Using an RV Checklist on your Next Trip

There are many different versions of these RV checklists available out there to use on your camping outings. They are extremely useful tools and once you start getting in the habit of using them on a regular basis, you will get through all of it easier. Most encompass the inside preparations and then the outside. Some even include mapping out your itinerary while you are having fun. The best words of advice I have seen are to study a few lists out there and make your own. When looking at the outside, walk in a circle around the RV. Take the time to look at and tick off of your list: tire wear, tire pressure, propane tanks, plumbing tanks, siding of the RV, proper fit of doors, solid hitches, landing gear, brake lights, brakes, awnings properly stowed, check the fluids in the engine compartment, and inspect the tow package pieces. This is a brief overview of what you can look for. All vehicles are different, so tailor your list to yours. Inside, perform safety checks on all your electrical and alarms. Replace batteries in smoke alarms and Co2 detectors. Test all appliances, heating and cooling, check all plumbing for any repairs needed, seals need looked at and possibly changed, open and close all vents to make sure they work for ventilation,load up kitchen goods, food, clothing, towels, blankets, and toiletries. Make sure that if you are packing cupboards and drawers, that they are securely closed in the event of shifting while traveling to your destination. It isn’t just important to take care of what is going on in the RV. What about your home while you are gone? Some lists incorporate these things as well to keep you nicely focused, to remind you of them so you don’t overlook something. Think of things like your home alarm, who will take the call if the alarm goes off? Can you hold your mail at the post office? Check the locks on your doors, pack any bills you may need to pay while away, arrange for lawn care, refill any prescriptions you may run out of before returning. Depending on your length of stay away, prepare for issues that will come up and bring spare everything with you. That means batteries, flashlights, lanterns, first aid kit, distilled water, propane, bulbs, oil, antifreeze, WD-40...perhaps add that section to the checklist. Being prepared for the worst will allow you to enjoy the very best that your trip will bring. These checklists are to make it a simpler process to get you on the road and will become second nature the more you do it. Use one for a while and tweak it to your liking, then just create your own and stick to it. You might be surprised at what defects you find...disaster averted! It is gratifying knowing your vacation could have gone very wrong but because you were proactive, it will be a very happy time in the outdoors. For more information about RV travel and RV vacation, there’s great information online.