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Are pollen and dust harmful to an RV? What to do about it

Dave Solberg
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Are pollen and dust harmful to an RV? What to do about it

A few weeks ago we were walking our dog and noticed the air was full of those little white floaties that my wife claims she is allergic to. The edges of the lawns looked like it had snowed and the sky was as white as a snowy Christmas Day. My wife made a comment about how they could be harmful to RVs. That made me think about what environmental issues might affect an RV, such as the floaties from cottonwood trees, dust, and even pollen.

These little white floaties come from cottonwood trees and are called cottonwood fluff or summer snow. They are the seed-bearing material released by female cottonwood and poplar trees in late spring and early summer. They are actually non-allergenic. The itchy eyes and runny nose are due to pollen from grass and other trees.

Although harmless to humans, these “cotton balls” can accumulate on the condenser fins of your roof top air conditioner and block airflow. That would affect the efficiency of the A/C and could ultimately cause the unit to fail. They can also accumulate in large masses. If they get stuck in the cracks and crevices of your engine exhaust manifold, it could start on fire.

Several years ago the president of Newmar had a Jeep being towed to the RVIA Louisville show that caught on fire due to debris lodged in the engine manifold area. He pulled into the parking lot, unhooked the Jeep from the tow bar and let it idle. When he came back around the rig, the Jeep was on fire!

Pollen and dust can damage RV’s exterior

Other environmental conditions such as pollen and even dust can be damaging to the RV’s exterior if left unchecked.

Even though pollen and dust seem to be smooth and not something that would scratch or damage the exterior surface, under a microscope, pollen has very sharp spikes and dust is actually like sharp pebbles. Both can act like sandpaper.

Both pollen and dust are acidic and can corrode the gel coat finish of the fiberglass when wet. And, as stated before, they act like sandpaper, so they become abrasive when you try to clean the rig. Coating the windshield reduces visibility and causes scratches when the wiper blades are activated. Also, they pit the flat finish of the rubber blades, making them less efficient.

Pollen and dust particles can get into the engine air filter. They not only clog the filter, but get drawn into the cabin and aggravate allergies. The roof air conditioners do not draw in outside air. However, pollen and dust particles can reduce the airflow through the condenser, just like the cottonwood trees’ “cotton balls”.

Maintenance and precautions

Clean and inspect your roof air conditioner more often in the spring. Use a low pressure hose to flush out anything in and on the condenser coil, and on the fins at the back or around the sides of the unit.

Air Conditioner Condenser
Air conditioner condenser

Replace your engine air filter and any cabin filter your vehicle has in the spring. Repeat a few months later if there is high pollen count.

Clean your windshield with a low pressure hose and wipe off the wiper blades with a soft cloth and cleaner. I use 303 Protectant to not only clean but condition, as well.

Rinse the rig down thoroughly and clean with Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash. It is kind to ceramic coatings as well as the gelcoat of traditional fiberglass. You can find it on Amazon here.

Meguiar's Gold Class

Never wipe down with a dry rig. It is also a good idea to periodically rinse the rig if there is a heavy pollen count or a lot of visible dust. Pollen and dust in the air can get “caked” on a rig during a rain as the moisture captures it and coats your rig. Periodically rinsing the exterior helps keep it from doing so.

During the spring and especially on days with a heavy pollen count, keep the windows closed. Vacuum the floor periodically and wipe down all furniture and countertops. It is also a good idea to get an air purifier that scrubs the air. Clean or replace your roof air conditioner filter that is in the return air chamber.

Waxing the exterior fiberglass with the recommended Meguiar’s RV & Boat wax will help keep pollen and dust from sticking to the surface. You can find it on Amazon here.

Meguiars Wax
Meguiar’s Cleaner Wax

Your rig’s appearance is the most important item when it comes to resale value. A faded, dull exterior will drop the value dramatically even if everything else is in top shape!

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

DAVE HAS ANSWERED MORE THAN 1,000 readers’ maintenance and repair questions. Read a directory here. There is so much to learn!

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

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

Name
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload

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What you’ve been told about your RV’s anode rod is wrong

Andrew Herrick
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0
What you’ve been told about your RV’s anode rod is wrong

Here’s a nugget of conventional, albeit incorrect, wisdom about RV water heaters: “Steel tanks require an anode rod to protect against rust, but because aluminum doesn’t rust, aluminum tanks don’t require an anode rod.”

Unfortunately, that’s not quite accurate. Actually, both types of tanks require cathodic protection. But Dometic has cleverly integrated the protection into the tank lining itself. Suburban has chosen to rely on a separate, replaceable anode rod.

An anode rod will lay down its life for its friends

Not sure what an anode rod is? Well, you see, city water carries minerals and heavy metals that eat away common metals. Unchecked, these elements will corrode the walls of the metal water tank, which is pressurized under operation up to 80 psi. Abandoned, after enough time the water heater’s tank will corrode, pit, crack, and fail.

Passive anodes lay down their lives for their friends. The corrosive elements eat away the metal of the sacrificial anode instead of the tank. Once an anode rod has about 25% life left, it should be replaced. Many RV owners make a habit of replacing their anode rod once a year while draining and descaling their water heater while winterizing, or while sanitizing and bleaching during dewinterizing.

Two types of anode rods: magnesium and aluminum

There are two types of water heater anode rods. All standard RV anode rods are 0.75 inches in diameter and 9.25 inches long.

• Magnesium: Best for soft water and the widest range of protection. It’s the most common choice for RV water heaters.

• Aluminum/zinc: Best for hard water and water rich in sulfates, which can cause a rotten egg smell. Aluminum anode rods typically corrode slower than magnesium. However, they may offer less protection because of aluminum’s relatively benign galvanic potential relative to carbon steels.

Does a Dometic aluminum tank still need an anode rod?

Now, as I said, both Suburban (steel) and Dometic (aluminum) tanks do actually require cathodic protection. However, Dometic has integrated the anodic material into the tank lining; Suburban uses a replaceable anode rod.

Suburban uses a glass-lined steel tank. In the perfect world, no anode rod would be required, because the glass enamel electrically isolates the tank metal. However, over time, micro cracks and pinholes develop in the glass lining. Water sneaks in. Galvanic corrosion begins. The anode rod is recruited into action as the next line of defense.

Dometic, on the other hand, fuses a layer of 7072 aluminum (aluminum + zinc) to the interior of their high-strength aluminum tanks. This 7072 aluminum layer is a permanent integral anode, which should last the lifetime of the tank. No aftermarket rod is necessary.

That’s why Dometic will tell you that an aftermarket anode rod is NOT recommended for their conventional 6-, 10-, and 16-gallon water heaters. It already has a built-in anode. Plus, the steel threads of an aftermarket anode rod can easily gall or seize when screwed into the aluminum tank threaded fitting (normally reserved for the drain plug). Good luck unscrewing that!

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RV tech shares the pros and cons of truck campers

Video Editor
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RV tech shares the pros and cons of truck campers

By Cheri Sicard
Truck campers spark a lot of opinions in the RV world. Some wonder why anyone would pick this style of RV over a travel trailer or a big motorhome. Others swear by their versatility. Knowing the real pros and cons helps anyone thinking of a truck camper make the best decision for their travels.

In today’s video, certified RV tech Jacob Rigor shares those pros and cons.

A truck camper is an RV unit designed to slide into the bed of a pickup. Unlike travel trailers or motorhomes, a truck camper sits right on top of the truck and can be removed when not in use. It combines the freedom of a truck with the convenience of a small living space, but isn’t always the right fit for everyone.

People choose these for many reasons, from budget to adventure. Though they seem straightforward, truck campers carry some unique benefits, along with a few challenges. Here are a few quick points many shoppers ask about:

  • Often cheaper than most motorhomes
  • Easier storage and less maintenance
  • Smaller living quarters and storage space

Truck campers aren’t an obvious pick for every RVer, but they appeal to those who want adaptability and simplicity.

Top benefits of truck campers

1. Affordable entry point: Truck campers usually cost less than most full-size RVs. The smaller size keeps purchase prices lower.

2. Less maintenance needed: No chassis to maintain, no extra tires or wheel bearings on the camper itself, and no engine or oil to deal with.

3. Upgrading trucks is simple: Owners can keep their camper even if they swap out trucks. Got a new pickup? Just move the camper over.

4. Easy to maneuver: The camper rides right on the truck’s chassis, keeping turning and parking much like a regular pickup.

5. Ability to tow another vehicle: You can tow a trailer, boat, or ATVs behind the truck camper, opening doors for extra adventure.

6. Lower ongoing costs: Most states see a truck camper as cargo, not a vehicle, so there’s less paperwork and no separate registration.

7. 4×4 adventure-ready: Mounting a camper on a four-wheel-drive truck gives off-road capability without the premium price tag of dedicated 4×4 RVs.

8. Flexible mounting options: Put the camper on your truck, a large boat, or even mount it on a flatbed or trailer to create a DIY toy hauler.

Why maintenance is simpler

Truck campers skip a lot of chores found in bigger RVs. Owners don’t worry about things like camper tires, separate wheel bearings, or oil changes for the living unit. Fewer moving parts mean less can go wrong:

  • No separate tires to maintain
  • No RV-specific brakes or axles
  • No engine maintenance

These RVs offer unique flexibility and customization options. Adventurers can remove the camper when not in use, swap it onto different vehicles, or mount it in creative ways. Some even mount campers on trailers or improvise toy-haulers.

Challenges and drawbacks

1. High center of gravity: Sitting tall on the bed makes trucks more top-heavy and prone to sway or tipping, especially off-road or in wind.

2. Handling can be rough: Standard truck suspensions aren’t built for tall, heavy loads. Many owners add stiffer springs or helper air bags, which can make unloaded rides bumpy.

3. Small living space: Interiors feel cramped compared to most travel trailers or motorhomes. They work best when you just need a place to crash.

4. Limited tank capacity: Smaller fresh water and holding tanks mean shorter trips away from hookups.

5. Minimal storage: Sparse room for cargo inside challenges anyone packing for long stays or with bulky gear.

Safety considerations

The weight of a truck camper rides high, making the whole setup less stable on sharp turns or slanted ground. Crossing steep slopes or driving in strong side winds pushes the limits. Always manage your speed, avoid sharp maneuvers, and keep cargo weight low. Suspensions on most trucks sag under tall, heavy campers, affecting steering and braking. Upgrades like heavy-duty springs or air bags help, but can leave the ride feeling stiff whenever the camper isn’t loaded.

Space is tight in truck campers. Interior layouts limit sleeping, cooking, and relaxing room. Tiny water and holding tanks can cut trips short. They’re best for people who use the RV for shelter and meals but spend most days exploring outdoors.

Who should consider a truck camper?

Truck campers work well for minimalist campers, off-road explorers, and anyone who needs a flexible RV setup. They suit people who value portability, wish to keep a 4×4 truck for adventuring, or want to save on costs.

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What color is your car?

RV Travel
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What color is your car?

Do you remember the color of the very first car you ever drove? Maybe it was bright red, faded blue, classic white, or one of those shades of beige that seemed to be everywhere for a while. Car colors often become part of our memories. Sometimes we even nickname our vehicles based on their color.

That got us wondering about the vehicles RVers are driving today. Walk through any campground, and you’ll see plenty of white trucks, silver SUVs, black pickups, and just about every other color imaginable.

Some people choose a color they love. Others take whatever color was available when they found the right vehicle at the right price.

So here’s today’s question: What color is your car?

If you have more than one vehicle, vote for the one you drive most often. And if your tow vehicle, daily driver, or motorhome happens to be a unique color, we’d love to hear about it in the comments.

Thanks for voting and sharing a little about the vehicle that gets you where you want to go.

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

RVDT2922

Many travelers booking ahead to avoid price increases

RV Travel
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Many travelers booking ahead to avoid price increases

Fullstory, a leading behavioral data company, has released the results of its 2026 Travel & Hospitality Survey, which explored shifting travel behaviors, booking preferences, and experience expectations among more than 1,000 U.S. consumers.

The survey was aimed at the entire travel industry, not RV travel specifically.

Key findings:

• 70% of respondents traveled in the past year or plan to travel this year.
• 61% of respondents cite hidden or unexpected fees as their top frustration when booking travel.
• 33% are cutting back on budgets or shortening trips.
• 31% are booking earlier to avoid price increases

“As costs rise and budgets tighten, consumers are still planning to travel, but they are making more deliberate decisions about when, how, and where they spend,” said Jason Wolf, president, Fullstory. “More intentional demand means that success will be defined less by volume and more by precision. The travel brands that can deliver the right experience at the right moment—while removing friction and building trust—will be best positioned to win market share and customer loyalty.”

Travelers are spending more cautiously — but travel demand is holding strong

Despite economic pressure, travel demand remains resilient, with 70% of respondents indicating recent or planned travel activity. However, consumers are showing greater cost sensitivity and planning discipline, optimizing timing and budgets, to maintain their current travel frequency.

In addition to booking earlier and reducing the duration of trips to avoid higher prices, 20% of consumers are choosing alternate travel options, such as driving instead of flying.

Consumers over the age of 45 are least likely to adjust plans in response to rising costs, with 25% of Baby Boomers and 18% of Gen X reporting no changes to travel behavior, compared to 14% of Millennials and 8% of Gen Z.

Traditional planning tools still win

Consumers continue to rely on established digital channels when planning travel:

• Search engines (53%)
• Online travel agencies (51%)
• Direct airline or hotel websites (44%)

But AI tools such as ChatGPT and Claude are beginning to enter early-stage travel planning, with 15% of respondents using AI platforms to start their search, including 19% of Gen X, 17% of Millennials, 15% of Gen Z, and 4% of Baby Boomers.

Rising costs and uncertain economic futures contribute to the value of streamlined, flexible booking experiences. The most important factors influencing consumer travel decisions were:

• Price/value (77%)
• Customer service quality (51%)
• Convenience of booking (48%)

Poor booking experiences and hidden costs drive consumers away

The survey highlights persistent friction across the booking process. Nearly 70% of respondents said they would be likely to switch travel brands after a negative experience, emphasizing the importance of providing a seamless customer journey.

Top pain points include:
• Hidden or unexpected fees (61%)
• Delayed or unhelpful customer service (37%)
• Limited availability or inventory issues (34%)

Booking abandonment is also common, with 31% of consumers citing last-stage price changes as the reason they fail to complete purchases, while 24% leave to compare options and do not return.

Personalization is important

Consumers are receptive to personalization, but they want tangible benefits rather than inspirational recommendations.

More than half of respondents (55%) said personalized pricing, discounts, or bundled offers would be the most impactful way to improve their travel experience, showing that cost savings remain the strongest driver of perceived value. Fewer respondents prioritized destination recommendations (41%) or content-based suggestions (26%), signaling that personalization is more effective when it directly supports decision-making and affordability.

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Hiker dies of heatstroke in Grand Canyon

RV Travel
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Hiker dies of heatstroke in Grand Canyon

On June 3, at approximately 1:40 p.m., the Grand Canyon National Park Regional Communications Center received reports of an 18-year-old male experiencing heat-related symptoms below Havasupai Gardens on the Bright Angel Trail. National Park Service rangers responded and located the individual approximately 30 feet below the trail in a remote area near Garden Creek.

Despite rapid response efforts by park rangers and a coordinated helicopter rescue operation, lifesaving measures were unsuccessful.

Heatstroke happens when body temperature rises quickly and a person can’t cool down. It can be life-threatening by causing damage to the brain and other vital organs. It may be caused by doing strenuous activity in the heat or by being in a hot place for too long. Heatstroke can happen without having any previous heat-related condition, such as heat exhaustion.

The individual was on a day hike from the South Rim to the Colorado River and back via the Bright Angel Trail. The incident is under investigation in coordination with the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office. The individual’s name is not being released pending next of kin notifications. No additional information is available at this time.

Other articles you may find interesting

Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 is a bucket-list RV drive, but don’t just wing it

Every few years, somebody rediscovers Utah’s Scenic Byway 12 and declares it one of America’s most beautiful drives. This time it’s the travel editors at Travel and Leisure, whose recent feature highlighted the 122-mile route between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef and the remarkable scenery packed into a relatively short stretch of road.

Why isn’t there an I-50 or I-60?

By Gail Marsh
I was researching an upcoming RV trip with my grandson. As we poured over maps and Googled routes, he asked, “Why isn’t there an Interstate 50 or 60?” I was baffled. Together we searched for the answer. Here’s what we found.

RVT1265b

RV Daily Tips. Monday, June 8, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Monday, June 8, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2921 • New issue every weekday
This free edition is made possible by 6% of our readers who support RV Travel with a voluntary subscription. Advertising helps, but that alone is not sufficient.

Today’s thought

“It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn’t use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words, like ‘What about lunch?'” —A. A. Milne

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Best Friends Day!

On this day in history: 1949 – George Orwell’s dystopian novel “1984” is published in the United States.

Tip of the day
How to contain and organize RV kitchen utensils

By Gail Marsh
Perhaps you’ve been there: a darting deer with a death wish forces you to brake suddenly, and crash! All of your kitchen utensils jump, tip, or fly into the air and flop off the counter onto who-knows-where on the floor.

We all need and use kitchen utensils. The trouble is that many RV kitchens offer very little storage space for them. Let’s look at ways to solve this common problem.

More tips from this weekend you may have missed:

Kimberley Kube LifestyleRV review
The Kimberley Kube: A 2,500-pound off-road teardrop

For a lightweight, basic, hard-sided camper, let’s take a look at the Kimberley Kube. The Kimberley Kube is built for campers moving up from roof tents and small tent trailers, but who still want real off-road gear. The result is a compact camper that feels much bigger than its footprint, and it has finally made its way to the U.S.!

jar and bottle openerJar, bottle, and can opener good for weak hands
This 6-in-1 jar and bottle opener has eight sizes of circular openings, making the jar opener extremely convenient for opening small- and medium-sized lids. The hooks on the top can be used to open the large-size lids by breaking the air tightness, and can also be used to open the ring pull cans. Learn more or order.

In the RV shop with Dustin
How to replace your RV toilet

You often do not realize how important your RV toilet is until it’s not available. Let’s assume the toilet is non-repairable or that it’s just too old. Now it’s time to update the toilet. In most cases, a replacement is a relatively simple process. The hardest step of RV toilet replacement is deciding on the replacement and determining if it works in your RV. Continue reading.

Article and video
See what damage a bear can do to an RV

In today’s video, we meet Tim, who called the California Seawood Cape Preserve home, deep in the forest and far from city noise. One night, while out with some friends, he received a vague but worrying message: “Hey, not sure but it looks like something’s wrong with your RV’s roof.” That brief note hid much bigger problems. It wasn’t a towering grizzly but instead a determined and agile small black bear, driven by the lure of food, that managed to get on top of Tim’s trailer.

THE MORE YOU KNOW… The Earth travels about 1.6 million miles around the sun every single day. So even if you’re sitting still, you’re really moving.

The latest news for RVers

To read more recent news, click here.

Featured article
Why your RV’s GVWR is different than its GAWR

By Ross Regis
Alphabet soup is hard to choke down, I know. But if you can stomach the acronyms for a few minutes, I think you’ll learn something important about your RV’s weight capacity—and maybe save yourself a tire blowout along the way. Today’s question: Why does your RV’s GVWR not match its GAWR? In other words, why is your RV allowed to weigh more or less than what the axles can carry alone? Find out here.  I break it down and make the math easy for you.

Glad Top Open 2 Img 0240A big-trash-bin alternative
“I was struggling with keeping a trash receptacle in our motorhome…. I found this Glad Roomate Undercounter Waste Bin, in which regular plastic grocery bags fit perfectly. The lid opens two ways and can either clip to a door or drawer or be mounted with an adhesive strip.” Thanks for the tip, Chris (and Keri)!

Ask Dave
Another “race to the bottom” with “fast-install” outlets

Read Dave’s thoughts on those outlets here.

Reader poll
How do you feel about your RVer neighbors hanging out wind chimes?

Respond here.

Quick tip
Must-have safety equipment

Prepare for a breakdown or flat on the roadside: Carry a set of warning triangles like commercial truckers use. Folding ones don’t take much space, but their reflectors help out at night. Be sure to place them well behind your rig to give traffic plenty of warning of your presence. Thanks to George B. for the tip! (Editor: Here are some at Amazon.com.)

Really quick tip
Make your own travel cup

Glad Press’N Seal will easily turn any cup into a nice travel cup. Just pop a hole in the top with your straw, and you’re good to go.

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Okay, ladies, this one is for you. You are going to LOVE this. (We mean LOVE this!) And men or partners, if you need a gift for your lady, this is it!

Website of the day

BringFido: Pet Friendly Campgrounds in the United States
BringFido is your resource for everything dog: best parks, dog-friendly restaurants, dog-friendly beaches… everything! But this specific page brings you to the best pet-friendly campgrounds across the U.S. These are nice!

Monday Motivation

Freedom means different things to different people. For RVers, it might be a quiet campsite beside a river, a mountain vista outside the windshield, or a desert sunset enjoyed from a camp chair. RVing offers a rare opportunity to choose where you wake up tomorrow. That freedom is precious. It reminds us that life is about more than routines and responsibilities. It is also about discovery, wonder, and joy. Appreciate the privilege of being able to travel and explore. Then make the most of every opportunity the road places before you.

Trivia

Pigs are highly intelligent. They’re often at the top of an animal intelligence ranking for their ability to manipulate their environment and understand symbols. Pigs can learn complex tasks, including playing video games. They’ve also been shown to possess a level of intelligence comparable to that of a 3-year-old human child. Pigs can respond to commands and exhibit emotional intelligence, showing empathy and forming strong social bonds.

Readers’ pets of the day

Img 9608 220caf414953e7417a7ccb56c291920c“T Rex (GSD, age 10) is my retired agility and dock diving dog, but still competes in barn hunt. Jinx (mixed breeds, 2) is my young dog just starting her agility career and also competes in barn hunt and dock diving. Simba (19) just went to the rainbow bridge this past Mother’s Day. All of them love going to new places and exploring.” —Mary Masters

Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!

Leave here with a laugh

Our favorite guide and travel books, atlases, and more for RVers. Click here.

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Did you miss the latest RV Travel Newsletter? If so, read it here.
Oh, and if you missed the Latest News for RVers, make sure to catch up here.

If you shop at Amazon.com we’d appreciate you using this link. We get an itty bitty commission if you buy something, but they add up and help us pay our bills (most importantly our hard-working writers!). 

RVtravel.com All-Star Staff

Click here for information about our staff and how to contact us.

WHY WE ASK FOR DONATIONS INSTEAD OF SELLING SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Our policy on using artificial intelligence.

Another ‘race to the bottom’ with ‘fast install’ outlets

Dave Solberg
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Another ‘race to the bottom’ with ‘fast install’ outlets

A few years ago I was researching a battery company that supplied flooded lead acid (FLA) batteries to the locomotive (train) industry and for solar panel systems. Everything I found indicated they were an outstanding company with a quality product, so I called and talked to an engineer and asked why they were not in the RV industry. He stated that every time they discussed their product with an RV manufacturer all they wanted was to cut the price $30 less than what they were currently using. He came up with the phrase: “It’s a race to the bottom!”

Unfortunately, it’s too often true in this industry, as many people shopping for an RV shop by price rather than by value. Therefore, manufacturers race to find ways to cut costs rather than educating customers on value, so that the unit sits next to the competition with a lower price tag.

Electrical outlets in RVs

One such item is the electrical outlets used in many RVs. The RV Industry Association (RVIA) uses codes and specifications set by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) and other safety organizations such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for RV safety. NFPA has specific wiring and outlet codes such as NFPA 1192 standard for safety. That requires the National Electric Code (NEC) Article 551, which dictates wiring size for RVs.

From what I have found over the years, RV manufacturers are using the correct size 120-volt wiring commonly referred to as Romex, which is actually a brand name. However, the “race to the bottom” comes with the outlet, in my opinion. Code requires a UL-listed outlet capable of handling the amp rating of the circuit breaker, which is typically 10-15 amps in a traditional outlet.

Not all outlets are the same quality

There are several types of outlet that have the amp capacity and are UL rated. However, not all are the same quality, in my opinion. The traditional residential outlet has an outlet box mounted in the wall and an outlet with either side mount screws or push-in slots in the back.

When I built my house, my certified/bonded electrician stated that he NEVER used the push-in slots in the back. He explained they are not a good contact and the wire can slip out or break off from the slot. Keep in mind, this is in a house that is not traveling 60+ mph down the road. He always connected the wires to the side posts and wrapped electrical tape around the entire outlet.

Outlet taped
Outlet taped

“Fast install” aka “self contained dual outlet”

I have received several questions from readers regarding the “fast install”-type outlet called “self contained dual outlet.” This is an outlet that can be installed without a gang box and with the wires pushed into spades on the back side. It is thinner than a traditional outlet so it can be installed on a side wall that is only 2” thick, as it does not require the box. It is faster to install so there is less labor, and it does not require a gang box. So, putting several of these in an RV is a cost savings.

They are UL listed and rated for 15 amps, so they should be fine for an RV, right? To properly install these outlets, you need a specific tool such as the Wirecon WT900M, which costs $700. Snap-on makes a cheaper device that looks like a golf shoe spike wrench. Even if they use the proper tool and get the wires “seated” correctly, I have had dozens of readers sending pictures of this type of outlet failing due to road vibration.

Self Contained Outlet GFCI
Self contained outlet GFCI

Here is another one:

Self Contained Outlet
Self contained outlet

Traditional outlets recommended

It’s not like you have a choice of outlets. However, I would replace any of the fast install outlets with a traditional one with side posts. For outlets that are in the 2″ sidewalls, you can get a shallow outlet box on Amazon here.

Shallow Outlet Box
Shallow outlet box

Winnebago designed a wooden extension that matched the perimeter of the box and extended the outlet further out so they did not have to route the 2″ sidewall deeper.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

DAVE HAS ANSWERED MORE THAN 1,000 readers’ maintenance and repair questions. Read a directory here. There is so much to learn!

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

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

Name
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload

RVDT2921

How to contain and organize RV kitchen utensils

Gail Marsh
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1
How to contain and organize RV kitchen utensils

Perhaps you’ve been there: a darting deer with a death wish forces you to brake suddenly, and crash! All of your kitchen utensils jump, tip, or fly into the air and flop off the counter onto who-knows-where on the floor.

We all need and use kitchen utensils. The trouble is that many RV kitchens offer very little storage space for them. Let’s look at ways to solve this common problem.

First things first

It doesn’t take long before RV drawers become jammed with random kitchen tools and gadgets. This can turn simple meal prep into a veritable scavenger hunt.

Many RVers eventually realize they do not need nearly as many utensils as they originally packed. A few well-chosen cooking utensils often outperform drawers full of gadgets that rarely get used.

Take a few minutes to check your RV’s arsenal of kitchen utensils. Ask yourself questions like these:

  • How many spatulas do I really use at a time?
  • Could we do without two ice cream scoops?
  • Would a fork scramble breakfast eggs just as well as that whisk?

Pare down the utensils by removing duplicates. Also consider what kinds of food you actually prepare when RVing. (For example: Our muffin tins noisily toured much of the country over the past several years. They banged and clattered together, irritating us for mile after noisy mile. Care to guess how many times I’ve made muffins? Zero. It’s safe to say that the muffin tins will return to our stix-n-brix home.)

Organize by purpose

Once you’ve pared down your RV’s kitchen utensils, you’re ready to organize them. Function matters more than size when organizing utensils in an RV. Instead of grouping items by length or shape, it’s usually easier to organize by activity.

grilling utensil bag Amazon image

Keep grilling tools together (perhaps stored with the grill). Check out these storage bags, boxes, and containers. They come in a variety of sizes and will keep all of your grilling utensils clean and together.

All of your baking supplies and utensils should be stored together when possible. Be realistic. If you and your travel buddy really enjoy visiting local bakeries, perhaps baking utensils aren’t necessary at all!

Everyday cooking utensils are best placed closest to the stovetop. This system makes cooking faster and helps avoid digging through crowded drawers.

Utensil holder

utensil container Amazon image

A countertop utensil holder can work well for the tools you use every day. Containers keep spatulas, tongs, and wooden spoons upright and easy to grab while cooking. Choosing a divided container helps prevent everything from becoming tangled together.

Matte finishes and weighted bottoms are especially useful in RVs because they help minimize sliding during travel. A bit of museum putty will also help the container stay in place. (I usually move the countertop utensil container to a lower cabinet on RV travel days.)

Mesh storage

MeshnetsMany RVers quickly discover that anything left loose on the counter can become airborne on rough roads. That is where flexible mesh storage nets come in handy. Stretchable cargo-style mesh organizers can be mounted on the wall next to the stove or inside a nearby cabinet door. These nets help keep lightweight utensils contained while freeing up valuable drawer space.

Staying organized

Keeping drawers organized without creating a “junk drawer” is another important tip for utensil organization. In a small RV kitchen, every item needs a dedicated location. Drawer dividers and small baskets can create storage zones for different utensils.

Some of the best RV storage systems cost very little. Many RVers repurpose household items they already own rather than buy expensive organizers. Empty food containers can separate utensils inside drawers, while cut-to-fit shoeboxes work surprisingly well as custom dividers.

One of the most important habits for long-term organization success is simply putting things back where they belong immediately after washing them. In a small RV, clutter builds quickly. When every utensil has a designated home, cleanup becomes easier, and the kitchen stays functional even during extended trips. Periodically removing duplicate gadgets and rarely used tools also helps prevent overcrowding.

Hint: Make sure everyone traveling with you knows and understands how you’ve organized so they can put things back into their proper space, as well.

Travel days

Travel days require an entirely different mindset. Even well-organized RV kitchens can turn into disasters if items are not secured before driving. Unsecured utensils can become projectiles on bumpy roads. At the very least, metal utensils (like my muffin tins) can rattle during travel and irritate even the calmest motorhome driver.

Use dishcloths, potholders, or kitchen towels to dampen the clattering noise. Or simply remove the utensil container and place it in a lower cabinet on travel days.

Bottom line

With the right storage containers, a few clever organizing tricks, and a travel-day routine, even the smallest RV kitchen can stay tidy, functional, and ready for life on the road.

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See what damage a bear can do to an RV

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See what damage a bear can do to an RV

By Cheri Sicard
Tucked along Northern California’s rugged coast, Trinidad is a peaceful, almost mystical place where towering redwoods meet the crashing Pacific. The wild is never far away here, and neither are the bears. California’s obsession with these creatures even landed one on the state flag. Life feels calm, but sometimes nature blurs the lines, as explained in the video from RVingWithJoe.

In the video (at the bottom of this post), we meet Tim, who called the Seawood Cape Preserve home, deep in the forest and far from city noise. He looked after the land, shared simple days with a handful of co-workers, and lived in a cozy fifth wheel parked among the trees. Each day, Tim settled into a routine:

• Caring for the preserve’s wild spaces

• Sleeping amid rustling branches and starlit skies

• Sharing the woods with neighbors—human and animal alike

It was quiet, satisfying, and full of nature’s little surprises.

One early summer weekend in 2023, Tim took a much-needed break to San Francisco with friends. The first night offered laughter and music. But while they danced in the Bay Area, something was stirring back in his Trinidad clearing. He received a vague but worrying message: “Hey, not sure but it looks like something’s wrong with your roof.” That brief note hid much bigger problems.

Bear versus RV—the break-in

It wasn’t a towering grizzly but instead a determined and agile small black bear, driven by the lure of food, that managed to get on top of Tim’s trailer. The scent of snacks inside—trail mix, maybe even beef jerky—drew it in.

Next came full structural destruction. The bear didn’t just scratch; it tore open the trailer roof like peeling the lid off a giant can, shredding insulation and layers with surprising strength. It crawled inside, turning Tim’s trailer into a personal buffet.

By morning, the scene was a disaster. The trailer’s roof gaped open, insulation trailed down, and every scrap of food had vanished. What did the bear leave behind? Ruin, mess, and a home completely trashed.

“It’s hard not to feel helpless when nature shows up hungry and uninvited.”

Neighbors step up

Tim’s co-workers proved themselves lifesavers:

  1. They rounded up his unspoiled valuables.
  2. They ringed the trailer in electric fencing.
  3. They installed a motion-triggered game camera, hoping to spot a return visitor.

Support and teamwork helped protect what could be saved.

Maybe the scent lingered. Maybe the bear just wanted more. An hour after the helpers left, the game camera caught the bear sniffing and pawing at the clearing. It skipped the front, heading straight for the back of the trailer—where the new electric fence waited. The camera didn’t capture what happened next, but it’s easy to imagine the bear got zapped and thought twice.

Tim didn’t have to do it alone. Good insurance, some emergency savings, helpful friends, and a supportive boss pulled him through.

• He replaced the trailer with a newer, better model.

• He stayed close to nature, a bit wiser about “bear proofing.”

• He settled nearby after retiring.

The wild brought loss, but community and good planning helped him rebuild.

Bear lessons: Nature never knocks

Bears don’t respect doors or rules. They follow their noses, and if a trailer stands in the way, it’s fair game. Tim’s adventure is a sharp reminder: The wild doesn’t ask permission. Prepare, respect, and never underestimate your furry neighbors.

Bear-proofing your RV

• Electric fences around campsites

• Motion-triggered cameras for alerts

• Secure, odor-proof food storage (Never leave food in easy reach.)

Have you ever had an encounter with a bear while RVing? Share your experiences in the comments below.

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How do you feel about your RVer neighbors hanging out wind chimes?

RV Travel
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How do you feel about your RVer neighbors hanging out wind chimes?

Wind chimes—You either love ’em or ya hate ’em. What’s your stance?

If you pulled into your campsite, got all set up, and finally sat down to relax with a book and a nice beverage only to suddenly hear the sound of your neighbor’s wind chimes, would you be okay with it or would you be upset about it?

Some folks find the gentle tinkling sound peaceful and calming—like a background soundtrack to their outdoor time.

But for others, especially after a long day of driving, the repetitive sound can quickly become grating. Not everyone wants their quiet retreat to come with a constant chime. Some people say wind chimes drive them absolutely nuts!

If you were one of those people who hated wind chimes, would you ever say something to your neighbor? Or would you just try to tune it out, cross your fingers for a windless night, and hope they pack up in the morning?

If you do love the sound of wind chimes, we highly recommend you take a look at this. Even if you don’t like wind chimes you’ll still find it cute, we just know it.

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

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How to replace your RV toilet

RV Travel
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How to replace your RV toilet

By Dustin Simpson
You often do not realize how important your RV toilet is until it’s not available. Let’s assume the toilet is non-repairable or that it’s just too old. Now it’s time to update the toilet. In most cases, a replacement is a relatively simple process. The hardest step of RV toilet replacement is deciding on the replacement and determining if it works in your RV.

(click/tap image to enlarge)

Things to note when replacing an RV toilet

When contacting a repair shop or dealership in regards to purchasing a new toilet, here is some information you should provide. In some cases, sending pictures of the toilet or the part you’re looking for helps track down the replacements needed.

• High or low profile – Please measure height in inches

• Water consumption/flow rate – Does it have a water saver?

• Attached spray unit – Is it equipped with a hand sprayer?

• Bowl size – Standard round or elongated residential?

• Plastic or porcelain bowl?

• Seat and lid design – Standard/slow close; plastic or wood?

• Color

• Overall width

• Brand name – Model and serial number are typically located behind the backside of the toilet

• Foot pedal, slide handle or push button flush

• Blade or ball flushing mechanism

RV toilets that have been replaced

Please follow Dustin on YouTube, and see his published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.

Have mineral deposits in your RV’s toilet? Here’s how to get rid of them.

More from Dustin

Read more of Dustin’s articles here.

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