This is the second of a three-part series about preparing for spring camping in a travel trailer.

The floor plan of our Hideout travel trailer has a picture window in the rear of the trailer. Thus the designation of the trailer is 26 RLS, which stands for a trailer 26-foot long with a rear lounge. The lounge consists of two easy chairs which swivel and a large picture window

We try to plan ahead and reserve a camping space where the window looks over a scenic or interesting view. An example is a camping trip to Steamboat Rock State Park, Site 87, where we could see the water of the Banks Lake and across the lake where vehicles could be seen headed north toward Grand Coulee Dam and south toward Coulee City.

This was a great spot and the popularity of the site is evidenced by the fact it is reserved for most of the spring, summer and fall, with only a day here and a day there available for a one night stay.

Potholes State Park doesn't provide such a view, but when at our favorite spot, Site 23, the window looks out on the picnic table, fire pit and an expanse of lawn.

Slide out

Last week we sterilized the water system. There are a few more items to check before heading out on the first camping trip of the year.

Our Hideout has one slide out. My research shows a slide out requires minimum maintenance. I spray the slide rails and exposed metal parts with a slide out lube and protective spray purchased a couple of years ago.

The trailer's owner's manual doesn't mention using any spray or lubricant, but to "inspect regularly and replace at the first sign of a problem."

The slide out roof is inspected before retracting, in case there is a tree limb or other trash on it.

I'm still learning about the mechanics of the slide out, but I don't expect to do much more or anything to it, unless there is an obvious problem.

Preparation routine

Our departure routine, either from home to the campsite or from the campsite to home, may seem rather simplified, basic and, perhaps, the routine of beginners. This is true, as although we have become more experienced over the years, we are still beginners to the trailer camping world.

Garnet and I work with a checklist as part of our routine in preparation for heading out on an outing. Garnet works on the inside and me on the outside.

Of course, after a few times of checking items off the checklist, an actual checklist isn't needed anymore.

Inside Garnet makes sure all items are out of the way of the slide. All items on the walls are taken down; calendar, clock and photographs. Items on the kitchen counter are placed in the sink or in plastic containers.

On the outside the slide-out is retracted, tires checked for the correct pressure, stabilizers retracted and step placed in travel mode.

The tongue is raised, the ball backed under it, the tongue lowered and secured. The safety chains are attached, sway bars installed, electrical plug connected and lights tested.

We conduct a walk-around inspection before turning a wheel, just as a double check to make sure we haven't forgotten anything and every connection is in the proper place. This little scrutiny may seem insignificant, but it gives me a sense of security. The vehicle mirrors are adjusted and we are ready to roll.

Asked to delay purchase

A company representative at the travel trailer factory in Pendleton, Oregon suggested we be patient and wait until the next year's models were available, a delay of a few months from the time we wanted to purchase.

The delay seemed difficult at the time, but the benefits received were worth the wait. Two main additions to the trailer design greatly benefit our camping experience. The new models added 6-inches to the floor plan making it possible to have a U-shaped table and a pantry.

Dining table

Instead of a dining area featuring two parallel benches, a U-shaped dining area, with benches on the sides and in the back, added seating space for more diners. The table, held fast to the floor and elevated by and attached to a pedestal, provided instant anguish and stress for me.

The bottom of the pedestal is round and intended to be freestanding, able to be unbolted and the table moved to other parts of the trailer or outside. This is fine and makes the table multifunctional.

However, the length of the pedestal also makes the table wobbly, the condition causing the anguish and stress. I consulted friend Bob Chudomelka, who has a design and mechanical mind.

My thought was to tighten the existing bolts and, maybe, add a few more, but Bob told me the length of the pedestal dictated the stability of the table, not the number of bolts.

Next week: Dining table problem solved and Garnet's special touch adds comfortable feel to trailer.