Yes, packing a refrigerator may seem like something you don’t need instructions for, but RV fridges are somewhat different from a regular fridge and it can help to have a few tips.
- Make sure your RV is level. Sure, you don’t want to roll out of an uneven bed, but you might wonder why it is so important to your refrigerator that your RV be level. Absorption refrigerators are typical in an RV, and they need to be level in order to function. That little level bubble is very important in your refrigerator – if you neglect it, you could not only find that your refrigerator stops working, but it could do permanent damage. Refrigerators are a huge part of what makes RV camping so much more convenient, so make sure to take care of yours by keeping your unit level.
- Don’t overpack. Your fridge needs air-flow, especially around the cooling fans in order to function properly. Organize what you will need to avoid stocking too many items in the fridge at one time. Buy fresh foods when you get to your destination, use coolers for drinks if necessary and plan your meals so you only have on hand what you need.
- Put heavy items on the bottom. Things rattle around in your RV when you are on the move, and that includes the refrigerator. Put heavy items on the bottom shelves where they are less likely to crush smaller, lighter, or more fragile items.
- Keep your door closed. This can mean a few things: don’t leave the refrigerator door open for long periods of time while perusing its contents (or you will waste a lot of perfectly good energy); and take care to keep your fridge door from swinging open and causing a mess while traveling. Bungee cords or RV refrigerator tension bars are an excellent way to keep the door secure while moving.
- Cool your refrigerator before stocking it. Your refrigerator is going to take a few hours to get to the right cooling temperature, so don’t fill it before it has cooled. Ice packs can help bring an empty refrigerator to the ideal temperature a bit faster, but you will have to run the unit before you pack.
A cold beer on a hot day, or some crisp cherries right out of the fridge – these are small luxuries that make a big difference when you are camping. Treat your RV fridge right, and it will take care of you!