Ultimate RV Road Trip Safety Checklist

Ready to set off on your next big adventure with your family in tow? Make sure your RV is safe and is ready to hit the road with this handy checklist.

Outside

• Check tire pressure, and adjust as needed.
• Check for loose lug nuts on each wheel, and tighten as needed.
• Check all fluid levels — whether it’s for a motorhome or the towing vehicle.
• Secure all items in storage compartments, and be sure outside compartments are locked.
• Check and secure cap on sewer outlet.
• Disconnect the power cord, water hose and sewer hose and properly store them.
• Fill fresh water holding tank with enough potable water to last until your arrival at your destination.
• Turn all gas appliances off and be sure to turn the gas supply off at the tank or bottles.
• If you’ve got a bike rack, make sure it’s secure, along with the mounted bikes.
• If you have a TV antenna or satellite, make sure they are taken down and stowed properly.
• Make sure all slide outs are in and slide out travel locks are secured.
• Securely store the awning.
• Raise all stabilizer jacks or hydraulic leveling jacks.
• Stow or retract the steps.
• Check beneath the RV for any leaks or anything else out of the ordinary.
• If you’re towing your RV, inspect the hitch on the towing vehicle.
• Remove and store wheel chocks or any type of leveling blocks.
• Double check all running lights, turn signals, brake lights and headlights on both the RV and towing vehicle.
• Check for an up-to-date inspection or emission sticker and license plates.
• Check brakes and make sure they’re working properly.
• Take one last walk around the outside of the RV and make sure you haven’t overlooked anything.

Inside

• Walk through the RV and secure all loose items that could shift, fall or get damaged while in motion.
• Turn off all appliances’ gas and electric, including all pilot lights.
• Close the range top cover.
• Turn off the water pump.
• Turn off all lights and accessories that could drain the auxiliary battery, including the antenna booster.
• Check for anything in the refrigerator that could spill, then lock both the fridge and freezer doors.
• Close all doors, drawers and cabinets.
• Close the roof vents, windows and secure blinds.
• Make sure all weight in the RV is distributed evenly.

Now that you’ve got peace of mind knowing that your RV is completely prepped for your trip, all you have to do is adjust your mirrors and seat and hit the road!