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Jul 14, 2025 - 02:22 AM
Pre-Trip Inspection Walk around your RV, checking for any obvious damage, loose panels, or worn seals. Inspect tires for proper pressure, tread wear, and sidewall cracks - underinflated tires are a major cause of RV breakdowns. Test all exterior lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. If you have a towable RV, check the hitch, safety chains, and electrical connections.
Interior Preparation Secure everything inside - RV cabinets and drawers can fly open while driving. Use bungee cords, cabinet locks, or simply remove breakable items. Check that your propane tanks are properly secured and turned on if needed for the refrigerator. Test all appliances, including the refrigerator, water heater, furnace, and air conditioning, before you leave.
Water and Waste Systems Fill your fresh water tank unless you're heading somewhere with hookups. Check that your water pump works and test faucets for proper flow. Ensure your gray and black water tanks are empty and clean. Pack a sewer hose, gloves, and any adapters you might need. Add appropriate chemicals to your black tank.
Electrical and Propane Charge your house batteries fully. Test your generator if you have one. Check propane levels and ensure connections are tight. Pack electrical adapters for different campground hookups - 50-amp to 30-amp adapters are commonly needed.
Essential Supplies Bring leveling blocks, wheel chocks, a water hose rated for drinking water, electrical extension cords, basic tools, and emergency supplies. Pack according to the weather and amenities available at your destination.
Final Check Retract awnings, secure exterior storage compartments, turn off water pump, and do a final walk-through. Make sure slide-outs are retracted and stabilizer jacks are up. Using a checklist helps prevent forgetting crucial steps that could lead to expensive damage or safety issues.
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