6/1 Rules for RVing, Updated

I originally posted this in 2015, but somehow I forgot where I put it.  I have been looking for it ever since so I could repeat and update it based on stuff I have learned more recently.  Here is my updated list:

1. Chocolate always goes in the refrigerator.  Leaving any kind of chocolate out in a hot RV results in an unsatisfactory puddle, as I learned on my first trip.

2. Never go to bed or leave your rig for a substantial time without putting your awnings in.  Even if your awnings are electric and can be put away quickly in a storm or high wind, storms can come up very quickly, especially in the mountains or desert.

3.  It will take you twice as long to drive somewhere as you thought it would.  That’s actually a good thing, as it is nice to enjoy the drive.

4.  Pictures and maps posted by campgrounds lie. Campsites are at least 30% smaller and twice as sloped as advertised! To adjust for this, pick a bigger and flatter site than you think you need.  Corollary:  Campground owners also lie, so check photos and reviews online.   

5.  You can never have enough plastic bins.  Everything must go in a bin or container of some sort or it will eventually fall on the floor while you are driving. Things stored in outside compartments need to be in waterproof bins, if possible. 
   

6.  Things disappear faster in a small space than a large one. Buy clear plastic bins to help you find the things you put somewhere but can’t find.  Think of a purse with too many compartments.  

7. Things leak, even though they are surrounded by weather-stripping.  A driving rain will sneak past the tightest of weather-proofing to get into underneath storage.  See #5 above about plastic bins.

8.  Stuff in the refrigerator jumps around at every bump.  Therefore, food needs to be restrained with spring-loaded curtain rods, or you will have pre-scrambled eggs, and things will fall out when you open the door for a snack.  Also, breakage will be less if you buy foods in plastic containers rather than glass. 

9. Dealers will promise you anything to get you to buy an RV, so don’t believe them unless they put it in writing.  Also, the service manager at a dealer will tell you to leave your RV, and they will start work on it in a couple of days.  Plan on at least a couple of weeks, and maybe even a couple of months. See my posting on tips for getting better RV service here.
   

10.  Pack half as much as you think you need, but take twice as much money. RVing is really not a cheap way to live, but having your own bed, bathroom, and kitchen is priceless! 
    

I'll be posting updates to this from time to time, and I welcome other suggestions I can add to this list.