You bought an RV! Now what?

1. Know Your RV

RV’ing is like dating—first, you have to know what you’re getting into. Whether you have a compact camper van, a travel trailer, or a luxurious motorhome, familiarize yourself with all its features. Understand how the electrical system works, how to dump the waste tanks (a crucial skill!), and how to set up camp. Take it for a few test drives and practice parking. Trust me, nothing says "newbie" like trying to reverse a 30-foot behemoth into a campsite for the first time.

2. Test Everything Before You Leave

Before you head out, test all systems in your RV. Make sure the fridge works, the water pump is functioning, and the slide-outs operate smoothly. There’s nothing worse than discovering your RV has issues when you’re 100 miles from the nearest repair shop.

3. Plan Your Route (But Stay Flexible)

Mapping out your journey is exciting. Use apps like RV Trip Wizard or Roadtrippers to plan your route and find the best campgrounds. But remember, flexibility is key. Road closures, weather changes, or a sudden urge to detour to the World’s Largest Ball of Twine are part of the adventure.

4. Learn RV Etiquette

RV parks are communities, and like any community, there are unwritten rules. Keep your noise level down, especially at night. Clean up after yourself and your pets. Respect other campers' space—don’t traipse through their campsite as a shortcut.

5. Common Newbie Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

• Overpacking: Less is more. You don’t need five pairs of shoes for a weekend trip.
• Ignoring Weight Limits: Every RV has a weight limit. Overloading can be dangerous and illegal.
• Not Reserving Campsites: Popular campgrounds fill up fast. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Forgetting to Secure Items: Before driving, make sure everything inside your RV is secured. Otherwise, you’ll find your dishes shattered and clothes scattered.
• Skipping the Walkaround: Before driving off, do a walkaround to ensure everything is disconnected and stowed away.

6. Pack Smart (Think Essentials, Not Your Whole House) It’s tempting to bring everything you own, but space is limited. Stick to the essentials:

Must-Have Checklist:

• Toolkit: Including screwdrivers, pliers, duct tape, and a multi-tool.
• Leveling Blocks: Uneven campsites are a given.
• Water Pressure Regulator: Protects your RV’s plumbing.
• Sewer Hose Kit: Dumping waste isn't glamorous but necessary.
• Surge Protector: Safeguards your RV's electrical system.
• First Aid Kit: Because accidents happen.
• Cooking Supplies: Lightweight pots, pans, and utensils.
• Camping Chairs: For those fireside chats.
• Flashlights and Lanterns: Campgrounds get dark!

Find a comprehensive list in the RV Packing Basics section of our website.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Ride

Join RV Communities: Online forums and social media groups are gold mines for advice, tips, and support from experienced RVers.

Stay Safe: Invest in a good roadside assistance plan tailored for RVs. Breakdown services for these big rigs aren’t the same as for regular cars.

Embrace the Unexpected: Not everything will go according to plan, and that’s okay. Some of the best stories come from the unexpected detours and mishaps.

Starting your RV journey can be daunting, but with the right preparation and a sense of humor, it’s bound to be an unforgettable adventure.

So, pack those marshmallows, fire up the GPS, and get ready to create some incredible memories. Happy RV’ing, and may your roads be smooth and your campsites scenic!Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination—so sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.