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RV Daily Tips. Wednesday, May 27, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Wednesday, May 27, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2913 • New issue every weekday

Today’s thought

“I’ve begun to realize that you can listen to silence and learn from it. It has a quality and a dimension all its own.” —Chaim Potok

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Senior Health And Fitness Day! Here’s everything you need for that!

On this day in history: 1927 – The Ford Motor Company ceases manufacture of the Ford Model T and begins to retool plants to make the Ford Model A.

Tip of the day
These emergency tips could save your RV, your wallet… or your life

By Gail Marsh
Who’s the most prepared person on earth? Justin Case. This old joke gives RVers the reason why being prepared is so important. We never know when or how an emergency may affect our RV travels. That’s why we all need RV emergency tips—just in case.

Even the best-planned RV trip can go sideways. Out of nowhere, we may face flat tires, mechanical failures, sudden storms, or medical issues (like when my husband had a heart attack at a Love’s truck stop!). By preparing in advance, you’ll reduce stress, stay safer, and genuinely enjoy the freedom of RV life. Continue reading.

MDC XT12 OGE travel trailerRV review
The MDC XT12HR OGE is a compact travel trailer to take off-road

The MDC XT12HR OGE gets attention because it packs a queen bed, a bathroom, an indoor kitchen, and real off-road hardware into a small off-grid and off-road-friendly travel trailer. For solo travelers and couples, that mix is hard to find. Many compact campers give up standing room, hard walls, or shower access. This one keeps all three, which is why it keeps coming up in conversations about off-grid camping. Check it out.

LanternsThe cutest camping lanterns
These rechargeable vintage-style lanterns feature a realistic flickering flame effect, multiple lighting modes, remote control operation, and up to 10 hours of runtime on a single charge. They’re perfect for RV patios, picnic tables, power outages, or adding a cozy glow to your outdoor setup. We love these!

Article and video
RVing with cats: What finally worked

Kim Hanna of RV Life with Kim Hanna and her partner, Pete, used to leave their cats at home with a neighbor. Then their RV trips got longer, and that stopped feeling right. The cats are family, so they figured out how to bring them along. Years later, the routine looks calm because a lot of trial and error happened first. A few changes made the biggest difference.

WEDNESDAY WISDOM: A good campsite and a good friend have something in common: Neither needs to be fancy to be memorable.

Featured article
Campers share their biggest pet peeves. We bet you’ll agree

Camping pet peeves: What are yours? Many have written about campground etiquette in the hopes of educating new RVers. [Dave Helgeson] recently saw a Facebook post asking the question, “What’s something you see while camping that makes you cringe?” Many of the nearly thousand answers went beyond standard campground etiquette, stating valid concerns worth sharing. Read some of them here and see if these are the things that bother you most, too.

Site42

Ask Dave
RVIA code requires certified charge controller on units with solar prep

Learn about it here.

Like playing games? Enjoy doing puzzles? We’ve compiled a list of our favorites!

Reader poll
Have you measured to learn the exact height of your RV?

Respond here.

LIKE TAKING POLLS? So do we! Did you know we’ve run more than 5,000 polls on our website over the years? Check ’em out! Have fun!

Quick tip
Noisy bathroom fan?

Bathroom fan so noisy it drives you nuts? Look for a replacement fan with a 12-volt high-capacity computer cooling fan. You may need to modify the mounting a bit to make it stay in the same place, but a little creativity can bring a “silent night.”

On this day last year…

Website of the day

Get scammed? Report it!
This is the official government website to report scams, identity theft and more. You can also read about the latest scams so you know what to avoid and how to stay safe!

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Ladies, you are going to love this! And for those with wives or girlfriends, this would make a perfect gift…nudge nudge. Seriously, you’ll love this! Unless, maybe, if you’re Canadian…

Trivia

Rats can climb walls. Their strong claws and flexible bodies allow them to grip rough surfaces like brick, wood, and textured siding. They can also climb pipes, vines, and wires, making it easy for them to reach attics or upper floors. Smooth surfaces, such as metal or glass, are almost impossible for them to scale.

Readers’ pets of the day

Img 2481 De3e090737924785458ccb768bc22a0e“Every night, our two seasoned travel partners, Kali (Calico, 6) and Chloe (mix, 2), race us to the finish line… otherwise known as the bed. They’ve crossed state lines, slept in more campgrounds than most humans, and still insist the best place in the world is whatever blanket we were about to use. By the time we’re ready to turn in, they’ve already claimed the prime real estate, curled up like they paid the mortgage. What cats don’t? In their minds, we’re just lucky they let us squeeze in.” —Tom McGorty

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

Leave here with a laugh

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.

REMEMBER: You do not need to receive an email alert from us to read our newsletters. Just visit our homepage, www.rvtravel.com, at any time of day, and the latest issues and articles will be there.

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.

RVIA code requires certified charge controller on units with solar prep

Dave Solberg
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5
RVIA code requires certified charge controller on units with solar prep

Here’s some information for RVers regarding new solar regulations coming soon in the RV industry.

As reported by Go Power! | Dometic, starting September 1, 2026, RVs that ship with solar already installed must include a listed solar charge controller.

The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is adopting the 2026 edition of NFPA 1192 (Standard on Recreational Vehicles), along with the 2025 ANSI/RVIA DC Standard for DC Voltage Systems in RVs, with an effective date of June 1, 2026, and mandatory enforcement beginning September 1.

What Section 2-7 of the 2025 ANSI/RVIA DC Voltage Systems Standard requires

The new regulation sets four requirements for solar installations on RVs. As of June 1, solar charge controllers must:

  • Be listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory (NRTL), such as UL;
  • Be rated for input voltage no less than the maximum array open-circuit voltage, corrected for the lowest expected ambient temperature using the module’s published temperature coefficients;
  • Be rated for input power no less than 125% of the maximum array power; and
  • Be installed according to the manufacturer’s listing and installation instructions

What this means

Solar power is becoming a standard expectation across motorhomes, travel trailers and fifth wheels. What hasn’t kept pace is the safety certification of the components being specified.

Section 2-7 closes that gap. The RVIA’s listing requirement isn’t new; electrical components in RVs, like inverters, converters and other power equipment, have long carried similar requirements. This addition means solar charge controllers are now included in that framework.

For OEM purchasing and engineering teams, the practical implication is straightforward: If a solar charge controller doesn’t carry a UL listing (or equivalent NRTL certification), that vehicle will not pass an RVIA inspection after September 1.

Controllers that meet the standard

Go Power! | Dometic PWM solar charge controllers, including the GP-SB-PWM-30-BT, carry a UL 1741 listing (and CSA C22.2) which is the standard for power conversion equipment in land vehicles. These controllers are designed to operate within the voltage and power sizing requirements specified in Section 2-7, and they are installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s documentation that satisfies the listing compliance requirements.

“This standard shows a real commitment to deliver safer, higher-quality power systems,” said Drew Vergonet, sales account manager, RV, for Go Power! | Dometic.

“We have been preparing for this. We have certified charge controllers and are continuing our investment in UL-listed and CSA-approved product lines. Go Power! is well stocked and ready to help with this transition for any manufacturer using unlisted controllers.”

What RV manufacturers must do before September 1

The RVIA conducts more than 2,000 unannounced annual inspections of member manufacturing facilities. Non-compliant components will fail those inspections.

The June-to-September window is a transition period. The RVIA indicates it will conduct in-field training on the new requirements during this time, but enforcement is mandatory by September 1.

Manufacturers should:

  • Audit their current solar controller specifications against the Section 2-7 requirements,
  • Verify UL or equivalent NRTL listing status for every controller model in use, and
  • Confirm that installation documentation aligns with the controller’s listing instructions.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

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

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

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

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RVDT2913

These emergency tips could save your RV, your wallet… or your life

RV Travel
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7
These emergency tips could save your RV, your wallet… or your life

By Gail Marsh
Who’s the most prepared person on earth? Justin Case. This old joke gives RVers the reason why being prepared is so important.

We never know when or how an emergency may affect our RV travels. That’s why we all need RV emergency tips—just in case.

Out of nowhere

Even the best-planned RV trip can go sideways. Out of nowhere, we may face flat tires, mechanical failures, sudden storms, or medical issues (like when my husband had a heart attack at a Love’s truck stop!). By preparing in advance, you’ll reduce stress, stay safer, and genuinely enjoy the freedom of RV life.

RV repair fund

Unexpected repairs can be expensive and stressful without a financial cushion. Financial experts suggest maintaining a dedicated RV repair fund for unexpected costs. Start small if needed. A $500 “starter” fund can prevent costly debt cycles when faced with a sudden repair bill.

Fix that flat

A flat tire can sideline your adventure anywhere from a remote boondock site to a crowded rest area. Carry a properly sized spare and know how to change it—if you are physically able. In addition to the spare, include:

  • Jack or tire ramp rated for your RV’s weight
  • Tire pressure gauge (and consider a TPMS [tire pressure monitoring system] for real-time monitoring)
  • Tire plug kit for quick puncture fixes

Comprehensive emergency plan

Proactive planning helps you act calmly under pressure. Map out responses for key scenarios:

• Evacuation planning. Keep your essentials—documents, medications, cash, and a minimal change-of-clothing kit—in a single “go bag” for quick exit. Identify nearby evacuation routes and alternate destinations ahead of time (campgrounds, friend’s RV park, even state fairgrounds).

• Flash flood preparedness. If you camp near rivers or in washes, understand flash flood warning levels. The National Weather Service reminds us that a flash flood warning means “flash flooding is imminent or has already been reported—move to higher ground immediately.” Always check local flood alerts, and plan high-ground escape routes.

• Medical emergencies. In areas with no cell coverage, having a first-aid kit plus a pocket guide is vital. The American Red Cross’s auto kit includes bandages, antiseptics, and a clear guide to administer aid safely. For serious incidents, consider a satellite phone—devices like the Iridium GO! let you trigger SOS signals and send texts when cellular towers are out of range.

• Local evacuation routes. Beyond natural disasters, some areas may require lockdowns (e.g., firefighting operations). Check with campground hosts for designated shelters or alternative exits and keep a printed map in case GPS fails.

RV emergency kit

Instead of ad-hoc packing, assemble a dedicated kit stored in one accessible compartment. Your kit should include:

First-aid supplies

• Comprehensive first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, trauma shears)

• Pocket first-aid guide for quick reference

• Personal medications and copies of prescriptions

Roadside safety tools

• Warning triangles or LED flares for nighttime visibility

• Tow straps and traction mats for getting unstuck

• Portable air compressor, hose, and nozzle for tire inflation

Communication and navigation devices

• Cellular booster or Wi-Fi hotspot for weak-signal areas

• Satellite communicator (e.g., Garmin inReach® or Iridium GO!®)

• NOAA Weather Radio or hand-crank emergency radio

Essential survival gear

• Non-perishable food and water sufficient for 72 hours

• Multi-tool, flashlight, fire starter, and survival whistle

• Blanket and emergency poncho for weather extremes

Training, maintenance, and drills

• Regularly inspect tools, batteries, and supplies—replace expired items annually.

• If you are physically able, practice changing tires, using a jack, and deploying warning triangles before you need them.

• Role-play emergency scenarios with your travel companions to ensure everyone knows their role and the location of essentials.

Have you ever experienced an emergency while RVing? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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RVDT2913

RVing with cats: What finally worked

Video Editor
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RVing with cats: What finally worked

By Cheri Sicard
Kim Hanna of RV Life with Kim Hanna and her partner, Pete, used to leave their cats, Max and Izzy, at home with a neighbor. Then their RV trips got longer, and that stopped feeling right. The cats are family, so they figured out how to bring them along, even when the first trips were messy and stressful.

Years later, the routine looks calm because a lot of trial and error happened first. A few changes made the biggest difference. Kim shares her thoughts and tips about the journey of RVing with cats in the video at the end of this post.

The carrier setup made travel easier

Hard-sided carriers were their starting point, but soft-sided carriers fit RV travel better. These worked because they open in more than one way, fold flat for storage, and have a firm bottom that stays in place. Kim also swaps the padded insert for small towels, since towels take up less space and are easier to wash if Izzy gets sick.

Before they leave, both cats eat and drink at home. Travel days usually stay under four hours, so the cats can sleep through much of the ride.

The road routine that changed everything

Medication was one of the first things they tried, and it was not the answer. Max got more agitated, and giving Izzy medicine was a fight.

ThunderCoats worked better, but only for Izzy. She calms down when she feels snug, while Max hates the tight fit.

Their loading routine stays the same each time:

1. Both cats start in zipped carriers.
2. Max rides on the folded center console and looks out through the front.
3. Izzy stays in her carrier until the road feels steady.
4. On rough stretches, she rides on Kim’s lap so her head and neck stay supported.

That support matters on bumpy boondocking roads. Kim also keeps paper towels nearby, uses a Feliway collar and spray for Izzy, and talks to both cats in a calm voice. If the meowing builds, soft music helps. They also learned to keep loading day calm, because chaos in the house makes both cats more anxious.

Safety rules matter most

The biggest rule is simple: The cats do not roam during setup. They stay zipped in their carriers while slides move, doors open, and the truck gets positioned. Kim has heard too many stories of pets getting crushed by a slide while hiding. That risk is not worth it.

They also learned that cracked windows are not safe enough. Izzy once slipped out of the truck through a small opening while they were checking a campsite. Now, the transfer into the trailer happens one cat at a time, with the door closed behind them. Inside, the goal is to make the RV feel like home. They use the same litter box, the same food, familiar beds, and covered furniture. Some first-day hissing still happens, but it fades once the cats settle in.

Trips to places like Kofa National Wildlife Refuge still come with dirt roads and the occasional upset stomach. However, the drive no longer feels overwhelming.

What changed most was the routine.

After years of practice, Max and Izzy now know what to expect, and that makes RV life much easier for everyone. So, if you are trying to RV with your cat, keep at it, establish some routines, and know that it does get better.

RELATED

RVDT2913

Have you measured to learn the exact height of your RV?

RV Travel
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Have you measured to learn the exact height of your RV?

Do you know the height of your RV? Well, what the owner’s manual and dealer told you is one thing, but do you really know its height? Have you actually measured it yourself to know its exact height?

Knowing your RV’s true height isn’t just a nice-to-know spec—it can be critical. Every year, RVers report incidents involving low-clearance bridges, overhangs, and even fast-food drive-thrus that didn’t go as planned. Sometimes the difference between making it safely under and causing major damage comes down to just an inch or two.

And, oh, boy, have we seen disasters…

Keep in mind that aftermarket additions like rooftop air conditioners, satellite dishes, solar panels, or even new tires can change your RV’s total height. A sticker inside the cab may list one number, but if you’ve made modifications or are driving a different model than last year, it’s worth confirming. A quick measurement with a tape measure (and maybe a second set of eyes) can give you peace of mind.

So, we’re curious: Have you ever double-checked your RV’s height yourself? Maybe you measured it just once, or maybe it’s part of your regular prep. Let us know by voting—and if you’ve got a good story about a close call or a surprising measurement, feel free to share it in the comments!

As always, thanks for voting.

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

RVDT2913

The MDC XT12HR OGE is a compact travel trailer to take off-road

Cheri Sicard
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1
The MDC XT12HR OGE is a compact travel trailer to take off-road

The MDC XT12HR OGE gets attention because it packs a queen bed, a bathroom, an indoor kitchen, and real off-road hardware into a small off-grid and off-road-friendly travel trailer.

For solo travelers and couples, that mix is hard to find. Many compact campers give up standing room, hard walls, or shower access. This one keeps all three, which is why it keeps coming up in conversations about off-grid camping. We get a tour in the video at the end of this post from ROA Off Road.

A compact trailer that doesn’t feel stripped down

MDC XT12 OGE floorplanAt about 18 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, and roughly 4,400 pounds, the MDC XT12HRHR OGE (Off-Grid Extreme) stays manageable for many tow rigs while still giving adults room to stand inside. It is fully hard-sided, so it skips the crawl-in feel of a teardrop and the setup work that comes with canvas hybrids.

Inside, the layout stays simple in a good way. A queen bed fills the front, and the mattress can be swapped for something more personal. Around it, MDC adds a few smart comfort details:

• Polycarbonate windows that handle branch strikes better than glass
• Bug screens and blackout shades for airflow and privacy
• Sirocco 12-volt fans, reading lights, and a booth with a removable Lagun table

Storage is better than expected, too. There are overhead cabinets, a hanging closet, under-seat storage, and ROA’s fridge option for buyers who want indoor cold storage.

Power, bathroom, and two real kitchens

The Renogy control panel keeps the basics in one place, including battery shutoff, water pump, tank heaters, and water heater controls. The key number is 400Ah of lithium power, which ROA says is about eight times what many standard trailers offer with a 100Ah AGM battery.

That extra capacity supports the Truma A/C, Truma VarioHeat furnace, lights, fans, speakers, and 120-volt outlets through the inverter. In plain terms, it cuts down on the battery stress that follows smaller rigs.

The bathroom matters, too. The XT12HR OGE has a shower, instant hot water from the Truma AquaGo, and a cassette toilet that can be emptied without moving the trailer. That setup helps campers keep a good site instead of towing out to dump.

Cooking also gets more thought than expected in a trailer this size. Inside, there is a three-burner Thetford stove, hood vent, sink, outlets, and deep storage. Outside, another three-burner stove slides out in a stainless steel kitchen with hot and cold water, a drying rack, and a nearby fridge bay.

The off-road hardware is the point

The MDC XT12HR OGE earns the Off-Grid Extreme name underneath. It rides on a hot-dip galvanized steel frame with a lifetime warranty, plus MDC’s Extract suspension with coils and gas shocks for washboard roads and rocky tracks.

Up front, the DO35 hitch gives full articulation off-road, while the RK750 jack, heavy chains, handbrake, and Tuson sway control add confidence on pavement. ROA also highlights its Anderson plug and DC-to-DC charging upgrade, which can send up to 30 amps back to the trailer batteries while driving.

The rest of the build follows the same logic. There are jerry can holders, a wet bay with outdoor shower access, bash bars, leveling jacks, a ladder, a matching spare tire, and front and rear spotlights.

Final thoughts

The MDC XT12HR OGE stands out because it keeps the important parts of off-grid travel in mind: comfort, power, water, and durability. It doesn’t feel overloaded with fluff, yet it still gives campers a real bed, a real bathroom, and serious trail-ready hardware in a compact shell.

Learn more about the MDC XT12HR OGE here. MSRP ranges from $59,995 to $72,990, depending on the dealership and specific options.

MORE RVS LIKE THIS:

RVDT2913

Starlink Mini may be getting a built-in battery. Why RVers would care

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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3
Starlink Mini may be getting a built-in battery. Why RVers would care

The Starlink Mini has become a popular piece of gear among RVers who need internet where cell coverage is spotty or nonexistent. It’s small, relatively easy on power and easy to tuck away when it’s time to move on.

But there’s still one thing most users have to bring along: a battery.

Now there’s a hint that SpaceX may be working on a way around that. According to a report by The Verge, references discovered in Starlink software appear to point to a version of the Starlink Mini with an integrated battery. SpaceX hasn’t announced such a product, and there’s no indication when—or even if—it might reach the market. Still, the possibility has plenty of RVers paying attention.

So why would RVers care?

One less thing to pack

One of the Mini’s biggest selling points is portability. Compared with the larger Starlink dishes, it’s easy to carry, quick to set up and doesn’t demand much power.

The catch is that “portable” usually still means carrying a power bank, charging cable and assorted accessories.

That’s not a huge burden, but it’s another collection of gadgets to keep charged, organized and ready to go.

A built-in battery could make the whole setup simpler. Instead of grabbing the dish and a separate power source, you would simply grab the dish.

For RVers who move often, that may sound like a small change. In practice, small conveniences are often the ones you appreciate most after a few hundred campsite setups.

Think beyond the campsite

A battery-powered Mini wouldn’t just be useful around camp.

It would be good for picture-stopping at a scenic overlook and wanting to upload photos before moving on. Or pulling into a rest area and needing a reliable connection to check email, pay bills, or join a video meeting. Maybe you’re spending the afternoon at a picnic area where there isn’t an electrical outlet within sight.

Today, that usually means carrying along some type of external battery solution. A self-powered Mini could turn those situations into a simple matter of setting the dish outside and connecting.

The same idea could appeal to RVers who keep Starlink available for emergencies. During a power outage, having both internet service and a built-in power source in one package could eliminate a few extra steps when communications matter most.

The details are still a mystery

Of course, nobody outside SpaceX knows exactly what such a product would look like.

Battery size may be the biggest question. A small battery would keep weight down but might only provide a few hours of operation. A larger battery could extend runtime but would make the unit heavier and more expensive.

Charging options will matter, too. RVers often recharge electronics from solar panels, portable power stations, vehicle outlets or campground hookups. Any built-in battery would need to fit smoothly into those existing routines.

Then there’s the price tag

Adding a battery almost certainly wouldn’t make the Mini cheaper. Some RVers may decide they’re perfectly happy with the battery packs they already own and see little reason to pay extra for an integrated solution.

What about current Mini owners?

That’s another unanswered question.

The software references don’t reveal whether SpaceX is developing an entirely new Mini or perhaps some type of battery accessory for existing units.

If the battery ends up built into the hardware itself, current owners would likely need to buy new equipment to get the feature. If SpaceX takes a more modular approach, an upgrade path might be possible.

At this point, nobody knows.

For now, it’s still just a rumor… that’s worth emphasizing.

SpaceX has not announced a battery-powered Starlink Mini. The speculation comes entirely from software references discovered by researchers examining Starlink firmware.

Still, the idea isn’t hard to believe. The Mini was designed around portability from the beginning, and removing the need for a separate battery seems like a logical next step.

RVers shouldn’t start shopping for a replacement dish just yet. But if SpaceX really is working on a battery-powered Mini, it would address one of the few remaining annoyances of an otherwise remarkably portable internet system.

And for RVers, one less gadget to carry is usually a welcome upgrade.

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RVT1263b

The RV market just sent a mixed signal: Towables down, motorhomes up

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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2
The RV market just sent a mixed signal: Towables down, motorhomes up

If you’ve been hoping RV prices might soften a bit—or wondering whether the RV market is finally cooling off—the latest shipment numbers may be worth watching.

According to new figures from the RV Industry Association, manufacturers shipped 29,209 RVs to dealers in April 2026. That’s down 17.4% from the 35,375 units shipped during April of last year. Through the first four months of 2026, shipments totaled 115,260 units, down 13.5% from the same period in 2025.

But before anyone concludes RV sales have suddenly fallen off a cliff, there’s an important detail buried in the numbers: Not every segment of the market is moving in the same direction.

Travel trailers and fifth wheels took the hit

Towable RVs accounted for most of April’s decline.

Manufacturers shipped 25,376 towables during the month, down 20.7% from April 2025. Since towables make up the largest share of the RV market, a drop that large tends to pull overall shipment numbers down with it.

That doesn’t necessarily mean dealers aren’t selling RVs. Shipment reports measure what factories send to dealers, not what customers are buying and taking home. If you’re unfamiliar with how shipment reports work, see our companion article explaining RV shipment numbers without the industry jargon.

Still, when factories start shipping fewer travel trailers and fifth wheels, it’s usually a sign that somebody in the supply chain is tapping the brakes, at least a little.

Motorhomes bucked the trend

Here’s the part that makes the report interesting.

While towables were down sharply, motorhome shipments actually rose.

Manufacturers shipped 3,833 motorhomes during April, up 13.0% compared with the same month a year ago.

Motorhomes remain a much smaller slice of the overall RV market than towables, so the increase wasn’t enough to offset the decline in travel trailers and fifth wheels. But it does suggest the market isn’t weakening across the board.

In other words, RV buyers may be getting more selective, but they haven’t disappeared.

Why are shipments falling?

The RV Industry Association’s report doesn’t offer explanations, so we can only look at the broader picture.

Financing costs remain higher than many buyers would like. Household budgets continue to feel pressure from inflation. Fuel prices have also become a growing concern for some travelers, especially with renewed uncertainty in global oil markets.

Dealers may also be managing inventory carefully. If lots are already well stocked, dealers can slow new orders from manufacturers until more units are sold.

Whatever the reason, April’s numbers represent a noticeable change from the optimism that many in the industry were expressing earlier this year.

Park models had a strong month

One smaller segment posted impressive growth.

Park Model RV shipments reached 539 units, up 29.9% from the same month last year.

Park models represent only a small portion of overall RV shipments, but the category has shown surprising resilience compared with some traditional RV segments.

What this means for RVers

For current RV owners, this probably doesn’t mean much—at least not yet.

For prospective buyers, however, the numbers are worth watching.

If shipment declines continue for several months, dealers may face increased pressure to move inventory. That can eventually translate into discounts, incentives or more willingness to negotiate.

On the other hand, one month does not make a trend. The RV industry has always been cyclical, and shipment totals can swing significantly from month to month.

The biggest takeaway from April’s report isn’t simply that shipments fell. It’s that different parts of the RV market are telling different stories.

Travel trailers and fifth wheels had a rough month. Motorhomes didn’t.

Whether that’s the start of a larger shift or simply a temporary detour won’t become clear until a few more months of reports are in the books.

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RVT1263b

Fuel prices may not stop RVers, but may change how far they go

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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19
Fuel prices may not stop RVers, but may change how far they go

For many RVers, the question this summer may not be whether to travel—it may be how far.

A recent report from a Northern California campground suggests rising fuel prices could be influencing travel decisions. According to KRON4, managers at one North Bay campground say they’re seeing more visitors from nearby communities and fewer travelers arriving from longer distances.

One campground doesn’t prove a national trend. But it raises a question many RVers have probably asked themselves while watching fuel prices climb: Is that destination 500 miles away really worth the extra cost?

Historically, RVers have proven remarkably adaptable when fuel prices rise. Most don’t cancel trips—they change them.

Fuel prices and RV travel have always been connected

Unlike airline passengers or hotel guests, RVers see transportation costs every time they pull up to the pump.

A diesel motorhome getting 10 miles per gallon will burn about 100 gallons on a 1,000-mile trip. With diesel hovering around $5 per gallon nationally, that’s roughly $500 in fuel before paying for a single campsite, restaurant meal or attraction ticket.

For owners of large fifth wheels, toy haulers and heavier travel trailers, the math can look similar.

That doesn’t necessarily stop people from traveling. But it can influence where they go and how they get there.

Closer destinations may start looking better

When fuel costs rise, the campground three hours away can suddenly seem a lot more attractive than the one eight hours down the road.

Instead of crossing several states, some RVers may decide to explore attractions closer to home. Others may skip a lengthy detour and stick to a more direct route.

For campground owners near major metropolitan areas, that could mean increased interest from weekend travelers looking for an affordable getaway without a major fuel bill.

Meanwhile, destination campgrounds that depend heavily on long-distance travelers may face a tougher sales pitch.

Stay longer, drive less

Many experienced RVers already know one of the simplest ways to control fuel costs: Move less often.

A two-week stay in one campground typically uses far less fuel than relocating every few days. Besides reducing fuel expenses, it can make a trip more relaxing and leave more time to actually enjoy the destination.

Some travelers may also combine sightseeing, shopping and errands into a single travel day rather than making multiple separate trips.

Those small adjustments can add up surprisingly quickly over the course of a season.

RVers have weathered fuel spikes before. They tend to adapt rather than abandon travel altogether.

Most RVers won’t stay home

If history is any guide, higher fuel prices alone probably won’t empty campgrounds.

RVers have weathered fuel spikes before. They tend to adapt rather than abandon travel altogether. Routes get shorter. Stays get longer. Destinations move a little closer to home.

The road trip still happens.

It just may involve fewer miles between the driveway and the campsite.

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Long lines, full parking lots and traffic jams: Yosemite’s no-reservation summer gets its first test

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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Long lines, full parking lots and traffic jams: Yosemite’s no-reservation summer gets its first test

If Yosemite National Park’s first big holiday weekend without entry reservations was supposed to prove the system could handle summer crowds, many visitors left unconvinced.

Long entrance lines, overflowing parking lots and traffic jams greeted thousands of Memorial Day weekend visitors as Yosemite’s new reservation-free approach faced its first major test. Some visitors reported waits of up to 90 minutes just to get through the entrance gates. Others found themselves circling packed parking lots or sitting in stop-and-go traffic after finally making it into the park.

At the same time, park officials note that visitation is running nearly 100,000 visitors ahead of the same point last year. That raises an obvious question for RVers planning a summer trip: Is easier access coming at the cost of a more crowded experience?

More visitors, same roads

Yosemite’s reservation system was never particularly popular with travelers who prefer flexibility. RVers know the challenge. Weather changes, campground plans shift, mechanical problems happen, and sometimes the best trips are the ones decided on short notice.

For the past several years, however, Yosemite used various reservation systems to limit the number of vehicles entering the park during busy periods. Supporters said reservations reduced traffic congestion and helped visitors spend more time enjoying the park and less time sitting in their vehicles.

Critics argued that obtaining reservations could be frustrating and sometimes shut out travelers who simply wanted to visit one of America’s most famous national parks.

This year, Yosemite largely removed those vehicle reservation requirements.

The roads, parking lots and visitor facilities, however, didn’t get any larger.

Memorial Day offered an early preview

The first major holiday weekend of the summer travel season provided a glimpse of what that reality might look like.

Crowded trails were just one sign of a busy Memorial Day weekend in Yosemite, where visitors also encountered long entrance lines, packed parking lots and heavy traffic. Photo: ABC7.com

According to media reports, entrance stations experienced lengthy backups. Popular parking areas filled early. Traffic slowed throughout heavily visited sections of the park. Some visitors described spending much of their day navigating congestion rather than enjoying waterfalls, trails and scenic overlooks.

For RVers, the challenge can be even greater. A passenger car can often squeeze into spaces unavailable to larger rigs. Even RVers staying in campgrounds frequently use a tow vehicle or toad to explore the valley floor, making parking availability an important part of the day’s plans.

The situation wasn’t entirely unexpected. Yosemite has battled congestion issues for years. The park remains one of the most visited destinations in the National Park System, attracting millions of visitors annually while operating within a landscape where expanding roads and parking lots is neither simple nor necessarily desirable.

Still, Memorial Day was the first major opportunity to see how Yosemite’s new approach would perform under real-world holiday traffic.

Park officials urge caution

Park officials have pushed back against descriptions of the weekend as evidence that the reservation-free system is failing.

Memorial Day has long been one of Yosemite’s busiest weekends. Heavy traffic, crowded facilities and parking shortages are hardly new phenomena inside the park. Officials argue that one holiday weekend does not provide enough information to judge the success or failure of the current approach.

That’s a fair point.

Then again, many visitors would argue that spending an hour or more waiting to enter a national park isn’t exactly the experience they hoped for, either.

The debate highlights a reality Yosemite has struggled with for decades. People want easier access to the park. They also want shorter lines, less traffic and readily available parking. Accommodating all of those goals at the same time can be difficult when millions of visitors are competing for the same limited space.

What RVers should expect this summer

One busy holiday weekend doesn’t settle the argument over reservations.

What it does provide is a useful reminder for RVers heading to Yosemite this summer.

Arriving early remains one of the best strategies for avoiding headaches. Building extra time into travel plans is probably wise. Visitors who assume they’ll roll into the park late in the morning and easily find parking near popular attractions may be disappointed during peak periods.

Whether Yosemite eventually restores reservations, modifies the current system or stays the course remains to be seen.

But if Memorial Day weekend was any indication, RVers may want to pack a little extra patience along with the hiking boots. Yosemite’s waterfalls, granite cliffs and spectacular scenery are still there. The available parking spaces, however, seem to disappear pretty quickly.

Sources include
ABC7 News

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RV Daily Tips. Tuesday, May 26, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Tuesday, May 26, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2912 • New issue every weekday

Today’s thought

”The past is a place of reference, not a place of residence.”  ―Roy T. Bennett

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Paper Airplane Day! A paper airplane once flew more than 289 feet, setting a world record.

On this day in history: 1927 – The last Ford Model T rolls off the assembly line after a production run of 15,007,003 vehicles.

Tip of the day
Ten tips about how to find quiet RV parks

By Gail Marsh
Who wouldn’t want a little peace and quiet? From morning to night, daily noise hammers at our senses. Work, traffic, technology, conversation, and more audio assaults fill our ears in a never-ending cacophony. Wouldn’t a nice, quiet getaway be welcome? Yes! But how can you find a quiet RV park? Here are my tips.

Article and video
How to properly clean RV toilets to prevent damage

Let’s face it, RV toilets aren’t the most glamorous part of RVing. There are tons of videos about black tank maintenance, but what about the basics? Many people buy a used RV and never get a walkthrough, leaving them clueless about how to properly use and clean their RV toilet. Here, Jason Epperson of RV Miles covers everything from how to use an RV toilet to cleaning it without causing damage. [And, as always, Cheri includes a complete list if you don’t want to watch the video.]

Running an RV air conditioner on 20-amp household power sounds impossible—unless you have a SoftStartRV. This small device reduces startup current dramatically, helping many RVers cool their rig at home, while visiting friends, or during off-grid camping. Learn more.

Featured article
Nobody cares what you wear in the boonies!

Lucinda Belden claims to have never been a fashionista, but does fashion even matter when you’re RVing? What about when you’re boondocking and nobody is around? Well, her very interesting outfit choice one day was a bit of a wake-up call. She bets this happens to you, too. (You’ll laugh!) Does it?

RANDOM RV THOUGHT: If you can hear birds instead of traffic, you’re probably having a pretty good day.

Ask Dave
How can I find a quality mattress for my RV’s “tilt” bed?

Learn about RV mattresses here.

Book is a must-have for state park campers!
This book, “50 States: 500 State Parks,” is a must-have for all state park campers and explorers. The book is a beautiful visual journey through America’s best state parks. Whether you’re looking for stunning vistas, rare wildlife, a dose of history, or an enjoyable hike, the state parks offer an array of experiences. Learn more or order.

Reader poll
Do you enjoy visiting ghost towns?

Respond here.

Quick tip
Easy campfire starters

Want fire starters for your campfire? Get a premanufactured fire log, cut it up in pieces, and use the pieces for fire starters. (As always, use precaution, and only have campfires where/when allowed, of course.)

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.

Website of the day

Reddit: National Parks for people with limited mobility
This long Reddit thread will be very helpful for those with limited mobility.

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:

• 12 percent have attended a World Series game.
• 33 percent say their very first kiss was exhilarating but 8 percent say it was either disappointing or a dud.
• 26 percent have never visited Yellowstone National Park.

Recent poll: Would you ever stay at a campground specifically because it has a bar or brewery?

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
You can absolutely buy this. No, really, you CAN buy this! Don’t believe us? Well, just POP on over here and realize you CAN buy it! Don’t make us say it again… we CAN!

Trivia

X-rays are called “X-rays” because their discoverer, German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen, did not know what they were when he first observed them in 1895. In science and mathematics, the letter X is frequently used to represent an unknown quantity, so he used “X” to denote this unknown type of radiation.

Bumper snicker

Oldfartsticker
Made us laugh! Get this sticker here.

Readers’ pets of the day

Img E2478 34b57cccd4ee51c9072608d1d2d81e38“Barney and Spike (ages 17 and 12) are good travelers and have been to all 48 contiguous states. They love the new camper with all the windows and KNOW they shouldn’t be on the table, but they can’t help themselves with all those birdies to see out there!” —Dianne Kane

Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. We publish one each weekday in RV Daily Tips and in our Sunday RV Travel newsletter. No blurry photos, please! Please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!

FREE IS GOOD! Today (May 26) only: At Dutch Bros, get a free pack of two air fresheners with every two drinks purchased. Starts at 5:00 a.m., while supplies last.

Leave here with a laugh

The inventor of the throat lozenge died.
There will be no coffin at his funeral!

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.

How can I find a quality mattress for my RV’s ’tilt’ bed?

Dave Solberg
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How can I find a quality mattress for my RV’s ’tilt’ bed?

Dear Dave, 
Many Class A motorhomes are now sporting the “tilt mattresses” in the bedroom slide. There is much confusion regarding what mattresses can be used to replace the often-lower-quality ones in the RV when purchased. Some people say hybrids can be used, others say use a topper. And apparently the popular RV bedding companies say they do not support tilt mattresses if they bend at more than a 40-degree angle.

It can be very frustrating to know what to do, especially since most RV bedding is bought online and is a pretty big investment. Has this ever been addressed in your newsletter? I think many people would be interested. —Michelle

Dear Michelle,
I do believe we touched on mattresses somewhat in an earlier newsletter but might have focused on the sizes not being uniform to what the residential mattresses are. (See links below.) For example, I have found more than six different sizes of “queen” bed mattresses in units. Some are the traditional 60” x 80”, but several are smaller. Most of this seems to be so there is more walk-around room. People don’t spend the time researching what I call the “residential” items.

Typical RV bed

This is one of the items I discuss in my RV Buyers Seminar conducted at RV shows across the country. I ask the question: “How many here have a 2” x 2” wood frame on the bedroom floor covered with paneling, a 4′ x 8′ sheet of plywood on top, and a hunk of foam?” We would never accept that in our homes. However, no RV that I have ever seen has a box spring. Most are what I just described—so now the mattress is very important.

The typical mattress in an RV is a hunk of foam covered in fabric and labeled “Deluxe Supreme”—which is not a mattress company! Two or three nights on that mattress and we suddenly realize it is not a good mattress. However, we just assumed that since we paid top dollar for the RV, it came with a good mattress. WRONG.

I would want an innerspring design, pillow top, maybe even a Sleep Number mattress. Notice what just happened. I increased the price $200-$5,000 with a mattress I didn’t even know I needed! So, manufacturers are not going to put the extra money in something that you don’t research.

Bed

“Tilt” mattress?

I am not sure what type of mattress you are referring to as a “tilt”. However, there are many manufacturers that are using a “Murphy” bed, where the entire platform tilts up so there is more space during the day. These will typically have just a lightweight foam mattress, as it would be difficult to tip up the weight of a quality mattress.

If you are referring to the adjustable beds that can tilt both the leg and head platform, these also would need to be some type of foam, as an innerspring would not bend well.

I personally have one of these at home. Although I like the fact I can prop up my head for better breathing, I don’t like the foam mattress even though I bought the most expensive “memory foam” brand. Some people love the memory foam; however, I think it’s just a gimmick as it’s still just foam!

My difficulty sleeping

As I get older, I get more aches and pains and parts of the body that fall asleep. That is ironic, because isn’t that what I’m supposed to be doing? One of the best mattresses I have slept on recently was at the Sheraton Fairplex during the California RV Show in Pomona. It was a plush innerspring mattress that I could buy for $6,000. I decided to live with different parts of my body falling asleep at different times.

I’ve tried more than a dozen different “toppers”—from the egg crate foam years ago to the expensive memory foam models. I did not feel much of a difference other than I was higher in the air. It seems odd, as I could sleep just about anywhere when I was younger. In fact, I have an old picture of me asleep sitting in the pots and pans drawer of the oven. Today, that would have to be an extremely large oven!

I know that Winnebago was using Serta innerspring mattresses for years. Serta even opened a plant nearby Forest City to supply them. That plant is now shut down, so I don’t know what is being offered. However, I know they are also on a race to the bottom.

Buyers need to request better quality

Until buyers start researching and comparing the differences in items—such as quality furniture, higher line fabrics, and mattress—and start asking for them rather than taking them for granted, cheap will be the norm.

Just this week I saw Walmart and Fleet Farm are selling Ashley furniture. At one point, Ashley was a high-line brand. However, the couches and love seats that I sat on at Fleet Farm are far from the quality furniture of years ago. We all know what happens when we just assume!

I would suggest finding an RV show that has a vendor selling mattresses. That may be hard to find, as most vendors are not going to shows but are rather marketing online, as you pointed out. However, I did see several this past spring at some of the RV Supershows I conducted seminars at.

Another option is to find a mattress you like from a residential retailer and see if there is a distributor close by. This would allow you to “test drive” the best fit.

 More posts on RV mattresses 

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

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

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

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