RV travel has been a popular choice for vacations in recent years, providing travelers with the freedom to explore the great outdoors while still enjoying the comforts of home. However, choosing the right RV for your trip can be a daunting task, especially for first-time renters. Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect RV for your next adventure.

Types of RVs

There are several types of RVs to choose from, each with its own unique features and advantages. Class A motorhomes are the largest and most luxurious, offering spacious living areas and amenities such as full kitchens and bathrooms. Those of class B campervans are smaller and more agile, making them a great choice for travelers who want to explore cities and national parks. Lastly, class C motorhomes are a mid-size option that combines the features of both Class A and Class B RVs. Travel trailers and fifth-wheel trailers are towable RVs that can be attached to a pickup truck or SUV, providing travelers with the flexibility to detach and explore once they reach their destination.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an RV

When choosing an RV, there are several factors to consider. Size and sleeping capacity are important, as you’ll want to ensure that everyone in your group has a comfortable place to sleep. Amenities such as kitchens and bathrooms can also be important, depending on the length of your trip and your preferred level of comfort. Budget is also a key consideration, as RV rental prices can vary widely depending on the type of RV and the rental company.

Another important factor to consider is driving experience and comfort level. If you’re not used to driving a large vehicle, a Class A motorhome may not be the best choice. It’s important to choose an RV that you feel comfortable driving and that you can safely maneuver on the roads. Additionally, campground restrictions and accessibility should be taken into account. Some campgrounds have size restrictions and may not be able to accommodate larger RVs.

Renting an RV

Renting an RV can be a great way to try out RV travel without committing to purchasing an RV. There are many advantages to renting. This would include the ability to choose the perfect RV for your trip, the ability to upgrade or downgrade as needed, and the flexibility to plan your trip around your rental period. When renting an RV, it’s important to choose a reliable rental company. Read reviews and check the company’s policies to ensure that they have a good reputation and that they offer the services and amenities that you need.

Preparing for Your Trip

Once you’ve chosen the perfect RV and rental company, it’s important to prepare for your trip. Packing essentials for an RV trip may include bedding, towels, kitchen supplies, and outdoor gear such as chairs and a grill. Safety tips for driving and camping in an RV should also be taken into consideration. RVs require a different driving approach than regular vehicles, and it’s important to practice safety on the road. Additionally, campground safety tips such as setting up camp in a level spot and ensuring that your RV is properly secured should be followed.

Planning your route and itinerary is also an important step in preparing for your trip. Consider the length of your trip, the destinations that you want to visit, and any activities that you want to participate in. Make sure that you have a rough itinerary planned, but leave room for flexibility and spontaneity.

Conclusion

Finding the right RV for your trip is an important step in ensuring a successful and enjoyable RV vacation. Take the time to research the different types of RVs and rental companies in your area to find the perfect match for your needs. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can have a fantastic RV adventure that you’ll never forget. Once you’re done choosing the RV to rent out, the next thing you need to figure out is how to prepare for emergencies.

Roadtrips are fun and can help you unwind when the daily grind gets too tiring. You can go on a road trip at any time of year that you want but there is something about going on a road trip during the summertime that makes it feel special and relaxing. One of the best times to go on a road trip is during summertime. If you are planning to go on a summer road trip, there are a few things you need to know.

What to take on a road trip during the summertime?

The first thing you need to think about is food. You need to bring enough supplies for your road trip. This may include food, drinks, snacks, and any other items that you may need to make sure your trip goes smoothly. Make sure you pack water for when the temperatures rise during the day so you can stay hydrated. It’s also a good idea to bring some extra sunscreen so you can protect your skin.

When it comes to clothing, you should bring the right clothes for the temperature and the weather that you are expecting. Lightweight, breathable fabrics will help keep you cool during the hot days while a sweater or jacket may come in handy when temperatures drop at night.

Finally, don’t forget to bring some entertainment! Listening to music, reading a book, or bringing a few board games are great ways to keep yourself occupied while you’re on the road. By being prepared and taking the right supplies with you, your summertime road trip can be both fun and enjoyable.

How to prepare for a road trip during the summertime?

Before you set off on your road trip, there are some essential things to take care of. First, make sure your car is in good condition and that it has been serviced recently. Check the tire pressure, and oil levels, and ensure that all lights are working properly. It’s also important to check the weather forecast ahead of time so you know what to expect.

It’s always a good idea to make sure you have an emergency kit in your car, just in case. This should include items such as a flashlight, first aid kit, jumper cables, and other necessary items. It’s also important to map out your route ahead of time, so you can plan your stops and make sure you know exactly where you’re going.

What to avoid doing on a road trip during the summertime?

It’s important to keep in mind that you should avoid some activities while on the road during summertime. This includes texting or talking on the phone while driving, as this can be dangerous and illegal. You should also avoid drinking alcohol if you are behind the wheel, as this could lead to serious consequences if you get caught by law enforcement.

In addition, make sure to plan for regular breaks so that you can stay alert and refreshed throughout your journey. Taking a break from driving allows your eyes and body to rest, which reduces fatigue and helps you remain focused while behind the wheel. Finally, make sure to check the weather regularly during your trip in order to stay informed of any potential storms or other hazardous conditions that could affect your driving.

Tips for staying safe while driving long distances during summertime

When it comes to driving long distances during the summertime, safety should be your top priority. Make sure you are well rested before setting off, and take regular breaks as needed. It is also important to check the weather forecast in order to be aware of any storms or other hazardous conditions that could pose a danger while on the road.

Additionally, make sure to keep an eye out for other drivers who may not be following the rules of the road or paying attention to their surroundings. Finally, if you encounter any car trouble while on your road trip, make sure to pull over somewhere safe and call for assistance if needed.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your summer road trip is both fun and safe

By following these tips, you can ensure that your road trip during summertime is both safe and fun! Go ahead and hit the road for an adventure-filled journey. Happy travels!

RVing can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to keep yourself entertained during long trips. You can do this by bringing along books, games, movies, and other forms of entertainment. You can also get out and explore the areas you’re visiting, go hiking or visit local attractions. By planning ahead and being prepared, you can make sure your travels are enjoyable and stress-free!

Find Books To Read Before Your Trip

Books are a great way to pass the time while traveling in an RV. If you’re looking for something to read, consider bringing along a couple of books that you can rotate through. This way, you’ll always have something new to read, and you won’t get bored with just one book. Games are another great option for entertainment while on the road. Games like cards or travel-sized board games are perfect for passing the time, and they’re also a great way to socialize with other travelers.

Bring A Movie Or Two To Watch On Your Trip

Movies can also be a great form of entertainment while traveling in an RV. If you have a laptop or tablet, you can bring along a movie or two to watch during your trip.

Visit Local Attractions And Go Hiking

One of the best ways to entertain yourself while traveling in an RV is to get out and explore the areas you’re visiting. Visit local attractions, go hiking, or just take in the sights and sounds of your surroundings. By getting out and exploring, you can make the most of your trip and create lasting memories.

Road Trip Games

Road trip games are another great way to pass the time while traveling in an RV. Games like “I Spy” or “20 Questions” can help you stay awake during long drives, and they’re also a lot of fun. If you have kids, there are plenty of kid-friendly road trip games that can help them stay entertained as well.

Pack Snacks And Drinks For The Road

If you’re traveling in an RV, it’s important to pack snacks and drinks for the road. This way, you won’t have to stop as often, and you’ll be able to stay hydrated and fueled during your trip. snacks like trail mix or granola bars are perfect for eating on the go, and they can help you avoid getting hangry while on your trip.

RVs offer a great way to travel and see various places like Colorado while enjoying all the comforts of home. However, like any other mode of transportation, they are not immune to problems. Here we will discuss some of the most common RV problems and their solutions, so you can be better prepared for your next road trip!

Leaking Roof

One of the most common RV problems is a leaking roof. This can be caused by a number of things, such as loose or missing seals, cracks in the roof, or even tree limbs falling on the roof. If you suspect your roof is leaking, the best thing to do is have it inspected by a professional. In most cases, leaks can be easily repaired.

Electrical Issues

Another common problem is electrical issues. This can range from blown fuses to more serious problems like faulty wiring. If you are having electrical issues, it is best to consult with a qualified RV technician. They will be able to diagnose and repair the problem quickly and safely.

Plumbing Problems

A third common RV issue is plumbing problems. These can be anything from clogged toilets to leaks in the pipes. As with electrical issues, it is best to consult with a professional if you are having plumbing problems. They will be able to diagnose and repair the problem quickly and safely.

Structural Issues

Another common RV issue is structural problems. These can include things like a cracked foundation, warped walls, or even collapsed roofs. If you suspect your RV has structural issues, it is important to have it inspected by a professional as soon as possible. These types of problems can be very dangerous and should not be ignored.

While there are many common RV problems that you may encounter on your travels, don’t let them stop you from enjoying the open road! With a little knowledge and preparation, you can easily solve most of these problems yourself. So get out there and start exploring!

How To Prevent RV Problems From Happening In The First Place?

As with anything else, the best way to deal with RV problems is to prevent them from happening in the first place. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:

Regularly inspect your RV for any potential issues.

This includes checking the roof, seals, windows, and doors for any cracks or leaks. By doing this, you won’t be surprised to find any problems with your RV while you are on the road. You’d also be able to discover if there is a potential problem in its early stages so you can remedy them immediately and avoid costly repairs.

Pay close attention to your RV’s electrical and plumbing systems.

Be sure to check for any loose wires or fittings, as well as any leaks in the pipes. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, be sure to have it checked out by a professional right away.

Be sure to properly maintain your RV.

This includes regularly cleaning it, checking the tires, and making sure all the fluids are at their proper levels. By doing this, you can avoid many potential problems with your RV down the road.

If you’re looking for a new and exciting way to explore Colorado, consider taking your RV for a spin through the state. With its many campgrounds, stunning scenery, and ample opportunity for outdoor activities, you’ll never run out of things to do when you’re on the road. Let me tell you about my experience when we once took the RV on our vacation through Colorado. Here are also some tips to help make the most of your trip!

Where Do You Want To Go?

The first thing you should do before your journey is make a list of all the places you want to visit. Do some research beforehand and figure out where you want to end up. Some good options are Black Canyon of The Gunnison National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, or Pikes Peak State Park. The Black Canyon is our personal favorite. It’s simply gorgeous, especially at sunrise and sunset.

When setting up your trip itinerary, keep in mind that many national parks only allow RV access to certain parts of the park starting at specific times during the day. This is why it’s important to check out what time you can access each location before choosing where you want to go. That’s one of the crucial mistakes we made and you’d want to avoid the hassle of going through all that.

When Are You Going?

Make sure to pick a time of the year that is suitable for your trip. It’s best to plan it during the summer so you can get more daylight hours and have enough time to visit all the amazing parks across Colorado. The weather in this state is relatively mild throughout most of the year, which makes any time good for travel.

We were lucky to go during the summer, but it would be nice to see other seasons as well. The fall is especially beautiful in Colorado with all the leaves changing colors. If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, then winter would be your best time to go.

Options For RVs In Colorado

When it comes to finding a place for your RV to stay each night, there are many options available to you. Many people like to stay at RV parks, but we prefer more natural and secluded campsites.

We suggest checking out online resources to help you find the best camping spots in Colorado. There are quite a few websites that provide detailed descriptions of all the campgrounds in this state. The only downside is that many of them require reservations well in advance, which could be challenging if you’re traveling at the last minute as we did. We had to wake up early in the morning to book all our spots before they were taken.

Another good option for RV owners is to stay at private properties that allow camping on their property under specific conditions. When staying at these kinds of places, it’s crucial to find out exactly what you need to do in order not to violate any rules and be respectful of your hosts.

Know What To Pack

The last thing you should consider when planning your trip is what to take with you. It might be a good idea to invest in camping equipment that will make things easier for you while on the road. You can even rent some stuff if you don’t have it at home but only plan this option if you’re not taking too much luggage with you.

We suggest taking food that doesn’t need to be cooked and a cooler with drinks, especially if you’re going to stay out in nature for a few days. Having a propane stove will also come in handy since it’s good for cooking without electricity or running water. You can even make your own coffee maker so you have hot coffee every morning.

As for clothes, make sure you take enough warm items since it can get chilly at night. Also, bring some bathing suits and sunglasses to make the most of your time in the sun. Of course, don’t forget about good hiking shoes or sneakers even if you only walk around town. You might also want to consider taking an atlas because GPS signals can be spotty in some areas.

You should also remember to bring all the camping equipment that you need such as lanterns, flashlights, and matches for lighting campfires. Since you’ll probably want to take a lot of pictures while traveling, don’t forget about your camera and chargers for all your electronic devices.

RV traveling through Colorado is the best way to experience the state’s distinct beauty. Start planning your trip now and visit all these amazing natural landmarks.

Are you stressed with work? Are the kids fed up with staying at home and being left with nothing to do but school work? Bring back life into your daily routine by taking a quick family vacation. There are fantastic places in the US where you can take some time off and just enjoy what life has to offer.

The pandemic has hit everyone and in different ways. However, that doesn’t mean you should let it stop you from unwinding and enjoying life. An RV is a great way to enjoy a vacation and still feel safe at this time. Apart from that, here are more reasons to consider a vacation on your RV.

A Vacation That Won’t Cost A Fortune

Whether you are renting out an RV or you have your own, taking one on a vacation proves to be cost-effective. You get to save on meals because you can prepare them on your own. RVs are fitted with amenities and tools that you need for cooking.

Staying in a hotel could feel luxurious but you won’t be staying in your room throughout the vacation. You’ll be going outside to enjoy the scenery or do other activities. Staying in an RV is comfortable enough and a lot more affordable.

A Great Way To Unplug

Let’s face it, nowadays we spend most of our time in front of a screen. You need to unplug and slow down too. You can do that with an RV vacation and just focus on nature’s scenery or what your vacation spot has to offer.

Although most RVs already come with WiFi, you can still enforce rules on your vacation to stay unplugged and just enjoy doing other things that don’t involve staring at a screen or using other devices.

Encourages You To Move

RV vacation spots offer lots of activities and adventures that you can do. You can hike, swim, kayak, bike, or just build a bonfire. All those things encourage you to move. There are different activities that adults and children alike will enjoy.

Go On An Adventure

Getting to your vacation spot with an RV is an adventure in itself. You get to decide which roads to take and there are so many different routes you can take. Plan to pass by different areas so that each family member gets to do or visit what sparks happiness in them.

Closer Family Ties

Doing activities with the whole family improves the family bond. We get to discover more about each other when we spend time doing things with each other. The RV vacation is a perfect time to do that.

It’s a great time to create memories. There can be unforgettable experiences that you get to tell each other for years to come. RV vacations aren’t only great good for families but for friends as well. You get to discover each other in a whole new way.

Having an adventure with an RV is popular not only for retired people but also for young families. There are still a lot of people whose happiest memories involve riding an RV and discovering different adventures that await them.

It is simply an affordable way to travel and have an adventure. Yes, there can be mishaps and discomforts as compared to just staying at home or a hotel but that’s all part of the fun.

Plus, it helps keep the family bond. When was the last time you actually did an activity as a whole family and enjoyed it? Even with the lockdowns, technology may have been used to distance ourselves from each other even if we live in the same house.

What better way to rekindle the bond and enjoy time with the family at the same time than by going on an adventure with your RV. If you are still not convinced that a family vacation on an RV is an awesome idea, read the following reasons below:

Makes Everyday Exciting

A family vacation in an RV is an exciting experience. Each day, you wake up and wonder what activities you’d be doing that day. Depending on where you go, there will certainly be a lot of things that you can do.

Even if the day’s schedule simply involves exploring nature, a kid’s curiosity and excitement can be infectious. Being observant with the things around helps them appreciate even the small things like the beauty of sunsets or the cold and refreshing feeling of washing their hands on flowing water.

Of course, there are also other far more exciting activities that you can do with the kids in camps or designated RV areas. Swimming in lakes, kayaking, building tents, and many others. These may be small things but could be very exciting and doing something new that we don’t usually do at home gives us fire to enjoy and live.

Eating Together

When was the last time everybody sat down together at the dinner table to eat as a family? Some still do this as a family but there are others who are too busy doing different things that they often eat whenever it is convenient.

Having a vacation in an RV with the family guarantees eating together. Apart from eating together, the family could also prepare the food together and help each other. Not only that, the meals prepared could be far healthier than what you get in fast foods just because you are hungry, running out of time, and need to eat.

Eating together isn’t just about nourishing your body. It also helps create a bond with the family as we tend to chat with each other as we eat. Of course, it would be best to leave all gadgets, cellphones, and computers when eating together.

A family meal shared by every member is a tradition that must go on. Vacation with an RV helps remind us of how great that feels.

Flexible And Relaxed Vacation

Vacationing on an RV gives you the leisure to travel and not be too strict with your itinerary. Sometimes, there are detours and adventures you decide to take as a family at the spur of the moment. These unplanned and unexpected activities or adventures turn out to be the most unforgettable ones that further bond the family together.

At times, even when things and activities have been planned, there are unforeseen circumstances that could push us to change those plans. Spontaneity adds to the excitement. There is thrill and happiness in doing unexpected things.

An Affordable Vacation

Travelling can be costly, especially if you have a huge family. However, using an RV helps significantly cut down on cost. It can save you on expenses when it comes to airfare, hotel rooms, or the expenses of dining in restaurants. An RV can be an affordable substitute for all of these.

Apart from that, RVs are also spacious enough that you can bring some of the gears that you would be using on your vacation. Gear rental is a profitable business because many people don’t have their own gear at the site and have no choice but to rent them just to have the experience.

Unplugging

Gadgets are very useful to us all. However, we should not forget to take time to unplug. Sure you can use gadgets while on the road but when you take the kids for a walk, a hike, swimming, or other outdoor activities, they could leave those gadgets and unplug even for a while.

There are so many things to see and do outdoors without using gadgets, computers, or cellphones. Our country is blessed with lots of natural scenic sites. There are different parks that accept RVs so the family can have an unforgettable adventure.

One of the perks of traveling with an RV is having lots of outdoor adventures. If you have kids, you don’t only need to prepare yourself but your kids too. Kids enjoy the great outdoors but sometimes they can get grumpy, bored or just hungry because of your outdoor activities like hiking.

Even if kids might have more energy than adults, you can still make hiking a more pleasurable and comfortable experience for them. That is by equipping them with some of these essentials. This list includes those that I found worked really well with my kids and I hope they work well for yours too.

Zip-Of Pants

The temperature fluctuates and although most adults can handle it, kids can get a bit more grumpy when they are uncomfortable. With zip-off pants, they’d easily remove the leg part off when it is too hot or put it on when they feel cold.

Kids can easily do this on their own and it is more convenient than changing pants to shorts and vice versa. It prevents exposure of their undies and we know that many kids are uncomfortable with that. The detachable pieces are also lightweight and could easily fit inside their backpack.

Quality Hiking Sandals

Find high-quality hiking sandals that have a closed-toe. This makes sure that your kids’ toes are safe while exposure in some other parts makes it more breathable and comfortable. Waterproof ones are a must because hiking doesn’t just mean a rocky pathway. You may also get into some puddles on the way and kids just can’t resist making a splash.

Backpacks

Kids like feeling independent so getting them their own backpack where they can fit their essentials boosts their confidence. Brands that offer trekking gear for adults may also have small-sized backpacks that are light. These may or may not come in bright colors but they will serve their purpose well.

Utility Cases

Utility cases are multi-functional. For us, they double as storage for food, especially the ones that can get squished and squashed by the time the kids decide to eat them. These sturdy cases can also be used to contain different items that they want to collect through their hike.

Hats

Whether it is a sunhat or a regular stocking cap, hats are a must-have for kids. These can protect their eyes when hiking especially if they aren’t comfortable wearing their sunglasses at all times.

Best get them hats that are adjustable so that it could also grow with them. When choosing a hat, make sure you let your kids choose the styles that they like. This will make it more likely for them to use it. Just help them select the lightweight and durable ones.

Binoculars

Binoculars will make your hiking even more fun for your kids. They get to see all around them more clearly. They can even see some wildlife birds closely from afar with their binoculars. This simply makes exploring and hiking more fun and interesting for them.

Water Bottles

When shopping for water bottles, find those that are leak-proof, easy to drink from, and those that are just the perfect size for your kids’ backpack. Dishwasher safe ones are also a bonus feature for you. It is best to stick with the ones that are sleek so they can easily fit the pocket of their backpack. This makes them more accessible for your kids.

Do you think I forgot anything essential? Are there any other essential hiking gear essentials that worked well with your kids that you can share? I’d greatly appreciate it if you can share those with me in the comments section. Thanks!

Towing a 5th wheel camper can seem a bit intimidating, especially if it’s your first time.

Some trailers can reach as much as 53 feet in length. You may be thinking that such a massive vehicle is bound to outweigh the towing truck, and you’d be right because it can.

With that said, you can successfully maneuver a 5th wheeler if you do it properly. So here’s everything you need to know as an RVer about 5th wheel towing.

Getting the weights right

The first thing you need to know is the weight of the 5th wheeler. This means the weight of the vehicle when empty, but also its weight when attached to the truck.

This will help you make sure you don’t exceed the weight limit when you want to match your truck to the trailer.

The manufacturer will usually provide you with information regarding the 5th wheeler’s weight -you can check their website or the user’s manual if you have one. If you want to be absolutely sure, you can always use an industrial scale to double-check.

Connecting the 5th wheel hitch

Hitching a 5th wheel to a truck isn’t the easiest tow. With that said, once you have that rear hitch mounted, that is after installation, it becomes more manageable. To begin the installation, make sure that you have properly matched the power of your truck to the right weight in the 5th wheel.

If the 5th wheel is large enough that it requires a hitch to be mounted on the bed of the truck, you need to make sure that the truck has enough power to handle this process. With the right size and sufficient room to accommodate the 5th wheel, you’re ready for installation.

Towing the 5th wheel

Now comes the crucial part, which is moving that giant trailer around. If you’ve closely followed the previous steps, then you should have a 5th wheel of the right weight fixed to a vehicle that can handle it. Keep in mind that the overhang of the trailer shouldn’t be too close to avoid it bumping into your truck when you’re making a turn.

First, make sure the connections of your hitch are locked shut and the kingpin fits into the hitch cradle before you start driving.

Next, secure the emergency breakaway line so that it’s connected to the hitch. Raise the jacks so the truck is supporting the trailer. And finally, ease out onto the road and make sure you use your mirrors.

On The Road

Big mirrors that are far out from the truck are your best friend!

They will allow you to see the trailer walls as well as the tires. This way, you will be able to see whether the 5th wheel is running low -or worse if it’s completely blown.

When making a turn, go slow and use your mirror to check if the 5th wheel is clearing the corner. Also, note that the rear of the trailer will turn wider than the truck path, so make sure you allow enough space for this.

Don’t forget to check your tires for pressure and the torque on lug nuts to avoid any blowouts.

Next up:  How I prep for my RV trips…

How I Prepare For Emergencies Before An RV Trip

While preparations for your next RV trip can be an exciting exercise, many (like myself), feel somewhat overwhelmed at the prospect of planning out stays and activities for a family of five in a home on wheels.

My mind seems to always go to the worst-case scenarios (which drive my husband and kids absolutely bonkers) as I admittedly have an inherent need for a thorough plan in place for every scenario.

Eventually, thankfully, I get through it, and once the planning process is over, I can focus on having actual FUN!

The benefit for you – fellow reader – is that I’ve come up with the bones of a good emergency preparedness for RVer that you can use on your next RV adventure.

Step1:  Roadside Assistance

The first step we take as a family is plot the time and trajectory of our trip, which for me – this is the most fun part of the planning process.

The end result is a list of places and dates we’ll be staying.

To state the obvious:  this is important information for not only campground reservations and event planning, it also lays the groundwork for the roadside assistance number I need to look up just in case our RV gets a flat, engine blows, or battery dies (among other things).

In a notebook I Google the date and destination, and jot-down the best rated towing service or roadside service companies in the area for quick reference.

(If you’re ever in the Dallas Fort Worth area, I can vouch for Premio Towing Service – they’ve helped us here recently when our Starcraft RV wouldn’t get out of the driveway!)

While this may seem like overkill, I’ve actually used the list two times in as many years for a flat tire and dead battery, once where the service had to tow the RV to an auto repair location.

Step 2:  Vehicle Maintenance

Closely related to emergency roadside assistance is proper vehicle maintenance.

The idea is:  if you properly maintain the RV, you can avoid preventable vehicle issues.

Just like any gas or diesel-powered piece of machinery, your RV needs to be properly serviced on regular intervals.

So before you leave ensure that your RV has had it’s…

• Oil changed
• Transmission fluids filled
• Coolant fluids topped off
• Windshield wiper fluid topped off
• Hydraulic Brakes – check pads . rotors/ drums / linings checked (! Super Important if you’re driving in the mountains)
• Air Brakes – check / replace filters (I like to have one on hand in case of failure)
• Battery tested
• Belts checked / replaced
• Tires – aligned and checked for wear
• Spare tire – properly inflated

Also note, I keep a log of the PM items we’ve completed with dates in the glove department so I can reference it later.

Step 3.  Pack An Emergency Kit

Every vehicle should have a proper emergency kit in case of an emergency roadside need.  Prior to the trip I make sure to check the integrity of the kit items as many of the items can expire.  Here’s what we pack before every trip

• 3 Gallons of drinking water
• Jumper cables
• Multi-purpose utility tool
• Reflective road triangles
• Reflective vests for the family
• Compass
• First Aid kit (make sure it has a snake bit kit!)
• High, non-expiring dry foods, bars, fruit, and / or candy. Enough for 2 days.
• Portable cell phone charger / power banks (ensure that it is charged prior to departure
• Fire Extinguisher
• Rain ponchos
• Warm blankets or sleeping bags, one for every family member
• Shovel
• Cash
• Hiking shoes
• Warm Clothes
• Spare tire jack
• Sewing Kit
• Bug Spray
• Emergency toolbox (wrenches, screwdriver, rope, ratchet straps, duct tape)
• Paper map of areas visiting

Step 4:  Pre-Launch Checklist

A few days before we leave I like to go over a checklist of RV-specific items that should be prepped prior to the trip.  These include:

• RV Jacks: Test before leaving and make sure they are up prior to pulling out of the driveway
• Water Heater / Filters
• RV Generator: Empty old gas, top-off with new and run generator prior to leaving.  Make sure you have all necessary wires and cable stowed.
• Carbon Monoxide / Smoke Detectors Check
• Sideout Check: If you have a sideout, ensure that the hydraulic work smoothly
• Exterior / Interior Lights: Ensure all lights turn on and function.  Have spare bulbs on hand
• A/C Check

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Hopefully this comprehensive list above has helped take some of the worry out of planning for emergencies so you can concentrate on looking forward to planning the fun adventures on your next RV Roadtrip.