Tips for the Snowbird Southern Migration: What to Know About RVing South for the Winter

Traveling south through the winter is an escape, particularly for individuals who reside in harsh, frigid temperatures. This southern migration will not be solely a luxurious, however a necessity for full-time RVers. Whether you head south in your Class A motorhome or different RV for trip or for one more lifestyle, there are just a few pointers for any migrating RV snowbird. For that, RVT has compiled an inventory of tricks to take into account whenever you plan to RV south for the winter. 

Choose Your Final Destination Wisely

If you might be new to RVing south for the winter, perceive that every one snowbird locations have their benefits and downsides. You ought to select a vacation spot based mostly in your private preferences. Do not solely depend on critiques of ‘the most popular spots for snowbirding’. For instance, southeast locations are typically hotter, but are extra congested with vacationers through the winter since these areas are typical trip spots. Avoiding individuals will not be as possible within the southeast as it’s within the southwest. Likewise, southwest locations have broad open, desolate areas, but through the evening, temperatures can nonetheless be comparatively chilly – in case you are attempting to utterly escape the chilly, the southwest won’t be the most suitable choice.

Prep Your RV for the Trip

If you may have saved up with routine RV upkeep all year long, your RV might be in nice form for the journey down south. These are important preparation measures in your RV earlier than you depart:

• Check to ensure your batteries are totally charged.
• Check your tires and guarantee they’re inflated to the required PSI in your car.
• Connect your RV to an influence supply and take a look at your whole home equipment to make sure they’re totally functioning.
• Flush and sanitize your water system.
• Bring winter RV provides, akin to a heated hose, and verify your propane ranges.

Plan & Enjoy the Ride

Whether you resolve to meander or get to your vacation spot ‘as the crow flies’, it is advisable plan accordingly. First, it is very important finances for gas prices – this may differ relying on quite a few components, together with mileage to your vacation spot and what number of miles per gallon your RV expends. Calculate the quantity of gas you’ll be utilizing throughout your journey with this useful gasoline calculator from KOA. Next, create an inventory of varied campsites you have an interest in visiting. If you’re a seasoned snowbird, take into account altering locations or altering your path to your vacation spot. Along your journey, try a few of the finest locations to RV through the winter.

Observe the RV 3/3/3 Rule – don’t drive greater than 300 miles in at some point, arrive at your location for the evening earlier than 3 p.m., and keep as much as three days at a campsite. Your annual snowbird tour shouldn’t really feel like a hackneyed, redundant method, so drive a extra scenic path to your terminal winter vacation spot. Various campsite functions, together with Campendium and RV Life, may also help navigate you to numerous locations alongside the best way.

Pack the Appropriate Clothing

The vacation spot you select will dictate the kind of garments you pack into your Class C RV or different motorhome for the snowbird migration. Southeast coastal locations, akin to Florida, merely require beachwear, comfy shorts, t-shirts, and light-weight jackets. On the opposite hand, for those who plan on touring in desert landscapes within the southwest, akin to New Mexico or Arizona, you’ll want to convey extra heavy outerwear as temperatures might be chilly through the evening even in these southern areas.

Be Up-to-Date on Your Health Precautions

Before trekking for the lengthy tour down south, taking well being precautions ought to be one in every of your prime priorities. This is very pertinent for those who depend on every day medicine. Book a well being appointment to make sure all of your prescriptions might be stuffed in a well timed method. Since giant pharmacy firms are widespread, it could be helpful to have a few of your prescription stuffed within the space of your closing snowbird vacation spot. Likewise, visiting your physician earlier than your journey is crucial since they may be capable of advise you in your general match – the very last thing you’ll need in your journey is to get critically sick.

Winterize your Home

If you may have owned your used journey trailer or different camper for a number of years, you might be most likely acquainted with winterizing your RV. However, for those who plan to spend a little bit of time away from your home, you additionally must winterize your house to guard it. Lower your heating system considerably and drain your plumbing to assist cut back prices if you are gone. To hold your home protected, set your safety system and notify your neighbors about your absence. If attainable, arrange a mail-forwarding service so your mail is redirected to your trip spot. 

Anyone can journey south through the winter, nevertheless RVing, specifically, comes with added bonuses. For starters, RVs present a house on wheels, the place you possibly can stay and journey concurrently in a protected haven. Additionally, campsites present nice facilities for these touring in RVs, offering extra alternative to discover scenic parks and campgrounds. If you may have an RV and plan on touring south for the winter, benefit from the experience and take your time. Make positive to take a look at the brand new and used RVs on RVT.com in case you are contemplating buying an RV. 

By Alex Hoyes

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