Planning and Preparing for an extended RV Trip

If you’re planning to take a long RV trip this summer, whether that be a few weeks or several months, make sure you leave home completely prepared. From packing everything you’ll need to leaving your home secure, here are our tips.

Consider home maintenance and security

When you’re leaving for an extended trip, consider a house sitter, or even just a friend or neighbour who will check in periodically. If you have a yard, arrange for someone to cut the grass and water the plants. A home security system you can check remotely is worth the peace of mind.

On a longer trip, if nobody is collecting your mail, use Canada Post’s Hold Mail service.

Pack smart

Packing for a long trip is overwhelming, especially if it spans different seasons and climates. Stay organised with a list — see RV Packing Tips & Tricks.

Trip planning

Work out the route and make the campground reservations. Many private campgrounds offer monthly rates for long-term stays, while popular provincial parks may have limits on how long you can stay — check the policies. For the driving, see Tips for Planning a Great RV Trip Route.

Mind the seasons

Look at the long-range forecast for the destination and along the route. Higher elevations, or travelling outside summer, means being prepared for cold snaps and winter conditions.

Budget for your trip

Fuel and site fees are generally the largest expenses — see Budgeting for an RV Vacation and Tips for frugal RV trips.

Download the app

As an RV Care member you have the network behind you for unforeseen repairs or supplies. The app finds the nearest dealer.