“All the Stuff You Need to Know About RVing.”
If you learn something here or find something you can use, let me
know. However, if you disagree with an item, keep it to yourself. Okay,
just joking. You can always send me a quick e-mail at
woodalls_diamondclub@sympatico.ca
Use your web browser to search for a term (windshield, speed bump,
boondock, etc.) or just scroll the list. There are four categories of Tips...
Driving Related, Inside Stuff, Outside Stuff, and All the Other Stuff.
Driving Related
When approaching a Gas station, look for the station you can drive in
and out without backing up. When exiting remember the back end
swings out so do not turn until the back end is clear of th pumps or
posts befor going into the pumps know what side the fill is on
Speed Bumps and Cabinet Doors - RV Tip #23
Cabinet doors may pop open when traveling and especially if you have
to cross a speed bump. When your rear tires cross the speed bump at a
slight angle (not at the same time), this will cause your coach to rock
side-to-side—sometimes with enough action to toss dishes out of upper
cabinets. Plus, you do not have to be going fast for this to happen.
Purchase the “childproof” latches for cabinets. Get the ones that reach
across both cabinet handles where you have matching doors. Don’t get
the ones that attach to the inside of the cabinet door. Latch those doors
together when you drive and be sure to go over those speed bumps
dead slow.
RV Co-Pilot Provides Second Set of Eyes - RV Tip #74
Having a co-pilot can be especially helpful when driving along narrow
city streets. One important thing for your co-pilot to watch for are signs
that “lean” into the right-hand traffic lane. Oversized temporary
construction signs often stick out into the driving lane, too. These can
damage a side mirror or scratch your RV.
Drive Over Speed Bumps Head On - RV Tip #23
Try to hit speed bumps straight on (both wheels over at the same time)
and very slowly. If you drive over them at an angle (one wheel over
slightly ahead of the other), your coach will rock back and forth, from
side to side, especially in the back.
Even going dead slow (creeping),
driving over the speed bumps at an angle may cause the coach to rock
enough to actually cause things to fly out of the upper cabinets! This is
true with the small speed bumps, too.
This will also be the case if one side of your wheels hits a depression or
pothole commonly found in some of the truck stop lots and
campgrounds, the small bumps going up into driveways and parking
lots, and the rain gutters built into the cross streets, especially in the
South. Driving dead slow with frequent braking is the only answer
Try to Avoid Oversteering in Heavy Crosswinds
On RV road trips you will occasionally run into strong wind gusts or
dust storms. When crosswinds hit a large, flat object (the big, flat side of
your RV), they may cause your vehicle to swerve. Drivers will
sometimes oversteer or overcompensate in these kinds of conditions,
which can compound the swerving.
Truckers suggest using one hand on the steering wheel to steer the
coach in extremely heavy crosswinds to prevent oversteering. Keep the
other hand lightly touching the steering wheel in preparation for
emergencies.
Tilt Electric Mirrors for Better Parking Visibility - RV Tip #44
When preparing to back up your RV, tilt the electric mirrors down to
see the lower rear corner of your coach. To practice, use rubber cones in
an empty parking lot. Try to align the rear of the rig with the cone,
using only your mirrors.
When backing up, your concern is no longer with traffic approaching
from the rear but with carefully guiding the rear of your coach into a
site and avoiding any obstacles.
.
Night Settings Reduce Glare After Dark - RV Tip #16
Many rear-view monitors found on motorhomes will adjust
automatically, or they have settings (a switch) for day and night usage.
Change your setting as needed. Using the night setting will greatly
reduce glare and be easier on your eyes when driving at night or on
heavily overcast days. This will be similar to decreasing the brightness
of your dash lights.
Fully Inflate Tires - RV Tip #322
Make sure all your tires are fully inflated. Fill them using the proper air
pressure as determined from weighing the RV and the tire
manufacturer’s load charts. Doing this will help your mileage and make
your tires last longer, too.
Adjust Convex Mirrors to Prevent Blind Spots - RV Tip #13
Before traveling in your RV, adjust both convex wing-mirrors to allow
you and the co-pilot to see down both sides of your coach. Convex
mirrors help increase your field of view to see objects and vehicles that
might otherwise “hide” in a blind spot. Once set, the convex mirrors
usually do not have to be re-adjusted regardless of the size of the driver.
Remember, objects in the convex mirror are closer than you think. Do
not use them to judge distance as they can distort distance perception!
Always make sure to use your mirrors—even in the rain.
Use Caution Backing Into a Campsite - RV Tip #46
In the campground, when backing up, your concern is no longer with
traffic approaching from the rear but with carefully guiding the rear of
your coach into a site. Back up slowly. Tilt your mirrors down to see the
lower rear corner of your coach. Use both mirrors, your rear camera
monitor, and someone to guide you. Have the guide stand at the rear,
driver’s side of your RV and be visible in the driver’s side mirror. Never
have the guide stand behind the coach. If they cannot see your mirrors,
you cannot see them. Make sure they look overhead for any tree
limbs or obstacles that you cannot see in the mirrors. It is absolutely
impossible to see everything around your RV when using only the
mirrors and monitor.
Something for the Co-pilot - RV Tip #156
Just prior to pulling (or backing) in, the copilot should go outside and
do a quick scan of the site. You do not want to run over or into anything
that may have been left by the previous occupant. Check the location
of the picnic table. Is it too close to where the RV needs to be?
You generally start the drive straight out of a site but nearly always
have to turn to drive or back in. You could, for example, drive out of a
site with the picnic table nearly touching the rear of the coach but likely
cannot drive or backup into the same site without moving it.
Drive Smart in Gusty Wind Conditions - RV Tip #25
If a large tractor/trailer approaches and overtakes you while driving in
some gusty wind conditions, try turning your wheel slightly toward the
transport truck as they get even with you. This can help offset the
effects of the wind force created by the truck, thus allowing you to
maintain your straight-ahead driving position.
Parking in Busy, Crowded Parking Lots - RV Tip #66
When parking across several spaces, make certain your toad’s rear end
is not sticking out in the traffic lane. Make sure it also sits inside the
lines of the parking spaces. Judge from front and back to be sure.
Practice Backing Up and Park Like a Pro
For new RV owners, backing up a motorhome the first time can be
intimidating. Before heading out on your first road trip, find a deserted
parking lot to practice backing. Set up a rubber cone and try to align
the rear of the rig with the cone, using only your mirrors.
Eliminate Windshield Reflections - RV Tip #15
If windshield or side window reflections are a problem—especially
while driving at night—use a dark-colored, non-reflective cloth (like
polar fleece) to cover your dash. This will prevent most of the
reflections.
The cloth needs to be washable. Get two pieces instead of
one large one so it will be a bit more manageable.
Hook Up Your Tow Vehicle With Care - RV Tip #42
Before hooking up your tow vehicle, establish a fixed routine such as
the tow bar arms first, safety cables next, wiring, and breakaway cable
last. When you finish hooking up everything, literally stand up and
look—carefully look—at each connection just to ensure it is good and
complete.
This 15-second safety inspection could save your vehicle.
A common campground “courtesy rule” is not to talk with folks while
they are hooking up towed vehicles. Some incomplete tow hookups are
a result of you being interrupted by someone or something during the
hookup procedure. For example, the person in the next campsite says
“goodbye,” and you look up to acknowledge the comment, and forget
to attach something. It happens. The visual double-check helps prevent
incomplete hookups.
If you get interrupted a second time, do it again. After all, it’s only your
car! Ask you co-pilot to double-check the hookup. They may see
something you overlooked.
Don’t Mess With Working Lights
Assume you have hooked up your tow car (trailer, dolly, whatever) and
you get in your coach to check the lights. The co-pilot stands behind the
car and waves to indicate each light is working (brake, tail, and turn
signal lights). Fine. Then the co-pilot walks up to visually inspect the
hookup (a good thing).
Although it is commonly done, the co-pilot should not reach down and
“jiggle” the connection. The connection was good and you verified that
when you checked the lights. If they jiggle it, something may become
disconnected and you cannot determine this without checking it again.
Checking Your Transmission’s Fluid Level - RV Tip #363
When using the dipstick, check your transmission fluid level when it is
warm. For Allison electronic transmissions, use the appropriate
sequence of pressing console shift buttons and noting the results on the
digital readout. Change the fluid according to the manufacturer’s
recommendations, and top up with the approved fluid.
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Inside Stuff
Store a Fire Extinguisher - RV Tip #144
Use a Velcro® fastener strap to hold a large-size fire extinguisher in the
back corner (or corners) of your closet. The hanging clothes will also
help keep it upright. This enables you to store the extinguisher
completely out of the way but still easily accessible from the bedroom
and bathroom areas.
Run the AC When Driving in Dusty Conditions
If you must drive in dusty conditions (gravel road, lengthy
construction, dust storm, etc.), fire up your generator and run ALL of
your roof air conditioners while driving over any dusty roads. Doing
so will establish a positive air pressure inside the RV and help keep the
dust from creeping in through any tiny holes. Although rare, if you find
yourself driving through smoky conditions as a result of, for example,
wildfires, running your air conditioners will help reduce the smoke and
odor inside the RV. Don’t forget to check the filters on the air
conditioners when you get to cleaner air.
Storage Racks and Bags - RV Tip #148
The vinyl-clad wire racks and bins are great for storing towels and
sheets since they provide for good air circulation. The ones that stack on
one another can be held together with plastic electrical ties to keep them
from bouncing apart while driving.
For extra blankets, pillows, sweaters, or any bulky items, use the plastic
storage “bags” that have the vacuum attachment in them. Put your
items inside the bag, seal it, hook up your vacuum cleaner hose, and
suck out the excess air. The bag and contents will seem to collapse to a
fraction of the original size. They will expand just fine when you need
them.
This Little Light of Mine - RV Tip #94
Reading lights are notoriously miserable in many RVs. Find one of
those inexpensive, small, clip-on light fixtures that use a 60-watt
(maximum) bulb. These work fine and can be moved as needed and
your eyes will appreciate it.
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Can You Reach Necessities When Slides Are In? - RV Tip #91
When the slides are in (drive ready), this is a good time to check to see if
you can reach the necessities that may be obstructed when the slides are
in. Can you get a jacket or umbrella out of the closet? Can you reach the
pet food?
Plan where things are stored so you can adjust as needed before it
becomes a problem—on that occasion when a slide will not operate or
you are simply parked too close to an object and cannot put out the
slide.
Make Use of Under-the-Bed Storage - RV Tip #138
In some coaches, there is storage under the bed. This is generally
accessed by literally lifting the flat platform under the mattress—often
from the foot of the bed. This is an excellent place to store extra shoes
and items you don’t need to access on a frequent basis. You may need to
use storage boxes.
Coach manufacturers are getting better at sealing these areas from
outside dust and dirt. If you have a diesel pusher, be careful not to store
anything that is sensitive to heat under the bed, since this area may get
quite warm.
Items In Your Medicine Cabinet - RV Tip #125
Inside the medicine cabinet, store smaller items on the bottom, and the
big stuff on the upper shelves to help prevent objects from tumbling
out. An alternative is to use a spring-loaded curtain rod across the door
opening. Also, use small, clear plastic containers inside the cabinet to
hold things like toothpaste, tubes, or small, odd-shaped items.
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Long Storage Space -RV Tip #95
Check for storage space behind the sofa. Sometimes a short, folding
ladder can be stored there. This may also be a place for mops or brooms.
It is a bit inconvenient but storing long items in an RV is often difficult
to do since the tallest place is often the closet.
Other items to store
behind the couch are the screens from the front driver and passenger
window and (if a front entry coach) the door screen, too. This will make
driving through scenic country much more pleasant.
Get a Step Up With Carpet Samples - RV Tip #96
Use carpet samples (they have a finished edge on them) to put a
temporary carpet on the inside steps of your RV. Cut the sample to stepsize, and use two-sided carpet tape to hold it down. Put the finished
edge out (it looks better). Toss when dirty.
Double Your Covers, Double Your Space - RV Tip #115
Sink covers are a classic “mixed blessing” in an RV because they are
nearly useless while preparing food because they totally eliminate
access to the sink but may, in fact, almost double your work space
(kitchen counter). Cutting larger sink covers in half will allow the cook
access to the sink without sacrificing all the surface area plus actually
extend the countertop work area—a definite win-win!
Composite covers can be cut using nearly any saw with a carbide blade.
I recommend a circular saw because it is easier to keep a straight cut.
Use a file to round the sharp edges. After cutting, the two pieces will
continue to totally cover the sink if needed, look exactly the same when
traveling, and since each piece is smaller, they are easier to remove and
handle.
Store Kitchen Items in Plastic or Vinyl-Wire Bins - RV Tip #122
A plastic basket is an excellent storage place for your pot and pan lids.
This also allows better air circulation if lids are put away damp. You can
also store flat cookware (cookie sheets, baking and pizza pans) in a wire
basket. Be sure to protect any surface that is non-stick. Use the non-skid
material. A non-stick cooking surface will rub off due to the vibration in
an RV.
Store Dry Food Items in Plastic Basket - RV Tip #109
Plastic baskets are great for separating and storing dry foods in your RV
cabinets. Use bins with holes in the sides to facilitate air circulation.
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Electric Can Opener - Have a Manual Backup - RV Tip #117
Electric kitchen gadgets are convenient and easy to use. Lots of RVers
use an electric can opener due to arthritic limitations. However, if you
regularly use an electric can opener, be sure to store a manual one in
your RV as a backup in case you find yourself without power.
Shelf Liner Controls Cookware - RV Tip #99
Line your cabinets and bottom of your drawers with non-adhesive,
skid-resistant shelf liner. It will help muffle noise while driving and
keep things in place. It comes in both a thick and a thin version and
each type works well. Purchase the rolls and cut the specific sizes you
need. The thin version will age and become a bit stiff and smooth to the
touch. Toss it and cut some new pieces.
This material is great for
wrapping glass bakeware, between pots and pans, and protecting
nonstick baking sheets/pans. It will also help prevent cookware from
sliding and reduce noise.
Storing Cooking Liquids - RV Tip #119
Just imagine having to clean up from a leaky container of syrup seeping
into your cabinets. Since all RVs vibrate, especially when going down
the highway, glass containers can break and plastic ones may, at some
point, crack from ongoing vibrations. This is not a concern when living
in a house or apartment.
Store bottles of cooking liquids (cooking oils, sauces, vinegar, syrup,
etc.) all together in a solid, plastic container or tub. When driving, if one
happens to break, the spill will be contained. You will have a small
mess to clean but not a disaster. Use an old hand towel or (clean) socks
to cushion the glass containers.
Give Big Pots a Shower - RV Tip #113
When you use a pot too large to easily wash in the RV galley sink—
wash it in the shower. Wash water from the shower drains into the
same (grey) tank as the water from the kitchen sink. Be careful to
clean up any greasy residue left on the floor of the shower stall.
Keep It Clean! Vacuum Frequently When RVing - RV Tip #123
When traveling or fulltiming in an RV, plan on cleaning and vacuuming
more often than you would living in a house or apartment. Your RV
will simply get dirtier faster. This is due to two things: First, the size
of your RV forces you to live in a smaller space. For example, you might
track dirt into a house but due to its larger size, it is likely more
scattered. Tracking anything into the RV forces you to use the same
door and step into the same area every time. Dirt will accumulate faster
since the traffic pattern is limited.
Second, living in a house that may be surrounded by grass, trees and
paved streets decreases the potential for blowing dust and dirt. Driving
your RV will cause you to be in open spaces more often—such as
fueling up or going through construction sites. The potential for
blowing dust and dirt to enter your coach is increased with travel.
Small Ironing Board Can Handle Tight Spaces - RV Tip #146
Make smart use of limited space in your RV. Purchase a small tabletop
ironing board with short folding legs. Some models are about 30 inches
long. Store it by attaching it to the back wall of the closet (behind the
clothing) with a hook and loop fastener.
Feeling a Bit Cranky - RV Tip #173
If you manually crank up your TV antenna or satellite dish, hang only
your ignition key from the crank. That way, you can’t drive away
without remembering to lower these items. The best way is to have the
key in hand when you crank. TV antennas are one of the most common
repair items in the RV world since they frequently are knocked off by
tree limbs when leaving a campground.
Give Fine Glassware a Hug - RV Tip #111
Store good glassware and stemware (such as crystal wine glasses) in
flexible foam drink “huggies” (also called “koozies).” Many companies
give these away or you can find them really cheap at yard sales and
trade shows. For taller glasses, use two huggies and put one over
each end (top and bottom). Some huggies may not fit over larger
glassware. If so, you can purchase a slip-on protective cover for
glassware. Use whatever works best.
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Keep Your Microwave Quiet - RV Tip #120
Lay a clean, folded bath towel on top of the turntable in your RV's
microwave oven to prevent it from
bouncing while driving. If you
have removable metal cooking racks for your brand of microwave, store
them, nested, upside down on a cabinet shelf. They can also be stored
on the microwave turntable while driving. If so, use the same bath
towel to cushion the cooking racks.
Egg Cartons Offer Protection, Stability - RV Tip #103
Place egg cartons on refrigerator shelves lengthwise, front to back and
they will never fall out. Even if they vibrate toward the door, the door
will stop them from tumbling out due to their length.
Usually, the carton lid will protect the eggs if anything falls in the fridge
while driving. Use the eggs from the rear of the carton first. This will
provide stability when you lift the egg carton.
Use some empty egg
cartons as separators in your fridge. They will buffer and protect items.
Let Us Spray - RV Tip #114
RVs in the low/medium-priced range may not have any type of flexible
sprayer on the kitchen sink. Replacing the faucet with a unit that
contains a sprayer built in to the faucet head is an excellent method for
solving the sprayer issue. Purchase one at your local hardware. Since
the fittings are standard (like a house) it’s an easy replacement.
Big Pots
If you occasionally need a large pot (such as a Dutch oven or stock pot),
store it in one of the outside compartments, underneath. Typically, there
isn’t room inside to conveniently store large pots but you do need one
on occasion.
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One More Sprayer
In many RVs, the kitchen faucet is easily enhanced by attaching a small,
swivel sprayer. These are inexpensive, available everywhere, and will
make your life easier. Simply remove the exiting aerator (if there is one)
and screw on the swivel sprayer.
Tubs for Everything - RV Tip #118
Use a small storage tub tucked in the back of some cabinet somewhere
to hold kitchen gadgets that are occasionally needed but rarely used.
Consider this for the grater, knife sharpener, and meat cleaver to name a
few.
Your Personal RV Wine Cellar - RV Tip #137
Protect your favorite bottles of wine by storing them in your underwear
and sock drawers. Nestle each bottle in and around your underwear
and socks so that it is protected by the soft clothing. If needed, use
additional clothing items to provide protection around the bottles.
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Outside Stuff
Vent Covers Keep Rain Out, Air In - RV Tip #34
Consider installing deflectors that are roof-mounted over the crank-up
roof vents. The covers will allow you to leave the vent hood open when
driving. No rain can come into the coach through the open vent hood
since the cover protects it.
If you do not have a roof-mounted cover that fits over vent hoods, close
ceiling vent hoods when driving.
Store the Awning in Windy Conditions - RV Tip #174
If the wind is gusting, don’t put out your awning. If it is already out and
the wind picks up later, then store the awning. Some RVers use a tiedown kit to avoid damage to the awning if a wind suddenly comes up.
These kits are effective in moderate winds but storing the awning is
always best and safest practice when there are strong wind conditions.
Guidelines for Putting Your Slides In, Out
There is no one correct way to open or retract your slides in the RV, so
follow your manufacturer’s recommendation. Some manufacturer’s
slides are designed to correctly go out and in after leveling. Some go out
and in before leveling. Some slides won’t go out if the ignition key is
in the “on” position but may come in. Some manufacturers may
recommend that you start the engine to provide maximum power to the
electric motors that operate the slides. So, again, follow your
manufacturer’s recommendation, not your friend’s advice.
Keep Batwing Antenna Down in Gusty Conditions - RV Tip #177
If the wind is really gusting, don’t put up your TV antenna and satellite
dish. They could become damaged or bend in the high winds. The
“batwing” antenna is designed to lie on the roof of the RV, and not be
affected by high winds when driving.
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Travel With All RV Windows Closed on Road Trips - RV Tip #32
On road trips, make sure you travel with all RV windows closed. This
will help keep fumes outside and prevent dust from entering the living
area. In addition, any open rear windows may suck unwanted fumes
and odors into the RV.
Warm Up Sunshades Before Installation - RV Tip #175
Lay sunshades (or sun screens) out in the sun for a few minutes, or
bring them inside (in colder weather), before attempting to attach them
to the coach. If you bring them inside, lay them on the dash in the
sunshine to warm them up. Some types need to be stretched a bit to
fasten and stretch easier when warmed up. Use a picnic table, or the
hood or roof of the car to lay them out. If you need to stretch them a bit
(to reach the fastener), you can pull on the material but not the edging.
Awning Helps Divert Rain Away - RV Tip #176
When putting up your awning, leave one end slightly lower than the
other. This will allow water to run off and be directed away from the
RV. Many RVers lower the awning toward the rear of the coach to
direct water away from the coach door. No, seriously, all those crooked
awnings were set like that on purpose!
Closing Slides in Winter Conditions - RV Tip #236
If you have slides, be careful when opening and closing them if
camping or living in winter conditions. Overnight snow can collect on
the slide-cover awning and must be removed before closing the slide.
Snow removal can be quite difficult because the roof areas will also be
snow-covered. If possible, use a separate ladder to gain access and make
sure to have assistance nearby when using a ladder in winter.
You may also find that water pooled on a slide-cover awning may
freeze overnight if the temperature drops. The resounding “crunch”
noise when you start to put your slide in will not be a comforting
sound. Again, the only solution is to carefully break up the ice and
remove it.
Be Cool and Exercise (your Generator) - RV Tip #88
Try using your coach air conditioners when driving rather than your
engine (dash) air or in a colder climate, run your heat pumps. While it is
important to regularly use your engine air conditioner to keep the seals
lubricated and performing, using your coach air conditioners or heat
pump will provide good climate control and it will force you to exercise
the generator under load—easily accomplished when traveling. With
the generator running, you will also be able to run the refrigerator on
AC rather than LP gas. If you have a new RV, exercising (running under
load) the generator is required to maintain the warranty.
How Not to Run Your Generator
Don't run your generator for brief periods of time. Suppose you are
boondocking and want to heat up your coffee in the microwave. If you
run the microwave on battery power, it will rapidly run down your
batteries—not good. Some RVers fire up the generator for a few minutes
to do tasks like this—run a hairdryer, coffee pot, electric heaters, etc. In
a word—don't. Running the generator for those short bursts of time will
definitely reduce its life.
Long-Handled Window Washers - RV Tip #55
Diesel islands where trucks can fuel up usually have long-handled
squeegees, ideal for washing very tall windows. Wash your windows
while fueling to prevent holding up the fueling line. Don’t forget to
wash the driver and passenger windows, mirrors, and headlights.
Keep RV Finish Free of Bugs and Grime - RV Tip #364
Use a slightly moistened microfiber cloth to clean the bugs and road
grime off the front of your RV as soon as possible after reaching your
destination. Doing this simple step helps keep acids and bugs from
“eating” into the paint finish. Your RV will look better—plus using a
good quality wax and protectant will provide increased shine and
reduced effort in removing future bugs and grime.
Clean Faucet Before Attaching Water Hose - RV Tip #167
Before attaching the white water hose, run the water through the
campground faucet for a few seconds at high pressure just to wash off
the faucet end and ensure no sediment, rust, or critters are up, inside
the end of the faucet. Some RVers spray a disinfectant onto the end of
the faucet and give it a few seconds to work on any residual bacteria.
Rinse it off and you are ready to hook up.
Disinfect Water Hose While Traveling - RV Tip #191
Disconnect your water hose, drain it, and connect the two ends of your
water hose to each other to prevent anything from getting inside the
hose while traveling. A couple of times a year, it is advisable to add two
or three tablespoons of bleach to a partially full hose, almost fill it, and
then connect the ends together. At the next stop, connect the hose and
flush out the bleach solution and connect as usual.
Disinfect Water Hose While Traveling - RV Tip #191 (part two)
Use a quick disconnect and a two-way diverter valve to connect to the
campground faucet. You will have water to the RV and the second
valve will allow you to relieve the water pressure from the RV hose
before disconnecting the line or just simply have access to water like a
second hose hookup.
White Potable Water Hose - RV Tip #165
Until recently, the standard rule for water hose color is white for
potable water and green (typical garden hose) for everything else. This
is changing and some hoses are now available in “designer” colors.
It's a wise investment to purchase a new hose for potable water with
any rig. That way you will know it is clean. We always get a white one.
That way there’s never any mistake when hooking up.
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Important, Easy, Electric Safety Tip - RV Tip #163
Switch off the circuit breaker at the shore power before plugging in!
When leaving, switch the circuit breaker off before unplugging. Just for
fun, note the times that you pull into a campsite and the breaker is still
on. That tells you that the previous occupant really didn’t know what
they were doing, was living dangerously, and had not read this tip!
Water-Pressure Regulator Helps - RV Tip #166
Make certain you have purchased a water-pressure regulator for your
potable water hose. This regulator will prevent water, under excessively
high pressure, from entering your coach and possibly blowing some of
your water connections. Some campgrounds have very high water
pressure. You may see signs at the campground office warning of this
high pressure and, if so, take them seriously to prevent damage to your
coach.
It is best to always use the regulator. Make it a (mostly) permanent
attachment. Attach the water-pressure regulator to the end of your
water hose that attaches to the campground faucet. Doing this will
prevent high water pressure from bursting your water hose since the
pressure is regulated at the faucet. Newer RVs often have a waterpressure regulator built in where the water hose connects to the coach.
These are fine but will not protect the water hose. Having two
regulators, one on each end of your water hose, is best.
Quick, Disconnect the Water - RV Tip #170
Remember to use a “quick disconnect” for your potable water hose
connections at the coach to make this task easier to perform. It’s worth
investing in a good quality brass fixture.
Dumping Tanks in Freezing Weather - RV Tip #232
Be careful when dumping holding tanks in freezing weather. Blade
valves can freeze, and plastic fittings and handles may become brittle
and break.
Glove Up for Hygiene - RV Tip #171
Keep a box of the disposable rubber gloves in the outside utility
compartment. Use them if you get into raw sewage. They can be
purchased at any pharmacy. Don’t save and reuse the gloves. Toss them
when finished. Rings and other jewelry will puncture the gloves.
A Measure for Safety - RV Tip #158
In smaller, older campgrounds, you may need to take a quick measure
before putting the slides out. Look for any unmovable obstacles (tree
limbs, shore power poles, picnic tables, boulders, etc.) that the slide
could hit. A handy “tool” with which to measure your slide clearance
is the metal rod used for grabbing the awning strap. Put pieces of tape
or use a permanent marker on the metal hook to indicate the necessary
clearance for the slides.
All the Other Stuff
Safety for New RVers - RV Tip #21
Before you hit the road for the first time, it is recommended that you
purchase and understand how to use the following, (A) Any state- or
provincial-mandated safety equipment that you must carry by law, (B)
Two to four orange traffic cones—they are handy to have. Taller ones
are easier to see.
(C) Four emergency flares
, and (D) A 6-volt
flashlight or a rechargeable 12-volt portable lantern
.
LED Flashlights
An LED flashlight is great but they do not “run down,” i.e., the light
does not get weaker with use—at some point, it simply goes from full
brightness to totally off, instantly. A 6-volt light is generally better for
general maintenance as it will provide some warning that it is running
out of power. The light will dim and you will know its battery needs
replacing. Deefinitely keep a spare battery—remember, no warning!
There are many, many brands of flashlights available. For the best, try
SureFire. This is the brand carried by many law-enforcement agencies
and the military. There’s good news and bad news for RVers.
The good news… SureFire sells tactical-level lights and defines
“tactical-level light” as enough to temporarily blind or disorient an
opponent in low light situations—a light 50 lumens or greater for LEDs.
In an RV, the distance from the bed to the mid-entry or front-entry door
is ideal for this type of “tactical-level light.” Granted, the flashlight is
not an offensive weapon but has the potential to help in a break-in
situation—not all intruders are armed. Also, since the flashlight is not a
true weapon, you can cross borders with it.
The bad news… SureFire lights are not cheap. Don’t make the mistake
of comparing price alone as the SureFire light will nearly always be
more expensive. However, if possible, compare the two lights side-byside in low light or dark conditions. You will be amazed at the
difference in output. Oh, and don't shine it in your eyes.
Hiding Place to Store Spare Set of RV Keys - RV Tip #89
Before leaving on your next trip, have a full set of extra keys made
including the RV ignition key, door key, compartment keys, and any
other special keys. Test them and then store keys in a double, plastic,
zipper-lock storage bag. Add a small squirt of lubricant like WD-40 to
help prevent corrosion.
Then insert this bag inside an empty plastic
storage bag to provide extra protection. Roll the bagged keys into a tight
roll and crawl under your RV to place the rolled-up bag on TOP of one
of your frame rails. Using lots of black tape, wrap/seal/fasten this set
of keys in place. There are two things to consider:
First, make sure you place the hidden keys on TOP of the frame so no
one will accidentally see them—such as the person servicing your RV.
Second, make the bag hard to get to—in a location extreme enough that
you would have to crawl around in the mud to reach it. After all, you
are only going to use it in a real emergency.
Who You Gonna Call? - RV Tip #90
Make a list of phone numbers (family contacts, emergency services,
coach and chassis manufacturer, dealer, insurance, etc.). Make copies so
both the pilot and copilot can carry one, put one in the coach, and one in
the tow vehicle. It is nearly impossible to get to some of this
information, for example, when stored under the bed or in a cabinet
obstructed by the slide—especially when slides cannot be opened for
any reason!
Top
Take a ‘Shakedown Cruise’ - RV Tip #85
Do an RV “Shakedown Cruise" before heading out on a lengthy trip,
after the RV has been stored for a lengthy time, or with a new RV. Take
a short trip in your new RV and plan to stay out 2 to 3 nights—three is
best. Your goal here is to try everything—all the appliances, the holding
tanks, TV, satellite system, toilet, jacks, awning, sewer hose, microwave,
radio, slides, etc. Test each item several times.
If possible, plan to move every day to another campground in a totally
different park to force you to practice hooking up and unhooking
everything in a strange environment. It’s work but it’s worth it. This is
exactly what you have to do on a trip somewhere.
Plan to drive 20–40 miles (30–60 km) minimum between overnight
stops. This will give you plenty of time to jostle everything around that
was incorrectly packed.
It is much better to find any problems now before you take a long trip.
Problems can include equipment not functioning correctly, or you not
knowing how to properly operate certain items in the RV.
Water Conservation for Boondocking - RV Tip #209
Use paper towels or used table napkins to wipe excess food from pots
and pans prior to washing them. This will save a pre-rinse, and may
also save running a second load of the dish water.
Water Conservation Tip When Boondocking - RV Tip #213
Use a pan to catch cool or room temperature water that flows while you
are waiting for hot water to come through the faucet or showerhead.
Later, you can heat up this extra water on the stove or in the microwave,
and use it for washing the dishes. This water is perfectly clean and
comes from the fresh water tank on board your RV.
Water-Saving Tips when Boondocking - RV Tip #203
When you wash dishes, use two containers (such as plastic tubs)—one
for washing and one for the rinse water. When finished, don’t empty
these down the sink drain into the gray water tank. Flush the dishwater
down the toilet. Don’t forget to turn off your water pump while
flushing so you don’t waste more water while you dump the dishwater.
Dump the dishwater only. Save the rinse water and use it as the wash
water the next time. After all, your rinse is now slightly soapy water
from rinsing the dishes.
Boondock for Quickie Savings
Many RVers on the road (trying to drive a few days to get to a
destination) will often use a campground for one night and boondock—
park overnight without any utility hookups—for two nights. You can
maintain this schedule with virtually no water conservation. This will,
however, reduce your camping costs by approximately two-thirds, or
66%—a significant savings. When you need a campground, get one.
However, you purchased an RV with the unique ability to be selfcontained and you need to use it occasionally without hooking up.
Hitch Receivers—Is Yours Safe?
A Safety Issue! Hitch receivers have capacity ratings determined by the
RV maker and the chassis manufacturer. There should be a rating plate
on the frame of the hitch receiver showing its rated capacity. If not,
contact the RV manufacturer for confirmation of the towing capacity.
You must adhere to the total capacity of the RV (GCWR). For example,
you may find that a fully loaded RV can only safely tow about 2,600
pounds (1,179 kilograms) even though the hitch receiver is rated at
3,500 pounds (1,588 kilograms). Ensure that whatever you are towing is
under the rated capacity of both the hitch receiver and the towing
capacity of your coach. Be safe!
Keep Your Tools Handy - RV Tip #169
Buy an old pair of channel-lock pliers at a yard sale and keep them in
the utility compartment. Then you won’t have to remember to take
them with you every time if you need to tighten the hose or unscrew a
Using Canadian Visa Cards for Fuel... For those who are from Canada
and hate leaving their credit cards with the cashier while pumping fuel,
Visa now allows you to enter the numbers from your postal code and
add two zeros. For example, with a postal code of M3R 2X5 enter 32500
as a zip code on the pumps. SOURCE: Billings Gazette
stuck sewer cap. Most likely they will rust since they are around
water all the time, so an occasional drop of lubricant helps. Buy a cheap
cell phone belt carrier, use a hook-and-loop (Velcro®) fastener, and hang
your pliers from the compartment wall.
Extra Drawers for Your RV - RV Tip # 101
Use lids from copy paper boxes to organize and store canned goods in
cabinets. The lids are available at any print or copy shop and usually
free. Slide the lids into a cabinet shelf. If your shelf happens to be above
your washer/dryer, two lids should fit side-by-side. Put canned goods
in the lids. Doing so will buffer them as you are driving.
Additionally, you can simply grasp the lid and pull it toward you like
a drawer. This makes it easy to check your inventory in the back.
Finally, if you RV part time, use the lids to carry your canned goods to
and from the house when packing and unpacking. If you don’t like the
looks of the box, put some decorative contact paper on it.
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