The Family Guide to Summer RVing in a Motorhome

When summer arrives and school’s out, there’s no better way to create lasting memories than packing up the family and hitting the open road in a motorhome. RVing isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about bringing the comforts of home wherever your journey takes you. For families with kids, choosing the right motorhome setup can make the difference between a trip full of meltdowns and a vacation packed with smiles, stories, and discovery.

Here’s your complete guide to summer RVing in a motorhome—with a special focus on kid-friendly features, family-centric floorplans, and smart technology that keeps everyone entertained and connected.

Motorhomes offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, especially for families with children. Unlike towable RVs, motorhomes don’t require a separate vehicle, making travel days easier—just hop in and go. With onboard bathrooms, kitchens, and sleeping quarters, you’ll have everything you need in one mobile package.

• No setup or teardown—you’re always ready to roll
• Easier bathroom breaks without having to find a rest stop
• Indoor play space on rainy days or during downtime
• Better climate control, which is critical during hot summer months

The best family RVs are designed with smart layouts that balance private adult space with roomy, fun kid zones. Here are some top features to look for in a kid-friendly floorplan:

Bunkhouse motorhomes are ideal for families. These dedicated sleeping spaces:

• Give each child their own area
• Often include curtains or doors for privacy
• May feature USB outlets or tablet holders for built-in tech access

Look for models like the Thor Chateau 31EV or Forest River FR3 34DS—both offer full bunk suites.

Multi-purpose furniture adds flexibility. Kids can play board games at the dinette during the day and sleep on it at night.

A private retreat for parents makes a huge difference. Choose floorplans that separate adult and kid sleeping areas so everyone can recharge.

This makes it easier for everyone to access the bathroom without disturbing sleeping family members.

Technology can transform your RV into a mobile entertainment center and smart home on wheels. Here’s how to enhance your trip with the latest in RV tech:

Many campgrounds offer Wi-Fi, but signal strength can be weak. Invest in a Wi-Fi booster or cellular hotspot to stay connected for work, school, or streaming.

Motorhomes now come with smart TVs and built-in Roku or Amazon Fire TV systems. Add a portable projector for outdoor movie nights under the stars.

Stay off-grid longer without sacrificing your favorite devices. Solar-powered RVs with energy-efficient batteries keep tablets, fans, and fridges running silently.

Modern motorhomes include:

• Lane departure warnings
• Rearview and side cameras
• GPS with RV-specific routing to avoid low bridges or narrow roads

Let’s face it—traveling with kids means bringing along a lot of stuff. Today’s family-focused motorhomes are designed with smart storage in mind:

• Outdoor pass-through storage for bikes, folding strollers, and fishing gear
• Pantry-style cabinets in kitchens for snacks and meals
• Under-bunk drawers or cubbies for toys, clothes, and games
• Built-in laundry hampers or closets for easy organization

Tip: Use clear plastic bins to store toys by category—kids can see what's inside without dumping everything out.

Feeding a family on the road doesn’t have to mean drive-thru food. Look for these features in a motorhome kitchen:

• Microwave/convection ovens for fast meals
• Large refrigerators to store enough food for several days
• Double sinks for easy cleanup
• Outdoor kitchens or griddles for summer cookouts

Pre-plan a few easy, RV-friendly recipes like foil packet dinners or sheet pan nachos that can feed the whole crew with minimal mess.

• Bring along board games, tablets, and activity books for rainy days or long drives
• Plan stops near water, like lakes or rivers, where kids can swim and play
• Use an RV checklist app to stay organized before and during your trip
• Involve kids in planning, from picking destinations to helping pack—this builds excitement and a sense of ownership

Summer RVing in a motorhome is one of the most rewarding ways to bond as a family, explore nature, and escape the hustle of daily life. With the right floorplan, thoughtful features, and a bit of planning, your family can enjoy a smooth and joyful ride from the first mile to the last.

Whether you're headed to Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, or your favorite local campground, your motorhome can be the launchpad for unforgettable summer memories.