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12 Tips For Ensuring Your RV Is Ready For A Road Trip

Road trips are one of the most popular ways to spend your vacation—and for a good reason. Not only is it an economical way to spend time with your loved ones. It’s also a great opportunity to explore the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort.

Kicking off a memorable RV trip should start with this basis: ensuring the safety of your RV. A little prudence now will go a long way later and protect you and your loved ones from a less-than-happy trip through the country.

Let’s look at 12 unique prep tips for motorized and towable RVs and explore some tools you might need to guarantee a successful road trip.

RV camper on a beach trip

1. Address Fluid Levels

Every motorized RV owner needs to keep a watchful eye on their fluid levels. These may include engine oil, radiator coolant, and Freon levels. Remember that you’ll need some specialized equipment to get the job done, including AC rechargers and gauge kits.

2. Check Tires

Inspect your tires for cracks, bulges, or other signs of damage. Then, check the air pressure in your tires (including the spare). It would be best if you also had a professional inspect your brakes and suspension system to ensure everything is in good working order.

3. Watch The Roof

The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of an RV. It’s important to keep an eye on it to ensure your fun-loving road trip doesn’t turn into a miserable washout. 

You should inspect your RV roof regularly for cracks, holes, or other damage, then seal any leaks as soon as possible. Try to check out FlexArmor Roof Repair for lasting results.

4. Repair Appliances

Check each of your RV appliances for signs of mechanical breakdown. This includes everything from the fridge and freezer to the stove, oven, and microwave. A faulty appliance can ruin a good trip, so it’s best to take care of any snafus early on.

5. Monitor HVACs

HVACs are the lifeblood of a successful RV road trip. It’s a good idea to perform maintenance on your HVAC system at least once per trip. Try running the temperatures at their lowest setting, then hiking them up to their highest capacity.

6. Carry Tools

Accidents happen on the road — and you’d never know when a wrench could get you out of a bind. It’s a good idea to carry a small toolbox in your RV filled with all the essentials, including a hammer, screwdriver, tape measure, etc. You can thank us later.

7. Re-lubricate Slides & Jacks

Slides or jacks sometimes need a little pick-me-up before a trip. You can pick up a can of slide-out lube at most hardware stores, then apply it with the help of online tutorials. Just keep in mind this can be messy and time-consuming.

8. Watch The Hitch

Towable trailer hitches need scrutiny before any big trip. Check your hitch for rust or corrosion, and make sure all the bolts are tightened properly. If using a weight distribution hitch, adjust it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

9. Fix Seals

Windows, doors, and other entry points should have up-to-date weatherproofing. Other RV areas, including bathrooms, should have updated sealants installed. You can ask the RV Masters to do this on your behalf.

10. Sanitize Tanks

Your fresh water and sewage tanks should be properly sanitized before any major road trip. There are several ways to do this, but the best and most efficient is to rely on professional help. It’s best not to risk possible contamination around yourself or others.

11. Stock Emergency Supplies

No matter how long or short your trip may be, it’s always a good idea to stock your RV with extra emergency supplies. This includes items like first-aid kits, flares, flashlights, and batteries. Don’t forget the snacks and blankets!

12. Get A Full Inspection

Many other moving parts in an RV need regular maintenance, including:

  • Generators
  • Fire alarms
  • Gauges

While you could check each of these on your own, it would be far more efficient to have RV repair experts give your machine a once-over before hitting the road.

Get RV Repair New Orleans Locals Deserve With RV Masters

You can get started on the RV repair that locals in Kenner, LA love. Do so with the professional team at RV Masters. 

Call us today at (504) 466-3431 or fill out this form to request a service. You can also visit us at 2504 Lexington Street, Kenner, LA 70062. We look forward to serving you soon.