The Power of DIY for RVers & Tips for Getting Started

The Power of DIY for RVers & Tips for Getting Started
How beginner-friendly projects can transform your confidence on the road.

By: Morgan Field

Hi, I’m Morgan Field—lover of the open road, seeker of beautiful landscapes, and part-time traveler adventuring in my 2019 Winnebago Travato 59K. I’m joined by my dog Teddy, a professional snuggle master and Captain of mischief and joy. (See my tips for RVing with a dog here!)

One of the biggest surprises RV life has given me—beyond jaw-dropping views, magical nights under the stars, and quiet stays at off-the-beaten-path farms—has been the empowerment that comes from learning to do things myself.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not handy” or “that’s probably too hard,” this post is for you. Let’s bust that myth wide open. I’m excited to share about the transformational power of DIY in RV life, plus beginner-friendly projects, tips, and resources to help you go from “I can’t” to “heck yes, I did.”

Getting Started with DIY RV Projects: From “I Can’t” to “I Did”

I wasn’t raised around tools. I was an athlete and an intellect; mechanical know-how was never part of my world. But after my first DIY project, I was hooked—it lit a spark I didn’t even know I needed.

What project started it all? A generator oil change that made me feel like a superhero. 

Every RV shop had a six-week wait, and the prices were so steep I could’ve bought the tools and supplies three times over (with enough left for a weekend of epic vanventures: gas, hookups, souvenirs, and all).

I kept seeing folks in my online RV group say it was easy to change your generator oil on your own, yet fear kept whispering: “What if you mess it up?” But life has taught me this: fear is a portal. On the other side there’s often magic, growth, and the kind of unstoppable confidence you didn’t even know you were missing. So, instead of feeding the fear, I chose curiosity.

I found a step-by-step YouTube video, made a checklist, printed the instructions, gathered the tools, and asked a local handy friend to be on standby. Then I did it—my first real DIY. It saved me money and gave me a confidence high I’ll never forget.

That was the moment I thought: If I can do this … what else can I do?

Wins like that stick. They ripple through your life. Each one builds your confidence. You start meeting new challenges with calm instead of panic. You trust yourself more—not just with tools, but with everything. That’s the power of DIY: it rewires how you see yourself. And once that fire is lit, you walk through the world a little taller.

Read why I think solo female RV travel is also extremely empowering.

How to Set Yourself Up for DIY Success as an RVer

While not all RV projects are simple to accomplish on your own, many are. If you are interested in learning how to do some DIY RV maintenance and fixes, here are my recommended steps for getting started. (Note: There are certain situations best left for the professionals, and you should always check your manual for the proper maintenance steps to follow.)

Step 1: Join an Online Community for Your RV Model

Find your people. I’m in Travato Owners and Wannabees on Facebook—the single greatest asset in my RV ownership. From mods to troubleshooting and friendships, it’s invaluable.

Browse the other Winnebago owner groups by model here.

Step 2: Research Within the Group

Once you’ve joined your RV model’s online community, dive into the search bar using specific terms related to your project, such as “Generator oil change 2019,” “Seals maintenance 59K,” or “Onan 2800 oil change.” Pay attention to how many people have completed the task themselves, look for step-by-step guides, recommended tools, videos, PDFs, and other helpful resources. Be sure to save all relevant posts in a dedicated folder for easy reference when you start your project.

Read about the benefits of being part of a model-specific RV owner group.

Step 3: Cross-Check with Google, YouTube & ChatGPT

Use your model and year in searches to consult other guides on the internet. You can also ask ChatGPT for step-by-step instructions and tool lists—you’d be surprised how thorough the answers can be. Just be sure to confirm that any recommendations you receive make sense, and do additional research as needed.

Step 4: Consult Manuals

Manuals often spell out details that vary by model and aren’t always consistent online—like exact oil type and how much to pour in. Be sure to check your manual thoroughly before starting your project.

You can find your Winnebago RV operator manual in searchable PDF form here.

Step 5: Gear Up

Make a complete tools list and gather everything before you start. It eases nerves and builds momentum to take some time to prepare for your project properly. (Bonus: Some home improvement stores are dog-friendly! Your pup can help hunt down supplies—then swing by the doggie aisle and grab them a treat for their hard work.)

Step 6: Pick a Day, Phone a Friend

Schedule your DIY day, and invite a local handy friend for moral support or help. Check the weather and avoid rainy days. Note: Some RV owner groups even plan events around doing RV projects together, like the Amana Mods, Maintenance, and Merriment meetup held annually for Winnebago compact coaches.

DIY RV Projects Perfect for Beginners

One of my favorite things about DIY in RV life? You can do it from anywhere. There’s a state park near me with a wide-open field, and I love heading there when I’m working on my rig. Blue skies, fresh air, no wait times, no TV blaring a channel I didn’t choose—just me, my tools, and a growing sense of confidence. (Of course, you should be sure not to damage or dirty the area, and clean up completely when finished.) 

You don’t need a fancy garage or years of experience to get started—just a willingness to try. These beginner-friendly projects are a great way to build skills, save money, and get that satisfying I did it! feeling.

• Generator Oil Change: Saves hundreds, keeps your generator healthy, and is doable with a guide.
• Chassis Oil Change: Essential for motorhomes, like my class B.
• Replacing Cabinet Latches: Small fixes that improve daily life and teach precision.
• Changing Air Filters: Boosts air quality with minimal effort. Your RV may have filters on the engine, chassis A/C system, generator, and the main HVAC or house A/C unit. Regularly replacing these keeps air fresh and systems running smoothly.
• Toilet seals, faucet or shower head replacement, adding a water filter, or cleaning battery terminals: Small, beginner-friendly upgrades that improve comfort, quality, and performance with minimal tools and effort.
• Seal Maintenance (Roof & Sidewalls): Prevents leaks and can be done with limited supplies

Don’t underestimate the little wins! Even something as simple as replacing a broken hook or finding screw buttons to cover leftover holes from removed shades or gadgets can feel like a heroic accomplishment. These small fixes build confidence fast—and remind you that you can do this.

Some RVers take on more advanced mods, which can be fun to consider, but don’t feel any pressure to do projects outside of your comfort zone.

When to Call the RV Pros

DIY is empowering—but knowing your limits is smart. If you can’t find clear steps or tool lists, that might be a sign to call in the experts. All DIY projects are done at your own risk, so it is important to feel confident that you won’t hurt yourself or your RV. Some projects can also void a portion of your warranty, so that is important to look into as well.

For beginners like me, here are areas I leave to professionals:

• Electrical work with shore power or inverters (risk of shock/fire)
• Propane lines or appliance installs (safety first!)
• Suspension or brakes (critical safety systems)
• Welding or frame repairs (requires special tools)
• HVAC internals (sealed systems and refrigerants)
• When the manual says it’s pro-only (e.g., “adjust valve lash: must be done by a qualified tech”)
• When a job requires a full lift system like those in commercial shops
• When specialty tools are expensive and would only be used once every few years
• When it involves removing major parts like the engine, transmission, or dropping the generator

Sometimes, handing it to the pros is smart RV stewardship. That’s not quitting—it’s knowing your edge.

Did you know that you can take your Winnebago motorhome directly to the factory for service? Learn more about the benefits of getting your RV serviced at the Winnebago Factory Service Center in Forest City, IA.

Lessons Learned from Doing RV Projects Myself

Every DIY attempt teaches you something—sometimes about your rig, and often about yourself. After taking on a variety of beginner-friendly projects, I’ve collected a few truths, tips, and small surprises that might save you time and backaches. However, most projects are almost always easier than I thought they would be!

• Cardboard is your friend—especially when you're working under the RV (your back will thank you).
• Lifts are an asset for undercarriage work—having that extra bit of space makes a world of difference when you’re already working in a tight squeeze. 
• DIY essentials, such as snug gloves, goggles, detailer paper towels (or a rag), and a headlamp. They’re safety and cleanup lifesavers—especially when oil is involved. Once you’ve had it on your hands, you’ll never skip gloves again.

• Safety First! Always turn off power or water systems before beginning. You’ll feel more in control (and you’ll save yourself from unexpected zaps and leaks).
• You’ll mess up sometimes, but it’s usually the small, no-big-deal kind of mess-up … like unscrewing the wrong bolt or getting oil all over your hands before realizing gloves (on both hands!) are a game-changer. It’s all part of the learning curve—and every little whoops builds wisdom.
• Don’t be shy about asking your questions. The RV community is full of generous humans who’ve been there.
• You become a magnet for community. When you share your DIY wins, you attract others doing the same—and the friendships that follow are golden.
• Age and experience aren’t limitations. Some of the most inspiring RVers I know are in their 70s and 80s, sliding under rigs, changing filters, tightening bolts, and learning new skills with total determination. 

Bonus quick tip for dealing with oil: After an oil change, most auto shops will take your used oil—just pour it into an empty oil bottle or rinsed-out jug. Some places, like AutoZone, will even empty your drain pan for you and hand it back.

DIY Is a Lifestyle, Not Just a Fix

The real magic of DIY isn’t just saving money, it’s how you show up in life. You become the person who figures things out, meets challenges with curiosity, and trusts their own hands. That’s the version of you who thrives on the road.

Next time you hear, “I can’t,” take a deep breath, hit play on that tutorial, and know “I did” is just around the corner.

Happy travels and joyous DIY adventures! -Morgan & Teddy
Follow along on Instagram (@themorganfield) or on Facebook.