The RV renaissance is still booming, with manufacturer output peaking in North America in 2021. But if you’ve never tried it for yourself, the idea of RVing can seem a little daunting. 

Let’s unpack some of the biggest misconceptions about RVing, and see some of the incredible places you can visit more easily than ever with a camper or an RV. 

Myth #1: RVing is like camping.

True and false. 

Your experience partially depends on the type of camper or rig you select. Teardrop campers are a great way to feel some of the outdoorsy-ness of camping, while having a comfortable mattress, and access to a kitchen and clean water. However, many rigs, like Class B motorhomes and larger trailers are like living in a studio apartment or tiny home for the duration of your trip. That’s a far cry from the tent and campfire experience most of us associate with camping.

RVing gives you freedom to travel to a variety of locales, not just parks. Consider:

• The fact that you can literally go anywhere there is a campground (even major cities). 

• How RVing makes it more convenient to stay multiple days at a park (like a National Park) because you can stay on the premises. You’ll have access to your own bed, bathroom, and kitchen without having to bring everything with you in the car.

• That, if you tow your vehicle, or bring a teardrop camper, it’s not much different than staying in a hotel… except you get a better view and more privacy. 

• The way RVing is a flexible way to travel because you don’t have to worry about getting anywhere at a certain time (as long as you communicate any late arrivals). You can just jump in the RV and go where your heart desires. You can drive three hours one day and six hours the next day. It’s really whatever you make it.

Myth #2: RVing is a “poor man’s” way to travel.

False.

RVs can cost anywhere from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, so the initial investment is significant and often cost-prohibitive. That’s why renting can be such a great way to get your feet wet. Though RVing can be less expensive than flying and staying in a hotel, it’s not always. In fact, many resourceful RVers choose to boondock because they want to save money and experience places that aren’t as touristy. 

The truth is RVing is for everyone. If you’re on a budget, you might choose to rent a teardrop camper that you can tow with your own vehicle, and boondock along the way. If you want to feel like you’re taking a more “luxurious” vacation, you can rent a larger rig with a full kitchen and bathroom, and stay at more expensive RV resorts. There’s no right or wrong way to do it; it’s really just about traveling to have fun and embracing the off-the-beaten-path sights you can check out along the way.

Myth #3: There aren’t many places to go RVing in Texas 

False again.

Texas is a huge state with big cities, small towns, and wide open spaces in between to explore.  And you’re not limited to the cooler months, either. Many RVs have air conditioning. 

While not every place on our personal bucket list is in Texas, there are so many places you can go in less than a 10 hour drive from Austin.

Here’s our current RV bucket list:

• West Texas – See Marfa, Terlingua, Marathon, etc. 

• Dallas-Fort Worth, TX – Visit the Stockyards, watch Dallas Cowboys games, etc.

• New Orleans, LA – Hang out in the French Quarter

• Ruidoso, NM – Go skiing and shopping

• Sunbathe on sandy beaches:

  • Gulf Shores, AL 

  • South Padre Island, TX

  • Corpus Christi, TX

• Waco, TX – Check out Magnolia Market

• Hike and wander around National Parks:

  • Hot Springs (AR)

  • Guadalupe Mountains (TX)

  • Big Bend (TX)

  • Carlsbad Caverns (NM)

  • White Sands (NM)

Hit the road

What are you waiting for? Check out our rental options here. If you already have an RV, learn more about consignment.