When you factor in the cost of hotel rooms, airline tickets, car rentals, meals and pet boarding, family vacations end up costing more than the budget can handle. Many families think that “stay-cations” have become their only option, but others have discovered that a “go-cation” is possible in an RV. Not only can RVing accommodate a range of budgets, but it’s easy to take kids and pets along for the ride. Here are some tips to get you started.

A lot of time is spent in the RV driving, sleeping, eating and entertaining, so it is important that the RV you choose feels right. Consider these suggestions for picking the right RV:

• Ask yourself how often you are realistically going to use the RV. Many companies now offer a wide range of rentals that can maximize your enjoyment while minimizing what you need to spend buying and storing an RV.
• Think about the kind of amenities you like to have on vacation, the type of lifestyle you lead and the size of your family. You may want four-star amenities or you might just be pleased with motel-style basics.
• Take the RV out for a test drive to make sure it is comfortable and user-friendly.
• Consider other options, such as fifth wheels, camper vans or a tent trailer, which may work just as well.

Planning an RV trip involves creativity and a small budget. Here are some low- or no-cost tips to make your next adventure affordable:

• Travel off-season to get better deals and spend less time sitting in traffic.
• Park for free at major truck stops before spending $25–$40 per night at a campground. Be aware that free parking does not include electrical hookups or dumping stations. 
• Eat in as much as possible.
• Although it may seem imposing, consider doing your own maintenance by following the manual, asking the RV dealership for advice and searching the Internet for maintenance tips.

Ensuring the comfort of your children and pets on an RV vacation means fewer headaches down the road. Try these ideas for creating positive experiences:

• Bring games and activities to keep the kids busy or install an entertainment system for movies on the go.
• Make a checklist of all necessary pet supplies and medications.
• Take the time to get your pets adjusted to being in a moving RV before you leave for the big trip.
• Locate family- and pet-friendly campgrounds prior to leaving and help familiarize pets with their surroundings once you arrive.

From visiting mountains and beaches to lakes and forests, RVing can lead to great trips year after year. Think about these tips for keeping vacations safe and fun:

• Carry lots of maps or consider buying a GPS device. Make sure to do preliminary planning before setting off.
• Make sure you keep your kitchen pantry stocked.
• Research places and sights of interest before leaving, but also be open to exciting discoveries on the road.
• Bring a first-aid kit with basic medical supplies, flashlight, RV repair kit and disposable camera in case of road accidents.
• Buckle in the kids while traveling and make sure the pets also have a secure area.
• Have a cell phone for emergencies and try to stay on main roads for easier access to important services.

Before you know it, you will be hooked on these affordable family-bonding trips that get you back on the road to real vacations.