The Ultimate RV

Camping Checklist

Camper Smarts

“”

Nothing ruins a camping trip - or hauling the RV anywhere - like a preventable mistake.

SECURING INSIDE

YOUR RV

Close all windows, blinds, & roof vents

Prepare the refrigerator for travel and secure

Stowaway or secure the TV & any large items

3.

2.

1.

NEXT SECTION

Arrow

4.

Secure loose items

5.

Close and latch all cabinets, drawers, & interior doors

For most, it's a good idea for one person to tackle the inside and one person to tackle the outside. Then, check the other's work by running through the list.  Two sets of eyes are better than one.

TURN OFF ALL YOUR

RV SYSTEMS

Lights and accessories

Fans

Heater or furnace

3.

2.

1.

NEXT SECTION

Arrow

4.

Air conditioner(s)

5.

Water heater

Make sure all the switches and systems in your RV are turned off. You don't want to drain the auxiliary battery. This includes:

6.

Water pump

SECURING OUTSIDE

YOUR RV

Lower the TV antenna & satellite dish

Retract cell phone booster

Pull-in slides

3.

2.

1.

NEXT SECTION

Arrow

4.

Stow outside items

5.

Retract leveling system or jacks

6.

Grab and store chocks & levelers

7.

Close and lock outside storage compartments

8.

Secure bike rack

9.

Retract and secure awning(s)

10.

Disconnect and store: -water hose -septic hose -cable TV wire -electric cords

11.

Check the cap on your sewer connection

12.

Turn gas supply off at the source

13.

Retract stairs

LEAVE NO TRACE

Before you pull out, make sure you check your campsite for anything you might have missed. Remember to properly dispose of all your garbage and bottles.

NEXT SECTION

Arrow

CHECK YOUR RV

& TOWING VEHICLE

Check your hitch connection and chains

Check all RV and towing vehicle fluid levels

For rigs with a toad, check the connection

3.

2.

1.

NEXT SECTION

Arrow

4.

Check all running lights, turn signals, brake lights, & headlights

5.

Double-check any tie-downs

Before you take off, make sure you run through this checklist to check your RV and towing vehicle.  Safety first.

6.

Look under your rig for any signs of leaks

7.

Inspect and test your tires:  - tire pressure - tighten lug nuts

LIGHTEN THE LOAD

Make the trip a little easier for your towing rig. Dump your gray and black tanks. For boondockers, you may opt to leave your freshwater tank full (or partially full) if freshwater isn't on your route. 

WANT MORE DETAILS?

Whether you're a seasoned pro or an RV newbie, there is a lot to consider before heading out. Don't go RVing without this camping checklist!