Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting Started with RVs and Campers 7
Chapter 1: Joining the Cavalcade of Rolling Nomads 9
Chapter 2: Surveying the Wide World of RVs and Campers 25
Chapter 3: Decisions, Decisions: Knowing What You Need 55
Part 2: Buying Your RV 73
Chapter 4: Fitting an RV into Your Budget 75
Chapter 5: Doing Your Homework 85
Chapter 6: Dealing with Dealers 99
Chapter 7: Adding a Tow Vehicle to Your Trailer 111
Chapter 8: Getting Hitched and the Alchemy of Weight 127
Part 3: Taking Your First Camping Trip 139
Chapter 9: Stocking Up on Accessories: What Your RV Didn’t Come With 141
Chapter 10: Packing for the Road 159
Chapter 11: Driving, Parking, and the Dread of Backing Up 173
Chapter 12: The Shakedown: Your Maiden Voyage 193
Chapter 13: Setting Up Your Campsite 209
Part 4: Understanding How Your RV Works 227
Chapter 14: Electrical Systems 229
Chapter 15: Water World: The Wonders of Plumbing 247
Chapter 16: The Propane Gas System 279
Chapter 17: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning 301
Part 5: Tackling Some Advanced RV Topics 313
Chapter 18: Storage and Old Man Winter 315
Chapter 19: Tow, Tow, Tow Your Toad: Towing Your Car Behind Your Motorhome 333
Chapter 20: Boondocking and Living off the Grid 343
Part 6: The Part of Tens 357
Chapter 21: Ten Potential RV Catastrophes and How to Avoid Them 359
Chapter 22: Ten Smartphone Apps You Can’t Live Without 369
Chapter 23: Ten Great Attractions Just off the Highway 375
Index 383