Community Forums

Rob1128 · 01-02-2020, 06:05 AM

I drive a 38FT diesel pusher and tow a Buick Enclave, 4 wheels down.
I've always traveled with someone in the passenger seat, but was wondering about the feasibility of traveling solo. I have a Garmin RV navigation system that works well for that purpose. I've driven the coach itself, without tow, and haven't felt uncomfortable.
I would appreciate opinions.

blueridge-fl · 01-02-2020, 06:25 AM

The biggest thing you will need to address is the blind spot on the passenger side. A fresnel lens on the passenger side window can solve that problem. Other than that, it is just a matter of getting used to backing into sites and aligning with fuel pumps without assistance.

**Lt Dan** · 01-02-2020, 07:10 AM

I recently made a 1300 mile round trip solo in ours. Other than lack of conversation (talking to myself didn't count) there were no problems at all. I don't rely on the DW for directions or help with the toad so it was not an issue.

Spk64 · 01-02-2020, 07:16 AM

I make solo trips frequently when the wife is meeting up later or decides to stay longer.
Just be cautious of the passenger side.

jacwjames · 01-02-2020, 07:30 AM

My wife has driven our coach solo pulling a Jeep numerous time going to dog shows all over the eastern USA. One year she put ~12K miles on (I almost poo'd my pants when I did the oil change). If she can do it I'd say pretty much anyone can.

Mr_D · 01-02-2020, 07:41 AM

Late wife never was much help so when she died 3 years ago it was no real problem.

twinboat · 01-02-2020, 08:16 AM

As the sticker, on the dash, of our Amblances and Fire trucks said,

" YOU are responsable for the safe operation of this vehicle "

That meant only you, the driver, no one else, no matter what they say.

Nudge · 01-02-2020, 08:51 AM

Sure you can.
You might have to GOAL more often.
Get Out And Look.
Just the fact you have concerns tell me you’d be more cautious.
That’s a good thing!
Best Wishes ~ Safe Travels

Priherd · 01-02-2020, 09:13 AM

Sure you can, just take your time, don't let anyone rush you as you prepare to get on the road of as you prepare to back in. I have never traveled with anyone. I bought my Class A 5 years ago after my divorce and hit the road. I've driven to Alaska and back and forth across the country twice. You stated you drive a 38ft DP, mine is a 39 ft Newmar Class A. I went with a class A because it's easier to park without anyone's help and in fact I usually refuse help (kindly refuse) because I only find the the help distracts me from watching my two mirrors, and a back up camera all of which I trust. (I have side camera two which shows my passenger side blind spot and convex mirror on my big mirror) I always walk the site before backing in, I will stop half way in and get out and look around if I feel it's needed. (2 nights ago a single man came in where I'm at now, another camper was helping him back his 5th wheel in, the driver wasn't watching the backup camera and the helper didn't see him back directly into a tree smashing his real window). I tow a Jeep Wrangler, very easy to hook up or disconnect. I know my procedure step by step, if someone helps me it throws me out of step so once again I kindly refuse help unless it is a terrible site to back into and then I tell the helper what I want him to watch. Everyone is different, take this with a grain of salt, but you will get use to doing it by yourself. Have fun. Worry is a wasted emotion.

Jetskier50 · 01-02-2020, 10:14 AM

I rarely travel with anyone, pulling a golf cart trailer to races. You just need to plan things out. I use pull thru truck stops for fuel. And try not to get in any situations where you need to back up with the trailer. Just take your time. It will be ok

BigBadDad · 01-02-2020, 10:17 AM

I have been solo for 11 years since my soulmate died. Just stop and think about they did relating to the moving operation of the Coach. If you actually depended on them for anything you can think of then recognize that and decide on how to handle it.... extra careful checking on drawers/doors before leaving was something I learned several times !!!

RI Expat · 01-02-2020, 11:28 AM

I've been solo since the DW passed and frequently before that when it would just be me and one of the kids.....who didn't perform co-pilot functions as they tended to sleep or sit behind me for easier conversation.

Like mentioned above, get out and look frequently in tight spaces. No difference when towing or deadhead when you are already 38' long.

sanda · 01-02-2020, 12:54 PM

Advantages of traveling solo- no backseat driver, no passenger stepping on the brake pedal over there, no one telling you what to do, easier to decide where to eat.
Disadvantages to traveling solo- no one to talk to, no second set of eyes in tight places, eating by yourself, etc.

Domo · 01-03-2020, 04:30 PM

Truck drivers do it all the time.

We've done it when travelling short distances to not bother hooking up the toad.

Someone in the right seat is a passenger and should not be a requirement to drive your MH.