Upon reaching your destination, follow these steps:
- Check-In and Get Your Campsite Number: Register at the campground office and get your assigned campsite number.
- Use Discount if Possible: If you have memberships with RV clubs like Good Sam, take advantage of these offered discounts.
- Confirm Campsite Has All Requested Amenities: Double-check that your site is equipped with the amenities you need for your stay, such as electricity, water, and sewage connections.
- Get a Map and Rules List for the Campground: Familiarize yourself with the campground layout and its regulations to ensure a smooth and respectful stay.
- Inquire About Points of Interest in the Area: Ask about local attractions, hikes, or events to make the most of your trip.
Once at your site, run down this campsite setup checklist:
- Visually Confirm Site Has Needed Amenities: Do a quick visual survey of your campsite to ensure it’s equipped with all the necessary facilities, like power or sewage hookups.
- Plan Your Entry Path: Plan how you’ll maneuver your RV into position, be it pull-through or back-in.
- Inspect Campsite for Hazards or Obstructions: Check for potential obstacles like tree branches or rocks that could interfere with parking or setup.
- Park Your RV: Position your RV on the site, allowing enough room for slideouts and the awning. Be sure to keep kids and pets in your vehicle when you park, use a spotter to help guide you safely, and take it slow!
- Turn on Your Emergency Brakes if Driving a Motorhome: Secure your vehicle by engaging the emergency brakes.
- Check to Make Sure You Can Reach Hookups: Verify that your RV’s cords and hoses can comfortably reach the site’s water, electrical, and, if applicable, sewer hookups.
- Level RV: Use leveling blocks or your RV’s built-in leveling system to ensure a stable and even living area.
- Connect to Shore Power: Plug in your electrical cord to the site’s power supply to run your RV’s electrical systems.
- Connect Water Lines: Hook up your water lines to access fresh water.
- Connect Sewer Hose: Attach your sewer hose to properly manage waste.
- Turn on the Propane: Turn on your propane supply to power your gas-powered appliances.
- Roll Out Awning: Unroll your awning, taking care to secure it safely.
- Lower Handrails and Entry Steps: Ensure safe entry and exit by lowering the handrails and steps.
- Campsite Setup: Arrange your outdoor furniture and accessories to create your perfect outdoor living space.
- Chock Tires: Secure your RV from moving unintentionally by placing chocks around the tires.
- Put Support Blocks Down & Lower Jacks: Establish further stability by using support blocks and lowering the RV’s jacks.
- Disconnect the Electrical Cord from the Tow Vehicle: Detach the electrical connection from the tow vehicle to the RV.
- Disconnect the Breakaway Cable from the Tow Vehicle: Unhook the safety breakaway cable from your tow vehicle.
- Unhitch RV: Detach the RV from the tow vehicle.
Now, let’s prepare the inside of your RV:
- Extend Slideouts: Extend any slideouts your RV has to increase living space.
- Turn on the RV Refrigerator: Start cooling your refrigerator to store food safely.
- Turn on A/C or Heater: Based on weather conditions, turn on either the A/C or heater to maintain a comfortable temperature.
- Open Roof Vents: Promote good air circulation by opening your roof vents.
- Light Pilot on the Oven: If your stove has a pilot light, make sure it’s lit and ready for cooking.
- Turn on the Water Heater: Activate your water heater for warm showers and dishwashing.
- Extend Antenna: Raise your antenna for better TV or radio reception.
- Test Water Lines: Turn on faucets to ensure all water lines function properly.
- Set up Furniture: Arrange interior furniture as desired for your comfort and convenience.
- Unpack Items: Remove items from storage and place them in their designated spots for easy access.