Issue 296 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. Email alerts for this issue were sent to 72,762 readers. 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
Limited Time 50% OFF! NOW ONLY $9.95! DVD shows how to choose and buy an RV In this hour-long DVD nationally respects RVing experts Joe and Vicki Kieva outline a game-plan that helps RV shoppers target an RV that's right for them. Great advice you won't get anywhere else! Learn more or order. Hurry! Special offer ends soon. Editor's Corner
This newsletter was scheduled to be published last weekend, Oct. 6-7, but because of a technical glitch that knocked our websites offline for 48 hours, we rescheduled it for this week.
By Chuck Woodbury
I have taken possession of my new Winnebago View motorhome, and am getting it ready for its maiden voyage.
My daughter Emily and I grabbed about six boxes of stored items in my garage from my last motorhome with the idea of loading them into the appropriate nooks and crannies of the new RV. Pots, pans, towels, blankets -- and endless odds and ends were among the stash to be uploaded to the new vehicle.
Alas, this was not an easy process. Old silverware just didn't look new enough. Pots and pans looked battered and bruised. Towels didn't match the new decor. Blankets looked tired and worn. I couldn't believe it when I opened one box and found containers of food items that should have been consumed long ago, not stored.
Emily and I stared at this bounty of old stuff, and it was if there were a big question mark hovering over our respective heads. "Do we really want to keep old stuff or replace it?" we both thought. "Dad, we need to get some new pans," was just the beginning of a dialogue that basically began, "Dad we need to. . . "
So instead of packing, we just lounged in our new little mini-house and imagined we were off on a camping adventure. Emily climbed up to the upper bunk in the Class C motorhome and stretched out. "In your first motorhome you could stand up in that space," I reminded her. Her first trip, she was three months old. Now, she's 16 years old.
The bunk, we agreed, would be her bed when she was along on a trip. And so she gave it a try, stretching out to get a feel for the space. A few minutes later, I glanced at her and she was sound asleep. Staring at her in her blissful state brought back a flood of fond memories -- of my little girl in her first RV bed -- a tiny human who would grow to love RVing and be ready to travel on a moment's notice. Nowadays, school and friends get in the way, but it still doesn't take much prodding to send her packing. The only difference nowadays will be her question, "Dad, can I bring a friend along?"
* * * Are you a FULLTIME RVer or do you plan to be someday? Then you will enjoy the recently posted issue of the Fulltime RVer Newsletter.
* * * One day "RV College" coming next weekend in Seattle area. RVtravel.com is proud to sponsor the one-day Puget Sound RV Lifestyle Saturday School, Oct. 20, at Renton Technical College in Renton, Washington. RV experts will teach classes throughout the day in various aspects of the lifestyle. To learn more, click here and look for the information under the headline RTC News.
Cooking with Foil! Learn to cook using foil! Easy prep, great taste, good nutrition and quick clean-up -- what more could you want? This cookbook features 51 fantastic recipes that each include instructions for cooking in an oven, over a campfire, or on an outdoor grill. NEW AT RVbookstore.com. Learn more or order.
Government issues RV recalls for September The following vehicle RV safety defect/noncompliance notices were received in September, 2007 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Many of this month's recalls involve Dometic refrigerators. See the list of recalls.
Previous RV recalls Each month we list the latest recalls of RVs at RVtravel.com. Here are the most recent ones: August -- July -- June
Find Free RV Campgrounds "Don't pay to stay!" Visit FreeCampgrounds.com and find more than 1,700 free and inexpensive places to stay in the USA in an RV.
Make sure your water supply is safe Just as restaurant food varies according to quality, so does the water RVers find in different places; hook up to a tainted water supply and the fun part of the trip could be over. Here are some thoughts and tips on how to assure that your water is safe.
New cell phone looks like a winner for Internet-minded RVers Most RVers these days carry a cell phone, and more and more of us are using one for Internet connections. That's why this upcoming cell phone should be a real hit with RVers across the country. Read more.
Killer RV awnings? Don't laugh! If you think this is a joke, then read this short article written by an attorney who talks about a danger with RV awnings that most RVers never consider.
Boondocking on LTVAs gets more expensive Snowbirds planning to boondock this season on one of the Bureau of Land Management's long-term visitors areas (LTVAs) such as those at Quartzsite should know that some fees have increased. Here are the new figures.
This Week's Reader Survey We are experiencing technical difficulties with our surveys. They will return next issue. Find Wal-Mart stores for FREE overnight stays The 2007 Wal-Mart Locator is hot off the press. Hundreds of changes and updates, plus 100 new stores. This is the best resource for locating Wal-Mart stores (with driving directions), most of which allow free overnight RV stays in their parking lots. Our low price only $19.96. Learn more or order.
RV Radio Moment. . . In this week's 90-second installment, our announcer discusses The Vial of life - very important information for all RV travelers. Click the play button to listen.
Contest updates: Cash prizes now total $606.00 Our Pot of Gold Contest cash prize is now $280, and the pot at our Your Name is Money contest is now an impressive $326. Check weekdays between 8-2 (Pacific time) to see if you're a winner.
Heaven on Earth - Enjoy nature in Tennessee If you prefer a breath of fresh air without actually getting your heart rate up, Tennessee is your kind of sightseeing tour. Come unwind in Tennessee, a state known for its abundance of natural resources in eye candy. Learn more.
Get the best emergency road service program available RV long enough and you'll eventually have a breakdown. When it happens, an emergency road service program can reduce much of the stress and save you both money and hassle. It's a wise investment. But emergency road services vary in coverage and quality. Here's how to get the most for your money.
How to install a grab bar in your RV bathroom A grab bar can be a real convenience in an RV bathroom, especially if the bathroom is small or you want to use the facility while the vehicle is under way. Unfortunately, the relatively thin walls and those cramped quarters often complicate the installation. Count on RV professor Jim Twamley to come up with a way to do it.
Breakdown on the highway? Do this first A breakdown that strands you on the side of the highway is not only inconvenient, it can also be downright dangerous. You'll understand why after you read what happened to four RVers sitting in their Class C motorhome on the shoulder of a highway in Iowa, waiting for assistance. Be careful! RV Emergency Road Service from the Good Sam Club Looking for the best RV benefits and the best value in a reliable RV emergency roadside service plan? Look no further than the Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service, the all-in-one roadside assistance club that caters specifically to RV owners. Learn more or sign up.
Finding Northern Lights in Alaska just got easier A few things visitors to Alaska hope to see are bears, moose and the Northern Lights. If you're one of those people, then you are in luck on at least one count, for the University of Alaska Fairbanks' Geophysical Institute has revamped its aurora forecast website, offering a more precise forecast than ever before of the Northern Lights. Learn more.
Huge RV show happening in Southern California The annual California RV Show is running now through Oct. 21 at the Fairplex in Pomona, Calif. If you can plan to attend, print out a discount coupon to save some green. He's enjoying his new RV. Too bad he stole it from you! Omniscout's complete line of innovative GPS based security and theft recovery systems let you locate, protect and relax. Learn more.
RV TV Moment RV size is important in where you can camp
RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury suggests that the size of RV you buy should be based in part on where you plan to camp with it.
Can this colorful house actually be a travel trailer? We'd bet you've never seen a travel trailer like this. Even after looking at the photo, you still won't believe that's what it is. Believe it.
Refresh body and spirit at this spot in Oregon Here's a nice little gem of a place at which to take a break if you're traveling on Interstate 5 in Oregon. It's certainly no ordinary rest stop. Click here.
Protect yourself from this sneaky danger Most likely your RV has an alarm for smoke, but it may lack a detector for another substance that in some ways is more deadly. For your safety and that of everyone who rides with you in your RV, read this article to educate yourself about this insidious danger and how to prepare for it. How to cook with an RV's convection oven If you have a convection oven and would like to learn how to use it better -- and pick up some great new recipes, you will enjoy the eBook "I've Got A Convection Oven in My RV: Now What?"Trivia. . . The average life span of a mosquito is two weeks.
Ten Minute Tech -- SPECIAL LOW PRICE! Learn more than 600 tips and tricks from actual RVers to help you solve everyday RV problems and save money. This book from Trailer Life should be a must-read for any RVer. Learn more or order. Now 35% off!
RV Kitchen
New episode of RV Cooking Show The crew at the RV Cooking Show has really done it this time...they've made pizzas personal -- on the grill, of course. Check out the latest episode to pick up a few Lovin' Las Vegas travel tips and learn the how-to's of making personal pizzas on the grill. Yum!
Turn vegetables into a tasty stew Vegetables are good for you, and when they're prepared in blogger Adrienne Kristine's kitchen they taste pretty darn good, too. So take a look at this recipe for a delicious, healthy vegetable stew. Dig in!
Join the World's Largest RV Club Many great benefits including a discount of 10% at most RV parks. Plus a free subscription to Highways Magazine. Meet other RVers. National Rally. Much more. Learn more or join for only $19 a year.
Fire Safety Tip from Mac McCoy
Spontaneous combustion can occur in damp charcoal. Buy charcoal fresh, keep it dry, and store it in a covered metal container. Rags soiled with auto wax or cleaners that contain petroleum products or other oil-based cleaning materials can also spontaneously combust if disposed of in a combustible container. Put dirty cleaning rags in a metal container with a lid.
Good Sam Official RV Road Atlas-- Save BIG! Besides showing highways and other roads, this large-format road atlas shows more than 10,000 campgrounds, plus RV service centers, tourist attractions and 1,600 state parks, plus a special Tech Tips section. Retail price: $29.90. Our special low price now only $15.95. Learn more or order.RV rallies, shows and caravans: how they differ You may have heard about the big RV Rally that took place in Redmond, Oregon, last summer. What is a rally, anyway? Is it just an elaborate RV show? Is it anything like an RV caravan? Read this article and you'll know the differences.
New Class B motorhome: who says big is better? Lots of RVers are downsizing these days for fuel economy and easier access to destinations. Here's a stylish new Class B motorhome that reportedly gets 22 mpg and has many features packed into a small package. It's worthy of consideration for anyone in the downsizing market. Take a look.Traveling to or from Alaska by Ferry? Visit the official website of the Alaska Marine Highway. Check out our specials at ferryalaska.com The perfect dish after a long RV day trip Like all RVers, blogger Jim Twamley must eat while on the road. And like all RVers, he has his favorite dishes. He likes this one so much he's recommending it to his fellow RVers. Chances are you'll like it, too. Click here. Pittsburgh area's only casino earns a rave review Pittsburgh now has a casino, and it's as popular with RVers traveling in that part of Pennsylvania as with local residents. You'll see why after reading this description.
FEATURED BLOGS: RVs in the News "Concentrated RV news." Practical, useful, and fun news on recreational vehicle issues. Always be up to date.
Great RV Stuff The latest neat RV stuff in this always fasincating blog. Gizmos and gadgets that might even make your RVing more enjoyable. RV Tech Tips with Mark Polk A veteran RV technician, gives useful tips and advice. Working on the RV Road Get up-to-date about news and information about earning income while RVing. Boondocking Do you use your RV away from utilities? Here you'll pick up tips on how to do it, and learn about some great places to boondock. RV Short Stops Our RVtravel.com blogger's favorite places to visit in their RVs -- Great suggestions for places to visit on your own travels.
Casino RV Camping Learn about casino RV parks, freebie camping, and great deals on gaming and dining for RVers who visit. Fulltime RVer If you're a fulltime RVer or plan to be someday, then stop by for the latest news and information about fulltiming.
Buying an RV the Smart Way In this eBook learn how to buy an RV from RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury. Learn which RV is right for you, how to negotiate the best deal, and about money-saving flat-rate buying services. Order now and be reading in a few minutes! Only $11.95! Learn more or order.
Life is always interesting for a woman alone on the road Blogger Adrienne Kristine is a solo RVer who drives an older used motorhome and frequently dry-camps. A prescription for trouble, or a chance for some meaningful insights? Her recent experiences on the road answer the question.
One way to cross the Yukon River One thing RVers in Alaska and the Yukon can count on is colorful experiences. This is one you'll have if you decide to cross the Yukon River at Dawson City. And you don't even have to pay for it! Click here.
LCD television interference Just wondering if anyone ever experiences their TV cutting out and distorted picture while viewing? Antenna is up, booster is on and the reception still breaks up quite often. Any thoughts appreciated.
Just one more post and I will quit Is it safe to run your generator while using shore power? Will/can it cause an overload? Winter storage: turn batteries off or should you leave them on during the storage period? I realize these may be real small issue questions, but I figure if you don't ask you will never know.
Does anyone have a wi-fi amplifier that works? Does anyone use a wi-fi amplifier that actually improves reception? We depend on our computer to pay bills, monitor our credit cards, etc. We have an air card on our laptop but my desktop computer relies on wi-fi to get online. I got a brochure for a system sold by RV2INTERNET which claims to broadcast a wi-fi signal up to 50km (35 miles). Has anyone used this system? If so, does it work as advertised? Are there any other systems which work to extend wi-fi range?
Isuzu NPR as tow vehicle Has anyone any experience using an Isuzu NPR truck as tow vehicle? Fully equipped with 6.4 diesel twin turbos, 120-inch WB, 19.5 tires, etc. is a lot less $$ than comparably equipped F350. Saw listings on internet in the $26K range for new 2007 models. 14K GVWR, good mileage, durable and reliable from what I have read. Anybody know anything?
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Bumper Snicker Fishermen don't die, they just smell that way. Financing an RV? Get a quick quote! Financial Underwriters Network provides exceptional customer service and exceptional interest rates. Get a quick online quote and caring service. Stay warm in bed this winter Winter's coming, and it's going to be cold in much of the country. How do RVers stay warm in bed without running up the energy bill? Here's a product that keeps at least one fulltimer nice and comfortable.
Regional differences matter to work campers Like accents, weather patterns, politics, religious beliefs and customs, types of job vacancies vary from region to region. That has special significance for work campers. Read more.
Worth Pondering I have found that there ain't no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them. --Mark Twain 2007 RV Show Schedule Learn about RV shows through the fall of 2007. Check in here to learn when shows will be held in your area.
Read back issues of the RV Travel newsletter. Click here.RVs for sale at NewRVer.com. See them here.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. Roving Outfielder & Audio Operations: Eric Brotman. Fulfillment Manager: Erin Hanson. Web Operations Guru: Zoey Platt. Clapper/Loader: Emily Woodbury. Stress Relief: Mikey the slinky 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.
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Fire Safety Tip from Mac McCoy
Good Sam Official RV Road Atlas-- Save BIG! 
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