Now that the winter season is fast approaching, it is important to keep yourself educated on what to expect during the season. Especially if you plan to travel on your RV during this time of the year, you need to be prepared for the freezing weather. Since traveling by RV during winter is somewhat uncommon, you need to know how best to make your trip as smooth as possible.
One of the best things about having an RV is that you can travel to a destination any time you want. As long as your RV is properly stocked, you can leave to your destination of choice even during the winter season. Even though it is uncommon, it isn’t impossible to go on a trip on your RV during this time of the year. The important thing is that you know what to expect during your trip. Here are some of the things you need to know about traveling in your RV during winter season:
Tip #1: Have a thorough Inspection
Before you start your journey, make sure that you have thoroughly inspected the condition of your RV. Normally, this will not cost you any money to have your RV inspected by a professional. You should take advantage of this opportunity so that you won’t have to worry about dealing with emergencies on the road later on. By having someone inspect your RV, you can determine how capable and safe it is for winter travel.
Tip #2: Take a Familiar Route
While traveling on an RV calls for a scenic view, it is not a good idea to venture out into an unknown road. It is important that you stay on a familiar road so that you already know about the precautions that may prevent you from having a smooth trip. But if you need to take a new route, remember to stay on the main roads. Since these are important routes, highways and interstates will be much easier to navigate in. And in the event that it suddenly snows uncontrollably, you’ll be able to keep an eye on where you are driving.
Tip #3: Get updates on the Weather
If you’re traveling on your RV during winter, you have to remember to keep tabs with the weather forecast. Whether you invest in a satellite TV or TV antenna, you can keep yourself updated with the latest weather news. This will give you an idea on whether you should keep driving or rest for a while. You can also have your cell phone with you during your trip. Especially if you have Internet access on your device, you can keep yourself updated with the latest weather reports.
At the same time, having a cell phone with you during your trip can make the journey safer. In the event of an emergency or if you run out of gas, you’ll be able to use your cell phone to get help. Make sure to bring your charger along with you on your trip.
Tip #4: Keep your Gas Tank Filled
When you’re traveling during the winter, you need to be prepared for whatever emergency may occur. This means that you should always fill your RV tank with gas. Also, you shouldn’t let your motor reach near empty. You will need this to keep yourself warm as much as possible. Especially if you happen to get stranded or run off the road accidentally, the motor just might help you and your family stay warm.
Tip #5: Let someone know where you’re going
If you decided to travel alone on your RV, make sure that you have informed someone you trust about your plans. This way, he will help in tracking you down once something goes wrong. Especially if you will be traveling during bad winter weather, you will need to get all the help that you can summon. By having someone keep tab on your whereabouts, you’ll know that you can always have someone to call to for help.
While traveling in an RV during winter is uncommon, there is no reason why you shouldn’t make this trip. Especially if you have been planning this trip with your family for quite a long time, you can keep yourselves happy throughout the entire journey.
However, if the weather says that it is not too good to travel on the road, it may be best to stay for a few more days. You can always continue on your journey tomorrow. What’s important is that you keep your safety a priority. Especially if you will be traveling with your kids, you have to remember that they need to be secure at all times. By following these tips, you’ll be able to make your winter RV journey a memorable one. You just might want to do it again next year!
Written by the staff at Quality RV, one of the leading RV Dealers Missouri has to offer. Quality RV serves the entire state of Missouri, from St. Louis to Kansas City, and enjoys sharing their travel experiences they take in their RV’s.