What Types of RVs are Good for Washington State Travel?
Washington State is an ideal destination for road trips. It has big mountains, vibrant green forests, roads with beautiful views along the coast, and lots of fun national parks to visit. It’s a perfect spot for people who love to travel in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) by RV.
But before you start your trip, it’s important to pick the right kind of RV and know where to keep it when your journey is complete. This guide will help you learn about the different types of RV campers, RV sizes, and smart tips for RV travel and storage in the PNW.
Why Washington State Is Perfect for RV Travel
Here’s a look at the Pacific Northwest’s unique appeal.
Washington State Travel Guide
Washington State has a diverse range of natural attractions to explore. You can visit the rocky beaches on the coast, tall snowy mountains, and even dry, sunny areas in the east. There are also many cool places to visit in an RV, like Mount Rainier, the San Juan Islands, Leavenworth, and North Cascades National Park.
Keep in mind that the weather can change significantly depending on your location, so it’s smart to be prepared for both cool, foggy days and hot, sunny ones. This mix of landscapes and weather makes Washington a fun and sometimes tricky place to travel in any kind of RV.
Best Time To Travel to Washington State by RV
The best time to travel to Washington State by RV is from late spring to early fall, specifically from May to October. This window offers the most stable weather and open access to campgrounds, many of which close for the winter season. July and August are ideal for dry roads and clear skies, especially in the mountains.
Why RV Travel Works Well in the Pacific Northwest
Traveling in the PNW is a great experience, especially in an RV! With Washington having numerous campgrounds, highways surrounded by stunning views, and parks to visit, RVs are particularly helpful as they allow people to visit faraway places while still feeling comfortable. Many towns in Washington are also RV-friendly, as there are a lot of places to get supplies and overall fun things to do along the way.
Types of RV Campers for Washington State Roads
There are many kinds of RV campers, and some work better than others for driving on Washington’s roads and staying at campsites.
Overview of Common RV Types
Before choosing your rig, it helps to understand the main types of RV campers:
- Class A motor homes. These are the largest and most luxurious RVs with full amenities, but they’re more difficult to navigate on narrow or winding mountain paths if you’re not used to driving a vehicle of this size.
- Class B camper vans. Vehicles like these are fuel-efficient and are perfect for solo travelers or couples looking for a way to zip around Washington’s coastal highways and mountain passes.
- Class C RVs. These are a balanced option with a cab sleeping space and a manageable size that’s ideal for families visiting national parks.
- Travel trailers. There are a variety of sizes available for these towable units, and they’re a good choice for those who already own a vehicle capable of towing.
- Fifth wheels. Featuring a split-level living area, these large towable campers are designed for larger vehicles. Long trips can be made with this, but you will need a special hitch to use it.
- Pop-up campers. These are lightweight and easy to store. If you’re an enthusiast for summer trips and budget-conscious travel, then you’ll love these collapsible trailers.
Medium-Size RV Options Ideal for Washington’s Terrain
A medium-sized RV, such as a smaller Class C or larger Class B, offers the best of both worlds! You’ll have the interior space needed for comfort and storage, along with better maneuverability on coastal and mountain roads compared to large Class A rigs. The benefits include:
- Easier parking at trailheads and campgrounds
- Better fuel economy
- Simpler handling on scenic byways and winding routes like Highway 20 or the Cascade Loop
- Faster to set up and pack up when you stop or leave
- Can drive through narrow and low-clearance areas more comfortably
- Costs less to rent or buy than a big Class A RV
Choosing the Right RV Size for Your Adventure
When choosing an RV, consider the number of travelers, your route, and your comfort needs. Keep note that RV sizes vary from under 20 feet to over 40 feet, so don’t forget to check the RV mattress size before you buy or rent, as standard sizes vary by RV type. A queen mattress in a Class C may be shorter than a home queen bed, and Class B vans often use custom or convertible sleeping surfaces.
Tips for Storing Your RV in Washington State
After your RV trip is over, it’s important to find an easy place to store your RV until your next adventure in Washington.
Understanding RV Storage Size Needs
Once your journey ends, you’ll need a place to store your RV and also decide if you want it winterized. Understanding RV storage size is critical for finding the right fit. The following are typical parking space size guidelines:
- 20 to 25-foot parking spaces. These are suitable for most medium-sized RVs, small trailers, and Class B vans.
- 30 to 35-foot parking spaces. These are suitable for Class C RVs and mid-size travel trailers.
- More than 40 feet of parking space. This size is required for Class A motorhomes and large fifth wheels.
Measure your RV’s total length, including the hitch, to get an accurate storage fit.
RV Storage Options in the PNW
In Washington, there are different kinds of RV storage to help keep your RV. Outdoor storage, like what’s offered at Glacier West’s Self Storage in Chelan, is the most cost-effective option, but your RV will be exposed to the sun, rain, and snow. Covered storage has a roof to shield it from the weather. You can find covered vehicle storage at multiple Glacier West locations, including a vehicle storage facility in Spanaway, WA.
And as for enclosed storage, it’s like a garage and gives the most defense. Here are two great indoor vehicle storage facilities in Washington:
When picking an RV storage facility, think about whether it has digital video recording cameras and gated access, if it’s close to your house or travel route, and if you can get to your RV easily in the offseason.
Store Your RV with Glacier West Self Storage After Your Trip
At Glacier West Self Storage, we know that traveling in the PNW is both beautiful and tough. When your trip is over, you can count on us to keep your RV until your next adventure. Our RV storage parking spaces are easy to use and feature a friendly storage facility staff ready to assist you. You can reserve your RV storage parking space by contacting us online or calling one of our Washington locations to learn more about sizes, prices, and features.