Spring is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to shake off the winter dust and get your RV ready for adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or planning your first trip of the year, proper preparation ensures a safe, comfortable camping season ahead.
Start with a Thorough Inspection
Before you hit the road, walk around your RV and check for any damage that may have occurred during storage. Look for cracks in seals, damaged awnings, or tire wear. Check your roof for any signs of water damage or deterioration in the sealant around vents and skylights.
Essential Systems Check
Your RV’s critical systems need attention after sitting idle. Test your water pump, check for leaks in water lines, and sanitize your fresh water tank. Inspect your propane system for leaks and ensure all appliances are functioning properly. Don’t forget to check your battery charge and connections—corroded terminals can leave you stranded.
Tire Safety Matters
Tires are one of the most overlooked yet critical components. Check tire pressure when they’re cold, inspect for cracks or bulges, and verify the tread depth. Remember, RV tires age out even with low mileage, so check those date codes.
Interior Refresh
Open windows and air out your RV to eliminate any musty odors. Check for signs of moisture or pest intrusion. Test all lights, outlets, and entertainment systems. Restock your emergency kit, first aid supplies, and any camping essentials you may have depleted last season.
Exterior Maintenance
Clean and inspect your awning, lubricate slide-out mechanisms, and check all exterior lights and turn signals. A good wash and wax not only makes your RV look great but protects the finish from UV damage and road grime.
Create Your Pre-Trip Checklist
Develop a routine checklist you can use before every trip. Include items like checking fluid levels, testing brakes, verifying hitch connections, and ensuring all safety equipment is accessible.
Taking the time now to properly prepare your RV means more time enjoying the open road and less time dealing with preventable issues. Here’s to a fantastic camping season ahead!
Robins Hollow
One day I went to Holiday Acres as a quest of a friend. He wanted to show me his new site and camper. Afterwards, we walked down to the pond to do some fishing. Not much was happening while fishing from shore. I noticed a canoe and asked if we could take it out and fish from it. There is never much in the middle of the pond, unless you’re fishing for bullhead. Casting into the shore is how I’ve always caught bass. He said, “No, I catch more from the shore.” Some time went by and I asked again. He adamantly rejected my request. I could tell something else was at play.
Eventually he told me the story of the last time he went out in the canoe. On the way back to camp the wind had picked up significantly. The harder it blew towards him the harder he paddled. The harder he paddled the further the front of the canoe went out of the water. The battle persisted for awhile until the wind won and flipped him over in the canoe. He was now afraid to go out on the pond.
What he didn’t realize was he could have just put the paddle down and let the wind take him to the calmer water. Then he could have just paddled gently back to camp by following the shoreline. Robins Hollow is not that big of a pond.
I tell this story because sometimes we get so caught up in getting things done our way, we forget there may be a better way. Instead of fighting the wind he should have worked with it to get back home. We all have experienced this in our lives at one time or another. It could have been in business, in a relationship, or in a number of other areas of our lives. Fighting against adversity is good, but knowing when to put the paddle down it better. Maybe it was God telling my friend, “I have a better way!”
My RV Guy 