Entering the world of RVing and camping can sometimes feel like stepping into an entirely new realm with its own language. If you’ve ever found yourself puzzled by terms like “boondocking,” “GVWR,” or “stealth camping,” you’re not alone. Fear not, fellow adventurers, as we embark on a journey to decode the most common RV and camping terminology. Whether you’re a newbie eager to explore the great outdoors or a seasoned traveler looking to expand your lexicon, this comprehensive guide will ensure you’re well-versed in the language of the road. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, open our minds, and unlock the secrets to a world filled with endless adventures on the open road.
Unlocking the RV Code:
A Comprehensive Guide to
Common RV and Camping Terminology
Unraveling the Mystery: Your Guide to Essential RV and Camping Jargon
Are you new to the world of RVing and camping? It can be overwhelming at first, especially when you hear seasoned campers throwing around jargon that sounds like a secret language. But fear not! We’re here to demystify the most common RV and camping terminology, ensuring you’re fluent in the language of the great outdoors.
1. RV (Recreational Vehicle): Let’s start with the basics. An RV is your home on wheels. It’s a vehicle equipped with living quarters, providing all the comforts of home while you explore the world.
2. TT (Travel Trailer): A travel trailer is a non-motorized towable RV that hitches to your vehicle, making it an excellent choice for campers who already own a compatible towing vehicle.
3. CG (Campground): Campgrounds are designated areas where you can park your RV or pitch a tent. They often offer various amenities, from electrical hookups to showers.
4. FHU (Full Hookups): This term refers to campsites that provide electricity, water, and sewer connections right at your spot. It’s the pinnacle of camping convenience.
5. PHU (Partial Hookups): Partial hookups usually include electricity and water but lack sewer connections. It’s essential to understand the amenities provided at your campsite.
6. GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): The GVWR is the maximum weight an RV or towing vehicle can safely handle. It’s crucial to stay within these limits for safety.
7. GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating): GAWR indicates the maximum weight each axle on your RV or towing vehicle can support safely.
8. GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): GCWR is the total weight limit of both your RV and tow vehicle combined. Exceeding this limit can lead to unsafe conditions.
9. UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight): UVW represents the weight of your RV without any personal belongings, water, fuel, or propane. It’s a crucial metric for towing and loading decisions.
10. S&B (Sticks-and-Bricks): This term is used to describe a traditional, permanent home. Campers often leave their S&B behind to embrace a life on the road.
11. LPG or LP (Liquefied Petroleum Gas): This fuel powers your RV’s furnace, water heater, and more. Keep an eye on your LP levels to avoid running out during a chilly night.
12. BLM (Bureau of Land Management): This federal agency manages public lands across the U.S., offering beautiful and often free boondocking or dispersed camping options.
13. Class A: Class A motorhomes are typically the largest, built on a semi chassis. They often feature a spacious cockpit integrated into the living area.
14. Class B: Smaller than Class A, these motorhomes are built on a mini-van chassis, offering maneuverability without sacrificing comfort.
15. Class B+: A Class B+ is a wider version of the traditional Class B, providing extra room for comfort.
16. Class C: These motorhomes resemble small moving trucks and are ideal for compact, yet functional, RV living.
17. Super C: A Class C motorhome built on a heavy-duty truck chassis, ensuring robust performance.
18. Fiver or Fifth Wheel: This type of RV features a hitch that connects to your tow vehicle’s truck bed. They offer spacious interiors and can be easily unhitched.
19. Boondocking, Dispersed Camping, Dry Camping, Wild Camping: These terms all refer to staying in unestablished campgrounds without hookups, often on public lands. Self-sufficiency is key.
20. Stealth Camping: For those who prefer urban adventures, stealth camping involves camping on streets or public land discreetly, often without hookups.
21. Work Camping: Work campers trade labor for free or discounted campground stays, making it an excellent way to fund your travels.
22. Basement: The storage space beneath your RV, mainly found in Class A or fifth-wheel RVs.
23. Dually: This term refers to tow vehicles with two rear tires on each side of the rear axle, ideal for heavier loads.
24. Tanks: Black tanks store sewer waste, gray tanks hold wastewater from sinks and showers, while freshwater tanks store drinking water.
25. Galley: The RV kitchen area is known as the galley.
26. Honey Wagon or Blue Boy: These are separate containers for carrying wastewater when no sewer hookup is available.
27. King Pin: The device used to connect a fifth-wheel trailer to the towing vehicle’s hitch.
28. Landing Legs or Leveling Jacks: These jacks extend to the ground to level your RV, ensuring stability and comfort.
29. Pull Throughs: RV camp parking slots that allow you to drive straight through without the need for reversing.
30. Toy Hauler: Specifically designed to carry recreational “toys” like motorcycles, ATVs, or golf carts.
31. Rig: This term is often used interchangeably with RV and can also refer to the truck used to tow it.
32. Slide Out: These are sliding compartments that extend from the RV to provide additional interior living space.
Understanding these common RV and camping terms will empower you to navigate the world of outdoor adventure with confidence. Whether you’re planning your next camping trip or dreaming of full-time RV living, this knowledge is your key to unlocking
Join the E3 Camping Membership today and become a part of a vibrant community that shares your passion for RV adventure. Together, we can make your dreams of RVing and camping a reality, while embracing the spirit of empowerment. When you sign up, you get instant access to our magazines, 200+ lessons and courses to be a better camper and RVer, tools, product discounts, events, a HUGE community of campers and RVers around the country, E3TV episodes, articles, and many other amazing things.