Are you planning to take your RV on a road trip? If you’re like most people, then you love taking road trips in your RV. There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road and exploring new destinations. But if you want your trip to be as enjoyable as possible, it’s important to take care of your RV vehicle. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to do just that. Ready? Let’s get started.
Rent an RV Storage Space
If you are heading to a distant place with RV storage space, it is important to book one in advance. This will help ensure that your RV is well-protected while you are away. This vehicle storage space ensures that your RV is not left out in the open, where it can be damaged by the elements or vandalized. Besides this, an RV storage space will also give you a place to keep any extra belongings you might have with you on your trip.
When choosing an RV storage space, ensure it is clean, well-lit, and secure. You should also ensure that the company you choose has insurance in case of any damages. You do not want to come home to find that your RV has been damaged while you were away.
Check Your Tires
One of RVs’ most important maintenance tips is to check your tires before hitting the road. This is especially important if you are going on a long trip. Remember, your RV is a heavy vehicle, putting a lot of strain on your tires. Over time, this can lead to wear and tear.
It is important to check your RV’s tire pressure before every trip. This can be easily done with a tire pressure gauge. You should also visually inspect your tires for any signs of damage, such as cracks or bulges. If you notice any damage, replacing the tire before heading out on your trip is best.
Another thing to keep in mind is your RV’s tire tread. This is the part of the tire that comes into contact with the road. Over time, the tread can wear down, impacting your traction and braking. You can use a tread depth gauge to check your RV’s tire tread. The general rule is that if your tire tread is below 4/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace it.
Clean Your RV
Cleaning your RV before a road trip is important for two reasons. First, it will help keep you and your passengers healthy while on the trip. This is because dirt, dust, and other allergens can accumulate inside your RV over time. If these are not removed, they can cause respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks. Second, a clean RV is simply more enjoyable to be in. No one wants to spend their vacation in a dirty and cluttered space.
The best way to clean our RV is to hire a professional cleaning company. They will have the knowledge and experience to properly clean your RV, removing all the dirt, dust, and allergens. You can also clean your RV yourself if you do not have the time or money to hire a professional. Just be sure to use the proper cleaning products and techniques.
Drive Safely
Of course, one of the most important tips for taking care of your RV is to drive safely. This means obeying all the rules of the road and being aware of your surroundings. Remember, your RV is a large vehicle. This means that it takes longer to stop and make turns. It is important to give yourself extra time and space when driving.
In addition, it is important to avoid driving in bad weather whenever possible. This is because high winds and heavy rain can make driving your RV more difficult and even dangerous. If you must drive in bad weather, take it slow and be extra cautious.
Do a Light and Annual Checks
Doing a light check of your RV before every trip is important. This includes checking the engine oil, coolant levels, brakes, and lights. These are all easy to do and only take a few minutes.
You should also do an annual check of your RV. This is a more thorough RV inspection and should be done by a professional. During this check, they will inspect your RV’s engine, transmission, suspension, and tires. They will also check for any leaks or other problems.
When doing the checkups, ensure that all the moving parts, including the engine, are properly lubricated. This will help reduce wear and tear and keep your RV in good condition. Also, replace any worn-out parts, such as the brakes or tires. Ensure you use genuine parts, including fluids and filters, to avoid compatibility issues.
Test Everything Before Leaving
While you might have taken care of everything in your RV, it is still important to test everything before leaving. This includes the brakes, lights, and tires. You should also test the RV’s safety features, such as the smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
Testing everything will help ensure that your RV is in good working condition. It will also give you peace of mind knowing everything is working properly. Start by testing the wipers, brakes, engine, and lights. Once you have done this, you can move on to the more complex systems.
Take Your Time
One of the most important tips for taking care of your RV is to take your time. This means not rushing through any of the steps above. If you rush, you might miss something or do something incorrectly.
It is also important to take your time while driving.
Remember, your RV is a large vehicle. This means that it takes longer to stop and make turns. So take it slow and be extra cautious. If you aren’t conversant with the terrain, it is advisable to seek help.
Lastly, do not be afraid to ask for help. If you are having trouble with something, or if you just have a question, there are many people who would be happy to help you. You can ask the staff at your RV park, other RVers, or even the internet.
Taking care of your RV is important if you want to enjoy your road trip. Book a storage space, clean your RV before leaving, drive safely, and do light and annual check-ups. Test everything on your RV before leaving, and take your time while driving. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask for help.
