Some Simple Tips for your First RV Adventure

When you’re gearing up for the first trip in your new RV, it’s important plan things out. An RV has many features that require preparation and planning before they can be used, and there are so many things you need to bring. An RV is convenient because you can have your meals, lodging, and recreational area all in the same place. But all of those elements require that you put some thought into planning.

Broadmoor RV in Pasco, Washington wants you to have the best trip possible, which is why we’ve developed this guide to help you get ready.

Don’t forget us when it comes time to buy accessories or fix your RV whether you’re in the great state of Oregon or Washington.

Planning

In the medical world, the cliche goes that an ounce of planning saves a pound of cure. The same goes for RVing, in which failures of planning can require expensive, time-consuming fixes. Fail to book a campsite and you might find yourself driving around in the dark looking for one that’s still open. Fail to refill your propane and you might have to spend your nights shivering in an RV without a furnace. To combat this, make sure you plan out where you want to go, then plan out an itinerary. Reserve campsites months in advance to make sure you get a spot. Make a binder or spreadsheet on your computer that contains a list of the things you always need while camping, and update it as new things come to mind. You don’t have to plan every hour of every day, but you can save yourself some time at the campsite by making and freezing meals ahead, and figuring out a way to do laundry in advance. The more planning you do early on, the less you’ll have to worry about on your trip.

Packing

Packing is a delicate balance in which you have a set amount of space and a list of wants and needs. Sometimes those wants can feel like needs, and you might be tempted to bring along your tabletop espresso machine. Luxuries certainly aren’t a bad thing, and if you have the space, why not bring it all? Just make sure you don’t try to pack the espresso maker but are left with no room for the first aid kit.

You might want to leave some items in your RV at all times, such as travel-ready pots and pans, dishes, and linens. This is a good way to keep things in order, but make sure to review your inventory before you hit the road so you don’t leave something behind that you thought you brought with you. And don’t forget to pack all the safety equipment you need.

Organizing

Organization is key for keeping all of these plates spinning in your mind. It’s hard to overstate the value of having lots of checklists, spreadsheets, and plans. You should consider making a plan for all the different processes involved in camping with your RV, including setting up and taking down camp, preparing your trailer for travel, turning on and testing your different appliances, and even managing your different water tanks. It’s so easy to think you remember all the steps when in reality you are missing something important. Organization isn’t just about doing things correctly the first time; it’s also about maintaining peace of mind. Once you’ve established good routines based on thorough checklists, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you didn’t forget anything.

Enjoy the Process

Taking an RV out can be a lot of work, but you should enjoy yourself! Organization and preparation will always feel a little bit stressful, but remember the great reward that awaits you once you get to the camp. If you find you need parts, accessories, or services during this process, don’t be afraid to stop by Broadmoor RV. We’re one of the Northwest’s most trusted RV dealerships, and from our Pasco, Washington location, we proudly serve Spokane, Wenatchee, Walla Walla, and Richland, Washington, along with La Grande, Pendleton, Portland, and Hermiston, Oregon. Stop by today to see how we can help you!