The RV Life: On the Road & What We’ve Learned Along the Way

RV life has become one of our favorite ways to travel. There’s a sense of freedom that comes from having your home with you—waking up to new scenery, choosing your own pace, and discovering places you might otherwise pass by. But life on the road isn’t just about scenic views; it’s about planning, preparation, and learning as you go.

This page brings together what has worked for us while traveling by RV, from memberships and maintenance to campground planning and road readiness. Everything shared here comes from real experience—both the smooth trips and the challenging moments that taught us valuable lessons.

What Life on the Road Really Looks Like

RV travel offers flexibility, but it also requires intention. Weather, road conditions, fuel stops, and campground availability all play a role in how each trip unfolds. We’ve learned to slow down, plan ahead, and leave room for the unexpected—because on the road, adaptability matters just as much as preparation.

Some days are about covering miles. Others are about pulling over because the view is too good to pass up.

Memberships That Make RV Life Easier

Memberships have been a game-changer for us. From saving money to finding reliable places to stay, the right memberships can simplify life on the road.

Why We Recommend Starting With Good Sam

For anyone new to RV travel, Good Sam has been one of the most valuable resources we’ve used. It provides:

Discounts on campgrounds and fuel
Access to RV-friendly services
Helpful maintenance advice and travel tools

Having these resources available gives us peace of mind and helps us plan more efficiently, especially when traveling through unfamiliar areas.

RV Maintenance: Lessons Learned the Hard Way

Keeping an RV well-maintained isn’t optional—it’s essential. We learned this firsthand after being stranded on the side of the road during what was otherwise a great trip. That experience reinforced the importance of regular maintenance and proactive checks before and during travel.

What We Focus On Now

Routine inspections before leaving
Monitoring tire condition and pressure
Staying on top of service schedules
Addressing small issues before they become big ones

Preparation takes time, but it’s far better than dealing with unexpected breakdowns miles from help.

Planning Campgrounds & Overnight Stops

Finding the right place to stay is a big part of RV travel. We rely on a mix of campground memberships, apps, and experience to choose locations that fit our route and travel style.

When planning stops, we consider:

Distance from our previous stop
Road access for our RV size
Amenities we need for that night
Proximity to attractions or quiet settings

Good planning here makes the journey far more enjoyable.

Fueling, Routes & Road Conditions

Fuel planning is another critical part of RV life. We pay close attention to:

Fuel availability along our route
Elevation changes and terrain
Weather conditions that could impact driving

Choosing the right route isn’t just about speed—it’s about safety, fuel efficiency, and comfort.

What We Wish We Knew Starting Out

Looking back, there are a few things we wish we had known earlier:

Memberships are worth it
Maintenance matters more than you think
Flexibility is key
Slowing down improves the experience

RV life is a learning process, and every trip teaches something new.

Explore More of Our RV & Travel Content

If you’re interested in learning more about life on the road, these guides may help:

Fueling While on the Road
Camping Tips & Campground Planning
Travel Planning Checklists
Cabin Life & Slow Travel

Each resource is designed to help you travel more confidently and comfortably.

RV life is about more than the destination—it’s about the journey, the lessons learned, and the freedom to explore on your own terms. With the right preparation, reliable resources, and a willingness to adapt, life on the road can be incredibly rewarding.

We hope sharing what has worked for us helps you feel more prepared for your own RV adventures—whether you’re just getting started or already logging miles.

RV Life FAQs: On the Road

Please reach us at adventure@robandjengo.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is RV life really like day to day?

RV life is a mix of freedom and responsibility. Some days are filled with scenic drives, quiet mornings, and spontaneous stops. Other days involve planning routes, checking weather, fueling up, and handling maintenance. Having your home with you makes travel flexible, but preparation plays a big role in keeping things stress-free.

Is RV life good for beginners?

Yes, RV life can be beginner-friendly with the right planning. Starting with shorter trips, choosing RV-friendly campgrounds, and using trusted memberships can make the transition smoother. Learning the basics of maintenance and route planning early helps build confidence on the road.

What memberships are best for RV travelers?

Many RVers find that memberships help save money and simplify planning. Good Sam is often recommended for beginners due to campground discounts, fuel savings, and access to RV-specific resources. Memberships can also help with trip planning, campground selection, and roadside support.

How often does an RV need maintenance?

RV maintenance should be ongoing. Basic checks should be done before each trip, while more in-depth maintenance follows a regular schedule based on mileage and usage. Staying proactive helps prevent breakdowns and unexpected repairs while traveling.

What are the most common RV maintenance issues?

Some common issues RV travelers encounter include tire problems, battery issues, plumbing leaks, and electrical concerns. Regular inspections and addressing small problems early can prevent bigger disruptions later.

How do you choose campgrounds when traveling by RV?

We choose campgrounds based on distance, road access, available amenities, and the type of experience we want—whether that’s a full-service campground or a quieter setting. Using campground directories and planning stops ahead of time makes travel days easier.

How far should you drive each day in an RV?

Many RV travelers aim for 200–300 miles per day, depending on road conditions and comfort level. Shorter driving days allow more time to enjoy destinations and reduce fatigue, especially on longer trips.

How do you plan fuel stops for RV travel?

Fuel planning involves checking fuel availability along the route, understanding fuel tank range, and accounting for terrain or weather conditions. Planning fuel stops in advance helps avoid stress, especially in remote areas.

Is RV life more affordable than other types of travel?

RV travel can be cost-effective, but expenses vary based on fuel, campground fees, maintenance, and travel style. Memberships, trip planning, and pacing can help manage costs while still enjoying the experience.

What are the biggest mistakes new RV travelers make?

Common mistakes include driving too far in one day, skipping maintenance checks, underestimating weather impacts, and not planning fuel or campground stops ahead of time. Slowing down and planning ahead can prevent many of these issues.

Can RV life be combined with other travel styles?

Absolutely. RV travel pairs well with camping, cabin stays, and slow travel experiences. Many travelers mix RV trips with cruises or cabin getaways depending on the season and destination.

Is RV life worth it?

For us, yes. RV life offers flexibility, adventure, and a deeper connection to the journey itself. While it requires preparation and problem-solving, the freedom to explore at your own pace makes it incredibly rewarding.

RV PARKS and RESORTS

Top Parks That Inspire Our Adventures: Discover the best campground recommendations that will enhance your outdoor experiences. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a beginner, our RV travel tips can help you make the most of your trips. Don't forget the importance of RV maintenance advice to ensure your vehicle is ready for any adventure ahead.

A parked Laredo RV with outdoor chairs and table set up under an awning.

Crown Villa - Bend, Oregon

Crown Villa RV Resort in Bend, Oregon, has become one of our favorite places to stay. Just a short drive from town, this resort is a top choice among campground recommendations, offering the perfect blend of nature and convenience. With towering pine trees, oversized lots, and paver pads for your camper, it's an ideal spot for RV travelers. We’ve always had great experiences here, and the friendly staff enhances every visit, making it a great place to apply some RV maintenance advice and pick up valuable RV travel tips.

Sunset over a calm body of water with a crescent moon and scattered clouds.

Pleasant Harbor RV Resort - Peoria, Arizona

Pleasant Harbor is our top choice among campground recommendations in the Phoenix area. Nestled alongside Lake Pleasant, it’s the ideal location to stage our camper—whether we’re preparing for a long journey or heading out to NASCAR events. With an on-site restaurant and ample amenities, it’s easy to see why this campground is a favorite among travelers. Plus, if you're looking for RV maintenance advice or RV travel tips, this spot has everything you need for a smooth experience.

Black and white Redwood RV with extended awnings parked under clear blue sky.

Olive Ave RV Resort - Vista, California

For us, Olive Avenue RV Resort in Vista, California, is the perfect home base for exploring Southern California. This campground is among our top campground recommendations, allowing easy access to everything from enjoying lunch and craft beer at Stone Brewing in Escondido, to catching a baseball game in San Diego, or taking a quick trip up to LA for a theme park adventure. We also love being close to Carlsbad for stops at Wise Ox Butcher or Prager for fresh baked goods. With its convenient location and all it offers, this campground truly stands out. Plus, for those new to RVing, we always share RV maintenance advice and RV travel tips to help make your trips enjoyable and stress-free!

Zane Grey RV Village - Camp Verde, Arizona

We really enjoyed staying at Zane Grey RV Village! The park itself is clean, quiet, and well-maintained, with plenty of mature trees that provide wonderful shade. The location is hard to beat—tucked inside Camp Verde, it’s just a short drive to both Cottonwood and the Pine/Strawberry areas, making it a perfect base for exploring the region. We have stayed many times and will stay again.

Add a footnote if this applies to your business, especially if you have campground recommendations, RV maintenance advice, or RV travel tips to share.