RV Driving Tips
Stay Safe on the Road: Essential RV Driving Tips
Hitting the open road in an RV is one of the best ways to explore new places while bringing the comforts of home along for the ride. But with great adventure comes great responsibility—especially when you’re behind the wheel of a large vehicle. Whether you're a seasoned RV owner or a first-time road tripper, staying safe on the road requires a bit of extra planning and awareness. Here are some key RV driving safety tips to keep your journey smooth and stress-free.
Be Aware of Height Clearances
One of the most common mistakes new RV drivers make is underestimating the height of their rig. Before you drive anywhere, know your RV’s exact height—including rooftop accessories like air conditioners or satellite dishes. Always keep an eye out for posted clearance signs when approaching overpasses, bridges, gas station canopies, and tunnels. It’s a good idea to write your RV’s height on a sticky note and place it on the dashboard as a constant reminder.
Drive Cautiously
RVs are significantly larger and heavier than standard vehicles, which means they require more time and distance to stop. Maintain a generous following distance between you and the vehicle ahead to allow for safe braking. Avoid sudden stops and sharp turns that can cause instability or tip hazards. Take your time—there’s no rush when safety is your top priority.
Use Backup Cameras & Spotters
Maneuvering an RV in tight spaces can be challenging, especially when reversing. A backup camera is a valuable tool that offers a clear view behind your rig, helping you avoid unexpected obstacles. Whenever possible, enlist a spotter to guide you from outside the vehicle. Clear communication with hand signals or walkie-talkies can prevent accidents and make parking much easier.
Plan Your Route
Not all roads are RV-friendly. Low-clearance bridges, narrow lanes, and weight-restricted roads can quickly turn into a nightmare for unprepared drivers. Use RV-specific GPS systems or navigation apps that are designed to steer you clear of routes unsuitable for large vehicles. Pre-planning your trip with these tools can save you from unexpected detours and stressful situations.
Recommended RV Route Planning Apps and Websites:
RV LIFE Trip Wizard – Great for planning multi-stop trips and avoiding low bridges, tunnels, and restricted roads.
CoPilot RV – Offers offline navigation and customizable routes based on your RV’s size and weight.
Roadtrippers – Ideal for finding interesting stops along your route and estimating fuel costs.
Google Maps (with caution) – While useful, it doesn’t account for RV size. Use in combination with other tools.
Garmin RV GPS Devices – Hardware-based option with RV-specific routing built in.
Top Travel Apps for RVers:
Campendium – Find campgrounds, RV parks, free camping spots, and read user reviews.
AllStays Camp & RV – Comprehensive campground directory with filters for amenities, hookups, and road conditions.
Togo RV – Includes trip planning, RV maintenance tracking, and campground search.
iOverlander – Great for boondocking and off-grid camping locations.
GasBuddy – Find the cheapest fuel prices along your route.
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