One of the choices to be made, when deciding to full-time in the RV, was whether or not to tow a car. The Laze Daze motorhome has the weight capacity and hitch to bring along just about any vehicle I chose.
4000 lb Hitch Receiver
There are good reasons for having one. Like running to the store, or sightseeing, easier parking when going somewhere, and better overall fuel mileage. However, my decision was to not have a towed at this time.
Tardis is small enough, at only 24 ft, that it can be parked in a single space; so long as the rear end can hang over the curb. Otherwise, it sticks out a bit. Still, it’s very doable in most parking lots.
Tardis parked between the lines
Likewise, it is no more difficult to drive than a large van. So, using it to tour or go to town is not a big deal. But, I seldom do tourist things like that anyway. As for errands, those are accomplished when going between camps; as explained in the post Moving Day.
It turns out that my fuel expense is reasonable. MPG is normally between 9.5 and 10.5. Considering that I’m carrying around my apartment that’s not too bad. For the past two months, my fuel cost has averaged $96. Naturally, it is much higher when I’m traveling long distances like I did last summer and fall.
Doing normal RVing things like pulling in and out of gas stations, backing into a campsite, parking in a lot or on the street, or having to back up in a tight situation are all made easier without a towed.
Only one engine to maintain
Another reason for my choice was financial. I’m on a rather limited budget, so monthly expenses are very important to me. No insurance and maintenance for a second vehicle and engine makes a big difference.
Getting a small 250cc motorcycle carried on a lift at the back has been considered. It would provide some options like exploring roads unsuitable for the rig, and an escape pod in the event of a breakdown in the middle of nowhere. Still under consideration.
For now, I’m satisfied with my decision to have no car. I go pretty much anywhere I want, and the shorter overall length gets me into any camp. It is working out just fine.
I’m in the fantasy/planning stage of this lifestyle so my observations are just that. But I agree about the car. If there were two people then it may be justified in expense and need/use. Evidently the tow mechanism is expensive but like the car may be a one time cost. I personally would rather tow a small covered trailer that would serve as a garage for the motorcycle and other things, additional water, seasonal items stowed out of season etc. But like I said as soon as another person, or pet is involved, it all changes.
You have some good thoughts there Jon. But, towing anything would seem like a hassle to me. Besides, the rig carries all the stuff I want.
when i had my 23.5 fl i bought a 49cc scooter and rack and it really made the front end feel kind of floaty going down the road so i took it off and sold the scooter and rack we now tow a crv but not all the time
I’ve heard that said before Joe. Just wondering what chassis you had; mine is a E-450 so the weight balance may be different. Thanks for the advice.