“Nobody ever figures out what life is all about, and it doesn’t matter. Explore the world. Nearly everything is really interesting if you go into it deeply enough.” ―Richard P. Feynman
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day!
On this day in history: 1702 – The Daily Courant, England’s first national daily newspaper, is published for the first time.
Tip of the day Don’t like guns? Alternatives for self-protection
By Mike Sherman Do you want to feel protected while camping but you shun guns? There are alternatives that will help you in the event you find yourself under assault, either by an animal, or a human being acting like an animal.
Non-lethal weapons have, of course, been around since the beginning of time. Some might think a rock or a baseball bat is a non-lethal weapon, but the law recognizes them as deadly weapons. If you rely on a baseball bat for personal protection, keep in mind its use requires you to be up close and personal with your attacker. But what about a defensive spray? They can save your life with a 15-foot separation between you and the offender. Continue reading about the benefits of pepper spray and other gun alternatives.
Ask Dave Can I just use a regular tarp to protect my RV?
Dear Dave,
Do I have to use an RV cover, or can I use a regular tarp to protect my RV? —Robert, 2016 Coachmen Catalina Read Dave’s answer.
CAMPING WORLD OWES MONEY to many RVers for unlawful sales practices. Maybe you? Find out.
Video of the day How to prevent RV theft and keep your RV secure
By Cheri Sicard
In this video, we join Joshua from RV Gear & Far for some useful tips on how to prevent RV theft and ways to keep your RV secure whether it is on the road, at your house, while out boondocking, or in an RV storage facility. With enough determination, any RV can be stolen. Read the article and/or watch the video.
Featured article Skål! 3 creative meaderies to stay at in your RV
By Cheri Sicard In this week’s Harvest Hosts column, we invite you to drink up old-school style at three creative meaderies you can spend the night at in your RV if you are a Harvest Hosts member. If you have not yet discovered mead, it is a unique alcoholic beverage that, at its most basic form, is made from fermented honey, water and yeast. However, it can be flavored in an astounding number of ways, as evidenced by the offerings at these three creative meaderies.
Recent poll: Do you believe motorhomes are headed to extinction?Respond here.
Quick tip Help prevent blown tires
Ted J. wrote us with a thought from “them that’s been there, done that.” Here’s his advice: “The first thing I do before we leave our driveway is check the air pressure in our tires. Over the years we have had several blowouts, which I am sure most have had! Several of those were because of under-inflated tires.” Thanks, Ted, for the cautionary advice. And, might we add, a tale that endorses a tire pressure monitoring system!
Forvo
Learn how to pronounce any (and they mean ANY) word in English or another language. This website is good to know about!
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ? We love this so much we wouldn’t want to get it dirty! Why would we get something dirty? Well, you’ll see!
RANDOM RV THOUGHT: Carry candles with you in your RV and car. In a wintertime emergency even the tiny bit of heat they produce can be a lifesaver if stranded in the middle of nowhere.
And the survey says…
We’ve polled RVtravel.com readers close to 5,000 times in recent years. Here are a few things we’ve learned about them:
• 20 percent say they never get headaches and can’t remember the last time they had one.
• 40 percent love to dance!
• 35 percent have a current fishing license
The rise of airline travel led to the invention of luggage on wheels. In 1970, Bernard Sadow was stuck in customs with heavy luggage after returning from a vacation in Aruba. While he was standing in line, he watched as a worker moved heavy equipment on a wheeled platform. At that moment, Sadow realized luggage should be on wheels, too. Soon after, and after a few different design prototypes, he was pitching his “rolling luggage” to Macy’s.
Readers’ pet of the day
“Mae (Springer Spaniel) was one of my granddogs–she was always ready to sit with me. We got this larger chair so we’d both fit!” —Bev Waldron
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!
If you shop at Amazon.com we’d appreciate you using this link. We get an itty bitty commission if you buy something, but they add up and help us pay our bills (most importantly our hard-working writers!).
Dear Dave,
Do I have to use an RV cover, or can I use a regular tarp to protect my RV? —Robert, 2016 Coachmen Catalina
Dear Robert,
I get this question quite often, as leaving your rig exposed to the elements can be very damaging—depending on the part of the country you are in. Extreme heat and harmful UV rays in the West and South can cause sealants to dry up and crack, fiberglass to fade and even weather-check, and decals to blister and peel. So, quick answer, use a cover.
I have always recommended either covering your rig during storage or finding an inside location to reduce the effects of the sun and other elements. Here in the Upper Midwest, we don’t get quite as harsh sun conditions, but can still get similar effects. However, what is just as bad, in my opinion, is snow and ice that can penetrate even the smallest crack in sealant or rubber seals.
Snow on RV roof
A cover won’t keep the snow from falling on and staying on a roof. However, it will prevent the melting snow from penetrating through any roof seals. It also will protect the roof material from pooling water that can attract mold and mildew.
Most roofs have a slight crown that will help divert melting snow off the roof. However, it is a good idea, in my opinion, to knock the snow off the roof if there is a heavy snowfall. This is a fairly common practice here not only for RVs but for houses, as well. There are several different “snow rakes” available. Here is one that has a brush and plastic, so it is more forgiving on a cover.
Snow rake
ADCO RV covers
I like the customized covers that you can get from ADCO, which has been providing quality covers for over 30 years. You did not specify the length of your Coachmen Catalina. However, the average 28’ – 31’ travel trailer ADCO cover is only about $250. You can find it on Amazon.
These covers feature sewn-in air vents to allow moisture to escape and reduce condensation. The triple-layer SFS AquaShed top panel is not only durable, but sheds moisture immediately and provides UV protection. What I like most about it is the cinching design and adjustable quick buckles that allow you to draw the cover tight and reduce excess fabric that can flap in wind and damage the finish.
I have found that the traditional square tarp does not cover as well and stay covered. Plus there are no vents and it flaps around all winter.
Tarp
More protection for RV
I would suggest covering the tires, as well. And I suggest placing a few dehumidifiers inside, such as DampRid or H2Out.
H2Ou5Cover
You might also enjoy this from Dave
Are there covers to protect RV roof vents and skylights from hail?
Dear Dave,
Does anyone make hail protection covers for roof vents and skylights for RVs? —Dave T.
When the RV Industry reported that wholesale shipments were up in January, it was a banner headline for them. A good turnaround from the sorry down statistics that had been the plague of 2024. Yes, RV dealers are stocking up their lots, anticipating the return of the RV buyer. But it ain’t necessarily so, as we see a decline in RV sales. The latest report for sales of new RVs, based on RV registrations with DMVs, shows dealers stocking up, but buyers not interested.
“Number cruncher” shows RV sales decline
Statistical Surveys Inc. (SSI), the RV industry number cruncher, reports a continuing trend of year-over-year decreases, based on January 2025 statistics. “This continues the trend of year-over-year declines dating back to 2023,” SSI says.
There were 17,543 retail registrations in the first month of this year, which is 1,228 fewer units—a 6.5% decrease—versus the 18,771 for the same period in 2024.
For comparison, the RV Industry Association (RVIA) reported 27,629 wholesale shipments in January 2025—a 10,086-unit difference versus the retail registrations total.
Towables continue tumble
• Travel trailer – 10,881 retail registrations in January 2025 (11,680 retail registrations in January 2024; a 6.8% decrease). Market share leaders: Forest River Inc. (38.5%), THOR Industries (37.8%), Grand Design RV Co. (8.0%).
• Fifth wheel – 3,305 (3,461; -4.5%). Market share leaders: THOR (36.6%), Forest River (27.2%), Grand Design (15.1%).
• Camping trailer – 143 (248; -42.3%). Market share leaders: Forest River (49%), Aliner (30.8%), Purple Line LLC (5.6%).
• Park model RV – 179 (144; +24.3%). Champion Homes (25.7%), Cavco Industries (25.1%), Clayton Homes Inc. (10.1%).
Motorhomes in misery
• Class A – 472 (565; -16.5%). Market share leaders: THOR (51.1%), Forest River (16.7%), REV Recreation Group (15.0%).
• Class C – 1,226 (1,279; -4.1%). Market share leaders: THOR (48%), Forest River (23.2%), Winnebago Motorized (14.6%).
• Class B – 639 (718; -11.0%). Market share leaders: THOR (42.7%), Winnebago Motorized (21.4%), Forest River (12.1%).
As confusion continues about just what lies ahead for the U.S. economy, consumers are holding tight onto their bank accounts. As RV sales decline, this could be a touch-and-go year for RV dealers.
Could you put the wrong tire on your trailer? If you own one of the fifth wheels or travel trailers involved in this recall you might. Jayco, Inc. (Jayco) is recalling certain 2025 Jayco Eagle fifth wheels, Eagle HT fifth wheels, and Eagle HT travel trailers. The certification label states incorrect tire load and tire size information. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of 49 CFR Part 567, “Certification.” Incorrect tire information could result in the wrong tires being installed on the trailer, increasing the risk of a crash. Potentially 129 of these RVs are involved in the recall related to Jayco bad tire information.
Jayco bad tire information remedy
Jayco will mail replacement labels to owners, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed April 4, 2025. Owners may contact Jayco customer service at 1-800-283-8267. Jayco’s number for this recall is 9901621.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1- 888-275-9171), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Background
When data entry was done to create the certification labels, somebody goofed, leading to the Jayco bad tire information issue. The certification labels have the incorrect tire aspect ratio and tire load range listed. Labels show the incorrect tire aspect ratio of 85 and a tire load range of E instead of the correct tire aspect ratio of 80 and tire load range of H.
Imagine yourself in your 70s and full-time RVing. To help make ends meet, you volunteer looking after a visitor center for the National Forest Service. For your work, you get a $20 a day stipend, and you depend on that extra cash. Until it doesn’t come because the government has frozen the funds. Meet Alan Willes and Teri Gilfilen—it’s their true story of RVers and budget cuts.
Putting a face on RVers and budget cuts
Palatki Heritage Site tour USFS photo.
Alan and Teri work winters in Sedona, Arizona—or, at least, they used to. The Palatki Heritage Site is an archaeological site and park in the Coconino National Forest. Besides manning the visitor center there, the couple also provided tours. But now, they’re parked at a Camp Verde, Arizona, RV park, shelling out $1,500 a month, waiting for the weather to warm up in Wyoming. Alan has a job driving river-rafting shuttle buses—but that doesn’t start until May.
The check the federal government owes them amounts to $3,000—and it’s more than two months late. The couple told Wyoming Public Radio things would be better “If we could get [our stipend] without it costing us an arm and a leg.” Hiring an attorney to press for the money seems like something that could be done, but “It’d probably cost us $20,000 to go get $3,000. No, we can’t do that. They got us over a barrel.”
Not just the money, their place to stay
Alan and Teri, although not federal employees, are sweating out the fallout from the “budget cutting” process. Not only are they reliant on the stipend they get for the volunteer work, their housing is also at risk. If their positions with the historic site are eliminated, so is where they “hang their hats.” When working at the Palatki Heritage Site, the Forest Service allows them to park their RV in a nearby pasture. It’s just another face of RVers and budget cuts.
“We’re very nervous about that,” Alan told the news service. “If the park service closes down, I don’t know if we’d be closed down. I would think so.”
Teri tries to put a positive spin on things. “ Never in my life would I have thought I would be living in an RV in [my] 70s. Yeah, it just totally surprises me. But we do have an adventurous life.”
“Education is an admirable thing, but it is well to remember from time to time that nothing that is worth knowing can be taught.” ―Oscar Wilde
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Napping Day!
On this day in history: 1876 – The first successful test of a telephone is made by Alexander Graham Bell.
Tip of the day Upgrade your RV living space with modular furniture
By Gail Marsh
If you’re an RVer who wants to breathe new life into your living area, you may want to consider modular furniture.
Modular furniture isn’t just stylish—it’s a smart solution for the unique challenges of RV living. Consider the benefits of modular RV furniture and see why it can be a game changer for RVers.
Ask Dave Can Starlink antenna cable be hooked to coax in RV’s service center?
By Dave Solberg Hi Dave,
We are hooked on Starlink. With subscriptions, it is internet and TV for us. Is there a way I can replace the CATV connections with Starlink’s ethernet connection to feed the Starlink dish signal inside? Or is there some other clever means to get that Starlink cable inside to its router without running the cable through a window that’s cracked open? Thanks. —Bill, 2018 Pleasure-Way Plateau FL Read Dave’s answer.
In the RV shop with Dustin How to protect your hardwood/vinyl flooring from your RV slide-out
By Dustin Simpson
A popular concern I receive at my RV repair shop is protecting hardwood or vinyl flooring when the RV slide-out extends or retracts. Whether your unit is brand-new or it’s several years old, floor damage can be disheartening because you are either left with an expensive repair or a battle wound that you learn to live with. Learn more.
Video of the day How to find RV dump stations: Best apps to use
Featured article The top 10 most famous streets in the United States
By Gail Marsh
Have you driven your RV down any of the most famous streets in the U.S.? Can you guess the top ten most famous roadways? Or can you tell what makes each street so well-known? Take a moment to think of all the possibilities. Click here and see if you can guess the most popular!
Reader poll What would you fear stumbling upon most in the wild — a bear, rattlesnake or alligator?
Recent poll: Do you believe motorhomes are headed to extinction?Respond here.
Quick tip Easy towel hanger for outdoors
Need a place to hang towels (or other wet stuff) outside your rig? Here’s an idea from a user called ADK Camper. He took a couple of oversize suction cups from Harbor Freight, stuck them on the side of his rig, then fed an appropriate length of PVC pipe through them. Easily moved! See more on rv.net, and for suction cups, check here.
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ? We’re not quite sure what this man is doing with his hands (preparing for a quick draw? Seriously, what a strange photo…), but this gadget could really be useful for some of you…
Trivia
Amazon (.com) was initially named Cadabra, reminiscent of the magical phrase “abracadabra,” but Jeff Bezos’ lawyer cautioned against the obscure magic reference. Concerned that “cadabra” could be misheard as “cadaver,” they opted for a new moniker: Amazon, inspired by the expansive South American river. The chosen name reflected the ambition for their book selection to rival the vastness of the world’s largest river.
Readers’ pet of the day
“Minne is our fourth rescue dog. She’s 3 years old and mixed breed. She’s full of energy and adapting to being an RV pup has had its challenges. After two years on the road she’s become a pretty good traveler (most of the time!). She’s always up for a new adventure and brings us so much joy and laughter.” —Ellen Powers
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!
If you shop at Amazon.com we’d appreciate you using this link. We get an itty bitty commission if you buy something, but they add up and help us pay our bills (most importantly our hard-working writers!).
Hi Dave,
We are hooked on Starlink. With subscriptions, it is internet and TV for us. Is there a way I can replace the CATV connections with Starlink’s ethernet connection to feed the Starlink dish signal inside? Or is there some other clever means to get that Starlink cable inside to its router without running the cable through a window that’s cracked open? Thanks. —Bill, 2018 Pleasure-Way Plateau FL
Hi Bill,
Starlink has been a very popular topic of discussion at my seminars these past few months and I see more people joining what I call “The Uplink To The Stars!” Your Pleasure-Way RV, like most RVs, has a coax cable connection that is prewired to allow you to connect a satellite dish or other cable connection. Yours is located inside the driver side service panel that has the shoreline power connection and the city water. It is a typical coax connection with RG6 coax cable connected inside and run to the entertainment center.
According to the factory video walkaround, there is a Winegard coax meter and connection inside; however, I believe that is only for the over-the-air antenna which is the Air 360+. The coax from the service center either goes to the TV directly or to the DVD player through what they call their “Multi-plex” wire looms.
However, the Starlink cable is an ethernet wiring loom with eight, 24-gauge wires.
Starlink cable diagram (Click to enlarge.)
It is not compatible with coax that has a single wire connector.
Coax
I checked out the Starlink site and several articles on RVtravel.com, and nobody had a solution for the connection to the coax cable. So you will need to use the ethernet cable and connections and find a way to route them into the rig.
Since your service center has the shoreline connector and city water, there should be access to them from the inside. According to the walk-around, it looks like there is a cabinet covering the area inside, so I would suggest opening the doors and see if you can get behind the cabinet? If so, you could remove the coax connection in the service center and use the weatherproof plug available for the Starlink connection here. Then run the provided cable up to the router, which can be placed inside the cabinet with a power plug.
Starlink adapter
You might also enjoy this from Dave
How to hook up a portable satellite feed in RV
Dear Dave,
We have two Winegard satellite dishes on the roof, one for each TV so we can operate them independently. Sometimes when we park under trees we want to be able to plug a third dish into the rear satellite connection located in the compartment where the main power cord is located. We get nothing when connected there…. Read the rest of Will’s question and Dave’s answer.
In this column, we summarize some of your emails and comments regarding RV service centers and repairs (we asked you to submit your stories here). We’ll tell you all: the best, the good, the bad and the ugly. At the end of this article, you’ll find a place to submit your own comments. I encourage you to do so.
Keep in mind, we typically only present one side of the story in most of these. Also, any remarks about service centers and mobile techs mentioned are the opinions of our readers and not necessarily RVtravel.com.
Here’s what you had to say:
Go, BJ!
Anne M. echoes the kudos for an RV tech in last week’s column. She wrote, “Oh! My! Goodness!! I couldn’t agree more about the tech BJ at Wandering Bear RV! He installed brakes and springs last winter. He was so great we had him come this winter and fix some/replace stuff. Yep, anytime we need anything (non-emergency while on the road) he will be our ‘go-to’. Thanks, BJ!!” [Wandering Bear RV is located in Clermont, FL.]
RV and automotive repair is ripping off consumers
Fred B. wrote about the discrepancy between advertised hourly rate and actual billing. “I use the mobile service of a local RV repair shop. Their service is just okay. Of the three times I’ve used them, I had to return twice for repairs that did not last. They did make it right on those re-dos.
“But my complaint is with the whole RV repair industry as well as the automotive industry. They charge $100 to come to you, which I understand, though they could base it on miles travelled if they wanted to be fair. Then they charge $150/hour labor, but that’s a misconception.
“They have industry standard book times for most repairs like a furnace inspection/ cleaning, which might be one hour. I just had my furnace and water heater inspected/cleaned and they charged me the standard book rate of one hour for each job for a total of $300 labor, but the actual time it took from the moment they showed up till they finished was exactly one hour.
“So, they charged me $300 for one hour’s work. I don’t believe it’s right that someone like me, who takes pretty good care of my RV appliances, and whose inspections/cleanings are quick and easy, should have to pay twice as much per hour, effectively, as someone who puts off RV appliance cleanings for years and then has additional issues during cleanings and uses the whole standard industry one hour rate. I’m subsidizing other people’s careless lack of proper maintenance. Lawyers don’t normally charge standard book rates. They bill their time in 15 minute increments.
“The automotive and RV repair industry is ripping off most consumers with hidden charges under the guise of ‘standard book rates’.”
How to find a certified mobile RV tech
Marjorie D. writes about finding mobile techs. “My husband is a certified RV tech and all we hear are complaints about dealer repair. We recommend finding a mobile tech. The dealers are allowing even warranty work and recalls now through mobile techs. We have been most busy with new model recalls, as well. Check out RVHELP.com to find a certified tech [or RV inspector] in your area.”
Shout out to RV dealer and service
Doug D. recommends the RV dealer they go to. He writes, “I want to give a shout out to Wana RV Center in Shipshewana, Indiana. We met them two years ago at an RV show. They spent a lot of time with my wife and me explaining options, quality, and of course price. We purchased our first RV, a 2023 Rockwood Mini Lite 2511S.
“We have had very few problems with it. But when we did have an issue or a question, the service department was very good to work with. From scheduling a service appointment, to ordering a replacement part (that I bent) and sending it to me, to just answering a question, they have been great to work with. The service manager is willing to help in any way he can. It is an hour drive from my house, but well worth the time to drive there.”
Corporations won’t change until it is more profitable to do it right
Bryan C. has hope the RV industry will change and also has a great recommendation for service. He wrote, “I remain hopeful that places providing poor and/or dishonest service continue to get called out and publicly named. Corporations are not going to change until it is more profitable to do things the right way.
“We’ve recently used a good independent repair shop, Sean’s RV Service & Repair in Bernalillo, NM. After having him do repairs to our slide, we went back to Sean to have our suspension updated. Our experiences have been good, and we highly recommend him and his team. His website lists his prices for common services up-front.” [Service in-shop or mobile, serving Bernalillo, Greater Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Edgewood, Moriarty, Belen, Las Lunas, Bosque Farms, Isleta, and Grants.]
Editor’s note
Note from RVtravel.com: If hiring a mobile tech, a small or mega service center, make sure that they are experienced in the issue and have insurance in case something goes wrong. Also, check their warranty policy on the work they perform. Check reviews too and read between the lines—if the review sounds way too good to be true it might be. Compare with several reviews and not just the ones on their website.
Questions for you about RV service
We’ll continue to share stories of your RV service experiences. We want to know:
Have you had good luck with great service or not so much?
Did you get good service from knowledgeable technicians?
Are you waiting to get into a service center or have a mobile tech come out?
What has been the average time to get an appointment?
Has your RV been in a service center for a while?
Are you able to get any mobile techs to come out?
Are the service centers able to get parts?
When you do get the repairs done, is the price reasonable?
Please fill out the form below and tell us what your experiences have been like. It can be a horror story, an opinion about what’s going on, a positive experience, or anything else related to the topic. We want to know the great, the good, the bad, and the ugly!
Check back next week for more on RV service centers. See you then.
“You’re only here for a short visit. Don’t hurry. Don’t worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.” —Walter Hagen
PUBLISHER’S CORNER: Home sweet roam…
By Chuck Woodbury
I lived in Sacramento, California, many years and made many friends. Nowadays, when I plan to visit, I call ahead to let them know I’m coming. They often suggest I stay in their guest room. Sometimes I do, but I usually politely decline, explaining that I have already reserved a space at an RV park. (That’s a lie, but it saves an extended conversation, as in, “Oh, come on. Stay with us!”)
For me, it’s a matter of sleeping in my own bed and of not having to cart away my clothes, toiletries and other essentials then return them later. Also, as a writer, I need alone time to think and write. Many people who have never traveled with their own RV do not understand how a person like me who has traveled that way for a long time can be so incredibly comfortable in their own private, rolling mini-home.
I suspect many readers understand how this goes.
Gas vs. diesel: Which is better?
By Cheri Sicard
Which is better: gas or diesel? Izzy and MJ of Endless RVing take a deep dive into each to help you decide. Before we begin, know that there is no one “right” answer. What works for your neighbor might not work for you. Learn more and make the decision for yourself.
Don’t ignore the danger—A slipping trailer jack foot could ruin your trip
A slipping banana peel in cartoons is funny—a slipping trailer jack foot? Not so much. Russ and Tiña De Maris share two close calls that could have ended in catastrophe, including a trailer nearly rolling away at a boondocking site and another heart-stopping moment in a commercial RV park. What caused the jack to slip? What damage could have followed? And most importantly, how can you prevent this nerve-wracking scenario? Click to learn from their mistakes before you make the same ones!
The problem with RV manufacturers’ warranties: Are they worth buying a new RV?
By Scott & Vanessa Russell
The debate between new versus used RVs is as old as RVing itself. Sure, there is depreciation to consider, as well as the price. However, one of the biggest reasons people go with a new RV is often the manufacturer’s warranty. But is it really worth it? Here’s everything you should know.
Today’s RV review… Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15—a micro maestro
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of a trailer you can only get at one dealership network. That isn’t something I would normally cover, quite honestly. But I think this trailer is so different that there are absolutely going to be some of you for whom this is the perfect little rig. For the purpose that this is intended for, I think this is a pretty remarkable little trailer. Check it out.
Your thoughts wanted: Are motorhomes headed to extinction?
Sales of motorhomes are declining dramatically. Shipments from manufacturers, with rare exceptions, have dropped each year for the past 4 decades to a very small percent of the entire RV market. What happened? Read more, answer a poll, and then please let us know what you think.
RV service centers and repairs report A good way to find a certified mobile RV tech in your area
This week Nanci Dixon relates more of your RV service center horror stories. Fred B. wrote about the discrepancy between advertised hourly rate and actual billing. (We bet you’ve experienced this. Let us know in the comments.) There’s a tip from Marjorie D. about how to find a certified mobile RV tech. And there are three (3!) rave reviews for service centers and mobile techs. All that and more here.
UPDATED WEEKLY:A list of RV dealers, service centers, and mobile techs as recommended by our readers.Click here.
Yesterday’s top news for RVers IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Are you in for a treat! Our Johnny Robot, an artificial being who represents the writer of the future (who looks remarkably like a wind-up toy), has a story today about two RVers, Billy and Milly, who fall in love at the RV park. It’s a gripping tale filled with drama, suspense and even humor. And the ending should warm even the coldest heart. And, get this! It was written in 30 seconds using artificial intelligence. Johnny explains. Get Kleenex (you’ll need it). Who would have thought Billy could win Milly over? (Or did he?)
DON’T FORGET…
It’s an hour later than it was yesterday! Did you change all your clocks?
RVer gets hilarious lesson in “porta-potty pressure dynamics”
We received this letter and hilarious story from reader Steve Comstock. Steve wrote, “I am sending this in response to Chuck’s “RVers are like Kindergarteners” story in the newsletter. I hope he will find it to be entertaining. Regards, Steve”. Well, Steve, we all find this story entertaining! Get ready to laugh at this RVing-worst-nightmare!
RVers, here’s how the 511 traffic system works
By Gail Marsh
When you’re on the open road in your RV, staying informed about traffic conditions isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. The 511 traffic system offers real‑time travel information that helps you dodge unexpected delays, plan alternate routes, and keep your trip stress-free. Let’s see what information it provides, discover the states where it’s available, and learn how it can make your RV adventures smoother and safer.
What do snowbirds do when they can’t flee south?
By Rod Andrew
As I write, I’m a snowbound snowbird, sitting at my dining room table, looking over a frozen river at a snow-covered hillside. The view could be a Christmas card scene and, until New Year, we enjoy it. Since I don’t skate and my knees don’t like skiing anymore, my appreciation of winter is mostly aesthetic. And just as we start to appreciate the snowy scenes… things go very wrong.
Travel destinations
The Magnolia “empire” Image credit: Magnolia
Popular HGTV show destinations for RVers
By Gail Marsh
Embarking on an RV adventure to visit the hometowns of your favorite HGTV (Home & Garden Television) stars is an exciting way to experience the charm and creativity featured on television. Whether you choose to see Laurel, Mississippi; Waco, Texas; or Snohomish, Washington—you’ll experience unique attractions and bonus! There are comfortable RV accommodations near each HGTV destination. How fun!
Three small towns in Arizona all RVers will enjoy
By Gail Marsh
Exploring Arizona’s small towns offers RV travelers a blend of history, natural beauty, and unique attractions. Here are three charming destinations to consider and where you can camp near each of them.
Photo by Chuck Woodbury in Eastern Washington.
DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE This could have been your daughter or granddaughter!
Rest In Peace, little girl.
Reader poll Should e-bikes be allowed on traditional bike trails?
TAKE A GUESS: Do RVtravel.com readers love or hate peanut butter? Find out here.
Take a break: A song from the past to tickle your funny bone
We hope you enjoy The Automobile Song as much as we do.
Sunday giveaway
No giveaway today. Sorry! We’ll be back next week with a prize that makes up for missing a week!
A very unique short stop… What will you find inside Nevada’s Lovelock cave?
Cannibalistic giants! Back in 1911, while mining for bat guano, two men exploring Nevada’s Lovelock Cave made a shocking discovery. The men found more than 40 abnormally large human skeletons. There was something else very strange about them, too…
?? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?? Want to scare the absolute living heck out of someone? Or want to keep the noisy kids next door away from your campsite? This will most certainly, definitely, positively do the trick! (And please film it so we can see.)
Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter
HOLD YER HORSES, PARTNER… You’re NOT signed up for our RV Daily Tips newsletter? Well yee-haw on over here and sign up. You’re missing out!
In the RV shop with Dustin Easy leaking toilet fix: Replace the “ball seal” on your RV’s toilet
By Dustin Simpson
Welcome to “In the RV Shop with Dustin”. We recently had a customer in the shop with a toilet that was leaking water from the bowl into the holding tank. After performing a simple operation and visual inspection, we narrowed down the culprit to the “ball seal.” Did you know this replacement is so easy that just about anyone can do it? It’s true!
Gadgets and gizmos My new favorite gadget is the secret to the best coffee
By Nanci Dixon
I have a new favorite gadget! I am a morning person. I have no desire to languish in bed—I want my coffee! Then, I want to sit on the sofa with my feet up and read the day’s issue of RVtravel.com. I have finally found the perfect way to make that morning Joe delightful and eliminate the high cost of coffee shop drinks. Continue reading.
Random RV Thoughts
• At this very moment, as you read this, thousands of people across North America are daydreaming about their next RV trip. Some are at work, others at home, others out shopping around town. Daydreaming about an RV trip is not as good as taking the actual trip, but it’s better than daydreaming (day-worrying) about things like mowing a lawn or ironing clothes.
• An excellent way to make instant friends in a campground is to walk with a cute dog (heck, even an ugly dog!). Your fellow campers will comment, which opens the door to further conversation and maybe even a new friendship.
We welcome your Random RV Thoughts. Send to editor@rvtravel.com
RV tire safety What are RV “4 corner weights” and why are they important?
By Roger Marble The idea of “4 corner weight” is usually talking about Class A and C motorhomes longer than 27 feet. The data shows that probably more than half of those larger units can be significantly (1,000 lbs. or more) unbalanced side to side on an axle. Smaller RVs can probably get away with just learning the weight on each axle with the RV and tow vehicle loaded to its heaviest and hooked up ready to travel… Continue reading.
Ask Dave
Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and author of the “RV Handbook”.
RVing with dogs How to find the perfect dog-friendly RV park
By Gail Marsh
When Ron RVed with his dear wife, Lois, he was never lonely. Ron will continue RVing even though Lois passed away last year. However, he recently adopted a dog. “I’ve never RVed with a dog before—or any pet for that matter. How can I find a good RV park? One that’s good for me and my dog?'” Here’s how.
Recipes of the day From appetizers to subs and sliders: 5 meatball recipes everyone will love
We shared this with you last year, but since today is National Meatball Day we just had to share it again! These meatball recipes are so delicious. They’re great for parties, holidays, or for any dinner for just you and your sweetheart. Check these out.
Readers’ pet of the day
“We were camping two hours from our Tampa Bay home in Crystal River, where the overnight temps dipped to a freezing 21 degrees. My Bailey, a year-old Shih Tzu, found a comfy place in the morning to snuggle while I drank my coffee and read my digital paper.” —Robin Newcomer
Want to see your pet in this newsletter? Please send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once.
Don’t kill yourself or loved ones out of ignorance • If you ever feel a shock when touching your RV, take action. Otherwise, you could kill yourself or loved ones.
• If you blow a front tire, do this. The result could be a disaster if you follow your instincts.
Trivia
Did you know that RV isn’t an acronym for recreational vehicle? Nope, it’s an initialism. But what does that mean and what’s the difference? Read Gail Marsh’s story here then quiz yourself to see if you understand the difference.It’s fascinating!
Sunday funny
(Read this one out loud. You’ll laugh harder.)
I bought myself a locket today and I put my own picture in it. I am now independent. (Get it? In-de-pendant.)
Hello, Humans. Johnny Robot here with a story I wrote about two RVers who fall in love at an RV park. Their names are Billy Bob Bodie and Milly MacNutly. It’s a gripping tale filled with drama, suspense and an ending that should warm even the coldest heart.
I used a human-created tool called ChatGPT, which wrote my story using artificial intelligence (A.I.). As a robot, that makes sense because I have no brain. Directly below are my exact instructions to ChatGPT. It created the story that follows in less than 30 seconds. And it didn’t cost me even a dime!
My instructions to Chat GPT: Write a humorous story about Billy Bob Bodine who drove a 24-foot Tioga motorhome that was in terrible shape. It had dents all over. The floor was sinking because of water damage. The decals on the exterior were all peeling off. Billy, 67, was very poor but he was funny, at least he tried to be funny. But, oh, how Billy wanted to fall in love. The problem is he would tell everyone he met one corny joke after another, including non-stop knock-knock jokes and also bar jokes.
Once he met a woman named Milly MacNutly in an RV park and right away started telling jokes. The woman was intrigued and nervously laughed at first, but soon tired of the jokes and Billy after he told her five jokes. She cringed as each one and finally said “Don’t you know anything but jokes you silly old geezer?” Alas, Billy understood from previous encounters and walked, dejected, back to his motorhome, where across the front, above the cab was painted in big bold letters, “Wandering Jokester.”
Now, the story, written 100% by A.I.
Billy Bob Bodine was a character, alright. At 67, his pride and joy was a 24-foot Tioga motorhome that looked like it had survived a tornado, an earthquake, and possibly a dinosaur stampede. The poor thing had more dents than a golf ball, a floor that felt like a waterbed from all the water damage, and decals on the exterior that peeled off like sunburned skin. Yet, it was his home and his stage, with “Wandering Jokester” painted in big, bold letters above the cab.
Billy, despite his financial woes, had a spirit that couldn’t be squashed. He fancied himself a comedian and made it his mission to bring laughter to everyone he met. The problem was that his humor mainly consisted of corny jokes, endless knock-knock jokes, and bar jokes that even the most patient listener would find tiresome. But Billy had hope in his heart, and more than anything, he longed to fall in love.
One sunny afternoon, Billy pulled his rattling, creaking Tioga into an RV park that looked like it had seen better days, much like his motorhome. He set up camp, which involved little more than parking and making sure nothing fell off. As he was doing his routine check (which was more for show than anything), he spotted a woman setting up her own RV a few spaces down. Her name, he would soon learn, was Milly MacNutly.
Milly was a petite woman with a lively sparkle in her eye and a ready smile. She had short, curly hair and a bohemian air about her. Billy’s heart did a little flip-flop, the kind it hadn’t done in years. Gathering his courage and a repertoire of his best jokes, he sauntered over to her.
Meeting Milly
“Howdy, ma’am! Name’s Billy Bob Bodine, but you can call me Billy. Mind if I share a little joke with ya?” he said, tipping his tattered baseball cap.
Milly looked up, surprised but intrigued by the disheveled man standing before her. “Sure, why not?”
“Alrighty then,” Billy said, beaming. “Why don’t skeletons fight each other?”
Milly shrugged, “I don’t know, why?”
“Because they don’t have the guts!” Billy delivered the punchline with a wide grin.
Milly chuckled politely. Encouraged, Billy launched into another joke. “Knock, knock!”
“Who’s there?” Milly replied, still smiling.
“Lettuce.”
“Lettuce who?”
“Lettuce in, it’s cold out here!” Billy slapped his knee, enjoying his own humor.
Milly laughed a little, though it was more out of politeness than genuine amusement. Undeterred, Billy continued. “Two peanuts were walking down the street. One was a-salted!”
Milly giggled, but her smile was starting to wane. Sensing this, Billy rushed into his next joke. “So, a guy walks into a bar…”
“Wait,” Milly interrupted, “Is this another bar joke?”
“Yep!” Billy said proudly. “A guy walks into a bar with a piece of asphalt under his arm. He says, ‘A beer, please, and one for the road!’”
Milly’s laughter was getting more strained, and Billy could sense it. Desperately, he tried one last joke. “Knock, knock!”
“Who’s there?” Milly asked, her patience visibly wearing thin.
“Boo.”
“Boo who?”
“Don’t cry, it’s just a joke!” Billy said, finishing with his signature knee slap.
Milly sighed and gave a small, forced laugh. “Don’t you know anything but jokes, you silly old geezer?”
The words hit Billy like a punch to the gut. His shoulders slumped, and the sparkle in his eyes dimmed. “I guess I’m just a wandering jokester,” he mumbled, turning away.
Dejected Billy
He trudged back to his motorhome, the once lively letters spelling “Wandering Jokester” seeming to mock him. Inside, he sank into the threadbare driver’s seat and stared at the peeling wallpaper. Maybe he was just an old fool, a relic from a time when his jokes might have been funny.
As the sun set, casting a golden hue over the RV park, Billy felt a tap on his shoulder. He turned to see Milly standing there, a soft smile on her face. “Billy,” she said gently, “I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings. It’s just… well, it was a lot of jokes at once.”
Billy managed a small smile. “It’s alright, Milly. I guess I don’t know how to be anything but funny.”
Milly reached out and took his hand. “Maybe you could tell me more about yourself. Without the jokes.”
Billy’s heart swelled with hope. “I’d like that,” he said.
And so, under the fading light, Billy Bob Bodine and Milly MacNutly sat and talked. Billy told stories about his travels, his dreams, and his life. For once, he wasn’t just the Wandering Jokester. He was Billy, a man looking for love, and maybe, just maybe, he had found it.
Today’s RV review is of a trailer you can only get at one dealership network. That isn’t something I would normally cover, quite honestly. But I think this trailer is so different that there are absolutely going to be some of you for whom this is the perfect little rig.
What I’m blathering on about is the new floor plan of the Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15. This trailer is only going to be sold through the Bish’s RV chain, but it had a good inspiration and is such a unique floor plan that I thought it needed to be covered.
What is the Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15?
What you have here is a very small single-axle travel trailer with no slides. It was actually inspired by a member of the Bish’s RV team who wanted to take his son fishing on the weekends but didn’t want a large rig.
To be honest, there are already a lot of little trailers on the market that might fulfill this goal, but nothing with a floor plan that’s anywhere near what this has.
Essentially, this trailer features a bed and couch with a drop-down overhead bunk. So you legitimately could have up to four people in here, although that would be a bit tight. But a parent or grandparent and one or two children? Now you’re cookin’ with gas. Ooh, I think I just aged myself.
Start at the road
If you check the chart below, you’ll see that this is a very affordable RV. So it should come as no surprise that you’re riding on a simple leaf spring suspension here with off-brand tires.
You’ll also find that there is provision for just one propane tank on the tongue of the trailer.
But what did surprise me is that you get four stabilizer jacks—one at each corner. This is a corner many RV builders cut at this price point. There is also a single sewer connection.
Know that this is a wood-framed, aluminum-skinned RV known as a “stick-and-tin” build. Travel trailers have been built like this since the early days because it is a more affordable way to build trailers. And, honestly, it’s fine if you keep on top of the seals around things like windows and doors and such. My 1970 Aristocrat was built like this and didn’t have any leaks, but someone was taking care of it for that half decade of its life.
One possible change
One thing I would like to see changed, however, is that the metal skin on the nose is also a corrugated material. This is going to cause additional aerodynamic drag. I suspect that this may not appeal to people who might be pushing the limits of their tow vehicles as it is.
While I didn’t get to crawl under this trailer myself, I did notice that the fresh water tank was inside the main cabin of the trailer, which will keep it from freezing if the human occupants are kept warm with the furnace.
This is also how my 1970 Aristocrat was built.
Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15 - 2025
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Honest review of the 2025 Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15
Floor plan of the Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15
A 48 x 72 mattress with plenty of windows
A drop down bunk with a 150 pound capacity
A flip-up table can also extend kitchen counter space
A full bathroom but one that's rather tight
A jackknife sofa and two storage closets
Additional storage under the bed is a great place for totes
What’s inside the Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15?
This is where this trailer absolutely stands out to me. The entry to the trailer is at the back, much like a pickup camper. I’ve seen a lot of trailers about this size with a rear entrance, but they’re all configured like pickup campers. This one isn’t.
What you get is a 48” X 72” bed to the right of the entry door with a storage pantry on the left side of the door. This is pretty convenient. And it’s more storage than I’ve seen in comparable campers.
Just beyond the cabinet on the road side is a jackknife sofa that faces the bed. Behind this is a very large window. There are large windows at the back of this little trailer as well as on the camp side. There is more glass coverage in here than in some much larger rigs, quite honestly.
Above the jackknife sofa is a drop-down bunk which can accommodate someone up to 150 pounds. So this is really meant for junior travelers, such as the son that the Bish’s employee wants to take fishing with him.
Kitchen in the Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15
Interestingly, the kitchen in this rig spans most of the width of the front of the trailer with a rather large sink. It has a two-burner propane stove along with a regular microwave.
There are a couple of cabinets below the counter space but, quite honestly, counter space is almost nonexistent. There’s also a smaller 12-volt fridge up front.
But wait. There’s a flip-up dining table over on the camp side and two bar-height stools are included, as well. So you could dramatically extend the amount of counter space by flipping this up. Or, you could use it for dining.
The bathroom in this is in the corner on the road side and it is a wet bath. I am not surprised by this whatsoever. It’s also tight, also not a surprise. This would not be a bathroom for me, but a smaller person could use it. Don’t expect a spa day—but the work can get done here.
What is a pleasant surprise is that there is a power awning on the camp side and also one over the back of the trailer sheltering the entry door.
Another surprise is that there’s storage under the bed and a bit more under the jackknife sofa. I’ve already shared that there’s a closet right at the entry door, but there’s also a second one between the sofa and the bathroom.
Boondocking and travel access
Since there isn’t a slide in this rig, it’s accessible all the time.
As for boondocking, there is a single solar panel on the roof. You could easily add a portable panel to the equation and likely be just fine.
Tank sizes aren’t huge but they’re about what you would be able to fit in a trailer this diminutive, so they’re fine.
Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15 specifications
My thoughts on the Wayfinder RV Go Lite Cloudbreaker 15
For the purpose that this is intended for, I think this is a pretty remarkable little trailer. For a weekender or someone taking one or two children camping, or just a solo camper, this offers a lot of functionality in something this tiny.
The biggest thing I would change would be the corrugated metal on the front, just because I know that would appeal to people with tow vehicles that are on the edge of capability towing this thing around.
But for all the buyers who are looking at RVs that are more than $50,000, I saw this on Bish’s website for under $18,000. To my way of thinking for as unique and usable as this little rig is, that’s one heck of a deal.
Of course, this isn’t for everybody. But for those who would enjoy a floor plan like this, I think it’s a home run.
These RV reviews are written based on information provided by the manufacturers (and, in this case, Bish’s RV) along with our writer’s own research. They are based on information from a single unit and may not reflect your actual experience. Shop your RV and dealership carefully before making a buying decision. They are intended only as a brief overview of the vehicle, not a comprehensive critique, which would require a thorough inspection and/or test drive.
Tony comes to RVtravel.com having worked at an RV dealership and been a lifelong RV enthusiast. He also has written the syndicated Curbside column about cars.
You can also check out Tony and Peggy’s RV podcast.
When you’re on the open road in your RV, staying informed about traffic conditions isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. The 511 traffic system offers real‑time travel information that helps you dodge unexpected delays, plan alternate routes, and keep your trip stress-free.
Let’s dive into the history of 511, see what information it provides, discover the states where it’s available, and learn how it can make your RV adventures smoother and safer.
A brief history
The idea behind the 511 traffic system began in the mid‑1990s as a research project aimed at improving traveler information services. The idea of this service first originated with individual cities and states. The U.S. Department of Transportation later supported it.
The system was designed to consolidate various road condition phone numbers into one simple, three‑digit dial code. In 2000, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officially assigned 511 for traveler information services. By the early 2000s, pilot programs were up and running in areas like Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Today, 511 has grown into a nationwide tool that continues to evolve as technology advances.
Photo credit: Noah Berger
What information does 511 provide?
No matter where you’re headed, 511 is your go‑to resource for timely, accurate road and travel updates. Here’s what you can expect when you dial 511 or check a compatible app:
• Traffic conditions: Get updates on congestion, accidents, and road hazards.
• Road closures and construction: Stay aware of temporary or permanent roadwork that could affect your route.
• Weather alerts: Receive notifications about weather conditions that might impact driving safety.
• Transit information: Some systems also provide details on public transportation schedules and routes.
• Alternate routes and detour recommendations: Discover the best alternative paths when delays occur.
Note: It’s important to know state driving laws. If a state has a no cell phone usage while driving ordinance, pull over and stop before making your 511 call.
States offering the 511 traffic system
Today, 511 services are available in many states across the U.S.—from California and Arizona to Minnesota, Virginia, and beyond.
While each state might tailor its information to local needs, the core benefits remain the same: a free, accessible tool to help drivers navigate ever‑changing road conditions.
More ways to access 511 services
In addition to dialing 511, travelers can also find information online. For example, if you need current travel information for Arizona, use az511.com. For other states, simply type the state’s two letter abbreviation followed by 511.com (some locations may be 511.org).
You can also download a 511 app from your app store. Search for 511 followed by the name of the state you need.
How the 511 traffic system helps RVers
RV travel comes with its own set of challenges—bigger vehicles need more room, and unexpected delays can mean lost time at campgrounds or missed opportunities at local attractions. Here’s how 511 can make a difference on your journey:
• Route planning: By providing real‑time updates on traffic and road conditions, 511 helps you choose the smoothest path, saving both time and fuel.
• Avoiding hazards: Receive immediate alerts about accidents, road closures, or severe weather so you can reroute before getting caught in trouble.
• Enhancing safety: RVs have different handling characteristics compared to cars. Knowing what lies ahead can help you prepare for sharp turns or heavy traffic areas.
• Free and accessible: Whether via a phone call, website, or smartphone app, 511 is designed to be user‑friendly and accessible even when you’re away from a computer.
Stay connected with 511
For RVers, planning is everything. Your home on wheels demands careful coordination, and the last thing you need is a traffic snarl or unforeseen road closure throwing your schedule off.
By staying connected with 511, you gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re always one step ahead. Whether you’re traveling long distances or exploring new local roads, 511’s real‑time information allows you to:
• Reduce stress: Avoid the frustration of unexpected delays.
• Save money: Dodge costly detours and extra fuel consumption.
• Boost safety: Ensure a smoother ride by avoiding hazardous conditions.
Taking advantage of 511 means you can focus more on the adventure and less on the logistics.
Final thoughts
Your RV journey should be about exploration and enjoyment, not worrying about what lies ahead on the highway. The 511 traffic system is a valuable tool that brings together crucial information on road conditions, weather, and transit services—all at no cost to you.
Before you hit the road, check 511 for the latest updates and travel with confidence, knowing you’re making the smartest route choices for a safe and stress‑free trip.
Do you (or have you ever) used the 511 traffic system as you travel? Tell us in the comments below.
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Tip of the day
“Mae (Springer Spaniel) was one of my granddogs–she was always ready to sit with me. We got this larger chair so we’d both fit!” —Bev Waldron
