How about leveling blocks for the wheels and under the tongue/stabilizer jack's. Wheel chocks. Check the smoke & CO detectors batteries, fire extinguisher isn't out of date or discharged. Check that the house batteries are charged & connection isn't corroded. Pack a toolbox with the things you use (contents vary).
Great information. While checking you’re tires make sure you check you’re spare. Nothing worse than having a flat tire and finding out your spare is also flat or has aged out.
For long trips (we’re usually weekenders) in addition to much of your items: Spare tire & inflated right; Floor jack; Laundry supplies; Battery fluid level & distilled water on hand; Stop home mail delivery; copies of dog vet records; firearm laws in states visiting....
I've made similar comments before. My buddy has a three ring binder, similar to a preflight checklist imho. Laminated paper suitable for a grease pencil. Each component/mission has it own page. Easily modified and replaced when things change. He recently upgraded his unit and sold the older one. When the perspective buyer showed up to view it, my buddy demonstrated all the features while going down the checklist. When it came to discussing price, the perspective buyer mentioned the book and if it came with the unit. My buddy expressed that the unit costs "x" the book costs "10x", and the deal was done. There is money in this. Loloho should make a similar thing.
I want to tell you that your videos are helping this solo newbie with my new to me 18 yr old 21ft class C. I'm getting ready for my 4th trip and each time I go out I learn something valuable. Like waking up when it's only 39' in Taos, NM I learned how to turn on my furnace and was over joyed that it self ignites and I didn't have to light the pilot. It helped to have the gas turned ON! My 3rd trip I learned how to level. I'm still re-arranging the tiny galley kitchen and figured out a way that works best for me to climb up into the over cab "loft" bed. I found 'wheat fiber' plates that are nice and light AND can go into the microwave. I look for your videos to keep learning, thank you from this newbie in NM!
After camping last summer I watched an episode regarding Surge Protectors. During the winter a purchased one and the very first time I plugged it in I had an Open Ground! Fortunately there was a second 30 amp plug which worked just fine! I hadn't been on our site an hour when I stopped a Park Warden and informed him of the problem. 10 minutes later a Park Maintenance Worker arrived at our site. 10 minutes after that the Electrician showed up and within 10 minutes a new plug was installed and the problem was fixed! Great service Algonquin Park Staff!!
When we bought our first rig my sister had to drive behind us to pick up all the things that came off the fifth wheel (Windows, a/c cover), out of the back of our truck (ice chest lid, toys) or out of the boat (Big Bertha towable, and beach bag). We got better as time went on but do, occasionally, lose a few things. My tip is have someone in a truck behind you! Love all your videos 😘
Very good and complete - i'd add that its an easy check and good idea to turn on the pump and just let it sit without running water. if the pump cycles then you have a leak somewhere. all the bouncing on the road can loosen PEX fittings as well.
Just started the rv life 2 months ago...your videos have made our experience enjoyable because you have shown me so many mistakes you've made and warned me about all the mistakes others have and so far "knock on wood" we have had zero issues...
YES! The best thing you offered is your downloadable list. I used a custom list I had created when we owned our Airstream Classic trailer. I even went so far as to laminate it. We kept it under the fold down armrest in our pickup so we always knew where it was. Our list was divided into EXTERIOR and INTERIOR items. Before we moved the trailer, I grabbed the list and scanned through every item. Occasionally that list saved our 'bacon' because I had forgot to check the overhead TV antenna, or the shower door being locked. It only took a few seconds to do. Thanks again Sean and Kristy for another great video. I always mention your videos when people ask me about RV things. You're the best! .......Russell D. from Olympia, WA
Now retired for 4 months we are camping about every thee weeks, and I am developing my checklist . I would recommend a torque wrench for lug nuts. Read this on Jayco website,and sure enough 25% needed some tightening. Used the old grunt method for 35 years torque wrench better. Also check all pins on sway cars, hitch pin, and other places in need of a pin. It is easy to miss items! Also, don’t forget pelletsfor your Traeger- we love our Tailgater! Thanks again for your videos, be Safe!
Hello there, I really appreciate all of the information that you shared. One thing that I noticed was, you didn’t include anything about the 30 or 50 amp surge protector. I wouldn’t take our travel trailer anywhere without ours. Thanks again. Bob Ward. Speedway,Indiana
I made a departure and arrival spreadsheet and printed several copies that I carry in my closable clipboard. Yeah I look like a nerdy newbie but I don't forget anything. Example, if you forget to close the vent hood fan exhaust port on the outside, the wind will rip it completely off.
Thank you! Love your preflight checklist! 😉 I have to write it all down. 😝 before we head out. It’s cause of you guys we bought our camper van! We watched y’all back when we were stationed in Germany and when we moved back to the US, we got our van! Danke!!!! 🙌🏻
As always I love your videos, good timing too as we are about to start a long trip. We know have a HiLo and it comes with new challenges like making sure everything is down so you can put the top down. But since we got the trailer we have had the roof resealed, Vent covers installed, bearing greased and breaks checked and tires. Had the hot water heater checked and the faucet changed out because of a leak. GFR changed as it was failing to often. Had a second set of chains added to the trailer to hook to the truck. We are leaving from SoCAL to St Louis, to Pittsburgh to Yellowstone. We are bringing (thanks to you) some winter clothes since we will be getting there about the end of Sept. Then home to SoCAL. So loved your video as it reminded me of what to plan for. Thanks!
I check tire pressure, lug nut torque, and make sure everything is closed down and shut like hood vent, roof vent, etc. shut off water pump, close off propane, put heavy stuff on the floor, and lock the door. Good video :)
I love the variety in your topics. So helpful to those who know next to zilch, but also a good reminder to seasoned travelers! And of course, you travel and scenery videos are truly a delight! Thank you both for sharing your travels with us all! Be well and happy and enjoy your next adventure! LOLOHO!
Always, always do the tire check, don’t overload, and secure the awning for sure if you have a manual awning. After going through a terrible wind on I-80 we had to duck tape the awning arms and the vent lid in the bath. Saw rv’s with their awnings laying on the ground along side of the freeway, From then on, I used Velcro to secure the awning arms, worked great. But that wind also worked to back the main screw that held the awning bracket on the trailer. Thank goodness my mechanic husband always took his tool box along. And lastly, two things. Never leave home without the tv remote, can make for a long vaca when the hubs keeps rubbing it in how he wishes he could watch tv. Two, folks, what’s your hurry, slow that rig down. Hey, My diesel will go faster than I need too, but just try and stop if something happens. It’s called a vacation for a reason. Be smart and drive safe 🙋🏼♀️🇺🇸👍🚗
Safety equipment in case you have a breakdown, vest and flashlights. We carry all the information on the trailer and truck on a printed page for when we register at a site.
Right on, S & K. Especially the lights. My wife often accused me of being fanatic about our trailer lights. That actually paid off one time when I had to do a wiring repair on the tow vehicle wiring for the right brake light. Fortunately, I always had the necessary tools and connectors for that purpose. I see a lot of trailers with inoperative lights. See you on the road ?
I go solo most of the time. Easy enough to check the blinkers but the brake lights are a different story. My solution is to use my torque wrench wedged between the seat front and the brake pedal. If I scoot the seat back just a bit, it is a perfect fit and doesn't require much pressure. Easier to do if you have power driver seat.
We have one for sale! We used it for less than a year and loved it so much that we upgraded to a 40 ft motor home. Having a blast (but not right now in Nov 2020). Can't wait for things to clear up a little more and then we are back on the road to some western parks. You don't know what you are missing! Love these videos by LoLoHo.
13 YEARS!!!! I JUST REALIZED HOW LONG LLH HAS BEEN ON YOU TUBE. LONGEST CHANNEL I FOLLOW. THERE HAS TO BE SOME KIND OF YOU TUBE AWARD FOR LONG RUNNING CHANNELS.
I always take my Prius to the mechanics before big trips. It may not need an oil change, but they do have an everything but the oil change for $70. They top all the fluids, check the batteries, the tires, all the lights, all the safety stuff. It would be a good idea for your tow vehicle.
A downloadable check list for printer might be a good idea. Extra entry cells just for what only you have would be nice. Give dates and locations in case things go missing and repair or replacement record. Thanks for the prepare info
When we bought our (soon to be sold or traded 1995 Class C). I took pictures of all the equipment and the stickers decals. I made an excel spreadsheet of the make, model numbers, colors type of material, color and so on. It was to speed up the process if I ever need a part.
Super complete vid on RV pre-flight check list. You did not mention a surge protector. Also, we have a daily departure checklist that we keep in the cockpit of our Class C. We do a visual inspection of engine compartment and check oil everyday. We laminated the checklist and do a daily departure review before we roll.
About to go on another trip and always like to go back over the basics. Thanks Sean and Christy for your tidbits of knowledge. This trip I have tire ramp that I found next to a Walmart garbage. Tested it on my car and now it will be with me in case "some" other poor soul needs a lift.
Even though I've gained some experience with a trailer - thanks in no small part to both of you - I never consider myself "experienced", so today's video was a treat! So many great reminders, some of which I have to admit I haven't been great about ... and will start to be. One other "blind spot" that I had was my trailer inspection. At least in PA where I live, we need to get our trailers inspected yearly, and it's easy to forget. So far it's not been a big deal if you don't, but nothing is an issue until it is. So if your state requires an annual inspection for your RV, definitely keep that on your radar, especially if you don't use it as often as usual.
Take duplicates of each of the cotter pins and the big pin that secure the hitch and storage compartments. Also an extra cap for the rear storage bumper. Always take extra fuses.
Excellent content as always, and thanks for that. Two additional suggestions: lubricate the stabilizer jacks and step and move them up and down several times. I didn’t do this once and on the morning I was set to leave I couldn’t get one of the stabilizer jacks to come up. I had to wrestle with it for 15 minutes. Since then I make a point of lubricating them and putting them up and down every few months when it’s not in use. There are several products you can use, but why not use T9? It’s right there between the cumin and paprika! Secondly, make sure that you have brought all appropriate cables for all of your electrical devices. Specialty cables are sometimes particularly difficult to get on the road.
Before leaving make sure that the hitch is properly secured along with the safety chains and break away tether cord. The electric brake controller needs to be tested also. Be sure that the generator is filled with fuel and functioning correctly.
It actually true that your trailer will ride better if the whole trailer is filled to its weight capacity. There is something called the unsprung weight ratio which is essentially the ratio of the weight of everything supported by the springs to everything not supported by the springs. The higher this ratio the less the trailer will bounce when you go over bumps. That said, it will also affect your gas mileage somewhat so there is a happy medium somewhere. Probably what you don't want is your tank half or three quarters full as that water then starts sloshing around in the tank in corners or if you have to take evasive action upsetting the balance of the trailer.
I would add Tighten Your Lug Nuts. Do this every stop for a new trailer or when any wheel has been loosened. It’s amazing how loose they get and how long it takes for them to settle.
Ha funny you made this video. Last year I got our 5th wheel first one only a small trailer before , went through it check everything use it in Nov when to Caliente last week had the trailer repair people work on it ,what could go wrong right! They install a new city hook up and installed the anti flow valve backwards . Where is the QC , so ha no problem filled the tank, turn on the pump no water! Pulled the filter plugged cleaned it and the water flowed out of the city hook up , no problem hooked the water hose back up and turned on , we are on the road again got home they fixed the water problem some what? I redid the whole job and now flushing out my tank , no one told me to keep some kinda chem in there because without a bottom drain there is still a inch of water 😨 P.S. did I mention my camp chef didn't work has worked flawlessly for 10 years , boy this is fun , love the video
...as to the refrig... remember that it must be about level... else you burn the cooling unit.... so when you bring it home or park it in that parking lot to go in and eat.. best make sure its level... if you leave it on elect or propane0... going down the road will allow it to work... as it rocks back and forth... best to remember it works off of gravity to get the fluid back into the accumulator tank... anything less and it gets real expensive quickly... I use one of them little bulls eye levels that is sold for the refrig ... worth the 3 bux...
While you're checking your tire pressure, go ahead and torque your nuts. 🤣👌 OBTW Sean, how is your noggin doing? Good checkups? Still praying for ya bubba. One more thing. Express the air out of your plastic bottles if going into higher elevations. Bleach, water bottles, shampoo etc can make a real mess of things if there is too much air space in there.
Well if you’re ever traveling between Flagstaff, AZ and Kanab, UT keep an eye open and you may find my sewer hose that somehow escaped. Glad to know I’m not the only one!
Hahahahaha guys I see those stinky slinkys all over the USA!!! I drive heavy haul all over and sit up a little bit higher in the big rig. They are usually just over the berm down the incline a bit and snuggle down into the scrub pretty well. Easy to see from up high. Travel safe and carry on
Sean and Kristy, my wife and I are newbies at RV'ing and we've been watching a lot of your very informative videos. On one of the vids, we were pleasantly surprised to find out you are from Birmingham (you might have figured out were are from B'ham too). Tomorrow might be the 'big day' for us cause we are taking the plunge on a Wolf Pup. We will for sure be watching many more of your helpful vids. Thanks for making so much great content.
This is great info and going straight into my Useful RV Video playlist... we are hoping to get our RV at the beginning of 2021, so we will definitely be watching this again to get ready for our first trip!! Thanks for sharing!
Hi - first, I'm a long-time fan, and you guys are my favorite camping site. Thanks for all the tips! Here is the thing, I was at a State Park campground this past weekend and saw a DRIVABLE Airstream! What is up with that? Based on style, I would guess late 80's / early 90's, but it would fit in with Disney World's Space Mountain. It was white fiberglass with blue trim. Sorry, no pics. (Never remember to bring my phone on a walk.) It was quite a surprise; I thought all Airstreams were towable stainless steel models. Have you seen these before?
Thanks for the tips. I used to Caravan in South Africa now live in Canada and have just bought a travel trailer - things are a little different here. I have been doing a lot or research and really like your site Thanks again. Mike
I use a luggage scale to weigh my propane tanks. For a 30lb tank 25lb=empty 55lb=full. Luggage scales are cheap and take up about as much space as a cork screw.
3:39 Here's a tip for solo RV travelers checking their brake lights: put a brick/other weight on your brake pedal then move to the back of your rig and see if your brake lights are working then remove the weight from your brake pedal and see the difference. You can also take a picture of your brake lights on to remind yourself if they are broken. This method will likely work for every road worthy vehicle too.
Hey guys, always entertaining your videos! Lol. Great idea to have a “short list for short trips” and a long list for long trips??? That’s what we have, and we always forget something...anyway :-( Thank god for MasterCard!!! Hahaha. Great to see you are keeping well! Can’t wait to be back on the road to visit our friends from the south :-) Stay Safe :-) Rémi (Québec)
If living in a cold climate, if it is the last or first trip of the season, the winderize and de-winterize checklists need to be performed. Maybe in your location, you don't need such, but lots of places do.
With all the new RV owners as of lately due to COVID-19, this checklist was definitely worth revisiting. There's a whole new "generation" of RV'ers out there.
Yes, we have had many "newbies" join this year, so we have tried to make sure some of these topics are covered. We remember what it's like to be getting started! Hope you are well!
Was hoping to start the RV adventure soon but life and CANCER are butting heads! Diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma last week! Will meet with the oncology team this week for a treatment plan! Hoping to catch up with you all the next time you are in Yellowstone and/or Grand Teton! Hope you all can make it out this way after this COVID issue! Would love to buy you all dinner! Really enjoy the vids and the commentary!
Pack an extra container of DEF for the diesel engine. Just about every auto parts store, truck stop, WalMart, or farm store has them for sale. However, in a little town in west Tennessee last week I bought the last jug of DEF in town. It was a little town. Just don't come in behind me.
No glass pasta sauce bottles!! I thought I had a couple stored so they wouldn’t move, but of course the pantry door popped open and broken pasta sauce all under the slide (of course)
Great tips. How is semore holding up after bullet proofing in mesa Az. Thinking about getting my 06 Ford f350 king ranch dually getting it bullet proof diesal level 3. Thank you and safe travels
Question - You guys travel with full water tanks. How much does that cut into your fuel/mileage per tank with that added weight compared to when the tanks are empty? Have you ever calculated that? Just curious.
We love your videos however you have cost us a small fortune LOL. We now own two Tilley hats each, a Retrax toneau cover and two electric bikes as well as a new travel trailer. Please keep up the great work we love what you are doing and maybe someday our paths will cross. Should you ever find yourselves in the North Ga mountains let us know the first round of beer or wine is on us.
How about leveling blocks for the wheels and under the tongue/stabilizer jack's. Wheel chocks. Check the smoke & CO detectors batteries, fire extinguisher isn't out of date or discharged. Check that the house batteries are charged & connection isn't corroded. Pack a toolbox with the things you use (contents vary).
Great information. While checking you’re tires make sure you check you’re spare. Nothing worse than having a flat tire and finding out your spare is also flat or has aged out.
I really enjoyed Kristy calling the sewer hose the stinky slinky on one of your previous videos. Now that’s all I call it.
For long trips (we’re usually weekenders) in addition to much of your items: Spare tire & inflated right; Floor jack; Laundry supplies; Battery fluid level & distilled water on hand; Stop home mail delivery; copies of dog vet records; firearm laws in states visiting....
I've made similar comments before.
My buddy has a three ring binder, similar to a preflight checklist imho. Laminated paper suitable for a grease pencil. Each component/mission has it own page. Easily modified and replaced when things change.
He recently upgraded his unit and sold the older one. When the perspective buyer showed up to view it, my buddy demonstrated all the features while going down the checklist. When it came to discussing price, the perspective buyer mentioned the book and if it came with the unit. My buddy expressed that the unit costs "x" the book costs "10x", and the deal was done.
There is money in this. Loloho should make a similar thing.
I want to tell you that your videos are helping this solo newbie with my new to me 18 yr old 21ft class C. I'm getting ready for my 4th trip and each time I go out I learn something valuable. Like waking up when it's only 39' in Taos, NM I learned how to turn on my furnace and was over joyed that it self ignites and I didn't have to light the pilot. It helped to have the gas turned ON! My 3rd trip I learned how to level. I'm still re-arranging the tiny galley kitchen and figured out a way that works best for me to climb up into the over cab "loft" bed. I found 'wheat fiber' plates that are nice and light AND can go into the microwave. I look for your videos to keep learning, thank you from this newbie in NM!
After camping last summer I watched an episode regarding Surge Protectors. During the winter a purchased one and the very first time I plugged it in I had an Open Ground! Fortunately there was a second 30 amp plug which worked just fine!
I hadn't been on our site an hour when I stopped a Park Warden and informed him of the problem. 10 minutes later a Park Maintenance Worker arrived at our site. 10 minutes after that the Electrician showed up and within 10 minutes a new plug was installed and the problem was fixed! Great service Algonquin Park Staff!!
When we bought our first rig my sister had to drive behind us to pick up all the things that came off the fifth wheel (Windows, a/c cover), out of the back of our truck (ice chest lid, toys) or out of the boat (Big Bertha towable, and beach bag). We got better as time went on but do, occasionally, lose a few things. My tip is have someone in a truck behind you! Love all your videos 😘
Very good and complete - i'd add that its an easy check and good idea to turn on the pump and just let it sit without running water. if the pump cycles then you have a leak somewhere. all the bouncing on the road can loosen PEX fittings as well.
Just started the rv life 2 months ago...your videos have made our experience enjoyable because you have shown me so many mistakes you've made and warned me about all the mistakes others have and so far "knock on wood" we have had zero issues...
YES! The best thing you offered is your downloadable list. I used a custom list I had created when we owned our Airstream Classic trailer. I even went so far as to laminate it. We kept it under the fold down armrest in our pickup so we always knew where it was. Our list was divided into EXTERIOR and INTERIOR items. Before we moved the trailer, I grabbed the list and scanned through every item. Occasionally that list saved our 'bacon' because I had forgot to check the overhead TV antenna, or the shower door being locked. It only took a few seconds to do. Thanks again Sean and Kristy for another great video. I always mention your videos when people ask me about RV things. You're the best! .......Russell D. from Olympia, WA
Now retired for 4 months we are camping about every thee weeks, and I am developing my checklist . I would recommend a torque wrench for lug nuts. Read this on Jayco website,and sure enough 25% needed some tightening. Used the old grunt method for 35 years torque wrench better. Also check all pins on sway cars, hitch pin, and other places in need of a pin. It is easy to miss items! Also, don’t forget pelletsfor your Traeger- we love our Tailgater! Thanks again for your videos, be Safe!
Hello there, I really appreciate all of the information that you shared. One thing that I noticed was, you didn’t include anything about the 30 or 50 amp surge protector. I wouldn’t take our travel trailer anywhere without ours. Thanks again. Bob Ward. Speedway,Indiana
I made a departure and arrival spreadsheet and printed several copies that I carry in my closable clipboard. Yeah I look like a nerdy newbie but I don't forget anything. Example, if you forget to close the vent hood fan exhaust port on the outside, the wind will rip it completely off.
Always check torque on lug nuts along with tire pressure checks.
Thank you! Love your preflight checklist! 😉 I have to write it all down. 😝 before we head out.
It’s cause of you guys we bought our camper van! We watched y’all back when we were stationed in Germany and when we moved back to the US, we got our van! Danke!!!! 🙌🏻
As always I love your videos, good timing too as we are about to start a long trip. We know have a HiLo and it comes with new challenges like making sure everything is down so you can put the top down. But since we got the trailer we have had the roof resealed, Vent covers installed, bearing greased and breaks checked and tires. Had the hot water heater checked and the faucet changed out because of a leak. GFR changed as it was failing to often. Had a second set of chains added to the trailer to hook to the truck. We are leaving from SoCAL to St Louis, to Pittsburgh to Yellowstone. We are bringing (thanks to you) some winter clothes since we will be getting there about the end of Sept. Then home to SoCAL. So loved your video as it reminded me of what to plan for. Thanks!
I check tire pressure, lug nut torque, and make sure everything is closed down and shut like hood vent, roof vent, etc. shut off water pump, close off propane, put heavy stuff on the floor, and lock the door. Good video :)
I love the variety in your topics. So helpful to those who know next to zilch, but also a good reminder to seasoned travelers! And of course, you travel and scenery videos are truly a delight! Thank you both for sharing your travels with us all! Be well and happy and enjoy your next adventure! LOLOHO!
Always, always do the tire check, don’t overload, and secure the awning for sure if you have a manual awning. After going through a terrible wind on I-80 we had to duck tape the awning arms and the vent lid in the bath. Saw rv’s with their awnings laying on the ground along side of the freeway, From then on, I used Velcro to secure the awning arms, worked great. But that wind also worked to back the main screw that held the awning bracket on the trailer. Thank goodness my mechanic husband always took his tool box along. And lastly, two things. Never leave home without the tv remote, can make for a long vaca when the hubs keeps rubbing it in how he wishes he could watch tv. Two, folks, what’s your hurry, slow that rig down. Hey, My diesel will go faster than I need too, but just try and stop if something happens. It’s called a vacation for a reason. Be smart and drive safe 🙋🏼♀️🇺🇸👍🚗
Safety equipment in case you have a breakdown, vest and flashlights. We carry all the information on the trailer and truck on a printed page for when we register at a site.
Right on, S & K. Especially the lights. My wife often accused me of being fanatic about our trailer lights. That actually paid off one time when I had to do a wiring repair on the tow vehicle wiring for the right brake light. Fortunately, I always had the necessary tools and connectors for that purpose. I see a lot of trailers with inoperative lights. See you on the road ?
I go solo most of the time. Easy enough to check the blinkers but the brake lights are a different story. My solution is to use my torque wrench wedged between the seat front and the brake pedal. If I scoot the seat back just a bit, it is a perfect fit and doesn't require much pressure. Easier to do if you have power driver seat.
I enjoyed the video. I just need a camper. 😁
Saraliz Jimenez Can’t afford one right now.
We have one for sale! We used it for less than a year and loved it so much that we upgraded to a 40 ft motor home. Having a blast (but not right now in Nov 2020). Can't wait for things to clear up a little more and then we are back on the road to some western parks. You don't know what you are missing! Love these videos by LoLoHo.
13 YEARS!!!! I JUST REALIZED HOW LONG LLH HAS BEEN ON YOU TUBE. LONGEST CHANNEL I FOLLOW. THERE HAS TO BE SOME KIND OF YOU TUBE AWARD FOR LONG RUNNING CHANNELS.
Thanks! Joined in 2006, started uploading in 2007!
I always take my Prius to the mechanics before big trips. It may not need an oil change, but they do have an everything but the oil change for $70. They top all the fluids, check the batteries, the tires, all the lights, all the safety stuff. It would be a good idea for your tow vehicle.
Yes! Always a good idea to do a tow vehicle check too!
Good idea to check wheel lug nut torque.
A downloadable check list for printer might be a good idea. Extra entry cells just for what only you have would be nice. Give dates and locations in case things go missing and repair or replacement record. Thanks for the prepare info
When we bought our (soon to be sold or traded 1995 Class C). I took pictures of all the equipment and the stickers decals. I made an excel spreadsheet of the make, model numbers, colors type of material, color and so on. It was to speed up the process if I ever need a part.
Super complete vid on RV pre-flight check list. You did not mention a surge protector. Also, we have a daily departure checklist that we keep in the cockpit of our Class C. We do a visual inspection of engine compartment and check oil everyday. We laminated the checklist and do a daily departure review before we roll.
About to go on another trip and always like to go back over the basics. Thanks Sean and Christy for your tidbits of knowledge. This trip I have tire ramp that I found next to a Walmart garbage. Tested it on my car and now it will be with me in case "some" other poor soul needs a lift.
Even though I've gained some experience with a trailer - thanks in no small part to both of you - I never consider myself "experienced", so today's video was a treat! So many great reminders, some of which I have to admit I haven't been great about ... and will start to be. One other "blind spot" that I had was my trailer inspection. At least in PA where I live, we need to get our trailers inspected yearly, and it's easy to forget. So far it's not been a big deal if you don't, but nothing is an issue until it is. So if your state requires an annual inspection for your RV, definitely keep that on your radar, especially if you don't use it as often as usual.
Take duplicates of each of the cotter pins and the big pin that secure the hitch and storage compartments. Also an extra cap for the rear storage bumper. Always take extra fuses.
Excellent content as always, and thanks for that. Two additional suggestions: lubricate the stabilizer jacks and step and move them up and down several times. I didn’t do this once and on the morning I was set to leave I couldn’t get one of the stabilizer jacks to come up. I had to wrestle with it for 15 minutes. Since then I make a point of lubricating them and putting them up and down every few months when it’s not in use. There are several products you can use, but why not use T9? It’s right there
between the cumin and paprika! Secondly, make sure that you have brought all appropriate cables for all of your electrical devices. Specialty cables are sometimes particularly difficult to get on the road.
Don't forget to check your First Aid kit and that it's up to date. Unless your camping at a hospital...lol
Before leaving make sure that the hitch is properly secured along with the safety chains and break away tether cord. The electric brake controller needs to be tested also. Be sure that the generator is filled with fuel and functioning correctly.
It actually true that your trailer will ride better if the whole trailer is filled to its weight capacity. There is something called the unsprung weight ratio which is essentially the ratio of the weight of everything supported by the springs to everything not supported by the springs. The higher this ratio the less the trailer will bounce when you go over bumps. That said, it will also affect your gas mileage somewhat so there is a happy medium somewhere. Probably what you don't want is your tank half or three quarters full as that water then starts sloshing around in the tank in corners or if you have to take evasive action upsetting the balance of the trailer.
I would add Tighten Your Lug Nuts. Do this every stop for a new trailer or when any wheel has been loosened. It’s amazing how loose they get and how long it takes for them to settle.
You guys are great, hope all is well and happy trails
Double check that hitch. All the pins in the proper place? All good!
Ha funny you made this video. Last year I got our 5th wheel first one only a small trailer before , went through it check everything use it in Nov when to Caliente last week had the trailer repair people work on it ,what could go wrong right! They install a new city hook up and installed the anti flow valve backwards . Where is the QC , so ha no problem filled the tank, turn on the pump no water! Pulled the filter plugged cleaned it and the water flowed out of the city hook up , no problem hooked the water hose back up and turned on , we are on the road again got home they fixed the water problem some what? I redid the whole job and now flushing out my tank , no one told me to keep some kinda chem in there because without a bottom drain there is still a inch of water 😨 P.S. did I mention my camp chef didn't work has worked flawlessly for 10 years , boy this is fun , love the video
...as to the refrig... remember that it must be about level... else you burn the cooling unit.... so when you bring it home or park it in that parking lot to go in and eat.. best make sure its level... if you leave it on elect or propane0... going down the road will allow it to work... as it rocks back and forth... best to remember it works off of gravity to get the fluid back into the accumulator tank... anything less and it gets real expensive quickly... I use one of them little bulls eye levels that is sold for the refrig ... worth the 3 bux...
While you're checking your tire pressure, go ahead and torque your nuts. 🤣👌 OBTW Sean, how is your noggin doing? Good checkups? Still praying for ya bubba. One more thing. Express the air out of your plastic bottles if going into higher elevations. Bleach, water bottles, shampoo etc can make a real mess of things if there is too much air space in there.
Great lost with the right dose of subtle humor.
Good stuff kids, enjoy and stay grounded.
Well if you’re ever traveling between Flagstaff, AZ and Kanab, UT keep an eye open and you may find my sewer hose that somehow escaped. Glad to know I’m not the only one!
Hahahahaha guys I see those stinky slinkys all over the USA!!! I drive heavy haul all over and sit up a little bit higher in the big rig. They are usually just over the berm down the incline a bit and snuggle down into the scrub pretty well. Easy to see from up high.
Travel safe and carry on
Not a bad checklist for picking up a new trailer.... which I hope to do Very soon. (Hitch is back ordered.). Thanks
Start making reservations now. Campgrounds are full because of this.
Sean and Kristy, my wife and I are newbies at RV'ing and we've been watching a lot of your very informative videos. On one of the vids, we were pleasantly surprised to find out you are from Birmingham (you might have figured out were are from B'ham too).
Tomorrow might be the 'big day' for us cause we are taking the plunge on a Wolf Pup. We will for sure be watching many more of your helpful vids. Thanks for making so much great content.
Enjoy watching you both. Keep up the great videos.
This is great info and going straight into my Useful RV Video playlist... we are hoping to get our RV at the beginning of 2021, so we will definitely be watching this again to get ready for our first trip!! Thanks for sharing!
I have an app on my phone called RV checklist. It is editable and wonderfully thorough!
Gotta love that Boeshield and OFF! seasoning. Mmmmmmm!
PPE equipment, your meds , insurance information, fuel.
I love when your drinking the water at the end of your video to funny. Thanks for great information and a good laugh .
We have a class C, these ideas work for RVs also. I have used your past videos before I started RV camping.
Great video - getting out on the road soon and we can't wait! It's been a hell of a year.
Indeed it has been a hell of a year. And it's only August. 😂
@@LongLongHoneymoon 2020 has been a long decade...
Carry a small plastic box with dividers (fishing tackle store) for spare fuses.
Great info! Thank you! Have safe travels as you start your vacation!!!
Thank you! We always enjoy your videos!
Lots of great info, you can never be to prepared.
Hi - first, I'm a long-time fan, and you guys are my favorite camping site. Thanks for all the tips!
Here is the thing, I was at a State Park campground this past weekend and saw a DRIVABLE Airstream! What is up with that? Based on style, I would guess late 80's / early 90's, but it would fit in with Disney World's Space Mountain. It was white fiberglass with blue trim. Sorry, no pics. (Never remember to bring my phone on a walk.) It was quite a surprise; I thought all Airstreams were towable stainless steel models. Have you seen these before?
Like the ideas you put out
Nice job. How about doing a check list of what to bring on a trip? ie food, clothes, spouse, toiletries, tools, duct tape, etc. Have a blessed day.
Spouse? Might forget that one.
Thanks for the tips. I used to Caravan in South Africa now live in Canada and have just bought a travel trailer - things are a little different here. I have been doing a lot or research and really like your site Thanks again. Mike
Sewer hoses rock!!!
I use a luggage scale to weigh my propane tanks. For a 30lb tank 25lb=empty 55lb=full. Luggage scales are cheap and take up about as much space as a cork screw.
Fun, as usual! Thank you! Oh, and Sean, don’t forget a hair brush...
3:39 Here's a tip for solo RV travelers checking their brake lights: put a brick/other weight on your brake pedal then move to the back of your rig and see if your brake lights are working then remove the weight from your brake pedal and see the difference. You can also take a picture of your brake lights on to remind yourself if they are broken. This method will likely work for every road worthy vehicle too.
Hey guys, always entertaining your videos! Lol. Great idea to have a “short list for short trips” and a long list for long trips??? That’s what we have, and we always forget something...anyway :-( Thank god for MasterCard!!! Hahaha. Great to see you are keeping well! Can’t wait to be back on the road to visit our friends from the south :-) Stay Safe :-) Rémi (Québec)
If living in a cold climate, if it is the last or first trip of the season, the winderize and de-winterize checklists need to be performed. Maybe in your location, you don't need such, but lots of places do.
With all the new RV owners as of lately due to COVID-19, this checklist was definitely worth revisiting. There's a whole new "generation" of RV'ers out there.
Yes, we have had many "newbies" join this year, so we have tried to make sure some of these topics are covered. We remember what it's like to be getting started! Hope you are well!
What is your normal travel day. How early do you start? How far do you travel?
Good tips with the tires.👍
Battery connection and do a load test. We found out that our battery could not keep up with the frig on a Cracker Barrel over night.
Keep a spare set of RV keys in your tow vehicle...and a spare set of tow vehicle keys in your RV.
Like those Paparazzi earrings.
Great list, guys. 👍
Was hoping to start the RV adventure soon but life and CANCER are butting heads! Diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma last week! Will meet with the oncology team this week for a treatment plan! Hoping to catch up with you all the next time you are in Yellowstone and/or Grand Teton! Hope you all can make it out this way after this COVID issue! Would love to buy you all dinner! Really enjoy the vids and the commentary!
Pack an extra container of DEF for the diesel engine. Just about every auto parts store, truck stop, WalMart, or farm store has them for sale. However, in a little town in west Tennessee last week I bought the last jug of DEF in town. It was a little town. Just don't come in behind me.
GREAT TIPS GUYS!!!! Would LOVE the camera, Love taking pics.!!! Specially when our RV is done & a lot of BEAUTIFUL scenery!!! LOVES/HUGS!!!
How about checking the receiver on the trailer .I always check the latching mechanism.making sure its adjusted properly and locks
Good place to start, tires. Check that pressure.
While you’re checking your tire pressure, it’s also a good idea to check the torque on your lug nuts with a torque wrench.
If you have a generator, make sure it’s serviced and carry extra gasoline for it.
Let’s get that Nikon...lol...great job on the check list... forgot to also make a check list for SEEMORE ...lol...
Great suggestions! This will really help when we get the RV out of storage!
Great video
No glass pasta sauce bottles!! I thought I had a couple stored so they wouldn’t move, but of course the pantry door popped open and broken pasta sauce all under the slide (of course)
I always use the spring loaded rods in the pantry and fridge.
Great walk around.
Great tips. How is semore holding up after bullet proofing in mesa Az. Thinking about getting my 06 Ford f350 king ranch dually getting it bullet proof diesal level 3.
Thank you and safe travels
Check the roof top make sure things are put down , like antenna .
Question - You guys travel with full water tanks. How much does that cut into your fuel/mileage per tank with that added weight compared to when the tanks are empty? Have you ever calculated that? Just curious.
Make sure your windows are latched not just closed.
As always....Good Stuff
Thanks for sharing, and stay safe and well.
Great video! We dream about doing RV life! Trying to figure out all the details now. You guys are a big inspiration ❤️
Another great talk 👍
I wonder how fast do you pull your trailer? Did you change your usual speed after you switched to Michelin’s?
We love your videos however you have cost us a small fortune LOL. We now own two Tilley hats each, a Retrax toneau cover and two electric bikes as well as a new travel trailer. Please keep up the great work we love what you are doing and maybe someday our paths will cross. Should you ever find yourselves in the North Ga mountains let us know the first round of beer or wine is on us.
I really enjoy your videos and both of you are very helpful. Thank you.
Great information and humor!!
Looking good guys.