Subscribers RV Travel Newsletter for Sunday, February 9, 2025

Issue 1195 • Ads have been removed in this newsletter for our much-appreciated volunteer paid subscribers.

Their RV was stolen, then towed, then stolen again, then sold… and nobody ever told them

By Steve (and Claudia) Sorensen 
Think it’s illegal for somebody to steal your RV? Not really, and with the help of your insurance company, the local police, an impound yard, and the DMV, it might even be easy! My wife and I have been RVers three months out of every summer and fall for fifteen years. We’ve seen the entire American West from Mount Rushmore to Cape Blanco, Glacier National Park to Chaco Canyon, twice. We owned a 22-foot Minnie Winnie, until recently… You will not believe this story!!

Coast Guard pilots transform helicopter into incredible RV

By Gail Marsh
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a helicamper! Blake Morris and Maggie Morgan, both helicopter pilots in the U.S. Coast Guard, have been busy. They’ve spent more than 900 hours working to transform a helicopter body into a roadworthy RV. After finding the helicopter on Facebook Marketplace, they did some research. Turns out, the helicopter was used by German military police, spent time in Afghanistan with U.S. troops, and finally made its way back to the United States in 2011. Check out this amazing RV!

How to fix a stripped screw hole

Stripped screw holes are a common problem in RVs. They can pop up anywhere—from the exterior wall of an RV to skylight frames, window curtain tensioners, or in thin interior walls. In this video and article, Ross from RV Tips & Travels breaks down four practical methods to fix stripped screw holes and provides the pros and cons of each. Watch the step-by-step guide here or read the article. 

Today’s RV review…
TrailManor 16 is a new tiny trailer with big features

By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of the new-for-2025 TrailManor 16. You might already know of TrailManor products such as the TrailManor 2518KD, which we looked at a while back. The company is known for trailers that tow low and camp high, so to speak. But the TrailManor 16 is something very different.

More RV reviews from this week:

• Video tour: This Vibe 2400RB travel trailer is anything but traditional
• Bambi vs. Basecamp—Which tiny Airstream is better?
• Ford Transit Custom Nugget is a Euro cutie—Wish ya’ had one?

RV service centers and repairs report
“Camping World hangs up when you call; it’s been hell trying to get help”

This week, Nanci Dixon relates more unbelievable stories from our readers about all of the issues with their RVs and the ongoing lack of service from their service centers, plus more frustrating problems regarding warranty work. One person reports being hung up on when calling for service! But there are a couple of happy campers—one with their brand of RV and one with a repair shop which at least communicates with them. Read those stories and more here.

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

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

• Video news: Seasonal jobs cut as public lands and RV industry face big changes
• Big trouble for RV industry? Tariffs could destroy jobs, cripple profits
• Garmin introduces device to control onboard RV electronics
• Ford says e-pickups aren’t suited for towing; moves toward hybrid vehicles
• Younger and wealthier: The changing face of first-time RV owners

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

The truth about the costs of owning an older RV

Owning an RV is a dream for many who love the open road, freedom, and adventure. But when it comes to buying an older RV, the big question is: Is it a cost-effective decision or a financial nightmare? In this video, Deb Bruening from Deb’s RV Services shares her experience of owning a 2000 Lazy Daze Class C motorhome and breaks down the real costs of repairs and maintenance over the years. If you’re considering buying an older RV or simply curious about the expenses, you would benefit from watching the video or reading the written version of it.

The RV divide: How RVing couples can find compromise

By Gail Marsh
Embarking on RV adventures offers couples a unique blend of exploration and comfort. However, when one partner thrives on outdoor activities while the other prefers the coziness inside the RV, tensions can arise. Finding a balance that honors both individuals’ preferences is essential for an enjoyable journey. Here’s how you can compromise in the RV.

A very, very wet Valentine’s Day in Borrego Springs

By Rod Andrew
After several years of wandering through the Western USA, my wife and I finally settled on a place we wanted to spend our Canadian winters. The township of Borrego Springs, California, offered everything we needed, including a slow lifestyle and marvelous weather. We knew that the one quality of a desert that we could always count on was that it would be dry. Arid, desiccated, seared, and baked, right? And it was. Until one night… Continue reading this hilarious story. (It will make you laugh!)

The Super Bowl name came from Lamar Hunt, owner of the Kansas City Chiefs, who was inspired by the Super Ball, a high-bouncing toy his kids played with. During meetings about the AFL-NFL championship game, he casually called it the “Super Bowl.” Though originally meant as a placeholder, the name stuck, and by Super Bowl III (1969), it became official.

Travel destinations

Treasure hunting at the incredible Unclaimed Baggage Store

By Gail Marsh
If you’re an RVer with a penchant for unique finds and a love of adventure, Scottsboro, Alabama, is the place for you! This town (population 15,600) welcomes over a million visitors each year! Why do they come? To see and shop at the Unclaimed Baggage Store. This fascinating retail store is where unclaimed luggage from airlines across the country gets a second life. This is so cool!

Discovering North Carolina’s Scottish roots

By Gail Marsh
I really had no idea that North Carolina boasts such a rich Scottish heritage. The western Appalachian region of the state offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s an ideal destination for RV enthusiasts—even if you aren’t Scottish! From historic sites to vibrant festivals, there’s plenty to explore.

Reader poll
Do you consider someone who lives in an RV year-round in one location to be an “RVer”?

Respond here.

LOVE BIRDS… OR NOT?
Do RVtravel.com couples report getting along better or worse while RVing? Find out here.

The book nook
New releases: Brand-new books for you to love

Get ready to get cozy, RVers! These books were just published and are ready for some readers. We choose a few from just about every genre here: non-fiction, travel, history, humor, fiction… Check ’em out and find your next read.

Remember the reader who sent us a photo of this little hay bale all dressed up for Christmas? Well, now it’s ready for Valentine’s Day! How cute!

Brain teaser

When Ashley was 15, her mother was 37. Now, her mother is twice her age. How old is Ashley?

(Answer below.)

Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter

• The 9 best towel rack hacks
• Tips to keep the water flowing even in a freeze warning
• Awning tear? Fix it yourself
• Easy, cheap trick to keep outdoor cords, chargers dry
• Can you dump your holding tanks in your home septic system?

NOT SIGNED UP FOR OUR RV DAILY TIPS NEWSLETTER? ARE YOU NUTS?
It’s our readers’ favorite newsletter for good reason! Read a few issues here, then make sure you’re signed up.

In the RV shop with Dustin
DIY tips to keep your RV fridge running smoothly

By Dustin Simpson
Join me in the RV repair shop at California RV Specialists as I walk you through essential troubleshooting and maintenance tips for your RV fridge in this DIY article with video. Whether you’re a seasoned RV enthusiast or new to the lifestyle, proper fridge maintenance is crucial to ensure your adventures stay cool—literally! Click here.

RV gadgets and gizmos

My most used RV accessory: Insulating vent cover for cold and hot weather

By Cheri Sicard
This simple RV accessory, an insulating RV vent cover, is one of my most-used RV accessories, both in cold and hot weather. When the temperatures dip, it blocks cold air from entering your RV. I expected this function, and it did not disappoint. However, I was surprised at how effective it is in the heat of summer when the sun’s full force is beating down on my RV. Continue reading.

Lodge cast iron scrapers: Small gadget, big results

By Cheri Sicard
Sometimes the smallest things have the biggest impact, and these Lodge cast iron scrapers are a great example. I did not know this handy little gadget existed until my niece saw me using a spoon to scrape off some cooked-on particles from my cast iron pan. “You know, we have cast iron scrapers for that,” she informed me. No, I did not know that. She handed me a small piece of plastic, and did it ever work!

Video of the day
Essential windstorm safety tips

By Cheri Sicard
Camping in high winds can be dangerous, but you can take safety precautions. Today’s video from Brooke and Pippa shares windstorm safety tips and advice. The time to learn all of this is BEFORE you’re caught in your RV in a dangerous windstorm, so give the video a watch. (Plus, I break down her tips in article form, too.)

DON’T FORGET A VALENTINE’S DAY CARD…

• “Sometimes I wonder how you put up with me. Then I realize I put up with you. So we’re even!” Find that one here.
• Do you really love bacon? Well, this pop-up bacon card is the card for you to give to your other half.
• If your person lets out a little toot every now and again (or, okay, often…) this is the one for them. Try not to laugh!
• “Today we celebrate the best decision you made.” Haha! That one can be found here.
• And this one that just says, “You’re not a puppy but you’ll do” really made us crack up. Yep, relatable!

DID YOU KNOW? Valentine’s Day is the second-largest card-sending holiday after Christmas. It’s estimated that approximately 145 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged in the United States. This tradition of exchanging cards began in the 15th century.

RV tire safety
Be very cautious after a “blowout” in a dual steel body radial tire

By Roger Marble
In this week’s post, Roger explains what a zipper rupture “blowout” in a steel body radial tire is. He also explains why it is critical if a steel body tire has been run at lower than 80% of the required air pressure to NOT REINFLATE the tire unless it has been dismounted and inspected by a dealer for that brand of tire. Dramatic/disturbing videos included. Read this important warning.

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:

• If wheel bearings are sealed, why do they need to be repacked every year?
• Warning: Some RV emergency exit windows may be one use only!
• RV’s hot water lines aren’t working. Could water heater tank be frozen?
• How to temporarily use a winterized RV
• What grease to use to repack wheel bearings? Your opinion on Nev-R-Lube?

Recipes of the day
It’s National Pizza Day, so you know what that means!

Pizza and pizza-themed recipes to make when the cravings hit

Celebrate one of the best days of the year (in our opinion) with pizza! Here are a few pizza and pizza-themed recipes.

ALSO:

• 4 unique pizza recipes that aren’t pizza
• Cheri’s amazing easy no-knead Neapolitan pizza dough recipe
• How to make EASY, delicious pan pizza in your RV

Readers’ pet of the day

“Cooper absolutely loves the warm sun and ocean breeze at Emma Wood State Beach in SoCal.” —Chris Collins

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

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.

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

In a recent survey, the market research firm NIQ found that when it comes to the most purchased food for today’s Super Bowl, consumers will buy, in order: Chips, dips and salsa (21.6%), chicken wings (14.9%), snack mixes (12.9%), meat (10.9%) and fresh produce (10.2%).

Sunday funny

If you can listen to this for only 20 seconds and not laugh, then you are not human!

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

Read it here | Back issues

Brain teaser answer:

Ashley is 22

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