How to Travel by Camper

Traveling with a camper gives you a good compromise between the high cost of staying at hotels and the discomfort of sleeping in a tent. Buying a camper allows you and your family to see the country, often for less than the cost of a traditional vacation. But you need to keep a number of things in mind, and do some practical planning before you hit the road. Taking the time to prepare properly can enhance the enjoyment of your vacation and minimize any problems.

Instructions

1

Make sure your vehicle is capable of pulling the camper. Look at the weight sticker on the camper and use it to shop for a truck, or conversely, check your vehicle's towing capacity to shop for a camper. It's best to have a higher weight rating than what you need. In the long run that will mean less wear and tear on the vehicle and potentially a longer useful life. Consider adding a transmission cooler to the radiator, especially if you plan to pull the camper in mountainous terrain.

2

Make a list of the things you want to stock in your camper. Chances are everyone in the family will want to bring a few of their favorite items, from games and puzzles to favorite books and portable DVD players. Use your checklist as you stock the camper.

3

Make reservations for where and when you want to go. National and state parks can fill up fast, especially in the summer, make your plans with plenty of time to spare. Some parks have limited accommodations for vehicles and trailers, so you may need to book extra early to be assured of a space.

4

Practice driving your camper around the neighborhood before you hit the open road. Operating a vehicle with a camper attached is much different from operating that vehicle alone, and it can take some time to adjust to the handling differences. Practice backing into parking spots, going around curves and other maneuvers in a safe area.

5

Consult a campground guide. Use a guide that includes a list of campgrounds by state, along with information about the amenities they provide and whether or not they have hookups available for campers and vehicles. Use the guide as you travel from place to place, but always call ahead and make a reservation well in advance of your arrival.

6

Join AAA or a similar motor club. Your membership gives you access to free guidebooks and to valuable information about road closures and road conditions in and around your destination.