Essential Tips for First-Time RV Travelers
In this blog, our team at Rjourney will provide essential tips for first-time RV travelers to ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable journey.
When you purchase an RV for the first time, you open a wide world of recreation and fun. As a new RV owner, however, you’ll likely encounter challenges unique to owning an RV, including maintenance and getting used to driving something as large as your new ride.
With the right information and guidance to help you on your RV ownership journey, you can make your first RV camping trip as stress-free and pleasant as possible. Allow our Rjourney team to provide essential first-time RV traveler tips and RV travel basics for your first getaway.
How To Choose the Right RV for You
The first step in RV camping is to get the RV itself. When it comes to purchasing your RV, there are several factors to consider that could greatly impact your decision. This includes its size, features, and the amount of space you need to properly store an RV for the offseason. After all, nothing can ruin the fun of RV camping like discovering damage on your ride due to improper storage.
How much does an RV cost?
Your RV’s cost also depends on a variety of factors. For example, a large RV with more advanced features such as in-unit appliances will cost more than a smaller vehicle. Regardless of the size you get, it’s best to set a budget for your RV so you get the best bang for your buck. However, you’ll also need to consider upkeep and maintenance expenses alongside the cost of the vehicle itself.
Do I need a special license to drive an RV?
While it’s not a requirement in every state, several states do require you to get a special driver’s license to register and drive an RV. The three types of driver’s licenses you can get to help avoid future legal headaches include:
- Commercial driver’s license
- Non-commercial driver’s license
- Driver’s license endorsement
Planning Your First RV Trip
After you have purchased your RV, it’s time to start planning your first trip! It can be overwhelming to think about your entire trip at once, so try planning step by step. You can naturally create a travel plan by thinking of a destination that sounds good to you and the stops you’d like to make along the way.
We also recommend that, for your first trip, you choose to camp somewhere closer to home in case of any surprises.
Choosing the RV Right Route
By forming a list of your desired stops and final destination, you can then plan out the best route to take. Some factors to consider when choosing your path include gas pit stops, time to get to your destination, and whether you can get to a good stopping point before sundown.
RV Packing Essentials
Got the route best suited for your travels? Then it’s time to bring out your suitcases and begin packing! To not forget any essential items, it’s best to make a checklist of all the items you need for the journey. Some essential items for your RV packing list include clothing, food, and cooking supplies.
Essential RV Safety Equipment
Another set of tools and supplies to pack before you set out on your camping excursion is proper safety equipment for the chance of an emergency. Among the essential safety supplies to pack include but are not limited to the following:
- Tent and shelter
- Water bottles
- Fully stocked first aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Portable phone charger
- Emergency food rations
RV Maintenance Tips
The last key part of RV trip preparation is routine maintenance on your vehicle. This is not only a proper part of RV care but helps create as seamless a ride as possible to your destination and back home. First, you’ll want to do a thorough cleaning of your RV’s exterior and interior. Once your ride is spotless, review your tire pressure, check your RV’s fluid levels, and make sure your RV batteries are charged.
Beginner RV Travel Guide
With proper preparation and maintenance out of the way, it’s finally time to get to the road. As you travel, there are several things to consider for the well-being of you and your loved ones. This includes driving safety and practicing proper campground behavior.
RV Driving Tips for Beginners
Due to being larger than most standard cars, driving an RV is a much different experience. Here are some tips to help make your RV driving experience smoother:
- Don’t overload your RV
- Take your time on turns
- Understand how your RV brakes work
- Give yourself plenty of room and time
- Stay at or under the speed limit
- Use an RV-safe GPS
What To Do Once You Arrive at Your RV Campground
Arriving at your campground is made easier with a few simple tips. For an easy check-in, try calling your campground or check in online ahead of time if you can’t reach the office over the phone. Once you formally arrive at your campsite, make sure you park your RV in a clear and level spot to avoid any unstableness. To make the process easier, assign each camper a task for them to complete including a dedicated campfire person and someone to set out any outdoor seating.
RV Park Etiquette
You’ll want to practice proper camping etiquette to ensure you don’t disturb your fellow campers. Be aware to not make much noise or use many lights during quiet hours, especially at night when campers are sleeping. Also, ensure that you clean your campground regularly. If anything, think as if you need to leave the campsite better than when you arrived.
Choose Rjourney for Your First RV Camping Trip
Looking for the perfect RV camping experience to call your first? Look no further than to us at Rjourney. We have a vast array of premier RV resorts across the country all with a unique set of on-site amenities and activities to fill your day with fun and relaxation.
Don’t wait–book your stay by contacting us online today!