Preparing for Your First RV Trip

Posted by Stephanie on Oct 19th 2020

Preparing for Your First RV Trip

So, you pulled the trigger and purchased a recreational vehicle. Congratulations! Now all you need to do is plan your first trip so that it is a successful one. Planning is not rocket science, but there are some helpful tips to consider to ensure your adventure is one to remember.

An RV packing list looks a lot like what you would pack for car camping or backpacking. Pack essentials like wicking, warmth, and rain-resistant layers of clothing and adventure gear like backpack, first aid kit, headlamp, and trail shoes. One of the best things about RVing is that you can pack some of those luxury items you usually leave at home, like toiletries and towels, favorite foods, camp chairs, and firewood. You’ll have more room to store things and spread out than you’re used to in a tent. One luxury that will have an impact is a solid reading light. Reading a book will be a lot more comfortable if you have a Euro-style interior ceiling dome light. You will feel just like you are reading at home.

Next, plan your route. If at all possible, plan your early trips to include driving and setting up during daylight hours. Driving at night can be risky. If you have a

breakdown, you’ll have a harder time finding help since the auto parts stores, garages, and RV dealerships will be closed. Setting up at night can also be immensely more difficult due to the lack of sight. Since it isn’t always possible to set up during daylight hours, consider an LED exterior porch light. Their all-weather molded plastic housing and durable lenses prevents corrosion which keeps you in the light for years to come. This light will provide enough illumination to get everything ready.

Third, be thoughtful about where you decide to stay the night. Typically, a small road-side hotel/motel is a place where you go to your room and sleep. Campsites, on the other hand, are social. It’s easy to make friends with your neighbors, there are playgrounds and mini-golf, go-karts and swimming pools. A campsite is set up for you to enjoy yourself and share it with the people around you.

Taking your home on the road to see the sights is exciting and fun. Planning out your trip before you leave will only serve to ensure that you don’t experience bumps in the road along the way.