RV Trip Planning Tips

Gardeners may spend their winters pouring over seed catalogs, but RVers spend their winters pouring over maps and travel brochures. Of course, many RVers plan their next trip while enjoying their current travel destination. But a fair number of RVers tied to school and work schedules store their RVs during the winter and wait until spring to hit the road.

Whether you plan on the go from your RV cockpit or from the comfy confines of your living room sofa, there are a few planning tips guaranteed to make your next RV trip enjoyable:

> Get out the maps. Maps give you an instant bird’s eye view of possible routes making trip planning easier. Use regional multi-state maps to plot main routes, but don’t neglect to check state and local area maps. State and local maps provide greater detail and pinpoint local attractions, scenic byways, parks and campgrounds.

> Use the Internet. The Internet is a great resource for finding areas that promote an activity you’re interested in; for instance, finding bike trails or canoe liveries. You can check out area attractions, including hours and prices and even make reservations and print directions.

> Visitors centers. Always stop at the visitors center when you cross a state line. You’ll find lots of great brochures and money-off coupons for popular attractions. Some visitors centers are staffed and will help you locate activity information and plot directions.

> Word of mouth. Don’t be shy about asking other RVers about what to see and do. You may discover a rare gem.