These are the 10 things every new RV owner needs before they take their first trip

[@dlmac5935]

Well done Jenn! I’ve been using the Happy Camper product, but will look into the Valterra product. As for theft protection, I agree, insurance is your friend. As for water, I never use camp ground water, even with a filter. I’ll shower with it, but for drinking and cooking, I use boiled or bottled water.

[@hovawart16]

My concern is the waste of using bottled water, when it's been shown that it is generally equal in safety to municipal water. Is there a special issue with potable water in campgrounds?

[@dlmac5935]

@@hovawart16 yes, it tastes like crap and I don’t trust private campground owners that they are vigilant in the treatment of their potable water source. I’ve been in private campgrounds where “boil water” advisories were posted on the regular. Not only that, but I use a filter in my water line. You’d be utterly amazed at what that filter captures.

[@lesa2094]

And some of us don't want to drink chlorine.

[@annej5699]

I just bought a used T@b, and the previous owner zip-tied the appropriate spare fuses wherever they might be needed. This not only means I don't have to dig out spare fuses if one needs replacing, but I also have a visual for making sure I buy the right ones going forward.

[@jeanw9977]

Thank you NuCamp for Jenn!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Awe, that is so kind. Thank you, Jean!

[@user-je5jq1xp5q]

I so agree. Jenn is a great ambassador for the Tab 320. Very informative and shares her knowledge, mistakes and all with honesty.

[@ejp9921]

Great tips Thks for mentioning the ‘square-head’ screw driver. It’s called a Robertson and rarely strips like a Philips. And you’re bang on, #2 is most commonly used & #1 is also used within the T@B.

[@fayegiordano6281]

Wow! My hubby and I just purchased our first trailer (at 60 yrs old). Our Tab 320 CS-S is so perfect. THIS VIDEO IS GREAT!! Answered several questions on my list. Thank you

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Congratulations! I hope you will subscribe and click the bell to be notified when Inpost other content that will help you learn about your new T@b and RV life!

[@fayegiordano6281]

Done!

[@fayegiordano6281]

Do you have a video on mattress toppers?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks! Not a bad idea!

[@kimberlyhenry9887]

So many good little tips...I'm headed out Oct 2023..1st time everrrr...these tips really are helpful!

[@lynnwendel4302]

Another important piece of equipment is a surge protector when you plug your trailer into an electric site. It will tell you if it is safe to use that receptacle.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

I actually advocate for an EMS which protects you from a lot more, but it is worthy to consider. I had one installed before I brought both of my T@bs home.

[@alisonkautzayala2367]

@@JennGroverPhotography what is an EMS?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

@@alisonkautzayala2367 an Electrical Management System. I wrote it about them on my blog, here: jenngrover.com/feel-the-power-do-i-need-a-surge-protector/

[@justlookin3]

Thanks for sharing. I am buying a used T@B tomorrow. I had one a few years ago. These are helpful reminders for me.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Congrats on your new T@b!

[@maggieskafidas2025]

Jenn, this is great info. Only thing better would be having you as a camping neighbor during our maiden voyage of the new Tab 400 sitting in our driveway!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Awe, that sounds like fun!

[@booksnbeaches7075]

Very good tips! I also appreciate how to the point you are. (Some people just ramble).

[@wendybauman4074]

Thanks Jenn! We pick up our T@B 320 BD in a couple of months. So excited!! :):)

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Yeah!!! It will be worth the wait, Wendy!

[@juniperdog5523]

Yup. Currently feeling overwhelmed for exactly those reasons! I don’t want to screw up bit it seems so much more complicated Than I first thought!

[@dianefunk5629]

Love the bal leveler

[@jodybogdanovich4333]

Too cute! The squeaky dog toy at 10:30 😊. Also will be getting fuses and the toilet product you recommended. Thx for helping us newbies out! Took delivery of my T@b 320-S in October 2020 and have gone camping twice so far. Will be doing a lot more this summer and fall. Love it!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Yes, Rocky had to make his presence known with the squeaky toy! Do you have a litnof campsites reserved already?

[@bibsoutdoors4786]

These suggestions are the most sensible suggestions I've watched over multiple videos. P.S. I enjoyed the little smile when the pup squeaked its toy! Lol!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

I live my dog (who doesn't, right?)

[@diannadarling699]

So helpful! Thank you Glad your page showed up in my feed !

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sonnygoc-ong7011]

Thank you very much for a down to earth information for older and ignorant beginner to this alternative living lifestyle... ALOHA

[@nucamprv]

Awesome video, Jenn! So many great things to have before you start your first adventures!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks!

[@milesgentry850]

TABS ARE NICE..THE BOONDOCK VERSION IS SWEET!❤

[@JennGroverPhotography]

I have to say, I love my Boondock! (Mattie Ross)

[@johneskrich362]

Unless the owner is going to depend on a tow service, I would add a larger bottle jack and socket wrench with extended handle sized for the trailer lug nuts. Nice video Jenn!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

I definitely prefer a towing service, but my car jack would work, in a pinch.

[@Beherenow1111]

Picked up my new 2021 t@b April 13, 2021 just waiting for some good weather and courage to take my first overnight w her. Jenn you give me piece of mind w your ongoing videos and support for all of us newbies. Thanks so much for all the advice and experience. Cheers

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Congrats! I can't wait to see photos!

[@jodybogdanovich4333]

Hi Jen! I just rewatched this video and subscribed. I watched it about 3 months ago and commented on the squeaky toy 🐶. I also met you at the UCamp rally and we shared snake nightmares. Anyway, I'm glad I rewatched this because I still need to get some fuses!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Oh, yes the snakes!!! Thanks for stopping by, again and subscribing. May the rest of your summer be snake-free.

[@loreneknight9755]

You could/should be a Tab spokesperson, Jenn. You have knowledge & wisdom!! Well done. How long have you been@ it?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

😊😊😊 That is so kind! This will be my 7th year as a T@b owner.

[@ggebhard1]

Great suggestions, Jenn!

[@richarddebeer9081]

Extremely well done. Thank you. Great information Jenn.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks, Richard!

[@WileyGrrl]

Very helpful and informative for this new T@B 320 owner! I'm thinking also a kneeling pad of some kind might be useful, plus some zip ties--they're almost as useful as duct tape! Thanks for sharing your know-how!

[@jeanw9977]

Great info! Thank you!!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thank you!

[@miriammigliacci9427]

Excellent videos! Thanks! I’m going to buy a Tab 320 S -any version but not until the end of summer

[@JennGroverPhotography]

You will love it!

[@JERSEE01]

Can you a video on the hot water system. I used my camper for the first time and sometime I would have hot water and other times I wouldn’t. Is there a method to always have hot water when you turn the hot water on for the shower or sink?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Yes, but it will have to wait until spring 😁 Tyson, are you setting the hot water (shower symbol) to the setting that is partial shading or full shading?

[@JERSEE01]

@@JennGroverPhotography Thank you for the response, by the way I love all your videos. Yes I set it to the full level and once it worked and another time it didn’t. I’m not sure if I should put it on the full level and wait 30 minutes to an hour before or does it work like your home and just let it run until the water gets hot. I did let it run but it never got hot the second time. I was hooked up to city water. I just got the 2021 T@b 320 S.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

@@JERSEE01 8t takes about 20-30 minutes for the water to heat up. You can also adjust the water temperature. The nüCamp tech talk videos have a video showing you how to do that. One last thing to check is in the setting in the menu. Make sure the pump is set to continuous, not thermostat.

[@JERSEE01]

@@JennGroverPhotography thank you that all sounds good. Do you have the link to that video the tech talk and does the video talk about setting the continuous setting. Thanks so much.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Tyson, also make sure the power cord for the Alde (under back driver side bench) hasn't wiggled loose, too. Here is the video for adjusting the mixing valve: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHu1Xneij9qMoqc

[@findaway2sayyes]

Excellent detail!!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks!

[@dawnkuenzli9543]

Great information Jenn! I just ordered a new bottle of Valterra Pure Power Blue. It smells really good! I do want a Zero G hose. I use coiled hoses now but they do get tangled.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks for tuning me into the Valterra Pure Blue Power, Dawn!

[@dw3897]

New T@B owner (used 2016) with just one trip under our belts. Walmart sells a version of the Anderson Levelers for $25 which worked well at the state park we stayed at. Also we carry some 2"x6" wood blocks for under the stabilizer feet, just in case they don't reach the ground. Bought a Watch Dog EPO surge protector too. We have a side tent with a floor which we protect underneath with a moving blanket & inside we cover the floor with 2'x2' foam floor tiles. These are also more comfortable to walk on bare foot.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Watch dog is a newer product. The reason I recommend Progressice is the lifetime warranty, and they are known to stand behind it.

[@GeekFamilyAdventures]

Nice meeting you at Caesar Creek. Great video thanks for sharing. 🤓

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Great meeting you, too!

[@beetroot48]

Excellent presentation. Very helpful to newbies like me. Thank you!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks for watching!

[@tootysmom]

Great advice. Thanks.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks for stopping by the channel!

[@felixcat9318]

The US franchise holder has really improved the Tabbert range, making the 320 series even more capable off tarmac roads! Their really neat front rack and generator platform is just one example of what the original German manufactured 320's don't have! I'm very impressed with Nu Camp, if I lived in the US the 320 Boondock would be my choice. Subscribed.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

That is great feedback! I think our frames are also stronger and people do a lot more off road travel, here.

[@felixcat9318]

@@JennGroverPhotography You are right on both counts! Europe has restrictions on where people can camp overnight on what is actually publicly owned land, whereas the US is a lot more enlightened on that subject.

[@laurieoder3906]

Thanks

[@TheBashfulClam]

Awesome video!!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks!

[@sandrafrantz-kloppedal2428]

Please add a surge protector to your list!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thabks for your comment! IMHO a surge protector is insufficient. I have an Electrical Management System (EMS) on my "should have" list: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y53TdGyLqdtmZ6s

[@shelco3487]

You do such a great job with these videos Jenn. Very easy for us newbies! I get my brand new 400 BD this fall and am building my “tool case” now so I don’t have that expense all at once. At the beginning of this video you mentioned a wrench like tool to loosen the cap for sewer hose. I did not see a link for that....do you have one? TIA

[@JennGroverPhotography]

@Shelco here you go: amzn.to/3wNUPXt

[@shelco3487]

@@JennGroverPhotography thank you...very helpful

[@wilmadiaz5517]

Thanks for the suggestions! Where did you get the awnings?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Doty Hill Designs

[@wilmadiaz5517]

@@JennGroverPhotography thanks!

[@rbwag1]

So helpful!!

[@aztrails1]

I just discovered your channel. I hope to purchase a tab soon and appreciate your tips and advice. Thanks.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Awesome! Thanks for stopping by and commenting and welcome to the channel!

[@oskvr365]

Wow, what’s the details on that awning at 2 minutes? It’s so cute ☺️

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Just a window awning. Directions to make your own can be found in the files section of the T@b groups on Facebook.

[@oskvr365]

@@JennGroverPhotography I’ll def have to take a look at that, thank you

[@JennGroverPhotography]

@@user-je5jq1xp5qthank you 😊. You might also find them in the T@b forums: tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/

[@sherrysvesnik7711]

Great info!! Thanks Jenn!!

[@maryharrington7574]

Hi Jenn what do think of RV covers? I hear pros and cons to both. I’m in NC . Thx

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Hi, I don't use a cover but think they can a great way to keep your trailer clean in storage.

[@jtepsr]

Why did you buy the nucamp, for their size, they are expensive but i see they keep their value. Also what maintenance do you do to prevent leaks from roof or windows, etc. the helios is less expensive and much lighter, your thoughts

[@JennGroverPhotography]

I bought nuCamp for the quality and customer service. They are simply unmatched. The roof is a single sheet of aluminum and I have never had a leak. Your main maintenance is recalling. recaulking, routine tire and exterior care, and routine frame touch-up from road rash to prevent rust.

[@jeannebaker176]

Hi Jenn, I was watching your walk through video & was wondering who hooked up your battery monitor & spare tire mount for you? Thank you! We love your videos!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Hi! The Boondock package has an option for the spare tire mount, so it ca.e this way from the factory.i had the battery mount done by nuCamp repairs.

[@aggiealvez7132]

Thanks Jen! Always very helpful advice. The TAB manual suggests checking the wheel lugs and making sure the torque is at a certain something or other before every trip and I guess that means using a lug wrench. I have not done this nor bought a lug wrench yet. Thoughts on getting this tool...and how easy is that to do. BTW - so glad I switched over to the hose you recommended. So much easier to handle and takes up so much less room. Question about not leaving it in the sun though. If you are hooked up to water during the summer it will be in the sun. How do you protect it?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Hi Aggie, great questions. First for the hose, I generally put the water pressure regulator on the faucet (in the east) to to help preserve the hose. I haven't had any difficulties but I haven't used in the summer heat in the Southwest, yet, just the fall. I think if you are concerned you could fill your freshwater tank and put it away. For your lug nuts, you would use a torque wrench. I have found most service stations will check your torque for free for you, too.

[@gratefulgaia5724]

@@JennGroverPhotography Jenn, do you mean any service station at a gas station?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

@@gratefulgaia5724 service station

[@bonnieson4989]

What do you use to prevent the 7 pin adapter cord from dragging falling loose? Do those tabs need new brakes after so many miles? Have you had to reseal the glue on the sides of the trailer, take off the trim? annually? Thanks for the help.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Do you mean while driving? I usually wrap the cord around the jack once and that takes up enough slack to not drag. I have my T@b in for a safety inspection, annually, that includes a brake check. I have never needed to do anything with the glue or trim.

[@Michelle-cc1te]

Do you need the black hose if you have the cassette toilet? Does it drain your grey water tank instead if you don’t have a back water tank? Thanks for all the tips! Such a great video!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Yes, the black hose is used for the grey water tank.

[@Michelle-cc1te]

Thanks!

[@jhwalk58]

Thank you for sharing the Fuses link. I will check out the water hose you recommend. We are presently using the white Camco hose. Fantastic video all around.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks, James

[@Vblade123]

where do you store your sewage hose?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Thanks to the cassette toilet, I only need a hose from Grey water and it is stored in the front box.

[@erinkevin4889]

Hi! I can’t find the link to what fuses to get. Can you recommend? Thanks for the great video!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

The link is in the description below the video.

[@JDMech]

The 2021 320S manual says to use the stabilizers to level the trailer. Is that accurate?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

It does say that and I inquired. They are really only intended for micro adjustments, not to replace full-scale leveling.

[@susanbizeau9936]

depends on the year of the TAB

[@JennGroverPhotography]

Neither the pre or post 2021 T@b 320 stabilizers should be used for leveling

[@joelkrochalk5067]

I heard Jenn say the hitch hight was 16" for the standard Tab 320. I'm wondering what the hitch hight for the 2021 Tab 320 Boondock model is?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

I forget the number, but weather permitting, I will try to measure tomorrow. I know I need a 4" drop for my Jeep Grand Cherokee.

[@joelkrochalk5067]

@@JennGroverPhotography thank you. I am also contacting the dealer we are purchasing our Tab from. I am guessing they should know.

[@joelkrochalk5067]

So, I received official specs from nUcamp. The hitch hight for the 2021 T@b 320 Boondock edition is 21 inches to the top of the ball.

[@ellie-ji4wi]

Nice video. What's the brake controller you are using?

[@JennGroverPhotography]

It's an old Prodigy controller. We had a conversation about brake controllers in the April livestream: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jYWwZWhujZiKfck

[@ellie-ji4wi]

Picking up ours which is 550 miles away from home. Do we need a sway bars & heard about curt echo brake controllers? Thanks

[@JennGroverPhotography]

You should not need a sway bar for a T@b 320. You do need a brake controller.

[@karenmason6002]

Thank you for sharing this information. Although I am not a Tab owner yet, I'm in research mode and looking at everything needed for a successful launch should I decide to purchase one. One thing you mentioned is that your previous hauler was a Jeep Wrangler that towed 3500 lbs., and it was not an ideal. I'm looking at a Suburu Outback with a turbo 266 HP engine that tows up to 3500 pounds. I thought that the Outback would be a good hauler because the TAB 320S Boondock weights around 2200 lbs., but, after hearing your concerns with your Wrangler I'm wondering if I need a hauling vehicle that tows more than 3500 lbs. I'm factoring the vehicle cost, and feeling comfortable driving the hauler vehicle, so I don't want anything too big or costly. Not knowing what kind of engine horsepower you had in your Wrangler, do you think the horsepower and towing capacity of the Suburu Outback would be sufficient for towing a TAB 320S Boondock? What do most people comfortably haul their TABs with? Thank You!

[@JennGroverPhotography]

There are many who tow with the Outback and they have a good experience. Personally, I would get a TV that has 40-60% more tow capacity than the weight of the trailer.

[@alanf3635]

@@JennGroverPhotography I agree Jenn, I was using a 2020 Subaru Outback Onyx XT and decided on a Jeep Gladiator instead and I'm happy I made the change.

[@sjones6321]

You can't hear any audio in your video.

[@JennGroverPhotography]

It might be an issue with your browser or device. Try a different browser or restarting your device.

[@kepckatherinec805]

Great advice! Thanks. 🌷