Summer RV preparation checklist

When camping season rolls around and the great outdoors start calling, it's time to get your RV or camper ready for the open road. A good check-up before your trip can save you time, money and safety issues later. 

Follow these 12 RV prep steps to get on the road safer

Step 1: Wash the exterior. 

If your RV was stored, remove the tarp and clean the exterior from top to bottom with a soft brush. 

Step 2: Inspect the outside.

Check the roof, seals and vents for cracked or missed caulking, and replace if necessary.

Step 3: Check the tires.

Inspect the tire pressure and tighten lug nuts to make sure your camper is safe to drive.

Step 4: Clean exterior compartments.

Check for any signs of animals. Then vacuum and clean each compartment thoroughly. 

Step 5: Inspect batteries.

Look for signs of corrosion, and ensure they are fully charged. If your battery was disconnected for winter, inspect before hooking them back up.

Step 6: Check the propane tanks.

Open valves. Smell and test for leaks by creating a soapy mixture to spray around the regulator and values. If there's a leak, the mixture will bubble, and you'll need to have your RV professionally serviced. Then, fill your propane tanks.

Step 7: Inspect exterior lighting.

Check all exterior lights and replace bulbs if necessary.

Step 8: Open windows and clean interior.

Air out your RV and check interior compartments from drawers and closets to cabinets. Look closely for any damage caused by rodents or water leaks.

Step 9: Clean the interior.

Wipe down surfaces inside the RV from top to bottom to remove dust and debris. Then, vacuum any vents.

Step 10: Sanitize water tank and lines. 

The easiest way to do this is to mix a cup of bleach with a gallon of water. Fill your water tank with this mixture, and run the faucets for 5-10 minutes. Let the bleach mixture sit in your water tank at least 24 hours, then flush clean water through the system until you no longer smell bleach.

Step 11: Inspect safety equipment.

Check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and your fire extinguisher. Replace if necessary.

Step 12: Check your coverage.

Whether it's a weekend at the campground or a cross-country road trip, RV insurance helps keeps you on the road, with coverage designed to fit your camper or motor home. In addition, review your auto coverage if you plan on towing your camper.

Bonus step for de-winterizing RVs

If you live in an area that experiences extreme cold during the winter, you've probably winterized your RV. De-winterizing your RV is next. Flush the water system of all traces of anti-freeze. You may have to do this a couple times to ensure it's completely clean.

Sources

1. "Prepping Your RV for the Summer Camping Season." rvworldmn.com. RV World, May 2020. Web. 1 June 2021. https://www.rvworldmn.com/blog/prepping-your-rv-for-the-summer-camping-season/
2. "How To Prepare Your RV For Its First Summer Outing After Being Stored For The Winter."  rv-roadtrips.thefuntimesguide.com. The Fun Times Guide. Web. 1 June 2021. https://rv-roadtrips.thefuntimesguide.com/prepare_for_first_rv_trip/
3. Cleveland, Nikki. "5 Ways to Get Your RV Ready for Summer." RV Life. Web. 1 June 2021. https://www.doityourselfrv.com/get-your-rv-ready-for-summer/