RECOMMENDATION TO RALLY PARTICIPANTS

 Photo: autocaravaning.eu

7 Steps to Enjoying a Rally

Rallies, especially the big ones, can be the most fun you’ve ever had, or they can be miserable … it’s up to you! If we consider the steps listed below it would avoid, to a large extent, possible setbacks or frustrations later.

Before you get there

Empty holding tanks, fill water, gas/diesel and propane tanks. 

1.  For those who are accustomed to sites with full hookups and services such as camping sites and so on, we must bear in mind that if a motorhome rally or a concentration is done in the “boondocks", where we do not have all the advantages, of course we know that this is part of the adventure; however, we must take some precautions in advance to avoid discomfort to yourself or other participants and probably save you unexpected expenses later. So before getting to the Rally fill your diesel tank, have the second full gas bottle, fill the water tank and make sure you dump your gray and black water tanks.

Moreover, if a generator is also used, you should take into consideration the fuel consumption for this too. In conclusion, better to be prepared, contingencies appear when you least expect it.

2. Parking credentials

These rallies have a big job getting everybody parked efficiently.  A lot of the work is done long before the rally by issuing ‘Parking Credentials.’  These are usually brightly colored cards that need to be prominently displayed in your window so the parking crew can properly direct you.  They may also indicate a day and time of arrival.  Make sure you have your credentials, and always follow the instructions.

3. Groceries, Laundry etc. 

Once you get to the rally, there’s going to be so much to do that you won’t have time to do standard errands like grocery shopping or laundromat visits.  Try to get everything done in advance so you can devote your full attention to rally goings-on.

At the Rally

4. Get familiar with the Programme

Make sure to get the complete programme for the rally right away and spend some time reviewing it.  You don’t want to miss a seminar or anything else because you didn’t even know about it!  If there are two of you, you may want to agree to split up for certain seminar times, in case there is just so much from which to choose.

5. Walk Around 

We like to get to a rally the day before it starts so we can get our bearings.  Your programme should include a map; make sure to locate the seminar rooms, showers, Vendor/Exhibit hall and the Wi-Fi hotspot!  Be aware that your cellular internet devices may not work as well as normal because the crowds of participants can overload the airwaves!

6. Name Badges and Holders

You must remember to wear your name badge at all times during the rally; it is your admission ticket to the Vendor area, the seminars and the entertainment. We like having the name badge holders that you wear around your neck, and that, sometimes, has wallet-like pockets.  We keep the rally map folded up in one of those pockets, and several business cards in another.  You never know who you’re going to meet, and you’ll want to be able to keep in touch.  You do have your Blog or Facebook address on your card don’t you?  If you also put your credit card in a pocket of the name badge holder, then you’ll be prepared for the great shopping opportunities in the exhibit hall, if there is one.

7. Put on your Best Smile! 

No doubt, the best part of the rallies is the other people!  Make new friends and have a ball! Come in positive to the event and have fun, it has been proven that the good atmosphere of an event depends largely on the mood of all participants.