The excitement of heading out on an RV trip can make it tempting to just hook up and go. But a few minutes of inspection before you leave the driveway can prevent hours of frustration — or worse, a dangerous breakdown — on the road. At Colonia del Rey RV in Corpus Christi, we've seen what happens when these basics get skipped. Don't let it be you.
Here are the 10 things we recommend checking before every single trip, whether it's a weekend run to Padre Island or a month-long cross-country adventure.
1. Tire Pressure and Condition
Tires are your single biggest safety item. Check pressure in every tire — including the spare — using a quality gauge. Look for sidewall cracking, bulges, or uneven wear. RV tires can look fine on the outside while being dangerously degraded inside, especially if they've been sitting in the sun.
2. Hitch and Connections
If you're towing, verify the hitch ball is the correct size and fully tightened. Check safety chains, the breakaway cable, and all electrical connections. Give the trailer a firm shake — it shouldn't move independently of the tow vehicle.
3. Lights — All of Them
Walk around and test every light: headlights, brake lights, turn signals, running lights, and reverse lights. A burned-out brake light is a quick ticket and a serious safety hazard.
4. Propane System
Inspect propane lines and connections for visible damage or wear. Turn on the propane and use a leak detector solution on all fittings. Make sure tanks are properly secured and the shutoff valve works freely.
5. Fresh, Gray, and Black Tank Levels
Start each trip with a full fresh water tank and empty gray and black tanks. Know your capacity so you can plan dump station stops accordingly.
6. Slide-Outs and Awnings
Retract all slide-outs and awnings completely before moving. Double-check that nothing is caught underneath. A slide-out deployed at highway speed causes catastrophic damage.
7. Roof and Seals
Do a quick roof walk if your unit allows it. Check the caulking and sealant around vents, skylights, and air conditioner bases. Water intrusion through failed seals is the leading cause of expensive RV damage.
8. Interior Stowage
Open every cabinet and drawer. Anything that can slide, fall, or swing needs to be secured. A cast iron skillet coming loose in a sharp turn can cause real damage — to your RV and to you.
9. Battery Levels
Check your house and chassis battery voltage. A weak battery that holds up fine at the campsite can leave you stranded trying to start the engine after a few days off-grid.
10. Fluid Levels
Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. If your RV has a generator, check generator oil too. These take two minutes and can prevent a very expensive roadside problem.
Run this list every time, no exceptions. The trips where you're most tempted to skip it are usually the ones where something needs attention. If you ever need help with your pre-trip inspection or have concerns about your RV's condition, stop by Colonia del Rey RV in Corpus Christi — our team is always happy to help.