RVers enjoy the freedom and flexibility of hitting the open road, but the holiday season can present unique challenges. Staying safe on the road during the holidays is crucial for ensuring a memorable and enjoyable journey. To achieve this, it’s essential to take extra precautions and be aware of potential risks.
Tips for a Safe Holiday Road Trip for RVers
Vehicle Maintenance
Regular vehicle maintenance is essential year-round, but it’s especially important during busy travel seasons and inclement weather. Before embarking on your holiday journey, ensure your tow vehicle and RV are in top condition to minimize the risk of breakdowns and ensure a smooth trip.
Winterization
Are you traveling during freezing weather? Depending on the traveling situation, you should winterize your RV before the trip. This ensures you won’t battle with frozen or cracked pipes when you reach your destination.
To avoid messing with antifreeze, bring your R-7 Insulated Skirting and install it when you stop driving for the day. A quick 20-minute install helps keep you warm and your pipes protected.
Tire Pressure
Growing up, one of the first things my dad ever taught me about vehicle maintenance was how to check tire pressure. This simple step can help prevent expensive and deadly accidents, especially crucial for RV owners embarking on long journeys. Before starting each trip, check the pressure on all tires. Make sure the tires are at the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
Keep a pressure gauge in your vehicle. We tend to keep ours on the passenger side door.
Properly inflated tires not only improve fuel economy but also enhance handling and control, especially important for RVs navigating varying road conditions, including those encountered during winter weather. Additionally, maintaining correct tire pressure extends tire life, saving RV owners money on replacements.
If you’re traveling to colder regions, remember that cold temperatures can significantly impact tire pressure. Check your tire pressure before each trip. Also, if your RV is carrying extra passengers or luggage, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the appropriate tire pressure adjustment for heavier loads.
For added peace of mind, include a tire pressure gauge in your emergency kit. This will allow you to check your tire pressure on the road, should you encounter any issues.
Emergency Kit
We learned the hard way how crucial an emergency kit can be. While pulling a trailer in Colorado, we had a tire blowout. Thankfully, no one was injured, and the damage was minimal. But what truly saved us was my husband’s quick thinking and the tools he had on hand. He was able to change the tire efficiently, earning him the nickname “Nascar Pit Crew” from a friend.
This experience taught us the importance of being prepared. An emergency kit can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations. Here are some essential items every RV owner should consider:
- Basic Tools:
- Tire iron
- Lug wrench
- Screwdriver set
- Pliers
- Jumper cables
- Tire Chains
- Safety Equipment:
- First-aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Reflective triangles or flares
- Emergency blanket
- Vehicle Maintenance:
- Spare tire (properly inflated)
- Tire pressure gauge
- Basic repair kit (for punctures, etc.)
- Comfort and Survival:
- Water and non-perishable food
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Warm clothing
- Portable charger for electronic devices
To simplify the process, you can purchase pre-made emergency kits. However, it’s important to customize them to your specific needs and RV setup. For instance, you might want to add items like a portable air compressor, a battery charger, or extra fuel.
Remember to store your emergency kit in a secure, easily accessible location within your RV or tow vehicle. Regular maintenance and restocking are essential to ensure its effectiveness. By taking these proactive steps, you can be better prepared for any unexpected situation.
Safe Driving Practices
During the last couple of years, I have learned that living at region with diverse terrain is a little different than what I was used to in the Midwest.
There are dangerous wind situations, snow and ice conditions, falling rocks, and all that is before I consider the other drivers on the roads.
Before embarking on a journey, consider the weather forecast, road conditions, and your RV’s condition. Ensure safe driving techniques, such as maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding distractions, and using headlights during daylight hours in adverse weather.
Remember, it’s always better to arrive safely than to rush. If conditions are hazardous, consider postponing your trip or taking an alternate route.
Weight Distribution
When traveling through South Dakota one time, I learned the importance of proper weight distribution. The trailer I was hauling had too much weight on the rear and made controlling the vehicle more of an adventure than I would have liked.
Learn from my mistakes and try to balance the weight evenly for your RV. Before embarking on your journey, take the time to weigh your RV. Many truck stops offer weighing services. By understanding your RV’s weight distribution, you can avoid potential issues such as tire blowouts, poor handling, and damage to your vehicle. Here’s an in-depth article explaining the importance of RV weight.
Weather Conditions
Winter weather can create treacherous driving conditions, with snow, ice, and wind causing delays and potentially dangerous situations. Before embarking on your journey, monitor the weather forecast and consider downloading state-specific driving condition apps. These apps can provide real-time updates on road closures, bridge outages, and hazardous wind advisories, allowing you to adjust your route accordingly. The state specific apps are free tools to help you stay safe on the road during the holidays.
Plan Accordingly for Road Trips During the Holidays
Campground Reservations
Winter RV travel requires careful planning. Research the RV park’s winter operations before booking. Many parks close during the off-season, and those that remain open may have limited services.
Check for winter-specific amenities like heated restrooms, snow removal, and plowed roads, and water availability. Additionally, be prepared for potential weather-related closures and have a backup plan. Travel with your RV Skirting as some RV parks make skirting a requirement.
Rest Areas
Be cautious about relying on rest areas during your winter travels. Many rest areas close during freezing temperatures or for the entire winter season. Plan your route accordingly and consider alternative rest stops, such as truck stops or designated RV parks.
Emergency Preparedness
RV Insurance
As always, avoid lapses in your insurance coverage. Keep your insurance provider’s contact information in a safe place. Understand the specific coverage of your RV insurance policy, including liability, comprehensive, and collision coverage. Consider customizing your coverage to meet your specific needs, such as adding coverage for high-value items or specialized equipment. Review your policy annually to ensure it aligns with your current needs and any changes in your RV usage.
Communication During Road Trips
When my grandparents travel, they always share their planned route and contact information for their reservations with our family. Consider using technology to enhance communication by sharing your real-time location or using GPS tracking apps.
Additionally, create a designated emergency contact list and share it with loved ones. Regular check-ins can provide peace of mind, especially during long trips or in remote areas. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure your safety and alleviate any concerns your loved ones may have.
Stay Safe on the Road During the Holidays
By following these tips, RVers can enjoy a safe and memorable holiday road trip. Proper planning, vehicle maintenance, and awareness of potential risks will help ensure a stress-free journey. Remember, staying safe on the road during the holidays is paramount for a truly enjoyable experience.
Hayley
Customer Support