A No-Worries Guide To Driving A RV

If you’ve always wanted to take an RV road trip but a little shy about driving, worry no more!

Cruise America is here to answer the age-old question: how hard is it to drive an RV?

Here is a hint: it’s much easier than you may think! The best way to ease your worries is to learn top tips on how to drive an RV. Below, we’ve highlighted our top RV driving tips in this helpful guide so you can have an awesome first time hitting the road.

How to Drive an RV: Top Tips Every RV Camper Should Know

Start With the Appropriate RV Model

For the camper who’s never driven a large truck or vehicle, you might want to start small for your first trip. After all, picking the right RV rental is an important part of your vacation!

We suggest trying a Cruise America RV rental like a truck camper or C-Class unit.

The truck camper has a camper attached to the bed of a Ford 150. This model is great for groups of three who are new to RV camping. While allowing easy driving, the truck camper model comes with enough power to navigate the steepest terrain. Additionally, the truck camper comes with amenities, such as a gas cooktop, a microwave and a refrigerator.

If you prefer something with a few more modern amenities, the C-Class Compact RV will be a perfect fit. This RV model promises the ease of driving a smaller model while providing a larger unit's amenities. The compact RV model can accommodate a bathroom with a shower, gas cooktop and self-contained generator.

Cruise America also offers a standard RV model and a large RV model. These models are perfect for larger groups, fitting groups of five and seven, respectively.

If you opt for one of our larger vehicles, don’t be afraid to ask questions when you pick up your rental. It’s also a good idea to take it for a spin around the block to feel how it drives before hitting a busy street or highway.

Know Your RV’s Dimensions

One of the keys to safely maneuvering a vehicle is knowing its size. Our Compact RV is just 7.5 feet wide, which is just one foot wider than the average car. This makes it much easier to park. Plus, you don’t have to worry about getting too close to other vehicles when driving down the interstate.

In terms of RV height, things can get a little tricky. At approximately 12 feet tall, you should pass under most bridges and overhangs.

Make sure you are traveling on RV-approved roads, though! If a traffic sign indicates that larger vehicles should use a certain lane or take a different route, it likely pertains to you. This will be especially true for any parking structures or “drive-through” lanes – think drive-up ATMs and fast-food restaurants.

Keep in mind that there are no reverse cameras on these RV models. So, don’t be afraid to ask your copilot to spot you while getting in and out of tight spaces. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Maintain Your Speed When Driving an RV

While driving on the open road, you may be tempted to hit the gas and get to your destination as quickly as possible. It’s important to remember that it takes quite a bit of power to move a vehicle of this size. Plus, it takes just as much work to stop it. Maintain full control of your vehicle by driving your RV at the recommended speed limit, breaking early, and taking it slow on turns and winding roads. Plus, you’ll have more time to soak in the sites along the way!

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Use Your RV Turning Radius to Make Wide Turns

Large vehicles require a larger turning radius. Make sure you clear the back tire – we don’t want any curb eaters here. Avoid trying to take a 90-degree turn and instead opt for a half circle-driving pattern. By taking a slightly wider turn, you can ensure a smooth transition and protect your passengers, as well as the vehicle itself.