Are you getting ready to hit the road in your RV with some friends or family? Well before you go, there are a few things you may need to check off your list first. The key to a safe and successful RV trip is being prepared.
Our RV checklist will help you get ready for the road.
Your RV Checklist
Before setting off on your adventure, there are a few checklist items you need to cross off your list to ensure a good trip. Smart travel means preparing ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard on the road.
This is our checklist to guarantee you have a safe time when RV travelling.
Check Your RV’s Batteries and Engine
When you are using your RV, the batteries in your RV can drain from lack of usage. Batteries lose 10% of their energy each month they go without use.
So make sure your batteries are fully charged for your journey. Refer to the user’s manual for your batteries or ask a mechanic to check it out for you.
Now it’s time to check your engine. To make sure your engine is running properly, you will want to check the fluid levels for the following:
- transmission
- engine coolant
- engine oil
- power steering
- brake fluid
- generator oil
- windshield washer
You will then want to check all your gauges and make sure your lights are all working.
Prepare Water Tanks
Having running water is an obvious necessity for RVing so you will want to make sure that all your water systems are running properly. If you winterized your RV, you will want to de-winterize it.
Do this by connecting a hose from city water to your RV and run water continuously through the entire system. Then add potable water and turn your water pump on. Turn on all the faucets to let the water run through them until the water runs clear.
You will also want to flush out your hot water heater out. This will get antifreeze out if you winterized your RV. You can then change your water filter cartridge if you have one.
Next, you will want to check for leaks. Check any place in your RV where water would be flowing. If you have any leaks, repair them before your trip.
Check RV Appliances
Many RV appliances use propane tanks to power them. You will need to check your propane tanks to make sure they are full and working properly.
If you already have full tanks, check the date on it to make sure it isn’t expired. If it is, you will want to replace it.
Go through your RV and make sure all the appliances turn on and work properly. This includes the air conditioning, microwave, fridge, solar generator, etc.
Check Your Tires
Before you hit the road, you will obviously want to check your tires. First, check your tires’ air pressure. RV tires tend to lose air pressure if they’ve been in storage.
If this is the case, fill up your tires to the necessary PSI. Then inspect your tires for any tread wear or cracking. If you have any concerns, have a professional inspect them.
Bring Necessary Papers and Safety Gear
Don’t forget to bring all the necessary papers you will need for your trip! This includes:
- RV registration
- insurance papers
- warranty papers
- owner’s manual
- personal ID
- road atlas
These papers are important to have handy, especially if you run into any trouble on the road.
You will also want to have all the necessary safety equipment. These items include:
- smoke detector
- fire extinguisher
- carbon monoxide detector
- gas leak detector
Having these items available in your RV is crucial for having a good vacation getaway. Knowing you’re safe while travelling will make RV camping a better experience.
Time to Hit the Road!
Now that you’ve gone through your RV checklist and have everything you need, you’re ready for a fun and safe trip. Being prepared is the first step to having a great trip. Whether you plan to do camping or hiking on your RV trip, you’ll feel good knowing your vehicle will get you there safely.
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