Tips for Backing Your RV into Tight Spots

If you have recently purchased an RV or upgraded to a bigger model, you might be worrying about reversing it safely. While it is easier to back up a camper in an open area, it is more challenging to do it in tighter spots, even for seasoned drivers. That's why our experts at Victory Custom Trailers have created this guide to highlight a few points you’ll need to consider when backing up your camper. Read on to learn more, then visit us at our dealership in Metamora, MI, to get your concerns addressed. We happily welcome our patrons from Detroit and Flint, so stop by today.

Set Yourself Up for Success

To safely back up your rig, consider the below points:

• Come out of your camper and walk around the space to note potential obstacles so you can safely navigate them.
• Select a spot at your campground that will be easier to back your rig into.
• Keep to the edge when backing into a spot in a parking lot.

In addition, you’ll want to practice your parking and backing skills when you first get your RV. Try to understand your camper’s turning radius, braking sensitivity, and other critical aspects of your rig that’ll help you back it up like a pro. You can use an empty parking lot to practice backing your RV into tight spaces. Use cones to simulate the boundaries and make enough attempts until you can successfully back up your rig.

Seek the Help of a Friend

The most important thing you’ll need to consider when backing your RV into a tight space is blind spots. So, you’ll want to get a second pair of eyes to help you out.

Have your buddy in a position where they can see your blind spots and warn you either by yelling out loudly or using a cell phone or walkie-talkie. Slowly back up your RV into the tight space while listening to your helper's guidance, and stop as soon as they advise you to do so. Continuing to backup can result in damaging your camper, and you might injure yourself, too.

Make Use of Your Mirrors

You’ll want to take advantage of your mirrors while backing up your RV, especially when maneuvering tighter spots. If your camper has electronically adjustable mirrors, you can make the most of them by adjusting them at different angles. This will improve your range of vision and help you back up your camper easily. Though you might still need the help of a buddy, your mirrors will provide you with valuable assistance as well.

Don't Overly Rely on Rear Vision Cameras

You might have a rear vision camera installed on your motorhome or tow vehicle. Though it might be a helpful asset, you’ll want to avoid relying on it too much.

Most rear vision cameras point to the ground, which prevents you from getting the complete picture and increases your chances of colliding with obstacles like low-hanging branches or powerlines. So, when using your camera, you’ll want to use it as an additional resource instead of as the only resource.

We hope this guide helps you back your RV safely into tight spots. If you need more advice, connect with our experts at Victory Custom Trailers. We’re in Metamora, MI, where we proudly serve those from Detroit and Flint, so stop by today.