Embarking on your first family RV road trip is an exciting adventure, filled with the promise of new experiences, freedom on the open road, and the joy of exploring new destinations together. However, without the right preparation, your dream trip could quickly turn into a series of avoidable mishaps. As partners with Roadsurfer, we’ve learned a lot about RV travel, and we’re here to share some valuable tips to help you steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are the top five mistakes to avoid as a first-time RVer, along with relatable examples from our recent trip.

1. Overpacking the RV

It’s tempting to bring everything you might possibly need on your trip, especially when traveling with family. However, overpacking can lead to clutter and reduce the comfort of your living space. On our recent trip, we brought way too many clothes and kitchen gadgets, thinking we’d need them all. The Roadsurfer Family Freedom RV comes equipped with many essentials, such as a kitchen set, outdoor table and chairs, and even a camping toilet. By packing only what you truly need and utilizing the provided essentials, we could have avoided the clutter and had a more comfortable living space.

2. Not Planning Your Route and Stops

Spontaneity is one of the joys of road trips, but failing to plan can lead to stress, especially with kids in tow. On our last trip, we decided to “wing it” and ended up driving late into the night searching for a suitable campground. Map out your route, including rest stops, campgrounds, and points of interest. Roadsurfer provides a helpful route planner and camping app to ensure you find the best places to park and explore. This way, you’ll avoid the last-minute scramble to find suitable places to stop for the night.

3. Not Choosing the Right RV Supplier

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is not choosing a reliable RV supplier for your vacation. We heard horror stories from other RVers about unreliable rentals, but our experience with Roadsurfer was smooth and stress-free. Opting for a well-established and trusted company like Roadsurfer ensures that you get a top-quality RV equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and safe journey. The Family Freedom RV, for instance, comes with modern amenities, ample storage, and user-friendly features that make your trip more enjoyable. Plus, Roadsurfer offers excellent customer support and resources to help you every step of the way.

4. Not Budgeting for the Trip

Many first-time RVers assume that traveling by RV is always a cost-effective option, but the expenses can add up if you’re not careful. On our recent trip, we underestimated how quickly costs could accumulate, from fuel to food to RV site stays. It’s essential to budget accordingly and plan for these expenses. Taking advantage of Roadsurfer’s great rental prices can help you manage costs more effectively. Additionally, preparing meals in the RV and choosing budget-friendly campsites can help keep your expenses in check. Our lesson was to track our spending more closely and plan meals ahead to avoid unexpected costs.

 5. Forgetting to Secure Items Inside the RV

When you’re on the move, things inside the RV can shift and fall. On our trip, we learned this the hard way when a cabinet flew open during a sharp turn, spilling dishes everywhere. Make it a habit to secure all items before driving. Use cabinet latches, secure loose items, and ensure all doors are closed. The Roadsurfer Family Freedom RV is designed with this in mind, featuring ample storage spaces and secure compartments to keep your belongings safe while traveling.

Your first family RV trip should be a delightful experience, filled with memorable moments and adventures. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother, more enjoyable journey. With Roadsurfer’s well-equipped Family Freedom RV, you have everything you need for a fantastic trip. So, plan wisely, pack thoughtfully, and hit the road with confidence!

Happy travels from The Adventure Buddies!

Be sure to check out the RV rentals at Roadsurfer for more information and use our discount code ADVENTURE24 for a discount.
**Code expires September 15th, 2024.