Forum Discussion

Gig3000's avatar
Gig3000
Explorer
Feb 26, 2017

New to RVing

Hello, Single female here, selling my house and buying an RV to see the world! I started out looking at class B's due to being more stealthy. Now, considering Class C's. Diesel Winnebago, Itasca or maybe Coachman as i want an Island Bed.
Question 1: I am not mechanical at all...should i buy new?(i read about the hiring a Mobile RV Tech), I hate to buy new as i have a dog and cat that might damage it. If i buy used, what minimum age and mileage should i get?
Question 2: I will have my animals with me. Do most campers have the ability to leave the camper on and lock the doors(with AC on) to run into a store?
Question 3: I am planning to drive the RV from Ohio, through Texas, into Mexico and down to the lower Yucatan. Am I crazy?
  • I'll try Question 1: I am not mechanical at all.

    You must become mechanical to at least daily check the vehicle systems....radiator, brake fluid, steering fluid, tires, tire pressure, starting battery, engine oil...and the living systems...water, holding tanks, propane, house batteries. If you see a low level you must either correct it or seek help. BUT you can learn!
  • First off, welcome to the forum, and I wish you good luck with your ideas.
    As far as the type of rv, have you driven anything? That is pretty important, as is the fuel costs. Fuel is relatively low now, but it will not stay there. A class C gasser will only get 8 mpg roughly, a B diesel would do a lot better! I think also that the floor plan is the most important consideration that you have to make in either case.
    We will occasionally park our rv, lock it up with the generator and a/c running and hit a restaurant or store for a bit while Josie the Beagle sits behind the wheel and listens to the radio. I watch her occasionally with a camera, just for a laugh.
    Ohio to Texas is real cool trip, but I can't really comment on the Mexico trip, as I am not qualified to answer. I am sure someone else on this forum could advise you better on that topic, if you search the topic.
    If you were my daughter, I would tell you to be safe, not too naive, but remember, most people are really great. There is that 5% that ruins everything for all. Watch out for them!
  • Community Alumni's avatar
    Community Alumni
    Mt two cents.

    Buy a 2 to 3 year old gasoline Winnebago. No need to spend additional money on a diesel engine and the more expensive maintenance.

    Yes, you can leave your pets inside the moho with the AC running if it's too hot.

    You may be a little crazy, but the same could be said for most of us here. ;)

    Good luck in your adventure!