Matt Light's Guide to Planning Your Trip

If you're gearing up for your very first RV trip—or even just dreaming about it—you’re in good company. Former NFL player and RV enthusiast Matt Light is here to help newbies plan their adventures through a new YouTube series from Go RVing called The Newbie Toolkit. In Episode 1, “Start Your Trip,” Matt offers a down-to-earth introduction to what first-time RVers need to think about before hitting the road.

Step 1: Choose the Right RV Experience for You

Before you start packing or mapping, consider what type of RV experience suits your needs. Are you renting an RV for a weekend getaway or purchasing a motorhome for long-term adventure?

Ask yourself:

• How many people are going? This affects how much space you'll need.
• Do you want to tow or drive the RV? Travel trailers require a tow vehicle, while motorhomes are all-in-one units.
• Will you stay at campgrounds with full hookups or boondock off-grid? Your destination determines what kind of features you'll need in your RV.

For guidance, check out First RV Trip Tips for Success on Go RVing’s website. It covers everything from choosing your RV to campground etiquette.

Step 2: Map Your Route—Safely

In this video, Matt Light jokes about pulling his RV off the lot for the first time, unsure of what to expect. It’s a common feeling. But with a little research and the right tools, you can reduce the anxiety of getting from point A to point B.

Important route considerations:

• RV-Specific GPS or apps: Use apps like RV LIFE, CoPilot RV, or Garmin RV GPS devices that account for your height, weight, and turning radius.
• Know your vehicle’s dimensions: Write down the height, width, length, and weight of your RV and keep it visible on your dashboard.
• Avoid low bridges and tight roads: This is where RV-specific mapping really helps. Standard GPS apps like Google Maps won’t warn you of a 10-foot clearance.

Need help finding the best tools? Browse 11 Best RV Trip Planning Apps for 2024 to learn more about your options.

Step 3: Choose a Destination and Book Early

While it’s fun to be spontaneous, first-time RVers are usually more comfortable with a solid plan. National parks, state parks, and private campgrounds all offer great RV-friendly sites—but they fill up fast.

Consider:

• Drive time: For your first trip, limit your drive to 3–5 hours.
• Amenities: New RVers often prefer full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections.
• Campground type: Want to know what camping style fits you best? Visit the Let’s Go Camping playlist on Go RVing’s YouTube channel to explore different types of campgrounds, from state parks to RV resorts.

Step 4: Pack Smart, Not Heavy

One of Matt Light’s key tips is to avoid overpacking. RVs have limited space, and clutter can turn your relaxing getaway into a frustrating mess.

Pack strategically:

• Essentials only: Bring only what you'll actually use.
• Checklists help: Use Go RVing’s checklists for kitchenware, linens, gear, and clothing.
• Storage bins: Stackable or collapsible bins keep small items organized.

Don't forget your sewer hose, drinking-safe water hose, leveling blocks, and power adapters. These items are easily overlooked by first-time RVers.

Step 5: Test Everything at Home

Before you hit the road, do a full test run in your driveway or a nearby campground:

• Hook up water, sewer, and electric
• Operate the slide-outs and leveling jacks
• Turn on the furnace, A/C, and water heater
• Practice using the RV’s awning and appliances

This trial run is critical for catching any issues before you’re hundreds of miles from home.

Step 6: Understand RV Systems

A basic understanding of how your RV works goes a long way in preventing stress on the road. Learn how your propane system operates, how to read your tank levels, and how to dump your waste tanks correctly.

Watch Go RVing’s helpful beginner-friendly videos like:

• Electric 101
• Propane 101
• Water Hookups 101
• Sewer 101

These videos feature experts from the RV Technical Institute and are a great crash course for first-time RVers.

Step 7: Prepare for the Unexpected

Even with all your planning, things can still go sideways. That’s part of the adventure. Carry a basic tool kit, spare fuses, tire pressure gauge, and emergency road supplies. Also:

• Print your reservation info in case you lose internet access
• Download offline maps
• Keep emergency contacts and roadside assistance info handy

Step 8: Relax and Enjoy the Ride

You planned. You packed. You practiced. Now it’s time to enjoy the journey. Your first RV trip might not go perfectly—but it will definitely be memorable. Take it slow, give yourself plenty of time, and focus on making fun memories, not achieving perfection.

Start Your RV Journey With Confidence

Whether you’re renting an RV for the weekend or gearing up for your first big road trip, planning ahead is the key to RV success. Take it from Matt Light—every expert starts as a beginner. With the right tools, knowledge, and attitude, you’ll be rolling down the road in no time.

Want to keep learning? Visit the Let’s Go Camping playlist on Go RVing’s YouTube channel to explore different types of campgrounds and get inspired for your next trip.