How We Ended Up With Our 3rd RV: Rockville Road Trip, Cold Weather, and a New Fifth Wheel Adventure
- worriesempty
- Jan 31
- 4 min read
Ah, the adventure of RVing! If you’ve ever hit the road with a home on wheels, you know it’s not just about where you’re going; it’s about the journey and the experiences along the way. Our story begins with the thrilling decision to purchase our third RV—a new fifth wheel. Just when we thought we were all set, Mother Nature had other plans for us. Join us as we share our experience of picking up our latest RV in Rockville, Illinois, and navigating through unexpectedly chilly weather.
The Decision to Upgrade
After countless weekends camping in our previous RVs, we realized we had outgrown them. Our family had grown, and we needed a bigger RV to make our adventures more comfortable. After plenty of deliberation, we chose a fifth wheel for its spacious layout and superior towing capabilities.
Choosing our new RV involved a deep dive into features. We surveyed options, comparing layouts, amenities, and prices. For instance, we discovered that many fifth wheels offered slide-outs that expanded living space by up to 30%. This meant more room for family gatherings, which was a must for us!
Picking Up the RV in Rockville, Illinois
With our research complete, we set off to Rockville, Illinois, to pick up our new fifth wheel. The excitement was palpable, but we weren’t prepared for the conditions waiting for us.
Upon arrival, the dealership team greeted us like old friends. They shared in our excitement, guiding us through the paperwork and an extensive walkthrough of our new RV. Each luxurious feature, from the cozy fireplace to the upgraded kitchen appliances, raised our enthusiasm further. We were finally ready to hit the road!

Battling the Cold Weather
As we prepared to leave Rockville, the temperature dropped rapidly. We checked the weather but didn’t expect such bitter winds. The thrill of driving our fifth wheel home was quickly tempered by the cold.
To tackle the chilly conditions, we ensured our RV was ready for winter. This included verifying that the heating system was in top shape, insulating water pipes, and packing warm clothing. Despite the unforeseen cold, we were committed to making the most out of our first trip with this RV!
Adjusting to Fifth Wheel RV Life
Adjusting to our new Fifth Wheel came with challenges. Familiar comforts turned into complexities as we shifted to a fifth wheel. We learned the ins and outs of its features, which included a more extensive layout and advanced technology. But, also the need to get out and get in, which is not something we were used to from our Diesel Pusher
We didn't really have a lot to repack, since we only brought with us a few things to make it comfortable on the trip back to Florida. With three RVing experiences behind us, we initially felt like pros, but this new adventure brought a fresh start.
Embracing the Journey
The challenges faced didn’t dampen our spirits. Despite the cold weather and unpacking, we embraced the thrill of hitting the open road. The fifth wheel pulled seamlessly, and the drive unfolded into stunning views of winter landscapes. We were captivated by the serene beauty of snow-laden fields and icy lakes.
Every mile brought new opportunities: exploring campsites, meeting fellow RV enthusiasts, and creating unforgettable memories as a family. Challenges, rather than obstacles, brought us closer together, reaffirming our passion for the RV lifestyle.
Making the Most of Our New RV
Once settled into our fifth wheel, we took full advantage of its features. The spacious kitchen transformed cooking into a joyous event. Movie nights in the cozy living room became our new favorite family activity, even on the coldest nights.
One of our beloved aspects of RV life is the ability to turn almost any location into our home base. While parked at various campgrounds, we cherished the versatility an RV offers—whether hiking local trails or sipping hot coffee while soaking in stunning mountain views.

Reflecting on the Adventure
Every trip left us eager to plan the next journey. The ups and downs of RVing enriched our experiences. From mastering the setup of our new fifth wheel to weathering unexpected chill, each moment reminded us of the joy found in traveling together.
With every mile and memory built, we came to understand that RVing transcends the vehicles we drive. It embodies the laughter shared, the hurdles overcome, and the constant adventures awaiting us in every season.
Wrapping Up Our Adventure
From selecting our third RV to facing frigid temperatures on our Rockville road trip, this journey has been one for the books. Each challenge has contributed to our growth as RVers and as a family.
If you're considering your own RV adventures, don’t let cold weather or uncertain scenarios hold you back. Every trip brings new hurdles and chances to bond. So gear up, embrace the road, and welcome every adventure that comes your way. Here is where we started this stage of our journey!
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