RV & Motorhome Checklist
Pre-departure checks for your home on wheels
Documents & Admin
0/8Engine & Drivetrain
0/8Tyres & Exterior
0/11Living Area
0/7Water & Waste
0/8Gas & Power
0/8Safety & Emergency
0/8Navigation & Electronics
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← Back to all checklistsYour motorhome is both your vehicle and your home, which means double the systems to check before departure. Engine, drivetrain, water, gas, power, and living area all need attention. The good news is that once you have a routine, pre-departure checks become second nature. This checklist helps you build that routine so nothing gets missed.
Engine & Drivetrain
Motorhomes are heavier than regular vehicles and put more strain on mechanical components. Check all fluid levels — engine oil, coolant, transmission, power steering, and brake fluid. Inspect belts and hoses visually for cracks or wear. Battery terminals should be clean and tight. If your motorhome has been sitting for a while, run the engine for a few minutes before departure to circulate fluids.
Tyres & Exterior
Tyre pressures must be set for your loaded weight — check the placard on the door jamb or your manual. Motorhome tyres are expensive, so keeping them properly inflated extends their life significantly. Walk around the outside checking all lights, mirrors, hatches, and storage compartments. Retract the step, secure the awning, lower the aerial, and close roof vents.
Living Area
Latch every cupboard and drawer — they will open on the road. Secure the fridge, turn off the stove, and stow all loose items. Close blinds and windows. Test your smoke alarm and CO detector before every trip. If you have a toilet cassette, make sure chemicals are stocked. A few minutes of preparation saves cleaning up a mess at the other end.
Water & Waste
Fill the fresh water tank and empty both grey and black water tanks before departure. Flush the black tank thoroughly. Check that the water pump works and the hot water system fires up. If your water filter is due for replacement, do it now rather than on the road. Pack your dump point key or card where you can find it easily.
Gas & Power
Full gas bottles with taps off for travel. Check the regulator is in date. House batteries should be charged, solar panels clean, and the inverter tested. Pack your 240V lead for powered sites. If you're running a generator, make sure it has fuel. Power independence gives you the freedom to stay off-grid for longer.
Safety & Emergency
First aid kit, fire extinguisher, fire blanket near the stove, and levelling ramps are the basics. Motorhomes are tall and wide — check your route for low bridges and weight-limited roads before you go. A high-vis vest is essential for any roadside stops on highways.
Navigation & Electronics
Standard car GPS won't warn you about low bridges or narrow roads. Download maps that include height and weight restriction data. Check your route specifically for any bridges, tunnels, or roads with restrictions that could affect your motorhome. A UHF radio is valuable on rural highways.