RV Slang

RV enthusiasts have their own unique slang to describe the lifestyle, gear, and experiences of life on the road. Here are some common terms and phrases from the RV world:

1. RV: Recreational Vehicle, a broad term for motorhomes, camper vans, travel trailers, and fifth wheels.
2. Rig: A casual term for your RV, no matter the type.
3. Sticks-and-Bricks: Refers to a traditional stationary house or home.
4. Class A, B, C: Categories of motorhomes based on size and design:
   • Class A: Large, bus-like motorhomes.
   • Class B: Smaller camper vans.
   • Class C: Mid-sized RVs with a sleeping area over the cab.

1. Boondocking: Camping without hookups (electricity, water, or sewer), often in remote or public lands.
2. Dry Camping: Another term for camping without hookups, but it can also include parking in a more urban setting, like a parking lot.
3. Full Hookups (FHU): Campsites that provide water, electricity, and sewer connections.
4. Dump Station: A place where you can empty your RV's wastewater tanks.
5. Pull-Through: An RV site that allows you to drive in and out without having to back up.
6. Back-In: A campsite that requires backing your RV into the spot.
7. Harvest Hosting: Staying overnight at farms, wineries, or other unique private properties (often through programs like Harvest Hosts).

1. Slide-Out: Sections of the RV that extend outward to increase living space.
2. Basement: Storage compartments located under the floor of the RV.
3. Toad (or Dinghy): A vehicle towed behind an RV for use when parked.
4. Black Tank: The tank that holds wastewater from your toilet.
5. Gray Tank: The tank that holds wastewater from sinks and showers.
6. Fresh Tank: The tank that holds fresh, potable water.

1. Workamping: Working while camping, often in exchange for a campsite or pay (e.g., at campgrounds or parks).
2. Snowbirds: RVers who travel to warmer climates during the winter, often to Florida, Arizona, or southern California.
3. Full-Timer: Someone who lives in their RV year-round.
4. Part-Timer: Someone who uses their RV for extended trips but still has a home base.
5. Weekend Warrior: RVers who take short trips, typically on weekends or holidays.
6. Nomad: A person living a travel-focused, mobile lifestyle, often in an RV or van.

1. Tail Swing: The movement of the rear end of the RV when turning.
2. Chucking: The jerking motion felt in a truck and trailer combination when driving over uneven roads.
3. Overnighter: A quick stop for the night, often at places like rest stops or parking lots.
4. Road Gator: Slang for a blown truck tire or debris seen on highways (potential hazard for RVers).

1. Rally: A gathering of RVers, often organized by clubs or manufacturers.
2. Caravan: A group of RVers traveling together.
3. Hitch Itch: The restless feeling RVers get when they've stayed in one spot too long and are eager to hit the road again.

1. Leveling: Adjusting the RV so it sits flat, often with jacks or blocks.
2. Sewer Donut: A gasket or ring used to create a tight seal when connecting your sewer hose at the dump station.
3. Park Model: A stationary RV designed to stay in one location, often at a resort or RV park.
4. Chassis Battery: The battery that starts the engine of a motorhome.
5. House Battery: The battery that powers the living area of the RV when not connected to an electrical source.

Learning this lingo is like joining a fun and adventurous club—ready to hit the road!