RVing… Things that You Don’t Want To Learn The Hard Way.

RVing is an amazing experience.

If you’re new to RVing, it’s a good idea to seek out tips and tricks that will make the experience go more smoothly and allow you to learn from other people’s mistakes. Trust me, we all have and will make them. Even after 20 years and 3 RVs we are still learning new tips and tricks.

The problem is that most RV tip lists are often centered around obvious things that most new RVrs could figure out pretty quickly on their own.

We thought it would be a good idea to share some tips that are not so common. Also point out things that RVrs usually learn the hard way over the years.

  1. Take your time. Rving is a way of escaping the hustle and bustle of work, school, schedules and the day-to-day busyness.

Probably the biggest mistake most first-time RVrs make is trying to cram too much into a single trip. I totally understand why this happens… as newbies you want to experience as many things as possible in the short time you have for vacation. 

Relax… Do you really want to be running around looking at a to-do list that needs to be completed? This is a trip that is meant to be enjoyable. Take pictures, schedule some downtime, enjoy the moment and make memories.

Keep in mind you have an RV and can always go back and do more. 

  1. The Campsite.

Do your best not to arrive at a campground late and tired. We have done that more times than I care to remember. It's an accident waiting to happen!

A good rule to follow is the 3-3-3 rule. Travel no more than 300 miles in one day. Arrive no later than 3 PM. and finally, stay at your destination for at least 3 days. (If possible) This rule serves a few purposes.

  1. Alleviates exhaustion from driving.
  2. Gives you ample daylight time to set up camp.
  3. Allows you to explore the area and truly enjoy it.

Now let's talk about getting into your site.

Backing into a campsite can really test the bonds of marriage.

Particularly if the space is a tight one!

I remember seeing campsite sign that said..

”Lets light the fire and watch couples back in their camper!” At the time I thought why. But now I get it. 

Most campgrounds have easy access into campsites..however there's always the exception. We’ve had sites completely uneven and had to maneuver around trees or the electrical supply etc.

Before pulling into the site, get out and look around. 

  • Look for any obstacles.  
  • Will your slide clear the tree?
  • Will the slide clear the pole?
  • Look for overhead branches that might hit your RV.  

A helpful tool is a cell phone. It helps when directing your significant other to avoid yelling. 

You can also try hand signals. Establish who’s right and left you will go by. (This will save many arguments) We had a little incident when I said go right, my husband went right, (His right but my left)  (Via) The RV now has a little dimple on her butt.

One of the best things we ever got was a rear-view camera. This will definitely reduce the stress and uncertainty when backing in.

  1. Your Awning

I can’t stress this one enough. The weather can change in a heartbeat.

"We”ve seen awnings ripped right off campers because of wind gusts. This is the #1 way awnings are damaged! 

Think of your awning as a big sail. One strong wind gust can bend the awning frame/arms or even completely rip it from the camper itself causing all kinds of issues which can be very expensive.

To prevent these issues get some Awning Tie Downs and Buffer Tension Spring to make the awning more stable. They definitely help when unexpected wind gusts occur.

Always retract your RV awning at night and whenever you leave your campsite for the day if any wind is expected. Even if you are using tie downs.

If you’re thinking…. I don’t need to worry about it because my awning has a wind sensor and will automatically retract.

It’s still best to retract your awning. These wind sensors are not foolproof. 

  1. Stuff …. ‘

Don’t Buy a Bunch of RV
Accessories Before You’ve Made a Few Trips in it! 

I know, I know this is the fun part…. Making your RV your own.  

As tempting as it is to run out and buy a bunch of accessories and gadgets for your new land yacht it’s best to avoid impulse purchases. Wait until you’ve owned it for a while.

Space is limited! I am reminded of this every time we pack for a trip by my husband. 

Weight is a big factor when traveling. I never thought I would consider weight when buying an item. But I do now.  

Start a list then get what you need as you go. This will save you a bunch of money in the beginning and keep you from filling your RV with a bunch of stuff you won’t use and didn’t need in the first place.  

In fact, you might be surprised at how little you really need to enjoy RVing.

Basic RV Gear First Time RVers Actually Need

 

  • 5  Spare Tire

I know you must be thinking ….Of course you need to have a spare tire. But what I’m referring to is checking your spare tire, to make sure that it is securely in place on your camper,. especially if it’s placed in the undercarriage.
Always check and make sure it’s attached securely. During travel the bolts and or Cable that hold the tire in place can come loose. Trust me on this one…It has happened to us.  The last thing you want to see is your spare bouncing down the road in your rearview mirror. Or worse hitting the car behind .

Luckily for us traffic was light and it did not cause any issues, however it could have caused the unthinkable. From that moment on this is something we make sure to check every time we leave for a trip or a campground. 

 

I know there is so much more I may have missed. We would love to hear what you think as an Rv beginner and if you have any tips that would benefit others. Please leave a comment .

 

Enjoy the Ride.