Are you a recreational vehicle owner looking to get the most out of your travel lifestyle? Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time RVer, there are plenty of tips and tricks to ensure you get all possible from your recreational vehicle. From finding off-the-beaten-track campgrounds to making sure essential items make their way with you on each trip, these 10 tips will help ensure that every journey is as enjoyable as possible.
1. Invest in a quality Recreational Vehicle (RV) that is suitable for your needs:
Investing in a quality RV is essential for a successful journey. A good RV should be well suited to meet the needs of individuals, couples, or families, depending on their size and travel requirements. When choosing an RV, make sure you look for one that offers the amenities you need including comfortable beds, storage space, and quality kitchen appliances.
Before purchasing an RV, it may be a good idea to rent one for the first couple of trips.
Before purchasing an RV, it may be a good idea to rent one for the first couple of trips. This will help you gain a better understanding of RV travel and the lifestyle that comes along with it. Not only is RV rental an economical way to try out different types and sizes of recreational vehicles, but it also allows you to figure out the type and size RV that will best suit your family’s lifestyle. One popular rental company is RVnGO. We talked with them on the podcast. If you are going to rent an RV, it is a good idea to listen to those episodes so you can learn how the rental process works.
Once you find the RV for you, search for that RV and find the best price. RVs are depreciating assets, so the best price you can find will mean less depreciation. If you are buying new, there are many dealers who compete for your business. Use this competition to your advantage and bargain for a better deal.
2. Do your research before setting out:
Familiarize yourself with the area you’re planning to explore and ensure you have all the necessary information so your trip runs as smoothly as possible. Planning ahead saves time, money, and stress! There are several apps designed for planning an RV trip as well as what to do at your destination. Make sure to research local attractions and make reservations for camping, sightseeing, or activities in advance.
Take advantage of advances in mobile technology to make your RV trip more enjoyable. Download apps such as AllStays or Campendium to research campgrounds, read reviews and even make reservations. RV Life is a great app for those new to RVing. Many features will make your planning easier. For instance, you can filter campsites by location, amenities, or price. The app also includes a trip planner and RV forums where you can ask questions and get advice from experienced RVers. We have also had RV Life on the show. Take a listen to our episode with them.
3. Make safety a priority:
Before embarking on any journey, ensure your recreational vehicle is up-to-date with its maintenance and safety precautions. This includes checking the tires, brakes, and fluids, topping up the fuel tank, and ensuring all windows and doors are secure. Nothing is worse than starting on a trip and having a breakdown or other maintenance problems because of an issue that was preventable with a good pre-trip inspection and regular preventive maintenance.
In addition to vehicle maintenance, it is important to ensure you have the appropriate safety equipment. Make sure someone on the trip is certified in CPR and first aid, and always carry a first aid kit in your recreational vehicle. Surviveware is the company Kenny and I both use for first aid supplies. We have also had them on the podcast to talk about their equipment. Bring along a reliable GPS device to get around safely and easily. Lastly, make sure you have adequate fire extinguishers for the RV. There are RV fires in the news all the time, so it is important to be ready in case it happens to you.
Finally, stay up-to-date on the weather forecast and ensure you are prepared for extreme weather conditions.
4. Keep your RV well-stocked:
Before departing on a journey, ensure you have all the essentials packed away – from food and drink to entertainment items like books or board games for those rainy days. More importantly, ensure enough water in your holding tanks and propane. You don’t want to be caught short in the middle of nowhere. If your RV furnace runs on propane, it is important that it does not run out in the middle of the night.
Additionally, it is important to pack camping items such as a hammock, folding chairs, and blankets. These will come in handy when you arrive at your destination and want to spend some time outside.
Also, don’t forget that the RV has some built-in amenities. Depending on the type of RV you choose, these amenities can range from basic necessities, such as cooking equipment and bathrooms, to luxurious features, such as entertainment systems and air-conditioning.
Some of the most common amenities included in recreational vehicles are:
- Refrigerator/freezer
- Heating and air conditioning system
- Kitchen with sink, stove, and microwave oven
- Toilet, shower, and hot water heater
- Entertainment system with television and DVD player
- Generator for auxiliary power
- Satellite dish for local channels
- Outdoor awning for shade
- Built-in storage compartments.
By utilizing the full potential of these amenities, you can make your RV trips even more enjoyable and comfortable.
5. Make technology work for you:
You can also invest in solar panels to power your RV while on the road and technologies like WiFi boosters to stay connected with family and friends even when you’re miles away. Even something as simple as replacing your lead acid batteries with lithium batteries can make RV travel much more enjoyable and reduce your battery anxiety. Our favorite source for electrical upgrades is the folks at Battle Born Batteries.
Numerous other smart solutions are available these days, such as RV-specific GPS devices, backup cameras for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces, and Bluetooth-enabled speakers that can make your road trips much more fun.
By using technology to its full potential, you can unlock the full potential of recreational vehicle travel and have an even better experience.
6. Have essential items on hand:
Many campgrounds provide amenities such as electric and sewer hook-ups, but it’s important to have your own supplies in case you don’t find a park with these services available. Make sure you have power cords, fresh water hoses, and adapters to get the most out of your recreational vehicle. Also, don’t forget to stock up on basic items like food and cleaning supplies to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
7. Know the rules:
Every campground has its own set of rules and regulations that must be followed to ensure everyone’s safety. Be sure to read and understand the rules before you arrive to avoid any potential problems. This includes noise levels, driving speeds, quiet hours, and more – know them all ahead of time so that your stay is enjoyable for everyone.
8. Have a backup plan:
It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan, just in case your RV breaks down or you find yourself in an emergency. Have some cash on hand and keep the phone numbers of nearby tow truck companies so you can get back on track quickly. We find having roadside assistance is worth it for RV travels.
9. Be prepared for weather changes:
Weather patterns can change quickly, so ensure you’re prepared for any situation. Pack plenty of warm and waterproof clothing, and have an alternate plan if you are stuck indoors due to inclement weather. This is when tip #4 really comes in handy.
10. Make the most of your recreational vehicle travel lifestyle!
Whether visiting popular attractions or exploring hidden gems, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this unique lifestyle. Get out on the open road as soon and as often as possible. Take advantage of all the opportunities that await you, and enjoy every moment!
RVing can be a great way to see the country and spend time with family or friends. By following these 10 tips, you can ensure that your trip is enjoyable and successful. Do you have other tips for making an RV trip fun and stress-free? Let us know in the comments!
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