How will I set up by myself? Will I be safe on the road and at the lot? What will I do for security? Will I always be alone?
These are just a few of the questions contemplated by those pursuing a solo RV trip. With the proper research, belongings, and attitude, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip to its full potential with minimal hassle – and safely. Although many people let their doubts hold them back, there are a growing number of people pursuing solo RVing.
Your Adventure is Your Call
The best part of solo RVing is you can create your own adventure – you choose the route, the destination, and what you’ll do while you’re there. When you’re taking to the road by yourself, you don’t have to make any compromises. If you want to stop for a snack or switch up parks weekly, you can. Your trip is at your pace. There are also many other perks to solo RVing, explained below.
Privacy
RVing on your own gives you the freedom to choose when you want to interact with others. Sometimes your getaways are your only opportunities for solitude – especially if you have a busy family, an active social life, or a demanding job. You can use this time to reflect and unwind, take up the hobbies you let fall by the wayside, and just enjoy some real quite time.
And the best part is, if you do want to mingle with some of your neighbors, RVing solo gives you the opportunity to meet people and interact when you want, then go your separate ways.
Embrace New Opportunities
When you’re traveling alone, there is a lot more down time since it’s all about what you want to do. Maybe you’ve always wanted to build a model airplane or considered taking a seasonal position at your favorite RV Park. Solitude gives you the opportunity to be creative with your time and more space to bring along items for new activities that you may have been putting off.
Meet People with Similar Interests
Consider joining a club, forum, or group that rallies around providing solo RVers the opportunity to network, even to the point of meeting up with others during your travels. RVing Women was established to offer support and friendship for women who are traveling solo with their rigs. By joining a club, you are able to meet new people who have a passion for one of your beloved pastimes! Feel free to explore other groups such as Escapees RV Club, Wandering Individuals Network (WIN), and Loners on Wheels.
Still Take Precautions
While RVing alone does have many benefits, it is equally important to understand the precautions you should take. If you’re an experienced RVer, you should already know to anticipate problems before they occur.
Research
Before heading out on your solo excursion, do some extensive research. Research your route and know what to expect along the way, such as roadside parks, towns, and weigh stations. Know how your RV works and ensure proper maintenance is done before you venture out. Consider learning how to do some basic roadside repairs, such as fixing a flat tire. Always keep your fuel tank at least half full and have the number handy for a roadside assistance service. Add a manual to your glove box and bring a map just in case your phone or GPS unit can’t find a signal.
Check In
Check in regularly with a family member or a close friend to ease worry. Make sure to keep your phone charged at all times in the case of an emergency. Consider bringing along a booster signal, satellite phone or an emergency tracker so that you can be found if anything does go array, including on those back roads in the Upper Peninsula! Make sure to keep your ID on you and leave a photocopy of important documents, such as the registration of your motorhome or towable, with a trustworthy friend or family member.
Don’t Advertise That You’re Alone
While you may be curious and excited to meet new people along your travels, be wise in conversations. Carry extra lawn chairs with you and set them out for your new friend, or to give the appearance that you’re not alone. Consider meeting those working at the front office of anyplace you stay, just for good measure.
Arrive Early
It is important to try to arrive at your destination when there is still plenty of daylight and the office staff will be around for several more hours. This allows for any mishaps to be taken care of more quickly. You can also consider staying in one location for a longer period of time. Many places offer cheaper rates or discounts for extended stays. Find a list of private parks, resorts, and campgrounds in Michigan here.
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