What RV Camping Tips Should I Remember?

Whether you live in your recreational van full time or only use your RV a few times a year—it’s imperative to be prepared. 

From finding a place to park to making sure you don’t forget important things like your insurance card, there are many things to consider before heading out into the great wide open. 

Here are 10 questions RV owners should ask themselves to help make your next trip a little easier.

Write down the measurements of your rig on a piece of mask­ing paper and stick it to your dash­board. That way, you'll always remember what size your rig is. You could put up a photo of your rig next to your measurements.

Is It Important for the RV to be Leveled When Filling the Fresh Water Tank?

If you're planning to travel long distances in your recreational vehicle, make sure it's leveled properly. In the event you fail to do so, you could face a major problem when you arrive. There is a noticeable difference in the height of the front and rear wheels. It's because the tires aren't centered.

The difference in height between the front and rear axles causes the RV to tilt forward or backward. When the RV tilts forward, the weight of the trailer pulls down on the front axle, causing the tire to roll over the edge of the rim. This makes driving difficult since the wheel no longer tracks straight ahead.

RV owners often assume that leveling the vehicle is enough to keep things stable. But that's not necessarily true. It is still possible for the tires to move sideways even when they are centered on the rims. It's important to check the level every few days while traveling, so keep an eye on it.

Is It Important to Bring Basic Tool Kits?

Experts suggest bringing along a few basic tools to make minor repairs easier. If you are planning on traveling long distances, it’s important to pack a small tool kit that includes a Phillips and flathead screwdriver, pliers, an assortment of screws, a cordless drill with bits, and a first aid kit.

Is It Important to Research and Plan Your RV Route?

Invest in an RV travel planner to save you a lot of headaches later on. A mobile application dedicated to campers can provide notable points of interest and road hazards, including overpasses and roads accessible only to larger RVs.

These apps also include information about local attractions, campsites, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, hotels, and even grocery stores. Users can find nearby parks, trails, museums, zoos, beaches and golf courses. They can also see what type of amenities each park has, how many sites are available, and whether it’s pet friendly.

What Family-Friendly Games Should I Bring?

A board game can help you bond with your children while keeping them entertained during long car rides. You can play games like Candy Land, Scrabble, and Trivial Pursuit. If you want something a little more challenging, try Monopoly, Clue, or Risk. For younger kids, check out Chutes & Ladders, Sorry!, or Hungry Hungry Hippos.

Is It Important to Secure Loose Item Before Taking Off?

You've just finished cleaning up your campsite. You're ready to hit the road. But what about those pesky loose items that could cause damage to your rig? Before you head out, make sure everything is secure. If it isn't, you might find yourself dealing with a broken window, damaged flooring, or worse.

The most obvious way to prevent damage is to secure your belongings properly. This includes securing your bedding, electronics, kitchen appliances, and anything else that could fall off during travel.

How Important Is It to Be Updated With the Weather?

Surveys found that nearly 40% of people don't check the weather forecast before heading out into the great outdoors. This could lead to dangerous situations like getting caught in a thunderstorm without adequate shelter. If you're planning a camping trip, make sure to check the weather forecast ahead of time. You might want to consider packing some extra layers, just in case.