The Ravnos share many characteristics with the Gangrel, but there is no other clan with which they more differ. Where the Gangrels are loners, the Ravnos love companionship. Where the Gangrels are combative, the Ravnos try to avoid direct physical confrontations. Where the Gangrels are honest and forthright, the Ravnos are masters of lies and deceit.
Their most obvious similarity to Gangrels is their life on the move. Few Ravnos would ever consider staying in one city for any extended amount of time. They are constantly on the move, going from city to city. Though they may settle somewhere for a time, and even establish a Haven, after a few months they always hit the road again. (Usually the Prince makes sure it is much sooner than that.) Those who have adapted to an urban lifestyle change their havens on a regular basis, never staying in one for more than a month.
Free movement is very highly regarded by the Ravnos. They move freely back and forth between cities controlled by the Camarilla and those controlled by the Sabbat. Anyone who attempts to prevent them entering a city is given the "treatment" -large groups of the Clan will enter the city and give it a thorough scouring. Few Princes have the courage to risk such, and though they may hate it, they will not prevent Ravnos from entering their city.
Their other prominent similarity to Gangrels is their connection with Gypsies. However, where the Gangrels are widely accepted among Gypsies, the Ravnos are accepted only within their own family group (if they were of Gypsy blood). Though they live much like Gypsies, they are not accepted by them. While most blame this on the Ravnos' unquenchable compulsion to lie and steal from those around, others say the very aura of the Ravnos is repugnant to the sensitive Gypsy mystics.
Theft and con games are the most common aspects of the Ravnos lifestyle. Constantly traveling as they do makes it harder for them to be caught engaging in their favorite pastimes, and gives them an infinite number of marks and shills to take advantage of
Traditional Ravnos make their homes in gaudily colored covered caravans which travel the countryside, stopping here and there to trade, celebrate holidays or just for a change of pace. In North America, where Gypsies have moved into the cities, the Ravnos have followed suit. Now they make their homes in the basements of fortunetellers' shops and in the backrooms of Gypsy houses (but always temporarily). Still, some Ravnos in the New World follow the old ways.
Ravnos take their personal and Clan honor very seriously, and it is one of their most prized possessions. However, the code of honor by which they live is quite different from the rules most folk follow. They do not place much pride in keeping their word unless they shake hands on it -after spitting into their palms (with blood, of course). They are honor-bound to avenge themselves if anyone besmirches their honor or "good name". They will not cheat or steal from others of the Clan, but do not feel such compunctions about outsiders. Friendship is held very highly, and they will always come to the aid of those who they think of as a "brother".
Ravnos generally Sire few Childer, and those they do embrace are generally the most promising members of their own family. Younger Ravnos have been known to be more willing to Sire, however, and neonate Ravnos of all backgrounds are beginning to plague the Kindred community
There is no organization to this Clan as no Ravnos would trust another to keep his word. However, when two or more Ravnos meet somewhere, it is likely they will put on a great show of liking each other, pledging each other their undying loyalty -a vow which is quickly forgotten.