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A Beginner’s Guide to Traveling in an RV

RV Insurance in Gilbert, AZBuying your first RV, camper or trailer is an exciting time! Before you make the purchase, you are already visualizing how you want to enjoy your trailer or RV. Owning an RV or camper allows you to enjoy nature & relax. Here are a few things to consider to have the best time.

  1. Get Comfortable Driving Your RV

Whether you must drive your RV or tow your camper, it is important to be comfortable. We’re not talking about physical comfort; we’re referring to being comfortable with driving the vehicle. Begin by driving it around unpopulated areas such as neighborhoods and less-populated streets. When you’re ready, hop on a freeway and try it at freeway speeds. Remember, your braking will be dramatically different in a larger vehicle and especially so if you’re pulling a trailer.

  1. Check the Roads if Using the Backcountry

If you are going hiking or camping on forest service roads, be sure to watch for signs for “no turn-around” or “no trailers.” While most rural roads won’t mention this, it is important to remember you’re going to have to turn around. While traveling on forest service roads it isn’t uncommon for the road to be obstructed by a fallen tree or other hazards. Be sure you’re prepared for unplanned situations.

  1. Tie Down Your Luggage, Coolers, Etc.

Loose items inside of the vehicle can be a hazard when you must take evasive action or brake hard. Loose items inside of the vehicle will accelerate at the same deceleration as the outside of the vehicle. So, if they aren’t strapped down, they can move around your cabin and cause serious injury or damage. Be sure all your items inside are strapped down; especially the heavy items such as coolers.

  1. Make a Checklist for Packing

Referencing a master checklist for packing can be great to ensure you do not forget anything. This can be made on paper or your notes app on your phone. With each trip, you’ll learn what you need to create your perfect master list.

  1. Make Your Food Ahead of Time

By owning an RV or camper, you can easily save money by packing your meals for the road. Consider cooking your meals ahead of time or making double batches of easy meals you normally cook in the comfort of your home that can be frozen for future use.

When you pack food for the road, choose meals that can be reheated on a stovetop or a portable BBQ. For meals where you don’t want to spend the time reheating, pack items that taste good colds such as pasta salads, sandwiches, quiche, and more. You might feel like you are eating a gourmet meal out in nature! Consider examples such as pre-cooked burger patties, chili, stews, and even pizza (reheated on a BBQ for a crisp bottom).

If your RV does not have a refrigerator, you can pack a cooler. If you plan to use your RV for an extended period, there are temperature-controlled electric plugin coolers you can invest in. This may save money over the long run as it avoids you from having to eat out for many meals.

Owning an RV can bring you joy and wonderful memories. If you have any questions about insurance for your RV, trailer, van, or camper, reach out to our agency. We can help you determine the best RV insurance coverage to protect your investment.

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5 Things to Consider Doing This Spring

Spring Activities to Consider in Gilbert, ArizonaSpring is in the air! Plants are starting to bloom, days are feeling longer and the weather is getting warmer. There are many things to be excited about when it comes to a new season. Our agency shares five things to consider doing this spring.

Plan a fun, local spring activity

Spring can be known for beautiful flowers. One of the best spring activities to do is to visit a tulip garden or your local arboretum. Visiting a tulip festival could be a family outing or a great date night with your partner. Your local arboretum can also allow out to see the season’s change. Plan a picnic or just enjoy a stroll in the park.

Change Out Your Wiper Blades on Your Car

Spring is a great time to change out your wiper blades. Your wiper blades have worked hard to keep your windshield clear of grit and grime on the roadways. If you need help changing out your blades many locally-owned auto parts stores can help. Changing them out usually only takes a minute and can keep you safe on the road if inclement weather strikes.

Consider Growing a Vegetable or Flower Garden

Growing a vegetable garden not only helps you save on groceries, but it gives you the satisfaction of growing your own food. Many people feel like vegetables from their garden taste better too. Flowers also provide many gardeners with joy. As a bonus, maintaining a garden can be relaxing and a great hobby to add to your lifestyle.

Choose a Day to Spring Clean Your Home

We all have heard about spring cleaning. Sometimes this is easier said than done. Spring cleaning doesn’t necessarily mean you have to commit a whole weekend to cleaning. You could start by doing one task only.

Consider one below:

  • Clean out your closet & donate clothes you haven’t worn in over 12 months.
  • Organize your pantry.
  • Vacuum out your car and wipe down the interior.
  • Dust your house including your blinds if you have them.
  • Clean out your fridge. Not only discarding bottles that may have expired, but actually wipe down drawers and shelves. Make it sparkle again!
  • Change your smoke detector batteries.
  • Organize your garage.

Are You Considering Buying a Used RV?

RVs are great for outdoor enthusiasts. If you are shopping for a used RV, be sure to look for water damage before making the purchase. RV’s are very susceptible to water damage. Truth is many manufacturers in the US don’t build the RVs with as much quality as they could.

Water damage is usually easy to spot or smell. If the RV smells musty or feels damp, this is a big indicator. Look for mineral stains or water stains on wood towards the floor, around skylights, and air conditioners or vents located on the roof. Also, go around the RV or trailer and push in on all the sides all the way around. If water has gotten into the walls, it could quickly rot the structural portions of the RV and will feel spongy. Pushing on the sides will identify any areas that may be compromised. An RV should be stiff and hard, if it flexes, it is possible there is water damage. This quick inspection could save you thousands in repairs.

We hope you enjoy your spring! If you ever have questions regarding your auto, home, boat, RV, or motorcycle insurance, be sure to reach out to us.

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Do I need a separate trailer insurance policy when pulling it with my car or truck?

Trailer Insurance Gilbert, AZIn order for you to be best protected, it is always recommended that you carry a separate trailer insurance policy. Because of the countless situations that may occur with a trailer, it is not entirely possible to say that your auto insurance policy will provide liability protection if your trailer causes damages or personal injury.

Common Trailer Types Include:

  • Conventional Trailer: The most common type of travel trailer between 12-40 feet.
  • Fifth Wheel Trailer: Attached to a vehicle using a hitch in the bed of the tow vehicle.
  • Pop-up Tent Trailer: Collapsible trailer used for camping & recreation.
  • Truck Camper: Mounted in the bed of the truck with an over-cab area for sleeping.
  • Horse Trailer: Trailer used primarily to haul horses.
  • Toy Hauler: An RV type trailer with living space as well as ability to haul ATVs or Motorcycles.
  • Cargo or Utility Trailers: Small trailers used for moving or landscape jobs odd jobs.

What types of coverage should I have for my Recreational Trailer, Camper or other trailers?

Liability insurance may be provided to your trailer while it is attached to your vehicle. Check with your agent to see if your insurance company provides coverage while the trailer is in use and attached to your vehicle.

It is always recommended to have a separate trailer insurance policy to avoid any gaps in insurance coverage and trailer insurance is typically inexpensive. Some common options include:

Comprehensive Coverage: Can provide coverage for your trailer if it catches on fire, is vandalized or damaged by severe weather.

Collision Coverage: Can provide coverage if your trailer is damaged by you while being towed, or while unattended and parked.

Liability Insurance: Can provide coverage for injuries or property damage caused by you. Many companies will have “liability follow the tow vehicle” for trailers since trailers can’t drive themselves.

Optional coverages to discuss with your agent include:

  • Roadside Assistance
  • Total Loss Replacement
  • Replacement cost/personal effects
  • Vacation Liability
  • Full timer’s Liability

& many more!

Exploring the country in a trailer or just going camping on the weekend can be great fun. Be sure that before you leave you talk to your licensed insurance agent about insuring your trailer correctly to avoid any surprises.

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