Month: November 2016

Are you a beginner to RV travel? At first, this method of traveling can seem to be exceptionally intimidating; there is so much information to know before you head out on the road. However, in order to make things easier for you, we have come up with a quick list of tips any RV beginner should know before getting behind the wheel.

1. Do you want to rent or buy?
There are plenty of different reasons to rent an RV, and an equal number of reasons to buy. It depends on your lifestyle, and how you see yourself using your vehicle. If you are looking to travel frequently and would like to get up and go on a whim, buying may be for you. Or, if you are simply looking to take a vacation once in a while, you may want to offset the costs and just rent an RV when you need it.

2. Do your research
It is always important to do as much research as possible before you get behind the wheel of your RV. This means looking up and understanding every aspect of its operation, before you’re on the road and in trouble. Some details to research include how to properly handle your trailer brake controllers and your sway control hitch. Trailer sway control devices come in two basic types: those that reduce sway once it has begun and those that work to prevent sway altogether. As long as you have one on your vehicle, it doesn’t matter what you option you choose.

3. Bring a “professional” with you
Chances are you have a friend or family member who has had some experience in the world of RVs. Bring them along on your next trip, and you won’t feel as if you are going at it alone. If that’s not feasible, ask them for their best tips and tricks, or maybe their “do”s and “don’t”s.

4. Do a test drive
No, we don’t mean a test drive from the dealership. We want you to get in your RV and drive around a little bit before you set off across the country — or wherever you may be headed. You’ll want to be completely comfortable when you’re on the road, so take a couple of spins around the neighborhood to practice turning, braking and backing up. That will help ease any jitters once you’ve set off on your RV vacation.

5. Set up a checklist
Have a checklist of important things you must do before buckling your seat belt, and put it right on the windshield so you won’t have an excuse to forget! Some ideas include checking storage compartment doors, making sure the step is up and stored, turning off the emergency brake, checking fluid levels, and securing all the interior cabinets.

Just follow these tips and you’ll soon be off to a great vacation!

Owning a recreational vehicle (RV) can be a lot of fun for the whole family. You can all go on family trips to just about anywhere in the country and essentially live in your vehicle for as long as you want. Although they are used for recreation, you have to treat RVs with respect. These large vehicles need to be handled correctly both on and off the roadways.

If you’re buying or renting an RV for the first time, here are some things to remember before you hit the open road.

There are Two Types of RVs
The two main categories of RVs are motorhomes and towables. Motorhomes are motorized vehicles that you physically drive, while towables (sometimes called fifth wheels) are simply towed behind a pickup truck or family van. Each have their own unique benefits, but they are both difficult to drive for beginners as well. It’s important that you drive safe in both vehicles.

Weight Limit
These are very large vehicles and can carry a lot of items, but every RV has its limitations. If you exceed the recommended weight inside your RV you could have serious trouble out on the road. Make sure you read all the instructional manuals that come with your RV, talk to the dealer, do research online, and read any warning labels to make sure you’re following all the proper weight and other restrictions.

That goes for height, too!

Electric Trailer Brake Controllers
This is absolutely necessary if your RV is a towable. Just because your truck’s brake lights work properly, that doesn’t mean vehicles following behind your RV can see them. You have to make sure the electric trailer brake controllers are working on the actual trailer that’s towing your RV. Contact Hayes Towing Electronics today to find quality electric trailer brake controllers.

RV Roadway Safety
These vehicles are much larger and longer than typical vehicles out on the road. They are certainly much more difficult to drive. They require your full attention and heightened awareness because of the sight restrictions you’ll experience. It’s much easier to see all around you when you’re driving your truck or sedan. Whether you’re driving a motorized RV or towing one behind a truck, these vehicles require much more time to break. Remember to take your turns wide enough to avoid clipping vehicles, structures, or pedestrians at each side.