The RV Rental Blog

K.I.S.S (Keep It Simple Spotter)

Yesterday we talked about some of the reasons there are communication difficulties between drivers and spotters when parking an RV (more specifically when backing an RV). Today we have some good news - just remember three simple rules and the whole process will be far easier than you ever expected:

1. The spotter (the one giving directions) should always stand where they can be seen by the driver. (Hint, if you can't see the driver, the chances are pretty good that the driver can't see you!)
2. Always use hand signals to communicate with the driver. Clear communications are a lot easier with hand signals than when the spotter is tying to make themselves heard over an RV's engine noise. (Hint, the driver and the spotter should agree in advance on exactly what hand signals will be used - and what each signal means.)
3. K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple Spotter! Avoid giving complex/convoluted signals. (Hint, anything other than "Turn Left", "Turn Right", "Come On Back", and "Stop" is probably giving the driver too much information.)

And two final points:

1. Any time the driver has other than a totally clear picture of exactly where the RV is and exactly where it needs to go, the driver should stop the RV, get out and take a look. Trying to maneuver a large vehicle without a clear understanding of what you are trying to accomplish is asking for trouble.
2. Remember, it's possible to take an entire RV rental vacation without ever finding yourself in a position where backing up is necessary. All that is required is that you: a.) always think ahead and b.) always ask for a "pull-through" site when making your campground reservations.

Don't waste time worrying about backing your rental RV. As long as you think ahead and take it slow, you won't have any problems!

# posted by Dave Corby @ 7:53 AM