RV departure checklist: steps up, hatches shut, propane off
The most expensive camping damage happens at departure: an open roof hatch, stabilizers still down, the power cord still plugged in. This checklist adapts to your rig and trip.
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What actually matters
Drive off once with the roof hatch open and you will never forget it again, but the first mistake easily costs a few hundred dollars. The classics are always the same: propane not shut off, entry step out, stabilizers down, the power cord still in the pedestal, the fridge door unlatched and emptying itself in the first curve. No talent protects you from that; a routine does: the same walk-around, in the same order, before every departure.
Our checklist builds that routine for your rig: inside, outside, running gear and paperwork, plus the short version for every stop along the way. With a trailer, hitch, safety chains and mirrors join the list; in winter, antifreeze and propane supply; with a dog, its own category. Fill it in once, print it or keep it on your phone, check it off, drive.
Frequently asked questions
The classics: roof hatch and windows open, entry step out, stabilizers down, power cord plugged in, propane open, fridge unlatched. Exactly these items sit at the top of the list on purpose.
Yes. Choose travel trailer and the towing items are added: hitch and safety chains, breakaway cable, tongue jack, mirrors, trailer light check and weight distribution.
It covers the departure routine, nothing more: the walkthrough with the rental company, weighing your load and the propane system belong to the manual and professionals.
And if you want the whole trip planned: The typeatrip travel plan researches hotels, activities and prices live on the web, with a source and as-of date on every entry, from $3.49 per plan.