It’s a brand new year. For many that will mean creating a brand new list of New Year’s resolutions. While there are many “popular” resolutions, one of the most common is the desire to become more organized. This particular resolution is seemingly universal mostly because it can be applied to nearly any aspect of your life. You may be thinking about getting more organized at work. You might be thinking about getting more organized in your approach to schoolwork. You could even see the New Year as the perfect time to get more organized on the road and that means getting your recreational vehicle in order.

Staying organized in your RV will mean less last minute purchasing on the road, more relaxation and less stress, an increased feeling of “home” while traveling, and a less stressful arrival back at home after a trip. Here are a few suggestions that will be helpful as you try to be more organized while RVing this year.  

Get Organized on the Road in 2012:

1.     Make lists. Sit down and take a little bit of time to put together packing lists. Label each list with a common destination or “type” of trip. Compile the list so that items specific to that location or activity will not be left behind when you jump in the RV for a spontaneous getaway. Don’t include items that will be kept in the RV permanently.

2.     Carefully consider what you have in your RV. Are there any items that are rarely used? If so, remove them. Keep them in a convenient location and only pack them in the RV for trips during which they will be necessary. If you complete tip number 1 thoroughly you won’t have a problem remembering to pack them for those during which they will be useful.  

3.     Now carefully consider those items that you have “missed” while RVing. This is your home on the road. Outfit it accordingly. Just because your motorhome came with a microwave and didn’t come with a blender doesn't mean that’s the best setup for you. Customize what you store year round in the RV to suit your personal tastes and needs. It will enhance your RVing experience and make it feel more like home.

RVing can be a lifetime love. Don’t overlook what a little organization can do to maximize the experience.

Watch for Part 2 of our Getting Organized on the Road in 2012 series. Checking this particular resolution off your New Year’s resolution list will take some effort, but it is well worth it in the end.