If you’re an RVer heading back to visit family for the holidays, you probably hope these wishes would come true: we arrive relaxed, on time, and with the least amount of holiday stress possible.
Here are five practical, no-nonsense tips that enable you to focus on cocoa and cousins for a comfortable celebration.
Tip 1: Perform a pre-trip check
A little prep prevents a lot of holiday headaches. Before you go, inspect tires (including the spare), top up or swap fluids, test heating systems, check seals and roof for leaks, and make sure your lights and brakes are solid.
If your trip crosses cold regions, winterize or at least winter-check the plumbing and antifreeze levels.
Tip 2: Plan and reserve
The holidays are peak travel time, and popular campgrounds and overnight stops can fill up fast. Pick your route with RV-friendly mapping (think clearance and weight limits). Split long drives into daylight-only stretches where possible. Remember that traveling mid-week may mean less traffic and congestion.
Set backup stops and reserve full-hookup sites along your route if you need power or water. Call ahead to let hosts or campgrounds know your arrival window.
Tip 3: Check conditions every morning
Holiday travel means winter weather can rearrange your plans on a dime. Before you pull out, check the National Weather Service forecasts and local DOT road conditions for closures or advisories.
If a storm looks likely, shift your travel window or reroute to main roads. They are often plowed first and are usually safer than backroads.
Carry a winter survival kit with warm layers, a shovel, jumper cables, and extra food and water in case you get stuck.
Tip 4: Pack sensibly
Space is limited in an RV, so pack with intention. Take only what you need for this holiday trip. If space is tight, remove items you won’t use/need.
You’ll need space for the gifts you plan to give, and you may receive gifts, as well. Plan where and how you’ll safely store the presents for travel.
Pack a small “arrival kit” with chargers, an easy pre-prepped meal (if necessary), and an outfit for the first evening so you don’t have to unpack everything right away.
As always, carry current insurance, registration, and roadside-assistance information.
Tip 5: RV plans during your stay
Decide before you arrive whether your RV will stay at a campsite, go into storage, or remain on family property during your visit.
If you plan to vacate your rig for the duration of your trip, you may need to dump tanks and run RV antifreeze. Also, consider disconnecting or maintaining batteries. Pull in slides and prepare your RV as if putting it in storage.
You may decide to stay in your RV. This offers a welcome bit of “space” away from the celebrations so you can occasionally rest and recharge.
A calm, simple plan is the best gift you can give yourself (and everyone else) during the holidays. I hope these tips will help.
Will you travel in your RV for the holidays? Tell us using the comments below.
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RVDT2794
We are in the process of these preparations now so we can make our yearly 900 mile trip to spend Christmas with family. We will stay in our motorhome on their property, hoping it doesn’t get too cold, but prepared in case it does. ‘Tis the season!