Automotive Journal

Recreational vehicles often come with just the basic facilities to serve your needs. If you want to purchase or hire a motorhome or camper van, you may wish to consider what optional extras could help you enjoy a more comfortable journey. Many first timers are often swayed by the external looks of a camper, that they forget about what facilities they actually require and end up paying a lot extra later on. Optional extras are often cheaper when taken at the time of a new van purchase.

When choosing a RV to rent or buy, its a good idea to consider the size of the camper or motorhome with regards to the size of your family. Young children take up a lot less space than a few teenagers. Size is just one of several factors to take into account as well as whether you wish to hire or purchase a relatively new or used vehicle.

I would like to mention a few of the available optional extras that you may like to consider with a new or even used RV. No matter what you decide now, you can always add extras as you find the need, but it will probably cost you more. Take some time to pick out the right ones now and you can start out with the maximum comfort.

Campers often have plenty of seating, some for up to eight people, but may only sleep four or five at the most. This is often made up of two adults and two children or sometimes three young children. A camper should be spacious enough in the day time so as to allow ease of movement for all the family. At night, space is often at a premium due to the nature of bed arrangements. Generally even the cheapest will have some daytime space, the expense is often down to how much space is required at night. Try to find the right mix for your budget.

The living area, including the kitchen are where you will find the most optional extras. As this is the main family working and resting area, comfort and ease of use are prime considerations. Everything from televisions, to microwaves, air conditioning, cookers and expensive music sound systems can be installed customized to your exact needs. Seating areas can be covered in fabric or luxurious leather, floors can be carpeted or tiled. You can even opt for solar panels to save on battery power. Sticking to your budget in the living areas will probably be the hardest of all, just think about how much of your time will be spent in the van.

A comfortable drivers seat is a must for those long journeys and many prefer the feel of a quality leather seat. Storage is at a premium on most campers and that is why you will find many extra storage options. Some of the larger ones even have a cooler for drinks with drain holes in case of spillage. Some vans offer small compartments in the floor that are ideal for smaller item storage.

Campers with simple designs and minimalistic decorations not only make the van interior look more spacious, but can also be very stylish and elegant. Some extras you may wish to consider are flushing toilets and a functional shower. However, as always remember that for all such improvements it is best to keep as much space available for interior movement, so that your extras do not impede on your comfort levels.