Your First RV Caravan

• Practise. Back into a site, level the rig, hook up and break down in your own driveway or a nearby campground. Do it until you can do it in the rain.
• Get your rig serviced a few weeks before departure, so there is time to fix anything. See our preparation checklist.
• Know your rig’s numbers: height, length, weight, tank sizes and fuel range. You will be asked at check-in, at ferries and by the operator.
• Read the route book before departure, so you know the longest drive days and the stops you care about.
• Join the operator’s pre-trip contacts. Many operators run a pre-departure briefing or an email list for the group.

The first few days are about learning the rhythm. Expect an orientation meeting, a routine for morning departures and some trial and error with the route book. People get to know each other quickly at group dinners, and by the end of the first week you will have a sense of who you want to travel near.

• Keep a safe following distance, even in a convoy. The leader sets the pace, but you are the driver.
• Use the same radio channel as the group, and keep chatter short during driving.
• Fill up at the planned fuel stops, especially in remote regions.
• If you have a problem, stop where it is safe, use hazard lights, and call or radio the tail gunner.
• Do not feel obliged to rush to keep up. Arriving safely is the goal.

• Arrive, check in as directed, set up, then connect with neighbours.
• Walk around and learn where the washrooms, dump station and meeting spot are.
• Tell the leader about any problem early. They can often fix it faster than you can.

• Be on time for briefings and departures.
• Keep generators and music within campground quiet hours.
• Offer help when someone is struggling to back in, and ask for help when you need it.
• Respect that others may want privacy, a nap or a quiet evening.
• Complaints are best raised early and politely with the leader, rather than through gossip.

• Pack lighter than you think. Weight matters on mountain roads and ferries.
• Bring spare parts you know you may need: fuses, hoses, a tire repair kit.
• Keep a printed copy of your documents and insurance, and a digital backup.
• Build in rest days for yourself, even if the tour has them.
• Keep an open mind. The people you meet are often the best part.