If you’re finally ready to take the plunge and get started on your very first RV adventure, there are a few things you’ll want to know before you gas up and get on the road. It’s exciting, for sure, but you want to ensure that you have your game plan tight and that you’re ready for whatever comes your way.
You may have an idyllic picture in your mind when you think about RVing, but if you’re not prepared for certain instances and knowledgeable about things like holding tanks and pulling a trailer, that dream can get sullied all too quickly. So check out these need-to-knows before you go and avoid some unwanted drama.
Read the Manual
After you’ve checked out RV dealers Edmonton and gotten your RV, you absolutely must read through the manual. It will save you a lot of headaches on your travel.
If your RV has a commode, it will also have holding tanks for the waste you deposit; and that waste will have to be disposed of properly. You’ll open the storage tank, remove the cap, connect the sewer hose, and close the dump valves.
If you don’t get this right, there will be unpleasantries of the fecal kind. Your manual can also give you information on traveling at safe speeds and distances, carrying loads, and how to safely manage your kitchen amenities.
Knowing the particulars about your RV can be the difference between a great trip and an I-wish-I-would-have-known trip.
Bring the Essentials
When you’re going on an RV excursion, the term essentials takes on a much wider definition. You’ll need to pack some tools like Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, zip ties, and duct tape because you never know what’s going to happen.
Other essentials will include your cooking needs like pots, pans, seasonings, dish towels and soap, plates, and utensils. Additionally, you’ll need dissolvable toilet paper, toiletries, leveling blocks for when your parking spot isn’t level, and first aid supplies.
The idea is to have a sense of home with you and to be prepared for the unforeseen circumstances that will surely come. If there are no surprises, then you may not have an interesting story to tell.
Arrive with Daylight to Spare
Whether you plan on stopping at an RV park, campsite, or out in the boondocks with no electrical or water hookups, it’s in your best interest to arrive before dark and with daylight to spare. It can be difficult to see campsite numbers, check your surroundings, and set up efficiently in low light.
Map out your trip ahead of time to help you make camp before nightfall. You’ll be able to park more safely, enjoy what the site has to offer, and have a chance to wind down before it gets too late.
RVing is supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable, so do what you can to avoid the small inconveniences that can have a big impact on your trip.
Download Apps
Before you hit the road it’s a good idea to download some camping apps, a GPS navigation app, and entertainment apps. Waiting until you’re on the road can cause delays if you have a weak cell signal or spotty WiFi coverage.
Camping apps can give reviews of campsites, places to pay-to-camp, middle-of-nowhere spots to camp, and more. You just might happen upon your favorite RV parking spot and retell the stories for years to come.
Two helpful apps are Harvest Host and Campendium.
Now that you have some of the basics covered, you’re ready to take off on your first RV adventure. Whether you’re going alone, as a family, or as a group of friends, be ready for a lot more firsts and to meet new people along the way. Happy RVing.
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