Whether you’re an RV newbie or just need a refresher, this RV departure checklist is intended for motorhomes: such as Class A, Class B, Class C, as well as, towable recreational vehicles such as fifth wheels and travel trailers. Plus let’s not forget van life! This RV Checklist includes the steps necessary to prepare an RV for departure. Please use this checklist as a guide and customize to your specific RV and needs. Review the RV Beginner Owner’s Manual supplied with your RV to ensure that you complete all necessary steps for the safe operation of your specific RV. This How To RV guide is only for informational purposes and what has worked for me (but I’ve had 6 RVs so you can use these tasks interchangeably. Many items on this list may be completed out of sequence. Some items may not apply to you or may not be necessary for every type of departure.

RV Departure Checklist

Preparing for an RV trip involves more than just planning your route and packing your bags. Ensuring your RV is ready for the journey is crucial for a safe and enjoyable travel experience. This comprehensive RV Departure Checklist is designed to help you systematically prepare your motorhome or towable recreational vehicle—such as Class A, Class B, and Class C motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers—for departure. By following this guide, you can address all essential pre-trip tasks, ensuring nothing is overlooked. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time RVer, customizing this checklist to your specific vehicle and needs will help you embark on your adventures with confidence and peace of mind. Let’s dive into the essential steps to get your RV ready for the road.

Also, It’s a good idea to read through this list BEFORE departing so that you can be prepared. There are also several items you might can do ahead of time. We try to do as much as we can prior to departure day so that we only have the ain’t things to do as departure day has enough stress itself without adding more things to this list.

Days Before Departure

• Confirm reservations at the destination
• Prepare maps and directions
• Wash laundry
• Buy groceries and supplies for the trip
• Check propane levels and fill
• Check generator fuel levels and fill
• Check RV battery is charged
• Check two-way radio batteries
• Check flashlight batteries
• Check motorhome or tow vehicle fluid levels
• If towing inspect hitch security
• Confirm sewer tank valves are closed
• Fill fresh water tank to desired level
• Inspect Tires and Check Pressure
• Clean windows and mirrors for driving

Day of RV Departure

• Arrange items in fridge to prevent breakage
• Fill drinking water containers
• Lower TV antenna or satellite
• Collect and store all items from outside
• Secure items inside cabinets and latch
• Secure items on countertops
• Secure items in shower and latch door
• Secure all other loose items
• Latch any other doors in RV
• Latch refrigerator doors
• Close and latch stove top / oven door
• Lock tabs on external range hood vent
• Secure TVs
• Secure items near driving compartment
• Close roof vents and windows
• Retract and secure awnings
• Clean slide tops, clear area, retract and lock
• Lay down and pad large items which may fall
• Confirm that all sliding trays are latched and secure
• Empty black tank and close valve
• Empty gray tank and close valve
• Add water and tank treatments
• Turn off air conditioning / heat
• Turn off all other power loads in RV
• Turn off all propane appliances
• Shut off all propane bottle valves
• Disconnect cable TV and store cables
• Disconnect electricity and store accessories
• Disconnect sewer hose wash and store
• Turn off water pump
• Disconnect the water hose and store
• Confirm that the refrigerator is running
• Stowe external RV features and secure items
• Discard all trash
• Raise or remove all stabilizing jacks
• Raise leveling jacks
• Leave front leveling/tongue jacks down
• Collect and store leveling blocks
• Confirm all is clear under and around the RV
• Confirm all slides are in
• Remove king pin lock, if used
• Lower truck tailgate before backing up
• Hitch RV to tow vehicle
• Connect breakaway switch cable
• Connect umbilical cord
• Attach sway bars
• Attach safety chains
• Retract front leveling or tongue jacks
• Collect and store leveling blocks
• Remove wheel chocks
• Confirm all jacks are raised or removed
• Check the exterior of the RV for protruding items
• If towing, hitch trailer/vehicle to motorhome
• Lock all external RV doors & compartments
• Check RV lights, signals & brake lights
• Check trailer/vehicle lights, signals & brake lights
• Check RV breaks
• If towing, check if hitched securely
• Perform a final walk around, above, and below the RV
• Check mirrors & adjust
• Fuel up

Conclusion

Proper preparation is key to a successful and stress-free RV adventure. By following this comprehensive RV Departure Checklist, you can ensure that your motorhome or towable RV is ready for the road, helping to avoid common pitfalls and ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. Customizing this checklist to fit your specific vehicle and needs will further enhance your travel experience. From pre-trip preparations to final departure checks, every step is crucial in maintaining the safety and functionality of your RV. So, before you set off on your next adventure, take the time to go through this checklist and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your RV is well-prepared for the journey ahead.