The trip is planned, the clothes are packed, and you are about to hit the open road. Vacationing in an RV is fun, but just like you need to prepare yourself, you also need to prep your RV.
For a safe and fun RV trip, take some time to tick the following items off your checklist.
Engine Maintenance
All engines need maintenance to ensure they are running properly. Service your RV engine when it should be serviced, and check the fluids and oil. Take a short drive around where you live before heading out on your trip to see how your rig runs before you hit the open road. If you’re towing a trailer, preform the same procedure with the tow vehicle. An RV that won’t start in the middle of nowhere is a definite holiday downer.
Check the Tires
The tires on your RV should always be in great shape. Considering all the traveling you will do, and the amount of weight on the tires on your RV, take time to ensure there are no issues before you leave.
- Tire treads should not be worn out.
- Check the pressure on all your tires and keep them properly inflated.
- Please note that kicking the tire with your boot is not the recommended method of checking tire pressure.
- Verify that you have everything you need to change a tire in case you get a flat.
- If you have Triple A or Good Sam makes sure it is up to date.
Proper Packing
Your RV may feel like a home from the inside, but remember it is a home on wheels. Bumps and potholes can easily redecorate your “house”, so be sure to secure everything properly. You don’t want to arrive at the campground only to face a giant mess of spilled food and broken glass. It may take a little extra time to get everything stored and secured properly, but it will be worth it.
Check EVERYTHING
Set aside some time to visually inspect everything in your RV.
Test all the appliances before you pack up your rig. The refrigerator or air conditioner may have malfunctioned between now and the last time you took it our for a spin. Plan ahead and find some time to test all the systems in your RV.
Never skip the tasks necessary to get your vehicle ready for the open road. These tasks may take some time to do but they are worth it.
Having a well functioning vehicle will give you peace of mind and save you lots of stress while on vacation.
Do you have a checklist of your own? What do you do before you hit the open road?
