If you think the term “caravan” means being part of an RV convoy that adheres to a rigid schedule, you’ll be excited to discover it’s not like that at all!

Although caravans have an itinerary and are similar in some aspects to a guided tour, the experience is more laid back than you’d imagine and the location choices are diverse. From Alaska and Baja to New Zealand and South Africa, there are plenty of destinations available. If you prefer a purpose to your travel, there are even caravans to NASCAR races, balloon festivals, and Mardi Gras.

“The biggest advantage, especially in wilderness areas like Baja that are difficult to navigate on your own, is that you’re traveling with experienced guides who know the terrain,” says John Brennan, a Travel Ambassador for Fantasy RV Tours. “Plus you’ve got the freedom to do your own thing like taking pictures or whale watching.”

As part of a caravan, you will be on a schedule, but most stops run between two and three days, giving you time to participate in planned side trips as well as to explore on your own. “We really had time to stop and smell the roses,” says Betty Schwenke, who took her first caravan trip to Mexico in 2007 with her husband, Ken. They were hooked. In fact, they enjoyed it so much, they decided to become staff. “We’re now tail gunners for Adventure Caravans and hope to lead our first trip as wagon masters in 2011,” Ken says.

Caravans usually include two RVs that are operated by knowledgeable staff to make sure you have an enjoyable and fun adventure. A wagon master leads the caravan, departing first each morning and the tail gunner leaves last, making sure everyone is on the road safely.

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Typically, there is a travel briefing the night before all departures outlining the next leg of the trip. It’s also an opportunity for travelers to ask questions and get information on potential road issues, sites to watch out for, and information on the areas they’ll pass on the way. The next morning, RVs follow the wagon master, usually in groups of three or four, while the tail gunner remains at the park to provide support on any technical or mechanical situations. After departing, the tail gunner is responsible for ensuring everyone stays with the caravan.

Many companies offer caravan tours, so it’s important to know what to look for when considering purchasing a package. Packages can run anywhere from $2000 to $20,000 per couple. First, identify the level of experience of the wagon master and tail gunner who’ll be guiding your trip. Ask how long the company has been in business and how many caravans they’ve run. Finally, look for the percentage of customers who return because it will really tell you how well the tours are run.

Whether you want RV travel within the US and Canada or more adventurous excursions overseas, a caravan may be the perfect blend of guided tour and free-flowing vacation.

Click here to read about some different caravan company options.