For many new campers, few things are as scary as backing your RV into a tight, or even a not-so-tight, space. Whether you are backing in and out of your own driveway, a storage unit or a camping space, maneuvering a huge rig can be intimidating.
To banish visions of running over a curb or even a picnic table, you need to practice, practice, practice. At Ketelsen RV, we’ll be glad to let you take a rig for a test drive and even try out backing it up a few times but there’s no substitute for repetition.
Start in a deserted parking lot and then practice progressively more difficult parking maneuvers. Once you feel comfortable in a variety of practice situations, get your rig on the road and enjoy camping without parking anxiety.
RV Back Up Tips and Tricks
- If you possibly can, have a spotter with you to guide you through the blind posts and hidden obstacles. Be clear on your communication signals with the spotter, either verbal (with walkie-talkies) or hand signals. If you prefer hand signals, make sure you and your spotter agree on what the signals mean in advance.
If you don’t have a spotter, you may want to consider investing in an RV Rear-View Safety Camera to help guide you. In fact, even if you do have a spotter, a third set of “eyes” may not be a bad idea.
- Adjust your mirrors “out” so you can clearly see the rear of the trailer. Telescoping mirrors will allow you to slide the entire mirror further away from the truck so you can increase the visibility around your trailer. If your tow vehicle does not have this feature, you can get aftermarket attachments.
- Be sure to get out of your rig and visually inspect the area before you begin backing up. This will give you a better sense of depth and distance once you do put it in reverse. Always remember to check for overhead obstacles like signs and tree branches that could get in your way.
- Turn the wheel in the opposite direct that you want the trailer to go. Another strategy is to place a hand at the bottom of the steering wheel and move it in the direction you want the trailer to go.
- Take it slow. Remember that the “pivot point” is the center of the axles on the trailer. This is the point where the trailer will turn when backing into the site. When turning the steering wheel, there is usually a delay from the time the fifth-wheel starts the turn until the trailer changes its path.
- If you don’t feel confident that you hit your mark, don’t hesitate to pull forward again and try again. Never keep backing up if you’re unsure about something. It’s easier and safer to start again than to try modify the turn once you are into it.
If you have any questions or if you are ready to take a RV out for a test drive, stop by Ketelsen RV in Hiawatha, Iowa and we’ll be glad to show you around. For more RV News and Tips, please sign up for our newsletter.
