A new RV, boat, or both can be great fun. If you do a lot of traveling and boating, or fishing, they can be a good investment for your goals to be less stressed and enjoy life more. With them comes a lot of responsibility, too. You have to learn to care for them, individually and together if you own both. Here are some tips to help you keep your boat safely in tow with your RV so that you can worry less and have more fun on your trips.
Start by learning. Read all manuals and view videos on line. There is no shame in taking the time to educate yourself on how to attach your boat and drive your RV with it. In fact, it is much safer; to learn by mistakes in this sort of situation could be very, very costly and dangerous.
You must learn proper turning techniques for large vehicles and towing in order to avoid hitting other cars, curbs, etc. Stopping distances are also different. You need more time to slow and stop, so you must put more distance between you and other cars so that you have time to stop suddenly. This means you need to drive more slowly. Slower speeds make it easier to control your RV and trailer, as well as give you time to react to anything sudden.
Passing and changing lanes are also different. You should do these slowly and pay attention to your mirrors, even more so that most people generally do. You may even need more mirrors to accommodate your increased size and cargo load. When you’re going up and down hills, you may need to shift differently than normal. Reversing and parking can also be particularly tricky. The best thing to do is try and avoid busy, small parking lots. Otherwise, you will want to practice your skills.
Make sure you get the correct equipment. You will need attachments in the right size and if you need help, just ask someone. Check your model numbers. Get the systems that making driving easier and make sure that your boat trailer has chains to be attached on each trip.
Test all safety measures—signal lights, hazard lights, etc.—before each and every trip. They must always be working, otherwise not only could you have a safety problem, but you are in violation of the law. Remember to disconnect them before backing your boat into the water. Make sure you’re prepared for all emergencies. Have extra tires for both your RV and trailer. Use reflectors and have flares in case you’re stopped on the side of the road. Be certain you have all of the proper insurance; talk to your agent if you need to be sure.
If you’re ready to take your RV and boat on the ultimate trip, come to Bethy Creek. Here, there are RV sites, local fishing, places for boat storage, or rental if you don’t have a boat, alternate lodging, and much, much more. Use all you’ve learned about RV-driving and boat-towing, and have a vacation.