Water sports vacations have long been a holiday favorite, driven in part by the ever-expanding RV market. Statistics show there were almost six times as many RVs shipped for sale in the US last year as compared to 1980. In the past two years, US RV ownership has risen a buoyant 12 percentage points. Taking RVs on a water sports vacation can also be seen as a pandemic response. Safer staycations have increasingly replaced overseas plane and hotel, or even interstate, travel. The success of any RV water sports vacation hinges on some forward planning, and a little mindfulness in keeping vehicles, equipment, and bodies protected, in and out of the water.
Prepare, Load, and Store
Before travel, items inside the RV should be locked down. Small belongings can be placed in the sink, televisions on the floor, and any latched doors firmly shut. Water sports equipment also needs securing. Jet skis, kayaks, or any other personal watercraft are usually transported on a trailer attached to the RV. Careful attention to the RV’s haulage weight is essential. On-site, water sports equipment should be stored inside or undercover where possible to avoid damage from continuous exposure to sun and rain. Jet skis and other water sports equipment can be stored and secured on their trailer to protect them from the elements and dissuade theft.
Keeping Sand at Bay
A beach vacation allows infinite possibilities for traipsing sand around. Invest in doormats for wiping shoes, a rug for seating sandy toes on outside, and brooms to sweep the sand away. A water bowl by the door encourages feet cleaning before entering the RV.
Park and Play
Knowing how to park and protect an RV by the beach or lake is crucial. RVs can be parked on sand but should be secured by having hard surfaces placed underneath leveling jacks or tires to counter any sinking. Any side of the RV that is exposed to the ocean should be covered with sheets of mesh, plywood, or plastic. Tides should be carefully considered when choosing an appropriate beach spot to park. If RV vacationing by a lake in an RV resort, study the campsite maps before arrival and request a site that provides some privacy. Ideal site choices border woods or nature, don’t sit close to access roads, and are situated far from bathrooms and other amenities.
The same safety attention given to the RV needs to be taken when engaging in water sports. Whether it’s ocean or lake swimming, in calm or wavy waters, keeping an eye on currents, depths, and any potential perils, like uneven rocky surfaces, is essential. Only attempt operating personal watercraft with the required skills. So, for instance, if you’re on a jet ski for the first time, make sure to go super slow; give yourself time to get a feel for it first.
Going on a water sports RV holiday offers an infinite array of possibilities in direction, activity, and pleasure. A little planning and attention go a long way, especially in times of increased uncertainty and change, and certainly when RV’ing and water sports are concerned.
Author: Alicia Rennoll
Kevin K. ~ “Maurice, an RV Tech talked me through a problem that only a mechanic would know. He had the experience to find the problem with my slides and fix them.”