Going on a road trip in your motorhome or with your travel trailer can create a lot of fun memories. Summertime on the open road, camping out, and exploring various landmarks throughout the country is a great way to spend time with your loved ones. However, going on an RV road trip without proper preparation could ruin the good times you have planned.
Accidents, the lack of certain supplies, and unforeseen breakdowns can put some roadblocks in front of your path to enjoyment. By following some simple RV tips, you can be protected from many preventable disasters so you can enjoy your excursion. Use this RV checklist to make sure you are properly stocking an RV, get the proper RV maintenance work done before your trip, and have the necessary tools on hand in case you need to make quick repairs.
Before Your Trip
Get motorhome insurance/RV insurance. If you have an RV, motorhome, camper, or travel trailer, it is worthwhile to get an insurance policy that covers your liability and any damages done should an accident occur.
Map out your road trip. While GPS systems are convenient, they could easily malfunction or run out of battery power. It is important to have a paper map with your routes plotted out in case they fail.
Research and make reservations at camp sites. You’ll want to ensure that campsites near your destination have room for you and your RV, so call ahead of time to reserve a spot. You’ll also want to research which campsites have certain amenities you may want such as WiFi and sewer hookups.
Supplies
It’s important to keep your RV fully stocked with the essentials along with creature comforts. Some items include:
Dishes, flatware, pots, pans, and other cooking utensils/tools
Nonperishable foods and canned goods
Drinkable water
Blankets, pillows, sheets, and bed linens
Toilet paper and toiletries
Flash lights
Cleaning supplies
Batteries
Chargers for phones, laptops, etc.
Entertainment (books, board games, toys, etc.)
First aid kit
Tool kit (more on that below)
Maintenance Needs
There is nothing worse than something breaking that will interfere with your RV vacation. Here are some items to inspect and tasks to have done before committing to your trip:
Check brakes
Check tire pressure and inspect tires to see if they’re worn out
Check fluid levels for oil, power steering, coolant, windshield wipers, etc.
Check your car battery
Check your oil, change if necessary
Clean your holding tanks with vinegar/water/bleach mixture to flush and clean your RV’s water system
Inspect the hot water heater, drain it every 6 months
Clean and check the refrigerator for leaks or cracks
Test your generator and check the belts
Clean and check the A/C unit for leaks
Check engine belts for cracks or wear
Check the furnace for proper ventilation
Test smoke detectors
Check the exterior for any dents or damage
Check the roof for leaks
Tools
Having a well-stocked tool kit in your RV can be handy in case you need to make some troublesome yet minor fixes. Here are some tools you should include in your kit:
½-inch drive socket set
⅜-inch drive ratchet set
Crescent wrench
Combination wrenches
Assortment of screwdrivers, both flatheads and Phillips head
Hammer
Locking pliers
Needle-nose pliers
Wire Splicers
Butt connectors for wire splices
Cotter pins
Hoses
Clean rags
Electrical circuit checker
Electrical test light/digital multimeter
Spark-plug socket (make sure it fits your engine’s size)
Electrical tape
Duct tape
Extra fuses/light bulbs
Work gloves
Jumper cables
Wire crimper
Extra motor oil
Extra transmission fluid
WD-40
Once you have everything prepared, you’re more likely to have a safe, fun RV adventure.
A great way to stay protected and ease your mind when traveling in your RV is to have a quality motorhome insurance policy. Freeway Insurance searches through top insurance companies to find the best RV insurance policy for your needs at a price you can afford. Call (800) 777-5620 to speak to a live agent to get a free quote or request a free motorhome insurance quote online.
