Planning For Cross Country RV Trips

Cross country RV travel can be a long affair, so you should plan for it well ahead of time. As a first step, decide the exact dates of your trip and keep enough time for preparation. The costs of your trip will also be related to the duration, so budget your trip accordingly. If the RV is rented, compute the total rental cost, the cost of fuel, and don't forget the cost of food and sightseeing.

Make sure that the RV has all the basic amenities such as a kitchen, bathroom, and sufficient storage and sleeping space. Map out your route carefully so that you are sure which highways to take on your trip. Identify the spots where you will be allowed to park your RV and stay overnight.

Necessary Tools to Carry on your RV Trip

Packing for your RV cross country trip may be the most important exercise which can make your trip hassle-free and enjoyable. The first thing you need to pack is a set of basic tools, which should include:

v  An assortment of open and closed pliers

v  Adjustable wrenches

v  End wrenches

v  Socket wrenches

v  A lug wrench

v  A hammer

v  Screwdrivers in different sizes

v  Wooden leveling blocks

v  A spare hose

Pack Appropriate Clothing and Bedding

If you are planning to travel in early summer, the heaviest garment you may need to carry is a light jacket. Casual clothing such as T-shirts, light tops, and jeans should be ideal on your trip. Regular wash and wear clothes are recommended for such trips. Preferably you should carry at least five days of basic clothing such as shirts, socks, and underwear.

You can use laundry in-between your change of clothes. Footwear can include sneakers and other casual, sturdy, and comfortable shoes. Carry one set of bedding for each occupant of the RV, and at least two towels per person. Sleeping bags, blankets, sheets, pillows, and pillow cases are a vital part of making this trip comfortable and enjoyable.

Useful Kitchen Items for your Trip

You should carry at least three different sized pots for cooking in addition to a coffee pot and an electric fry pan. If you want to avoid doing dishes on the trip, carry disposable paper plates, cups, spoons, forks, knives and paper towels.

Cooking utensils and a toaster can be included if you'd like. Pack the kitchen cabinets tightly so that things do not fall out when the RV is in motion. Include a first-aid kit, common medications, toothpaste and toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, cleaners, RV toilet paper, and bowl cleaner.

Portable Weather Radio and Other Devices

A portable weather radio can be your best friend on a cross country RV trip, especially when you are traveling through unfamiliar regions. If you have a smart phone, you may include a weather application to receive regular weather reports. Additionally, you should include:

ü  Maps

ü  Your cell phone can act as an alarm clock

ü  A gas can

ü  Oil for the RV

ü  A water hose

ü  Rags

ü  Lanterns

ü  Fuel

ü  Camp stove

ü  Batteries

ü  Wooden matches

ü  Sponges

ü  A small broom and dust pan

ü  Shovel

ü  Plastic bags

ü  Some spare cash just in case something happens to your plastic

ü  Windex and towels or some way to clean the windows inside and out

Check the Air Pressure in Tires

One of the simplest ways to make your cross country RV trip safe and smooth is to maintain the right air pressure in the RV tires. If a tire blows out on a highway at a high speed in an RV, it can be a risky experience for even experienced drivers. You need to check the tire pressure prior to leaving for your trip, and keep them maintained throughout the trip.

Follow these tips and your RV trip is sure to be an enjoyable one!