RV Wind Safety – When Mother Nature Says Stop
Learn RV wind safety essentials, how much wind is too much, when to stop driving, and how to protect your rig on travel days.
💨 How Windy Is Too Windy to Drive an RV?
We all love a good breeze through the windows on a travel day…
But when that “breeze” turns into a 42 mph gust that rocks the entire rig, you start questioning your life choices. 😅
I’ve been there. Actually, we’ve been there more than once.
Just this past week, we were delayed by a day due to the wind. It was actually stronger in the direction that we were going.
How do I know? A hot air balloon pilot at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta told me which app they use for wind checks, and I have been using it ever since. And it works like a charm.
🚌 Our First Wind Lesson (a.k.a. The White-Knuckle Drive)
Back when we owned a Class A gas motorhome, anything over 20 mph felt like a wrestling match with Mother Nature.
The wind would grab the side of the rig and shove us halfway into the next lane, not exactly the peaceful, scenic cruise I’d imagined when we hit the road full-time.
Fast-forward a few years and a few upgrades later: our Super C handles wind much better.
We’ve comfortably (well, mostly comfortably) traveled in 30–35 mph winds without feeling like we’d blow over.
But 42 mph gusts? That’s a whole different story. That’s when even seasoned RVers start checking for the nearest rest area.
💨 So… How Windy Is Too Windy?
Every RV is different, and every driver’s comfort zone is too.
But here’s a general guide based on experience (and a few reliable sources like Good Sam and RV Life):
| Wind Speed | What It Means for RV Travel |
|---|---|
| 0–15 mph | Smooth sailing. Keep both hands on the wheel, but you’ll barely notice it. |
| 15–25 mph | Manageable, but you’ll feel some push and sway — especially with crosswinds. |
| 25–35 mph | Caution zone. Drive slower, keep your distance, and watch those gusts. |
| 35–45 mph | Risky for many rigs. Consider waiting it out — especially if gusts hit from the side. |
| 45 mph+ | Park it. Seriously. Even big rigs and semis pull over at this point. |
👉 Pro tip: Gusts are more dangerous than steady wind. A sudden 40 mph side gust can move your rig faster than your reflexes.
🚍 Class A vs. Super C (and Everything In Between)
If you’ve ever driven both, you know the difference is night and day.
- Class A gas motorhomes have large, flat sides that catch wind like a sail. The higher profile and lighter rear end make them more vulnerable.
- Class A diesel pushers usually handle a bit better thanks to heavier frames and air suspension.
- Super Cs tend to be more stable, have a lower center of gravity, better weight distribution, and that sturdy truck chassis really helps.
- Travel trailers & fifth wheels can sway dangerously in wind if you’re not properly hitched or loaded.
Moral of the story: the taller and lighter your RV, the lower your safe wind tolerance.
🧭 Know Before You Go
You can’t control the weather, but you can plan around it (spoken like a true planner, right?).
Before you hit the road:
- Check the forecast – not just for rain, but for wind speed and direction. We like to use the RV Weather app. It can forecast the weather up to 10 days out and has been reliable so far. We used it when we outran the storms back in May when visiting Kansas for my grandson’s graduation.
- Crosswinds are the trickiest.
- Tailwinds help with fuel economy, while headwinds do the opposite.
- Travel early – mornings are typically calmer.
- Slow down – the faster you drive, the harder the wind pushes.
- Watch the terrain – open plains and bridges are wind tunnels in disguise.
- Secure your rig – retract awnings, close slides, and store loose gear.
If the weather app says gusts over 40 mph, pour another cup of coffee and wait it out. Your nerves (and your side mirrors) will thank you. ☕️
🛑 Know When to Stop
Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do on the road is not drive.
If you’re gripping the wheel so tightly your knuckles match your white cabinetry, that’s your sign to pull over.
Find a rest area, truck stop, or campground, park facing the wind, and wait it out.
You’re not losing a travel day; you’re gaining a safety day.
🌤 The Bottom Line
The truth is, there’s no magic “too windy” number.
But if your gut’s telling you it’s not safe… listen.
RV life is about freedom, and that includes the freedom to say, “Not today, wind.”
So the next time you’re on the fence (or being pushed by a crosswind), remember:
It’s better to arrive late than not to arrive at all.
Have you ever had a wild wind day on the road?
Drop your story in the comments, I’d love to hear how your rig handled it (and whether your coffee survived the ride ☕️💨).
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