RVing with your family is a great way to create memories you will all look back on for the rest of your lives. Unfortunately, it’s also challenging - especially if you’re RVing with kids.
Here are a few tips we’ve picked up along the way to help your excursion go well! Note this article is focused on going on an RV vacation with family rather than full-time RV living with family.
Family RVing Tip #1: Schedule Your Vacation Days Now
In 2019, a report came out that an alarming 768 MILLION vacation days went unused by Americans. That’s evidence of something many of us RVers already know - people work too hard. They aren’t using the vacation days available that would give them the rest and relaxation they need to really enjoy their lives.
The first tip we can give is this: book your vacation days now. If you already know when you’re going on your RV trip, don’t wait until the week before to tell your boss. Get it on the calendar now!
RVing With Your Family Tip #2: Stop Often
When some people are on a road trip, they just hate to stop. It doesn’t matter if someone is hungry or thirsty or has to go to the bathroom. The non-stopper’s mantra is “just wait a little bit longer.”
Sometimes you don’t have a choice. If you’re on an RV trip in the middle of the mountains or desert, there may not be a lot of places you can stop.
But usually, this isn’t the case. You can probably find someplace to stop - even if it’s just a small gas station or fast-food place. Or maybe you’ll pass by a rest area.
We don’t want to tell you how often you need to stop, but in general, it’s a good idea to stop frequently. Maybe try to make a pit stop every 2-3 hours. Assuming your family isn’t drinking too many liquids, this amount of time lets you cover some distance without it becoming a punishing experience.
If you’re generally the type of person that likes to just stay on the road and avoid stops - keep in mind that sitting too much is unhealthy. Stopping so you can stretch your legs a bit is good for your health!
RVing With Kids Tip #3: Bring Plenty of Toys
Playing car games like “I Spy” or look for an X (certain type of car, etc.) are fun but they don’t last forever. If your kids are hanging out in the RV instead of looking out the windows, they may not want to play these types of games anyway.
That’s where having physical games or RV toys come into play. The key is to get toys your kids will actually play with!
Do you have a kid who loves cars, trucks, and motorcycles? Make sure you bring some toy vehicles. Maybe your child’s favorite thing in the whole world is dolls and stuffed animals? Don’t leave them all at home. Make sure you bring a few - preferably their favorites.
For older kids, their “toys” will obviously be different. Maybe it’s books, puzzles, playing cards, or board games.
Our Last Family RVing Tip: Get Everyone’s Input
Have you ever been part of something where you had zero say or input? Maybe you were given a creative task at work where your boss didn’t ask for your thoughts.
Your kids- just like you - like to be involved in the decision-making process. While you get to make the final decision, it’s a good idea to at least get ideas and thoughts from them.
Who knows - they may come up with something you hadn’t thought of, completely changing the RV trip for the better!
Plan Ahead for Your RV Trip
RVing with your family can be a great experience. Just make sure you plan ahead and think of the entire family’s needs and wants. As long as you do that, you’ll probably have a great time!
