Is an RV Better for Long-Distance Travel Than a Car?

There are a lot of decisions to make when planning a long-distance road trip, like what you’ll eat, how much to pack, and what sights to see. But one of the most important decisions is what form of transportation to take. You may wonder if an RV would be better for the drive than a car. While you can use both for long-distance travel, each has pros and cons.

This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using an RV for long-distance travel instead of a car. If you’re already looking at RV loans, these points should help you decide whether to go for an RV or upgrade your vehicle instead.

Pros Of Traveling With An RV vs. A Car

RVs May Be More Comfortable

The first advantage of RV traveling is comfort. Sitting in a cramped car for hours at a time may lead to annoying joint and muscle pain.

RVs come with a roomier driving space. If you take turns driving, you can even go to the living quarters and sprawl out for a real nap when the other person takes the wheel. Furthermore, depending on your RV, you may not need to stop for bathroom breaks if your RV has one, or settle for a gas station or fast food if there’s a kitchen.

RVs Save On Lodging

Driving long distances in your car means you need to plan your stops. Unfortunately, lodging prices rose by over 50% from 2022 to 2023. Lodging for an extended road trip or vacation can quickly balloon your budget.

Meanwhile, driving long distances in an RV means you have the perfect lodging wherever you go. Therefore, driving an RV could save you money on lodging costs, especially if you travel during a busy season.

RVs Provide More Storage

An RV provides far more storage room than a car. So, it may be ideal for people driving long distances with more luggage. For example, RVs may be better options if you’re traveling with the whole family because you can take your kids’ favorite toys, pack extra changing clothes, and bring more things in case of bad weather.

You also have more freedom when packing raw ingredients for cooking because some RVs may have a refrigerator. The same goes for bathroom needs. You can bring regular-size shampoos, conditioners, and other essentials and leave them in your RV cabinets.

Cons Of Traveling With An RV vs. A Car

Fuel Costs

Like cars, some RVs are more fuel-efficient than others. Depending on what type of RV you have, it may use regular gas or diesel fuel, which is typically more expensive.

While you may try to save lodging expenses by taking your RV, higher fuel costs might offset some of those savings. Therefore, do your math carefully and determine if an RV trip is worth it or if a car is more cost-effective.

RVs Are Harder To Drive And Park

Even experienced RV travelers will admit that it’s more challenging to take an RV down a tight, winding road, take sharper turns, or stay with the flow on the highway. Therefore, if you are new to RV traveling, plan your routes with caution.

RV parking is also a whole different ball game. If you’re unfamiliar with driving large vehicles, it will take a while to understand how to park your RV properly, especially when backing into a parking spot.

RV Campgrounds Are More Expensive

When you travel in a car and lodge overnight, parking is typically included. But with an RV, you may need to find a campground for overnight parking, which may be expensive depending on where you are and what season you’re traveling. In addition, there is usually another cost if you need utility hookups for your RV.

Also, RV campgrounds are not always available. Less popular destinations may have very limited RV parking spots or don’t provide RV parking. You may also need to book your campsite further in advance for RVs due to high demand.

Should You Travel With An RV Or A Car?

What is the goal of your long-distance travel? If you plan to make multiple stops along the way and enjoy sleeping under the stars, traveling with an RV may be preferable. RVs are also friendlier if you’re making a family road trip since they are more comfortable.

On the other hand, if you’re only trying to drive from point A to point B as quickly as you can, take your car because it’s more compact, fuel-efficient, and easier to park or maneuver.

Notice: Information provided in this article is for information purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of [betterthisworld.com/] or its employees. Please be sure to consult your financial advisor about your financial circumstances and options. This site may receive compensation from advertisers for links to third-party websites.