In the year 2021, do you plan on selling your current RV or do you plan on buying a new RV? Both? In our weekly column, Campground Crowding, we have heard from many of you who say you’re “hanging up the keys” and selling your RV – “camping” just isn’t what it used to be! We want to know exactly how many of you feel that way. But, of course, we also want to hear from those still excited about camping – are you buying an RV this year?
Please tell us in the poll below and leave a comment, too, explaining your situation (why are you selling or why are you buying?). Thanks!
[Note: The following is an auto-inserted ad from Google. RVtravel.com did not place it in here.]
By Nanci Dixon In the midst of an abundance of bad news – rising COVID numbers, unemployment, evictions, homelessness and hunger – some good news stories still bubble to the surface.
We find ourselves mostly posting bad, sad or frustrating news in our Sunday newsletter. It’s not our fault, of course, but we want to make sure you come here and smile too. That’s why we’re bringing you this “Good News” column.
“MY SOUL IS FED WITH NEEDLE AND THREAD!”
RV quilters at Frostproof, Florida’s, Camp Inn RV Resort are enjoying their time spent sewing quilts but are even happier to be lending a helping hand to people in need. For more than 20 years they have been making quilts for migrant workers and their children. They say they get more than they give, particularly when a child gets a blanket, hugs it and smiles.
In addition to migrant workers’ families, the group has also made quilts for the homeless and for veterans. Before the pandemic hit, snowbird RVers would fill the sewing room with 20 to 30 people all joined together, working on these warm and heartwarming quilts, to share their talents with others. Way to go, quilters!
“GROWTH COMES FROM SETTING YOUR GOALS HIGH AND REACHING FOR THE STARS.” —Spencer W. Kimball
Jose Hernandez had a dream that he never gave up despite tremendous challenges. Jose’s family were migrant workers, working the fields in California for nine months of the year and Mexico for three. He knew early on what he wanted to be. He told his dad he wanted to be an astronaut when he was 10, but he didn’t speak English well until he was 12.
Jose followed his dream and got a master’s degree in electrical and computer engineering and began applying to NASA. After 11 rejections, he was finally accepted by NASA and was on the crew of the Discovery in 2009.
He now runs a foundation, “Reaching for the Stars,” to help all kids pursue their dreams. Netflix will soon start production on a film about Jose and his remarkable journey.
EVERYTHING IS PAWSOME
Every paddle boarder needs this motor. Now, if he could only power an RV!
This was submitted by a longtime RV Travel reader and frequent contributor, George Bliss. [Wishing you a speedy recovery from your surgery, George!] In this extraordinarily hard time, it is good to remember that this too will pass and that there is hope as well as lessons to be learned and remembered.
“When this is over, may we never again take for granted;
A handshake with a stranger, Full shelves at the store,
Conversations with neighbors,
A crowded theater, Friday night out,
The taste of communion, A routine checkup,
The school rush each morning, Coffee with a friend,
The stadium roaring, Each deep breath! A boring Tuesday. Life itself.
When this ends,
may we find that we have become more like the people we wanted to be,
we were called to be,
we hope to be,
and may we stay that way – better for each other because of the worst.”
—Laura Kelly Fanucci
By Russ and Tiña De Maris
The big Quartzsite RV Show is slated to open in just a few days. Scheduled dates are set for January 16th through the 24th. Look – the big tent is up, guards are already posted to keep away the questionable. Show promoters, the King family, have posted on their site, “IT’S A GO!” The question is: Will you go?
Predictions are fuzzy
If we believed in crystal ball readings, ours could at best appear fuzzy. Based on vacant businesses, and folks that “should have been here by now,” Quartzsite is a little frayed around the edges. Highway 95 in downtown Quartzsite normally is plenty busy. This year, you’ll find one laundromat empty, one propane parlor not passing gas, and a once-popular take-out BBQ joint completely smokeless.
On the corner of 95 and Main Street, a big RV dealer whose come-on to get folks to come in and kick tires was a free pancake breakfast? Zero flapjacks. No RVs. Absent dealer. Just a vacant lot. Across the street where folks curb-stoned their used rigs, or flocked in to get their cracked windshields replaced – nada. Another empty lot.
The RV parks in town, too, are looking a bit befuddled – with the possible exception of the polar ends of the economic scale. There are few open spaces at the higher-priced Quail Run RV Park on the north end of 95. And over by Rice Ranch on the frontage road, many, shall we say, “unique” RVs are shoehorned in, all within easy earshot of Interstate 10. But the middle-of-the-road price range RV parks seem to have spaces open. Who knows, maybe these, too, will fill up at the last minute. But like a herd of zebras by the water hole, there’s what we perceive as a prevailing sense of nervousness. If the big Quartzsite RV Show is the watering hole, is there a lion in the bush?
Elephant in the room
Lion in the bush, maybe, but certainly the elephant in the room is spelled COVID-19. We called in to Quartzsite’s town hall to inquire about local officials’ view of visitor numbers. Assistant town manager Cliff O’Neill put on a cheery face. “Events are all ongoing!” he told us. Yeah, but how about the number of visitors? O’Neill pointed out there appeared to be plenty of folks out on the desert.
And in town? Usually we get a feel for how many folks are in town by the “flush-o-meter” scale. Never heard of it? It’s just how much sewage is processed by the local wastewater plant. We’d been calling O’Neill’s boss, town manager Jim Ferguson, leaving repeated voice mails requesting the information. O’Neill apologized, but couldn’t give us any information about “sewage flow rates.” In the end, he did say, “There’s a sense the numbers are down.”
Some numbers are up – the wrong ones
Could this be because other numbers are decidedly UP? Those numbers are the staggering statistics on COVID-19. Earlier today (Jan. 8), the local health department, La Paz County, reported 69 new cases of the virus, and one additional death. It may not sound like much, but put it into perspective. The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people stands at 173. Measure that against those figures for the entire state of Arizona: 127. As of today, La Paz County has the HIGHEST RATE of infection, per capita, in the ENTIRE STATE. Now note that Arizona, the Grand Canyon State, has the dubious ranking of Number 1 on the list of all states in the country with the highest COVID numbers.
A couple of months ago we reported that while the Quartzsite RV Show was “tentatively” a go, Show promoters noted that the town would have a final say as the time got closer. So we pressed Quartzsite’s O’Neill on the matter. In light of these huge infection numbers, the town was officially behind the Show? All he would tell us was that town officials had looked over the Show’s “health protocols,” and that the event “is ongoing.”
Taxes trump health concerns?
Interestingly enough, one “event” that is definitely off is the town’s library. Visitors looking for books or a place to get close to an internet Wi-Fi hookup will need to look elsewhere. A person who answered the phone at the library today told us the place is closed down, indefinitely, due to worries about COVID-19. One person this writer spoke with made the suggestion that perhaps the tax-generating aspects of the RV Show outweighed those same health concerns shown library employees and patrons.
Health officials keep telling us that mask wearing is one of the principal ways to avoid spreading COVID. But the laissez-faire attitude toward such protection – unfortunately shown by many, locals and visitors alike – isn’t helping too much. And while many are putting stock and hopes in the administration of COVID vaccines, don’t look for much advancement in the Quartzsite sphere. A few days ago, the county health department indicated older folks with underlying health conditions may have to wait as long as late spring to get the jab.
Still, we wonder – will the Quartzsite RV Show be memorable this year? One way or another, it certainly will be. Let’s hope that it isn’t remembered as a major Super Spreader event.
The latest news about camping and developments in North American campgrounds and RV parks from Janet Groene.
DISCLAIMER: Conditions are still changing quickly, not just because of COVID but because of other factors such as highway conditions. Just before your trip get current information by phoning the campground directly. Don’t rely solely on websites, automated reservations services, GPS or Facebook. Full facilities and activities may not be open. Seasons and COVID restrictions vary. Get specifics about rates, campground facilities, reservation policies, campsite size and shape and the condition of access routes. No endorsement of any campground or product is implied by this reporter nor this website.
FULL ALERT: Because of distancing, fewer campsites are available so it’s more important than ever to have reservations and to be aware of cancellation requirements and current campground rules. Check ahead for details.
DATELINE:January 9, 2021
ALBERTA’S NEWEST CAMPGROUND BREAKS GROUND
Work begins this spring on a new campground that will open in Milo in 2022. A Stones Throw RV Campground will offer extra-large pull-through and back-in seasonal sites sized 50 by 92 feet. You’ll have room to accommodate a deck and add a storage shed or gazebo. This is the Monner family farm, now approved for adding a family-focused seasonal campground with a 10-acre fishing pond, dog parks for large and small dogs, washhouses with showers, a laundry, a community garden, a bike park for kids, walking trails, an astronomy area and a general store. The site is a stone’s throw from Lake McGregor and within an hour of 22 golf courses. Phone: +1 403-669-9443
CALIFORNIA CAMPGROUND OFFERS DOUBLE CELEBRATION
Celebrate both Mardi Gras and Valentine’s Day with a long weekend, February 12-16, at the Desert Springs/Joshua Tree KOA in Desert Hot Springs. Events will include mask making, a champagne brunch and more activities for families and couples. The big-rig-friendly campground has a year-round swimming pool, dog park, hot tub/sauna, mini-golf, library and a rec room with billiards. For reservations call (800) 562-9861. To learn more call (760) 251-6555.
FLORIDA KEYS RV RESORT HAS NEW OWNERS
In the Middle Keys, Big Pine Key Fishing Lodge has been bought by Cove Communities, operator of 25 RV resorts nationwide. Their vision for the campground in America’s Riviera is to make the luxury, waterfront resort even more of a showplace for RV travelers by introducing Supersites, new landscaping and on-site services to the 181 campsites. Focus is on the Florida Keys lifestyle, sportfishing and nearby nature attractions such as the National Key Deer Refuge, Key West and Bahia Honda State Park. Waterfront RV sites with electric are from $83 nightly. (305) 872-2351
GEORGIA STATE PARK SEEKS FURRY FRIENDS
Join park rangers on January 29 at F.D. Roosevelt State Park, Pine Mountain, for a family-friendly game of Bears, Bobcats, and FurBearers Bingo at 6 p.m. Win prizes and learn fun facts about our furry friends in Georgia. Weather permitting there will be a campfire. Preregistration required. The location will be disclosed upon registration. The fee is $2 plus parking or camping fees. This is Georgia’s largest state park with more than 9,000 acres, 115 campsites, 40 miles of trails and a swimming pool fed by natural springs. See the modest Roosevelt home, a museum and the warm waters that brought the president here for relief from his polio. (706) 663-4858.
INDIANA STATE PARK SPRINGS INTO SPRING
As green-up time comes to scenic southern Indiana, families flock to the Shelby Spring Fling in Brown County State Park, Nashville. A staple for more than 40 years, this is a family event with a car show, Mustang rally, food, music, vendors, a banquet and the sound of classic Shelby GT350 automobiles roaring through the wooded hills. Covering almost 16,000 acres, the park offers RV camping. However, note that all RVs and vehicles towing trailers MUST use the park’s west entrance on State Road 46 two miles west of Nashville. They cannot use the park’s north entrance east of Nashville because of its historic covered bridge with limited weight and height allowances. Do not use GPS directions. For reservations go to ReserveAmerica.com
NEBRASKA TO HAVE NEW CAMPGROUND BY MAY
River Land Cabins and Campground is taking shape near Columbus on 24 acres east of Tailrace Park along the Platte River. On the north side of the land, 30 campsites with hookups are planned to be available by May. Some cabins are already completed. The campground will also have a shower house and dump station. Current visitors can fish, kayak and canoe. Future guests will find a volleyball court and a playground. Contact Earley Real Estate and Construction, (402) 564-1213.
OHIO STATE PARK IS THE PLACE FOR MAPLE SYRUP
At Malabar Farm State Park, Lucas, observe “sugaring off” time from sap collection to bottled maple syrup during selected weekends in March. Visit a sugar camp with live historical demonstrations, take a horse-drawn wagon ride, hear live music while sampling food and maple products for sale. (Please bring cash for purchases.) Donations to the horse group are also appreciated. For more info visit here or call (419) 892-2784. Ohio’s Mohican area has more than 4,000 campsites in public and private parks. For a list contact the Mohican-Loudonville Visitors Bureau, (419) 994-2519
ONTARIO KOA HOSTS THROWBACK WEEKEND
Dust off your white buck shoes and zip into your poodle skirt. It’s Greased Lightning Weekend at the Niagara Falls KOA May 21-23. Bring the family for fun, crafts, dancing and rock ‘n roll. This KOA has all the usual bells and whistles plus unique features such as wagon rides, a pub with great food and beer and, at added cost, a tour bus. For reservations call (800) 562-6478 and for information phone (905) 356-2267.
PENNSYLVANIA PARK HAS NEW OWNERS, NEW FEATURES
By Memorial Day, new attractions should be complete at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort in Milton. Added will be human foosball, a jumping pad, a gaga ball pit, cabanas at the upgraded swimming pool, golf cart rental and more food service options. Click here for more details.
SOUTH CAROLINA PARKS WELCOME SNOWBIRDS
Attention Southbounders! The 30-day special for snowbirds at four state parks in the Palmetto State ends February 28. Just call the state park, mention that you’re interested in the 30-day snowbird special, and pay for the month at the time you register. Take only one deal per park. There is no refund for early departures. Participating parks are Lee State Park, Bishopville, (803) 428-5307; Givhans Ferry State Park, Ridgeville, (843) 873-0692; Huntington Beach State Park, Murrells Inlet, (843) 237-4440; and Myrtle Beach State Park, (843) 238-5325
Stay Tuned
At F.D. Roosevelt State Park in Georgia, Lake Roosevelt is drained and closed for repairs. A reopening date has not been announced.
Read more of Janet Groene’s Campground and RV Parks News here.
Janet Groene is the author of more than 25 books including Living Aboard Your RV, 4th Edition, available at Amazon.com. Her new Farley Halladay book, “May Misfire,a Yacht Yenta Mystery,” is available at Amazon.com. See Janet Groene’s weekly Solo Woman posts at SoloWomanRV.
Please send us your campground news. Just fill out the form.
By James Raia Amid the pandemic, the automotive industry had solidarity. It suffered with the rest of the business world. But there were exceptions to the sales doldrums, notably the used truck market. Sales increased, led by three best-selling used vehicles in 2020, all pickup trucks.
Like its new counterpart, the Ford F-150 was the country’s top-selling used vehicle with results tabulated by the car search engine, iSeeCars.com.
The 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was the country’s second most popular used truck and overall second most popular used vehicle in 2020.
The website’s analysts studied 12.9 million vehicles across the United States. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 finished second and the Ram Pickup 1500 completed the top three positions on the 10-top most popular used car list.
Used truck sales increased in 2020
The Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 also finished first and second on the top-10 list for most popular new vehicles in 2020.
“Used pickup truck sales remained strong and even grew in sales during the pandemic, while all other segments declined, as consumers needed them for work,” said iSeeCars Executive Analyst Karl Brauer.
Beyond used picked trucks in the top three positions, the popularity in used car segments is balanced. Four sedans and three compact sport utility vehicles are also on the list.
“Compact SUVs are popular among used car buyers due to their versatility and value,” said Brauer. “Because they have been a rapidly growing segment among new car buyers for so long, there are a lot of these small crossovers available in the used car market.”
Three SUVs making the list include the fourth-ranked Ford Escape, fifth-ranked Nissan Rogue and eighth-ranked Chevrolet Equinox.
Rounding out the list are three sedans including the seventh-ranked Toyota Camry, ninth-ranked Nissan Altima and 10th-ranked Nissan Sentra.
“These sedans are popular among first-time car buyers who are looking for affordable vehicles, and with commuters, thanks to their strong MPG ratings,” said Brauer.
Here’s the list of the most popular used vehicles in the United States in 2020:
1. Ford F-150; 2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500; 3. Ram Pickup 1500; 4. Ford Escape; 5. Nissan Rogue; 6. Honda Civic; 7. Toyota Camry; 8. Chevrolet Equinox; 9. Nissan Altima; 10. Nissan Sentra.
James Raia, a syndicated columnist in Sacramento, California, publishes a free weekly automotive podcast and electronic newsletter. Sign-ups are available on his website, www.theweeklydriver.com. He can be reached via email: james@jamesraia.com.
By James Raia It comes as no surprise. Pickup trucks remained the country’s most popular new vehicles in 2020.
The Ford F-150 and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ranked first and second among the top-10 best-selling vehicles last year, according to the search engine iSeeCars.com.
The Ford F-150 retains its status as the country’s most popular new truck for 2020.
The study looked at more than 12.9 million vehicle sales in 2020 to determine the most popular vehicles throughout the United States. The data was tabulated nationally, by state and in metro areas.
The Ford F-150 was the most popular new vehicle in 2020 in 25 of the largest metro areas and in 22 states.
Ford-150 retains top status
“The Ford F-150 has been America’s undisputed best-selling new vehicle for over 40 years, and the popularity of pickup trucks help contribute to its high volume of sales,” said Karl Brauer, iSeeCars Executive Analyst.
Four pickup trucks were among the top-10 most popular vehicles last year.
Four compact SUVs make the list, including the third-ranked Toyota RAV4, the fourth-ranked Honda CR-V, the sixth-ranked Hyundai Tucson, and the ninth-ranked Chevrolet Equinox.
“These compact SUVs are all reliable and affordable vehicles that stand out among their competition in this competitive segment,” said Brauer.
Rounding out the list are the seventh-ranked compact Honda Civic and eighth-ranked midsize Toyota Camry.
“The Honda Civic and the Toyota Camry have been among the best-selling cars in America for decades,” said Brauer. “These passenger cars have excellent long-term reliability, which is why they remain popular even as the popularity of the sedan segment declines.”
Here’s the list of the most popular new vehicles in the United States in 2020:
1. Ford F-150; 2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500; 3. Toyota RAV4; 4. Honda CR-V; 5. Ram Pickup 1500; 6. Hyundai Tucson; 7. Honda Civic, 8; Toyota Camry, 9; Chevrolet Equinox; 10. Toyota Tacoma.
James Raia, a syndicated columnist in Sacramento, California, publishes a free weekly automotive podcast and electronic newsletter. Sign-ups are available on his website, www.theweeklydriver.com. He can be reached via email: james@jamesraia.com.
Welcome to RVtravel.com, the newsletter for intelligent, open-minded RVers. Learn about RV camping, RV travel, RV news and much more.
This free edition of the RVtravel.com newsletter is posted at 9 a.m. (Pacific) every Saturday (that’s noon in the East). The member edition is published seven hours earlier, at 2 a.m. (Pacific). Readers who make even a one-time financial contribution to this website and newsletter automatically receive a permanent subscription to the member edition, ready for reading first thing with their morning coffee (or other beverage).
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Editor’s Corner
with Chuck Woodbury
Like most of you, I am sad about the violence at our nation’s capitol on Wednesday. But, no, I am more than sad. I am disgusted. It’s now noon Friday. I have been so upset by what happened that I have been unable to write until now.
I spent virtually all day Wednesday watching and reading the news. And I know many of you did, too, as traffic at RVtravel.com was half of normal. It picked up a little on Thursday, but was still way down.
The terrible incident was the result of an ongoing campaign of misinformation, gladly promoted by news media and in social media because it attracted big audiences and lots of dollars.
Those of you who know how the media works today understands that the easiest way to make money is to be controversial. “Fair and Balanced” is a joke: few online media outlets, right or left, even try to be unbiased anymore because it’s far easier to make tons of money by lying, bending the truth or exaggerating.
I can tell you, with my above-average writing skills, if I were unethical, I could triple my income by sensationalizing what we publish on this website. It would be so easy! I’d just rag on Marcus Lemonis over and over about his business practices – that always attracts big traffic!
When we go back through our traffic statistics, the topics where we stuck our necks out drew ten times the views (views = $$$) of tamer topics. Before the Internet, the slogan “If it bleeds it leads” was the mantra of many news outlets, especially local television. “Good News” stories were always shown at the end of the program.
We recently introduced a feature in our Sunday newsletter called “Good News.” And guess how popular it is? It’s not! Nobody wants to read good news. We post it anyway. If I wanted to make big money I wouldn’t mess with “good news.” I’d just make up an article with this headline: “Rat bites woman as she sits on her RV’s toilet.”
RVtravel.com, and the 500 newsletters about RVing we publish every year, would not be possible without the financial support of our voluntary contributors. Their support helps us avoid relying on advertising, and keeps our resource-rich work unbiased and free for all RVers to enjoy. Every contribution makes a difference. A donation of $20 a year comes out to 4 cents for each issue we publish. That’s all! And when you contribute, you receive a special member-only ad-free version of this newsletter as one way for us to say thank you. Learn more or donate.
Last week’s Tip of the Day in RV Daily Tips Newsletters
Today, industry insider Tony Barthel reviews the new 2021 Little Guy MyPod Travel Trailer. He writes, “The MyPod is a solid answer to folks who have very small vehicles but still want a trailer they can easily tow. How small a vehicle are we talkin’? The MyPod can actually be towed by some touring bikes and many trikes. Throw in things like the Prius or Mini Cooper and you’ve got a very, very towable machine.” Read more and take a tour.
Quit struggling with hose and cable hookups at the campsite
Are you tired of struggling to hook up your coax cables, water hoses and other connections when you arrive at your campsite? It’s a snap with Cable and Hose Grips from J Wright Concepts. Save time and frustration! Life is too short to hassle with the little stuff! Learn more or order.
He bought an RV with $20,000 worth of damage. His warning to you…
By Randall Brink
I couldn’t have been happier on the day I took delivery of my Foretravel Grand Villa U300. I had done a lot of research and had decided on a Foretravel for its legendary quality and build. The Grand Villa had everything that a Class A RV owner could want and more (who really needs two ice makers?). I was also fortunate enough to find a Grand Villa within 100 miles of my home – another big plus. … I was soon to realize the danger in failing to look at all facets of an RV brand’s history. Read more.
Campground Crowding: Which state has highest cancellation fees?
More people than ever are taking up RVing. The result is campground crowding like never before. In this weekly blog, RV Travel readers discuss their experiences. This week our readers weighed in on when campsites are booked but no one shows up – how frustrating! We also compare park cancellation fees across several states (Yikes!), share some advice to snag a site, and then end on a positive note from Eric R. Read it all here.
New coast-to-coast trail lets you bike or walk across the U.S.
Forget RVing across the country – what about biking or walking cross-country? If that sounds like something you’d want to do, you’re in luck. The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy began working on the Great American Rail-Trail™ in 2019. Once completed, the trail will stretch more than 3,700 miles from Washington, D.C. to the state of Washington. Now that’s one way to sightsee! Continue reading.
Last year at this time, these were the most popular articles
Would you buy an RV made in China if the quality was equal to one made in the USA, but priced significantly less?
Please let us know. After you click your response, you’ll see how others have responded. Feel free to leave a comment. CLICK HERE.
The most popular poll in this past week’s RV Daily Tips newsletters:
Have you ever worked for one employer continuously for 20 years or more? See how almost 3,000 other RVers responded.
Are all RV ovens created equal? Do you use yours?
By Tony Barthel We recently posted a question on our RV Advice Facebook Group. I asked, “Some of you have been reading my RV reviews over on RV Travel, and one of the things I’ve kvetched about are the small 17″ ovens in so many RVs. But I wonder – if you do have an RV with this small oven, do you use it at all and what do you use it for?” Your responses to the questions were enlightening so I thought I’d share. Continue reading for what our readers said, including some great tips.
What is it? “World’s longest truck camper” or Class C motorhome?
We stumbled upon this photo. There was no explanation of what it is, where it is, or anything else. So we’ll ask you a couple of questions: Do you know anything about this RV? If so, please tell us by leaving a comment. And how would you classify it? Check this out then vote in our poll below the post.
Excellent resource about work camping
Some RVers depend on earning income while on the RV road. This can mean working at an RV park in the office or doing maintenance or working the holiday season in an Amazon warehouse. There are literally thousands of jobs available. This guidebook will help you get started, or help you brush up your present skills and/or learn about new work opportunities.
Is this your RV?
If it’s yours and you can prove it to us (send a photo for comparison), tell us here by 9 p.m. Pacific Standard time today, Jan. 9, 2021. If it’s yours you’ll win a $25 Amazon gift certificate.
If this isn’t your RV, send us a photo of your RV (if you haven’t already) for a chance to win in future issues.
In this past week two readers claimed their $25 gift card: Karen K. of Richfield, MN, and Frank H. of California.
We’ll have another photo in tomorrow’s newsletter (sign up to receive an email alert so you don’t miss the issue or those that follow). Some of these photos are submitted by readers while others were taken by our editors and writers on their travels around the USA.
Cars to flat tow: Buick Encore GX AWD review
Last week Nanci Dixon wrote that she was still looking for a tow car to “wow!” her. If you’ve been following along, you know her requirements and what she’s looking for. This week, she decided to take a look at the Buick Encore GX AWD. Read her in-depth review here.
Wacky mailboxes
We’ve got another installment of mailbox photos that our readers spotted in their travels. Wow! How do people come up with these? If you’re ready to laugh a little, and/or simply be impressed at the creativity of these mailboxes, then you need to click here.
Fruity fact or fiction: $20 bill with a banana sticker
By Russ and Tiña De Maris Critics both outside and inside the United States have plenty to say about the country. Recently, more than one disparager has described the U.S. as “acting like a banana republic.” Could it be due to a genuine U.S. $20 bill with a banana sticker that came out of a Texas U.S. Treasury printing plant? Sound like one of those great internet fakes? Nope, it actually happened – and it’s proved to send “bill collectors” bananas. (Any numismatists reading this?) Read more.
We’ll select a winner at random out of all entries we receive today (January 9, 2021) by 7:00 p.m. Pacific Standard time. Remember, you can only enter once and after we notify you by email via RVcontests@gmail.com that you won, you have 24 hours to respond or we’ll give the prize to someone else.
JUST PUBLISHED Firearms laws guide updated for 2021
The 2021 updated edition of the Traveler’s Guide to the Firearm Laws of the Fifty Stateshas just been published. The book is always a best-seller among RVers, many of whom carry a firearm. The annual guidebook helps ensure they stay out of trouble when crossing state lines. What’s legal in one state may be a felony in another. More than 100 updates from last year. Learn more or order.
Brain Teaser
Fill in the middle word. This word should correspond with the first and last word.
1) Street _____ Jack
2) Bird _____ Bed
3) Shopping _____ Lady
4) Orange _____ Stump
5) Stamp _____ Lock
6) Wet _____ Fill
7) Air _____ Pad
8) Pocket _____ Keeper
9) Life _____ Company
10) Wish _____ Fragment
(Answers in tomorrow’s Sunday newsletter.)
Resources
Stolen RVs — Help us recover these stolen RVs. The more eyes we have searching for them, the better chance of getting them back to their rightful owners, and maybe putting the crooks who stole them in the slammer! See the stolen RVs.
Where to complain about bad RVs, dealers, service, RV parks. This is an ever-expanding list of resources where you can report, share or discuss your problems with RV manufacturers or dealers.
Directory of RV parks with storm shelters
In case you’re on the road with your RV and the weather report is showing a tornado headed your way, have this list handy.
What does financing an RV for 20 years REALLY mean?
In case you missed this article the first time around, here it is again. Important! Click here.
Stuck with a lemon RV?Contact Ron Burdge, America’s premier RV lemon law attorney.
RV Gadgets and Gizmos
Nifty device tells you if your RV is dangerously overweight
The CURT BetterWeigh™ is a device that hooks to your vehicle’s OBD II port and reads a combination of factors to deliver readings on vehicle weight, tongue weight, pin weight, payload and weight distribution. It appears to use sensors in the device itself to measure the vehicle’s angle (how much the springs deflect when you hook up your trailer) and combines that with information from the vehicle’s computer to achieve other measurements. All of this is delivered via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet via a proprietary app. Learn more.
Featured video
John Lennon’s RV gift to his son, Julian
In 1967, the Beatles’ John Lennon gave his 4-year-old son, Julian, a caravan (the British word for travel trailer). This is hardly a typical RV, and you have to wonder why Lennon would give something like this to his small child. Too bad this video is not in color.
This is one cool puzzle!
If you’re like a majority of people, you’ve done a puzzle or two (or 10) during quarantine. If you’re in need of a new one, check this one out. A vintage car with an Airstream on the beach. Puzzles don’t get much cooler – plus the sunset is beautiful! Get one for yourself here. It’s the perfect winter activity!
RV Electricity
What is a GFCI nuisance trip?
Dear Readers, I’ve been posting a number of short articles on my RVelectricity Facebook Group about GFCI “nuisance” tripping when your RV’s shore power cord is plugged into a 20-amp outlet at your house. And one astute reader asked the most basic of questions: “What is a nuisance trip?” Of course, there are all kinds of possible jokes about using myself as an example of what a nuisance really is, but it is a real thing in GFCI circuits. Read more.
Last call – Mike needs your assistance
If you didn’t already answer the poll regarding “Have you ever plugged your RV shore power cord into a GFCI outlet and had it nuisance trip?” would you please vote now. Mike is gathering information for a research project he’s working on (possible correlation between the GFCI and potential hot-skin condition) aimed at RVers’ safety. The poll is included in the above post. Thank you!
This week’s J.A.M. (Just Ask Mike) Session:
Don’t let your connections corrode
Dear Readers,
I’ve received a number of emails and Facebook comments this week about 30-amp RV extension cord plugs overheating and melting. Now, these particular failures aren’t where the shore power cordset is plugged into the pedestal or the RV itself. These meltdowns seem to occur where a 25-ft. extension cord is plugged into the RV’s shore power cordset. And, yes, many times it’s the connector that’s laying on the ground. Continue reading.
?????? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?????? This is one of those things you’d probably love to give to someone you don’t really like… Their reaction would be hilarious! Check it out.
RV Tire Safety
Can a “sealant” to prevent flat tires cause problems?
By Roger Marble I just read a tale of woe about from a motorhome owner who appears to have been sold a tire sealant that caused nothing but problems. Names have been changed to protect the “innocent.” Read what the problems were, and please let us know if you’ve encountered similar problems with your tires.
RV Short Stop
‘Ma’ Rainey House & Blues Museum Columbus, Georgia
With the recent premiere of the film “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” the legendary blues singer Ma Rainey is introduced to a new generation. Often referred to as the “Mother of the Blues,” she was a musical revolutionary, incorporating various styles of blues, jazz, and her own personal flair. Continue reading about this exceptional woman.
Check back here next week for the latest regarding Building an RV Park. You won’t believe Machelle James’ terrible news! (Good thing she’s a self-proclaimed “Warrior.”)
Reader letter
Dear editor,
If I go to a dealer and order my new 5th wheel, do I lose my bargaining power? —Rick M.
Dear Rick,
I guess if you sign on the dotted line that you will accept the RV, then I think yes, you would lose some bargaining power. My advice, though, is to never buy an RV sight-unseen. For many buyers who do it, things work out. For others it can have ugly consequences. So are you a gambler? My advice is talk to a lawyer before signing any paperwork if you’ll be buying sight-unseen. —Chuck Woodbury, editor
Don’t let winter keep you in the dark!
This 6-pack of tiny, battery-powered LED “Button Lamps” is just what you need for your RV’s closets and storage spaces. The tiny lamp is ultra-bright and has all the power of a normal-sized lamp. Backed with a strong adhesive, these little lamps will stick to any surface. They’re waterproof and good to have in case of an emergency. Learn more or order.
RV Fire Safety
An emergency fire plan that can save your life – Part 7 of 13
Having a solid fire escape plan may help you replace panic with logical, life-saving actions if a fire occurs. Knowing exactly what to do and doing it quickly can make a big difference in an emergency situation.
For your fire drill, start by rolling out of bed and crawling low on the floor where the air is clearer. Proceed immediately to your pre-determined safe meeting place and make sure no one is missing. If you are worried about a pet, know your animal’s instinct will be to escape the fire. Although it may seem callous to think through how you’d react if your pet were trapped inside your burning coach, make a decision now whether your pet’s life is worth risking your own.
Courtesy:Mac “The Fire Guy” McCoy
Make sure to have this Fire Extinguishing Aerosol in your RV The First Alert Tundra Fire Extinguishing Aerosol Spray is easier to use and discharges 4 times longer than traditional fire extinguishers. With an aerosol nozzle and portable size, it’s suited for the kitchen, car, garage, boat or RV. The formula wipes away with a damp cloth & is biodegradable. Learn more or order.
Museum of the Week
Centers for Disease Control Museum
Atlanta, Georgia
If you want to visit the CDC in Atlanta, GA, you might as well visit their museum, at their headquarters, as well. Fun fact: The CDC is headquartered in Atlanta because their original job, in 1946, was to fight malaria. Atlanta had a terrible malaria problem at the time, so that’s where they placed their headquarters. The CDC’s museum isn’t exactly one of the most pleasant museums – you’ll learn about every outbreak and public health horror that has happened throughout the last several decades. However, it sure is fascinating. It’s currently closed due to COVID, but as soon as it opens again, we suggest you check it out. In the meantime, they have online exhibitions for you to enjoy.
Make your phone screen quadruple in size!
This phone screen magnifier amplifies your phone screen 3 to 4 times its size. Using HD zoom optical technology, this lightweight projector is perfect for when you don’t have access to a TV and want to watch videos on your phone. It doesn’t need a power supply, so you never have to charge it. Check it out here.
Readers’ Pet of the Day
“This is Tinker Belle. She loves to sit on the dash of the motorhome and see the highway sites. Sometimes we refer to her as ‘Stinker Belle’ as she permeates the atmosphere.” —David Ozanne
Hungry for a sandwich? You’re not the only one! About 49 percent of American adults eat a sandwich every day.
Laugh of the Week
Have you ever seen the 2006 comedy “RV”? There’s one scene in it that is utterly disgusting, but laugh-out-loud hilarious. We hope this never happens to any of you! Watch the short clip here.
Editor and Publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Editor: Emily Woodbury. Managing editor: Diane McGovern. Senior editors: Russ and Tiña De Maris. Senior writers: Nanci Dixon, Tony Barthel. Contributors: Mike Sokol, Roger Marble, Dave Helgeson, Janet Groene, Julianne Crane, Chris Guld, Machelle James, James Raia, Barry and Monique Zander, J.M. Montigel, Clint Norrell, and Andrew Robinson. Social media and special projects director: Jessica Sarvis. Moderators: Gary Gilmore, Linda Brady. Financial affairs director: Gail Meyring. IT wrangler: Kim Christiansen.
FOREVER IN OUR MEMORIES — OUR STAFF MEMBER IN HEAVEN, Gary Bunzer, the RV Doctor, who was taken from us by the coronavirus.
Honorary Correspondents: Loyal readers who regularly email us leads about news stories and other information and resources that aid our own news-gathering efforts. • Mike Sherman • George Bliss • Tom and Lois Speirs • Steve Barnes • Tom Hart + others who we will add later.
REGIONAL AND LOCAL ADVERTISING: We can now run banners on RVtravel.com in your town or in a designated area near you, for example to readers within 100, 200, etc., miles of your business. For information contact advertising@rvtravel.com .
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally get something wrong. We’re just human! So don’t go spending $10,000 on something we said was good simply because we said so, or fixing something according to what we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake.Tips and/or comments in this newsletter are those of the authors and may not reflect the views of RVtravel.com or this newsletter.
RVtravel.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Regardless of this potential revenue, unless stated otherwise, we only recommend products or services we believe provide value to our readers.
By Chuck Woodbury CONTINUED FROM RVTRAVEL NEWSLETTER ISSUE 982
Like most of you, I am sad about the violence at our nation’s capitol on Wednesday. But, no, I am more than sad. I am disgusted. It’s now noon Friday. I have been so upset by what happened that I have been unable to write until now.
I spent virtually all day Wednesday watching and reading the news. And I know many of you did, too, as traffic at RVtravel.com was half of normal. It picked up a little on Thursday, but was still way down.
The terrible incident was the result of an ongoing campaign of misinformation, gladly promoted by news media and in social media because it attracted big audiences and lots of dollars.
Those of you who know how the media works today understand that the easiest way to make money is to be controversial. “Fair and Balanced” is a joke: few online media outlets, right or left, even try to be unbiased anymore because it’s far easier to make tons of money by lying, bending the truth or exaggerating.
I can tell you, with my above-average writing skills, if I were unethical I could triple my income by sensationalizing what we publish on this website. It would be so easy! I’d just rag on Marcus Lemonis over and over about his business practices – that always attracts big traffic!
When we go back through our traffic statistics, the topics where we stuck our necks out drew ten times the views (views = $$$) of tamer topics. Before the Internet, the slogan “If it bleeds it leads” was the mantra of many news outlets, especially local television. “Good News” stories were always shown at the end of the program.
We recently introduced a feature in our Sunday newsletter called “Good News.” And guess how popular it is? It’s not! Nobody wants to read good news. We post it anyway. If I wanted to make big money I wouldn’t mess with “good news.” I’d just make up an article with this headline: “Rat bites woman as she sits on her RV’s toilet.”
Actually, I will write such a fake story for you right now to show you how convincing a 100% fake story can be. You can read it here. The fake story I will write will be about how the woman left her RV’s black tank valve open and a sewer rat climbed up through the hose into the holding tank and then somehow got into the toilet bowl. The story will further state that the woman sat on the pot and then “ouch!” – the rat took a big old bite of her butt! You know me well enough to know I would never write such a story (except for my fake story here). But I am telling you, unethical, money-hungry publishers do it all the time.
Remember the story of the guy who put his Winnebago on cruise control so he could go into the back of the RV to make coffee, and the RV crashed, and then he sued Winnebago and won $1,750,000? That now-urban myth has been viewed millions of times over a decade – but it’s 100% fake!
Fox News will never say, “You know, we think Joe Biden is a decent guy and we should give him a chance.” It would lose half its audience and couldn’t continue to pay its hosts millions of dollars a year.
Rush Limbaugh is quoted as saying this: “Never be ‘down the middle’ on anything. Nothing is worse for the ratings than ‘well, on the other hand,’ or ‘both sides have a point.’ If you are against something, be against it 100%. Anyone who feels other than you do on the issue is wrong.”
Rush would be out of business if he had a change of heart and quit bashing Biden and his cronies. The same is true for other talk show hosts, websites, cable TV channels, and for social media stars. This goes for liberal and conservative media.
As a purveyor of fake news you take your stand, promote lies and conspiracy theories as often as possible, and watch your readership and income soar. After 20 years of publishing online, I know this principle well, and I know that unethical publishers can make huge incomes spewing lies and even hate. And just like with advertising, the more times a message is delivered, the more people believe it. Is Tide really the best detergent? Some people think so because commercial after commercial tells them so. And one day, someone who has heard the message 50 times believes it without question — “Yes, Tide is better!” The same goes for political messages.
I will receive angry mail over what I write here. I will be called every name in the book. Some will write, “I read this newsletter to read about RVing! This does not belong here!” Well, I agree that most of what we write here SHOULD be about RVing (and that is what we do 99% of the time). But sometimes I feel strongly about something and choose to write about it. Most readers are fine with this.
After reading this essay, dozens of readers will write me and say they unsubscribing. “I will never read another thing you write.” But I can tell you, most will return anyway out of curiosity.
But I’m not stupid when I write something that I know will stir the pot and cost this website subscribers. When I write honestly and without fear of losing a hundred or even a thousand readers, open-minded readers appreciate this website even more. We almost always end up gaining more subscribers than we lose. Some of those who appreciate our honesty will be motivated to contribute financially to our efforts because we dare to take a stand, unlike 99% of all other RV websites which are so scared of offending an advertiser that they keep their mouths shut!
For the record, only a small part of our income comes from advertising. Every week, more readers support us financially, which provides our financial foundation. So I don’t tell our writers to avoid writing something that might offend a particular manufacturer or other RV-related business. “No, write honestly,” I say.
I hope the following happens in 2021: I hope the pandemic ends and our lives can return to normal. I hope all those people who lost their jobs due to no fault of their own will get them back. And I hope that our elected officials tone down their rhetoric. As a proud member of the news media for 40 years, I am thankful that our incoming president views the media of vital importance to a democracy and not as its enemy. Take a Journalism 1A course at your local community college and you will understand.
Your comments welcome. But keep them civil. I reserve the right to remove rants or those that are disrespectful.
This article is fake. It is totally made up. I did not have to tell you that. I could have just passed it off as true. The names of the people and places are made up.
So again, this is truly “fake news” and as such it is among millions of other stories on the Web that are also totally fabricated. Sensational stories like this are almost always shared on social media, often for years, earning those who publish the lies lots of money.
So is here is my fake story:
Rat bites woman as she sits on her RV’s toilet
A Lexington, Kentucky, woman got a big surprise last Wednesday when she sat down on her motorhome’s toilet and got bitten by a sewer rat. “Who would ever imagine something like that could happen?” she said later.
Susan Smith and husband, Henry, retired last March, sold their suburban home and bought a 2014 Winnebago Adventurer motorhome to see the USA. “We’d dreamed about doing this for years,” Susan explained.
It was the couple’s first RV. “Looking back, we were clueless about how to operate everything,” said Henry. “I guess that lack of knowledge came back to bite us in the butt,” he said, laughing.
“We had no idea that we should have kept our sewer tank closed when we had a sewer hookup in a campground,” he said. “We just assumed it was best to keep it open. I know now, of course, that wasn’t a good idea.”
No, this is not Susan and Henry. It’s a free, stock photo. But we didn’t need to tell you that and you would assume this was the RVing couple.
AS MOST RVers KNOW, both the black and gray water tanks should remain closed until they are nearly full, and then dumped. Many RVers who have not done so have reported that sewer flies have ended up in their toilet bowl. But until now, no one has ever reported a rat in their commode.
The bizarre rat incident came on the Smith’s final night of a 7-day stay at a Tennessee State Park.
“I just sat on the toilet as I always do,” Susan explained. “I didn’t look at the toilet before sitting down.”
She said it was only seconds after she did that she felt the bite. “I jumped up immediately,” she said. “It was very painful.”
It was only when she looked into the toilet bowl that she realized what had happened. “This large rat was just standing there, staring a me! It was covered with waste. It was the ugliest creature I have ever seen in my life.”
Meanwhile, blood was dripping onto the bathroom floor. Henry helped clean Susan’s wound and capture the rodent, which they took with them to the hospital to be sure it did not have rabies (it did not).
Nobody has yet determined exactly how the rat ended up in the toilet bowl. “All I can tell you is to keep your sewer tank valve closed unless you are actually dumping,” Susan said.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This is an example of fake news. It never happened. Susan and Henry are not real people. If we would have tried to pass this off as a true incident, we are sure it would have attracted a huge audience, and those views would have earned us a tidy amount of money.
Have you seen the movie “RV”? It’s a 2006 comedy starring Robin Williams, who plays Bob Munro. Bob and his dysfunctional family rent an RV (from a shady rental dealer) to road trip from LA to the Rockies, where they meet an unusual group of campers. The movie is hilarious and shows many scenes RVers can relate to.
The best scene in the movie “RV”? It may be the one below, when it’s time to dump the tanks. You can only imagine what happens…
Watch the scene below. It’s disgusting, but we know you’ll laugh. And if you want to watch the whole movie, you can find it to stream on Amazon.
This is our review of the 2021 Little Guy MyPod travel trailer, which should resume production about the time you read this.
ByTony Barthel What is the definition of a travel trailer? Well, for some it’s a place to sleep that keeps you off the ground at night with some provision for managing temperature. In that case, the MyPod trailer by Little Guy Trailers qualifies.
The MyPod is a solid answer to folks who have very small vehicles but still want a trailer they can easily tow. How small a vehicle are we talkin’? The MyPod can actually be towed by some touring bikes and many trikes. Throw in things like the Prius or Mini Cooper and you’ve got a very, very towable machine.
Big things in little packages
The MyPod’s total dry weight is just 760 pounds with a tongue weight of just 110 pounds. That’s probably less weight than the driver in the vehicle or whatever junk is in the trunk.
What you get in this small package is a completely enclosed fiberglass “egg” that incorporates a mattress, TV, air conditioner and some storage. Furthermore, there’s a platform on the tongue if you want to bring a small generator. It’s a nifty little package that may be right for some campers.
Competitors
One of the things that may make this a good alternative to the Time Out Deluxe trailer is that it’s all enclosed in fiberglass. Some parks where there are bears don’t allow folding trailers. So if you’re a motorcycle enthusiast who also wants a trailer, this may make more sense if that’s where you want to venture.
While this has a similar shape to the Aliner Ascape, you’ll find that that trailer is much larger and incorporates more amenities. The RV industry is really terrific – there truly is something for everyone and it’s great to have these choices!
Amenities in the 2021 Little Guy MyPod
Inside the MyPod it’s a pretty simple affair. On the far wall, in the nose of the trailer, is a small air conditioner, a stereo system with Bluetooth, a single cabinet that runs the width of the nose and then a 12-volt television.
All around you, the entire interior shell has been covered with carpet to deaden sound and provide some insulation. Since there is no propane system, there is also no heater – so this could be a fair-weather camper. However, it does have a 30-amp connection and a 110vac electric plug, so you could consider bringing a small electric heater. It wouldn’t take a lot to make the interior of this very cozy.
There is also a high-performance fan on the roof and a large window in the rear access door. The fan can blow in or out, so you can use this to create some significant airflow in this small space.
The floor is where you’ll find a folding mattress that’s 52” X 76” – so slightly smaller than a full-sized mattress. That mattress folds in half so you can sit on it during the day and sleep on it during the night.
The blinds on the two side windows are interesting in that they’re alternating rows. Essentially you just sort of swipe them open and closed. The two side windows don’t open.
The downside
Clearly, in something this small and light there’s no standing room, and also absent are any water systems whatsoever. There’s also no toilet. The plus side of this is that winterization is not something you’ll ever have to think about.
Furthermore, this will fit into almost any garage so that slick egg-shaped shell will stay new-looking for years. In fact, there is a whole fan club for these things with lots of enthusiastic owners.
Speaking with Joe Kicos from Little Guy, he indicated that the MyPod production for 2021 will resume soon. For those who might want a very lightweight trailer that offers the benefits of being hard-sided, this could be a great choice.
These RV reviews are written based on information provided by the manufacturers along with our writer’s own research. We receive no money or other financial benefits from these reviews. They are intended only as a brief overview of the vehicle, not a comprehensive critique, which would require a thorough inspection and/or test drive.
Got an RV we need to look at? Contact us today and let us know – thank you!
By Tony Barthel The CURT BetterWeigh™ is a device that helps vehicle owners determine tow weight, cargo weight and other factors in their vehicle’s towing through the use of the OBD II system and a smartphone app via Bluetooth.
CURT, a manufacturer of hitches of all sorts as well as other components, sent me a BetterWeigh device to test out. CURT is a member of the Lippert Family – you probably recognize that name as they are a manufacturer of all sorts of RV components.
So what is it?
The CURT Better Weigh screen on my iPhone
The Curt BetterWeigh™ is a device that hooks to your vehicle’s OBD II port and reads a combination of factors to deliver readings on vehicle weight, tongue weight, pin weight, payload and weight distribution.
It appears to use sensors in the device itself to measure the vehicle’s angle (how much the springs deflect when you hook up your trailer) and combines that with information from the vehicle’s computer to achieve other measurements. All of this is delivered via Bluetooth to your smartphone or tablet via a proprietary app.
The CURT BetterWeigh uses what the company calls “TowSense™” technology. From the manufacturer: “TowSense technology is a digital towing scale system. Using an accelerometer circuit, TowSense measures changes in the velocity and pitch of your vehicle. It uses this data to calculate weights associated with towing and hauling.
“The BetterWeigh tongue weight scale wirelessly connects to your Apple or Android phone to display the weight of the vehicle, trailer, cargo/payload, tongue weight, pin weight, weight distribution and trailer brake gain.”
Setting it up
I plugged the CURT BetterWeigh™ into my 2015 Ram 1500’s OBD II port and went through the setup. This means telling the system what kind of vehicle I have and, by inputting the serial number, it knows the year, make and model along with which engine, transmission and gear ratios are on the truck.
From there, you drive the vehicle on a straight, flat road several times to get the calibration. This determines how much accelerator pedal input is used to achieve certain vehicle speeds so you have a benchmark.
The setup process is pretty specific but is necessary so the BetterWeigh system establishes a benchmark for your vehicle and then whatever you’re towing or have as cargo in the bed.
Does the CURT BetterWeigh™ work?
After calibrating the BetterWeigh with an empty truck, I added my travel trailer, a 2017 Rockwood Mini Lite 1905s – a relatively small and light trailer. The BetterWeigh estimated that I had over 550 lbs. of weight on the tongue of that thing. Considering that the trailer’s dry weight is about 2800 lbs. and it was full of water and supplies for a week’s worth of camping at the beach, I believe it was fairly accurate.
The calibration phase also has an idea of what the truck weighs unloaded, so I gave it a test to see what it thought my trailer weighed. It was closer to 4,200 lbs. Let’s see – cast iron cookware, a week’s worth of beer, winter clothing and blankets and 30 gallons of water. I believe it was pretty close to accurate, considering this was like lying to yourself that the holidays didn’t pack on many pounds even though that lousy scale reads otherwise. In other words, I would have guessed that the trailer was lighter than this but, in actuality, it wasn’t. While I didn’t drag it to a CAT scale to verify the numbers, I don’t have reason to think it was tremendously inaccurate.
I also ran the tests on the way home and the tongue weight did drop (no more fresh water but a full tank of black water, which is in the back of my trailer). Furthermore, it estimated that the trailer was about 3,800 lbs. which, again, seems accurate. I drank all the beer.
Is the CURT BetterWeigh™ worth it?
I’ve seen a few reviews of this device online and some folks are really happy with it, others not. It seems the difference may be in the vehicle itself. The Ram pickup line seems to work very well with this, but I can’t speak to the other brands of vehicles.
I think this is a decent way to get some idea of what’s going on with your weights, but still no substitution for a CAT scale or equivalent. From my own experience, I think the numbers it provides are reasonably accurate but certainly not certified, as you’d get from a true scale.
According to Steve Kass from RV WeighSM, who has weighed hundreds of RVs at FMCA rallies and other events, the number of RVs that are overweight is significant. Honestly, it’s wise to have some idea of what you’re towing back there and how close you are to the capacity of your tow vehicle.
Considering how easy this device is to use and how handy it is, for $99 on Amazon it seems well worth it, especially for anyone who might be even moderately close to the maximum towing capability of their vehicle.
What is OBD II?
As part of the overwhelming regulation in the auto industry, all vehicles sold in 1996 and beyond need to have an On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port. This is a second-generation system so is labeled OBD II.
Essentially this gives anyone access to much of the technological functionality going on in the vehicle computer systems. Using a standardized connector, the idea was that technicians can read what’s going on internally, which helps them diagnose vehicles as they become ever more computerized.
Today, a modern vehicle uses computer technology to manage the engine, transmission and often much more. Emissions sensors, oxygen sensors and so much more are the key to why our vehicles have more power and are more efficient at burning fuel when all systems are go. Yaw sensors, sway sensors, braking input, throttle input and other digital babysitters are the key to why cars are safer today. Basically, technology can replace a lot of the knowledge we used to have to keep our vehicles on the straight and narrow.
In fact, my own truck utilizes some of these vehicle dynamic sensors to help eliminate trailer sway by applying braking to the trailer if it senses sway. This is what a smart driver would do but, let’s face it, we’ve all seen others who aren’t smart drivers.
Any complex technological system can also fail, and does, especially when combined with the tremendous heat and unforgiving realities under the hood of a vehicle.
What I do with my truck’s OBD II
Furthermore, idiots like me can access the various functions in their vehicles and actually modify or hack them. My own Ram pickup has all sorts of computer subsystems for the body (lighting controllers, etc.), emissions, and more. The list of computers that appears when I get into the OBD II system is incredible.
These systems allow the Ram to shut off four of its eight cylinders to improve fuel economy when cruising. But the level of computerization and sophistication can also be an issue when something goes haywire.
So when these systems go haywire, the OBD II system was designed to allow a technician to peek into what’s going on and use the system’s reporting to make a change in less time.
Or, just modify the heck out of your truck’s electronics and then wonder why it runs funny.
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Excellent resource about work camping
Wacky mailboxes
Stolen RVs — Help us recover these stolen RVs. The more eyes we have searching for them, the better chance of getting them back to their rightful owners, and maybe putting the crooks who stole them in the slammer! 
