The RV Lifestyle – is it for you?

The idea of travelling around the country in a recreational vehicle (RV) is an iconic image that many place on their ‘bucket list’. In Australia the RV industry is growing rapidly and what was once an unattainable dream is now possible for most Aussies.

For those interested in seeing everything Australia has to offer, investing in an RV will take you off the conventional paths and introduce you to seldom seen landscapes and breathtaking views. You can enjoy the luxury of pulling up beside beautiful rivers and lakes, revel in the abundance of natural flora and fauna and if the spot entices you, then your bed is in the back seat.

Travelling in an RV is often compared to camping in luxury, and this is quite in some aspects. On the upside, you can enjoy a mattress that won’t deflate, and home comforts to which we are accustomed. But, depending on the vehicle you choose, there are still considerations to be made regarding showers, toilets, and electricity.

Travelling in a self-contained vehicle means that you are not restricted to staying in caravan parks, as the vehicle contains eating, sleeping, toilet and shower facilities. It also means that you can enjoy free camping areas available across Australia. Sometimes it's good to give your generator a break and indulge in the luxury of a powered site, a fresh water supply and amenities that you don’t need to worry about cleaning. But those who choose to explore free camping areas may also be able to explore tourist attractions more frequently owing to the money saved on accommodation.

There are a variety of people out there exploring Australia; some are on the road full-time, while others enjoy shorter getaways. In your travels you will come across couples, families, solos, the elderly and the free-spirited. Interest in the RV lifestyle is broad and varied and regardless of your situation, there is an RV option available to suit your needs.

Before you commit to the grey nomad life, a great way to get a ‘feel’ for it is to borrow, or rent, the RV model in which you are interested. Renting or hiring an RV not only helps you select the right model, but will also let you 'test drive' the vehicle as well as the lifestyle.

Here are five questions you should ask yourself when contemplating the RV lifestyle:

•          Who will I be travelling with?

•          Where do I want to go?

•          What am I hoping to get out of this trip?

•          How much am I comfortable spending per week?

•          Would I prefer a motorhome, campervan, caravan, etc.?

With so many options on the market, finding the ideal set-up can be confronting; for those considering investing in an RV there are many sources of information sources and enthusiast clubs which can offer insight into the lifestyle.

The Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) is the largest RV Club in Australia, with over 62,000 Members. Members enjoy a wide range of benefits for members, including tailored insurance, a monthly magazine, social events with 96 local chapters throughout Australia, a Solos’ Network for members travelling alone, two national rallies per year and plenty more.

CMCA represent every type of RV owner. Its members are young and old, families and singles, millionaires and pensioners, workers and retired people. CMCA is a not-for-profit organisation and is devoted to improving the travelling lifestyle. If you own an RV, are thinking of purchasing one, or simply like the idea of the RV lifestyle, please visit www.cmca.net.au

Written by Michelle Hogan, CMCA

Is the RV lifestyle for you? Have you travelled Australia and have tips for those just starting out? Why not publish your own road trip tale on our website?

Picture Credit: Kadanga, QLD. Jan Keppie, Q48719