Pre-Trip RV Checklist for Desert Road Trips in the Southwest

The desert is beautiful, but it's hard on RVs. Long stretches between towns, hot pavement, dust, and big temperature swings will find any weak spot on your rig. A breakdown between El Paso and Van Horn, or out past Deming, is a lot worse than one in your driveway.

Use this checklist before you leave. If anything comes up short, Fun Country RV & Marine, 8800 South Desert Blvd., Anthony, TX 79821, has RV parts and a service department on I-10 between El Paso and Las Cruces. Call 915-886-3500.

Tires: Your First Line of Defense

• Check pressure cold, before driving, and set it to the RV or tire manufacturer's spec.
• Look for cracks and bulges. Desert sun breaks down rubber even when the tread looks fine.
• Check the date code. Older RV tires can fail even with good tread. Follow the tire maker's guidance.
• Inspect the spare and make sure you have a jack that can handle your rig's weight.

Cooling: Engine, Generator, and A/C

• Motorhomes: check coolant level, hoses, belts, and the radiator for dust and bugs.
• Roof A/C: clean or replace the filters, since dust clogs them fast in this climate. Make sure the unit cools before you leave.
• Refrigerator: make sure it's cooling and the vents are clear.

Generator

• Run it under load for a while before the trip.
• Check the oil and air filter and follow the service schedule. Dust is hard on generators.
• Know your fuel and make sure the exhaust is clear and undamaged.

Water and Plumbing

• Carry extra drinking water. Services can be far apart in the desert.
• Test the water pump and water heater, and look for leaks under sinks and around fittings.
• Check the dump valves and sewer hose. Waste valves and fittings are a common, inexpensive replacement.

Brakes, Bearings, and Hitch

• Test trailer brakes and the brake controller before you hit the highway.
• Check wheel bearings and service them on schedule, especially on loaded toy haulers.
• Inspect the hitch, safety chains, and breakaway cable. Check every connection.
• Test all lights, including turn signals, brake lights, and running lights.

Roof, Seals, and Slides

• Inspect roof sealant for cracks from UV damage.
• Run the slides and leveling system at home, not for the first time at the campsite.
• Check the awning and secure it for wind.

Pack a Small Spares Kit

Fuses, a few fittings, a spare water pump fuse, sealant tape, and the part numbers for your major appliances can save a trip. Fun Country stocks genuine OEM RV parts from Dometic, Suburban, Atwood, Valterra, Camco, JR Products, and more. Shop our parts catalog, browse our eBay store, or read about our parts warehouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far ahead should I schedule a pre-trip inspection?

Book before busy seasons and holiday weeks, not the morning you plan to leave. Call 915-886-3500 to schedule.

What fails most often on desert trips?

Our service department most often sees roof sealant, A/C and generators, and brakes and bearings take a beating in this climate.

Can you inspect my RV before a big trip?

Yes. Our service department does routine inspections and preventive maintenance. Request a quote on our service page.

What if I break down on I-10?

Call us at 915-886-3500. We're on I-10 in Anthony, between El Paso and Las Cruces. If your rig can't be driven, have your roadside assistance plan tow it to our shop.

Hit the Road Ready

A few hours of checking can save your whole trip. Call Fun Country RV & Marine at 915-886-3500, or visit funcountryrvs.com to shop parts, request service, or browse new and used RVs.