Questions to Ask Before Reserving an RV Space

It seems humans learn best through experience. At least that is true in our case. Each time we book an stay in an RV park, we inquire about several key factors. Unfortunately, we learned that these were important to us only when they were unavailable.

Affordability

Internet searches make it easier than ever before to comparison price check. When calling to reserve a space ask about available discounts for seniors, teachers, club members or long-term stays. Sometimes, if you don’t ask, the information is not shared.

However, the least expensive is not the best to meet the needs of a family or individual. Consider the length of stay, desires, needs, and expectations. It is important to investigate what is available so that you get the best bang for your buck.

Also, read the reviews from former guests. They are often painfully honest about uncomfortable stays and positive when they depart content. Be sure to read several because people who are disgruntled are more likely to write a review and some consumers are difficult to satisfy. After reading, reviews weigh the comments that are repeated and valid.

The following list of amenities will be prioritized differently by each person depending on what they are looking for in an experience. When staying for a short period or just overnight, don’t pay for what you will not use. Think about what is important to you.

Bathrooms and Showers

These can vary greatly from an outhouse to a fully functioning upscale facility. Most of the time, we use the shower in our RV. However, when we traveled with young children the space available in onsite facilities can make the process much easier.

Considerations: hot and cold running water, heated space, electrical outlets, cleanliness, lighting, multiple stalls, handicap accessible, area for assisting children, locked doors, and privacy and security. What seems unimportant can become essential in a dark, cold, environment.

Campfires

My oldest daughter, Kari, loves sitting around a wood campfire to cook and roast marshmallows with her teen age children. The younger, Kat, has an electric fireplace in her camp trailer and enjoys the colors and warmth when the toddlers go to bed early.

My husband and I pack a portable, propane fire pit for real flames, heat, and ambiance. For us this is great because it requires little preplanning, is mess free, quick and easy.

Considerations: wood availability, site rules, fire rings, space.

Dog friendly

Dagney, our Yorkshire terrier, travels with us; Kari camps with her mastiff and two St. Bernards; Kat takes her two bulldogs. All have different requirements.

Considerations: space, grass, dog park, leash requirements, policies.

Our Yorkie doesn't always understand her size and will engage with larger dogs. She can instigate problems so we attempt to find parks with separate accomodations for large and small dogs, especially for longer stays.

Electrical hookups

Sites come in 30- or 50-amp service. If the RV has two air conditioners, 50 amps is necessary.

Most of the time electricity is included in the price of the site. Extended stay may require RVers to pay for the electricity they use during their stay. We stayed at a resort in California for four weeks and it cost us $66.00. We snapped a picture of the meter the day we left so we could settle the account before departing.

Entertainment

RV parks cater to different age groups. Consider what is available prior to reserving.

Considerations: golf, hiking trails, lakes, swimming pools, hot tubs, shuffleboard, game room, movie rentals, horseshoes, basketball court, pickleball, bike paths, playground.

During our stay at Sky Valley near Palm Springs, California, Santa came to visit adding excitement for our granddaughters. Great memories!

My husband and I enjoy riding our bikes so we also prefer paved parks for longer stays and investigate areas with bike paths.

Flexibility

Ask if dates can be changed, extended, or cancelled. Sometimes when traveling the unexpected happens. A mechanical problem can change a schedule and weather has more than once prompted an early or late departure.

Landscaping

This one is important to me because I hate to live in dry dirt. I prefer grass, or even a small concrete pad.

Considerations: trees or shrubs for shade, paved roads, water features.

If children are riding along, having a playground on site is valuable to keep little one entertained.

Laundry

Usually, washers and dryers are only need once or twice a week. Fortunately, our rig came with a washer and dry but they only handle small loads. After long period on the road, we sometimes need to throw in a load using the parks laundry room.

Level

If you have ever slept in a slanted position, especially when you share a bed, you immediately understand the value of having a level area to park. Asking allows you to consider the options and come prepared with levelers if needed. Actually, from our experience most need some leveling, so come prepared.

Location

What is the purpose of the stay? If you desire isolation, examine a map of the area, consider the size of the lots and number of spaces. If you are traveling for business or pleasure, determine the travel time to daily events. And never take the scenery for granted. The natural beauty should always be appreciated.

Considerations: distance for food, emergency services, direction of the sun during the day, scenery.

Noise ordinances

My husband and I are seniors who go to bed earlier than some. Parking next to a large, loud group who likes to party late into the night is bothersome. We gravitate to parks that shut down early and have noise ordinances. Others who want to enjoy large groups and games should investigate larger, isolated spaces that accommodate their desires.

Odor

We learned from experience to not park near a bathroom, sewer dump station or garbage bin.

Parking of extra vehicles

There was a time I assumed all RV parks allow the parking of a vehicle in tow. Not true. Some charge additional fees and others simply do not have the space available.

Picnic tables

Having a table and chairs available provides a convenience, however, this is not something that can be expected. Carrying a small foldable table and chairs is a good idea. I do suggest always carrying a plastic tablecloth.

Propane

During extended stays, it may be necessary to refill propane tanks. Some companies provide this service and visit the RV resorts weekly. The convience of having a company come to your site eliminates the need to pack up everything and go to them. Ask at the front desk if this option is available.

Pull-though site

The value of this feature depends on the size of your rig and your parking abilities. Determine your needs and make requests. In our case, my husband is an excellent driver and has little trouble backing. However, just the thought of having to direct him into a space increases my anxiety as this story shares.

Guiding My Spouse as He Backs the RV Stresses Me Out

Sewer

Some areas do not provide this amenity. Be sure to plan ahead and know the size of your black and grey water holding tanks. Also, be aware often the level gauges are not precise do not depend on them to strongly. Know where the dump station is located. When planning to hook up to sewer at your site, inquire how long a hose is needed be informed of proper connections. It is suggested that you have second hose for extended length.

Transportation

Some resorts offer transportation to nearby attractions. This is great if staying in a motorhome without a tow vehicle. Also consider availability of buses, trams, Ubers or Taxis. It can be relaxing to leave the driving to someone else for a change.

TV

If this amenity can be important for long-term stays and when the whether is poor so ask what is available. My husband loves the Golf Channel, and it is not usually included. Weak reception is common so just because they have it available does not mean it will be assessable. It may be necessary to have a booster, antennae or cable to hook to the RV park service.

In our case, we have Dish TV in our home. To add it to our RV, the cost is only $5.00 a month.

Visitors

We were surprised to be told when staying at an upscale resort that visitors were not welcome to use the amenities. The plan was to have friends with children eat dinner and play in the pool before we knew about this restriction. Consider asking before booking if you plan to have guests.

Water

When you hook to water determine the appropriate fittings. Some RV parks have excessive pressure that may cause damage. Carry a pressure regulator. If you don’t know what the pressure is error on the side of safety and use the regulator. Usually, systems are standard but be ready for the unexpected. Carry a hose.

WiFi

Similar to TV connections, just because it is advertised as available does not mean it will function smoothly. Every situation is different so do your research. Our experience is that most parks do not have strong consistent service.

Consider a booster. There are many types available. We consulted a specialist at Best Buy and found a device that makes connectiong less frustrating.

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