Whether you’re planning to hop between towns and campsites or set up your home away from home in the deep wilderness, safety must be a top priority while enjoying your recreational vehicle (RV). There’s no shortage of things that could go wrong for even the most experienced travelers, making appropriate preparations a necessity.
10 Ways to Stay Safe With Your RV 
Before and during each trip in your RV, make sure you consider the following tips:
- Inspect your vehicle. Your RV includes many components and parts you should ensure are in good working condition before heading out on the road.
- Check safety equipment. RVs have additional perils compared with everyday cars, such as cooking equipment. Ensure you have functional smoke alarms and fire extinguishers on board.
- Pack emergency supplies. It's important to be prepared in case you are stranded. Pack a roadside kit that includes drinking water, nonperishable food, batteries, flashlights and road flares.
- Drive carefully. Operating an RV must be done responsibly. Maintain safe speeds and following distance, especially in unfamiliar areas or those with uneven terrain.
- Limit distractions. The passenger areas and features of RVs can create good opportunities for entertainment during trips, but drivers must avoid being distracted by conversations, electronic devices or games.
- Store safely. Your onboard cargo may consist of many heavy and valuable items, making it necessary to ensure they’re adequately secured, such as by using bungee cords.
- Monitor the forecast. Inclement weather can be hazardous to drive in. Be aware of what to expect before embarking on each segment of your journey.
- Camp responsibly. If you camp outside your vehicle, fully extinguish any fires, pick up all your litter and avoid leaving food behind.
- Keep hard copies. You may lack reception in remote areas, making it necessary to have paper versions of important information, such as maps and the phone numbers of nearby ranger stations.
- Assess your insurance. Make sure you have suitable RV insurance, as lacking the right coverage could leave you stranded or facing expensive out-of-pocket losses.
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This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.