What “Full Hookups” Really Mean

The Secret Code for a Comfortable Stay

When you are looking at campgrounds online, you will see some sites labeled as “Full Hookups” (sometimes written as FHU). To a new camper, that might sound like a strange phrase, but to a pro, it’s the best news ever!

Basically, “Full Hookups” means your RV can plug into the campground just like a house plugs into a city. Here is exactly what is included when you see that label.

1. The “Power” (Electricity)

The first part of a full hookup is a metal box on a post next to your site. This gives your RV all the “juice” it needs.

• What it does: It runs your air conditioner, your microwave, and your TV. It also keeps your batteries charged up.

• Pro Tip: There are two main types of plugs: 30-amp (small) and 50-amp (big). Make sure the campground power matches the plug on your RV!

2. The “Water” (Fresh Water)

The second part is a water spigot, just like the one you might have in your backyard at home.

• What it does: You connect a white hose from the spigot to your RV. Now, you have endless water for showers, washing dishes, and flushing the toilet without ever running out!

• Pro Tip: Always use a “Pressure Regulator” on the spigot. It’s a little metal piece that makes sure the water doesn’t push too hard and break the pipes inside your RV.

3. The “Sewer” (The Drain)

This is the part that makes a site “Full.” It is a plastic pipe in the ground with a screw-on cap.

• What it does: You connect your “stinky slinky” hose from the RV to this hole. This allows you to empty your bathroom and sink tanks right at your campsite.

• Pro Tip: Without this, you would have to drive your RV to a “Dump Station” at the end of the trip to empty the tanks. Having it at your site is much more convenient!

What if it’s NOT a Full Hookup?

Sometimes a park will offer “Partial Hookups.” Here is how to tell the difference:

• Water & Electric Only: You have power and fresh water, but no sewer drain. You have to be careful not to take too many long showers, or your tanks will get full!

• Dry Camping (No Hookups): This is also called “Boondocking.” You have to use the water you brought in your tank and the power from your batteries. It’s more like “real” camping!

Pro Tip: The “Don’t Leave it Open” Rule. Even with a full sewer hookup, keep your “Black Tank” (the bathroom tank) closed until it is mostly full. If you leave it open all the time, the liquids run away and the “solids” get stuck. Waiting until it’s full helps everything wash away smoothly!

Final Thoughts

Full hookups turn your RV into a tiny, luxury home in the woods. It means you don’t have to worry about running out of power or water, which makes the whole trip much more relaxing. If you love long hot showers and watching movies at night, “Full Hookups” is the way to go!

Enjoy the comforts of home, outdoors!

🐟 Want to see exactly where the hookup posts are located at your site? Don’t guess if your hoses are long enough! CampgroundViews.com lets you take a 360-degree tour of the park. You can see the power pole and the water spigot at every site before you book.

See the hookups at CampgroundViews.com!