After a day on the road it is easy to get in a hurry when it comes time to set up camp, but for the safety of you as well as your RV, get in the habit of setting up camp in a slow and systematic manner.

Prior to checking into a campground, inquire as to the site length to insure they can accommodate the length of your RV. Whenever possible, obtain a pull-thru site. You may want to visually inspect the campsite before paying to insure that it will adequately accommodate your RV.

When it comes to maneuvering campgrounds, going slow is the rule of thumb. Practice caution when navigating the roadway, looking high and low to avoid damage to the vehicle from overhanging tree limbs or concrete barriers that may line the roadway. If the path is excessively narrow, have the co-pilot or campground host monitor the RV from the outside.

Before backing into a campsite get out of the RV and walk the perimeter. Visually determine where you are going to park the RV where it will be most level and safely away from posts, rocks and shore power pedestals. Confirm that the campsite ground surface is firmly solid to support the weight of the vehicle. If applicable, unhook the tow vehicle and park it away from the line of travel required to park the RV.

Use the assistance of a co-pilot or campground attendant while backing into the campsite. Be sure that you are both on the same page as far as instructions are concerned, particularly the one the will signify Stop. Position the RV far enough away from obstacles to allow for extending slide rooms and the awnings.

Once parked, confirm that you can adequately reach all shore power hookups before leveling the motor home. Once set up is complete, engage components one at a time to avoid overloading the batteries or tripping a breaker. Retract awnings before retiring at night, and when you intend to be away from the RV for a period of time, to avoid damage from wind and rain.

When it's time to break down camp, unhook shore connections and store them away before retracting the levelers. Stow cargo, pull in slide rooms and awnings, and latch bay doors. Make one final walk around inspection prior to leaving to assure that the RV is secure. If it necessary to re-connect a tow car, pull out of the campsite and safely away from traffic to allow yourself time to concentrate on getting the tow bar properly attached.