Tips for Successful RV Ownership

RV ownership can be a scary undertaking if you're new to it. There are so many working parts that are unfamiliar to RV newbies. But if you just keep a few things in mind and understand that each new camping trip is a learning experience, then you'll be an RV veteran in no time. Here are 10 tips for successful RV ownership.

10. Trip Planning:
Know before you go! Plan the route you'll take before you leave the driveway to make the trip easier on yourself. RVing is all about freedom and independence, but that doesn't mean you should hit the road without a game plan. Decide if you're going to avoid toll roads, take the scenic way, or swing by relatives' houses to say hi. A little planning ahead of time can save you valuable time and money (and no one likes to waste time or money!).



9. Create Pre-Trip Checklists:
Pre-trip RV walk-arounds can prevent costly and embarrassing accidents. You've seen the YouTube videos of antennas and air conditioning units getting peeled off by low-hanging bridges and drive-through overhangs. Don't be that RVer! Make a pre-trip check list and use it. Your awning and A/C unit will thank you! And so will your wallet!



8. Take Breaks While Traveling:
As much as you want to hit the road and drive all day and night until you reach your destination, that's definitely not the smartest way to travel. Take breaks during your trip to get out, stretch your legs, eat a healthy meal, and walk around a little to get your blood flowing again. It also helps to switch drivers (if possible) so that each driver gets an opportunity to sit back, rest their eyes, and maybe even take a nap. Taking breaks from sitting behind the wheel fights fatigue and helps keep you sharp and alert. All good things when pulling an RV down the highway!



7. Avoid Traveling in Inclement Weather:
Towing an RV down the highway in good weather is hard enough. Don't make it more difficult (and dangerous) than it already is by attempting to travel in bad weather. Be smart about when you travel and avoid hitting the road if storms are coming. Rain makes roads slick, wind makes staying in your lane difficult, and ice and snow are downright treacherous to drive on with an RV. Just don't do it.



6. Limit Driving Time:
To help you stay alert, limit your driving time to six hours a day and your mileage to a maximum of 350 miles. After this point, your mind and body become tired and less responsive. When towing anything behind your vehicle, you need to be alert, sharp, and wide awake. With that much weight traveling down the highway at high speeds, you need to be ready for anything. So take time to stop and smell the roses along the way. You'll get there eventually.



5. Drive Defensively:
Remain alert and aware of what is going on around your RV as you head down the road. Clip-on convex mirrors that attach to your existing rear view mirrors go a long way to improving visibility and eliminating blind spots around your RV. They are inexpensive and are an investment you'll come to appreciate.



4. Make Destination Reservations:
If you've ever tried to wing it with reservations and have felt the stress of not knowing where your family will be setting up camp for a night, then you know how important it is to plan ahead and make campground reservations. Having a reservation at a campground that can accommodate your type of RV will go a long way to making your camping trip a fun one.



3. Know Your RV Plan Options:
Knowing and understanding your RV's options, model specific service plans, warranty information, and more is an important part of RV ownership. If you don't understand the fine print, ask your dealer and don't sign on the dotted line until you are familiar with and understand what you are signing.



2. Protect Your Investment:
RV insurance will help you protect your investment in the event of an emergency. There are many major insurance companies that specialize in RV insurance and offer competitive rates. Lakeshore RV Center knows and understands RV insurance and can recommend an insurance company. Ask your Lakeshore salesperson about it today!



1. Maintain and Store Your RV Properly:
Storing your RV properly when not in use and performing regular maintenance will extend the life of your RV and help it maintain its value. Exposure to acid rain, snow, falling debris, and the sun's harmful rays will deteriorate your RV over time, so storing your RV properly will help protect it from the elements. The experts in the service department at Lakeshore RV Center can show you what you need to know to properly maintain and store your RV.