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RV camping is a wonderful way to vacation with a big group of friends, without sacrificing any comfort or privacy that other types of travel might bring. And even though driving an RV can be an incredibly fun, relaxing and rewarding experience, it can also be a challenging and demanding task, especially if you’ve never done it before. So, here are some essential tips that will make first-time RV travel an enjoyable experience:
Learn how to pack your RV efficiently
Even though RVs tend to offer plenty of storage space, it could often be difficult to bring everything you might need on your trip, without going over the RV’s weight limits. For this reason, organization is key, and the best idea is to pack the least amount of stuff possible, while still covering all of your essentials.
As a general rule, you should aim to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather and any outdoor activities, toiletries and medication, first aid kits, repair kits, cleaning products, and kitchen supplies, as well as necessary food and water for the whole trip.
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Understand and invest in good RV equipment
While most RVs will have similar electronics and appliances to those you have at home, you still need to learn how to use and maintain them properly before you hit the road. Spend some time testing out and familiarizing yourself with all the gadgets and equipment, especially things like your RV’s sewage system, so you could know exactly how everything works, and be relaxed on your trip.
It is also a great idea to invest in additional safety features your RV might not already have, such as a high-tech RV camera system that will ensure a smooth and pleasant ride. Apart from helping you maneuver and park a large vehicle much more easily, a good camera system will also add some extra security, allowing you to stay safe and sound no matter where you are.
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Practice new driving tips and techniques
Regardless of how great of a driver you are, RVs are long and wide vehicles that can be tricky to maneuver, and they typically don’t feel anything like a car. That is why it might be wise to take your RV for a couple of drives before the big trip, in order to get used to the vehicle, or even take some RV driving lessons, if you’re unsure of your abilities.
When driving an RV, mirrors will be an absolutely essential aspect, as they’re the only thing that can help you position the vehicle perfectly, allowing you to stay in your lane, and turn properly. It’s also vital to drive more slowly and carefully than you normally would, keeping a safe distance, and always braking sooner than you would in a car.
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Research and book campsites in advance
More experienced campers already know when and where they can stay by now, without needing to do thorough research or make reservations. However, as a beginner, one of the best things you could do is find a great campground, and make a reservation before you depart, so you can be relaxed on your summer vacation. This could be particularly important when you want to visit those popular areas where bookings might need to be made months in advance.
Also, make sure to familiarize yourself with size limitations of the park you’re visiting, to ensure they have enough room for your vehicle. Don’t forget to check out the campsite’s hours either, including arrival and departure times, to make sure you don’t end up getting locked out of the park.
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Know exactly what to do when you arrive
Considering the fact that there are a number of things that need to be taken care of when you arrive to a campsite, it might take a couple of road trips for you to establish an ideal arrival routine. At the very least, you should know how to park your vehicle near water, sewage and electrical hookups when you first arrive. Apart from knowing how your appliances and equipment work, it’s also incredibly important to know how to connect everything safely and securely, to ensure the best camping experience.
While these helpful tips might be enough to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride the first time around, it’s important to remember that every RV trip is a learning experience, and that only time will bring the necessary knowledge and expertise. In the meantime, stay organized and prepared, and have fun on your RV road trip!
About the author:
Mike Johnston is an avid freelance writer and blogger. He is a regular contributor to the Smooth Decorator blog. Mike’s specialty is interior design, but he also loves writing about travel, tourism, and sustainability.