Posted on: Mar 23, 2022 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Tips for Your First RV Trip

First RV Trip Tips

The idea of travelling in your recreational vehicle or RV at your leisure seems so thrilling. You can enjoy your dream vacation as long as you want, detour anywhere with your home travelling with you. However, travelling in an RV is not the same as travelling in your car. If you are a newbie you need to do your research and plan your trip with every detail in mind. Remember to upgrade your travel insurance policy before you start on your trip.

Here are a few tips for beginners on your first trip with your Recreational Vehicle or RV:

1. Choose the Right RV:

Depending on the type of terrain you plan to travel, choose the right size of RV. A long RV may be comfortable but may cause problems in mobility. While a short RV will allow you to travel easily even in rugged terrain. It will also require less parking space and will give you better mileage. It will also be far easier to maintain so you will have more time to enjoy your vacation.

2. Plan your First Trip close to Home:

After you have chosen the RV, you can’t wait to go on your first trip. Do not rush, and prepare yourself first. Choose an area near your place for your first trip to understand how it operates, what you will need, and how the experience is going to be. This way you will get a fair idea, gain confidence, and head back home in case there is some problem. At least you will be in a known surroundings where getting any assistance won’t be difficult.

3. Connect with RV Travelers:

Join an RV forum or a community of RV Travelers where they share their experiences, handy tips, and tricks. It is the best way to get first-hand information and answers to all your queries. You can also get ideas on places you can travel with your RV, dos, and don’ts, stuff to carry, and troubleshooting. Connecting with other RV travellers is the best way to have support for any of your doubts.

4. Prepare your Packing List:

It is important to prepare a packing list well in advance so that you don’t miss any essentials before leaving. The first thing to include in your list is your toolkit with all necessary tools not just for your van but for your stay in RV. Do not forget a first-aid kit, lamps, clothing, shoes, food items, cookware, toiletries, towels, camp chairs, backpack, bikes, and your adventure gear. If you have all these items with you, you can avoid frequent stops during your trip.

5. Dumping the Toilet Waste Tank:

This is the most important aspect of travelling in an RV. Watch videos and ask other RV travellers how, where, and when to dump the waste without creating a mess. This is something you wouldn’t want to take any chance with. Do your homework well, practice if needed but be prepared for it before you start your journey.

6. Download Apps:

There are camping apps that can provide all the information and help in time of need. Review, parking spot locations, nearest stores, refilling station, travellers travelling. Download a camping app to stay connected on the go and do not hesitate to ask for help.

7. Camp Set-Up:

Setting up the camp is important if you want to have a great experience. Park and level your RV. Set up your electric and water system. Unpack your stuff and enjoy. Remember to pack everything before you leave and do visit a dump station first to clear the waste immediately after you leave your camping spot.

8. Do Not Drive at Night:

Avoid driving during the night. It will be difficult to get any help in case of a breakdown. Try to reach your destination before dark so that you can set up easily and get familiar with the surrounding in daylight. And if you want to enjoy the sunrise and early morning, it is best that you rest well and park your van before it's dark.

To start your journey with your RV, first, get it insured with a travel insurance policy.

Conclusion

Invest time in knowing your RV and connect with other travellers. Their experiences can help you learn and make your travel easy and enjoyable. Owning an RV gives you freedom but at the same time, it is a big responsibility. You are liable for everything from operation to safety. Before you take the plunge, it will be a good idea to join someone on their RV trip, this way you will get a good experience. It is also important to invest in a good travel insurance policy before you start your journey.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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