Driving in the rain is always a tricky situation, and when you're traveling in a 13,000+ pound RV, it can be even worse. Even skilled RV travelers hesitate to drive in heavy rain to avoid accidents. Today, we will review some tips that have helped me stay safe in wet road conditions. With the wet season coming up, it's always good to review the basics and provide some tips to keep you safe. I will cover supply requirements, driving techniques, and weather safety measures to ensure a secure journey. Ready to stay safe and get to your next destination? Then, let's get started.
Essential Supplies & Tips For Driving in the Rain
RV travel in the rain requires specific safety supplies and equipment. A full fuel & water tank will serve as your foundation. This has always been a contested piece of advice, but I prefer to have the extra weight to help improve my grip on the road. A lighter RV or travel trailer might not provide the stability you want when navigating wet roads. Don't forget to pack extra water and food supplies in case of weather delays along your route.
Your safety kit must include road flares and reflective signs for emergencies. You should also double-check your windshield wipers, headlights, and tires. Remember, just like your car, proper inflation and tread depth are essential. If you have a tow vehicle, make sure the tires are up to safe driving standards. So many people I have come across forget to check their tow vehicle.
Driving Methods You Need To Stay Safe
Let's be honest—slowing down in the rain is common sense that every driver should follow. But it's also essential to know your limits. If you're not comfortable driving in the rain with your RV, then don't force it. There's no need to take unnecessary risks if you're not ready.
Even I sometimes find a safe place to wait out a storm. If you're at an RV resort, consider asking for a late checkout or extending your stay until the weather clears. Safety always comes first.
If you do have to hit the road, take it slow and steady. Turn on your headlights if your wipers are on, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to reduce the risk of sudden braking or water spray obscuring your visibility. Remember, it's far better to arrive at your next destination safely than to rush and put yourself in danger.
Don't forget, we also added a blog post on driving in the snow. If you have not had a chance to review that article, please visit it here. Stay safe out there during the winter months.
Trailer Safety
In all my years of RV travel, I've only pulled a trailer in the rain once—and let me tell you, it was a white-knuckle experience. While the tips we've already discussed are crucial, here are some additional considerations specifically for driving with a trailer in wet conditions.
First, it's helpful if your vehicle is equipped with four-wheel drive or stability control to improve handling on slippery roads. Equally important is proper weight distribution throughout the trailer. Avoid placing all the weight on the back axles; ensure there's an even distribution toward the front as well. This balance will help prevent trailer sway while driving.
Before you hit the road, thoroughly check your hitch to confirm everything is securely connected. Also, double-check the brake lights on your trailer to ensure they're functioning correctly. Be sure to check out the post on RV Lifestyle Magazine about driving your trailer in the rain.
Finally, keep your movements smooth and controlled—avoid abrupt turns or sudden maneuvers that could destabilize your trailer. Driving cautiously and thoughtfully will go a long way in keeping you and your trailer safe in the rain.
Weather Precautions & Travel Planning
Rainy weather creates specific travel risks that require proactive safety measures. Before hitting the road, monitor weather reports to stay informed about conditions along your route. Turn on the TV or check your smartphone for weather warnings and advisories.
Flooded or obstructed roads can often result in detours, redirecting traffic to side streets or single-lane roads. Before proceeding, assess whether your RV can safely navigate these alternate routes. If you're unsure, it's safer to wait until the main roadway is cleared.
I've experienced detours that led me down roads unsuitable for my motorhome, including one that exceeded the weight limit. Fortunately, we made it safely, but in hindsight, I would have waited for better conditions had I been more informed.
Post-Rain Maintenance & Checks
Now that you have made it safely to your destination, checking and inspecting your RV or trailer are always good. First, I like to check my tires and brakes for any issues. Ensure your tires are inflated to their proper PSI, just to be double sure. I know newer motorhomes will let you know if they are low, but I still like to check them myself.
Next, I move inside and look for leaks in the roof or around the windows. If you do find a leak, make sure you get it taken care of quickly to prevent it from becoming a bigger issue. I like to travel with a quick patch just in case I need to reseal an area temporarily.The next big check is your electrical system. Before you plug into the resort's power supply, check your cables and connections. Dry off any wet areas, and after you hook up, keep an eye on it for a minute to ensure there are no issues.
Now That You Made It Relax
You've made it safely to your destination, and your post-travel checks show no issues—well done! Now, it's time to take a moment to decompress and relax. If you follow the basic guidelines, you should have nothing to worry about.
When it comes to driving an RV in the rain, I always recommend taking the slow and steady approach. Safety and patience go hand in hand, especially in challenging conditions.
For those new to RVing, remember that practice makes perfect. The more you travel, the more your confidence and skills will grow. Hopefully, these tips will serve you well on your next adventure. Happy travels!