Planning an Extended RV Trip
The enjoyment and fun derived from taking an extended RV trip really starts with the pre-trip planning. Not only can this time help make your RV adventure a great success, it is also a lot of fun, in some cases almost as memorable as the trip itself. So, let’s look at what things you may wish to do and study.
Well, if you are leaving home for an extended RV journey, you should advise a family member or friend of your intended route. That way you can be reached in the case of an emergency. Additionally, make arrangements for your mail to be gathered, and if required, forward. Now you should look at each intended overnight stop or destination. Keeping the daily travel time down to five hours or so during some areas may be worth considering. This will allow time for unplanned stops at sites of interest along the way.
Stocking up on ample food, snacks, and beverages to last at least to the final destination is a good idea. You may find it difficult to get into grocery store parking lots with your RV while on the road. If your route may take you to any high elevation, for example Santa Fe, New Mexico, you should observe some caution regarding sealed products. Unopened sauce bottles may pop their seal and leak. Opening these bottles upon arriving at a higher elevation will equalize the pressure. Special attention should also be done if such higher elevations are anticipated. Products such as Tassimo coffee, for example, may not be available at local stores. The outer wrapper on these and similar products become inflated to the point of bursting. So bring extra Tassimo, and remove them from the outer wrapper, or you will not have any “Cup of Joe” in the morning.
Drawing up a check list is always a good idea prior to taking any long trip. Let’s look at some of those items you may have on such a hit list.
- Driver’s license and passports (If applicable)
- Cash and credit cards
- Cellular or smart phone and chargers
- Good Sam RV Travel & Savings Guide
- Engine top up fluids, oil, glycol, etc.
- Map and record of booked reservations
- Personal medications (with prescription copy if crossing international border)
You can probably add to this, just be sure you check it off prior to setting out.
So start the fun now. Get planning your next adventure. Then, the only thing missing, is you and your family. Oh yes, if you have a pet, don’t forget them, their food, and health papers. Drive safe and enjoy!