Setting up an RV at a campsite for the first time can seem like a daunting task. This is because driving a big vehicle and placing it in a seemingly tight spot can make anyone doing it for the first time nervous. It helps if you get those with you to help out in parking the vehicle and finding the necessary items. Thinking of it as a team effort makes the experience easier to handle.
What follows are a few tips that will help you set up your RV properly at a typical campsite. Remember to follow all the rules and regulations of the campsite and do not be afraid to ask questions.
Table of Contents
Parking the RV
The first step is to find a spot for you to park the RV. If you can, find a pull-through spot so you do not have to back up when leaving.
Next, have someone stand in front of the RV at the back of the parking spot. They should be able to see both sides of the vehicle and help guide you in properly. Drive slowly so you can stop quickly if needed. Plus, even if you hit something the very slow speed should prevent too much damage from occurring.
Hooking Up the Electricity
Start by turning off the breaker on the electric box. Next, take your attachment and hook it to the RV input first and then the breaker box. Once the connections are solid, turn on the breaker and you should have electricity.
Hooking Up the Water
All you have to do is connect the freshwater hose to the designated fresh water source at the campsite. Then, connect the hose to the RV. A water filter will help ensure the water is fresh and free of contaminants. Plus, having a pressure regulator will help lower the pressure from the source. This can be important because if the pressure is too high, it may damage your RV.
Hooking Up the Sewage
Now you are ready to hook up the sewage. Put on some gloves and make sure the gray and black lines are in the closed position. Next, open the cap on the camp sewage site, then hook the hose to the RV. Be sure to secure the hose to the RV using the clamp. The sewage hose should go downward to the camp sewage input. Run the sewage first and then the gray water next.
Level Your RV
Now you are ready to level the RV. Proper positioning and leveling will help keep your camper area secure and possibly free of damage. Most RV sites offer parking areas that are normally level enough to hook up the hoses. You will still want to use the leveling jacks if only to better secure the RV into position.
However, if you are on an incline, slope, or there is a dip that is causing the RV to not be level, then take the time to level it properly before hooking up any hoses or connecting the electricity.
And that is how you set up your RV at a campsite. It is fairly easy to accomplish and after a few trips you will be an old pro.
