Tips for First-Time RV Owners
You’ve decided it’s time to hit the road in style, which means you’re going to invest in an RV so that you can explore this great country of ours. Smart move on your part – just ask the more than 9 million people in America who own an RV. With over 40 million Americans regularly hitting the road in an RV, don’t you think it’s time you joined them?
The great news is that once you’ve purchased your new fifth wheel or travel trailer from Crowder RV Center, owning and operating an RV is a breeze and lots of fun! And, if you’re new to the RV game, we’re going to get you started off on the right foot with some great tips.
Buy Close to Home
If you purchase your RV from a dealership that is in your area, like Crowder RV Center, there are plenty of great benefits, starting with convenience. If you’ve got a question, you can run by and ask it. If you need service, you don’t have to go too far out of your way to get it. If you need to purchase additional parts or items for your RV, you don’t have to depend on a catalog for help. And when you need to winterize your RV, it’s extremely convenient when your dealer is nearby.
Listen Up!
We know how excited you’re going to be when that RV is all yours, but you must pay attention when your RV dealer gives you the run-down on how to operate it. One suggestion? Bring someone along to video the walkthrough so that you’ll be free to ask questions and try your hand at operating the RVs system.
Make Sure You Have What You Need
Make a list and before you begin your trip, make sure you have all the necessary equipment to operate your RV. Make sure you have a sewer hose, leveling blocks, water hose, wheel chocks, 15M/30F amp power adapter, RV-safe toilet paper, and a water pressure regulator.
Have a GPS for RVs
You can’t always take your RV on the route your standard GPS might direct you to take because of bridge heights, roads with weight limits, and bridges. You need to know how much your RV weighs and how tall it is, and you’ll want to stay away from narrow roads and roads with sharp curves. The best solution is to invest in an RV-specific GPS, which will keep you on the right road!
Where Do You Want to Camp?
There are plenty of beautiful campgrounds around the country, many of them public and some private. Private campgrounds generally offer plenty of conveniences and full hookups, while public campgrounds often offer limited hookups and fewer amenities. Many RV owners like to mix it up, which is never a problem because there are plenty of both types around the country.
Travel During Daytime Hours Initially
If you haven’t towed an RV, it’s slightly different from simply driving a car, truck, or SUV. When you first hit the road, you might want to stick to driving during daytime hours so that you won’t be driving at night until you feel comfortable. Daytime driving is preferable for many people, and getting situated at your campsite will undoubtedly be easier than trying to maneuver in the dark.
Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Help
Don’t feel like you have to be the Lone Ranger when setting up your campsite. Let the folks traveling with you help – that way, you’ll be enjoying your time at the site much faster! And, your fellow RV owners are generally more than happy to help once you get to the campground, so don’t be shy and ask for help. You’ll get the hang of setting up and breaking down soon enough, but for that first outing, your other campers will be more than happy to help.
Join RV Facebook Pages
If you want to get the lowdown on everything about RVs, there are plenty of fantastic Facebook pages you can join, like Crowder RV Center. These pages and groups can be an excellent resource for any questions you might have and can be extremely beneficial.
If you’re getting ready to make your first trip in your new RV, have fun and enjoy your time on the road. There’s plenty of adventure out there, and your RV can help make it happen!
For all your RV needs, visit Crowder RV Center, where our customers always come first. Conveniently located in Johnson City, Tenn., at 4533 Bristol Highway. Call us today at 423-282-5011. Set Yourself Free in a Crowder RV!