Great American RV SuperStores Blog!

40 RV Travel Tips

Embarking on an RV adventure offers a unique blend of freedom and discovery, allowing you to explore the open road with all the comforts of home. To help you make the most of your travels, we’ve compiled 40 essential RV travel tips. From planning your route with RV-specific apps and reserving campsites in advance to maintaining your vehicle and ensuring safety on the road, these tips cover everything you need for a smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable RV experience. Buckle up and get ready to hit the road with confidence and ease!

PLANNING YOUR TRIP ★

1. PLAN YOUR ROUTE

Use RV-specific GPS or apps to avoid low bridges and narrow roads. This article from GoRVing has a few great suggestions.

2. CAMPSITE RESERVATIONS

Be sure to reserve your campsite in advance. Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

3. KNOW YOUR RV

Familiarize yourself with the size, weight, and capabilities of your RV.

4. CHECK THE WEATHER

Keep an eye on forecasts to avoid severe weather and plan accordingly. Have a plan in the event of severe weather, flooding, etc.

5. PET-FRIENDLY SITES

Bringing your pet? Research pet-friendly campgrounds and road trip stops in advance.

6. ID TAGS

Ensure your pets have up-to-date ID tags.

7. PACK EXTRAS

Bring extra essentials like batteries, lighters, and paper products.

8. CREATE A CHECKLIST

Make lists for packing, setting up, and breaking down camp to stay organized. We’ve created a Camping Checklist with our recommendations for a stress-free camping adventure.

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE ★

9. REGULAR INSPECTIONS

Check your RV and/or tow vehicle’s tires, brakes, and fluid levels before each trip.

10. CARRY SPARE PARTS

Having extra fuses, bulbs, and filters can come in handy in case of emergency.

11. TIRE PRESSURE

Know your tire pressure and maintain proper levels to avoid blowouts on the road.

12. CHANGE OIL REGULARLY

Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines for oil changes.

13. WINTERIZATION

If traveling in cold climates, take steps to prevent pipes from freezing by having your RV winterized.

ON THE ROAD ★

14. DRIVE SLOWLY

Take your time, especially on unfamiliar roads and in new areas.

15. TAKE BREAKS

Stop every few hours to rest and stretch.

16. KNOW YOUR HEIGHT

Be aware of your RV’s height and avoid low clearances.

17. USE YOUR TURN SIGNALS

Signal your intentions well in advance when making a turn in your RV.

18. FUEL UP OFTEN

Don’t let your tank get too low; gas stations may be far apart.

SETTING UP CAMP ★

19. SCOUT YOUR SITE

Walk your campsite before parking to identify any obstacles.

20. USE A SPOTTER

Have someone guide you in to your site to avoid accidents.

21. SECURE YOUR RV

Use wheel chocks and stabilizer jacks.

22. CHECK CONNECTIONS

Ensure water, electric, and sewer connections are secure.

STAYING SAFE ★

23. KNOW EMERGENCY EXITS

Familiarize everyone with your RV’s emergency exits and how to utilize them.

24. FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Have a fire extinguisher accessible and know how to use it.

25. SMOKE & CO DETECTORS

Ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detector are functioning and replace batteries regularly. Watch this video to learn more.

26. LOCK UP

Secure your RV when you leave it unattended.

27. FIRST AID TRAINING

Basic first aid knowledge can be invaluable whether you’re at a local campground or on an off-grid adventure.

TECHNOLOGY & CONNECTIVITY ★

28. WI-FI BOOSTERS

Improve your internet connection with a Wi-Fi booster.

29. MOBILE HOTSPOT

A mobile hotspot is a great backup internet solution.

30. SOLAR PANELS

Consider solar panels for off-grid power.

31. BATTERY BANK

Keep a portable battery bank handy for charging devices.

32. SATELLITE TV

If you want entertainment, invest in a satellite system.

ENJOYING THE JOURNEY ★

33. MIND YOUR NEIGHBORS

Respect quiet hours and keep your campsite tidy.

34. TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE

Don’t rush; enjoy the beautiful landscapes.

35. STOP AT ATTRACTIONS

Visit landmarks and points of interest along the way.

36. PHOTOGRAPHY

Take plenty of pictures to memories with a good camera or smart phone.

37. JOURNALING

Keep a travel journal to document your experiences.

38. TRAVEL GAMES

Bring games for entertainment during down time.

39. LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Stop at visitor centers or ask locals for recommendations on places to visit and eat.

40. LEAVE NO TRACE

Always clean up after yourself, whether at a road-trip pit stop or wrapping up a week at the campground.

We hope your journey is filled with unforgettable moments, breathtaking sights, and exciting destinations.

We’d love to hear about your RV travels and the memories made along the way.

Share your Great American RV Story with us HERE and inspire fellow RV enthusiasts with your adventures.