Gearing up!

Booking an RV trip can be one of the most exciting parts of the year, especially as you anticipate that first morning spent waking up to the crisp outdoors. But after a long winter, there’s a good chance a few essential maintenance tasks have slipped under the radar. It’s easy to park the rig for the colder months and forget about it until camping season calls again. However, your RV’s systems need attention—even if you haven’t used them for a while—and overlooking these routine checks can lead to headaches once you’re actually on the road.

One of the most overlooked areas after winter storage is the condition of your RV’s power sources. Batteries often lose charge during months of disuse, which is why it’s a good idea to test them before setting out. At the same time, it’s important to power on every major system—even if just briefly—to ensure everything is operating as it should. Flip on your generator, confirm your water pump is moving water without leaks, and test any hydraulics or slide systems for smooth operation. Giving these components a quick run not only helps verify they still work, but also uncovers any early signs of trouble that could be addressed before your trip.

Just as vital is a thorough check of your plumbing, aquahot system, and holding tanks. Winter temperatures can cause small cracks or leaks, particularly if water wasn’t fully drained before storage. If your RV uses an aquahot system for heating, make sure there are no drips and that the system warms up properly once you power it on. The black and grey tanks might also need more than a glance; it’s worth investing time in a thorough cleaning or deodorizing routine if they sat unused for months. A less-than-fresh odor or residue can turn an otherwise peaceful trip into a smelly ordeal.

Don’t forget to inspect your exterior and the add-ons that keep the interior comfortable and protected. Awnings and slide toppers can accumulate debris, develop small tears, or suffer from mold growth if they weren’t dried thoroughly during winter storage. Unfurling them fully is the best way to check for hidden issues, and a gentle cleaning can work wonders in extending their lifespan. While you’re at it, give your slide-outs a good once-over. Running them in and out helps you see if there’s any unusual resistance or noise that suggests they need lubrication or more in-depth maintenance.

Moving below the rig, tires and wheel bearings deserve extra scrutiny after a long period of inactivity. Even when you’re not driving, tires can develop flat spots or lose air pressure, and wheel bearings can become dry or rusted. Checking tire tread and inflation, as well as verifying your wheel bearings are properly greased, is a straightforward process that can prevent a blowout or worse while you’re traveling. Brakes are equally critical; if you notice any squeaking, grinding, or stiffness in the brake pedal, it’s time for a professional inspection before logging any serious highway miles.

Engine fluids and other mechanical elements shouldn’t be neglected either. An oil change might be overdue if your last one occurred before the RV went into winter hibernation. Windshield wipers that were exposed to cold temperatures without use can crack or stiffen, potentially leaving you unprepared for a surprise rain shower on the road. And if your RV has a specialized water heater or other system, this is a great time to confirm everything is still properly sealed and that no fluid has leaked during storage.

Once you’ve worked through these checks—batteries, generator, water pump, hydraulics, slide systems, plumbing, aquahot heating, awnings, slide toppers, tires, brakes, wheel bearings, windshield wipers, and oil—set aside a moment to do a short test drive, if possible. A short trip around the block can reveal subtle issues you might miss while stationary. Maybe there’s a shimmy in the steering, a rattle that only appears at certain speeds, or a slight lag in the brakes. Any sign of trouble is best addressed at home, where you can either fix it yourself or schedule a professional repair without delaying your actual vacation.

With these winter maintenance tasks under control, you’ll have far fewer worries when it’s time to book your campsite and head out. While it’s tempting to jump straight to mapping your route and picking out the perfect scenic spot, a solid foundation of preventative care ensures that once you do hit the road, the biggest challenge you’ll face is deciding where to stop for lunch. By taking the time to run through each of these steps now, you’ll be poised for a smoother, more enjoyable camping season—and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your RV is ready for whatever adventure lies ahead.