The Ultimate RV Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

The Secret to a Safe, Stress-Free Journey

An RV is a complex machine with a lot of "moving parts." Before you hit the road, it is very important to do a final check to make sure everything is safe and secure. Skipping just one step—like forgetting to lower the TV antenna—can turn a fun trip into an expensive repair!

Use this checklist before every single trip to ensure your adventure starts the right way.

1. The Exterior Walk-Around (Safety First)

This is your most important job. Walk around the entire outside of the RV and check these items:

  • Tires: Check the air pressure while they are cold. Look for any cracks or "bubbles" on the sides.

  • Lug Nuts: Make sure all the bolts on your wheels are tight.

  • Lights: Have someone stand behind the RV while you test the brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights.

  • Compartments: Check every storage door to make sure it is closed and locked.

  • Under the RV: Look for any drips or puddles on the ground that might mean a leak.

2. The "Roof & Reach" Check

Many RV repairs happen because people forget things that are high up!

  • TV Antenna & Satellite: Make sure these are lowered and tucked into their travel cradles.

  • Roof Vents: Close all the plastic vents on the roof so they don't blow off in the wind.

  • The Awning: Ensure the big shade umbrella is fully rolled in and the travel locks are clicked into place.

  • Slides: If your RV has walls that move out, make sure they are fully retracted and locked.

3. The "Life Support" Disconnect

Before you pull away, you have to "unplug" from the campground.

  • Power Cord: Unplug the big cord and store it in its compartment.

  • Water Hose: Turn off the water, drain the hose, and put it away.

  • Sewer Hose: Make sure the tanks are empty and the "stinky slinky" is stored in its bumper or tube.

  • Jacks & Steps: Raise all the leveling jacks and tuck the entry steps away.

4. Securing the Inside

Driving an RV is like a small earthquake for your belongings. Everything needs to stay put!

  • Loose Items: Put away anything on the counters, like coffee makers or fruit bowls.

  • Cabinets & Drawers: Make sure all the latches are clicked shut.

  • The Fridge: Lock the refrigerator and freezer doors so they don't fly open on a curve!

  • Windows & Blinds: Close and lock all the windows and pull the blinds up or down so they don't rattle.

5. The "Critical Systems" Check

These are the things that keep you safe and comfortable.

  • Propane: Turn off the gas at the main tank (unless your RV needs it for the fridge while driving).

  • Water Pump: Flip the pump switch to "OFF."

  • Safety Gear: Check the needle on your fire extinguisher (it should be in the green) and test the smoke detector.

  • Mirrors: Once you sit in the driver's seat, adjust your big mirrors so you can see all the way to the back of the RV.

Pro Tip: The "Final 360." After you think you are 100% ready to go, get out of the RV one last time. Walk all the way around the outside. You’d be surprised how often you find a forgotten wheel chock or a lawn chair left in the grass!

Final Thoughts

Doing a pre-trip inspection only takes about 15 minutes, but it can save you hours of "firefighting" on the side of the road. When you know your tires are full, your roof is clear, and your doors are locked, you can relax and enjoy the drive.

Safe travels, Pro Camper!

🐟 Want to make sure you have enough room to do your walk-around? See the site layout before you arrive! CampgroundViews.com lets you take a 360-degree tour of the park. You can see the space around the sites to make sure you have plenty of room to check your tires and hookups safely.

Inspect your site at CampgroundViews.com!