TIPS & TRICKS FOR YOUR NEW RV
After the initial shutdown for COVID-19, RV sales has seen record number of sales. According to the NASDAQ, "RV Sales Record Best July Data in 40 Years, Outlook Looks Rosy" (from contributor Rimmi Singhi published on August 26, 2020). According to RVIA, "The RV Industry Association's October 2020 survey of manufacturers found that total RV shipments finished the month with 47,326 units, an increase of 21.4% from the 38,972 units shipped in October 2019. This represents the second highest October on record."
What better way to get away, especially in 2020, then to have your very own home-on-wheels? RVs allow for the camping experience with added comfort and security. But, we don’t need to tell you all this…especially if you already bought your RV! So, we’d like to bestow upon you some of our RV(ing) wisdom so you can spend more time enjoying yourself and less time scratching your head.
Be prepared. Make sure you have some essential tools onboard your RV—wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, fuses, disposable gloves, fresh water hose, sewer hose, blocks to help level, etc. Just like you have a handy toolbox in your home, you’ll want one in your RV. Maybe buy a convenient kit, like this one.
Pack light. A small space collects clutter quickly. You’ll want your basics, but believe me, you don’t have to bring everything. Utilize storage boxes to keep things organized & easy to find.
Practice driving your RV. There really is no way to instruct you via text on how to safely drive your RV. Instead- get out and drive it. Take it in empty parking lots to practice turning around, parking, etc. Take it on less-trafficked roads to get comfortable driving & braking. Take it slow, leave extra space between you and the next car, and have an extra set of eyes when parking.
Do a trial stay somewhere close to home. This is helpful if you want to get more comfortable driving, parking, setting up and just staying in your RV (maybe you don’t know how your 10-year-old cat Miss Princess will take to the new space). Embarking on a first-time trip somewhere far away will be pretty stress-inducing; keep it simple for your first trip!
Stay somewhere friendly for first-timers. Check out the park’s reviews, or just ask while making your reservation. Not to toot our own horn, but toot-toot, Mystic Quarry is known for going above and beyond to assist you with parking and the setup process. This can give you great peace of mind!
Don't be afraid to ask for help. In our experience, RVers tend to be really friendly. Don’t hesitate to ask your neighbor how to get out your slide or hook up the power; just maybe offer them a cold one after! During you stay, also ask your neighbors or the Mystic Quarry staff to provide some helpful hints while RV'ing. Like, NEVER leave open your black tank or you will create a nasty mountain that is almost impossible to remove. This blog includes great online resources for connecting with fellow RVers.
Do the final inspection (twice). Before you drive, go through your checklist. Ensure that everything inside is packed, fastened and secured. Close the slides, roof vents, windows, lower the antenna and turn off the unnecessary power. Disconnect all the utilities and remove stabilizing blocks/jacks. Oh and make sure everyone is on board!
Now, go enjoy that new RV! Awesome adventures await.