Embarking on an RV adventure offers a unique blend of freedom and discovery, allowing you to explore the open road with all the comforts of home. To help you make the most of your travels, we’ve compiled 40 essential RV travel tips. From planning your route with RV-specific apps and reserving campsites in advance to maintaining your vehicle and ensuring safety on the road, these tips cover everything you need for a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable RV experience. Buckle up and get ready to hit the road with confidence and ease!
PLANNING YOUR TRIP ★
1.
PLAN YOUR ROUTE
Use RV-specific GPS or apps to avoid low bridges and narrow roads. This article from GoRVing has a few great suggestions.
2.
CAMPSITE RESERVATIONS
Be sure to reserve your campsite in advance. Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
3.
KNOW YOUR RV
Familiarize yourself with the size, weight, and capabilities of your RV.
4.
CHECK THE WEATHER
Keep an eye on forecasts to avoid severe weather and plan accordingly. Have a plan in the event of severe weather, flooding, etc.
5.
PET-FRIENDLY SITES
Bringing your pet? Research pet-friendly campgrounds and road trip stops in advance.
6.
ID TAGS
Ensure your pets have up-to-date ID tags.
7.
PACK EXTRAS
Bring extra essentials like batteries, lighters, and paper products.
8.
CREATE A CHECKLIST
Make lists for packing, setting up, and breaking down camp to stay organized. We’ve created a Camping Checklist with our recommendations for a stress-free camping adventure.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE ★
9.
REGULAR INSPECTIONS
Check your RV and/or tow vehicle’s tires, brakes, and fluid levels before each trip.
10.
CARRY SPARE PARTS
Having extra fuses, bulbs, and filters can come in handy in case of emergency.
11.
TIRE PRESSURE
Know your tire pressure and maintain proper levels to avoid blowouts on the road.
12.
CHANGE OIL REGULARLY
Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines for oil changes.
13.
WINTERIZATION
If traveling in cold climates, take steps to prevent pipes from freezing by having your RV winterized.
ON THE ROAD ★
14.
DRIVE SLOWLY
Take your time, especially on unfamiliar roads and in new areas.
15.
TAKE BREAKS
Stop every few hours to rest and stretch.
16.
KNOW YOUR HEIGHT
Be aware of your RV’s height and avoid low clearances.
17.
USE YOUR TURN SIGNALS
Signal your intentions well in advance when making a turn in your RV.
18.
FUEL UP OFTEN
Don’t let your tank get too low; gas stations may be far apart.
SETTING UP CAMP ★
19.
SCOUT YOUR SITE
Walk your campsite before parking to identify any obstacles.
20.
USE A SPOTTER
Have someone guide you in to your site to avoid accidents.
21.
SECURE YOUR RV
Use wheel chocks and stabilizer jacks.
22.
CHECK CONNECTIONS
Ensure water, electric, and sewer connections are secure.
STAYING SAFE ★
23.
KNOW EMERGENCY EXITS
Familiarize everyone with your RV’s emergency exits and how to utilize them.
24.
FIRE EXTINGUISHER
Have a fire extinguisher accessible and know how to use it.
25.
SMOKE & CO DETECTORS
Ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detector are functioning and replace batteries regularly. Watch this video to learn more.
26.
LOCK UP
Secure your RV when you leave it unattended.
27.
FIRST AID TRAINING
Basic first aid knowledge can be invaluable whether you’re at a local campground or on an off-grid adventure.
TECHNOLOGY & CONNECTIVITY ★
28.
WI-FI BOOSTERS
Improve your internet connection with a Wi-Fi booster.
29.
MOBILE HOTSPOT
A mobile hotspot is a great backup internet solution.
30.
SOLAR PANELS
Consider solar panels for off-grid power.
31.
BATTERY BANK
Keep a portable battery bank handy for charging devices.
32.
SATELLITE TV
If you want entertainment, invest in a satellite system.
ENJOYING THE JOURNEY ★
33.
MIND YOUR NEIGHBORS
Respect quiet hours and keep your campsite tidy.
34.
TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE
Don’t rush; enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
35.
STOP AT ATTRACTIONS
Visit landmarks and points of interest along the way.
36.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Take plenty of pictures to memories with a good camera or smart phone.
37.
JOURNALING
Keep a travel journal to document your experiences.
38.
TRAVEL GAMES
Bring games for entertainment during down time.
39.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
Stop at visitor centers or ask locals for recommendations on places to visit and eat.
40.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Always clean up after yourself, whether at a road-trip pit stop or wrapping up a week at the campground.
We hope your journey is filled with unforgettable moments, breathtaking sights, and exciting destinations.
We’d love to hear about your RV travels and the memories made along the way.
Share your Great American RV Story with us HERE and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts with your adventures.
