Blog

Introduction

Today, many RV campgrounds offer pull-thru sites for easy in-and-out access, much like the convenient sites at The Park On Whiskey Road. However, if you find yourself needing to back your rig into a campsite and lack experience, don’t worry. Here are some easy tips to follow that will make you look like a pro.

Step 1: Prepare

It is always best to have a spotter as an extra pair of eyes when you are backing in. Even if you have a backup camera system like Zeroxclub, this helper may see hazards your camera won’t.

Hand Signals:

• Straight Back: With arms out in front of you, bend at the elbow 90 degrees until you give the motion to stop.
• Stop: Cross your arms at the wrist, making an X.
• Go Left/Right: Using either your left or right arm depending on the direction, bend your elbow with hands straight up until the rig is in the proper position, then use either the stop or straight back signal.
• This Much To Go: Show approximate distance by holding your arms out in front of you, bending at the elbow with fingers pointed up. As the driver closes the distance to the point where the rig needs to be, move your arms together until you motion for the driver to stop using the stop (X) signal.

Many RVers use small walkie-talkies to communicate when backing up. If you don’t have them, hand signals are your next best option. Avoid using cell phones due to potential transmission delays that can cause problems.

Step 2: Look Around

Double-check your mirrors to ensure they are set correctly for backing in, and make sure you have a good view of both sides of your rig. Get out and inspect your site for obstructions such as electric pedestals, water hydrants, fallen branches, potholes, fire rings, trees, stumps, and overhead tree limbs that could damage your roof, awning, or AC.

Step 3: Backing In

Take It Slow: Backing too fast and oversteering are the primary causes of most issues when backing. Ensure your spotter remains in your mirror view at all times. They should move with the rig to stay within sight of the driver.

Steering Tips:

• Left Steering: Steering left will make the back end of your rig go right.
• Right Steering: Steering right will make the back end of your rig go left.

Turn the steering wheel in the direction of the problem. If your trailer is going too much left, turn the steering wheel slightly to the left to correct the alignment, then make further adjustments as needed.

Positioning:

Position your trailer in a straight line with your site directly behind you for the easiest back-in experience. Align your camper wheels on the left side of your trailer close to the site entrance, then position your wheels at the right end of the site entrance if your rig is 27’ or over. Turn your steering wheel hard right and begin slowly backing up. As the back end of your rig enters the site, slowly turn your steering wheel to the left, making small corrections as needed.

Don’t hesitate to stop and pull forward to straighten things out before continuing. Ensure you have enough room away from obstacles for your slide-outs.

Conclusion

Backing in an RV travel trailer may seem daunting at first, but with practice and patience, it becomes much easier. At The Park On Whiskey Road, we offer plenty of pull-thru sites to simplify your stay, but we’re always here to help if you need it. Take your time, be safe on the road, and enjoy your stay with us. Give us a call at 918-519-3290 to reserve your spot today.

Cheers,
Ric, Park Host