With a bit of planning, RV camping can be fun, easy, and low stress for all participants. It is important to plan ahead and consult maps regularly to find out where RV campgrounds are located and what amenities they provide. It is best to prepare for all types of camping situations in case the campground does not have the amenities the campers need, such as electricity or water hook-ups. Before leaving home for an RV camping trip, it is important to properly load the RV and prevent overloading by weighing the camper if possible.
Be sure to do a thorough inspection of the camper before going on an RV camping trip. This includes checking the tires for proper tire pressure, looking for leaks anywhere in or on the camper, ensuring all batteries work properly and all electrical fixtures work, cleaning out the RV for use, and so on. If applicable, the RV should be tuned up with the oil changed and any other necessary repairs or maintenance addressed ahead of time. These steps can be tedious, but they will prevent major problems once the RV camping trip is underway.
Driving an RV can be difficult, so if the driver is new to this type of driving, he or she should practice driving and parking before going RV camping. It may help to have a set of walkie-talkies on hand so a passenger can guide the driver into tight parking spots. If this is not possible, the driver and passenger should go over hand signals so the passenger can guide the driver effectively during difficult driving maneuvers from outside the RV. These techniques are especially important if a car will be towed behind the RV, further making the process of driving and parking more difficult.
Water can be an issue when RV camping, especially if the campers are not staying in a campground with water hook ups. It is a good idea to carry extra reserves of water in jugs in case the campers decide to camp somewhere far from regular amenities. Conserving water should be done whenever possible to avoid excess waste, and water purification systems should be used whenever gathering water from unreliable sources.
Heaters inside the RV should be turned off when not in use, as well as lights and other electrical devices. This will reduce costs and prevent batteries from draining prematurely, and it will extend the useful life of all accessories within the RV.