Fall is here and our team at MWSS, Inc. is so excited for all of the upcoming fall festivities, including fall RV camping trips! Planning an RV camping trip is not always an easy thing to do.. so we are here to give you our top tips on how to plan the best trip this fall. From knowing what to pack on your checklist of essentials to where you should camp, and everything in between- here is our list of the top 5 tips to follow.

1. Know What to Pack

This is where a checklist becomes your best friend. Not only does it ensure you have all of the items you need packed and ready to go, but it helps to stay organized throughout the packing process. We have another blog dedicated on things to consider during your upcoming fall RV camping trip. Here is a quick overview of the top essentials you will need:

• A water-resistant tent
• Proper sleeping equipment (insulated sleeping bag, extra blankets, sleeping pads)
• Layers of clothing
• Hand-warmers
• Fire starters/matches
• A portable stovetop
• A large supply of food and water
• Flashlights/Batteries
• First aid kit/Pocketknife
• A map/GPS device.

Knowing what items to pack and having a checklist handy will make your life as a camper a whole lot easier. You will be less likely to forget necessary items and be prepared for anything that comes your way on the trip.

2. Pick the Perfect Destination

There are multiple things to consider when choosing the perfect fall destination for your RV camping trip. One of the top must-haves for fall camping is the perfect destination. Here are a few things to consider as you choose your vacation location:

• Region
• Climate
• Weather during the duration of your trip
• Based on your planned activities 
• Be selective
• Have a backup campground in mind in the case of bad weather or unforeseen events.

The climate and weather of the region you choose to camp in this fall makes a huge difference. Depending on how north you go, temperatures can range from the 60s to the 30s- making it harder to anticipate what the weather will look like during your stay.

The key is to do your homework and pack for the weather no matter where your fall camping destination is.

3. Prep Your RV For Travel

One of the most important things you can do to have a successful RV camping trip is to prep your RV before traveling. Without a reliable, dependable vehicle you will not be able to have a safe trip to and from your RV camping site. In order to prep your RV for travel, you need to do the complete the following steps:

• Double-check brakes, tire pressures and gear shifts: Especially in late fall, temperatures may fall below freezing and cause the roads to be slippery during travel. If your tire pressure is low, be sure to properly inflate your tires according to the recommended amount on the inside of your vehicle.
• Practice operating the heating system: If you’re renting an RV, read the owner's manual and pay attention to the demo. Make sure that your system has been routinely checked by an RV expert for proper use.
• Know how to service your RV’s water systems: In the event that you experience a hard freeze while camping, you should know how to disconnect water lines from tanks and drain them to prevent damage to water and waste systems. If you are renting your RV unit, ask an expert what to do if you encounter freezing weather.

4. Expect the Unexpected

This ties into our previous tip of picking your destination and knowing what to pack on your camping expedition. With any trip, there can be bumps in the road and things do not always go according to plan... no matter how prepared you think you are prior to departing. This is just a part of life and can't be avoided. However, a smart camper will expect the unexpected. From unpredictable weather to a full campground, things may not as always go your way but it is best to have come prepared with backups (for literally everything) in mind. Backup equipment, backup campsites, backup clothing... if you can think it, you should probably have a backup somewhere in your RV! All of this comes with having a good attitude. No matter what comes your way, if your mindset is in a good place, you will have a great trip no matter the circumstances that you encounter. This leads us to our last and final tip for you.

5. Have Fun!

That really is the point of a an RV camping trip- no matter the season. We assure you that no matter what season you decide to go RV camping in, there will be good times and memories to follow with your family and friends. However, we're biased and think that fall is the best time to plan your next RV camping trip! S'mores, campfires, and gorgeous foliage surrounding you- what more could you ask for!

If you are in need of updated appliances or electronics before your upcoming fall RV camping trip, let us equip your RV with the best in the business. Contact us today or shop our online store now.