Forum Discussion

HendricksFamily's avatar
Apr 27, 2015

How do I pick the right RV for my family?

Good Morning-
My husband and I are in the beginning stages of research and shopping for an RV that will suit our family. Our family is us, 2 kids (13 & 9, boy and girl) and our easiest kids our 2 Spaniels. My overall goal is to build better family relationships and spend our free time away from the technology that seems to continuously invade our lives. I want to escape, see our amazing country and spend quality time with the people that matter most.
We are currenlty working the pro's and con's of purchasing a Class A or a 5th wheel and appropriate hauling pick-up truck. As is true with any relationship, husband is leaning towards one and I the other. What I would really like to gain from this forum is the opportunity to talk with RV'ers who own each and talk about how you are using it and what you like and dislike about your choice. It would be most helpful to talk to similar style families but of course any advice would be amazing. I am reading a ton of blogs but I am finding that most of them are full-time RV'ers and that is not what I am going for. We want to be casual weekenders initially exploring the areas within a 2-4 hour radius of our home in Southeast GA where my husband is stationed. I thank you all in advance for your wisdom!
Sincerely,
Amy (The Mom)
  • It seems to me that traveling with a TT or 5er, the TV would be pretty crowded with 4 adult size people and 2 dogs, but I guess you would need something big enough for sightseeing with that family.

    You might find a Class C has more sleeping space than an A, but you would still need a big toad. Many Class C can only tow 3500 lbs so you would probably need a MH capable of towing 5000 lbs.
  • Research a lot. Getting opinions here is a good start. With pending teenagers, I'd be looking at a bunk house type 5th wheeler.

    My overall goal is to build better family relationships and spend our free time away from the technology that seems to continuously invade our lives.


    Good luck with that. After a few hours of "This is boring", I'd be breaking out the WiFi hotspot.
  • How often / how many days a year do you plan to use it?
    A Class "A" is a big investment for infrequent use and you'll need a "toad" to do any sightseeing outside the campground. But you can balance that with the ability to get up and move around while travelling.
    With a 5er you can still use the tow vehicle as a daily driver if needed. A 2-4 hour ride with kids may put them (and you) at the edge of insanity though. But with the 5er you can pile everybody in the truck to go sightseeing.