Tips for Camping in your Travel Trailer

Jun. 9 2020 Articles By Airstream of Utah

When the temperature starts to rise, you know it's time to take the travel trailer out for exciting camping trips. Maybe you've pulled your rig out of storage or recently purchased a new one and are now trying to figure out what to do next. Let Airstream of Utah help you figure that out. For those who are still new to this, we've provided some tips for camping in your travel trailer to help you get started and ensure you're going to have a smooth trip. If you still need the travel trailer to match, though, then stop by our location in Salt Lake City, Utah so one of our experienced staff can show you around the models we have right now.

Planning

When you're first getting started, you'll probably want to put some effort into planning, even if you prefer spontaneous trips. This way, you can try to tackle as many potential problems ahead of time when you're close to home and won't be adding more levels of stress when you're supposed to be relaxing. This should include figuring out where you're going and how you're going to get there. Choosing overnight stopping points can allow you to make reservations ahead of time so you can guarantee a place to sleep every night and planning your route can help you avoid roads you may not feel comfortable driving on.

You'll also want to spend some time budgeting. Account for all the basics, like camping fees, food, and gas, as well as setting aside an emergency fund. Take a look at how your budget is dispersed and decide ahead of time if cuts or arrangements need to be made.

Finally, take some time to outline a packing list. Your list will probably develop and become more refined over time, but everyone has to start somewhere. Consider making note of things you use on a regular basis or download an RV app that comes with a pre-generated packing list to get you started.

Towing

If this is your first travel trailer, or even if it's a new travel trailer, then you're probably going to want to spend some time relearning how to drive while towing an RV behind you. Find a big, empty parking lot and practice some of the most basic driving skills, as your technique will change with a travel trailer behind you. This should include relearning turning, braking, reversing, and parking. Next, choose a time of day when traffic is relatively low and hit the highway. This will give you a chance to practice high speed driving and merging in a safe, low stress environment.

At the Campsite

When you've reached your destination and your all ready to go, we've got a few more tips to help you enjoy your trip just a little more. Make sure to pack plenty of bug spray and bug repellent, even if you think you'll be in an area where you won't run into mosquitos. Never assume you won't run into mosquitos. They’re everywhere.

If you’re having trouble getting a campfire started, consider using dryer lint as kindling or even chips. Foods that are high in calories will burn faster and brighter (like they do when you eat them), so they act as good fire starters.

Over time, you'll probably pick up tips that’ll make your trips more enjoyable and maybe drop a few commonly used ideas that aren't as helpful to you. Either way, you'll always want to keep in mind what's going to provide your family a safe and enjoyable camping trip. If you still need a travel trailer to camp in, or if you'd like some of our staff's personal trips to make RVing better, stop by Airstream of Utah in Salt Lake City and we'll help you with all your RV related needs.