If you’ve ever strolled through an RV show or shopped motorhomes online, you’ve probably spotted those magical slide outs––those extendable sections that allow for increased living space. Slide outs have become a popular feature in modern RVs, offering a bit more elbow room for those long road trips or weekend getaways. But like any feature, slide outs come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of having slide outs in your RV, helping you to make an informed decision on whether they are the right choice for your travel lifestyle.
Benefits of RV Slide Outs
Increased Living Space
While it’s unlikely you’ll be hosting dinner for 12 inside your RV, slide outs still manage to provide a significant increase in living space. Cramped quarters are transformed into more spacious areas, allowing for larger accommodation and a luxurious interior look and feel.
Improved Layout Flexibility
With slide outs, you can customize your interior to fit your needs. Looking to add a private space for a work-from-the-road setup? Slide it out! Need a bigger dining area for family game night? Slide it out! This flexibility allows you to get the most out of your space, tailoring it to your lifestyle, whether you’re a full-timer or a weekend warrior.
Drawbacks of RV Slide Outs
Maintenance and Repair Concerns
Slide outs may feel like a luxury, but they come with their own set of maintenance and repair concerns. Even the most expensive, top-of-the-line extensions can often be a little temperamental, and as such, might require attention more often than you’d like. From mechanical parts breaking down to seals needing replacing, you’ll want to keep your toolbox handy—or a good RV repairman on speed dial.
Weight and Stability Issues
That extra space comes with a price. Slide outs can add significant weight to your RV, impacting gas mileage and, more importantly, your vehicle’s stability. You may find yourself hugging the shoulder of the highway a bit more than you’d prefer if your rig isn’t properly balanced. And if you’re planning on taking on steep hills or winding roads, you might want to reconsider how many slide outs you really need.
Costs
The initial cost for an RV with slide outs tends to be higher, and that’s before you even consider the increased insurance, maintenance, and potential repair costs. What’s more, if you’re customizing your RV with slide outs after purchasing, be prepared to open your wallet a little wider than usual. Budget-conscious campers may find themselves torn between the allure of space and the reality of their bank account.
To Slide, or Not to Slide (Out)
Before diving headfirst into the world of slide outs, take a moment to assess your lifestyle needs. Do you like to hit the open road with a full crew of friends and family, or do you prefer solo road trips? The truth is: not everyone needs a massive living room to enjoy the great outdoors. Knowing your travel habits can help you decide if slide outs are a worthy investment or simply a nice-to-have addition.
What’s more, is your current rig able to handle the additional weight? Is there enough clearance for the slides to function correctly? Not every RV is designed to accommodate slide outs, so take a closer look—or better yet: consult with an expert—before committing to any modifications.
Most importantly: you should also consider the future resale value of your ride. Slide outs might increase your RV’s appeal to some buyers, while others may view them as a total dealbreaker, particularly if they’ve heard horror stories of malfunctioning mechanisms. Think about your potential resale market and if slide outs will enhance or hinder your RV’s value down the road.
Manual vs. Electric Slide Outs
There are two main contenders on the market: manual slide outs and their high-tech alternatives, the electric slide outs.
Manual slide outs are classic, dependable, and a bit of a workout. You’ll need to crank, push, or pull, depending on your particular system, but they are a great choice for first-timers.
Electric slide outs are sleek, user-friendly, and virtually effortless. With the push of a button, slide outs glide into extended mode fast and easy, which is great after a long-haul trip.
Final Thoughts
Do slide outs sound like the magical solution to all of your space-saving problems? Or do they seem like just another invitation to more headaches? Slide outs remain a controversial subject to seasoned RVers… and everybody has an opinion one way or the other (even if they tell you they don’t).
Ultimately, the decision boils down to your lifestyle and how often you plan to hit the open road. If you’re the kind of traveller who likes to pack light and keep things simple, they’re probably worth skipping. But if you’re embracing the full-time RV life and want to stretch out to the max, then slide outs may just be your new best friend. Leisure Coachworks has all of the answers to your RV and slide out questions––from retail purchases to repairs, not to mention a huge line of RV slide out parts. Call today!