4 Tips for RVing During the 2024 Solar Eclipse


RVers across the country are starting to prepare for the solar eclipse on April 8. And if you’re thinking of hitting the road to get into the path of totality, you’re not alone. Thousands of other RVers will be doing the exact same thing. That increased traffic means that planning your trip in advance is a must. Here are a few things you’ll want to do before de-winterizing your RV and bringing it out on your trip.

1. Make Reservations Now
Campgrounds along the path of totality are filling up fast. If you haven’t already, start calling around and make a reservation as soon as possible. Keep in mind that you may need to be flexible on the campgrounds you choose. Since this is such a popular event, many of the nicer RV parks with full amenities are already at capacity. Be open to reserving a site at a campground that offers fewer amenities than you’d normally choose. Or get creative and book your stay at a hotel and leave your RV in the parking lot. 

2. Consider Boondocking or Dry Camping 
Boondocking or dry camping can give you access to sites closer to the path of totality. Consider broadening your search for campsites by including ones with no amenities. There are several national forests and Bureau of Land Management areas along the path of totality, and most of them allow campers in self-contained rigs to camp off-grid for a low fee if they charge a fee at all. Even better, most of these sites are first-come-first-served, so you won’t have to worry about making reservations ahead of time.

3. Be Willing to Drive to a Viewing Location
If you’re finding it difficult to book a site along the path of totality, don’t give up hope. Instead, consider booking a site outside the path and drive to a viewing location on April 8th. You may not even have to go far. Often campgrounds within an hour or two of the path of totality will still have space. And when you’re willing to drive to a viewing location, you could end up with a better view than you’d have at a campground!

4. Purchase Viewing Glasses Now
If you plan on looking at the sun during the eclipse, you’ll want to invest in eclipse glasses. These glasses block out the sun’s harmful rays and protect your eyes while you’re staring at the sun. Purchase them ahead of time rather than waiting until the day of. When you buy them before you leave home, you’ll typically pay less per pair. 

Get Your RV Ready
RVing is a great way to see the eclipse without having to sacrifice the comforts of home. But before you head out, you’ll need to make sure your rig is ready. Do a thorough walkthrough of your rig at least a few weeks ahead of your trip. If you notice anything off, get it taken care of as soon as possible. Schedule a tune-up with the team at goHomePort. Our RV service and repair experts can go through your rig’s systems and make sure they’re working properly. 
 
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