If you are shopping for a new RV, you are surely already seen that most models that include slide-out sections. These slide outs are meant to add space to the interior of the RV while you are parked and camped, but still allow the rig to be small enough to get around on the freeways. Depending on the size of your family, a slide-out or two can make all the difference between an RV that is too cramped and one that is just right. While most new RV’s today are manufactured with slide-outs, you still may find some older models that don’t have them.
In order to help you decide if you need to have slide-outs on your list of features for your next RV, consider the following info about slide outs and what they mean to the use of an RV.
Additional Space
Obviously, the big advantage of having one or more slide-outs on your RV is simply the amount of interior space they can add. Once you have been inside of an RV with the slides pushed out, you just might wonder how you ever stayed in one without them. There are limitations to how spacious an RV can be when it doesn’t feature slide-outs, so your living and bedroom areas are likely to be far more enjoyable when they are present. For those traveling with a least a few people, the added space that slide-outs present will be greatly appreciated.
Extra Work
When you arrive at the campsite for your stay, there are already plenty of chores to take care of, including leveling the RV, getting everything hooked up, and much more. If you have slide-outs, you can add them to the list of things that need to be taken care of before your home is ready for the week. Many newer models open and close by push button, but you will still need to account for them while leveling and get things organized inside once they are pushed out. While you will probably get pretty efficient and setting everything up and putting it all back away, it is another step that must be taken care of.
Great for Long Periods of Time
If you are going to be staying in your RV for an extended period of time, having a slide-out or two is an easy decision because you will appreciate the extra room that you have available. Once you get the RV set up, you won’t have to worry moving around so you can just relax and appreciate the square footage that has been added to the rig.
Potential for Problems
Anytime you add moving parts to an RV (or anything else), there is the potential for trouble that will require repair. Most notably, RV slide-outs are known for having water leak problems, which is the last thing that you want to deal with when you are supposed to be having a fun vacation. Make sure, if you are looking at a used RV, that the seals and other parts associated with the slide outs are in good working condition.
Gas Mileage May Suffer
Slideouts add weight to an RV, meaning that you might not get as good of gas mileage as you could without them. Given the cost of gas and the already low gas mileage that you will be getting in an RV, this could be an expensive problem. Again, it comes down to how much you are going to be driving the RV, compared to how long you intend to stay and camp. If you stay for long periods of time at your destinations, then the cost of fuel might not be such a big deal.
When shopping for a new RV, you might not have much of a choice in the matter – almost all of them include at least one slide out. All in all, they are a great addition that makes your RV feel a little bit more like a home and gives you room to relax and enjoy your trip. However, there can be a couple of downsides to the presence of a slide-out, so make sure you understand those going in. Hopefully, your slide outs will be trouble-free and you can simply appreciate the added room they make for you and your family.
This Blog was posted by Coastal Breeze RV Resort in Rockport Texas