Last Updated on November 25, 2024
Planning an RV trip can be both exciting and daunting, especially if you're new to the RV lifestyle. With so many things to consider, it's easy to overlook some critical aspects that could make or break your journey. But fear not! We've compiled a comprehensive list of 12 essential steps to ensure your RV trip is as smooth as possible. We found a great video from the Endless RVing YouTube channel that provides a thorough checklist for pre-trip preparations. Below, we’ve highlighted the key points from their video, and make sure to watch the entire video at the bottom of the article for more in-depth tips and tricks. Let's dive in and get your RV ready for the road!
1. Check Your Tires
Before hitting the road, it's crucial to inspect your tires. This includes both the motorhome tires and those on your tow or towed vehicle. Look for any tears, rips, bubbles, or signs of dry rot. Also, check the tread for uneven wear and ensure your air pressure is at the correct level, especially in cold weather. Remember, nothing ruins a trip faster than a flat tire in the middle of nowhere. And hey, if you’re feeling fancy, you could even name your tires – they’re practically family, right?
2. Inspect External Safety Features
Your RV's external safety features are vital for a safe journey. Check your marker lights, windshield for cracks, headlamps, turn signals, and horn. Don’t forget the wipers – they might seem insignificant, but you’ll miss them when you’re driving through a torrential downpour. If you’ve ever tried to drive without wipers in the rain, you know it’s like trying to watch TV through a car wash.
3. Verify Fluid Levels
Fluid levels are the lifeblood of your RV. Ensure your wiper fluid, motor oil, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid are all at appropriate levels. Also, check your battery for corrosion and ensure it's fully charged. Think of it as giving your RV a little spa day – it deserves to feel pampered before a big trip.
4. Test the Generator
If your RV is equipped with a generator, make sure it’s in good working order. Check the oil and air filter, and run it to ensure there are no issues. There's nothing worse than planning to use your generator only to find out it’s on strike. Generators can be temperamental like that – divas of the RV world.
5. Ensure HVAC System Functionality
Your HVAC system, including the air conditioning, heat pumps, and propane furnace, needs to be in top shape. Make sure you have enough propane and that all systems are functioning correctly. Trust us, you don’t want to find out your heater is broken when you’re camping in 18° weather – unless you enjoy turning into a human popsicle.
6. Check Appliances
Make sure all your RV appliances are working. Test the microwave, burners, and refrigerator. A malfunctioning fridge can turn your trip into a diet you didn’t sign up for. And let’s be honest, no one wants to survive on warm soda and questionable cheese.
7. Dewinterize Your RV
If you’ve winterized your RV, you’ll need to dewinterize it before using the water system. Check for leaks in the lines and ensure everything is running smoothly. Think of it as waking your RV up from hibernation – it needs a little stretch and yawn before getting back to work.
8. Test Slide Rooms
If your RV has slide rooms, make sure they’re working properly. The last thing you want is to arrive at your destination and find out your slides are stuck. It’s like trying to fit into your high school jeans – sometimes, things just don’t slide out as easily as they used to.
9. Check Awnings and Levelers
Run your awnings in and out to ensure they’re not frozen and check your levelers. A broken leveler can turn your cozy RV into a funhouse ride. And while funhouses are great, they’re not so fun when you’re trying to sleep.
10. Inspect Battery and Inverter
Ensure your battery and inverter are functioning correctly. Check battery levels and verify that the inverter is working. It’s like making sure your phone is charged – except your RV can’t borrow a charger from the car next door.
11. Fill Freshwater and Empty Tanks
Before you set off, fill your freshwater tank and empty your black and gray tanks. Make sure you have enough chemicals in the black tank to control odors. If you’ve ever smelled a neglected black tank, you know it’s a scent that sticks with you – and not in a good way.
12. Conduct a Final Walk-Around
Finally, do a thorough walk-around of your RV. Check the exterior for any issues, look under the chassis, and inspect the seals. It’s like a pre-flight check – but for your home on wheels. Plus, it gives you a chance to show off your RV to the neighbors one last time before you hit the road.
For a more detailed guide, be sure to watch the full video from Endless RVing:
