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Embarking on a journey in a Recreational Vehicle (RV) blends the thrill of adventure with the comforts of home. Whether you’re an occasional vacationer or a full-time RV enthusiast, planning an RV trip goes beyond packing the basics and fitting in that extra bike or kayak. And while emergencies are the last thing on our minds during such exciting times, it’s crucial to have backup plans in place.
As an experienced RV traveler, I categorize emergency planning for RV trips into three primary areas: personal preparedness, equipment and vehicle readiness, and evacuation strategy. This comprehensive guide focuses on personal planning and evacuation to ensure your RV adventures are safe, secure, and worry-free.
Essential Personal Resources for RV Travelers
RV travel requires you to be self-sufficient. Aside from everyday items, you need to consider critical personal resources, especially if you’re a full-time RVer. For short-term travelers, essential documents such as health directives, power of attorney, passports, etc., can remain safe at home. But for those living on the road, securely storing these documents onboard is paramount.
Long-term RV travel necessitates having:
- Immunization Records and Medical History
- Copies of Recent Medical Tests
- Medical Directives
- Living Will
- Last Will & Testament
- Power of Attorney
- Financial and Investment Paperwork
- Passport
- Cherished Photos
Keeping these documents safe from fire, storm, or flood damage is crucial. Consider investing in a fire-safe storage unit. Placing documents, jewelry, jump drives with digital copies of important documents, and insurance cards inside zip lock bags and storing them in a fire-safe unit can ensure their protection.
Emergency Evacuation: A Must-Have Plan for RV Travelers
A well-structured evacuation plan can be a lifesaver during emergencies. While RVs offer comfort during stressful situations, like traffic jams during hurricane evacuations, choosing an offbeat, tranquil campground over a crowded evacuation center can make a difference.
This strategy becomes particularly relevant for pet owners, as many evacuation centers do not permit pets.
Essential Items for an RV Traveler’s Emergency Evacuation Kit
While packing for emergencies, it’s common to overlook crucial items like medication or pet supplies. Therefore, always consider the essential items needed to continue your trip in an emergency.
An emergency kit containing first aid supplies, a space blanket, flares, toilet paper, a flashlight, spare batteries, and food should be a permanent fixture in both your RV and tow vehicle. The car emergency kit can prove vital, as RV travelers frequently venture out in their cars without the RV.
Consistent carrying of a purse or backpack with necessary items like insurance cards, wallet, vehicle insurance, credit cards, and a cell phone also serves as a compact, mobile emergency kit.
Despite increasing global concerns about safety, RVing continues to be a joyous way of living and vacationing. Being prepared for emergencies and accounting for all necessary personal items promotes a sense of security among RV travelers.
This peace of mind enhances the RVing experience, making your vehicle a sanctuary of comfort and safety, irrespective of the circumstances.
