Are you thinking about boondocking with an RV? Boondocking is the act of camping in remote or wilderness areas, often without access to amenities like running water, electricity, and sewer. While this type of camping may seem intimidating at first, it can be incredibly rewarding. However, when choosing an RV for boondocking, there are certain features you’ll want to look for in order to make the experience a success. The type of RV you choose can often make or break boondocking, so it’s important to pick one that has large tank capacities, high clearance, an off-grid power system, and sufficient battery capacity. Having these features will ensure that you have the ability to stay out longer and enjoy boondocking to its fullest potential. With the right set up, boondocking can be an incredible experience that you won’t soon forget! RVT recommends keeping the following aspects in mind when searching for your next boondocking rig.
Which Type of RV is Best?
Generally, there are two types of boondocking rigs. The first type is smaller and more agile, allowing you to venture further into the wilderness, but with fewer amenities. Think of a truck camper or a lifted 4WD camper van.
On the other hand, the second type of boondocking rig often entails larger RVs, such as Class A motorhomes or large travel trailers. These RVs can’t go as far off-grid but still make many boondocking sites work, with the added benefit of having more amenities. Ultimately, it’s important to choose an RV that offers you the features and convenience that best fit your boondocking needs and preferences.
When in doubt, consult with experienced boondockers for their opinions on what type of RV works best for boondocking. Doing research or asking others for advice can help to make the boondocking experience even more enjoyable. With the right setup and a bit of planning, you’ll be ready to explore off-the-beaten-path boondocking sites in no time!
Consider the Most Important Boondocking Features
No matter which type of boondocking rig you decide to go with, there are certain features that will be especially important. These include large tank capacities (fresh water, gray/black water, propane), high clearance, off-grid power systems, and sufficient battery capacity. Having these features will ensure that you can stay out longer and enjoy the boondocking experience for longer periods of time. See below for more in-depth explanations of these features.
Large tank capacities
Not connecting to water and sewer systems means that, while boondocking, you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient. While conserving water when boondocking is certainly something to learn, larger fresh water tank capacities can make the experience easier and more enjoyable. Likewise, large gray and black water tank capacities allow for the storage of larger amounts of waste water, which is also an important factor for being able to boondock for longer periods of time. Finally, the size of your propane tank can also play a factor here, as propane is often used for cooling your fridge when off-grid, as well as cooking, heating water, and running a furnace.
High clearance
When boondocking, you’ll often find yourself navigating rough terrain in order to get to the perfect site. One of the features that can make boondocking easier is high clearance, as this allows for better ground clearance and thus more freedom when it comes to boondocking. It’s important to note that sometimes trailers or vans have lower clearance than expected, so always double check the measurements. Having higher clearance will allow for more boondocking possibilities.
Off-grid power systems
An off-grid power system, such as solar panels or a generator, is an important feature when boondocking. This allows you to have access to electricity, which is essential when boondocking for extended periods of time. Having the ability to use your RV’s power systems without external assistance is a great convenience for boondockers and can often make all the difference in terms of boondocking comfortability. Either of these power sources can be added after-market, but purchasing an RV that already has these features can make the process even simpler.
Sufficient Battery Capacity
Lastly, having sufficient battery capacity is also an important boondocking feature. Without the ability to connect to a power source, boondockers will need to rely on the ability to store energy in their batteries for most of their electrical needs. Having multiple deep-cycle batteries can ensure that boondockers have enough electricity for all the comforts that they would like while boondocking. While these can also be added after-market, it is important to ensure that there is, at the very least, sufficient space for these additions.
In conclusion, boondocking is an amazing way to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and get in touch with nature. With the right boondocking setup and a bit of planning, you’ll be ready for any off-grid adventure. If you’re interested in the process of boondocking and want to do more of it on your upcoming trips, keep all of these important features in mind when choosing your next rig. If you’re new to boondocking, check out these Boondocking Boo-Boos You Want to Avoid.
When you’re ready to purchase your next new or used RV, check out the latest listings on RVT.com. Happy camping!
By Sam Moon
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