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Last Updated on August 24, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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40 RV Hacks You Need To Know
RV travel can be a thrilling adventure, but it often comes with challenges that catch the most experienced traveler off guard. To ensure that you are not only prepared for these challenges but also able to maximize your enjoyment, we have gathered some vital RV hacks you need to know that will make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
- Maximize Storage Space: Use the back of doors and inner cabinet sides effectively.
- Collapsible Kitchenware: Save space with collapsible bowls, pots, and colanders.
- Tension Rods: Useful for hanging clothes, towels, and lightweight curtains.
- LED Lights: Opt for LED lights, lower power consumption.
- Use a Shower Caddy: Prevent items from falling during RV movement.
- Multi-purpose Furniture: Choose versatile furniture with multiple functionalities.
- Invest in Solar Panels: Reduces dependency on generators or RV park hookups.
You are in no rush to catch a plane or train on time. You don’t have to look for hotels at a reasonable price. You don’t even have to leave behind your pets. For once, you can enjoy being lazy while having the time of your life.
Yes! That’s what RV vacation is all about.
Are you looking for some valuable tips to have a carefree camper journey? What luck! You landed on the right page. We are here to guide you with our baby steps.
Let’s begin.
How do you make the most out of your RV trip?
The real deal is to make the best out of your RV trip. And, as we said before, we are here to make that possible for you.
First, we will discuss innovative ways to set up your stuff in a camper.
As you know, we are short on space because your home is a vehicle now. You have to keep that in mind while unpacking your things. It’s time-saving and trouble-free.
Moving on, you have to be careful about the weather as well. What if it gets too hot or cold? You should know DIY ideas to deal with different temperatures.
Do you think that’s enough for a remarkable journey?
Not really, no. We need to dig in deep to figure out the details.
Is it a Family Trip, or Are You Travelling Solo?
If you are going solo, then you have to make sure to arrive on time. Be on your best behavior and leave a good impression on other travelers. Who knows, you might end up making friends.
On the other hand, it’s a chill scene with family. More or less, you will feel like living in a motorhome. Pretty much exciting, right?
Hold on, though. Camper trips are a lot more than recreating your home inside a vehicle. By the end of your journey, you will surely know what an absolute adventure feels like.
But you have to pay special attention to our essential 40 RV hacks.
40 RV Hacks You Need to Know
We can guarantee that the more you know, the better your experience will be.
Below, we have discussed some major issues you may face with their counter solutions. See what you are comfortable with, and make your to-do list from these hacks.
Here we go.
How to Tackle Storage Issues?
The smartest thing to do is to unpack as soon as you enter your RV. Don’t even think of stopping at shops unless you have placed your stuff neatly.
You have to make your strategy to set your things up. Here are some tips and tricks to tackle storage issues:
List Down the Things You Have
You can solve half of your storage issues by simply recording what you have. Don’t miss out on anything.
This hack sounds childish but will help you organize your personal space. Plus, knowing if anything from your stuff gets misplaced will be easier.
Shop Wisely
You don’t want to create a mess. Buy only what you need, and if you are buying something you already have, discard the same old stuff in your possession.
You won’t enjoy your trip if you constantly worry about where and how to manage your belongings.
Clean Daily
Okay, that’s a tricky part. However, the consequences of not cleaning will be harder to deal with. Set a routine for cleaning. Don’t keep on prolonging this task; stick to your routine.
You can clean after every other day if your RV is extra large. If that’s not the case and your family is big, cleaning daily is better.
Until now, we only talked about hacks that can help you organize your RV.
Let’s see what special storage items you need to create more room inside your RV.
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Suspension Rod
Are you running out of space to hang your clothes? Create an extra closet using a suspension rod.
You don’t have to use it unnecessarily for your clothes; you can even hang your towels and bathrobes there.
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Door-Mounted Trash Can
Yeah, your everyday trash cans are not much of a help here. It would be best to have particular trash cans that can stick to a door. That way, you can save some space.
And here is the good part: it won’t fall once your camper picks up speed.
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Nesting Bowls
Well, RV kitchens are not too big. Keep your favorite utensils at home and buy some nesting bowls. Otherwise, your kitchen will get too messy.
Look for sets where you can get measuring spoons and some other things with nesting bowls. Pile up everything together, and you are done.
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Dish Cradle
Can you imagine the clitter-clatter of plates that won’t won’t you take a nap?
You will regret not buying a dish cradle. It will keep your plates in a safe place. Play smart!
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Pegboard
You took care of plates and bowls. What about your pots and pans? Don’t worry; we have a solution to hang everything.
A pegboard has hooks for hanging small to medium items. However, you don’t need a pegboard if you can use some belts and clips to hang down your stuff.
All you have to do is be creative with what you have. You will figure out everything on your own.
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Command Hooks
We are still not done with hanging stuff. Once you start your journey, you will notice how hard it is to keep everything in place.
The good thing is that you can put command hooks over anything. They are small and user-friendly.
You can even hang a picture of your family using a command hook. You see, you don’t have to waste your time on drilling walls. How cool is that?
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Collapsible Camping Gear
A collapsible camping gear lets you camp wherever you want. They have everything you need for a comfortable, long trip.
You will find a lot of variety on Amazon at different prices. See which one suits you best and go for it.
Do you have everything you need to keep your RV spacious? Great!
Here, the trick is to use the limited space in the best possible way. Now, we will move on to our next topic.
How to Manage Temperature Inside Your Camper?
You never know when the weather gets unpredictable, right?
If you are planning a long trip, you must make prior arrangements for different temperatures.
Tips To Keep Your Camper Cooler During Sunny Days
It would be best if you didn’t throughout your journey.
Here are some tips to keep you cool and comfortable in your RV:
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Choose the Right Position For your RV
This is a simple step. Park your RV in a shaded area.
Protect your refrigerator and air conditioner from direct sunlight if you cannot find a perfect shady spot.
They can stop working if the sun hits them too hard.
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Check Your Air Conditioner Filters
Are you wondering why your air conditioner isn’t working correctly? You don’t have to be a pro technician to see the problem.
Primarily, an air conditioner stops working because the filter gets dusty. You can clean it up with a mild detergent and water.
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Use Roof Vent Covers For Air Ventilation
Is it possible to travel without an air conditioner? Yes, of course.
You don’t have an air conditioner if it’s too hot. Simple air ventilation can do the job, as well. Booking an RV with roof vent covers and fans is better for that.
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Buy LED Bulbs
Do whatever you can to avoid the heat. In this case, buy LED bulbs. Compared to incandescent bulbs and chloroform light, these bulbs don’t have much heat to work.
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Cook Outside
Plan a barbecue evening with your family to spend time with nature while cooking. You wouldn’t have to heat your camper by cooking in your RV kitchen.
Or better, give yourself a rest and check out some famous restaurants.
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Shut Down the Windows
Don’t do anything open during the daytime. You have no idea how quickly your camper will heat up.
After sunset, open the windows to cool down the internal atmosphere. And try to stay inside your RV if it’s shot outside. Make sure all the openings are tightly shut.
Now, let’s look at the other side of the picture.
Tips To Keep Your Camper Warmer During Colder Days
You have packed your jackets and blankets to suit yourself.
But would they keep your camper warm? We all know the answer.
Let’sLet’show we can help you.
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Bubble Wraps
You are shutting down your windows. Will won’twon’the magic? You have to seal them completely. How can you do that? Use bubble wrap to cover every corner of your windows.
If you still feel the cold breeze, hang down some thermal curtains as another shield.
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Rugs and Carpets
You still can’t shiver? Well, the cold air can find its way through the floor. You have to block the air entirely from seeping into your RC.
Do you think that that’s the case? Not if you grab some good-quality thick rugs and carpets for your RV. They will help you put a barrier against the cold breezes blowing outside.
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Cook Inside
Your kitchen is the solution here! Use it as your go-to heater. You have a golden chance to earn brownie points for your excellent cooking skills.
Bake some cookies or try your favorite cuisine. And yes, don’t forget the coffee.
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Exercise
Who says you can’t keep up with your workout schedule while traveling? Not us.
We know the idea of lying in bed with a blanket sounds tempting. But it would be best to face the cold once you get out of your blanket.
You wouldn’t waste your precious moments lying in bed all the time. We thought so.
Here is our bright tip: stay active to preserve your body heat.
Remember: You have to prepare yourself mentally for extreme temperatures as well. Trick your mind into believing it’s too cold or hot. Trust us, your mind can be your helping hand.
You may need an RV heater if the temperature is cold outside. Our hacks won’t won’t much if you are traveling without a heater.
What Else Do You Need?
We will let you guess.
You have tightly packed down everything to keep the cool air outside.
You are cooking inside your RV kitchen and can’t open the windows to let that steam escape. That means you understand what “Free” ing to death” means.
Can you see what’s?
The steam will condense into water droplets after it cools down.
Don’t, though. A dehumidifier can maintain the humidity level inside your vehicle. Moreover, it can even keep the air fresh and healthy for you.
Do you think you can take it from here? That’That’st.
We are not entirely done, by the way. Stay with us to know more about hacks.
What Safety Measures Can You Take?
It is essential to feel secure while traveling. Otherwise, you will stay anxious for the rest of your trip. That’That’smmer.
Worry not, my friend. Let’sLet’swhat steps you can take for maximum protection.
Do your Research
If this is your first RV trip, you must be extra cautious. Don’t believe you can figure out everything about your RV on the spot. Don’t forget that this is not a random car.
Do you see where we are going with this? Learning about how RV works before you get on your journey for your safety is better.
For instance, you should know how to solve troubleshooting problems and how much wind an RV can withstand.
There’s aarm in learning everything beforehand. It will only help you be more comfortable on the road.
Take Turns While Driving
This is not the right time to challenge yourself. Once you feel like you need some rest, go for it. Don’t worry about driving and testing your patience.
Accidents usually happen because the driver is not careful. We would say make sure your moves are calculated. Know when to drive and when to take a short break.
You can also have multiple drivers to allow everyone to drive and ride. You don’t have to stop every two hours to catch a break.
However, make sure the other person knows how to drive well. As we said, staying careful and planning everything can solve most problems.
Know Where to Park
It would be best to park your RV while taking a break or camping outside.
However, you will probably get into trouble if you don’t know where to park your motor van, especially in a residential area.
Most of the parking lots don’t have any RV’s for longer. Also, you have to know the rules before parking. Is RV parking allowed? If yes, then for how long?
There are unique places like RV parks for parking such vehicles. Notable routes are designed to drive campervans because of their size and structure. You can have a look at them in Google Maps.
What should you do if you need to park in a residential area while you are out? Here are some RV-friendly spots you can use for parking:
- Truck stops
- Casinos
- Schools
- Private Driveways
Tip: Don’t do it unannounced; that’s ice. First, make sure to get permission from the officials or managers. You may pay a heavy fine if you don’t follow the rules correctly.
Also, try getting help from sites like RVwithMe and Outdoorsy. You will know who will let you park in their driveway quickly.
Double Check the Locks
This goes without saying: Never, and we repeat, never go outside without locking your RV windows and door.
It is better to install a proper security system in your RV. You may think we are exaggerating now, but that’s the only way to keep uninvited strangers from checking in your RV.
No, we are not making this up. You can never know what’s happening at your back.
You can’t prevent people from invading your RV privacy even when parked in a campsite area.
We know that sucks, so it is better to plan accordingly.
Carry Your First-Aid Box
Forgot your first-aid box at home? Make sure to stop at the nearest medical store. Buy all the necessities and keep them all together.
You never know when you end up with a migraine or stomach flu. Does anything spoil your fun?
Quick Summary
Before moving on to the next part, let’s quickly recap.
Up till now, we have discussed the following points:
- Where and how to put up your stuff
- How to prepare for any weather
- What some ideal spots are for parking RVs
- How to remain safe during your trip
In short, if you can tackle all the situations above, you are pretty much prepared to start your RV trip. Look at the best small truck campers that are perfect for getting away. Buy the one you like the most.
So, have we left anything to tell you?
We suppose, yes.
Let’sLet’swhat’what’s.
Are You Going Too Fast?
Simple advice: Do not rush!
You have a lot of places to explore; we get it.
But would you believe us if we said you don’t want to jump from place to place for an outstanding trip?
Confused? We bet you are,
Let us help you understand.
Enjoy the Moment
We want you to build connections with the places you visit. It’s about how many places you can travel in a row. It’s about giving quality time to each place you go to.
Why do you think that’s?
Well, you will see for yourself. Your motto should be to study the places you visit. Know how it makes you feel. Make a bond with its surroundings. Observe nature.
Once you slow down your pace, you can see the beauty to the next level.
Visit Common Places
Don’tDon’tus wrong. We are not discouraging you from traveling to particular tourist points. For sure, go there and enjoy the beautiful view.
But here’s a catch. Local parks and markets have their charm. You can’t can’t do it just because they are not famous.
Gain experience from different places.
Ride a Bicycle
Or, you can go for a long morning walk. Our point is to get out of your RV and have some me-time.
Put on your headphones, wear your favorite sweatpants, and make memories outside.
Re-discover what you like and try new activities.
Make Unexpected Plans
Do yourself a favor and listen to your heart. Go where your heart takes you. You have to taste what freedom feels like. Do not put restrictions on what you should do.
Remember: RV trips are about living freely—don’t do the one to bound yourself.
Try Local Food
You don’t have to dine in fancy restaurants. Flavour-wise, street food has no competition. Get out of your comfort zone every once in a while and try something different.
Do you see how important it is to slow down and savor the moment? There is a lot to discover at every step.
We know destination matters, but make your journey count as well.
How Do You Prevent an RV Fire?
Installing a residual current device with the charging unit is a key measure to prevent an RV fire. This device automatically cuts off power if it detects a fault, averting a potential fire incident.
Additionally, ensure all charging device components are kept out of a child’s reach when not in operation.
Adhering to this safety measure minimizes risks associated with tampering. Lastly, maintaining the components of your charging station as per the guidelines is essential.
Regular maintenance checks can identify potential problems early, preventing a disastrous RV fire.
Consequently, these steps answer “How “do you prevent an RV fire?” with” practical, actionable measures.
Final Thoughts
The key to a successful and enjoyable RV experience lies in the intelligent utilization of available space and resources, and being well-informed about some essential RV hacks you need to know can prove immensely beneficial.
For instance, maximizing storage space can be achieved by effectively using the back of doors and inner cabinet sides, creating ample room for your belongings.
Similarly, collapsible kitchenware such as bowls, pots, and colanders can save space and reduce clutter. Tension rods can serve multiple purposes, from hanging clothes and towels to supporting lightweight curtains.
Lighting is another crucial aspect where LED lights should be preferred due to their lower power consumption. Using a shower caddy is a great solution to keep your items safe and secure during RV movement.
Also, investing in multi-purpose furniture can serve various functionalities, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Lastly, investing in solar panels can reduce your dependency on generators or RV park hookups, promoting a more sustainable and cost-effective RV lifestyle.
These RV hacks will help maximize your RV journey, ensuring comfort and ease.
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