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How to keep bees away from your RV and campsite

RV Travel
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How to keep bees away from your RV and campsite

By Gail Marsh
Nothing ruins a picnic faster for me than bees. During a recent RV trip, bees and wasps seemed to be everywhere in the campground, but especially around our campsite. We had to do something to get those bees to buzz off!

What’s the buzz?

Bees and wasps are naturally drawn to sweet foods, sugary drinks, and even the scents of lotions or perfumes. Bees are usually busy pollinating and are non-aggressive unless provoked. However, wasps (including yellow jackets) can become more bothersome when buzzing around your campsite.

Important note: If you or any of your travel buddies are allergic to bee stings, it’s vitally important to pack along an EpiPen. If this applies to you, add it to your RV packing list now!

Safety measures

Check the campsite

• Upon arrival, thoroughly check your assigned campsite. Look for existing nests—inside the electrical box, in and under permanently installed grills, and even holes in the ground where insects like carpenter bees make their nests. (We failed to do a complete check and eventually discovered a wasp nest under our picnic table! We told the campground manager, and he removed it.)

• Look for overgrown grasses or flowers that may attract bees or wasps. Remove any leftover food scraps—especially in the fire pit or grilling area.

Food and trash management

• Always store food in airtight containers and cover your dishes to avoid tempting smells.

• Dispose of trash promptly and keep your outdoor cooking area clean.

Be smart

• Wear light-colored, non-floral clothing—muted colors are best. Bright colors and strong scents can attract bees and wasps.

• Consider using unscented personal care products during your trip.

Natural and DIY remedies

If bees, wasps, or hornets frequently visit your campsite, consider the following ideas to encourage the bees to buzz off:

Essential oils and home sprays

• Sprays made from peppermint, eucalyptus, or citronella oils mixed with water and a drop of dish soap can serve as a natural repellent around your outdoor seating or cooking areas. Check out a few recipes here.

• Vinegar (both white and apple cider) is another natural deterrent—spray it lightly around your RV exterior to discourage these insects.

RV modifications

• Install mesh covers on vents and openings to prevent insects from sneaking into your living space.

• Seal gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and other entry points to keep unwanted critters out.

Paper bag trick

One of the simplest—and surprisingly effective—hacks is the paper bag trick. Here’s how it works:

  1. Prepare the bag: Take a plain, brown paper bag (like a grocery bag) and fill it loosely with old newspapers, plastic bags, or similar lightweight materials.
  2. Secure it: Twist the top of the bag closed and tie it securely with twine or rope.
  3. Hang it: Suspend the bag from your RV awning or a nearby tree branch.

The idea behind this trick is that the bag, once filled and properly shaped, mimics the look of a hornet or wasp nest. Many insects, particularly bees and wasps, tend to avoid areas that already appear to have a nest nearby.

If you don’t want to make your own, of course, Amazon sells fake wasp nests, too.

Editor’s note: Emily here! The above photo is my paper bag “wasp nest” that I hung up on my deck two summers ago. I haven’t seen a bee or wasp since. It works!

Additional RV-specific tips

• Vents and seals: Check and reinforce vent screens and seal any gaps around your RV’s exterior. Some RVers use flea collars in tight spots (like near water heaters, fridge vents, or propane tanks) as an added deterrent.

• Wasp traps: For persistent wasp issues, consider using wasp traps placed a few yards away from your eating area. These traps lure the insects away, reducing their numbers around your RV.

• Regular maintenance: Keep your RV exterior clean and inspect for any openings or damage (think damaged window or door screens—fix those with this screen repair tape) where insects might gain entry.

I appreciate the pollinators, I really do! We need these little buzzers for our food production. However, when RVing, I like to keep our site as bee-free as possible.

Have you found a good way to deter bees and wasps from your RV campsite? Tell us about it in the comment section below.

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Are these five new RV gadgets genius or gimmicks?

Video Editor
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Are these five new RV gadgets genius or gimmicks?

By Cheri Sicard
Since every RV turns into a custom setup, every gadget has to earn its space. In the test in the video at the end of this post, Jared Gillis from All About RVs ran five new RV gadgets through one filter: Are they useful enough to stay in the rig?

Floor plans matter, but daily use matters more. Storage is tight, roadside repairs are messy, and a clever tool becomes clutter if it never leaves the compartment.

This quick scorecard sums up the first pass of gadgets:

  • Creeper mat 8/10—Better than a blanket and tarp
  • Sewer hose wrench 2/10—Didn’t solve the main problem
  • Rope roller tensioner 5/10—Promising, but still unproven
  • Waltech control hub—No score yet, needs more time and updates
  • Hammock with net 8/10—Much better after real use

Creeper mat

Screenshot

This creeper mat beat the old moving blanket and tarp setup. It added cushion on gravel, kept rocks off skin and clothes, and didn’t soak up water. It also folded small, so grabbing it during a roadside stop felt easy.

Changing direction underneath the RV was awkward because the mat wanted to roll in one path. Even with that limit, it earned an 8 out of 10.

Sewer wrench, rope tensioner, and Waltech

The sewer wrenches looked useful for tight caps and hose fittings. However, they didn’t help with a twist-on valve, didn’t work well as opposing wrenches, and didn’t nest together for storage. That dropped them to 2 out of 10.

The Roperoller tensioner started rough because it shipped with a cord that wasn’t paracord. Still, it worked better with standard paracord from the RV and may replace a few loose elastic tie-downs. It sits at 5 out of 10, while these retractable ratchet straps stayed the favorite for truck tie-downs.

The Waltech thermostat and control hub combines smart climate control, pet monitoring, Wi-Fi or cellular support, and room for extra sensors. A score stayed on hold because software issues showed up and an update was expected.

The hammock became the surprise winner

At first, the hammock with mosquito netting looked like a budget item with one clear flaw: The netting could fall in on the person using it. A ridgeline would have helped keep that mesh off the face.

Then campground use changed the score. After several days in shady spots with a breeze and plenty of bugs, the hammock went from a 4 to an 8. For less than $25, it turned into one of the most-used items in the test.

Final thoughts

RV gear earns a spot when it removes hassle and gets used without much thought.

In this batch, the creeper mat and hammock proved their value fast. The sewer wrench did not, and the Waltech hub still needs more time before it belongs on the keep list.

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Do you wear your regular, outside shoes inside your RV?

RV Travel
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Do you wear your regular, outside shoes inside your RV?

Many people and families have a rule: “No shoes inside the house (or RV)!” And, if you’re not that person or family, you certainly know someone who is.

Do you wear your regular, outside shoes in your RV? Or do you take them off as soon as you get to the door? Maybe you have “inside” shoes or slippers that you wear inside (never outside)?

Do you only take your outside shoes off if you’ve been in especially dirty, muddy areas?

You know the drill: After you vote, feel free to leave a comment. Thanks!

Psst: Like the doormat in the photo above? You can find that doormat and several others here. 

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

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Wiring tester can reassure driver that trailer lights work

RV Travel
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Wiring tester can reassure driver that trailer lights work

By Dustin Simpson
Part of towing your RV responsibly is making sure your trailer lights are working properly. “Why are my running lights or brake lights not working on my travel trailer or fifth wheel?”

We have all been there and asked that question one time or another, which is why you should have a tow vehicle wiring tester with you when traveling. This tester may not solve all of your issues, but it can definitely help you pinpoint some of the basic problems you may encounter while towing.

The tow vehicle wiring tester allows you to quickly and confidently confirm the functionality of your vehicle’s trailer wiring harness. This tester is used for testing your taillights, brake lights, reverse lights, turn signals, electric trailer brakes and auxiliary power. Just plug the wiring tester into your vehicle’s 7-way socket and have a helper check the LED signals as you activate them from the driver’s seat.

A tow vehicle wiring tester
A tow vehicle wiring tester

This will help you easily pinpoint if it’s something simple, like a blown fuse on the vehicle, to get you back traveling safely on the road.

Click to enlarge.

This is the one I use and recommend.

More from Dustin

Dustin owns and operates California RV Specialists, an independent RV repair shop located in Lodi, CA. He thrives on sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm of RV repair and maintenance with his team, customers, and virtual friends.

Be sure to check out his YouTube channel where he shares what’s going on in the shop and the product offerings in the store. Dustin is also very active on Facebook. Join his group, RV Repairs and Tips – What’s in the shop!

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Big Ford Bronco recall—roof pieces may crack and become loose, detach

Gail Marsh
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Big Ford Bronco recall—roof pieces may crack and become loose, detach

If you own a Ford Bronco, this is one recall worth checking right away. Ford has recalled 16,200 model year 2021-2022 Broncos equipped with Molded-In-Color hard tops.

Recall reason

Ford is recalling the Broncos because the roof’s outer skin may crack or delaminate. Owners should be aware that the problem is not just cosmetic. NHTSA says the roof pieces can become a road hazard if they come loose. This raises crash risk for other drivers, too, because in severe cases, sections of the top can detach while driving.

Owners may notice cracking, delamination, or extra wind noise before the roof gets worse.

Ford said the problem was caused by flaws in the supplier’s manufacturing process that may have weakened the roof panels.

Affected vehicles

According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the recall affects 16,200 model year 2021 and 2022 Ford Broncos equipped with molded-in-color hard tops.

Here is what the NHTSA says:

Affected vehicles are equipped with 3-door and 5-door Molded-In-Color (MIC) hard tops that may exhibit delamination or cracking in the exterior skin of the roof panel that may progress to detachment of sections of the outer layer while driving. This concern affects MIC hard tops on vehicles built between September 23, 2020, and January 13, 2022, for 3-door body styles, and between September 23, 2020, and October 22, 2021, for 5-door body styles.

Why it matters

For RVers, this recall matters because many RV enthusiasts tow a Bronco to be used for campsite runs, trail access, and around-town travel while they are on the road.

What to do

The safest move is to check your VIN as soon as possible on NHTSA’s recall lookup or Ford’s recall page. That’s because these vehicles are not listed in VIN order, and the recall can affect some Broncos while leaving others untouched.

Ford’s filing says owners can also call Ford at 1-866-436-7332. You can also ask a Ford or Lincoln dealer to check the OASIS database for applicability.

NHTSA notes that VINs were planned to be searchable starting May 12, 2026, with interim owner letters beginning May 27, 2026, and remedy letters scheduled for November 5, 2026.

Free fix

If your Bronco is included, the repair is free. Ford says dealers will inspect the hard top and replace any roof that shows cracking or delamination. The replacement part will be built using updated manufacturing processes to address the earlier issue.

NHTSA’s recall filing also lists consumer advisories to not drive and to park outside. If you see visible roof damage, it’s smart to treat the situation cautiously until a dealer checks it.

Act now!

For RVers who own Broncos and who are getting ready to head out in an RV, the bottom line is simple. Do the VIN check now. Do not wait for the mailer and schedule the dealer visit as soon as Ford confirms your Bronco is part of the recall.

Even though Ford had not reported accidents or injuries tied to this defect as of the filing, a roof panel that can crack or separate is not something to ignore before a long trip. Ford’s number for this recall is 26S32.

MORE RECENT FORD RECALLS

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2026 KZ Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel: A couples-friendly layout

Gail Marsh
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2026 KZ Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel: A couples-friendly layout

Home vibes. That’s what immediately came to my mind upon entering the 2026 KZ RV Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel RV. This RV has plenty of space for couples and offers down-home comfort at every turn.

Behind the walls

KZ RV builds the Ridgeway on a steel powder-coated I-beam chassis. It features 5-sided aluminum framing, laminated Azdel, and composite sidewalls. You’ll also find a heated and enclosed insulated underbelly, and Dicor Tufflex™ PVC roofing.

The Ridgeway also offers RVers frameless windows, 4-point auto leveling, and solar prep. The 32ML should appeal to buyers who want an upgraded fifth wheel feel right from the factory.

Key specs

  • UVW: 10,260 lbs.
  • Dry hitch weight: 1,850 lbs.
  • Dry axle weight: 8,410 lbs.
  • CCC: 2,735 lbs.
  • GVWR: 12,995 lbs.
  • Exterior height with A/C: 12’11”
  • Exterior width: 96″
  • Exterior length: 35’4″
  • Refrigerator: 12 cu. ft.
  • Water heater: on-demand tankless
  • Fresh water capacity: 76 gal.
  • Gray water capacity: 50 gal.
  • Waste water capacity: 50 gal.
  • LP gas capacity: 60 lbs.
  • Furnace: 35,000 BTUs
  • Axle size: 6,000 lbs.
  • Tire size: 16″
  • Awning: 16’/11′
  • Price: MSRP is listed at $101,330, but advertised for sale as low as $67,495

Interior and living space

Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel image: Ridgeway website

The 32ML’s three slides really open up the interior of this RV. The layout gives you an easy sightline through the coach, and the light wood tones help brighten up the interior.

Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel image: Ridgeway website

Clean finishes give the 32ML a more residential than rustic mood. It is the kind of interior that I’d feel happy with for a weekend or a long seasonal stay.

Kitchen

Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel image: Ridgeway website

The 32ML kitchen is positioned at the rear of the RV and includes a peninsula with seamless countertops. I appreciate all of the prep space, but can’t help wondering if an island rather than a peninsula would have been a better design choice.

You’ll also see a deep undermount sink, a 21-inch oven, a 30-inch microwave, and a 12-cubic-foot refrigerator. There is plenty of pantry space and drawers for kitchen and cooking items.

Dovetail construction in the drawer boxes, hidden hinges, and a residential-style faucet all help the space feel more like an apartment kitchen than a typical camper galley.

I like two-tone cabinets—just not a mix of wood tone and gray as featured in the Ridgeway 32ML. I would have preferred either all gray or all wood tone rather than a mix of these two color choices.

Living/dining areas

Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel image: Ridgeway website

The dining area features a wall-mounted table (no center support legs or annoying angle braces), which makes for comfortable dining. Instead of a banquette, there are four chairs. I like this because the chairs can be moved to the living area for additional seating when needed. I’m not a big fan of the light fixture over the table, but it could be replaced with something more to my taste.

Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel image: Ridgeway website

The living area is built for relaxation. Theater seating is positioned across from the entertainment wall, which includes the TV, fireplace, and sound bar. There’s also a sofa and overhead cabinets for extra storage, which I like. The large windows help the living spaces feel bright and roomy.

Bath

Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel image: Ridgeway website

The Ridgeway 32ML bathroom features a large shower with an integrated bench. The sink vanity has plenty of counter space, and there’s also a medicine cabinet and separate cabinet storage for towels. I like that there are towel hooks, though I would prefer towel rods instead. Also, I’m not a fan of the double-entry doors to the bathroom. But that’s just me.

Bedroom

Ridgeway 32ML fifth wheel image: Ridgeway website

Up front, the bedroom offers a 70″ x 80″ king bed, with a nightstand on one side. There’s easy access to both sides of the bed, but I wish they’d opted for a queen bed to allow for nightstands on both sides.

There’s plenty of wardrobe and closet storage for a longer stay, and also prep for a washer/dryer, as well. I love all the drawer space and the large egress window. However, accessing the window seems a bit problematic because it’s positioned above the dresser.

Overall take

The 2026 KZ RV Ridgeway 32ML is a strong fit for RVers who want a fifth wheel that feels upscale, comfortable, and practical without going to a massive family bunkhouse. The rear kitchen, generous living area, and solid construction package make it a fifth wheel to consider if you’re in the market to purchase a new rig.

Take a short video walkthrough here and then share your thoughts using the comments below.

Learn more about it on KZ’s website here.

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$67 million in National Park visitor fees redirected to Trump’s D.C. projects

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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$67 million in National Park visitor fees redirected to Trump’s D.C. projects

RVers who buy national park entrance passes or pay gate fees often assume that money stays close to the parks they visit. A new report from The New York Times says that’s only partly true—and some of those dollars are now helping fund major restoration projects in Washington, D.C.

According to the report, the National Park Service is using at least $67 million in park entrance fee revenue to help pay for projects in the nation’s capital. That includes repairs to ornamental fountains and work on the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool ahead of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

That may surprise RVers who have watched campground roads crumble, bathrooms close for repairs, dump stations fail or reservation pressure increase at heavily used parks.

Still, the situation is more complicated than it may first sound.

Why some fee money leaves the parks where it was collected

Under federal law, at least 80% of entrance fee revenue collected at a park must stay at that park. The remaining portion can legally be used elsewhere in the park system, including sites that do not charge entrance fees at all.

That means the spending itself is not illegal or outside long-established rules. The debate centers more on priorities—especially at a time when the park system still faces a massive maintenance backlog involving roads, sewer systems, visitor facilities and aging infrastructure.

For RVers, that backlog is not abstract.

What RVers may notice when maintenance gets delayed

Even when parks are crowded and entrance fees keep rising, those dollars do not always stay local.

Anyone who has bounced through pothole-riddled campground loops, dealt with closed restrooms or found reservation systems strained during peak season has already seen the effects of deferred maintenance. Parks such as Zion National Park have publicly struggled with infrastructure needs, including sewer system concerns and heavy visitation pressure.

The New York Times analysis found that more than three-quarters of recreation-fee spending between December 2025 and March 2026 went toward projects in Washington, D.C. That appears to be a much larger share than in recent years.

Critics argue that park visitors expect fee dollars to support practical needs at the parks themselves. Supporters of the D.C. projects counter that the National Mall, memorials and related sites are also part of the national park system and receive enormous public use.

For RVers, the bigger issue may not be politics at all. It may simply be transparency.

Why the debate is about priorities as much as politics

Many travelers probably don’t realize that the National Park Service can redirect a portion of entrance fee revenue to other parks instead of spending all of it at the park that collected the money. The current discussion is shining a brighter light on how that system works.

It also arrives during a period when many RVers already feel squeezed by higher campground costs, reservation restrictions, and growing entrance fees at some parks. That can make questions about where the fee money goes feel more personal than political.

Summer travelers will still face crowded parks and rising entrance fees, but the National Park Service will not spend all of those dollars at the parks where visitors paid them.

MORE ON NATIONAL PARKS

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This fifth wheel hitch bent badly—and somehow stayed together for 300 miles

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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This fifth wheel hitch bent badly—and somehow stayed together for 300 miles

If this showed up in your truck bed after a travel day, your stomach would probably hit the floor.

A fifth wheel owner recently posted photos showing a fifth wheel hitch failure so severe it is hard to believe the setup stayed together for another 300 miles. The owner said they discovered the damage only after the trip was over

“I’m not sure how this happened, but I’m glad it stayed on for the 300 miles it did,” the owner wrote. “Anyone else ever have this happen?”

The owner said they had used the same truck, hitch and fifth wheel setup for about four years without trouble before this trip. But this time, the route included rough highways, bumps and construction zones.

And whatever happened here, something clearly went very wrong.

What appears to have failed

Another view of the damaged fifth wheel hitch assembly shows the upper rotating structure visibly twisted and no longer sitting square on the hitch base. Ken Rob on Facebook. (Click to enlarge.)

You don’t have to be a hitch expert to see that something in this setup bent badly when it absolutely should not have.

The photos appear to show major distortion around the rotating turret area of a Sidewinder-style pin box setup. Metal plates that should sit flat now appear twisted upward and warped around the pivot assembly.

Even more surprising, the hitch apparently stayed together the entire time the RV was being towed.

At least from the photos, the rails and lower hitch structure in the truck bed still appear mostly intact. The damage seems concentrated higher up in the rotating portion of the assembly.

At this point, nobody online really seems to know exactly what failed first.

The owner later updated the post to say an RV technician would inspect the hitch and determine whether any warranty coverage might apply.

Why rough roads may have mattered

The owner mentioned the trip included rough pavement, bumps and highway construction.

That doesn’t necessarily mean the roads caused the problem. Still, anyone who has dragged a heavy fifth wheel through miles of rough pavement and construction zones knows how violently those conditions can jolt a hitch assembly.

Repeated shock loads, heavy pin weights and years of towing stress can all take a toll on hitch components and may contribute to a fifth wheel hitch failure over time.

If there was already fatigue, cracking or wear developing somewhere in the assembly, a rough stretch of highway may simply have been the moment things finally gave way.

What RVers may want to inspect before the next trip

Most fifth wheel owners are pretty good about checking the obvious things before heading out. They look at hitch jaws, rails, safety pins and visible hardware.

But many probably spend less time examining the rotating turret area itself for signs of movement, stress or distortion.

For RVers looking at these photos and wondering what they should watch for on their own setup, obvious warning signs could include unusual clunking sounds, shifting gaps between metal plates, fresh rust around welds, or hitch components that no longer appear to sit square.

And, in this case, the owner may have gotten extremely lucky.

Because looking at these photos, it’s hard not to wonder what might have happened if the remaining metal had finally given way at highway speed.

Sometimes the scariest RV problems are the ones that stay hidden until the trip is over.

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RV Daily Tips. Thursday, May 28, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Thursday, May 28, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2914 • New issue every weekday

Today’s thought

“The only way to have a friend is to be one.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Hamburger Day! [Check out the freebie below.]

On this day in history: 1892—The Sierra Club is formed by John Muir and others in San Francisco for the conservation of nature.

Tip of the day
All about RV convection ovens: When and when not to use

By Cheri Sicard
A lot of new RVs come equipped with RV convection ovens. But what does that convection fan do? When should you use it? Are there times it would be better to leave off the convection option? The video here from Helen Rennie will answer all. Helen illustrates some key differences in the way convection ovens cook as opposed to conventional ovens. Here’s what she found.

Article and video
RVing in the rain: How to add waterproof outdoor space to your camp

A tiny trailer feels cozy until a storm parks over camp at 2 p.m. Then every square foot matters. When RVing in the rain, the right awning, shelter, or side room can turn a tiny camper into a much easier place to live in bad weather. In the video at the end of this post, the team from Playing with Sticks shares rainy day RVing tips.

CRC Electrical QDSpray protects your RV’s most important electrical connection
Corroded plugs cause big problems and this simple electrical cleaner helps stop them before they start. A quick spray on your 7-pin connector clears moisture, grime, and buildup, helping keep your lights, brakes, and charging systems working as they should. It dries fast, leaves no residue, and takes about 10 seconds to use. Read Dave’s recommendation here, or learn more or order on Amazon.

Featured article
Worth a visit: A house made out of newspaper!

By Gail Marsh
My husband and I have worked on several volunteer building projects since our retirement a few years ago. We’ve mostly worked with typical building materials, so I’ll admit, I was fascinated when I learned that there is a house made from—wait for it—newspapers! Wouldn’t you love to see this? Well, you can! You can tour The Paper House, and it’s truly one of a kind!

RANDOM RV THOUGHT: It’s amazing how many people suddenly become weather experts when camping.

Trusted by Full-Time RVers
Americas Mailbox offers secure mail forwarding, scanning, and residency services tailored to life on the road, plus tax savings. Learn more.

Ask Dave
Oil has been in the ground for millions of years. Why do I need to change it regularly?

Read Dave’s answer.

Reader poll
Will your next RV trip in the USA be to a destination east or west of the Mississippi River?

Respond here.

Quick tip
Braking distance while towing?

How much does the typical 3500-pound trailer affect braking distances? Obviously, the added weight of any trailer will affect braking distances. Pinpointing exact distances depends on factors like if the trailer is equipped with brakes and the tongue weight. The best way to be safe is to avoid emergencies in the first place by allowing as much space as possible between you and vehicles ahead of you: double the standard “two-second rule” and double the space between you and the vehicle ahead. And the heavier the load, the more space you should allow.

DO YOU HAVE A PORTABLE JUMP STARTER FOR YOUR CAR AND RV? You need one! It’s a must-have item and could save you big bucks and money! Here’s the best one.

Website of the day

WorkingCouples.com
WorkingCouples.com is an active website with many quality job offerings, all aimed at couples. The work is varied—there are jobs for caregiver, apartment manager, “houseparent couple,” ranch hand, building manager, campground host… and the list goes on. Search for jobs by location or type. WorkingCouples.com bills itself as “the single largest resource of jobs-for-two anywhere.”

And the survey says…

We’ve polled RVtravel.com readers more than 5,000 times in recent years. Here are a few things we’ve learned about them:

• 3 percent own a boat with self-contained living facilities.
• 63 percent have turned away from an RV park upon arrival because its appearance looked junky and/or unappealing.
• 34 percent say they always stop and go out of their way to visit offbeat roadside attractions.

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

Trivia

A chipmunk can stuff its cheek pouches with an amount of food nearly equal to its own body volume. In one trip, it may carry 8–10 peanuts (in shells), several acorns, or dozens of seeds. Its expandable cheek pouches stretch back toward the shoulders, letting it haul multiple ounces at once—an impressive load for such a tiny animal.

Readers’ pet of the day

20250624 143149 1341935a56929a1d3a6d787aec0f3102“Lily (German Shepherd/Lab mix, age 6) is a rescue and really enjoys camping. She knows strangers, whether human or animal. She loves to play ball and would do it all day if we didn’t wear out first.” —Deborah Kirkman

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!

• Pet Food and all pet products at Amazon
• RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.

FREE IS GOOD! In celebration of National Hamburger Day today, May 28, wear or show ANY American Flag item (hat, shirt, pin, etc.) and score a FREE Double Steakburger at Steak ‘n Shake. Valid in-store only. Limit 1 per person.

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
This is PERFECT for RVers! Leave your valuables in plain sight and nobody will ever know! How? Well, you’ll see!

Leave here with a laugh

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.

Oil has been in the ground for millions of years. Why do I need to change it regularly?

Dave Solberg
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8
Oil has been in the ground for millions of years. Why do I need to change it regularly?

Dear Dave,
I have always heard that oil should be changed once a year because it will degrade just sitting there. I have also read that people who have their oil analyzed report no degradation because of time. Cummins recommends 18 months for my L9. Does oil actually degrade because of time? Or is the recommendation because of contamination? —John, 2023 Renegade Verona

Dear John,
That has been the million dollar question for years. It seems everyone has a different opinion of when the oil should be changed in your vehicles.

Recommendations for oil changes

I worked at a gas station in high school and college, and we actually washed windows, checked tire pressure, and checked the oil. Originally, I thought it was just customer service. But then I found out that was how we generated service work—by pointing out improper tread wear or low pressure, worn out fan belts, and dirty oil. We changed oil and slapped on a sticker that showed another oil change was needed in 3,000 miles or 3 months.

We had a few customers challenge the recommended intervals, stating that the oil had been in the ground for millions of years, so why does it need to be changed so often? Because we did not make much money pumping gas. The real money was in the service bay!

The timing of your question is ironic as I just read an article posted in Popular Mechanics about this very thing. Yes, I still read Popular Mechanics, although it’s now the digital version. You can read the article here.

Testing oil

The article was written by Ezra Dyer and Stef Schrader. The interesting item was that the oil left in a Troy-Bilt lawn mower with a Honda engine for 10 years was sent to a test lab for analysis. It was still in good condition! The test lab was Blackstone, and for $40 you can get your oil tested. The 10-year- old oil was dirty, but tested normal for an engine with approximately 65 hours of wear and tear. You can get your oil tested by Blackstone Laboratories here.

Blackstone’s standard test includes a Spectral Exam for wear metals, antifreeze, silicone, and additives. It also tests for Flashpoint, Viscosity, and Contamination.

I would not recommend running your oil for 10 years, or even 5 years. But I do think it is a good idea to at least change it once a year. I have gone more than 10,000 miles on my 2002 Chevy Silverado and put 175,000 miles on it before the catalytic converter plugged up and blew out the intake manifold gasket. It had nothing to do with the oil breaking down and not protecting the engine.

Why changing oil once a year is a good idea

I do think that once a year is a good idea, since you can’t control the condensation or moisture that can accumulate in the oil. It is more severe the less you drive or run the engine, since there is little heat to burn off any moisture.

In my newer 2016 Chevy Silverado, I have a local garage change the oil and use synthetic. Even though they put a sticker on the windshield recommending 3,000 miles, I still stretch it to about 5,000 or more. I pull the sticker off so they don’t see if I let it get more than that.

Follow owner’s manual for recommendations or risk losing the warranty

Again, I am not recommending you follow my oil change interval, but rather check your owner’s manual for recommendations. One thing that will be affected is your warranty, if you cannot document the recommended oil change intervals. Your Cummins engine most likely has a 100,000-mile or 10-year warranty. It is void if you don’t have documentation on proper maintenance.

As for your Cummins recommendation of 18 months, I believe that is what they feel is a safe interval as there are many variables when it comes to engine wear. Those include temperature, humidity/condensation, and how hard you work the engine with weight and driving conditions.

Every engine will wear differently and manufacturers are going to err on the safe side. The only way you know for sure is to get the oil tested, and most of us are not going to do that.

Here is what Cummins recommends for maintenance on their engines.

Cummins Maintenance
Cummins maintenance. (Click to enlarge.)

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

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All about RV convection ovens: When and when not to use

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All about RV convection ovens: When and when not to use

By Cheri Sicard
A lot of new RVs come equipped with RV convection ovens. But what does that convection fan do? When should you use it? Are there times it would be better to leave off the convection option? The video below from Helen Rennie will answer all.

Helen begins the video with what she calls the “Wonder Bread Test,” to illustrate some key differences in the way RV convection ovens (or any convection ovens, for that matter) cook as opposed to conventional ovens. Here’s what she found:

• In a 400 degree F oven without convection, it took 20 minutes to show any color on the bread.

• With convection, it only took 13 minutes.

Helen says there is a misconception that convection cooking cooks more evenly. However, this is not necessarily so, and if you watch her Wonder Bread experiment in the video, she proves it. In reality, the convection fan creates a current of air that will favor some parts of your oven more than others. Therefore, when using convection, you will still want to rotate pans in the oven for even baking.

Food cooks differently with convection. For instance, in the Wonder Bread experiment, the toast browned quicker on the convection setting, but this was the top of the toast. Without convection, Helen says most foods brown from the bottom. With convection, it’s faster because both sides brown at the same time.

So you might think, great, I will cook everything on the convection setting. Not so fast!

Helen says there are instances when convection cooking can be detrimental to the finished dish. For instance, pizza is a food that will end up with burnt cheese on top by the time the bottom is properly browned. The same with baking pies in a convection oven. The top will be burnt by the time the bottom is properly baked.

The common wisdom says that if you are using convection in these instances, you should lower your oven temperature by 25 degrees. While Helen says that makes sense, it nonetheless won’t necessarily produce the same results as a traditional oven. In instances like pizza and pies, you want to have a lot of heat on the bottom but slow down the overall cook time by not using the convection fan.

RV convection ovens for finishing techniques

Helen says there are instances where it is beneficial to use the convection setting during the last part of cooking to brown the top of a dish once you already know the bottom is nicely browned.

At the end of the day, Helen says it boils down to this:

If you don’t have enough browning on the top of a dish, turn on the convection fan. If you have too much browning on the top of a dish, turn it off.

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RVing in the rain: How to add waterproof outdoor space to your camp

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RVing in the rain: How to add waterproof outdoor space to your camp

By Cheri Sicard
A tiny trailer feels cozy until a storm parks over camp at 2 p.m. Then every square foot matters. When Rving in the rain, the right awning, shelter, or side room can turn a tiny camper into a much easier place to live in bad weather.

In the video at the end of this post, the team from Playing with Sticks shares rainy day RVing tips.

This collection of camp setups shows how various RV owners create dry entry points, covered galleys, bug-free hangout space, and a little privacy without giving up the small-trailer lifestyle.

Why modular shelters matter so much

Tiny campers work best when part of camp life moves outside. Rain changes that fast, so extra shelter becomes more than a nice add-on. It creates room to cook, change clothes, sit out a storm, and keep wet gear out of the cabin.

That is why modular setups stood out in this campground. Owners could angle an awning around trees, point a shelter sideways when the site was tight, or cover one side for entry and the rear for cooking. A trailer with coverage on both sides almost always had a dry place to step out, no matter how it was parked.

Three-part setups and fast shelters

One of the smartest examples came from David’s three-part system. Over the galley, he used a Coleman Mountain View shelter, which packs smaller than many instant pop-ups but takes more effort to pitch. For quick rain cover at the door, he clipped a simple 6×8 tarp to a telescoping aluminum roof-rack extension and supported it with tarp poles. For privacy, he added the Kelty Backroads shelter, a favorite because it packs small and works well as a changing room.

Other campers leaned toward instant shelters. A five-sided Clam Outdoors shelter with side panels cut the wind and held more warmth, which made breezy weather easier to handle. A Timber Ridge instant shelter added a front awning, so campers could move from trailer cover into an enclosed space without stepping into the rain.

The small tricks that make RVing in the rain work

The best tip had nothing to do with buying more gear. One owner twisted the side-entry awning so the support poles were not level. That slight angle created runoff, stopped water from pooling, and kept rain from draining back toward the trailer.

A flat awning can sag fast in heavy rain. A small twist gives water somewhere to go.

Hard ground needed another fix. On gravel sites, lag bolts and fender washers held better than standard stakes. A 6-inch lag bolt worked in gravel, while a 10-inch version gave more hold in grass.

Roof-mounted rooms, solo-friendly shelters, and airy screen houses

Some setups pushed the idea even further. An ARB vehicle awning rolled out from the roof rack and could pair with a 48-square-foot awning room. Another camp joined a Kammok Crosswing awning to a dual-room shower tent, creating a dry path into a changing room.

For solo campers, ease mattered most. The Dometic GO Compact Camp Shelter stood out because one person could set it up without much upper-body strength, and removable walls let it fit over a galley. A lightweight screen house also earned praise for strong airflow, fast drying, and no floor, which made it easy to place over a picnic table and easier to keep clean.

Final thoughts

These camps proved that a tiny trailer does not have to feel tiny in bad weather. A smart shelter setup adds dry space, privacy, airflow, and a better place to wait out a storm.

The most useful part was not one brand or one perfect product. It was the way each owner matched the shelter to real camp problems, rain at the door, wind at the chair, bugs at dinner, and the daily challenge of living small.

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