Test all of the utilities in the RV to ensure they are working. The list of items to inspect should include the furnace, water pump, air conditioner, stove and oven, refrigerator, water heater, sinks and toilet.
Fill the propane and gas features, such as the on-board generator.
Charge up all batteries to their voltage capacity.
Fill the water holding tank with fresh water.
Determine the destination of the camping trip. Consider going to one campground or destination, taking a road trip and staying at a multiple campgrounds, or living self-contained and pulling off the road at highway rest areas.
Know the rules of the road in the state(s) that are going to be traveled. According to Trailer Life Directory, different states have different rules regarding how many individuals can ride in the RV, the length of the RV permitted and if overnight parking is permitted in state rest areas.
Create an RV route plan showing directions from one location to another, including where campgrounds are located, locations of gas stations, sightseeing areas, and the location of state parks that that will be near the route you will take. There are free trip-routing websites that will provide a personalized itinerary. Type “RV trip planner” into your browser to find an RV trip routing website.
There is limited space in RVs, so determining what to bring is important. Clothes can be washed at local laundromats so pack only what you need for the weekend, for short trips, or for one week for a longer road trip.
Packing food is only limited by space available in the RV, and under the RV, where coolers filled with food and beverages can be stored. Pack frozen foods in the freezer or fill it with ice. When driving switch the refrigerator to gas to keep it cool. When plugged in to hook-ups, switch it back to electric.
The basement is a great place to pack coolers, lawn chairs, grills, fishing equipment and even fire wood. Pack tools such as screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches and leveling blocks. Pack items there that are not needed while traveling.
