Subscribers RV Travel Newsletter for Sunday, December 8, 2024

Issue 1186 • Ads have been removed in this newsletter for our cherished volunteer paid subscribers.

NEW: Follow RVtravel.com on Bluesky

State residency and tax issues: Here’s how long you can stay in a state before you have to pay state taxes

This article by Nanci Dixon unpacks what RVers need to know about state income tax laws, including the 183-day rule, residency audits, and how states like Minnesota track your time within their borders. With tips for tracking your travels and a reminder to consult a tax pro, this is essential reading for anyone planning an extended stay in U.S. states.

Park model RV is like a fully furnished small home

Among the most popular articles we publish on RVtravel.com, those about park model RVs predictably attract a lot of interest. Our guess is that many RVers who have enjoyed the RV lifestyle for many years choose to settle in one place in what amounts to an RV that isn’t designed for frequent moving. Take a look at this comfortable and attractive park model. We bet you could live happily in this!

We had our RV custom painted. Here’s what the process was like

By Nanci Dixon
Like many RVs with decal graphics, our motorhome had started to show signs of age after only four years. The decals were cracking and some were peeling. I was so proud of our still fairly new RV that I just matched the paint and carefully painted in the cracks. That was NOT a good idea. We debated our options and decided to have it repainted with a full-body paint job. Here’s what that process was like.

Today’s RV review…
Alliance Avenue 29RL—Why the details matter

Today’s RV review is of the new 2025 Alliance Avenue 29RL. This is a fifth wheel design that is the most popular or common floor plan. If you’re new here, it’s one I recommend you start with if you’re looking for a fifth wheel. Although this is a very common floor plan, it doesn’t mean that everything inside here has to be common. And it’s not. Here’s what makes it stand out.

RV service centers and repairs report
RVers done with this “worthless” roadside assistance service

This week Nanci Dixon relates a knowledgeable RVer’s experience when buying from Camping World—twice. Plus, there are horror stories from a couple of RVers regarding the lack of roadside assistance from this company. One, whose pseudonym fits the circumstances, says this program is “worthless.” You’ll understand why when you read his report.

UPDATED WEEKLY: A list of RV dealers, service centers, and mobile techs as recommended by our readers. Click here.

Around the campfire
The many kinds of “RV travelers.” Which are you?

By Gail Marsh
Sitting around the campfire, we had a lively discussion about the different kinds of RV travelers. The conversation teeter-tottered between a humorous and semi-serious tone. Yes, broad generalizations were made. Very broad. Keep that in mind as you “listen in” on the conversation. Oh, and tell us which type of traveler you are.

JOKE: What is a snowman’s favorite breakfast? (Scroll down for the answer)

Inside Will Smith’s $2.5 million two-story RV

When it comes to luxury on wheels, few can top Will Smith’s incredible $2.5 million two-story RV. Designed to support his lifestyle during film shoots, this “mobile mansion” offers next-level features (like a 30-seater movie-viewing room!) that redefine what an RV can be. Let’s take an exclusive look inside this ultimate home away from home.

9 ways we wave to fellow motorists and what they all mean

By Gail Marsh
I hadn’t given it much thought until a recent trip we took to Iowa. Seems like the minute we crossed the border into the Hawkeye State, it began – the wave. I’m not talking about water waves. I mean the friendly gesture one driver offers to an oncoming vehicle. What’s so interesting about a wave of greeting? Well, continue reading.

Deck the halls with Cousin Eddie and his hilarious gifts for RVers

By Cheri Sicard
Welcome to the time of year when we celebrate Cousin Eddie, Randy Quaid’s hilarious character in the National Lampoon Vacation movies. Not only has Cousin Eddie himself become a cult figure, but his infamous RV has its own cult following, complete with its own merchandise. If you’re a Cousin Eddie fan, click here.

Travel destinations

Camp near one of California’s geological wonders

By Gail Marsh
Nestled within California’s Eastern Sierra region lies a geological wonder: the strange columns of Crowley Lake. These towering formations, found along the lake’s shoreline, intrigue visitors with their unusual appearance and origin. Crowley Lake is a must-visit destination for those who enjoy exploring unique natural features. Check it out.

Thousand Hills State Park: Missouri’s first official Dark Sky haven

By Gail Marsh
The Thousand Hills State Park in Kirksville, Missouri, has earned a stellar new designation. It’s the first site in the state to be recognized as an Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International (formerly the International Dark-Sky Association). For those eager to experience Thousand Hills State Park’s breathtaking night skies, here’s where you can camp nearby.

Traveling south this winter?
Many RVers are (or soon will be) making their way to warmer climates. If you plan to visit the Southwest United States in the coming months, you should know about and understand Valley Fever. It pays to be informed.

Reader poll (and article)
Do you drink the RV park/campground water?

By Gail Marsh
No doubt you’ve noticed the difference in taste and sometimes even the smell of some campground water. As we RV across the country, we notice that our coffee or tea varies in taste depending on the campground water. Some hard water areas make it difficult to suds up in the shower, and water with excessive rust can negatively affect laundry. Continue reading and vote in today’s poll.

POPULAR POLL FROM THIS PAST WEEK
We asked: At what age do you think “old age” begins? Did most of our readers say 60-70? 70-80? 80-90? Find out here, and cast your vote, too!

Yesterday’s top news for RVers
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

• Ukrainian–German company “prints” full-sized RVs using 3D and plastic bottles
• Only 35% of drivers are considered “safe” drivers, per recent study by AAA
• Follow-up: PA Turnpike RV explosion victim fights for life
• Gas prices plunge to near three-year low
• Used motorhome prices plummet. Could California “ban” reverse the trend?

Read the rest of the news in yesterday’s newsletter here.

In the RV shop with Dustin
The pros and cons of applying FlexArmor to your RV’s roof

By Dustin Simpson
In this article and video, we take you inside our repair shop to inspect a FlexArmor roof. While we don’t install FlexArmor at our shop, we see these roofs regularly. We believe it’s important for RV owners to understand both the benefits and potential concerns before deciding if this upgrade is right for their RV. Learn more.

Brain teaser

I am a three-digit number.
My tens digit is five more than my ones digit.
My hundreds digit is eight less than my tens digit.
What number am I?

(Answer below.)

Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter

• 26 practical uses for Mason jars in your RV
• Top 10 benefits of RVing in winter
• 10 easy tips every RVer should know
• Video: Transform RV bedroom into office. No tools or screws needed
• See new sights and save with Groupon while RVing

RV gadgets and gizmos

No new gadget review today, but make sure you read Thursday’s brand-new Great RV Accessories newsletter! If you love gadgets, you’ll love this newsletter!

Video of the day
How to make an RV bugout bag for emergencies

By Cheri Sicard
If you are a full-time RVer, do you have an RV bugout bag for emergencies? You should and here’s why. In this video, Leanne from Making My Abode on the Road tackles the topic, but instead of a bag, our hostess saves space and makes an RV bugout binder. Leanne’s bugout binder contains all her important papers and documents. Check it out, and make one of your own.

RV tire safety
Is the tire pressure too high?

By Roger Marble
I’ve received a couple of questions recently about high pressure in tires. Most posts about tires and inflation warn about the problems of inflation being too low, but I recently read a post with the incorrect claim that “most tires fail because of too high of an inflation.”

This statement of “fail because of too high inflation” is not supported by data or facts, and I felt it deserved an explanation.

Continue reading this important information.

JOKE ANSWER: Frosted Flakes!

Ask Dave

Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and author of the “RV Handbook”.

This past week’s questions that Dave answered:

• OK to use pressure washer to clean RV exterior?
• Why does air conditioner “cycle” several times before staying on?
• Where is the best place to install a bubble level on an RV?
• Will WFCO Auto Detect charge RV’s lithium batteries?
• Storing RV engine and house batteries in winter

RVing with dogs

With Gail Marsh

Follow these tips to keep your pet safe around your Christmas tree

Having a small Christmas tree inside an RV can really brighten up the holiday season. However, if you’re traveling with pets, it’s wise to consider the unique set of challenges the tree brings. Curious pets and festive decorations can be a risky combination. Here’s a look at potential hazards and tips for Christmas tree pet safety.

What to do if your dog eats pine needles

From live Christmas decorations to hikes in the woods, RVers with dogs should know what to do if your curious dog decides to snack on some pine needles. Although pine needles may seem harmless, ingesting them can pose risks to dogs, so here’s what to do if your dog eats pine needles.

Recipes of the day
Irresistible stuffed portobello mushroom recipes

We love portobello mushrooms, don’t you? So rich, so meaty, and so delicious! These stuffed portobello recipes are total comfort food. They’re perfect for a chilly winter night. Check ’em out.

Readers’ pet of the day

“Baxter Beaudrox (Lab mix) rescued us in Sulphur, LA, at Holbrook Park 5+ months ago. He is 7+ months young. Somebody dumped him there. We are full-time RVers, and he has brought so much joy into our lives.” —Allen Moser

• RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.

HELP! WE’RE RUNNING LOW ON PET PHOTOS! Want to see your pet in this newsletter? Please send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once. Thank you!

Don’t kill yourself or loved ones out of ignorance
• If you ever feel a shock when touching your RV, take action. Otherwise, you could kill yourself or loved ones.
• If you blow a front tire, do this. The result could be a disaster if you follow your instincts.

Trivia

Where is the largest working musical instrument in the world located? If you guessed Philadelphia, you’re right! Inside the Macy’s Department Store on Market Street, you’ll find the Wanamaker Grand Court Organ (named after the original store). The instrument is so big it reaches multiple floors of the department store. The organ has 28,604 pipes! There is only one dedicated organ master who is allowed to play the Wanamaker – go figure! BTW, the organ is a National Historic Landmark and valued in excess of $79 million. Maybe that explains why only one organ master is allowed to play it.

Sunday funny

Did you miss last week’s RVtravel.com newsletter?

Read it here | Back issues

Brain teaser answer:

The answer is 194.
Here’s how it breaks down:
The ones digit is 4.
The tens digit is 9, which is 5 more than the ones digit (4 + 5 = 9).
The hundreds digit is 1, which is 8 less than the tens digit (9 – 8 = 1).

DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERS

• Weekly News Highlights. Every Saturday. 
• RV Daily Tips. RVing tips, advice, maintenance and repair guidance, RV reviews, gadgets, and more. Monday-Friday. 
• Great RV Accessories. The best gadgets for RVers. Every other Thursday. 
• Daily RVing news. Get the latest news about RVing every weekday afternoon straight to your inbox.
• RV Maintenance & Repair tips. Don’t ever miss a maintenance or repair article. Every Tuesday. 

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