Forum Discussion

Stephen2753's avatar
Stephen2753
Explorer
May 31, 2015

First time RV

Hello:

We have just received a gift of a 27' Class C from a relative, 1993 Ford, model MTR-H, mileage is 97,370, empty weight 8000. This is a first, in my life, have never camped in one.

I have been reading and viewing all the great info on the various blogs and am getting ready for our first trip. Grandmother, 2 daughters and 3 grandchildren.

I saw various posts regarding insurance,we just received the title and plates and now need insurance. The prior owner suggested we contact others with class c to ask which companies they use. We currently have Geico for auto insurance. The owner also said the insurance should be about $ 400 a year.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
  • The liability-only policy on my Allegro (1984) is $360 per year. I'm in NJ where rates are typically pretty high, but all things considered I think that's a pretty good rate.

    I second (or third, or whatever) the driveway camping idea. You get to learn how to operate everything with a fall-back plan (go into your house).

    I don't know how you feel about driving a big vehicle, but when started driving mine last year I was pretty freaked out. I take mine to run errands occasionally to keep it exercised but also to increase my experience behind the wheel. I just have to make sure that wherever I'm going can accommodate a big truck (which is basically what you have).
  • For even more information go to the Class C section and search for `insurance' only in that section.
  • Camp driveway is a very good way to start to get to know your way around your camper ,take a pen and paper with you on your first couple of trips to write down questions you may have about your rv and also thing you may need that you didn't bring good luck have fun
  • Thanks all. I did view the video, who would have thought to not brake but step on the gas a bit. Potential life saving advice, thank you.

    Tire info very important, thanks...and had not thought of camping in the driveway, great advice from all

    I have been reading a lot on these forums, all good advice.

    We live in Virginia Beach, 3 grandkids, and have three trips planned for the summer months, of course all oriented around the kids, Mountains, Busch Gardens and Williamsbug and Lake Gaston.

    If there are any other suggestions, please feel welcome to let me known. I think that for this year, we will stay close, within a 3 - 4 hour drive.
  • Welcome to the forum. That's a nice gift.

    If possible, camp a few nights in your yard or driveway. You will learn how to work everything while at home. If it's not possible, go to a nearby campground.
    It's nice to know how things work before hitting the road.

    And, an important thing, CHECK YOUR TIRES. RV tires usually age out before they wear out.
    They may have plenty of tread but, be dryrotted.
    You don't want a blowout or tire problems while traveling.

    Enjoy your travels. Don't hesitate to ask questions on the forum, there's lots of experience and advice available.
  • Hello,

    Since the rig is more than 20 years old, you're obviously not interested in full insurance (collision and comp), so all you'll need is liability insurance. I'd start with your current insurance company, they usually offer multi-vehicle discounts. Also, ask about a discount for only using the vehicle only part of the year if you're not going to camp year round.

    As far as price, there's just too many factors to consider. It varies by state, county, driver history, credit rating, etc etc etc.

    Anyway, sound advice offered regarding tires. Having a blowout is no fun, so make sure those tires are good and not too old.

    Also, if you're camping with that many people, check with the campground before going. Lots of them charge for more than 2 adults and 2 kids.

    Have fun on you new adventures!
  • Ivylog's avatar
    Ivylog
    Explorer III
    Welcome to the fun of RVing and great memories. Before taking off you need to check the DOT date codes on the side of the tires. Hopefully it will end in something like 2411 (24th week of 2011) not 1006 which would make them over nine years old. Do not judge the tires by the amount of tread as MH tires age out before we wear them out. Sitting for long periods of time is hard on them and not keeping enough air in them shorten their life. No way would I start out without putting AT LEAST two new on the front regardless of age as you have no way of knowing how they were treated. A blowout on the rear is exciting (you accelerate before starting to slow down) and one on the front can be fatal if you panic and put the brakes on hard. Be safe and have fun.
    Watch this video.
  • Good morning

    How exciting to get your first RV and be going on your first trip. Lots to learn but it's not rocket science so relax. Lot of good people willing and able to share info here. We currently are with geico and its around $500 a year. Price varies considerably based on many factors, we carry a trailer on our policy also.

    Dave