The weight and limited visibility of RVs tend to make them challenging to drive. Last month in our email newsletter, we shared a few tips for safer RV travel, and we think that it would be valuable to expand on that!
With that said, here are some of our pro tips for safer RV travel.
Develop a Safety Checklist!
Checklists are not a “one size fits all” when it comes to RV travel. The areas you need to check are different between each kind of RV – whether it’s a travel trailer, 5th wheel, motorhome, teardrop or Boler. We suggest that you get to know your RV and what makes it unique, and add to the suggested lists below:
Towable |
Motorhome |
| Stop every couple hundred km and make sure that the outside of your wheel bearings are warm but not hot. | Top up your RV’s fluids before departing. It is wise to keep extra oil, antifreeze and windshield washer fluid in Rubbermaid containers stored in the motorhome. |
| Consider purchasing a suitable roadside assistance program such as AMA. | Consider purchasing a suitable roadside assistance program such as AMA. |
| Confirm clearance, brake, and signal lights are functioning before you leave (and every time you stop). Connection to the tow vehicle can loosen, which can cause lights to stop working. | Perform a walk-around prior to departure, looking on the roof, the sides and under the motorhome to ensure everything is closed and secured.
Do the same walkthrough on the inside of the motorhome looking for items that could shift (or go flying) during travel. |
| Check your tire pressure before travel (including the pressure of your spare tire). | Tire pressure on your big rig is critical to a safe ride (and ensuring that you aren’t wearing out your expensive tires).
Want to earn respect from the truckers then next time you stop for fuel? Buy a “thumper” and walk around your RV and check your tires. The sound will tell you if the tire pressure is good. |
| Carry a “breaker bar” and socket sized to your trailer’s lug nuts. Extra points for having a torque wrench! | |
| Confirm the trailer ball is locked to the vehicle and the safety pin is installed. |
Stay Buckled Up On The Road
Need we say more? Safety first. Motorhomes may feel safer since they bring the comforts of your home into the RV, but buckling up is still necessary. For safer RV travel, buckle up, stay alert while driving, and take regular breaks on the long drives.
Be Proactive About RV Maintenance
RVs tend to sit idle for half of the year and get used for the other half of the year. Unfortunately, this can take a toll on every component of your RV. Regular inspections ensure that appliances are working correctly, the RV is waterproof, and all safety components are in good working order.
Do you want an RV inspection tailored to your needs? Contact us to determine the type of inspection service you require.
Replace Worn Out Tires
Trailer tires need to be replaced more often than you might think. Regular inspection of your tires is critical. Want to extend the life of your tires? Click HERE to listen to some advice from one of the largest trailer tire manufacturers.
Stow And Secure All Of Your Belongings
Whether you are in an RV or towing a trailer, it is critical to ensure everything is secured and won’t move around during your travel. The roads in Canada often present bumps, potholes, sharp curves, and steep hills. Keep heavy items low to the floor and pack tightly to ensure that your things don’t move around.
Invest In A Backup Camera
Backing up an RV has become a contentious issue and product of some quite hilarious memes. Save the drama and invest in a backup camera to keep the peace! Here is the backup camera that we recommend to our customers: https://edmontonrvmobile.com/product/backup-camera.
Balance The Weight In Your RV
More often than not, people try to tow trailers with smaller vehicles, so it is critical to have a quality weight distribution hitch and sway control. Having these items will eliminate a dangerous situation where the trailer pushes the tow vehicle around. Another key tip for safer RV travel: heavy items need to go over the wheels of the trailer, plain and simple.
Watch our favourite video showing proper weight distribution and get in touch with our team if you have any questions:
Practice Driving Your RV
Repetition builds perfection – or at least it makes you slightly better than you were before. Take things slow and work on understanding how your trailer or motorhome responds when backing up or driving.
Would you like some help with learning how to tow or back up? Get in touch with our team! We would be happy to give you a 1 on 1 training session with an experienced technician that has backed up hundreds of motorhomes and trailers.
Enjoy The Camping Season
We hope your summer is filled with fun, laughter, and lots of safe RV adventures! If you need service, parts, and / or RV advice, the RV Mobile Edmonton team is always here and happy to help.
