Power outages aren't fun, but they can be a part of RV life, especially when you're parking long-term or traveling through areas prone to storms. When you're parked at an RV resort and everything suddenly goes dark, it helps to know exactly what to do next. Whether it’s a short disruption or a longer loss of power, how you respond can shape your stay. Being prepared isn’t just about comfort — it’s about making sure your food stays cold, your space stays warm or cool, and that you're safe and relaxed until things get back to normal.
It doesn’t take much for the power to cut out — a strong afternoon thunderstorm, a flipped breaker, or high energy use during popular times can cause it. Knowing what might cause an outage and how to quickly deal with it can make a huge difference. This sort of know-how also allows you to help others if they find themselves without a plan. Being ready gives you peace of mind and lets you enjoy your trip without big interruptions.
Knowing why power might cut out helps you react faster. Most RV resorts do their best to keep things running smoothly, but some outages are out of anyone’s control. Here are the most common issues that lead to outages while staying at an RV resort:
- Florida weather: Afternoon storms, especially during late hurricane season in November, are unpredictable. Heavy wind and rain can knock out local service or damage power lines nearby. Even if the resort is built to handle strong weather, the local grid might still be affected.
- Construction zones nearby: This area of Central Florida is always growing. Sometimes infrastructure updates on nearby roads or neighborhoods lead to temporary energy cuts.
- Heavy energy use: During peak season, like the start of snowbird migration in fall, hundreds of RVers using heating, cooking, and electronics at once can overload the park’s system. Even if it doesn’t last long, that quick drop in voltage can impact your setup.
If power goes out unexpectedly, don’t panic. It’s usually temporary, and knowing what’s likely behind it can help you decide what to do next.
When a power outage hits, your first move should be to figure out whether it's just you or the whole area. Responding calmly and smartly can help avoid damage and frustration. Here's a quick set of steps to follow:
Look inside your RV and see if any of your breakers have tripped. Then check the power pedestal outside. If everything appears fine on your end, the outage may be bigger than your site.
A quick chat with the person next door can confirm if they’ve lost power too. If everyone’s in the same situation, it’s a resort-wide issue.
Pull out flashlights or battery-powered lanterns. Avoid using open flame inside the RV for lighting. It’s not worth the risk.
4. Turn off large electronics and appliances
Unplug or turn off electronics like TVs, computers, microwaves, and AC units. When the power returns, it could flicker, and a sudden surge might harm your gear.
If the power isn’t restored quickly, connect with the front office. They may already be aware, or you might be the first to report it.
Weather-related or system issues can feel disruptive, but if you act quickly and thoughtfully, your stay doesn’t have to go off-track. Staying calm helps you stay in control even when the lights go out.
Even the best-prepped RV resort can experience power loss, so having a fallback plan just makes sense. While you can't control the grid, you can control how you power your space. Backup solutions give peace of mind and a way to maintain your comfort, especially if you're staying in one place for a while.
One of the most common and reliable options is using a portable or built-in generator. Gasoline models are popular, though propane and diesel versions are available too. If using a generator isn’t something you do regularly, make sure you read the usage instructions before starting it, and always run it outside the RV in a well-ventilated space. You’ll also want to keep spare fuel on hand but store it safely and away from heat sources.
Solar panels are another option, although their performance depends on weather and daylight hours. While they probably won’t power your AC or large appliances, they can keep your lights, phones, and RV batteries going during daylight. Paired with a battery backup and inverter setup, solar energy can stretch even further by storing power for night use.
Battery-powered systems and inverters work well during shorter outages when you need to power basics like lights, small fans, or medical devices. These systems can be a little pricey, but they’re quiet and clean. Keep an eye on battery levels so you don’t end up drained when you need them most. One couple camping last fall had two backup batteries on deck, and they were able to run their fans, charge their phones, and keep their fridge going for almost a full day while the grid was down. The key was having a simple plan ready ahead of time.
Comfort during a power outage starts with planning and continues with smart choices. When you're parked in Florida, even in November, heat can build quickly, so staying ahead of rising temps is important. Crack open windows on opposite sides of the RV to create a cross-breeze. Use battery-operated fans to move air around if you have them.
If it’s a cooler night, extra blankets and warm layers can do the trick. Avoid opening and closing your fridge frequently so it keeps its temperature longer. A full fridge tends to retain cold better than an empty one, so consider filling empty spots with bottled water or snacks. That way, the food you really care about stays colder for longer.
When it comes to passing the time, bust out the board games or a deck of cards. Try journaling, reading, or working on a hobby that doesn’t need power. If you’re traveling with others, it’s a great time to catch up without screens. Having a non-electric backup for entertainment helps keep everyone relaxed and focused on enjoying the moment rather than waiting for the lights to come back on.
The most stress-free way to deal with outages is being ready before they happen. Simple habits and packing a few extras can set you up for minimal disruption.
Here’s a short list of what helps:
- Keep a flashlight, lantern, and set of backup batteries in a known spot
- Store a few days' worth of shelf-stable food and bottled water in your pantry
- Charge power banks ahead of time for phones and tablets
- Set up a small fan that operates on batteries
- Print out phone numbers or info you might need if your devices die
- Read up on the RV resort’s emergency communication process
You don’t need to go overboard. The goal isn’t to pack for a disaster movie. It’s about having some basic tools and a plan to pivot if the power goes down unexpectedly. And when you’re prepared, it’s far easier to stay relaxed and just roll with whatever comes your way.
RV life is all about flexibility. That laid-back, make-it-work attitude can actually be why a power outage becomes less of a problem and more of a story. Slower moments often bring people together. Conversations happen over card games. Sunset walks become the evening highlight. Community events or casual enjoy-the-day gatherings are just as fun without electronics running in the background.
Take the chance to explore parts of the resort you might not normally visit. Whether it’s walking a dog along a shaded trail, watching a pickleball game, or relaxing by the water, there’s plenty to enjoy that doesn’t require power. The rhythm might be different, but it doesn’t have to be less enjoyable.
Power coming back on is always a relief, but how you use the time during an outage can shape your overall experience. A little prep goes a long way, and staying open-minded often turns unexpected challenges into simple detours that add something special to your stay.
If you're looking for an RV resort that offers peace of mind even when the power flickers, Oak Alley RV Resort has you covered. From spacious sites with full hookups to amenities that keep comfort and community front and center, we make sure every stay feels effortless. Take a look through our gallery to see what makes our resort a trusted choice no matter the weather.