We all owe it to ourselves to take some vacation time and add some excitement to the otherwise high levels of stress and repetitive lifestyle. And of course when you have that free time you want to make sure you get the most of it. If so, take some time to consider a long road trip in an RV.
So gather your close friends or family and start planning while we help you prepare together for your extraordinary adventure on the road.
Plan the goals
Yes, you want to go where the road will take you, but it doesn't hurt either to have at least a vague plan of which direction you are going. Knowing the different stops along the way is also important as it will help you calculate when to refuel and when to rest safely and comfortably. They want to know where each city is, what it has to offer, where are the safe campsites and so on. Get an updated map and mark your route. You will still be using a GPS, but it is always smart to have a backup plan. The physical card will help you more than you know, and they are great keepsakes to keep afterwards.
Get the right van for you
There are quite a few options for RVs. So, you want to have a full understanding of their quality and features as you make commitments. You can rent or buy one if your plan is to make this a consistent thing you do. Many people also buy vans and build them themselves. The guides at Gnomad Home give you an idea of what it would take if you were to build your own RV. This is a great option if you are going to be away for an extended period of time as you can customize it to your liking and in the style that makes you feel at home.
Make a checklist of the necessities
The smartest thing to do before heading out on a long road trip is to get your checklists ready. You'll need a checklist for your groceries, appliances, and cooking in general, one for your camping needs, interior decor, and van service and maintenance. There are actually pre-made lists you can find online that have been created by experienced people who have been doing this for a while.
Choose the best energy sources
When you're on the go, you need the most convenient source of energy. You can opt for a generator for your electricity or opt for solar energy. Solar energy is much more environmentally friendly and saves money in the long run. Make sure the water source is working properly and you know how to top it up if needed. The same goes for using and cleaning the toilet if you have one installed in your motorhome.
Have the vehicle serviced
This is a matter of course, but has to be mentioned. Even if the camper you bought and rented seems perfect, make sure someone takes a look at it to make sure everything is as it should be. It is advisable that you have a mechanic who deals with campers in general so that they know exactly what to look for. You will be on the go for a long time, so it doesn't hurt to understand how the mechanics work in the event you fail.
Always be prepared for surprises
Anything can go wrong at any time, and it wouldn't be the smartest thing for you to assume or hope that nothing will. You should prepare for a setback so that you can sort it out if it happens. To begin with, always have an overcrowded first aid kit handy and make sure you know you are dealing with wounds or medical emergencies. You also need to be prepared for any type of breakdown. So make sure you have the spare tires and all the tools needed to fix a broken down camper. Additional water and fuel are also essential.
Taking an RV out on the road for a long trip is pretty much like taking your home with you. So it's a completely unique experience and really worth trying at least once in your life. It means you need to prepare yourself efficiently beforehand, but this list covers all of the areas you need for a safe and exciting trip.
