Interior Features to Look for in an RV

There are certain features in an RV that you just won't appreciate until you have them. Whether you are buying new or used, or looking to update, choosing the right RV is a big decision. It really boils down to your own personal choice. It doesn’t matter if you choose the versatility of a lightweight trailer or drive away in a 45 ft mansion on wheels, you may want to keep these features in mind when shopping around for your next home away from home. These features may be aimed more towards the larger motor homes but are a good reference no matter what size or style of RV you are looking at.

• Like most kitchens, counter-top space is the most sought away commodity for anyone fixing dinner and life in an RV is no different. An ideal solution can be found in drop down counter-top extensions. They are offered on many models and are easy to add as a remodeling project.

• Shelving and storing capacity is also at a premium in most kitchens especially in an RV. Look for shelves that are adjustable and removable for easy cleaning and repair. The ideal kitchen will have pull-out food pantries for canned goods and perhaps even a built in spice rack.Swivel shelves like the ones shown, utilize the the entire cupboard.
• Flooring is a main concern for many RVers due to the heavy traffic in small pathways. The beauty and comfort of carpet does not hold up well in walk way areas and should be left to the living room and bedroom areas. For good options, look for good linoleum, vinyl, or plastic laminated wood flooring.

• Built in appliances are great space savers and are real handy in crowded spaces. But they are only great features if they can be easily replaced. Having small appliances off the counter top is a real plus because you don't have to pack them away while in motion.

• Replacing fixed dinettes with a free standing table and chairs is one of the most requested remodeling projects. Many of the newer styles of RVs are featuring this change. The amount of flexibility gained by this change is tremendous.

• Due to the countless requests by folks who want more than a token desk thrown in the bedroom or kitchen area, many of the newer models are now offering a dedicated work space. With computers being the #1 travel accessory, some RVs have incorporated a mini office in the larger models. Be sure to allow for the added room of a movable chair, you'll be glad you did.

• Windows are the eyes to the world. Big windows give big views. Adding windows is another top remodeling job listed, mainly for the bigger RVs. Many manufacturers have recognized the trend toward large windows and have incorporated them into the newer models. Skylights in the ceiling can also help your RV seem brighter, bigger and more cheerful. Many small bathrooms had added skylights to help give the small room a more spacious feel as well as providing additional light.

• Watching TV may be the last thing on your mind as you shop around for a new RV, but later when you have to continually move your chair to see the TV better, you'll wish you had considered the location of the TV. Most TVs are fixed and mounted inside a cabinet, if this is the case with the RV you have your eye on, look for stands that swivel or for flexible mounts that can be extended and rotated. Depending upon how much time you plan on watching TV inside your RV, considering the seating arrangements before you buy may well be worth your time.
  

• In a small camper this may not be possible but in a larger camper or motor home, you should note how accessible the bed is. You should look for access from three sides. You will certainly appreciate this small luxury. Climbing over each other to get in and out of bed will get tiresome in a hurry. You will also appreciate this benefit when changing the bed linens.

• Privacy is important even when you are on the road and real doors provide that privacy. Bathroom and bedroom doors should be solid doors with locks. Also, for camper haulers, whether you area hauling your car, your bike or your horse, good solid doors that separate the living area from the storage space, are a absolute must.

• Closet space, just like the kitchen cupboards, is a luxury. Look for flexible wardrobe options such as adjustable shelves, bins and hanging rods. After market products for organizing closets are widely available. Some of the larger RVs have mirrored sliding closet doors. These mirrors help reflect light making the room seem much brighter and cheerier and they also help give the impression that the room is more spacious.

• Easy access to the bathroom is a must for everyone. The bathrooms in RVs have improved over the last few years but the one thing that many agree on is having a door to bathroom outside the bedroom. Privacy in the bathroom, we like but we don’t always want people parading through our bedroom just to get to the bathroom.

• A trivial issue for some perhaps, but having the bathroom vanity in the same room as the toilet can be a major issue for some. While some may prefer a full bath all in one room, others agree that when in separate rooms, they can be used simultaneously.