Last Updated on May 7, 2023 by Jessica Lauren Vine
Are you wondering, “Do you need to chock both sides of an RV?”
You want to be safe, but you also don’t want to do extra work if you don’t have to, right?
If you’re a proud RV owner, you want to get out and enjoy yourself, and rightly so. If that’s the case, then you know that keeping your ride safe and secure is crucial. One of the most important safety precautions you can take is chocking your RV. But the question is, do you need to chock both sides of an RV? Let’s take a closer look.
Understanding RV Wheel Chocks
Before we dive into the debate about chocking both sides of your RV, let’s first understand what RV wheel chocks are. RV wheel chocks are blocks made from durable materials like rubber, steel, or plastic designed to keep your RV in place. They come in different shapes and sizes, and each type is suited for various RV makes and models.
Types of RV Chocks
There are two main types of RV wheel chocks – wheel chocks and stabilizer chocks. Wheel chocks are designed to be placed in front of or behind the RV’s wheels, while stabilizer chocks are used to secure the RV in place by placing them between the RV’s tires.
These wheel chocks come in different sizes and shapes to fit different types of RV wheels. Some are designed to fit snugly against the wheel so they can’t roll, while others are designed to fit between the tires. Stabilizer chocks are typically made of heavy-duty plastic or metal and are placed between the
How RV Wheel Chocks Work
As you’re looking into the answer about, “Do you need to chock both sides of an RV?” it’s good to know how RV wheel chocks work.
RV chocks work by creating friction between themselves and the surface underneath, providing a secure grip and preventing your RV from rolling or moving around. Without chocks, your RV is at risk of moving due to strong winds, uneven terrain, or even foot traffic inside the RV.
Wheel chocks work by placing them in front of or behind the wheels to prevent the RV from rolling. Stabilizer wheel chocks are placed between the tires to prevent the RV from moving from side to side.
Importance of Proper Chocking
A proper wheel chocking system is essential to prevent accidents or damage to your RV. Failing to chock your RV properly can lead to your RV rolling and causing an accident or causing damage to the RV’s suspension or leveling jacks.
When chocking your RV, it’s important to use the correct type of chock for your RV’s make and model. Using the wrong type of wheel chock can result in the chock slipping or failing to provide enough friction to keep your RV in place.
It’s also important to chock both sides of your RV to prevent it from rolling or moving. Some RVers debate whether or not chocking both sides is necessary, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Not everyone agrees with this answer when it comes to “Do you need to chock both sides of an RV?” but when we were dealing with strong winds in Oklahoma, I definitely knew I wanted both sides chocked.
Additionally, you should always double-check your chocks before going inside your RV. Make sure they are still in place and providing enough friction to keep your RV from moving.
Overall, RV chocks are an essential piece of equipment for any RVer. They provide peace of mind and help keep your RV in place, preventing accidents and damage. Make sure to invest in high-quality chocks and use them properly to always ensure safety and your RV stays put.
Assessing Your RV’s Parking Situation
Now that we know the basics of RV chocking let’s take a look at how you can assess your RV parking situation to determine if you need to chock both sides of your RV or not. Though, as I said above, I would recommend that you do chock both sides. Why wouldn’t you? Your RV could roll forward, so the more chocks, the better.
Evaluating the Terrain
Before you park your RV, take a good look at the terrain when you’re trying to answer, “Do you need to chock both sides of an RV?”. If it’s flat and even and there are no inclines or bumps, you may be able to chock just one side of your RV. However, chocking both sides may be necessary if the ground or terrain is uneven, sloping, or has rocks or debris.
Considering Weather Conditions
Weather conditions play a crucial role in determining if you should chock both sides of your RV or not. If it’s windy, rainy, or stormy, chocking both sides of your RV is necessary to prevent it from getting pushed around.
Factoring in RV Size and Weight
The size and weight of your RV are also crucial factors that come into play when determining whether to chock one side or both sides. Generally, the larger and heavier your RV is, the more important it is to chock both sides.
Chocking One Side vs. Both Sides
Now comes the big question – should you chock one side or both sides of your RV?
Benefits of Chocking Both Sides
Chocking both sides of your RV creates a more stable base, preventing your RV from moving around. It also acts as an added safety measure, in case one chock fails or becomes dislodged, the other side will still keep your RV in place.
When Chocking One Side May Be Sufficient
If the terrain is flat and even, there is no wind, and your RV is relatively small and light, chocking one side may be sufficient. However, it’s important to note that it’s always better to err on the side of caution and chock your rig on both sides to avoid any accidents.
Proper Chocking Techniques
Now that you know whether to chock one or both sides of your RV, let’s closely examine the proper chocking techniques.
Positioning the Chocks
Position your chocks at 45-degree angles to your RV’s wheels, wedging them as tightly as possible. This creates a more stable base and prevents the chocks from slipping or moving around.
Ensuring a Secure Fit
Check to ensure that your chocks are in place and have a secure fit before moving away from your RV. If possible, gently push your RV to check that it doesn’t move. This step should not be skipped, even if you’re confident in your chocking abilities.
Double-Checking Your Work
Chocking your RV is an important safety measure, and you shouldn’t take it lightly. It’s crucial to double-check your chocks before leaving your RV to make sure everything is secure, and your RV is in place.
Do You Need to Chock Both Sides of an RV? – Conclusion
Now you know a lot more about wheel chocks and chocking your RV’s tires. You should feel pretty confident in your answer about, “Do you need to chock both sides of an RV?”
Having a proper chocking system in place is an essential safety measure for any RV owner. While the number of chocks you need will depend on several factors, including terrain, weather, and RV size, it’s always better to chock both sides to ensure maximum safety. By following proper chocking techniques, you’ll keep your RV in place and enjoy a safe and secure journey!
When Jessica was older and had a family, she took her crew on the road for 2.5 years. They lived in 2 different RVs during that time. One 18 foot long and one 28 foot long. Both pull-behind RVs.
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