Backing into a Campsite - Step-By-Step Process

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In this video, we will go over the basics of how to back up your travel trailer into a campsite solo. While this video is targeted to those who are new to RVing, there will be plenty of tips for the more experienced. The goal of this video is to improve your confidence when having to back up your RV solo. While this video is not geared toward backing in while having someone guide you, improving your ability of backing in solo will benefit your skills and confidence.
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Опубликовано:

7 июн 2024

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Комментарии : 249

@mileagemaker9925 Год назад

That's great advice but I want to add one more helpful tip ! I drove a truck for 50 years and I know it's not always possible but whenever you can, back in on the driver's side instead of blind side! Makes it lots easier 👏👍! Thank you for the good video and God bless 🙏🇺🇸

@JohnMarucci Год назад

I fully agree. Driver's side back-in whenever possible. Unfortunately, I run into a lot of narrow one-way campground loops where you can only do blind side into the inner or outer campsite. If your narrow one-way loop is running clockwise, the inner loop campsites will be blindside back-ins, likewise, if the one-way loop is running counter-clockwise, your outer campsites will be blind-side back-ins. All to say, hope (or pre-plan) for a driver's side back-in, but be able, if needed, to do a blind-side. Thanks for sharing your perspective.

@markoshun Год назад

Not disagreeing at all, but this is more helpful for real world. I imagine truck docks set up their sites to do this, campgrounds 50%. Anyway, if I can do this side, the other side will be easier. I like the narrow (typical) roadway example, and think it would also be good to show one where you don’t have an empty site across from you. Excellent video. Thanks.

@Stuffonyourknee12 Год назад

I agree and usually look for drivers side sites but I looked up this video because I’m nervous about the right side back in since my husband won’t be there to help me 😬 unfortunately the campground I’m going to didn’t have a drivers side back in available

@danbod4226 Год назад

What’s helpful to me backing up is that I place one hand on the very bottom of the steering wheel at 6:00. Now which ever way I want my camper to turn, I turn that hand in that direction. It makes it so you don’t have to think backwards which takes time to get used to. Very simple but effective. Great video. Thank you for sharing your experience.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Yep, great tip. Thanks!

@Woodbutcher681 Год назад

I drive a semi and that's what I do!

@scotthays2376 11 месяцев назад

That’s my default when backing a trailer! Such a good trick. Then I talk to myself out loud constantly

@redtheleprechaunjimenez497 10 месяцев назад

Thanks for that info I just started training as a truck driver and I have gotten the double clutching down and coupling and even down shifting sort of but the backing is still a struggle

@angelabontempo9837 Год назад

Thanks for your non judgemental tone and delivery of the steps. Everyone begins as a beginner and I think some people forget that they didn’t come out of the womb knowing how to back up a rig🤣

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Glad the video was helpful. Great to hear you enjoyed it!

@ChrisCorson 9 месяцев назад

On my first trailer.

@joshmccarty8800 Год назад

As a truck driver i can tell you setup is everything. What you do before you put it in reverse will make or breaks your attempt and if its not working go around and try the setup again because forcing a bad situation is a recipe for disaster.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Josh, excellent point. Thanks for sharing!

@garyp9906 Год назад

Great video! I learned my lesson to take your time backing in. We bought a brand new Coachmen Catalina. Made one payment. I sideswiped a tree and took out the awning and damaged some of the side. It was in the shop the entire summer getting repaired. Now if it takes me 15 minutes to slowly back into a site, no problem. I start backing up a few feet, get out and look. I get back in and repeat the process 5 or 6 times until I'm in. Moral of the story: Take your time!

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks for sharing your experience. Good advice to take it slow!

@joshdelay5856 2 года назад

I grew up on a farm and I am so glad I was fortunate to have learned to back a trailer. I can put a trailer in some extremely tight spots with very little effort. Backing into a site is actually my favorite part of setting up. I get to show off a little when my wife has her doubts.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Sounds like you have it down. Thanks for commenting!

@Skank_hunt420_ Год назад

I’ve heard about you. They talk about you all over the Midwest. They call you, “The Babe Ruth” of backing in trailers

@lynnej.9357 Год назад

I was just thinking that in spite of growing up on a farm, I didn't learn to back up a trailer. My dad would have been an excellent teacher, but I was always just involved in driving while the men were loading a wagon. Only slowly, and in a forward direction.. My sister was bold and would try things on her own, but I just did what I was told! (Sigh. File this under: things I wish I had asked my dad when I had the chance.)

@joalul Год назад

And after showing off, the 2nd best part is the wife saying something like "I can't believe you did that." THE BEST PART is when a fellow camper stops what they are doing, watches you do this, and then come over and say "Nice job. I really thought that was going to take you longer than it did." Chest out, yes, "I AM a bad ass" moment there.... 🙂

@jeribuckley7074 3 месяца назад

Thanks for putting this out there! Go Blue!

@samsahatoo8742 Год назад

thanks you for the tips for removing some of the stress in camping, do have a bless day.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Glad the video was helpful!

@mummiesaidno 10 месяцев назад

So helpful, thank you! I watch it every time before heading out!

@JohnMarucci 10 месяцев назад

Glad it was helpful!

@blj859 2 года назад

John Your a great teacher!…. Thanks for your time and craftsmanship in pulling this video together.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Thanks for the encouragement. Glad you enjoyed the video!

@mmcmillan01 2 года назад

Awesome tips and strategy. Love the cone idea, pure gold 😎

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Thanks for the comment. The collapsing cones work great for this and other uses. All the best!

@syllenniumsyllennium2008 2 года назад

Thank you John for the Backing In Video. I will be riding Solo this Summer and this is great information to review before I try it out.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Great! Glad the video was helpful!

@taylorwilson2129 3 месяца назад

This was absolutely fantastic. Simple and effective!

@JohnMarucci 3 месяца назад

Glad it was helpful!

@sailingmj36 Год назад

John, that was the best tutorial on backing in that i've seen. Thanks !

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks! Glad the video was helpful!

@M.Campbell 4 месяца назад

Thank you! I'm picking up my travel trailer today and this was a great video. I've towed and backed boats, many times, but never an RV. We'll see how it goes.

@raymondschneider5217 2 года назад

Some fantastic tips, John; espec, love the cone idea and "scoping" the site. Have seen a couple of vids using the "scoop" method of preparing to back in (not always usable, though). Keep these vids coming to help "newbies" or "relative newbies" -- your teaching techniques are great! Y'all Be Safe!!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for commenting!

@robertcolpitts4534 Год назад

This is a great video. I've been backing trailers for years and I learned a few new tricks (the collapsible cones are stupendous)! One thing that I've noticed is that the length of the tow vehicle compared to the trailer changes the back-in dynamics quite a bit. I have found that the shorter the wheelbase of the tow vehicle relative to the length of the trailer, the easier the back-in process. It take practice but only perfect practice will make perfect. My new truck (a 2500HD) longer than my old 1500 LTZ and is only slightly shorter than our trailer; I'm still working out the dynamics of backing with this. A backup camera is extremely helpful; mine has a microphone and I can hear my wife giving me directions clearly in a speaker in the monitor. Very handy for tight spots. Otherwise, I use the mirrors primarily. Another tip I was taught by an old-timer 45 years ago was to use the BOTTOM of the steering wheel to steer the trailer. The trailer will turn in the direction you move the bottom of the steering wheel. I've used this since then and it works like a charm. It is sensitive, though, and requires a light touch and patience or you will oversteer and jack knife the truck and trailer.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Robert, thanks for the excellent tips!

@rodolfoeusebio8722 7 месяцев назад

A very helpful tip/video to all beginners in towing a trailer camper, fifth-wheel or any other RV's.

@JohnMarucci 7 месяцев назад

Glad it was helpful!

@loneapple440 Год назад

Thanks for a great video.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Glad the video was helpful!

@oscarpena127 Год назад

Thank you. I like the cones that you use as markers/ guide’s.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Yep, those collapsable cones are a great thing to have with you. I think I have them on my store if interested: amzn.to/40m4nYV

@spunkyd223davis 2 года назад

I sent this to my sister who just bought her first camper, an R-Pod 178! Your video is excellent!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Glad it was helpful! Great to hear!

@lisasavoie9300 2 года назад

John, I love your videos. I am a older woman who bought her r-pod 179 in 2019. Your videos have helped me in making my camping experiences a real success as well as spring start up and winterization. I've still have some trouble with backing up. I'm looking forward to using these pointers when I get back on the road. Thank you for all your videos. They're not too long and give all the right info!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

This is really great to hear. Thanks for the encouragement! All the best in your future camping adventures!

@tomkeefe2051 8 месяцев назад

Thank you John, for this video. A lot of very useful tips, especially since I'll be backing into a campsite for the first time this weekend. We have a pop up tent camper. I'm looking forward to it now. I've heard smaller rigs turn quicker, but I'm going to take my time and use the cones I bought aalready.

@JohnMarucci 8 месяцев назад

Glad the video was helpful. All the best on your upcoming trip!

@kassandramahoney2457 8 месяцев назад

Thank you for the wonderful video! I have been solo camping with my girls, and backing the trailer up by myself has been quite the challenge. Usually, someone is nice enough to help, but I hope to get to the point where I don't need it! Your video was very helpful!

@JohnMarucci 8 месяцев назад

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the kind words!

@TravelSmallLiveBig 2 года назад

Oh my gosh - the campground that had no clear boundaries and cars everywhere! Yikes - worst nightmare to have to park in that 😂😂🤣 John - this was the BEST video on backing ever! You explained & showed it perfectly. Now I just need to go do it 🙄

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Thanks for the encouragement!

@e.e.p.5473 Год назад

Great idea the cones! I will do in my next trip. Grettings from Spain

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Great to hear. Thanks for the greeting!

@rpodadventure 2 года назад

Another informative video! Thanks John!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Glad you liked it!

@edmontoncouple1562 Год назад

today will be our first time camping with our travel trailer, bit nervous but i will 100% surely use your tips.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

All the best on your first trip! I have a bunch of videos for those just getting started if interested: johnmarucci.com/getting-started-with-rving-16-videos/

@nadiaz65 2 года назад

Thank you, as a newbe learning now how to tow/back in, this is very helpful. My problem was I was trying to get the tow vehicle back in front of the TT too late and couldn't never back in where I wanted it to end up because of that. I will try this method next time I go to the parking lot with my orange cones.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Glad the video was helpful. All the best as you learn how to do this. It isn't easy to learn. Thanks!

@gracesun2557 Год назад

Thanks , John.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Glad it was helpful!

@Timrathmore 11 месяцев назад

Really great advice. Awesome video.

@JohnMarucci 11 месяцев назад

Glad the video was helpful!

@joybrown8644 5 месяцев назад

Thanks!

@viccolfari2048 2 года назад

Great video, John! I appreciate how you used your larger travel trailer for this video as well. We purchased a back up camera for our 31 foot travel trailer last year, and it was one of the best purchases we’ve ever made for our rig. That said, a back-up camera is in no way a replacement for tow mirrors. When used with tow mirrors and cones, a back-up camera just makes the backing in process go just that much more smoothly.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Thanks for sharing, glad the video was helpful!

@CF542 2 месяца назад

Those collapsible cones are amazing and I ordered them after watching this video. I have used them often while camping but especially backing into my storage spot which I do alone. The backup camera is also immensely helpful.

@JohnMarucci 2 месяца назад

Agreed on the collapsable cones, a great addition for various uses! All the best!

@RandyKingsbury Год назад

Great insights and we have the same problems. Thanks for the tips

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Glad the video was helpful!

@timwmoore2133 2 года назад

We finally picked up our new AF 22G trailer last week. I was not able to drive to to back problems, so my wife drove the trailer home and did a great job of backing it into our drive. She was proud of her achievement, but she still wants to watch your video to pick up some pointers!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Please congratulate your wife on her success! Hope you are feeling better soon!

@armandosalinas658 3 месяца назад

Thank you, this video is very helpful.

@JohnMarucci 3 месяца назад

Glad it was helpful!

@Glock2201 Год назад

Great video with clear explanations. One thing I might add is that when you are pulling past the site turn the wheel in the direction of the site right before coming to a stop. It sets the trailer at an angle towards the site and I think makes it easier to back it in.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Great tip. Thanks for sharing!

@starlight2323 Год назад

John - great video! I am writing an article about backing up a camper (hopefully for print in a magazine), and will add a link to your video!

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks for the comment. All the best!

@seamus9305 10 месяцев назад

Thanks John. I'm building my own camper and this will be helpful.

@JohnMarucci 10 месяцев назад

Glad it was helpful!

@JodysJourney Год назад

This was awesome. I’ve found so many videos that tell me to “work with my partner in backing the trailer”. But what do I do if I’m solo? So, this was much needed. Love using cones. Hadn’t heard of that but it’s perfect. 👍🏻

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Glad the video was helpful. All the best!

@jiveturkey8728 Год назад

They Key word is SLOOOOW. Seems everything bad happens when people rush! Also, the bottom of the wheel steering method works real well too for beginners who might get confused with the countersteering direction method. Helpful points especially the cones when going solo.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks for the comment and tips!

@jriver64 10 месяцев назад

I knew this would be a great video. You have been subscribed with all notifications and liked for this video. Oh yeah, I saved you in my playlist! ***** Thank you.

@JohnMarucci 10 месяцев назад

Glad the video was helpful. Thanks for the feedback!

@adventures.and.activities 2 года назад

Great video! Backing in solo is scary. Glad my wife and I work together well. Our biggest problem is 'helpful' neighbors at the campground who feel the need to offer advice! I've learned to ignore them and just follow the system my wife and I have worked out.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Yep, I’ve had neighbors come by trying to help as well!

@p.u.s.h.532 Год назад

How exactly do you "ignore" them?

@iamtheoceanr Год назад

Great video. The number one tip should be, go slow! This can fix a lot of problems before they happen. Slow and safe with a perfect outcome is way better than fast with multiple corrections or actually hitting something. Be prepared to make mistakes, everyone does it. Have a calm, relaxed mindset going in. It's no big deal as long as you take it slow and safe.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Great tip, thanks for sharing!

@Macros1971 10 месяцев назад

Thanks so much. The video is a great help!

@JohnMarucci 10 месяцев назад

Glad it helped!

@stevet2543 2 месяца назад

This was excellent! 🎉🎉

@JohnMarucci 2 месяца назад

Glad you enjoyed it!

@mgysgtk8835 Год назад

I use cones for two reasons. #1) backing. #2) extra safety with my reflective triangles when alongside the road. Great VLOG. So cones pay for themselves.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Exactly. Cones are great to have when traveling. Thanks for your input!

@scotsmanofnewengland7713 Год назад

Having hauled a trailer from New England to Florida two years in a row without hitting anything in backing up and staying at numerous camp sites. Well on my return trip after my second trip I was backing into my driveway and hit my oil fill pipe. I just scratched the paint off the pipe so I was lucky. Remember when backing up an inch on the steering wheel is a foot of turn on the trailer.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks for sharing your experience!

@CuriousinNY 10 месяцев назад

Thank you so much for this tip about an inch on the steering wheel being a foot on the turn. That is my biggest learning curve at the moment is knowing how much to turn my steering wheel when backing in. I have figured out that when I have to make a 90 degree turn after pulling past my site, I have to turn that steering wheel until it can’t turn no more. What I am still learning is at what point in the turn do I start to turn my steering wheel in the opposite direction and by how much. Is it one complete rotation? Is it a half rotation? Is it just a quarter rotation?

@Fermentationist 4 месяца назад

Very good video. Thank you for breaking it down into all the parts of the process. Made it really easy for me to comprehend and I’m looking forward to practicing this process and hope to get comfortable 😅 Many thanks!

@JohnMarucci 4 месяца назад

Glad it was helpful!

@glenwillson5073 Год назад

Well explained. Here in Australia, Travel Trailers are Caravans (car-a-vans). Pull-through sites are drive-through sites and are same cost as back-in sites. (you may pay more for premium waterside sites at times). My weakpoint is in positioning the caravan in the right spot to execute the initial "cut-back" turn from, especially in tight situations. It's a single axel 15'5" body van and tends to cut in sharply very quickly. I tend to need to do a few pull forwards to get lined up right.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

The R-Pod I owned was also single axle and turned very quickly, making it difficult to back up. Agreed that the starting point just isn't easy to get sometimes. Thanks for sharing!

@MidnightMogwai Год назад

I don’t own an RV or even a tow vehicle but I’m in for this video. Well done

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Great to hear!

@bobgrabowski2232 Год назад

I love your videos.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Many thanks for the encouragement!

@WetNets75 Год назад

My brother doesn't go anywhere without pull through. Thus he absorbs the extra cost. Fair is fair. Great tips, I know a few people I will share this with. 😀

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Makes sense to get pull through sites if you can. So much easier to deal with. Thanks for sharing!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

If you have received help from this video, please consider showing your support financially. Just click the word THANKS and the heart symbol with a $ below the video to help out! Free downloadable process document: johnmarucci.com/docs-downloads/

@naturalverities Год назад

We are new R-pod owners and recently did our first outing in an unimproved Forest Service dispersed camping site . The biggest lessons came from the very rough, nonlevel terrain that couldn't be mitigated with corner jacks alone. Lesson 1 was to orient the trailer's midline parallel to the "fall line" so that major leveling could be done with just the tongue jack. Lesson 2 was that in really tight quarters it might be necessary to unhitch, reposition the tow vehicle, and then rehitch to maneuver to correct slope alignment while avoiding obstacles. Lesson 3 was to bring along a car repair ramp next time to facilitate final side to side leveling.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks for sharing your tips!

@CuriousinNY 10 месяцев назад

Good advice, only I don’t know what a trailer’s midline and fall line are. Can you please elaborate some more?

@sethmoon3031 Месяц назад

great video.. going slow and taking your time always helsp.. I always learned if you place your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel.. move your hand in the direction you want the trailer to turn and it will turn that way..

@JohnMarucci Месяц назад

Yep, good tip. Thanks for sharing!

@nm8834 3 месяца назад

Best video ive seen on this! Thank you!!! 🏕️💚

@JohnMarucci 3 месяца назад

Glad to hear it. Thanks!

@OpandDeb Год назад

Great video! I drive tractor trailer and find those eisier than a camper! The longer the trailer the eisier the back up!

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks for commenting!

@housesOTR Год назад

Thanks, John. My Ford has a backup assist which is great but it loses the sticker 90% off the time. Good explanation. Thank you.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Thanks for sharing. All the best!

@SuperMorales9 9 месяцев назад

Great shirt Grand Rapids marathon!!

@JohnMarucci 9 месяцев назад

Yep, I ran it in 2017 and ran the 1/2 a few times as well.

@xdjrockstar306x 10 дней назад

My first time backing my camper was in the dark on my blind side. All my neighbors were out at their tables. Thankfully I just took it slow and was able to do it with one or two adjustments.

@JohnMarucci 9 дней назад

Great to hear!

@rickm5853 11 месяцев назад

great vid thanks. I have a Tundra as well and was wondering how heavy your camper is.

@JohnMarucci 11 месяцев назад

My 2020 Keystone Bullet is 5,000 lbs. unloaded.

@Mill72 Год назад

Another way to figure what way your trailer will turn backing up. Place your hands at the bottom the steering wheel at 8 & 4 o’clock positions. If you want the trailer back left use your left hand to turn the wheel. For trailer backing right use your right hand. Good for beginners.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Yep, thanks for the tip!

@musicforgoodmood9064 2 года назад

Nice channel 👍

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Thanks!!

@cdncycler 2 года назад

I found a large unused parking lot here at home. I brought my safety cones to learn my backing into. I find backing in with a single axle much easier to steerbackwards than a tandem axle.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

I agree on backing up single axle trailers. Thanks for commenting!

@Glock2201 Год назад

It is a great idea to find a big parking lot to practice in. My wife and I did it the first day we had our TT 2 years ago.

@tharrison272 2 года назад

John-once again a great tutorial video. I ordered collapsible cones today and I am sure they will come in handy. The “unwind” seems to be where I have the most issues. I end up in almost a jackknife position 🤷‍♀️🤷‍♀️ Will definitely try your tips. Thanks again.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Glad the video was helpful. There just isn't any substitute for experience. Hopefully the steps will help the next time you are out. All the best!

@wendyteacher2 Год назад

Thank you for these ideas. This week I will be trying to get my new-to-me R-POD into the side of my house. It's a 90 degree turn at the end of a fairly narrow street. What I'm not sure about is the best starting position (which I'll have to back into), then not really sure about when I am at risk for jack knifing... and how to get out of it if it gets too tight. Is there a place where I can compute the best angles, given my space and size of vehicles?

@JohnMarucci Год назад

I would recommend getting some cones and practicing at a local school when no one is there. Try to set up the cones as the home driveway would be to simulate the process. If possible, back in from the driver’s side. All the best!

@katherinepaul322 2 года назад

Thank you! Please tell me how to get the process document you mentioned.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

It is on this page with the same title as the video: johnmarucci.com/docs-downloads/

@user-kn6wr1dc2d 2 года назад

Hi John great video!!! So much better than me standing at the back of the trailer yelling "Stop, stop!!!" at my husband! We have a 2016 Rpod 179 and were wondering if you know how to put the slide in manually. It seems like it would be a good thing to know in case of an emergency. Thanks for all the great info!!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Funny! I’ve seen the same thing many times at campgrounds.

@robertcolpitts4534 Год назад

If you are backing in and your spouse is directing, use your cell phones to communicate. Saves a lot of yelling! 😎

@JohnJohnson-zz8re Год назад

As with ALL your videos, great tips with great instruction and delivery. QUESTION: Do you remove your WDH stabilizer bars when backing into a particularly tight site? Thanks!

@JohnMarucci Год назад

John, I leave my WDH bars on, but it is a good idea to think through in a really tight site. I did put a crease in my bumper when I accidentally cut way too sharp in one situation. This may not have happened with the bars off. Thanks!

@JohnJohnson-zz8re Год назад

@@JohnMarucci thank you sir! Safe travels.

@prospector7409 9 месяцев назад

An excellent video: clearly explained and illustrated. One tip I might add is, if you use sway control bars, remove them before starting to back in. My equalizing hitch bars sit below my bumper, but the tightening handles on the sway bars sits at the perfect height to damage my bumper. I just find it easier backing in this way, especially in tight spaces.

@JohnMarucci 8 месяцев назад

Yep, not a bad idea, especially for tight spaces or when you know you have a very tight 90 degree turn. I have bumper crease to show for this!

@roaminwithmygnomies9046 6 месяцев назад

This is awesome help for solo backers! I’ve gotten mixed feedback on the first backing step, though. Some say to pull close to the side of the site before backing while others say to pull up on the opposite side before starting the initial backing. Any thoughts on that?

@JohnMarucci 6 месяцев назад

The RU-vid site LoLoHo has a good video on establishing a starting position. I’m indifferent, but their proposal of doing a scoop at the site entrance can put you in a good starting position. Time stamp 4:55 on this link: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lzlOfBGr1i4.htmlsi=1p9EzH6GyNKEHGWq

@jasonRevoir 2 года назад

Some of those opening shots look like Michigan beaches. Are you in Sleeping Bear?

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

The intro with the drone flyover is at the top of Ridge Trail at Ludington State Park in Michigan.

@EvoStarr 2 года назад

Search a helpful video! I think I’m gonna get myself some cones!

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

Glad the video was helpful. The collapsing cones are great to have for various uses. All the best!

@ArthriticAngler 7 месяцев назад

As tight as that campground is, go do a video from Anastasia 😂. Great work

@JohnMarucci 7 месяцев назад

The worst I’ve had was a blindside back in at O’Leno State Park in Florida. Super tight. Perpendicular site with trees all around. I should have filmed it.

@daletesson4630 Месяц назад

Steering wheel direction is simple when backing into a site; turn left to go right; turn right to go left. Left is right; right is left.

@JohnMarucci Месяц назад

Yep, thanks for sharing!

@donalexander6674 8 месяцев назад

John, I enjoy your videos and as a recent RV owner I’ve practiced backing the RV in both parking lots and RV sites. I am still unpacking the “mysteries” of the art/science. I know that putting my hand at the bottom of the wheel allow me to move my hand in the direction I want to RV to go. However, I think there are two caveats (still not 100% sure) but your video almost shows them. First, the tow vehicle and RV need to be inline when you start the turn. That is almost intuitive. Second, and this is where I get messed up - when the trailer begins the turn you need to reverse the direction of the tow vehicle’s front wheels so you don’t jackknife the trailer. I’d love to see another video that shows both the truck and trailer backing into a site while simultaneously showing what you’re doing in the truck. I’ve watched several backing a trailer videos and no one seems to cover this clearly. You clearly have great teaching skills and I’d enjoy a follow-up video….it would sure help this student of yours.

@JohnMarucci 8 месяцев назад

The unwind is a bit difficult to master. You basically get the back of the trailer pointing to where it needs to go, then counter steer to keep that angle of turn in. Unfortunately, I can't get to a second video in the near future explaining this more adequately.

@PaNDaSNiP3R Год назад

👍

@bw6078 2 года назад

I was going to ask if you disconnected the weight distribution bars in order to pivot the trailer into it's resting spot but I see in the video you leave your bars on. Thanks for sharing.

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

The WDH I've used you can back up with no problem. Of course it can also be something to ding your bumper if you cut too tight!

@larrymccoy9508 Год назад

My WDH documents state to remove before backing up. It is rigid and greatly affects the pivot point of the TV-TT connection. When the WDH is removed the TT will respond readily to the backward forces of the TV. When WDH is left on, it is difficult to get the TT to pivot in a timely manner. I learned from experience 😮.

@Podcastforthewin 2 года назад

We have a tundra double cab, as well. What year is yours? Also, the camper we’re looking at, looks about the same size. But it’s a forest river. Love your videos. Very informative

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

I have a 2017 SR5 Dbl Cab 4x4 Off Road. Mainly towing miles. It has been stellar for all five year of ownership and does well towing. Payload is not great at 1300+ lbs. Always have to watch tongue weight.

@Podcastforthewin 2 года назад

@@JohnMarucci ya I have the sr5 2017 Definitely keeping an eye on the numbers

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

@@Podcastforthewin Yeah, I only wish the truck had 300-400 more lbs. of payload. Otherwise, it has been a great vehicle.

@Podcastforthewin 2 года назад

@@JohnMarucci I agree.. my wife preferred this over the f350 and ram we test drove. I love Toyota tho. Reliable!

@KiltedVeteran 9 месяцев назад

Where did you get your side mirrors? I have the same Tundra. We also have a dent in the same exact spot on the bumper due to backing up a trailer too sharp, lol.

@JohnMarucci 9 месяцев назад

I bought them from Trail Ridge several years ago now and still love them. www.carid.com/2017-toyota-tundra-mirrors/trail-ridge-power-heated-foldaway-towing-mirror-set-4748041425.html

@surgepro322able Год назад

I own a single axle camper. Do you find those harder to back up compared to double axle campers? Seems like single axle campers make quicker adjustments and therefore quicker mistakes.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Yep, single axle trailers seem to be more sensitive to inputs so you have to go slower and make smaller adjustments.

@AndreasEUR Год назад

4:27 of courwe the upside is you can ask for help, tell them you are learning solo back in, and only shout out if you're about to hit something.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

I prefer not to have anyone help unless they know what they are doing. It is not the safest practice to have someone behind the trailer who is unskilled. I have heard plenty of people yelling at each other while one of them is trying to back in. I have seen people still hit things in the campsite with someone helping. Best practice is to master the skill alone and/or have someone who knows how to communicate well usually via phone or walkie-talkie.

@billysprague6219 Год назад

Why not remove the bars for the weight distribution hitch prior to making that sharp turn backing in?

@JohnMarucci Год назад

It's unnecessary to remove the bars for the Blue Ox Sway Pro I am using. As far as putting that crease in the bumper it was the hitch saddles not the bars that caused the crease. Thanks!

@gypsy547 2 месяца назад

Best tip I’ve ever gotten (yep RU-vid)…hold the bottom of the steering wheel. If you do this, and start out straight, what every way you move the bottom of the wheel is the way the rear of the trailer will go.

@JohnMarucci 2 месяца назад

Yep, good tip!

@rfrazier113 10 месяцев назад

What topper is that on your truck.? I am looking for one just like that due to my tool box. I know it odes not have to do with the video, but I have been looking for one like that for a while.

@JohnMarucci 10 месяцев назад

The bed cover (tonneau cover) is an Extang Encore model. The company is still in business but not sure my model is still being made.

@bobbyejoemcmillan730 2 года назад

Thank you for this video. I am a newbie and working on my backing in. I thought is was easier if you have the camp site on your left as you begin backing. That’s how I have been practicing. I see you have it on your right. Is there a reason or does it matter?

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

You are correct in the left or driver-side back-ins are easier, but most of the time campground roads are one-way and if the direction dictates that you have to back in on the right, there isn't much choice. Basically, over time, you will run into both and should become confident with either. Thanks!

@bobbyejoemcmillan730 2 года назад

@@JohnMarucci thank you so very much. I appreciate you responding and will practice that way as well.

@randym7692 Год назад

Good basic backing skills video but like all the other video's I've seen, nobody ever shows backing into difficult campsites. Ones with very narrow campground roads, trees on both sides of the entrance to the site, neighbors with their vehicles parked in the way that won't move them or aren't there to move them. Also something not included in many, if any videos is where the camper wheels should be to start making the turn into the campsite and which direction to turn the steering wheel and how much. A video showing these topics would be most appreciated. Let's see "the real world" scenarios please.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

I'd love to show a video like you have described. There are a few very tight spots I've had to back into over the years. The problem is the workout of setting up of camera equipment, shots, etc. I think we used 4 or 5 camera on this video and it took days to pre-plan the shoot. Most of the time when I get to these campgrounds with tight spots, it is usually after a long day's drive with no intention of cutting a video. I'll keep this in mind going forward as I travel to see if we can do something. Thanks!

@MF-vg3qt Год назад

I think it would be too difficult to make your "wish list" video as the length of the trailer, number of axles, and your truck are all variables that affect where to start, when to cut and when to release. Also, travel trailer vs 5th wheel will make a difference.

@CuriousinNY 10 месяцев назад

@@JohnMarucciYES, Yes, yes. Please do make a plan to do a video like this. I didn’t realize how much planning is involved in making such a video. Plus, considering how much time you have to park your camper before someone comes along may not afford you the opportunity to make such a true life video. But, what if when making another backing in video you cover how to do so in different scenarios. You could use props to simulate the different scenarios. Explaining how much you have to turn your steering wheel when making that initial 90° turn in, and are you turning clockwise or counter clockwise? I’ve learned in case, but if I am backing in from the passenger side, I have to turn. My wheel counterclockwise until it won’t turn anymore before I can start moving the vehicle and the camper. I’ve never done it from the driver’s side. Would it be the exact same only turning the wheel clockwise until it stops?

@patrickhastings6421 Год назад

I learned a trick from a trucker. Put your hand on the bottom of your steering wheel and you turn in the same direction as you want to turn.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Yep, it's a good tip. Thanks for sharing!

@ipianoman18 Месяц назад

I would also like to add a piece of advise. so you don't have to cut the trailer in as much try to angle the trailer as you pull past the lot

@JohnMarucci Месяц назад

Yep, Sean Michaels of LOLOHO channel calls it the scoop. I did't show this but it is a good tip. Here is a link to their video: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-lzlOfBGr1i4.htmlsi=MxmvrtGBcVJnHkR3

@johnpearson3761 Год назад

About 40 yeears ago I was a beginning teaher training in Brisbane, Australia. there was an American Named Maruci (and I think his given name was John. His accent was the same as yours. Is there any possibility he is/was a relativem of yours?

@JohnMarucci Год назад

My dad’s family is from New York and his dad directly from Italy, so it is unlikely as far as I know.

@ahmedel-zawahry9746 Год назад

I am trying to join the RV world, what are sites or Apps to help choosing camp locations?

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Campendium has good info.

@cliftonmcandrew8984 Год назад

You should know to remove weight, distribution bars. Also sway bars before trying to back a trailer up.

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Sway bars yes. Not necessarily so for WDH. Done it for years with a Blue Ox no problem.

@webcompanion 11 месяцев назад

No need for the Anderson WDH with anti sway built in

@bernie9728 10 месяцев назад

Blind sided backing is all I ever do. Most campgrounds are layed out that way. It's easy for me because my first full time job was spotting Semi Trailers into the loading dock and they were all blind side back ins. I like it better because it's how I have always done it. Even when I get homr it's a blind side back in to my driveway. Truth be told, I don't care one way or another how I back in.

@JohnMarucci 10 месяцев назад

Yep, I also usually do blind side back-ins and am fairly used to it at this point. Lots of campgrounds have one way roads that force the issue. Thanks for sharing your experience.

@ThatDearOne 7 месяцев назад

Hi what size trailer was in this video?

@JohnMarucci 7 месяцев назад

29 feet - 2020 Keystone Bullet 243BHS

@Mia-tf5bq 2 года назад

What’s that trailer model? Thanks

@JohnMarucci 2 года назад

That is my 2020 Keystone Bullet 243BHS. Thanks!

@mjalmarri355 10 месяцев назад

What year and model of this tundra ???

@JohnMarucci 10 месяцев назад

2017 SR5 Double Cab 5.7L

@CrazieFrogz Год назад

I am looking into get the weight distribution hitch, i want to make sure i get the right one. my rv is 3,900lbs... my hitch is 5000lbs.... so if i get a weight distribution hitch that is a 1,000lbs tongue weight and 10,000lbs trailer weight.... is that right?

@JohnMarucci Год назад

Here are my last two trailers and Blue Ox model numbers: BXW4005 - 550 lbs. 1 Dot (R-Pod - 3,000 lbs. loaded) BXW4006 - 750 lbs. 2 Dots BXW4007 - 1,000 lbs. 3 Dots (Bullet - 5,800 lbs loaded) If your 3,900 lbs. is your trailer weight before any gear, you may be in the mid-4,000 lbs. loaded. I would think the 750 lbs. may work. 1,000 lb. bars may be overkill, but your call. Also, I have a video on weight distribution hitches if you haven't seen it: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-8rBDeX-dSkY.html

@CrazieFrogz Год назад

@@JohnMarucci Thanks for the advice :)

@billshield615 25 дней назад

I read or heard somewhere that it's a good idea to remove sway bars before backing into campsite. What is your thought on this?

@JohnMarucci 23 дня назад

I have never removed my weight distribution hitch when backing in and have never had an issue. A hard sway bar without weight distribution is a different thing and I do not have experience using one. Thanks!

@billshield615 23 дня назад

Thank you for your reply.