Issue 1203 • Ads have been removed in this newsletter for our much-appreciated volunteer paid subscribers.
Today’s thought
“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.” —Dale Carnegie
GUEST ESSAY
Flickering embers and steaming coffee
By Dave Williams
I can conservatively estimate that I have seen more than 12,000 sunrises in my life. No exaggeration.
My workdays began before dawn five days a week for most of 50 years. Now retired, I still greet the world at daybreak, rising with old Sol, steaming fresh coffee, and Amelia, my Yorkie snoozing next to me.
Sunrise is God’s greatest work. I love them all, no matter the weather or where they occur. They remind me of the long luxury of life I’ve been given and I do say thanks. Yes, I do.
The best sunrises find me in campgrounds beneath lodgepole pines and quaking aspens; the rich aroma of damp loamy soil or petrichor. Near a lake, stream, or seaside, I’m in my spiritual home where every day is Saturday filled with possibilities but no insistence.
I’m going to sit and just watch for a while.
The sunrise, by God, is gorgeous.
Dave Williams shares his thoughts through the week at his blog Saturday Morning Joe. We hope to feature him more here as we did years ago when he was transitioning between radio stations. Dave spent his career as a morning talk radio host. Among his many claims to fame is being Rush Limbaugh’s boss when Rush was developing his talk radio program. We urge you to subscribe (free) to Dave’s blog on Substack.
The trailer menace: “Traveling city slums must be regulated” — but there’s a twist to this story!
With Chuck Woodbury
On April 1, 1935, U.S. Department of Agriculture plant pathologist E.P. Meinecke circulated a short paper he had written entitled, “The Trailer Menace.” It was not an April Fool’s joke, but a stern warning to managers of the nation’s forests and other public lands to brace for a new wave of motor tourism: enormous camping trailers. Continue reading this fascinating story.
How to avoid RV dealer sales fraud in 2025
By RV lemon lawyer Ron Burdge
After nearly 50 years of helping RV owners, we’ve witnessed some shocking dealer practices. Recently, a national magazine highlighted illegal tactics being used by dealers—practices we’ve seen all too often at dealers around the country. Even if you’re not planning on buying a new RV soon, read this anyway. It’s good info to know, and could save you big time!
An RV campfire horror story: Why to never burn fresh wood
By Gail Marsh
A recent incident at a campground serves as an important reminder: burning fresh-cut wood can have unexpected—and dangerous—consequences. A group of RVers settled in for an evening campfire. Adjacent to their RV resort, workers were busy clearing trees from the property line. The workers generously offered campers some freshly cut wood. The wood looked perfect for a fire, and the campfire turned out beautifully. But then…
Today’s RV review…
The r-pod RP-206 is a big thing
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of the 2025 r-pod RP-206 travel trailer. If the brand r-pod makes you think of those smaller, single-axle, teardrop-like trailers, this is going to be quite a surprise. While not huge, this trailer does measure almost 26 feet in length. Yeah, for an r-pod. It also has two axles. Continue reading.
RV service centers and repairs report
When RV service centers and mobile techs cause more harm than good
This week Nanci Dixon relates RVtravel.com readers’ experiences with RV shops and technicians who did more harm than good when “repairing” their RV. Nanci relates an aggravating experience of her own plus shares some important lessons learned in the process. Read them here.
BUMPER SNICKER: Real RVs don’t leak … they just mark their territory.
Why you need a multimeter for your RV
By Mike Sokol
As an RV electrical expert, I’ve learned that a basic digital multimeter can save you a world of trouble on the road. In this article, I’ll show you how to quickly test pedestal voltage, check your battery’s state of charge, and find a blown fuse—simple steps that can prevent major problems. These are easy checks every RVer should know, and I’ll walk you through them.
How to deal with RV drain fly infestations
By Gail Marsh
Infestation? That’s putting it mildly! RVing friends called it an outright scourge. Their recently purchased “previously loved” RV was overrun with drain flies. Ugh! If you’ve ever noticed tiny, fuzzy insects fluttering around your RV’s sinks or showers, you’re likely dealing with drain flies, and they can be a real RV nuisance. Here’s how to keep them away.
Trash walking: A simple way for RVers to give back while on the road
By Nanci Dixon
I recently read an article about Anna Sacks, New York City’s designated “Trash Walker,” and realized what an impact RVers could have and how easy “trash walking” can be. The concept of trash walking has been emerging as a simple yet impactful way to give back to our natural surroundings, all while having fun and getting exercise. Learn more.
Times are challenging. Can you help?
RVtravel.com readership has dropped dramatically. Why? Google no longer shows our stories in its search results, which has had a big impact on us. It’s the same story with a million other independent websites. We’re doing okay because of our large mailing list and our loyal readers, but we are hugely challenged to maintain our editorial integrity — and not sell out to advertisers or resort to click bait stories and headlines. Would you please become a voluntary contributor? It would help us hugely. Any amount helps. As a thank you, you’ll receive our Saturday and Sunday newsletters ad-free, forever. Thank you very much, and thank you for being a valued reader.
Yesterday’s top news for RVers
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- How will RVers be affected by latest tariffs?
- Launching soon: Amazon’s affordable satellite internet will rival Starlink
- More drivers ignoring traffic laws as reckless drivers multiply
- Gasoline prices jump a dime since last week
- Grand Canyon to raise camping fees
Read the rest of the news in yesterday’s newsletter here.
Reader poll
Do you wish your RV were five feet longer or five feet shorter?
What do most RVtravel.com readers do at night after dinner? A) Watch TV/movies; B) Read; C) Go for a walk; D) Work or enjoy a hobby. Find out here.
Sunday giveaway
How would you like to win a sticker map for your RV?
These are so neat! Put it on your RV and mark off (with a colorful sticker) all the states you visit. It’s fun to see where you’ve been and where you have left to go, and it’s fun for others to see, too.
Click here to enter or see last week’s winner.
RV gadgets and gizmos
New RV gear, gadgets and upgrades that improve RVing
By Cheri Sicard
Jared Gillis of All About RVs has news of some exciting new RV upgrades available that he says make RV life even better! From practical gear to impressive tech, there’s something here for every RVer. Continue reading for his breakdown, then watch the video to see each gadget in action.
Travel destinations
The hidden rocks in Montana you can play like musical instruments
By Gail Marsh
Nestled in Montana’s rugged landscape lies a geological marvel that intrigues visitors: the Ringing Rocks. Located approximately 18 miles east of Butte, north of Interstate 90, this unique formation consists of boulders that emit a bell-like chime when you do this to them.
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
- Amazon Prime perks every RVer should know about
- How safe is the RV park water you are using?
- Some of our most popular DIY articles for the DIY RVer
- Need a new place to walk? Try this trail-finding trick with Google Maps
- How to adjust your RV toilet seat height
In the RV shop with Dustin
An easy fix for a shower that won’t drain
If you’re showering in your RV and you’re standing in a couple of inches of water, or if the water just isn’t draining as quickly as it should, you have an issue that needs to be resolved. So why isn’t your RV shower draining? Let’s take a look at one of the most common issues that lead to a clogged RV shower and/or slow draining.
RANDOM RV THOUGHT: If you brew coffee or another hot liquid, put it in a Thermos or other insulated container rather than reheat it over and over. You will save propane or use of your generator.
Ghost towns
Camp with the ghosts at this famous California ghost town
By Gail Marsh
If you happen to RV through Southern California, have a penchant for history, and love ghost towns, Calico Ghost Town should be on your travel plans. Nestled in the Mojave Desert, this once-bustling mining town offers a unique blend of Old West charm and modern amenities. It’s a perfect stop for RVers. And the neatest part? You can camp right in town. Learn more.
Video of the day
RV inspector shares three pros and cons of buying rental RVs
By Cheri Sicard
Have you wondered whether or not buying a rental RV is a good idea? Deb, a certified RV inspector and registered technician at Deb’s RV Services, has seen it all when it comes to Cruise America RVs as she’s inspected tons of these rentals over the years. In this video, she’s ready to share the good, the bad, and the potentially leaky! Click here.
RV tire safety
Must I use ST tires on my trailer, or can I use LT-type?
By Roger Marble
When it comes time to replace the tires on your RV trailer you may have limited options. Sometimes you may also be confronted with a limited supply problem that depends on your selection. What can you do? What are some options? Find out here.
Ask Dave
This past week’s questions that Dave answered:
- Technical follow-up on lithium battery storage in an RV
- RV flooded by river water. What to do about it? Plus an update
- How do I manually retract my RV’s electric awning?
- How to protect and maintain newly replaced RV roof. Plus, why new roof was needed
- Can lithium house batteries jump-start an RV engine battery?
Recipes of the day
Easy lunch recipes to kick-start your week
If you’re doing your grocery shopping today or tomorrow, make sure to check out these recipes first because we guarantee you’ll see something here you’re going to want to make for lunch this week. These look delicious, and most of them you’d be able to make ahead of time for easy reheating.
Readers’ pet of the day
“Sunrise (Alaskan Malamute, age 7.5) loves to hike in Alaska! Or anywhere else it’s not too hot.” —Valerie D.
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.
DO YOU OWN A DOG? Do you walk your dog at night? Take him/her outside for a nighttime potty break? Then you need a light-up leash! Here’s a post from Gail Marsh explaining why.
Trivia
Only 5 percent of people wash their hands long enough to kill germs. A study from Michigan State University secretly observed 3,749 people in public restrooms and found that nearly all of them, 95 percent, did not wash their hands for a long enough time to kill germs. In order to kill germs, you must wash your hands for a total of 20 seconds. This study showed the average time people washed their hands was for six seconds. Well, shoot…
Sunday funny
Hit the road with a side dose of laughter from the team at Super Steer. In this video, they share some of their favorite dad RV jokes. (For those not in the know, a “dad joke” is a non-offensive, family-friendly riddle or pun.) Click here to laugh.
Did you miss last week’s RVtravel.com newsletter?
Brain teaser answer:
Ashley is 22. Her mother is 22 years older, now age 44, so when Ashley is 22, she’s reached half her mother’s age.
Vintage postcard of the week
Postcards owned by Colleen and Ed Weum, Pacific Northwest Postcard Club. Read more about their 90,000 postcard collection here.
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY
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
If I had you on a desert island with Arthur Godfrey and Janette Davis, early 1950s
RVtravel.com All Star Team
Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.
Well, that was a coincidence, as I was opening this morning’s news letter from you, I thought “I wonder when my subscription is due again …”, and a few minutes later I read your article about viewership falling off.
I’m not sure if you send reminders, but today’s article is all the reminder I need and will click one of the buttons. I hope other readers will do the same.
Hang in there.
Same here… giving annually, I’d appreciate a reminder of when my subscription is due, treating this as a purchase rather than a charity.
An excellent purchase, indeed!
This is a great idea Rebecca. Hopefully Chuck reads your suggestion and can set up subscription reminders.
I also would like that!
Same feeling I got last week. A feeling that I should donate. I immediately went and updated my contribution. My past receipt showed, I was due.
One way to avoid having to “remember” to renew your subscription is to sign up for a monthly contribution. I figured out what I wished to pay per year, divided by 12, added 3.5% to cover credit card fees charged to the vendor, and I have RVT charge my CC monthly. The get my support and I don’t let my subscription “lapse”. Just a thought to consider.
I also use the monthly automatic method — and not just for RVTravel. I use it for charitable contributions, insurance premiums, Internet service, etc. Of course, I always check my credit card and bank statements to make sure that there are no errors.
I have set my payment up to renew automatically each year. They send you a notification that the subscription will renew and then it happens automatically. So easy!
First, let me say I am a paid subscriber so I support RV Travel financially, but I do not “pull punches.” All I will say is that I’m not sure readership is falling off due to Google’s practices (my take/opinion on the readership issue). I believe the introduction of advertisements has turned a lot of people off. I also believe that RV Travel should be available by subscription or contribution only. It seems to me that having a steady income rather than pandering to the vast majority of readers who are freeloaders would be preferable. If they can afford an RV, they surely can afford $10, $15, or $25 once a year.
This is a common issue in web traffic across blogs and other types (e.g., retail). Follow the money, always. It’s a multi-year trend. Google has built up its ad empire to build more space for ads vs. normal text results (free). So it forces people that want traffic from google to pay for it while it gets more expensive in the process too.
Now, AI summaries trained on the articles themselves are served up from google in the result. This reduces click through to the true content generators (like rvt). Some call this stealing. Not everyone can afford a $1M plate.
I agree with your last sentence Carl but I fear readership will stagnate at best if RV Travel is put behind a paywall.
We were all non-paying subscribers when we first encountered this site so how many of us would have donated first with the hopes that unlike other sites, this one would be of value?
Don’t get me wrong, I do think there’s some that feel entitled to the milk without feeding the cow but my hope for humanity drives me to think that’s just a few. The rest just need frequent reminders….
I wanted to make a donation and it has locked up my computer. Message said it was logging my ip address. Please correct this because my computer now does not respond to anything. It’s locked up
Sorry for the long delay in responding, Dee. Were you able to get your computer working again? If not, and not being a techy-type person, all I would suggest is to just try restarting your computer, and then maybe cleaning the cache (to hopefully get rid of whatever was hanging your computer up). If there’s still a problem, please reply to this comment or contact editor@rvtravel.com and explain the situation. Good luck!🤞 Take care. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com
If your computer doesn’t respond to anything, how did you make this comment? Try shutting it down if you can ie: do a hard stop by holding down the start button. If you have a battery then remove it. Either way, wait two minutes and do a restart.
“Sunrise” is awesome. Thanks for sharing.
Loved the “Song From the Past”. Yep, I remember the Arthur Godfrey Show. Now that’s a quiz – How old am I? lol
Where is part 2 of “The Perfect Scam”?
Hi, Stinger45. I assume it will be in next Saturday’s newsletter. Have a good night. 😀 –Diane at RVtravel.com
Thank you. I look forward to listening to it. Safe travels.
Thanks, Stinger45. (I don’t put those in, but will make sure Part 2 gets put in next Saturday. In fact, I’ve just put a reminder in the draft of next Saturday’s newsletter.🙂) Safe travels to you, as well. 😀 –Diane
Thank you , Emily and Diane! Ha! Got the brain teaser! Sunrise is beautiful, Valerie! May you have many trips together before parting company. Have a great weekend and safe travels!