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RVers Guide to Internet Access On The Road
New ebook explains the many options dial up, cell phones, WiFi, Pocketmail, satellite, etc.
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Beginners Guide to RVing
Advice and information for beginning RVers and others thinking of taking up the recreational vehicle lifestyle.
Magazine is dedicated to RV travel in the West
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Exciting Jobs for RVers!
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Free RV Camping in the West
FreeCampgrounds.com is a directory of free RV campgrounds in the American West. These are often in small town city parks. Plus information on camping at casinos, truck stops, Wal-Mart and on U.S. public lands.
Pop Up Trailer Enthusiasts: Pop Up Times is the only magazine serving owners and would-be owners of folding camping trailers. Subscribe today for only $11.98. And check out our new "Pop Up 101" home video".
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Magazines for RVers
Get Trailer Life and Motorhome at the lowest prices. Plus, learn about other RV magazines RV Companion, RV Journal, Pop Up Times, Gypsy Journal, RV Traveler and more.
Campground directory for owners of large motorhomes and fifth wheels
This wonderful directory lists RV parks where big rig motorhomes and towables can stay. Know ahead of time that the park where you are headed can accommodate your rig.
Dummies Guide to Buying a Used RV
Buying a used RV? Order this downloadable book. Written by a veteran RV service technician. Learn what to look for in a used RV. Read it and help avoid huge repair bills later! "Essential!
Complete Guide To: RV Towing, Weights, Hitch Work & Backing
Ebook discusses concerns about towing, weights, hitch work and backing.
Best RV Club for Fulltimers!
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Campground Guide for King-Sized RVs
Expanded for 2003.
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RV Traveler #77
September 21, 2003
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INTRODUCING NEW SHELL/SIEMENS 75 WATT RV SOLAR PANEL KIT
New model SQ75 + charge control + mount brackets for $388 to
9/24... Reg. $479. 2 panel kits $719... Up to 24 kwh/mo of free
clean power. No fuel, noise or carbon monoxide, 800-222-0017.
This issue's email circulation: 57,051
This newsletter brought to you by
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FROM CHUCK WOODBURY
editor, http://www.RVtraveler.com
I really hit a hot button when I pleaded ignorance last issue
to knowing anything about restrictions about traveling with
propane tanks through tunnels, over bridges and on some roads.
Nearly 150 of you wrote to tell me of various locations
where RVs are either not allowed because they carry propane
or where the propane must be turned off in order to
pass. Thanks to all of you who wrote, and I apologize
for not answering you personally.
Most of the restrictions you noted are in the East,
and maybe that's why this Westerner isn't up to speed on
this subject. But there were a good number of areas in
the West. Here in Puget Sound where I live, several
readers explained that in order to travel with an RV on a
Washington State Ferry the propane must be turned off.
Many of you suggested I check with my Trailer Life or
Woodall's camping directories, where restrictions are listed.
Others suggested I check with AAA. Some of you passed along
web sites, although I didn't find any exhaustive lists or
comprehensive discussions there. A few of you mentioned
maps or atlases aimed at truckers with good information.
Rather than go into more detail here, I will start work on an
article on this subject with a list of roads, tunnels, bridges,
etc., where you cannot pass with propane or where there
are restrictions. I'll try to have it done in a few weeks and
will let you know where you can read it.
However, in the meantime, read about how RV travel
restrictions turned one RVing couples' visit to
New York City into a three-hour nightmare.
INTERNET ACCESS ON THE RV ROAD
I am very happy to announce the publication of a brand new
e-book titled "RVers Guide to Internet Access On The Road."
Of all the questions I receive as editor of my various RV
websites, right near the top of the list is "How do I get
online while I'm traveling in my RV?"
Heavens knows it's tougher to answer as each month
passes as yet another technology comes along. Two years ago
I would have advised to get AOL and find a phone where you
could plug in your modem. But today there are many more
options. Connecting with a cell phone is hugely popular now
(as it should be), as it permits an RVer to connect right from
the comfort of his or her RV at a very reasonable cost. But what
about this new fangled "WiFi," where you can get online at
broadband speed, often from your RV or at a Starbucks,
Kinkos or even McDonalds? And then there's PocketMail, where
you don't even need a computer. And for RVers with big bucks,
there are pricey services to keep them connected via a
satellite.
This new ebook, written by RV veteran Steven Fletcher,
explains each method, its cost, and how to get it. Much of the
information is available in bits and pieces all over the Internet,
but it would take hours and hours of research to piece it all
together. I don't think there is any source that spells every-
thing out better in one easy-to-read document than Fletcher's
well-researched book. Get more information or order.
Now. . . news and information.
SUBSCRIBE TO THESE RV MAGAZINES. Best prices:
Motorhome, Trailer Life, RV Journal, RV Companion, Gypsy Journal
and Pop Up Times: http://www.NewRVer.com/rvmags.html
WEATHER PREVIEW FOR THIS WINTER
Where do you plan to spend this winter? The Old Farmer's
Almanac offers its prediction of what you can expect for
weather. We can tell you that the Southwest looks promising,
but Florida. . . well, not quite so good. Headed for Texas?
Bring a jacket. Learn more.
RV KITCHENS: BASIC TO LUXURY
No matter what size or type of RV you travel with, a focal
point is the kitchen. Here, you will prepare everything from
gourmet meals to out-of the-box macaroni and cheese. But
whatever the case, kitchens come in many shapes and sizes.
Learn about the various types and how to outfit them for
your travels.
GOOD SAM EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE
Protects you, your spouse, AND all children age 25 or younger
(living at home or attending college), your RV, AND all household
cars, SUVs, minivans, and pick-ups! Only $79.95!
50-AMP RV POWER EXPLAINED
Do you drive an RV that can take a 50-amp electrical hookup?
If so, you will benefit from reading this excellent article about
the use of 50 amp power.
DO YOU RV IN FLORIDA?
Subscribe to the free Florida RVer email newsletter. Read the
current issue or sign up.
TYPES OF RV BATTERIES
This detailed discussion of RV batteries is best read by RVers
who enjoy technical discussions. Much of the information will
go over the head of non-techies.
RV AWNING CARE
We're now heading at warp speed from the season when most
RVers use an awning to keep away sun rather than rain. Awnings,
like everything else on our rigs, need proper care and maintenance.
Here's an article with some tips.
RV PARKS WITH WI-FI INTERNET ACCESS
New parks added weekly
MEDIA QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
From Ron Judd of the Seattle Times writing about his visit
to an RV show: "Many people look at RVs with slideouts and
see extra space. We look at them and see astounding new
leak potential."
Writing about the high cost of luxury coaches, he said to his
wife: "We could drive out of here today in a new 40-foot diesel
pusher and have 'er paid off by the time our fourth dog from
now kicks the bucket." Read Judd's entire story.
ESSENTIAL READING ABOUT RVing IN ALASKA AND CANADA
Alaska By RV, Western Canada By RV, Eastern Canada By RV:
http://www.RVbookstore.com/howens.html. And don't forget the
2003 ALASKA MILEPOST DIRECTORY. If you are headed to Alaska,
Yukon Territory, BC, Alberta or NW Territories, this 55th edition
guidebook is essential. Get info or order.
NEW FORD DIESEL ENGINE UPSETTING SOME OWNERS
The 6-liter Power Stroke diesel V-8, built by a unit of
Navistar for Ford commands nearly half the U.S. market for diesel
pickups. The new engines are available in heavy-duty Ford
pickups and the Ford Excursion sport utility vehicle. However, a
raft of problems has left some owners upset. Read more.
SHOPPING FOR AN RV EXTENDED WARRANTY?
The Good Sam Club's Continued Service Plan covers your coach,
engine, appliances and accessories in your new or used
motorhome, trailer and even tow vehicle! Get an online quote.
WOMEN RVers: RVing isn't just for guys. Read more.
HOME VIDEOS HELP NEW RV OWNERS LEARN TO USE THEIR RIGS
RV Education 101 presents home videos on how to operate everything
on an RV. The VHS videos are very useful to anyone new to RVing.
Read more, view a Quicktime video clip, or order at:
Winterizing Your RV
Class A motorhome video
Class C motorhome video
Trailer/5th wheel video
Pop Up Trailer Video
RV SURGE PROTECTORS: DO YOU NEED ONE?
In this RV forum discussion the subject is RV surge protectors.
Should you own one? Maybe this question and answer
session will provide some insights.
RV FINANCING. GET A QUICK QUOTE
Financial Underwriters Network provides exceptional customer service
and exceptional interest rates. Get a quick online quote and caring service.
READER MAP-READING TIP
From RV Traveler subscriber J.L. Aldrich:
"I have discovered a helpful means of reading a map while 'on
the road.' Because my wife has no navigational skills and my
memory isn't what it used to be, I need to read a map while
driving. To make it easy, before I leave on a trip I select the
areas on a map that I wish to relate to, folding each map and
placing it into its own clear plastic 7x10 inch pocket. I hang
each pocket from a hook on the dash, removing the appropriate
one when needed. I have several pocket holders and have ready
access to each. It works great."
Best-selling books and videos about RVing
RV BUYERS SURVIVAL GUIDE (Also available as an instant ebook)
Buying an RV? You must read this first. Written by an ex-RV
sales manager who reveals all. Read this and save big money!
VIDEO: ROCKY MOUNTAINS BY RV
Visit Yellowstone, Tetons, Glacier and Rocky Mountain Nat. Parks
RV TRAVELING TALES:
WOMEN'S JOURNEYS ON THE OPEN ROAD
Women who travel by RV tell about their lives. Superb!
YOUR HOME ON WHEELS
A wonderful book for new or aspiring full-time RVers.
SURVIVAL OF THE RV SNOWBIRDS
A classic guide about "boondocking" (RVing on the cheap)
BUREAU OF RECLAMATION LAKES GUIDE
Learn what to see and do at 250 lakes in the West and Midwest.
Most of these areas have low-cost campgrounds. Only $7.95
2003 MILITARY RV CAMPING
AND OUTDOOR RECREATION DIRECTORY
If you possess a military ID card, then here's your guide to
RV parks and other recreation facilities at military installations.
MORE BOOKS, VIDEOS AND OTHER RV GOODIES
TRAILER LIFE MAGAZINE. ONE YEAR $16.00. SAVE 67%
If you only subscribe to one RV magazine, this should be it!
BUMPER SNICKER
"Some people just don't know how to drive...
I call these people 'Everybody But Me.'"
Have you seen a good one?
Email it to Chuck Woodbury at outwest@seanet.com .
RVs IN THE NEWS
ENOUGH ABOUT BABY BOOMERS: BRING ON GENERATION X
If you're older than the Baby Boomers you're probably
sick of hearing about them. If you're younger. . . ditto.
Some folks in the RV industry are urging their peers to
start looking a little further down the road. . . to when the
50 million Generation X'ers move into the RV-buying prime
demographic. The oldest of this crowd is now 40 so the
time isn't far off. Read more.
HURRICANE ISABEL SENDS RV DEALERS SCRAMBLING
JURY ORDERS THETFORD TO PAY $6 MILLION
FLEETWOOD 2004 FOLDING TRAILERS INTRODUCED
MORE RV NEWS
These articles were available when this email newsletter was issued.
HALF-PRICE CAMPING AT RV PARKS
Save 50% at more than 700 RV parks:
http://www.newrver.com/happycamper.html
BILL'S HINT:
From Motorhomes Made Easy
"Gray water dump valves may be left open when connected
to a sewer since no solids are involved."
SPEEDY EMERGENCY MEDICAL HELP WHILE TRAVELING
Sky Med transports you to your own hospital when a medical
emergency strikes when you're away from home. Special
discount for RV Traveler readers. More information.
READER LETTER
Dear Chuck,
I am looking for a traveling companion for the winter. I'm a great
cook and an self-employed. I have always wanted to try RVing
but am now a widow, fairly young, and would like to try the
RV experience with someone who knows what they are doing.
There must be people who no longer have a traveling partner
who still want to travel. Can you help? -- Deborah
Dear Deborah,
You are not alone in seeking a travel partner. Here are two
websites you should check out. Perhaps you can make a
connection through one of these.
RVing Women
Loners On Wheels
E-BOOKS
Read online or print out
ALL ABOUT CLASS A MOTORHOMES
Advice for Class A buyers about rig selection, getting a good deal, and
how to inspect a rig before taking delivery.
RV CHECKLISTS
Provides 25 checklists for RVers. Superb!
COMPLETE GUIDE TO RV TOWING,
WEIGHTS, HITCH WORK AND BACKING
This ebook discusses all these subjects and more.
RVers GUIDE TO DUMP STATIONS
Comprehensive directory of RV dump stations in the USA
RV CAMPING ON PUBLIC LANDS FOR FREE OR NEARLY FREE
GUIDE TO BUYING A USED RV (Free preview edition)
POP UP TRAILERS 101
Learn how to use a Pop Up trailers.
RV INFORMATION AND RESOURCES
RV CLASSIFIEDS
RV JOKES, HUMOR AND FUNNY PHOTOS
INFLATABLE BOATS FOR RVers
Don't tow a boat. Pump one up! Easy storage in your RV!
GUIDE TO RV CLUBS
RV RECALLS
FLORIDA RVer
COOKING IN YOUR RV KITCHEN
RV PARKS WITH WI-FI ACCESS
STATE TOURISM WEBSITES
THIS WEEK'S RV SHOWS
Atlanta Camping and RV Show, Sept. 25-28
2003 Fall RV Show, Sacramento, Sept. 25-28
Kansas City (KS) Fall RV Show, Sept. 26-28
New York State RV Show, Syracuse, Sept. 26-28
Fall RV Show and Sale, Eugene OR, Sept 26-28
UPCOMING USA RV SHOWS, RALLIES, SEMINARS
CANADA RV SHOWS
WORTH PONDERING
"If you're gonna be a failure, at least be one at something
you enjoy." Sylvester Stallone
RANDOM RV THOUGHT
"When you buy a house, you have to next buy furniture.
When you buy an RV, you get the furniture thrown in at no
extra charge." Do you have a Random RV Thought?
Email it to Chuck Woodbury at outwest@seanet.com.
The RV Traveler newsletter contains links to sites on the Internet
that are owned and operated by third parties. It is not responsible
for the availability of, or the content located on or through any
such third-party site.
This newsletter is copyrighted 2003 by Chuck Woodbury.
Advertise in this newsletter. Reach 57,000 RVers next Sunday.
PRIVACY STATEMENT:
We never sell or share any information about our readers or customers with any outside party.
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