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10 Costly Mistakes First-Time RV Owners Almost Always Make

Before you set out in your new RV, here are a few things not to do on your journey.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Jessica Gibson

Updated Jan. 5, 2026

You've probably thought about going on the open highway in an RV or you've seen Instagram photos and videos that make you excited at the prospect. You aren't alone.

More than 11 million households in the United States own an RV, which certainly allows them to travel more.

But there are plenty of ways RV life is nothing like Instagram, so don't be fooled. Before you hit the open road, check out these mistakes that may cause a bumpy ride on your first RV trip.

Not reserving your spot

Campgrounds can be a great place to park overnight. They might have amenities like electric and water hookups, bathrooms with hot showers, level parking spots, or laundry facilities.

But that also makes them popular, especially during summer holidays or school breaks. You can't pull up to just any campsite for the Fourth of July and expect a spot to be open.

Instead, ensure your pre-trip planning for an RV trip includes reserving a campsite or another RV-friendly site for the night.

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Not watching your speed

Driving an RV is not like driving a car. You may think you can just drive an RV at the same speed as your sedan or SUV, but that's not the case. A comfortable and safe speed for driving your RV may be slower than you're used to.

As a result, you'll need to plan some extra time into your estimated travel schedule.

Going too far

While you might be enticed to hit a bunch of destinations on your first trip, you don't want to overreach.

You don't want to roll into a campsite late at night after miles of driving only to have to figure out how to set up your new RV by yourself and in the dark. And you don't want to get only a little sleep before doing it all over again the next day.

Pad your estimated travel time to account for what you plan to do when you set up at your destination (and how long that setup will take).

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Skipping driving classes

If you've never driven an RV before, look into classes with instructors who can give you hands-on learning, maybe even using your own newly purchased RV. Learn how to drive the RV, park it, and perhaps get out of tight spots.

And for those drivers who have experience behind the RV wheel, you can look into refresher safety courses or other classes to get the most out of your RV safely.

RV School and Escapees are two companies that offer RV driving classes. Escapees also offers courses on RV maintenance.

Not researching licensing laws

You may be in for a surprise when you find out what kind of licensing is required to drive an RV. While it is rare, there are a few states that require owners to get additional licensing credentials if they are going to be driving a particularly large RV.

Check with your state and see what the licensing requirements are and what you need to do to achieve those additional credentials.

Forgetting size matters

You don't want to regret your RV purchase by getting the wrong size for your needs.

A big RV may have all the amenities you want, but it also may have too many other things or be really stressful to drive. Or perhaps you think a smaller RV is the perfect size to travel in style, only to realize that it's not a good fit for your kids and pets.

Do some research about what size is best for your particular needs. Consider renting a few RVs first to test-drive the size you prefer to drive and camp in. While renting isn't inexpensive, it could save you a lot in the long run if it prevents you from purchasing the wrong RV.

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Skipping a site check

It might be nice to have everything you need right inside your RV, but remember, there are things outside of it as well. Before you leave a campsite for the open road, do a walk-around of your RV to make sure everything is ready.

You don't want to be driving around with your steps still down or your compartment doors open. And don't forget to check for things like sewer hoses so they're not dragging behind you on the highway. It might sound silly, but it's a thing that really happens.

Rude behavior

Hitting the road and driving away from everyday life for a vacation doesn't mean you can leave your manners behind. Campsites are little communities you're sharing with other people who also want a little rest and relaxation on the road.

Try not to be the campsite neighbor who watches loud movies late at night on your outdoor TV or who doesn't pick up after your dog. Also, remember not to walk through other RV sites, even if they're not occupied. Be courteous to your fellow campers while still enjoying the RV life.

Ignoring route issues

An RV trip isn't as simple as entering your destination into a GPS and putting your vehicle in drive. You need to consider some things that car owners don't have to worry about.

Make sure your chosen route includes roads that accommodate large vehicles, and consider whether your RV can navigate tight streets or residential areas. If you don't like your route, it can be tough to turn around in a parking lot or go back the way you came.

Instead, pay attention to the details before you head out for a day of driving and as you navigate your course. Consider using an app like RV LIFE, which can help you avoid roads with tunnels and other obstacles.

Get a protection plan on all your appliances

Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.

Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.

For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.

Get a free quote

Not using a travel rewards credit card

You're enjoying traveling all over the place and the RV life, until you get your credit card bill. Campsite reservations can add up, and RVs can suck up a lot of fuel. Any attractions you visit while on your travels could quickly add up as well.

When planning your trips, remember to budget and consider using some of the best travel credit cards. These could earn you rewards on your campground reservations or get cash back on your fuel purchases.

Bottom line

We all want to avoid throwing money away. But RV life could be a great option if you go in prepared and willing to learn.

If you're not ready to commit to buying an RV just yet, you can still test out the lifestyle. You can always start by renting to see if RV life is right for you.

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