All Weather RV Driving – Prepare and Stay Safe

Safe, all weather RV Driving starts from the premise that the first thing we need to recognize is that the vehicle we are using is designed for travel and adventure.  Yet, your expedition may take you to places where the weather varies widely.  Thus the need for preparation.

While it is common sense, it still needs to be said:”ALWAYS need to be sharp, alert, and aware of everything that is going on around you – in all driving conditions.” This is true whenever and whatever you drive, but if it is an RV all of what I am saying gets double or triple emphasis.




Leave prepared for anything Mother Nature may put in your way.  Being prepared, as we have said so many times, goes a long way to creating the stress free RV adventure you are seeking.

Wind

Recognize that your RV, whether motorized or not, is not designed for aerodynamics and as such may be seriously affected by the wind.  Always, always. always SLOW DOWN during windy conditions. Hold on to your steering wheel more firmly. No need to panic but be prepared for gusting wind to move or push your RV places that you have no intention of going. Be prepared to correct accordingly.

Rain

Wiper Blades

Rainy conditions requires a totally different mind-set, way of driving and maneuvering. It can also adversely affect visibility. Which is why it is always important to inspect your windshield wipers regularly!

A word to the wise during rainy conditions is to “slow down” and drive accordingly allowing yourself extra time to make the appropriate and desired maneuvers. Particularly those that require “Stopping” the RV.  Always during wet or rainy times go easy on the brake pedal. Stop more gradually than usual and be gentle and steady with your stop.

Snow

Ice Melt is Handy

And then there is snow. Most people won’t take their RV out in the snow. However, if you do don’t be confused and think that because your RV is big and heavy that it can go through anything. This is just not the case. The RV is heavy but that only makes stopping bigger issue; and weight is a huge factor in accomplishing this.




At this point please envision an 18 wheel truck/trailer combo. How difficult can they be to maneuver in the snow? Once stuck in the snow how difficult might they be to dig out?

These are the things you need to think about whenever driving your RV in the snow or ice.

Towing a Trailer

In the case of a  travel trailer, in contrast to a 5th wheel, it is imperative to use a weight distributing hitch or equalizer bars.  This equipment will take weight off the rear of the tow vehicle and distribute it to the vehicle being towed. Therefor,the weight on the drive, or the rear, axle of the tow vehicle  is actually  lessened.  So the idea of having more weight on the tires for driving in snow is actually opposite of what you would expect which makes getting stuck on snowy or slippery roads even more likely.

Rough Roads and All Weather RV Driving

Rough is a matter of how you determine the meaning and the adjustments needed to your driving at the time. Good advice while motoring on rough roads is to slow down and  put your attention and alertness to a peak.