Driving an RV in 2024? Plan Ahead To Avoid Disaster
So 2024 is your year to hit the road in your recreational vehicle (RV). That’s great! Unfortunately, driving an RV without planning and making the right decisions could lead to a breakdown, a crash, or worse. Don’t worry; these RVing tips can keep your rig on the road and a smile on your face.
Using these tips while driving your RV could lead to good times and avoid disaster in 2024
You’ve got your Class A, Class B, Class C, or towable rig and you know it’s up to the task of getting you to your destinations. Now you need to do some planning to make the most of your RVing.
- Keep detailed checklists
- Plan your route
- Practice maneuvering in your RV
- Use a 2-2-2 or 3-3-3 rule
Any experienced traveler will tell you: get and keep checklists. That doesn’t just mean “Did I remember to pack my medications and favorite coffee mug?” No, it means technical concerns as well. RV Life suggests downloading or creating a checklist with important questions like “Did you get your surge protector from the power box?” That, or a point reminding you to stow your landing jacks and chocks. Staying on top of your logistical and safety checklists could protect your vehicle and occupants.
In addition to your checklists, you’ll want to thoroughly plan your route when driving an RV over a significant distance. Sure, it sounds romantic to blaze your trail through the Pacific Northwest or the deserts of the Southwest. However, you could damage your Class A rig if you take roads that aren’t accommodating of large vehicles. Make sure you plan your route, use online tools, and memorize your vehicle’s dimensions and weight.
Before driving your RV out into the wild, you should practice maneuvers in a spacious parking lot. Whether it’s learning to ride a motorcycle, drive a stick, or pilot an RV, I always recommend finding a low-traffic, open lot to master the basics. Practice stopping, reversing, turning, and parking until you feel comfortable.
Once you’re ready to tackle your route in your rig, you’ll want to observe a 2-2-2 or 3-3-3 rule to avoid fatigue or burnout. Some drivers even stick to a 4-4-4 RVing rule. However, the rationale is the same. The first number is how far to travel, the second represents your stay, and the third is the time of day you arrive at your site. So: 300 miles, 3 days, and arriving at 3 PM.
Source: RV Life, Cruise America
