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We always empty the black and gray tanks and then put 4 gallons of water in each with some dawn soap. Helps clean the inside of all tanks as we drive. Not heavy enough to feel the weight but the solid waste accumulated in the corners of tanks gets cleaned out. First thing when we arrive, we drain the tanks. Lots of stuff comes out.
We put in two dish washing pods before we leave the campsite with a little water. When we arrive at our next campsite I dump the black tank and it looks like I haven't dumped it as the pods get the "flakes" off the sides of the tanks.
DITTO .... 2 cups of Dawn & 1 cups of a water softener (I use liquid Calgon but any will really do) a few gallons of water and drive down the road. AMAZING how much residual stuff comes out of what you think is a clean tank.
Check the weather the day before departure, it might be raining when you get up on departure day, and picking up camp, stowing gear that is wet requires extra work when you get home. I sometimes pack up outside the night before to avoid damp, wet, dirty chairs, hoses, awning. Greetings from Indiana.
When unhitching the water hose, I have found it a good idea, after cutting off the campground faucet, to open a faucet inside the trailer. This relieves pressure in the hose, and keeps me from getting an unwanted cold shower. I enjoy the programs you make.
After leaving a log splitter at camp one year I spray painted a bright color strip on all shovels, rakes, axes, etc. it really helps if you leave a tool on the ground, on the truck, or anywhere else. Especially if it's something you can't pack up the night before. Great tips. Thanks.
I like to drain a couple gallons of grey first, just to make sure all the connections are good. Then i go for the black, and back to finish the grey. Who knows, maybe it will save me from a disaster one day lol
I do the same thing but thats because I have a small grey tank for the outside kitchen to drain. Always drain that first which is small and does not usually have much in it anyway as a test.
Sean & Kristy - Another great video. One step I would add is to check your tires and lug nuts out. A quick pressure check, inspecting the tread & sidewalls, and finally a quick check of the lug nuts to see if any look loose or are missing. Put it right before or after your pulling of the chocks.
For whatever it is worth, I have found in life that when I "Feel" pushed, or stressed to do whatever, I SLOW DOWN. That seems to work well. Speed kills they say, so just slow down, even if the guy "in the golf cart" wants me to move faster.
Very comprehensive video. Covered all the right things. We have a 39 foot RV horse trailer combo. We accidentally left the 12 volt water pump on. As we were driving and hitting some rough roads, the shower nozzle jumped off its cradle and hit the water handle turning the water on. To make matters worse we had left all our towels in the shower floor which prevented the water from draining. When we stopped at a pull off to check the horses, we looked in the RV section to be pleasantly surprised (NOT) at water on our floor. Yikees! So we had to use our remaining clean towels, etc. to mop it up. We now always shut off the main battery switch and pack our dirty towels in a laundry bag in the bunk.
To combat forgetting during Tear Down/Set Up we use a Check List App on our tablets/Cell Phones. Multiple checklists work great, one inside one outside. Works for us. It helps keep you in a routine.
When my daughter was young (5-6) she would be actively involved in loading up the trailer, and she knew what she was doing! Many times I got comments from other campers that they were amazed a little girl like that could do so much. Sadly,my little girl grew up, so now I have to solo my packing.
Good video on breaking camp. We have a Diesel motorhome so the step is automatic upon starting the engine and the levelers sound a chime if you start up without them retracted, so those are not a problem. I use a colorfully painted close-pin on the TV antenna to prevent moving with it up. When the antenna is stowed the pin gets clipped to the winding crank, when it is cranked up the pin goes to the ignition key. Of course in a trailer there is no ignition key so the pin could be placed on the door handle or the screen door as a reminder. Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Yes, I've heard some people speculate that some RVs may have baffles in the fresh water tanks, but I've seen no evidence of it and therefore assume that the vast majority do not...
I used to haul 3300 gallons of solvent (14lbs/gal.) in a 7000 gallon smooth bore trailer (no baffles) to Charlotte, NC. from Hebron, OH. Talk about getting slapped around.
In 10 days we are taking our new 5th wheel from Ontario Canada to Mackinaw Island Michigan, Thunder Bay, Edmonton.Jasper, Banff, Vancouver and Vancouver island, returning home via Seattle, Montana, Yellowstone Park, Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. We have done a total of 7 nights in the RV and are inspired by your videos to be starting out on our new adventure. We are 65 years old and never RV'ed before, but "do it while you can"! Thanks for the videos. Bill and Madeline
You guys are so spot on! The only addition I would add is we usually pull forward onto the road for the final check. This gives us the chance to see anything we missed, but also inspect the campsite to make sure it is the same as we arrived. Once on the road, we can check everything is attached and ready to roll. We have a one hour time limit, and like you my wife starts the process indoors. I get some time to relax until she declares it is time to roll, where it becomes my job to make us transportable. We have slides, which are a pain, but because we are big people, nice when we are parked. My wife is disabled, so our goal is 1 hour for breakdown, 1/2 hour for setup. Except for heavy weather, we usually exceed this goal. Teamwork is the key.
and Shawn, like you I have made some mistakes I'm not proud of. In heavy rain, I raised the jack to release the trailer without having the wheel chocks in place. Thank god I hadn't removed the chains, as the trailer rolled back until the chains stopped it! Scared the heck out of me. We all make mistakes when we rush. Sometimes we just have to be careful and not fast! LOL
One of the most significant things I would add is to check the tire pressures. Once hitched every tire should be checked. If any are off spec, then the next stop is a tire shop for inspection or repair.
Hi Sean and Christie. Enjoy your videos very much. One more item you may want to mention about breaking camp - remember to fully raise your hitch jack. I failed to raise mine all the way and hit a small boulder embedded in the dirt road as I was leaving. It twisted the foot around about 90 degrees but I was able to force it back into place with my favorite crow bar (which I have not lost yet) :)
When doing that final walk around I highly recommend looking up high to make sure the antenna is stowed, no tree limbs in the way, etc., and give a good look around under the trailer to make sure the stabilizer jacks are up, no cords still hanging down, no sharp rocks, etc.. This high/low check has saved our bacon more than once. Great video, guys!
I loved this video! I recently had the opportunity to tow our 18 ft rv to a lake, state park in Texas. Husband could not go. I am 63 and it's been years since I have had to do this alone. 11 year old granddaughter was not helpful. So everything you did on here, I had to do by myself. I got er done! Thank you both so much. I am an avid subscriber! Thank you!
Hey Y'all, we are old Airstreamer's. Still love them but now we have S.O.B. I think the wife and I do it exactly like y'all. She handles the inside while I'm getting the outside done. Over the last 29 years if it can be torn up I've done it. I think the most vulnerable thing on my setup is the wheel chocks. I have an aluminum "boom chock" like yours. When you decide to pull off the leveling blocks and forget to take out the chock from between the tires, bad things happen to it. One tire is rolling up and the other is rolling down... and the connecting rod in the chock twists like a pretzel. I hate when that happens. Love y'all, keep em coming.
After 20 years of pop-up camping with our 4 kids we've upgraded to a Jayco slx 174bh, (enough room for us and our Granddaughter and maybe an adult child or 2) so not new to camping but new to having a self contained unit. I've viewed several of your videos and really appreciate the insights you share. We are looking forward to spring and making new memories! Thanks for sharing and blessings to you!
Tip about the stabilizer jacks: when you have two kids and a dog all at the very rear of the trailer, it is very possible to pop a wheelie in some campers. (small lightweight trailers and pop ups are especially prone to this).
We are newbies and just picked up or new camper. We have tons to learn, and with your videos we are feeling more and more confident. Please keep up the good work.
I enjoy your videos. I suggest you switch the breaker OFF at the shore power before unplugging. Less chance of getting a shock and not to mention, if something is on creating a load, there with be an arc when it disconnects maybe leaving a burnt spot on your plug connections. (Also when plugging in, make sure the breaker is off for the same reasons. I can't tell you how many times I am setting up and the last person left the breaker on.)
Great Video, I do basically the same except I flush the tanks before I disconnect the city water. That way I have the kids flushing the toilet to help with the flow! When I see clear water come out I know it is empty. Also I add a bit of water in the black tank before I put the treatment puck in. This helps disperse it and prevent anything caking in the bottom of the tank. Keep up the great work!
We are about to bring home our first trailer(sadly not an Airstream). I have been a tent camper for decades. But the woman in my life wants a trailer. I retire in less than two years and have always wanted to visit each and every baseball park so this was my motivation. We also have a National Park trip and Alaska on our list as well as all the local camp grounds. I have to say, that when I found your youtube channel I was pleased, entertained and informed. I can't begin to thank you enough. You both do a fantastic job! Keep up the great work. I can only imagine the hours it takes to put one of these videos together.
All great tips! One to add, whether breaking down or starting out on a tip: Make sure your water taps inside the trailer are shut off. You never know what can happen as you traverse hill and dale, or as you fill up (perhaps, um, overfill) your tank.
I've been stalking your videos a few days now, as we are FINALLY getting into camping at our age of 60! We camped as kids with our families, but never took the step until now to get a camper. Thanks for all your informative videos!
And never forget to make sure your plasma energy waveguide distribution conduit is set to bypass mode and engage the tachion practical collector to normal underway setting.
Just discovered your channel and loved both the 'set-up' and 'break-down' vids -- even as a 15 year veteran, there were some great tips. One thing I'd add here -- follow your steps in consistent order, without interruption, every time. To your point, it gets easier over time -- for us, that's because we get in our rhythm and chug through our routine. A checklist can help, but it's not perfect. Just a couple of weeks ago, my spouse got ahead of things by turning off the fresh water at the stand and opening the faucets to release the pressure. She assures me she mentioned it. When I zipped into the bathroom for one last potty break before unhooking the hose etc., I flushed and then turned on the water pump out of habit. THEN I wondered what was making that sound like the flow of water out in the cabin. THEN I swore a lot as I turned off faucets and grabbed towels to sop up the water on the counter, down the cabinet, and on the floor (because of course the cutting boards were already in place over the sink). After words were exchanged, we agreed steps should always be taken in order in the future!
Thanks for your comment. Yes, the water pump can be dangerous. We know one couple who mistakenly left on their water pump before getting on a very bumpy highway. You guessed it... the kitchen faucet got jostled on, the sink overflowed, and the trailer was flooded -- all while they were traveling down the highway!
I usually line up the tow vehicle with the coupler the night before (especially if rain in the forecast) to save time in the morning. If the ball is lower than the coupler I will back right under it. Also if the trailer will still be fairly level, I may raise the stabilizer jacks and actually hitch up the night before as the trailer will not move too much when on the ball. However, NEVER lower the tongue jack when hooked up like this as it is easy to forget to raise it in the morning.
I loved this video. I have been using my 32' Sundance 5th wheel for almost 4 years now and leaving the stabilizer jacks down was my first mistake. I couldn't figure out why it was taking so long to lift the front end to hook up. When I took off(didn't do a walk around) I actually pulled the rear stabilizers off the frame. Luckily they weren't damaged too badly and I was able to straighten out the mounting flange and replace them. The first thing I did when I got back to work the following week, was to find the label maker and make a tag for above my lifting switch that says, "Rear jacks up?". Haven't had a problem since. When it is time to replace the trailer, I will also replace the tag. I have marathon watched many of your videos and find them both entertaining and informative. Keep up the great work.
thanks much Chris, don't feel too bad about those stabilizers, I made a similar mistake! Great idea to put a little reminder tag by the lifting switch. Cheers, Sean
We’re from Indianapolis and just got our first camper! We have 4 kids and are looking forward to many vacation adventures. Thank you for all the great tips:-).
Here's a good tip to help with remembering to raise scissor jacks before using power lift jack. just use a simple "flag" when you lower your scissor jacks the "flag" gets put on the power jack near the operation switches, thus reminding yourself that your jacks are down. lol (see flag = no operate) And by "flag" I don't mean actual flag, just something easily attached and easily seen before using power jack. example: a little airport luggage tag tied onto a small magnet.
My last check is after I pull out of the site. I stop, get out and check where the RV was sitting to make sure I didn't leave something behind. It's pretty easy to see anything left without an RV/trailer in the way. GREAT video! Thanks for the tips.
Remember when hauling water, it isn't how much your truck can haul, it is about the axle/tire weight limits. (GVWR) I've known people who weigh there RVs with empty tanks and felt good because they're under the limits. Then they fill their 50 gallon water tank and, at 8.5lb per gal., added 450 lbs on their axles. As far the water splashing around, that is why they now put the tanks directly over the axles on trailers. My first trailer (made in 1968) had the water in the back. Tailwagger.
My wife Joan & I enjoy you and your videos. We are an older couple wit a 30ft fifth wheel and a Ford 350 diesel. We live in Canada, and are looking forward to getting going. We have to wait for spring, but are anticipating getting on the road. Your videos are helpful to us. Thank you! Winston!
Next time you need holding tank treatment try Happy Camper... It is available from Amazon. There is no odor. You like me being from the Sunshine State things can really cook in the tanks. I use it in the black and gray tanks and there is no odor even when dumping. I am not affiliated with Happy Camper, othen than a very happy user. Interesting thing about the water tank. My tanks have baffles in them to stop the sloshing. We have a class C motorhome and to get a little better gas mileage we run with about 10 gallons of fresh water.
Hi,I am retired in Florida. Enjoy watching your videos. I will be traveling internationally for the next five years but after that, I plan to travel around the USA for 10 years in a converted cargo trailer and small car. I am a bit of a minimalist, so a converted cargo trail is enough for me. Thanks for all you great videos.Tom
So yesterday I thought I had done everything before we left the RV park but unfortunately when we got to our next park I unscrewed the the whole to put my sewer connection on and I didn't shut my grey tank so when i took the cap off grey water went everywhere thank goodness it wasn't the black tank. We live and learn. Thanks for another great video.
I have a friend, Kathy. Kathy is one of 11 children in their family. Her parents had a pickup truck camper. One time after stopping at a rest stop one of the kids was left behind. This was discovered at the next stop a couple oh hours away and the truck had to go back for the lost kid. After this the mom started a policy of having the children like up and count off. So, yes, kids can be accidentally lost.
I always give the tow vehicle a "once over" as well. Check the oil, transmission fluid (if you can) check the tire pressure and condition, (also trailer tire pressure and condition) Also make sure you have enough "bug juice" for the windshield. Lastly, make sure you have enough gas to get where you plan, or plan to get some soon after but know where the station is before hand. :)
You know I love your show, but now I'm on my second Tilley just for color! Stop the madness no more good stuff! LOL. I stopped for fuel in a class c pulled out and just glanced in the mirror saw one very panicked wife with ice cream in her hand. I told her I was just getting out of the way. Thank God I looked in the mirror, no tellin. Love you guys. BTW headin out to the Virginia's soon so if you are in the area, beer on me.
Always check all six sides of your trailer AND tow vehicle before moving: top, bottom and all four sides. On tow vehicle look for puddles under the engine. Check the tires on both trailer and tow vehicle. If something looks off confirm with a gauge. Use a tire gauge once a month, at a minimum. I have seen a laser heat gauge used on wheel bearings also (at gas stations and rest stops). This will work on tires also as under inflated tires get hot.
I lived without city water hookups in my house until 2007, and hauled my water 250 gallons at a time for years. You are exactly right about water tanks half full. It's extremely dangerous!!!!!
Good video. My wife was giving it the nod of approval. One comment I have is on the chocks. I use the X-Chock and really like it for the tandem axles. Once installed the trailer doesn't move an inch and it helps to stabilize. Thanks
Just discovered your channel and really enjoy it. One last item would be to police the area for bits of trash. I learned this many years ago in scouts and have been doing it ever since. No bit of trash is too small. See ya' down the road.
Also make sure the step is securely secured. We have a 2018 Flying Cloud 25FB and sometimes the set seems secure but really is not. So i just push it up and pull on it to make sure it is secured. Also good idea to keep your trailer keys with you. It’s easy to exit the trailer and bump the door lock, and when the door closes you are locked out. I keep an extra set in the TV.
Our first ever trip in our new travel trailer was earlier this month trying to get away from hurricane Irma. Sure enough got to Alabama and the pry bar that came with our hitch was no where to be found. Looked for it when we got home but never found it. Guess someone saw it when we left and decided they needed it more then we did. Lesson learned.
I did receive a tip from a friend about pulling onto boards to level your rig. It would be wise to pull on and off in the opposite direction of your sewer connection. If the board or boards kick up when you first pull on to them it can damage you connection.
Love your channel. You have helped us with our first rig, our first trip and so grateful for your tips. We had a successful maiden Voyage to St. Augustine, FL a month ago. Drive down from Bluffton, SC. So proud of our backing skills, hitching and towing our Gulf Stream Vintage Friendship 19ERD in turquoise. Loving it, had a week of great camping at Compass RV Resort there. Thanks for all your help!
My wife and I bought our first RV about 2 weeks ago. It is still in its shake-down stage in the driveway, however, we have 2 outings planned for this month already and two for next month. Not too far from home, but still a good first few outings... I found and subscribed to your channel yesterday... I I must say, I have learned a lot and had a lot of questions answered in the few videos I have watched thus far... We will surely share with you guys... thanks from Oklahoma... :)
I've watched about 15 or 20 of your videos by now... lol... have some parts ordered from Amazon that I didn't realize I needed too... lol... thanks again... If you guys ever decide to go to Lake Eufaula in Oklahoma let us know... have to acquire a few pricey products before we venture out very far...
My wife does inside stuff and works the slides, I do outside stuff and the hitch up. We have a 32' 5th wheel and takes us about 25 min to get rolling, not even working up a sweat. Division of labor is the key.....
You guys have helped my wife and I prepare for our new adventures in our 5th wheel. I appreciate all the tips/tricks/ins and outs. Thank you very much.
Hi! Thanks for video. It was a last drop that I’ll develop my own internal and external checklist for me and my wife. I was so close to do it by myself. I had to add something such switch off gas on gas tank because it’s prohibited to drive with open gas tank in EU. And some other small items
Thank you for your GREAT videos. Your down to earth explanations and style, along with your humorous admission of mistakes has encouraged me to hit the road for the first time with my new 24’er with new confidence.
Thanks so much for the tips and reminders. I've learned a lot from you guys. I would add MY 2nd to the last step before leaving... I physically step over my hitch, and ONCE more, check the chains, breakaway switch, electric plug from truck to trailer to be tight and locked down securely, the ball hitch pin in place (guilty only once), and that the house battery switch is ON. Still working on the wife for backing up and hitching. :) OMGosh.
We run the LP for heat and for the fridge. Our AS is fully stocked when we travel. The only item you missed was securing the stove exhaust vent latch from outside.
As an FYI, some trailers with certain slides need the stabilizer jacks down for safety reasons. I used to have a TT with a hardsided bed slide that slid out from the top half of the back wall. If the stabilizer jacks weren't down, I risked tipping the camper on it's end if too much weight was in the bed, ie, me and my husband.
Hello...We just purchased a 2018 Avenger 27 DBS. First time TT owners. We need as much insight as possible to get started. Your videos are awesome to say the least. Sometimes it's the small things that make the biggest difference. Keep em coming...Thanks!!!
We had our trailer slip off of our "tongue lift" block in a sandy situation because we hadn't chocked it. Luckily, our trailer is really small and we were able to hold it up but it could have been really, really terrible! CHOCKS ROCK!
We appreciate your video series, we are just starting our adventure, and thanks to the two of you we will start with a little more wisdom. Please keep the videos coming, thank you
re: full water tank: Very good advice. Full is much better. There have been many a fire truck that has rolled over due to the movement of water while making a curve. They at least have baffles to limit the force, but it still happens. Of course there is a lot of difference between volumes, but the force is still there. Teach your dogs to roll over, not your vehicles.
Extreme newb here..but videos like yours are helping to calm me. I'm spending time getting my dear hub to think in Physics principles..angles, etc. Writing from increasingly chilly Michigan 🤣🙃😊
Great video! One suggestion, roll your power cord from the unit to the plug. If done starting at the plug the memory in the cloud will accumulate at the unit end and the memory will eventually ruin the cord because of the twist put in the wires.
Hi Sean and Kristie! We have an 2005 Classic and enjoy your videos. One additional thing to remember is to lock down the awnings. Don't want to have trouble with those as you're tooling down the road. Thanks for the tips!! Ruste
I could see a cord still connected as you started to pull away near the end (coming off the links blocks). Once a newbie does pull completely out of their campsite, STOP & G.O.A.L.! Get Out And Look! This is the final check ALL RVers should do. Walk back and check the entire site you just left. If there are any fluids that have been leaking, it will be easy to see (condensate from roof AC units doesn't count here). Did your tail swing hit anything? Walking back to your rig, do a complete walk around looking high, low and underneath your rig and especially, check your tow connections one last time. Are safety chains too low (or even dragging)? I do enjoy your videos; keep 'em coming!
Hey, if you forget Kristy, I would go get her LOL. Good job guys. I think I do 4-5 walk around every time we leave a spot. And your right about that bumper "shelf" !!
One step we have added is that after the final walk-around check and light check, my wife waits behind the trailer while I pull completely out of the campsite, and then she makes one final inspection of the site to be sure we didn't leave something behind, such as an article or garbage under the trailer. Then she gets in the truck and we are confidently on our way.
When coiling a rope or cord it works best to start near the permanently attached end and work towards the loose /plug end. This allows a slight twist with each coil gathered.
I've been following your channel for a while. This was a new to me that I shared that I had not shared with others. Folding up a step is something I learned from my grandparents when my grandfather ripped the steps off the Winnebago in the lates 70s. It was a hilarious situation (later when everyone stopped freaking out) and was horrendously loud. Loved this! Great walkthrough for beginners. Waiting to join you on the road!
Thank you for laugh out loud the useful info...we r retired and looking at travel trailers .... And a truck to pull it...we enjoy watching your video blogs and your experiences...I can’t believe the new travel trailers are made with cheap Chinese tires? Plus we are looking seriously at solar power...we really like the Air. Stream...so lots to do before we make that big bite...b safe out there!
Love you guys, but I have a "Top Tip" for you! Test the electric brakes by doing a tug test. Every time we hook up and get ready to pull away, I do a tug test to lock down the trailer brakes and make sure that the hitch connections are tight. Granted we have a fiver, but I don't want to drop a trailer on the road! If it ever does happen " knock on wood" I rather it happen at a campground. Plus at every stop, check the hitch for any tampering. I never had a problem with this issue, however, working in the freight transportation world I have heard of some horror stories!
About 8 years ago I stopped at a fast food place to eat. When I came out, the power cord to the trailer was cut. Not torn, but a clean cut. No lights or brakes.
I am the part time golf cart guy at a RV resort here in Palm desert. A rig pulled out with the black tank valve open. It was not bad until he turned. Yup...It hit the fan (road). Lucky me, I escaped the cleanup.
Next time we're in your area we need to interview you. I want to foster peace and harmony between campers and Golf Cart Guys throughout our fair land...
It's seasonal, I don't think I'll be back next year. After the Stagecoach Festival, I'll be heading up to Glacier NP and beyond. With a stopover in "Big Belly" of course. 2015.5 Lance trailer 1995 (that's the model, not the year) and a Ford F-150 with EcoBoost 3.5. Should be gone in six weeks....Yeah!
Love that I can see some spectacular locations right here on my phone. You obviously put plenty of thought and work into your vlogs and the information is always helpful. Traveling mercies to you from NC.
That TV antenna is what gets me. I've left a couple of times with that thing up! I want the auto leveling system! We had friends a long time ago, '70s, who had an Airstream with auto leveler! Many Class As have that. I never have. I always carry some water too, my tank is 25 gallons right up front, so I've never had any problems at all with sway. My trailer is small though, 25' 3,200 lbs empty. Hey, that looks like Drivin and Vibin next to y'all at 5:00 mark!
Add to inside checklist: Wrap shower head in a towel and lie it on the floor. Latch the shower door. Please call them STABILIZERS! They STABILIZE the trailer! The word "jack" implies lift. The stabilizers are not jacks and will not lift or raise the trailer.
Sean and Christie - great reminders on breaking down camp! Learned the hard way when I left the hitch pin on the bumper and drove off after setting up at a campground in Mississippi. Luckily, Walmart was close by LOL!
Hey guys I'm from Newnan ga howdy neighbors love your videos y'all have helped me and the wife with our new adventures in camping we bought our first camper in October 16 and I watched every video y'all made before our purchase thanks for the info we didn't buy a tin can lol hope you have a great day
Only step I would add is to be sure you lock your storage units-I would add that when I stow away levelers (cause that's where mine are stored). Loved the video. I'm a newbie. :)
When we were using a bumper pull, when hooking up I always left the front stablerizers down until I was physically attached to the truck. This was a safety factor in case for some reason the trailer hitch. Once secured the stabilizers would go up.
Believe it or not I’ve been following you for years,since you started. Common sense plays a big role when hauling any trailer or 5th wheel and SPEED has a big affect if you have a wonderful day or a horrible day. It (speed) makes your water or liquids roll faster back and forth. It affects braking and if you have control of your vehicle or not. So take speed into consideration when traveling,it does make a difference slow down and smell the roses or coffee and don’t let the sites you may miss pass you by!!
Thanks for your videos. We are getting ready to take a 3-4 month trip and your site has given us the confidence and encouragement we needed. Thanks again!
Great video, our process is very similar to yours.. slow and steady. We put away as much stuff as we can the night before too.. makes the morning more enjoyable.!
Thanks for the specific laundry video. A lot of this video doesn't apply to our little Travato van but still some good tips! And great followup comments!
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AFFILIATE LINK DISCLOSURE: Friends, making a quality Loloho video is kind of like making sausage - only slightly more violent. It's a ridiculous amount of work that typically involves high dollar camera drops, blue-screen-of-death computer crashes, and at least one angry shotgun wielding old man shouting, “Hey! Get the hell outta here!” Once the final video is posted, rewards here on RUclips are few and far between (unless you are a masochist who enjoys being verbally abused by anonymous trolls). One saving grace is our affiliate links. JUST CLICKING THESE LINKS HELPS TO SUPPORT OUR LITTLE SHOW. Think of this clicking as like tipping - except that it doesn't cost you anything extra! If you eventually make a purchase via one of our affiliate links, we will receive a few pennies (and Sean typically invests these pennies in duct tape and video gear). Again, it doesn't cost you anything to click these links, and it's a great help to us. As always, safe travels, happy camping, and THANK YOU!
You pair deserve lots of credit for putting out these high quality videography. You have a great yin and yan balance. Enjoy and keep it up.
Wonderful top quality videos. Never stop !! RS. Canada
We always empty the black and gray tanks and then put 4 gallons of water in each with some dawn soap. Helps clean the inside of all tanks as we drive. Not heavy enough to feel the weight but the solid waste accumulated in the corners of tanks gets cleaned out. First thing when we arrive, we drain the tanks. Lots of stuff comes out.
How much Dawn Soap?
We put in two dish washing pods before we leave the campsite with a little water. When we arrive at our next campsite I dump the black tank and it looks like I haven't dumped it as the pods get the "flakes" off the sides of the tanks.
DITTO .... 2 cups of Dawn & 1 cups of a water softener (I use liquid Calgon but any will really do) a few gallons of water and drive down the road. AMAZING how much residual stuff comes out of what you think is a clean tank.
@@EmpressEnterprises 2 cups of Dawn & 1 cup Water softener & a gallon or 2 of water.
Step 12... Pray that you did everything right, that you didn't forget anything, and for a safe journey...
Check the weather the day before departure, it might be raining when you get up on departure day, and picking up camp, stowing gear that is wet requires extra work when you get home. I sometimes pack up outside the night before to avoid damp, wet, dirty chairs, hoses, awning. Greetings from Indiana.
Clean up the campground and take care of ALL the garbage !! Leave the site cleaner than you found it !
When unhitching the water hose, I have found it a good idea, after cutting off the campground faucet, to open a faucet inside the trailer. This relieves pressure in the hose, and keeps me from getting an unwanted cold shower.
I enjoy the programs you make.
After leaving a log splitter at camp one year I spray painted a bright color strip on all shovels, rakes, axes, etc. it really helps if you leave a tool on the ground, on the truck, or anywhere else. Especially if it's something you can't pack up the night before. Great tips. Thanks.
That's an excellent suggestion.
Log splitter? A power splitter? Or do you mean a maul?
I like to drain a couple gallons of grey first, just to make sure all the connections are good. Then i go for the black, and back to finish the grey. Who knows, maybe it will save me from a disaster one day lol
Now that makes sense.
Shay Fields YES!! Always. If something is going to leak, I would prefer it be the gray water, over the black!
I do the same thing but thats because I have a small grey tank for the outside kitchen to drain. Always drain that first which is small and does not usually have much in it anyway as a test.
Life Pro Tip: Couple gallons of grey just to be sure before going nuclear.
I'm new to this, can you explain what you mean, "all the connections are good?"
Sean & Kristy - Another great video. One step I would add is to check your tires and lug nuts out. A quick pressure check, inspecting the tread & sidewalls, and finally a quick check of the lug nuts to see if any look loose or are missing. Put it right before or after your pulling of the chocks.
For whatever it is worth, I have found in life that when I "Feel" pushed, or stressed to do whatever, I SLOW DOWN. That seems to work well. Speed kills they say, so just slow down, even if the guy "in the golf cart" wants me to move faster.
Couldn't agree more! If Golf Cart Guy harasses us, I also slow down.
Sometimes you will "faster" when you go "slower".....great advice
Very comprehensive video. Covered all the right things. We have a 39 foot RV horse trailer combo. We accidentally left the 12 volt water pump on. As we were driving and hitting some rough roads, the shower nozzle jumped off its cradle and hit the water handle turning the water on. To make matters worse we had left all our towels in the shower floor which prevented the water from draining. When we stopped at a pull off to check the horses, we looked in the RV section to be pleasantly surprised (NOT) at water on our floor. Yikees! So we had to use our remaining clean towels, etc. to mop it up. We now always shut off the main battery switch and pack our dirty towels in a laundry bag in the bunk.
First year camping left a whole toolbox on the picnic table. Did not remember it until I needed a tool to set up camp 350 miles away. Good tools too.
To combat forgetting during Tear Down/Set Up we use a Check List App on our tablets/Cell Phones. Multiple checklists work great, one inside one outside. Works for us. It helps keep you in a routine.
When my daughter was young (5-6) she would be actively involved in loading up the trailer, and she knew what she was doing! Many times I got comments from other campers that they were amazed a little girl like that could do so much. Sadly,my little girl grew up, so now I have to solo my packing.
Good video on breaking camp. We have a Diesel motorhome so the step is automatic upon starting the engine and the levelers sound a chime if you start up without them retracted, so those are not a problem. I use a colorfully painted close-pin on the TV antenna to prevent moving with it up. When the antenna is stowed the pin gets clipped to the winding crank, when it is cranked up the pin goes to the ignition key. Of course in a trailer there is no ignition key so the pin could be placed on the door handle or the screen door as a reminder. Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Which is why we have baffles in the water tanks on fire engines. 👍🏻
Yes, I've heard some people speculate that some RVs may have baffles in the fresh water tanks, but I've seen no evidence of it and therefore assume that the vast majority do not...
I used to haul 3300 gallons of solvent (14lbs/gal.) in a 7000 gallon smooth bore trailer (no baffles) to Charlotte, NC. from Hebron, OH. Talk about getting slapped around.
In 10 days we are taking our new 5th wheel from Ontario Canada to Mackinaw Island Michigan, Thunder Bay, Edmonton.Jasper, Banff, Vancouver and Vancouver island, returning home via Seattle, Montana, Yellowstone Park, Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. We have done a total of 7 nights in the RV and are inspired by your videos to be starting out on our new adventure. We are 65 years old and never RV'ed before, but "do it while you can"! Thanks for the videos.
Bill and Madeline
You guys are so spot on! The only addition I would add is we usually pull forward onto the road for the final check. This gives us the chance to see anything we missed, but also inspect the campsite to make sure it is the same as we arrived. Once on the road, we can check everything is attached and ready to roll. We have a one hour time limit, and like you my wife starts the process indoors. I get some time to relax until she declares it is time to roll, where it becomes my job to make us transportable. We have slides, which are a pain, but because we are big people, nice when we are parked. My wife is disabled, so our goal is 1 hour for breakdown, 1/2 hour for setup. Except for heavy weather, we usually exceed this goal. Teamwork is the key.
and Shawn, like you I have made some mistakes I'm not proud of. In heavy rain, I raised the jack to release the trailer without having the wheel chocks in place. Thank god I hadn't removed the chains, as the trailer rolled back until the chains stopped it! Scared the heck out of me. We all make mistakes when we rush. Sometimes we just have to be careful and not fast! LOL
One of the most significant things I would add is to check the tire pressures. Once hitched every tire should be checked. If any are off spec, then the next stop is a tire shop for inspection or repair.
Hi Sean and Christie. Enjoy your videos very much. One more item you may want to mention about breaking camp - remember to fully raise your hitch jack. I failed to raise mine all the way and hit a small boulder embedded in the dirt road as I was leaving. It twisted the foot around about 90 degrees but I was able to force it back into place with my favorite crow bar (which I have not lost yet) :)
When doing that final walk around I highly recommend looking up high to make sure the antenna is stowed, no tree limbs in the way, etc., and give a good look around under the trailer to make sure the stabilizer jacks are up, no cords still hanging down, no sharp rocks, etc.. This high/low check has saved our bacon more than once. Great video, guys!
I loved this video! I recently had the opportunity to tow our 18 ft rv to a lake, state park in Texas. Husband could not go. I am 63 and it's been years since I have had to do this alone. 11 year old granddaughter was not helpful. So everything you did on here, I had to do by myself. I got er done! Thank you both so much. I am an avid subscriber! Thank you!
Hey Y'all, we are old Airstreamer's. Still love them but now we have S.O.B. I think the wife and I do it exactly like y'all. She handles the inside while I'm getting the outside done. Over the last 29 years if it can be torn up I've done it. I think the most vulnerable thing on my setup is the wheel chocks. I have an aluminum "boom chock" like yours. When you decide to pull off the leveling blocks and forget to take out the chock from between the tires, bad things happen to it. One tire is rolling up and the other is rolling down... and the connecting rod in the chock twists like a pretzel. I hate when that happens.
Love y'all, keep em coming.
After 20 years of pop-up camping with our 4 kids we've upgraded to a Jayco slx 174bh, (enough room for us and our Granddaughter and maybe an adult child or 2) so not new to camping but new to having a self contained unit. I've viewed several of your videos and really appreciate the insights you share. We are looking forward to spring and making new memories! Thanks for sharing and blessings to you!
Tip about the stabilizer jacks: when you have two kids and a dog all at the very rear of the trailer, it is very possible to pop a wheelie in some campers. (small lightweight trailers and pop ups are especially prone to this).
We are newbies and just picked up or new camper. We have tons to learn, and with your videos we are feeling more and more confident. Please keep up the good work.
I enjoy your videos. I suggest you switch the breaker OFF at the shore power before unplugging. Less chance of getting a shock and not to mention, if something is on creating a load, there with be an arc when it disconnects maybe leaving a burnt spot on your plug connections. (Also when plugging in, make sure the breaker is off for the same reasons. I can't tell you how many times I am setting up and the last person left the breaker on.)
Great Video,
I do basically the same except I flush the tanks before I disconnect the city water. That way I have the kids flushing the toilet to help with the flow! When I see clear water come out I know it is empty. Also I add a bit of water in the black tank before I put the treatment puck in. This helps disperse it and prevent anything caking in the bottom of the tank.
Keep up the great work!
We are about to bring home our first trailer(sadly not an Airstream). I have been a tent camper for decades. But the woman in my life wants a trailer. I retire in less than two years and have always wanted to visit each and every baseball park so this was my motivation. We also have a National Park trip and Alaska on our list as well as all the local camp grounds. I have to say, that when I found your youtube channel I was pleased, entertained and informed. I can't begin to thank you enough. You both do a fantastic job! Keep up the great work. I can only imagine the hours it takes to put one of these videos together.
All great tips! One to add, whether breaking down or starting out on a tip: Make sure your water taps inside the trailer are shut off. You never know what can happen as you traverse hill and dale, or as you fill up (perhaps, um, overfill) your tank.
I've been stalking your videos a few days now, as we are FINALLY getting into camping at our age of 60! We camped as kids with our families, but never took the step until now to get a camper. Thanks for all your informative videos!
And never forget to make sure your plasma energy waveguide distribution conduit is set to bypass mode and engage the tachion practical collector to normal underway setting.
Just discovered your channel and loved both the 'set-up' and 'break-down' vids -- even as a 15 year veteran, there were some great tips. One thing I'd add here -- follow your steps in consistent order, without interruption, every time. To your point, it gets easier over time -- for us, that's because we get in our rhythm and chug through our routine. A checklist can help, but it's not perfect. Just a couple of weeks ago, my spouse got ahead of things by turning off the fresh water at the stand and opening the faucets to release the pressure. She assures me she mentioned it. When I zipped into the bathroom for one last potty break before unhooking the hose etc., I flushed and then turned on the water pump out of habit. THEN I wondered what was making that sound like the flow of water out in the cabin. THEN I swore a lot as I turned off faucets and grabbed towels to sop up the water on the counter, down the cabinet, and on the floor (because of course the cutting boards were already in place over the sink). After words were exchanged, we agreed steps should always be taken in order in the future!
Thanks for your comment. Yes, the water pump can be dangerous. We know one couple who mistakenly left on their water pump before getting on a very bumpy highway. You guessed it... the kitchen faucet got jostled on, the sink overflowed, and the trailer was flooded -- all while they were traveling down the highway!
I usually line up the tow vehicle with the coupler the night before (especially if rain in the forecast) to save time in the morning. If the ball is lower than the coupler I will back right under it. Also if the trailer will still be fairly level, I may raise the stabilizer jacks and actually hitch up the night before as the trailer will not move too much when on the ball. However, NEVER lower the tongue jack when hooked up like this as it is easy to forget to raise it in the morning.
I loved this video. I have been using my 32' Sundance 5th wheel for almost 4 years now and leaving the stabilizer jacks down was my first mistake. I couldn't figure out why it was taking so long to lift the front end to hook up. When I took off(didn't do a walk around) I actually pulled the rear stabilizers off the frame. Luckily they weren't damaged too badly and I was able to straighten out the mounting flange and replace them. The first thing I did when I got back to work the following week, was to find the label maker and make a tag for above my lifting switch that says, "Rear jacks up?". Haven't had a problem since. When it is time to replace the trailer, I will also replace the tag.
I have marathon watched many of your videos and find them both entertaining and informative. Keep up the great work.
thanks much Chris, don't feel too bad about those stabilizers, I made a similar mistake! Great idea to put a little reminder tag by the lifting switch. Cheers, Sean
you also want ot extend your slides prior to lowering the jacks. Hard on the mechanism if you have them extended.
We’re from Indianapolis and just got our first camper! We have 4 kids and are looking forward to many vacation adventures. Thank you for all the great tips:-).
Here's a good tip to help with remembering to raise scissor jacks before using power lift jack. just use a simple "flag" when you lower your scissor jacks the "flag" gets put on the power jack near the operation switches, thus reminding yourself that your jacks are down. lol (see flag = no operate)
And by "flag" I don't mean actual flag, just something easily attached and easily seen before using power jack. example: a little airport luggage tag tied onto a small magnet.
My last check is after I pull out of the site. I stop, get out and check where the RV was sitting to make sure I didn't leave something behind. It's pretty easy to see anything left without an RV/trailer in the way. GREAT video! Thanks for the tips.
Remember when hauling water, it isn't how much your truck can haul, it is about the axle/tire weight limits. (GVWR) I've known people who weigh there RVs with empty tanks and felt good because they're under the limits. Then they fill their 50 gallon water tank and, at 8.5lb per gal., added 450 lbs on their axles. As far the water splashing around, that is why they now put the tanks directly over the axles on trailers. My first trailer (made in 1968) had the water in the back. Tailwagger.
My wife Joan & I enjoy you and your videos. We are an older couple wit a 30ft fifth wheel and a Ford 350 diesel. We live in Canada, and are looking forward to getting going. We have to wait for spring, but are anticipating getting on the road. Your videos are helpful to us. Thank you!
Winston!
Next time you need holding tank treatment try Happy Camper... It is available from Amazon. There is no odor. You like me being from the Sunshine State things can really cook in the tanks. I use it in the black and gray tanks and there is no odor even when dumping. I am not affiliated with Happy Camper, othen than a very happy user.
Interesting thing about the water tank. My tanks have baffles in them to stop the sloshing. We have a class C motorhome and to get a little better gas mileage we run with about 10 gallons of fresh water.
Hi,I am retired in Florida. Enjoy watching your videos. I will be traveling internationally for the next five years but after that, I plan to travel around the USA for 10 years in a converted cargo trailer and small car. I am a bit of a minimalist, so a converted cargo trail is enough for me. Thanks for all you great videos.Tom
So yesterday I thought I had done everything before we left the RV park but unfortunately when we got to our next park I unscrewed the the whole to put my sewer connection on and I didn't shut my grey tank so when i took the cap off grey water went everywhere thank goodness it wasn't the black tank. We live and learn. Thanks for another great video.
remember your awnings. secure them, checking that all is tight
I have a friend, Kathy. Kathy is one of 11 children in their family. Her parents had a pickup truck camper. One time after stopping at a rest stop one of the kids was left behind. This was discovered at the next stop a couple oh hours away and the truck had to go back for the lost kid. After this the mom started a policy of having the children like up and count off. So, yes, kids can be accidentally lost.
I always give the tow vehicle a "once over" as well. Check the oil, transmission fluid (if you can) check the tire pressure and condition, (also trailer tire pressure and condition) Also make sure you have enough "bug juice" for the windshield. Lastly, make sure you have enough gas to get where you plan, or plan to get some soon after but know where the station is before hand. :)
You know I love your show, but now I'm on my second Tilley just for color! Stop the madness no more good stuff! LOL. I stopped for fuel in a class c pulled out and just glanced in the mirror saw one very panicked wife with ice cream in her hand. I told her I was just getting out of the way. Thank God I looked in the mirror, no tellin. Love you guys. BTW headin out to the Virginia's soon so if you are in the area, beer on me.
Always check all six sides of your trailer AND tow vehicle before moving: top, bottom and all four sides. On tow vehicle look for puddles under the engine. Check the tires on both trailer and tow vehicle. If something looks off confirm with a gauge. Use a tire gauge once a month, at a minimum. I have seen a laser heat gauge used on wheel bearings also (at gas stations and rest stops). This will work on tires also as under inflated tires get hot.
Thank you, one suggestion make sure the campfire is totally out without a doubt. It only takes one spark to start a forest fire. Payson Arizona
Great tips. I know I will need to write these down just as a reminder that I don't forget that one thing.
I lived without city water hookups in my house until 2007, and hauled my water 250 gallons at a time for years. You are exactly right about water tanks half full. It's extremely dangerous!!!!!
Good video. My wife was giving it the nod of approval. One comment I have is on the chocks. I use the X-Chock and really like it for the tandem axles. Once installed the trailer doesn't move an inch and it helps to stabilize. Thanks
Just discovered your channel and really enjoy it. One last item would be to police the area for bits of trash. I learned this many years ago in scouts and have been doing it ever since. No bit of trash is too small. See ya' down the road.
Thanks, I agree 100%. Hate to see any litter at a campsite!
Clear, comprehensive tips for breaking down RV camp - well done!
Also make sure the step is securely secured. We have a 2018 Flying Cloud 25FB and sometimes the set seems secure but really is not. So i just push it up and pull on it to make sure it is secured. Also good idea to keep your trailer keys with you. It’s easy to exit the trailer and bump the door lock, and when the door closes you are locked out. I keep an extra set in the TV.
Our first ever trip in our new travel trailer was earlier this month trying to get away from hurricane Irma. Sure enough got to Alabama and the pry bar that came with our hitch was no where to be found. Looked for it when we got home but never found it. Guess someone saw it when we left and decided they needed it more then we did. Lesson learned.
Good tip on the half filled fresh water tank. I never even considered this. Thanks.
I did receive a tip from a friend about pulling onto boards to level your rig. It would be wise to pull on and off in the opposite direction of your sewer connection. If the board or boards kick up when you first pull on to them it can damage you connection.
Yeah, boards "work" but there are better tools for that job.
Love your channel. You have helped us with our first rig, our first trip and so grateful for your tips. We had a successful maiden Voyage to St. Augustine, FL a month ago. Drive down from Bluffton, SC. So proud of our backing skills, hitching and towing our Gulf Stream Vintage Friendship 19ERD in turquoise. Loving it, had a week of great camping at Compass RV Resort there. Thanks for all your help!
My wife and I bought our first RV about 2 weeks ago. It is still in its shake-down stage in the driveway, however, we have 2 outings planned for this month already and two for next month. Not too far from home, but still a good first few outings... I found and subscribed to your channel yesterday... I I must say, I have learned a lot and had a lot of questions answered in the few videos I have watched thus far... We will surely share with you guys... thanks from Oklahoma... :)
+KC SPAIN thanks! We have a playlist for beginners on our channel homepage that you may find helpful. Enjoy!
I've watched about 15 or 20 of your videos by now... lol... have some parts ordered from Amazon that I didn't realize I needed too... lol... thanks again... If you guys ever decide to go to Lake Eufaula in Oklahoma let us know... have to acquire a few pricey products before we venture out very far...
My wife does inside stuff and works the slides, I do outside stuff and the hitch up. We have a 32' 5th wheel and takes us about 25 min to get rolling, not even working up a sweat. Division of labor is the key.....
You guys have helped my wife and I prepare for our new adventures in our 5th wheel. I appreciate all the tips/tricks/ins and outs. Thank you very much.
Thanks much, enjoy the adventure!
We always check the site after we pulled out. Not only for items left behind but for trash that may have blown under the RV.
an excellent practice! i hate to see litter anywhere, especially a campground.
Hi! Thanks for video. It was a last drop that I’ll develop my own internal and external checklist for me and my wife. I was so close to do it by myself.
I had to add something such switch off gas on gas tank because it’s prohibited to drive with open gas tank in EU. And some other small items
Thank you for your GREAT videos. Your down to earth explanations
and style, along with your humorous admission of mistakes has encouraged me to
hit the road for the first time with my new 24’er with new confidence.
Thanks so much for the tips and reminders. I've learned a lot from you guys. I would add MY 2nd to the last step before leaving... I physically step over my hitch, and ONCE more, check the chains, breakaway switch, electric plug from truck to trailer to be tight and locked down securely, the ball hitch pin in place (guilty only once), and that the house battery switch is ON. Still working on the wife for backing up and hitching. :) OMGosh.
You forgot the very last thing, which is for the "how to" vloggers, can you guess?...PICK UP THAT CAMERA YOU USED TO RECORD YOURSELF LEAVING! lol
We run the LP for heat and for the fridge. Our AS is fully stocked when we travel. The only item you missed was securing the stove exhaust vent latch from outside.
Love the opening with the campfire, I enjoy a good campfire, you can see that by my choice of ID picture.
As an FYI, some trailers with certain slides need the stabilizer jacks down for safety reasons. I used to have a TT with a hardsided bed slide that slid out from the top half of the back wall. If the stabilizer jacks weren't down, I risked tipping the camper on it's end if too much weight was in the bed, ie, me and my husband.
Hello...We just purchased a 2018 Avenger 27 DBS. First time TT owners. We need as much insight as possible to get started. Your videos are awesome to say the least. Sometimes it's the small things that make the biggest difference. Keep em coming...Thanks!!!
We had our trailer slip off of our "tongue lift" block in a sandy situation because we hadn't chocked it. Luckily, our trailer is really small and we were able to hold it up but it could have been really, really terrible! CHOCKS ROCK!
We appreciate your video series, we are just starting our adventure, and thanks to the two of you we will start with a little more wisdom. Please keep the videos coming, thank you
re: full water tank: Very good advice. Full is much better. There have been many a fire truck that has rolled over due to the movement of water while making a curve. They at least have baffles to limit the force, but it still happens. Of course there is a lot of difference between volumes, but the force is still there. Teach your dogs to roll over, not your vehicles.
Extreme newb here..but videos like yours are helping to calm me. I'm spending time getting my dear hub to think in Physics principles..angles, etc. Writing from increasingly chilly Michigan 🤣🙃😊
Hello love y'all from VA!! My hubbs and I are planning for our retirement! God bless!
Great video! One suggestion, roll your power cord from the unit to the plug. If done starting at the plug the memory in the cloud will accumulate at the unit end and the memory will eventually ruin the cord because of the twist put in the wires.
Hi Sean and Kristie! We have an 2005 Classic and enjoy your videos. One additional thing to remember is to lock down the awnings. Don't want to have trouble with those as you're tooling down the road. Thanks for the tips!! Ruste
I could see a cord still connected as you started to pull away near the end (coming off the links blocks). Once a newbie does pull completely out of their campsite, STOP & G.O.A.L.! Get Out And Look! This is the final check ALL RVers should do. Walk back and check the entire site you just left. If there are any fluids that have been leaking, it will be easy to see (condensate from roof AC units doesn't count here). Did your tail swing hit anything? Walking back to your rig, do a complete walk around looking high, low and underneath your rig and especially, check your tow connections one last time. Are safety chains too low (or even dragging)? I do enjoy your videos; keep 'em coming!
Hey, if you forget Kristy, I would go get her LOL.
Good job guys. I think I do 4-5 walk around every time we leave a spot. And your right about that bumper "shelf" !!
One step we have added is that after the final walk-around check and light check, my wife waits behind the trailer while I pull completely out of the campsite, and then she makes one final inspection of the site to be sure we didn't leave something behind, such as an article or garbage under the trailer. Then she gets in the truck and we are confidently on our way.
When coiling a rope or cord it works best to start near the permanently attached end and work towards the loose /plug end. This allows a slight twist with each coil gathered.
I've been following your channel for a while. This was a new to me that I shared that I had not shared with others. Folding up a step is something I learned from my grandparents when my grandfather ripped the steps off the Winnebago in the lates 70s. It was a hilarious situation (later when everyone stopped freaking out) and was horrendously loud. Loved this! Great walkthrough for beginners. Waiting to join you on the road!
Thank you for laugh out loud the useful info...we r retired and looking at travel trailers .... And a truck to pull it...we enjoy watching your video blogs and your experiences...I can’t believe the new travel trailers are made with cheap Chinese tires? Plus we are looking seriously at solar power...we really like the Air. Stream...so lots to do before we make that big bite...b safe out there!
Love you guys, but I have a "Top Tip" for you! Test the electric brakes by doing a tug test. Every time we hook up and get ready to pull away, I do a tug test to lock down the trailer brakes and make sure that the hitch connections are tight. Granted we have a fiver, but I don't want to drop a trailer on the road! If it ever does happen " knock on wood" I rather it happen at a campground. Plus at every stop, check the hitch for any tampering. I never had a problem with this issue, however, working in the freight transportation world I have heard of some horror stories!
About 8 years ago I stopped at a fast food place to eat. When I came out, the power cord to the trailer was cut. Not torn, but a clean cut. No lights or brakes.
Great Idea. A task List for jobs. We use to do that when we went camping with the Scouts.
I am the part time golf cart guy at a RV resort here in Palm desert.
A rig pulled out with the black tank valve open. It was not bad until he turned. Yup...It hit the fan (road). Lucky me, I escaped the cleanup.
Next time we're in your area we need to interview you. I want to foster peace and harmony between campers and Golf Cart Guys throughout our fair land...
It's seasonal, I don't think I'll be back next year. After the Stagecoach Festival, I'll be heading up to Glacier NP and beyond. With a stopover in "Big Belly" of course.
2015.5 Lance trailer 1995 (that's the model, not the year) and a Ford F-150 with EcoBoost 3.5.
Should be gone in six weeks....Yeah!
"The Golf Cart Guy!" LOL!!! Lots of good points!
Love that I can see some spectacular locations right here on my phone. You obviously put plenty of thought and work into your vlogs and the information is always helpful. Traveling mercies to you from NC.
That TV antenna is what gets me. I've left a couple of times with that thing up! I want the auto leveling system! We had friends a long time ago, '70s, who had an Airstream with auto leveler! Many Class As have that. I never have. I always carry some water too, my tank is 25 gallons right up front, so I've never had any problems at all with sway. My trailer is small though, 25' 3,200 lbs empty. Hey, that looks like Drivin and Vibin next to y'all at 5:00 mark!
Add to inside checklist:
Wrap shower head in a towel and lie it on the floor.
Latch the shower door.
Please call them STABILIZERS!
They STABILIZE the trailer!
The word "jack" implies lift.
The stabilizers are not jacks and will not lift or raise the trailer.
Sean and Christie - great reminders on breaking down camp! Learned the hard way when I left the hitch pin on the bumper and drove off after setting up at a campground in Mississippi. Luckily, Walmart was close by LOL!
Our first X-country trip is planned for next week. I'm glad I've found your Videos, been watching and learning . Thanks !
Hey guys I'm from Newnan ga howdy neighbors love your videos y'all have helped me and the wife with our new adventures in camping we bought our first camper in October 16 and I watched every video y'all made before our purchase thanks for the info we didn't buy a tin can lol hope you have a great day
hey Robert, welcome and no need to buy a tin can haha... safe travels to ya!
Only step I would add is to be sure you lock your storage units-I would add that when I stow away levelers (cause that's where mine are stored). Loved the video. I'm a newbie. :)
When we were using a bumper pull, when hooking up I always left the front stablerizers down until I was physically attached to the truck. This was a safety factor in case for some reason the trailer hitch. Once secured the stabilizers would go up.
Believe it or not I’ve been following you for years,since you started. Common sense plays a big role when hauling any trailer or 5th wheel and SPEED has a big affect if you have a wonderful day or a horrible day.
It (speed) makes your water or liquids roll faster back and forth. It affects braking and if you have control of your vehicle or not. So take speed into consideration when traveling,it does make a difference slow down and smell the roses or coffee and don’t let the sites you may miss pass you by!!
Thanks for sticking with us through the years, and for the excellent advice!
Thanks for your videos. We are getting ready to take a 3-4 month trip and your site has given us the confidence and encouragement we needed. Thanks again!
Great video, our process is very similar to yours.. slow and steady. We put away as much stuff as we can the night before too.. makes the morning more enjoyable.!
Thanks for the specific laundry video. A lot of this video doesn't apply to our little Travato van but still some good tips! And great followup comments!