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.
