RV travel in the USA: rental, routes, tips

Leave a number with WhatsApp / Telegram

The United States of America, with its vast open spaces, diverse landscapes ranging from ocean coastlines to deserts and majestic mountains, and a well-developed road trip culture, is ideal for exploring by RV (Recreational Vehicle). This type of journey allows you to see the country from the inside, stop in national parks, discover small towns, and travel at your own pace along the iconic American highways.

Brief overview of the country

The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C. Traffic in the country drives on the right-hand side.

Language: The U.S. has no official language at the federal level, but English is the de facto national language. Spanish is also widely spoken in some regions, especially in the Southwest and Florida.

Currency and money: The national currency is the U.S. dollar (USD, $). Bank cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) are widely accepted — at gas stations, stores, restaurants, and campgrounds. It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for tips, small services, or places that don’t accept cards (which is rare). ATMs are easy to find. Currency can be exchanged at banks, airports, and specialized exchange offices. Cards issued in Russia (Mir, Visa, Mastercard) do not work in the U.S.; UnionPay cards may be accepted in limited cases. Cash amounts over $10,000 must be declared when entering or leaving the country.

Time zones: The continental U.S. spans six main time zones (Eastern, Central, Mountain, Pacific, Alaska, and Hawaii-Aleutian), plus additional ones for overseas territories. Daylight Saving Time (DST) is observed in most of the country (except parts of Arizona and all of Hawaii), from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November. The time difference between the East Coast (New York) and the West Coast (Los Angeles) is 3 hours.

Visas: Most foreign nationals need a visa (B1/B2 tourist visa) to enter the U.S. Citizens of some countries can enter under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA. Current visa requirements and application procedures should be confirmed on the official website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country, or on the U.S. Department of State website.

Choose your RV type

Why is the USA ideal for RV travel?

Traveling the USA by campervan is not just a means of transportation — it’s a part of American culture. The country feels made for this kind of journey.

First, there are the vast distances and natural diversity. From the canyons of Arizona and Utah to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, from the beaches of California and Florida to the forests of New England and Alaska — an RV lets you experience it all from the comfort of your home on wheels. This is especially valuable when visiting the many National Parks, where RV campgrounds are often located in the most scenic spots.

Second, the U.S. has a well-developed infrastructure for RV travel. There is a wide range of rental options and an extensive network of campgrounds — from public ones in national and state parks (often simpler but in stunning locations) to private RV parks with full amenities like pools, laundry, stores, and Wi-Fi. Dump stations for waste disposal and water refills are also widely available.

Third, there’s the American road system. The famous Interstate Highways make crossing the country fast and efficient, while scenic byways and historic roads like Route 66 turn the drive itself into an adventure. Roads are wide, and parking at attractions and stores is often designed for large vehicles.

Finally, there’s a unique sense of freedom and adventure that defines the American road trip. The ability to stop wherever you like, grill under the stars in a national park, or watch the sunrise on the ocean shore — all of this makes RV travel in the U.S. a truly unforgettable experience.

Popular regions and routes for RV travel

The United States offers countless routes for RV travel. Here are just a few of the most popular destinations:

Southwest (California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada)

This region is a magnet for RV travelers. It’s home to iconic sites like the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Yosemite, Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Monument Valley, as well as famous cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Las Vegas. A classic route here is the "Grand Circle," covering several national parks. Due to the long distances and sheer number of attractions, this route typically requires at least 2–3 weeks.
California Coast (Pacific Coast Highway–CA Route 1)

One of the world’s most famous road trip routes, the Pacific Coast Highway runs along California’s coastline from San Francisco (or farther north) to Los Angeles (or farther south). Narrow sections and winding roads — especially around Big Sur — require careful driving in larger RVs. Campgrounds along the coast tend to book up early in summer, so reservations are highly recommended.
Rocky Mountains (Colorado, Wyoming, Montana)

This region features majestic mountain landscapes and iconic national parks like Yellowstone (with geysers and abundant wildlife), Grand Teton, and Rocky Mountain. It’s perfect for hiking, rafting, and wildlife watching. Many high-altitude roads are only open during the summer months.
Florida

A popular destination for winter trips thanks to its warm climate. Florida offers beaches on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the Everglades National Park (alligators, mangroves), Orlando’s theme parks, and the vibrant island of Key West.
New England (Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut)

This region is especially beautiful in the fall during the foliage season. It’s rich in history, charming small towns, coastal lighthouses, and scenic drives.
Alaska

RV travel in Alaska is a true adventure for the well-prepared. Expect vast wilderness, glaciers, Denali National Park (home to the highest peak in North America), and chances to see bears and other wildlife. Careful planning is essential, as distances are long and the infrastructure is less developed than in the continental U.S. Summer is the main travel season.
Historic Route 66

The legendary “Main Street of America,” Route 66 stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica, California. While much of the original road has been replaced by interstates, the remaining segments attract fans of retro culture, vintage motels, and classic gas stations.

Map of the USA

Routes across the USA

Welcome to California!

Route: ~1300 km (~800 miles)
Duration: 8 days

Learn more

Around Florida

Route: ~1800 km (~1120 miles)
Duration: 12 days

Learn more

More routes

Best time for an RV trip

Choosing the right season for an RV trip in the USA greatly shapes the experience, as the country is vast and its regions vary widely in climate and conditions.

Spring (March–May)

Spring can be a great time to visit many parts of the USA. In the Southwest (Arizona, southern Utah, southern California), the weather is warm but not yet too hot — ideal for exploring desert landscapes and national parks like Death Valley, where summer brings extreme heat. In the South (Florida, Texas), it’s already pleasantly warm. In the northern states and mountain areas, spring arrives later, with possible rain and some high-altitude passes still closed due to snow. Wildflower blooms in regions like California and Texas attract many travelers. Crowds are generally smaller than in summer.

Summer (June–August)

Summer is the most popular season for RV travel, especially for families with children on school break. It’s the ideal time to visit the northern states, the Rocky Mountains, and national parks like Yellowstone, Glacier, and Denali (Alaska), when roads and facilities are fully open and the weather is warm. The Pacific Coast is also a favorite.
However, in the southern states and desert areas of the Southwest (Arizona, Nevada, parts of Utah and California), summer temperatures often exceed 35–40°C (95–105°F), making daytime activities more challenging. Campgrounds in popular national parks and coastal areas should be booked several months in advance. RV rental prices are at their peak during this season.

Fall (September–October)

Many consider fall the best time for RV travel in the USA. The weather becomes milder in the South and desert regions, and the number of tourists decreases. In the North and New England, it’s the season of the famous fall foliage, when forests turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow (typically peaking from late September to mid-October). The weather is often pleasant, with warm days and cool nights. Rental and campground prices begin to drop. However, in the mountains, early frosts and snow are possible, and some high-altitude roads may close by late October.

Winter (November–February)

Winter is a suitable time for RV travel in the southernmost states: Florida, southern Arizona, southern California, and Texas. These regions attract “snowbirds” — residents of northern states and Canada escaping the cold. The weather is mild and sunny.

At the same time, much of the northern and mountainous parts of the U.S. are covered in snow, with many roads closed and campgrounds either shut down or offering limited services. Traveling by RV in these areas during winter requires special preparation (insulation, winter tires, heating) and experience with winter driving conditions.

Regional climate differences

Southwest: Hot, dry summers (extremely hot in deserts), mild winters.
Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington): Mild, wet summers; mild, rainy winters.
Rocky Mountains: Short warm summers; long, cold, snowy winters.
Midwest: Continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.
Northeast (New England): Warm summers, cold snowy winters, beautiful fall foliage.
Southeast (Florida, Louisiana): Hot, humid summers (hurricane season from June to November), mild winters.
Alaska: Short, cool summers; very cold, long winters.

RV rental in the USA: what you need to know

Renting an RV in the USA is part of a well-developed industry with a wide range of vehicles and rental companies.

Where to rent?

Major rental companies have offices in most large cities and tourist hubs across the country, often near airports. Key rental locations include Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Denver, Chicago, New York/Newark, Orlando, Miami, Seattle, and Anchorage (Alaska).

There are also peer-to-peer platforms like Outdoorsy and RVshare, where you can rent directly from private owners.

Rental conditions

Requirements can vary slightly between rental companies, but the main conditions are:

Age and driving experience: The minimum driver age is usually 25. Some companies allow rentals from age 21, but with an added “young driver fee” and a higher security deposit. Driving experience with large vehicles is not always required, but it’s a plus.
Driver’s license: For most RVs in the U.S. (even large Class A models), a standard driver’s license from your home country (equivalent to a regular passenger car license) is sufficient. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not always required, but it’s recommended — especially if your license is not in English. It can help in case of police checks or communication with rental staff. Always verify the requirements of the specific rental company.
Security deposit: A refundable deposit (typically $500 to $1,500, or more for large/new models) is required at pick-up and is usually held on your credit card.
Mileage: Many rentals include a daily or total mileage limit (e.g. 100–150 miles per day). Extra miles are charged (usually $0.35–$0.75 per mile). You can often purchase additional mileage packages or, in some cases, get unlimited mileage for an extra fee. Be sure to consider the long distances in the U.S. when planning your trip.
Add-ons: Bedding sets, kitchen kits, generators, GPS units, and camping chairs/tables are often available at an extra cost.

Types of RVs

Class A: The largest RVs, bus-like in appearance, built on a dedicated chassis. They offer the most space and comfort. Length ranges from 25 to 45 feet (7.5–13.5 meters).
Class C: Built on a van or truck chassis (Ford, Chevy, Mercedes) with a distinctive over-cab sleeping area. More compact than Class A, but still spacious. Length ranges from 20 to 32 feet (6–9.5 meters). This is the most common rental type.
Class B (Camper Van): Converted vans — the most compact and maneuverable option. Ideal for couples or small families, and easier to park. Length ranges from 18 to 24 feet (5.5–7.3 meters).

Insurance

Insurance is mandatory. Most rental companies include basic insurance in the price, but it usually comes with a high deductible — often equal to or higher than the security deposit.

Additional coverage options are available, such as Supplemental Liability Insurance (SLI) and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW or VIP), which increase liability coverage and reduce or eliminate the deductible.

Be sure to read the terms carefully — standard auto insurance from your home country or coverage through credit cards often does not apply to RV rentals in the U.S.

One-way rentals

Available between popular locations, but usually involves a significant one-way fee, which can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on distance and direction.

When to book?

For peak season trips (summer, national holidays), it’s best to book your RV as early as possible — 6 to 12 months in advance, especially if you’re planning popular routes, specific models, or a one-way rental. Early booking often also gives access to discounts.

Average rental cost in the USA

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

$260

$230

$155

$110

$120

$160

$110

$145

$130

$190

$110

Without additional options

Roads and driving in the USA

The U.S. road system is highly developed and well-suited for RVs, but there are some specifics to keep in mind.

Types of roads

Interstate Highways (I-): A network of high-speed highways connecting states. Usually multi-lane in each direction, well-marked, with frequent rest areas and service exits. Most interstates are free, but some segments — especially on the East Coast — are toll roads (turnpikes, toll roads).
US Highways (US-): An older federal highway system, often running parallel to interstates but passing through towns and cities. These roads are often more scenic.
State Highways (SR-, SH-): State-level roads; quality and width can vary significantly.
County Roads: Local roads.
Scenic Byways / Parkways: Designated routes with scenic views, often with lower speed limits.
Roads in National Parks: Usually well-maintained but may be narrow, winding, and have length or height restrictions for RVs — especially older, historic routes. Always check the specific park’s website before entering with a large RV.

Basic traffic rules (Driving regulations)

Traffic laws may vary slightly from state to state, but the core rules are generally consistent.

Speed limits: Posted in miles per hour (mph). On interstates, limits are usually 65–75 mph (105–120 km/h); in cities, 25–35 mph (40–55 km/h). RVs may be subject to lower limits. Fines for speeding are high.
Keep Right Except to Pass: On multi-lane roads, stay in the right lane; left lanes are for passing only.
Right Turn on Red: Allowed after a full stop unless a sign says “No Turn on Red.” You must yield to pedestrians and other traffic. In New York City, this rule is generally prohibited unless specifically allowed by signage.
School buses: When a school bus has flashing red lights and a visible STOP sign, all vehicles — in both directions unless separated by a physical median — must stop until the bus moves again. Violations are strictly penalized.
Seat belts: Required for the driver and all passengers.
Children: Must be in child seats or boosters according to state laws, which vary by age, weight, and height.
Alcohol: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers over 21 is 0.08%. For drivers under 21, zero tolerance applies. Open container laws prohibit open alcohol containers in the passenger area in most states.
Phones: Using a mobile phone without a hands-free device while driving is prohibited or restricted in many states.

Toll Roads (Turnpikes)

Toll roads are found in some states, especially in the East and Midwest. Payment may be made in cash at toll plazas, but more and more roads are switching to electronic systems (E-ZPass, SunPass, FasTrak, etc.). Many rental RVs are equipped with transponders for automatic toll payment; the charges are then billed to you by the rental company.

If there is no transponder and you drive on an all-electronic toll road, the bill may be sent to the rental company, which will forward the charge to you along with an additional fee.

Fuel

Types: Gasoline (commonly just called “gas”) is sold by the gallon (1 gallon ≈ 3.785 liters). Octane ratings are different from Europe: typically Regular (87), Mid-grade (89), and Premium (91–93). Diesel fuel is called Diesel. Most Class A RVs and some Class C models use diesel; Class B and most Class C RVs run on gasoline.
Prices: Vary widely by state and can change quickly. As of April 2025, Regular gas costs about $3.50–$4.50 per gallon, and diesel around $4–$5 per gallon.
Gas stations: Very common, often combined with convenience stores. Many stations require you to pay first (either by card at the pump or inside with cash/card), then pump the fuel. For diesel RVs, be sure to use the correct nozzle — it’s usually green and larger, but not always, so double-check.

Parking and overnight stays in an RV

Finding a place to stay overnight in an RV is relatively easy in the U.S. thanks to well-developed infrastructure, but it’s important to know the rules and common options.

Overnight stays outside official campgrounds

So-called “boondocking” or “dry camping” — overnight stays without hookups (water, electricity, sewage) — is very popular in the U.S.

Permitted locations: This is often allowed on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and in National Forests, especially in the western U.S. Stays are usually free for up to 14 days in one spot, but rules can vary. Information is available on the BLM and U.S. Forest Service websites or in specialized apps.
Rules: The key principle is “Leave No Trace” — take all your trash, avoid damaging vegetation, and do not dump waste.
Other options: Some large retailers — like Walmart, Cabela’s, Cracker Barrel — as well as casinos may allow free overnight RV parking for one night. These are convenient for quick overnight stops. Always ask the store or property manager for permission.
Restrictions: Overnight stays at interstate rest areas are usually allowed only for short breaks, not full overnight stays (rules vary by state). In cities and towns, street camping or parking overnight in public lots is often prohibited by local laws. Always check for signage.

Official campgrounds and RV parks

This is the most common and convenient way to spend the night, offering access to all essential amenities.

Types:

Public campgrounds: Located in National Parks, State Parks, and National Forests. Often set in scenic areas but may offer more basic facilities (not always full hookups). Sites in popular parks book out months — or even a year — in advance via recreation.gov (for federal lands) or state park websites.
Private RV parks and campgrounds: Range from simple lots to full-service resorts with complete hookups (water, 30/50 amp electricity, sewer), pools, laundry, Wi-Fi, and stores. Popular networks include KOA (Kampgrounds of America) and Good Sam Parks.

Prices: Costs vary widely. Public campgrounds typically range from $15–$50 per night. Private RV parks are usually more expensive: $40–$100+ per night, especially in high-demand areas.

Booking: For popular destinations and peak season, advance reservations are absolutely necessary — often well ahead of your trip.

Finding sites: Use dedicated websites and apps like Campendium, AllStays, The Dyrt, RV Life Trip Wizard, or Google Maps to locate campgrounds and RV parks.

Parking in cities and at attractions

Parking a large RV in the centers of major cities (New York, Chicago, San Francisco) is extremely difficult and expensive. A better option is often to stay at an RV park on the outskirts and use public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Many national attractions and parks have designated RV parking areas, but these can fill up quickly.

Read article

Camping in the USA: overview, tips, and RV campground prices

Read article

RV maintenance on the road

Regular RV maintenance in the U.S. is fairly straightforward thanks to the well-developed infrastructure.

Filling fresh water (Fresh Water / Potable Water)

You can refill your fresh (potable) water supply at the following places:

Campgrounds and RV parks: Most provide potable water hookups at each site if it’s a “full hookup” or a “water and electric” site. Shared water stations may also be available.
Dump stations: Many dump stations also offer a separate potable water spigot (not to be confused with the hose used for flushing sewer systems).
Truck stops: Chains like Pilot, Flying J, and Love’s often have dedicated RV lanes with water access.
Visitor centers or ranger stations: In some parks, you can find potable water at these locations.

Dumping gray and black water

Used water from sinks and showers (gray water) and from the toilet (black water) must be emptied at designated dump stations.

Locations: Dump stations are available at many campgrounds and RV parks (free for registered guests; typically $5–15 for drive-ins). They can also be found at some truck stops, interstate rest areas (in certain states), marinas, and RV supply stores like Camping World.
Process: Black water is dumped first, followed by gray water (to help rinse the hose). Use dedicated RV sewer hoses and gloves. Many dump stations provide non-potable water for rinsing. Dumping waste on the ground, into storm drains, or in unauthorized areas is strictly prohibited.

Propane tanks (LPG)

Propane is used to power the stove, oven, refrigerator (in gas mode), heater, and water heater.

Type: Most RVs in the U.S. are equipped with built-in ASME propane tanks, which are refilled at propane stations rather than exchanged like portable cylinders. Some smaller campervans or trailers may use removable DOT cylinders (similar to those used for BBQ grills), which can be exchanged or refilled.
Refilling: Built-in ASME tanks can be refilled at many RV parks, some gas stations, propane dealers (like AmeriGas or Ferrellgas), U-Haul locations, and certain hardware stores. Look for signs saying “Propane” or “LPG.” Refilling is typically done by a certified attendant.
Exchange (for DOT cylinders): Removable tanks can be swapped through services like Blue Rhino or AmeriGas at many gas stations, grocery stores, and hardware stores

Food, groceries, and shopping

Cooking in an RV lets you save significantly on food and make the meals you actually enjoy, using fresh American ingredients.

American cuisine is a blend of many cultures. In addition to the famous burgers, hot dogs, and steaks, you can also try:

Regional dishes: Barbecue (with regional variations in Texas, the Carolinas, and Memphis), Cajun and Creole cuisine in Louisiana, clam chowder in New England, and fresh fish and seafood along the coasts.
Breakfasts: Typically large portions, often including eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes with maple syrup, and hash browns.
Farmers’ markets: A great place to buy fresh seasonal vegetables, fruits, berries, cheeses, honey, and baked goods directly from local farmers.

Estimated trip budget

Budget planning is an important part of RV travel in the U.S., as expenses can vary widely.

RV rental: This will likely be your largest expense. Prices vary by vehicle class, season, rental duration, and company. On average, expect to pay around $100–$150 per day for a small campervan (Class B) or compact Class C in the low or mid-season. Large RVs (Class A or full-size Class C) during peak season can cost $250–$500+ per day. Keep in mind possible extra charges for mileage, generator use, or equipment kits.
Fuel: A major cost due to long distances and relatively low fuel efficiency (8–15 mpg, or roughly 15–30 L/100 km). With average fuel prices in April 2025 around $3.50–$4.50 per gallon for regular gas and $4–$5 for diesel, a 3,000-mile trip (about 4,800 km) could cost $600–$1,500 in fuel alone.
Campgrounds and RV parks: Prices vary widely. Public campgrounds (in national or state parks) typically cost $20–$50 per night, often without hookups. Private RV parks with full hookups usually range from $40–$100+ per night. Free boondocking on BLM or National Forest land, or in permitted store parking lots, can significantly reduce this cost.
Food: Cooking in the RV is more affordable than eating out. Budget around $30–$50 per person per day when shopping at supermarkets. A meal at a casual restaurant typically costs $15–$25 per person.
Attractions and activities: Entry to most U.S. national parks is paid, usually $20–$35 per vehicle for 7 days. You can buy the “America the Beautiful” annual pass for about $80, which grants access to all federal recreation areas. Theme parks, museums, and shows can be expensive — typically $50–$200+ per person.
Other expenses: RV insurance, tolls (if applicable), propane, laundry, souvenirs, and miscellaneous items.

Estimated daily budget (excluding RV rental and flights)

Budget option (boondocking or low-cost campgrounds, cooking your own meals, minimal paid attractions): $70–120 per day for two people.
Mid-range option (mix of campgrounds and RV parks, occasional dining out, visits to paid attractions): $150–250+ per day for two people.

Budget planning tips:

Travel in the shoulder seasons (spring, fall).
Book your RV and campgrounds in advance.
Look for discounts (e.g. Good Sam Club for RV parks).
Take full advantage of boondocking opportunities.
Cook your own meals.
Use the annual national park pass.

RV rentals for Burning Man

Learn more

A wild art event held annually in Nevada. Book now while good RV options are still available from nearby cities.

Connectivity and internet

Staying connected while traveling in the U.S. is fairly easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Mobile service

The three main national carriers are AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. Verizon and AT&T typically offer the best coverage, especially in rural and remote areas — including many national parks. T-Mobile is rapidly expanding its network, but coverage outside urban areas may be less reliable.

There are also mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) that operate on the major networks (e.g., Cricket on AT&T, Mint Mobile on T-Mobile) and often offer lower-cost plans.

SIM cards for tourists / Prepaid plans

Buying a local SIM card or eSIM (if your phone supports it) is the most common option.

Where to buy: Available at carrier stores, major electronics retailers (Best Buy), supermarkets (Walmart, Target), and pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens).
Plans: Prepaid plans come with varying amounts of data, calls, and texts. For tourists, high-data plans (from 10–15 GB up to unlimited) for 30 days are popular. Prices typically range from $30–80 per month. You’ll need an unlocked, compatible phone and sometimes a U.S. address for activation (a hotel or campground address usually works).
Coverage: Check the carrier’s coverage map for the regions you plan to visit — especially important for remote national parks.

Wi-Fi

RV parks and campgrounds: Many private parks offer Wi-Fi — sometimes free, sometimes for an extra fee. Quality and speed can vary greatly. Public campgrounds rarely provide Wi-Fi, or it may be completely unavailable.
Public Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is commonly available at cafes (like Starbucks, McDonald’s), libraries, some stores, and visitor centers.
Mobile hotspots: You can use your smartphone as a hotspot or buy a separate mobile hotspot device from a carrier. Some RVs come equipped with Wi-Fi or cellular signal boosters.

Connectivity in remote areas

In many national parks and large wilderness areas, mobile service and internet access may be completely unavailable. Be sure to download maps in advance (e.g., Google Maps offline, maps.me) and be prepared for periods without connectivity. For emergencies in these areas, some travelers use satellite messengers or phones.

Safety, culture, laws, and useful tips

A few tips for traveling by RV in the USA.

General safety

The U.S. has widely varying safety levels depending on the region and neighborhood. Large cities often have areas with high crime rates that should be avoided, especially at night. In tourist areas and national parks, the main concerns are vehicle break-ins (including RVs) and pickpocketing.

RV safety

Always lock all doors and windows when leaving or sleeping.
Keep valuables (electronics, wallets, documents) out of sight. Use a safe if available.
When boondocking or staying overnight in parking lots, choose well-lit, safe-looking areas. If you feel uneasy, it’s better to move on.
Be aware of regional risks — for example, in bear country, follow specific food storage precautions.

Police

The U.S. has a multi-level law enforcement system: city police (Police Department), county police (Sheriff’s Office), state police or highway patrol, and federal agencies. When interacting with police, be polite, follow their instructions, and keep your hands visible — for example, on the steering wheel during a traffic stop.

Laws and bureaucracy

Firearms: Gun laws vary greatly by state. Foreign tourists are generally not allowed to own or carry firearms.
Alcohol: Alcohol laws are also strict and state-specific. The minimum legal drinking age is 21. Open containers of alcohol in a vehicle are prohibited in many states.
Drugs: Federal law prohibits the use and possession of many controlled substances, even if they are legalized in some states (such as marijuana). Crossing state lines with such substances is also illegal.
Wildlife: Feeding wild animals is strictly prohibited and dangerous. Always keep a safe distance.

Culture and etiquette

Friendliness: Americans are generally friendly and talkative. Don’t be surprised if a stranger starts chatting with you in line or wishes you a good day.
Tipping: Tipping is an important part of income for many service workers (waiters, bartenders, taxi drivers, hairdressers, porters). It’s customary to leave 15–20% of the pre-tax bill at restaurants.
Personal space: Americans tend to value personal space more than in some other cultures.
Punctuality: Being late for appointments is considered impolite.

Language barrier and English proficiency

English is the primary language of communication. In the tourism industry and major cities, staff typically speak English. Outside tourist areas — especially in some ethnic communities or rural regions — communication may be challenging if you don’t speak English or Spanish (in certain areas).

Tap water

Tap water in most parts of the U.S. is safe to drink unless otherwise indicated. However, the taste may vary. Bottled water is widely available.

Emergency numbers

The universal emergency number for police, ambulance, and fire services is 911. Calls are free from any phone. Be prepared to state your location clearly.

Electricity

Standard voltage in the U.S. is 120 volts, with a frequency of 60 Hz. Outlets are type A (two flat parallel pins) and type B (type A with an additional round grounding pin).

If you’re coming from a country with 220–240V, most appliances will need a voltage converter, not just a plug adapter — unless the device supports dual voltage (e.g. phone or laptop chargers).

At RV parks, electrical hookups use special connectors: most commonly 30 amp (TT-30R) or 50 amp (14-50R) plugs. Make sure you have the proper adapters if your RV uses a different connection standard.

Useful resources

For planning your trip to the U.S. and accessing up-to-date information, the following resources can be helpful:

National Park Service (NPS): nps.gov – Official site with detailed information on all U.S. national parks, monuments, and historic sites, including rules and campground reservations.
Federal campground booking: recreation.gov – Booking platform for most campgrounds in national parks, national forests, and other federal recreation areas.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM): blm.gov – Information on recreation opportunities and boondocking on public BLM lands.
U.S. Forest Service: fs.usda.gov – Details on national forests, campgrounds, and boondocking regulations.
Apps and websites for campgrounds and RV parking: Campendium, AllStays, The Dyrt, RV Life Trip Wizard, FreeRoam, iOverlander, ParkAdvisor.
Roads and traffic info: Google Maps, Waze, and the Department of Transportation websites for each state.

Conclusion

Traveling the U.S. by RV is a chance to experience true freedom on endless roads and discover the country’s incredible natural and cultural diversity. With careful planning, the right RV, and an understanding of local specifics, your journey can become a truly unforgettable adventure.

E-mail: info@greatrvtrip.com

Contact us. We will answer the questions, help with the choice

We will answer your questions and help you choose

Contact us

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience.