The ability to maneuver a motor home or travel trailer is only a matter of learning how. RV driving schools are popping up around the country. Seek out the services of a professional driving course and once you are taught the proper technique practice those skills to develop experience and confidence.

During drive time keep the windshield clean and the front dash and cockpit floor clear of loose items. Situate pets away from the area to avoid distracting the driver or becoming entangled in the foot pedals or steering wheel.

Practice, practice, practice. Braking and acceleration performance may take getting used to. Memorize positioning of the transmission touch pad buttons, as well as navigational switches on the side panel to allow quick reference with only brief glances away from the road. Work in improving your driving skills away from traffic and when there are no constraints on your time. Large parking lots with white lined spaces are ideal training ground during non-business hours for making turns and backing into spaces.

Relax. Don't forget to breathe. Use the outside mirrors to align your vehicle inside the lane. If you are having a difficult time keeping the RV under control, slow down. If traffic builds up behind, pull off to the side when space allows so they can all safely pass. If you are in the position to pass slow moving traffic, return to your lane of travel as quickly as possible. When merging back in front of large rigs, avoid cutting too closely as those drivers will also require added stopping space.

Wait until the vehicle is moving before turning the wheels. Turn wide. Be aware of the vehicle length, including tow vehicles you may be pulling. Inexperience may cause you to drive the wheels up over curbs or collide with a stationary object. When this occurs, check the damage as soon as possible. In some instances it may be necessary to have the tire replaced or a readjustment in tire alignment.

Always allow the RV extra stopping room. Practice using the service brake to get a feel for how much pressure is required to stop. Be sure you can comfortably reach the floor pedal with the top portion of your foot to apply firm contact. If only your toes touch the pedal, the distance between driver's seat and foot controls will need to be adjusted. If the RV is equipped with an exhaust brake, this can be used to help control vehicle speed, however, the engine brake is no replacement for service brakes. Go slow into downhill curves and avoid riding the brakes.

Until you are confident you have the ability to back into a designated space, ask for a pull thru campsite or parking assistance from the campground host. When backing in, have someone positioned at the side of the rear, in full view of your exterior mirror. Open the driver's side window. Use the mirrors and back up camera for reference. Agree beforehand on hand signals. Use of walkie-talkies help, too. Don't gun the engine and risk injury to anyone outside the vehicle.