RVing - Seniors Take to the Road

And Travel Safety Should Be a Priority for Your RV

Aug 8, 2006 Maryan Pelland

Look around and you'll see RVs everywhere. Self-contained RVs, tow behinds, fifth wheels. Grandparents take to the road in droves - stay safe with our tips.

Safety First and Always

To begin, RVsafety.org advises you have an RV weighed before you buy it so you know its carrying capacity matches your requirements. They recognize you might not be able to find someone to weigh it wheel-by-wheel, but you can do a weight evaluation if you know a few key numbers:

In pounds per gallon

  • Water: 8.3
  • Gasoline: 5.6
  • Diesel Fuel: 6.8
  • Propane: 4.2

Evaluate the size of storage areas, liquid tanks, major appliances, generators, LP gas tanks, etc. then multiply by the appropriate number. Everything you put in the RV weighs something, including you and your companions. RVsafety says the average couple carries about 2 tons of stuff for part-time travel. Full timers -- 3000 pounds!

If you purchase a used RV, which many people do, it's absolutely essential to have it tuned up and inspected. Never drive without a seatbelt fastened on each passenger and on the driver.

On the Road Tips

Keep in mind, such a vehicle tracks differently than a car, so consider size when you turn, stop, or start.

Experts strongly advise before you drive an RV, you sit in the driver's seat. Check all of the mirrors and the seat and steering wheel positions.

Be sure, in traffic, to allow plenty of time to break or change lanes. You're driving a big vehicle and it will not respond quickly. Back up with care. Allow extra response time if you need to accelerate. Maintain long intervals between you and traffic ahead and behind you.

Give yourself enough practice driving before you head out on a long trip. You might even consider renting or borrowing an RV for a weekend. What if you find RVing isn't right for you?

Travel only on roads your RV is equipped to handle. Be sure the road is paved to accommodate your RV.

When You Call It a Day

Use marked campsites. Parking in a shopping center lot or private property is not safe and not appreciated by property owners.

Try to be a "green camper." Limit the number of disposables you use - dishes, towels, soft drink cans, etc. Maintain safe campfires, making sure they are out before you leave. Don't burn anything that isn't burnable-- like plastic or metal. Be considerate of your neighbors, whether they're human or forest creatures. If you travel with a pet be sure pets are permitted and follow pet rules to the letter.

Final Words

Considering these tips before you load up and leave may well mean you'll have a better trip. As they say, take only photographs and leave only footprints.

Resources

Canada's advice for a Green Camping experience.

RVsafety.org. Good tips and you can request an RV Safety Training Program package.

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