3 Steps to Becoming an RV Nomad

By theadmin

An entire world of adventure begins the moment you put the key in the ignition of a recreational vehicle (RV). For many Americans, these boxy homes on wheels represent freedom from obligation and mastery of one’s own destiny.

Proof of the popularity of RVs is in the numbers. The U.S. has roughly 35 million RV enthusiasts, according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, and the RVIA expects this number to grow — one in seven U.S. households has expressed interest in renting or owning an RV in the near future.

Aside from the fact that RVing offers an incredible feeling of freedom and flexibility, cruising around the country in an RV is almost a rite of passage in America; along the same lines as eating a hot dog at a baseball stadium, seeing your first rodeo, or attending a state fair. But unlike those other Americana experiences, there are a few things you need to do to prepare yourself for the adventure of renting or owning an RV.

Licensing

Those renting an RV need to be at least 25 years of age or older with a valid Class C driver’s license and a valid credit or debit card. Buying an RV is a bit trickier. The type and weight of the RV purchased determine if a different class of driver’s license is necessary. All RVs must be registered in the state of Texas; but, the Texas Department of Public Safety requires a driver to hold a Class B or Class A license if his or her RV exceeds a gross vehicle weight rating of more than 26,000 pounds. Class B licenses are necessary only if the vehicle tows anything 10,000 pounds or less, and a Class A license is required if the vehicle tows anything greater than 10,000 pounds.

Liability

Renting an RV from a reputable dealer will likely require a signed rental agreement that includes basic insurance, but talk to your Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent before signing an agreement to make sure you are fully covered for losses, injuries or liability claims during the full rental period. It may be a good idea to look into supplemental liability insurance for rentals, if it’s offered by a dealer.

Similar to standard auto insurance policies, many of the coverage options for insuring your RV are optional. Your Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent can explain the specific coverage you need before hitting the road, including liability insurance, comprehensive insurance (includes fire and theft), collision coverage, vacation liability, and roadside assistance.

Safety

Before taking your purchased or rented RV for a spin, ask the previous owner, dealer, or rental company to give you a tour. Passengers should wear seatbelts and never sleep in the overhead compartments when the vehicle is in motion. The Texas Department of Public Safety also requires:

All RVs with a gross weight of more than 4,500 pounds to undergo annual safety inspections.
RVs made in 1996 or more recently to pass an OBDII test or an appropriate tailpipe emissions test.
RVs made in 1995 or before to pass an ASM emissions test.

Of course, the most important safety requirements for owning or renting an RV are to maintain the vehicle regularly, stay alert while driving, plan ahead before hitting the road, and drive defensively at all times.

Now, climb aboard and go make some family memories.