Fall is a beautiful time of year to take a road trip and get close to nature. Because the weather can be more unpredictable than in summer, a fall RV trip requires some special preparation. Here are 5 RV travel tips for fall.
RV Travel Tips for Fall: Choose Your Destination
One of the best parts about RVing is your ability to go anywhere. However, it is important to consider the weather in autumn when choosing your destination. Some places in the US have snowstorms in the fall, and it is also prime time for hurricane season.
Choose a region for your vacation that is less likely to have inclement weather. Places with plenty of deciduous trees make for great fall RV destinations because their leaves turn vibrant colors. Rural areas with farms are also fun to visit in the fall because this is the harvest season and farm stands are abundant.
Pack According to the Weather
Packing for a camping trip is easier to do in the summer than other times of the year. In fall, you need to be prepared for both warm and cool temperatures, and even cold nights. Bring clothes that you can layer so that you can make adjustments as the temperature fluctuates throughout the day.
Don’t forget about rain jackets and boots, as rain is common at this time of year in many places. Bring extra blankets that you can add to beds on a chilly night or use while sitting around the fire pit.
Inspect the Roof Before Your Trip
You want your RV to stay cozy, safe, and dry, and one of the ways to make sure of this is to inspect the roof before setting out. A leaky RV roof is not something you ever want to deal with, but especially not during a trip. The weather is already cooler and if moisture gets into your RV, you’ll be quite uncomfortable.
You may have used the RV heavily over the summer, causing wear and tear. Check for sun damage, like cracked caulking and rubber seals. Look at the condition of the rooftop AC unit and for any damage to the roof body. Have roof problems fixed before any fall travel.
RV Travel Tips for Fall: Tires
It’s a good idea to check the tires before heading out on a road trip at any time of year, but even more important after a busy summer of RVing. Check the tire pressure and tread, and look for any damage and punctures. While you are at it, look at the slide-outs and clear them of debris. Get the tires rotated if it has been a while.
Winterize the RV After Your Trip
After you have taken the last trip of the season, winterize your RV before the coldest weather sets in. Drain the plumbing system, apply wax protectant, and remove and store all batteries. Set up a dehumidifier in the RV to prevent mold while it’s not in use.
RV Onsite Services provides RV inspection and repair services to the Greater Raleigh area. Contact us to schedule our services.