The Beginners Guide to RV Boondocking

Are you looking into boondocking? There’s no better feeling than taking your RV into the great unknown and enjoying nature, but be sure you know exactly what you are getting into before you go.

 Read on for a beginner’s guide to RV boondocking. 

Start Off Slow

Boondocking can be a blissful journey that is refreshing and filled with good memories. Everyone should disconnect and go experience nature every now and again. The trick is to start off slow. If you have never done it before, there are several things to learn before you can be confident in the safety and efficiency of your trip. Here are a few things to do on your first couple of trips to help you ease into it.

Go During Temperate Weather

Traveling while the weather is mild is crucial. Plus, it is naturally much more enjoyable. Not having to deal with extreme heat or cold can help you worry less about your health and comfort and free up your time and energy to focus on the world around you and other things like where you go next.

Plan A Short Trip

Do not plan to go out for the long-haul on your first boondocking experience. It is the same thing as any activity. You are not going to hike Mt. Everest on your first hiking excursion, so plan a short trip for your first couple of outings and go from there.

Start With Partial Hook-Up Locations

The thing that makes boondocking so fun is that you are cutting off your hook-ups and enjoying a natural experience where you are left to your own devices, but this is something you should ease into as well. Do not cut off all of your hook-ups on the first trip. Try cutting out sewer or water in a location that has options for those amenities nearby. This ultimately gives you practice for a time when you don’t have either anywhere near you.

Preparation

Preparation is key. You want to ensure that you have everything you need before setting out on your big trip, including things like water, a reliable power source, prepped food, and of course, your docking spot.

Get Your RV Ready

Whether you have a luxury travel trailer or an old hand-me-down RV, you need to make sure it is stocked and ready for the journey. Checking things like tire pressure, locks, lights, and pretty much every other detail about it.

Long-Distance Travel

If you are heading to a specific long-distance destination and boondocking is only a means to get there, you will likely be staying at several different locations on your trip. Be sure to plan these spots, choosing the easiest options can often be the least stressful way to do this.

Wallydocking

Did you know you can dock your RV in Walmart parking lots? Check with the management, of course, but this is often the best location to stay for the night, pick up a few materials for the road, and be on your way.

Arrive at Location Before Dark

If you are heading to a campsite, public land spot, or any other place where you need to prep your RV for a true boondocking experience, you must arrive before dark. It is much safer and easier to set up camp with some daylight left.

Precautions

Similar to any camping or travel experience, there are plenty of precautions that you are going to want to make before and during your trip to keep you and your travel companions as safe as possible.

Keep Food Locked Away

In camping, where you keep your food is critical to your survival and safety. Ensuring no animals get a whiff of it and come sniffing around is of utmost importance. So, keep it locked away within the RV and be careful not to dispose of it on or around your campsite.

Keep Doors Locked

This may go without saying, but it is important to note nonetheless. Keep your doors closed and locked at all times, especially during the night. The more you boondock, the more likely you are to run into people or animals that are up to no good.

First Aid

Always be ready for the worst. Packing a well-stocked first aid kit is always a must. You never know what might happen.

Maintain Cell Service If Possible

If you can, stay in locations that have cell phone service. While the main point of camping is to disconnect from the digital world, having the ability to call for help and let friends know where you are going can give you an extra blanket of security and safety. 

The Bottom Line

Boondocking, when done right, can be a fun and eye-opening experience. Just be sure to take it slow at first, thoroughly prepare, and take all the precautions listed above. Happy travels!