The first time you hook up your RV at a campground can feel like defusing a bomb—with a hose in one hand and a manual in the other.

Sure, the manuals cover the basics…
But here’s what they don’t say—and what you’ll wish you knew before you ever twisted on that water hose.

💧 1. Always Check the Spigot Before You Connect

Open the water valve first.
If it sputters, sprays sideways, or looks rusty—pause.

You’ll want to flush it or use a filter first. A surprise blast of brown water is a terrible welcome gift.

⚠️ 2. Campground Power Can Be Weird

Just because the plug fits doesn’t mean the power’s clean.

Use a surge protector (always), and test the outlet before you plug in. A bad hookup can fry your system—and campground liability is a maybe.

🧻 3. Never Hook Up Your Sewer Line First

Get everything else set—then do the sewer.
Why? Because while you’re fumbling with the hose clamp, your fresh water line might be lying in… less-than-fresh territory.

Keep it sanitary. Sewer goes last. Always.

🔁 4. Don’t Leave Everything Open All the Time

A rookie mistake: leaving the gray tank valve open 24/7.
Sure, it drains… but it also creates a “poo pyramid” in your black tank. Gross but true.

Let the gray fill partially before dumping—so it helps rinse the system after a black tank dump.

🧤 5. Gloves Matter, But So Does Technique

You’ll wear gloves when handling sewer hoses (please), but also:

• Keep a designated “dirty bin” for sewer gear

• Use a second fresh water hose for tank flushing

• Sanitize your hands and the handle of your water spigot afterwards

🧠 Final Thoughts

Hookups aren’t rocket science—but they’re not just plug-and-play either.

What manuals don’t show is the flow, the little habits that keep things cleaner, smoother, and less stressful every time.

So next time you roll into a new park, take a breath.
Set up slowly.
And remember—every full-timer once had to Google “why does my RV smell like eggs?”

🐟 Want to preview hookup access at real campgrounds before you book? Use Campground Views to tour sites virtually and plan smarter for your next stay.

🔗 Follow us for honest tips, first-timer how-tos, and real-life camping insight the manuals leave out.