RV Pre-Trip Checklist: How to Get Your RV Roadworthy Before a Long Drive

Before you head out on a long RV trip, take time to walk around your rig and check the systems that matter most on the road. A quick inspection can help you catch small problems before they turn into breakdowns, leaks, or expensive repairs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6nuAyiEctM

1. Check Suspension Grease Points

Start with the suspension. Your RV suspension takes a lot of abuse from road vibration, turning, bumps, and long-distance travel.

At least once a year, check the grease points on your suspension and make sure everything is properly serviced.

A properly maintained suspension helps your RV tow better and reduces wear on moving parts.

2. Inspect the Propane System

Before traveling, check your propane fittings and lines.

Even if you travel with your propane turned off, your propane system still needs attention. High-pressure propane lines are stiff, and over time road vibration can wear on fittings and connection points.

You can check for leaks two ways:

Use a propane sniffer around the fittings, or spray the connections with a soap-and-water solution. If you see bubbles forming, you may have a propane leak that needs to be fixed before you travel.

Always check propane fittings in a safe, well-ventilated area, and do not ignore even a small leak.

3. Check the Generator

If your RV has a generator, inspect it before you leave.

Check the oil level, oil filter, and air filter. Make sure the generator is within its recommended service interval. Many RV generators need service around every 100 to 150 hours, but your exact interval may depend on the model.

A generator that starts and runs properly at home is one less thing to worry about once you are parked at a campsite, rally, or overnight stop.

4. Verify Hydraulic Fluid Levels

If your RV has hydraulic leveling jacks or hydraulic slide systems, check the hydraulic fluid level.

Make sure you check the fluid with the slides retracted and the leveling gear up.

5. Inspect Roof and Exterior Sealant

Water leaks can start from very small gaps, so take your time with this step.

Inspect the roof sealant, seams, corners, vents, and exterior seals. Look closely for cracks, gaps, lifted edges, or areas where sealant has separated.

Even if the RV was sealed well in the past, sealant can shift, dry out, or open up over time. One small gap can let water in during rain or while driving through changing weather.

If you find a problem, repair it before you leave.

6. Run a Full System Check

Before a long trip, test the RV systems you plan to use.

Check the water heater, furnace, faucets, lights, refrigerator, air conditioning, slides, leveling system, and anything else that matters for your trip.

Even if it is summer, test the furnace. Even if you do not expect to use the water heater much, make sure it works. The goal is to find problems while the RV is still at home, not after you have already arrived.

7. Make Notes Before You Leave

As you go through your checklist, write down anything that needs attention.

Some issues need to be fixed immediately. Others may simply be things to avoid using on that trip until you have time to repair them properly. Either way, knowing about a problem before you leave puts you in control.

Need help designing your RV solar system or upgrading to lithium batteries?

Visit BigBeardBattery.com and fill out the Solar Design Form to connect with one of our certified solar experts.