RV Trip Planning: Make sure the motorhome is safe before you go anywhereRV Trip Planning: Make sure the motorhome is safe before you go anywhere

Ensuring your RV is running properly and free of damages before your vacation can reduce the risk of breaking down on the road. You should treat your motorhome as you would your car and have it checked out by a mechanic before you hit the road. There are a few things you can do on your own to get ready for your next big trip as well.

Perform a quick safety checklist prior to your trip

You should ensure everything is in working order inside the RV as well as under the hood. Make sure any onboard fire extinguishers are up to code and check the batteries in smoke detectors. You might also want to clean out the cooking vent hood to prevent the possibility of a grease fire, according to FunRoads.com. Check all the lights and make sure there's enough air in the tires.

Helpful hint: The air pressure marking on the tires indicates the maximum pressure they can handle, not the appropriate levels. This information can be found in the owner's manual of your RV.

Packing a just-in-case kit

Even if you make sure the RV is in good condition before a trip, it's always a smart move to be prepared for emergencies. Bring along a set of jumper cables, road flares and a flashlight in case your RV breaks down on the highway or runs out of juice while you're parked at RV campgrounds or parking lots. You might want to bring along a few tools for addressing minor repairs, such as an adjustable wrench, pliers and screwdrivers. A flat tire repair kit can also come in handy in a pinch.

DIY Tip: Duct tape is perfect for patching up leaky radiator hoses. However, this is just a temporary fix to help you get to a mechanic or at least off the highway. Any issues with the cooling system should be addressed by a professional as soon as possible.

Take precautions against potential problems

It is always a good idea to let someone know your travel plans in case of an emergency. You should also be prepared for severe weather conditions. Avoid parking under trees or in lowland areas that may be prone to flash floods during major storms.