Camping With a Popup Trailer

Pop-up trailers go by a variety of different names including fold downs, tent trailers, folding trailers and RVs. Whatever you want to call them, they are all essentially the same type of thing.

These are great if you are new to RVing and you're not sure about purchasing a van RV or bus. These are also more versatile than your typical RV and they allow you to be able to park and camp in areas that you may not be able to access with your large RV. Also, you can disconnect them from your vehicle, which allows you to use your vehicle for sightseeing, going into town, etc. This is a luxury that the RVers with the large motor coaches don't have. They have to break down camp if they need to leave.

Caring for Your Trailer

Mold and mildew prevention is very important when it comes to your pop-up trailer. You always want to ensure that your canvas is completely dry when you store your trailer for a long period of time. This means that you will want to allow it to air dry for several hours before putting it up for the winter. Moisture that gets trapped inside the walls can cause mildew, mold and rot damage that you may not be able to see.

If your trailer does develop mold or mildew you will want to treat it as soon as possible. Begin by brushing off the any loose mold or mildew that is on the surface. You can then use a chemical solution that kills mildew or a weak bleach solution to remove and treat the mold. This will work if your fabric is still strong. If the fabric is weak, then you will need to seek help from a canvas repair professional. Weak fabric will appear to be sun damaged or thin. It may also have a papery feel to it. Strong canvas will not be thin and still rather pliable.

Holes and tears are also easy to get in the trailer's canvas when camping. Be observant and check for any sharp edges in your campground, such as nails that may be sticking out of poles at hook-up sites. Low hanging branches that may catch on the canvas can also damage the trailer. You also want to watch for sharp edges on the metal areas of your trailer. These can be remedied with a little sandpaper.

Trailer Pre-Check

Just as you would in tent camping, set-up your trailer at home with your family before you leave so that you know exactly how to operate the lifts and jacks, etc. Check your zippers, Velcro and all of the seals and attach awnings as well as other attachments. If you plan on camping alone, set it all up on your own the first time as well so that you are able to completely set the trailer up without assistance.

Next, check all of your appliances for proper operation. If you have a water system, check it for leaks and other drips, you will see water leaking from beneath the trailer where the water pipes are located. Also look beneath the sink to ensure that the pipes there are not leaking. Look for dripping sinks and running toilets, if your toilet is flushable. Sanitize the sinks and water pipes by flushing out your RV anti-freeze with water. This process should be done until all water is clear and there is no pink fluid running out. Remember to check the shower and toilet to ensure fresh water is running through it as well. Next, most manufacturers recommend running household bleach through the water system. You can also use Camco Manufacturing, Inc. Spring Fresh - Fresh Water System Cleaner and De-Winterizer to help you with the sanitizing process. This product is safe and biodegradable. . You will also want to check for gas leaks if you are using propane in your kitchen. You can do this by using a LP gas leak detector and carbon monoxide monitor. Check the porta-potty or flushable toilet as well.

Before you hit the road, check the tires, including the spare, and the brakes. If your trailer has breaks ensure that they both work. You also need to check the emergency breakaway switch. You should feel some resistance if your trailer brakes are on. Be sure to check signals and lights as well.

Be sure to check the interior as well. You will want to test interior lights, set-up the dinette and refrigerator, if you have one. If your trailer has a cooler, ensure that the drain tube is attached.

Start your gas refrigerator the night before you need it. This will give it time to get nice and cold.

Enjoy your camping trip and camping with a popup trailer.