If you’re in
the market for a new (or used) RV, there are a lot of factors to consider
such as your budget as well as the size and type of vehicle (towable or
motorized) you want. Another decision you’ll need to make is whether you want
your rig to have slide outs, those moveable panels that expand to give you
more living space when your RV is parked.

While it may seem to be an easy decision to want the capability to
expand your living space in your RV, there are a few things you should keep
in mind. First of all, an RV with slide outs will typically cost more. Plus,
slide outs, which use either electronic or hydraulic systems to operate,
require regular maintenance so you’ll need to be prepared to take on those
tasks, which include:

• Cleaning and lubricating the rubber seals and regularly
  inspecting the roof of the slide outs for signs of wear or damage and to
  clear off any leaves, dirt or other debris.
• Monitoring fluid levels if your If your RV’s slide outs operate
  on a hydraulic system.
• Ensuring that the 12V battery both types of slide outs need to
  operate is in good working order.
• Paying close attention to how well your slide outs are
  operating. If you’re having trouble opening or closing them or if they start
  to make unusual sounds, it’s time to have them checked out by a
  professional.

Another factor that will help you determine if you should buy a
model with slide outs is how you plan to use your RV. If you usually just
take short weekend trips where you spend most of your time outdoors, you may
not want to bother with operating and maintaining slide outs. However, for
longer stays, slide outs are the ideal way to expand your living and storage
space while you’re parked at your campground.

When you think about it, slide outs are pretty ingenious. When
they’re closed, they keep your RV at a legal width for traveling on the
highways, but when you open them up you literally expand your options for
enjoying your campsite. Just remember, when you make your reservations, be
sure to book an RV site that’s wide enough to comfortably accommodate your
slide outs. To find a campground and learn about all the different site
options you have, just go to GoCampingAmerica.com and enter your
destination.

Here’s a fun bit of trivia. While mechanically-operated slide outs
have been around for more than 30 years, the concept of slide outs actually
dates back to 1915 when an inventor named Gustav Bretteville used a Model T
Ford Runabout to create what he called an “Automobile Telescoping Apartment.”
Priced at $100, the four-foot-square box was installed on the back of the
vehicle where it telescoped out to create a sleeping area and kitchen. When
compared to today’s versatile slide out options, it’s easy to see what a long
way we’ve come!