Top 10 Tips for Using Your RV

Make campground reservations.
Making reservations in advance not only assures you there will be a campsite available when you arrive, but you can also make other important arrangements. For example, you can request a site large enough to accommodate your RV and tow vehicle, or a pull-through site versus a site you would need to back into. You can make sure the site has the proper electrical hookup for your RV, or make sure you get a full hookup rather than a partial one. You might want a site with a telephone line or a campground with wireless Internet access. If you just cross your fingers and pull into the campground late in the afternoon, without reservations, there is a good chance you'll be turned away or get a site you really don't care for.

Before you agree to purchase a plan, make sure you understand all of your options.
Extended service plans are great as long as you understand a little about them and how they work. Make sure you read and understand the extent and time period of coverage before signing any agreements. If you don't understand something, ask to have it explained to you. Also make sure that the company offering the plan is reputable and will be acknowledged by other RV dealers and RV repair centers. A good plan should be transferable if you sell your RV, renewable so you can extend the coverage, and it should offer a pro-rated refund if coverage is terminated during the term of the contract.

To protect your investment you need the proper type of insurance coverage.
There are several major insurance companies that specialize in RV insurance, and I strongly recommend that you use one. You might have a great insurance company for your home and automobiles, but an auto policy can't begin to cover the complexities of an RV. You need specialty coverage like vacation liability, total-loss replacement, personal effects and much more.

Extend the life of your RV by properly storing and maintaining it.
In cold climates, make sure that the RV water system is winterized. Over time, the roof and exterior of the RV begin to show signs of wear, caused by the constant exposure to the elements. Ozone in the air and ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun start to take their toll, which is first evident by signs of fading paint. The ozone in the air also causes products like rubber and vinyl to dry out, crack, and start to deteriorate. The UV rays from the sun make this aging process happen quicker. If possible when you store the RV you should cover both the vehicle and the tires. Be sure the cover is breathaable, protects against UV rays, is water-resistant and has a warranty.

Happy Camping!

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