Just because summer has passed, it doesn’t mean camping season is over! Fall RV camping trips can be a great opportunity to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and the beauty of the changing seasons. Whether you are going on a leaf-peeping tour, making smores and hot chocolate by the campfire, or taking a hike in the woods, fall RV trips can be very rewarding. While you may not need to be as concerned about hot weather, there are some unique challenges to fall travel, so here are some things to keep in mind.

Autumn has the advantage of comfortable outdoor temperatures without dealing with sweltering heat. Not to mention many communities hold fall festivals or other fall activities. Things like apple picking or pumpkin patches can be great activities for the whole family. Check and see when the peak time is for fall colors where you’re staying so you can take full advantage of nature’s beauty. RVing in the fall can also mean taking part in holiday activities at Halloween and Thanksgiving. See if any local communities where you’re staying will have public events. While there are still plenty of options for outdoor fall activities, you’ll most likely need more indoor entertainment than you would in the summer months. Cooler temperatures and less daylight mean you’ll be spending more time inside your RV, especially at night.

You’ll want to keep a close eye on the weather where you’re staying, as autumn weather can change more quickly than in the summer. Also, different parts of the country will reach freezing temperatures sooner, particularly in the north and in higher elevations. If freezing temps are predicted, take steps to protect your RV’s plumbing. For example, disconnect the water lines and drain them so water doesn’t freeze inside. Keeping the heat inside, especially at night, is crucial. Make sure doors and windows are properly sealed to keep out drafts. Having space heaters and extra blankets helps too. A catalytic space heater such as the Camco Olympian series heaters are much more efficient than flame heaters and have a quiet operation. Make sure your furnace is working properly! If you need a new one, furnaces such as the Suburban 2019 can put out up to 19,000 BTU, which is enough for a mid-size RV. You may find yourself making more meals inside your RV, and they will most likely be heartier than salad and grilled hot dogs, so make sure you have enough cooking supplies. As the days get shorter, you’ll also need to have enough light sources in and around your RV. Don't forget about your RV's bedding! You'll want to switch from the lighter summer bedspreads to thicker comforters and blankets. RV Superbag sleep systems have summer and winter sides, so all you have to do is flip it over.

Planning a fall RV camping adventure doesn't have to be a hassle. With a little extra preparedness, you may find you enjoy it even more than camping during the peak summer season!

Preparing for Fall RV Trips