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The RV Doctor
Gary Bunzer, the RV Doctor, has answers to your questions about RV maintenance and repair.
Boondocking
Learn where to stay and what to do without utility hookups.
RV Videos
Do you like TV? Do you like RVing? Then check in here for the latest and greatest online videos.
RV Doctor Videos
Learn how to maintain and repair your RV by watching this short, free online videos from Gary Bunzer, the RV Doctor.
Fulltime RVer
Articles, information and advice about RVing full-time.
The RV Shrink
Get advice to make your life better, especially as it applies to RVing, from our resident RV psychologist.
RV Arizona: News, information and travel tips for RVers who travel in Arizona.
RV Tech Tips: Our RVtravel.com bloggers provide helpful advice to make your RV and its systems perform better.
RVing California
News, information and travel tips for RVers who travel in California.
RV Short Stops
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The RV Kitchen
Recipes, tips and techniques to help you prepare healthy meals within the confines of a small space.
RVs in the News
"Concentrated RV news." Practical, useful, and breaking news on RV issues.
Motorhomes on Fire: See videos of motorhomes burning -- reminders to keep your RV in good repair to avoid having yours burn, too.
RVing Quartzsite, Arizona
Keep up-to-date with what's happening in the winter snowbird capital.
Weird RVs
If it's an RV and it's weird, wacky or oddly wonderful, you'll find it here.
RVing Florida
If you travel in Florida with an RV, check in here.
Truck Camper news
News, information and advice for owners of truck campers.
Chuck Woodbury's Roadside Journal
Sometimes serious, sometimes silly, Chuck Woodbury has developed a
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RVing Alaska
Keep up with the latest news of interest about RVing in the Last Frontier.
RV Wheel Life
Veteran RV reporter Julianne Crane keeps you up-to-date with news and
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RV Tech Tips with Mark Polk
A veteran RV technician, gives useful tips and advice.
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Weekend of May 12 & 13, 2007
Issue 275 of RV Travel. Learn about RV camping, RV travel, RV news and much more. This newsletter is funded through sales at RVbookstore.com, the World's Largest RV Bookstore specializing in books and DVDs about RVs and the RV lifestyle.
To ensure you continue to receive email alerts for this newsletter, please place the following email address in your own email address book: rvtraveler@topica.email-publisher.com
 New edition just in!
Casino Camping: Guide to RV-Friendly Casinos
This is the best casino guide for RVers. Learn which casinos have RV parks or offer free overnight stays. Plus information about other casino benefits for RVers. Learn more or order.
Editor's Corner
By Chuck Woodbury
My parents have been visiting for a week. They drove from northern California in their Class B motorhome. In their mid-80s, they are still avid RVers, although they spend far less time on the road than they once did.
A Class B motorhome is the smallest of motorhomes -- basically a van conversion. But, boy, have I been impressed with their unit! It's packed with everything they need including double bed, microwave, TV, bathroom with shower, kitchen, dinette and even a generator. It's tight quarters, for sure, but for them it's the perfect way to travel. They downsized a few years ago from a 35-foot Class A motorhome. My mother felt squeezed at first. But now she seems at home in the small RV.
The 1996 Leisure Travel motorhome is only 19 feet long, and it fits into virtually any campsite and can be used as a second vehicle at home. My father told me he gets about 14 highway miles per gallon with the Dodge 318 gas engine -- pretty darn good for an RV.
Watching them go about their lives in this small unit got me thinking about getting a Class B motorhome of my own someday.
Contest updates: $216 up for grabs!
Our Pot of Gold Contest cash prize is now $66, and the cash prize is now up to $150 in our Your Name is Money contest. You could be our next winner. Check in weekdays on both contests to see if you're a winner.
 FREE SHIPPING at RV Bookstore
To celebrate six years in business, we are offering free shipping on all orders over $49 through the end of May (USA addresses only). So stock up now on all the RV books and DVDs you need, at our already low prices -- and SAVE!
Government issues RV recalls
The Nati onal Highway Transportation Safety Administration has issued recalls on a number of RVs for April, 2007 including motorhomes, travel trailers and fifth wheels from Keystone, Tiffin, Winnebago, Jayco and others.
The Greatest RV Rally in the World!
It's the sheer fun of it. It's breathtaking scenery at The Rally site-Redmond, Oregon. It's learning new things. Fabulous entertainment, hilarious contests and an attempt to break a World Record - that's what The Rally 2007 is about - and a whole lot more! All Roads Lead to Redmond. Learn more.
Why move from a 5th-wheel to a motorhome?
Which is better for full-time RVing--a fifth-wheel or a motorhome? And should you buy new or used? The answers, of course, depend on individual needs and preferences. Blogger and full-timer Jim Twamley just switched from a fifth-wheel to a motorhome. In this post, he explains why.
Don't neglect the second most important step in buying an RV
The most important aspect of the RV-buying process is, of course, which unit to get. But what's the second most important step? And what should you be doing while this second step is in progress? Paying close attention to this step can save you tons of trouble later on. Click here for the answers .
 RV Owner's Manual -- Only $9.95
This is a comprehensive reference source for owners of motorhomes, trailers, truck campers and other RVs. It features information on care and maintenance, LP-gas systems, on-board appliances, potable water system, generator, battery charging, safety, water drainage systems, winterization and storage, load distribution, tow equipment, and there�s even a checklist to use when setting off on a trip. You will not find a better bargain than this book. Only $9.95! Learn more or order.
News report gives one indication of RV industry's health
Slow sales and cutbacks at some RV manufacturing plants have made the news recently, but is the RV industry unhealthy overall? Read this report and decide for yourself. 2008 Winnebago View, Itasca Navion sport changesThe fuel-efficent Winnebago View and Itasca Navion Class C motorhomes sport some changes for 2008 including a new and improved Dodge Sprinter chassis that features a more powerful engine, as well as an optional gas engine. Read more.
 Wal-Marts "No Park" directory NOW ONLY $1.98!
Most Wal-Mart stores allow RVers in self-contained RVs to stay overnight for free in their parking lots. But many do not! Pack along this handy directory of stores that prohibit overnight stays. Retail price: $4.95. Now only $1.98.
Software program helps RVers keep track of expenses
Keeping track of expenses on an RV trip is sound policy for all of us. Take a look at this cost-analysis software program that runs on your cell phone and displays information about where your money is going .
Zoom, zoom! RVers, get your kicks at this Corvette showplace
Many RVers are old enough to remember the glory days of the Chevy Corvette, an American cultural icon and a fixture on the TV road series, "Route 66." If the car is on your list of favorites, here's a destination you'll want to add to your RV itinerary .
Allstate Motor Club: Relax and Enjoy the Ride
When you benefit from 24/7 emergency roadside assitance, exclusive club discounts and custom trip planning services, it's no wonder Allstate Motor Club members feel good hitting the road. Learn more.
DID YOU KNOW?
RVers favorite "road" music? When they are on the road in their RVs, more RVtravel.com readers listen to music on CDs than listen to a traditional radio station. But a surprising number now listen to satellite radio. See the complete results of our survey.
Why is this RV dealer superior in customer satisfaction?
What makes one RV dealer better than another in terms of customer satisfaction? Blogger Jim Twamley, who's worked with many RV dealers over the years, gives an A-plus grade to a dealer that just sold him a motorhome. Read why.
Should you carry bikes on the front of the RV, on the back, or...?
Bikes come in handy on an RV trip for recreation and local transportation. But unless you have a toy hauler, you'll probably have to carry them somewhere on the outside of your rig. Blogger Russ De Maris offers several carrying options.
Explorer RV Insurance
Owners of motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels and medium duty tow vehicles save up to 15% over our largest competitors by tailoring their coverage from over a dozen options. Learn more or get a quote.
Sell or keep the house? Full-timers must decide
One of the most important decisions RVers planning to go full-time must make is whether to sell or hang onto their house or condo. For some insights into the matter, click here.
RVers finding fewer overnighting spots along Interstate
RVers who like to save money by overnighting at rest areas and truck stops on the interstate might have more trouble finding an empty space these days. Read why.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Did you miss last week's RV Travel newsletter? Read it here.
Pot of Gold Contest
Information about the contest is now in the right-hand margin of this newsletter.
2007 RV Show Schedule: Learn about RV shows through September, 2007. Check in here to learn when shows will be held in your area.
Flag Pole Buddy
A new innovative design in a ladder mounted flag bracket. Includes a 3x5 American flag. The new bracket allows you to raise and lower your flag in seconds. Includes a 12 foot aluminum pole that folds down to 6 feet & withstands the harshest desert winds. Learn more..
New arrivals at RV Bookstore. Click here.
Postcard of the Week
Wow! Wait until you see what is on the bed of the truck pictured on this postcard. You won't believe it! But then again, should you? We will give you a hint and say the cargo is an agricultural product -- something that you eat -- but in this particular case it is, well. . . a bit large! Take a peek.
RV entrepreneurs must meet some requirements
For many RVers who work on the road, selling your own products or services right from your RV offers more freedom and appeal than working for somebody else. But such self-employment comes with some legal requirements you might not have considered. Read work camping expert Jaimie Hall's precautions .
Boondockers, use this to recharge battery-powered appliances
When you're boondocking away from shore power, you don't have to fire up your RV generator to recharge small battery-powered appliances such as a power drill. Here's a better way.
Great Reading in our RV Travel Blogs
FEATURED BLOG: RVing in Canada: If you plan to travel to Canada with your RV -- or if you're a Canadian who travels in your own country, you will find an RV-load of great travel ideas and other useful information in Peggi McDonald's blog RVing Canada.
See the complete lineup of RV Travel blogs
Tour the World's most energy-efficient RV!
Being green is politically correct for RVers these days. After all, the efficient use of energy and space is in everyone's best interest. So watch this short video of a "green" RV to see if you can pick up a few tips for use in your own rig.
Poulsbo RV: A truly national RV dealer.
Traditionally big savings for our customers
Browse and shop from the comfort of your own home. Or call us at 888-538-9400. When you are ready to buy, our dedicated professionals will fit the RV of your dreams to your budget. Our customers come from all over the USA. Financing? We make it easy. Want to trade? Tell us! Visit the PoulsboRV.com online showroom.
Try this RVer's method for lining up your 5th-wheel
For fifth-wheel RVers, a perennial challenge is lining up the king pin with the tow vehicle's hitch. Here's a method one RVer uses. What do you think?
Here's where to catch the big ones on an Alaska RV trip
RVers who plan to do some fishing on a trip in Alaska might wonder just where to go for the big ones. Ron Dalby, a long-time Alaska resident and editor of our blog RVing Alaska, answers that question here .
RVer says this place is for the birds!
Want better internet connection on the road? Check this out
Scott Koegler, editor of our blog The Digital RVer, has found a useful product that promises to enhance wi fi reception at RV parks and other places RVers try to connect to the Internet. If getting online is important to you, this might be a worthwhile investment .
Mmmm! RV cooks, give this recipe a try
Here's a delicious dish for the whole RV family. You can prepare it inside or out, and it tastes great reheated for leftovers. Enjoy!
 In Tennessee, the stage is set for you!
Let your interests be your guide to vacationing in Tennessee. Finalize your outings and hammer out all the driving details - all online. Once you have made your selections and built your vacation, forget your worries and stress. Come unwind in Tennessee.
Check out our RV Travel Forum discussions
I bought a backup camera system and need information
I finally bought a backup camera system for my motorhome and although I haven't installed it yet, I do want to make sure that both the camera and monitor are working. Of course there are no instructions with the system. Can anyone help?
Generator in high altitudes
My Onan won't run in high altitude (9,500 feet) even with high altitude set for 10,000 feet. It runs perfect in low altitude (Houston) even under full load. It blows black smoke, then dies. Generator is 4KW and three years old. How do I get it to run in mountains?
Alaska caravan: Good idea or not?
I was looking at different escorted trips to Alaska. They seem very expensive. I was wondering if anyone who paid the $5,000 plus dollars was satisfied with the itinerary and service. Would you do it again or go it alone?
Coolest place in the East
Warm days and cool nights. Not many bugs. Water would be great. I would want lots of shade and walking trails. Price is an object. I also want a bargain. Any ideas for camping in June through August?
Shock absorbers
Our motorhome is a '96 F-53 chassis with 60,000 miles. I know it's past due for new shocks but I don't want to stiffen the ride too much. I know from car experience this can happen with the wrong choice. What brand will give me the original ride with better handling?
Visit the FreeCampgrounds.com forum
Cross that bridge BEFORE you get to it with CoPilot!
CoPilot is the award-winning GPS navigation system trusted by thousands of RV owners on the road today. With a quick installation on your laptop, CoPilot�s great views and clearly spoken turn-by-turn directions provide worry-free route guidance to any destination nationwide. Learn more about CoPilot GPS systems here.
Coupon service helps RVers save money
What RVer doesn't like to save money? Here's a coupon program you may not know about. Although the post is on our Military RVing blog, the service is open to civilians as well as to military personnel. Check it out.
Casino RV park may be better gamble than parking lot
For convenience and security, some RVers who enjoy gambling prefer a site in a casino's RV park, if available, to the no-facilities parking lot. But the RV park adds a lot of expense to the overall stay, doesn't it? Not necessarily. Read how you might actually come out ahead financially in the casino's RV park.
Are your RV tires over the hill?
RVtravel.com has featured several articles lately about RV tire safety. It's a critical issue for RVing, one that can't be overstated. Here's a reminder about how to make sure your tires aren't outdated.
Hear a hilarious RV song
Hear a cut from RVer/singer Cliff Boyd's "Waltzing Through Wal-Mart," a hilarious spoof of RVers staying the night in Wal-Mart parking lots. Or order his best selling album of RV songs. A great gift! Hear the song and learn more about the CD album.
Bumper Snicker
Make it idiot proof and someone will make a better idiot.
Don't miss this treat if you're RVing in Canada
RVers who plan to travel in Canada this summer have a spectacular treat awaiting them in Churchhill, Manitoba. This is a side trip well worth taking. Bring your camera! Click here for info.
New solution for RV wood rot seems effective
If your RV's structure has wood in it, you might have to deal with wood rot someday, particularly if you spend much time in wet climates. Blogger Russ De Maris discovered rot in the wooden roof frame of a newly acquired truck camper, and he believes he found a product that solves the problem.
Wonder what there is to do along Hwy 95 in Nevada?
Horseback Riding- Air Shows- Outdoor Boxing- POW WOWS- Craft Shows- Community Picnics- Chili Cook-Offs- National Parks- Desert Wildflower Arrays- Sand Dunes- Prospecting- Antelope-Meteorite Hunting- Off-Roading- Star Gazing- Bicycling- Wild Burros- Rural Celebrations- Fine Dining- Gaming- Museums- ...and much, much more. Find all your options here!
Worth Pondering
"You don't stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing." -- Michael Pritchard
RV Travel staff
Editor and Publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Contributors: Russ and Tina De Maris, Gerry Bruder, Jim Twamley, Jaimie Hall. Forum Administrator: Adrienne Kristine. Office Manager: Jody Allcott. Fulfillment Manager: Erin Hanson. Web Operations Guru: Zoey Platt. Clapper Loader: Emily Woodbury. Stress Relief: Mikey the long, slender and low-riding office dog.
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally get something wrong. We're just human! So don't go spending $10,000 on something we said was good just because we said so, or fixing something like we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake. So be sure to check things out.
At RVbookstore.com we strive for excellence in all we do and that's the honest truth (as opposed to the dishonest truth). Our customers receive really, really fast service. We move so fast in sending out a customer's order that sometimes we pass through the sound barrier, which really upsets our neighbors. Our motto is "You need it so we speed it," and no truer words were ever spoken!
RVbookstore.com and RVtravel.com are members of the Better Business Bureau. We are proud commercial members of the Escapees, the Family Motor Coaching Association and a sponsor of the 2007 Life On Wheels Conferences.
RV Travel is copyright 2007 by RVbookstore.com. Our International Headquarters: RVbookstore.com, 170 W. Dayton Street, Suite 103, Edmonds WA 98020, USA, Earth, Milky Way, Known Universe, Unknown Universe.
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