It is extremely important to make sure your RV components are working properly prior to heading out to remote areas. Preparation is the key to a successful boondocking experience. Routinely perform operational checks on all of your RV systems whether you use them or not.
Also perform preventative maintenance on all mechanical or electrical components before you leave and fix anything that needs fixing.
Here is my boondocking checklist:
- Test battery bank electrolyte levels using a hydrometer (if lead acid batteries)
- Run the generator and perform routine maintenance (oil changes, filters, etc.)
- Verify solar charge controller and power inverter operation (if using solar)
- Check gas powered appliances (stove, oven, furnace, water heater)
- Run electric furnace or heat pump operation
- Check tire inflation (carry a portable air compressor)
- Test propane and smoke detectors and change batteries if needed
- Check water pump and water lines (for leaking)
- Open and close all slide outs and make sure you have the proper tools for manually retracting them if needed
- Raise and lower hydraulic levelers
- Check lights, TVs, radios and make sure you have spare AA or AAA batteries
- Verify and Test Cell Phone or Satellite Internet equipment to make sure services are functioning properly
- Inventory your RV toolbox and make sure you the tools you need to make minor repairs
- Bring a portable water container for refilling the water tank
This should give you a starting point, but your equipment and needs may be different. I recommend you expand or modify this as needed so you don’t miss anything.