Backing a motorhome, travel trailer or fifth wheel is a team sport.
The key to good teamwork is good communication. Good communication begins before you start backing in. I recommend using 2-way radios. Using the radios eliminates yelling and allows much more information to be exchanged between driver and spotter. The driver will not normally have to say much so the radio can be turned up and set down within reach.
If you do not want to use radios, develop specific hand signals. To avoid confusion your signals should be distinct and deliberate. Use your whole arm instead of just waving your hand. The basic signals you will need are stop, left, right, straight back and distance. You should agree what left, right and straight mean too. Does the direction refer to which way the RV needs to go or which way the steering wheel needs to turn.
Both the RV driver and the spotter should walk the area before backing in. Discuss where you want the rig to be parked. And, unless you're an expert at backing, seeing the site from a different angle will help you visualize how your backing should proceed.
RV travel should be safe and fun.
Dorothy Loll and Susan Cox
Maximizing Your RV Experience
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