20 mistakes new RVers make and how to avoid them

This week we’ve got 20 mistakes that new RVers should avoid at the campground - expensive, dangerous and just funny things we’ve seen while RVing. Make your next camping experience a StressLess Camping one by avoiding these rookie mistakes.

The mistakes to avoid are:

1. Unhook your safety chains second to last

2. Unhook your emergency brake cable last

3. Make sure your stabilizer jacks are up before hooking to your tow vehicle

4. Check propane levels - pour hot water on the tank and feel where there is a significant temperature change indicating the propane level or get a tank monitor such as the Tank Check LP monitor kit

5. Make sure the gate valves are closed on your tank before you open the sewer cap

6. Don’t keep your gate valves open until it’s time to dump

7. Don’t leave propane on while driving

8. Don’t leave the awning out when you’re not at the RV

9. Podcast episode: Don’t be spooked by Boondocking

10. Don’t hang things from the bumper of your travel trailer

11. Mind your campfire - our Campfire Safety Podcast episode

12. Wildlife and bear safety podcast episode with Steve Searles

13. Don’t leave heaters and other appliances unattended

14. RV Electricity basics with Mike Sokol

15. Look over your campsite before backing in

16. Checklists make for StressLess Camping

17. Check the weather before it becomes an issue

18. Plan your fuel stops in advance with a tool like RV Trip Wizard

19. Walk the campsite before you leave

20. Tips for campground etiquette

Our campfire tripod on which we’ve hung a barbecue grill over our propane fire pit.

Plus we’ve got a great gadget - a campfire cooking tripod made by our blacksmithing friend Devin.

Our trusted partners - RV Discounts and Deals