Spring Checklist for RVers in Alberta

Excited to head out for your first camping trip of the year? Make sure your RV is prepared with our spring checklist for RVers in Alberta.  This includes:

1. A general inspection of your RV (and fixing any issues).
2. De-winterizing your RV.
3. Re-stocking your RV with what you need for your camping trips.

Don’t forget to prepare your tow vehicle and make sure your registration and insurance are in order before you head out.

General Inspection of Your RV

You should give your RV a thorough inspection a few times a year, especially after it has been sitting for any amount of time. This includes: 

• Inspecting the tires (check the tread depth, look for evidence of any damage, and inflate to the recommended tire pressure). 

• Checking the exterior of your RV, checking for any damage to the chassis, roof, siding, seams, windows, doors, vents, et cetera.  
• Resealing windows, doors and vents as necessary.  
• Examining the interior of your RV, looking for signs of damage. 
• Making repairs as necessary. This is especially critical if there is any water damage or potential for water damage.  
• Testing your smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector and any other alarm or alert systems you have. Replace batteries, if applicable.  

• Testing your slides, awning and hydraulic jacks, if your RV is equipped with them. Perform any maintenance as recommended by the manual.  
• Assessing your appliances (furnace, air conditioner, electrical system, water system, propane, refrigerator, stove, oven, generator et cetera,) and perform any maintenance as required in the manual.  
• Checking any other equipment you have on board, such as a fire extinguisher and first aid kit. Replace or restock where necessary and ensure everything is still in working order. 
• Lubricating all hinges and locks as well as hitch or kingpin, if applicable.  
• Checking all fluid levels and top up or replace if necessary (if applicable).  

• If you have a trailer or fifth wheel, hitch it up and check your lights and brakes.  
• If you have a motorhome, start it, and check your lights, brakes and make sure that everything is running well. You will also likely need an oil change and other tune up work, depending on how long your motorhome has been sitting (check your manual).  
• Checking lights and brakes.  

Essentially, you’re checking for any damage and making sure everything is working as it should be.  

De-Winterize Your RV

The next step after an inspection is to de-winterize your RV: 

• If you removed any batteries for winter storage, ensure they are replaced and charged.  
• Remove anti-freeze and flush lines and tanks with clean water. 
• Re-connect your water heater.  
• Clean the interior and exterior of your RV.  

• Clean any linens, dishes, et cetera, that have been in your RV over winter.  

If the weather is nice enough, it’s a good time to air out the interior, too.  

Preparing Your RV for The First Trip 

Next, it’s time to start preparing your RV for your first trip. This step can be completed over time. 

Restock your RV with: 

• Clothing. 
• Linens and bedding.  
• Dishes, pots, pans and other kitchen utensils.  
• Cooking appliances. 
• Cleaning supplies like soap, sponges, paper towels and garbage bags.  

• First aid kit.  
• Toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, bug spray and sunscreen. 
• Toys, games and outdoor equipment.  

• You can restock your food staples as well, but we do recommend waiting until you’re going on a camping trip to keep pests away. Alternatively, store all food in a sealed container.  
• Refill propane tank(s).  

• Fill water tank or water receptacles, if needed.  
• Make sure everything is secure in your RV before driving.  
• Ensure your registration and insurance are in order.  

If you have questions about your insurance or want to review your coverage, don’t hesitate to contact our brokers.