Are you planning an RV trip this summer? Don’t let some of the most common pitfalls turn your dream vacation into a nightmare. A little bit of planning can go a long way toward making your motorhome travel experience the trip of a lifetime.
1. Overzealous Travel Plans
You have one week for your RV trip. You plan to travel Route 66 from Santa Monica Pier to Chicago. You want to take a short detour to the Grand Canyon, perhaps veer off the road for a night in Taos, and then stop at all of the amazing places along the way. When you map this trip, you’ll find it is doable as long as you don’t stop to eat or sleep.
Be realistic when making your travel plans. Opt for a trip that will have you driving no more than eight hours per day. This will give you a chance to enjoy your surroundings, put those new RV day night shades to good use, stretch, and feel refreshed each time you get behind the wheel. Not getting to see everything you desire only gives you a reason to plan more road trips in the future!
2. Poor Packing
Packing up an RV may not seem like your number one concern when taking to the open road. You may throw together a few necessities while assuming you can stop to purchase anything you might have forgotten. This is not the right attitude for road trips. You could find yourself far away from the closest shopping area when that forgotten item is most needed. You will also waste time and money shopping for something that could have been included from the outset.
When it comes to packing for a road trip, make a list and check it twice. Be sure that you have enough clothing, toiletries, food, and entertainment for the entirety of the trip. Don’t forget medications, insect repellent, water bottles and a fully stocked first aid kit.
3. Mismanaging Money
How you handle purchases on vacation should be thought out well in advance. The cost of gas, food, entertainment, RV parking and any miscellaneous expenses must be covered with available cash. You should also consider how you might manage emergencies. Breakdowns or medical emergencies are costly at any time, but they can be even more expensive while away from home.
Don’t forget about spots that might not accept your credit cards. Locations off the beaten path might request that you pay cash rather than plastic. Likewise, if your credit cards or lost or stolen, you will want to make sure you have enough cash on reserve to get you back home.
4. Not Servicing the RV
Two of the worst things that can happen on a road trip are breakdowns and blowouts. Avoid these by having the RV serviced before the vacation begins. Have break lines and tires checked, get the oil changed, add any needed fluids and test out the windshield wipers.
Also be sure you have a good spare, a jumper and any tools you might need for self-repair on the road.
5. Forgetting Things Back Home
You have been so focused on your vacation you might have forgotten there are matters to attend to at home. Be sure to put your mail on hold, pay any upcoming bills in advance, arrange for home or pet care and let loved ones know your planned route.
Ensuring your responsibilities at home are well managed will leave your mind relaxed and able to enjoy your vacation to its fullest.
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