Issue 1196 • Ads have been removed in this newsletter for our much-appreciated volunteer paid subscribers.
• If you are reading this on a mobile device, turn it sideways (horizontal) for a better reading experience.
RV show reflections: Can we trade gimmicks for quality, please?
By Gail Marsh
Recently, my husband and I attended the RV show in St. Louis. Both of us were eager to see the latest RV models. We enjoy talking to RV vendors and other RVers, too. I love looking at RVs. However, I was soon shaking my head at all of the unnecessary bells and whistles manufacturers continue to pile onto their rigs. Can’t we get better-quality RVs instead of these unnecessary gimmicks?
The most deadly RV electrical mistakes
Are you making deadly electrical mistakes in your RV without even realizing it? As an RV owner, understanding and managing electrical systems is not just about convenience; it’s about safety and avoiding catastrophic failures. Avoid these costly, sometimes deadly, mistakes!
2025 guide to state gun laws now available
It’s February, and that means the 2025 edition of the annual Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty States is hot off the press. Traveling into a state where you do not know the specific laws about carrying a firearm can land you in jail; what’s legal in one state may be a felony in another. With this guidebook along with you, you’ll avoid trouble. Learn more or order.
Camping World repair job turns to nightmare for RVer
This RVer’s story has no happy ending. For this woman, the dream of traveling with an RV turned sour after dealing with Camping World for repairs and maintenance. What started as a hopeful road trip turned into months of frustration, unfulfilled promises, and a potentially dangerous outcome. If you’ve ever considered taking your RV to Camping World for repairs, this story is one you’ll want to read.
RV service centers and repairs report
“Camping industry is about to go bust”
This week Nanci Dixon relates more RV “service” (actually, lack thereof) horror stories, some of which are unbelievable but, unfortunately, all too common. Ken B. says, among other things, “If the camping industry is looking to go completely bust, then keep it up.” There’s a tip on where to go for specific service other than an RV shop. And there are finally some shops and a mobile mechanic to add to our highly recommended list. Woo hoo! Read them here.
Yesterday’s top news for RVers
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- RV video news: Ford’s fall, South Dakota residency changes, Yosemite updates, Starlink and more
- New catalytic converter device stops thefts. Brilliant concept
- Arizona State Parks increasing entry and camping fees
- RV “hot skin” prevention will become standard in new RVs
- T-Mobile and Starlink team up for cell service anywhere
Read the rest of the news in yesterday’s newsletter here.
DID YOU KNOW? Yellowstone once had a live bear feeding show! Back in the early 1900s, Yellowstone National Park rangers would actually bring out garbage to attract bears for tourists to watch. The practice ended in the 1970s (thankfully).
Creative ways one RVer takes her showers
Staying clean while living in a van, truck camper, DIY build or any other type of RV doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the biggest questions people ask, especially those considering this lifestyle, is how to maintain hygiene, particularly when it comes to showering. Fortunately, there are more options than you might think. Popular YouTuber Dr. Hannah Straight shows you how she does it.
Just in time for Valentine’s Day: Readers share their small acts of love
By Nanci Dixon
A few weeks ago we published an article about RVers’ small acts of love and invited people to submit their own. We got a few, and I invite you to send some more in, too. These will warm your heart.
One last Valentine’s Day love story
If you have never heard the interview with Danny and Annie Perasa, you have missed one of the most wonderful love stories of our times. This four-minute segment, recorded by StoryCorps, first aired on NPR in 2006. Oh, we should all be so blessed to have loved and been loved by someone so long and deeply. Don’t miss this. Click play (arrow) below.
QUICK TIP: The weight rating of an RV is determined by the weakest component and, by far, tires are the most critical yet often overlooked part. If not maintained, they die a premature death. Common causes of premature tire failure include overloading or underinflating, prolonged exposure to ozone and UV rays, aging, and failure to rotate them regularly.
Love-themed travel destinations
By Gail Marsh
Why you’ll love visiting Valentine, Nebraska
You’ll love Valentine, Nebraska! RVers, this is what camping used to be. This small Midwest town has big-time fun and adventures for everyone! Nestled in the heart of Nebraska’s Sandhills, Valentine is a charming town that offers a unique blend of history, celebration, and outdoor adventure. Continue reading.
Loveland, Colorado: Why it’s an RVer’s must-see
Nestled in the heart of northern Colorado, Loveland is a welcoming haven for RVers seeking a mix of rich history, scenic beauty, and plenty of outdoor activities. Read on to learn how this charming city got its name, where it’s located, the best activities for RV enthusiasts, and a roundup of top RV campgrounds in the area. Click here.
Reader poll
Should someone who rents an RV every summer for a week vacation be considered an RVer?
POLL RESULTS:
Do most RVtravel.com readers’ RVs have a spare tire? Find out here.
Brain puzzle
Can you find the hidden heart? This is a tough one! Click to enlarge.
(Answer below.)
Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter
- A simple trick to get more heat from your electric fireplace
- Defrost your vehicle’s windshield in half the time with these tricks
- An RV tech’s 7 tips to diagnose RV furnace vibration
- Tips to maximize storage: Think outside the box (RV)
- Hey, RVers! Do you know about these microwave tricks?
NOT SIGNED UP FOR OUR RV DAILY TIPS NEWSLETTER? ARE YOU CRAZY?
It’s our readers’ favorite newsletter for good reason! It’s filled with RVing tips, maintenance and repair advice, RV videos, travel inspiration, and much more. Read a few issues here and make sure you subscribe.
AHOY, MATEYS! DID YOU KNOW? The U.S. has a pirate-themed RV park! Pirate’s Cove RrrrV Resort in Foley, Alabama, pirate-themed activities, from swashbuckling pirate shows to “treasure hunts” for kids. This place looks fun!
In the RV shop with Dustin
The benefits of RV roof vent covers
By Dustin Simpson
In this article and video, we’ll dive into the hidden benefits of RV roof vent covers and explain why they’re an essential part of your RV maintenance routine. Join me as I share expert insights on how these simple covers can protect your vent lids and plate covers, keep your RV cool, and ensure a safe, comfortable journey on the road.
RV gadgets and gizmos
Buy your birdwatching-loving RVer a Bird Buddy
By Gail Marsh
Bird Buddy is an innovative smart bird feeder that brings birdwatching into the digital age. This is not your grandma’s bird feeder! The Bird Buddy captures stunning photos and videos of your feathered visitors and provides real-time notifications to your smartphone. *Tweet tweet* This is very cool!
Video of the day
Check out this amazing amphibious RV!
By Cheri Sicard
Ahoy, mates! You are not going to believe this amazing amphibious RV! Is it a motorcoach? Is it a motorboat? YES! The Terra Wind floating RV can take you both over the road or over the water. It looks just like a regular motorhome, check it out!
RV tire safety
What is the proper inflation for my tow vehicle and RV trailer tires?
By Roger Marble
I monitor a number of RV forums and when I see someone asking about tires, I make the effort to learn about the problem and offer solutions, if possible. Recently there was a question on inflation for both the tow vehicle and the travel trailer. The comments seemed to be all over the place, so I decided there was a need for some basic foundation of information. Following is my reply and attempt to provide the basic information needed by RV owners. Continue reading.
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:
- How many amp hours of lithium do I need to run 12-volt fridge overnight?
- Do I need to winterize my RV’s tankless water heater?
- Can I plug my RV fridge into a garage outlet to cool it before a trip?
- What is causing uneven tread wear on my trailer tires? What should I do?
- Is it a good idea to fill RV water tanks for stability on windy days?
Recipes of the day
Quiche recipes that are worth the price of eggs!
We know eggs are expensive, but trust us, these recipes are worth it! These aren’t your average quiche recipes. We won’t give them all away, but we’ll tell you there IS a Philly cheesesteak quiche recipe in here…
RVing with dogs
The best dog bowls for RVing dogs
By Gail Marsh
Traveling in an RV with your furry friend can be a delightful experience. Managing their feeding and hydration needs while you’re on the move requires some planning. Choosing the right dog bowl is essential to keep your RV clean and your pet comfortable. Here are some things to consider…
Readers’ pets of the day
“Joey and Leroy (Beaglier [Beagle and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel] and Guinea Pig) are good buddies. Both of them travel with us.” —Dee Wertz
HELP! WE’RE OUT OF 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.
Trivia
Last week, Super Bowl drew a record 127.7 million viewers on broadcast TV and the streaming platform Tubi, according to ratings agency Nielsen. To visualize that size audience, imagine the equivalent of about 1,400 Rose Bowl crowds (about 90,000 per game). Some advertisers spent as much as $8 million for a 30-second commercial.
Random RV thought
Where is the most comfortable place to sit in your RV? If you travel with a dog, then you will know, for your furry friend will always select this prime spot. In fact, if you travel with a dog, you and your canine buddy will spend plenty of time trying to be first into the choice spot. Alas, the pooch will usually win the competition!
Sunday funny
Did you miss last week’s RVtravel.com newsletter?
Brain puzzle answer:
(Click to enlarge)
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
Headed on an unfamiliar highway? Learn if it has low bridges you might not fit under.
And finally. . . a song from the past to tickle your funny bone
Yogi Yorgesson sings that all-time favorite: “All Pooped Out”
RVtravel.com All Star Team
Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.
Interesting. The Pirates Cove Rrrv Park stated “in California”, is actually in Foley Alabama!
Agree, lol!
Yes. I remember Pirate’s Cove at Avila Beach, CA in the 80’s as a “naturalist” beach. Yes I spent time there!
That’s FUNNY. I’m from the area, and going there tomorrow for a week in the RV at the outrageously priced RV Park! We probably crossed paths at some point. I used to surf there with my ‘ole girlfriend, who’s parents had a mobile home in the same spot! Boy, have times changed!
Thanks, Ran, et al. It’s been corrected to say Foley, Alabama. (When I proofed it, I assumed whoever put that in knew the location. Aargh!🫤) Have a great day. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com
How did y’all enjoy the halftime show on this year’s Super Bowl? Or should I even ask . . .
Half time stunk..but the crowd honored RV Travels’ own “Mountain Mama” with a rousing rendition of “Take Me Home, Country Road” !!!
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Thank you for emailing me shortly thereafter to let me know that I had been so honored, Bill. (And thank you, John Denver, for allowing me to use that name for decades, including on my license plates.👍) Have a great day, Bill and Tommy.🤗🤗 (one for each of you) –Mountain Mama aka Diane
The map for “Today’s weather forecast across the nation” is two days old. 🙁
Hi, Chris. That’s weird because I just now checked and it shows it’s from Feb. 16. Not sure what to tell you. Have a great day, no matter what the weather is. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com
Well, for Florida, it got it kinda right today as the Daytona 500 did get rained out for a while today. It just barely spit here on the other coast. (It shows rain over Florida almost every day anyway.) As to which day is which – yep, I have that happen too.
😂🤣 Crawfish Massage…😂🤣
Turns out I won’t try anything once after all….
It is not uncommon to find multiple RV Parks with the same name. One must be careful when making reservations to assure you are making them where you expect to actually be on that date and not half a continent away. LOL I am sure that BOTH Pirate Cove Resorts are fun, I am sure the surfing is better in Alabama than on the shores of the Colorado river.
WOW – Been trying to understand why the ‘quality” of RVers seems to be going down hill. Who are these people that blast outdoor radio/TVs, let kids chalk up their site, party till 1am, destroy Nation Parks by knocking down monumental rocks and of course, people that think they rented a space to park in, so the whole park is theirs to act and use anyway they want.
Thanks to today’s READER POLL, my question has been answered. Apparently 55% (at this moment) think renting a RV for a few weeks vacation makes you an “RVer.” Those are just weekend warriors that lack RV knowledge of what reall RVing is all about. Yes, there are weekenders that do respect the RV lifestyles, but those other?
Joey and Leroy, I look like absolute best friends put sweet and beautiful precious animals🥰🐶
Your RV traveling pack is adorable, Dee! May you have many, many delightful trips together. Thank you, Emily and Diane! I overlooked the heart numerous times without noticing it. 🙁 I have noticed that dog #3 recently is sitting in “my” spot when I am not. Thus far, we have not fought over it. Have a great day and safe travels!