For those who have recently succeeded in mastering the used RV sales games and come home with their very own RV, a great first road trip is almost indefinitely in the near future. The first road trip could be the reason for the purchase. Some buy a recreational vehicle because they have a need for it, but for many, the sheer fact that they own a recreational vehicle creates endless possibilities and there isn’t much in the way of concrete plans.

For new RV owners who are looking for “concrete plans” for their first road trip, experts recommend choosing a state and experiencing it thoroughly. Cramming too much into the very first trip can be exhausting and is actually a very common mistake. If you’re attempting to hit 5 states in less than 3-5 weeks, the most appropriate term is probably “overkill.” RVers who find themselves in this situation should take a deep breath, remember that they own their own RV now and take things slow. It’s a vacation. It really should be relaxing for the most part.

RVers in the Maine area should attempt to experience their own region with an RV trip up the rugged shoreline:

1. Start in Portland.
2. Estimated time on the road should be a week.
3. Roll along Route 1 heading to the Northeast’s lone National Park – Arcadia.
4. Along the way, take pictures of the coast and the water, experience lobster as it was meant to be experienced, try windjammers, and locate/explore historic lighthouses.
5. Upon arrival at Arcadia National Park, take advantage of the available activities. Depending on how much time is available to spend at the park, visitors can: take scenic drives, walk atop Cadillac Mountain, walk a trail or carriage road, participate in a ranger led talk or walk, experience the Nature Center, take a bike or horse drawn carriage tour along one Arcadia’s 45-mile carriage road system, hike through forests or up mountains (Arcadia offers 125 miles of historic hiking trails), visit Mount Desert Island (with stops at the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, Carroll Homestead guided trail and the Ship Harbor or Wonderland trails), ranger-narrated boat cruises (learn all about sea life, island history, etc.)

Too often new RVers are so over-excited to get out and get their first amazing road trip under their belt that they over plan or don’t plan at all. Experts suggest that every RVer remember that spontaneous trips have their place, but that for the most part, it is best to have some planning in place for safety reasons. Leave a basic itinerary in the hands of a family member or friend and stick to a basic plan of action on the road. If plans change drastically make sure to advise someone in case a situation arises in which a location would be helpful. Most importantly, plan just enough to give the first RV road trip a good chance for success. Sticking to your local area for the first trip is a good idea for many and will provide the opportunity for new drivers to accustom themselves to the vehicle on roads that are still at least partially familiar.