RVing for the first time? 9 tips for newbies I wish I’d known during my first trip
- Make a practice run…or two…or ten.
- Plan a trip with built-in downtime
- Remember your toolkit
- Pack sufficient cookware
- Use leveling blocks
- Get into your campground before dark
- Download camping apps
- Use RV toilet essentials
- Take time to enjoy the journey
1. Make a practice run…or two…or ten.
Before you embark on your first RVing adventure, make sure you practice driving your vehicle and towing a trailer. This is especially important if you’re new to either task. Make sure you have the proper hitch weight and tongue weight before hitting the road, and practice hooking up and unhooking from campgrounds. It’s also a good idea to practice changing lanes, backing up, parking in tight spaces, and other maneuvers that will come in handy while RVing. If possible, try renting an RV or borrowing one from family or friends so you can get a better feel for how it handles on the road. It may take a few tries before you get comfortable behind the wheel of your new home away from home – but it’ll be worth it!
2. Plan a trip with built-in downtime
RV trips can be incredibly rewarding, but they can also be tiring and overwhelming if you don’t plan for some downtime. Make sure to build in time to relax and enjoy the scenery, especially if you’re taking a long trip. Research attractions ahead of time so you know what to expect when you get there. Take advantage of free activities like hiking, bird watching, swimming, or simply enjoying the scenery from your RV or a nearby park bench. Camping is about getting away from it all and learning to appreciate the simple things in life – so make sure to include plenty of restful moments on your trip.
3. Remember your toolkit
No matter how experienced you are at RVing, it’s always a good idea to bring along your toolkit. Things like pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers and basic first aid supplies can be invaluable in a pinch. Put together a toolkit specifically for RV travel so that everything you need is organized and easy to find. Make sure to include any specific tools you might need for maintaining your rig; for instance, if you have a trailer with brakes or electric jacks, make sure to include the right tools for those systems. It’s also wise to bring along any spare parts that might be necessary, such as extra hoses or fuses. Finally, don’t forget the all-important duct tape and zip ties! With the right combination of tools and supplies on hand, you’ll be better prepared for potential maintenance issues when on the road.
4. Pack sufficient cookware
Cooking on the go is one of the best parts of RV life, but you’ll need the right cookware to make it happen. You don’t have to break the bank on specialized RV cookware, but having a few basics on hand will make cooking much easier. Start with a good set of pots and pans, as well as a skillet or griddle. Make sure they are made from lightweight materials like aluminum or stainless steel so that they won’t weigh you down when traveling. You’ll also want to include basic utensils such as knives, spoons and spatulas. Finally, don’t forget about storage containers for leftovers. Invest in quality containers that are designed to keep food fresh while you travel. With the right cookware in tow, you’ll be able to whip up delicious meals no matter where your adventure takes you.
5. Use leveling blocks
Traveling in an RV can be a fun and exciting experience, but you’ll need to make sure your vehicle is level before you set off. If your trailer or motorhome isn’t properly leveled, you may find yourself dealing with uncomfortable bouncing and swaying while on the road. To avoid this issue, it’s important to use leveling blocks when setting up camp. These simple wooden or plastic blocks are designed to raise one side of your RV so that it is perfectly level. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can choose the ones that best fit your needs. It’s also worth mentioning that having a few extra blocks on hand can be useful in case you need them for other purposes. So be sure to stock up on some leveling blocks before heading out on your first RV adventure!
6. Get into your campground before dark
One of the best tips for first-time RVers is to make sure you get into your campground before dark. This will give you plenty of time to set up your campsite and ensure that everything is secure. It also gives you a chance to familiarize yourself with the grounds, so you know where all the important amenities are located. Plus, driving in the dark can be difficult, especially if you’re not used to navigating unfamiliar roads and landscapes. So try to plan your trips around daylight hours as much as possible, and if you find yourself needing to drive after dark, be sure to take it slow and stay extra alert!
7. Download camping apps
Camping apps are an invaluable tool for first-time RVers. These apps provide a wealth of helpful information, such as the location of nearby campgrounds, product reviews on RVs and camping gear, and even floor plans of different models to help you pick the perfect RV. They can also be used to book campsites and make reservations ahead of time. With these apps at your fingertips, it’s easy to plan your trip with confidence knowing that you have all the resources you need right in the palm of your hand. So don’t forget to download a few camping apps before you hit the road – they could save you a lot of stress!
8. Use RV toilet essentials
It is important for first-time RVers to understand how to use their RV’s toilet properly. When you are on the road, it is essential that you have the right toilet essentials with you. It is especially important to make sure you have a reliable black tank deodorizer such as RV Digest-It, which helps keep your black tank odor free. You’ll also want to stock up on RV toilet paper, which is specially designed not to clog your tanks. Additionally, it’s helpful to have a flex hose so that you can easily hook up your waste tanks to the sewer connection at campgrounds. Finally, don’t forget to purchase a good quality sewer hose that won’t leak or crack over time. With these essentials in tow, you can rest easy knowing that your RV’s toilet systems will be running smoothly throughout your trip!
9. Take time to enjoy the journey
RVing is all about the journey, not just the destination. While it can be tempting to hurry from one place to another, it’s important to take time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings as you travel. Stop at scenic overlooks during your travels and get out for a hike or two if you have time. Take advantage of some of the free activities available in many campgrounds such as nature walks, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. And don’t forget to take pictures along the way – you’ll want tangible reminders of your experiences down the road! RVing is an adventure unlike any other – savor every moment and enjoy your travels!
