RV Tips

So, you’ve just purchased your dream RV from Mike Thompson’s RV, and you’re ready to head out to the campground. Before you leave home, take some time to do a little research and learn the basics of RV setup, towing, and more to help ensure you have a good camping experience. Below are our best RV tips for first-time RV owners.

Practice Hooking Up Your RV

Watch some videos on YouTube about your specific model and how to hookup your RV for towing. If you have a travel trailer, hookup will be similar to any other kind of trailer. However, if you’re towing a fifth wheel, you’ll need to install a special kind of hitch for towing. If you have any questions, contact our RV service department, and we’ll help you through the process.

Learn How to Reverse with Your RV Attached

Another thing you’ll want to spend some time practicing is backing up your RV. This is an essential part of parking your RV at the campground, so be sure you get completely comfortable driving in reverse with your RV.

It Might be a Dull Read but Read the Manual

There are a lot of things in your RV’s manual that will help you overcome obstacles along the way. If you have any questions about how something works, where an attachment is, or anything else, the manual is the first place you should look.

Know Your Weight Capacity

Knowing how much your towing vehicle can safely tow is vital to being able to haul your RV safely. Additionally, you’ll need to learn how heavy your RV is with and without all the cargo, liquids, passengers, and more. If you are struggling to understand the towing capacity of your vehicle and the weight of your RV, we can help!

Practice Leveling Your RV at Home

Learning how your RV’s leveling system works is another way that you can avoid stress when you arrive at the campground. Leveling most RVs is as simple as allowing the auto-leveling system to do the work, checking with a manual level, and releveling if it needs a little extra work. However, older RVs sometimes operate on a crank level. Get familiar with your RV and learn how to make adjustments before heading to the campground.

Don’t Forget to Lubricate Your Slides

Keeping the slide-outs lubricated will help to prolong the life of your RV. If you have an RV with slides, it’s a good idea to service those often. Our RV service department can help you get your slides oiled up and ready for a new camping season in no time!

Keep Your A/C Filter Clean

One of the best ways to keep everyone comfortable at the campground is to ensure your A/C’s air filter stays clean and clear of debris. Take it apart and clean it at least once a month if it is in constant use to avoid clogs or poor air quality in the RV.