10 Steps to Prepare Your RV Before a Trip
Before you head on your next road trip, it’s important to check that your recreational vehicle is primed and ready. The following are the top 10 items that should be on your checklist.
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- Check that you have the right license. Depending on your RV and where you’re going, you may need a special one.
- Get it serviced. Get your RV the care it needs at a manufacturer-authorized service agent. Generally, your RV should be serviced in the first month or after the first 600 miles. After that, get it checked every 12 months or 6000 miles, whichever comes first.
- Test the smoke alarm. Replace the smoke alarm battery manually as per the instructions in your owner’s manual. While you’re at it, also check your fire extinguisher.
- Close everything. Drawers, cupboard doors, and other storage areas should be properly closed and locked if possible.
- Secure everything. Loose objects can break or cause damage while you drive your RV. Heavy objects like the microwave tray should be safely put away. As for fragile objects…avoid bringing those in the first place (use plastic and paper, not glass).
- Disconnect everything. Outside your RV, most things should be disconnected before you head out. That includes your drain bucket or grey water hose, your main water hose, and your electrical extension lead.
- Check the tires. This includes both the wear condition and pressure of all the tires, including the spare tire. Check all the wheel nuts too.
- Adjust your towing mirror. Pretty self-explanatory.
- Pack essential items. These include food, water, sunscreen, towels, and a first aid kit. Remember to fill up your water tanks.
- Release the RV handbrake, and remove the chocks from the wheels. You’re good to go!
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