Must-Read Tips for Your RV Trip 

Whether you consider yourself to be an adventure-loving person or just the “wanderlust” type, utilizing an RV as a mode of travel and lodging when exploring an area is a great way to go. Even if you prepare for a trip, making detailed plans as to which routes you will take and what sights you will see along the way, knowing these great tips can make the trip all the more memorable.

One of the nicest things about wireless and satellite connections is that our phones function as a direct connection to any information you might want. So, although you may be seeking to “unplug” on your vacation, finding those campgrounds in new places has never been easier. With a simple traffic app, you can keep clear of low clearances and toll roads. You can instantly find the best local spot to eat, check reviews and the menu as you sit next to your fire and make a plan for the day.

Of course, for the serious RVer who likes to plot out the day’s path, the Good Sam Club app offers all the functionality you could want.  The app lets you set the parameters of your vehicle, if you prefer back roads or highways, and if there is any construction that could inhibit smooth travel times.

But connectivity can have its limits, and when you can’t get a signal in the wilderness, your options instantly change. For most experienced RV campers, having a road atlas is considered to be a staple. Road atlases and guidebooks offer travelers all the direction they may need and are always available. For those looking to add a good guidebook to their campers’ collection, look for the “Mountain Directory”. It comes in both eastern and western versions, but they publish information directly related to RV’s. Low clearances, mountain passes, and steep grades are just some of the RV-specific tips they feature.

But even with the best laid plans, unexpected things come up, so preparation is key. In order to try avoid traffic, construction, or other issues, keep these tips in mind:

• Know the exact height of your RV or camper. You cannot just rely on what appears in the vehicle’s manual, so it is best to physically check your rig’s highest point. Measuring from the peak of the highest fixture all the way to the ground, will give you an accurate reading. Keep in mind, it’s best to leave a minimum of six inches in addition to the total measurement of your RV. Some people write the number on their oil change sticker on the front windshield to always have that information visible if you ever see a measurement that looks close.
• Make use of your RV’s GPS. Most have a feature that you can set for a “Truck Route”, this will take into consideration the turning radius you will need if you have to back up, but it will also avoid hairpin turns on mountain roads that a 35’-40’ footer vehicles might have problems with. It may take you on a number of tolls, but it will always have a safe route for your vehicle.
• Check the route you’ve planned against current construction and highway information whenever you plan to “off road” your RV in a non-RV location. Many folks refer to it as “Boondocking” or “dry camping” when there are locations without electricity, but are still worth camping at. In order to be out in the wilderness with only generator power, it is best to know how far help is, in the case that your generator quits.
• Do not rely on just one source of information. Now that Google Maps is an option on most cell phones, we often don’t write routes down and that could be a mistake. A guidebook or road atlas is still a good piece of knowledge in your RV, don’t leave home without a GPS back up.

Whether your trip takes you over the rolling scenic back roads, or you are laying tracks across the country on America’s highways, being prepared with route options is always a priority. Carrying the proper insurance coverage for your RV is also imperative to road trip safety. Call Breathe Easy Insurance at 866.822.7755 today and let us help you find the perfect RV, auto, SR22, motorcyle, homeowners and renters insurance policy to meet your needs and budget.