Prepping for Your First Trip of the Season
Spring is here, and with the change of the season comes the desire to take your RV out for your first camping trip of the year. If you have had it in storage, or even just parked in your driveway, you're going to want to do a little prep before you hit the road. These tips will help you ensure that your rig is ready to go for a spring and summer full of camping fun.
1. Consider New Locks
If you haven't changed your locks from the factory-issued models, now is the time to consider doing so. Factory-issued locks are somewhat universal, which means other RV owners can easily get into your RV. This puts your rig and belongings at risk. Protect yourself by upgrading your locks before you hit the road. If you don't want to upgrade, consider at least re-keying your existing locks to make them more secure.
2. Check the Batteries
Make sure your battery has a good charge and will be able to start your RV every time you need it to do so. Any batteries inside the rig, such as the smoke detector batteries, should also be checked. If you’re unsure about the batteries, switch them out.
3. Look for Leaks
Check all of the plumbing lines and other fluid lines to see if anything is leaking. When you de-winterize your plumbing, carefully watch for signs of leaks. If you notice leaks, repair the plumbing fixture or lines before you hit the road when you can control the cost of your supplies.
4. Change Fluids and Pump Tires
As part of your pre-trip checklist, check all the fluids in your engine. Make sure they are topped off well. Check the tire pressure as well and pump up the tires if needed. This is something you should check before every trip, but it’s most important for that first trip of the season. Over the winter, fluid levels and air in the tires will likely drop a bit so this is critical before you hit the road.
5. Make Some Upgrades
Were there features of your rig that you didn’t fully enjoy last season? Before you hit the road this year, take time to upgrade them. For instance, do you want new speakers or media systems? Install them now to enjoy them for the full camping season. Were you thinking an outdoor shower would be helpful? Consider adding that before you go out. Making the upgrades at the start of the camping season gives you the longest possible time to enjoy them.
6. Test Your Appliances
One of the reasons you are an RV owner is so that you can have many of the comforts of home while traveling. However, if your fridge or stove doesn’t work, you miss a lot of that benefit. Before your first camping trip, test all of your appliances. Make sure they are fully working, and replace or repair them if they are not, so you can cook up your favorite camping meals while on the road.
The excitement of the first camping trip of the year is quickly dampened if something goes wrong with your rig. By checking these items carefully before you head out, you will have a better, more enjoyable time on the road and at your destination.
