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:

General RV Terms

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.

Travel and Camping

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).

RV Features

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.

RV Lifestyle

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.

Driving and Navigation

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).

Social and Community

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.

Maintenance and Miscellaneous

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!