Top Tips for Long RV Road Trips
The long road trip cross country is a staple of the American family life experience, with many people hoping to make the journey at least once in their lifetimes. Taking this trip with family sounds like a dream, but it is not without its challenges. If you are planning to take a cross country road trip, Sunny Island RV in Rockford, Illinois, serves Chicago and Naperville and offers a full fleet of brand-new RVs for your trip.
Perform an Inspection
You want to ensure that your RV is in good working order before you hit the road. In addition to the usual maintenance like an oil change and tune-up, it is helpful to check the following:
- Test the lights, replacing any burned-out bulbs.
- Check the tire pressure, inflating those that are low.
- Check that the appliances are working. You don't want the toilet to go out halfway down the road.
- Top off all fluids and have the vehicle washed before the trip.
Plan Your Route
Create a route plan that keeps you near services in case you need them. This may mean traveling interstates where you can easily find a repair shop, if necessary. If you plan to stop for food, check to see where there are rest areas that can accommodate your RV. Map out where you will stop to sleep for the night and where you can get fuel while on your trip. If you will be taking back roads or traveling in desolate areas, have a plan for alternate routes and find out how far you will be from towns and service stations.
Plan the Fun
Planning for an RV trip doesn't have to be boring. Bring along entertainment like board games for passengers, audio books for the driver and movies for when you stop for the night. Create a playlist of everyone's favorite songs, and appoint one passenger DJ for the trip. Don't forget to bring along toys and comfort items for any pets who will be traveling with you.
Take Frequent Breaks
Even though the RV comes outfitted with everything you need for a fun trip, it is still helpful to take breaks. Stop for gas and let everyone get out and stretch their legs. Park the RV and break out the grill and enjoy an impromptu cookout. Don't forget to take the dog for walks and to fill up the tank. The last thing you want to do is run out of gas on a desolate stretch of road.
When it comes to planning the perfect long road trip, taking a journey in an RV is an amazing experience. Here at Sunny Island RV in Rockford, Illinois, we serve Chicago and Naperville and can get you into the RV of your dreams. Visit our showroom today.