day, how you RV camp is entirely up to you; the only limitation is your own creativity!

Full-Time RVing

A dream for many, full-time RV life is a style of RV camping where every single day is spent living out of your motorhome. Full-time RV life has traditionally been a popular choice for retirees who save up money to spend their golden years traversing the U.S.

Today, however, full-time RV life is increasing in popularity among younger demographics who are free to work from anywhere due to better connectivity, technology, and job options.

Key Considerations for Full-Time RVing

Because full-time RV life is a 24/7- 365 days a year lifestyle choice, what you need in an RV will be different than if you were simply spending a weekend away. Check out our top two considerations for full-time RV life.

• RV size: There isn’t one specific RV or motorhome that is the only choice for full-time RV life, but because you’ll be living in your rig every single day, size should be a consideration. Make sure you’ll have ample room to be comfortable, even when a rainy day traps you inside.
• Quality: Besides the size and comfort level, be sure the RV you invest in is high-quality and won’t break down quickly with daily wear and tear.
• Internet connectivity: For full-time RV life, it’s best to explore RV internet options. This will allow you to either work from the road or stay connected to family and friends. To learn more, check out our How to Get Internet in Your RV Guide.

Boondocking

Boondocking refers to camping without water, sewer, or electrical hookups. Sometimes, you’ll hear boondocking, also called “dry camping.” Boondocking can take place anywhere. You could boondock in a Walmart parking lot or deep in the woods of Idaho. Boondocking is a popular way to save money when camping and allows you the ultimate freedom in where you sleep at night.

The only consideration when boondocking is ensuring that it is legal for you to sleep in your motorhome where you are parked.

Key Considerations for Boondocking

Because boondocking requires you to be fully off the grid, make sure you consider the following two tips before embarking on a boondocking adventure.

• Power source: When you’re boondocking, you do not have the luxury of plugging into a campground power source. For this reason, most boondockers will invest in solar systems to allow for the use of lights and electronics no matter where your adventure takes you.
• Bathroom: Being self-contained is important when you’re boondocking. Often, boondocking will take you to locations where you don’t have access to a public bathroom overnight. This is where having a built-in bathroom is a must.

Glamping

Glamping is a term that is used to describe a glamorous style of camping — shortened into “glamping”. The goal of glamping is to make the camping experience as luxurious as possible. This is the type of camping where no comfort is lost, and no corners are cut.

Glamping can take place anywhere you go and is more about what gear you have and your setup. However, for most who enjoy glamping, they will opt for RV resorts and parks with numerous on-site amenities rather than the backcountry.

Key Considerations for Glamping

• Television: Often, glamping includes spending the evening catching up on your favorite TV shows or movies while you sip on your favorite beverage. For this reason, we recommend choosing an RV with built-in television. For an extra touch of luxury, opt for an RV with an outdoor television as well.
• Premium upgrades: Glamping is all about glamor. If glamping is your style, be sure to ask about premium upgrades when shopping for an RV. Leather seats, king-size beds, full-size fridges, jetted tubs, and more are all on the table when glamping.

RV Rentals

In some cases, people will either rent an RV for a period of time to explore the country or rent a stationary RV when visiting a destination. Either way, an RV rental is a temporary camping option that allows people to enjoy the luxuries of an RV without investing in the purchase of a motorhome. This can also be an excellent way to get a taste of the RV life and determine what size and style of RV would be the perfect fit for your needs.

Key Considerations for RV Rentals

If you decide to rent an RV, make sure you consider the following key takeaways from your experience.

• Preferences: RV rentals will allow you to experience the joys of RV camping. Make sure you take note of what your favorite features of the RV you rented were. Keep this list handy in case you decide to purchase an RV for yourself.
• Ideal changes: Sometimes, an RV rental is the perfect chance to find out what you would do differently. Maybe the RV you rented was too large for you to drive comfortably, or maybe the opposite was true — you needed more space! Either way, take note of what you’d do differently for future rentals or your RV purchase.

Find Your Next RV at Transwest

If you’re ready to try out one of the above types of RV camping, the only thing you need is the right RV. Stop by one of our Transwest locations, and we’ll help you find the best motorhome for your camping style. Whether you’re all about the glam of glamping or you’re passionate about living life off the grid, we have you covered. Come see us soon!