Things to know before your first RV trip

Is this the year you embark on your very first RV trip? Before setting off, take some time to gather the know-how you need for a successful holiday.

What to pack

The trick is bringing what you need without the weight — see RV Packing Tips & Tricks and What NOT to pack.

Where you’ll be going

Choosing the destination is the hardest part of the planning. Our travel posts are full of ideas, and Tips for Planning a Great RV Trip Route covers getting there.

How to budget for your trip

Fuel, food, campsite fees and firewood are the big four — see Budgeting for an RV Vacation and Tips for frugal RV trips.

RV driving or towing practice

A big unit feels overwhelming at first. Practise in an empty parking lot or somewhere rural until you understand how it turns, accelerates, brakes and reverses. See Driving Tips for Large Motorhomes and RV Towing Safety Tips.

Safety procedures and precautions

Mechanical maintenance and medical preparedness both matter — see RV Safety Tips, pets included.

How to set up camp

Once you arrive there is an order to it. Keep the RV manual handy, and follow the steps for the jobs you haven’t done before — hooking up the sewer especially.