Trailers allow you to wander to new places in comfort, as you tow your “tiny home” with you. However, this lifestyle isn’t as simple as hooking up and leaving. There’re important things to do and know before hitting the open road, especially as a beginner! Below you’ll find RecProtect’s tips for RV beginners to avoid hitting common bumps along your way:
1. Practice Driving
Driving with any sized trailer in tow can be nerve-wracking for individuals who’re new to RV camping. Ensuring you’re comfortable as a driver is important before you take on passengers and unfamiliar roads, as these add distractions. You can enroll in driving courses to get guided instruction or go on your own along familiar roads and areas to build comfort. Maneuvering and backing up is also important, as you’ll experience this at campsites.
2. Bring Tools and Spare Parts
You will need to be sure that your trailer hitch can handle your trailer’s fully loaded weight. Most trailer hitches are labelled with the maximum tongue weight and maximum trailer weight for safe towing. Depending on how heavy your trailer is, you should also follow the guidelines laid out in your owner’s manual and any recommendations regarding the use of weight-distributing or weight-carrying hitches.
- Small level
- Multi-bit Ratchet Set
- Duct Tape
- Multi-tool
- Bungee Cords
- Socket Set
- Headlamp
- Tire Pressure Gauge
- Rubber Gloves
- Hatchet/Hammer Combo
- First Aid Kit
- Batteries
3. Reserve Your Campsites
It is critical to know how to properly secure your trailer and its load. Generally, heavier items should be loaded in the front, closest to the rear of your vehicle. Smaller or lighter items can be loaded and secured near the rear of the trailer. If you are towing a closed trailer, put lighter or smaller items up high and heavier items down low.
4. Pack Light
Upgrading from tent camping is exciting, and feels luxurious, but you’re still camping. Don’t be afraid to wash/reuse what you need. The cabinets and storage spaces fill-up quicker than you would expect, but also add weight to your camper, and you need keep in mind your towing capacities. Maintaining organization is also more difficult with a plethora of items. Be selective in what you pack, and slowly add to it as you continue to travel, instead of taking everything with you off the hop.
5. Paper Maps and Downloadable Guides are Your Friend
There’s no doubt that technology is great, but remember, out in the wilderness you’re likely to lose cellular service. Having a paper map of the area you’re travelling through can be the key to reaching your destination successfully. In addition to these hard-copied maps, it doesn’t hurt to have a printout of the campground map, especially if you may arrive after office hours.
Start your RVing adventures on the right foot, by being well-practiced and prepared, especially as a beginner.
Secure Your RV Adventure with RecProtect’s Comprehensive Insurance Policies
Start the RVing life right by getting RV insurance. Now that you’ve started your RV journey, it’s important to understand that accidents do happen and can leave you with a hefty bill. RecProtect offers a variety of RV insurance options designed to protect you and your vehicle from the unexpected. From liability coverage to protection for your personal belongings, our policies are made to your unique RV needs. Before you embark on your adventure, make sure you are safe with the right RV insurance.