Yaso Trip-Overland RV Caravans

RV caravans in China have been growing in popularity, especially among those seeking unique travel experiences. Here is an overview of RV caravans in China, including tips, routes, and regulations.

Owenland RV is exclusively customized by Beijing Owenland Travel Company. We designed the concept and draft according to China’s national conditions and the situation of overseas RV self-driving tourists. After modifications by the manufacturer’s designers, the design was finalized, and the RVs were customized for overseas tourists for self-driving tours in China.

Vehicle Details

The company’s self-driving C-type RV uses the SAIC Maxus V80 RV chassis; 6-speed manual and automatic transmission; vehicle length 5990mm, width 2230mm, height 3200mm, fuel type: National V standard, diesel; rated capacity: 4 people. The exterior of the vehicle is equipped with a manual awning, external shower head, external operating table, and multiple power outlets.

The interior includes main and co-pilot seats and dining table seats for 4 people. The main and co-pilot seats can rotate 360°. The two independent seats behind the dining table can adjust the backrest angle for comfortable seating and ease of use.

This RV is designed for European and American guests, with an interior height of 1.95m, making it comfortable for tall individuals without worrying about hitting their heads. The rear bed measures 1500x2100mm with windows on both sides for comfortable sleep.

The front bed above the main and co-pilot seats measures 1350x2000mm. It can be pushed up when not in use to increase the living space, and a ladder is provided for easy access.

The bathroom measures 1000mm x 1000mm and is equipped with a toilet and shower. The toilet is non-direct discharge, with waste stored in a 20-liter black water tank, which can be removed from the side of the vehicle for convenient disposal and cleaning.

The interior is equipped with a 110-liter double-door refrigerator, with separate sections for refrigeration and freezing, enough for a week’s food supply. The countertop can be extended and folded, with a range hood and large sink.

A large storage compartment runs through the rear of the vehicle, with access doors on both sides. The compartment measures 2100mm x 1500mm x 800mm, enough to store large luggage, bicycles, and folding strollers.

The vehicle is equipped with a 140-liter fresh water tank for daily use. Wastewater from cleaning and washing is stored in a 90-liter gray water tank, which can be discharged by opening a valve.

Both interior and exterior sockets are 220V with a maximum load of 2000W. The vehicle is equipped with a 550Ah storage battery (fully charged: 6.7kWh) for daily power needs. The battery can be charged in three ways: automatically while driving, using a 220V external power source with the provided charging cable, and the rooftop solar panel.
The rooftop 500W solar panel provides additional power to the storage battery at any time. The vehicle also has a combined inverter for charging and discharging, with a maximum load of 3000W. Two sets of air conditioning systems are provided: driving air conditioning and parking air conditioning, with the latter being independently usable. The vehicle’s fuel heating system provides heat for both the interior and hot water.

Overview of RV Caravans in China

  1. Popularity and Growth:
    • RV travel in China has seen a significant increase in popularity in recent years, with more travelers seeking the freedom and flexibility that RVs offer.
    • The development of infrastructure such as RV parks and camping grounds has supported this growth.
  2. Types of RVs:
    • RVs available in China range from basic camper vans to luxurious motorhomes.
    • Rentals are available in major cities and tourist areas.
  3. Infrastructure:
    • RV parks and camping grounds are available across the country, especially near major tourist attractions and scenic spots.
    • Many RV parks offer facilities like electricity, water, waste disposal, and sometimes Wi-Fi.

Popular RV Routes

  1. Yunnan Province:
    • Route: Kunming – Dali – Lijiang – Shangri-La
    • Highlights: Stone Forest, Erhai Lake, Lijiang Old Town, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Meili Snow Mountain.
  2. Sichuan and Tibet:
    • Route: Chengdu – Kangding – Litang – Lhasa
    • Highlights: Jiuzhaigou National Park, Mount Emei, Tibetan culture, Potala Palace, Namtso Lake.
  3. Eastern China:
    • Route: Shanghai – Hangzhou – Suzhou – Nanjing
    • Highlights: The Bund, West Lake, classical gardens, Nanjing City Wall.
  4. Northern China:
    • Route: Beijing – Datong – Pingyao – Xi’an
    • Highlights: Great Wall of China, Yungang Grottoes, Pingyao Ancient City, Terracotta Army.

Regulations and Tips

  1. Driver’s License:
    • Foreign tourists need a Chinese driver’s license to drive an RV in China. International driving permits (IDPs) are not recognized.
    • Temporary driving permits can be obtained but require some paperwork.
  2. Road Conditions and Safety:
    • Major highways and roads are generally in good condition.
    • Be aware of local driving habits and traffic regulations.
  3. Parking and Camping:
    • Use designated RV parks and camping grounds for overnight stays.
    • Wild camping is not common and may not be legal in some areas.
  4. Rental Services:
    • Numerous companies offer RV rentals, with pick-up and drop-off points in major cities.
    • Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Recommended RV Rental Companies

  1. China RV Rental:
    • Offers a range of RVs for rent, including motorhomes and camper vans.
    • Locations: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu.
  2. RV International:
    • Specializes in luxury RV rentals with comprehensive support services.
    • Locations: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou.
  3. SinoRV:
    • Provides various RV options for different budgets and travel needs.
    • Locations: Major cities across China.

Conclusion

Traveling by RV in China offers a unique way to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With proper planning and adherence to local regulations, an RV caravan can provide an unforgettable travel experience.