05/19/12

Everyone would love to have the space, storage and comfort of the larger rigs. At the same time we want the agility and economy of the smaller Rv's.

If you are going to spend weeks or months at a time parked in an RV park, the larger, more spacious rig is your vehicle of choice. On the other hand, if you are going to spend the majority of your time in remote or primitive campgrounds, the smaller, more agile RV will probably be more appropriate.

There are a few other factors to consider when selecting the size of your RV.

Depending upon the type, size and weight of your rig, your state of residence might require you to pass a test and/or have a special endorsement on your driver's license.

Many states have laws that limit the length of motorhomes on their highways to a maximum of 40 feet. Some states limit the length of two combined vehicles (truck and trailer, motorhome and car) to a maximum of 55 feet.

Wide-body vehicles (those over 96 inches wide) are restricted to designated highways in some states. A trucker's atlas, available in most truck stops, will highlight those roads where it is permissible to drive a wide-body vehicle.

The legal weight limit on most interstates is 20,000 pounds on a single axle. Which explains the need for tandem axles on some of the larger motorhomes.

The ferry to Alaska charges by the linear foot and adds a 25% surcharge on those vehicles over 96 inches wide.

Older bridges, particularly covered bridges, frequently have weight limitations.

There are RV campgrounds and campsites that simply cannot accommodate the longer, higher and wider RVs.

So, while bigger RVs and their amenities can be more spacious and comfortable, smaller RVs are more versatile and less expensive.