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Even experienced RVers slip up when planning a trip. I do it myself, probably more than I’d like to admit.
There’s a lot to keep track of, from packing supplies, planning routes, booking campsites, watching weather patterns, to managing travel days and much more. With so many moving parts, a few simple details can easily get missed.
The following planning mistakes may sound obvious, but they’re easy to overlook when you’re focused on everything else that comes with life on the road. So, let’s give them a quick review.
1. Planning Too Many Miles in a Day
RV travel takes more time than some people might expect, especially if you’re new to RVing. Between slower speeds, refueling, bathroom breaks, the inevitable construction you’ll run into, and traffic, a five-hour drive can easily stretch into seven. Setting an aggressive mileage goal makes the trip feel rushed and potentially raises the odds of arriving after dark. Many experienced travelers cap their days at about 250–300 miles. That should leave enough daylight for setting up, etc., after arriving at your campsite.
2. Ignoring Road Restrictions
Not every highway is RV-friendly – low bridges, weight limits, sharp turns, and propane restrictions can turn a scenic route into a dead end. Apps designed for RV navigation, such as RV Life Trip Wizard or CoPilot, flag problem areas before you reach them. Taking a few minutes to review the route ahead can prevent an hours-long detour later.
Tip: A printed trucker’s road atlas can also serve as a reliable backup if cell service drops out.
3. Forgetting to Check Campground Access
A campsite might look beautiful online, but you have to be able to get to it! Some have narrow gravel roads, overhanging trees, or limited turning space near the entrance.
Checking satellite views and reading reviews that mention site layout helps confirm the park can actually handle your vehicle. Calling ahead for clearance details is also worth the effort, especially in older or forested parks.
4. Waiting Too Long to Book Campsites
Popular parks and waterfront locations often book up months in advance, especially during school breaks and holidays. Many travelers underestimate just how competitive reservations can be. If you’re planning to stay in state or national parks, it’s best to reserve as soon as the booking window opens. For more flexibility, consider keeping a list of first-come, first-served campgrounds nearby in case plans change or a reservation falls through.
5. Overlooking Seasonal Weather
Seasonal conditions shape nearly every part of a trip. Mountain passes can close suddenly, desert regions can hit triple-digit heat, and storms, especially on the coast, can roll in fast and furious. A little research into local weather patterns can help you decide not only when to go but which route makes sense. Even within the same state, climate zones can differ sharply. Checking forecasts and average temps before locking in dates will help prevent you from running into bad weather conditions.
6. Rushing Through Each Stop Instead of Staying a Few Nights
Many RVers plan their trips with a quick overnight at every stop. That approach works when you are simply trying to get from point A to point B, but it can also make the trip feel hurried. If you have the time and the interest, spending several nights at each stop brings real benefits. Longer stays give you a chance to slow down, take in the area, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling like you need to pack up again the next morning.
Extra time also helps your body recover. Long travel days are tiring, especially when you are navigating hills or tight traffic. A day or two off the road gives your body and mental state a break. It also reduces the steady cycle of setting up and tearing down. Packing and unpacking take more time than many people expect, and doing it every single day can become tiring. Staying longer makes the whole process easier and gives you more space to actually enjoy the places you worked hard to reach.
7. Forgetting to Plan Fuel and Dump Stops
Long stretches of highway, especially those in rural or mountainous regions, may not have reliable gas stations or dump facilities. Waiting until the gas tank is low or the gray water is full can put you in a bind. Checking ahead for gas stations that accommodate large vehicles saves time and worry. Marking a few along your route keeps you covered in case one is closed or out of service.
8. Skipping Campground Rules
Every park has its own set of policies. Some limit generator hours, others have quiet times, pet restrictions, or check-in windows that might not fit your schedule. Some even limit how old your RV can be!
Ignoring those details can create unwanted issues when you arrive. A quick review of the rules before booking makes for a smoother stay. Knowing the fine print, like cancellation policies or extra fees for additional vehicles, also helps you avoid unexpected costs.
9. Not Having a Backup Plan
Even the best-organized trips can change fast. Road closures, bad weather, or unexpected maintenance can shut down campgrounds without warning. Having a short list of alternative sites nearby keeps you from scrambling for a last-minute spot. Some travelers even map out a few boondocking locations along the way for emergencies.
10. Arriving Late or Leaving Too Early
Arriving after dark makes parking and hookups much harder. Planning travel so you pull in during daylight gives you time to set up safely and unwind.
Likewise, leaving too early can mean rushing through your morning checklist, which is when things get forgotten, like antennae left up or steps not retracted. A realistic schedule helps the whole trip feel more like a vacation and less like a race.
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