The best part about RVing is having the freedom to explore new places. If your next adventure involves taking your boat out on the water, you’ll need to prepare your RV accordingly. Whether you’re headed to popular boating destinations like the Trent-Severn Waterway or lesser-known lakes and rivers, here are five tips to get your recreational vehicle ready for a smooth boat trip.
Checking Your Towing Setup
Before setting off, ensure your RV is ready for the haul. Start by checking that the RV battery is fully charged and the propane bottle is filled. Inspect your hitch to ensure it's secure and check your RV's fill levels, making sure all tanks are empty. Also, ensure your tow vehicle has a full gas tank and check all other fluid levels. It's crucial to secure loose items, close all windows, awnings, vents, blinds, and slideouts, and turn off all appliances. Lastly, ensure your trailer is all the way on the hitch and locked in place, and that safety chains are hooked up in a cross (x) pattern.
Packing Essentials for Being on the Water
When packing for your boating trip, prioritize safety equipment such as life jackets, a working fire extinguisher, a fully stocked first aid kit, functional flares, and a working sound signal. Also, pack essential medical supplies like waterproof bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, scissors, and ibuprofen. Don't forget to bring extra clothes, towels, sunscreen, bug repellent, sunglasses, and a camera for capturing memorable moments. Lastly, ensure you have enough food and water for the duration of your trip.
Preparing Your Boat
Before setting sail, ensure your boat is equipped with all necessary safety items, including life jackets for everyone on board, a working fire extinguisher, a fully stocked first aid kit, functional flares, and a working sound signal. Check fuel and engine oil levels, propellers, lights, horn, pumps, and electronics. Also, ensure you have all appropriate documentation for your vessel. If you're trailering your boat, make any necessary reservations at the boat ramp of your choice.
Considering Your Freshwater Supply
A reliable supply of fresh water aboard a boat makes life easier and more comfortable. Ensure your boat has a freshwater system designed to accommodate the size and use patterns of your boat. Start with a water tank or collapsible water bladder that can sustain the systems onboard for the length of your typical outing. Freshwater pumps move water from the water tank to points of use—such as faucets and showers. Plan to provide up to two gallons of drinking water per person onboard per day.
Choosing the Best Destinations
Ontario is home to some of the best boating locations in Canada, from the beautiful Kawarthas to Missinaibi Provincial Park in the north. Whether you're looking for a serene lake, a bustling marina, or a secluded cove, Ontario has something to offer every boater. When choosing your destination, consider factors such as the type of boating activities you enjoy, the amenities available, and the distance from your current location. Research each potential destination thoroughly to ensure it meets your needs and expectations. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so choose a route that offers beautiful views and interesting stops along the way.
Image by Steve Adcock from Pixabay
To wrap things up, getting ready for a boating adventure in Ontario with your RV isn't something you can do on a whim. It requires thoughtful planning and meticulous preparation. You need to make sure your towing setup is rock solid and that you've packed all the necessary items to ensure both safety and comfort. It's vital that your boat is in tip-top shape and ready to hit the water, and that you've got enough freshwater to meet your needs.
Choosing the perfect destination isn't just about picking a place on the map. It's about considering what you love to do and doing a bit of homework on potential spots. Don't forget, Ontario is home to some of the most stunning boating locations, each with its own unique allure.
With the right preparation, your Ontario boating trip can be more than just a getaway. It can be a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, thrilling activities, and experiences that you'll treasure forever.