Fishing, Hunting and Camping
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Ready, Set, Camp: Unwinterizing Your Camper!
It’s Time to Get Your Camper Ready for Camping Season!
Camper
As the winter months come to a close, it’s time to start thinking about getting your camper ready for the camping season! Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie, taking the time to properly prepare your camper is essential to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable camping experience. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to unwinterize your camper and get it ready for the upcoming season.
Step 1: Inspect Your Camper Inside and Out
The first step in preparing your camper for the camping season is to inspect it inside and out. Check for any damage or wear and tear that may have occurred during the winter months, such as leaks, cracks, or broken parts. Inspect the roof, sides, and bottom of the camper, as well as the interior walls, floors, and furniture. Make any necessary repairs or replacements before you hit the road.
Step 2: Check the Tires, Brakes, and Hitch
Camper tires
Next, check the tires, brakes, and hitch of your camper. Inspect the tires for any signs of wear or damage, such as bulges or cracks. Check the air pressure and ensure that it matches the manufacturer’s recommended level. Test the brakes and make sure they are functioning properly. Check the hitch and ensure that it is properly attached and secure.
Step 3: De-Winterize Your Plumbing System
Camper plumbing
If you winterized your camper, it’s time to de-winterize your plumbing system. Start by flushing the plumbing lines with fresh water to remove any antifreeze. Check for leaks and ensure that all valves are functioning properly. Test your water pump and hot water heater to make sure they are working correctly.
Step 4: Check Your Electrical System
Check your camper’s electrical system, including the battery, fuses, and wiring. Test all lights, appliances, and outlets to ensure that they are functioning properly. Replace any burned-out bulbs or blown fuses. Charge the battery and test it to make sure it holds a charge.
Step 5: Clean Your Camper Inside and Out and Check Seals
Give your camper a thorough cleaning inside and out. Remove any debris or dirt from the exterior, including the roof, windows, and awning. Clean the interior of your camper, including the floors, walls, and furniture. Vacuum or sweep the carpets and upholstery. Wipe down the countertops and surfaces with a disinfectant.
You will also want to check all seals on the outside of your camper. This includes windows, and vents, etc. and don’t forget the roof and slide!
Step 6: Stock Up on Camping Essentials
Stock up on all the camping essentials you’ll need for your trip, such as cookware, utensils, bedding, and toiletries. Check your first aid kit and restock any items that are running low. Don’t forget to bring along cleaning supplies, insect repellent, sunblock, and a flashlight.
Step 7: Plan Your First Trip
Now that your camper is ready to go, it’s time to plan your first trip! Consider the location, amenities, and activities available at the campground you’ll be staying at. Make reservations in advance and research any local attractions or events you may want to attend.
Step 8: Test Your Camper Before Hitting the Road
Before you hit the road, test your camper to make sure everything is in working order. Turn on all appliances, lights, and electrical systems. Fill up your water tanks and test your plumbing. Hook up your camper to your vehicle and test the brakes, lights, and turn signals.
Step 9: Pack Your Camper Efficiently
When packing your camper, be sure to pack efficiently to make the most of your space. Use storage containers to keep items organized and maximize your storage space. Pack heavier items low and towards the front of your camper to distribute weight evenly. Don’t forget to pack emergency supplies, such as a spare tire, jumper cables, and a roadside emergency kit.
Step 10: Set Up Camp and Enjoy the Outdoors!
Once you’ve arrived at your campground, it’s time to set up camp and enjoy the outdoors! Follow the campground’s rules and regulations, and be considerate of your fellow campers. Set up your campsite efficiently, and be sure to properly dispose of any trash or waste.
Get Ready for a Fun-Filled Camping Season!
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to unwinterizing your camper and getting ready for the camping season! With proper preparation and planning, you’ll be able to hit the road and enjoy all the adventures the great outdoors has to offer!
Outdoor Camper Rugs, Which One?
It’s spring, and what better way to get away from all the COVID junk than to go camping! If you camp a lot, you understand how much of a pain it can be to have a nice area coming out of your camper. It seems as we are either on gravel or it is muddy.
We decided to get an outdoor camper rug so I started my research. Here we are going to go over some of our choices. But before we start, i want to point out a couple things you may be asking yourself. 1. Does the quality of an outdoor camper rug vary much? Yes, you can get cheap crap that will fall apart within a year. 2. Why do outdoor camper rugs cost to much. Well, to be honest, because everything that has to do with campers are expensive. There are a couple options you can select that are cheaper and good quality if you plan on leaving out all summer (yearly spot) that we will cover below.
Note that many camper parts do not have real brand names, or are generic names. We will talk about specific rugs, not name or models.
Good Quality Outdoor Camper Rugs
This reversible camper rug comes in a few different color choices and measures 9′ by 18′. Large enough to cover a large area in front of your camper. It is breathable which helps with mildew and drying out quickly. Best of all, it comes with a carry/storage bag and has 4.5 stars from almost 2,000 people. This rug is best if you will put it away when you leave. It is not a good choice if you plan on leaving out all summer.
Cheap Outside Camper Rugs
If you are looking for a cheap rug for your camper, I hat to be the one to tell you, but you are not going to find one. This 9′ by 12′ outdoor camper rug may be your best bet. Cheaper than the one above, but not outdoor carpet like below. Still getting good ratings from minimal customers, it will get the job done. Like above, this options is good if you clean and store it while not camping. You should not leave this out in the sun while not camping.
Outdoor Camper Rug Alternative
If you plan on leaving your camper rug out all summer, there may be a better option. Outdoor turf carpet makes a good outdoor camper rug! You could go with the classic green, or go with something with a little more style. Here is a ton of outdoor carpet choices.
This selection is best used if you have a yearly camping spot and plan on leaving it down all year. Being solidly built, it will hold up against weathering. The downside to these is it may hold water. You would probably want to sweep it off every trip.
My Final Thoughts
Outdoor Camper rugs are not a must, but they sure do make your weekends much more comfortable! I always hated walking out barefoot in the morning to get coffee going and end up with dirty feet. They give you an area of comfort and well worth the money if you ask me.
No matter what you choose, make sure the quality is there. You do not want to put that kind of money out for something that will only last the season. Do your research and read reviews of others.
Check out our other camping articles here.