Last Updated on February 15, 2025 by Jessica Lauren Vine
Our family lived in an RV full time for two and a half years. As a mom of 4 boys, I was worried about the dangers of living in an RV, and I figured that a bunch of you might be worried about that as well.
Living in an RV can be a dream come true for adventurous souls who crave the open road and don’t mind living in a small space. However, it’s essential to recognize that some dangers come with RV living. In this article, we’ll explore some safety, health, and privacy risks that RVers should be aware of.
When embarking on a road trip in your RV, it’s essential to be aware of the potential safety concerns of traveling in a large vehicle. Here are some important things to keep in mind.
And once you’re done going through this list, go to the bottom where you can read one of our car breakdown stories and I have a video and everything. What a mess! I was so ready to quit RV living at that point.
Vehicle Accidents and Breakdowns: Stay Safe on the Road
One of the most prominent safety concerns for RVers is the risk of accidents or breakdowns. RVs are large vehicles that can be tricky to maneuver, and accidents can have serious consequences. Breakdowns, on the other hand, can leave you stranded on the side of the road, which is both dangerous and stressful.
How to Minimize Risks:
- Regular Maintenance: Have your RV inspected before every trip. Check tires, brakes, and other vital systems.
- Tire Safety: Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can lead to blowouts (we’ll talk more about that in a bit).
- Reliable Roadside Assistance: Invest in a good plan to help with emergencies, whether it’s towing or repair.
- Towing Vehicle: If you’re towing, make sure the vehicle is strong enough to handle the weight safely. Trust me, this matters—more on that in my RV braking story below!
Driving Safety in Challenging Conditions
Living in an RV means your home is on wheels, and driving in severe weather or on tricky terrain can increase risks. Here’s how to stay safe on the road:
Driving in Severe Weather: Safety Tips for RVers
Driving in severe weather—think heavy rain, snow, or ice—drastically raises the likelihood of accidents. RV accidents are often caused by inexperienced drivers who lack training to handle such large vehicles. My husband, a former truck driver, is still baffled that special licenses aren’t required!
Tips for Driving in Bad Weather:
- Check Weather Reports: Use reliable apps or a weather radio before hitting the road.
- Slow Down: Reduce speed and increase the following distance. RVs need extra time to stop safely.
- Use Proper Lights: Turn on your headlights and hazard lights for better visibility.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Gradual turns and gentle braking prevent skidding or losing control.
- Pull Over if Necessary: If the weather is too extreme, find a safe spot (like a truck stop) and wait it out.
Blind Spots in RVs
Blind spots are a serious issue with RVs because of their size and design. Changing lanes or backing up becomes much trickier, increasing the risk of accidents.
Tips for Managing Blind Spots:
- Use extended side mirrors.
- Consider installing rearview cameras for better visibility.
- Always double-check blind spots before turning or merging.
Braking on Uneven Terrain
When traveling across the country, you’ll inevitably hit some steep hills and uneven terrain. Braking on descents can be dangerous if you’re not careful. I learned this the hard way during a trip to Texas when, my husband, Joe and I were caravaning down a steep hill with our little Wolf Pup camper. Joe couldn’t slow down in time to take an exit, and it was absolutely terrifying!
Safe RV Braking Tips:
- Use Engine Braking: Downshift to a lower gear when descending to avoid overheating your brakes.
- Avoid Continuous Braking: Instead, brake gently and intermittently.
- Inspect Brakes Regularly: Check for wear and tear before tackling steep or mountainous areas.
Tire Blowouts: A Common Hazard
Tire blowouts are another major issue, caused by the weight of the RV, poor tire maintenance, or bad road conditions. And let me tell you, this is not something you want to experience on the highway!
How to Prevent Tire Blowouts:
- Check Tire Pressure: Follow your RV manual to maintain the correct PSI (pounds per square inch). Under-inflated tires overheat, and over-inflated tires lose traction—both can lead to disaster.
- Replace Old Tires: Tires degrade over time, even if they look fine. Replace them every 5-7 years. UV rays and temperature changes weaken the rubber.
- Inspect for Damage: Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven tread wear regularly. Address issues immediately.
My Uncle Joel owned a tire shop, and I saw too many people try to stretch the life of their tires until they blew out. Trust me—when you’re in an RV, you can’t afford to skimp on tire safety.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that is produced by fuel-burning appliances like RV generators and stoves. Carbon monoxide is produced by burning fuel in RV appliances and can build up in enclosed spaces, posing a lethal risk. If CO builds up in your RV, it can cause serious health problems, including death.
How to Reduce the Likelihood of CO Posioning While Living in an RV
- Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure your RV is equipped with functioning carbon monoxide detectors and test them regularly to confirm they are working properly.
- Maintain Proper Ventilation: Keep your RV well-ventilated by opening windows and using exhaust fans, especially when using fuel-burning appliances.
- Regular Appliance Maintenance: Have all fuel-burning appliances, such as stoves and generators, inspected and maintained by professionals to prevent malfunctions that could lead to CO build-up.
- Avoid Idling Engines: Do not idle your RV or tow vehicle engine in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas, as this can lead to a dangerous accumulation of carbon monoxide.
- Educate and Prepare: Make sure everyone in the RV knows the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning and has a plan for evacuation in case of an emergency.
Propane Leaks and Fires
Propane is commonly used in RVs as a fuel source for stoves, ovens, and heaters. However, propane leaks can occur, and if they ignite, they can cause fires or explosions that can be deadly. Fire safety measures are crucial in preventing such incidents and ensuring the safety of RV dwellers.
To prevent propane leaks, have a professional inspect your RV’s propane system regularly. Also, make sure that any propane-powered appliances are in good working order and installed correctly. If you suspect a propane leak, turn off the propane immediately and open all windows and doors to ventilate the RV.
RVs can be engulfed in flames much more rapidly than houses due to their construction and flammable materials. Making matters worse, RVs have fewer escape routes compared to traditional homes, making evacuation difficult during emergencies. You’d think with the limited space, it might make it easier to get out of the RV but if you RV full time, you shouldn’t think that way. Always have a plan for in case a fire happens—even with the limited space.
Common Causes of RV Fires to Look Out For
A malfunctioning RV refrigerator is a common source of fires in recreational vehicles and with RV fires being so much more dangerous than house fires, it’s important to pay attention to your RV refrigerator and ensuring it’s well maintained and working properly.
Improper use or storage of flammable substances can significantly increase fire risk and can be a significant fire hazard in RVs.
From 2018 to 2020, there was an estimated average of 4,200 RV fires reported annually in the U.S., resulting in 15 deaths, 125 injuries, and $60,300,000 in property loss. Sources: Data snapshot & US Fire Admin
Improper winterization and amateur repairs can significantly increase the fire risk in RVs. During winter RV living, failing to properly winterize your RV can lead to frozen pipes, which may burst and cause water damage, including electrical short circuits that can ignite fires. Ensuring proper insulation and sealing of your RV during cold months is crucial to prevent such hazards.
Moreover, amateur repairs, especially those involving electrical systems or propane lines, can lead to loose connections or faulty installations. These can become significant fire hazards, as improper wiring or gas leaks may easily ignite. It’s essential to rely on professional services for repairs and maintenance to ensure safety.
To minimize these risks, RV owners should follow a thorough winterization checklist and seek professional assistance for any repairs beyond basic maintenance. Regular inspections of propane tanks, lines, and electrical systems can also help detect potential fire risks early on, ensuring a safe living space throughout the year.
After hurricane Milton came through Florida, we were on the way back down toward Orlando from Georgia, and we saw an RV that had exploded and was scorched by fire, and it was super terrifying. It’s really important to take this stuff seriously.
How to Prevent RV Fire Hazards & RV Fires
- Regular Maintenance and Inspection: Schedule routine checks for your RV’s electrical systems, propane lines, and appliances. Professional inspections can help identify and rectify potential issues before they become significant fire hazards.
- Install Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure your RV is equipped with functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Test them regularly and replace batteries as needed to provide early warnings of fires or gas leaks.
- Proper Storage of Flammable Materials: Store flammable substances, such as propane tanks and cleaning supplies, in designated exterior storage compartments away from heat sources. Ensure all containers are sealed tightly and kept in well-ventilated areas.
- Use Space Heaters Safely: If using electric space heaters, ensure they are designed for indoor use and have automatic shut-off features. Avoid running them in confined spaces or leaving them unattended.
- Educate and Prepare: Make sure everyone traveling with you knows how to use a fire extinguisher and understands the PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep). Have an evacuation plan in place and conduct regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows how to exit the RV quickly and safely in case of an emergency.
RV Electrical Issues & Other Electrical Hazards
RV electrical systems can be complex, which means that electrical issues can be common. Faulty wiring or overloaded circuits can cause fires or electrical shocks, which can cause serious harm. Small spaces in RVs can exacerbate these electrical hazards due to limited ventilation and closer proximity to potential sources of danger.
To minimize these risks, have a professional check your RV’s electrical system regularly. Be mindful of how much electricity you use, and avoid overloading circuits. Investing in surge protectors to protect your RV’s electrical system from power surges is also a good idea.
By being aware of these potential safety concerns and taking steps to prevent them, you can help ensure that your RV road trip is a safe and enjoyable one.
Electrical Hazards at RV Parks
While RV parks offer convenient amenities, they can also present unique electrical dangers. Miswiring at RV parks is a significant safety risk that RVers need to be aware of. Faulty electrical hookups or improperly wired pedestals can lead to power surges, electrical shocks, or even fires. It’s crucial to inspect the power pedestal before plugging in and report any issues to park management immediately.
Another common hazard is the use of subpar extension cords. Many RV owners may be tempted to use standard household extension cords, but these are often not rated for the higher power demands of RV appliances. Using inadequate extension cords can lead to overheating, electrical shorts, or fire hazards. Always use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords specifically designed for RV use to ensure safety.
To mitigate these risks, consider investing in a surge protector or an electrical management system (EMS) for your RV. These devices can protect your RV’s electrical system from fluctuations and potential damage caused by miswiring or power surges.
Accidentally Parking in a Flood Zone
Water is nothing to play with and you have to be very careful when you’re choosing a spot to park your RV. If you’re RVing , you might not think too much about flooding, especially if it doesn’t look like it’s going to rain. However, it doesn’t take a long time of raining for some areas to flood.
When we were RVing in Virginia, it didn’t even flood us but the water that swooshed down the mountain side took part of our campground with it and it was terrifying.
Weather Issues in Beautiful Places
There are natural disasters everywhere—even in beautiful places.
For instance, tornadoes can form quickly and bring destructive winds that can damage RVs or hurricanes can put out high winds that can rock the RV. If the high winds get bad enough, they could even knock the RV over.
Staying Informed About Severe Weather
Monitoring severe weather risks is crucial for RVers to ensure their safety. Consider using reliable weather apps like RadarScope or NOAA Weather Radar to stay updated on weather conditions. These apps provide real-time weather alerts and radar images, allowing you to anticipate severe weather events and make informed decisions about your travel plans.
Additionally, always have a battery-powered weather radio on hand for areas with limited cell service. This ensures you receive important weather updates even when you’re off the grid. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, you can minimize the risks associated with severe weather.
It’s also wise to have an emergency plan in place, including knowing the safest routes to evacuate if necessary and identifying nearby shelters or safe locations. Preparing an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, and first-aid supplies can further enhance your preparedness. By being vigilant and prepared, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones while enjoying the RV lifestyle.
Unable to Find Reliable Repair Shops
It’s difficult to find a reliable repair and maintenance space whenever you’re in one spot but finding someone who can do your RV repairs while you’re on the road can prove even more challenging.
RVs tend to break down more often due to the wear and tear of constant travel. Basic knowledge of RV maintenance can save time, money, and stress. At least you can know if the person you take it to has an idea of what they’re talking about. Even if you aren’t going to do the work, it’s good to know a little bit about RV maintenance. Living in an RV requires learning basic mechanical, electrical, and plumbing skills if you don’t want to get stuck in a tough spot.
Routine inspections of RV roofs can help prevent leaks and mold growth too so you can avoid major repairs by simply keeping your roof in good repair as well. If you can avoid expensive RV repair shop expenses, that’s the best bet.
Unlevel Parking Problems
Unlevel RV parking can cause refrigerator malfunction and inefficiency. We didn’t know this when we were RVing but we found it out pretty quickly when we started to have problems.
Unlevel RV parking can lead to significant issues with your RV refrigerator, primarily because most RV refrigerators rely on absorption cooling technology. This technology uses a combination of heat, ammonia, hydrogen gas, and water to create a cooling effect. For this process to work efficiently, the refrigerator needs to be level.
When an RV is parked on an uneven surface, the fluids within the cooling system may not circulate properly, leading to poor cooling performance or even complete failure over time. This can result in spoiled food and increased energy consumption as the refrigerator struggles to maintain the desired temperature.
To prevent these issues, always use leveling blocks or a built-in leveling system to ensure your RV is parked on a flat surface. Regularly check the level of your RV, especially if you notice any changes in the refrigerator’s performance. Proper leveling not only helps the refrigerator operate efficiently but also extends its lifespan, ensuring you have a reliable appliance during your RV adventures.
Health Risks of Living in an RV: Tips for Staying Healthy
Living in an RV is an adventure, but it comes with unique health risks. Here’s what to watch out for and how to stay safe and healthy on the road.
Poor Air Quality (Indoor and Outdoor)
Indoor Air Quality:
Limited ventilation and small spaces in RVs can lead to poor air quality, especially when cooking, using fuel-based appliances, or parking near polluted areas.
- How to Improve Indoor Air Quality:
- Ventilate regularly with fans or open windows.
- Use an air purifier to filter allergens and pollutants.
- Avoid smoking or using harsh chemicals inside.
Outdoor Air Quality:
Wildfire smoke, industrial pollutants, and vehicle emissions can harm outdoor air quality, particularly in certain regions.
- How to Protect Yourself:
- Use air purifiers indoors and high-quality filters in your RV’s ventilation system.
- Monitor air quality using apps like AirNow or PurpleAir.
- Stay indoors with windows closed during poor air quality days.
You can read more on air quality by checking out the EPA website.
Mold and Mildew
RV spaces are prone to mold due to condensation and poor ventilation, which can lead to respiratory issues.
- Prevent Mold and Mildew:
- Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels below 50%.
- Ventilate during activities like cooking or showering.
- Inspect for leaks in seams, slide-outs, and windows.
- Clean any visible mold immediately with a mold-killing cleaner.
Common Areas to Inspect:
- Roof seams: Look for cracks or water intrusion.
- Slide-outs: Check seals and edges for wear or moisture.
- Corners and Hidden Spaces: Move furniture and inspect for soft spots or musty smells.
Pro Tip: Regular maintenance can prevent hidden mold. A moisture meter can help detect unseen dampness.
You can read more about mold prevention on the CDC website.
Water Contamination
RV water tanks can harbor harmful bacteria, including Legionella and E. coli, leading to gastrointestinal illnesses or worse. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 5 RV water systems tested positive for contamination.
- How to Ensure Water Safety:
- Sanitize tanks regularly following your RV manual’s instructions.
- Always use a water filter for potable water.
- Avoid filling your tanks from untrusted sources like dump stations.
- Store bottled water for emergencies.
Limited Access to Medical Care
Remote travel often means fewer medical facilities and longer response times in emergencies.
- Stay Prepared:
- Carry a stocked first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, and necessary medications.
- Invest in an emergency GPS device like
Garmin inReach for areas with poor cell service. - Keep a list of nearby medical facilities and emergency contacts.
- Update health insurance to include travel coverage.
Pro Tip: Learn basic first aid and CPR before hitting the road.
Sedentary Lifestyle Challenges
RV living can encourage a sedentary lifestyle, leading to weight gain, muscle loss, and cardiovascular issues.
- Stay Active:
- Take daily walks around RV parks or nearby trails.
- Keep compact equipment like resistance bands or dumbbells for workouts.
- Choose campgrounds near hiking or biking trails for outdoor activities.
Pro Tip: Check out easy small space workouts on YouTube and get moving every morning.
Mental Health Struggles
While RV life offers freedom, it can also feel isolating, particularly during unexpected challenges like the pandemic.
- Combat Anxiety and Isolation:
- Establish a routine for stability.
- Build community by engaging with fellow RVers online or at campgrounds.
- Plan regular visits to friends or family to maintain connections.
- Take breaks at long-term stays to decompress and reset.
Pro Tip: Apps like Calm or Headspace can help manage stress and improve mental well-being.
This streamlined version keeps the information concise, actionable, and authoritative, while still reflecting your personal voice and experiences. Let me know what you think or if you’d like to expand on any part!
Security and Privacy Challenges in RV Life
There are security and privacy issues you need to think about when it comes to RV life, whether you’re a full time RVer or only going camping part of the time.
Break-ins and Theft
RVs are vulnerable to break-ins and theft. It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and secure valuable belongings when traveling to new locations.
RVs are often targeted by thieves due to several vulnerabilities.
Firstly, many RVs come equipped with standard locks that are not as robust as those found in traditional homes, making them easier to tamper with.
Secondly, the limited space in an RV often means that valuables, such as electronics or personal items, are more visible through windows, enticing opportunistic thieves.
Additionally, unlike many modern homes, RVs often lack advanced security systems, such as alarms or surveillance cameras, making them more attractive targets for theft. These factors, combined with the transient nature of RV living, where RVs are often parked in unfamiliar or unsecured areas, increase their susceptibility to break-ins.
One way to prevent break-ins is to make sure that your RV is secure by locking all windows and doors. Additionally, you can use security cameras and motion sensors to deter thieves. When staying at an RV park, make sure the park has adequate security and keep valuables out of sight.
If you do experience a break-in, it’s important to report it to the authorities immediately. You can also take steps to prevent future break-ins by installing additional security measures, such as deadbolts or a security system.
Having a GPS tracker for your RV can help in case it is stolen, increasing the chances of recovery. I hope you never have to deal with having your RV stolen, especially if you’re living in an RV, because it likely has all of the things that are most important to you. However, it’s better to prepare than not to prepare.
Lack of Personal Space
In an RV, personal space is limited, which can lead to conflict and stress. Living in close quarters can cause you and your partner to get on each other’s nerves, and it can be challenging to find privacy.
To help resolve this problem, set boundaries and designate space for each person to have their own space for alone time. You can also invest in noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to block out distractions. Additionally, planning activities outside of the RV can give each person the space they need to avoid cabin fever.
Remember that communication is key when living in close quarters. Make sure to talk to your partner or family members about your needs and concerns, and be open to compromise.
RV Park and Campground Safety
RV parks and campgrounds are typically safe, but it’s important to stay vigilant and take steps to ensure your safety. Always lock your RV, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, and be aware of your surroundings.
Research RV parks and campgrounds before you stay to ensure that they have good reviews for safety. You can also ask other RVers for recommendations or check online forums for advice.
When parking at an RV park or campground, try to park in well-lit areas and consider investing in a security system for added protection. You can also talk to the park or campground staff about any safety concerns you may have.
Dealing with Unwanted Attention
When you’re living in an RV, you may attract unwanted attention from curious or intrusive individuals. This can be particularly problematic for single women or families with young children.
To protect your privacy, invest in window coverings like curtains or blinds. You can also use privacy screens to create a barrier between your RV and any curious onlookers.
Be cautious about sharing personal information with strangers, and try to park in areas with other RVers around for added protection. If you do experience unwanted attention, don’t hesitate to contact the authorities or park/campground staff for assistance.
Remember that your safety and privacy are important, and taking steps to protect yourself can give you peace of mind while living on the road.
Biggest Hidden Dangers of RV Travel
If you want even more information from people who know exactly what they’re talking about, check out this great video below.
Life Lessons During Our Time on the Road
I did want to include this little section here because I feel like so many people are scared about what might happen. You could really go through some rough stuff. And that is especially true if you’re underfunded on your trip.
I’ll share a quick story with you here on when we were taking a long trip and were trying to get from a spot in, I believe it was Big Spring, Texas to Cottonwood, Arizona. Whichever spot it was, it was a very long travel day.
Getting Stranded in Phoenix, Arizona
I can remember it like it was yesterday, even though it happened in 2018, and I’ll share the video from when we were doing Family Adventures TV. We were only 54 days into our full time RV life journey at this point, and I wanted to give up so badly because we were absolutely broke, and that made life a lot harder. Somewhat easy solutions become almost impossible.
So, what happened?
Long story short, I had won a Mercedes from a company that I was at so I was following my husband in this fancy Mercedes while he was towing the RV with an SUV that shouldn’t have been towing it but whatever. And we stopped at the gas station.
We were 70 miles away from our campsite, and my husband, myself, our four kids, our dog, and our cat were at our wit’s ends, just ready to get there. We had to stop at the gas station and spend the last dime we had to HOPEFULLY have enough gas in the Acura to make it to Cottonwood.
We were trying to make the decision whether we should leave the SUV running or if we should turn it off to save gas, and we opted to turn it off and save the gas so we’d be sure to make it to where we needed to go.
Wrong choice.
We got the little gas (I’m talking maybe a gallon???) of gas that we could afford, and my husband went to turn the vehicle back on, and it didn’t start.
The dang starter went out, we had no money for a hotel, we did have some sort of towing insurance on our insurance plan so they moved the RV out of the parking lot to another parking lot where we were not at all level. We couldn’t put the sildeout on the RV because the dang battery had gone dead and so we ended up asking my brother for enough money to get something to jump the vehicle and to get some food for the night. It was horrible.
My niece went to Walmart and Western Unioned the money over for the food, and then I called our partners at the time and asked them for an advance on our salary that we were just a couple of days out on, and that was the only way we were able to pay to get the starter fixed.
We were so hungry and so tired and … so dirty. Very much in need of a shower. Ew. But my oldest son knows how friendly I am and said, “Mom. You’ve got to know someone around here!” I looked at him like he was crazy because we were 1,500 miles from home. Dude. No way. But then, light bulb… I do know someone.
I reached out to the lady, and when she heard our story, she and her husband very nicely invited us over with the kids and the pets to have a pancake breakfast, which, funny enough, my 3rd kiddo had been asking for chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast.
I am still so grateful for this morning’s memory—and especially for the showers. What a complete terror, but we finally made it to Cottonwood that day, where I could set up shop and start back to work. But not from the RV because there was no WiFi or cell signal due to it being down in a valley. I’m not even kidding. OMG. haha
So, basically, prepare for the unexpected, and if you can at all, make sure you have enough money to do this lifestyle, but if you can’t, forget it and just do it anyway because you’ll figure it out.
Are the Dangers of Living in an RV Worth It?
Honestly, I would say that the so-called dangers of living in an RV are worth it. There are dangers everywhere. You could be in danger where you are, not living in an RV. It’s not like you’ve chosen to go into a super scary place. You can choose where you want to go in an RV. Just go have fun.
Be mindful of all of these things but you’re going to be just fine. Give yourself permission to go have a great time whether it’s by yourself, with your family, with a pet or something else. You’re going to do great. And don’t forget to bookmark this website so you can come back for more info and encouragement.
Years later, she carried on the tradition with her own family, spending 2.5 years living full-time in both an 18-foot and 28-foot pull-behind RV. They explored 27 states together — facing down fires, floods, wild windstorms, and even a tumbleweed attack in Texas. Yes, that’s a real thing.
Jessica shares her experience to help other families navigate RV life, simplify their lifestyles, and make unforgettable memories. Her work has been featured on popular travel blogs, RV-focused communities, and social media where she offers practical tips on full-time RV living, budgeting on the road, and family-friendly adventures.
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