An RV (short for recreational vehicle) is a motor vehicle or trailer equipped with living space and amenities for traveling, camping, and temporary living. Think of it as a house on wheels: RVs typically include beds, a small kitchen, a bathroom, and seating areas, allowing families to travel long distances while bringing the comforts of home along with them.

RVs come in many sizes and types. A massive motorhome might be as large as a bus, with a full kitchen, multiple beds, and even a shower. A small camper van might just have a bed and a tiny stove. Some RVs are motorized and drive themselves, while others are trailers that need to be towed behind a truck or car. People park RVs at campgrounds, national parks, or designated RV parks that provide hookups for electricity and water.

For many families, RV travel offers adventure and flexibility. Instead of booking hotel rooms in different cities, they drive their temporary home from place to place, waking up at the Grand Canyon one morning and by the ocean a few days later. Some retired people live in their RVs full-time, traveling the country and exploring new places. The term RVing refers to this style of travel and camping.