Summer is the perfect time to hit the open road in your RV—and planning ahead can make the difference between a stressful journey and a memory-making adventure. Whether you’re a first-time RVer or a seasoned camper, this guide will walk you through every step of planning the perfect summer RV trip, from picking the right spot to parking like a pro.
1. Choose Your Dream Destination
Start with the big picture: where do you want to go?
Consider your travel time, desired scenery (beach, mountains, national parks?), and whether you want a lively campground or something more remote. Make your reservations early—popular campgrounds can fill up fast during summer months!
Pro tip: Use tools like Campendium, RV Life, or ReserveAmerica to research and book your site.
2. Map Your Route
Once your destination is set, plan your route with RV-friendly navigation tools like RV Trip Wizard or Garmin RV GPS. They help avoid low clearances, weight restrictions, and tricky roads.
If you’re traveling in a motorhome or towing a trailer, don’t forget to check fuel stops, rest areas, and overnight parking options along the way.
3. Pack Smart – Essentials You’ll Actually Use
Here’s a quick list to get you started (grab the full printable below!):
- Must-Have Gear: Sewer hose, leveling blocks, water pressure regulator, surge protector
- Outdoor Comfort: Camping chairs, mat/rug, awning lights, bug spray
- Inside the RV: Bedding, cookware, toiletries, games, cleaning supplies
- Safety & Tools: Flashlights, first aid kit, toolkit, fire extinguisher
Bonus: At Beckley’s RVs, we carry everything from kitchen accessories to RV-friendly outdoor furniture. If you need to stock up, stop by our parts and accessories store—we’ve got you covered!
4. Meal Prep Made Easy
You don’t have to sacrifice great food on the road. Plan a few easy meals that travel well, like:
- Make-ahead breakfast burritos
- Grilled kabobs or burgers
- Campfire nachos
- S’mores (of course!)
Use collapsible bins to organize pantry staples, and consider a portable grill or Blackstone for outdoor cooking.
5. Arrive & Set Up Like a Pro
Once you reach your site, take a deep breath—you’re almost there! Follow these basic setup steps:
- Park and level your RV
- Chock your wheels
- Hook up water, power, and sewer (in that order)
- Open your slides and awning
- Set up your outdoor space and relax!
Don’t forget to take a walk around the site and double-check everything before calling it a day.
Get Your Free Printable RV Trip Checklist!
Make planning even easier with our free, printable Summer RV Trip Checklist.
Check things off as you go—from pre-trip prep to campsite setup.
Ready to Roll?
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a cross-country road trip, Beckley’s RVs is here to help make your journey smooth and unforgettable. Stop by before your trip to grab the gear you need—or just to say hi!
