atexintx wrote:
Assumptions:
I’ll be pulling a 16’-17’’ trailer with my 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan, GTW=3,600 lbs.
This limits me to a trailer empty weight of about 2,900 lbs.
The numbers, in theory, work. In practise you are pushing the envelope.
atexintx wrote:
I plan to travel alone except for my Chihuahua.
Some campgrounds do not allow pets.
atexintx wrote:
My Caravan normally gets about 28 mpg on the road; otherwise about 18 mpg around town.
I’m expecting to get about 10 mpg? pulling my trailer.
That may be too optimistic. Towing occasionally is one thing. Doing it every couple of days requires "more vehicle" than you have.
atexintx wrote:
2. What can I expect to pay per night on average for overnight camping while traveling our great highways and byways (Remember – I know “it depends” – but …).
Anywhere from free, with services (electricity etc) to $100 per night.
atexintx wrote:
3. Where and how would I find cable and Internet connections – (1) most every camping spot, (2) some camping spots, (3) a few camping spots?
Cable may be rare, internet is some times available but may be so slow as to be unusable. Many of us now use our cell phones for data (internet access). I'd suggest getting both Verizon and AT&T.
atexintx wrote:
4. Are there any “best practices” when it comes to being on the electric/Internet grid as we travel?
Yes. Always check polarity and voltage under load. If the RV has a 50 amp service an add on "top of the line" energy management system (surge protector) may be a wise addition.
atexintx wrote:
5. How much can I expect to pay per month for cable and Internet (I have a telephone and Internet-based business)?
If you need drop dead service and unlimited data over $100 per month. However it is, in your case, a business expense.
atexintx wrote:
6. If I’m in an area with spotty cell phone reception, would a phone system like OOMA be a good option? Otherwise, I use Skype.
Ooma and other similar products rely on high speed data. You may not find that at campgrounds. I'd suggest investing in a top quality antenna and signal booster. About $600.00 one time cost.
atexintx wrote:
7. Would AT&T help me with options for doing quick charges on my cell phone that does not require electricity (or is there any such thing).
Most devices may be charged on the 12 volt system of the RV, with the proper adapter. No need to get AT&T involved.
atexintx wrote:
8. Will I be using a generator for my electricity if I don’t have a hook up? I understand that solar panels may be a smart way to go.
Using a generator may "eat your lunch". A good solar installation is a one time cost and 600 watts may cover all your needs, other than running the roof air.
https://freecampsites.net/adding-solar/ may help. It may be cheaper to go to an inexpensive campground than to run a generator.
atexintx wrote:
9. Are fresh water fill-ups included in the cost of overnight camping?
10. Do most camping spots have fresh water fill ups?
Sometimes
atexintx wrote:
11. Is the cost of electricity included in the cost of overnight camping?
Yes, but long term stay locations may have power meters where you would pay monthly for the power consumed.
atexintx wrote:
12. It appears to me that overnight hookup charges may be the biggest expense while traveling 80% of the time on the road. Correct?
I boondock a great deal, and travel long distances, so fuel is my number one expense. Maintenance I allot $0.10 per mile.
atexintx wrote:
13. Is it difficult to find camping spots where one can camp for 30 days or so?
That depends on the time of year and the location. For example nearby me there is only one campground open in the winter. At -30 I need to have their services. They know they have a monopoly and they charge accordingly. For example, if not camping at their facility they charge $40 to dump the waste tanks.
atexintx wrote:
14. Is it realistic to think that if I’m in a town or city I can park on a side street for several nights. Would this be a matter of knowing local city laws?
It may be best to not stay more than 2 nights in any one location. Big box stores may allow overnight parking if you ask. But I never stayed more than 3 nights in any location--I moved on to another spot.
atexintx wrote:
15. Is the best way to buy a used trailer (if one becomes available) only from a dealer or would buying from an individual be okay too?
Buying from a dealer would not be my first choice. They have to mark up the price, after all they are not a charity.
atexintx wrote:
16. If I purchase a used trailer from an individual, what due diligence should I do over and above what I’d do with a dealer?
Pay a mobile RV technician to inspect the RV.
atexintx wrote:
17. What would be the best type of dunnage (packing cushion to protect dishes, supplies, etc. while moving?)
This has never been an issue for me. Open cupboards slowly after any move, in case items have shifted.
atexintx wrote:
18. Is there any value in having a short wave radio? What would that be?
Unless it is your hobby, no.
atexintx wrote:
19. I’m concerned about camping in a flash flood area and want to know which is the best way to be alerted on this.
Get a weather radio, or an app for a cell phone that sends warnings.
atexintx wrote:
20. I might do some camping in California some day and I understand they only provide an online reservation system. Is it a hassle to camp in CA?
Private campgrounds have their own customer service--not government run. Popular destinations do require reservations, sometimes months in advance. But--I mainly boondock.
atexintx wrote:
21. I do plan to travel the Great Plains and Mountain West, the Midwest and maybe the Deep South – Any particular region better than the other? (As a kid, we tent camped in Jackson Hole, Colorado, Rapid City, Nebraska, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota).
That depends on the time of year. Camping in freezing conditions require lots of upgrades, modifications, and good reliable power systems.
