What Are the RV Length Restrictions in National Parks?

July 31, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

Remember Robin Williams’ mid-2000s family road trip comedy flick, RV? What a great movie that was to watch! In it, the Munro clan (with a dad played by Robin Williams – RIP) hits the open road in a rented RV.

It’s 2020, and RVs are now bigger and better than ever. So before you visit the national parks of your choice, make sure your RV falls within the RV length guidelines at the parks you’re going to.

What’s the Ideal Length of an RV for Visiting National Parks?

If you’re not sure of the ideal length for national parks, you’ll want to choose an RV between 25 and 30 feet long. Most national parks will accommodate RVs between those lengths. Almost 98% of National Park campgrounds can accommodate RVs up to 19 feet long. You will still have a large number of options if your RV is up to 25 feet since more than 90% of parks permit that length. On average, national parks will allow RVs with a maximum length of 27 feet.

How to Measure the Length of Your RV?

If your RV’s on the shorter side, you might want to take the manufacturer’s measurement of its length and add a few feet to that number. That way, you play it safe and give your vehicle some extra maneuvering space. And while we would like to say the number in the manufacturer’s model number is always 100% accurate, it is not. For example take the Puma 23-RBFQ . This model number seems to read: “23-foot Rear Bunk (or bath) Front Queen.” However, this RV actually is 28 feet long so the 23 doesn’t make much sense, but you could also think of it as a way to “sort” the product line from smallest to biggest with length as an approximation. In other words – if you want to know the exterior length of your RV (for sure) get a tape measure out and measure it yourself. The same goes for the height of your RV. And be sure when you measure the height of your RV you consider any vents on the roof, or possibly the air conditioner, as those might not be visible from the side or the cab.

You will also want to call the park you’re visiting to confirm availability of the sites’ lengths, widths, and other information directly from someone who’s current on the park’s situation. For example, many parks have a limited number of ‘pull through’ sites, so if you’re a novice RVer and prefer pull-through parking you’ll want to call ahead.

Which National Parks Should You Visit?

Why not take in the stunning views of the Grand Canyon? The Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona has breathtaking, bucket list-scenery. It draws visitors the world over, and it can fit RVs up to 30 feet at two campgrounds (30 feet including your vehicle and RV at one of the campgrounds). One campground can even accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long.

Yosemite National Park, another world-famous destination, allows RVs at nine campgrounds. One campground permits rigs as long as 40 feet. Other campgrounds can handle RVs up to 35 feet long, and one campground only takes RVs with a maximum of 27-feet.

Or consider touring the picturesque Acadia National Park in Maine. This spotless park has no restrictions whatsoever on RV length at any of its campgrounds, so have at it.

Another world-renowned destination is Yellowstone National Park, which spans across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Home of the iconic Old Faithful geyser, bears, bison, and wolves (oh my!), Yellowstone is a national treasure. It’s great for your RV, too, with many of its campgrounds making space for 40- and 50-foot-long recreational vehicles.

What Are the RV Length Restrictions at Other National Parks?

Check out the maximum RV lengths permitted at some of America’s other most well-known national parks:

Denali National Park (AK): 40 feet
Everglades National Park (FL): 45 feet
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (TN): 40 feet for RVs, 35 feet for trailers
Mount Rainier National Park (WA): 35 feet for RVs, 27 feet for trailers
Rocky Mountain National Park (CO): 40 feet

How Do You Decide to Rent or Purchase an RV?

Now that you know all about RV length restrictions, you’re ready to get one of your own to go enjoy all the beautiful natural scenery that America has to offer.

Consult our “Why Renting an RV is a Smart Choice” blog to figure out if renting or buying is better for your family. Or browse our vast selection of RVs to find the RV that’s the right length (and price) for you and your family.

5 Family Friendly RV Parks to Visit

July 17, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

With summer well under way, we know that many RVers are still looking for more great family friendly rv parks to take the family! Whether you are looking for kid-friendly parks, or pet-friendly parks, we have a few options on this list that are sure to please. So if you are craving natural beauty & hiking paths, we have a park for that. If you are looking for a lake and fishing, we have a park for that. Or maybe you are tired of State Parks and want to try an RV park for a change, we understand that too. For those of you that are itching to make the most of these next few weeks of summer- read on and discover five family friendly RV parks to make some fantastic memories!

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center RV Park

The U.S. Space & Rocket Center RV Park is often a top pick for families because it’s right next door to the Space & Rocket center in Huntsville, Alabama. In addition to offering awesome traveling exhibits every summer, the Space & Rocket Center is also home to Space Camp! So for parents that want to be nearby while their kid is exploring the astronaut world, this RV Park is a great way to be on-location. Beyond the space experience, there is a large, open, grassy field nearby that is great for a game of kickball or frisbee. With plenty of local attractions nearby, like the Huntsville Botanical Gardens, Huntsville Art Museum, and Early Works Children’s Museum, this RV Park is a fun-filled stop for families with kids of all ages.

Website: https://rocketcenter.com/RVPark

Address: One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, Alabama 35805

Contact number: 1-800-637-7223

Green River Oaks RV Park & Campground

The all-inclusive Green River Oaks RV park offers themed weeks throughout the summer. That means visitors can expect a unique experience each time they stay at this family RV campground. Relax in the two heated swimming pools, go fishing in Lake St. George, rent a kayak, or borrow a campground bike. There are not any additional charges for campground activities, like the camp-wide hayride. Reviewers say the playgrounds here are fabulous, and they love the fact this campground is centrally located to top golf courses.

Website: https://www.greenriveroaks.com/

Address: 1442 Sleepy Hollow Rd, Amboy, IL 61310

Contact Number: (815) 638-2088

Campground at James Island County Park

South Carolina’s 643-acre Campground at James Island County Park features miles of hiking, skating, and biking trails. The 16-acre lake is a great place to go fishing. Please be advised that, due to construction, the Fishing Dock at James Island County Park will be temporarily closed starting June 15, 2020. Construction is expected to last into the summer. An inexpensive shuttle makes going to activities in Charleston easy. Reviewers say they love this campground for its water park and its dog park. The park also boasts a climbing wall that is scheduled for a phased reopening, and the waterpark is also open at this time. There are 116 spaces with full hook-ups and the campsite is open year-round. This park is rated 4.5/5 on Trip Advisor with 294 reviews, and a certificate of excellence from Trip Advisor.

Website: https://charlestoncountyparks.reserveamerica.com/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=CHST&parkId=1240020&tti=Campsite

Address: 871 Riverland Dr, Charleston, SC 2941

Contact number: (843)795-4386

Whispering Pines Campground

Nestled within Douthat State Park in Virginia, this campground has something for everyone! Amid some of Virginia’s most breathtaking mountain scenery, visitors can explore four miles of stream fishing, a 50-acre lake stocked with trout, a sandy swimming beach with snack bar, boat rentals, a gift shop and camp store, and more than 43 miles of hiking, mountain biking and bridle trails. Plus, there are playgrounds, an amphitheater, picnic areas, along with tent and trailer camping. There are 23 spaces with electric & water hook ups (no sewer, the campground has dump stations) and can take RVs up to 50’ long with parking for tow or towed vehicles on-site. This park is rated 4.5/5 on trip advisor with 192 reviews.

Website: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/douthat

Address: 4239 Douthat State Park Rd, Millboro, VA 24460

Contact Number: (540) 862-8100

Devil’s Garden Campground

Located within Utah’s Arches National Park, Devils Garden Campground is shaded by juniper and pinyon pines. Roads nearby allow visitors to see many of the 2,500 unusual natural rock formations. Numerous hiking trails run right through this campground. Devil’s Garden offers breathtaking views, camping, backpacking, stargazing, and hiking for all skill levels. Many families also love to go mountain biking here. There is truly something for everyone in this popular area of the park.

Devil’s Garden is located at the very end of the park road, 18 miles north of Arches Visitor Center. Reviewers have noted that the ‘road’ to the park is actually a dirt road and can be a bit bumpy. In addition, parking lots can be very busy during peak season and during holiday weekends. Devil’s Garden Campground is available by reservation from March through October and in the winter months on a first-come, first-served basis. Again, please check the park website for updates as the NPS has been working on a phased re-opening for the 2020 season.

Website: https://www.nps.gov/arch/planyourvisit/devils-garden.htm

Address: Arches Entrance Rd, Moab, UT 84532

Contact Number: (435) 719-2299

These parks are just a handful of the options available to RVers this summer. We hope you find this short list helpful, and encourage you to stay safe and have fun!

RV Bucket List Destinations: The 5 Best RV Parks in the USA

June 30, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

More than 10 million US households own an RV and more people are opting to live in them full-time. If you’re trying to figure out the best RV parks to enjoy your RV, you’re in luck. We are going to help you plan out your next trip.

Continue reading this article to learn about some of the best RV parks in the US, and some that will give you the most bang for your buck.

1. Bella Terra RV Resort – Alabama

If you’re looking for a super upscale RV resort, then Bella Terra RV resort in Alabama is the place for you. You’ll be just minutes from sugar-white sands and plenty of good eats. If you don’t want to leave the RV park, there is plenty to do there as well.

You’ll have access to a beautiful pool, jacuzzi, a dry sauna, big dog parks for your furry friends, and much more.

2. Yosemite Pines RV Resort – California

If you’re ready to see Yosemite National Park, but you don’t want to stay within the national park, then Yosemite Pines RV resort is the perfect spot for you.

It’s only 22 miles from the entrance of the park and it offers amazing views. You can enjoy the normal amenities you’ll see at most RV parks (like a swimming pool), but you’ll also find a petting zoo and a gold panning site.

3. Tiger Run RV Resort – Colorado

Head over to Tiger Run RV Resort in Breckenridge, Colorado if you want to enjoy beautiful views at any time of the year. This is actually one of the few places in the mountains of Colorado that stay open year round.

No matter when you visit, you’ll find there is plenty to do. If you’re there in the winter, you’re not far from the slopes. If you’re there in the summer, you’ll be able to enjoy trails, mountains, and some of the most amazing views.

4. Ozarks RV Resort on Table Rock Lake – Arkansas

Another beautiful luxury resort is Ozarks RV Resort on Table Rock Lake. Just 30 minutes from Branson, this resort is perfect for explorers and tourists. Branson has plenty of museums, amusement parks, and live music entertainment if you decide you want to leave the resort.

You’ll have gorgeous views and plenty to do if you decide to stick around the RV resort instead of going out to explore. With amenities like lighted pickle-ball courts, lighted tennis courts, and a nine-hole par 3 golf course on the lake shore-line you will have plenty of in-park options!

5. Boyd’s Key West Campground – Florida

Head down to the southernmost part of Florida and say hello to some of the most insanely beautiful sunsets at Boyd’s Key West Campground. Once you visit, you won’t want to go anywhere else when you’re in the Keys.

There are plenty of opportunities to Kayak and see wild life. Plus this resort features it’s own fishing pier, boat ramp, and fish cleaning station.

Visiting the Best RV Parks

Now you know about some of the more of the best RV parks in America. With summer in full swing, and plenty of travelers hitting the road, be sure to check the RV parks’ websites before you go to stay up to date. Many RV parks post updates on availability and the reservation process right on the first page of their website to try and make it as easy as possible for you to plan your stay.

Do you have questions about which RV you should buy? We are more than happy to help you make your selection. Also, make sure to read our article about must-see national parks on the east coast.

How to Plan the Ultimate RV Staycation

June 16, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

With many people choosing to combine staying at home with road-trip style vacation this summer, we thought it would be good to share some tips to make the most of your ‘staycation’ if you haven’t planned this kind of vacation before. The staycation has been a staple for families that cannot take a full two or three month extended vacation for years.

Whether you own an RV for personal travel, or live in one full-time, here’s how to prepare for the ultimate RV staycation.

Treat Your Staycation Like a Vacation

The recent events have set the world on what seems like a weird on-again, off-again type of stage, forcing many to rethink their highly anticipated getaways. Though you may not live on a tropical paradise year-round, consider what you were hoping to accomplish with your vacation. Was it to relax and rejuvenate? Was it to spend more time with your family? Was it to start a new creative endeavor?

Whatever the reason, treat your staycation with similar respect. Those that work from home can have a hard time separating free time and work time. Though you are still in your hometown, start your own digital detox, unplug from the world, and treat it like you’re a million miles away.

Build anticipation by saving the date on your calendar.

Explore Your Locale during your Staycation

RVers are used to hitting the road for lush campsites by lakes or parking at the seat of soaring mountains. During the tourist season, these places become over-crowded. If you’re practicing physical distancing, explore areas in your hometown for availability. You may be able to find secluded areas that allow you to get away without leaving home.

Also, consider traveling to a campsite in the off season when tourism is low.

Your hometown could be a treasure trove of campsites , RV parks, or things to do just waiting to be discovered.

Plan Your Staycation Adventure

Sometimes, driving your RV to another location isn’t in the cards. In those cases, your backyard is your best friend. Plan your activities to center around the comfort of what your home has to offer. Staying in your RV could be a fun adventure for your family.

Activities like hiking, sleeping under the stars, and setting up for a picnic are all great for that outdoor camping feel. Delineate a ‘kickoff’ activity. One that designates the beginning of your staycation. This could be watching a movie, sharing a drink with your partner, or lighting up the fire pit.

Remember time not planned for, even leisure time, is time wasted. Creating a themed itinerary can offer a unique experience your family will remember for years to come. Consider fun themes like “Wacky Science”, or “Think like an Artist” if you have kids. It’s not hard to find loads of ‘science experiments‘ that are fun & entertaining and can be done with common household supplies. Or for the artsy types, maybe turn your RV into a ‘studio’ to allow family members to explore their artistic talents! You could feature an artist each day, and let your family try their hand at Kandinsky inspired painting one day, try Jackson Pollock the next, and so on. If you need more ideas, check out Pinterest for great projects that are inspired by famous artists.

Oh the Places You’ll Go

A vacation doesn’t have to be lavish to be rejuvenating. Choosing the right activities and making a plan can make even the simplest efforts into lasting memories you cherish with your family for years to come. Determine what is important for you and have that be the center of your focus during your ‘vacation’ time and you’ll have a wonderful “staycation”!

What makes for a great RV vacation is spending time with the people we love creating memories together.

5 Reasons You Should Plan an Alaska Road Trip

May 31, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

About 22% of all vacations in America were road trips in 2015. Many people’s dream trip is to go on an Alaska road trip and see the breathtaking sights.

If you are prepared properly, the trip will be an amazing experience. Since long stretches of the journey have spots where it is difficult to get fuel and do repairs, knowing what to expect can help you avoid some of these issues.

Continue reading this article to learn the top reasons you should take a road trip to Alaska.

1. The Midnight Sun

If you want to mess with your sleep patterns and experience something that is totally out of your normal — you’ve got to see the midnight sun. Make sure you include an eye mask when you’re making your packing list, or you’re not going to get much sleep while you’re visiting.

The midnight sun benefits the plants in Alaska, and some parts of Alaska are known for their giant vegetables.

2. The Northern Lights

One that will make you stand in awe is seeing the Northern Lights. This amazing sight happens because of solar activity. You do have to make your way pretty far north in Alaska to see the lights, and it can get very cold, but it will be something you will never forget.

3. Countless Roads to Explore

Alaska takes up a large part of the U.S., and there are so many roads where you can park for hours and never see another vehicle. Alaska even has several resources developed to help RVers enjoy this beautiful country. And if you are looking for some RV parks to stop at while exploring this beautiful country you will find a variety of options.

4. Monster Mountains

If you wanted to get an idea of how small we are as humans, then visiting Alaska and staring up at its monstrous mountains will definitely give you some perspective. Alaska is home to Denali, which is the tallest mountain in North America.

You don’t have to go to the tallest mountain to get an amazing mountain experience. There are plenty of other places where you can explore and enjoy nature and a good workout.

5. Skiing and Snow Sport Opportunities

Winters in Alaska offer so many unique opportunities! There is dog mushing, reindeer running, outdoor hot springs, and snow-shoeing in the back country.

Of course there is plenty of fresh powdery snow for skiers, and snowmobiling is always a fun option. And for those that want to just kick back and relax there are plenty of scenic areas for spotting wildlife in this gorgeous northern state.

Enjoying an Alaska Road Trip

There’s nothing quite like taking an Alaska road trip. The sights and sounds of this magical state will take your breath away.

Have you thought about getting an RV or upgrading your RV? There are lots of options for you to look into, and we would be glad to answer any questions you have. Take a look at our new RVs or our used inventory to see if there is anything of interest.

6 Western National Parks That Are a Must-See

May 11, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

Everybody and their aunt already has a Facebook album dedicated to their trip to the Grand Canyon. Not to take away from its splendor; it’s absolutely breathtaking.

However, for today, we would like to switch it up. There are many lesser-known western National Parks that are just as special to the appreciative eye.

Read ahead to learn more about some of the most beautiful national parks in the US.

Six Western National Parks You Need to See

Here are six of the best National Parks in the US that represent the west. They are great options for a visit!

Olympic National Park

A quintessential west coast national park, this gem of Washington state has it all.

There are not many places in the world, let alone the USA, where you can enjoy mountains, forests, lakes, and the ocean in one place.

You can hike in the magical Hoh Rainforest, the largest temperate rainforest in the country.

Mesa Verde

If you know Mesa Verde is Spanish for ‘green table’, you are ready for a middle school-level Spanish class.

Jokes aside, Mesa Verde, located in Colorado, is home of the Ancestral Puebloan Cliff Dwellings.

These structures were essentially carved from the cliff well over 500 years ago. The cultural and anthropological importance is immeasurable. Thus, the area has National Park status and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Petrified Forest

This park offers some of the stranger curiosities for travelers. Located among the desert badlands, the Petrified Forest consists of the remains of ancient trees that underwent a process known as petrification.

This chemical process resulted in the preservation of logs that were living with the dinosaurs.

The resulting ‘stone’ is beautiful but don’t be tempted to steal a piece. This can result in legal penalties and an unbreakable curse.

Pinnacles National Park

Pinnacles National Park is one of the most unique US National Parks. Road trip enthusiasts must add it to their itineraries. Located in California, it gets its name from the tall rock formations that characterize its surreal landscape.

This park features many natural rock formations that are the result of multiple volcanoes that overflowed with lava about 23 million years ago. Those lava flows slid around and became the unique structures that populate this park. This park is primarily for hikers and climbing enthusiasts with trails that will satisfy families looking for light hikes as well as adventurers that are looking for more strenuous trails. Check the park website for overnight options- since reservations are required at this time.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

This is another California national park you might not have heard of but is more than worth the trip.

It is home to at least one of each of the four types of volcanos found on Earth, making it a science buff’s dream.

You can also enjoy the lakes, bubbling mud pits, and a large trail network.

Channel Islands

It’s hard to find a more special place than the Channel Islands. Perhaps, its relative obscurity adds to its uniqueness.

It consists of an archipelago of tiny islands featuring idyllic hidden beaches sheltered by sheer cliffs. It is also home to many types of endemic wildlife and a massive underwater cave.

A Park for Every One

We believe everyone should get out there and find their favorite park! You can support these parks by visiting them, making donations, and promoting awareness.

Most importantly, we encourage you to make plans to go see these amazing natural treasures. Exploring the east? Check out our list of the Best East Coast National Parks.

How To Optimize Your RV For Long-Term Travel

April 28, 2020April 28, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

As the temperature continues to warm up outside, there’s nothing better than making plans to hit the road and find adventure. And we know many of you are looking on-line to determine what is open and where are the best places to go at this point. Our friends at Campendium are keeping a list of what’s open available online. So whether you’re interested in National Park options or RV Park options, you can check their list to determine what your best options are.

It’s hard to beat traveling in an RV. After all, this is the perfect way to skip the hassle and expense of booking rooms along the way and keeping yourself safe. Your RV puts you in total control of where to go and where to stay.

This article takes a look at tips that will help you optimize RV for long-term travel. Keep reading to get the inside scoop that will make your trip as fun and pleasant as possible.

Plan Simple Meals

The fewer ingredients you pack for your extended time on the road the better. Keep in mind that complicated recipes will require extra ingredients that take up space and have special storage requirements. Therefore, it’s good to have a set of recipes planned out ahead so you can make sure your pantry & refrigerator are stocked with what you’ll need.

The key is to keep your recipes simple yet delicious.

Maximize Your Storage Areas

RVs have limited storage space. That means that every inch matters. So do yourself a favor and pack as little as possible.

Or if you are going to be staying where laundry options are limited, you can always pick up a portable washing machine to help keep your clothes clean while on the road.

Also, be sure to buy supplies that can easily be folded and stored.

Take an RV Toolkit

A good toolkit is a gift that keeps on giving. After all, things will wear out and need to be repaired, and there’s always something that needs to be tightened. Thus you’ll never regret investing in an RV toolkit that is designed to help you manage little inconveniences.

Keep Your Fuel Topped Off

Try to resist the impulse to let your fuel gauge drop below half a tank. You never know when you might have to take a detour and stay on the road longer than planned. Plus, you may decide you want to pull over at a scenic view and idle in place for a while so you can take some awesome travel pictures.

So get in the habit of topping off your tank every chance you get. This is a simple tip that will help provide peace of mind no matter what the day throws at you.

Pack a Weather Radio

Weather changes can happen fast. That’s why it’s important to be ready for sudden spring thunderstorms. Investing in a portable weather radio and plenty of fresh batteries will give you the ability to stay updated on the weather so that you can react quickly and adapt your plans accordingly.

Clean & Treat the Awning

Taking the time to clean and treat your awning will help keep your RV looking great. It will also make your awning last as long as possible. This means not only checking it for small nicks or tears, it means taking time to apply an RV silicone based lubricant to components that might not have been checked in a while.

Clean the Oven

You might not give much thought cleaning the oven inside your RV, but this is actually a very useful tip. The process takes only a few minutes and will help keep the interior of your RV from smelling like burnt food as you travel from place to place.

How to Optimize RV for Long-Term Travel

It’s almost time to pack your stuff and start exploring the highways and backroads of America. Fortunately, these tips will help optimize RV to make the most of your travel time in the future.

Click here to see 5 key benefits of owning an RV in 2020.

Which Is Better For You In 2020: Used RV vs New?

April 16, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

Recreational vehicles have always been popular in the United States and we’re not going to fall out of love with them anytime soon. In Spring and Summer 2019, close to 25 million Americans are thought to have taken to the open road. A million Americans live in RVs as modern nomads.

RVs let you travel anywhere under your own power. They represent freedom and an ability to explore the vast swathes of America and beyond.

If you’re thinking of getting in on the action, you might be weighing up buying a used RV vs new one. What is your best bet? Should you buy an older model at a lower price or is getting a new RV the better option?

In this article, we’re going to help you solve this question and enjoy the best vacations the world has to offer. Ready to find out more? Then keep reading!

Used RV vs New RV: Which Is for You?

How does a used RV compare with a new model? What should you be on the lookout for when buying a used motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth wheel? Here are some pros and cons.

Price Differences

One of the biggest draws to buying a used RV is their lower price. Depreciation is quite significant on new RVs and you can expect the vehicle to lose 25 percent of its value within three years (similar to a new car). This lower value also means that used RVs are less to insure than new ones.

Depreciation on used models is less significant too, slowing year on year after the first year of ownership.

The Latest Tech

If you want the very latest and greatest tech that you can get in an RV, you’ll want to get a new one. RVs have come a long way in recent years with modern travel trailers & fifth wheels featuring internet access, weight-saving technology, and improved battery life.

All of this comes together to give new RVs an impressive edge over used recreational vehicles.

There’s less likelihood of mechanical issues occurring on new RVs too. Older model RVs may have issues due to wear and tear, but new RVs fresh from the factory do not.

More Choice

The sad reality is that if you want to buy a used RV, you’re going to have fewer choices than when buying a new one. While Bankston Motor Homes keeps a wide selection of used RVs, our supply is based on what customers trade in. This means that even our large inventory of approximately 200 RVs is based on what customers have decided to trade-in when they trade-up.

There’s also no customization available on a used RV. If you want to choose specific options, you need to buy a new RV.

How We Can Help You

There’s an old myth that buying a new recreational vehicle is never worth it. That’s not true; if you want the latest tech and customization, buying a new RV is well worth the money. And many of our customers truly enjoy that process and make their travel dream come true!

However, a used RV may be able to give you just as much fun and adventure as a brand new one would for a significant savings in price.

The choice between buying a used RV or new one is often an option worth exploring . We can help you decide what’s best for your needs!

Take a look at our used RVs or new inventory and get in touch with your nearest location to learn more!

The Complete and Only Road Trip Packing List You’ll Ever Need

March 23, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

Did you know that the longest road in the world is over 18,600 miles?

If you dream of cruising along the open roads, having the ultimate road trip packing list can help you make the most out of your next vacation.

Are you ready to embark on your greatest adventure yet? Keep reading to learn all of the essentials you should pack.

Snacks, Drinks, and a Cooler

Tasty, nutritious snacks and drinks are road trip essentials. There’s nothing worse than relying on fast food or needing to stop for gas station supplies often. If you’re driving a vehicle like an RV with a refrigerator, you can pack all kinds of filling goodies like sandwiches and fresh fruit. If you prefer not to get in your fridge while driving, there are plenty of non-perishable snacks that can be made ahead and stored in a ‘snack bag’.

Important Documents

Important documents are other road trip must-haves because you should always be prepared for emergencies. If you ever get into an accident or pulled over by the police, you’ll need to make sure you have your license, registration, and proof of insurance. It’s also a good idea to keep a copy of your medical insurance card, a list of any medical conditions a doctor might need to know, and who to call in case of an emergency. While most of these precautions are rarely needed, you’ll feel better knowing you are well prepared.

A Car Charger and Phone Mount

Cell phone supplies are important items to bring on a road trip so you can stay connected no matter where you go. Having a car mount will make it much easier and safer to navigate when you use GPS services. Bringing a charger and/or adapter can also ensure you never run out of power. A lot of RVs now have USB ports, so you’ll want to think about how to make sure everyone on the trip has a place to charge their device.

Weather-Appropriate Clothes

If you’re wondering what to pack for a road trip, it’s always best to have plenty of weather-appropriate clothes with you. Sunglasses, a rain jacket, and clothing that’s made out of fast-drying materials can help protect you from the elements when you’re outside. Check the weather in advance to make sure you are properly prepared. For example, if you love to hike and rain doesn’t bother you, make sure you bring hiking boots that you don’t mind getting a bit muddy. And many RVers like to have a shoe tray, or mat, near the door to put their dirty shoes on so they are not tracking and bits of dirt, mulch, or gravel into the living area of their RV.

Clean Up Supplies

As you’re eating and spending more time in your vehicle, you’ll want to have easy access to items that help with clean up. Baby wipes, tissues, and napkins are all great ways to facilitate a quick clean up! So having these items on your road trip checklist is always a good plan. If you keep some supplies up front, the driver can always keep their area neat and clean without having to stand up or pull over.

Make A Day Bag

Are you planning on hiking or going on day trips where you’ll be away from your vehicle? If so, having a day bag that’s filled with a few extra clothes, a couple of extra snacks, and extra hand-sanitizer or wipes will make you feel more secure when you leave your vehicle behind.

For parents of young children, including some boredom busters in case of a long wait at a local restaurant can also be helpful. Think of easy items that are space saving, like a Rubix Cube, or pipe-cleaners that can be used creatively, and even a few printable coloring pages+ baggie with crayons can save the day!

Emergency Kit

Nobody likes to imagine worst-case scenarios, but accidents can happen to anybody. This is why being prepared is essential. Having an emergency kit with first aid supplies, flashlights, blankets, and a small radio can keep you and your loved ones safe during your travels. As an RV owner, you will also want to have an emergency kit for your RV. Check out this video of what basics you’ll want to include.

You’re Ready With This Road Trip Packing List

If you follow this road trip packing list, you can enjoy the scenic ride and surprising adventures knowing that you are better prepared for the unexpected.

Are you ready to go on a road trip in style? If so, buying or renting an RV is the best way to keep you and your passengers comfortable. Check out our monthly specials to learn how we can help you have an unforgettable experience.

The 5 Key Benefits of Owning an RV in 2020

March 17, 2020March 17, 2020bankstonmotorhomes

RVs have never been more popular. In fact, 7% of the people in the U.S. own an RV! This shows that the popularity of RVing is here to stay!

Clearly, Americans all over the country have seen the light! Living and traveling in an RV offers an unparalleled set of advantages.

Want to learn more?

Read on to discover five key benefits of owning an RV in 2020.

1. The Affordable Freedom

Let’s face it — traveling isn’t cheap.

There’s flights, transport, food, accommodation, and activities to think about! All told, travel can cost you an arm and a leg.

But not when you own an RV! All the perks of travel are available with far fewer of the expenses.

After all, transport and accommodation are now all sorted! Expensive flights and hotels are rendered unnecessary, drastically slashing your expenses.

A 2014 Vacation Cost Comparison prepared by PKF Consulting USA showed that a family of four can save 27-62% on vacation costs by traveling in an RV, even when factoring in ownership costs and fuel. This is some serious savings!

2. The Travel & Comfort Combo

Travel can also be tiring and uncomfortable.

Exploring new places and sleeping in strange beds can take its toll. Frankly, it can all get a bit much — especially if you’re getting on in years!

RVs combine travel with comfort.

You’re traveling in your own space and at your own pace. You live on your terms and sleep in your own bed, with all the creature comforts and personal accessories you need to feel at home.

3. The Simplicity of RV Travel

In the frantic world we live in, the simple life holds a special appeal too.

And it doesn’t get much simpler than living and traveling in an RV! For example, are you used to cleaning and tidying a large home?

Well, downsizing to an RV will make your life ten times easier.

Everything in an RV is a bit more manageable. Life exists on 4 wheels! You get to move around at your leisure, minus many of the stresses of a house-bound existence.

That simplicity can take some getting used to! Here’s a post to help you do it.

4. The Intimacy with Loved Ones

Busy lives can make it harder to connect with loved ones as well.

But there’s nothing quite like the cozy space of an RV to facilitate spending quality time together! After all, it’s not like there’s a house full of rooms that everyone can disappear into.

Simply put, traveling in an RV is a great means of focusing on your nearest and dearest. You have a chance to reconnect, happy in one another’s company.

5. The New Experiences

Humans were wanderers and vagabonds long before they settled into residences!

Almost everyone has an urge to explore and experience new things.

RVs help you do exactly that. You can move to new and exotic places whenever you feel like it. When you fancy settling somewhere instead, you simply find a nice spot to park up for a few days.

Enjoy the Benefits of Owning an RV

Owning an RV is becoming increasingly common in the US.

Hopefully, the advantages we’ve highlighted in this post explain why that’s the case.

Looking to invest in an RV of your own? Click here to find the perfect one!