Preparing Your RV for an Adventure
The summer travel season may be wrapping up, but fall is just around the corner! It’s an ideal time to set out on what could be your best RV road trip yet. However, encountering RV issues during a journey can be frustrating. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure your RV is properly maintained and ready to go before you embark on your travels.
With some preparation, you can significantly reduce the chances of RV problems on your trip. Whether you own a travel trailer, fifth-wheel, or motorhome, this detailed guide will help make your travels enjoyable and hassle-free.
Conduct a Pre-Trip Inspection
Prior to your journey, verify that all mechanical aspects of your RV are in good working order. A thorough pre-trip inspection can help you identify and rectify any issues before they turn into unexpected problems. If you’re not comfortable performing these checks yourself, consider hiring a certified RV technician to assist you. Below is a checklist of items to review before you take off.
Exterior Components
- Automatic leveling system
- Batteries (house and chassis)
- Check fluid levels
- Inspect condition
- Brakes
- Look for worn components like pads and brake calipers
- Ensure all braking system elements on the towed vehicle are functional
- Chassis and/or Frame
- Inspect for cracks, separation, and excessive rust
- Lubricate as needed
- Top up any necessary fluid levels
- Complete routine maintenance as scheduled
- Tighten loose nuts
- Electrical Cables and Surge Protector
- Fluid Levels
- Oil
- Transmission fluid
- Coolant
- Windshield washer fluid
- Brake fluid
- Freshwater Tank
- To avoid overloading and save on fuel, fill your freshwater tank only with enough water to last until you arrive at your destination
- Generator Fluid Levels and Functionality
- Hitch Components
- Ensure all hitch components are operational
- Lubricate as necessary
- Leveling Jacks
- License Plates
- Lights
- Propane Tanks and Components
- Check for leaks
- Refill if necessary
- Roof and Roof Extrusions (e.g., A/C housing)
- Seals
- Side Walls: Check for Delamination
- Tires (including the spare)
- Inspect for wear and damage
- Check the date stamp on the sidewall—RV tires should typically be replaced every 4-6 years, regardless of appearance
- Check air pressure and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended level
- Wheel Bearings
- RV trailers should have wheel bearings repacked annually, which is a relatively simple task for those with basic DIY skills
Interior Components
- Air Conditioner(s)
- Operation of Slideouts
- Check Propane System for Leaks
- Electrical Components: Check for Loose Wiring and Ensure Lights Function
- Maintain 3-5 Gallons of Water in the Black Tank
- Fill Freshwater Tank with Sufficient Water for Your Journey
- Lubricate Windows
- Pre-Cool RV Fridge and Freezer
- Water Pump
Prepare for Emergencies
The saying “If anything can go wrong, it will” often rings true. Being ready for unexpected situations is wise. Before you embark on your trip, ensure you have these essential items:
- Check Fire Extinguishers, Smoke Detectors, Carbon Monoxide Detector, and Propane Leak Detector for Functionality
- Consider Investing in a GPS or Satellite Locator for Off-the-Grid Travel
- First-Aid Kit: Review Supplies and Restock as Needed
- In the U.S., Obtain a NOAA Weather Radio for Alerts on Weather and Environmental Hazards Along Your Route; in Canada, click here for weather updates.
- Let Someone Know Your Intended Destination
- Roadside Assistance Plan
Packing Essentials
Everyone has their own packing style, but here’s a list of basic essentials that you won’t want to forget. Make sure to stay within your RV’s cargo capacity and the towing capacity of your vehicle.
- Beverages
- Camping Chairs
- Clothing
- Cookware
- Dishwashing Liquid
- Disposable Plates
- Extra RV Fluids (Oil, Coolant, Transmission Fluid, Distilled Water, etc.)
- Fire-Making Tools
- Food
- Games and Activities
- Insect Repellent
- Paper Towels
- Portable Battery Charger
- Roasting Sticks
- Toilet Paper
- Toiletries
- Tools for RV Repairs
- Towels
- Utensils for Eating
Planning Your Road Trip
While apps can simplify your road trip planning, having a physical RV road atlas ensures you can view your route, even without cellular service. Here are some essential tools for planning your ideal road trip:
- RV Life Trip Wizard: This app offers amazing features like RV-friendly turn-by-turn directions, local attractions, overnight lodging options, weather updates, and details on elevation and gradients.
- RV Life Campgrounds: Selecting the right campground can turn a good RV trip into a memorable one. This app allows users to view campground photos, reviews, amenities, and internet speeds.
- Harvest Hosts: With memberships to Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome, gain access to unique RV camping locations at over 9,000 wineries, farms, breweries, golf courses, attractions, and private properties offering free overnight stays.
- A road atlas such as the National Geographic RV & Camping Edition
Pre-Departure Checklist
- Inform Someone About Your Destination
- Disconnect from Shore Power and Store the Cable
- Disconnect and Store the Freshwater Hose
- Close and Secure Exterior Cabinets
- Retract the Awning
- Retract the Slideouts
- Retract the Stabilization Jacks
- Hitch the Trailer to Your Vehicle (or Dinghy to the Motorhome), if Necessary
- Connect Lights, Brakes, Safety Chains, and Breakaway Cable
- Ensure the Fridge is Off: RV fridges can maintain cool temperatures for 4-6 hours after being turned off, but they need to be on level surfaces to avoid damage or fire hazards.
- Turn Off the Water Heater
- Turn Off the Water Pump
- Ensure All Cabinets and Drawers Are Closed
- Check That All Exterior Lights on the Trailer (or Motorhome) Are Functional
- With the Vehicle in Park, Remove Wheel Chocks
In Conclusion
RVs offer many of the comforts of a traditional home, but with the added benefit of mobility. They provide the perfect solution for exploring new destinations or visiting loved ones. To ensure a successful road trip while satisfying your wanderlust, make sure your RV is ready to go and adhere to a practical travel plan.
