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The importance of having an RV spare tire

RV Travel
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The importance of having an RV spare tire

By Dustin Simpson
Join me “In The RV Shop” as we discuss how carrying a spare tire for your RV is a smart and essential precaution, as it can provide a quick solution in case of a flat tire. Here are some important considerations regarding having a spare tire for your RV:

 

Size and compatibility

Ensure that the spare tire is the correct size and type for your RV. RVs may have different tire sizes, including those for the tow vehicle and the trailer. The spare tire should match the size of the tires currently in use.

Proper inflation

Regularly check the inflation pressure of the spare tire to ensure it is ready for use in case of an emergency. Insufficient inflation can compromise its effectiveness. It’s a good idea to have a portable compressor to fill your tires while on the road.

Storage location

Know where the spare tire is stored on your RV. It may be located in an exterior compartment, underneath the RV, or on the rear bumper. Familiarize yourself with the location and access procedures.

Tools and equipment

Carry the necessary tools and equipment to change a tire, including a jack, lug wrench, and any additional tools specific to your RV’s tire-changing process. Verify that these tools are in good condition and accessible.

Inspect regularly

Periodically inspect the spare tire for signs of wear, damage, or dry rot. If the spare tire is mounted on the exterior of the RV, exposure to the elements can contribute to deterioration.

Tire changing instructions

Familiarize yourself with the tire-changing instructions provided by your RV manufacturer. The process may vary based on the RV’s design and the location of the spare tire.

Roadmaster Spare Tire Carrier

Weight considerations

Be mindful of the weight of the spare tire and its impact on your RV’s overall weight. Ensure that your RV is within its weight limits, accounting for the spare tire and any additional cargo.

Emergency roadside assistance

While having a spare tire is crucial, it’s also wise to have a backup plan in case you encounter difficulties or are unable to change the tire yourself. Consider subscribing to an emergency roadside assistance service that can provide professional help when needed.

Tire maintenance

Practice regular tire maintenance for all tires on your RV, including the spare. This includes checking tire pressure, inspecting for damage, and rotating tires as recommended by the tire manufacturer.

Having a properly maintained spare tire and the necessary tools can provide peace of mind during your travels. Regular inspections and staying prepared for emergencies contribute to a safer and more enjoyable RV experience.

More from Dustin

Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.

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Scamp vs. Casita—Which fiberglass travel trailer is better?

Cheri Sicard
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Scamp vs. Casita—Which fiberglass travel trailer is better?

A past video on the Travels & Travails channel about selling a Scamp and buying a Casita pulled in more than 700,000 views. A lot of the pushback was in the 17-foot Casita vs. 13-foot Scamp debate. So the team created the video at the end of this post, which compares the full Scamp line and the Casita 17. Which trailer wins by category, and why?

Price, sizes, and floor plans

On price, Scamp starts lower. The Scamp 13 runs from about $20,000 to just under $26,000. The Scamp 16 lands near $26,000, and the roomier Scamp 19 starts around $35,000.

The Casita 17 is also around $26,000, but Casita has financing, so it takes the win on price and buying flexibility.

Size is where Scamp opens things up. Casita sells one size, a 17-foot trailer with five floor plans. Scamp offers 13-foot, 16-foot, and 19-foot models, with 17 floor plans total. The Scamp 19 also has a fifth-wheel setup.

Scamp is the easy winner for variety.

Tanks, lead times, and towing

Scamp uses a 9-gallon black tank across the 13, 16, and 19 models, and it vents out the side. Casita vents through the roof. That matters if a toilet overflows. On a Scamp, the overflow can run outside down the trailer wall. On a Casita, it stays inside. Scamp also offers a dry-flush toilet, which may suit campers who don’t want that small marine setup, especially in the six-sleeper Scamp 19.

Here is the rest of the tank picture:

Casita/Scamp

  • Water heater: 6 gallons/4-gallon on-demand
  • Fresh water: 16 gallons, upgrade to 23/12 gallons/12 gallons
  • Gray water: 32 gallons/21 gallons

Casita wins for tanks.

It also wins lead time, at about 12 to 18 months versus roughly 23 to 24 months for Scamp. (Note, according to another video I watched from Scamp, that lead time has significantly improved, so this is no longer a clear win for Casita.)

Both brands use a 3,500-pound axle, but Scamp is lighter. A Scamp 16 weighs about 1,750 to 2,000 pounds dry. A Casita runs 2,210 pounds dry in standard trim and 2,480 pounds in deluxe trim. Tongue weight is lower on Scamp, too: 185 to 220 pounds versus 295 to 395 on Casita.

Ground clearance, build, and fridge

Casita pulls ahead in rougher campsites. Buyers can add a high-lift axle and 15-inch tires, and that extra clearance matters off the beaten path. Scamp 13 and 16 models use smaller tires and don’t offer a high-lift axle, though the Scamp 19 does get 15-inch tires.

Their builds are close, but the floors differ. Casita uses wood encased in fiberglass. Scamp uses wood coated with fiberglass resin, which leaves the wood exposed underneath. Both can potentially suffer water damage, but Casita’s floor gets more protection.

The refrigerator category also leans toward Casita. Every Casita model gets a 4-cubic-foot fridge with a small freezer. Scamp 13 and 16 models get a 1.9-cubic-foot fridge with no freezer, while some Scamp 19 layouts get larger units.

Interior and options

Scamp wins on interior character. The deluxe models get birch or oak cabinetry, which feels warmer and more home-like than fiberglass cabinets and MDF doors. Scamp also offers clever layouts, including sofa bunks and a child-size dinette bed in one 13-foot floor plan.

Still, Casita has one layout advantage that matters to a lot of RV buyers: twin beds. That setup avoids the midnight climb-over.

On options, it ends in a tie. Both offer paid upgrades like air conditioning, furnace, awning, TV, and AGM batteries. Scamp adds a dry-flush toilet and generator option, while Casita offers standard roof vent fans, standard dual propane tanks, and upgrades like a larger fresh tank.

Final thoughts

The video says that, category by category, Casita comes out ahead. It wins on financing, tanks, lead times, construction, refrigerator size, and ground clearance. However, since this comparison was made, Scamp’s lead times have improved a lot.

Scamp still has real charm. The wood cabinets stand out. Still, for this matchup, Casita is the winner… unless you have your heart set on that 19’ 5th wheel. In that case, we need to compare Scamp vs. Escape. But that’s a post for another time.

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Follow these important steps to protect your home while you’re gone RVing

RV Travel
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Follow these important steps to protect your home while you’re gone RVing

By Gail Marsh
Most RVers can’t wait to get out on the open road. Thieves can’t wait for you to leave home, either! It’s estimated that a home burglary occurs every 18 seconds in the United States. That’s an alarming number! But thieves aren’t your only worry. What if a water leak develops? Or the HVAC system malfunctions and causes a fire? Here are a few tips for protecting your home while you’re gone RVing.

DIY high-tech tips to protect your home

Many remarkable technological advances in home protection have occurred over the past few years. Of course, you can hire a professionally installed security system with 24/7 monitoring, but great DIY products are on the market, too. The good news is that the cost of DIY high-tech protection has come down in price. Here’s just a sampling of high-tech protection for you to consider.

• Smart alarms. This is the one we have. It monitors our home for smoke and carbon monoxide. A remote notification will appear on our phones if there is a problem. Check Amazon for many other options. You can also purchase smart products that will alert you by email or phone if a water leak is detected in your home. Knowing that you have a problem enables you to alert authorities or a trusted neighbor to check things out for you.

• Smart plugs. We bought several of these to attach to various lights and appliances throughout our home. You can set a timer to automatically turn on/off lights, radio/TVs, fans, and more, or control the settings with your cell phone. If a potential thief is “casing” your home, it will appear as if someone is inside, using the lights, TV, and more—especially if the plugs react randomly.

• Interior cameras. Several interior camera features include recording capability, motion detection, night vision, two-way audio, and connectivity to your cell phone. All will offer you peace of mind while away from home.

• Exterior cameras. Weather-resistant outdoor cameras come in a variety of makes and models. Even less expensive models feature motion detection, full-color night vision, sirens, and more. Most have cell phone monitoring, as well.

• Smart door locks. These products are a little pricier but do provide many perks along with deadbolt protection. For example, some smart door locks work off an app that you can use to set and change codes whenever someone needs access to your home. (Like the gal who comes once a week to water indoor plants.) Other smart lock models “ping” your cell phone when motion is detected, and some allow for two-way communication.

Low-tech tips

You don’t necessarily need to be a “techie” in order to keep your home safe while RVing. There are many non-tech tips that work, too.

• Trusted neighbor. Ask a neighbor to check on your home periodically, especially to check the sides and back of the house. (A thief will usually enter a home in the spot least visible from the street.) Invite the neighbor to park a car in your driveway, to give the appearance that someone is home, too. I’m sure they’ll be happy to help you protect your home while you’re gone.

• Lawn care. Ask someone to mow your yard, rake leaves, shovel snow, etc., while you’re away. Do everything you can to give the impression that someone is home.

• Lock it up. Make sure ladders, tools, etc., are locked securely inside the garage or house. (You don’t want to make things easier for a would-be thief.) Lock your large garage door(s) by disabling the remote door opener if you have one. If your garage has a side or back door to the outside, be sure it’s also securely locked.

Double-check all windows and doors in your home to make sure they are also locked. (Double-cylinder deadbolts are highly recommended by security experts.) If you have sentimental or expensive items that you won’t be taking with you, make sure to store them in a bank lock box or home safe. And don’t forget to secure the doggie door or other pet entrance into your home. Some thieves are adept at contortion-like maneuvers when highly motivated. If you have a fenced yard, be sure to lock the gate(s).

• Stop deliveries. Stop all mail, UPS, newspaper, or other home delivery for the time you’ll be away from your home. Ask a trusted neighbor to pull any fliers left at your door (like political pamphlets) or on your lawn (from a lawn care provider).

• Don’t announce your plans. Do not post your vacation plans on social media. It’s a good idea not to broadcast your plans except for people who need to know.

• Remove your “hidden” key. Many folks keep an extra house key in a potted plant, fake rock, or (please say it isn’t so) under the welcome mat. (Yipes!) If you plan to be away, it’s best to bring that “hidden key” inside the house. Maybe forever.

• Clean the keypad. Dingy fingerprints on your coded entry system can be a dead giveaway to a burglar. Clean it off just to be safe.

• Protect electronics. Unplug the computer, TVs (except if set on a timer), and other appliances or make sure they are safely connected to a surge protector.

• Turn water off. We always have the city turn off our water while we’re gone. It not only saves us money, but it ensures that no water leaks or burst pipes will cause damage. When we get home we’ll ask the city to turn the water back on. That way, we’re home to see (or hear) any leaks that may occur when the water pressure surges back through the pipes.

What are some additional steps you take to protect your home while RVing? Share your tips in the comments below.

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RVers debate: Are those yellow speed signs the law or just suggestions?

Gail Marsh
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RVers debate: Are those yellow speed signs the law or just suggestions?

If you have ever taken an exit ramp or maneuvered a sharp curve, you’ve probably spotted a yellow sign with a lower speed posted on it.

These yellow speed signs became the topic of discussion at a recent campfire. RVers clearly didn’t agree on the meaning of these signs or how RVers should react to them.

It’s the law!

Arnie began, “My wife and I disagree. You know those yellow speed signs posted near sharp curves and exits? I say those speed signs require drivers to slow down to the posted speed.”

“Well, if it’s on a highway sign, it’s the law. Right?” Bryce joined in. “If the sign says 25 mph, you’d better slow down or risk getting a ticket.”

It’s a suggestion

Megan disagreed. “No, no, no. Didn’t you take driver’s ed? Yellow speed signs are merely a suggested speed. It’s probably best to follow the recommended speed, especially if you’re driving a big RV. Not because you’ll otherwise earn a ticket, but simply because that’s the suggested speed for safely maneuvering the curve.”

Arnie’s wife chimed in, “See, Arnie. I told you it was only a suggestion.”

“Tell that to the patrol officer.” Arnie huffed. “And plan to pay a fine.”

What’s right?

According to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD), the short answer is this: The number on a yellow speed sign is a recommended safe speed, not a posted speed limit.

Under the MUTCD, advisory speed plaques are part of the warning-sign system. Warning signs exist to alert drivers to conditions that might not be obvious ahead and may call for a speed reduction.

What’s the difference?

The MUTCD says yellow warning signs give notice of situations that might not be readily apparent. White regulatory signs are the ones that give notice of traffic laws or regulations.

yellow advisory speed sign image: hwy signs

The yellow advisory speed plaque is specifically described as something that supplements a warning sign. It’s not supposed to be installed as a standalone sign. In other words, the yellow number is there to guide you, not to function as a white regulatory speed limit sign.

Who sets the advisory speed?

For exit ramps and highway curves, the MUTCD says the advisory speed should come from an engineering study and be based on recommended engineering practices.

exit sign with yellow advisory speed image: Rhino car hire

The Federal Highway Administration also notes that advisory exit speed signs are meant to appear far enough ahead for drivers to slow down and make the maneuver safely. That’s why these signs often show up on curves, interchanges, and deceleration lanes rather than as general speed limits for the entire roadway.

Ticketed offense

Can you be ticketed for going faster than the yellow advisory sign’s noted speed? No. Not just for ignoring the plaque by itself. The enforceable part comes from the broader traffic laws in that state or locality. Not from the advisory plaque acting as a speed-limit sign.

NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) says speed still affects safety even when a driver is at or under the posted limit. FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) lists curves, intersections, wet roads, reduced visibility, and heavy traffic as examples. So, if an RV or tow vehicle enters a curve too fast and loses control, the issue can become unsafe driving, reckless driving, or another condition-based violation depending on the state and the facts. For that, you can be ticketed.

Bottom line

For RVers, the smart move is to treat the yellow advisory number as a real safety cue, even though it is not a standalone legal speed limit.

Your rig is less forgiving than a passenger car when the road tightens up, the pavement changes, or the exit ramp banks harder than it looks from the freeway. The yellow speed sign is basically telling you what speed you should have before the turn starts, not after you’re already in it.

Yellow advisory speed signs on exits and curves are generally not legally enforceable as posted speed limits. However, they can still matter a lot if you drive too fast for the conditions. The safest rule is simple: Slow down before the curve.

How do you react to yellow advisory speed signs when driving your RV? Tell us in the comments below.

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Enjoy quirky stops? Visit Tennessee’s Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

Gail Marsh
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Enjoy quirky stops? Visit Tennessee’s Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

If you like roadside attractions that are a little weird (in the best possible way), visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg, TN.

The museum calls itself the world’s only salt and pepper shaker museum and boasts a collection of more than 20,000 sets from around the world.

Getting there

Getting to the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is simple enough for RV travelers already headed toward the Smokies. From Pigeon Forge, head toward Gatlinburg. Turn left at Stop Light #3 on Hwy 321. Then, go up the hill about half a mile to Winery Square.

The museum’s address is 461 Brookside Village Way in Gatlinburg. Hours of operation run Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Note: Check Facebook for unexpected closures.

What you’ll see

Inside the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, visitors can expect to see shelves upon shelves of salt and pepper shakers that range from tiny novelty figures to themed sets and more traditional designs. Yes, 20,000 pairs of them!

The museum’s collection highlights the way these everyday table items became collectible art. You’ll see sets in all kinds of colors, shapes, and materials.

For RVers, this stop works especially well because it’s quick, inexpensive, and easy to pair with a bigger Gatlinburg day. The tourism office encourages visitors to use the free trolley to easily get around this bustling area.

Saltpepper
Photo credit: Rebekah Tow, Google Photos

More to see and do

In addition to the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, consider a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Anakeesta, and Ober Mountain.

Or visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark and the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. This area offers lots to see and enjoy.

Places to stay

If you need a nearby place to park your rig, here are some good choices:

• Twin Creek RV Resort is inside the Gatlinburg city limits. It borders Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers trolley service to Gatlinburg and Dollywood.

• Greenbrier Campground has RV sites with full hookups, Wi-Fi, cable, pull-through sites, and riverfront spots along the Little Pigeon River.

• Adventure Bound Gatlinburg sits on Highway 321 just minutes from the park entrance and provides a pool, a 500-foot waterslide, and a fishing pond.

You should go!

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is a fun (and quirky) stop for RVers visiting Gatlinburg, TN. The modest admission fee and huge one-of-a-kind collection make this museum a memorable place for RVers to visit.

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Route 66 is the ‘Mother Road’, but what’s America’s ‘Father Road’?

Gail Marsh
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Route 66 is the ‘Mother Road’, but what’s America’s ‘Father Road’?

A while back, I wrote about the true mother of the “Mother Road.” One of our readers, Steve H., commented and suggested that perhaps there’s a “Father Road,” as well.

Turns out, Steve has a valid point. The Lincoln Highway has a strong claim to being America’s “Father Road” because it opened in 1913. Route 66 did not officially begin until 1926. Want to learn more about the “Father Road”? Read on!

A bit of history

The idea of a cross-country roadway began with Carl G. Fisher. Fisher was not an engineer or government official. He was a businessman, entrepreneur, and visionary. Fisher believed the automobile would completely change American life. (He was certainly right!)

Fisher understood that cars would never reach their full potential if Americans were still trying to drive through mud, ruts, and disconnected local roads. Fisher envisioned a durable, improved road stretching from New York City to San Francisco. He called his idea a “Coast-to-Coast Rock Highway.”

Fisher already had a reputation for turning giant ideas into reality. He helped create the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and later became one of the developers responsible for transforming Miami Beach into a famous resort destination.

The Lincoln Highway may have been his boldest project because, in 1912, the United States barely had interconnected roads outside cities and towns. Most “highways” were dirt and often impassable after rain. Cross-country travel was dominated by railroads.

To make his dream happen, Fisher gathered support from some of the most powerful names in the automobile world. Industrial leaders, including Henry Bourne Joy of Packard and Frank Seiberling of Goodyear, joined him in forming the Lincoln Highway Association in 1913. The organization’s mission was simple but ambitious: Create a continuously improved highway from the Atlantic to the Pacific that would be open to all travelers without tolls.

Funding the highway

Funding the highway was a massive challenge. Some major figures supported the effort, including Theodore Roosevelt, Thomas Edison, and President Woodrow Wilson. Henry Ford, however, famously refused to contribute because he believed roads should be funded publicly rather than privately.

Even though the association never raised enough money to fully build the highway itself, it succeeded in something more important. It convinced Americans that modern paved roads mattered.

The Lincoln Highway Association promoted “seedling miles.” These were short stretches of concrete road built in rural areas to demonstrate how much better paved highways performed compared to dirt roads. Once people experienced these improved sections, pressure grew for states and the federal government to invest in better highways nationwide.

The Lincoln Highway helped pave the way for the American road-trip culture. Without the push from Fisher and the association, the United States may have taken much longer to develop national highway networks.

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Why “Lincoln Highway”?

The Lincoln Highway was named after President Abraham Lincoln as a patriotic tribute. When the highway was announced in 1913, the country was approaching the 50th anniversary of Lincoln’s death. Organizers wanted a name that symbolized national unity from coast to coast.

“Father Road” route

East of the Mississippi, the Lincoln Highway was stitched together from existing roads. In the West, it followed older travel corridors such as the Mormon Trail, the Overland Stage Line, the Pony Express route, and Donner Pass. That’s why the Lincoln Highway feels a bit more adventurous than the numbered highways that later replaced it.

Today’s Lincoln Highway

Lincoln Highway Image: pinterest

If you live in one of the Lincoln Highway states, it’s worth checking your own backyard for a surviving segment. The “Father Road” is an easy add-on to a weekend drive or a full-on bucket-list trip. Who knows? You may discover a museum, a monument, or a town that still leans into the old road’s history. You can find resources for each individual state here.

You should go!

Route 66 may be the better-known “Mother Road,” but the Lincoln Highway got there first. If Route 66 is the classic American road trip story, the “Father Road,” or Lincoln Highway, is the earlier draft. It proved that a coast-to-coast auto route could actually work.

Have you traveled along the Lincoln Highway? Tell us in the comments below.

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Dump station drama will drive you nuts! Rude RVer holds up line for three hours!

Video Editor
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Dump station drama will drive you nuts! Rude RVer holds up line for three hours!

By Cheri Sicard
In the video at the bottom of this article, Robin Barrett of Creativity RV shares a tale of a dump station drama!

Robin tells of a recent experience at a free dump station in Yuma, Arizona, where some RVers had to wait three (count ’em, three!) hours because one idiot was holding up the line.

After about an hour, Robin started filming. She said RVers were coming in from all directions, and people were understandably losing their minds.

Don’t be that guy!

Robin shares the video along with important dump station do’s and don’ts so that you are NEVER the source of dump station drama!

It all started when the culprit pulled into the dump station facing the wrong way. This confused subsequent folks who got in line in other directions. Who knows what the dude was doing for so long, but after an hour, there were lines going in every direction, a big RV traffic jam, and a lot of angry people.

Supposedly, the culprit had a 60-gallon tank, and he was using a filter on the already slow water connection to fill it. Robin says this still does not account for all the time he spent monopolizing the dump station.

People yelling at him seemed to only make him slow his roll! What a JERK!

Robin timed how long it took the other people in line to dump. In my opinion, all of them are slow. I know that I can easily be in, dump, and out of a dump station in under 10 minutes. Most were done in less than 20 minutes. None were as slow as the dump station dunce who held up the line for three hours!

Robin ends the video with dump station tips to get you in and out in no time, along with alternative sources for fresh water in case that is all you need.

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Experiencing the Overland Expo. Yes, you should go

Tony Barthel
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Experiencing the Overland Expo. Yes, you should go

Have you been to an RV show? (Perhaps that should be a poll.🤔) But if you’ve ever been to almost any RV show out there, then you have an idea what it’s like—endless rows of RVs, often organized by manufacturer, with RV salespeople hovering around like the proverbial land sharks Jimmy Buffett sang about. 

“Fins to the left, fins to the right and you’re the only bait in town.”

Peggy and Tony Barthel

Overland Expo five times a year

Five times a year, there’s a different sort of RV show: the Overland Expo. This is a monster event where tens of thousands of people attend to look at the latest in overlanding gear and rigs. In fact, Winnebago chose to debut its new Winnebago ARKA model at the show. 

Yes. There are RVs at Overland Expo (OE) along with RV dealers and manufacturers, of course. But there are also all sorts of other things to support the overlanding experience. And many of these supporting things cross over into regular RV life. 

I suspect, based on the comments, that many of us are not likely to take a heavily-modified four-wheel-drive vehicle way, way into the back country where few humans have traipsed in the past. Yes. I have a vehicle that can. No, I haven’t gone very far off the beaten path with it. 

I love the way the show is done

The reason I love this show is just the way it’s done. There are all kinds of people who have invented all kinds of things, from camp chairs to portable toilets to fire pits. I was told the number of fire pits at the show this year was off the charts. Propane, wood, charcoal—and ways of cooking over said fires, too. 

Perhaps few among us are going to hike into the woods and stay there for days on end. But there are all sorts of clothing options that are weather-resistant, and that, too, plays into the RV lifestyle. Who hasn’t had the misfortune of having to dump tanks or level an RV on a rainy day? 

Camping at Overland Expo

Another thing they have there is camping. You can actually camp on the grounds. And you’re camping with other like-minded individuals who love this lifestyle. 

There used to be camping at the Florida RV show that was relatively integrated with that show, but that’s been changed. I know you can camp at the Hershey Show and, if I go again this year, that’s what I’m going to do. 

I have not camped at Overland Expo. I’ve only been told that it’s a very communal experience. 

Gadgets, gizmos, and gear a-plenty at Overland Expo West

New technologies

Something else there’s a lot of at Overland Expo are new technologies in all sorts of camping-related systems. This is where I saw several 12-volt and 48-volt air conditioning systems. It’s where I first saw SDG’s RV mini-split system, which happened to be installed in a Grand Design Class B van. That was at the show, too. 

In fact, that system is the one you’ll find in the Winnebago ARKA, too. Imagine—RVs that didn’t have the big lump of an air conditioner on the roof? 

Though Ember RV was showing their Overland Series trailers and running the air conditioners. On solar and battery power. This is what I do, too. Seeing it last year at Overland Expo West was reinforcing my thoughts that this is entirely possible. 

Not slick marketing folks

Something else I noticed at OE was that you can go and totally nerd out with the people in the booths. It’s not the slick marketing folks with their polished shoes and brand-name shirts, for the most part. Instead, it’s people who actually go camping, which might be why there aren’t that many traditional RV companies there. 

But, from what I’ve been told, several RV decision makers were actually roaming the aisles of the show without their name tags. Perhaps curiosity is in the air, too. 

Gadgets and gizmos to modify vehicles for overlanding

Something that is reportedly common among true overlanders is that they love to take their vehicles and modify them to make them better at the task of adventuring. So, there are all sorts of gadgets and gizmos to accomplish that, from suspension upgrades to wheel and tire companies. In fact, even Subaru has a big presence here, and there’s a huge community of Subaru owners, too. 

And many of the systems that enable us to go and stay off the grid are also the systems that allow RVs to run more efficiently, even in the campground. 

You should go

If you have the chance, I’d encourage you to attend an Overland Expo event and just look at the new technologies, the cool gadgets, the clothes, and attend some of the workshops and seminars. 

Truth be told, last year I was in Flagstaff and just loved the event, so I got passes for this past year and, well, I didn’t go. Life-related nonsense got in the way, and I combined the cost of fuel and all of that to make the decision to stay home. 

And then I talked to friends who were there, including fellow podcasters Jason Epperson from RV Miles and Kenny Phillips from Beyond the Wheel. So, now I’ve got FOMO—Fear of Missing Out—pretty badly and I’ll be back next year to cover the event. Perhaps you, too, might consider joining me in Flagstaff or you may choose to attend one of these shows. I heartily recommend the experience. 

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Have you ever had mice, rats, or other critters get into your RV?

RV Travel
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Have you ever had mice, rats, or other critters get into your RV?

If you’ve spent any amount of time RVing, you’ve probably heard the stories. A mouse sneaks in through a tiny opening and turns a storage compartment into its personal condo. A squirrel decides your engine bay looks like a great place to build a nest. Or, if you’re especially unlucky, you discover a family of rats has moved in and made themselves completely at home.

This week, Nanci Dixon shared a painful lesson she learned after leaving her RV stored. After getting busy with other projects and letting her usual checks slide, she ended up facing an infestation of pack rats—big ones. Really big ones. Let’s just say they weren’t the cute, cartoon variety.

The truth is, RVs can be incredibly inviting to critters. They offer shelter from the weather, cozy hiding places, and sometimes even access to food, water, or nesting materials. And it doesn’t seem to matter whether your RV is parked in the woods, a storage lot, your driveway, or even a campground.

Many RVers have their own stories. Some discovered chewed wiring. Others found nests in air conditioners, under sinks, or inside engine compartments. A few have opened a cabinet door only to receive the surprise of a lifetime. And while mice and rats get most of the attention, they’re hardly the only unwanted guests. Squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, snakes, birds, ants, wasps, and even bats have been known to make themselves at home in RVs.

Of course, some RVers seem blessed with good luck. They park their RV for months at a time and never find so much as a single mouse dropping. Others wage a constant battle with traps, deterrents, peppermint oil, steel wool, and every other critter-fighting tactic imaginable.

So, we’re curious…

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Why you should make an RV shakedown trip an annual event

Gail Marsh
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Why you should make an RV shakedown trip an annual event

We’ve been RVing for years, so why do we need a shakedown trip? Aren’t those trips for RV “newbies”?

Well, yes. However, an annual RV shakedown trip is one of the easiest ways to save yourself from a miserable first big trip of the season, and I believe you should take one once a year.

In storage

Our Vilano fifth wheel RV sat in storage much longer than in years past. Due to my travel buddy’s wonky knee, we skipped our annual trip south this winter. That means we haven’t traveled in our RV for several months. We winterized the rig in September, and that’s the last time we spent any real time in it.

If your rig has been in a similar situation, or you haven’t traveled in your rig for a few months, you may want to consider a shakedown trip, too.

Definition

Let’s begin with a definition. A “shakedown trip” is simply a short overnight or two at a campground near your home. Or, if you are fortunate to have full hookups at your stix-n-brix home, a shakedown trip doesn’t involve any real travel. You simply spend a day or two of “pretend camping.”

A shakedown trip lets you make sure your RV still behaves the way it should before you depend on it for a longer vacation. Think of it as a low-stress systems check that gives you a chance to find problems early, when they are still manageable and much cheaper to deal with.

It matters!

The biggest reason a shakedown trip matters is that RVs do not like to sit untouched for months. Seals may dry out, batteries can weaken, appliances get rusty in the memory department, and the owner often needs a refresher, too.

A short local trip helps you catch any surprises while you are still close to home and not already committed to a long haul across state lines. Staying local keeps the trip lower-stress, and you’ll consume less fuel, to boot!

What to do

A good shakedown trip should exercise as many RV systems as possible. Operate the auto leveling system, extend the slides, run the water system, test electrical hookups, verify propane appliances, check the air conditioner and vents, open and close windows, and use every outlet, as well.

Tires deserve special attention before you start out on an extended trip. Check the condition of each tire and also check the pressure. Also, make sure your carbon monoxide detector, smoke alarm, LP detector, and fire extinguishers are working.

This practice run is a smart way to confirm that the gear still works after storage or disuse. It provides peace of mind knowing that your RV’s major systems are in working order before the season starts.

And more

A shakedown trip is also the right time to refresh the little things that make a trip go smoothly. Check that your vehicle insurance card and registration are current and use your pre-trip checklist. Add any missing details to update your list and place the list where you can easily locate it.

The best shakedown trip is usually short, simple, and close enough to home that you can discover surprises before they negatively affect the whole season. One or two nights nearby is enough for most RVers.

That first shakedown trip can tell you whether you packed enough of the right gear, whether your RV routines still feel smooth, and whether any maintenance items need attention before your summer travels.

Cleaning, too

I use our annual shakedown trip to clean the interior of our RV. I open all of the windows and keep them open as I clean. A quick dust and vacuum removes any accumulated dead insects, dirt, and cobwebs. I use this opportunity to wipe down the refrigerator and countertops, too.

If our plans call for RV travel within a week, I’ll make the bed and pack towels into closets. Canned foods and spices will once again find their place, and I double-check that drawers and doors are secured and ready for travel.

Long-term payoff

A shakedown trip provides long-term payoff. When you keep notes on what worked, what failed, and what you fixed before the real trips begin, you build better maintenance records and make it easier to stay on top of future service. Maintaining quality records can help maximize resale value, which is one more reason this annual habit is worth the time and effort.

Bottom line

An annual RV shakedown trip is one of those small habits that protects your investment. It gives you a chance to catch leaks, dead batteries, tire trouble, appliance issues, and setup mistakes before they turn into road trip disasters. For RVers who want a calmer start to the season, it’s hard to beat a short practice run before the long summer miles begin.

Do you take an annual preseason shakedown trip? Tell us in the comments below.

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Why EternaBond tape may not be the solution for RV roof maintenance

RV Travel
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Why EternaBond tape may not be the solution for RV roof maintenance

By Dustin Simpson
In this video, we dive into the truth about RV roof repairs and explore why EternaBond tape or similar products may not always be the best solution for maintaining your RV’s roof.

Join me and my wife, Ashley, owners of an RV business, as we share our professional insights and discuss why proper roof maintenance requires more than just a quick fix.

Why EternaBond tape isn’t always the ideal solution

1. Temporary fix vs. long-term solution

EternaBond tape is often seen as a quick, easy fix for RV roof leaks, but it’s important to understand that it may not provide a long-lasting solution. While it can be effective for sealing small cracks and gaps temporarily, it doesn’t address the root cause of roof damage and may fail over time as the roof expands and contracts.

2. Limited durability under extreme conditions

The tape may not withstand extreme weather conditions, especially in areas with fluctuating temperatures. As your RV roof expands and contracts with heat and cold, the tape can lose its adhesion or crack, leading to leaks that were initially sealed.

3. Incomplete roof repair

Using EternaBond tape on an RV roof doesn’t fix underlying issues, such as damaged roofing materials, improper installation, or structural problems. Simply covering the problem with tape may allow moisture to accumulate underneath, leading to mold or rotting in the long term.

4. Aesthetic and structural concerns

While tape may seal leaks, it can often look unappealing and may not blend in with your RV’s exterior. Additionally, improper application or overuse of tape could damage the surface of your roof, compromising its overall appearance and functionality.

The proper way to maintain your RV roof

1. Inspect regularly

Regular roof inspections are key to identifying any damage or wear before it becomes a significant problem. Look for cracks, worn seals, or signs of water damage. Early detection is essential for avoiding costly repairs down the road.

2. Clean and treat your roof

Keeping your roof clean is essential for maintaining its integrity. Use the proper cleaning products to remove dirt, debris, and mildew. Applying UV protectant treatments will help protect the roofing material from sun damage and extend the lifespan of your roof.

3. Professional repairs when necessary

For more significant damage, a professional repair may be required. This could involve resealing the entire roof or replacing damaged sections. A proper roof repair ensures that your RV is protected from leaks and water damage.

4. Use the right materials

When performing any roof maintenance or repair, always use materials designed specifically for RV roofs. This ensures that the repair is durable, effective, and compatible with your roof’s materials.

Key takeaways

  • EternaBond tape is a useful tool for emergency repairs but should not be relied upon as a permanent solution for your RV roof maintenance.
  • Always prioritize regular inspections, proper cleaning, and professional repairs to maintain the longevity of your roof.
  • In the long term, investing in high-quality materials and professional services will save you money and time, preventing future issues and potential damage.

Conclusion

While EternaBond tape can offer a temporary fix for small leaks, it’s important to understand that it is not the best long-term solution for maintaining your RV’s roof. For lasting protection, regular maintenance and proper repairs are essential.

More from Dustin

Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.

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