Stress-Free RV Setup: Your Ultimate Guide to Camping Success
It's camping season, and we have devised the most stress-free and straightforward way to set up your RV so you'll be an expert in no time. Here’s how to ensure a smooth and enjoyable RV setup process.
Disclaimer: We are not RV experts and these opinions are only intended to show what methods we use when it comes to RV Living. Do not use this information as professional advice.
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Planning Ahead
Before arriving at your campsite, having a plan is crucial. Families, especially those with young children, can benefit significantly from this. Typically, one parent can take the kids to the playground while the other sets up. It's also highly recommended to keep pets and children in the vehicle during the RV parking phase. This can be one of the most stressful parts, so having a plan and sticking to it is key.
Arrive Prepared
We can't stress this enough: arrive with full bellies and empty bladders. Rushing the setup process because you are hungry or need to use the restroom can lead to unnecessary bickering or full-blown arguments. Take a moment to use the campground bathrooms or hop inside the RV before getting started.
Backing in the RV
Communication is crucial during this phase. Use a radio, cell phone, or big hand signals to let the driver know which way to turn and when to stop. Ensure your spotter stands behind the RV, not to the side, to avoid backing into obstacles like RV pedestals. Keep the driver's side window down for urgent communication.
Take your time and avoid multitasking. If someone interrupts your spotter, stop the rig and wait. If the spotter gets confused, use the GOAL method (Get Out And Look) to prevent headaches.
After Backing In
Don’t get too comfortable yet! Follow these steps before unhooking:
Connections: Ensure all hookups will reach, and connect to electricity to check for issues.
Leveling: Some sites require manual leveling. We use Beech Lane levelers for ease.
Awnings: Ensure there is enough clearance by extending them.
Slides: Measure slide-out distances to avoid obstacles like picnic tables.
Steps: Ensure steps extend to the ground without obstruction.
Remember the acronym CLASS: Connections, Leveling, Awnings, Slides, and Steps.
Click below for a free checklist to take with you!
Disconnecting from the Tow Vehicle
Start by chocking your wheels, regardless of how level the site is. If you don’t make it a regular habit then you’ll forget to do it when it matters most. Always chock both sides where gravity is heading to prevent the RV from turning on the unchocked side.
When disconnecting, extend the front jacks until all weight is off the truck and hitch. Ensure the trailer brake is connected until after you release the hitch, and secure the 7-way plug and trailer brake cable before pulling the truck away. Keep pets and children inside the truck until the leveling is complete to prevent injury.
The video below will demonstrate a more detailed method of unhitching your fifth wheel RV from the tow vehicle:
If manual leveling is required, do it before disconnecting. For auto-level equipped RVs, use this feature now. While the RV is leveling, connect water, sewer, and electric utilities safely.
RV Hookups
Electric:
Turn off the 50 amp breaker at the pedestal, connect your RV cord from the RV to the surge protector, and then into the 50 amp receptacle.
If there's no switch to turn the pedestal on or off, flip off the main breaker inside your RV, then plug everything in before flipping that internal breaker on to prevent electrical arcing.
Water:
Connect your water pressure regulator to the water source followed by your water hose. Before connecting to the RV side, flush water through your entire hose to get all the air out.
Once you are connected to the RV side, turn your settings to “city water” to allow the use of an external water source.
Sewer:
Wear gloves and always wash your hands after touching any of the sewer supplies. Ensure connections are tight by releasing a small amount of grey water before pulling the black tank handle.
At this point, you can keep the grey valve(s) open or closed depending on your preference. Always keep the black tank valve closed until you are at least 1/2 full and ready to empty.
Slide-Out Warning
Before extending slide-outs, check inside to ensure nothing has fallen into their path. Keep pets and children away during this process to prevent accidents. These mechanisms are powerful and can cause serious injuries.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free RV setup. Enjoy your camping trip with peace of mind, knowing you've expertly handled the setup. Happy camping!
More of a visual learner? We have you covered! Watch the video below:
