America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 1250
Ads have been removed in this newsletter
for our much-appreciated volunteer paid subscribers.
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Today’s thought
“The impulse to travel is one of the hopeful symptoms of life.” —Agnes Repplier
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day! Check out these peanut butter recipes, all with a twist.
On this day in history: 1872 – Yellowstone National Park is established as the world’s first national park.
Think that America is the world leader in RVing? Think again!
North American RVers who have not traveled abroad much may think that we here in the U.S. and Canada are the big dogs in the RVing world! Nope. Not true! Our publisher Chuck Woodbury has traveled to dozens of countries in Europe, Asia, and Down Under, and he can tell you that we are far from the most passionate RV travelers on Planet Earth. Keep reading.
What if RV techs built RVs? 5 changes they would make to fix common problems
After years of fixing RVs, a mobile RV tech starts to notice patterns that never change. The same failures show up across brands, price points, and model years. So when people ask, “What would be different if RV techs built RVs?”, the answer isn’t fancy features or more screens. It’s a short list of build choices that would make ownership less stressful. Here’s the list.
Used RV prices finally return to reality as pandemic effects fade
For years now, the RV industry has been off. We know this, and you know this. You saw it in the classified ads. You heard it in campground conversations. You felt it when someone proudly told you what they sold their rig for… and you thought to yourself, “Hmmm… that’s not normal.” The used RV market hasn’t just been hot since 2020—it’s been completely warped. And now, finally, something has changed.
Today’s RV review…
2026 Forest River Sunseeker 1950LE—a small Class C that’s more like a Class B
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of the 2026 Forest River Sunseeker 1950LE. You might look at this and say to yourself, “Self, this here is a Class C!” Okay, you would be right. But where I think this fits is as an alternative to a Class B or van. At just 20’6” long, it’s no longer than a lot of modern pickups and would fit length-wise into a parking space. That makes it relatively maneuverable. Continue reading.
IN CASE YOU FORGOT, today begins the weeklong celebration of National Lawnmower Maintenance Week. It ends March 7. And that, my friend, is proof that someone, somewhere, celebrates everything.
Tanner Toons
with Tanner Woods

Sign up for our RV Daily Tips Newsletter so you don’t miss a single Tanner Toon.
Five 1970s motorhomes that still matter in today’s RV market
The 1970s weren’t an easy time to be an RVer. Gas prices spiked, speed limits dropped, and motorhomes were anything but efficient. Yet it was during that decade that RV travel moved from the fringes into the mainstream—and some of the rigs built then helped define what the American road trip would become. That history is suddenly feeling relevant again.
10 (more) ways you can use pool noodles while RVing
By Gail Marsh
Five years ago, I wrote an article that detailed nine ways RVers can use pool noodles while camping. Five years is a long time! Since then, I’ve discovered many, many more pool noodle tricks and tips—some from online resources, others from you, our readers. Here are 10 more ideas that I really love. Enjoy!
The best bacon for RVers
Love firing up your griddle at camp for a hearty breakfast? Then you know bacon is one of those simple indulgences that makes RV mornings unforgettable. In a recent poll, a quarter of you admitted to eating bacon often, while nearly half of you said you eat it sometimes. Sounds like you like your bacon! A recent blind taste test sampled ten widely available bacon brands to find which delivers the best mix of flavor, texture, and smoke.
Tony’s tips
Why I will never, ever use campground Wi-Fi again
By Tony Barthel
Is it time to just eliminate campground Wi-Fi altogether? I think it is, and I can share why. But, first, a few weeks ago, I shared that I had been hacked in a campground, but I don’t believe I shared that I had been hacked twice in different campgrounds. Let’s talk about how we all get connected so you can read websites like RVtravel.com. And whatever else. Like watch TV. Oh, and I’ll tell you why I’ll never use campground Wi-Fi again.
What about you?
To readers: Tell us about what almost nobody knows about you
By Chuck Woodbury
I have traveled around North America for a long time, and met a lot of people. When I met someone interesting, I would often ask if I could write about them. “Oh, I’m not interesting,” they would usually say. Almost always, they were! I would just need to talk to them for a while. Eventually, they would say something they didn’t think was remarkable in any way, but I thought otherwise. I learned that everybody is interesting. So now it’s your turn: Tell me something interesting about you!
Reader poll
What type of RV do you own?
TAKE A GUESS: Would RVtravel.com readers rather park next to barking dogs or noisy children? Guess, then see if you’re right.
Yesterday’s top news for RVers
- Love’s makes its rewards program friendlier for RVers
- RV owners now tracked in massive new marketing database
- Ford recalls millions of pickup trucks for trailer towing danger
- You’re not imagining it: Campground prices really are higher
- National parks drop timed-entry reservations in 2026; RVers may pay the price
- Beyond the headlines with Tony Barthel: How homeless RVers are shaping public perception of RVing, plus THOR’s reorganization
PLUS: Think a lifetime RV warranty covers everything? Read this.
Read the rest of the news in yesterday’s newsletter here.
Sunday giveaway
How would you like to win this microwaveable bacon cooker?
In honor of today’s story about the best bacon… Because Sunday mornings and bacon belong together.
How to win
We’ll select a winner at random out of all entries we receive today by 7 p.m. Pacific time. You can only enter once. Click here to enter or see last week’s winner.
RV gadgets and gizmos
Demco Recon Stealth: The first foldable fifth-wheel hitch
By Gail Marsh
I saw this hitch at the Florida RV SuperShow a few weeks ago and was impressed. If you tow a fifth wheel and miss using your truck bed on non-towing days, this hitch provides a solution. Demco calls the Recon Stealth™ a foldable goose ball-mounted, fifth wheel hitch. It easily collapses for compact storage yet quickly returns to full towing duty when you need it. I am impressed!
WANT MORE GADGETS? Don’t miss Thursday’s brand-new Great RV Accessories Newsletter. It’s fun! Read it here.
Travel destinations & upcoming events
An RVers’ week in Indianapolis before the Indy 500
Indianapolis is a great destination for RVers who love museums, greenways, and more. Take a look at all Indianapolis has to offer. Then plan your stay and happily look forward to a fun time. Inside this guide is what to do and see, and where to camp. Indy, here we come!
Apps for RVers
Live navigation app shows you what’s ahead at every exit
We’ve all heard it: “How much farther?” “I need a restroom!” “We’re almost out of fuel.” “I’m so hungry!” Reader “billh42” recently pointed us in the direction of the iExit app, which can be a huge help if you travel the interstates in your RV. The iExit app tells you what’s coming up at every exit. The app can help you make smarter stops without unnecessary detours. Learn more about it here.
Brain teaser
How many squares can you count? (Answer below.)
Remember this?
From the archives: All RVers own a “whiskey stick,” but we bet you don’t know its history!
You probably have at least one, perhaps more than one “whiskey stick” in your RV. And no, a whiskey stick is not used during happy hour! The whiskey stick (also known as liquor stick or bubble level) has an interesting history. Once you know it, you’ll think of it each time you check that your RV is level. Guaranteed. This is very interesting!
Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter
- Military campgrounds offer a great opportunity for many RVers
- How to minimize RV interior condensation
- DC to DC charger: Does your RV need one?
- How to clean your RV’s microwave
- Flexible holding tank repair material easy to apply—and it works!
TINY TIP: Keep a small magnetic- or velcro-mounted flashlight stuck near your entry door. Power goes out? Boom. You’re a hero.
In the RV shop with Dustin
Replacing a broken frame leaf spring hanger before it damages your RV’s suspension
Today, I [Dustin] am discussing a crucial topic for RV owners: finding and replacing the right leaf spring hanger in the unfortunate event that yours breaks free from your RV frame. Leaf spring hangers play a vital role in supporting the weight of your RV and ensuring a smooth ride. If one breaks or becomes damaged, it’s essential to replace it promptly to prevent further damage to your RV’s suspension system.
RV tire safety
How to set tire pressure when there are wide swings in temperature
An RVtravel.com reader recently asked Roger Marble about the wide temperature swings in Texas and its effect on tire inflation. Read Roger’s explanation.
Ask Dave
This past week’s questions that Dave answered:
No power from RV house battery. Could it be bad battery disconnect switch? • RV windshield gasket pulled away, left a gap. What are options? • Is there an RV battery monitor that works? • Do deep cycle batteries have to be trickle charged individually? • RV’s propane supply lines have air. Is there a leak?
**Final day: If you’re near Philadelphia, PA, be sure to see Dave Solberg at his always educational and entertaining seminars at the Philadelphia RV Show today.
Video of the day
“The Bull”: An inspiring short film on aging, surfing, RVing, and Baja
Some people measure success by what they own. Glen Horn measures it by a single surf at sunset in Baja California. In Eric Ebner’s award-winning short film “The Bull” (see the end of this post to watch it), Horn explains how he built a life around waves, wind, and wide-open space, and why he never plans to stop. It’s a story about walking away from the usual script, then sticking to the new one for decades. We think you’ll enjoy this.
Comments this week from readers
“I once stayed at an RV park with its own pizza delivery restaurant. After a long day out, getting a pizza delivered to my door was heavenly.” —Pat
“It does not matter if the glass is half full or half empty; we seem to forget that the glass is refillable.” —Terry
“Fifteen years ago, I was 76, and we had been RVing for about 20 years. After fifteen years, our ‘exploring/discovering’ era had peaked, and we were entering our ‘been there, done that’ phase, but enjoying it. Now my wife is deceased, and I almost RV for the sake of something to do, and that’s a good thing! Color me fortunate!” —Idaho Bob
In response to: Would you rather park next to barking dogs or noisy children? “I think I would prefer to stay home.” —Bob
“I try to boondock away from others, but on the rare occasions I arrive late or cannot find a spot with a lot of separation, I always ask the nearby occupant if it is okay with them if I stay the night nearby. I completely blackout my rig and make as little noise as possible (no A/C unless I ask). I’m intruding on their space and want to be a good neighbor. I wish that was the norm.” —LugNet
Live cam
Niagara Falls
RV RULE: If it squeaks, rattles, or hums—you will learn to ignore it.
RVer warning
Tree wells are a hidden and deadly danger for those who spend time in snow
By Gail Marsh
A tree well is a pocket of loose snow that forms around the base of conifer or evergreen trees with low branches. I’d never heard about tree wells, but every RVer who loves winter camping should know about them. This is information that could save your life! (And be sure to watch the second video. It’s truly incredible!)
Readers’ pet of the day
“Jake (age 2) is our third Sheltie and the second we’ve had since we started camping. He’s always a big hit around the campgrounds and loves to meet other dogs and people.” —William Smith
HELP! WE’RE RUNNING LOW ON PET PHOTOS! 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.
EVER THINK ABOUT THIS? Campgrounds are basically dog networking events.
Trivia
One of the most unusual things about J.C. Penney (James Cash Penney), beyond having the perfectly fitting middle name “Cash,” was his rigid and eccentric set of principles. One included not hiring anyone who salted their food before tasting it, as he considered that a sign of a pessimistic person. Also, even after becoming a tycoon, Penney was known to wait on customers himself whenever he was in one of his stores.
Sunday funny
Did you miss last week’s RVtravel.com newsletter?
Brain teaser answer:
40. Here is a demonstration explaining the answer.
FREE IS GOOD! T-Mobile Tuesdays is a rewards program for T-Mobile customers through the T-Mobile Tuesdays app. Every Tuesday there are different free offers (including food) and discounts.
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
RVtravel.com All Star Team
Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.




Do you receive kickbacks from Forest River?
Really?
They have reviewed almost every brand and model.
Good and not so good.
Guessing you are referring to Tony B. Read a bit more of his and Chuck’s (the founder of this newsletter) background.
Why do you make such an ignorant comment?
Hi, Ralph. We get kickbacks from no one. Have a good day. 🙂 –Diane at RVtravel.com
Sounds like he bought a Forest River product that had problems. Possibly from CW where he probably received no help with the problems.
I agree, Bob.👍 Have a good night. 😀 –Diane
That’s such an ugly word. Kickbacks I mean, not Forest River. Kickbacks are illegal. Read the block immediately below here. “As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We also may earn a small amount from some affiliate links.” Is that a kickback? If you get points from using a specific credit card why aren’t you considered as getting a kickback? It might be a fine line in many cases. To see the difference Google “kickbacks”.
Yes, “As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We also may earn a small amount from some affiliate links” would be a kick back.
Hi, Perry. A kickback is an illegal, undisclosed payment. I think what we earn from qualifying purchases on Amazon would be better classified as commissions, since they are not illegal and we do disclose them. Have a good night. 🙂 –Diane at RVtravel.com
Jake is a gorgeous dog! Happy travels!
OH man, do I have a new”Trivia” question for the campfire or Happy Hour – The Whiskey Stick. If you didn’t read about it (above) go back and read it.
Dogs or children ? Hmm, I admit I have wanted a dog whistle attached to a CO2 cartridge. s there anything you can attach to the front of your car/truck that scares away deer?
I saw at least 4 ads from Best Dates with what looked to me to be “a working girl”. I know it is hard to control the content of ads but in an RV publication that is an edition that is supposed to be “ad free?
Sorry, Jesse. Were those ads in the newsletter itself? Or were they in the articles that were linked in the newsletter? We still have ads in the individual posts because we just don’t have the time or resources to produce two sets of everything we publish. Also, ads like that are automatically inserted and we don’t have any control over them, unless we see them ourselves or someone sends us the URL. That way we can contact our ad management company to remove them. Have a good day. 😀 –Diane at RVtravelcom