We evaluated the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah with Bluetooth, self-heating, and Victron communications as our primary off-road power source. This the perfect 12 DC power solution for those who have large RVs with residential appliances and the need to operate when no campground power is available. The Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah is a strong contender for those who camp off-grid and need the extra amperage to extend these stays for those days when solar production is a challenge.
Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Evaluation
We put the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah to the test using our Montana 5th wheel as a real-world environment powering a large GE residential refrigerator, lights, TV, and slides over an extended period of time without any means to charge the battery. Our efforts were to simulate a long tow lasting 10 hours, an over night stay, and then continuing to the next destination for another 7 hours. We relied on the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah only, with no provisions for solar, campground, or the 7-pin connection to our truck for charging power.
Over the evaluation period, we used both the iOS Epoch LI-Ion Bluetooth app for iPhones and our Victron Smart Shunt monitor the performance of the battery. As a check and balance between both monitoring platforms, we found the reporting to be within a percentage point of remaining capacity and available voltage.
Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Results
With the battery at full charge, the evaluation for the Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah exceeded our expectations. We ran our test over 31 hours and at the end of two days, we still had 26 percent, one quarter of the battery capacity remaining.
Recharging the battery with our Progressive Dynamics 75 amp charger took around 3 hours. The shortest time when have experience with any of the batteries we’ve tested to date.
With the batteries heavy duty construction, metal case, low temperature disconnect, internal heating, 11 year warranty, and much more, this is a perfect solution for our 12V power needs.
Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah Specifications
LiFePO4 Chemistry – Deep Cycle Battery
Epoch RV Battery 12V 300Ah HEATED – Internal heating allows for charging in sub-zero conditions
Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
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Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).
Family trips are the beautiful moments that create lasting memories. Whether it is a road trip or an international adventure, these experiences bring families closer and provide stories to share.
While photographs capture the highlights, why not go a step further and create personalized travel mugs to preserve those memories in a practical way?
Personalized travel mugs serve as both sentimental keepsakes that will remind you of your family’s moments every time you take a sip.
Designing Memories: Custom Travel Mugs for Family Vacations
Advantages of Personalized Travel Mugs
When it comes to family trips, custom travel mugs offer numerous benefits beyond being just ordinary coffee mugs.
Here are some reasons why they are a choice for preserving memories:
Customization
Custom mugs for travel can be designed to reflect your family’s personality and style.
From incorporating photos of your loved ones to selecting designs and text, every aspect of the mug can be customized to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
Practical Souvenir
Unlike souvenirs that often end up gathering dust on a shelf, travel mugs are functional and can be used on a daily basis.
Whether it’s enjoying your morning cup of coffee, staying hydrated during workouts, or savoring soup, personalized travel mugs are a fantastic addition to your family’s daily routine.
Sturdy and Reliable
When embarking on family adventures, it’s crucial to have a travel mug that can handle the excitement. Personalized travel mugs are crafted from top-notch materials like steel or BPA-free plastic, ensuring their durability.
This means that after years of use, your treasured memories will remain intact.
Environmentally Conscious Choice
As our world becomes environmentally aware, choosing a travel mug is a sustainable decision.
Opting for travel mugs helps reduce waste from cups while making a positive impact on the planet. It’s also a way to set an example for your children.
Tips for Designing Your Custom Travel Mugs
Designing custom travel mugs is a creative process that unleashes your imagination.
Here are some helpful tips for designing the travel mug that captures the essence of your family vacation memories:
Choose Memorable Photos
Select those family vacation photos that encapsulate the joy and togetherness you experienced during your trip.
When it comes to selecting pictures for your travel mugs, make sure to choose ones that hold value.
Whether it is a creative shot or a family portrait against a stunning backdrop, these images will make your travel mugs more personal and meaningful.
Design of the Background Matters
Consider the design of the background as well. You can add a touch of customization by opting for themes related to your vacation, like beach scenes, city skylines, or nature-inspired patterns.
The background should complement your chosen photos and evoke the emotions you want to remember.
Add Some Text
To further personalize your travel mug, add some text. It could be the location and date of your family vacation, a quote, or a special message for your loved ones.
This will add a layer of sentimentalityto your custom travel mugs.
Choose the Right Size and Style
Make sure you choose the size and style that suits your family’s needs. If you’re a coffee enthusiast who loves serving, go for a bigger size.
On the other hand, if you’re always on the go and prefer something compact, there are travel options available.
Review Your Design Carefully
Before placing your order, take some time to review your design carefully. Double-check that all elements are positioned correctly, and keep an eye out for any typos or design flaws.
Before finalizing your custom travel mugs, it’s always a good idea to seek input from a familymember or friend.
Preserving Memories, One Sip at a Time
Custom travel mugs have the ability to bring joy, warmth, and nostalgia to your routine.
Whether you’re enjoying your morning coffee or reminiscing about that special moment from a family vacation, these mugs act as reminders of the love and happiness shared during those precious family moments.
So why not personalize your custom travel mugs and create lasting memories that you can savor with each sip? It’s time to transform your family vacation memories into sentimental keepsakes that will be treasured for years to come.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
This article may contain compensated links, please read our disclaimer for more information.
Black Friday is just around the corner and that means it’s time to seek out deals on RVing products for your traveling loved ones or for yourself. Honestly, part of RVing is collecting less stuff and focusing more on making memories. That said, there are a handful of items that sure do make RV life more enjoyable and if you can get a good deal on those items, that’s even better!
Below are some of the top Black Friday deals for RVers in 2023! Whether you’re shopping for an RVing loved one or for yourself, we’re betting you’ll find the perfect deal right here.
Kindle E-Readers
Storing books in an RV is difficult. They fall from shelves during travel and because they’re heavy that can add a lot to your total RV weight. Fortunately, you can take care of this problem by investing in a Kindle E-Reader. In order to get a good deal on a Kindle, wait until the Amazon Black Friday sale begins on November 16. During this sale, select Kindle E-Readers will be up to 29% off!
Lego and Magna-Tiles Building Toys
The best toys for RV living? Open ended toys such as Lego and Magna-Tiles. These can be used in a variety of ways and can easily fill hours of playtime. Unfortunately, they can be a bit on the pricey side, but if you buy during Amazon’s Black Friday sale beginning on November 16, you could get up to 30% off on Amazon on select Lego and Magna-Tile sets.
Select Ninja Kitchen Appliances
We may have tiny kitchens, but that doesn’t mean RVers don’t cook amazing meals. Of course, in order ot make those meals, we need the right tools. While we can’t recommend stocking your kitchen with too many small appliances, there are instances where an air fryer, toaster oven, and other appliances with multiple uses can come in handy. Buy Ninja versions of these during the Amazon Black Friday sale and save up to 44%.
Ruggable Washable Rugs
RVing can be a messy business. Dirt and sand are constantly being tracked into our tiny-homes-on-wheels, making it difficult to keep the floors clean. Something that’ll make cleaning the floors a bit easier? Ruggable washable rugs! These come in a variety of amazing designs, can be tossed in the washing machine, and some will be up to 25% off during Amazon’s Black Friday sale.
SMYRNA Turkish Cotton Beach Towel
Tired of waiting forever for your towels to dry after each beach day? Turkish towels are the perfect answer. These thin, yet absorbent towels wick water away without a problem, but also dry super quickly, making it easy to enjoy back to back beach days or pool days. We especially love these SMYRNA Turkish Cotton Beach Towels, which happen to be on sale right now.
Nugget Countertop Ice Maker
A tiny freezer means there isn’t always space for ice, and we’ve yet to find an RV fridge with a built-in ice maker (though it could exist). Our solution? A countertop ice maker. Luckily, the Nugget Countertop Ice Maker is discounted for Black Friday when bought through Amazon.
Shark Cordless Anti-Allergen Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Washable rugs are one way to keep your RV floors a bit cleaner, but if you have carpets, you’ll also need a vacuum cleaner. This is where the Shark Cordless Anti-Allergen Stick Vacuum Cleaner comes into play. This is one of our favorite vacuums for RVing and it is discounted on Amazon for Black Friday.
VIVOSUN Folding Beach Wagon
Perhaps one of the most useful items an RVer can own is a folding beach wagon. These wagons fold up small, so they can be stored in an RV storage bay, but when open, they can hold a surprising amount. Whether you need a way to get your toddler down to the beach or a method of getting laundry to the campground laundry room, a folding wagon is useful. This VIVOSUN Folding Beach Wagon is a good pick and is part of Amazon’s Black Friday Sale.
CARTMAN Home Tool Kit
Tools are a must-have when RVing. Things are always going to need fixing, and we’re betting you find some upgrades you’d like to make to your rig as well. This CARTMAN Home Tool Kit is a great starter set for those who need some tools for their rig, and it’s being sold at a discount at Amazon.
Jackery 1000 Plus Solar Generator Kit
Want to be able to power your rig off-grid? A traditional generator is just fine, but the Jackey 1000 Plus Solar Generator Kit is even better. This awesome kit gives you power wherever you are without the noise and stink of a traditional generator. It also removes the need to install solar panels on your roof (something that may seem daunting to some). Best of all, it’s 30% off on Amazon right now.
Of course, if you can’t splurge on the solar generator listed above, a traditional gas powered generator will do the job just fine. This is where the MaXpeedingrods 3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator comes into play. This one is on sale for 20% off on Amazon and is enough to power anything in your rig.
SANAUVULCAN Portable Propane Fire Pit
If you enjoy campfires, but don’t enjoy building fires or smelling like smoke, a propane fire pit is the perfect solution. This SANAUVULCAN Portable Propane Fire Pit is an excellent choice. It includes lava rocks as well as a metal lid and is on sale right now for 16% off on Amazon.
Cascade Mountain Tech Camping Chair
Of course, you’ll need some sort of chair to sit around those campfires. The Cascade Mountain Tech Camping Chair will do the trick just fine. This low profile chair is lightweight, but incredibly durable. It’s also super comfortable, with a breathable mesh back and bottom to keep you cool in the summer months. Best of all, it’s included in Amazon’s Black Friday sale, meaning you’ll get a great deal if you buy now!
GoPro HERO9 Black
Capture all of your family’s adventure with a GoPro. We love these cameras because they are waterproof, dirtproof, and as durable as they come, meaning they can stand up to all the crazy things your travel crew gets up to. For Black Friday, Amazon is selling the GoPro HERO9 Black for just $199. This is a 13% savings and is a worthwhile buy, for sure.
RVLock Compact and V4
Fumbling with keys every time you return to your home on wheels is a pain in the neck. The solution? An RVLock. This super handy lock upgrade allows you to enter your rig using a key fob or a code. It’s much more secure than a traditional RV lock and it sure makes life easier. Right now, both the RVLock Compact and RVLock V4 are on sale on Amazon. Snag one while you can!
As you can see, there are all kinds of amazing deals on items that will make RV life just a bit more comfortable. Which things will you buy for the RVers in your life? Which ones will you snag for yourself?
Want more gift ideas? Be sure to check out the gift guides below:
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Hiking Duke Creek Falls and Biking Smithgall Woods State Park in Helen, GA
We had several weeks of great weather in North Georgia to go out and experience the hills and trails. This week I visited two popular spots, Dukes Creek Falls for a hike to a series of beautiful waterfalls and Smithgall Woods State Park to bike over 5 miles in this amazing conservation area.
Duke Creek Falls
Dukes Creek Falls is located on Russell-Brasstown National Scenic Highway a few minutes outside of Helen, GA and 20 minutes from Leisure Acres Campground. This was one of our shorter hikes we experienced this year providing great views of the surrounding mountains, vibrant Fall foliage, and the series of waterfalls at the end of the trail did not disappoint.
The trail is well walked and offers a number of short steps and wooden walkways along the trail and at the bottom to observe the waterfalls. The walk is gradual, well maintained, and did not contain any obstacles to navigate. There were several spot along the trail where we could stop and see the mountains with this year’s Fall canopy rich in yellows, oranges and reds. As we walked the trail, we were able to view Dukes Creek and teased with a number of small cascading flows along the rock formations as a hint to what we would find at the end of the trail.
Reaching the bottom of the trail, we were greeted with a number of waterfalls. One was a small stream starting several hundreds hundreds of feet above and gracefully flowing down the mountain side to the stream below. Continuing along the observation deck, a series of falls flowed over a large rock formation. The waterfalls and the cascading steam below gave a beautiful show with the hills and Fall foliage in the background.
The hike back to the top took around 30 minutes and took moderate effort. At the top, is another view of the mountain vistas in the distance capping off this hike in the North Georgia mountains.
Smithgall Woods State Park
Leaving Dukes Creek Falls and heading back to the campground, we stopped at Smithgall Woods State Park located at 61 Tsalaki Trail next to Helen, GA.
Smithgall Woods is a Conservation Area consisting of 5,664 acres as a protected wilderness area. It contains old growth forests, trout streams, and abundance of wildlife. The area is named for Charles A. Smithgall Jr., a Georgia publisher and philanthropist who sold the property to the state in 1994 for half its appraised value. During his time of ownership, he had teams restock streams and plant thousands of trees to restore the natural beauty.
I took the bike to ride along 5 miles of trails. The bike trails were a mix of paved and gravel roads where I experienced the beautiful hardwood trees in their fall colors along with the streams and wildlife. We didn’t have time to enjoy the many trails in the park during this trip, but the bike ride didn’t disappoint.
I hope you have an opportunity to visit these sites in the future. They are easy to hike and bike and there’s so much to see in these nature wonderlands.
Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
Receive the latest updates from I Love RV Life!
Sign up to receive an email notification as we post new RV travels, RV tips and information about RV life in general. It’s simple. Just enter your name and email address on the Subscribe to our newsletter form located at the bottom of this page and click subscribe.
Purchased use of Digital Juice BackTraxx 1 End User License Agreement for Travelin. The Music may be used, altered, or incorporated according to the guidelines described herein into any production (including but not limited to, broadcast, commercial, industrial, educational, and personal).
Evanne Schmarder: Well, the inevitable finally happened. I came home from the grocery store, of course, and was greeted with a strong ammonia smell coming from my fridge. I went outside to look at the back of it, and found a dripping green liquid. Back inside, I immediately turned the appliance off and called my pal, Jim Hargrove, San Diego’s mobile RV expert. Jim was here in a flash to remove the ‘fridge and advise me on options.
Since I’d had such a great experience with my Norcold, I set out to find a replacement unit that would have a similar look and feel, as well as fit in the former ‘fridge’s space. It turns out that Norcold has a new generation of my model, an N841, that was ideal. We ordered it and in no time it was ready to be picked up. Out of the truck and unboxed, my husband and my RV expert easily manhandled the ‘fridge up the steps and into place. Heave ho into the hole and a gentle push is all it took to get it where it needed to be. Jim zipped the screws in, secured it in place, added the trim, and headed out to connect the power and the propane. Inside, on it went and it immediately began cooling.
Now, I mentioned how much I loved my old ‘fridge. Just like my previous unit, the new one has a roomy inside, adjustable shelves and door pockets, a two-drawer crisper, and a sleek simple control panel. But from the outside, I’ve always loved the gorgeous wood panels that made it look so elegant. This model doesn’t come with standard panels. You can get those separately, but fortunately for me, my old ones fit like a glove. I slid them in and added the new magnetized panels great for lists, photos, those cool magnetized words that you can make poems with, and bam, I was in business. This model allows you to have the hinges on either side, though they come standard on the right. Our rig configuration allows enough space for either, but if that’s not your case, your RV expert can swap sides in about 60 minutes. In less than 24 hours, my ‘fridge was cold enough to transfer my things into it, and it’s been performing like a real champ ever since. The coldest place in the unit, perfect for ice cream or ice cubes, continues to be the bottom left of the separate freezer compartment. Hey, life happens. Thank goodness Norcold, a made-in-America product, came to my rescue. I’m looking forward to another dozen-plus years of faithful Norcold service from my favorite RV refrigerator.
We had an epic journey on the Appalachian Trail and–over the course of 6 1/2 months, we realized in that journey that, we really don’t need a lot, and we really liked adventuring and how about we do this full-time? MORE
Hi, I’m Mark Polk, with “RV Education 101.” If you are a classic car and truck enthusiast like me, you are probably already familiar with Steele Rubber Products. They have been making and supplying auto weatherstripping seals and rubber parts for classic automobiles for 60 years. MORE
Well, the inevitable finally happened. I came home from the grocery store, of course, and was greeted with a strong ammonia smell coming from my fridge. I went outside to look at the back of it, and found a dripping green liquid. Time for a new frig! MORE
In this segment, I’ll be going over some of the items that you should pack with you to make a first aid kit for your pet. This list is not exhaustive, but it will contain items that you would need to help your pet in common situations. MORE
Sailing the open seas has a timeless allure that has captivated adventurous travelers throughout history. The experience of setting sail and navigating the vast, open waters offers a unique and profound connection with nature, a sense of freedom, and a challenge that appeals to everyday adventurer types and maritime enthusiasts alike.
Sailing has the ability to teach you many profound life lessons in addition to allowing you to travel the world in search of experiencing and understanding diverse cultures. Discover more why sailing holds a multifaceted appeal that continues to attract travelers of all backgrounds, making it a truly timeless and enduring way to see the world.
Sailing Horizons: Navigating the Boundless Adventures of the Open Seas
Sailing: A Journey of a Lifetime
One of the most compelling aspects of sailing is the sense of freedom it provides. Once you leave the shore and set sail, you’re no longer confined by the limits of land. The open sea offers a boundless expanse, and the horizon becomes a symbol of limitless possibilities.
Sail between islands, discovering new unique cultures, landscapes, and often rare endemic wildlife as you island hop. There are many exciting activities that ocean travel offers up. Anchor near secluded beaches and explore shorelines seldom if ever walked on by people. Discover marine life and coral reefs by heading underwater to enjoy snorkeling or scuba adventures.
With Penn fishing equipment in hand, you can have a go at deep sea fishing, whether it’s for sport or to enjoy continuous fresh and healthy meals as you sail the world. Trolling while sailing can be an especially exciting way to catch fish.
Enjoy the beauty of the night sky away from city lights as you take time to learn about celestial navigation and identify constellations. Carry kayaks or paddleboards on board for on-the-water exploration as you navigate through coves, mangroves, or along coastlines.
The Call of the Open Seas
Throughout history, there have been countless famous sailing explorers who undertook daring journeys across the open seas, contributing to the expansion of geographical knowledge and the establishment of trade routes. Of course, the reason many famous sailors chose to head out onto often treacherous seas was likely to simply satiate their hunger for adventure and see the hidden corners of the world that few if any others had seen before.
It’s becoming more and more difficult for adventurous travelers to find truly off the beaten path travel destinations and experiences these days, but the open sea is one place that remains rather untouched by mass tourism.
True sailing is not booking a cabin on a giant cruise ship, rather it’s following in the footsteps of explorers like James Cook, Ferdinand Magellan, or Francis Drake and planning a solo or small team sailing adventure. These legends played pivotal roles in shaping the course of history through their maritime endeavors, expanding the known world and contributing to the exchange of cultures and ideas.
Despite today’s world being well connected thanks to the internet and social media, a large part of the world such as remote islands and their unique cultures remain rather unknown to most people around the world, providing adventurous travelers the rare opportunity to share something new with the world instead of simply posting more of the same photos and stories countless tourists do every day when visiting the same destinations that are plagued by overtourism.
Life Lessons Learned While Sailing Like Self-Reliance and Adaptability
Sailing doesn’t just offer an adventurous way to travel the world, it’s a pursuit that can teach valuable life lessons. These life lessons learned while sailing extend to various aspects of personal and professional development. The experiences and challenges encountered while sailing can shape travelers into being more adaptable, resilient, and mindful individuals.
Sailing requires adaptability to changing weather conditions and unexpected challenges. Learning to adjust your plans and strategies is a crucial life skill. Sailing often involves being self-reliant, especially on longer and more remote journeys. Learning to depend on yourself fosters independence and resourcefulness.
Sailing often involves waiting for the right wind, weather, or tides. Patience is essential as you navigate through calm seas or when you encounter unexpected delays. Dealing with adverse conditions, rough seas, or unexpected setbacks teaches resilience. Sailing encourages you to bounce back from challenges and keep moving forward.
Whether sailing with a crew or solo, effective communication and collaboration are vital. Sailing teaches the importance of teamwork and how working together can achieve common goals. Sailing presents various challenges that require quick thinking and problem-solving. Developing these skills on the water can translate into effective decision-making in everyday life.
Living on a boat with limited space also encourages an appreciation for simplicity and minimalism, teaching you to value experiences over material possessions.
Sailing connects you with the natural environment, fostering a greater appreciation for the sea and its ecosystems. This awareness can translate into a more environmentally conscious lifestyle. Sailing requires respecting the power of nature and understanding the impact of human activities on the environment. This awareness can lead to a more sustainable and eco-friendly mindset.
Lastly, sailing reinforces that hunger that adventurous travelers need to really get out and experience all the world has to offer, which can also translate to being open to trying and doing things in your everyday life to help you succeed at living a full life. Adopting this mindset can lead to personal growth and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone more often.
Sailing Offers a Journey of Both Solitude & Community
Sailing often involves periods of solitude, especially on longer journeys or solo voyages. This solitude provides an opportunity for introspection and self-discovery. The rhythm of the sea and the isolation from the distractions of everyday life create a contemplative atmosphere.
While sailing can be a solitary pursuit, it also fosters a strong sense of community among sailors. Ports, marinas, and anchorages become meeting places for like-minded individuals to share stories, tips, and camaraderie. Sailing communities often form strong bonds, united by a shared passion for the sea.
Sailing allows for exploration and the discovery of new places. Coastal towns, remote islands, and hidden coves become accessible, providing sailors with the opportunity to experience diverse cultures and exchange ideas and beliefs to help build bridges between different groups of people.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, sailing is more than just an adventurous way to travel the world. Sailing offers a break from routine and the chance to escape everyday pressures. Whether it’s a day sail or an extended voyage, it provides a refreshing change of scenery and perspective.
Sailing presents ongoing challenges, from mastering sailing techniques to navigating complex waters. Overcoming these challenges can lead to personal growth, increased self-confidence, and a sense of resilience.
Accomplishing a successful sailing holiday, whether it’s a short coastal trip or a more extensive offshore journey, can bring a profound sense of achievement. It reinforces a can-do attitude and a belief in your abilities. Living on a boat often means embracing a simpler lifestyle with fewer material possessions. This can foster an appreciation for minimalism and a focus on what truly matters in life.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
On the heels of a major expansion, Encore Terra Ceia Village RV Resort gives guests more reasons to stay and play in this lush corner of southwest Florida.
Located in Palmetto on Florida’s Gulf Coast between Tampa and Sarasota, Terra Ceia Village RV Resort recently added several amenities along with new, roomy sites. Guests can use the resort as a launching pad for day trips to surrounding attractions, from Walt Disney World to Seaworld to Longboat Key.
Big Expansion
The park hosted a Grand Opening event on November 4th showcasing all the major improvements made to accommodate guests and add more fun, including the following:
The addition of 190 new sites, with plenty of room for slideouts along with picnic tables
A new swim area with a pool, deck, and pavilion
New clubhouse with ample gathering space and restrooms
New state-of-the-art fitness center
New restrooms and bathhouse
4 new pickleball courts.
Terra Ceia’s new pool and clubhouse.
In addition to the main clubhouse, an activity center on the resort’s west side gives guests additional ways to relax. There’s a screen porch along with a second pool as well as shuffleboard courts.
Other activities in the resort include arts and crafts, exercise classes, and card playing. Guests can get competitive with ladder ball and other outdoor games, and give their pets a chance to exercise at the dog park. Five ponds surround the property, enhancing views in every direction.
RV sites at Terra Ceia
Comfortable Stays
Set among rich landscaping, the resort’s RV spaces include full-hookup Elite sites, with 30- and 50-amp power and available with cable and WiFi. Elite Plus sites sit on a perimeter road and some include a picturesque water view. Both concrete and grass sites are available, many of which can be occupied for a month or longer.
Terra Ceia
Nearby Fun
Terra Ceia’s location puts guests close to some of the Sunshine State’s most prized destinations. Visitors can motor northeast along Interstate 75 and Interstate 4 to get to Walt Disney World and Epcot Center, two of the world’s most popular theme parks. Nearby, SeaWorld Orlando gives visitors a spectacular look at ocean life.
Less than 50 miles north along Interstate 75, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay blends thrilling rides and immersive animal tours for a unique theme park experience. Also in Tampa, the Florida Aquarium, historic Ybor City, and charter boat trips keep the adventure going.
Florida Aquarium Tampa. Getty Images
The city also is home to the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, with high-stakes gaming, dining, and world-class entertainment. Find family-friendly fun at Adventure Island, which features 30 acres of water rides, dining, and other attractions. Launch a kayak on the surrounding waters to see the city from a different perspective.
Cool Off on the Islands
To the west, the Gulf of Mexico has postcard-worthy views complete with chains of verdant islands. For starters, Anna Maria Island and Long Boat Key — known for their white-sand beaches — are just minutes away from the resort. Both offer lots of boating, fishing, and beachcombing possibilities.
Longboat Key. Getty Images
In Palmetto’s Back Yard
Guests who prefer shorter day trips will find plenty of attractions closer to home. Just south of Palmetto across the Manatee River, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton features The Planetarium, the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, and more science-related exhibits that thrill and entertain. Also in Bradenton, the Manatee Performing Arts Center hosts top theatrical and musical acts.
For convenience, Palmetto is home to hundreds of local and chain restaurants. You’ll also find numerous shopping centers, including outlet malls and flea markets.
Terra Ceia Village is an Encore Park, part of the Thousand Trails chain of campgrounds and RV resorts. Get more information at thousandtrails.com.
How to Mold-Proof Your RV for Many Happy and Healthy Miles Ahead!
A Special feature by Laura Champagne, Co-Owner of Natural Home Solutions
Excessive rainfall and warmer temperatures across North America this autumn season have put more homes – both those with fixed foundations and those on wheels, such as RVs, campers, and trailers – at risk of leaking and flooding. Water-saturated structures are prime breeding grounds for mold, especially when parked in humid climates, but there are ways to prevent, detect and remove it before it becomes a serious issue to your travelling home and overall health!
Mold can form on an RV roof, at wall joints, and around an RV slide out.
It is important to note is that mold fungus has a wide distribution across our planet. In fact, there are over a million species of mold that thrive in warm, damp environments – but mold can also be found in hot, dry areas of the world. No matter where you live, park, or travel with your trailer, mold can be found anywhere, and it is ready to proliferate as long as the right elements for growth are present.
Mold is a family of fungi found in the external environment, so every time a door or window is opened, mold spores can enter the vehicle. Given the “perfect storm” of warm and wet conditions, those spores can settle onto wood, cloth or paper, and quickly transition into a colony of biological contaminants – often releasing allergens, irritants, mycotoxins, and microbial volatile organic compounds.
Mold can destroy RV walls, floors, and interior materials.
So, how can you tell if your RV has a mold problem? The obvious indicators are musty odours, visible black spots on walls and ceilings, water stains, or warped materials. A thriving mold colony can also rot wooden flooring, destroy fibreglass walls, generate cosmetic and structural damage, and ruin interior furnishings.
Use a flashlight to inspect hard-to-reach areas, such as under sinks, behind appliances, and in corners and crevices. Check the air conditioning and heating vents for any signs of mold growth. These areas can be especially problematic, as they can circulate mold spores throughout your RV.
More importantly, toxic mold can cause compromised health issues, such as headaches, difficulty breathing, wheezing, sneezing, coughing, nose bleeds and fever. The most accurate way to determine the presence of mold, however, is through an air quality or surface strip test that is conducted by a professional mold remediation company and analyzed at a third-party lab.
Look inside, behind, and under every RV component to check for mold growth.
If a mold outbreak is detected in an RV, avoid using harsh chemicals because they stop at the surface, don’t penetrate to the root of the problem, and can cause other health symptoms. Since mold develops in nature, the best way to remove it is through the use of natural, organic enzymes. EnzyCleanseTM is one such solution that acts as a catalyst to break down mold roots and spores at the cellular level. The green formula is applied using a fogger to penetrate contaminated surfaces, small and difficult-to-reach areas and duct work to circulate purified air around the affected camper. It is safe for humans and pets and because the enzymes are specific to the biological contaminants contained within the RV, the treatment does not cause any damage to personal property. What’s more, it continues working to prevent more mold growth long after the treatment.
Keep in mind that traditional mold removal sometimes involves a destructive strategy that requires tear-down, removal, and replacement of contaminated surfaces just to access the hard-to-reach places. This type of drastic action is often labour-intensive, and far more costly than eco-friendly abatement solutions like EnzyCleanse. Furthermore, tearing down materials can actually spread more mold spores as the contaminated materials are moved.
After mold is completely removed, a new influx can be prevented by taking a few simple steps and implementing some best practices. These include:
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is key to preventing mold growth in your RV. Make sure that vents are open and working effectively and consider installing additional ventilation fans in areas where moisture is likely to accumulate, like bathrooms and kitchens.
Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning is essential to prevent mold growth in your RV. Regularly wipe down surfaces and remove any standing water or moisture. Use anti-mold cleaning products, such as tea tree oil or grapefruit seed extract.
Maintain Appropriate Humidity Levels: Humidity is a major contributor to mold growth and difficult to control in RVs. High levels of moisture in the air can cause condensation to form, providing the perfect environment for mold spores to grow. Use a moisture meter to measure the humidity levels in your RV. Any readings above 60% indicate a high risk of mold growth. Run a dehumidifier or air conditioner to maintain appropriate humidity levels (below 60%), especially in areas where moisture is likely to accumulate. Avoid drying your clothes inside the RV, open windows and roof vents and use moisture-absorbing materials such as silica gel packets, charcoal and desiccant bags throughout the cabin.
Use Mold-Resistant Materials: Consider using mold-resistant materials in your RV. Mold-resistant paint, flooring, and fabrics can all help prevent mold growth in your RV.
Be Mindful of Moisture: Moisture is the primary cause of mold growth in RVs. Be mindful of any areas where moisture may accumulate, such as under sinks or in shower stalls. Quickly address any leaks or water damage to prevent mold growth.
Store Your RV Properly: When storing your RV, make sure that it is properly cleaned and dried to prevent mold growth. Store it in a dry, well-ventilated area, and consider using a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels low.
Conduct External Inspections: Routinely inspect the outside of the RV for foundation problems, poorly installed windows, roof concerns, broken seals, poor drainage and storm damage that would cause an increase in water penetrating the RV.
Call the Professionals: Regular professional mold testing can detect contamination early enough to prevent serious problems and avoid costly property repairs. If you suspect mold growth, consider hiring a professional mold inspector to perform a thorough inspection. They can use specialized equipment to detect mold growth behind walls and other hidden areas.
In conclusion, mold spores grow rapidly and uncontrollably when they have enough moisture, warmth, and porous surfaces – and mold does not discriminate by geography. By the time an RV owner notices a problem, the mold contamination may already be causing serious harm to the RV and its inhabitants. RV owners must do their part by keeping up with regular cleaning and maintenance, watching for broken seals through which water can flow, and calling a professional mold company to ensure a safe camping environment. After all, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Laura Champagne
Laura Champagne is co-owner of Natural Home Solutions LLC, a mold removal company committed to keeping homes and businesses safe from mold contamination across the tri-state area through Xspor’s proprietary, organic EnzyCleanseTM solution. For more information, please visit www.naturalhome.solutions.
This article may contain compensated links, please read our disclaimer for more information.
It’s time to pack up the RV and head south for the winter! And one of the best places to go? Florida, of course—and we have to say, camping in the Everglades is one of our very favorite things to do in the Sunshine State.
If you’re heading to Florida this winter, we highly recommend spending some time in the Everglades. Of course, you’ll want to do a little planning before you go. Here’s what you need to know before camping in the Everglades.
When to Go Camping in the Everglades
First, let’s talk about when to go camping in the Everglades. While you can definitely have fun in the Everglades any time of year, we firmly believe the months of November through April provide the very best weather for exploring the Everglades.
During this time, there are fewer mosquitoes and cooler temperatures. You’ll also experience a lot less rainfall than you might during a summertime visit. This makes the Everglades the ideal winter RV destination, and it should absolutely be added to your to-do list for this winter season.
Where to Stay When Camping in the Everglades
Wondering where to park your RV while camping in the Everglades? There are a few great choices. Pick from the options below and you really can’t go wrong.
Long Pine Key Campground
Located in Everglades National Park, Long Pine Key Campground offers dry camping only. That said, there is potable water and a dump station available, and the location really is hard to beat. Just know that this campground is only open November through May.
Flamingo Campground
The other front-country campground in Everglades National Park, Flamingo Campground has some dry camping sites as well as 41 sites with electric hookups. Once again, potable water and a dump station are available, as are solar-heated showers, picnic tables, and grills. In our opinion, this is the best campground in the national park.
Midway Campground
If you’re willing to drive a little bit to get to the national park itself, Midway Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve is another wonderful pick. This campground features 26 RV sites, each one with electric hookups. Potable water, a dump station, and restrooms are all available onsite.
Encore Miami Everglades
Finally, we must mention Encore Miami Everglades. This is a full-fledged RV resort and is the place to go if you prefer glamping over camping.
While it is a part of the Trails Collection membership (an extension of Thousand Trails), it is also totally possible to stay here without a membership of any kind. There are both full-hookup and partial-hookup sites available in the park, and there are restrooms with showers, a well-kept pool, a fun playground, and more.
What to Do While Camping in the Everglades
Once you have your RV all set up in one of the campgrounds listed above, the next step is to head out and have some fun in the Florida Everglades. Fortunately, there is plenty of fun to be had. Below are some of our top picks for things to do in the Everglades.
Explore the Visitor Centers
We highly recommend starting your trip at one of the Everglades National Park visitor centers. Each of these centers offers wonderful information on the park itself and the plants and animals that call the place home. You’ll also find rangers ready to answer all of your questions, as well as junior ranger books, maps, and information on trails and upcoming ranger programs.
Note that all of the visitor centers in Everglades National Park are different from one another, meaning you can visit multiple centers during your visit and never get bored or run out of things to learn.
Walk the Anhinga Trail
Easily the best trail in the entire park, the Anhinga Trail is a must-do while camping in the Everglades. This is a 0.8-mile boardwalk trail that takes you through a sawgrass marsh. During your walk you will see a wide variety of birds including herons, egrets, and of course, the anhingas the trail is named for.
On top of that, it’s highly likely that you will spot at least a few alligators along the route. During one visit, we walked right by a dozen or more gators as they basked in the sun!
Attend a Ranger Program
Speaking of the Anhinga Trail, we highly recommend attending the nighttime ranger-guided walk along this trail. Because it happens at night and alligators are nocturnal, this awesome ranger program allows you to see alligators in their most active state. We have also found that the rangers who lead this program are all very knowledgeable and happy to answer questions. (Do bring some mosquito repellent, though. You’ll thank yourself later.)
Of course, pretty much any ranger program you choose to attend while visiting the national park would likely provide an excellent educational experience, so don’t hesitate to attend other talks and walks if they sound interesting to you!
Take an Airboat Ride
If you’re going to visit the Everglades, you really need to get at least one airboat ride into your trip. Yes, these boats are noisy, but trust us when we say the ability to get out in areas that cannot be viewed otherwise makes all the noise well worthwhile. You’re sure to see a number of animals along the way (be sure to pack binoculars) and you might even get to pick up speed for an extra fun thrill.
Hop on a Tram (or a Bike)
Another option for seeing even more of the park? Taking the Shark Valley tram ride. This tram takes you through a huge section of the park and allows you to take in all kinds of cool sights along the way. You’ll learn all about the animals that call the Everglades home, and the wildlife viewing opportunities are fantastic.
Not into the tram idea? It’s also possible to ride a bike along the Shark Valley tram road, giving you an opportunity to see all that same beauty while moving your body and working off some calories.
Yes, camping in the Everglades is one of those experiences every RVer should have at least once, and it is an absolutely perfect way to spend a portion of your winter. Hopefully this article inspires you to add the Everglades and Everglades National Park to your winter lineup this year so you can enjoy all of the beautiful things we love so much about this part of the Sunshine State.
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We are always on the lookout for innovative power solutions for the RV traveler. We have looked at both power stations and lithium batteries as sources when campground power isn’t available. Today we are evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery due to it’s large capacity and value pricing. We also wanted to take this opportunity to go a step farther providing a power station environment using the battery along with a 14.4V 20 Amp battery charger and DC Battery Outlet also provided by Time USB. This solution supplies battery power to the RV along with charging and outlets to power DC and USB devices at a very affordable price.
Why Lithium Batteries Vs Lead Acid Batteries
Over the last 18 months we have become big fans of lithium batteries. We’re not long term boondockers, but we often tow our 5th wheel for extended periods or have overnight stops where pedestal power may not be available. The power offered by lithium over lead acid batteries makes a substantial difference in these instances.
Many RVs, our Montana 5th wheel included, come from the factory with Group 27 lead acid batteries. These batteries have been a main stay in the industry providing reliable power for the 12V DC devices and lighting found in most motorized and pull behind RVs.
The downside of lead acid batteries has been their weight and capacity. Most 100 Amp Group 27 lead acid batteries are capable of providing 50 amps of usable power. This is the result of the damage that can occur when discharging a lead acid battery below 12V DC which is one half or 50 remaining amps in the battery. To achieve 100 amps of usable power, two Group 27 batteries are used, configured in parallel.
Using a Lithium battery such as the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery, we can provide 4 times the amp hour capacity found in two Group 27 lead acid batteries with less than half of the weight. This increase in available amps is the result of the LifePO4 cells that make up the 12V battery and the battery management system (BMS) limiting the discharge to 10% without damaging the battery cells.
Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery Specifications
12.8V Nominal voltage
230Ah Capacity
50A BMS board
2944Wh energy
1920 Max. power
150A Max. current
44lb battery weight
19 x 6.7 x 9.5 in Dimensions (L*W*H)
15000 Cycles & 10-year Service Life
There is a temperature issue to consider with the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery and other lithium batteries that do not have low temperature protection. These LifePO4 batteries cannot be charged below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or the battery cells will experience permanent damage.
Evaluating the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery
Charging the Battery We started our test with a fully charged battery. As part of the evaluation, we used the 14.4V 20 amp charger provided by Time USB. This is a cost effective charger that was simple to use with a status LED glowing red while charging and green when complete. We started the charge late in the afternoon and it was complete the following morning to start our battery evaluation.
Real World Battery Test Our process to evaluate RV batteries is to place in a real operating environment where devices and lighting in our Montana 5th wheel are powered as we tow and use the RV. In the evaluation we use the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery without any external power from our F-350 Super Duty, the solar panel, or 110V pedestal power. Our effort was to determine how the battery would perform over an extended period of time in an actual use environment with no external charging.
Our evaluation lasted over 25 hours running a large 110V AC 3-door GE residential refrigerator through a 2000 watt DC to AC inverter. We also operated 12V LED lights throughout the 5th wheel along with constant demands from various devices such as thermostats, 12V to USB chargers, etc.
Battery Test Results At the end of the 25 hours of use, we still had an estimated 35% of battery capacity available. This exceeded our expectations for this battery, but we had one more device to evaluate – the Time USB DC Battery Socket Outlet.
Using the Time USB DC Battery Socket Outlet The Time USB DC Battery Socket Outlet was inexpensive yet a convent way to have a number of power connections supporting a wide variety of options. It took minutes to mount the outlet on a wall and connect to the battery with the supplied cable. The unit has a LED power display to show the current state of the battery along with a 12V cigarette style accessory outlet, 2 – USB 2.4A, 2 – QC 3.0 USB, and 2 – USB C connections.
We tested the Outlet with a 55 Quart 12V chest style refrigerator and all of the USB connections using a cell phone. Each device powered or charged with no issues.
Final Thoughts
The Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery performed well and gave an affordable solution to extend our travels using a single lithium battery. In our use with the addition of our solar charging, we will be able to extend our time in towing and overnight night stays where pedestal power isn’t available and the use of a gas generator isn’t convenient.
Out thanks to Time USB for providing the Time USB 230Ah LifePO4 Battery, charger and socket outlet for our evaluation.
Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
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RV designers are finding some creative ways to give us more living space in our RVs, and how they’re achieving that is what’s interesting. In some cases, they’re expanding up or expanding out and occasionally adding a room where none existed before. MORE
If you think you’re seeing more and more RVs flying flags these days, well, you are. It seems like everyone is adding a flagpole to their trailer or motorhome. This week, our friends Jason and Tammy decided to do just that as it also gave ’em a place to mount their CB antenna. MORE
If you love farms and looking for an interesting place to spend a weekend, then head to Ulster, Pennsylvania, where you’ll find The Moonlite Alpaca & Garlic Farm. There’s plenty to see and do there for the whole family. MORE
With a little research, recipe testing and tweaking, I came up with my own simple and delicious version of my beloved morning bran muffins. These are filled with raisins, nuts, and natural sweetener, wholesome oat bran, and more deliciousness. MORE
If you’re making your way out west and looking for an enchanting detour, then Salina, Utah, might just be worth the pit stop. With plenty of serene and scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, golf, and more, it’s a great excuse to stretch your legs and stay a while.
To help give you some inspiration for an improvised itinerary, here are 5 places to explore around Salina, Utah.
1. Fishlake National Forest
The largest freshwater mountain lake in the state of Utah, Fishlake National Forest is a haven for bird watching, hiking, trophy fishing, or just taking in the sights of the serene aspen landscape. With hundreds of miles of motorized trails, diverse vegetation, and a diverse ecology of wildlife, there’s plenty to explore.
2. Yuba State Park
Built by local farmers and ranchers from a while back, Yuba State Park sits on the Sevier Bridge Reservoir. The reservoir is a great hub for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping, and boasts plenty of opportunities for off-roading.
Fun fact: The dam bears the namesake of the men who built it, originally titled the U.B. Dam. It was later opted to go with a more phonetic spelling.
3. Cove View Golf Course
Cove View Golf Course is a beautiful respite for casual and scratch golfers alike, with plenty of events and concessions to help pass the time. Affordable and aesthetic, Cove View is a great excuse to get out and enjoy a perfect day in the Salina/Richfield area.
4. Love’s RV Stop
While you’re exploring Salina, you’ll need a good landing spot for the night. Fortunately, Love’s RV Stop – 581 has you covered with full hookups, fuel, and all the snacks that are vital for a road trip – for an overnight ranging between $37 and $48 a night. Not to mention that if you’re a Good Sam Member, you can take advantage of a 10% discount on your stay. Reserve your spot using Love’s app or on their website.
Love’s now offers over 40 locations nationwide, each providing full RV hookups, Wi-Fi, paved spots, laundry, restrooms, showers, dog parks, and other varying amenities from location to location.
5. Mystic Hot Springs
Discovered over a century ago, the Mystic Hot Springs were reinvigorated in the mid-90s to facilitate a resting place, combining soaking areas, restored cabins, and plenty of art, music, and glass jewelry. All in all, it’s a great spot to warm up during cooler temps and take in the artistry and scenic beauty while you’re at it.
RV designers are finding some creative ways to give us more living space in our RVs, and how they’re achieving that is what’s interesting. In some cases, they’re expanding up or expanding out and occasionally adding a room where none existed before, and they’re doing this with a centuries-old material: canvas.
Now, this is not the canvas our forefathers used under covered wagons and tents but lighter, stronger canvas, and in some cases, the material being used isn’t even canvas but high-tech vinyl and nylon fabrics. While attending this past RV industry open house, we couldn’t help but notice all of these canvas additions, so we decided to take a closer look at what some of these companies are offering now. Currently, most of these canvas extensions and add-ons are being used on smaller camping and travel trailers along with a few Class B motorhomes, but larger trailers and toy haulers are expanding up and out also, especially on the rear tailgate decks with some nice, enclosed screened-in additions. A lot of this modern creativity and engineering goes beyond the actual addition itself.
If you look closely at this full-room extension on the back of this Cyclone toy hauler, you’ll notice there are no metal corner or roof poles. Rather than metal framework, these additions are supported by inflatable tubes which make the whole unit lighter and easier to set up and take down. Where and how they add this extra sleeping space, I guess, is up to the imagination of the designer, the no more is this evident than on these next two examples.
First is the Forest River NoBo with its added “nest” as they call it. It’s a complete, enclosed tent that sits on top of the roof of the NoBo and adds an extra sleeping area beyond the normal interior space, and you can bet the kids will love this. On the same note, we found the same type, stand-alone tent enclosure, even mounted on the roof of a jeep. So, as we were saying, canvas additions are only limited to the creative minds of. designers and engineers. Some ways of adding additional space can be as simple as a pop-up roof that gives you a few more inches of tent room. Two, a pop-up roof that can not only increase head room but also add additional sleeping space like we see on this Hymer Class B motorhome. So how creative an extreme can canvas additions go?
Let’s check in with Jeff Johnston, who seems to have found one trailer manufacturer that lets you decide how many additional rooms you want to add.
Jeff Johnston: For a somewhat different camping experience, if you’d wanna go off-road, get into some really rugged places and take it all with you in comfort, there’s an expedition trailer. This is some CRUX Expedition Trailer. This is the Model 1610, and what you see here is the way it goes down the road. Everything is all. packaged together. All the cabinets and so forth contain all of the goodies for the trailer, and when you get to the site, it unfolds in a number of different ways. If you’re gonna be spending a whole bunch of time, like several days, you can unfold the entire unit that folds out to 211 square feet approximately. If you’re just gonna be overnighting, you do stage one, which is more or less the top sleeping tent that opens up on top and a little annex on the back. And then, if you’re gonna be spending a little more time where you wanna expand a little bit more, you can add the side awning on the side and maybe one of the little rooms, and if you’re gonna be spending several days, you do the entire suite of rooms. That gives you the trailer with the sleeping space up on top, a large tent space on the side, a little annex on the end that lets you have a place to put, say, a portable shower or, you know, toilet or something like that, and there’s a space on the back that has room for, say, a couple of cots if you’re gonna have guests. coming, sleeping with you. And this unit is designed strictly for heavy-duty use: dual independent suspension axles, super-heavy-duty hitch assembly; the frame and all, it’s all galvanized or otherwise treated for rust-resistance. This is really a unit that is unlike most of the tent trailers that you’ll see out there. Takes a few more minutes to set up, but like anything else, once you’ve done it a couple of times, a unit like this CRUX Expedition Trailer can provide a type of comfort and convenience and livability out on the most rugged trails you can imagine. It’s a little different, and it’s meant to be.
Well, as you can see, we weren’t kidding when we said, when it comes to RV canvas extensions, things are popping up all over.
Jason Ciastko: For a number of years, Tammy and I have wanted to have a flagpole in the back of our travel trailer. Looking around the internet, we found FlagPole Buddy. It’s American-made, can do Starlink, and really well built. Stick around.vWe’re about to install it.
The package from FlagPole Buddy comes with everything that you need: all the tools, clear, concise instructions, and even the flag. So easy, you can do it in your driveway or even in a campground. The instructions are really clear. First, we assembled the key components on the ground. This makes things a lot easier once we’re up on the trailer. Now what we’re gonna do is we’re gonna install the top bracket. The instructions call for it to be as close to the top of the roofline as possible. Once you have the top section on, do not tighten the bolts down fully yet. Next, we’re gonna go and put the cup on the lower level. Instructions say about 5 feet from the top unit.
Once the brackets are mounted on the ladder, it is time to loosely fit the flagpole into it to get your proper spacing. Ideally, the top bracket should be on the lower section of the pole. This is gonna help keep it strong. And now that the brackets are mounted on the ladder, it’s time to go on to the flag pole. The flagpole comes in multiple telescoping sections. The top section is held in place with a spring-loaded button. The remainder use pins. There are four flag clips that allow you to have two flags on the pole. Now that we have the flag on the pole, time to put the pole in the trailer. A pole strap is included, which provides extra hold at high winds and to dampen noise inside your RV. Well, that’s it for the installation. Took about a half hour of my time. Nice and easy. It’s an extremely well-made system made in America. Could be used for your flags, your Starlink, even your HAM radio antennas.
For more information or to order a pole system, visit FlagPoleBuddy.com.
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For many full time RVing families, the ultimate goal is to see every single state, including Hawaii. Of course, you can’t exactly drive your RV over to Hawaii, and that makes checking this particular state off your list a bit of a challenge. Fortunately, camping in Hawaii is totally possible, but it will take a little more research and planning than most of the other states.
Hoping to add Hawaii to your list of states visited in the near future? Here’s what you need to know about camping in Hawaii. Use these bits of info and you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring the Aloha State by RV.
Hawaii Camping: Renting vs Shipping an RV
As mentioned above, driving your home-on-wheels over to Hawaii isn’t an option. This leaves you with two choices: shipping your own RV over to the islands, or renting one after you arrive.
Shipping an RV to Hawaii
Shipping your RV to Hawaii is expensive. For a 20-foot motorhome, you’d be looking at a $6,000 price tag, give or take. That said, depending on how long you’ll be staying, this still might be cheaper than paying for a rental RV the entire stay.
Unfortunately, there is another factor to consider: size. You see, the roads and campgrounds in Hawaii are not made for big rigs, meaning campervans and rooftop tents are the name of the game. Since the vast majority of Fulltime Families members are in much larger rigs, shipping an RV over simply will not work.
If your home-on-wheels happens to be a campervan or truck camper and you plan to stay for a few months, it might make sense to ship your rig over. Otherwise, it’s probably better to look into renting.
Renting an RV in Hawaii
As mentioned above, Hawaii cannot accommodate large RVs. Therefore, the rental RVs you’ll find for camping in Hawaii are mostly campervans and rooftop tents. Fortunately, it is possible to find vans that will sleep four people, but if you have a bigger family, you might need to get creative. Using two vans is an option, as is setting up a tent for the kids.
In Hawaii, rigs can be rented through both Outdoorsy and RVshare, and you can expect to pay $100+ per night for a rental RV. Make sure to book in advance and ask the owner of the rig for tips and tricks for camping on the island you’re visiting.
RV Roadside Assistance in Hawaii
It’s important to know that while some plans will cover traditional rental vehicles, most personal RV roadside assistance plans do not cover you if you’re in a rental RV.
The good news? Both RVshare and Outdoorsy offer roadside assistance with their rental RVs, meaning you will have assistance should you need it. But remember, you will need to call the company associated with the rental, not your personal roadside assistance company.
When to Visit Hawaii
Hawaii has two seasons: a long, dry summer and a long, wet winter. The temperatures are a bit warmer during the summer, but not by much—and honestly, even the wet season isn’t all that wet in most parts of the state. Therefore, you’ll probably have a good bit of nice weather no matter when you decide to go camping in Hawaii.
Oddly, December through February are the state’s busiest months in terms of tourism, but the summer can get pretty busy as well. Generally speaking, we recommend visiting September through November or March through May to avoid the crowds.
What to Expect from Hawaiian Campsites
We already mentioned that the campgrounds in Hawaii aren’t made for big rigs. Another thing to know about these campgrounds is that, aside from a handful of HipCamp locations, they do not provide any kind of RV hookups, and some don’t even offer potable water or restrooms with showers. This means you will almost definitely be doing some dry camping.
We recommend renting a rig that has its own power source (solar is ideal) and making sure you have plenty of water in tow when you arrive at a campground. If you require flush toilets or showers, be sure to research each campground before booking to ensure those things are available there.
Camping in Hawaii: Where to Stay
Yet another funny thing about Hawaii is that unless you’re able to stay on private property, there aren’t really any places where it’s legal to camp outside of an official campground. This can make finding spots to stay a bit more difficult and it makes booking in advance incredibly important.
Wondering where to find camping in Hawaii? Try the following places:
National Parks
Both Haleakalā National Park and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park have vehicle camping available. That said, Haleakalā requires reservations and has a maximum stay limit of three nights. Meanwhile, the maximum stay limit in Hawaii Volcanoes is seven nights.
We found that HipCamp actually has some of the best options when it comes to RV camping in Hawaii. Many of the campsites listed here are just parking spots on someone’s land without any amenities at all, but these tend to be very inexpensive and in good locations. There are also some campsites that include access to restrooms with showers—and in rare cases, electrical hookups.
Boondockers Welcome
Surprisingly, Boondockers Welcome has a few hosts in Hawaii. We can’t be sure these hosts are still active, but it would definitely be worth checking with them if you happen to have a Boondockers Welcome subscription while camping in Hawaii.
Hawaii is a bit strange when it comes to camping, but it is an absolutely beautiful place and well worth the research required to visit. Be sure to stay as long as possible to really get the most out of your adventures, and have a wonderful time in paradise!
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Where you can find a rodeo, space rockets, and skyscrapers in the same town? Welcome to Houston, America’s fourth largest city, with a subtropical climate and a distinctly Texas attitude. Houston offers a wealth of diverse experiences to explore, including a world-class Museum District, abundant parks, and a thriving arts scene.
McGovern Lake in Houston Hermann Park Conservancy. Getty Images
Meander the Museum District
Nearly 20 museums await you in Houston the Museum District, and half of them offer free admission. You might find yourself examining one of the Menil Collection’s Picassos, gazing up at a dinosaur skeleton in the Houston Museum of Natural Science, or paying solemn respects at the Holocaust Museum Houston.
You can learn about human health, Buffalo Soldiers, the Slavic culture, and so much more. If the kids are among along, make a stop at the Children’s Museum. When you’ve had your fill of halls of treasures, venture outside to Hermann Park, a 445-acre green space featuring a railway, pedal boats, and a Japanese Garden amid a natural landscape.
The Bloch Cancer Survival Plaza in the Museum District. Photo: Viephoto Studio
Hallmarks of Houston
One of Houston’s main claims to fame is the important role it has played in NASA’s Space Program, thanks to the Johnson Space Center. View artifacts from NASA’s history, including real moon rocks; take a tram out to rocket park, where you can see the massive shuttles that have gone to space; or book a tour of the historic Mission Control, the nerve center of space travel.
The Circular Walkway connects the Chevron Buildings in downtown Houston. Getty Images
Another iconic Houston stop is the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the world’s largest. The 20-day event each February and March is hosted in NRG Stadium, which seats over 70,000 spectators. In addition to the traditional rodeo events and livestock competitions, you’ll find an extensive list of entertainment options, including concerts by renowned performers, a carnival, and organized trail rides.
Kayaking on Buffalo Bayou near the McKee Street Bridge. Photo: Patrick Feller
The Great Outdoors
One way to get unique views of Houston is by paddling the Buffalo Bayou, a 52-mile waterway that winds through downtown. The recently remodeled Buffalo Bayou Park is home to biking and hiking trails, manicured gardens, and plenty of places to play. Another unique stop is the Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, which features a 64-foot-tall semicircle man-made waterfall. It’s an obvious photo op and offers a spot to cool off on a hot summer day.
Tolerance Statue along the Buffalo Bayou. Photo: Viephoto Studio
Outdoor Performances
From March through November, the open-air Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park puts on lively stage productions. Think live jazz, ballet, and musical theater, which are absolutely cool and free. It obviously draws a crowd. This remarkable facility with its free high-quality programs is unique in the U.S. It is the only proscenium theatre in the country that offers an artistically excellent, culturally diverse, eight-month season of performances totally free of charge to the public. In the off-season, a picnic at Downtown’s urban park, Discovery Green, is another smart choice.
There’s no denying that QR codes have become a common sight in the travel industry. As a traveler, you’ve likely noticed just how often they are popping up these days, from airline boarding passes and hotel contactless check-in, to public transport ticketing and ordering/paying for restaurants meals.
Many types of travel-related businesses are using QR codes to capture the attention of tourists as it is proven to be an effective marketing strategy. The key to successfully capturing the attention of tourists with QR codes is to provide value, engagement, and convenience.
Learn how you as a business can create and utilize QR codes to increase your brand awareness and provide convenience to tourists. It starts with gaining an understanding of how QR codes work, knowing the process of creating one, and making sure the content linked to the QR codes is well-designed, informative, and user-friendly for tourists.
How Travel Companies are Using QR Codes to Get the Attention of Tourists
What is a QR Code?
QR codes, short for Quick Response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes that store information in a scannable format that people can easily capture with their smartphones. They work by encoding data into a grid of black squares on a white background. QR codes can store various types of information, including text, URLs, contact information, and more. Think of QR codes as the newer and more improved generation of the older barcode which stored less data in a linear, one-dimensional manner.
QR codes are created using QR code generators or software. When you input the data you want to store, such as a URL, text, or contact information, the software generates a unique QR code pattern based on that data.
To read a QR code, you need a QR code scanner, which is often a feature in smartphones and tablets. When you point your device’s camera at a QR code, the scanner app decodes the pattern, recognizes the finder patterns, and starts extracting the encoded data.
Once the data is extracted, the QR code scanner app performs the appropriate action. This may involve opening a URL in a web browser, displaying text, adding a contact to your phone’s address book, or executing another predefined action based on the encoded data.
Types of QR Codes
There are several types and formats of QR codes designed for various purposes, and the choice of QR code type depends on the specific application and the information you want to convey to users.
Static QR Codes are basic QR codes that contain fixed, unchangeable data. They are commonly used for straightforward applications like website URLs, contact information, or simple text.
Dynamic QR Codes on the other hand can store dynamic or editable data. The encoded information can be updated or changed after the QR code is generated. They are often used for marketing campaigns, ticketing, and applications where the content needs to change over time.
You can easily create both static and dynamic QR codes with a QR code generator like the one offered by QRFY. Create custom QR codes with your logo, color or use the predefined templates. QR codes will allow you easily to share photos, videos, PDFs, coupon codes, business information, menus, apps you wish tourists to download, MP3 podcasts or music, and more.
Forget about using old-school business cards as QR codes can generate a static vCard QR where tourists can quickly and easily save your business contact information on their smartphones with a single scan.
Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes
The choice between static and dynamic QR codes for your business depends on your specific needs, goals, and the type of information or functionality you want to provide to your customers. Businesses tend to use static QR codes when the information they want to share with customers will remain constant and doesn’t require frequent updates such as website URLs, contact details, or straightforward instructions that aren’t likely to change.
The advantages of a static QR code are that they are easy to generate and require no ongoing maintenance, with the information being fixed so as to ensure consistency for users.
You may wish to choose dynamic QR codes when you need flexibility to update the information linked by the QR code, whether it’s for marketing campaigns, event promotions, or real-time updates. One of the biggest advantage of dynamic QR codes is that you can modify the content or destination of a dynamic QR code without changing the physical code, which can be beneficial for time-sensitive or evolving information, restaurant digital menus that can be updated with daily specials or pricing changes, and for tracking inventory or providing dynamic information when placed on packaging.
Static QR codes typically do not offer detailed tracking or analytics capabilities. Therefore, you may not have insights into how often the code is scanned or when it was last scanned. Dynamic QR codes on the other hand often come with tracking and analytics features. You can monitor the number of scans, the location of scans, and other data, which can be valuable for marketing campaigns and performance analysis.
In many cases, travel businesses commonly use both static and dynamic QR codes based on their specific use cases. Regardless of whether you choose static or dynamic QR codes, make sure the content is well-designed, user-friendly, and provides a positive experience for your customers.
Why Travel Businesses Should be Creating and Making Use of QR Codes
QR codes offer a versatile and effective way to capture the attention of tourists by providing engaging and convenient access to information, services, and experiences. When used strategically and creatively, QR codes can enhance the overall experience of travelers and help your business stand out in what has become a very competitive tourism industry.
QR codes offer an interactive and engaging way to provide tourists with information and experiences. Scanning a QR code can lead to rich multimedia content, such as videos, virtual tours, and historical information that you just can’t get with brochures, business cards, or those rack cards which are often a common site at tourist information centers.
QR codes provide a convenient way for tourists to access information on their smartphones. Tourists can quickly scan a code to learn more about a location, an attraction, or a product, without the need to type in lengthy URLs or search for information manually. They are also a very cost-effective marketing tool since they are relatively inexpensive compared to other forms of advertising whether it be via magazines, radio, or TV.
QR codes can also make information more accessible to tourists who may not speak the local language. You can provide translations, maps, and other resources that enhance the experience for international travelers. This source of advertising is also welcomed by eco-travelers as it reduces the need for printed materials, such as brochures and pamphlets.
Your customers can use QR codes to deliver personalized experiences. For instance, by scanning a QR code at a hotel or restaurant, tourists may receive recommendations or discounts tailored to their preferences. QR codes can be incorporated into your marketing campaigns, both online and offline. For example, you can promote QR codes on your website, social media, or printed materials to drive engagement.
QR codes can lead tourists to special offers, discounts, and loyalty programs, encouraging them to spend more at your business. They can also be used in navigation systems to help tourists find their way around a location or attraction more easily.
And lastly, QR codes offer contactless access to menus, information, and services, reducing physical contact with printed materials which can reduce the spread of viruses among travelers. Healthy travelers generally are of course more likely to spend more money on things like tours, meals, and attractions.
As you can now see, QR codes are a great for increasing brand awareness, delivering business information strait to the palms of travelers, and encouraging travelers to make purchases and bookings. QR codes are widely used in the travel industry and their versatility and convenience make them a valuable tool for both businesses and travelers.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
One of the fun activities I enjoy when we travel to the mountains are all the great trails to hike. On this years trip to North Georgia I wanted to find trails that I haven’t experienced and if water falls were in the mix then even better. In this video I share Raven Cliff Falls in Helen, GA. It’s the peak of Fall and the scenery if spectacular.
Hiking Raven Cliff Falls
A short drive from the campground and minutes from Helen is Raven Cliff Falls located off 3000 Richard Russell Hwy, Helen, GA. The trail to the falls follows Dodd Creek and offers a wide variety of scenery.
Most trail maps rate the trail as moderate and I agree. I found the trail to be well hiked, easy to follow with a few easy creek crossing. The area that had the most difficulty was at the end along the steep cliffs.
There were a number of smaller waterfalls along the trail that were easy to access and provided a great location for photos. At the end are very large and shear granite cliffs where the highest waterfalls are located. Unfortunately, there has been little rain over the past few weeks when and the falls were not very prominent. But, the lack of water did not detract from the beauty of the area.
I hiked mid week and it wasn’t crowded, but weekends during the popular seasons can be very busy. This was a fun hike that took most of the morning. Great views along the way and opportunities for great views across the seasons.
Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
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We, like a lot of campers, enjoy going dry camping, or as they say, boondocking, which means no hook-ups. The disadvantage there is, sooner or later, you run out of electricity. For example, if it’s cool enough that you run your furnace all night, you know, your 12-volt battery power supply can be a little bit dodgy. MORE
This is a recipe that is perfect if you’ve never tried camp Dutch oven cooking before; it doesn’t get any simpler than this. We’re gonna be using a camp Dutch oven. We’re using fresh fruit: and some granola. It is a little bit healthy but you’ll never know it with the sweet flavor of maple syrup, candied ginger, and that warm cinnamon spice. MORE
There’s been no slowdown in the popularity of vintage trailers these days, and here in beautiful Dayton, Oregon, there’s a resort that allows you to try vintage trailer camping at its finest to see if this part of RVing is fun for you. Let’s take a quick look inside this classic old Westwood Coronado. MORE
Our fifth wheel at the beach is getting older and that basically meant older worn-out furniture too. So to fix that problem and finish our RV interior makeover, we are installing new RecPro furniture in the RV. Let’s stop talking and start installing some furniture. MORE
Jetting off to sunnier climates is a big temptation when the days start to get shorter and the temperatures begin to drop. Many Americans will begin to experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as the US approaches the darker, shorter days of winter. Escaping to a sunnier location can help increase vitamin D production and boost your mood and overall well-being.
Whether it’s snorkeling in the Caribbean, trekking through a lush rainforest in search of sloths and exotic birds, or visiting Florida’s theme parks, escaping winter allows you to break free from your indoor prison and get back to enjoying life outdoors again.
If you’re looking to escape winter in the US, there are several fantastic destinations both within the states and abroad that offer plenty of warmth and sunshine. So don’t be left out in the cold this winter and book yourself a 2023 winter escape with one of these top getaways.
The Best Destinations for Winter Sun in 2023
Las Vegas
While many people visit Las Vegas during the summer, temperatures can reach almost unbearable levels and are often well over 100 degrees. In winter, average temperatures are much milder, making outdoor activities like hiking in Red Rock Canyon or boating and fishing on nearby Lake Mead much more enjoyable.
The winter months also provide ideal conditions for golfing, with numerous world-class golf courses set against the backdrop of the surrounding desert. And while taking advantage of outdoor activities may be high on the list, Las Vegas also offers numerous indoor attractions.
You can explore the city’s many world-famous casinos like the Bellagio or Venetian, shop in high-end boutiques, and visit unique attractions like the Mob Museum, the Neon Museum, and Luxor’s Titanic Artifact Exhibition.
The city’s famous Las Vegas Strip offers more than just gambling as well, being a hub of nightlife and entertainment. You can also avoid the busy physical casinos altogether and simply play online slot games from the comfort of your hotel room after a long day of enjoying outdoor recreation in and around Vegas.
Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Winter is a fabulous time to visit the Caribbean and the US Virgin Islands are a top destination for Americans to visit. St. Thomas enjoys a tropical climate year-round, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the winter cold. During the winter months, the weather is typically warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s.
St. Thomas is known for its beautiful, pristine beaches that include Magens Bay Beach, Coki Beach, and Sapphire Beach where you can enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. The island features a vibrant culture that blends influences from Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. You can experience local music, dance, and cuisine, including delicious seafood, exotic tropical fruits, and delicious island cocktails.
St. Thomas is conveniently located within the U.S. Virgin Islands, allowing for easy access to neighboring islands like St. John and St. Croix. You can easily plan day trips to explore other islands once you’ve had your fill of St. Thomas’s historic sites like Blackbeard’s Castle and Fort Christian.
St. Thomas is easily accessible from mainland US, with regular flights from several major airports and U.S. citizens do not require a passport to visit, making travel relatively straightforward.
Boracay, Philippines
Boracay is another destination that offers a year-round tropical climate for those looking to escape the winter cold. Boracay is famous for its stunning white sandy beaches, particularly White Beach, which stretches along the island’s west coast.
The coral reefs around Boracay are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a fantastic destination for underwater exploration. You’ll also enjoy vibrant nightlife, with beachfront bars and clubs that really come alive after the sun goes down.
Boracay is an excellent base for island-hopping adventures to nearby islands like Puka Island or Crocodile Island, where you can snorkel or simply relax in secluded coves. Be sure to also take advantage of some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world and sample some traditional Filipino cuisine like inasal, pancit, and sinigang.
Beyond your normal water sports, Boracay also offers more adrenaline-pumping activities like cliff diving, hiking to Mount Luho for panoramic views, and ATV tours through the island’s interior.
Dubai
December is one of the most ideal times to visit Dubai, with temperatures ranging from the low 70s to mid-80s from November to March. This is in stark contrast to the scorching summer temperatures Dubai normally sees.
Dubai has no shortage of stunning sandy beaches along its coastline, with the most popular being Jumeirah Beach. Visitors can relax on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, swim in its warm waters, or engage in water sports like jet-skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.
Dubai is of course famous for its world-class luxury resorts, many of which feature private beaches, lavish 5-star accommodations, and top-notch amenities. Dubai is also a shopper’s paradise, with a range of high-end malls like the Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall, various traditional souks, and boutiques to explore.
If you want to escape the sun for a while, Dubai offers a range of indoor attractions. You can visit the indoor ski resort at Ski Dubai if you find yourself actually missing the snow and cold for some reason, explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, or have fun at indoor theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure.
Dubai even hosts a variety of events during the winter season, including the Dubai Shopping Festival. Add in the fact that Dubai is well-connected to countless major international cities, which make it convenient for travelers to reach Dubai from virtually anywhere, and you really can’t go wrong.
Florida
While the northern parts of Florida can experience cooler temperatures during the winter months, southern Florida in cities like Miami or Key West offer up plenty of warm weather. Like some of the other destinations mentioned in our roundup, Florida is famous for its picturesque coastline with miles of sandy beaches along both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.
Florida is a golf lover’s paradise with countless golf courses and resorts, many designed by renowned golf architects. Some of the most famous golf resorts in the state include PGA National Resort & Spa, TPC Sawgrass, and Innisbrook, a Salamander Golf & Spa Resort.
Florida’s golf resorts and clubs frequently offer lessons and clinics with professional instructors, making it an attractive destination for golfers looking to brush up on their game during winter instead of getting out of practice.
Florida is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando. These parks offer a wide range of entertainment options for visitors of all ages, making it a great family-friendly winter escape.
Florida hosts numerous events and festivals during the winter season including Art Basel Miami Beach, the Gasparilla Pirate Festival in Tampa, and the Edison Festival of Light in Fort Myers.
Costa Rica
The fact that Costa Rica is a top winter escape destination isn’t lost on the masses, as the winter months mark the high tourist season where accommodation and popular attractions are much more crowded. That being said, you are almost guaranteed to enjoy great weather since it’s the country’s “dry season” which runs from December through April, with minimal rainfall and plenty of sunshine.
Costa Rica is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, including lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and biodiverse ecosystems that are home to a wide range of exotic wildlife. Costa Rica is a leader in ecotourism and sustainable travel practices. The country is home to numerous national parks, wildlife reserves, and protected areas, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers or wildlife photographers.
Costa Rica is also an adventure lover’s paradise, with opportunities for zip-lining through the rainforest canopy, white-water rafting, surfing, mountain biking, and exploring active volcanoes.
Costa Rica has both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, each offering stunning beaches with warm waters and world-class surfing spots. Popular beach destinations include Tamarindo,Manuel Antonio, and Puerto Viejo.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
Good Sam offers more ways to save for snowbirds motoring through the Sun Belt this winter. We’ve added the 70 parks to the Good Sam Network, giving you more value for your buck as you explore Southern destinations like New Orleans’ French Quarter or the Houston Space Center.
Good Sam members save big with the 10 percent discount at Good Sam Campgrounds. While exploring, discover all of the campgrounds in the Good Sam Network. If you’re not a member, joining is easy: Simply buy a membership at any Good Sam Campground or sign up online. Before making reservations, check each campground’s seasonal information to determine availability.
Find the new Good Sam Parks in the following states:
This new RV park in Elberta puts guests close to beaches, restaurants, shopping, and waterparks. Free Wi-Fi, a new pool, showers, and laundry give the amenities they need for a great stay.
This resort sits next to a Tanger Outlet Mall, OWA amusement park, mini golf, and Tropical Falls indoor water park. Guests can enjoy a clubhouse, three swimming pools, three pickleball courts, and a dog park. Additionally, the park sits 10 miles from a Gulf Coast beach.
Gentle Gulf Coast breezes foster a relaxing atmosphere at this beautifully landscaped resort, with a pool, fishing lake, and great location. Restaurants, shopping, waterparks, and other attractions are close.
This brand-new park boasts large lots for sale and rent. Guests can use the showers, bathrooms, coin laundry, pool, and meeting area. Take advantage of the designated dog park and playground amid ample green spaces and trees.
On a tree-rich peninsula by Wheeler Lake in northern Alabama, this park treats visitors to boating, fishing, and swimming. Also, there’s a zipline course and cozy cabins.
Located on a working persimmon farm, this new RV park features sites big enough for slideouts. Indeed, some have concrete patios and grass. Close to Midland City, the park is only 20 minutes from Dothan, with its variety of restaurants and shopping.
This 55+ active lifestyle community is close to some of the Sunshine State’s most beautiful landscapes, including beaches, springs, parks, and forests. In addition, the beautiful resort entices visitors to stay for a whole season, but folks can also stay for just one night as well.
Indulge in secluded camping in beautiful central Florida. Year-round local and fun events entertain visitors with food and fun. This can be a launchpad for trips to Daytona Beach and the Daytona International Speedway.
Florida’s Daytona Beach, facing the Atlantic Ocean. Getty Images
Paradise meets Southern charm in this hidden gem, with multiple spacious, shaded lots. From here, guests can take day trips to top Sunshine State destinations, including Gainesville, Crescent Beach, St. Augustine, Cedar Key, Daytona Beach, or Jacksonville.
Conveniently located off Interstate 75 near the Florida-Georgia state line, this park sits just 20 minutes from Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta. Great for one-night or seasonal visitors, the park has a fishing lake, pizza and wing delivery, and cabins.
From this park, guests can reach some of Florida’s top attractions, from the coasts to Disney World. Take day trips to fun spots or relax in a fun park.
In the quiet town of Madison, just off Interstate 10, Station RV Resort puts guests in the midst of antique shops, restaurants, and a community playhouse. The nearby Four Freedoms Trail leads hikers through lush environments.
This top vacation destination on Florida’s Panhandle combines luxurious amenities with fun and adventure. Families, locals, and snowbirds are welcome to this spot in the sun, just off Interstate 10 and 23 minutes from beautiful Navarre Beach. Rental cottages and covered wagons are available.
This resort offers 11 sites overlooking Ochlockonee Bay, with outstanding views of the water. Located in beautiful Panacea, this resort has been described as “paradise.”
North of Tampa on Florida’s Gulf Coast, this park boasts beautifully remodeled facilities, round-the-clock activities, and possibilities for lasting friendships. This is a great snowbird roost or year-round destination.
State-of-the-art facilities at Ja-Mar Travel Park.
As part of the Florida Keys chain, Sugarloaf Key is connected to the mainland via the Overseas Highway. Visitors to this tropical paradise can go kayaking, snorkeling, beachcombing, or fishing.
Bask in charming island style in Tallahassee. Guests can explore miles of untouched landscapes, local attractions, and activities, including golfing, biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The big rig-friendly park has a pool, playground, showers, and Wi-Fi.
In the heart of Florida, this park is just 3.5 miles from Legoland and a day trip away from Orlando. Discover outstanding shopping, stellar dining, citrus groves, and several canal-connected lakes. Guests can relax or explore.
Centrally located off Interstate 75, this park has renovated its bathhouse and laundry facility, and more improvements are underway. Anglers can drop lines in the 3.5-acre pond for catch-and-release action or take a dip in the swimming pool.
Overlooking Cloudland Canyon and Desoto Falls in northwest Georgia, Cloud Camp sits close to outstanding hiking and biking trails. Relax at camp or explore the scenic terrain. No RV? Guests can camp in one of the luxurious Airstream trailers.
In South Georgia, this park is the place “where to stay on the way.” Located off Exit 62 on Interstate 75, the park has a security gate, full hookups, pull-through sites, a fenced dog park, fast Wi-Fi, and paved sites. LongHorn Steakhouse, Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Panera Bread, Olive Garden, and more are all within walking distance.
With concrete pads and grassy areas, this neat and clean park is just minutes from Interstate 12 off Exit 19. Adjacent to the park, the Gator Park Sports Complex offers a wide range of recreation and exercise choices.
Twelve minutes from the French Quarter, this resort puts guests in the heart of the Big Easy’s action. Guests can launch their watercraft on the Inner Harbor Navigational Channel that leads to Lake Pontchartrain.
Travelers can explore New Orleans and the surrounding area from this pet-friendly, amenity-filled resort. Relax in the heated pool, sip a cocktail at the swim-up bar, or play mini-golf or pickleball. It’s great for snowbirds and groups.
Enjoy the renovations in this park off Interstate 10. In addition to new restrooms and showers, there’s a newly redone pool, a new game room with a pool table, and a table shuffleboard. Swim in the newly redone pool when you’re not lounging in the wide sites, some of which are paved. The park’s ample green spaces and large oak shade trees complete the picture.
Located one mile off U.S. Highway 45, this peaceful RV park has concrete pads and lots of room for slideouts. Walk your pets on the large expanse of maintained green grass with flowers. Also, the park has a pavilion and hiking trails.
Located northwest of the Outer Banks Peninsula, this KOA Resort sits on the Currituck Sound with a half-mile of private coastline, plus fishing piers and boat ramp access. Amenities include laundry facilities, clean bathrooms with hot water, Wi-Fi, a KOA store, and playgrounds.
Tryon International RV Resort is a center for equestrian sports.
Embark on Blue Ridge Adventures from this resort, which is part of the Tryon International Equestrian Center. The pet-friendly resort includes seven restaurants and bars, shopping, live music, golf, a pool, fitness amenities, and year-round events for all ages.
This newly renovated Blue Ridge retreat sits amid spring flowers, summer waterfalls, glorious fall colors, and fun winter snow sports. Hike, bike, fish, or just wander the woods on 78 acres.
This new RV resort is centered around family. The park is built on family farmland with your brood in mind, with a playground, ponds, a beach, big sites, and lots of music and entertainment to keep the party going.
This new park welcomes travelers motoring along Interstate 95 or the many state highways near Latta. With large pull-through sites and friendly staff, this park invites campers to take a break.
Just off Interstate 35 in Alvarado, this park boasts paved roads and sites, patios, a playground, and a sparkling pool and spa. Dogs can cavort in the dog park while their humans hone their golf skills on the putting green.
Minutes from Redfish Bay, this resort appeals to travelers looking for nearby fishing, boating, and beaches. Prefer to stay at the resort? Accordingly, go fishing in the pond or swimming in the sparkling pool.
In this vibrant community, guests can use the extra-large pull-through concrete sites with plenty of room for slideouts. Located just off Interstate 20, Sundance RV Park also has a dog park, clean restrooms, and laundry facilities.
This is the newest RV campground in Bandera — the Cowboy Capital of the World. Elm Acres has sparkling amenities in one central clubhouse. The friendly staff helps guests pursue their interests, whether it’s working, playing, or relaxing.
This all-age luxury resort in Brownsville lies only 17 miles from SpaceX and South Padre Island Beaches. If you want to go to Mexico, the park is only seven miles from the Matamoros Access Point. Visitors discover resort-style amenities and warm, sunny winters in this clean, safe environment.
Relaxing at Jetstream RV Resort — Tropical Trails in Brownsville.
The newest RV park in Cleveland is just a short distance from Interstate 69. Set amid tall trees and lush landscaping, the park’s large concrete sites and surrounding pavement give guests plenty of room for turning and parking their RVs. There are nice, clean, private restrooms, showers, and a laundry room. Enjoy catch-and-release fishing and basketball.
Visitors can escape to a place that welcomes families, retirees, singles, and winter Texans. Amenities include free fiber optic Wi-Fi, firepits, cable TV, and playgrounds. Garner State Park and the Frio River — both accessible to the public — are minutes away.
On 14 acres just two miles north of Garner State Park, Camp Cold Springs has 450 feet of Fio River Frontage. The newly renovated campground is the perfect spot to experience this beautiful waterway.
Located only a quarter-mile from Crystal Beach on the Bolivar Peninsula, this park offers plenty of local year-round activities, including the famous Jeep Weekend on Crystal Beach. Supersites for big rigs give campers lots of elbow room.
Nestled on a ridge, the resort dishes out gorgeous views of the valley below. Relax in the sparkling pool and enjoy the scenery, or hit one of the local breweries or wineries to sample authentic Hill Country flavors.
This one-of-a-kind RV resort and tiny home community is new. Relax in the multi-million dollar clubhouse or take a dip in two gorgeous pools with incredible views.
This Texas Hill Country RV hideaway treats guests to high-tech features, including gigabit Wi-Fi and EV charging, without losing its connection with nature. Nearby, historic Fredericksburg entices with local wineries and attractions.
On the Gulf of Mexico between Surfside Beach and Galveston, Blue Water RV Resort offers the ultimate coastal camping experience. The upscale resort offers a private boat ramp, fishing docks, a sparkling swimming pool, and a beautiful clubhouse.
Nestled on the beaches of Galveston Island, Stella Mare RV Resort gives guests the coastal vacation they’ve always dreamt about. A heated pool, splash pad, and soon-to-come tiki bar complete the picture. Take advantage of pull-through and back-in RV sites along with beachfront vacation home rentals.
Access to the beach makes this park a vacation star. Take your ATV, UTV, or golf cart to the shore on a concrete trail. Hang out on the upper decks and soak in sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, or take a dip in the heated pool year-round.
Enjoy a Texas Hill Country vibe in Texas’s largest city. Indeed, This luxury resort is a stylish, amenity-laden destination 10 miles from downtown Houston.
Houston’s newest luxury Class A resort is a clean, safe community with great amenities 10 miles from downtown Houston, NRG Stadium, and the Texas Medical Center. The resort also is close to some of the area’s finest dining and top attractions.
Guests at Morgan Shady RV Park can camp right next to the Llano River with its clear, cool water. Swimming and kayaking are on the menu, along with great views of Lovers Leap, a craggy cliff that purportedly is the spot where a pair of star-crossed lovers took a fateful jump. Also nearby are great eateries and South Llano River State Park.
Traveling through Texas on Interstate 10? In that case, this is the perfect Lone Star oasis for relaxing and refueling before continuing your desert journey.
Set in one of the Lone Star State’s most scenic regions, this campground boasts nature trails and picnic areas on the calming waters of the Guadalupe River. The campground is close to shopping, wineries, museums, and fine dining.
Guests here can participate in fishing and water activities on Lake Livingston and two bordering creeks: Kickapoo and Rocky Creek. Engage in bird and wildlife watching, or simply kickback at the pool, near firepits, or in spacious RV sites and cabins.
This brand-new gated resort boasts 80 paved sites and 100 RV and boasts storage spaces. The wide paved roads that run through this resort give guests plenty of room to access sites. Great laundry facilities and high-speed Wi-Fi ensure that you feel at home. Don’t let the quiet country setting fool you: there are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.
Lots of amenities are available in this resort, from pickleball courts to a beautiful pool. In addition the surrounding greenbelt and hay meadows contribute to a beautiful environment. Convenience is key here, and visitors will have lots of resources during their stay.
This new luxury RV resort has a long list of amenities, including a pool, spa, pickleball court, dog parks, and washing station. Visitors also can choose from multiple laundry stations. An onsite restaurant gives visitors another reason to stay at the resort.
Discover an oasis on this barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico. Indeed, guests who stay here are a short distance from fishing, beautiful beaches, bird watching, boating, entertainment, and more. Amenities include heated saltwater pools and hot tubs, a golf cart rental, an event center, and a dog park.
This RV resort at the seaside of Port Lavaca has a state-of-the-art private fishing lake, swimming pool, hot tub, and large sites. The luxury resort has affordable rates with sites up to 80 feet. Additionally, lakeside sites and double-wide sites are available.
In a beautiful country setting on the Lake Lavon Peninsula, this resort features a security gate with cameras, large sites, fiber optic internet, and laundry facilities. Take advantage of the four-acre wooded park with trails, fire pits, grills, and outdoor seating areas. A dog park ensures that canines get the exercise they need.
The newest RV Resort in San Marcos sits off Interstate 35 between Austin and San Antonio. The resort is surrounded by lakes, rivers, caves, and the beautiful and historic downtown San Marcos. Guests can enjoy the resort’s pickleball courts, pool, rec hall, bocce ball, volleyball, and more.
Get back to nature at a resort that offers primitive camping with river access. Visitors can pitch their tents on the banks of Rebecca Creek in the Texas Hill Country, with fire pits, picnic tables, and beautiful views. Enjoy covered picnic table sites with water and electricity. Travelers also can reserve a glamping tent that sleeps up to four.
This brand-new RV resort in Victoria has a quiet country feel. However, it is close to the town, with great restaurants and shops. Additionally, Guests can fish and swim on the lake or take advantage of the park’s numerous amenities, including a business center. All new paved sites and roads make it easy to get around.
This family-owned and operated RV park offers a clean, safe place to camp on 58 acres of scenic Texas countryside. Moreover, the premium lodging found in RV sites and glamping accommodations gives guests a chance to rest, relax, and revive. The park’s friendly team welcomes guests for a night/week/or extended stay.
Sitting on Interstate 10, between Houston and San Antonio, Iron Horse cools off guests with an adult-only pool featuring a spa, slide, and waterfall. The Lazy River is fun for the whole family, and guests can enjoy fire pits, grills, and Texas-style entertainment.
Forty miles west of Houston, this beautifully landscaped park sits in a country setting close to Interstate 10 at Exit 689. The park is big rig friendly, with large, level, pull-through sites, paved roads, free Wi-Fi, propane, and a convenience store and cabins. Take advantage of the RV inspections and mobile service onsite.
Winter Texans will enjoy the area’s mild winters along with the park’s many activities. A sparkling pool and spa, along with a rec hall and dancing, cards, and shuffleboard, make this an excellent spot. The resort also sells homes in its gated community.
Formerly known as RV Village Wharton, Jetstream Resorts has expanded the sites and improved the amenities to create a safe, clean, and happy community with a “resort-style vibe.” Relax in the beer garden or swim in the pool.
Located 70 miles north of downtown Dallas, this RV park has Wi-Fi, room for slide-outs, fishing, and a community fire pit. Restrooms and showers, along with trash service, make this a pleasant place to camp during your Texas trip.
Whitesboro RV Resort sits just off Highway 82 at Exit 622, conveniently located minutes from Gainesville, Denton, and Sherman. Nearby attractions include Lake Texoma, the Red River, wineries, lavender and wildberry farms, and golf courses. Adding to the fun, equestrian farms cater to horse lovers.
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In our opinion, roadschooling is one of the coolest things about traveling full time as a family. Not only do you get to spend a whole lot more time together as a family, but you also get the privilege of showing your kids the ways of the world. One of the very best things you can add to your roadschooling lineup? Teaching kids how to plan a trip.
We know that sounds kinda crazy, but hear us out. Figuring out how to plan a trip is hugely educational! It requires budgeting, route planning, research, and creative problem-solving. While planning a trip, your kids will have to use their geography skills, as well as money math. Besides, your kids are sure to have an even better time traveling when they get some say in what you see and do, and being a part of the planning process will help them understand all the work that goes into travel planning.
Not sure how to hand the travel planning over to your little explorers? Well, we don’t recommend handing them the reins and letting them go crazy. Instead, we think it’s best to provide some clear boundaries and let the kids work within those.
Here are our top tips for showing your kids how to plan a trip.
Teaching Kids How to Plan a Trip: Decide on a Budget
Before you do anything else, decide on a budget for the trip. Sit down with your kids and explain the spending limit. Help them break the budget down by category, deciding how much will be spent on gas, how much on campsite fees, how much on entertainment, etc.
For younger kids, it might help to create a tactile or visual way for them to keep track of their budget. For instance, you could give your kids a pile of LEGO bricks—each brick representing $10—and have them place the correct number of bricks in each category. Older kids might prefer making a graph (excellent practice) or even just a list of line items and how much they have to work with in each category.
Once a destination is chosen and campsites are booked, you can adjust the blocks to represent how much you will actually spend, but encourage kids to stay within their budget and remind them that any leftover money can be rolled over into the “fun” budget for sightseeing.
Pick Out a Destination
The next thing your kids will need to do when showing your kids how to plan a trip is decide where you’ll go. There are a few ways you can help your kids with this, depending on how much freedom you want to give them (which often directly correlates with how old they are).
One option is to take a look at your gas budget, have your kids do the math to figure out how far that will get you based on your vehicle’s mileage (remind them to add in a cushion), and then let them choose a destination within that distance.
Another way to go about it? Pick out three or four destinations you’d be willing to visit and ask your kids which sounds most appealing to them.
The last way you could go about this step is by showing your kids on a map the direction you are headed and let them choose a stop along that route. Often, this makes the most sense when you have an end goal in mind (Florida for winter or Maine for summer, for instance).
Find the Perfect Campsite
Now that you know where you want to go, your kids will need to decide where to stay. Remind them of their budget and provide them with tools such as Campendium and RV Life Campgrounds. Encourage them to read reviews, research amenities, and pay attention to how far out attractions and activities are.
If the destination location has a large number of campgrounds, it might help if each kid decides on an amenity or two they’d like to have. Another way to narrow things down is to encourage the kids to look for free or very low-cost camping so they have more money to spend on sightseeing.
Research Things to Do
Next up when teaching kids how to plan a trip? Deciding what to do.
Your kids probably had some attractions or activities in mind when they picked out their desired destination. It’s worth noting however that depending on how long you’ll be staying, you’ll probably be able to visit several attractions, trails, and landmarks.
Gather brochures from your destination to hand to younger kids so they have an idea of what the choices are. Show older kids how to research options online. If you have reciprocal memberships, show your kids how to find the lists of attractions you can visit for free. And finally, give the young trip planners access to AllTrails to choose hikes.
Once everyone has a clear idea of what the options are, allow each kid to choose a set number of things to see and do. Make sure everyone is aware of how much they are allowed to spend on their choice(s) and then let them get creative and see what they can come up with.
When everyone has selected their activities, create an itinerary. Help your kids decide together which days to do which things, keeping in mind any free or discounted days that might be happening at the attractions you plan to visit. Remind them to schedule in breaks and help them look at maps to figure out how much time to build in for driving.
Get Ready to Go!
Finally, your kids will need to get ready for the trip they planned. If you’re living in your RV full time, packing may not be something they have to worry about. However, if they plan to take part in activities that require certain items—sledding in White Sands National Park, for instance—they will need to make a list of what they need and then use some of their activity budget to make the purchase.
Meal planning and grocery shopping will also need to happen. Take a look at your itinerary and decide when it makes the most sense to pack a meal, when you’ll eat out, and when you’ll be home in order to cook. Write that info down in your itinerary and decide which meals to pack and cook, as well as where you will eat out. Once you know what you’ll be packing and cooking during your trip, have the kids create a grocery list of all the ingredients they need.
The last part of showing your kids how to plan a trip? Making sure all paperwork is together. Gather printouts of campsite confirmations, tickets purchased online, your itinerary, etc. Put all of this into a folder and make your kids responsible for the folder and its contents.
Note: We also recommend keeping digital copies of all important papers just in case!
Yes, allowing your kids to help create your travel plans does complicate things a bit. That said, the educational benefits far outweigh the inconvenience in our opinion, and your kids will get to feel the satisfaction of knowing how to plan a trip!
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Excitement is coursing through the RV industry as manufacturers begin to introduce new models of travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers for 2024. As the industry evolves, RV manufacturers are stepping up their game to stay competitive. That includes everything from minor tweaks and enhancements to existing models to brand-new offerings that push boundaries and redefine standards within the RV industry.
More families than ever are heading out to create their own Great American Road Trip and, for many, it starts with the perfect RV. One of the benefits of traveling with a trailer rather than a motorhome is that when you set up camp, you can unhook the RV and leave it set up while you use the vehicle to explore the area. When you travel by motorhome, you either need to drive your whole RV for sightseeing days or tow a separate vehicle behind it.
Unlike motorized RVs that have an engine and can be driven on their own, travel trailers are pulled behind another vehicle. Travel trailers come in all sizes, including everything from tiny jelly bean-shaped models with a small kitchen in the rear to a full blown house-on-wheels, with multiple slide-outs and residential-sized appliances. Their length can vary, starting at 12 feet long and going up to 35 feet long or more. Weight also varies with the size, from as low as 1,200 pounds up to nearly 10,000 pounds.
Sometimes called a bumper-pull (when they first became popular in the early 1950s, they were attached to the bumper of the tow car), the modern travel trailer employs a hitch secured to the frame of your tow vehicle. This truck or SUV will include specialized hardware to make towing safe and easy. Travel trailers are relatively easy to set up once you arrive at your destination. You can unhitch it, leave it and still have a vehicle to explore.
What is a fifth wheel?
Fifth wheels are split-level RVs that must be towed by a truck with a special hitch. Typically, a fifth wheel will have a living space or bunk area on the lower level and a private bedroom that hangs over the truck bed. Fifth wheel RVs are available in all sorts of styles and sizes. The smallest fifth wheels have less than six feet of headroom and are just large enough to squeeze in a wet bath. The largest fifth wheels weigh tens of thousands of pounds and must be towed with a semi-truck cab.
Fifth wheel travel trailers are great because they offer both the flexibility of a towable vehicle, as well as the comfort and luxury of super-sized RVs. If you plan to spend more time on the road, then you will want to make sure you have enough space for long comfortable trips, as well as some amenities for those rainy days. Even if you’re only a weekend warrior, a fifth wheel gives you plenty of extra leg room to feel comfortable anywhere the road may lead. If you have children, a fifth wheel can also give you a little bit of extra privacy.
What is a toy hauler?
Toy haulers are RVs that have dedicated storage space for large recreational toys. Fifth wheels and travel trailers are the most common types of RV toy haulers on the market, but there are a couple motorhome options available. Toy hauler motorhomes are usually Class A or Class C RVs with built-in garages.
Regardless of the RV class, a toy hauler RV features a living area and a garage space that allows you to load and unload your toys. Typically, these RVs are set up like a traditional fifth wheel or travel trailer, but the back is open and ready to welcome large items like a four-wheeler, motorcycles, kayaks and whatever other outdoor equipment you might want. The rear wall of the trailer opens up and folds down into a ramp for easy loading. The cargo space usually comes with D-rings to strap in your gear, along with furniture that is attached to the walls and folds up to increase storage space.
Toy haulers come in all shapes and sizes. Some have small living areas with large cargo space, while others have huge living areas and a smaller cargo capacity. These types of RVs are heavier than others.
When it comes to choosing between travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers, the differences are minimal. Instead of thinking of it as fifth wheels being better or travel trailers being better, it’s more about fit and which kind of RV best suits how you want to travel.
How big are travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers?
Travel trailers come in a wide range of sizes and styles. That said, most travel trailers typically range anywhere from 12 feet to 35 feet long. A simple, 12-foot travel trailer allows enough comfortable space for one or two people (most likely a couple). Meanwhile, a 35-foot trailer can allow enough space for up to 10 people to sleep comfortably.
Travel trailers vary in weight from 1,200 to almost 9,000 pounds. The various lengths and builds available allow for a diverse weight range. Smaller travel trailers have an average maximum weight of about 3,500 pounds. Some larger travel trailers can reach more than 10,000 pounds when fully loaded.
Fifth wheel RVs often stretch anywhere from 30 to 45 feet in length. Many families opt for fifth wheels because they’re usually some of the largest travel trailers. Fifth wheels can vary widely in weight, with the smallest starting at around 2,400 pounds and going up to 24,000 pounds. It’s critical to have a heavy-duty truck — and a fifth wheel hitch — to tow them.
Toy haulers can vary in size; it all depends on how much storage and space you need. The standard width of a toy hauler is between 7.5 to 8 feet wide and around 13 feet tall, in order to stay within federal and various state guidelines for travel vehicles. The biggest difference with toy haulers is the length of the vehicle. There are small models that sit at less than 15 feet long and large models that can be over 48 feet long. The majority of toy haulers sit in a medium range at around 30 to 40 feet.
Toy haulers are built on a sturdier frame and are therefore much heavier than other RVs on the market. Toy hauler weight ranges from 3,600 to 11,400 pounds when empty. These are RVs designed to carry heavy cargo. On average, they can carry upwards of 10,000 pounds of cargo.
Are these RVs easy to tow?
From Gen Zers to Boomers, RVing of any type offers freedom and a sense of self-sufficiency. However, towing an RV can bring some unexpected stress and safety concerns, especially for first-timers. Trailers add weight and that added weight changes the handling dynamics and braking of the tow vehicle. That’s why you need to make sure your RV and tow vehicle are properly matched.
The towing capacity of a vehicle is how much weight it can tow. The towing capacity is determined mainly by the type of axles the truck has and their ratings. Usually, towing capacity applies to SUVs and trucks, since most sedans or smaller cars don’t have large towing capabilities. Keeping your RV’s weight in mind is integral as well. If your RV weighs too much for your tow vehicle, it increases the stopping distance and likelihood of damage to your tow vehicle or RV.
There are two important weight-related factors when it comes to RV trailers: GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and tongue weight (TW). GVWR is the safe maximum weight of the RV when it’s loaded for camping with water, fuel, supplies and cargo. The TW is how much downforce the loaded RV places on the towing hitch. Both numbers are displayed on the metal Federal Certification/VIN ID tag located on the front left side of an RV. You can also find the specifications listed on the trailer manufacturer’s website.
Those two numbers set the basis for choosing the vehicle best suited for towing an RV. Tongue weight of RV trailers, sometimes referred to as “hitch weight,” will be typically between 10 and 15-percent of the RV’s GVWR. RV trailer weights can vary widely by brand, type and size. That’s why it’s important to narrow down these numbers to the specific RV you plan to tow and then make sure those weights match your vehicle’s towing limitations. You can also find your vehicle’s towing capacity on General RV’s towing guide.
How much do travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers cost?
A travel trailer is the least expensive way to enjoy a recreational vehicle or RV lifestyle. Travel trailers are significantly cheaper than motorhomes for the fact they have no engine and must be towed. Travel trailer prices can range from $10,000 to $200,000 for a travel trailer. On average, most new travel trailers cost between $20,000 and $50,000. The size of the travel trailer is the first factor — the bigger you go, the more you will pay.
A fifth wheel typically costs more than a travel trailer, as it provides a bit more amenities and a better driving experience. It’s a better option if someone wants to try full-time RVing. Fifth wheel prices tend to vary depending on the make, year and amenities that come included.
A toy hauler typically sits on the more expensive side because it is built on a sturdier frame and often provides more amenities. Luxury models are worth the investment if you plan to live in your toy hauler full-time.
Another factor to consider is storing your RV when it’s not in use. If you do not have the space to store your RV on your property, you’ll likely need to rent space from a storage facility. On average, it costs between $50 to $200 per month to store an RV, with the actual cost influenced by various factors. The average cost to store an RV indoors is roughly $135 a month, according to Sparefoot, a self-storage marketplace. Naturally, the size of an RV can greatly influence the cost to store it.
Financial options for purchasing an RV
A number of financial options are available when it comes to purchasing your RV. While some may pay in cash, most will finance their purchase over the course of several months. Monthly payments can be reduced by providing a large down payment at purchase. This could also help secure a lower interest rate, leading to even more savings in the long-term. Many RV dealers and banks offer great financing options.
Creating an RV budget will help you stay within your financial boundaries and help narrow your RV search. Be sure to also include parts or accessory upgrades, regular preventative maintenance and RV insurance in your budget. You will also need to account for storage costs if you are unable to store your RV on your property when not in use. RVing is growing in popularity at an exponential rate because it can be enjoyed on nearly any budget. Read about some ways to save money while RVing and stretch your dollars, so you can enjoy more adventures.
What’s the best RV for me?
Next to your home, an RV is most likely the second-most expensive item you’ll ever purchase. It is essential to determine the best RV to suit your needs, aesthetics and dimensions on the outside and inside. Make sure the floor plan is suitable for your requirements. There should also be enough room to fit the things you’re looking for. Make a list of those things you’d like to take and make sure you have enough space. If you’re looking for an RV that’s spacious enough for the entire family, you’ll definitely want to check out the best toy haulers General RV has to offer.
Adventure begins with the Little Buggy from Modern Buggy RV. The Little Buggy RK is the perfect choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a light-weight, affordable and easy-to-use option for their overland adventure. With its compact size and low weight, it can be towed by a large number of vehicles, making it a versatile choice for any road trip. The RK features a fully-functional kitchen, solar power, a queen-size mattress and real birch wood cabinetry. It can comfortably accommodate up to four people with the addition of the rooftop tent option, making it an ideal choice for a small family or group of friends. The best part about this RV is its simplicity, which makes it easy to set up camp and maintain, allowing you to focus on enjoying your outdoor adventure.
The Forest River Salem 169RSK travel trailer is perfect for couples who want to explore the great outdoors together! A rear private bedroom with a queen bed slide allows for more interior space, and includes a dresser with wardrobes on either side. Plus, the split-style bathroom will come in handy when one person wants to freshen up in the shower while another uses the private toilet and sink. You can prepare your best home cooked meals with the two-burner cooktop, then enjoy it at the front U-shaped dinette which can also transform into a queen bed for extra sleeping space. Enjoy making breakfast each morning at the outdoor kitchen under a 15′ power awning which creates a little more outdoor living space.
Start out on your boundless journey in one a Winnebago Micro Minnie travel trailer! Towing is made simple with the 7′ width to keep your Micro Minnie in your rear-view mirror. Despite their compact sizes, the Mirco Minnie does not lack in features. Two twin beds up front convert into a king-size bed. The booth dinette slide also converts into extra sleeping space. The spacious galley includes a sink, refrigerator, two-burner cooktop and even a convection microwave oven. Each Micro Minnie also comes with flexible exterior storage to make packing quick and easy, a 200-watt solar panel for off-grid camping, and Dexter TORFLEX torsion stub axles for smooth towing!
Enjoy years and years of memories with any Forest River Wildwood travel trailers! Two slide outs provide you with more space to relax, as well as a front kitchen with ample counter space. The middle bedroom includes a king bed, a desk with TV prep above where you can work away from home if needed, and even a closet with washer and dryer prep. This RV also includes a spacious full rear bath with its own exterior entry door, a walk-in shower, a linen closet for clean towels and recessed storage for necessities. You will find a plethora of amenities and features throughout the 2024 Forest River Wildwood.
Choose luxury, value and towability over all others when you take home a Grand Design Reflection travel trailer! The chef of the group will love the gourmet kitchen including the 16 cu. ft. refrigerator, the center island when preparing and serving meals and the hutch with overhead cabinets to display and store dishes and such. This area also includes two slide outs for more floor space and furniture to relax including theatre seating with cupholders, a booth dinette and a rear tri-fold sofa that offers sleeping space for two. Get cleaned up in the full bathroom, and retire to your front bedroom with a slide out queen bed, a front full-wall wardrobe with washer/dryer prep, a dresser and an additional wardrobe with drawers.
When you choose a Residence destination trailer by Keystone RV, you can live like a local wherever you decide to roam. You will love the ample cabinet space to store your belongings, along with upgraded appliances, spacious baths and higher ceilings! Additional interior comforts include designer upholstered window valances, solid hardwood cabinetry, bedside reading lights, and a shower with surround and a glass door. Since there is a heated and enclosed underbelly, you can plan to camp year around, and the Dexter E-Z Lube axles will make towing easier than ever. You will also find a 12″ powder coated I-beam frame and a fully walkable crowned roof for durability, and you can choose between aluminum or laminated sidewalls.
With any Arcadia Select fifth wheel by Keystone, you will enjoy easy towability and at-home comforts at an affordable price. Lightweight for a fifth wheel, the 21SRK is designed to be pulled by a majority of half-ton trucks. This rear kitchen fifth wheel includes ample counter space to prep meals and feed your family. A tri-fold sleeper sofa slide provides added space and a TV right across the sofa makes for easy viewing. You can dine at the booth dinette or head outdoors to sit under the 17′ electric awning. The full bath lets you clean up each day, and you’ll feel right at home having your own private bedroom up front with a queen bed. You’ll get great camp-friendly features such as a tankless on-demand water heater, heated and enclosed underbelly and Road Armor suspension.
Move to a new level of luxury with Jayco’s Eagle fifth wheel. With any Eagle fifth wheel or travel trailer by Jayco, you will appreciate durable construction materials, like the Magnum Truss Roof and the Stronghold VBL laminated walls. More luxurious touches include a 24” GE stove, a dual 15K whisper quiet A/C, legless free standing dinette with pivoting and extension function for a desk, and the JayPort system with 22” griddle, deep sink and hot/cold water connections. The Eagle fifth wheels and travel trailers are designed to make you feel at home with solid hardwood slide fascia, residential vinyl flooring, bathroom tile backsplash and plenty of storage for all your belongings.
You won’t want to camp any other way once you step inside the Alliance Paradigm fifth wheel! The chef will enjoy all of the space in the rear kitchen with ample counter space, a 19 cu. ft. 12-volt residential refrigerator, and a pantry for snacks. The middle living area includes dual sleeper sofas and a dual recliner loveseat across from the 50″ Smart TV and fireplace. The half bathroom is nearby for quick bathroom breaks too. You will feel right at home in the primary suite with a king bed slide, a flip-top dresser with a Smart TV above, and a seat with storage, plus access to the front full bathroom. The Paradigm fifth wheels by Alliance RV are functional, high-quality, and luxurious for an unforgettable camping experience.
The Momentum MAV toy hauler travel trailers by Grand Design are designed to provide exactly what you need. The spacious garage provides tons of cargo space, with no wheel wells to get in the way. Motion sensor lights and USB outlets will make your life easier, and you will be comfortable in all seasons with the 35K BTU furnace plus 15K BTU ducted air conditioning. Relax on the rollover sofa with a table, and the top bed will be perfect for your guests to sleep on. The front queen Murphy bed includes drawers to store clothes, plus overhead storage for personal belongings. This model also includes a patio with a pull down screen to let fresh air in without letting the bugs in!
Introducing the Brinkley Model G, developed & tested by RVers to create a toy hauler without compromise. The first fifth wheel toy hauler from Brinkley is the culmination of decades of experience, countless hours of research and development, and feedback from customers and fellow RVers.
With one virtual prototype and three physical prototypes, the Model G has been put through its paces, traveling thousands of miles and undergoing dozens of tests. The result is a high-quality RV that is both luxurious and functional, and perfect for any adventure. The 2024 Brinkley Model G line is a true luxury fifth-wheel toy hauler. The G line is packed with intelligently designed features, an automotive exterior and a true residential interior that’s unmatched.
Dimmable Bedroom Lights
Exterior 12-Volt Drawer Fridge with 24 Can Capacity
135 PSI Air Compressor & 60 Gallon (30+30) Fuel Tanks w/ Pump Station + Ext. Cord
Pull-Out Linen Closet w/ Adjustable Shelves
Pull-Out Pantry w/ Adjustable Shelves & Drawers
Flip-Up Waterfall Island Countertop (Converts To Peninsula w/ Four-Person Eating Area)
Is a travel trailer, fifth wheel or toy hauler worth it?
If you already own a truck capable of towing a heavy load, a travel trailer, fifth wheel or toy hauler could be an affordable entry into RV ownership. Another advantage of towable RVs is that you only have one vehicle engine to maintain, compared to a Class A or Class C motorhome with a tow car.
Owning an RV can lead to significant savings compared to the costs of a typical vacation with flights, rental cars, accommodations and meals. However, RVs also come with long-term maintenance costs, storage fees and other expenses to consider.
Finally, choosing the right RV comes down to meeting all of your needs, including price points. General RV’s experts can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on your unique needs. Visit your local General RV dealer to explore our huge selection of travel trailers, fifth wheels and toy haulers for yourself. We have thousands of RVs in stock including all the best brands from top manufacturers. After you’ve found the perfect RV, we’ll provide a personalized orientation to get you on the road with confidence.
Two Encore Resorts in Southeast Florida invite travelers to enjoy state-of-the-art amenities in warm Sunshine State weather at a fantastic discount.
Brand-new Tranquility Lakes RV Resort offers Lakeside Camping in the fun-filled community of Cape Coral. Up the coast in Palmetto, Terra Ceia Village RV Resort has a grand opening of a major expansion scheduled for November 4. Terra Ceia puts guests within reach of some of Florida’s top attractions, including Walt Disney World, Sea World, and Busch Gardens.
Both resorts offer promotions to give guests up to 50% off camping costs (see bottom of article). This offer presents a rare opportunity to sample the snowbird lifestyle at a big discount in gorgeous locations.
Tranquility Lakes: Cape Coral Camping at Its Best
RV Camping on Tranquility Lakes.
The city of Cape Coral enjoys a reputation as one of Florida’s top vacation playgrounds, with lots of golf courses, sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico, and family-friendly attractions. RV travelers can enjoy it all by booking a stay at brand-new Tranquility Lakes — limited amenities available. Nestled along the shores of a 90-acre lake, Tranquility Lakes boasts RV sites with concrete pads and 50-amp, full-hookup pedestals. Each site has cable TV and picnic tables, the perfect setting for outdoor dinners during sunsets.
The resort amenities are expected to open in December, providing guests with access to a spectacular 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, a state-of-the-art fitness center overlooking the lake, and a covered outdoor space for dining or relaxing. Additionally, the resort will feature multiple pools and a spa for guests to cool off and just relax. Competitive guests can hit the dedicated bocce ball area or compete in one of the 10 pickleball courts, catering to enthusiasts of one of the fastest-growing sports in North America.
Pickleball courts and pools at Tranquility Lakes.
Cool Cape Coral
Beyond the park, Cape Coral has several attractions to keep visitors busy. Golf rules here, with 88 courses within a 15-mile radius of Cape Coral. Forty-one of these courses count as public, and most have 18 holes.
For family fun, the Sunsplash Family Waterpark packs several adrenaline-pumping slides. Slides like Terror Tube, Thunder Bump, and X-Cellerator dish out lots of thrills, while the Main Stream River Tube Ride carries visitors on a leisurely float around the park.
Blue heron on the shore of Fort Myers Beach. Getty Images
Just 18 miles to the south, the town of Fort Myers thrills visitors with white-sand beaches, excellent dining, and boating and fishing trips on the Gulf of Mexico.
Terra Ceia: In the Heart of It All
Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast between Tampa and Sarasota, Terra Ceia Village RV Resort sits close to some of Florida’s top attractions. The park has also made a significant expansion in sites and amenities, giving guests more reasons to stay.
Terra Ceia’s new pickleball courts.
The park recently added 190 new sites with picnic tables and plenty of room for slideouts. A new swim area with a pool, deck, and pavilion gives guests a chance to cool off. The new clubhouse has restrooms and a gathering space, making it great for camping with groups and clubs. Keep moving at the new fitness center or on one of the four new pickleball courts. Terra Ceia also added new restrooms and a bathhouse.
Terra Ceia’s upgraded pool area.
Other activities in the park include arts and crafts, exercise classes, and card playing. Get competitive with ladder ball and other outdoor games, and give your pet a chance to exercise at the dog park and dog walk.
Nearby Fun
Terra Ceia’s location puts guests close to top destinations. A day trip northeast along Interstate 75 and Interstate 4 takes visitors to Walt Disney World and Epcot Center, two of the world’s most popular theme parks. Nearby, SeaWorld Orlando gives visitors a glimpse of ocean life.
Dolphins perform at SeaWorld Orland. Getty Images
Less than 50 miles north along Interstate 75, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay combines thrilling rides and immersive animal tours for a unique theme park experience. Also in Tampa, the Florida Aquarium, Ybor City, and charter boat trips keep the adventure going.
Guests who prefer shorter day trips will find plenty of attractions closer to home. Just south of Palmetto across the Manatee River, the Bishop Museum of Science and Nature in Bradenton features The Planetarium, the Parker Manatee Rehabilitation Habitat, and more science-related exhibits that thrill and entertain. Also in Bradenton, the Manatee Performing Arts Center hosts top theatrical and musical acts.
Promo Code Tranquility50. Take 50% off and be one of the first to stay on Tranquility Lakes’ brand-new sites. While details get fine-tuned, visitors can relish the anticipation of being among the very first to experience the resort’s hospitality.
The 50% offer valid on all RV sites at Encore Tranquility Lakes. Offer valid on new reservations only. Reservation of 2 nights minimum and 6 nights maximum required. Book by November 15, 2023. Stay must be completed by November 30, 2023. Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates do not include taxes and fees. Amenities vary by resort. Employees of MHC Property Management, L.P. and its affiliates are excluded from this promotion. Not available during holidays or special events. Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotions. Please contact the property manager for details.
Specials: Terra Ceia
Promo Code Season25: Nightly stays: 25%, offer valid on all RV sites, tent sites, and rental accommodations at all participating Florida RV Resorts. Offer valid on new reservations only. Reservation of 2 nights minimum and 6 nights maximum required. Book by November 15, 2023. Stay must be completed by December 15, 2023. This promotion excludes the following: Okeechobee KOA and Pine Island KOA.
Promo Code: Week50. Weekly stays: 50%, offer valid on all RV sites, tent sites, and rental accommodations at all participating Florida RV Resorts. Offer valid on new reservations only. Reservation of 7 nights minimum and 21 nights maximum is required. Book by November 15, 2023. Stay must be completed by December 15, 2023. The following don’t qualify for this promotion: Okeechobee KOA and Pine Island KOA.
Joan and I enjoy wandering around North Georgia. This area has been one of our favorite RV destinations for the last 10 years. And this year continues to amaze us as we return to some past destinations and as well as discovering new places never visited.
Crane Creek Vineyards
In this video below, we start at Crane Creek Vineyards located in Young Harris, GA. We missed this vineyard last year and on this trip went to the Farm House tasting room located at the base of the vineyard. This was a first usually going to the top of the vineyard to the newer Stone House. The Farm House was built in 1901 and still retrains much of the old charm. Located at the bottom section of the vineyard, covered sitting areas have been added along with seating along the edge near the vines.
We visited on this crisp Fall day enjoying this years wine vintages along with excellent Barbecue from the food truck. Crane Creek Vineyards is pet friendly and Joan and I were entertained by a number of the fur babies who visited. This was a great start this years wandering around North Georgia.
Blue Ridge Honey Company – North Georgia
Located a few miles south of Clayton, GA on US 441, is Blue Ridge Honey Company. This is one of those places we pass often when I suggest to Joan that we need to check out. Embarrassed to say how many times we have said that over the years of our North Georgia travels. Finally, we stopped and were not disappointed.
Blue Ridge Honey Co. is a family business with bee yards located in Northeast Georgia, Western North Carolina and South Georgia. Something that impressed us was the quality of the honey. Their honey is pure, natural and raw. They do not pasteurize or micro filter the honey. And the results were proof. We sampled each variety from the often found clover and wildflower to more unique types of blueberry, black sage, and more. You may be asking what was our favorite? All of them!!!
Aside from tasting the honey, we were able to see the production area, a live hive (safely behind glass) and many other products made from beeswax and honey.
Jumpin Goat Coffee Roasters
A few minutes from the campground is Jumpin Goat Coffee Roasters located at 2404 Helen Highway in Cleveland GA. Pulling off the highway and continuing up the hillside driveway, we were greeted with one of the most stunning views in Cleveland. The cafe and roaster is located on a ridge overlooking gentle rolling hills with an amazing presentation of Mt Yonah in the background.
Walking to the cafe, I was greeted with the wonderful aroma of fresh roasted beans and seeing the smoke rolling along the side of the building, Inside the cafe, the friendly staff welcomed me and I couldn’t wait to have a fresh brewed coffee. I treated myself to a delicious Americana and returned outside to enjoy the views.
Before I returned to the campground, I couldn’t leave without purchasing a number of their excellent coffees and gazing at the incredible views one more time.
We’ll be in this area for a while and looking forward to sharing this years adventures as we continue our wandering around North Georgia.
Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
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One of the primary motivations for backpacking is the desire for adventure and exploration. Backpackers are often drawn to the thrill of the unknown, seeking to discover new places, cultures, and experiences. They also enjoy the sense of freedom that comes with venturing off the beaten path while also embracing budget-friendly travel that allows them to extend their travels.
Despite their incessant hunger for adventure, the reality is that travel often involves a lot of downtime even for backpackers, especially when transiting between places. It’s during these periods where you have a choice of catching up on sleep, doing a bit of people watching, or simply allowing yourself to be bored.
Alternatively, you can embrace your hobbies or find new ones thanks to technology and the ability to head online from nearly anywhere at any time. If you’re a backpacker looking for ways to fill your downtime during your next travel adventure, here’s a guide to hobbies and activities you can take up online.
A Backpacker’s Guide to Enjoying Downtime: Online Hobbies Unveiled
Digital Creativity Unleashed
Backpackers often have a creative spark, eager to blaze trails across digital platforms as they do in the real world while traveling. Being digitally creative while traveling can be a fulfilling way to document and share your journeys, stay connected with others which is often important to backpackers who usually embrace the social aspect backpacking brings, and even develop new artistic skills.
Blogging and photography are classic outlets, but many other avenues are also available. Digital drawing and graphic designing on platforms like Adobe Spark or Canva allow you to document your travels in unique and personalized ways. Moreover, creating music or podcasts using apps like GarageBand or Anchor can be both fun and a learning curve, offering a fresh way to share your experiences with the world.
There’s also the realm of digital storytelling through platforms like Medium or micro-blogging sites like Tumblr, where your travel anecdotes can find a home. Additionally, video editing apps like InShot or Kinemaster allow you to create captivating travel vlogs, making your digital footprint vibrant and engaging.
Use platforms like Instagram Live, Facebook Live, or YouTube Live to interact with your followers in real-time. Share live travel experiences, answer questions, or conduct virtual tours.
Some other ways to be digitally creative include experimenting with VR or 360-degree photography and videography to create immersive content that allows viewers to experience your travels in a unique way. You can also collaborate with local artists, musicians, or other creative individuals to create joint projects or events that showcase local culture and talent.
If your travels allow for it, you can engage in remote work or freelance projects. Many digital nomads regularly combine work and travel to fund their travels. If you have expertise in a particular area, consider offering online courses or workshops related to your travel experiences. This could include language classes, cooking classes, or cultural workshops.
Virtual Communities: A Touch of Home
Being on the road can sometimes feel lonely, but online communities allow backpackers to always have support from online communities right at their fingertips. Platforms like Meetup or TravellersPoint connect you with fellow travelers or locals, organizing group activities that can be joined virtually or in person.
Meanwhile, joining forums or social media groups related to your interests such as hiking, cooking, music, or language exchange helps create a sense of belonging and offers a space to share and gather insights.
These virtual gatherings can turn into real-world meetups, especially between like-minded backpackers, forging lasting friendships beyond your journey. Additionally, engaging in online workshops or webinars can be a way to learn new skills or gain knowledge about a destination, helping to enrich your travel experiences.
Online Gaming: A Modern Twist to Traditional Pastime
Games have always been a classic way to fill downtime while traveling, but the digital realm has taken this enjoyment to a new level. The charm of traditional card games remains timeless, but thanks to tech you no longer need to carry a physical deck of cards to play. Online platforms have recreated countless card and board games in digital formats, ensuring you can enjoy a round of Poker or Monopoly no matter where you are.
The ability to play poker or slots online has become a cherished activity among travelers. It’s not even so much about the games or gambling aspect, rather it’s the friendly competition and the laughter shared between friends or strangers who may live in different countries. Platforms offering “home games” have enabled private poker rooms that can be set up with friends or fellow travelers who’ve recently let’s say met in a hostel or pub while backpacking.
The process is straightforward and simply involves logging in or creating an account, setting up games like poker to your preferences with a quick and easy process, and then sharing the game link with others to enjoy a bit of digital social interaction. It’s a modern take on a classic game, bringing people together even when the road takes them far apart.
The world of online gaming extends beyond cards to encompass a variety of genres like strategy, adventure, and trivia, which can be equally engaging. Platforms like Steam or Epic Games offer many different games that can be enjoyed solo or with travel companions, providing a fun way to unwind and enjoy some downtime after a full day of physically exploring a destination.
Mindfulness Apps: Inner Peace on the Go
Practicing mindfulness and meditation techniques to help you stay centered and reduce stress while on the road is important. Amidst the hustle of travel, finding moments of tranquility is essential when you as a backpacker often only have yourself to rely on, and mindfulness apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided meditation and relaxation techniques that help you unwind.
You can also utilize online yoga classes or fitness apps ensure you maintain a healthy routine, nurturing your body and mind while on the go. The seamless blend of technology with mindfulness practices has made it easier than ever for backpackers to carry a pocket-sized peace sanctuary wherever they roam.
Using wellness blogs or engaging with online health communities can also serve as a reservoir of support and information, aiding in maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle amidst nomadic adventures.
Learn a New Language
Use language learning apps and online resources to pick up essential phrases in the languages of the countries you plan to visit. Learning a new language digitally while traveling is a convenient and effective way to enhance your travel experience and better connect with locals.
There are numerous language learning apps available that can be used on the go such as Duolingo, Memrise, Lengo, or Babbel. Consistency is key to progress when it comes to learning a new language so consider using any travel downtime such as waiting for flights or during long bus/train rides for language practice.
As you become more comfortable with the basics, expand your vocabulary to cover topics relevant to your travels, such as ordering food, asking for directions, or discussing your interests. Some language learning apps even have community features where you can connect with native speakers and others eager to learn to get additional practice and their feedback.
In an increasingly digital world, some backpackers use their travel as a way to disconnect from technology and the demands of a digitally connected life. They appreciate the opportunity to be fully present in the moment and away from constant screens and notifications.
That being said, technology can be a great tool for backpackers when it comes to keeping yourself entertained during downtimes and for staying socially connected to others which is important when traveling solo. Just remember to find that balance between online activities and in-person experiences for a well-rounded backpacking trip.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
Greetings. Jeff Johnston here for “RVing Today TV.” We’re at beautiful Redmond, Oregon, jewel of the Oregon High Desert, at the Overland Expo Pacific Northwest. The Overland Expo is an event that celebrates all things relating to overlanding and overland travel and adventure, equipment, people, education, accessories, all the things that relate to overlanding, and there’s a lot of components here and material that also relates to RVing. We’re going to show you some of that. It’s pretty exciting. Eva Rupert: Yes, so overlanding is self-sufficient vehicle travel. So, overlanders themselves are doing all sorts of amazing adventures in the United States and internationally, as well. People have their vehicles that they live out of for extended periods of time, cross borders, head deep into the back country, and have all sorts of amazing adventures. That’s the spirit of overlanding.
The Expo drew somewhere in excess of 15,000 participants, including vendors, attendees, and staff. Many attendees camp onsite. Hanging out with old friends and making new ones is part of the fun at the Expo.
The Expo is a good chance to speak directly with the manufacturer representatives of some of your favorite
Educational seminars such as this series hosted by Gary and Monila Wescott of the turtle expedition are always popular and useful activities at the Expo.
The larger Overlander rigs tend to be loaded with electronic devices and the wiring to support them. Extended self-contained travel time is the standard for these big fellas. Because Overlanders are usually self-contained and smaller vehicles, their equipment must, of necessity, be compact, durable, and highly functional if it’s going to win a spot in their limited available storage space. These factors make certain overlanding gear potentially attractive to RV owners, as well. Let’s take a look at a few items that may also apply to RV use.
We’re here at the Tailgater tire table booth. Tailgater, of course, is one of our favorite accessories we’ve come across in a long time, and Ward is going to show us something new here at the show.
Ward Graham: So, recently, I’ve created a larger table. It’s four inches longer and four inches wider than the original. It doesn’t seem like a lot, but when you put a barbecue or something on it, it’s a lot more room and space. It’ll also fit a larger tire more comfortably. We have it done in aluminum also.
We’re wandering through the show and looking through some really cool items, and your carrier rack here really caught our eye. So, what do we have here? Kansas Sartin: Yeah, thanks. This is the Pakmule hitch rack. It’s 100% aluminum, including the tongue, so it’s lightweight. This unit only weighs 40 pounds. It’s never gonna rust. There’s no paint to chip off. It’s not gonna corrode. But it’s also large in size. In fact, this is our smaller unit. This one’s 10 1/2 square feet. We have two units that are 12 square feet, so about half the size of a short-bed pickup truck andnso the idea was how do we take up the real estate of modern-day vehicles and really allow you to utilize additional cargo space? It’s all welded. We build them in Texas out of 70% recyclable aluminum content, and then they lock in your hitch, so they’re not wobbling when you’re going down the highway. The design is easy to load, easy to go.
Lou Schaber: So, this is our body wipe. It’s 12 by 12. It is biodegradable material, natural ingredients, nd this is your shower in a pouch. So, you can completely clean yourself off at the end of the day. Again, if you’re boondocking, you’ve been hiking, you’re dirty and gritty, it’s great if it’s nice and hot out. It’s kind of cool and refreshing, and it gets you clean on the go.
Jerry Lecuyer: All right, what we’re looking at here is a scuttle grill kit. It’s essentially a horodisk. We’ve attached a propane burner to. It has adjustable legs. It has a 10,000 BTU burner and various accessories. And you can cook anything you can think of, and there’s virtually no cleanup. You don’t have to clean up pots and pans. You treat it like cast iron. When you’re done, you wipe it out, oil it, put it away.
Jeff: Regular viewers of our show may well remember the review we did on the Omnia stovetop oven. It’s a really cool device for cooking on top of something like a Coleman stove. And we’re here at the booth. to learn a little bit about. some of the new products that are available for the Omnias. Dan Sunderland: Yes, Omnia’s got a few new things. So, this is a thermometer. This is going to help you keep track of really how long you’re baking. When that oven comes off, it is really hot, so we’ve got a nice trivet that you can slide the oven onto. Now we can move it around, give everyone a sample of what we’ve been cooking.
I store all my silicon and all my accessories in a case like this, and just throw it in my truck, and we’re set to go.
Marcus Niemela: I’m here today, gonna give a brief preview of the Camino 88 camper, truck camper. It is a filon-sided, laminated to an asfel substrate. It’s 2 x 2 and 2 x 4 construction with a 2-inch closed cell spray foam insulation. All of our roof system is stainless steel. We have a stainless steel trim, stainless steel roof system, thermal pane windows. This particular camper has 60 gallons of water. And also what you see here is a new feature that we call the fish and ski box, which you can put a set of 195 centimeter downhill skis, poles. The other side, you can put fishing poles in, and it just, it’s on a drawer system. You secure it. by locking each end. Then you’re going to see a stainless steel shower with a dry bath system. The toilet slides in and out of the shower stall. Privacy door, sink, mirror, vanity. To the floor of the camper, we have a residential queen size bed. Above, you have an optional skylight. You have a entertainment package, communication package, pullout trash cans. There are just a plethora of options and accessories that we manufacture.
Troy Trimmer: Here today. we’re introducing the Aquaglide Deschutes 110 inflatable kayak. This is a great solution for the RVer, when premium quality of paddling products are important to you, but also space and portability and durability is really the factor. So, we use a PVC material on this. It’s proven with river rafting, you know, and other durable materials in the paddle sports market for many years. This is a single version. So, the Deschutes 110 is 11 feet long, designed for the single paddler. It comes with a skag on the back. and an extruded component on the bow here for great tracking. It doesn’t have an inflatable floor in it, which helps the paddler sit lower to the ground for more stability and just a nicer feel on the water. And so one of the nice aspects of the Deschutes 110 also is the size that it packs down into for storage and transport. Right, so, it fits into this bag here with extra room to spare for the pump. And also, it’s good to have a four-piece paddle that we make to also fit in here. You have room for a PFD launch and extra safety equipment, as well.
Jeff: Our four-legged friends are not forgotten at the Expo. Most RVer’s–well, many RVers have pets they take with them–dogs, cats, whatever. and we came by the Stunt Puppy booth here and happened to catch sight of something that looks really interesting. So, what is this that you’ve got there? Angela Hook: Yeah, so this is the Scout leash. It’s all about being prepared for anything, which is a good thing when you’re RVing. Basically, it gives your dog five feet of room to explore. It has a small amount of stretch, which we call the squirrel function. But if you’re in a high pressure environment, or maybe you’re somewhere that’s a bit more densely populated, you can shorten the leash to a static 2-foot leash, so your dog is right by your side. Has an onboard staff set, because I know that RVers are very responsible. Jeff: So, dogs can carry their own treats and their own plastic bags. Angela: Exactly, poop bags, treats. There’s a key clip for your car key. You can even keep a credit card in there, as well. So, you’ve got all of that on you. The other nice thing about Scout is when your dog is off playing, you can wear the leash yourself. And we use a swiveling, locking carabiner, so very light, very strong. So, you’ve got your hands free.
Jeff: With more campgrounds prohibiting open fires, self-contained alternatives are growing in popularity. Peter Pontano: All right, this is the Ignik fire can. It’s a portable propane fire pit. It’s designed around an ammo can design, which is super durable and super portable to make campfire easy and safe and compact. So, you can pop this in your car easily. You pull out the legs to raise it up off of the ground. So, this is great for burn ban situations, where you can’t have a traditional campfire. There’s no sparks. There’s no smoke. It plugs in with the included quick release connector, works with a propane tank here, has an adjustable control for different levels of heat, and puts out 38,000 BTUs of heat, great for gathering around a campfire, places where you can’t have a traditional wood fire, and easy to pack up. Just–turn it off, put the hose inside, put the lid on, clamp it down, fold the legs in, and you’re ready to go.
Jeff: Overlanders are good people who use their hobby to help others enjoy the outdoors. Bobby Raetz: Team Overland is a nonprofit organization. We are based out of southern Oregon. Down in Medford is where we’re all from. We have been established since 2015. I came on in 2016 as the VP. And what we do is we take veterans, their families and friends, and we just go up in the woods. We use the campfire to facilitate our camping trips. All of our vehicles are off-road vehicles. It doesn’t matter if you have a vehicle, off road vehicle or not. We’ll take you out there with us. We have done well over 160 trips in the past 7 years. It’s pretty amazing we’ve been around that long. We try to bring veterans back into the world by using camping and off-roading. Once we come back from war, from the military, it’s hard to establish ourselves into the civilian world, so this is our way to give back and to help others get back into the civilian world. And without the help of our fellow civilians, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do.
You can hardly have a big event without a happy hour each day, and the Expo attendees enjoyed the hospitality and the chance to socialize in a fun environment, courtesy of Tin Burrow Brewing Company. ♪♪♪ Jeff: For a look at some interesting and functional accessories you may not find at your local RV supply shop, check out an Overland Expo near you.
Jeff Johnston here for “RVing Today TV.” Like a lot of RVers with smaller vehicles, Pam and I are well adapted to camping and travel in our somewhat compact Palomino fold-down camper, and the size of the camper and the limited storage space inside means everything that goes in it and goes with us has to be fairly efficient and functional. MORE
Welcome to “Rollin’ On TV’s” “Paws on Board.” I’m Dr. Fitz, and this is Champ. If you have a special dog that you’ve traveled with for years, it may be time to take some extra precautions on your trip. Older dogs can have a more difficult time traveling, but when done right, they can have just as much fun as they used to. MORE
Hi, I’m Mark Polk with RV Education 101. When temperatures drop, we winterize our RV so we won’t have problems next spring but winterizing your RV is only part of preparing your RV for winter storage. Lots of folks don’t think about it but proper RV storage procedures are just as important as winterizing the RV’s plumbing system. MORE
I’m standing in the water in a posh Greece beach club; the water is sparkling, the chocolate brownies they’re serving are divine (like actually divine), and while I’m a big fan of being in the present moment, I kind of want to tell everyone about it.
Right now.
While I’m in the water.
So I pull out my phone, and spam out the photos (apparently my iphone is waterproof though I don’t feel I need to test this properly).
In this moment I didn’t need to be connected; I didn’t need to brag that I was in Greece to everyone back home (but how fun right!).
But there are plenty of moments while traveling where you do NEED data. Our phones having internet is everything, from bookings, to payments, maps, identification, crucial information, safety, and yes, calls and texts.
Local sim cards will always be a good option, but smart travelers are now using eSIMs. And after 6 weeks traveling through multiple countries in Europe on one eSIM with unlimited data; so should you!
When I landed in London I activated a 30 day Holafly sim card for Europe. It seamlessly kept me connected as I moved through England, France, Spain, and Greece. Here are my Holafly reviews and here’s the link to get a 5% discount.
Smart Travelers are Using eSIMs for Phone Data – Are You? Honest Holafly Review
Researching Holafly eSIM
My fellow travelers in Greece have cocktails in hand; I have my Holafly eSIM on my phone ????
An eSIM is a SIM card that is permanently embedded in your phone, so you can use it without having to swap and change a physical SIM. It’s an electronic chip which lets you switch carriers and plans digitally, without having to remove the back of your phone.
You scan a QR code, change a few settings, and you’re online in another country and ready to go!
The first part of your research should be making sure that your phone is compatible with eSIMs, as only newer phones do. Here is a list of eSIM Supported Phones.
When you’re researching eSIM companies, Holafly is a Spanish company who have been around the longest, and offer unlimited data plans, typically starting at $19 for 5 days.
And while eSIMs across the board are larely for data only, Holafly have just launched a calling feature on their Europe Unlimited Data Plan, which means you can use the eSIM to call within Europethrough an Austrian number.
Instead of prying open the back of your phone like you would with a local SIM card, the installation for my iPhone was through a QR code, and instant.
I landed in the UK, switched my phone off flight mode, and had data from the moment I landed at Heathrow.
And as this was my first time using an eSIM, and I wanted to provide a truly honest review, so I headed out of departures with an older phone, and bought a local SIM card so I could compare the two services for you!
Purchasing and Activating Holafly eSIM
For something that sounds technologically advanced and overwhelming, setting up my Holafly eSIM is surprisingly simple. It takes total 5 minutes, and I did it before I left for my tripso the process was done at home.
Pro tip:Once you activate your eSIM, the number of days remaining on your plan start, so I recommend installing it a few hours before you leave for your trip, and activating it once you get to your destination so you get the most value.
Purchase your eSIM on the Holafly website, and they send you an email with everything you need to know for the setup. You need internet to install it, and you won’t have any when you land (airport WiFi can be unreliable), so do this at home.
Here is the link to the eSIM for Europe I bought (30 days, unlimited data through 30 European countries).
Holafly have step by step instructional videos on their website, but here’s the simple install process (for me on my iphone):
Go to settings
Tap cellular
Tap on ‘add eSIM’ and then ‘use QR code’
From here you can install the esim manually, though I chose to activate using the QR code. I scanned the QR code from my email, and it was done! There is a new feature on iOS 17, where you can install your Esim by saving the QR code in your Photos and loading it when you’re adding the Esim.
You can keep your primary number for using Whatsapp and recieving text messages and Facetime etc, while simultaneously using Holafly for your celluar data option.
Pro tip:You need to disable the ‘allow mobile data switching’ option to prevent extra roaming charges on your bill. And you need to have your data roaming on for the eSIM to work. Holafly lock you on the local operator you are supposed to use so there is no risk of unwanted roaming charges.
When you arrive in your destination you activate the eSIM by going into settings > cellular > activating the Holafly line and your data roaming. Back in ‘cellular’, Holafly should be selected as the default for celluar data. If you’re also using their calls feature, Holafly should also be set as your default line here too.
Seamless Connectivity Throughout Europe
I activated my eSIM on landing in London, and didn’t touch anything else on my phone through France, Greece, and Spain, for 30 days.
For 30 days I stayed connected, wasn’t booted off, didn’t run out of data, no roaming charges, and kept my physical SIM card which let me keep Whatsapp and recieving home texts to my phone.
I found the coverage to be incredibly reliable, and was directly comparing it with a local sim in each country on my older phone; both provided similar data, strengths and speed, and Holafly used the networks which were the strongest.
Local SIM cards will always be the strongest choice for data in principle, though I didn’t notice any difference using Holafly, and was happy with the reliability and speed of the connection.
For picking up local SIM cards, I spent an hour in line at Heathrow Airport at the 3Store in arrivals. And in Athens I arrived at 11.30 pm after the airport shops were closed, so spent probably an hour walking into the city to find a local phone store the next day.
Local SIM cards are cheap, but they’re not convenient. And they are certainly not seamless. Using Holafly Europe, it took me a total of 5 minutes, and worked seamlessly across countrieswithout doing anything but clicking a few buttons.
Sharing Experiences and Staying Connected
However you use your phone on your travels, I guarentee that it relies on an internet connection. Some reasons for staying connected are essential, like safety, payments, and work. Others may be non essential, but enhance your travel experience.
Like being able to FaceTime your bestie while at a Mykonos Beach Club, or put up Instagram stories right then in the moment (let’s be honest – if you wait until you get home you probably won’t do it).
Payments
Holafly kept me online the whole time in Europe, so I was able to tap and go on my Apple Wallet using the Revolut VISA card on my phone.
I paid for everything using Revolut, from shopping in Greece and Spain, to cash out, and an incredibly expensive strawberry tart at the airport gate (so worth it though!)
Work
While you won’t be able to hotspot your eSIM data to your laptop, being constantly connected meant I was able to work from my phone.
However the Holafly North America Esim does include an unlimited data hotspot which is a fantastic feature I’ll use when I’m next there.
I answered emails while on the train in Spain, moderated our Facebook Group from the White Cliffs of Dover, and created articles from a ship cabin in the Greek Cyclades Islands.
Navigation
Real time directions are a game changer, and I used my unlimited data for Google maps, which helped me drive throughout the UK, and actually lead my group of Solo Female Travelers through a labyrinth of Greek streets.
It’s one thing to take a wrong turn when you’re on you’re own, no stress.
But it’s completely another when you’re actually being followed by a group of people who are relying on your with confidence that you know the way.
I was in Greece to host our Solo Female Travelers Greek Islands Cruise, and our itinerary stops at stunning lesser known gems, though the streets of each city are a maze!
As the trip host, when half of the group loses the other half on the way back to the ship, all I can say is THANKYOU Holafly for keeping me connected in even the most remote Greek Islands, so I could pull out Google Maps and confidently say ‘it’s this way!’
Messaging Apps
It’s well known that I am an advocate for women traveling on their own, and that I actively speak out against the guilt society place on women for taking time away from their family, specifically their children. You can read this post. And this post.
For me to go to Greece, I left my 2 year old with my parents. He flew with me to Europe, and I put him on the Eurostar with Poppy & Grandma to tear it up in Paris.
While updating social media or messaging friends may not be critical to survival when you’re abroad, it’s still important for mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Being online meant I could Facetime and message to check in on my son, even though I knew he was in incredibly good hands, and having the time of his life in France.
This also means being able to call home if you’re away on birthdays or special occasions, keep your family updated if they’re concerned about your safety (there were recent earthquakes in Morocco and Tuscany for example), and chat with friends if you ever feel homesick.
The emotional support by social ties is massively important for psychological well-being, and messaging apps allow you to maintain those connections even when you’re not in the country.
Overall Satisfaction and Recommendation
I’m extremely happy that I chose a Holafly eSIM, and have bookmarked their site to buy a plan againon my next trip.
And they are the most trusted eSIM company if you jump to their Trustpilot reviews, so it’s great to know that my experience is shared by thousands of other users. When I researched eSIM options, other companies had very different perceptions and reviews compared to Holafly.
Local SIM cards will always be cheaper than any eSIM on the market, but having directly compared the two options on this 6 week Europe trip, I literally saved hours using a Holafly eSIM, for the convenience of a 5 minute installation which worked seamlessly as I moved throughout Europe.
Their strength, speed, and reliability of data directly compared to the service I got from the local SIMs I picked up in each country (Three in UK / Cosmote in Greece / Orange in Spain), and there was no difference in actual service.
Local SIM cards have previously been the only option for having a local number, but now Holafly offers this on their European sim cards (for regions outside of Europe you’ll still need a local SIM for calls).
And on an unlimited plan, I never ran out of data,despite heavy use of apps like Google maps, video calling apps, email, social media use, and constant payments through Apple Wallet.
Smart travelers are using eSIMs now when they travel, and with unlimited plans, and calling options in Europe, Holafly is the smartest choice on the market.
Use this link and discount code for a 5% discount on Holafly: MappingMEGAN – the Holafly discount will work regardless of whether you’re buying for Europe or another region of the world.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
Ah, the golden age of travel—when flying by jet was a glamorous affair, complete with martinis and elegant airport lounges. Before Instagram influencers and travel bloggers, the industry had something even more captivating: vintage travel posters.
Featuring exotic destinations and stylish travelers, these works of art captured the zeitgeist. So, buckle your seatbelts (and tighten your cummerbunds) as we journey back in time to explore the fascinating lost art of poster prints.
A Lost Art: We Take a Nostalgic Look at Vintage Poster Prints
The Golden Age of Travel Posters
Source: Unsplash, McGill Library
The early to mid 20th century was the heyday of travel posters. These posters were the cutting-edge advertising of their day, enticing people to explore destinations from the Swiss Alps to the beaches of Hawaii.
The posters were often commissioned by railway companies, ocean liners, and later airlines, to glamorize the idea of travel.
The Artistic Elements
If you’ve ever seen a vintage travel poster, you’ll have noticed they’re no ordinary ads. The Art Deco flair, the Mid-Century Modern precision—they’re like the Audrey Hepburn of advertising: timeless and elegant.
Bold colors, sweeping landscapes, and typography to make you swoon. These posters were designed to produce more than just wanderlust in the viewer; they were meant to stir the soul like a perfectly mixed martini.
The Role of Nostalgia
Source: Unsplash, McGill Library
What makes these vintage posters so captivating? It’s more than just the artistry; it’s the nostalgia they evoke.
These posters serve as a time machine, whisking us back to an era when traveling was an event in itself. They remind us of a time when every journey had the allure of an adventure, capturing the essence of a hopeful age.
Contrast that with travel today—sure, it’s more accessible and affordable than ever, but the glamor has been replaced by long security lines and cramped economy seats.
The stylish voyages of yesteryear have given way to a more prosaic (albeit more democratic) travel experience. And while it’s true that we love budget fares, vintage poster prints take us back to an opulent era when travel seemed to justify splashing the cash.
From Ocean Liners to Airlines
Source: Unsplash, McGill Library
Travel posters have always evolved along with the modes of travel they advertised.
Initially, they were commissioned by railway and ocean liner companies, depicting scenic train routes (the famous Orient Express, for example) and leisurely cruises.
As aviation took off—pun intended—the focus shifted to airlines. Let’s be honest, “Fly TWA” has a certain allure to it that “Ride Amtrak” just can’t match.
The Cultural Impact
These posters were more than just attractive designs; they were cultural artifacts.They reflected the societal attitudes of their time, for better or worse.
For instance, posters from the 1930s might showcase the “exotic Orient”, using concepts and imagery that would raise more than a few eyebrows today.
These designs are like time capsules, offering a snapshot of how the world’s leading economies viewed themselves and the rest of the world.
Collecting Vintage Travel Posters
Source: Unsplash, Library of Congress
Those of you itching to turn your living room into a shrine to vintage travel posters, bear in mind that the originals can be expensive, especially if they’re in good condition.
But don’t fret if you’re not ready to splurge on vintage items; the beauty of our digital age is that mass-produced copies of these famous prints are readily available too.
These replicas offer an accessible and affordable way to bring a touch of old-school glamour into your home, without breaking the bank.
You can find these replicas in online marketplaces, specialized art stores, and even some large retail chains that offer home decor. Whether you opt for an original or a high-quality copy, you can easily capture the nostalgic essence of travel’s golden age.
The Modern Take: DIY Vintage-Inspired Poster Prints
Source: Unsplash, Timo Stern
Much of today’s travel advertising – the contemporary equivalent of classic travel posters – appears on social media rather than in public spaces.
And while modern advertising may lack vintage charm, it makes up for it with high-resolution imagery and engagement options. These days you can even turn your own travel photos into retro-styled poster prints. Here’s how.
All you need is a flair for design, a high-res photo, access to an online photo editing tool like Canva, BeFunky, or Pxlr, and a dash of creativity.
Start by selecting a photo that encapsulates your travel experience. It should have a strong focal point and vibrant colors that catch the eye. Once you’ve chosen your photo, open it in a free online editing tool. Canva offers pre-made templates for posters, while Pixlr allows for more detailed editing.
To give your photo that vintage feel, you can apply filters that mimic the look of old film or add a sepia tone.But remember, moderation is key: overdoing the filters can make the image look artificially aged.
Incorporating wording into your design will give it that authentic poster feel. Choose fonts that complete the aesthetic: ‘Bebas Neue’ offers a modern twist, while ‘Playbill’ provides a more traditional look. Keep the wording concise to grab the viewer’s attention.
Before finalizing your design, take a step back and review it. Make sure the elements are balanced and the text is legible. Once you’re satisfied, save the design in a high-resolution format suitable for printing.
You can either print it yourself or use an online printing service to turn it into a poster. We recommend going with CANVASDISCOUNT.com – a reliable provider that can print your photo on a range of formals, including classical poster prints or retro canvas wall hangings.
Are You Ready for Your Next Creative Adventure?
Source: Unsplash, Jonatan Hernandez
The allure of vintage travel posters is more than just aesthetic; it’s a window into a world long past but not forgotten. Vintage posters remind us of a time when travel was an aspirational experience in itself.
So the next time you’re scrolling through your travel photos, consider turning one into a poster print. Who knows, it might just become a vintage masterpiece for future generations to admire!
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
Recently, I performed a minor repair to our Dometic 310 RV toilet in our 2011 Keystone Cougar fifth-wheel trailer. First, I replace the flush valve that has been letting too much water into the bowl after a flush. This is annoying when we are off-grid camping and trying to conserve water and tank capacity.
While at it, I decided to replace the ball seal that keeps water in the toilet bowl. It is the original and 13 years old now. Likey, its days are numbered. Both tasks involved inexpensive parts and were relatively straightforward to perform with little tools involved.
We have been testing e-bikes that fit our RV lifestyle for the past 12 months. Some of these have been expensive e-bikes that have been feature rich. We’ve had many comments on our YouTube channel as well as contacts from our lovervlife.com website stating they wanted an e-bike, but needed a more affordable solution yet retain many of they features to make the e-bike experience enjoyable. So we took up the challenge to find an e-bike that met those requirements. We are contacted by many e-bike manufacturers and settled on the HiBoy EX6 Electric Bike. At the time of this video and blog, the direct purchase from HiBoy or from Amazon with coupon, the e-bike is below the $1,000 price and maintains all the features we find important for an enjoyable experience.
HiBoy EX6 E-Bike Features
500W powerful brushless motor – 500w high speed brushless motor, with high torque and a top speed 25+mph.
15AH Large capacity battery – 15AH/48V removable battery that can help you go 41 miles on electricity alone and 75 miles with pedal assistance depending on terrain.
All-terrain fat tire and fork shocks – The 20″ x 4.0″ all-terrain fat tire e-bike is suitable for riding on all kinds of bumpy terrain, mud and beach. The 4″ fat tire is large wheel to ground contact area and cave-in resistance as well as better grip. The fork shocks provide a smooth and comfortable riding experience on rough and rocky terrain.
Ergonomic riding design – Adjustable handlebars provide a comfortable riding experience along with a memory foam adjustable seat. The seat height is adjustable and along with the low step-in frame and the step-in design allows riders to get on/off the bike quickly and with little effort.
Comfortable riding experience – Built in 3 riding modes, easy to switch by button. The e-bike can be used as a standard bike with now assistance. The power of the HiBoy EX6 E-bike comes from the 5 modes of torque assist and 500 watt motor. Making changes from the handlebar mounted controller can be handled with ease. The Shimano 7 speed shifting package gives the e-bike greater versatility to handle the step hills and rough terrain.
See the video below for our experience with the HiBoy EX6 E-Bike. Our thanks to HiBoy providing the EX6 e-bike for our evaluation. We have provided links below for the purchase of the e-bike and available discounts.
Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
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RVing Today TV, together with our sponsors, often run contests.
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There’s no denying that life today has become rather hectic. We’re constantly on the go and are continually being inundated with technology and nagged by sound notifications from our smartphones that are never beyond arms reach.
Sometimes you just need a break from it all and finding a destination that allows you to unplug and return to a simpler way of life is just what the doctor ordered. Look no further than Lancaster in Pennsylvania, a place best known for its Amish community that offers a glimpse into a traditional way of life.
Lancaster’s surrounding countryside offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. And In addition to strolling through picturesque farms as horse-drawn buggies pass you by, Lancaster also offers the chance to taste some good old-fashioned American culinary delights.
7 Culinary Creations from Lancaster You’ve Got to Try
A Brief Introduction to Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster is one of the oldest US cities and actually served as Pennsylvania’s capital for a single day during the American Revolution. Its downtown area is characterized by well-preserved 18th-century architecture and leaving downtown gives way to a large Amish community that provides a glimpse into a simpler and more traditional, agrarian way of life.
The countryside is dotted with farmhouses, rolling fields, horse-drawn buggies, and covered bridges just dying to be photographed. Lancaster offers a range of museums and galleries to explore, along with The Fulton Theatre which is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the US.
Walking or biking the area’s trails along places like the Susquehanna River will definitely work up an appetite and thankfully Lancaster offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine to international flavors.
Lancaster is located in the heart of a fertile agricultural region, and many restaurants take advantage of this by serving farm-fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You can find farm-to-table dining options that showcase the region’s seasonal produce and artisanal products.
Must-try traditional dishes and treats include shoofly pies, whoopie pies, scrapple, and Wilbur buds. There really are so many delicious sweet offerings that you may be crying out for a dentist in Lancaster by the end of your trip.
Must-Try Dishes and Treats in Lancaster, Pennsylvania
A Pennsylvania Dutch classic, the whoopie pie is a delicious dessert made from two cake-like cookies stuffed with creamy filling. Lancaster is famous for its whoopie pies. In fact, the Lancaster County Whoopie Pie Festival draws thousands of visitors every year.
Whoopie pies were initially made from leftover cake batter and were a staple dessert during the Great Depression. When locals used to find them, they’d shout “Whoopie!”, giving them their name.
The cookies are often sizable, being roughly the size of a hamburger, and can come in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, pumpkin, red velvet, gingerbread, and even peanut butter. The most common filling consists of butter, confectioners’ sugar, and marshmallow fluff, giving it a fluffy and smooth texture.
Stroopies or Stroopwafels
Lancaster-made Dutch stroopwafels are known locally as stroopies, and you’ll find them at The Lancaster Sweet Shoppe where they are made fresh daily. These crispy, caramel-filled delicate waffle-like cookies are a Lancaster specialty. Stroopies are made by sandwiching a layer of homemade gooey caramel syrup between two thin waffles and pressing them together. The result is a sweet, chewy treat that’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Stroopies are often served warm, which enhances the gooey and comforting qualities of the caramel filling. To enjoy them this way, you can warm them for a few seconds in a microwave or oven. Look for specialty stroopie options in Lancaster like honey-infused, gluten-free varieties, and Wilbur chocolate coated versions.
Dutch immigrants brought stroopwafels to the United States, and over time, Stroopies evolved into a distinct treat with local variations. In Lancaster County, the tradition of serving warm Stroopies at community events and fairs has persisted now for generations.
Wilbur Buds
If you’re a chocolate lover, you have to try Wilbur Buds when visiting Lancaster. These bite-sized chocolates have been a local favorite for well over 100 years and are made from the highest quality cocoa beans, the recipe remaining virtually unchanged for over a century.
This classic American candy originated in Lititz which is just a few miles north of Lancaster and where you can still visit the Wilbur Chocolate Retail Store today. Wilbur Buds are small, button-shaped chocolates. They are usually around the size of a nickel or dime, making them perfect for popping into your mouth one at a time.
Wilbur Buds are known for their delightful combination of sweet, creamy milk chocolate with a subtle cocoa flavor. The milk chocolate is rich and not overly sweet, and the chocolates are often used for baking or garnishing cakes and cupcakes.
Chow Chow
Chow Chow is a type of condiment and relish that has its roots in the American South, particularly in regions such as the Appalachian Mountains and the Carolinas, but you’ll also find it throughout Pennsylvania. This sweet and tangy relish is a staple at many Amish and Mennonite meals and is often used as a topping or side dish for a variety of dishes.
Chow chow is made from various vegetables, including green beans, cauliflower, sweet peppers, and onions. The vegetables are finely chopped and mixed with a sweet and sour vinegar marinade. Chow chow is the perfect condiment for hot dogs, hamburgers, or many sandwich varieties.
Scrapple
This unique dish is a Pennsylvania Dutch creation not for the faint of heart. Scrapple is made from pork scraps originating from the head, heart, liver, and other offal of pigs, alongside cornmeal and spices that collectively form a loaf. Scrapple is then sliced and pan-fried until crispy.
Scrapple, although a somewhat acquired taste, is an integral part of American culinary heritage. It remains a cherished local regional food of Pennsylvania and is a product of American culinary tradition, particularly associated with rural and farm communities. It’s a classic comfort food that reflects the resourcefulness of using every part of the animal.
A mixture of seasonings is added for flavor, which typically includes salt, pepper, sage, thyme, and other spices. The exact blend of seasonings can vary by region and personal preference. Scrapple has a unique texture that is firm and sliceable when cooked. It is somewhat like a meatloaf but with a grainier texture.
Hog Maw
Staying with pigs, hog maw is a dish made from a pig’s stomach stuffed with potatoes, onions, browned pork, sausage, and cabbage. The stomach is sewn shut and simmered until tender.
The cleaned pig’s stomach is typically parboiled or blanched briefly to soften it and make it more pliable. This helps ensure that it can be stuffed more easily and that it will become tender during cooking.
Hog maw is usually accompanied by a rich, flavorful gravy made from the cooking liquid or broth. It’s especially a popular dish during the fall and winter months since it’s a hearty and filling meal that’s sure to leave you satisfied.
Shoefly Pie
Shoofly pie is a traditional and iconic American dessert that hails from Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, particularly from Amish communities. This molasses-based pie is characterized by its sweet, gooey filling and crumbly topping.
There are two primary types of shoofly pie based on the consistency of the filling and they include a wet-bottom pie which has a gooey, molasses-rich bottom layer and a crumbly top layer, and then the dry-bottom pie where the molasses is evenly mixed with the crumbs to create a uniformly moist texture.
Shoofly pie has a long history in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine, dating back to the 19th century. It’s often associated with the practice of keeping pies on windowsills to cool, leading to the name “shoofly,” as the sweet aroma attracted flies and other insects.
I know we said we would only talk about 7 culinary delights from Lancaster you’ve got to try, but we thought we’d sneak in one more. Made from freshly picked apples cooked down with sugar and spices, apple butter is a delicious spread perfect on toast or biscuits. Though the recipe doesn’t actually call for butter, the name apple butter comes from the creaminess and spreadability of this delicious treat that resembles butter.
Apple butter is a popular Lancaster specialty, and many families have passed down recipes for generations. Apple butter is the perfect way to enjoy fall flavors all year long.
So be sure to add Lancaster to your foodie destination bucket list. Whether you’re in the mood for a sweet treat like whoopie pies and Wilbur buds or prefer savory dishes like chow chow and hog maw, you won’t be disappointed.
Just be sure to brush and floss those teeth between meals, since the last thing you want is to have to seek out emergency dental care while on your culinary adventure of Pennsylvania.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
While it may be the last thing on most travelers’ minds to go running while on vacation, there are actually those who book dedicated running holidays. Running holidays are a type of vacation where the primary focus is on running and exploring new places on foot. These types of holidays have become popular among avid runners, fitness enthusiasts, and those who simply enjoy combining a love for running with their passion for travel.
Joining organized running tours and entering famous marathons or fun runs around the world have become increasingly popular. Running holidays can be organized as group tours with other like-minded runners or as self-guided trips, where you can plan your own routes or races.
Whether you want to run the Boston Marathon, run a scenic coastal route or mountain trail, or wish to jog around historic cities filled with notable landmarks, running holidays are a unique way to see a destination while also keeping on top of your fitness instead of packing on the pounds while traveling like most people do. If this idea is new to you, here’s how to get started running and some of the best destinations to visit for a running holiday.
Running Holidays: How to Get Started & Best Cities to Travel To
How to Start Running
Ease Into Your Running Routine
Before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have any preexisting medical conditions, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor to ensure running won’t potentially cause any injuries. The last thing you want while traveling is needing to visit a foreign hospital and possibly requiring overseas medical treatment, especially if you aren’t covered by travel insurance.
If you’re physically good to go, begin by running twice or thrice weekly, focusing on shorter distances. This manageable approach will help condition your body and mind for regular running activity without causing too much strain or discouragement from unrealistic goals. As time passes and your fitness builds, the distance you run can gradually increase.
Consistency
Consistency is one non-negotiable aspect when it comes to running. A sporadic running routine might give you an adrenaline rush, but true success comes from consistently lacing up your trainers and heading out.
Consistent running conditions your body, builds endurance, and enhances confidence over time, setting a solid foundation for your progress toward running longer distances and faster speeds. Running becomes not merely just exercise, rather a lifestyle transformation for many.
Prioritize Warm-Ups and Cool-Downs
Before hitting the pavement or a gravel trail it’s vital to prep your body for running with dynamic stretches such as high knees or butt kicks. This gradually increases your heart rate and circulation, making the transition into running smoother and less abrupt.
After the run, don’t neglect the cooling down phase. It’s essential to gradually reduce the heart rate to normal levels after intense physical activity and aid muscle recovery. Undertake slow jogging or fast-paced walking followed by static stretching, which provides double-duty aid in muscle relaxation while promoting flexibility.
Take a Pre-Workout Supplement for Enhanced Performance
You might want to consider starting with pre-workout supplements, especially if you are looking for an extra boost to your running performance. These specially formulated products often contain blends of various ingredients designed to prepare your body for the exertion that will follow.
A quality pre-workout supplement may improve endurance, increase energy levels, and potentially enhance muscle strength. It’s like filling your car up with premium fuel before setting off on a long journey, ensuring you won’t run out of gas prematurely.
Of course, not all supplements are created equal. Do some research or consult a healthcare professional to understand the different options available and identify one that suits your personal health needs and fitness goals.
Equip Yourself Right
Choosing the right gear is an integral part of your running journey. It goes without saying that you’ll need to invest in a quality pair of running shoes. While they may not make you run faster, they can certainly prevent discomfort or potential injuries.
Try out pairs in-store as opposed to buying online and always make sure to break them in with shorter runs before taking them with you on a running holiday. Running-specific socks made of moisture-wicking materials can help prevent blisters and discomfort. You may also want to look for socks with extra padding in high-impact areas.
When it comes to proper running attire, you want clothing that’s designed to provide comfort, support, and moisture-wicking properties to keep you dry and prevent chafing. Women may want to invest in a supportive sports bra designed for running for added comfort.
A hat or visor can keep the sun out of your eyes, help manage sweat, and reduce chances of sunburn. If you plan on running early mornings or late at night, think about purchasing some reflective clothing or accessories to increase your visibility to vehicles or bicyclists. Lastly, use a running app or a GPS watch to track your distance, pace, and time. Monitoring your progress can be motivating and help you set new goals.
Hydration is Key
Never underestimate the power of proper hydration when running. Drink enough water before, during, and after your runs to stay properly hydrated. Keep yourself adequately hydrated before you embark on a run, as it can prevent dehydration, cramping, and fatigue during exercise. It’s also advisable to take small sips of water during your runs, particularly if running long distances or in hot weather.
Rehydrating post-run is also vital for recovery as it replaces the fluids lost through sweat. Remember to do so consistently, even on days when you’re not training, to keep your body functioning optimally.
Final Important Tips
Aim to have proper running form, with good posture, relaxed arms, an efficient stride, and proper breathing. Always listen to your body and pay attention to any aches, pains, or discomfort. It’s normal to experience some muscle soreness, but if you feel acute pain, stop running and allow your body to recover.
Consider incorporating other forms of exercise into your routine to prevent overuse injuries and maintain overall fitness. Activities like swimming, cycling, or strength training can complement your running.
And lastly, don’t forget to celebrate your milestones. As you achieve your personal running goals, celebrate your successes and keep setting new goals. Acknowledging your progress is always highly motivating.
Best Cities for Running Holidays
Sydney, Australia
Sydney stands out as an exceptional city for runners, thanks to its warm climate, stunning coastal paths, and lush parklands. The city offers scenic trails that stretch from the iconic Opera House to the captivating Royal Botanical Gardens.
Furthermore, there are expandable dedicated running tracks like Centennial Parklands that cater to all levels of endurance and fitness. Numerous running events like the City2Surf, Blackmores Bridge Run, and SMH Half Marathon are hosted annually, inspiring a sense of community among local and international athletes.
San Francisco, USA
Boasting breathtaking views of seaside cliffs and iconic architectural marvels like the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco presents another enticing running environment. The city is known for its highly varied running terrain, ranging from flat beachside trails at Crissy Field to generous elevation gains in areas like Presidio Park.
For those seeking a blend of urban and natural landscapes, the famous Golden Gate Bridge pathway offers it all. San Francisco also plays host to the prestigious San Francisco Marathon, bringing together runners from across the globe.
Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver is known for its stunning natural beauty and offers a wide variety of running routes. Runners can enjoy views of the Pacific Ocean, mountain trails, and lush city parks, with top running routes that include the Stanley Park Seawall, the Vancouver Seaside Greenway, and Grouse Mountain trails.
Boston, USA
Boston is rich in history, and you can run along iconic routes like the Freedom Trail, which takes you past historic sites such as Paul Revere’s House, Old North Church, and the Massachusetts State House.
The Charles River Esplanade is a popular running destination with a scenic path along the Charles River. It offers beautiful views of the river, Boston’s skyline, and plenty of green space to relax after a run.
Boston hosts a variety of running events and races, including the world-famous Boston Marathon which is one of the oldest annual marathons, dating back to the late 19th century. The Boston Marathon is typically held on Patriots’ Day, which is the third Monday in April. This day commemorates the battles of Lexington and Concord, which marked the start of the American Revolutionary War.
Stockholm, Sweden
With a runner-friendly environment, numerous parks, and a beautiful waterfront, Stockholm is perfect for runners. The city’s many islands and waterways provide both urban and natural running options. We recommend starting with runs at Djurgården Island, Kungsholmen Island, and the Söder Mälarstrand waterfront.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
This article may contain compensated links, please read our disclaimer for more information.
RV clothes storage can be a big challenge. Many RVs simply are not made to be lived in, and if you can’t figure out how to store your clothes properly, they end up being a big mess in the cabinet, drawer, or even on the floor.
The good news? There are some things you can do to use your storage space more efficiently. Below, we will share our top RV clothes storage tips so you can get those clothes put away and focus more on having a good time traveling with your family.
Downsize Your Wardrobe
First things first, you will probably want to downsize your wardrobe. The vast majority of us own way, way too many clothes, and when storage space is limited, this can be a major problem. Besides all that, clothes are heavy and can eat up a good chunk of your RV’s cargo carrying capacity.
One of the best ways to downsize your wardrobe is to create a capsule wardrobe. This will give you the ability to put together plenty of different outfits using the same base pieces, making it the perfect option for RVers.
To create a capsule wardrobe, choose a base color—black, brown, navy, and gray are good choices—and pick up pieces such as pants, a skirt, a jacket, and shoes in that color. From there, you can use shirts and accessories to add pops of color.
RV Clothes Storage: Fold Outfits Together
Once you have your more limited wardrobe put together, you’ll need to figure out the most efficient way to put them away. One way to make your RV clothes storage work well is to fold outfits together.
For instance, if you plan to wear a certain shirt with a certain pair of pants, fold both items together. This will make it easy to find an outfit that goes well together without pulling out every pair of pants or every shirt. We find this is a particularly good clothes storage technique for kids.
…or Roll Your Clothes
We also find that space is used more efficiently when you roll your clothes rather than folding them. When you roll, you can roll tightly, removing excess air to reduce fluffiness and thus allowing them to fit more snugly into a drawer or box.
Use Vertical Space with Totes
Sometimes RV clothes storage options are kind of odd. You might find you have to work with a really tall space or a really deep cabinet. In this case, totes are your friend.
Plastic totes can be used to organize your clothing items however you see fit, and they make it possible to get to a particular item without pulling a whole stack of clothes over. You can roll each item or outfit tightly, place it in a labeled tub, put the lid on the tub, and stack it in the cabinet until you need it.
Look Into Hanging Storage Options
Have lots of closet space but no drawers? Hanging storage options might be helpful to you.
Hanging shoe organizers can go on the inside of closet doors and they hold small items such as underwear, socks, and accessories. Hanging sweater organizers are also great. These hang on the rod in the closet and can hold sweaters, t-shirts, pants, or any other clothing items you may not want to put on hangers.
Put In Shelves
Of course, you could also put that extra closet space to use by putting in a set of shelves. You can put your clothes into bins and then place the bins on the shelves, giving your closet a neat, organized look, as well as utilizing space that may have been wasted otherwise.
Invest in Tension Rods
Tension rods are excellent for RV clothes storage. You can use a shower curtain tension rod to hang items up when no traditional closet is available. Meanwhile, small tension rods can be placed in front of bins on shelves to ensure nothing falls while the RV is in transit.
Hang Command Hooks
Easily one of the best RV storage solutions out there, Command Hooks definitely deserve a place on our list. These hooks stick to the wall and can hold up to quite a lot, making them ideal for hanging things like hats, scarves, and even shoes.
That said, the hooks can be removed quickly and without damaging the walls when the time comes, meaning you don’t have to do anything permanent to your rig to create some awesome places to hang things.
Put Out-of-Season Things Away
Making sure out-of-season items are put into storage can help a lot too. Use vacuum storage bags to get rid of excess air and make your out-of-season clothes as small as they can be. Then, you can put the bags into totes and place those in the storage bays, under the couch, or wherever else you have storage space available.
There you have it, some really awesome RV clothes storage ideas that will help you keep your clothes up off the floor and your RV looking neat wherever you roam. Now all you have to do is figure out how to do laundry on the road, and then you and your wardrobe will be all set!
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Greetings. Jeff Johnston here for “RVing Today TV.” Like a lot of RVers with smaller vehicles, Pam and I are well adapted to camping and travel in our somewhat compact Palomino fold-down camper, and the size of the camper and the limited storage space inside means everything that goes in it and goes with us has to be fairly efficient and functional. We can’t have a lot of junk or clutter. So it’s pretty exciting for us when we find a new product that actually looks like it’s gonna solve a problem, serve a purpose, and do a really great job for us. And this is the new camper, Camper Jack Table, from Camper Cradle Company. It’s designed to mount on one of your camper jacks using a couple of adjustable brackets, and we will show you, in a few minutes here, what it looks like and how it works. The clamp-on brackets that mount on the jack tubes here have to be about 17 inches apart roughly, and the top bracket needs to be roughly where the height where you want it for your work-table comfort. So we’re gonna make it about here, a little bit higher than normal, but I’m a little taller than normal, so it’ll fit. And, yeah, got plenty of room down here toward the spacing. We’ll see how it goes.
The leg clamps are sized to fit your average jack post, but it’s a little bit larger size, and ours has a somewhat smaller-size jack, so the company includes these traction strips which you cut to shape or size and then glue them inside. We glue ’em inside here so we don’t have to wrangle with it while we’re trying to mount this, but by putting these little strips in there, it takes up a little bit more space and makes it fit a somewhat smaller jack. That’s a situation we ran into. But to secure these, we’re using a traditional contact cement. This is Walthers Goo. It’s a hobby-type product. Doesn’t have to be extremely tight. And we take the base side. We take the base side of the traction material, spread the glue around a little bit. It’s a contact cement. You let it dry and then put it back together. We do that on both pieces, and you wind up with just enough extra liner in there that’ll fit tight on our jack posts. Start the first clamp right about here, to begin with, using these really great heavy-duty fine-thread Allen head bolts to secure it. And when you’re lining this up, the table does not pivot once it’s installed, so the tab with the flat traction surface on top should be kind of aimed in the direction where you want the table to come out from. We are lining this up so that it more or less lines up with the back side of the camper so it sticks straight out from the back. The top one can be snugly secured, and the bottom will be left adjustable for the moment. And that 17-inch mark is approximately where the second clamp fits. This gets installed but remains somewhat finger-tight for the moment. So it’s roughly 17 inches down, and you line up the tab on the lower mount with the hole on the upper one. That’s good for the moment.
Now, the install is pretty much like you would do if you were setting it up in camp. Starts with the handwheel and bolt, and next up is this brace. This is the underside brace. It fastens between the edge of the table and the lower mount. The top clamps up here, and this makes it fairly loose. We’ve gotta adjust this down a little bit. That looks pretty good with the top table secured by the big thumb wheel. Then we’d get the extension, fit it into the guides and the edge of the table here. Tighten up the thumb wheels. We’ve got a nice, sturdy extension of table that we can use in a campsite. And when you’re in a campsite that has no picnic table or any flat surfaces, every flat meal prep surface is valuable. This is about 32 inches by about 23 and a half inches. It’s made out of steel, stainless-steel fasteners, and we might add “Made in the USA,” and we kind of like that.
Now, you’re not gonna want to get up and dance around on something like this, but it’s sturdy enough that it’ll support any kind of meal preparation, including Dutch ovens and their paraphernalia. It’s a interesting addition to our collection of equipment that we take with us in the camper, and we think that this Camper Jack Table is just one of the coolest little accessories we’ve seen in a long time. The Camper Jack Table, from Camper Cradle Company, it’s a really fun, functional new accessory that we’re gonna get a lot of use out of starting next weekend. I highly recommend it.
Jeff Johnston here for “RVing Today TV.” Like a lot of RVers with smaller vehicles, Pam and I are well adapted to camping and travel in our somewhat compact Palomino fold-down camper, and the size of the camper and the limited storage space inside means everything that goes in it and goes with us has to be fairly efficient and functional. MORE
Every once in a while, an RV comes along that seems to set a new standard in the industry. Its cosmetic good looks, features, and functionality all add up to a vehicle that becomes very popular. Well, the R-Pod trailer from Forest River has been around for a few years now, but it’s still flyin’ off the dealers’ lots, and there’s several good reasons for that. MORE
I’m Dr. Fitz, and this is Ace. As crazy as it sounds, some dogs can be susceptible to sunburn. Many dogs don’t have a problem with sun exposure and are protected by their darker, longer coats. However, if you have a short-haired dog such as a pit bull, a Frenchie, a boxer, among many other breeds, sunburn may be a concern. MORE
Europe is a great place to visit during the winter if you don’t mind a bit of chill and appreciate the many unique experiences the holiday season offers. Whether it’s enjoying some Christmas spirit, partaking in winter sports, or exploring historic cities with fewer tourists, there are plenty of reasons to consider a winter trip to Europe.
Many European cities including Vienna, Prague, and Strasbourg are of course also famous for their Christmas markets. And if you’re into winter skiing and snowboarding, cities in France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy have renowned ski resorts.
Here is a sampling of top European cities to visit during the winter months to embrace the snow, holiday festivities, or simply enjoy famous attractions without the normally large summer tourist crowds.
The Best Spots in Europe to Visit This Winter
Vienna, Austria
Winter is a time for Christmas markets and one of the best European cities to enjoy them is Vienna. Vienna is known for its stunning Christmas markets and classical music traditions that truly come alive around the holidays. The city gets all decked out in lights and you can enjoy a cup of Glühwein (hot mulled wine) while exploring the various markets.
You’ll find the most famous Christmas markets at locations like Rathausplatz, Schönbrunn Palace, and Belvedere Palace. The city’s numerous concert halls and opera houses offer plenty of classical music concerts and performances featuring our beloved Christmas songs during the winter months.
Vienna’s famous architecture is especially beautiful against a backdrop of snow and lights. Be sure to visit historic landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace, and Hofburg Palace. Vienna also offers several outdoor ice skating rinks during the winter, including the Rathausplatz ice skating rink.
You may also want to consider taking a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through Vienna’s historic city centre or attend the annual Silvesterpfad (New Year’s Trail) which is held on New Year’s Eve and offers a series of linked open-air venues featuring song and dance.
London, England
London is a popular tourist destination any time of year, but much like NYC, London becomes a bit extra special around the holiday season. London comes alive with festive decorations and holiday lights during the winter season. You can enjoy the magic of Christmas markets, dazzling light displays, and beautifully decorated streets, especially in areas like Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Covent Garden.
Numerous ice skating rinks pop up around London during the winter, like those found at Somerset House, the Natural History Museum, and the Tower of London. Christmas markets include Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park and Southbank Centre Winter Market.
London’s West End theatres host numerous holiday-themed shows and musicals during the winter months. It’s a great time to catch a traditional pantomime or a classic play. The day after Christmas is known as Boxing Day and has become a major shopping event in London, with many stores including Harrods and Selfridges offering significant discounts.
Winter is also a great time to pop into London’s famous museums and galleries to warm up or you can rug up and take to the streets to enjoy the city’s historic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey possibly under a blanket of snow.
Another way to warm up, win big, and possibly pay for your entire European winter trip is to pop into one of the many casinos in London like The Hippodrome Casino, Leicester Square’s Empire Casino, or one of the Grosvenor Casinos. Alternatively, simply book a fancy room at The Langham or The Ritz during winter and simply gamble at an online casino where you can play everything from Blackjack to 9 pots of gold.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s thermal baths are especially inviting during the winter season. Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters of iconic baths like Széchenyi or Gellért will no doubt prove incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating during the colder months.
Or you can simply embrace the cold and visit Europe’s largest outdoor ice rink known as Városligeti Műjégpálya in City Park. Vörösmarty Square is transformed into a festive market with stalls selling handcrafts and traditional Hungarian food during the Christmas season.
Visiting Budapest in the winter also often means fewer tourists, making it easier to explore the city’s many attractions without the normal large crowds. The city is taken over by illuminated Christmas trams come December that traverse the city, offering a unique way to experience the holiday spirit. Then come New Year’s Eve celebrations which include fireworks over the Danube River.
Reykjavik, Iceland
One of the top reasons to visit Reykjavik during winter is the opportunity to witness the northern lights. The longer nights and clearer skies present in the winter months provide excellent conditions for seeing this phenomenal natural light display.
Iceland’s famous natural landscapes surrounding the city also take on a stunning transformation come winter, with snow-covered mountains, glaciers, and lava fields. You also have the opportunity to enjoy a range of outdoor winter activities such as dog sledding, exploring ice caves, and snowmobiling on glaciers.
In and around Reykjavik are geothermal hot springs and natural baths like the Blue Lagoon. You’ll also find a vibrant culinary scene with cosy cafes, bars, and restaurants that are perfect for warming up with traditional Icelandic dishes like lamb stew and fish soup.
Reykjavik surprisingly offers year-round whale watching as well, where during winter you can spot species like orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh comes alive in December with its Christmas markets such as the one found at East Princes Street Gardens, and of course Hogmanay which is the city’s famous New Year’s celebration. Hogmanay includes a torchlight procession, street party, and a spectacular fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle.
Celebrate Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns every January 25th which is known as Burns Night where you can enjoy a traditional formal dinner featuring Scottish dishes like haggis accompanied by neeps and tatties, a “Toast to the Lassies” to celebrate women, live music, featuring bagpipes and fiddles, and poetry readings.
Also be sure to head into one of Edinburgh’s whisky bars to warm up with a dram of world famous Scotch whisky.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Experience the magic of Lapland during winter and visit the official hometown of Santa Claus. Rovaniemi is home to the Santa Claus Village where you can meet the big man himself and send postcards from the Arctic Circle.
Rovaniemi is situated in the Arctic Circle, making it another excellent location for viewing the northern lights on clear dark nights. Popular winter activities include snowmobiling, husky dog sledding safaris, reindeer sleigh rides, and cross-country skiing.
Located nearby is the Lainio Snow Village, offering an ice and snow hotel with unique ice sculptures and an ice restaurant. You can even stay overnight in a chilly ice room if you’re feeling a bit adventurous.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
Solo travel seems to only be getting more popular with every passing year. Both men and women are choosing to travel alone for various reasons, whether it’s for a bit of personal independence, self-discovery, some adventure, or as a way to reinvent themselves after a recent breakup or loss of a job.
Solo travel used to be a rather daunting endeavor, but thanks to advancements in technology and the growth of online travel resources and communities like Solo Female Travelers which empowers solo women from all around the world to get out and travel, things have become far easier for solo travelers to plan their trips and connect with others while on the road.
A wide range of handy travel apps have also made solo exploration easier, safer, and more convenient/efficient. A smartphone loaded with travel-related apps now acts as a sort of “Swiss Army Knife” to navigate you through the many challenges or aspects of travel.
Let’s explore five must-have resources that every solo traveler should consider and some providers who can offer them to you.
Five Must-Have Resources for Solo Travelers
Travel Tickets, Bookings, and Documents
Before embarking on any solo adventure, it’s crucial to have a reliable platform for booking flights, accommodations, and other travel essentials. Some of the solutions below are one-stop travel portals that can truly be your best friend throughout your entire journey.
Platforms like eDreams allow you to book flights, hotels, car hire, transfers, and package deals all in one place. Not only does using a website like this often save a great deal of money, but also saves you precious time since you need not search many different sites looking for good deals and constantly reading reviews to make sure you are booking with trustworthy companies each time.
For international travel, understanding visa requirements and ensuring your passport is up to date is equally as important. Online visa and passport services simplify the application process these days. They provide guidance on visa requirements, processing times, and necessary documents which will save you time and stress.
VisaHQ has a full team of experts who can assist you in obtaining the necessary visas, ensuring your travel plans go smoothly. Better yet, if your passport is expiring soon, visa services can help you take the necessary steps to renew it, eliminating potential travel disruptions.
Talking Money: Currency and Insurance
With online currency converters apps, you’ve got a very reliable tool for checking exchange rates and converting currencies on the go so you don’t end up getting ripped off in other countries by vendors or taxis. With currency conversion apps, you can make informed financial decisions and ensure you’re getting a fair deal when exchanging money.
Managing your finances while travelling solo can feel like a chore, especially if you dislike math, but running out of money while you’re in some far-flung place is no joke. Plus, the sheepish call home to ask for extra money doesn’t exactly show your friends and family you are a successfully self-sufficient solo traveler.
The best way to keep your foreign currency under control, and change what you haven’t used into what you need in your next location, can be an ideal way of saving money. Access to real-time, up-to-date exchange rates means you’ll always know the value of your money in the local currency. Finally, currency converter apps often work offline, making it easy to calculate expenses even when you’re not connected to the internet.
Safety should be a top priority while travelling solo since you don’t have anyone else to get you out of a jam or offer support should travel plans go sideways. Avoiding travel problems is always the best option but because we cannot always avoid everything despite our best efforts, purchasing travel insurance should be a non-negotiable task you make a top priority immediately after booking a trip.
Travel insurance can help provide financial coverage for flight delays, lost baggage, trip cancellation, and most importantly overseas medical treatment. A range of injuries and illnesses can end up proving very costly without insurance. The cost of things like emergency medical evacuation or needing to be transported back to your home country can be frankly nightmarish.
Travel safety apps source a range of travel insurance plans aimed at digital nomads, freelancers, and solo travelers. With comprehensive coverage, you can explore the world with peace of mind that even when things don’t go to plan, you at least won’t have to come home to a large bill that needs paying off. For example, an app like SafetyWing’s offers travel insurance plans that can provide cover for continuous multi-trip travel to numerous countries, making it ideal for long-term travelers.
And government websites and apps can offer helpful advice when it comes to travel warnings such as when travel may not be safe to certain countries because of natural disasters or things like political unrest. They can also offer advice on what the recommended or essential immunizations are for various destinations.
No-Nonsense Navigation
Navigating unfamiliar destinations is both exciting and intimidating. Getting lost in some ways can be exciting and a challenge, but there are limits. When it comes down to it, you need to know where you’re going, sometimes where to avoid, and how to get places in the fastest time or shortest routes possible.
Mapping apps allows you to download detailed maps of your destination before your trip. With GPS functionality, you can navigate streets, find nearby attractions, and even discover hidden gems without internet connection in some cases. You don’t even need to worry about data roaming or Wi-Fi access if navigation apps work offline.
In addition to not getting yourself lost, you also want to ensure all your important travel docs or bookings remain together safely in one place. Staying organized isn’t the most fun part of travel, but it’s going to help keep you stress-free, especially when as a solo traveler you are forced into a position where you are reliant on yourself to get around.
Thankfully, apps can help you organize all your travel plans and bookings in one place. By forwarding all your flight, hotel, rentals, and tour confirmations to TripIt, it will create a single itinerary that includes all your various bookings. Once you’ve secured bookings, this is a great way to keep them somewhere centralized and secure. You can receive alerts for flight delays, gate changes, and other updates from the app as well.
Language Bridges
Communicating in a foreign language can be one of the biggest challenges a solo traveler can face, as language barriers often become more pronounced when you’re travelling alone. We recommend using something like Google Translate for your translation needs. You can access real-time translation for text, speech, and even text within images, signs, or handwritten notes.
By typing or speaking words and phrases, apps like Google Translate bridge the language barrier. You can also download language packs in advance to use a language app offline, for when you’ve only got limited connectivity.
Apps for learning simple phrases and basic conversational language can be a lifesaver. With daily challenges, and a comprehensive selection of courses, users can build a working knowledge of phrases to get around. Locate things like bathrooms, learn how to ask for directions, or be able to express that you have certain allergies when dining at foreign restaurants. Apps won’t necessarily help you become fluent in another language and you don’t really need to. It’s simply about being able to communicate enough to get by, stay safe, engage with locals, and make travel more enjoyable.
Understanding the culture and customs of your destination is another essential for a meaningful travel experience. Spend time looking for valuable resources that could provide in-depth cultural insights, history, local etiquette, local traditions and holidays, etc.
Whether you want to learn about local religious beliefs, cuisine, or special annual festivals, Culture Trip can give you a deeper understanding of the destinations you visit, allowing you to engage with locals respectfully and gain a better understanding of why cultures are the way they are. It also features practical advice on staying safe, budgeting, and making the most of a solo journey.
Accommodation
Travel apps can be very useful for solo travelers when it comes to booking accommodation. Travel apps of course allow you to browse and book accommodation from the comfort of your smartphone which makes it easy to plan your trips on the go.
These apps typically offer a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and hostels to vacation rentals and boutique guesthouses, giving you plenty of options to choose from. Travel apps often include user-generated reviews and ratings, helping you make informed decisions about the quality of the accommodation before you book.
You can often compare prices for the same accommodation on different booking platforms, ensuring you get the best deal and many apps provide exclusive discounts and promotions which can result in further cost savings.
Be sure to read the fine print, understand cancellation policies, and review the terms and conditions. Also, make sure that the app you use is reputable and has good customer service to address any issues that may arise during your stay.
A Few More Tools
We’ve already shown you some useful travel tools, but there’s plenty more out there making solo travel safer, easier, quicker, and cheaper.
For managing money, digital wallets offer low-commission exchanges, instant deposits and withdrawals, and come with a contactless card and mobile app. For those on a tight budget, TrailWallet allows you to monitor your spending and stay within your financial limits.
Google has a range of tools under their umbrella service, including Maps Offline, where you can download maps of specific areas in advance, ensuring you have access to navigation even when you don’t have an internet connection.
Google Lens lets users access instant translations, identify objects, or learn about landmarks, within Augmented Reality. Finally, Google Drive is a place to store important documents, such as scanned copies of your passport and visas, travel insurance details, and itineraries, all securely in the cloud where they can be accessed from anywhere. You can also upload travel photos while travelling as a backup in case you were to lose your SD cards or phone.
These additional resources all speak to areas of travel which everyone has to deal with, and they can really enhance or simplify the processes for you at little extra cost. In many cases, travel apps and websites like the ones mentioned are totally free of charge to use. Your solo travel should be a chance to lose yourself in new cultures, practice true self-reliance, and discover the world on your own terms. Travel apps allow you a greater chance of being successful doing this.
What these tools do more broadly is liberate you from worrying about all the little stressful aspects of travel. While it’s important to disconnect from tech while travelling so you can step outside today’s digital bubble most people find themselves in, there is still a place for using technology in the form of apps to simplify solo travel.
Solo travel offers a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone, interact with different cultures, face new challenges, learn new things about yourself, and help you build confidence in yourself.
When you navigate unfamiliar territory independently, you gain a profound sense of self-reliance and self-awareness. Moreover, solo travel provides the solitude necessary for introspection which will allow you to connect with your inner thoughts and truly “find yourself” in many cases.
A lot of us never have a chance to shed societal expectations and explore our true passions while also confronting our values for an extended period of time. Ultimately, solo travel not only reveals another side of the world to you but can also expose your most authentic self. We hope you find these digital tools useful in making your solo travels easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.
Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.
In this video, I repair my Dometic DM2652 RV refrigerator. It was having trouble maintaining a cool enough temperature. 40-42F degrees was as cold as it would get in the fridge compartment, and that was on the top shelf, usually the coolest location. Normally, it’s between 32-36F there. Luckily, it turned out to be a faulty thermistor sensor. Simple and cheap repair!
Disclaimer: Working with Electricity and LP Gas is very dangerous and should be performed by a qualified technician. This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered instructional. I’m not a qualified RV Technician. If you decide to do the same repair I’ve done here, then research and beware of the risks. Have it checked out by a professional. I accept no liability. You have been warned!
As the snowbird season approaches, legions of travelers set their sites on spending winter in the sunny Southwest. For Good Sam members, the road to iconic attractions like the Grand Canyon or Palm Springs just got smoother with the addition of 12 new Good Sam Campgrounds in the Southwest.
Good Sam members save big with the 10 percent discount at Good Sam Campgrounds. While exploring, discover all of the campgrounds in the Good Sam Network. If you’re not a member, joining is simple: Purchase a membership at any Good Sam Campground or sign up online. Before making reservations, check each campground’s seasonal information to determine availability.
Arizona
Ajo Heights RV Park, Ajo With breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, Ajo Heights RV Park spoils guests with views of the surrounding Little Ajo Mountains and sweeping desert vistas. The resort is near Arizona State Route 85, just north of the Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and the Mexican Border.
Apache Junction with Superstition Mountain in the background. Getty Images.
Rock Shadows, Apache Junction This 55+ community comes alive with youthful energy in a modern setting and friendly atmosphere. Outstanding weather and stunning mountain views complete the picture.
Timberline Mobile Home & RV Park, Show Low Travelers can experience all four seasons in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona. During the warm weather, visitors can marvel at crystal clear streams and lakes, along with incredible vistas. Winter brings ample skiing possibilities.
Canyon Motel & RV Park, Williams Found along the iconic Route 66, this park offers historic motel, caboose, and railcar suites, in addition to RV and tent camping. It’s a great spot to camp when visiting the nearby Grand Canyon.
Lake Nittany in Yuma. Getty Images
Las Quintas RV Resort, Yuma Nestled in the foothills of Yuma, this resort has excellent views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape. Nearby, shopping, entertainment, and golf courses offer more fun.
California
Outdoorsy Yosemite, Bass Lake Guests can choose from RV camping, luxury glamping tents, and rustic cabins on the shores of Bass Lake. The thrills of lake life and the world of mountain adventures are just steps away.
Cloverdale Citrus Fair, Cloverdale This RV park sits close to Sonoma wineries, culture, dining, shopping, and more. The adjacent Cloverdale Citrus Fair hosts several fun-filled events year-round, with entertainment, exhibits, and food.
Autumn scene near Julian, California.
Stagecoach Trails RV Park, Julian Just 60 miles northeast of San Diego, Julian offers a slew of outdoor adventures, including hiking, horseback riding, offroad vehicle adventures, and beautiful nature. It’s also one of California’s only Dark Sky Communities.
Golden Bear RV Park, Klamath This quiet getaway on the Klamath River gives guests opportunities to fish, float, and relax. Nearby, lush redwood forests entice hikers and wildlife lovers w to er to see local flora and fauna.
Nevada
Mesquite Trails RV Resort, Mesquite This RV destination sits close to southern Utah, the Arizona Strip, and the west Grand Canyon area. But you may be tempted to stay in this brand-new resort and enjoy golfing, fine restaurants, and more in this Silver State gem.
Wolf Creek Golf Course in Mesquite, Nevada.
Whispering River Ranch RV Park, Yerington This brand-new RV park boasts ample amenities in a great Silver State location east of Lake Tahoe. Guests can ride in and out on their UTVs, kayak the Walker River, or refuel at the coffee bar. Camp in large sites and grass.
New Mexico
Trailer Village RV Park, Roswell This park invites travelers to “crash” in a family-owned and operated park close to top Roswell attractions. Guests will enjoy a safe, clean place to stay as well as the park’s own gift shop, Alien Depot. Buy some souvenirs or explore the surrounding area.
Dr. Marissa Fitzpatrick: Welcome to “RVing Today’s” “Paws on Board.” I’m Dr. Fitz, and this is Ace. Did you know that dogs can get sunburn? That’s right.As crazy as it sounds, some dogs can be susceptible to sunburn. Many dogs don’t have a problem with sun exposure and are protected by their darker, longer coats. However, if you have a short haired dog. such as a pit bull, a Frenchie, a boxer, among many other breeds, sunburn may be a concern. Dogs that have lighter hair, such as white, light brown, or gray, can be at higher risk as well. Finally, if your dog was recently shaved after a grooming or for a surgical procedure, that area of the skin is now at higher risk for harmful sun exposure. Pretty much, all dogs are at risk of sunburn around their nose, around their eyes, their ear tips, and even their lower belly where they have less fur. There are also some skin conditions, usually immune-mediated issues, which can be aggravated by sun exposure, so make sure you address any concerns you have with your veterinarian.
Now that we know dogs can get sunburn, one of the main questions you may have is “Can dogs wear sunscreen?” The short answer is “Yes.” The long answer is “It depends.” There are canine products available on the market that are generally safe for use. There are sprays you can rub into their coat or balms that you can apply to their nose and face. There are some products available for cats as well, but check with your vet about the specific product as not all dogs-safe products are safe for cats. You should be careful which products you use. Dogs will lick and groom themselves, so the sunscreen needs to be safe to ingest in small quantities. Avoid products that contain zinc oxide as this can be toxic for your dog if they ingest it. A lot of human sunscreens actually contain this ingredient. Try to stick with canine-specific products if you can or if you can find a baby-safe sunscreen without the zinc oxide. Although it can be super-difficult, try to stop your dog from licking off the sunscreen while they’re outside. So what do you do if you think your pet may have been sunburned? Well, you should keep your pet out of the sun as much as possible once you notice the burn. This is where a nice A/C unit in the pet-friendly RVs can come in handy. Your pet can stay comfortable indoors and out of the sun. If you have a cone, put this on as it will prevent your dog from licking the area. If you notice anything more than mild redness to the skin such as blistering, moderate-to-severe redness, or pain when you touch the site, you should seek veterinary care. Ultimately, prevention is the best medicine with sunburn as I’m sure many of you have experienced yourselves. Keeping your pet safe and comfortable while traveling is the goal. For more information about traveling safely with your pets, visit RVingToday.tv.
Tune in next time for more pet-health information. I’m Dr. Fitz, and this is Ace. Thanks for watching “Paws on Board “
Every once in a while, an RV comes along that seems to set a new standard in the industry. Its cosmetic good looks, features, and functionality all add up to a vehicle that becomes very popular. Well, the R-Pod trailer from Forest River has been around for a few years now, but it’s still flyin’ off the dealers’ lots, and there’s several good reasons for that. You know, the R-Pod, its cosmetics is what makes it really easy to identify and part of one of the things that’s made it so popular today. The colors are great, the graphics are minimal. You know, it just looks nice. And part of what makes it really great to tow is its overall shape. That rounded configuration makes it very aerodynamic. The front up here, this helps cut through the wind, regardless of what kind of tow vehicle you have on it, that it just makes it really, really aerodynamic. And on the back, it’s rounded down a little bit, and that, too, helps to ease its passage through the air. Now, in this particular floor plan that has a kitchen on the back, they brought the back end down straight, and that allows a little bit better cabinet space in the back for the kitchen. And the width, one of the things that you also see on the trailer, of course, is the fact that it has the fenders and the tires on the outside of the trailer. So the trailer is a little bit narrower than a standard one. That lets you put the tires and fenders on the outside, and that means you don’t have wheel wells on the inside of the trailer to have to build cabinets and such around, and that’s kind of a convenient thing. for the designers.
And there’s a few other features on the outside here that are worth talkin’ about as well, so let’s take a closer look. Now, this particular floor plan of this trailer has only one exterior storage compartment. They use this really nice, new, high-tech magnetic latches, which are really handy, and this compartment runs all the way across the trailer on the front; and the back, it’s a little bit shallower. It’s not quite deep enough to be able to put a lawn chair or a camp chair in here. Those will have to go in your tow vehicle or on the floor, for example, inside the trailer, but this is big enough. It can accommodate tools and small general hardware, and if you have longer items like tire pumps or anything that’s under about six and a half feet long can go in crossways across the front. So it’s a small compartment, but it’s fairly functional. Now, one of the easy spotting features on the R-Pod– and it may be something that part of responsible for its popularity–is the fact that the body is fairly narrow. It’s about 6-foot-6 outside, wall to wall. That not only helps to make it a little more compact and, you know, seemingly easier to tow; it also makes it a little less prone to wind resistance. I mean, it makes it slip through the air a bit easier. But that narrow body means it’s possible to put the fenders and the tires on the outside, and that, too, is what gives it a look that is a little bit different than your average RV, and it’s part of the popularity.
This version of the R-Pod is called the Hood River Edition, built in Dallas, Oregon. Has a couple of features that are different than the standard R-Pod. First, it’s got about 3 inches more suspension or chassis lift. That’s provided by the design of the rubber torsion axle, which is a really great way to provide a soft, smooth suspension for a trailer like this. That extra 3 inches of lift means that you have extra clearance. So, if you wanna get off the pavement and go to a campground in a remote spot on a dirt road, you have less likelihood that you’re gonna be scraping or bottoming out on anything. And the Hood River Edition also includes these really cool heavy-duty-looking kind of off-road mud-and-snow tires. Gives it the little bit of that rugged Northwest look along with the custom wheels. It’s a fun package.
One of the factors that makes small trailers like the R-Pod so popular is slide-out rooms. Now, this trailer is approximately 17 feet long in the body, but it’s got a 9-foot slide-out which is darn near a full wall slide-out in something like this. Now, this slide-out contains the dinette over on this end and the refrigerator here which is adjacent to the rear kitchen, and we’ll see more about those when we go inside the trailer. But this slide-out adds so much extra space. It’s not extremely deep, but it’s deep enough that that adds extra floor space, lets you make the dinette a little bit bigger, and generally speaking, it adds a lot of livability to a small rig like this.
Well, the outside of the R-Pod, the cosmetics is what catches people eye the first time, and there’s good reason for that. It’s a great-lookin’ little trailer. But let’s take a look on the inside. There’s a lot of features in there that really make you realize why it’s so popular and what makes it so great for livability. Little R-Pods have been pretty well known for having a tremendous amount of space and functionality on the inside. They’ve done a good job of designing things. Now, this one happens to be the R-Pod 179. It’s got the rear kitchen, side dinette in the slide-out, and a forward bed. Now, this rear kitchen arrangement, this is really great for cooks because, if you happen to have cooking as kind of an emphasis for your RVing, this is a nice setup because it covers wall to wall in the rig. You’ve got a lot of open counter space here for working on foodstuff. Little cover comes off the sink, and then, when you’re not using the sink, of course, you have more space there, and over on the other side, your generic suburban two-burner stove. Over on the side here, this is the back end of the slide-out, and, of course, you have your Dometic two-way refrigerator– actually, this is a three-way because it’ll do both 120-volt AC gas and 12-volt electric– and a nice-sized microwave oven.
This version of the R-Pod, the 179, has what amounts to being, like we mentioned on the outside, pretty much, a full-wall slide that includes the refrigerator, the microwave, and this dinette. And this U-shaped dinette is, for a little bitty trailer, it’s pretty darn big. I mean, you can accommodate four people sitting around here very easily for a card game or something like that, and it’s pretty comfortable. The seats are–you know, you can adjust the cushions and such as needed, and this table is portable. So, in addition to positioning it inside where you find the best use for it, you could also take it outside, for example, and use it in your campsite. And it also adjusts for level. And this isn’t quite so smooth operating–at least, I don’t do it right– but you release it, and this folds down far enough that you can turn this into a bed area as well. Lock it back up there. So this turns into an additional sleeping space which would be kind of snug unless it just happens to be a couple of little kids. So, if cooking is important to you, when you’re looking at a floor plan, you know, you kind of look at what you wanna emphasize or what you really need or want out of an RV. If you got a cook in the family who really likes that, then this would be a good choice because of that big kitchen across the back end. And this also would be a good one for entertaining because you have this good-sized dinette. This floor plan includes a wet bath. It’s got a toilet, kind of a built-in shower, and a really small sink in the corner. Another one of the R-Pod floor plans, on the other hand, has a bath that goes across the back of the vehicle with a separate shower, so it kind of depends on what’s important to you. If you like–if you really want a good quality– a good-sized shower, you’d probably pick that other floor plan. This one also has a full-sized bed up front, and we’ll take a quick look at that. Jeff: What you might describe–it’s full-sized bed. Maybe you can call it an RV queen or an RV full size, but it’s plenty wide because of the small overall size of the trailer. It’s like the trailer is about 6-foot-6, wall to wall on the outside. The bed space is about 6-foot 3-inches approximately from wall to wall, so for the average sized person, they’re gonna fit it just fine. I can’t say that I fit, but, then, that’s because that’s my problem because I’m too tall for this sort of thing, but it was a very comfortable mattress, and we slept okay on it, and that’s kind of, when you’re looking at RVs and you have your priorities, one of my personal priorities is having a comfortable place to sleep more so than having a giant bathroom, for example. So this would be kind of a floor plan that I would be interested in, and my wife likes to cook, so the big kitchen would be cool for her. This would be a great floor plan for us. But the bed area, you got good-sized windows on both ends for plenty of cross ventilation. Nice illumination up here. We’d kind of like to see a couple of lights up by the head of the bed, but, you know, that’s one of those small details. Everybody has different opinions about those things. The television is on a mount, so you can swing it around. You can watch it from the dinette area or move it back and be able to keep watching it from the bed area. And this, of course, is also adjacent to the stereo which is really close to everything. Next to the bed, you got a nice hanging wardrobe for shirts and things, and that’s top– tops another set of three storage drawers. There’s a surprising amount of storage in here, and there’s also storage overhead, up above the dinette, which is very handy. The R-Pod was a good matchup for our Nissan Frontier pickup and would likewise tow well with other small vehicles.
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RVing Today TV, together with our sponsors, often run contests.
CONTEST RULES: To enter the contest you must be at least 18 years of age and a resident of the United States or Canada. Employees, contractors and immediate family of RVing Today TV or participating sponsors are ineligible to enter.
Winners will be notified by email or phone to confirm the entry information. Winners have 48 hours to confirm or we will choose another winner. Confirmed winners name (first name, last name initial and state) will be posted on our website at http://www.rvingtoday.tv/ and on our Facebook page, facebook.com/rvingtoday each week and other possible social media sites.
HOW TO ENTER: Fill out the entry form with your name, address, phone number, email address and the type of RV you own. Example: (2006 Jayco Eagle 5th wheel). It’s that simple. If you prefer, you can mail your entry information to: RVing Today TV, Jose Moniz, PO Box 322, Mattapoisett, MA. 02739.
Names and personal information of participants is strictly for the use of RVing Today TV and participating sponsors. No information will be shared with any third party companies.
INDEMNIFICATION AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
By entering our contests, each entrant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless sponsors, promotional agencies and sponsors employees from any liability damages, losses, or injuries resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly from entrants participation in the contest and acceptance, use or misuse of any prizes that may be won.By participating in this contest, each entrant agrees to abide by these official rules including all eligibility requirements, and understands that the results of the contest as determined by the sponsors and its agents are final in all respects. The contest is subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations and is void where prohibited by law.
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One of the best things about traveling full time in your RV? You can go absolutely anywhere any time you wish! For many, this means hitting up the warmer destinations during the winter and heading north for the summer, but it can also mean that you take advantage of off season travel and all of the amazing perks that come along with it.
Not sure if off season travel is for you? You’ve come to the right place! Here we will discuss all of the amazing benefits of off season travel, as well as some of the drawbacks that may make it a less desirable option.
What is Off Season Travel?
Before we continue, let’s pause for a second to talk a bit about what off season travel is. Some may assume we mean traveling outside of summer vacation, and depending on the location, this can be exactly what we mean by off season travel. That said, this isn’t the only thing ‘off season’ means.
If you’re traveling to a ski destination, the off season would be during the late fall and early spring, when the ski slopes are open but the holiday crowds aren’t filling them up. If you’re headed to Disney World, off season would be the months of September and January when crowd levels are lowest. Meanwhile, beaches tend to see the lowest crowds in the winter, and this can be a great time to visit if you happen to be in the south.
Essentially, to travel during the off season means to travel when the crowd levels are lowest at your particular destination, meaning if you plan it right, you can actually be experiencing off season travel all year long!
Avoid Crowds
Possibly the biggest perk of off season travel is the fact that you can avoid huge crowds. Want to visit Yosemite or Yellowstone? Go in the late spring and you’ll avoid the congestion caused by summer crowds. Hoping to see Acadia without the hordes? Stay through the leaf-peeping season for a spectacular show without all the crowds.
Avoiding crowds means fewer traffic jams and shorter lines, so you can spend less time waiting and more time having fun! It also means more peaceful hikes and more campsite availability, as well as more choices when it comes to boondocking spots.
Save Money
In addition to avoiding large crowds, traveling during the slow season also means you’ll probably save some money. In order to draw people in, many RV parks actually lower their rates once peak season is over, meaning you’ll be able to save on camping fees, especially if you’re willing to stay for a few weeks or months.
Attractions will also offer discounts and lower rates during the off season. Many museums have ‘homeschool days’ in the fall where they lower rates for homeschoolers, and some beaches don’t require tags and passes during the slow season.
Enjoy a Slower Pace
Exploring a place when it’s crowded can feel overwhelming and even rushed. You might feel you have to keep moving so the next person can get a turn, and it might be hard to take everything in while navigating large crowds. Additionally, if you’re spending large amounts of money to stay in a particular location, you may be less inclined to stick around for a long time, meaning less time to see and do everything.
If you visit during the off season, you will likely be able to stay a bit longer thanks to more campsite availability and lower camping rates. On top of that, with fewer crowds and shorter lines, you will be able to see more each day you are there. This slower pace is definitely a more relaxing way to experience a place.
See Authentic Versions of Destinations
As RVers, we are all about experiencing new places and things. Unfortunately, it can be hard to get a good feel for the personality of a place when it’s overly crowded.
During off season, things slow down, the locals can relax a little, and the true colors of the location can shine through. You might get to chat with the people who live there, and if you’re able to stay a while, you might even make some friends.
On top of all that, natural areas will empty out, so you can fully enjoy the natural beauty and peace they offer without interruption.
The Cons of Off Season Travel
Of course, there are also a few cons that come along with off season travel. For some these will be deal breakers, but in our opinion, the benefits of off season travel often outweighs the drawbacks.
The biggest drawback of traveling during the slow season? The weather. In many cases, the best weather in a given location happens during the peak travel season—that’s part of why so many people are going there, after all. This means you might have to give up the idea of bright, sunny days and pack an umbrella if you want to experience off season travel. That said, this isn’t always true. In some places—ski destinations being a good example—the weather is actually better during the off season.
Another big con of visiting a place during the slow season is that some shops, restaurants, campgrounds, and attractions will close once peak season ends. This means you may not get to see and do everything you had hoped during your visit. Be sure to do your research so you know what will be open during your off season adventure.
As you can probably tell, we think off season travel is often the best way to go. Visit some beaches in May, head out skiing in March, and go hiking in Yosemite in October. You’ll likely be charmed by the character that shines through without the hassle and bustle, and we’re betting you’ll have an absolute blast!
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Due to some medical issues, we had to limit our summer travel. I share more in the video below. The very good news is all is well and after many months we are heading back out to enjoy some extended RV travel. With the 5th wheel sitting for these many months and time for some annual maintenance, I thought this would be a good time to share preparing our RV for a trip.
RV roof inspection
Owning an RV for 10 years, we’ve learned from experience (not always positive) to give the roof a thorough inspection. I look at all the roof seams that have lap sealant, and check the plastic skylight and roof vents for cracks. It never fails that after a year of travel, there are locations in the lap sealant that crack or separate the will allow water to intrude. A few minutes of inspection and follow up with a little lap sealant will prevent leaks and worse, damage to the RV roof and ceiling.
Cleaning a very dirty 5th wheel
We had a heavy travel scheduled planned for the year, with the July 1 injury everything stopped. We parked a dirty 5th wheel only to get worse from dirt and pollen along with the road scum hardening on the surface. Our next step for preparing our RV for a trip was to give the 5th wheel a good scrub.
It takes us around 3 hours to wash the external surfaces of our 5th wheel. The roof had gone from a bright white to an ugly gray and black. Aside from it dirty appearance, a dark roof adsorbs the sun and doesn’t reflect causing unwanted heat. Our roof is PVC and when clean reflects the sun and reduces the hot temperatures in the 5th wheel.
We don’t use a pressure washer. I don’t have an issue with those who have pressure washer skills, I don’t. I prefer to use a large, soft bristle car wash brush. Also, harsh detergents such as Dawn or similar products can cause damage to the RV surface finish stripping the wax and causing premature oxidation. I’ve had good success using Meguiar’s M4364 Marine/RV Boat Wash. A large bottle will last several years and I use on our F-350 too.
Tow vehicle tire inspection
Having experienced two RV tire blow outs during our early RV travels, I never start a long trip without inspecting the condition of our tires and tire pressure. We also use TST tire monitoring on our 5th wheels and F-350 to watch for changes in temperatures and pressure that could result in a blow out while traveling.
We always follow the tire pressures recommended by the RV and tire manufacturer. These are posted on the side or inside the doorway of the RV and on the side of the tire. Under or over inflating the tires can cause excessive tire pressure or over heating and result in failure.
We also inspect the condition of the tires. We look for damage to the sidewalls or the treads resulting for pot holes or other road hazards. We check the bead next to the rim. We look for cracks, defects or any indication of dry rot. If found, we have the tires replaced.
Also check the tire lugs to ensure each are tight. You can find the manufacturer axle recommendations for lugs online.
Failing to inspect and remedy RV tire issues can cause failure and when these tires blow, they destroy the sides of the RV and can blow holes in the floor.
Tow vehicle hitch and tires
For those that have a tow vehicle, the hitch should be inspected at least once a year. This included both 5th wheel and camper hitches. Inspect and tighten all the bolts. Look for cracks or failed welds in the hitch, tongue or pin. Lube the hitch per manufacturers recommendations.
For those of us who tow 5th wheels and have older trucks without the puck system, check the bolts connecting the rails to the frame. Make sure all are tight to the brackets and frame.
Those miscellaneous tasks before travel
There are a number of small, yet important tasks to perform before RV travel and more so if the RV has been sitting for a period of time. In the video below, I share our steps for each as they relate to our needs and may be helpful as you prepare for your travels.
If you need more information about the products used in the video, we have provided helpful links below.
Our thanks to Brooklyn Bedding who sponsored today’s video. Go to https://rvmattress.com/ilovervlife and use discount code “ilovervlife” for 25% off any mattress.
Not sure about what RV accessories you need as you start RV travel?
Check out our RV Accessories page where we have listed a wide range of products from essential items to those “nice to have” RV products to make RV life more enjoyable. Every item listed is being used or has been used by Joan and I as we’ve traveled across the country in our RV.
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Soar through the trees or descend into huge caverns during a visit to Bigfoot Adventure RV Park and Campground in Tracy, Tennessee.
The park is part of the 500-acre Bigfoot Adventure, which includes disc golf, zipline courses, and hiking trails that snake through the beautiful countryside. For families, Bigfoot Adventure is a fantastic destination for wholesome fun.
Camp on the Cumberland Plateau
Bigfoot Adventure sits on the Southern Cumberland Plateau, a range that runs through Tennessee and consists of gorges, waterfalls, sandstone outcropping, and deep-cut valleys. Much of the terrain is carpeted by pine, hickory, and oak trees, resulting in the kinds of vistas that make Tennessee such a popular travel destination.
Bigfoot Adventure RV Park & Campground
The RV park gives guests all the amenities they’ll need for a fun stay. Camp in one of the 35 pull-through RV spaces that measure 40×80 feet. Twenty-six sites gravel sites include a picnic table, lawn area, and fire pit. Nine grass sites provide water and power; the area can be used for tent camping as well. Eighteen sites provide full hookups. The park is dog-friendly and includes a dump station. The park offers a bathhouse and showers.
Onsite Fun
The park’s eight zipline courses send riders through towering trees and over the ponds at nearby Baggenstoss Farms. Experienced zipline instructors ensure that participants ride safely and have a great time.
Bigfoot Adventure RV Park & Campground has eight zipline courses.
Competitive campers can hone their hand-eye coordination at the 9-hole disc golf course, which weaves through the expansive grounds. Send your disc gliding into one of the disc golf “baskets” for the win.
Hiking and Casting
Guests will discover hiking and biking trails suited to every level. Take in breathtaking views and take selfies or group shots in front of the Bigfoot Waterfall. If you prefer relaxing on a body of water, the catch-and-release fishing pond lets guests cast and reel in a beautiful environment.
Get Into Games
On the lush green grass, the RV park offers lots of lawn games for guests. Try your hand at cornhole and horseshoes; you can rent a cornhole game to take back to your campsite.
Bigfoot Adventure has lots of games for kids.
Beyond the RV Park
Bigfoot Adventure makes it easy to enjoy the Caverns, a nearby musical venue that’s located in a voluminous underground amphitheater. Hop aboard the shuttle that visits the park and enjoy the show. Time your visit for CaveFest, a country music extravaganza that runs for three days in October.
The Caverns hosts major concerts.
You don’t need to be a music fan to enjoy this subterranean environment. Take a walking tour and visit an underground room three football fields long. Take the challenging Adventure to go even deeper.
Top Trails
The Fiery Gizzard Trail to Raven’s Point is a 9.6-mile loop trail that leads hikers to spectacular views of rock formations, cascading streams, waterfalls, and panoramic overlooks in South Cumberland State Park. It’s a fairly rigorous hike, with a steep ascent to the Dog Hole Trail. But the views from Raven’s Point are worth it.
For trails that involve high-powered engines, head to Coalmont OHV Park, for trails that are suitable for jeeps, motorcycles, and other off-highway vehicles. Other nearby attractions range from the Dixie Diner — a wholesome eatery serving stacks of pancakes and biscuits and gravy — to the Lone Rock Trail, which leads hikers to remnants of the region’s robust coal mining industry.
Harvesting Memories at Baggenstoss
As part of Bigfoot Adventure, Baggenstoss Farms is an ideal spot for hosting events or weddings. The rustic setting is perfect for special gatherings and occasions.