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Caravans / RV Classes & Definitions

CARAVANS FOR HIRE HAS ONLY MOTORIZED UNITS


Caravans or Campers -as they are called in Europe and Australia -   are called Motorhomes or Recreational Vehicles (RV) in America.  They fall into two general categories: 

Towable RVs include: Folding Camping Trailers (also known as Tent Trailers, Soft Top or Hard Top), Truck Campers, Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels.

Motorized RVs
include: Class A, Class B and Class C Motorhomes, and Luxury Buses.

Recreation Vehicles comprise a whole family of vehicles that combine transportation and temporary living quarters for recreation, camping and travel. Some provide a simple place for sleeping and eating, while others are virtually luxury lodges on wheels. Please read our Caravan / RV Glossary page for more information.

Driving the vast majority of RVs requires no special license and is easier than many newcomers think.  Experienced automobile drivers already have the skills to drive a motorized RV.  With proper attention to the size, height and weight differences, experienced drivers find it fun to take the wheel.

RV conveniences range from the basics -- like running water, cooking and bathroom facilities, and a power source (either electricity or liquid propane) -- to added comforts such as air conditioning, entertainment systems and slideout rooms.  With all the comforts of home on board and ample storage space, these versatile vehicles are the perfect complement to just about any sport, hobby or activity you already enjoy. 

Families agree that economically speaking, RV travel adds up: convenience and comfort plus low costs.  RV travelers don't have to worry about departure requirements, fine print, refundable tickets, special fare restrictions. They can plan daily costs without hidden surprises in tips, taxes, fees, penalties and add-ons.

RVing and kids go hand in hand. An RV trip is the ideal mode of vacation travel with children. RVs keep kids happy while on the road with entertainment options like VCRs for watching videos, audio headphones for listening to tapes, kitchens to prepare favorite meals and snacks, plenty of elbow room and nap space and bathrooms for those frequent "potty breaks." 

First-time RVers will be surprised by all the modern conveniences and creature comforts available in many of today's RVs including:

 
  • choice of twin-, double-, queen- and king-size beds
  • central heat and air-conditioning
  • full baths with showers
  • refrigerators and freezers w/ice makers
  • microwaves
  • full ranges with oven
  • trash compactors
  • washers and dryers
  • basement storage
  • TVs and VCRs
  • stereo systems with CD players and headsets
  • satellite dishes
  • computer ports
  • internet accessibility
  • closed circuit cameras for backing up
  • even hot tubs!

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Towable RV

 

A Towable RV is a RV designed to be towed by a motorized vehicle (car, van or pickup truck) and of such size and weight as not to require a special highway movement permit. Towable RVs do not require permanent on-site hook-up.

Today's market features a large selection of vehicles capable of towing a RV -- conversion vehicles, SUVs, light trucks, most full-size and many mid-size cars -- with sophisticated engineering packages providing greater towing power, superior maneuverability and braking.

Any Drivers License that is valid for an automobile is appropriate for these motorhomes.  Regardless of size, personal use of recreation vehicles do not require a commercial drivers license.  With a little practice, experienced drivers find it easy to learn to tow an RV. 

They fall in four types:

 

Folding Camping Trailer
(also known as Tent Trailer, Soft Top or Hard Top)

 

Travel Trailer

 

Truck Camper
 
Fifth Wheel

 

When driving a towable RV, you should always:

  • Adjust and use all rear view mirrors. Before leaving on a trip, sit in the driver's seat and adjust all mirrors for optimal road views.

  • Account for your vehicle size when turning. The front and rear wheels will track paths much farther apart than those of a car.

  • Allow more time to brake, change lanes and enter a busy highway, since bigger vehicles take more time to accelerate and slow down.

  • Match the proper tow vehicle to your RV. Most full and mid-size family cars can pull a trailer; so can today's popular vans, sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and light-duty trucks. Check the owner's manual to find the trailer types that your vehicle can haul and the maximum load weight it can pull.

  • Use the right trailer hitch and make sure it is hitched correctly.

  • Connect brakes and signal lights. Always check that the trailer's brakes, turn signals and tail lights are synchronized with the towing vehicle's.

  • Back up with care. By placing your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel, the trailer will move in the direction you turn your hand. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Once the trailer is moving in the proper direction, avoid any sharp movements of the steering wheel. Slowly steer the vehicle into its desired direction.

  • It is also a good idea to have someone outside the vehicle assist the driver in backing up to avoid any obstacles not seen in the mirrors. If another person is not available, the driver should inspect the area behind the vehicle. By evaluating the situation before backing, drivers can avoid surprises and accidents.

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Motorized RVs  
A Motorized RV is a RV built on or as an integral part of a self-propelled motor vehicle chassis, combining transportation and living quarters in one unit.

Any Drivers License that is valid for an automobile is appropriate for these motorhomes.  Regardless of size, personal use recreation vehicles do not require a commercial drivers license.

Experienced automobile drivers already have the skills to drive a motorized RV.  Automatic transmissions, power brakes and steering are typical features.

With proper attention to the differences in vehicle size, height and weight, you'll find it fun and easy to take the wheel of a motorhome. Towing skills are also readily acquired.

They fall in four types:

 


Luxury Bus

 

Class A Motorhome

 

Class B Motorhome

 

Class C Motorhome

 

When driving an RV, you should always:

  • Adjust and use all rear view mirrors. Before leaving on a trip, sit in the driver's seat and adjust all mirrors for optimal road views.

  • Account for your vehicle size when turning. The front and rear wheels will track paths much farther apart than those of a car.

  • Allow more time to brake, change lanes and enter a busy highway, since bigger vehicles take more time to accelerate and slow down.

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Last modified: January 11, 2007