Signed the paperwork this morning on a new 2014 Sundance XLT 285TS and I'm picking it up tomorrow. I have done a lot of reading on this forum and online about 5th wheels and I'm not new to RV's/camping as I've had a self-contained slide in truck camper for the past 20 years. What I'm looking for is a list of things that I need to get to use my 5th wheel the first time out. One of the main events every year we use our RV for is a week long off-roading/camping trip and that starts Sunday. I wish I had time for a quick weekend shake-down run with it to a nice RV park with level spots and hookups but that's not in the cards. I will be leaving Sunday for a week of dry camping in the Colorado high country with no hook ups. I'm mostly looking for what I'll need to setup, level, secure and run the camper in a "primitive" campsite for a week. So far my list looks like this:-Dog bone 30a to 20a to connect to my Honda EU2000 generator so we can run the microwave-4 wheel chocks-wood or plastic lego blocks to level side to side and for for under the landing gear/rear stabilizers-side to side bubble levelI believe all the systems should run on propane and/or 12v so I think I'm good there. The camper has two batteries and a 80w solar panel. This will be my first experience with solar. Is 80w going to be enough to keep the batteries charged all week or do I need to take a battery charger with me? Do you guys secure yours with a king pin lock? What am I forgetting or have not taken into consideration? Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.

An outdoor rug or carpet to stick under the steps going in so you don't track into the camper. Also, 1 just inside the door that you can shake it out. Lars

A three foot level, tool box with socket wrenches, screw driver set and other tools you have used in your other camper. How about a couple of gallon milk jugs with water for coffee pot. I'd bring everything you found useful in your truck camper you will find it useful with your new rig also. Bring the charger. Bring more level blocks/wood than you think you'll need. Rather have more and not need them than not enough. A pen and paper to make notes on everything you want the dealer to fix under warranty. You will need them I guarantee it. And last but not least.....BEER AND ICE!-BC-

There was an excellent article in Trailer Life last month of solar systems. Check it out. I don't think that the 80 watt panel is going to keep up with the battery use.The only other things that I can think of that others have not already said is spare fuses. And a mat to go under the awning.

I would get a plastic lube plate .I carry a couple of 6x6 wood blocks.extra fuses are good to have..Firewood.Beer water .and food and .you set to go.

All good adfvise you are a camping vet so you know what you need. Battery charger is a good idea. Have a great tripGo Well. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!

Newbie first time setup/usage list | Good Sam Community

nano
Explorer
Jul 26, 2013
If you have somewhere close by to get LED bulbs, you might want to considering buying some for your interior lights to reduce battery usage. (And heat.)
1320quick
Explorer
Jul 26, 2013
Thanks for the replies. I have an outside rug for under the awning and inside rugs from my truck camper. The spare fuses is is a great idea. I've never hear of a lube plate but a quick google search looks like it would be a great idea. I got lots of tools I always carry in the truck. I never thought about it but would a new fifth wheel come with a jack to change a flat tire or do I need to pack one of my HD bottle jacks?
socoguy
Explorer
Jul 26, 2013
All good adfvise you are a camping vet so you know what you need. Battery charger is a good idea. Have a great trip
Go Well. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!
carpetguy2
Explorer
Jul 25, 2013
I would get a plastic lube plate .I carry a couple of 6x6 wood blocks.extra fuses are good to have..
Firewood.Beer water .and food and .you set to go.
Swamp_Man
Explorer
Jul 25, 2013
There was an excellent article in Trailer Life last month of solar systems. Check it out. I don't think that the 80 watt panel is going to keep up with the battery use.

The only other things that I can think of that others have not already said is spare fuses. And a mat to go under the awning.
Buckeye_Chuck
Explorer
Jul 25, 2013
A three foot level, tool box with socket wrenches, screw driver set and other tools you have used in your other camper. How about a couple of gallon milk jugs with water for coffee pot. I'd bring everything you found useful in your truck camper you will find it useful with your new rig also. Bring the charger. Bring more level blocks/wood than you think you'll need. Rather have more and not need them than not enough. A pen and paper to make notes on everything you want the dealer to fix under warranty. You will need them I guarantee it. And last but not least.....BEER AND ICE!

-BC-
lhenry8113
Explorer
Jul 25, 2013
An outdoor rug or carpet to stick under the steps going in so you don't track into the camper. Also, 1 just inside the door that you can shake it out. Lars

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