Home on wheels. Texas-sized adventures.
Desert sunsets, Hill Country campgrounds and weekends wherever the road takes you. Here's your guide to buying, owning, maintaining and insuring an RV or motorhome in Texas.
The open road.
With your own bed.
There's something pretty wonderful about taking the scenic route and bringing your home along. Morning coffee with a mountain view? Yes, please.
But before you pull into your first campsite, there are a few practical things to figure out. Let's get you road-ready.
First question. What kind of RV?
Your ideal RV depends on how you travel, how many people are coming along and whether you want to drive or tow your home away from home.
The big adventure.
Large motorhomes with generous living space. Consider parking, maintenance, fuel costs and applicable license requirements.
Small but mighty.
Camper vans that are easier to maneuver and park. A popular option for couples and travelers who like a simpler setup.
Room for the crew.
Motorhomes often featuring sleeping space above the cab. Consider the floor plan, storage and overall dimensions.
Bring your own tow vehicle.
Detach your trailer at camp and use your truck for exploring. Check towing capacity, payload, hitch compatibility and trailer weight.
Buying used? Do your homework.
Check the title and vehicle identification number, inspect the roof and seals, look for water damage and test major appliances and systems. A professional RV inspection can help uncover expensive surprises.
Let's make it road legal.
Texas registration and titling requirements depend on whether you own a motorhome or a towable RV, as well as its weight and configuration.
Motorhome registration fees are based on vehicle weight. Your county tax office can confirm the documents, fees and applicable inspection requirements.
Travel trailers and fifth wheels generally need registration. Titling and inspection requirements depend on the trailer's specifications.
Many smaller RVs can be driven with a regular Class C license. Larger motorhomes and certain heavy towing combinations may require a noncommercial Class A or B license.
Does your RV need a CDL?
Personal-use recreational vehicles generally qualify for an exemption from commercial driver's licensing. That doesn't automatically mean your regular Class C license is sufficient for a larger RV. Check the vehicle's weight ratings and Texas DPS license classifications.
CHECK DRIVER'S LICENSE CLASSES ↗
Freedom feels great.
Budget for it.
The purchase price is only the beginning. Think about where your RV will live, how far you'll drive and what it takes to keep everything running.
Storage & parking
Check HOA restrictions, local parking rules and whether you'll need a dedicated storage facility when you're not traveling.
Fuel & maintenance
Larger vehicles can cost more to fuel and maintain. Budget for tires, servicing, batteries, roof seals and unexpected repairs.
Campground fees
Overnight rates vary by location, season, amenities and hookup availability. Some popular destinations book up well in advance.
Insurance & registration
Include annual registration, insurance premiums and any financing costs in your ownership budget.
Texas looks pretty good from a campsite.
From Gulf Coast mornings to desert nights, Texas offers plenty of places to park your RV and stay awhile.
Pedernales Falls
Hiking, limestone landscapes and beautiful Hill Country scenery. Check campsite specifications and availability before booking.
Palo Duro Canyon
Dramatic canyon views and memorable hiking. Check road conditions, campsite length limits and seasonal temperatures.
Davis Mountains
Mountain scenery, hiking and impressive night skies. Plan fuel stops before traveling through remote areas.
Mustang Island
Coastal camping and beach days. Watch weather forecasts, especially during hurricane season.
Not every campsite fits every RV.
Confirm maximum vehicle length, electrical service, water, sewer hookups and any restrictions on generators or additional vehicles.
A little preparation. A lot fewer surprises.
Your RV is both a vehicle and a living space. Give both a proper check before hitting the highway.
Inspect tire condition, pressure and age. Check brakes, lights and trailer connections where applicable.
Lock cabinets, secure loose items, retract slides and awnings, and check exterior storage doors.
Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, inspect fire extinguishers and check any propane-related safety systems.
Check bridge clearances, road restrictions and your loaded vehicle weight. Use navigation appropriate for larger vehicles.
Remote Texas highways can have long stretches between services. Download maps and confirm campground arrivals.
Big skies. Sometimes big storms.
An RV gives you flexibility, but severe weather can make travel and camping dangerous. Check forecasts for your entire route, not just your destination.
Protect the roof.
Hail and strong winds can damage roofs, windows and awnings. Retract awnings before storms arrive.
Choose your campsite carefully.
Avoid low-lying areas during heavy rain and follow evacuation instructions. Never drive through floodwater.
Keep your cool.
Check air-conditioning, ventilation and power. Carry drinking water and plan for possible outages.
Have an exit plan.
Coastal travelers should monitor storm forecasts and know when to relocate well before conditions deteriorate.
Know where to shelter.
An RV is not a safe place to shelter during a tornado or severe windstorm. Identify a sturdy nearby building or designated shelter before bad weather arrives.
Oh yeah.
Insurance.
Your RV might be your weekend escape, your summer road-trip companion or even your full-time home. The way you use it matters when choosing coverage.
Motorhome insurance
Drivable motorhomes need auto liability insurance in Texas. Collision and comprehensive coverage can help protect your motorhome from covered damage.
Travel trailer insurance
Your tow vehicle's liability insurance may extend to certain accidents while towing. A separate RV policy or endorsement may be needed to protect the trailer itself.
Your belongings
Ask about coverage for electronics, camping gear and other personal property. Your homeowners policy may provide only limited protection.
Living in your RV full-time?
Ask about full-timers coverage, including liability protection when your RV is parked and being used as a residence.
Hey Charley is independent, so we can help you compare available RV and motorhome insurance options based on how you travel.
Bring your home.
Let's talk coverage.
Buying your first RV? Upgrading your motorhome? Planning a cross-Texas adventure? Let Charley take a look at your coverage.
LET CHARLEY TAKE A LOOK →