The RV Departure Checklist Every New RVer Needs to Ensure a Smooth Ride

Kathryn Mancewicz Featured, Guides to RV Basics, Hot Topics, Travel Tips
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Before you hit the road, don’t forget to go through your RV departure checklist. If you’re not sure where to start, start right here. Joel and I have been full-timing for several years and have mastered the art of departing quickly and smoothly.

If you want more guidance, I’ve got a detailed article about how to prepare for RV road trip success.

RV Departure Checklist For Inside the RV

  1. Turn off propane/fridge turned off (some people drive with fridge on propane, but I do not due to safety concerns if you were to get in an accident. I figure, better safe than sorry.).
  2. Close and latch all doors, cupboards, the fridge, etc. so nothing opens while you’re driving. 
  3. Put the showerhead on the ground if you have a removable one.
  4. Secure all shampoo, conditioner, soaps, etc in the bathroom.
  5. Secure dining room table and chairs if applicable.
  6. Remove everything from the shelves and countertops. 
  7. Blinds up for visibility out your windows if driving a motorhome. 
  8. Securely close all windows.
  9. Make sure the RV door is latched. We leave ours unlocked while driving in case of emergency. 
  10. Close roof vents. 
  11. Throw out all trash. 
  12. Put snacks and drinks for the road trip somewhere you can access them while buckled in. 
  13. Check your mirrors.

Also Read:  How to Shower in an RV With These Easy Tips

RV Departure Checklist For Outside the RV

  1. Check tire pressure.
  2. Inspect tires for any signs of damage.
  3. Ensure your awning is rolled up and secured. 
  4. Leveling jacks up.
  5. Remove all wheel chocks. 
  6. Door step retracted.
  7. Nothing left at your campsite (including trash, leave it better than you found it). 
  8. If you are towing something check that your hitch is connected and locked correctly with safety chains in place. 
  9. Did you fill up your freshwater tank if you need some along the way?
  10. Disconnect and drain your freshwater hose.
  11. Take your water pressure regulator with you. 
  12. Dump your black then grey tanks.
  13. Disconnect sewer hose.
  14. Disconnect electricity and be sure to take your surge protector/EMS with you.
  15. Outdoor storage compartments locked. 
  16. TV Antenna/satellite down.
  17. Make sure your campfire is out. 
  18. Check your brake lights, turn signals, and headlights. 
  19. Check windshield wipers and washer fluid. 
  20. Make sure you have enough gas to make it to your first planned road trip stop.

  • Experienced RVers, what else is on your RV departure checklist? Drop a comment to help the newbies out!


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Kathryn Mancewicz

Kathryn Mancewicz is an RV expert who has been a full time RVer since 2019. She has bylines for her RV related content on major publications including MSN, MSN Canada, and AOL. She has also been featured on Yahoo and quoted on KOA. Kathryn is also a regular RV content writer for Cheapism.