The open road, the beauty of nature, and the promise of new experiences make an RV road trip an ideal escape. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a month-long adventure, thorough preparation is the key to making your trip stress-free and enjoyable. This guide will walk you through essential steps before, during, and after your journey. Plus, we’ll include 1-week, 2-week, and 1-month suggested itineraries for your next adventure. Let’s dive in!

Before Your Trip: Plan and Prep

1. Inspect Your RV
Your RV is your home on wheels, so it’s crucial to ensure it’s in optimal condition before you head out. This step can save you from unnecessary delays and repairs on the road.

• Checking the tires: Over time, tires lose air, even when the RV is stationary. Check for proper inflation and ensure that the tire tread is healthy. Carry a tire pressure gauge and air compressor for quick adjustments.
• Inspecting the engine and fluids: Pop the hood and check the oil levels, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full too, so you’re prepared for all driving conditions. Consider getting a professional tune-up if it’s been a while since your last service.
• Test electrical systems: Start by checking your RV’s battery. A low battery can cause problems with your lights, refrigerator, and air conditioning. Test all lights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure other drivers can see you on the road. Don’t forget to check your generator, especially if you’ll be camping without full hookups.
• Verify propane and water levels: Ensure you have enough propane to power appliances like your stove and heater. Check that your fresh water tank is full, and your water pump is functioning.
• Safety check: Safety first! Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and ensure your fire extinguisher is charged and easily accessible. Pack a well-stocked first aid kit and keep it within easy reach.

For more in-depth inspections or repairs, bring your RV to All Valley RV Center. Give our service department a call or text today at (661) 269-4800.

2. Create a Packing Checklist
Packing is both an art and a science, especially when space is at a premium. Staying organized will make life on the road easier.

• Clothing for all weather conditions: Since weather can vary dramatically during a road trip, pack layers. A good rule of thumb is to bring clothes for warm days, cool nights, and everything in between. Don’t forget rain gear and sturdy shoes for hiking or walking in various terrains.
• Food and drinks: Stock up on easy-to-prepare meals and snacks for the road. Items like canned goods, pasta, and energy bars are great staples. Don’t forget a cooler or refrigerator space for perishable items. Also, consider bringing a portable grill for campfire meals.
• Emergency kit: Prepare for the unexpected with a roadside emergency kit. This should include jumper cables, basic tools (like a wrench, screwdriver, and pliers), a spare tire, tire jack, fuses, duct tape, and a flashlight. A multi-tool or Swiss Army knife can also come in handy for small repairs.
• Personal items: Keep books, magazines, or tablets nearby for downtime. Bring power banks to keep electronics charged and download offline maps and entertainment in case Wi-Fi is limited. Don’t forget your camera to capture scenic moments.
• Outdoor gear: If you’re camping at parks or off-grid, pack foldable camping chairs, an outdoor table, a portable grill, and insect repellent. Consider bringing bikes, kayaks, or hiking gear if you plan to explore off the beaten path.
  

3. Plan Your Route
Having a detailed plan for your route ensures you know where to stop for fuel, food, and camping each night.

• Map apps and GPS: Use navigation tools like Google Maps or RV-specific GPS systems that take your vehicle’s size into account. Be mindful of low bridges, narrow roads, or weight limits.
• Plan rest stops: Long stretches of driving can be tiring. Plan to take breaks every few hours at rest stops or scenic overlooks to stretch your legs and stay alert.
• Backup plans: Even with the best planning, things can change. Weather, road conditions, or last-minute campsite availability might throw a wrench in your plans. Have a few backup options for campgrounds or routes in case something doesn’t go as expected.
  

During Your Trip: Stay Safe and Have Fun

1. Drive Safely and Follow the Rules of the Road
Driving an RV, especially a larger one, requires extra attention and caution.

• Stay aware of your size: Many roads and bridges have height and weight restrictions, so pay close attention to posted signs. Also, be mindful of your vehicle’s turning radius and braking distance, which are much larger than a regular car.
• Watch your speed: While the open road may be tempting, maintaining a moderate speed is key. This helps with fuel efficiency, reduces wear on your tires, and gives you more control over your RV. Stay in the right lane on highways to avoid slowing down faster traffic.
• Monitor your surroundings: Keep an eye on your mirrors and check for vehicles in your blind spots. Always use your turn signals well in advance of lane changes or turns. Be especially cautious in crowded parking lots or campgrounds where visibility may be limited.
  

2. Keep Your RV Organized
A clutter-free RV will make the journey more pleasant and reduce the risk of losing items.

• Storage solutions: Utilize bins, baskets, and hanging organizers to keep small items contained. Make use of under-bed storage or overhead cabinets for bulkier items. You can also install hooks and shelves for extra storage.
• Daily tidying: Designate a place for everything and stick to it. After meals or activities, make a habit of putting things back where they belong. This helps you avoid messes and ensures everything is easily accessible.
  

3. Embrace Flexibility
One of the greatest joys of RV travel is the freedom to change plans on the fly.

• Explore new places: If you see a scenic overlook, quirky roadside attraction, or charming small town along the way, don’t hesitate to stop and enjoy it. The best trips often include unplanned detours!
• Local recommendations: Talk to locals or fellow campers for recommendations on places to eat, scenic routes, or activities that may not be on your radar.
  

After Your Trip: Clean, Maintain, and Reflect

1. Clean and Empty Your RV
When you return home, it’s time to reset your RV for the next adventure.

• Interior cleaning: Start by emptying the refrigerator, throwing away trash, and wiping down surfaces. Sweep or vacuum the floors, and don’t forget to clean the bathroom.
• Tanks and systems: Properly empty and sanitize your gray and black water tanks. Refill your fresh water tank and flush your water system. If you won’t be using your RV for a while, consider winterizing it.
  

2. Inspect for Any Repairs
After a long trip, minor issues can arise. Take the time to inspect your RV thoroughly.

• Check tires and fluids: Look for any wear and tear on the tires, and top off any fluids that may have run low. If you notice any unusual noises or issues during your trip, schedule an appointment with All Valley RV Center’s service department to address them before they become bigger problems.
  

3. Share Your Experience
Reliving your trip through journaling, blogging, or sharing photos is a fun way to reflect on your adventure.

• Online communities: Post pictures and reviews on RV forums or social media groups to share tips and highlights with others. Your insights might help others plan their next trip. We’d love to share in your adventure as well; make sure to tag us in your photos or email them to us directly! 
  

Suggested Itineraries

Note: if you can’t book directly with the campground give Recreation.gov a look or your local state park website.

1-Week Road Trip:
California Coast Adventure

• Day 1-2: Start in Santa Barbara, where you can explore the coastal city’s historic architecture and beautiful beaches.
• Day 3-4: Head up to Morro Bay, a peaceful seaside town known for Morro Rock. Visit the nearby Montaña de Oro State Park for hiking.
• Day 5-6: Drive up the stunning Highway 1 to Big Sur. Camp at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and hike through redwood forests with ocean views.
• Day 7: Conclude in Santa Cruz, where you can visit the famous boardwalk, surf, and relax at the beach.
• Campgrounds to consider:
  • Morro Bay State Park – Beautiful views of the bay and close to hiking trails.
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – Iconic coastal views and redwoods.
  • Santa Cruz/Monterey Bay KOA – Great amenities and beach access.

2-Week Road Trip:
Pacific Northwest Explorer

• Week 1: Starting from Northern California, journey up to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. Stay at Crater Lake RV Park and enjoy the breathtaking views of the deep blue lake.
• Week 2: Travel through Bend, Oregon, and up to Portland, where you can visit the city’s famous food trucks and nearby waterfalls. End your trip in Seattle, exploring Pike Place Market and Mt. Rainier National Park.
• Campgrounds to consider:
  • Crater Lake RV Park – Close to the stunning Crater Lake.
  • Tumalo State Park (Bend, OR) – Near outdoor activities and Bend’s breweries.
  • Olympia Campground (WA) – Centrally located between Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula.

1-Month Road Trip:
Southwest Scenic Journey

• Week 1: Start from Southern California and make your way to Zion National Park. Stay at Watchman Campground for easy access to the park’s hiking trails.
• Week 2-3: Continue on to Bryce Canyon and Moab, Utah, for incredible landscapes. Spend time in the Grand Canyon and Sedona, soaking in the red rock formations and hiking trails.
• Week 4: End your journey exploring the natural beauty of Arizona, New Mexico, and Southern Colorado, with stops in iconic towns like Santa Fe and Taos.
• Campgrounds to consider:
  • Watchman Campground (Zion National Park) – In the heart of one of America’s most iconic parks.
  • Ruby’s Inn RV Park (Bryce Canyon) – Close to park amenities and trails.
  • Mather Campground (Grand Canyon) – Right by the South Rim, offering amazing sunset views.

Visit All Valley RV Center Before Your Next Adventure

At All Valley RV Center, we know how important it is to be prepared for your next big road trip. Whether you need a pre-trip inspection, expert advice from our knowledgeable staff, or a brand-new RV to take on your journey, we’re here to help.

Our outstanding sales associates are RV enthusiasts who love sharing their expertise. We’re open 7 days a week to serve you and your family. Check out our online inventory here to explore the latest models and start planning your next adventure. Don’t just take our word for it—read what our customers have to say in our Google reviews from RVers just like you.

Happy travels, and we can’t wait to see you on the road!