Maybe you’re new to RVing or simply looking to remind yourself of a couple of important things. Either way, today’s ’10 things every RVer should know’ list is going to be perfect for you. We’ll cover everything, from the basics to the most helpful hints, tips, and tricks to get your life on the road in order. Ready to find out more? Then let’s get started!
1. Getting Confident Behind The Wheel
Most people aren’t used to driving big RVs, so as a new RVer (or somebody who hasn’t been out on the road for a while), it’s natural to be nervous. But don’t let that stop you. All you need is some practice.
Our advice is to start with a shorter distance route, build up your confidence behind the wheel, and then move on to trips further away. Practice reversing, turning tight corners, and maneuvering your RV. The more you drive, the more you’ll be aware of the space you have.
Those far-flung campsites aren’t going anywhere, so relax for now, get used to your RV, and then head to the campsites that are further away. There’s no rush in RVing.
2. RV Equipment You’ll Need
You want to make sure you have all the equipment you need on hand before you hit the road. A few things you’ll need for your RV for a more relaxed trip include:
- Electric cords and adapters
- Sewer hose and clear elbow if you have a black tank
- Fresh water hose
- RV water filter
- Leveling blocks
- Wheel chocks for towable RVs
3. Picking Your Campsites
Before you head out on any trip, you should know the campsites you’re planning on staying at. And by knowing them, we mean really knowing them.
Check reviews, listen to recommendations, get travel RV apps that will give you the ins and outs of what they have and what they lack. The point is, you want to have a good experience when you eventually reach your destination, and as fun as RVing is, campsites can sometimes let you down.
So, find a travel RV app that works for you and join an RVing community – online or in-person, it doesn’t matter – because by far, the best way to pick your campsites is on the recommendations of others who have been before and loved them.
4. RVing In The Information Age
If you’re going to be working on the road or want to make sure you have access to the internet for staying connected on social media or streaming your favorite shows, you need to make sure you can get and stay connected. Some campsites have Wi-Fi, and you can always use data on cell phones to stay connected, but if you’re working on the road, then you’ll probably need to invest in Wi-Fi for your RV. It’s easy enough to have installed, and it’ll usually work pretty well unless you’re really out off the beaten path.
5. Plan Your Trip For EVERYONE
When you’re hitting the road, it can be tempting to just think about what you want. But stop for a minute and think about everyone on the trip – your partner, your friends, your children, and yes, even your dogs!
Everybody should have something to keep them occupied when on the move, and everyone should have fun activities to look forward to when they arrive. So planning for everyone is really important!
6. Storage Is Everything
Storage is key when RVing, even if there are only two of you. You’ll need storage so you don’t clutter the RV space, so think about clever solutions. Most RVs will come with plenty of storage space available, especially modern ones, but using that space in a smart way is essential.
Not only that, but insist upon everyone putting things back where they belong, too. Even large RVs can feel small when there’s clutter around, so to make life on the road more comfortable, store smart.
7. Know Your Toilet
There are a few different types of RV toilets, from your standard to composting and portable camping toilets that you might have instead. Our advice is to do as much research as you can about your particular toilet, so when it comes to emptying them, you know:
- Where to do it, AND, more importantly
- How to do it
This is something you don’t want to be trying to figure out in the middle of it.
8. Checklists Will Make Life Much Easier
Even if you’re ordinarily a little scatterbrained when it comes to living your life, RV trips need organization to work well. That’s why we can’t recommend checklists enough.
To get the ball rolling, here are some things we like to make checklists for, so you can start thinking about what might go on yours:
- Safety – i.e. insurance, breakdown coverage, servicing your RV etc.
- Entertainment – what are you bringing to keep everyone entertained?
- Food – initial provisions
- Cleaning – have you got everything you need to keep the RV (and yourselves) clean?
- Kids – do they have everything?
- Dogs – do they?
- Pre-departure checklist – is your RV in order?
You get our point…
9. A Note On Memberships
Sometimes it pays to be part of an RV membership group because they’ll offer discounts on things like site fees at certain campsites and maintenance costs, etc.
We couldn’t possibly list all the RV memberships out there and their benefits here, so instead go ahead and do your research. You might find that being part of a membership group really benefits your wallet.
10. Getting Your Mail
This is a big concern for full time RVers and people taking longer trips. So, the last thing every new RVer should know is how they’re going to get their mail. And here are some ideas:
- Send them to a family member or friend
- Use general delivery to a post office
- Send to the campsite you’re staying at if you’re there for a while
- See if you can pick up certain deliveries in store
- Use an online virtual post office
That brings us to the end of today’s post. Of course, there are other things you should know, but to get you started, these 10 tips are a great place to begin! If you’re just getting started in your RVing journey, we’d love to help connect you with the right RV for you and your family.
