RV Arrival Checklist

A step-by-step routine for setting up at a campsite — leveling, chocking, hooking up power, water and waste, extending slide-outs and stabilizing.

Published July 14, 2026

Position & Survey the Site

Check the site for low branches, slopes and obstacles
Confirm the hookup locations for power, water and sewer
Spot the rig so doors, slides and awning have clearance
Note the most level area to park
Have a spotter guide you into position

Level & Chock

Check level side to side and add leveling blocks as needed
Level front to back using jacks or the tongue jack
Confirm the rig is level before extending slides
Place wheel chocks snugly on both sides
Chock before unhitching so the rig cannot roll
Unhitch the trailer if towable

Stabilize

Lower stabilizer jacks until firm, not lifting
Use jack pads on soft or uneven ground
Confirm the rig feels solid with no rocking
Set the parking brake on a motorhome
Recheck chocks after stabilizing

Connect Hookups

Turn off the pedestal breaker, then plug in via a surge protector
Switch the breaker on and confirm correct voltage and polarity
Connect the fresh water hose with a pressure regulator
Attach the sewer hose to the dump connection with gloves
Open the gray valve only, keeping black closed until full
Turn on propane if needed for appliances

Extend & Open Up

Extend slide-outs once the rig is level and stable
Confirm slides are fully out and seals seated
Deploy the awning and secure it against wind
Lower the entry steps
Raise the TV antenna or set up the satellite dish

Final Setup Checks

Turn on the refrigerator and confirm it is cooling
Check water flows and the water heater works
Confirm lights, outlets and air conditioning work
Test the carbon monoxide and propane detectors
Set up outdoor mats, chairs and the campsite

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An RV arrival checklist is a step-by-step routine for setting up at a campsite — positioning and leveling the rig, chocking the wheels, connecting power, water and waste, extending slide-outs and stabilizing. It turns a busy arrival into a calm, repeatable process so nothing important is missed.

Setting up in the right order matters: leveling before extending slides, and chocking before unhitching, protects the RV and keeps it safe. Doing the same sequence each time also makes setup faster and reduces mistakes after a long drive.

This list suits motorhomes, travel trailers and fifth wheels, with the same principles adapting across types. Always follow your RV and appliance manuals, and treat it as a supplement to, not a replacement for, careful checks and good judgment.

Print it or download the PDF and keep it in the RV so you can tick off leveling, chocking, hookups, slides and stabilizing at every stop.

FAQ

What order should I set up an RV at a campsite?

A common sequence is to position the rig, level it side to side and front to back, chock the wheels, stabilize, then connect power, water and waste, and finally extend slide-outs. Leveling before extending slides protects the mechanism and the door.

Why level the RV before extending slides?

Slide-outs are heavy and can bind or be damaged if the RV is not level, and an unlevel rig can also affect the refrigerator and your comfort. Get the rig level on its leveling blocks or jacks first, then extend the slides.

How do I connect to shore power safely?

Check the pedestal breaker is off, plug in through a surge protector, then switch the breaker on. Confirm the surge protector reports correct voltage and polarity before relying on the power, and use the right adapter for your service.

When should I chock the wheels?

Chock the wheels before unhitching a towable and before raising stabilizer jacks, so the rig cannot roll. Place chocks snugly on both sides of the wheels, especially on any slope, as a basic safety step at every site.

Can I print this RV arrival checklist?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF so you can keep it in the RV and tick off leveling, chocking, hookups, slides and stabilizing each time you arrive at a campsite.