5 Mistakes RV Newbies Make

Most new RV owners can’t wait to get out there and go on their first camper adventure. However, enthusiasm coupled with a lack of experience can lead to pitfalls. We here at Pete’s RV want to ease new camper owners into the lifestyle, and help prevent avoidable mistakes. That is why we have created this list of common mistakes that RV newbies should avoid.

1. Forgetting the Full Walk-Around

Before driving off, you should always check to make sure that you’ve covered all your bases. There are many important tasks to complete before you can safely set off, and forgetting even one of them can cause problems. For example, it is critical that you remember to disconnect from any hookups before you leave. You also don’t want to accidentally leave supplies at camp or neglect to remove the leveling blocks. Always do a walk-around, even if you don’t think it is necessary, before you leave your site.  

2. Not Fully Understanding Your RV

You will naturally become more familiar with your RV and how it handles over time, but there are some things that are important for you to grasp as soon as possible. For example, it is important that you keep in mind how large your RV is, and how that affects its handling. A smaller space with more than enough room for a car might not fit your RV. You also need to be aware of any height or width restrictions that your RV wouldn’t be able to clear.

You also need to develop a sense of how things are supposed to sound in your RV. A rattling or other strange noise is often the first sign that something is not operating the way that it should be, and the sooner you identify the problem, the sooner you can takes steps to fix it.

3. Turning Corners Too Fast

We cannot recommend enough that you take the time to practice behind the wheel before your first trip. The skills you learn from driving a commuter vehicle will not prepare you to safely drive or tow an RV. For example, one of the most common errors committed by overconfident camper drivers is taking corners too fast. Even with a smaller RV, you are at risk for tipping or sliding if you aren’t careful as you turn. A little practice can make a big difference when it comes to handling your RV.

4. Forgetting To Prepare

As your first trip approaches and excitement builds, it can be easy to forget basic preparation steps. Avoid last minute scrambling by knowing where you are going and what you need to pack well in advance. Campgrounds tend to fill up quickly, so it is recommended that you reserve a spot in advance.

5. Giving Up

If you do make a mistake, it can be extremely discouraging. You may wonder whether you are cut out for the RV lifestyle after all. Remember that any mistake you make has probably been made by someone else before, and that the more experienced RV owners you see at the campsite likely made their own mistakes when starting out. Keep moving forward, and you’ll make it eventually.

We here at Pete’s RV wish you luck on your first RV trip, as well as any subsequent RV trips. We invite you to visit us at one of our two Virginia dealerships, with one in Chesapeake and one in Salem. We stock an excellent selection of new and pre-owned camper models, as well as having parts, service, and financing departments on hand to meet your needs. We are proud to serve the western Virginia area, and we hope to welcome you soon.