Route 66 RV journey. You may be wondering, “Is Route 66 RV friendly?”, “What is the best month to do Route 66?”, “Can you sleep in an RV while driving Route 66?”, “How much does it cost to hire an RV on Route 66?”, Do you need a special license to drive an RV on Route 66?”. Today, I will answer these questions. Grab a coffee and start reading!
Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road,” is a historic highway in the United States that runs from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. It was one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System and was established in 1926. The route passes through several states, including Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. It is a popular road trip destination and many people travel the route in recreational vehicles (RVs). There are RV parks and campgrounds along the route that cater to travelers in RVs.
Is Route 66 RV friendly?
Route 66 is RV friendly, but it does have some challenges for larger RVs (Recreational vehicles). The route passes through a variety of landscapes and weather conditions, and some parts of the road may not be well-maintained or suitable for larger RVs. There are also some bridges and tunnels that have lower clearance limits, so it’s important to be aware of the height and weight restrictions for these areas.
However, there are also many RV parks and campgrounds along the route that cater to travelers in RVs, and many towns and cities along Route 66 have RV-friendly services such as rest areas, gas stations and repair shops. These RV parks and campgrounds provide amenities such as hookups for water and electricity and some have showers and laundry facilities.
It’s important to plan your route in advance and research the RV parks and campgrounds along the route, as well as to be aware of the different speed limits, road conditions, and weather conditions in the areas you’ll be passing through. By doing so, you can have a safe and enjoyable RV trip on Route 66.
What is the best month to do Route 66 in an RV?
The best time to do Route 66 in an RV (Recreational vehicle) can vary depending on personal preferences and the specific route you plan to take. Generally, the months of April through June and September through November offer the most comfortable weather and the least amount of crowds. Avoiding the summer months of July and August, when it can be extremely hot in many parts of the route, may also be a good idea. It is also a good idea to check the weather forecast and road conditions before your trip.
Can you sleep in an RV while driving Route 66?
No, it is illegal to sleep in an RV while driving on Route 66 or any other road. Operating a vehicle while tired or fatigued can be dangerous and increases the risk of accidents. It is important to always follow the laws and regulations set by each state and city on the Route 66, as well as to follow the general rules of safe driving.
If you plan to take an RV trip on Route 66, you should plan your stops and overnight stays in advance at RV parks and campgrounds along the route. These facilities provide safe and comfortable places to park and sleep, as well as amenities such as hookups for water and electricity, and some have showers and laundry facilities.
It’s always a good idea to get a good night’s sleep before starting a long drive, and to take regular breaks during the journey, to ensure that you are well-rested and alert while driving. It’s also important to note that most states have laws that regulate the amount of consecutive hours that a driver can be on the road, and it’s important to comply with these regulations.
How much does it cost to hire an RV on Route 66?
The cost of hiring an RV (Recreational vehicle) on Route 66 can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type and size of the RV, the rental company, the location, the time of year, and the duration of the rental.
Generally speaking, the cost of hiring an RV on Route 66 can range from a few hundred dollars per week for a basic motorhome, to several thousand dollars per week for a luxury motorhome. The larger and more luxurious the RV, the higher the cost will be.
Additionally, the rental location, the rental company, and the time of year can also affect the cost. For example, renting an RV in a popular tourist destination during peak season may be more expensive than renting in an off-peak season or in a less popular location.
It’s also important to note that the costs of fuel, campsite fees, and insurance will have to be taken into account in your budget.
It’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different rental companies to find the best deal. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and check the insurance and cancellation policies before making a reservation.
In summary, the cost of hiring an RV on Route 66 can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, but you should expect to spend a few hundred to several thousand dollars for a week-long rental.
Do you need a special license to drive an RV on Route 66?
In most cases, you do not need a special license to drive an RV (Recreational vehicle) on Route 66. However, depending on the size and weight of the RV, you may need a commercial driver’s license (CDL).
In the United States, RVs are considered to be vehicles and are not considered commercial vehicles. Therefore, you only need a regular driver’s license to operate them. However, if the RV is over a certain weight or size, it may be classified as a commercial vehicle, and in that case, you would be required to have a CDL.
The exact weight and size limits for RVs vary by state, but typically, RVs that are 26,000 pounds or less do not require a CDL. However, if you’re towing a vehicle behind the RV, the combined weight of the RV and the vehicle can put you over the weight limit that requires a CDL.
It’s important to check the laws in the states you plan to drive through as some states have different weight limits or other regulations. It’s also important to check with the rental company if you are hiring an RV, as they will be able to provide you with the specific information about the RV you will be driving.
It’s also important to note that regardless of the weight and size of the RV, you should always make sure to have a valid driver’s license and to be familiar with the laws and regulations of the states you plan to drive through, as well as to follow the general rules of safe driving.
Route 66 RV Tips
RVing Route 66 is a popular way to experience the historic and iconic highway that runs from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. Here is a guide to help you plan your RV (Recreational vehicle) trip on Route 66:
1. Plan Your Route
Plan your route in advance and make sure to check for any road closures or construction that may affect your trip. You can find detailed maps and guides online to help you plan your route. Bring a good map or GPS and make sure you know how to use it in case you lose cell service or internet connection. Buy a good guide book like: “Route 66 – 202 Amazing Places”.
2. Research RV parks and campgrounds
Research RV parks and campgrounds along the route to make sure they have the amenities you need, such as hookups for water and electricity. Make reservations well in advance as some popular RV parks can fill up quickly during peak season. Respect the rights and property of others when camping or parking your RV. Reserve campsites or RV parks ahead of time, as popular spots can fill up quickly.
3. Check your RV before Route 66 trip
Make sure your RV is in good working order before hitting the road. Check the brakes, tires, and lights, and make sure you have all necessary documents and permits, such as registration and insurance.
4. Bring enough supplies
Bring enough supplies, including food, water, and gas, as some areas of Route 66 can be quite remote and not have many services. Also, pack a map and a GPS system as cell service can be spotty in some areas. Take advantage of the RV amenities such as generator, air conditioning and heating, and consider bringing along a portable grill or fire pit for outdoor cooking. Consider purchasing or renting additional equipment, such as bicycles or kayaks, to enhance your trip and explore the area.
5. Drive safely
Be aware of the different speed limits in each state and city you’ll be passing through, as well as the height and weight restrictions for the bridges and tunnels along the route. Be prepared for tight turns and winding roads, as some parts of the route may not be designed for larger vehicles. Be prepared for the varying speed limits and road conditions, as well as different driving laws in each state.
6. Avoid peak travel times on Route 66
Try to avoid peak travel times, such as holidays and weekends, as the route can become quite busy.
7. Get your smartphone, camera and binoculars
Pack a camera and binoculars to capture memories and enjoy the beauty of the route. Check the best places for your Route 66 photos: Route 66 – TOP 14 BEST Instagram-Worthy Photo Spots Along Mother Road
8. Check the weather
Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, as some routes may be closed or impassable in bad weather.
9. Check your RV weight
Be mindful of the weight and size of your RV when driving, and check for any height or width restrictions on bridges or underpasses.
10. Enjoy your travel
Remember to take your time and enjoy the scenery, as Route 66 is known for its beautiful landscapes and interesting landmarks. Take time to explore and enjoy the sights and attractions along the way, such as historic sites, national parks, and local towns. Remember to have fun and enjoy the journey, Route 66 is one of the most iconic roads in America and has a lot to offer.
By following these tips, you can have a memorable and enjoyable RV trip on Route 66.
👍 Find out more:
Discover the best stops along the Mother Road in my travel guide, “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places”, which is available on Amazon. This is the ultimate travel guide and pocket reference for anyone wishing to experience the nostalgia and wonder of America’s Route 66! MUST-HAVE for all Route 66 travelers. Visit 202 places on Route 66 with “Scan QR and go” for easy navigation.
Author:
Mark Watson is a California-based member of a Los Angeles Motorcycle Club and a keen traveler. He’s traveled the entirety of U. S. Route 66 seven times on his Harley-Davidson. He strives to interest others in the historic drive to keep the legendary Route 66 alive. He also traveled through the Alaska Highway. He is an author of bestseller books on Amazon: “Route 66 Travel Guide – 202 Amazing Places” and “Alaska Highway – 202 Best Stops”.