Casita Connecting & Unhooking - The Basics

This complete set up and unhook video for my Casita is for those asking for the basics.
[Disclaimer - The information provided by the speaker on this video is for general informational purposes only. All information is provided in good faith, however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of this information.]
Here are the links for the items shown in the video:
Fyi, I am an Amazon Associate and may receive a small commission on any items purchased using the links below:
Rubber wheel chocks: amzn.to/3ydvclX
Master lock: amzn.to/3EWLcwt
Camco Flex Pads: amzn.to/3SRzdWK
Proven Trailer Lock: amzn.to/3ZoBSK3
Camco Quick Hose Connect: amzn.to/3JeKkpj
Camco Rhino Flex Sewer Hose Kit: amzn.to/3IQ58SH
Eva-Dry Renewable Dehumidifier: amzn.to/3EZNhrz
Camco Sewer Hose Support: amzn.to/3ETSJMj
Camco Water Filter (not pictured but mentioned in comments): amzn.to/3SOzRUK
Elixir Strings 80/20 Strings - amzn.to/3KPcjfd

[@AntlerBranching]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this helpful video! I am considering buying a Casita and am intimidated by not knowing all of this. Also appreciate you saying that you didn't know anything before and made a list and now that you've done it 10+ times it comes naturally.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thank you very much for watching and for the positive feedback 😊. I remember how I felt in the beginning and knew I couldn’t be the only one out there! I absolutely LOVED my Casita. Best of luck to you ♥️

[@jonnies6655]

I am a new Casita owner and your video was VERY helpful. Thank you. 👍😃

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I’m so glad!!! I remember when I first started hooking mine up,I wanted a video lol

[@pattydonaho6364]

I am glad you show how to turn down the sewage connecter on the Casita when you go to dump. I took my 2018 Casita out and set it up twice before I knew the sewage connector on the Casita could be turned up or down. I met Katy & Louis at Belton Lake and had a closet installed. I had a chance to pick their brains about a few things that were challenging me. I am so glad for all the people who post videos about our beloved Casitas. Keep up the good work, I love your videos.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for watching and for the positive feedback ❤️. I’m glad you were able to benefit from Katy & Louis’ wealth of knowledge on the Casita :-). They are such sweet & helpful people. I’ve found that most fellow owners are that way. My Casita education has been through KZbin, rallies, and meeting others on the road, and I have always been so thankful for the sharing. Thanks for turning in as I pass it along as I go :-). Safe travels!

[@thomascronquist1604]

Great video. Thank you. See you at Pineknot 2023…

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks so much and yes I’ll be there ❤️

[@marcialee9170]

Thank you for this video! You explained so much and it gave me a whole picture of what one needs to do to maintain and sustain while in a camper, not just all the fun and road tripping. As a soon to be solo female traveler/camper, I truly appreciate knowing this information. Happy travels!!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for tuning in and for the positive feedback. Several people had requested that video and I just remembered feeling overwhelmed in the beginning so I’m hoping it helps someone else :-) How exciting for you getting out there soon! Stay in touch and let me know what fun adventures you find out there. Safe travels ❤️

[@KristiDaggett-r3y]

Thank you! I will be a solo traveler soon and nervous whether I can do it. Thank you for showing me it can be done.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Hi! Thanks for tuning in! I was truly surprised how many of us women are out here traveling solo! It’s not perfect, but I love it! When will you be joining us?

[@travellikenooneelse]

You're inspiring Christi 💜 We are thankful to have you in our life.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Right backatcha! Can’t wait for the rally and Casita caravan to see y’all off into your full time journey ❤️

[@Colmep]

Just met your sister! Fun! We have a 2022 Casita. Love it!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Fun!! I love my little Casita so much! She said you might be interested in the CO gathering, I will add details on my channel when we get them all worked out :-) Safe travels!!

[@harryduncan6699]

Bolt makes a locking hitch pin that uses your ignition key to lock it. Makes it simple if you happen to leave it on at the campground or a quick trip to town.

[@777cretbo]

Sweet timing as we found a 2011 Freedom Duluxe from an elderly couple for sale. They have slowed down and no longer camp. Full of options and mods. Has the two chairs.... won't be picking up till sometime in April due to winter snow here in MN. we're excited as has new battery and tires.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

How wonderful for yall!!!!! Sounds like good timing in April to get it out when it starts getting warmer :-). So glad you were able to grab that deal :-)!

[@monaaguayo3594]

Thank you Christi, I appreciate how detail you are. I’m patiently anticipating the arrival of my new Spirit Casita to be delivered close to 2 more months and trying to learn as much as possible before she gets here. Your videos are a huge help and I love how you decorate I will be using your color theme. Thank you for taking the time to do your videos for us. 🤗❤️

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for tuning in and congrats on your Casita ❤️. I hope the next 2 months waiting will fly by for you. I did the same thing before I got mine, I think I watched every single KZbin video out there on Casitas! Do you already know where your first trip will be?

[@sandykquilts]

Maiden voyage to a campground tomorrow!! Perfect timing. Thank you. Georgetown TX

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

SO EXCITING!!!! I hope you have a great experience on the first run, AND many wonderful adventures to follow that :-).

[@ralphp3057]

Wow ! Good luck with all ! Camp on ! Lol

[@keitho8131]

You are so competent. Thanks for letting us watch.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Aw thank you. It definitely took some practice and some wonderful teachers along the way to get the hang of it all!

[@molahi5779]

Hundreds of KZbin RV videos and I FINALLY found someone with my exact set-up! Exciting! Plus, you're relatable.🙂 I have the Spirit Deluxe and the Nissan Pathfinder. I love them both! I also have the Anderson set-up. I need to get a few other things you mentioned in this video. So glad I found you. I'll have to get caught up on your previous videos now.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

That’s awesome!! Well free to pass on anything you do that might be more efficient for me too :-). Thanks so much tuning in and commenting:-). Safe travels out there! Maybe we’ll meet on the road someday.

[@drs3055]

Excellent video. This is the first vid that I have seen that actually shows the levels and what a level rv looks like! I also didn’t know that the important level was the front-to-back level (for frig), and not also the side to-side level (mainly for comfort)!!! I would be interested to hear what your trailer and tow vehicle’s maintenance program is including what you do and what you outsource to others to do for you, e.g., wheel bearings, tire rotation, waxing your trailer… Thank you. Happy sojourning :)

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thank you for tuning in and taking the time to write :-). I try my best to keep both directions level, but main focus is the front to back. I’m actually planning a video with maintenance and inspection information that I’m hoping to get done in May or early June. Hope it will be helpful :-) Safe travels to you!

[@OPSteel97]

I missed that quick connect the first time. I am going to get one today. Also getting the proven lock. Thanks, Christi!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

That’s awesome and thanks so much for helping to support the channel through the Amazon links ❤️. I LOVE love love the quick connect. It’s funny how something so simple makes so much of a difference:-). My lock has held up very well through constant use and constant exposure to the elements for 3 years!

[@markmeacham]

Very clear and straightforward steps. Will be super-helpful for when we pick up our ID in April. Thanks for posting!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Great!! Congrats on your Casita in April and welcome to the family :-). I hope you have many wonderful adventures ahead. Safe travels.

[@angelabartlett5805]

We love our Quick Connects. We have them on all the hoses on the property.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Yes! I can’t believe something so simple makes such a big difference for me. Wish I would’ve had it sooner!!

[@harryduncan6699]

You might get some Alien Tape to keep things from sliding. It’s no-mar and prevents stuff from sliding, sticks things smooth surfaces, and easily removable. Heavy duty Velcro will stick items to the rat fur. Plastic hook side on item.

[@RNmarkie]

Very much appreciate the information and the straightforward delivery. Thanks for sharing!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for tuning in :-)

[@deeplansandbudgets]

This is such good information for people. A trailor can seem so overwhelming, but, set up and take down is doable. I personally prefer my van, but I also loved my trailer and there are advantages to both.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for watching :-). I love my little camper but I definitely remember how overwhelming it all felt in the beginning. I do car camp every now and then for ease and change of pace though. :-). What kind of van do you have?

[@harryduncan6699]

You might connect a 90 degree brass fitting on the side of the trailer, then your hose, to relieve the stress on the fitting. Also what keeps the road grime and road spray out of your quick connect.

[@col268]

Thank you !

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for watching:-). Hope it helps.

[@tedfisk1211]

Very good video. I was most interested in how you re-hook up the trailer and tow vehicle, specifically the Anderson WDH. We have been most frustrated with inserting the pin in the WDH and as a result, I keep the hitch and the WDH attached. Yes the combination is heavy, but we avoid the issue of the pin not going into the WDH. Again, great video.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for tuning in and commenting. I’ve never had issues with the pin, but I know quite a few people who leave it attached. Safe travels out there ❤️

[@OPSteel97]

So very helpful , thank you! Gidget!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thank you 😊 The video was by request but it was kinda fun to slow down to explain and realize how much it’s all become almost like muscle memory to me now :-)

[@winstondeocampo699]

Very well done! Thank you for making this video.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thank you and thanks for tuning in :-).

[@cc4851]

Great, accurate information! Love our casita. So manageable 💕. Thanks!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for tuning in :-). Us both having Casitas practically makes us family lol

[@bkanegson]

Nice walk through. In the Film & TV business, where location changes are frequent and gear is expensive, that last walk around to make sure everything is done and nothing is left behind is customary, and is referred to as an "idiot check". Not hard to understand why.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for tuning in :-) Yes, that “idiot check” has saved me more than once!

[@glindacochran3081]

Enjoyed your video. I loved the quick connect device…. Will have to get one of those. I enjoy keeping up with your travels. Have fun!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks Glinda! Once I got the Quick Connect, I was kicking myself for the 2 years without it lol.

[@glindacochran3081]

I’ve had my Casita for nine years and have struggled with the water connection. I know this device will be a life changer. The little things make so much difference. Where did you get it.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

It definitely makes it just a bit easier for sure! I purchased on Amazon. amzn.to/3IRIY2H. This is the one I have but I’m sure you can pick up at any home improvement kind of store too.

[@randallsrutledge]

Dogwood is the musical rally in Grapeland, March 26 to April 1.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I’m thinking about going:-)

[@tommyrantsrv]

👍👍👍Wow, that was a very comprehensive setup video! You have a great way of presenting the details. I liked the step, the quick connect hose adapter, and the knee rest. All great ideas! I’ve encountered several situations where the sewer drain at the site is higher than the drain opening on the Casita. I have one of those kits that allow you to control the height of the hose but it’s not of much use in those situations. Any thoughts on how to minimize the hassle of walking the hose? Btw, that was the best video I’ve ever seen on how to set up the trailer and vehicle. 🎉🎉👍👍

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thank you for always giving such positive feedback:-). I sure wish I had a solution for the wrong way gravity heights on some park connections, but on our little Casitas I haven’t found a better way that propping and walking it out 🤷🏻‍♀️. You let me know if you do come up with something!!

[@RosebudsTravels]

Good video!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thank you :-)

[@sgreene2058]

So inspiring.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Aw what a nice thing to say. Just hoping the video helps someone the way many others out there have helped and encouraged me ❤️

[@randallsrutledge]

Looking forward to seeing you at Dogwood !!!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I’m not sure on Dogwood. What are the dates?

[@michellegarry1872]

This was a great tutorial!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks Michelle!!

[@ralphp3057]

Hi ,I did buy that hitch lock like you have . It does have a different lock than yours! A longer double cut key ! I wonder why they changed it ? I did add the spring stay on the upper cabinet above where microwave would be ! Thanks again for sharing! 😁👍

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks SO much for supporting the channel by buying through the link :-). It is very much appreciated ❤️ I didn’t even notice the change in the keys on the lock. You got me curious so I emailed the company asking about it. I’ll add the response here when I find out :-) Nice on your cabinet door addition, I still need to do something better than my little block of wood. Lol

[@KristiDaggett-r3y]

Could you do a video on how you back up and line up the balls solo?

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Honestly I attribute my hitching skills to the awesome back up camera the Pathfinder has. I can see it all clearly in the camera so I can claim to have expertise on that one lol

[@dennisjessicadanner2463]

Sure you've been asked this a million times, but what tow vehicle do you have? We are going to have to trade before we get our trailer. Thanks. Great video!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Lol thanks for tuning in. My TV is a 2017 Nissan Pathfinder and I haven’t had any issues/ problems with it :-). Are y’all just looking right now or is your camper on the way?

[@missinshifty]

@TinyTexanAdventures we ordered an independence deluxe about a week ago. Delivery in April. Can't wait! We have a 2018 Chrysler Pacifica right now, and it did fine for our popup, but we will need a little beefier TV for the Casita I'm afraid.

[@MicheleintheWoods]

Very well done and informative video! ❤

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks so much for tuning in and for the positive feedback:-)

[@RoseOriginals]

As I said on IG I'm not as scared of the Andersen system as I was, however, is there a reason why you take the chains completely off? We have been leaving ours on and resting the plate on the stand for our tongue jack. Thank you, thank you, thank you, that quick connect for the water is going to be a life saver. I'm ordering one as soon as I finish this comment. Yes, make sure you're near all the connections, which we learned the hard way. 😂 Leaving the crossed chains attached to the vehicle is another good idea. We've done this several times by now, but I still learned something valuable from your video. Thanks Kristi!!! Safe travels!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Haha! I learned the hard way too 🤣. As far as my reason for removing the Anderson chains completely, it’s just a personal preference. Less constant exposure to the elements and keeps them cleaner since I’m a full timer I guess. Lots of people do it the way you do! I hope you love the quick connect as much as I do. Funny how something so simple can make such a difference!!! I’m all about that :-). Safe travels!

[@janpiper3068]

Also make sure your hose is sealed up so you don't have any insects that have crawled in to it. Keep both ends of your hose covered to keep dirt out

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

THANK YOU for adding that! I should’ve addressed that on the video. I’m glad you added it here so others get the reminder:-)

[@nancyberling8579]

Thanks for the video - good information! I wouldn't mind seeing one on backing the Casita into the camping spot when you're alone.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I’ll add it to my list of possible upcoming videos :-). Thanks for the idea.

[@gahammy]

Love the video! However, I cannot find your checklist. I’m sure it there but I can’t find it. Thanks!

[@ralphp3057]

Hey Christi , I was wondering if you would buy that hitch lock you use again? You use it all the time and I wanted to get your opinion! Thanks 😁🤔

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I absolutely would! I did a lot of research when I purchased that and I’ve been very happy with it for the three years that I’ve had it :-) it’s good peace of mind for me :-)

[@ralphp3057]

@@TinyTexanAdventures 👍thanks. Have a great weekend.😁

[@michelewatson472]

@@TinyTexanAdventuresI may have missed it, but could you share a link to the tow chain lock? Also, do you have a backup camera installed? If so, would you mind sharing?

[@michelewatson472]

Apologies - found your links!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

The lock is Proven and it’s under the “My Camper Set Up Outdoor Essentials tab. www.amazon.com/shop/tinytexanadventures?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_aipsfshop_aipsftinytexanadventures_A88ZV8N9QS68RGKVW0CC I do have a backup camera that my brother in law gifted me, let me see if I can find that for you. Give me a day or so :-)

[@barbhoward1104]

Great job Christi! We are about to take delivery of your same camper!! Question, how are you hanging hooks for the pictures on the carpet walls?❤️❤️❤️

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

How exciting!! :-). I just use drapery hooks like these amzn.to/3FjsJKz. May you have safe & amazing adventures:-)

[@HGAviator]

Don't forget to complete a post-trip and pre-trip inspection of your TV (Tow Vehicle).

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I was focusing on the camper, but wish I had at least mentioned the importance of readying the T.V. as well. Thanks so much for adding that reminder here for others to see!

[@brentgutierrez9615]

Nice video! Do you also do a blank tank flush or just gravity drain it?

[@Ann-zr2py]

Thanks!!!!❤

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

You’re welcome:-)

[@janpiper3068]

When hooking up to water you should turn the faucet on first to flush out any ants or spiders that may have crawled in for a drink. I would have sanitized that low level faucet because dogs could have contaminated it by licking on it or.......

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

!!! Excellent advice that I’ve never thought of! I’ll be adding that to my list :-). What do you use to sanitize it?

[@ralphp3057]

You are correct! I have experienced critters here in Fl for sure ! 👍

[@janpiper3068]

To sanitize I used a bottle of bleach and water mixture and spray the faucet. I have caps to seal both ends of my hose to keep it clean.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks so much. I have the hose caps but never thought about sanitizing the faucet. Thank you for the info!

[@linendreams_]

Hey! New subscriber here - this was so helpful thank you so much! We are about to start full time in a casita and this will be so helpful as we are brand new to rving! We used your amazon store link for many of the necessities! Do you use the included casita water hose? I've already watched so many of your videos and hope to see you out on the road maybe one day! Cheers!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Hi and thanks for tuning in! How exciting for y’all :-). I was completely new to RVing too when I bought mine :-). Will you be stationary or on the move? Texas? As far as the water hose, I don’t recall getting one from Casita, I just bought my own and added the quick connect on the end to make it easier to hook up. :-). Give me a shout anytime and best of luck to you out there ❤️

[@tommyleach1958]

Nice Peru shirt! You ever been there?

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Yes, I went in 2018 and it was AMAZING ❤️❤️

[@MichaelMahoney-b9o]

Thanks so much for your video! New to RV live and getting our Casita in May (Ordered already). Like your hitch lock. Mind sharing the brand etc?

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Yay! Congrats on your Casita next year. Thanks for tuning in and commenting. I did a video about the lock and the link is in the comments there. Awesome trailer lock for my Casita! kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHjUd4ttoqtqpKc

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Just the lock link is: Proven Trailer Lock - amzn.to/3PlttSw

[@MichaelMahoney-b9o]

Thanks you!

[@jasonhernandez6812]

Good pointers. Going on 6 months full-timer in my Casita! I'm stationary in the Los Angeles area but I do weekend trips. How long have you been a full-timer??

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for tuning in :-). I’ve been full timing for right at 3 years and loving it! I’m probably going to be coming through Cali from Oregon in early - mid August (ish) with the only thing planned so far there being the redwoods. Is there any place in Cali (location in the state not necessarily important) that you would say is an absolute must to add to my list?

[@jasonhernandez6812]

Yosemite visit the Sequoia's. Monterey Bay. Pebble beach. Some of my favorites. Depends on your interest. I'm a coastal person so I hit the coast the most.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks so much :-). I am a coastal personal as well :-)

[@raquelcortes2840]

Hi, can you tell me about the storage behind your Casita? Where were installed? I need more storage. Thanks

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I had the hitch installed by Doug at Casita Works. Then I bought the carrier and cargo box from a friend and LOVE LOVE LOVE them. I keep my blocks, hoses, levelers etc so I don’t get my SUV dirty :-) ❤️

[@annetteshifflett5778]

I didn't see you lock the cooktop cover up before leaving.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

I have never done that in 3.5 years. Is that suggested? 😬 lol

[@sharletelms9287]

Why don’t you use a filter between Casita and your water connection? Curious.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks for commenting, I meant to address that on the video and forgot all about it. I DO use a water filter! At the time of filming, my water filter was busted and I was waiting for a new one. I fully intended to mention that! Good catch!!

[@ralphp3057]

Great information for the newbies!! I was thinking about buying that hitch lock ? I don’t use and weight distribution style hitch !!My pickup truck is way over the hitch weight etc ! I do use a sway bar only ! Thanks again for sharing information for people! You do a great job Christy ! 👍😁

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Thanks so much! I do like the lock if for no other reason than it’s more complicated and hopefully serves as a deterrent just by sight 🤷🏻‍♀️. I appreciate your continuous support of the channel very very much :-)

[@Mel-gk1wg]

How did you learn to backup so as to be in line with the hitch bulb? I have a backup camera will aide me in this currently I am van camping for short 2 or 3 nite stays in my 2022 Pacifica minivan, a real adventure for a soon to be 72yr old solo female. I love it but am thinking of a Casita for some long term travel if I can handle the hook-up... this video is great and I believe if I do good maintenance with lubing parts I can do this but I will need some backing up practice in a'n empty parking lot. Thanks I enjoy your channel. Sincerely Melody

[@molahi5779]

She's towing with a Nissan Pathfinder. It has a built-in back-up camera.

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Hi Melody, thanks for tuning in :-). As far as backing up to the camper, my Pathfinder has a wonderful back up camera that makes it so much easier. It still took a little practice and in the beginning I just had to keep getting out and walking back to check, but that’s how I learned:-). Backing the camper, however, took a bit more to really get the hang of it. Even now if it takes me multiple tries to back in a site, well then it just does. Practicing will definitely help you get a feel for how it moves. I was taught when backing the camper to put both hands on the bottom of the steering wheel and whichever way I want the back end to go, I turn the wheel with that hand. I do like the pull through spots at campgrounds though when available 😉. For me the Casita has been wonderful, but I also love that you camp in your van for now :-). I still like to car camp now and then too :-). Keep me posted on your journey out there. ❤️. Safe travels!

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

Yes it does, and it’s a good one 😊

[@Mel-gk1wg]

@@TinyTexanAdventures Thanks for the fast reply, was not sure if my back camera would show the hitch but I'm sure the dealer will know it probably does. I remember years ago I was going to surprise my husband and have the trailer hitched up and back down the ramp to put our boat on unfortunately I hit the trailer and knocked it into the lagoon so I'm a little 😁

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

🤣🤣. Sorry about that but it makes a great story now lol!!! I would bet your back up camera will show the area pretty well. Keep me posted lol

[@ralphp3057]

I commented in a reply. I hate when I do that ! ☹️

[@TinyTexanAdventures]

🤣🤣🤣. Well at least it means people are reading others comments too :-)

[@ralphp3057]

@@TinyTexanAdventures Anytime you do a Video like this one ! It reminds me of something I might have forgot ! And Sorry I spelt your name wrong Christi .😬I did cut a port hole in my fresh water tank on my Casita . A 5” port to reach in and wipe out tank . I discovered plastic remnants from when they cut the holes for pump and drain . I always wondered why the drain was slow . It was full of plastic shards . Anyway, thanks again for your dedication on your Videos.👍