New RV? Now What?
23rd Oct 2025
A First-Time Owner’s Guide to Getting Road-Ready
You’ve just picked up your new RV—congratulations! Whether it’s your first travel trailer, motorhome, or Airstream, there’s nothing like the freedom of hitting the open road with your own space in tow.
But after the excitement settles, many RVers—new or experienced—ask the same question:
“Now what?”
Even seasoned travelers know that getting road-ready takes a little planning. Between organizing storage, checking maintenance, and refreshing your interior, it’s easy to overlook a few essentials. This guide will help you set up (or reset) your RV for the best travel season yet.
Step 1: Make a “First-Trip” Checklist
Every RV is unique, but here are the basics to cover before your first adventure:
- Safety & Setup: Water hoses, surge protector, leveling blocks, sewer hose, and first-aid kit.
- Kitchen Essentials: Cookware, utensils, dish soap, and microfiber towels.
- Comfort Items: Bedding, pillows, extra blankets, and blackout window coverings.
- Maintenance Gear: Tire pressure gauge, tool set, flashlight, and spare fuses.
Tip: Create a dedicated “Departure Checklist” so you never forget the little things (like unplugging the power cord before you drive off!).
Step 2: Don’t Forget RV Bedding That Actually Fits
Here’s something every new RV owner quickly discovers:
RV mattresses are not standard bed sizes.
That means your regular queen sheets won’t fit an RV short queen, and your fitted sheet will slip off all night long.
Why RV Bedding Needs to Be Custom-Fitted:
- RV mattresses are shorter, narrower, or have curved corners
- Standard bedding bunches or comes loose
- Good sleep is hard to come by when you’re fighting your sheets
That’s why we created RV Bedding Bundles — complete sets designed specifically for unique RV mattress dimensions. Each bundle includes fitted pieces made for your exact RV mattress size, all crafted in South Carolina from the world’s finest fabrics.
What’s included in each bundle?
Our Open Roads Fitted Bedspread with matching shams, Road Ready Sheet Set featuring our signature NoTuck Top Sheet®, and the Keep-A-Bed Waterproof Mattress Cover—everything you need for a bed that fits right, stays in place, and lasts for years of adventures.
Already have your RV set up? Our bedding bundles are also perfect for refreshing your RV for a new season or upgrading to American-made quality that lasts trip after trip.
Made in the USA from the world’s finest fabrics, our bedding is built to last through years of road trips, from summer in the Rockies to winter in the Keys.
Step 3: Set Up for Easy Maintenance on the Road
RV life is all about keeping things simple and functional. With limited space and constant movement, every item needs to earn its place.
Create a setup that’s easy to maintain, even when you’re traveling full-time or just out for the weekend:
- Choose machine-washable fabrics and quick-drying materials for linens, towels, and clothing.
- Use collapsible storage bins or baskets to keep essentials organized without adding weight.
- Keep cleaning supplies compact and accessible—a small vacuum, microfiber cloths, and an all-purpose spray go a long way.
- Adopt a “clean as you go” mindset. A few minutes of tidying each day prevents clutter from building up in tight spaces.
Even if you’ve been RVing for years, a quick refresh of your systems—laundry setup, storage, or cleaning routines—can make every trip smoother and more efficient. A streamlined system means less time cleaning and more time exploring.
Step 4: Make It Feel Like Home—But Keep It Road-Ready
Once the essentials are in place, it’s time to make your RV feel like yours.
Add a few personal touches that bring comfort and personality without adding weight or clutter:
- Choose lightweight décor like fabric baskets, wall decals, or framed photos with removable adhesive strips.
- Keep everything secure for travel—things shift in transit, so skip heavy breakables.
- Use multi-purpose items that save space, such as storage ottomans or collapsible bins.
- Layer in small details—soft lighting, a throw blanket, or a rug that ties the space together.
Whether you’re personalizing a brand-new rig or breathing new life into your trusty travel companion, small design touches can make your RV feel inviting and comfortable for the miles ahead. The goal is to create a space that feels welcoming when you park, and worry-free when you’re rolling down the highway.
Start with Bedding Bundles That Fit Right the First Time
If you’re new to RV life, the best investment you can make is in your sleep setup.
Our Bedding Bundles are made in South Carolina, customized for RV-specific sizes like:
- Short Queen
- RV King
- Three-Quarter Full
✅ Fitted to stay in place
✅ Easy to wash
✅ Long-lasting American craftsmanship
Each bundle includes our Open Roads Fitted Bedspread with matching shams, Road Ready Sheet Set featuring our signature NoTuck Top Sheet®, and the Keep-A-Bed Waterproof Mattress Cover—essential bedding pieces that make setting up your RV or Airstream simple, comfortable, and ready to build on for your future adventures.
Shop RV Bedding Bundles → The Perfect Start for Your Home on the Road
FAQ: Common Questions from New RV Owners
Q: What size are RV mattresses?
A: RV mattresses vary by manufacturer and model—popular sizes include RV Short Queen (60" x 75"), RV King (72" x 75" or 72" x 80"), and Bunk sizes. Always measure before buying bedding.
Q: Can I use regular sheets in my RV?
A: Regular sheets rarely fit snugly. They’ll come loose at the corners or bunch up. Look for fitted RV bedding designed for your exact mattress size.
Q: How can I make my RV bed more comfortable?
A: Start with a quality mattress topper and fitted bedding that stays put. Adding our NoTuck Top Sheet® keeps layers neat while you sleep.
Q: Is AB Lifestyles bedding really made in the USA?
A: Yes—all our bedding is proudly made in South Carolina, from globally sourced premium fabrics.
Final Thoughts
Your RV is more than a vehicle—it’s your home base for adventure. Whether you’re just starting your RV journey or have logged thousands of miles already, the right setup makes all the difference. Refresh your space, rest easy, and keep exploring wherever the road takes you.