Looking forward to spring and summer? Plan now to enjoy great weather by climbing into your RV and hitting the open road. A recreational vehicle, often shortened to RV, is a vehicle that includes living quarters that are specifically designed for sleeping. At a time that we are looking for safe ways to get out and explore, a road trip in an RV might be just the ticket! An RV vacation is great for your mind, body, and soulRV vacation is great for your mind, body, and soul, but there are a few things you need to know before heading out.

Head out on your RV vacation with these handy tips. Photo by Lindsy Williams from Pixabay

Dump Wisely

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One of the most important things to know about going on your RV vacation is how to safely empty the waste tank. This is called black water and it is essential that you empty the waste tank properly to avoid costly and stinky mistakes. There are loads of tips and guides for all things RV on Outdoors Era that you can check out when planning your trip.

Leveling Blocks Are Your Friend

Leveling blocks are like life-sized building blocks that will make your day. Nature is wonderful but it is not perfect and your parking spot won’t be either. Make sure to invest in some of these stackable sweethearts before you venture out. You can get a set online from Amazon or from your local retailers.

Just Add Cookware

Most RVs come equipped with a mini kitchen, which is wonderful for breakfast first thing in the morning as you watch the sunrise. This is only possible if you pack cookware, such as pots and pans, otherwise, you will have something to cook on but not in – and everyone needs to eat on a road trip. I suggest you always pack a cheese grater—those little bad boys are handy to have around.

Make sure you stock your RV with cookware. Photo by Ziga Plahutar via iStock by Getty Images

Pack Camp Chairs

As lovely as it is, you won’t want to spend your entire trip inside your RV. Take a few camp chairs with you so you enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. These are perfect for relaxing in with a cold beer while you watch the sunset. An insider tip from a fellow RVer: pack bug spray or your outside experience will be ruined in a few short hours after the mosquitoes carry you away.

Remember to pack the camping chairs for sitting around the campfire. Photo by Milan Lauritzen via iStock by Getty Images

Get RV-friendly Gear

You don’t necessarily have to buy special crockery or cutlery but it is wise to take stuff with you that won’t break—accidents do happen and broken glass by moonlight isn’t easy to pick up. You should also get dissolvable toilet paper and scented toilet capsules to prevent build-ups (trust me; it will make your experience a lot better…).

Don’t worry if you pack too much stuff for your first RV vacation—you should always be prepared. After your first few trips, you will soon learn what you need to take with you and what you’ll never use. The most important part is that you have fun and stay safe while on your RV vacation.