Basic RV Terminology: The Practical Guide for Newbies and Enthusiasts

What Does "RV" Stand For?

At the heart of our discussion is the term "RV." RV stands for Recreational Vehicle. It's a broad term that encompasses various vehicles used for traveling and living. These vehicles can range from large, luxurious motorhomes to smaller and more compact campers. The primary purpose of an RV is to provide a comfortable living space while on the move.

Camper vs. RV: Is There a Difference?

While many use the terms "camper" and "RV" interchangeably, there are subtle differences. An RV is a general term for any motorized or towable vehicle that combines transportation and temporary living quarters. A camper, on the other hand, often refers to a towable unit, such as a travel trailer or pop-up, that doesn't have its own motor. In essence, all campers are RVs, but not all RVs are campers.

100 Essential RV Terminology for Every Traveler:

1. Class A, B, and C Motorhomes:

• Class A: These are the largest and most luxurious motorhomes, resembling a bus in shape. They offer ample space and amenities.
• Class B: Often called camper vans, they are the smallest and most versatile of the motorhome classes. Great for solo travelers or couples.
• Class C: These are the mid-sized motorhomes, built on a truck or van chassis with an over-cab sleeping area.

2. Towable RVs:

• Travel Trailer: A standard camper that is towed by a truck, SUV, or dedicated towing vehicle.
• Fifth Wheel: Larger than most travel trailers, these require a special fifth-wheel hitch installed in the bed of a pickup truck.
• Pop-up Camper: A compact, foldable camper that can be expanded when setting up camp.

3. Slide-Out:

An expandable section of an RV that can be extended outward to create more interior space when parked.

4. Hitch:

A device that connects the RV or camper to the towing vehicle. It's crucial to have the right type of hitch for your specific RV to ensure safety.

5. Dry Camping (or Boondocking):

Camping without hookups, often in remote locations. It requires campers to be self-sufficient in terms of water, electricity, and waste management.

6. Full Hookup:

A campsite that offers connections for water, electricity, and sewer. Ideal for RVers who want all the comforts of home while on the road.

7. Holding Tanks:

• Fresh Water Tank: Stores clean water for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
• Grey Water Tank: Holds wastewater from sinks and showers.
• Black Water Tank: Contains waste from the toilet.

8. Converter:

A device that changes 120V AC power from an electrical hookup or generator to 12V DC power, which is used for most of the RV's internal systems.

9. Inverter:

Converts 12V DC power from the RV's batteries to 120V AC power, allowing you to use household appliances without being plugged into an external power source.

10. Chassis:

The base frame of a motorhome or any vehicle. In RV terms, it often refers to the underlying structure that supports the living quarters.

11. Dinghy (or Toad):

A vehicle that is towed behind a motorhome. It's useful for day trips when the larger RV is set up at a campsite.

12. Berth:

A term borrowed from nautical lingo, this refers to a sleeping space or bed in an RV or camper.

13. Galley:

The kitchen area within an RV or camper.

14. LP Gas (Liquefied Petroleum Gas):

A combination of propane and butane, used in RVs for heating, cooking, and refrigeration.

15. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR):

The maximum allowable weight of an RV, including its own weight plus passengers, fuel, water, belongings, etc. It's crucial to know this to avoid overloading.

16. Dry Weight:

The weight of an RV without any passengers, water, fuel, or personal belongings.

17. Payload Capacity:

The maximum weight of passengers and cargo that an RV can safely carry.

18. Shore Power:

Electricity provided to the RV from an external source, usually when parked at a campsite with electrical hookups.

19. Rig:

A term RV enthusiasts use to refer to their RV or camper.

20. Stabilizer Jacks:

Devices used to stabilize and level the RV when parked, preventing it from rocking back and forth.

21. Teardrop Trailer:

A small, streamlined travel trailer that's shaped like a teardrop. It's lightweight and can often be towed by a car.

22. Winterizing:

The process of preparing an RV for cold winter months. This includes draining water systems to prevent freezing and adding antifreeze to plumbing.

23. De-winterizing:

Getting the RV ready for use after winter storage. This often involves flushing out antifreeze and inspecting systems for any damage caused by cold temperatures.

24. Campground vs. RV Park:

While often used interchangeably, campgrounds usually refer to places with basic facilities, while RV parks have more amenities and are designed specifically for RVs.

25. Dump Station:

A facility where RVers can safely empty their black and grey water tanks.

26. Awning:

A retractable cover that extends from the side of the RV or camper to provide shade or protection from rain.

27. Basement:

The storage area beneath the floor of the RV, accessible from the exterior. It's often used for larger items.

28. Boondocker:

An RVer who prefers to camp in remote locations without amenities, often relying on solar panels and generators for power.

29. Breakaway Switch:

A safety device connected to the trailer brake system. If the trailer becomes disconnected from the tow vehicle, the switch activates the trailer's brakes.

30. Coach:

Another term for a motorhome, particularly the larger Class A types.

31. Double Pull:

A type of RV or camper that requires two vehicles to tow, due to its size or weight.

32. Escape Hatch:

A safety feature, often located on the roof or wall of an RV, which provides an emergency exit.

33. Extended Stay Site:

A campsite or RV park where RVers can stay for longer periods, often offering monthly rates.

34. Furnace:

The primary heating system in an RV, typically running on propane.

35. Jackknife Sofa:

A type of RV sofa that can be folded flat to convert into a bed.

36. Landing Gear:

The front support legs on a fifth-wheel trailer, used to stabilize and level the trailer when it's detached from the tow vehicle.

37. Murphy Bed:

A space-saving bed design that folds up into the wall when not in use, often found in smaller RVs and campers.

38. Overhead Cab:

The space above the cab in Class C motorhomes, typically used as a sleeping area.

39. Pull-Through Site:

A type of campsite where RVers can drive straight through without having to back up, making it easier for larger rigs.

40. Regulator:

A device that controls the pressure of propane gas entering the RV's appliances.

41. Slide Topper:

A protective awning that covers the top of a slide-out, preventing debris and water from accumulating.

42. Toilet Cassette:

A removable waste tank for RV toilets, allowing for easy disposal without moving the entire RV to a dump station.

43. Voltage Meter:

A device used to monitor the electrical output, ensuring the RV's appliances and systems receive the correct voltage.

44. Wet Bath:

A compact bathroom design where the shower, toilet, and sink share the same space, often found in smaller RVs and campers.

45. Y-Adapter:

A device that allows two sewer hoses to be connected to one dump station outlet, useful for RVs with two separate waste outlets.

46. AC (Alternating Current):

The type of electrical current used in stationary structures like homes and often in RVs when connected to shore power.

47. Booster (Cell Signal Booster):

A device used in RVs to amplify weak cellular signals, ensuring better connectivity in remote areas.

48. Bunkhouse:

An RV or camper layout where one end (usually the rear) is dedicated to bunk beds, typically popular with families.

49. Converter Box:

A device that changes digital TV signals to analog, allowing older TV models in RVs to receive modern digital broadcasts.

50. Dry Box:

A waterproof storage container often mounted on the exterior of RVs or campers for tools, equipment, or other essentials.

51. Equalizing Hitch:

A hitch system that distributes the weight of the trailer evenly across the tow vehicle's axles, ensuring a smoother and safer ride.

52. Fresh Water Fill:

The inlet used to fill the RV's fresh water tank.

53. Genset (Generator Set):

A portable or built-in generator used to produce electricity for the RV when not connected to shore power.

54. Hookups:

The facilities provided at a campsite. Basic hookups include electricity and water, while full hookups also include sewage.

55. Island Bed:

A bed in an RV that is accessible from three sides, usually positioned in the middle of the bedroom area.

56. Jeep Towing (or Flat Towing):

Towing a vehicle behind an RV with all four wheels on the ground.

57. KOA (Kampgrounds of America):

A popular chain of campgrounds across the U.S. known for consistent quality and amenities.

58. Leveling Blocks:

Stackable blocks placed under the RV's wheels to help level the RV on uneven ground.

59. Motor Coach:

A term often used interchangeably with motorhome, especially for luxury models.

60. Nose Cone:

The front part of a fifth-wheel trailer, which houses the master bedroom or storage.

61. Open Floor Plan:

An RV interior design where spaces flow into each other without many dividing walls, creating a spacious feel.

62. Patio Site:

An RV campsite that includes a patio, often with added amenities like a picnic table, grill, or fire pit.

63. Quick Connect:

A type of connection often used for propane accessories, allowing for easy and secure attachment and detachment.

64. Rear Living:

An RV floor plan where the living area is located at the rear of the RV.

65. Solar Ready:

An RV pre-wired to accommodate solar panels, making the installation of a solar power system easier.

66. Thermal Package:

An RV feature that includes extra insulation and heated tanks, making the RV suitable for colder climates.

67. Underbelly:

The underside of an RV, which is often enclosed to protect plumbing and other systems from the elements.

68. Volt DC (Direct Current):

The type of electricity stored in batteries and used by many of the RV's systems.

69. Wheel Chocks:

Wedges placed in front of and behind tires to prevent the RV or camper from unintentionally rolling.

70. Xantrex:

A popular brand known for manufacturing inverters, chargers, and other power products for RVs.

71. Yurt:

A circular, tent-like structure that some campgrounds offer as a unique lodging option, not an RV but part of the broader camping world.

72. Z-Frame:

A type of chassis design in fifth-wheel trailers that allows for additional storage space.

73. Amp (Amperage):

The unit of measure for the flow of electrical current. Common RV electrical service sizes are 30-amp and 50-amp.

74. Black Tank Flush:

A system that allows you to clean out the black water tank using a water hose, preventing residue buildup.

75. Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC):

The total amount of weight an RV can safely carry in terms of personal belongings, supplies, and equipment.

76. Dually:

A truck that has dual rear wheels on each side, providing added stability, especially when towing larger trailers.

77. Egress Window:

An emergency exit window, often found in the bedroom area of RVs.

78. Full-Timer:

Someone who lives in their RV or camper year-round.

79. Gray Tank Flush:

A system similar to the black tank flush, but for the gray water tank.

80. House Battery:

The battery (or batteries) in an RV that powers the 12-volt systems, separate from the engine battery.

81. Infill Station:

A location where you can refill various necessities for your RV, including propane, water, and fuel.

82. Jacks (Manual and Electric):

Devices that lift and stabilize the RV. Manual jacks require physical effort, while electric jacks are powered.

83. King Pin:

The main connection point on a fifth-wheel trailer that attaches to the truck's hitch.

84. Lug Nuts:

The nuts that secure the wheel to the vehicle. It's essential to ensure they're tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.

85. Macerator Pump:

A pump that grinds waste into a slurry, allowing it to be pumped through a smaller hose.

86. Net Carrying Capacity (NCC):

Similar to CCC, it represents the weight of all personal belongings, water, propane, and other essentials an RV can safely carry.

87. Off-Grid:

Camping or living without relying on public utilities. Often associated with boondocking or dry camping.

88. Park Model:

A type of RV designed to be stationary for longer periods, often resembling a small home.

89. Quad Slide:

An RV with four slide-out sections to expand its living space.

90. Rally:

A gathering of RV enthusiasts, often organized around a specific theme, brand, or common interest.

91. Skylight:

A window on the roof of an RV, allowing for natural light and sometimes ventilation.

92. Tongue Weight:

The weight that the front of a trailer places on the hitch of the towing vehicle.

93. Umbilical Cord:

The cord that connects the RV's electrical, braking, and signaling systems to the towing vehicle.

94. Vent Fan:

A fan typically located in the RV's roof to circulate air and help control interior temperatures.

95. Wi-Fi Extender:

A device that boosts the Wi-Fi signal, allowing for a better internet connection in the RV.

96. X-Chock:

A stabilizing chock that is placed between the tires of a dual-axle trailer to prevent movement.

97. Yield (Towing Yield):

The maximum weight an RV or trailer can safely tow behind it.

98. Zamp Solar:

A popular brand specializing in solar solutions for RVs, offering panels, controllers, and complete solar kits.

99. Zero Lot Line:

Refers to campgrounds or RV parks where the sites are very close together with minimal space between them.

100. Zone Camping:

A membership where RVers can camp in any of the RV parks within a specific network across different zones or regions.

Conclusion

Understanding the terminology associated with RVs and campers is essential for both new and experienced travelers. It ensures safety, maximizes comfort, and enhances the overall traveling experience. Whether you're considering buying your first RV, renting a camper for a weekend getaway, or just curious about the RV lifestyle, we hope this guide sheds light on the basic terms you'll encounter on your journey. Safe travels!