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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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Resources and sponsors

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Buying An RV?
You must read the new book "RV Buyers Survival Guide." Learn how much an RV dealer makes on each sale. Learn how low an offer you can make and still get the RV! Written by an RV sales manager, who reveals insider secrets. Read more.

2004 Trailer life Directory

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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RV Checklists
New ebook provides 25 checklists for RVers. Superb!

Tow your trailer or 5th wheel Smoother, Safer, Stronger
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Camp for free or nearly free on government lands of the Southwest
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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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Inflatable Boats for RVers
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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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Half Price Camping for RVers: The Happy Camper Club offers its members half-price camping at more than 700 RV parks in the US and Canada. A one year membership is $49.95, and there are no contracts or hidden fees. Read more


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How to earn $50,000 a year
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RV Traveler #84
November 9, 2003
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ARE YOUR TIRES IN DANGER OF PREMATURE FAILURE?
Don't risk a dangerous premature tire failure or costly tread
separation. Learn how to prevent moisture from leaching into
your tires' steel belts while parked or in storage. Featured in
FMCA, Trailer Life. Call 888-290-5583 or click here.


This issue's email circulation: 59,012

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FROM CHUCK WOODBURY
editor, http://www.RVtraveler.com

Greetings and welcome to yet another adventure in RV
e-journalism from a guy whose auto license plate frame
reads "My other car is a motorhome." It's an excellent
complement to my RV's bumper sticker, "Don't Tailgate Or
I'll Flush." However, that one often gets less attention than
my other one that reads, "Custer Wore An Arrow Shirt."
But I am pulling your leg, because these items are not on
my bumper at all, just in my private collection of roadside
memorabilia.

But enough about me. I would like to talk about you.
Through our weekly reader survey, I'm learning a lot
about you and the other 59,000 readers of this newsletter.
I know, for example, that three-quarters of you spend more
than a month a year traveling in your RV. A whopping 40%
of you spend at least three months a year on the road. Only
a quarter of you spend less than a month a year in your RV.

And the more time an RVer spends traveling, the higher
interest he or she has in learning more about a life on the
road, not just camping. In our very first RV Travel survey,
I learned that two-thirds of you consider yourself RVers
and not campers, the latter of whom are often part-timers
who use their RV for short family vacations.

Living in an RV for a long period is much different than taking
one out for a 10-day spin to Yellowstone. Couples who enjoy
each other's company in a small space for a week may have
difficulty doing so for three months. One RVer wrote recently
about this, noting that escaping to the bathroom -- often the only
"other" room in an RV -- is not an effective way to experience
time alone. Actually, I know all about this.

My wife, daughter and I once spent four months traveling the
USA in our 24-foot Class C motorhome. My daughter was only
two at the time and a joy to be with. But my wife and I, like any
couple, found that 24 feet of living space got excessively small on
occasion. She and I did, in fact, have a few serious discussions
during our trip (okay, arguments. . .). And so we spent a little
time in the only private space in our RV -- the bathroom -- to
sort out our feelings away from the object of our temporary
displeasure.

Our bathroom, however, has only two square feet of floor
space, which is far too little for pacing. And so the options
were to stand in the shower, which was ridiculous, or sit on the
pot and ponder what brilliant comeback we could mount to help the
other person see the light. In our case, after perhaps five to ten
minutes, the obvious solution became very clear: There was no
light to see. The best solution was to simply reappear and say,
"Hi, my love, how ya been?" or perhaps pose a non-emotionally
charged question like "Honey, which barbecue sauce should we
use for tonight's grilling experience?"

This technique worked fairly well, although in one case — I think
perhaps the worst case — the motel next door offered a far better
solution. This was, of course, after a very heated discussion where
I (of course) was so very, very right and my wife was so very,
very wrong. At a time like this, a retreat to a bathroom may
not be a powerful enough escape mechanism.

So my wife and daughter marched off to the motel and I remained in
the RV, a very unhappy camper but at least one not self-banished
to the pot behind the door. The next day, we resumed our trip and
everything was fine. Time does heal.

What I am saying here is that any couple that spends extended
time in an RV should probably accept that a visit to the bathroom
for non-traditional purposes may be expected now and then.
While it may not be the greatest place for emotional healing, the
bathroom does have a door, and sometimes being behind a door
is a very good thing.


NEW WEBSITE FOR FULL TIMERS
Are you a full time RVer or aspire to be? Then visit
Full Time RVer, which you will like very much. Be sure to
sign up for the free email newsletter, too.

LAST WEEK'S READER SURVEY
We asked "Is your present RV too big, too small or
just right?" Here is how you answered based on more
than 1,300 responses.
Too big — 5%
Too small — 25%
Just right — 67%
Don't own an RV — 3%

This week's survey
OF YOUR HOBBIES, WHERE DOES RVing RANK IN IMPORTANCE?
Tell us what you think or read a tally of reader responses.

EDITOR'S FAVORITE PHOTOS
This week's selection: Funny gas stations. When you fill up
at these places you get a laugh along with your fuel.


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

CANADA RV WINTER CAMPGROUND GUIDE
Many Canadian RVers head south for the winter, but not all.
And some folks even head north. For RVers who plan to camp
this winter in Canada, here is a superb, nearly unbelievably
useful guide -- a directory of every campground and RV park
in Canada that's open for winter camping
. And the information
is all right on the Web and all free.

CALIFORNIA MAN LUCKY TO BE ALIVE AFTER TRAILER EXPLODES
Once again, propane reveals its ugly site. For this man its abuse
almost catapulted him to the great trailer park in the sky. When
he lit the stove for dinner, he got more than he bargain for —
the propane exploded, throwing him outside (lucky for him), sending
his trailer flying in itsy bits every which way. More.

LEARN ABOUT PROPANE AND PROPANE HEATERS
Propane is colorless, odorless, non-toxic and heavier than
air. Sounds just about ideal, doesn’t it? It is, except for
one bad habit. If it leaks, it will run down and collect in
low spots and if there's a spark, it explodes. 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.

OREGON GOVERNOR GETS POSH MOTORHOME
The President of the United States does his traveling in Air
Force One. And beginning soon Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski
will be doing his romping around the state in what's being
dubbed "Motorhome One." Learn more about the high-class,
high tech way the Governor will be cruising his state's
highways.

RV PARKS WITH WIRELESS INTERNET ACCESS

New parks added weekly
TAKING YOUR RETIREMENT ON THE ROAD

More than 1 million Americans have pulled up stakes, sold
homes and hit the road in RVs to travel, see family and
even work part-time. It's easier than ever in an age of
cell phones and satellites, but is it the lifestyle for you?

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.

BASS FISHING INFO APLENTY
If you like to fish and you like to fish for bass in particular,
then it's almost certain you will love this website.

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


WINNEBAGO IN AUSTRALIA

Did you know that Winnebago is the number one motorhome
manufacturer in Australia? See what an Aussie version
of a Winnebago looks like
, learn about the motorhomes,
and see the RVs being made in the Sydney factory.

WEBCAM: Custer's Last Stand
See a live photo of the last place on earth than General
George Armstrong Custer saw when he was defeated and
killed at the Battle of the Little Bighorn.

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.

Best-selling books and videos about RVing

RV TRAVELING TALES:
WOMEN'S JOURNEYS ON THE OPEN ROAD

Women who travel by RV tell about their lives. Superb!

THE NEXT EXIT 2003
Learn what stores and services are located at every Interstate exit.

'CAMPING' AT WAL-MART HOME VIDEO AND DVD
Documentary film interviews RVers 'camping' at Wal-Mart

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!

CAMPING WITH THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS
Describes more than 900 campgrounds across the USA managed by the
Corps of Engineers. A fabulous resource! Seniors camp for half-price.

DON WRIGHT'S GUIDE TO FREE CAMPGROUNDS
Two editions, Eastern USA and Western USA. Lists all free and under
$12 campgrounds including those far off the beaten path.

MOTORHOMES MADE EASY, TRAILERS MADE EASY
These two books explain how to use everything on a motorhome
or trailer (or 5th wheel). And what a bargain at only $8.95 each!

VIDEO: DELIVERING MOTORHOMES TO RV DEALERS FOR PROFIT

THE ABCs OF RVing (
Also available as an instant ebook)
A primer for new RVers written by Chuck Woodbury. Lots of info!

GUIDE TO NATIONAL PARK SERVICE CAMPGROUNDS
An awesome directory of campgrounds in National Parks

2003 GUIDE TO REST AREAS
Plus locations of Wal-Mart, Flying J, etc.
Only $9.95

MOUNTAIN PASS GUIDE, WEST AND EAST EDITIONS
Ever get surprised by a steep or narrow road on a mountain pass?
Don't be surprised again. These guides tell you everything you need to
know about driving over 700 mountain passes in the USA.

VIDEO: ROCKY MOUNTAINS BY RV
Visit Yellowstone, Tetons, Glacier and Rocky Mountain Nat. Parks

MOVING' ON: LIVING AND TRAVELING FULL TIME IN AN RV
Essential reading for full-timers or those who want to be.

SUPPORT YOUR RV LIFESTYLE
AN INSIDER'S GUIDE TO WORKING ON THE ROAD

A superb guide about find work as your travel by RV.

RV WATCH DOG
Don't get taken on an RV repair job. Learn the scams that shady
repair shops pull. Plus tons of great advice about RV repair.

VIDEO: TOP 40 RV CAMPING TIPS
RV experts Joe and Vicki Kieva reveal some very clever
ideas to save RVers time, money and hassles.

ENCYCLOPEDIA FOR RVers II
Covers everything the RVer needs to know from A to Z

QUARTZSITE HOME VIDEO AND DVD
Take an armchair visit to the RV Boondocking Capital of the West
on VHS home video or DVD

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)

HOW TO GET PAID $50,000 A YEAR TO DELIVER MOTORHOMES

2003 RVer's FRIEND
Learn what services America's truck stops offer RVers. Best Seller!

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
Seen in Kanab, Utah: "Homer, Alaska — Nice little drinking
town with a fishing problem." Have you seen a good one?
Email it to Chuck Woodbury at outwest@seanet.com .

RVs IN THE NEWS

GAMEL RV NAMED TOP FLEETWOOD DEALER

BLUE BIRD MOVES TO MORE COMPETITIVE MARKET

TWO ARRESTED WHEN METH LAB FOUND IN WINNEBAGO

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
About the RV toilet: "Keep the lid closed to prevent foreign
objects from falling in. It is a major job to retrieve
anything from the holding tank."

MOTORHOME REVIEW
2004 Coach House Platnium Class C motorhome

FLEETWOOD TRAVEL TRAILER REVIEWS
Read reviews of 17 Fleetwood trailers by their users.

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!
E-BOOKS
Read online or print out

RVers GUIDE TO INTERNET ACCESS ON THE ROAD
How to get online from your RV using dial up services,
cell phones, WiFi, Pocketmail, via satellite and more.
NEW

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.

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.


RV TECH CORNER with Mark Polk
QUESTION: How much LP does an RV hold?
ANSWER: Determining this can be a bit confusing. People often
refer to LP gas in gallons and/or pounds. You may have heard
somebody say that the gas cylinders on their travel trailer
are 30 lb. cylinders, or they may say their cylinders hold
7 gallons apiece. One gallon of LP gas weighs 4.26 pounds.
The typical BBQ grill uses a 20 lb. cylinder, so at 80% full
it would hold 3.75 gallons of LP gas. All LP gas cylinders and
tanks are only filled to 80% of their capacity to allow for
expansion when the temperature around the container rises.

Mark Polk is the host of the RV Education 101 series of RV
"how to" videos. Learn from Mark how to WINTERIZE an RV:


RV INFORMATION AND RESOURCES

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

WORK WHILE YOU TRAVEL BY RV

RV RECALLS

FLORIDA RVer

RV PARKS WITH WI-FI ACCESS

THIS WEEK'S RV SHOWS
UPCOMING USA RV SHOWS, RALLIES, SEMINARS
CANADA RV SHOWS


WORTH PONDERING
"I'm not overweight. I'm just nine inches too short." — Shelly Winters


RANDOM RV THOUGHT
This is for guys: "Here is a way to please your wife and yourself,
too. When your wife tells you that your favorite shirt is so worn
that you should 'throw it away,' don't do it. Just walk out to
your RV and put it in the closet. It may not be good enough for
wearing at home or work, but it will be plenty good for wearing
at the campground." 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.

ABOUT THE EDITOR
Chuck Woodbury has been roaming America by RV off and on
for nearly two decades. During that time he published a
quirky travel newspaper about his adventures and was a
member of the stable of writers for the New York Times
Syndicate. Nowadays, he lives near Seattle where he drinks
coffee (required by law) and travels when he can in his
motorhome and sometimes by plane when vast expanses of
saltwater are involved.

Advertise in this newsletter. Reach 59,000 RVers next Sunday.

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