Embarking on an RV road trip can be an exhilarating adventure, but it can also test the limits of your patience and relationships. If you’ve ever found yourself in the passenger seat of an RV, you know just how stressful it can be to navigate the open road while trying to keep the peace with the driver.
After seven years on the road, the hosts in the video learned the hard way what works and what doesn’t when it comes to being a good RV passenger. Fortunately, we found a great video that perfectly encapsulates these lessons. Below, we’ve highlighted the top five things you should DO as an RV passenger.
1. Feed the Driver
One of the best ways to keep your driver happy and less stressed is by keeping them well-fed. As the video suggests, “A happy driver is a less stressed driver, so if you want to make us happy, keep the snacks coming.” Plan ahead and have a variety of snacks ready to go.
The way to a driver’s heart is through their stomach, and a well-fed driver is a happy driver.
2. Plan Stops in Advance
As a passenger, one of your key responsibilities is to plan rest stops and fuel stops in advance. The video emphasizes, “As we’re driving down the road, I use my phone and the AllStays app to always look ahead to see when rest stops are coming up.” This helps the driver focus on the road and reduces the stress of last-minute decisions.
Think of it as being the road trip concierge—your job is to keep everything running smoothly!
3. Know When to Zip It
Knowing when to stay quiet can be crucial during stressful driving situations. The video advises, “When it’s getting really stressful, knowing when to just zip it and let everyone chill out is really important.” Sometimes, silence is golden, especially when navigating through heavy traffic or tricky road conditions.
Sometimes, the best co-pilot is a silent co-pilot.
4. Celebrate the Wins
Make sure to celebrate the small and big wins along the journey. The video encourages, “Celebrate the wins, like your driver navigating a tight turn or backing into the RV site like a pro.” Positive reinforcement can go a long way in keeping the morale high.
A little cheerleading never hurt anyone—just don’t bring pom-poms to the front seat.
5. Know Your Role
Understanding your role as a passenger is crucial for a smooth trip. The video explains, “Some are Navigators and some are not Navigators, so know which one you are supposed to be.” If you’re the navigator, stay focused and attentive; if not, don’t second-guess the driver’s decisions.
Think of yourself as the co-captain of this ship—know your duties and stick to them!
