Some of the major offerings include a trade show that features a variety of top dealers and vehicle manufacturers, as well as makers of accessories and complementary parts. Related dealers and makers of outdoor equipment also attend the show, in addition to those who work on design and engineering in the industry. Another group who attends the shows are enthusiasts and site operators, including organizations who are building new sites, group travel organizers and industry leaders. A variety of groups and organizations which aim to sustainably develop new sites also can be found at the events, including DEKRA (the Germany Motor Home Association.)

As one of the largest industry gatherings, tens of thousands travel to Dusseldorf each year in search of the latest vehicles and industry offerings. Many Americans travel abroad to immerse themselves in the European motor home scene, which is much more active and developed.

In general, major manufacturers will stand by their products for the life of the lease or the first few years of the purchase, as well as giving you the option to renew at the end of the contract. Be wary of 3rd party warranties, which may (potentially) conflict with your original warranty and limit the resale value. In general, try to go with direct warranty options and work with authorized repair shops. A solid warranty will provide funds for tuneups and preventative maintenance that will ensure your vehicle remains well functioning.

You’ll want to invest in a comprehensive warranty that provides coverage for the entire engine assembly, including the engine blog, bearings and blocks, so that the engine is protected. Full coverage for your transmission is also crucial, including the torque converted and modulator. Coverage for both drive axles will ensure that the shafts, bearings and joints are all protected. Full coverage for the suspension (including shafts and bearings), the steering box and gears, air conditioning system, fuel system, brakes and electrical wiring will ensure your vehicle will continue to operate properly. Expansive motor homes will also have heating and cooling, waste, water and electrical systems that will require full coverage.

When the Second World War began, production shifted to war-time tanks and machines, many of which borrowed from the advanced engineering that went into early versions of the covered wagons in order to produce mobile hospitals and transport vehicles on the front lines. While these vehicles were vulnerable to fire, they enabled improved logistics and transport over shorter distances (where air transport was unnecessary.)

By the 1950s, many motor companies recognized that consumers were demanding increased space in their vehicles and adapted coaches onto trucks for weekend excursions. With increased engine power, a number of major coach produces included Atlas, Volkswagen and Ford, which led the way to modern caravan technology. During the 1960s, the vehicles became mainstream for many families, building off of standard van chassis to provide additional towing and housing capacity. Over the years, a growing number of families invested in caravans and motor homes for leisure travel, while increasing luxury allowed for primary residences for singles and small families.

Once you add on a caravan, you’ll want to ensure that you put safety first: driving with an add-on requires you to limit your speed (try not to go above the speed limit and stick to the “slow” lanes.) Additionally, you’ll want to be extra cautious that you give additional distance between you and other drivers, and that you try to avoid dangerous road conditions such as ice, heavy rain and excess fog, as navigating a caravan add-on can be particularly difficult. Given the extended size of most caravans, you’ll want to stick to major roads and interstates, avoiding smaller roads, which may not be compatible with campers and caravans.

For those not used to driving extended caravans, take extra precautions on your turns: avoid wide turns, which may result in potential hazards that may include other turn lanes and pedestrian. Additionally, take extra time at stop signs and lights, so that you don’t take the risk of excess movement of momentum when you need to suddenly stop. When approaching hills, move to down gears and slow you speed, paying extra caution.

In advance of heading out, make sure that your tires, brakes and engine has been fully checked out, with an updated tuneup. The connection with your caravan is particularly important: always check the hitches, chains and connections before embarking on your trek.

Swift
A leading maker of caravans for decades, Swift has three major lines (Conqueror, Challenger and Charisma), and introduced a number of new models this calendar year. One of our favorite new models is the brand new Charisma, which features a complete selection of 10 models in various berths, featuring brand new interiors and furniture. Higher end models in the line, including the Charisma 650, feature walk in showers that are spacious, comfortable and luxurious. The new furnishings are visually and functionally impressive, offering a complete selection of options for discerning buyers with high expectations.

Ace
An award winning company, known for its rugged, reliable designs, as well as luxurious touches, Ace introduced a brand new Jubilee Caravan, which comes complete with options such as double beds, kitchens and complete wash rooms. The new electronic features including integrated digital controls, built in kitchens, natural sky lights and integrated electronics. Available in several model types, the Jubilee has received top marks from our editors for its value (starting at just over 12,000 GBP) as well as its reliability – Ace backs up its caravans with solid warranties and puts extra care into the internal craftsmanship.

Keep in mind that a motor home purchase is more involved than a traditional vehicle investment: motor homes require a higher level of maintenance as well as upkeep, and have more substantial regulatory issues involved in terms of insurance, licensing and standards. First time buyers are well advised to get all of the details from an existing motor home owner or dealer who can ensure that you meet all of the necessary requirements.

Many dealers will aim to steer you to more expensive, upscale models that may not be suited for your exact needs. Consider several factors in your initial purchase, including home much space you need; if you have a family with children, then you’ll want enough space to comfortably accommodate everyone in the family. The living facilities in a motor home, ranging from kitchens and washing spaces can add to the cost, but may be required for a full time home. You can find several gradients of options in nearly every price range.

Additionally, you may be able to save by investing in a used model relative to a new style, but the warranty and upkeep costs become particularly important in those cases. Make sure that the dealer has fully checked out, and is willing to back up, the status of the model that you select. Fully evaluate the costs of ownership, including utilities, accessories and upkeep, along with your monthly payments. Take time to experience the home directly so that you know exactly what to expect from your investment, and that your partner (and family) are comfortable with the decision.

As a baseline, make sure that you can afford the base monthly payments, especially if you are uncertain about your income. Make sure that you’re selecting a model that you can afford and that is within your budget structure. The interest rate you pay, in addition to the base price, will have a large affect upon your monthly payments, so try to get your monthly payments into as affordable of a structure as possible.

One major factor that will determine your ability to get affordable financing is your credit history. Based upon your income, payment history and existing loans, you receive a FICO credit score. You can improve your credit score by paying down debt and living within your means – in advance of large motor home purchases, try to alleviate some of your debt burden so you can qualify for more attractive financing rates.

Highway 101
Running along the west coast, primary through California, Oregon and Washington, Highway 101 provides a stellar tour through the American western coast. Known as Camino Real (Royal Read) for its proximity to historic Spanish destinations on the coast, the highway runs from Los Angeles to Olympia, Washington and is complete with historic stops along the way.

I-80
One of the longest interstate systems in the country, Interstate 80 runs from the western coast in San Francisco to the east coast along Teaneck, New Jersey, just outside of New York city. Built on top of the historic cross-country Lincoln Highway, the path runs along several historic destinations including the Orego, California and Transcontinental paths. During the journey, you’ll stop trhoguh major cities such as Chicago, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, along with rural areas such as Elyria, Ohio.

I-15
Known as the Veterans Memorial, Interstate 15 runs along the rugged western coast, and runs through California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Idaho and Montana. A primary trading point for North American commerce, the interstate has many trade trucks from Mexico and Canada, along with local and regional traffic from exurb communities along major cities. Running complete from the southern tip of the country to Canada, the Interstate runs nearly 1500 miles.

Just over 300 pages long, the book is full with excellent tips that even experienced motor travelers can learn from. From the very first stages of your motor experience, buying and financing your vehicle, all the way to selecting the right types of appliances, utilities and accessories, the handbook has you covered. Many road warriors we’ve spoken to keep a copy handy on the road, in case an emergency situation arises. There are sections on how to troubleshoot your engine, getting the best rates and towing and scheduling regular maintenance to ensure that your equipment and gear is in good shape at all times.

The first chapter provides a great guide to buying an RV, covering the many types and styles, along with considerations related to insurance and budgetary factors. With detailed chapters devoted to Chassis, Suspensions and Brakes, along with engine types, you can do a complete evaluation of the product based upon the guide. There are many more options when selecting a motor home, including its weight, safety considerations as well as ease of handling, in addition to the comfort and livability of the interior. Owning an RV is akin to owning a complete home, so you’ll want to check out the sections on safe use of propane and electricity so that you’ll fully knowledgeable about the operations of the vehicle to make your road trips a success.