RV Checklist: Gear for Demanding Routes
Packing a motorhome for a standard campsite is one thing; preparing an RV for high-altitude passes or remote coastal tracks is a matter of logistics and safety. Overloading is the primary cause of mechanical failure and instability on steep gradients. Smart packing on a large vehicle isn't about comfort, but about maintaining a safe center of gravity.
| Critical RV Gear for Remote Roads | |
|---|---|
| Levelling & Stability | Heavy-duty wheel chocks and extra-wide base plates for soft ground. |
| Brake Management | Infrared thermometer to monitor wheel hub temperatures on long descents. |
| Recovery | Traction boards rated for the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). |
1. Weight Distribution and Center of Gravity
On winding roads, a top-heavy RV is a liability. Ensure heavy items (water tanks, tools, canned goods) are stored as low as possible and ideally between the axles. An unbalanced load can lead to catastrophic swaying or loss of traction on hairpin turns. Always weigh your vehicle fully loaded before tackling mountain routes to ensure you are within legal and mechanical limits.
2. Essential Mechanical Backup
In remote areas, you are your own mechanic. Beyond a standard household toolbox, an RV in difficult terrain requires specific hardware:
- Specific fluids: High-boiling point brake fluid and extra coolant compatible with your engine spec.
- Tire Care: A heavy-duty, dual-cylinder compressor capable of reaching the high PSI required for motorhome tires.
- Electrical Diagnostics: A multimeter to troubleshoot "house battery" vs. "chassis battery" issues when off-grid.
3. Self-Sufficiency Gear
For those planning to explore remote tracks where services are non-existent, "boondocking" (off-grid camping) gear is essential. This includes a reliable portable power station or a dedicated solar setup to maintain communication devices and GPS navigation without the need to idle the main engine. Safety in isolation depends on your energy reserves.
Conclusion
The joy of RV travel on perilous roads is the freedom it provides, but that freedom requires discipline. Focus your packing on mechanical resilience and weight management rather than domestic luxuries. A lighter, well-balanced vehicle is always a safer vehicle.