How to Camp in a Trailer

Trailer camping is a form of RV camping, falling into the same category as motor homes and truck campers. Many people prefer trailer camping since you have a small, "homelike" structure to reside in while staying outdoors in nature. Common amenities included with trailer camping include A/C, heat, propane stoves, refrigerators, and a soft bed. While some scoff at this form of camping, many people find it just as satisfying as tent camping---sometimes more so.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Camping With Your Trailer

Things You’ll Need:

Camp Trailer Vehicle RC electrical cord
Camp Trailer
Vehicle
RC electrical cord

Step 1

Inspect your trailer for damage and pests that may have taken up residence in it. Repair any damage or leaks at once to avoid discouraging camping experiences.

Step 2

Fill up your tanks. Water and propane tanks should be topped off and ready for use. Drain your black and gray water tanks, and if you have a generator, fill it with fuel so you can use it.

Step 3

Pack your trailer with what you need and carefully secure each item. Dishes left out on the counter, food on the table, and other unsecure items beg for trouble and subsequent cleanup. Tuck these away in cupboards or secure them in boxes.

Step 4

After you have hooked up your trailer, check your tail lights and blinkers to ensure they are working. A ticket while on the way to a campsite is no fun and certainly not worth the 60 seconds it takes for a light check.

Step 5

After arriving at your campsite, level your trailer and unhook it. Remember that in general, you should never level a trailer with its stabilizers. Always level a trailer with chocks (wedge-shaped blocks) and a shovel when possible. Use a flat board to place the tongue on.

Step 6

Slide any tip-outs to their open position. Always have someone observe from the outside to ensure that there are no obstacles that could damage your trailer.

Step 7

Hook up utilities now, and remember that you should use power cords specifically designed for travel trailers and outdoor use. At this point, you can hook up water and sewer utilities if your site has them.

Step 8

Flip on all appliances, starting with the fridge and ending with the heat. Make sure that all gas and fuel valves for these appliances are open before you try starting them. Also try turning the heat up to ensure the pilot light is on---if necessary, light it manually.

Tips & Warnings

If your trailer doesn't already have one, you can purchase a stick-on level at an RV center to make leveling your trailer easier.

Never travel while in your trailer. This is dangerous and illegal in most states.

Resources

New RVer

Article Written By Justin Chen

Justin Chen is a freelance writer and photographer with 6 years of professional experience in outdoor activities, extreme sports, travel and marketing topics. His professional work experience includes publication with KOMO 4 News Seattle, Fisher Interactive Network, and Demand Studios. He is a current Pre-Med student at Walla Walla University.

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