By WEnRV Publishing and Industry Partners on Friday, 19 December 2025
Category: RV Industry News

RV Tips - Arrival Procedures

Arriving at a new campsite in your RV requires a smooth, systematic approach to ensure safety and a quick setup. This guide outlines the essential steps for a stress-free arrival.

Pre-Arrival Checklist

Before you even pull into your site, it's helpful to have certain information and materials ready.

Item

Status

Notes

Site Number

Confirmed

Double-check your reservation confirmation.

RV Length/Height

Verified

Ensure clearance for any low branches or overhead obstructions.

Utility Hookup Access

Reviewed

Know where the water, electric, and sewer connections are located on your RV.

Welcome Packet/Map

Retrieved

Find the map from the campground office.

Leveling Blocks/Chocks

Accessible

Have them ready near the driver's side.

Site Entry and Parking

The following steps are critical for safe maneuvering and initial stabilization.

1. Initial Walk-Through

As soon as you find your site, have a spotter walk the site to identify potential hazards.

2. Positioning the RV

Slowly pull into your site, ensuring you leave enough room for slides, awnings, and tow vehicle (if applicable).


3. Immediate Safety Measures

Once the RV is roughly positioned, secure it before anyone exits.

  1. Chock the wheels: Place chocks on both sides of at least one wheel (always on the downhill side if on a slope).
  2. Apply the parking brake.
  3. Turn off the engine.
Utility Hookups and Leveling

Now you can begin the process of setting up your utilities and stabilizing the RV.

Leveling

Use leveling blocks or an automatic leveling system to get the RV as close to level as possible. Leveling is important for the refrigerator to function correctly and for comfortable sleeping.

Connecting Utilities

Connect utilities in this order to prevent cross-contamination and damage to the electrical system.

Utility

Order

Key Safety Consideration

Shore Power (Electric)

First

ALWAYS use an electrical surge protector and check the pedestal's voltage.

Water

Second

Attach a pressure regulator to the spigot before connecting the hose to the RV.

Sewer

Third

Attach the sewer hose to the RV and the drain before opening the black tank valve.

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