Package Vacations
Guided RV tours and package vacations are other higher-cost options for the RV traveler who is willing to pay a bit more for a vacation. There are numerous companies that offer guided tours to exotic locations or special events for a price. You will travel in a caravan with a group (the number of units will depend on the company and destination) led by an experienced guide. These are wonderful opportunities for travelers who want to be adventurous while avoiding many of the dangers of the lone RV traveler.
These package vacations can also be ideal for those who want to maximize the attractions they can see in a limited time and leave the planning to someone else. Well-established tour companies will know the best places to stay, the best sights to see, and the places to avoid.
There are many companies that offer these types of tours. Some specialize in tours to Alaska, and others in travel to Mexico and Central America. There is even one company that offers major league baseball tours. This tour was offered for the first time in 2003, as a group of dedicated fans traveled in a caravan for three months and took in thirty major league baseball games. Have you dreamed of following the Lewis and Clark trail or sitting in the bleachers watching the Rose Bowl Parade? You can find a company that offers just about any tour that you might imagine.
Talk with friends to find the best company for your needs. If someone has had a bad experience with one of these companies, you may want to ask for references before booking a tour. Be sure to ask about cancellation polices and contingency plans for bad weather, emergency situations, and other events that could affect your trip. Get the details in writing of what is included.
FACT
There are some companies that include all activities planned in the overall cost of the trip and some that offer these as options that you pay for separately. This is a good option; you may not be interested in participating in every activity offered and may want more flexibility.
For the inexperienced RV traveler in particular, guided RV tours are wonderful. This is a great way to gain experience in the actual day-to-day operation of your rig with an expert nearby to help with problems.
If you are planning a trip to Mexico or Central America and you are worried that the language difference can cause problems, these tours are an excellent choice. Experienced guides can help communicate with the local people, and they can prevent you from traveling to places that are less desirable, or even dangerous. If you have a problem or accident, the guide can help you avoid being ripped off because of the language difference. Your rusty high school Spanish class will be of little use to you if you have a major breakdown with your rig.
Always check on cancellation policies. Illness, emergencies, and natural disasters cannot be planned. A well-established company with a good track record may cost more but give better values in the long run.
FACT
There are some tour companies that can supply you with a rental RV for the duration of the tour (at additional cost, of course). If you are not an RV owner but are considering buying one, this could be a great way to try out the lifestyle.

