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RV Daily Tips. Monday, June 22, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Monday, June 22, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2931 • New issue every weekday

Today’s thought

 “If we cannot now end our differences, at least we can help make the world safe for diversity.” —John F. Kennedy

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Onion Rings Day!

On this day in history: 1942 – The Pledge of Allegiance is formally adopted by U.S. Congress.

Tip of the day
Hot sleeper? These tips are for you

By Gail Marsh
Too hot to sleep in your RV? You’re not alone. Hot sleepers know the struggle—especially in summer. From poor airflow and stuffy mattresses to night sweats and warm pets, sleeping in an RV can feel more like roasting in an oven. But there are ways to beat the heat: improve ventilation, use special-made cooling bedding, skip heavy meals, and try gadgets like the bFan® or a cooling gel topper. And if it’s a sudden change, check with your doctor—health issues can play a role, too. Click here if you’re a hot sleeper.

More tips from this weekend. Don’t miss them!

RV review
2026 East to West Blackthorn 229RK—short and sweet

By Gail Marsh
The 2026 East to West Blackthorn 229RK is a compact fifth wheel with one slide, suitable for a couple or a solo traveler. This feels like a smart, easy-to-live-in fifth wheel. I believe that the Blackthorn 229RK fits the “short and sweet” criteria that many folks are looking for today. Read on and see if you agree.

P300 X 250 Image Ad 72resAdventure Starts at America’s Largest RV Show®!
Dreaming of a way to tour the country in comfort? With 1,500 RVs from 40 manufacturers, America’s Largest RV Show has what you need. Explore 33 football fields of the newest models, shop camping products and services, and find your next vacation destination. Plus, there are educational seminars for every RVer—novice or pro. Find your dream rig at America’s Largest RV Show, September 16-20, in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Tickets available at largestRVshow.com.

In the RV shop with Dustin
How to properly inspect RV windows and clearance lights

Here, I’m sharing how I inspect RV windows, lights, and clearance lights. Maintenance is KING for keeping your RV in tiptop shape. By inspecting these areas, you can avoid potential problems down the road. I’ll show you how to perform these inspections and help you avoid any potential problems with your RV. This inspection and advice will apply to all RV manufacturers, makes, and models, especially those with frameless windows.

Article and video
Imported Japanese RV: 1998 Toyota Camroad Zil 4×4

A lot of small campers promise clever packaging, but this one backs it up. The 1998 Toyota Camroad Zil by Vantech fits a full RV layout into a 16-foot body that still slips into a normal parking spot. It starts with a Toyota Dyna truck chassis, adds four-wheel drive, then tops it with a fiberglass camper shell from Japan. The result feels half mini truck, half tiny motorhome, and all of it has a ton of character. Check it out!

The latest news for RVers

To read more recent news, click here.

THE MORE YOU KNOW… The largest number of country names starts with what letter? T? M? U? Or S? If you guessed S, you’re correct. There are 26 country names that start with the letter S.

Doctor’s order: Coffee!
This coffee mug is hilarious! It’s perfect for yourself or the coffee-lover in your life who just cannot live without coffee. This high-quality mug is made from ceramic and painted to look like a prescription pill bottle – it’s just what the doctor ordered! You can’t order this from a barista, but you can order one here.

Featured article
Duck pond mistaken for hot spring; hilarity ensues

By Nanci Dixon
I love quirky RV spots and had never actually been in a hot spring before, so after reading a number of reviews for El Dorado Hot Springs that ranged from “kitschy” to “rustic,” we decided to try it. After all, we had our choice of a private hot spring or the not-so-modest public nude one. I chose private. That they rented by the hour should have rung at least a few warning bells, but it didn’t. The Hot Spring sign should have been an additional warning [snicker]… Check this out. (This remains one of our favorite stories we’ve ever published!)

Ask Dave
Why does our ceiling A/C unit spit out black Styrofoam pieces?

Read Dave’s answer.

Reader poll
Which of these campsite utility hookups is normally the most important to you?

Respond here.

Quick tip
How to use a basement storage door as a table

You can use a basement storage door as a table, provided you can open it to “level” and then support it. Hit the thrift shops and buy a used photo tripod. The three legs make it sturdy and you can set and lock it at nearly any desirable height.

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Wow, this item is not trash! So, then, what’s the opposite of trash? This! (No, but seriously, we highly recommend this.)

Website of the day

The best underwater attractions in the U.S.
Okay, odds are that you aren’t a scuba diver (but cool if you are!). However, even just looking at the photos on this page is incredible! Did you know all this existed in our country’s waters?

Monday Motivation

“The only way that we can live is if we grow. The only way that we can grow is if we change. The only way that we can change is if we learn. The only way we can learn is if we are exposed. And the only way that we can become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open. Do it. Throw yourself.” ―C. JoyBell C.

Trivia

The most famous celebrity to die in an RV accident was Brandon deWilde, who earned an Oscar nomination as a child actor for the movie Shane. [Do you remember, “Shane! Shane! Come back!”?] In 1972, he was driving a camper van near Denver when it left the roadway, struck a guardrail and a parked truck, and rolled over. He died from his injuries at age 30.

Readers’ pet of the day

Screenshot 20260607 072418 Gallery 0b7f5fcfa995a1986b8b570be78bcf84“Lily Gipsy (Chocolate Lab, age 10) is the best traveling RV pup. Ohhh, the stories she could tell! This is how we roll.” —Bonnie Quinlan

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

• RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.

Leave here with a laugh

Smelly or slow-draining shower? This is what you need
If your RV shower smells—or drains slower than it should—the HepvO valve might be the fix you need. Unlike a traditional P-trap, this waterless valve blocks tank odors without relying on standing water, so there’s no drying out or freezing issues. It’s compact, low-maintenance, and a smart upgrade (or replacement) for RVers who want better drainage and a fresher-smelling bathroom with less hassle. Learn more about it here, or order one here.

Today’s weather forecast across the nation
THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY

Visit Current National Radar Weather Map

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

RVtravel.com All-Star Staff

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

WHY WE ASK FOR DONATIONS INSTEAD OF SELLING SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Our policy on using artificial intelligence.

Why does our ceiling A/C unit spit out black Styrofoam pieces?

Dave Solberg
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Why does our ceiling A/C unit spit out black Styrofoam pieces?

Dear Dave, 
Why does our ceiling A/C unit spit out black Styrofoam pieces? —Brenda, 2024 Grand Design Transcend One

Dear Brenda,
According to the Grand Design website, the Transcend One is available in five floorplans, starting with the smaller 12’ model and going up to 20’. The larger models appear to have a ducted roof air conditioner system. That means there is a central unit and ductwork incorporated into the ceiling rather than the air blowing straight out of the unit.

The reason this is important is that the black Styrofoam pieces you are describing most likely are loose pieces from the cut out duct, and I believe they might be full of mold.

Most manufacturers cut or route the ducting for the air conditioner airflow as it is less time-consuming and cheaper. This creates loose material and oftentimes the first few start-ups of the air conditioner create what customers feel is a snowing effect! The insulation in most roof construction is a beadboard type, which is the smaller pellets like white Styrofoam coffee cups.

Possible airflow issue

I believe your air conditioner has an airflow issue. It might be caused by a loose baffle or other obstruction in the air chamber by the fan and it is building up condensation. If that is not “aired” out, it will cause mold to accumulate in that area.

I do not know of any material that would be black Styrofoam, unless Grand Design decided to paint the duct—which I have not seen before. However, as I often state, I have learned to never say never when it comes to RV manufacturers!

I would inspect the black pieces and maybe even have an HVAC professional inspect the chamber and the particles. If it is mold, you will need to have someone do a mold mitigation procedure and get the airflow issue resolved.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

DAVE HAS ANSWERED MORE THAN 1,200 readers’ maintenance and repair questions. Read a directory here. There is so much to learn!

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

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

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RVDT2931

Hot sleeper? These tips are for you

RV Travel
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Hot sleeper? These tips are for you

By Gail Marsh
Sleeping in an RV during the summer can be a sweaty challenge, especially if you’re what I call a “hot sleeper.”

So… for you RVers who struggle to sleep because you’re too hot, perhaps a few tips will help.

Why do you sleep hot?

Our son has always been a hot sleeper. Snuggling him when he was a baby was like hugging a heater! He required a much cooler bedroom than our other children. Even now, he sleeps better in lower temperatures.

That said, it’s important to rule out any medical issues that may cause you to sleep hot. Talk to your doctor, especially if sleeping hot is unusual for you.

There are several factors that can contribute to feeling excessively warm during sleep:

• Body temperature regulation: Your body naturally cools down during sleep. If your environment is too warm, it can disrupt this process.

• Hormonal changes: Conditions like menopause can cause night sweats and increased body temperature.

• Medical conditions: Certain illnesses and/or medications can lead to increased sweating at night. As mentioned previously, talk to your doctor about this.

• Bedding and mattress materials: Some materials trap heat, making you feel hotter during the night.

Understanding these factors can help you take targeted steps to cool down. Obviously, if your RV has an air conditioner, use it. Set it for a cooler temperature if you or your RV partner sleeps hot.

Tips to stay cool

1. Optimize ventilation. Good airflow is essential. Use roof vents, window fans, or portable fans to circulate air. Position fans to create a cross-breeze, drawing in cooler air and pushing out warm air.

2. Avoid sleeping with pets. A pet that snuggles next to you will make you feel warmer. Consider crating her overnight.

3. Choose breathable bedding. Opt for sheets and blankets made from natural fibers like cotton or linen. These are more breathable and wick away moisture better than synthetic materials. There are also cooling bed sheets available.

4. Cool down before bed. Take a lukewarm shower before sleeping to lower your core body temperature. Avoid hot showers, as they can raise your body temperature.

5. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can impair your body’s ability to regulate temperature.

bFan product for cooler sleeping Image: bFan company https://www.bedfan.com/

6. Consider a bFan™. This innovative product is made in the U.S. It’s a special fan that is designed to blow air from the bottom of the bed through the sheets over the body. Warm body air is replaced by cooler air throughout the night. Bonus: You may save money on air conditioning if you pay extra for electricity at the campsite.

7. Sleep in lightweight clothing. Wear light, loose-fitting pajamas made from breathable and/or moisture-wicking materials. Avoid synthetic fabrics.

8. Use cooling accessories. Cooling pillows and cooling mattress toppers or pads can help dissipate heat. Some products use gel or phase-change materials to absorb and release heat effectively. (Personal note: Our foam mattress is so comfortable I wasn’t ready to give it up, even though the foam seemed to trap body heat and make sleep difficult. A cooling gel topper solved the problem!)

9. Restrict vigorous activity. Schedule intense workout routines for earlier in the day. (Note: Sex can tire your body, but it can also raise your body’s temperature. Use yoga or gentle stretching exercises to cool down and relax.) 

10. Use a dehumidifier. Excess humidity can make you feel warmer. If possible, run a dehumidifier to dry the damp summer air and help you sleep.

11. Consider ice packs. Right before bed apply ice packs to areas of the body where blood vessels are close to the surface of your skin. This includes the back of your knees, inside of elbows, wrists, top of feet, neck, and inner thigh. Wrap a towel or cloth around the ice pack to protect your skin.

12. Food and drink choices. Avoid heavy meals before bedtime. Restrict caffeine and alcohol consumption at least four hours before bed. Caffeine can raise core body temperature. Also, depending on how well your body metabolizes caffeine, it can negatively affect sleep. Alcohol, when it’s metabolized, increases your cortisol levels. It also causes blood to rush to the surface of your skin causing a feeling of warmth—not something a hot sleeper needs!

Your turn

Are you a hot sleeper? What additional tips do you find helpful? Tell us in the comments below.

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Imported Japanese RV: 1998 Toyota Camroad Zil 4×4

Video Editor
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Imported Japanese RV: 1998 Toyota Camroad Zil 4×4

A lot of small campers promise clever packaging, but this one backs it up. The 1998 Toyota Camroad Zil by Vantech fits a full RV layout into a 16-foot body that still slips into a normal parking spot.

In the video at the end of this post, we get a tour from its owner, x90Dude.

It starts with a Toyota Dyna truck chassis, adds four-wheel drive, then tops it with a fiberglass camper shell from Japan. The result feels half mini truck, half tiny motorhome, and all of it has a ton of character.

A tiny 4×4 RV with old-school charm

This imported camper is based on a right-hand-drive Toyota Dyna, with Vantech building the living space on the back. Outside, it has a rounded, almost capsule-like shape, vintage side stripes, and the kind of Japanese stickers that feel worth keeping. They tell part of the story.

The compact body still packs in useful exterior features. There is a battery access compartment, propane storage, an awning crank tool, a water fill, hot water access, gray water drain access, and a locked diesel filler tucked into a lower cubby. That fuel spot works, but it sounds awkward at the pump, especially since the cap can lock, too.

One funny detail sits on the outside of the bathroom wall. The cassette toilet access door has three locks, which led some people to think the bathroom could only be reached from outside. It can’t. That hatch is only for removing the toilet cassette.

There are also a few age-related notes. The step shows rust and is currently held up with a bungee, which fits the general truth about many Japanese imports: They often need rust checks underneath.

Inside, the space is tighter than it looks

The layout makes strong use of every inch. Right by the door, there is a footwell cover that creates standing room, plus storage cubbies and shelving around the entry. The kitchen gets a small sink, a two-burner propane stove with fold-down covers, a fridge with a tiny freezer, a vent hood, and dual faucets tied to separate water tanks, one for drinking water and one for general use.

Headroom is the trade-off. The owner, at 6’3″, can’t fully stand through much of the cabin, and the interior height is roughly 6’1″.

Still, the camper feels livable because there is storage everywhere, even if some of it comes from homemade additions by the previous owner.

The wet bath is small but complete. It has a cassette toilet, shower head, pop-out window, flip-down sink, medicine cabinet, and an added vent fan.

The dinette handles daily use, then converts into a large bed. Above it, an upper bunk adds another sleeping area, with curtains and window covers for privacy. There is even a strange floor cubby that may have been meant as a root cellar for produce.

Old tech, new upgrades, and a slow but easy drive

Some of the best details are pure 1998. The backup camera feeds a little CRT monitor in the cab, which feels charming instead of outdated. At the same time, the camper has been updated where it counts. The original single 100-watt solar panel is gone, replaced by two 320-watt panels, for 640 watts total. A new stereo with Apple CarPlay also replaced the factory Japanese-only radio.

Driving this imported Japanese RV takes a minute to learn. The right-hand-drive setup is easy enough, but the levers for turn signals and wipers are reversed on the steering column, so they get mixed up at first.

Once moving, it behaves more like a big van than a truck camper. It rides okay on rough roads, has plenty of body roll because of its height, and tops out at about 62 mph. Hills slow it down fast.

Final thoughts

The best part of this Toyota Camroad Zil is how much it fits into such a short body. It has quirks, age, odd Japanese hardware, and a few rough edges, but none of that hides the smart design.

For a 16-foot imported RV, it offers a lot: four-wheel drive, diesel power, a full bathroom, two beds, and real off-grid potential. That is why it feels so memorable.

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RVDT2931

Which of these campsite utility hookups is normally the most important to you?

RV Travel
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Which of these campsite utility hookups is normally the most important to you?

Time to tell us: Which, out of the options given for campsite utility hookups, is most important to you, generally speaking? Is it water? Electricity? Sewer? Even cable TV? None of the above because you rely on your onboard systems?

Some RVers won’t book a site unless it has full hookups, while others are perfectly happy going off-grid for days or weeks at a time.

For some, reliable electricity is non-negotiable—especially if you run medical equipment or just really like your air conditioning. Others prioritize fresh water access, especially if they plan to shower daily or do a lot of cooking and dishwashing. And there are plenty of RVers who simply can’t stand the idea of leaving without dumping their tanks, so a sewer hookup is essential.

Of course, your answer might change depending on the time of year, your travel style, or the size and setup of your RV. A Class A with residential appliances might have very different needs compared to a small travel trailer with solar panels and a composting toilet.

And then there’s the question of how long you plan to stay—overnight stops versus weeklong stays can call for different levels of hookup needs.

We’re curious to hear what matters most to you when it comes to campsite hookups. After you vote, feel free to leave a comment and explain your choice. Do you adjust based on the campground, or do you always look for the same amenities? Thanks, as always, for sharing!

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY THESE POLLS:

RVDT2931

How to properly inspect RV windows and clearance lights

RV Travel
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2
How to properly inspect RV windows and clearance lights

By Dustin Simpson
In this video, I’m sharing how I inspect RV windows, lights, and clearance lights. Maintenance is KING for keeping your RV in tiptop shape. By inspecting these areas, you can avoid potential problems down the road. I’ll show you how to perform these inspections and help you avoid any potential problems with your RV.

This inspection and advice will apply to all RV manufacturers, makes, and models, especially those with frameless windows.

Interior window leaking that’s causing damage to wall.

Join me during this 2019 Grand Design Momentum’s exterior evaluation series, where each video concentrates on different areas of the unit. I will share my tips and tricks on maintenance and repairs.

My DIY suggestions are below. Please make sure to keep up on your RV’s maintenance.

DIY product links:

• Acrysol Body Solvent Cleaner

• Scraper tool blue CRL stick

• Tapered Tip Stick and Handle

• The best caulking gun

• Boss sealant 378 clear

• Geocel GC28100 Pro Flex RV Flexible Sealant Clear 

• Geocel 28101V Pro Flex RV Flexible Sealant White 

Information about Dustin’s Facebook groups

These Facebook groups were created to help educate owners about parts, problems, repairs, fixes, and upgrades on RV units. We will be sharing videos that include WHAT’S IN THE SHOP? and SHOP TALK episodes with information on accessories and products that we use and install on the units from the shop.

We try and help as time allows to answer questions and problems. We encourage others to share their experience so we can build a resource page to help everyone.

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

Please feel free to share your stories, problems, and upgrades with us so we can build a resource page to help others.

Thank you,
Dustin

More from Dustin

Read more of Dustin’s articles here.

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RVDT2931

2026 East to West Blackthorn 229RK—short and sweet

Gail Marsh
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3
2026 East to West Blackthorn 229RK—short and sweet

The 2026 East to West Blackthorn 229RK is a compact fifth wheel with one slide, suitable for a couple or a solo traveler.

I believe that the Blackthorn 229RK fits the “short and sweet” criteria that many folks are looking for today. Read on and see if you agree.

Behind the walls

East to West builds the Blackthorn 229RK with Azdel-laminated sidewalls, laminated slide-out end walls, and a laminated slide-out roof and rear wall. This fifth wheel also features formaldehyde-free fiberglass insulation in the roof and front cap. It has a heated and enclosed underbelly with circulating heat and features PEX plumbing throughout.

Key specs

  • Length: 28’1″
  • Exterior height: 12’3″
  • Exterior width: 96″
  • Hitch weight: 1,145 lb.
  • GVWR: 9,945 lb.
  • UVW: 7,324 lb.
  • CCC: 2,621 lb.
  • Fresh water: 64 gal.
  • Gray water: 88 gal.
  • Black water: 44 gal.
  • Awning size: 14’6″
  • Available bed: King
  • Refrigerator: 12V, 10 cu. ft.
  • Electrical service: 50 amp
  • Price: not available on website; current dealer listing at $39,995.

Interior and living space

2026 EAst to West Blackthorn 229RK Image from official website

This feels like a smart, easy-to-live-in fifth wheel. The mid-coach entry means you still have access to both the kitchen and bath/bed suite with the retracted slide. A thoughtful shoe cubby in the back of the dinette will keep footwear contained. The hutch provides easy access to keys, sunscreen, and other necessities within its cabinets or on the generous countertop.

The rear kitchen keeps the cooking zone out of the main traffic path, which I appreciate. The single slide helps the living area feel open, but without any wasted space. The bed and bath areas are thoughtfully arranged and provide essentials that many RVers look for when buying.

Kitchen

2026 EAst to West Blackthorn 229RK Image from official website

The rear kitchen is the star of the Blackthorn 229RK. East to West includes a 10-cu. ft., 12V refrigerator, a three-burner range, oven, and a microwave. (I prefer a micro/convection combo, but that’s just my personal preference.)

Storage includes a pantry, hutch, and several drawers and cabinets. I was pleasantly surprised by the great counter space. Preparing everyday meals would be a breeze, and two cooks could easily work in this space.

Living/dining room

2026 EAst to West Blackthorn 229RK Image from official website

The main living area is set up for easy, relaxed camping. A banquette is positioned near the kitchen, where a large window allows natural lighting to brighten the entire living space.

Across from the banquette, nestled in the slide, is the hide-a-bed sofa. I prefer theater-type seating, because we rarely host extra campers. It would be easy to swap the sofa for recliners.

Windows on two sides of the sofa provide even more natural light, and built-in shelving stands ready to contain cards, travel brochures, and more.  A television sits directly across from the sofa for easy viewing.

Bath

2026 EAst to West Blackthorn 229RK Image from official website

The full bath sits between the bedroom and the main living area, which helps create a more private front suite. There is plenty of counter space beside the sink, though I’m not a big fan of the dark counter. The shower is small, but certainly doable, and I appreciate the integrated robe/towel hooks included in the 229RK and the dedicated medicine cabinet, too.

Bedroom

2026 EAst to West Blackthorn 229RK Image from official website

Up front, the Blackthorn 229RK gives you a king bed (with access from both sides) and two nightstands. This is exactly the kind of setup I look for because my husband requires a CPAP. You’ll also find over-the-bed cabinets for storage.

2026 EAst to West Blackthorn 229RK Image from official website

Opposite the bed is a clothes closet with integrated drawers, which I really like. For longer trips, RVers will probably need the underbed storage for clothing and shoes. Overall, this space includes everything a fifth wheel RVer may want in a bedroom.

Overall take

The 2026 East to West Blackthorn 229RK is a great pick for RVers who want a manageable fifth wheel with a real residential feel. The bright and open main living area, kitchen prep space, and basic but comfortable bath and bedroom make it a good fit for couples or solo travelers.

What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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RVDT2931

Thank Henry Ford at your next backyard barbecue

RV Travel
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1
Thank Henry Ford at your next backyard barbecue

It’s possible, during the early 20th century, that someone grilling hamburgers in their back yard was using charcoal that was once part of the Model T car parked in their front yard. The story goes like this:

One of the most unusual—and least-known—facts about Henry Ford’s Model T is that it helped create what became the Kingsford charcoal briquette. Henry Ford was so famous as a car maker then, and now, that he is very seldom mentioned as the father of the briquette industry.

When Ford was building millions of Model Ts, each car required a significant amount of wood for parts such as wheels, floorboards, steering wheels and body components. The manufacturing process generated huge amounts of scrap wood.

Hot charcoal
Next time you grill your burgers using charcoal, thank Henry Ford

Rather than waste it, Henry Ford developed a way to convert the scraps into charcoal briquettes. The product was originally sold as “Ford Charcoal” and later became the familiar Kingsford brand that still dominates backyard barbecues today.

Kingsford is now owned by the Clorox Company and remains the leading manufacturer of charcoal in the United States, with 80% market share. More than 1 million tons of wood scraps are converted into charcoal briquettes annually.

Another little-known Model T fact is that the car was designed to run not only on gasoline but also on ethanol (grain alcohol). Ford believed farm-produced ethanol could become a major automotive fuel, decades before modern discussions about renewable fuels.

Finally, one of the more colorful quotes from Henry Ford came in 1918, when half of the cars in the United States were Model Ts. In his autobiography, Ford reported that at one time he told his management team, “Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants so long as it is black.”

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RVT1266

Celebrate 150th anniversary of Mark Twain’s ‘Tom Sawyer’

RV Travel
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Celebrate 150th anniversary of Mark Twain’s ‘Tom Sawyer’

This year marks the 150th anniversary of Mark Twain’s timeless masterpiece, “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer”. To celebrate, the Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site in Florida, Missouri, invites the public to view its most prized artifact: the original, handwritten manuscript.

The manuscript went on display beginning Memorial Day weekend and will be available for viewing for a limited time. If you’re a fan of Mark Twain, this is a rare opportunity to see his work as he actually penned it.

Publishing drama

Described by Twain, whose real name was Samuel Langhorne Clemens, as “simply a hymn, put into prose form to give it a worldly air,” the novel had a tumultuous journey to print. To overcome international copyright piracy, Twain had his agent hand-deliver a manuscript to British publishers Chatto and Windus, who released the first, unillustrated edition June 9, 1876.

Delays pushed the American edition back to Dec. 8, 1876. In the interim, Canadian publishers pirated the English text, flooding the U.S. market with cheap copies, costing Twain an estimated $10,000 in lost royalties (the equivalent of about $311,000 today).

The manuscript’s journey to Missouri

Twain's handwritten manuscript for Tom Sawyer
Twain’s handwritten manuscript for “Tom Sawyer”. (Click to enlarge.)

The original British manuscript was tracked down by Kansas City book dealer Frank Glenn, who purchased it from the agent’s heirs in London in 1937. It was dedicated at the Missouri State Capitol in 1951 before transferring to its permanent home in Florida, Missouri, for the grand opening of Mark Twain Birthplace Memorial Shrine in June 1960.

Restored and digitized by the Missouri Secretary of State’s office in 2022, the highly light-sensitive manuscript requires strict preservation. It is kept in temperature-controlled darkness for 10 months of the year and is displayed at a low ambient light intensity of 50 lux or less for no more than two months annually.

150th anniversary highlights

Throughout the 150th anniversary year, park visitors can experience:
• Viewings of the manuscript showcasing the author’s distinctive thoughts frozen in time.
• Guided tours of the shrine and of the cabin where Samuel Clemens was born.
• Miles of hiking trails and scenic views of Mark Twain Lake, allowing modern adventurers to channel their inner Tom Sawyer.

While the book’s publishing is being celebrated statewide with community parades to academic seminars, Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site serves as the anchor for the festivities.

About the site

Mark Twain State Park and Birthplace State Historic Site honor the life, times and literature of Samuel Clemens. Located at 37352 Shrine Road in Florida, Missouri, the site blends outdoor recreation on Mark Twain Lake with world-class historic preservation, keeping the spirit of 19th century Missouri alive for future generations.

Mark Twain State Park offers basic and electric campsites which may be reserved up to 12 months in advance. Rates are very reasonable.

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How comfortable are you sharing an interstate with self-driving trucks?

RV Travel
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22
How comfortable are you sharing an interstate with self-driving trucks?

Self-driving technology is no longer something from science fiction. It’s already rolling down America’s highways, and one of the biggest changes may be happening in the trucking industry.

Several companies are testing or operating large trucks equipped with advanced autonomous driving systems. Some can travel long stretches of interstate highway with little or no human involvement under certain conditions. Supporters say the technology could reduce accidents caused by fatigue, distraction, or human error.

Not everyone is convinced. Many motorists remain uneasy about sharing the road with 80,000-pound tractor-trailers controlled primarily by computers. Questions remain about how these vehicles will respond to severe weather, construction zones, unexpected road hazards, and the unpredictable behavior of other drivers.

For RVers, the issue may feel especially personal. Many of us spend countless hours on interstate highways, often driving large motorhomes or towing trailers. We know how challenging it can be to maneuver a big vehicle in heavy traffic, around road construction, or through busy interchanges. The thought of an autonomous truck operating alongside us can inspire anything from confidence to fear.

Whether self-driving trucks become commonplace in the next few years or take longer to gain public acceptance, they are likely to become an increasingly familiar sight on American roads.

So, we’re curious: How comfortable are you sharing an interstate highway with self-driving big rig trucks?

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

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The new thing in travel: ‘Sleepcations’

RV Travel
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The new thing in travel: ‘Sleepcations’

By J.R. Montigel
The hospitality industry, which focuses on travel involving hotels and resorts, has a new buzzword: sleepcations. The idea is to provide an environment where a traveler can better relax and get more sleep. Hospitality industry discussions seldom include topics related to travel with an RV, but they often lend insights.

Known as “sleepcations,” these trips emphasize rest and recovery rather than sightseeing or packed schedules. While the term has gained attention in recent years, the concept itself is not new. Wellness resorts and retreats have long offered programs and amenities aimed at improving relaxation and sleep.

Unlike traditional vacations, where rest is often a secondary benefit, sleepcations make quality sleep a primary objective. Hotels and resorts may offer sleep-friendly room designs, meditation sessions, reduced digital distractions, wellness treatments, premium bedding, and customized lighting or temperature controls.

We wonder if the sleepcation idea is relevant to the RV industry. We carry our beds and bedrooms with us, so what can we learn about vacations focused on sleep and relaxing that we don’t already know?

A break from our busy lives

Hospitality industry observers say several factors are driving interest in sleep-focused travel. Greater awareness of the health benefits of sleep, along with widespread use of wearable devices and health-tracking apps, has encouraged many travelers to prioritize rest.

At the same time, busy work schedules, constant connectivity, and information overload have left many people seeking vacations centered on recovery rather than activity.

The trend also reflects the continued growth of wellness tourism, which focuses on improving physical and mental well-being through travel experiences.

For hotels and resorts, sleep tourism highlights the importance of guest comfort. Improvements such as better soundproofing, high-quality mattresses, blackout curtains and flexible wellness programs may enhance the overall guest experience.

Experts caution, however, that sleep quality depends on many personal and medical factors beyond a hotel’s control. As a result, properties are encouraged to create environments that support rest rather than promise specific results.

Whether sleepcations become a lasting travel category or remain a niche market, the trend suggests many travelers increasingly value returning home rested and refreshed.

Would you say you return home from an RV trip more “rested and refreshed”? Of course, if you are a full-timer, then you really can’t answer that, can you? But for the rest of us, do we return home more rested and refreshed or just the opposite?

What about you? Please leave a comment.

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