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Tips For First-Time RV Owners

Jun. 30 2022 Ownership Tips By Price Right Auto & RV

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Becoming a first-time RV owner is a thrilling experience, but it can also be quite overwhelming. You will want to do everything you can to prepare for your first outdoor adventure with an RV. Read this guide for some pointers, then stop by Price Right RV if you need help with parts, services, or trade-ins. We’re located in Dewitt and Sterling Heights, MI.

Practice Makes Perfect

It is important to spend time getting used to your RV and how it handles on the road. This will help you have a safer, less stressful experience. The first time you take your camper on the road should not be the morning of your road trip! You’ll want to take some time to practice and get more comfortable driving it.

Towable RV owners should connect their RV to the tow vehicle and see how the extra weight impacts the stopping distance, turning radius, and so on. Motorhome owners will need to get behind the wheel and familiarize themselves with the vehicle’s handling.

For any RV style, here are some of the basic things you should practice in a low-traffic neighborhood or parking lot:

  • Parking
  • Taking corners
  • Reversing into tight spots
  • Driving up and down hills
  • Bringing the RV to a complete stop
  • Handling wind resistance

Once you’ve got the basics down, you can attempt to go on longer drives on roads with higher speed limits. You should still wait to take your first official RV trip until you feel fully confident in your abilities to drive or tow it safely.

Familiarize Yourself With Your Rig

One of the key components of RV ownership is learning about the details of your specific model. Some examples include:

  • The measurements of your rig to help you figure out where you can and cannot take your vehicle. For example, you may need to know whether you can safely fit under a bridge or legally drive on certain roads.
  • The meaning behind the caution labels on the rig’s exterior or in the owner’s manual.
  • How the electrical system, sewage system, and appliances function, and how they may differ from the ones in your home.

Dedicate some time to reading through the owner’s manual and reviewing the manufacturer’s recommendations. The better you understand your camper, the better you’ll be able to care for it and make the most out of using it. 

Research Your Destination Ahead of Time

This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many first-time RV owners skip the research step. You want to confirm the campground will accommodate both your rig and your preferred camping style. Confirm the following:

  • Your RV will fit into the campsite.
  • Your water and electrical systems are compatible with the campsite (or you have a water pressure regulator and surge protector).
  • The campground provides the services you need such as restrooms and Wi-Fi.
  • A spot is available during your preferred dates. If so, make a reservation as soon as possible.

We hope our tips for first-time RV owners have been helpful. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We proudly serve the Detroit metro area and Lansing, MI.