When you’re new to RVing, the process can be a bit overwhelming. We recommend that RVers make their first overnight camping trip as easy as possible. Driveway camping can help make the transition less challenging and ensure you have an RV full of happy campers.
Today, we’re sharing five reasons why we think you should test your RV in your driveway before hitting the road. Let’s get started!
Is It Illegal to Park An RV in a Driveway?
Owning the land and driveway doesn’t mean you can park your RV there. Many communities and Homeowner Associations have restrictions regarding RVs. Some areas allow RVs to park in a driveway for a short time, but not permanently. You could get by with a night or two, but you may get a fine for an extended stay.
You’ll want to check with your local code enforcement and HOA guidelines to ensure you’re not violating any rules or regulations. If you live in an area that restricts RV driveway parking, you’ll need to store your rig elsewhere.
What Do You Need for Driveway Camping?
We strongly recommend having electrical adapters to connect your rig to a power source if you plan to do some driveway camping. If you installed a 30-amp or 50-amp electrical outlet, you’d likely have complete functionality of your RV. However, you’ll need to manage your power if you use adapters for a smaller electrical outlet. Overloading a breaker or extension cord can cause severe issues.
Because you’ll be testing your rig’s plumbing, you’ll need a water source. This will allow you to fill your fresh water tank, flush toilets, and use the faucets. Ensure you also run your water pump and test your water heater.
Treat your driveway camping experience like a campground. Bring your bedding and food into the RV, so you get the whole experience for the night. This will help you learn what you’ll need to bring when you hit the road.
5 Reasons to Test Your RV in the Driveway Before Hitting the Road
Your first RV experience isn’t likely to be your smoothest night. We have a few reasons why we think you should do a test run in your driveway before taking your first trip.
Learn Your Way Around Your RV
A new RV can be intimidating. You may have watched the staff walk you through the fancy features and gadgets, but it’s much to process. Camping in your driveway for the night allows you to learn the ins and outs of your camper without the pressure.
As you interact with your camper, you can start processing how you’ll use it. If you plan any decorating or modifications, you can begin taking measurements and square everything away for those projects.
Easy to Load Gear
Moving your camping gear and other items into your rig is never an enjoyable task. However, setting up your camper in the driveway makes it simple to load the equipment and ensure you are storing it safely to limit damage to your gear and RV.
You will likely have bedding, towels, and other essentials. Putting them away when you bring them in can help avoid cluttering up your beautiful camper and make it simpler to organize your rig.
Discover What You’re Forgetting
There’s nothing worse than getting to your campsite and discovering that you forgot to pack towels, toothbrushes, or pillows. These are only a few essentials you’ll need when camping, which you can easily forget at home. If you discover you need something, you can walk into your home and get it. You can also make a list to ensure you pack what you need.
Ensure All Systems Are Working
You don’t want to discover that your stove won’t stay lit or that you can’t get hot water without a backup plan. We think you should make every effort to learn your system. A warm dinner and hot shower are critical if you want a great camping experience.
If you can’t figure it out, you’re only in your driveway. You can go inside and prepare your meal or take a hot shower. For any systems that aren’t working, you can start researching and developing a plan. Some campgrounds may not have internet or cell service, making it tricky to watch how-to videos on YouTube.
Things Don’t Always Go How You Plan
Things don’t always go as planned. If that does happen, you can throw in the towel and head inside your home. RVing requires an adjustment; some people can handle it better than others.
Many RVers quickly discover that the mattresses in RVs are less than ideal. If you’re camping in your driveway, we don’t blame you if you head inside instead of sleeping in your camper. If you’re shopping for a new rig, you may want to plan to upgrade your mattress.
Do Some Driveway Camping to Test Your RV
Driveway camping makes testing out your RV convenient. With your house a few feet away, you have a comforting safety net. Jumping into RVing can bring a mixture of emotions, and that can cause tempers to rise when things go wrong. Make your driveway your first RV camping experience.
That way, you’re practically an expert when you hit the campgrounds. When will you be taking your first driveway camping trip?
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