---
title: What are the most common RV beginner mistakes I should avoid before and during my trips?
description: RV beginner mistakes, RV maintenance checklist, winterizing RV water system, fridge prep, battery usage, leveling, pre-trip checklist, potable water hose
---

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# What are the most common RV beginner mistakes I should avoid before and during my trips?

Please take a moment to watch the video below for step-by-step guidance, or follow the step-by-step written directions.

If you need additional help, our After Sales team at Escape Trailer will be happy to assist you. You can submit a support ticket [using this form](https://escapetrailer.com/after-sales-support/). 

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**1. Disconnect batteries during storage**

- Locate your RV battery cutoff switch.
- Turn the batteries OFF before storing your RV.
- Do not assume “everything is off”—systems still draw power slowly.
- This prevents dead batteries when you return.

 

**2. Winterize your water system**

- Fully drain all water lines.
- Drain the water heater.
- Make sure no water is left in pipes, tanks, or fixtures.
- This prevents frozen pipes and costly burst damage.

 

**3. Prep your fridge the day before travel**

- Turn the fridge on **at least 4–24 hours before your trip** (depending on model).
- Let it fully reach safe cooling temperature before loading food.
- Do not wait until the day of departure.

 

**4. Load the fridge correctly**

- Leave space between items for airflow.
- Do not pack it tightly.
- Avoid blocking vents inside the fridge.

 

**5. Secure fridge doors**

- Keep door contents light.
- Avoid overloading shelves and door bins.
- This prevents items from spilling or breaking while driving.

 

**6. Use your battery normally without panic**

- Watch battery levels, but don’t overreact to normal drops.
- Lead-acid batteries: recharge around 50%.
- Lithium batteries: running down to ~20% is normal.
- Avoid constantly starting the generator for small drops (like from 100% to 95%).

 

**7. Level your RV when parked**

- Check that your RV is sitting level side-to-side and front-to-back.
- Adjust using leveling blocks or systems if needed.
- This helps appliances work properly and improves sleep comfort.

 

**8. Secure everything before driving**

- Walk through the RV before departure.
- Close and latch all cabinet doors.
- Lock drawers and secure loose items.
- Make sure nothing can slide or fall while driving.

 

**9. Use a proper drinking water hose**

- Do NOT use a standard garden hose for drinking water.
- Use a certified potable water hose (usually white RV hose).
- This prevents plastic/chemical taste and improves safety.

 

**10. Always use a pre-trip checklist**

- Before every trip, confirm:
  
    - Steps/entry stairs are stowed
    - Power cord is unplugged and stored
    - Awning is fully retracted and locked
    - All doors, windows, and compartments are secure

- [Common Customer Questions](https://academy.escapetrailer.com/support_hub/common-customer-questions?hsLang=en)
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