By Nanci Dixon
Be a good campsite neighbor and don’t do these four things. There are a number of simple etiquette things to do or not to do to be a good RVer that we all know … or at least should know. I recently learned some new things and these four things are now at the top of my not-to-do list. I found out you can be too nice of a campsite neighbor…
Don’t distract!
We love RV neighbors welcoming us, but, please… a simple “Hi” or wave is great until we are set up. It is too easy to get distracted and miss something like turning on the water, flipping the circuit breaker, putting pads under the jacks, or, worst for me, my husband not connecting the sewer hose!
Don’t be too neighborly!
We love to talk with folks. We have made some lifelong RV friends in our travels, some of whom were campsite neighbors. But, please, don’t be too neighborly and wander over every time you see us out. Give people a little space. Absence makes the heart grow fonder…
Don’t have it all about you
We love hearing about other people’s journeys, their kids, their stories—but not ALL of their life stories, problems, how much money they have or don’t have, illnesses, medicines and how much tax they pay or can avoid. Make the conversation a two-way street and don’t monopolize it.
Don’t talk politics with your new campsite neighbor!
In this climate, this should be a given. Politics are politically charged! Don’t assume you know where your campsite neighbor stands and don’t try to convert them to the “truth” if you do. You will only be met with uncomfortable silence or a heated discussion. If politics and religion can put a deep wedge in families, think how quickly they can ruin an otherwise amazing camping trip.
These four “don’ts” might seem obvious, but there are a lot of newcomers out there excited about their newfound freedom and wanting to connect with people. RVers, after all, are an amazing group of friendly folks.
And, no, before the comments swirl, I am not a Scrooge (although I am a bit of an introvert). I really like people stopping by, pulling up a chair, and chatting. But just like the in-laws visiting, I want them to go home sometime!
RELATED
- Campground neighbors too close? Create privacy with a DIY screen
- RVtravel.com poll results are in, and the biggest campground etiquette complaint is…
- RV etiquette—10 unspoken rules every RVer should follow
- Around the Campfire: RVers share their funny and ‘yikes’ newbie mistakes
RVT1256
Like my grandma Zona used to say about family and friends visiting, ” It’s good to see them come, and it’s good to see them go. ” Lol.😄
My grandmother would have a thin cushion on the rocker so family wouldn’t stay too long.