One of the most important ways to make your RV vacation a success is to plan ahead. Decide where you want to visit, for how long and how many people will be traveling with your. Are you traveling with children or pets? What kind of vacation toys are you bringing along? Bikes? Kayaks? Knowing this in advance will make sure you get the right size and type of RV.

RVs are divided into two main categories, trailers and motorized units. Both have several types of RVs, large and small and assorted floor plans to meet your needs. With a trailer, you will of course need a tow vehicle.

That's true. But a lot depends on what type of RV you are interested in. A truck camper, which attaches to a pick-up truck, drives much the same as that pick-up. You'll probably notice the additional weight when accelerating and stopping. Class B camper vans drive much like a regular van, but they tend to be bigger and heavier. Class C rigs are indeed bigger, and higher, but the passenger cab is similar to a pick-up cab. Just remember to turn extra wide to accommodate the length and be mindful of the vehicle height. Class A RVs look like buses. Most people find them easy to drive after a bit of practice. Just remember those wide turns and mind those low overpasses.

Pulling a trailer is a bit different. While it does just follow the tow vehicle down the road, you will probably need some practice backing up. Your RV rental vendor will make sure you understand how to safely connect the trailer to your tow vehicle.

Your RV may come with self-contained tanks. Your RV rental dealer will also make sure you understand how to empty the waste tanks on the RV. Most RVs have two waste tanks, the black tank, which holds sewage, and the grey tank that holds everything else, such as dishwater from your kitchen sink. Waste is emptied into designated "dump" stations using a large hose that is stored in your rig. Each tank has its own pull lever. Connect the hose, then pull the black tank lever. When the tank is empty, pull the grey tank lever. The grey tank contents helps clean out the hose. Be sure and close both levers and put the cover back on the discharge connector after you disconnect the hose. Run fresh water through the hose before storage. It's a great idea to wear gloves when dumping your tanks. Keep a dedicated pair, or use single-use surgical gloves, available at drug stores.