Going on a road trip with an RV is a great way to travel and enjoy the countryside. An RV offers easy access to the outdoors with all the comforts of home.

However, just like being at home, you will generally have neighbours, especially when you stop and set up camp. With neighbours by your side, proper etiquette is needed more than ever!

Following the rules of etiquette will help you to create a friendly atmosphere and more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Follow these 8 tips for RV camping etiquette to be a good RV neighbour on your next trip:

1. Follow the campsite rules. Most campsites have rules and regulations that you are given when you register. These rules usually include campsite speed limits, fire regulations, quiet times, and so on. Adhering to these rules is one of the basics of campground etiquette. Be sure to review and enforce the rules with your children, as well.
2. Park your RV in alignment with the campsite layout. Some campsites have concrete pads to indicate where to park your RV, while others have only the utility pole to indicate where your space ends and your neighbour’s campsite begins. The best approach is to check how other RVs are parked and align your unit with them. Take a note of their angle of parking and distance from the utility pole, so you can replicate it when you park your RV. If you don’t see other RVs around when you park, examine the campsite map to determine the intended set up.
3. Contain yourself and your stuff to your area. When you set up your RV, don’t allow slideouts or awnings to extend beyond the utility pole and into your neighbours area. Also, be sure to keep your belongings, chairs, mats, toys, and so on in your campsite. The only exception is a satellite dish, which may need to be placed in a specific area to receive a signal. Before placing your dish on another campsite, ask for permission from the people occupying the site.
4. Be considerate when arriving late or leaving early. If you arrive at the campsite after dark or leave before dawn, remember that others may be sleeping. Be as unobtrusive as possible. If setting up, do the least amount you need to get through the night and keep voices quiet and lights dim. If you are leaving early, pack up the bulk of your items the day before so you can make a quick get away with the least amount of disturbance possible.
5. Treat other campsites as private property. When someone is set up in a campsite, that site becomes their property for the duration of their stay. Never cut across another occupied site without permission. If the washrooms or beach access are on the other side of a site, walk around.
6. Keep noise to a minimum. If you have television or radio, keep the volume in check. If possible, close the windows next to the speakers to contain the sound. To test the volume, turn on the TV or radio and go outside your RV. If you can hear it, turn down the volume, close windows, or move the speakers to reduce the sound outside your RV.
7. Be a responsible pet owner. If you are traveling with pets, make sure they are well taken care of. Keep dogs on leashes whenever they are outside so they are not bothering your neighbours and discourage them from barking. Never leave a dog that barks or howls unattended. Also, clean up after your dog – always.
8. Clean up after yourself. Before you leave the campsite, clean up your area. Dispose of garbage properly, including bottle caps, cigarette butts, and dog waste. Always leave a campsite as clean, or cleaner, than it was when you arrived.

Follow these etiquette tips to keep good neighbourly relations with your camping communit. Have a safe and happy summer!