RV Route and Clearance Planning Checklist

A car route can send an RV toward a low bridge, restricted tunnel, or fuel stop with no way out. This checklist starts with your real rig dimensions and ends with a daylight arrival plan and backup stops.

Know the rig

• Actual measured height is written on the dash or saved in My Rig Card
• Total length, width, GVWR, and combined weight are known
• Fuel range is realistic with a reserve for detours and headwinds

Check the route

• Use an RV-safe route planner; do not rely on a car-only map app
• Check every low-clearance warning against your measured height
• Confirm bridge and road weight limits, tunnel propane rules, and seasonal closures
• Review steep grades and choose safe pull-offs or alternate routes
• Check campground approach directions on the campground's own siteThe shortest route is often not the RV entrance.
• Download offline maps before leaving reliable cell service

Stops and arrival

• Choose fuel stops with RV-friendly entrances, exits, and turning room
• Mark a backup fuel stop before the tank reaches one-quarter
• Plan rest stops or pull-offs every two hours
• Set arrival for daylight with time to inspect the campsite
• Share the route and expected arrival time with someone you trust

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