With warm summer weather comes the urge to hit the open road. Whether you head out on your own, with friends, or with family members, taking your RV out for a summer road trip is a part of many Americans’ summer adventure plans. Of course, before you hit the open road, it’s important to make sure your RV is in tip-top shape for any road trips you might be planning, whether they are short or long.

Before you pick your destination, it’s important to make sure that your RV is ready for the trip. Here are a few ways to prepare your RV for your summer road trip, from the beginning right until you pull back in your driveway.

 

RV Preparation

One of the first things you should check prior to breaking your RV out for the summer is the engine. Without an engine, your RV isn’t going anywhere. Not only should you make sure that your RV undergoes regular maintenance, but you should also be sure to get your engine checked prior to any major road trips.

Service your RV when recommended, and make sure to check the fluids and oil on a regular basis. Before undertaking a road trip, take your RV out for a drive. Make sure it handles as you remember and notice if there are any new noises or creaks that need to be worked out before hitting the open road. If you don’t drive your RV regularly throughout the year, you might need a short refresher course on driving this unique vehicle.

Secondly, be sure that your tires are in good shape. Tires that are worn out, underfilled, or overfilled with air can all pose safety risks during your trip. Make sure to properly check your tire pressure and carry a tire gauge with you while on the road.

 

RV Insurance

Many motorists carry AAA or another roadside service company that can offer help in case of breakdowns. Additionally, some of these services can help you locate other roadside services in case you need RV maintenance while on your road trip.

Before you leave on your trip, you should map out places where there are options for servicing your RV should something break down during your trip. Plan where you will stay and make sure there are suitable RV spots to park along the way.

Having RV insurance can offer physical and financial coverage in case something does happen to your RV. RV insurance often offers broader coverage than most car insurance policies and offers vacation liability for when you aren’t on your home turf.

In North Carolina, RV motorists are required to obtain bodily injury liability and property damage liability with their RV insurance policy.

 

RV Security

Just like any other vehicle, you want to ensure that your windows and doors are all secure and able to be locked when you aren’t in your RV. Additionally, you should be able to secure all your belongings in your RV so that they do not shift while you are driving. Cabinets, beds, tables, and any other moving objects should be properly secured to prevent your items from falling, breaking, or shifting during transit.

 

Inspect your RV

As you’re getting ready for your summer road trip, give your RV a once-over to be sure you haven’t missed anything prior to leaving home. You’ll want to make sure that appliances like your refrigerator, heating system, air conditioner, and other pipes and plumbing are all in working order. If they aren’t, it’s much better to find out now rather than a hundred miles down the road.

RV drivers might find it helpful to carry extra oil, windshield wiper fluid, and coolant in the vehicle with them. A small toolbox can’t hurt, either, especially if it allows you to make a quick fix on the road while you work on making it to a place where you can call or get help.  Extra fuses and bulbs are also recommended.

 

On the Road

Making sure your RV is in proper working order can make your summer of road tripping much easier to make a reality. Get ready for your trip by preparing your RV before embarking on any trips and by updating your RV insurance policy for the coverage you need to drive safely.

To learn more about preparing your RV for a summer road trip, contact the agents at Protective Agency at (877) 739-9367. Our licensed insurance agents will be happy to answer any questions you have.