General Maintenance and Setup
Maintaining your RV is crucial for a comfortable living experience. Regular checks prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Area | Frequency | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|
Tire Pressure | Monthly and before every trip | Check and adjust to recommended PSI. A diagram showing where to find the correct tire pressure specifications on an RV |
Battery Bank | Monthly | Monitor charge level and water levels (if applicable). |
Holding Tanks | Weekly/As Needed | Empty black and grey tanks and flush the system. |
Seals and Caulking | Quarterly | Inspect all window, roof, and door seals for cracks or leaks. |
Appliances | Semi-annually | Test the operation of the refrigerator, water heater, and HVAC unit. |
Space Optimization and Organization
Living in an RV requires thoughtful organization to maximize limited space.
Maximizing Vertical SpaceUtilize the height of your RV by adding shelves, magnetic strips, and vertical storage solutions.
- Under-Cabinet Racks: Perfect for spices or cups in the kitchen.
- Over-Door Organizers: Great for shoes or toiletries in the bathroom.
- Tension Rods: Can be used inside cabinets or showers to prevent items from shifting during travel.
Adopt a minimalist approach and prioritize items that serve multiple functions.
- Choose nesting bowls and collapsible kitchenware.
- Use furniture with hidden storage, such as an ottoman or bed platform.
- Regularly assess items and donate or discard anything you haven't used in six months.
The RV community is a great resource for tips, safety information, and social events.
- Local Meetups: Check community boards at campgrounds or search for local groups.
- Online Forums: Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to RV living.
- Rallies and Events: Plan to attend large RV gatherings.
Dealing with Day-to-Day Logistics
Managing mail delivery is a common challenge for full-time RVers.
- Mail Forwarding Services: Establish a professional mail forwarding service.
- General Delivery: Use the "General Delivery" service at USPS for short-term mail pickup at specific post offices.
- Amazon Lockers/Hubs: Direct online purchases to secure pickup locations when possible.
Always confirm the available hookups at your planned stop.
Hookup Type | Description | Essential Equipment |
|---|---|---|
Water | Potable water supply | Pressure regulator, potable water hose |
Sewer | Waste disposal connection | Sewer hose, clear elbow adapter |
Electric | Power source (30A or 50A) | Surge protector, appropriate adapter cable |