Life on the road can be tricky sometimes. Taking proactive steps to make your RV journey easier can make for carefree adventures out on the open road. When you’re traveling in your RV, we want to make sure you’re set up for success. And we believe the travel responsibilities shouldn’t all fall on the driver! A good co-pilot is a huge asset while traveling. Check out our tips below and you’ll be a winning co-pilot in no time!
Route Planning
You should have your route mapped out before you put your rig in drive. Planning which highways,
roads, or backroads you will take will make your trek easier and less stressful. Know the route you are taking and don’t let the driver make last-minute decisions while they are driving. As a co-pilot, your responsibility is to help the driver get to your destination safely and promptly. It’s always nice to have a human back-up to your rig or phone’s navigation system, especially in unfamiliar territory.
Once you have mapped out your route, you’ll want to make sure that a rig of your size will be able to drive on certain highways or roads. Having great resources and tools at your fingertips is a must. We have compiled a list of RV apps that you’re going to want to download before hitting the road! Check out our listicle here!
Next, you’ll want to plan accordingly. This means knowing when to stop for gas/ diesel, bathroom breaks, food or snacks, and rest breaks. Decide a time frame for you and the rest of the passengers to get off the road and take a break. For instance, you might want to stop every three to four hours, depending on your needs. The co-pilot can be a great asset for keeping the travel days on schedule and running smoothly!
Know How to Drive Your Motorhome
This tip might seem obvious to some, but it’s essential that as a co-pilot, you know how to drive your motorhome or maneuver your travel trailer. If an emergency were to arise, co-pilots should be able to hop behind the wheel and take control with confidence. Some co-pilots prefer a back seat (pun intended) approach and don’t know how to drive their rig. Make sure this isn’t you and practice driving! When you know how to drive your RV, you can have a better understanding when helping out with blind spots, backing out or in, and changing lanes. If you’re unable to drive or absolutely against it, you do have options for emergencies. Don’t leave home without an insurance policy or service that will drive your unit home in the event the driver is unable to do so.
If the size of your motorhome or RV is part of what’s holding you back, check out the different types of rigs that are on the market. Choosing the right size will help you feel confident when driving. Read up on the different RVs that will fit your RVing lifestyle.
Communication
Having clear communication with the driver will ensure happy travels! Share important information such as time remaining, distance traveled, and current location. Communicating will reduce the chances of mistakes, like making the wrong turn or taking the wrong exit. Additionally, ask the driver if they are comfortable, thirsty, or hungry. Driving for long periods of time can be extremely tiring. It can also be helpful to keep an eye on weather apps to ensure conditions are safe in the direction you’re headed.
During long, tedious drives, consider being awake and alert with the driver. Staying alert on the road is extremely important for safety concerns. Consider using podcasts or music as entertainment.
Note: A good co-pilot always has snacks at the ready!
Having an extra set of eyes on the road can be of great help. Remember, co-pilots are there to assist and help in any way, not create added stress. When you have a safe and stress-free travel day, you will have a better and more relaxing trip. Remain calm and everything will fall into place!
In the event your rig does break down, your warranty will also be there to back you up, your third co-pilot! Not only will your warranty help cover the cost of repairs, but will also be there during your travel journey. Roadside assistance that comes with towing, trip interruption, lockouts, fuel delivery, and tire and wheel protection are included in many policies—these are things you should always have by your side when traveling.
What tips do you have for being an excellent co-pilot? Share them in the comments below!
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