How to Prepare an RV for the First Trip

So, you finally did it. You got your hands on an RV. Whether it is brand new or has a few good years behind it, the open road is calling your name. But before you roll out of the driveway and head toward your next adventure, let us talk about what you really need to know to actually enjoy that first trip.

A little prep goes a long way. Think of your RV like a tiny house on wheels—it needs a good once-over, some basic packing, and a little patience to get rolling smoothly.

Let us walk through everything step-by-step, like friends around the campfire swapping stories and tips.

Check Before You Pack

Before you even think about stocking the fridge or fluffing the pillows, give your RV a good checkup. This is not about becoming a mechanic—it is just about catching problems before they catch you.

• Tires First. Always.
  Flat tires on the side of the road? No thanks. Check the tire pressure and tread. Make sure they are not cracked or worn down. Tires that sit too long without use can get dry and brittle.
  
  
• Battery Life
  Batteries lose juice over time, especially in cold weather. If your RV has not been used for a while, give the battery a charge or replace it if needed.
  
  
• Check the Lights
  Headlights, brake lights, turn signals—test them all. You want other drivers to know what you are up to.
  
  
• Test the Brakes
  This is one of those things you do not want to discover is broken after you are on the highway. If it feels weird or makes strange noises, get it looked at.
  
  
• Water Systems
  Fill the fresh water tank, check for leaks, and run the faucets. Make sure the water pump is working and your gray and black tanks are ready to go.

Stock the Essentials

This is where it starts to get fun. Think of your RV as a cabin on wheels. What do you need to live, cook, clean, and sleep comfortably?

Here is a starter list:

• Bedding – Sheets, pillows, blankets. Bring extras in case it gets cold.
  
  
• Dishes and Cookware – Plates, cups, pots, pans, and cooking utensils.
  
  
• Cleaning Supplies – Dish soap, sponges, broom, and garbage bags.
  
  
• Toiletries and Towels – You are not at a hotel. Pack your own shampoo and toilet paper.
  
  
• Tools and Duct Tape – Trust us on this one. You do not want to get caught without a wrench or a roll of duct tape.
  
  
• First Aid Kit – Accidents happen. Be ready.
  
  
• Flashlights and Batteries – For late-night bathroom runs or power hiccups.
  
  
• Outdoor Gear – Folding chairs, bug spray, and maybe even a grill if you like cooking outside.

Practice Before You Go Far

Think about your first trip like riding a bike for the first time. Would you start with a downhill mountain trail? Probably not.

Try a short trip close to home. Maybe even stay a night or two at a nearby campground just to figure things out. Get a feel for:

• Driving and parking
  
  
• Using the hookups for water and electricity
  
  
• Dumping the waste tanks (everyone messes this up at least once)
  
  
• Cooking in the kitchen
  
  
• Sleeping arrangements
  
  

You will learn more in that short trip than any YouTube video could ever teach.

If you are anywhere near Phillipston, Massachusetts, a great place to start is right here at Lamb City Campground. With spacious RV sites, hookups, and peaceful surroundings, it is a good way to ease into the RV lifestyle without driving halfway across the country.

Map Your Route (And Your Stops)

You might be the type who likes to wing it, but when it comes to RV travel, a little planning makes things a lot smoother.

Use a paper map or GPS—whatever suits you—but plan your fuel stops, rest breaks, and campgrounds ahead of time. Look up RV site rentals early, especially in busy seasons. Sites can fill up fast.

Bonus tip: Always have a backup campground just in case your first choice is full or not what you expected. One camper we know once pulled into a spot only to find it closed for a family reunion!

Food, Snacks, and Coffee (Lots of Coffee)

No road trip is complete without good food. Bring easy meals and plenty of snacks. Think sandwiches, canned chili, granola bars, and bottled water.

If your RV has a fridge, even better! But keep in mind—your fridge will not stay cold unless it is running or hooked up.

Coffee? Bring it. Even instant is better than nothing. You will thank yourself on those cool mornings when the birds are chirping, and all you want is a hot cup to warm your hands.

Know What Not to Bring

You do not need to bring everything you own. In fact, the less you bring, the better. RVs have limited space, and clutter makes everything harder.

Here are a few things to leave behind:

• Fancy clothes (you will live in sweatshirts and jeans)
  
  
• Too many shoes
  
  
• Giant appliances
  
  
• Breakable dishes
  
  
• Half the pantry
  
  

Keep it simple. Think like a camper, not like someone moving into a new house.

Get to Know Your RV

Last but not least—take time to understand how your RV works. You do not need to be an expert, but knowing how to turn on the water heater, refill propane, or level your rig makes life so much easier.

When you park at your site, give yourself time to get things set up. Some folks back in with the grace of a ballerina. Others take 10 tries and a few arguments. That is part of the fun.

Try Camping Near Boston, Massachusetts

Once you feel confident and ready for a bigger adventure, consider heading to one of our nearby camping spots like those around Boston, Massachusetts. There is history, great seafood, and scenic routes that are perfect for RV travelers.

Final Thoughts Before You Go

Your first RV trip will probably not be perfect—and that is perfectly okay. You might forget something. You might spill coffee on your lap. You might back into a tree (hey, it happens). But you will also make memories, laugh at your mistakes, and come home with stories to tell.

The key is to start slow, keep an open mind, and remember that every camper started out not knowing what they were doing. You will get the hang of it.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Now that you know how to prepare an RV for the first trip, it is time to start your journey. Whether you are camping solo, with the kids, or with friends, you are in for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Book your site at Lamb City Campground today and get ready to make those first-time RV memories you will never forget.

Happy camping!

‍