Planning an RV trip in Canada or the United States

Step 1 – Choose your destination and type of trip

There is no shortage of destinations in North America, whether you are drawn to beaches, hiking, cities, the countryside, theme parks, or history.

TourBook® guides, available in digital format (in English only), feature different regions to visit, points of interest, and AAA/CAA-recommended hotels and restaurants. CAA-Quebec members have access to them free of charge. 

Step 2 – Map out your travel itinerary

Once you have chosen your destination, take the time to plan your itinerary. Even if you use a GPS on the road, good planning before you leave helps structure your trip more effectively. 

A tool like the TripTik® Travel Planner can help you: 

• Estimate distances and travel times
• Break your trip into realistic stages
• Schedule regular stops along the way
• Avoid certain stretches of road, such as toll roads

Always build in some flexibility. Add around 20% to your travel time to account for breaks. 

Tip: Plan a maximum of 400km per day and aim to stop before 4p.m. so you can set up camp while it is still light. 

Adapting your itinerary to your RV

Not all roads are suitable for a recreational vehicle. Certain constraints need to be factored in when planning your itinerary: 

• Size and type of RV
• Type of towed items
• Propane transport (restrictions in tunnels and on ferries)
• Limited access in some urban areas (e.g., Manhattan)

Plan an alternative route. Need road maps, vehicle rentals, or activity recommendations along the way? Find everything you need at CAA-Quebec Travel Centres. 

Toll roads

The United States has approximately 8000km of toll roads. How they work and what they charge varies from state to state. Plan your itinerary accordingly to avoid them, or set aside a budget for this expense. 

Good to know: Toll fees are based on the number of axles on your vehicle—the more axles your RV has, the higher the cost. This is worth considering if you are planning to buy or rent an RV. 

Step 3 – Budget for your trip

Your budget will vary depending on: the length of the trip, the distance to cover, the itinerary, the places you plan to visit, the type of RV, and the number of people travelling. 

Major expenses include: 

• Fuel (higher for larger vehicles)
• Tolls
• Campgrounds
• Meals (groceries or restaurants)
• Propane
• Activities
• Outlet shopping and souvenirs (be mindful of personal exemption limits based on the length of your stay)

Good to know: RV rental, available through CAA-Quebec Travel Centres, represents a significant portion of the budget. CAA-Quebec members receive a discount through our partner CanaDream. Pricing varies by model, and mileage fees may apply. 

Other costs to factor into your trip: 

• RV insurance
• Travel insurance
• Money for the unexpected (flat tire, repairs)

Step 4 – Book your campsites

Campgrounds often fill up months in advance. Book early, especially at Sépaq parks and national parks in Canada and the United States. 

The most affordable options are generally found on the outskirts of major cities and popular attractions, with more limited services. By contrast, sites located right in the heart of the action tend to be pricier but offer more complete facilities. 

Good to know: Some large retailers allow overnight RV parking—a convenient option for quick one- or two-night stops. 

Step 5 – Review your insurance coverage

Don’t hit the road without adequate coverage, especially in the United States. 

RV insurance

Under the Automobile Insurance Act, motorhome owners (also known as motorized RVs) are required to carry at least $50,000 in civil liability coverage. However, $2 million in coverage is recommended, particularly when travelling in the United States. 

This insurance covers damage to your vehicle in the event of a non-fault accident. It also covers property damage and bodily injury caused to others in an accident where you are at fault. 

Additional coverage, comparable to Chapter B in auto insurance, can also protect your RV against damage in a fault accident. Some insurers even offer tailored coverage for RV enthusiasts, such as protection for personal belongings on board, for complete peace of mind on the road. 

Renting an RV? 

First, check the coverage provided by your own auto insurance or credit card. You may already have what you need. 

Some rental companies require you to purchase their insurance. If that is the case, the prepaid option is often the least expensive. Tip: ask to remove any unnecessary add-ons to bring the rate down. 

Travel insurance

Health care in the United States is very costly. Check the coverage included with your credit card and supplement it as needed with individual emergency medical travel insurance. 

Step 6 – Prepare your vehicle

A well-maintained vehicle reduces the risk of complications on the road. Before you leave, take the time to consult the manufacturer’s manual. Check the lights and headlights, as well as panel seals to prevent water infiltration. 

Also test the following accessories and equipment: 

• Toilet, shower, taps, and water heater
• Electric awning
• Air conditioning
• Appliances
• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

An annual inspection at a professional auto shop is recommended if you have not already done one at the start of the season. 

Step 7 – Gather your travel documents

A forgotten document can quickly complicate a border crossing. Make sure you have: 

• U.S. entry documents (passport or certificate, depending on age)
• A valid driver’s licence
• Vehicle registration
• Proof of insurance

Check expiry dates and U.S. entry requirements if you are crossing by land. See our tips for travelling to the United States. 

Step 8 – Pack for your RV trip

Space is limited, so it is best to focus on the essentials and pick up anything else you need once you are on the road. Be sure to bring: 

• Medications, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent
• Dry food, dishes, and kitchen essentials
• Bedding, clothing, and sunglasses
• Outdoor gear, games, and books
• Electronics and chargers, a handheld vacuum, and walkie-talkies
• A fire starter and a clothesline
• Stabilizer bars, tank treatment products, and biodegradable toilet paper for RVs

Some items may be included free of charge or for a fee with an RV rental. Ask in advance to avoid paying twice. 

Step 9 – Prepare for the unexpected

Even with careful preparation, an RV road trip can come with surprises: a flat tire, an overheating engine, a breakdown, or getting stuck. 

A CAA-Quebec membership gives you access to roadside assistance across Canada and the United States (through AAA). Make sure you have the RV Option for recreational vehicles. 

To handle minor issues quickly, equip yourself with: 

• A portable compressor to inflate your tires
• Jumper cables

• An emergency roadside kit

Good to know: Many of these items are available at the CAA-Quebec Boutique. Earn CAA Dollars if you are a member. 

Step 10 – Adjust your driving

Driving an RV requires some adjustments, particularly because of its weight and size. 

• Keep your speed moderate and increase your braking distance.
• Slow down on curves and avoid sudden deceleration.
• Watch your blind spots.
• Pay attention to road signs, especially bridge and overpass height restrictions.

Not used to driving a vehicle with a trailer? A specialized driving course can be helpful. 

Before you go: Final checks

Before hitting the road, make sure you have answers to these questions: 

• Where can you dump grey and black water?
• Where can you park legally?
• Are any roads off-limits to RVs?
• Do your chosen campgrounds accommodate your vehicle?

Planning remains the key to a successful RV trip, from mapping out your itinerary to sorting out your insurance.