Get your RV ready for a BC summer

There is nothing quite like hitting the road in BC. From coastal campgrounds to mountain passes, RV travel offers flexibility and potential cost savings compared to traditional accommodations. You set the pace choose the route and bring your comforts with you.

Before you roll out a little preparation goes a longggg way. RVs face unique risks from long periods of storage, to steep highways, unpredictable weather and parked vehicle incidents. This checklist helps you start the season feeling confident so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

1. Must-dos before you hit the road

These checks are essential. Skipping them can lead to breakdowns delays or costly repairs.

Tires and wheel bearings

Tires and wheel bearings are the most common reasons BCAA responds to RV and trailer roadside calls. RVs often sit unused for months exposed to sun, moisture and temperature changes that can weaken rubber and lubrication.

• Inspect tires closely for cracks, bulges or signs of dry rot
• Check tire pressure when tires are cold and follow manufacturer recommendations
• Have wheel bearings inspected and serviced especially if you tow a trailer or boat

Addressing these issues early helps reduce the risk of blowouts overheating or wheel failure.

Battery check

When an RV sits for long stretches, batteries can lose charge or become sulphated. Before your first trip of the season:

• Charge and test engine batteries
• Test accessory batteries that power lights appliances and systems

Replacing a weak battery at home is far easier than dealing with one at a campground.

Cooling system

Summer heat paired with mountain driving can put serious strain on your engine.

• Have your cooling system inspected before you leave
• Carry extra antifreeze or water
• Drive at a steady pace on climbs to reduce engine stress

Routes like the Coquihalla make this step especially important for RVs and fully loaded trailers.

2. Essential safety checks

These steps protect your RV your plans and the people travelling with you.

Know your towing capacity

Before hitching up confirm that your vehicle and hitch are rated for the full weight of your trailer and cargo. Towing beyond capacity increases wear on your transmission and raises the risk of breakdowns especially on long uphill stretches common across BC.

Plan for engine strain on hills

RV travel is not about rushing. Slower speeds on hills help manage heat fuel use and engine strain. A calm steady approach keeps your vehicle running better and helps you enjoy the journey more.

3. Comfort and readiness for exploration

Once safety checks are done these steps help your RV feel like home again.

Interior inspection

After storage open doors windows and compartments to air things out. Look for signs of moisture, pests or loose items that may have shifted while parked.

Restock supplies

Before you head out make sure you have:

• Basic tools
• Emergency supplies
• First aid kit
• Extra fluids

A little prep now can prevent small issues from becoming trip‑ending problems.

Do not forget protection on the road

Be sure to review your BCAA Membership plan and check that you’ve got RV coverage added in case of the unexpected. Make sure you know what you’re covered for, including the towing distance you may need.

For those venturing further, you may want to consider a Premier Membership (with RV coverage added), which provides up to 320 kilometres of towing distance.

However far you travel, save on all your summer drives by getting 3¢/L off fuel at Shell. Make life even easier by adding your BCAA Membership to the Shell App and pay from your phone using Shell EasyPay™. While you’re filling up, stock up on treats and keep your RV sparkling with 10% off car washes and in-store purchases at participating Shell stations.

Look into RV Insurance

Whether you have a trailer, camper or motorhome, there are coverage options to help protect your RV, your belongings and the experiences that come with it.

Members can also save 10% on BCAA RV Insurance for trailers and campers, so you can travel with more confidence wherever the road takes you. For motorhomes, coverage is available through ICBC and BCAA can help you get set up. Call 1.888.268.2222 to get a quote.

Check for provincial emergency notifications

With the high demand for travel during the summer and some communities working hard to respond to emergencies and evacuations due to wildfires, it's essential to prepare before you go and consider the destinations you are travelling to. Before you travel, check for emergency updates at Emergency Info BC’s website.

Once your recreational vehicle is ready for the open road, we’ll see you around the lakes and campsites! Do you have any top RV tips? Share them and discover more about living your best life in BC in our new online community, BCAA Connect.

Before you hit the road, download the BCAA App for faster access to roadside assistance and exclusive Member savings near you. Not a BCAA Member yet? Join now!