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RV review: Brinkley Model Ix 24x— affordable but top-notch

Tony Barthel
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RV review: Brinkley Model Ix 24x— affordable but top-notch

Today’s RV review is of the new-for-2026 Brinkley Model Ix 24x. This is a bunk model travel trailer that offers some features unique to Brinkley and one that balances size and interior spaciousness rather well. I tend to like trailers about this size since that’s what I’ve chosen myself.

I also like that this has a separate entrance to the outside for the front bedroom. Also, there is no ridiculous windshield on these to require you to go buy a $400 protective cover just so you can tow the trailer around. Whatever happened to protective covers being installed on trailers, anyway? Oh, well. This solution works fine for me in a bedroom. 

How the Brinkley Model Ix 24x is built

As always, I like to start at the outside before going in, and there’s a lot to unpack here. First of all, this trailer is built differently from other laminated travel trailers. Most laminated trailers use a fiberglass outside skin, which is just fine and tends to last a long time. But this uses a thin sheet of aluminum, instead. 

That aluminum is bonded to the rest of the sandwich, which makes up the outside of this RV. That sandwich consists of a man-made substrate layer (used to be Azdel was the sole provider of this; now there’s competition!), then either an aluminum rib or block foam insulation, then an inner layer. These are all glued together to make a strong yet lightweight wall. 

What makes this build stand out is that the aluminum is painted rather than being a single color with stickers as the accents. This should look new significantly longer than stickers, which fade within just a few years. There are a few other RVs doing this now, including the Keystone Reign. 

Another thing I like is that it uses an Alpha Ply roofing system. It’s a membrane-style roof with a lifetime warranty on the material itself. The sealants also tend to off-gas less and require less maintenance. Of course, no RV roof is completely maintenance-free—but I’ve had Alpha Ply roofs on my Rockwood trailers for years and have never needed to rework the seals. It’s good stuff.

There is a single slide room in this trailer, and that room uses the Lippert Thin Rack system. That isn’t bad and reportedly addresses some of the issues that have plagued the Schwintek system. 

Window assembly

I also really like that Brinkley was the first, to my knowledge, to use a window assembly that incorporates the shades and screens in the window build. I like how clean these are, but they have also proven to be durable. 

This does have two connection points for the sewer: a front gray tank and a black-and-gray connection. The gate valves themselves are on remote pulls, so the valves are within the heated and enclosed underbelly. 

The stabilizers on this are simple manual stabilizers. There is so much to be said about keeping things simple. These are also set at a 45° angle to the chassis, which, I’ve been told, offers better stabilization. 

The suspension here is a simple leaf spring setup, although it does employ the Lippert Road Armor suspension dampener. This rides on Hankook tires, which is fine. However, there is no mention of tire pressure monitoring, which, to me, is unacceptable in any towable RV. Thankfully, the RVIA just set a new standard to require tire pressure monitoring in towables, but it seems a disservice to someone buying a more premium brand not to have it. 

The front pass-through is heated. Brinkley has installed multiple shut-off switches for the power in here so you can disable just the solar panels or the whole trailer. Nice touch. 

Let’s go inside the Brinkley Model Ix 24x

As mentioned, this is a bunkhouse trailer with the bathroom in the rear. One feature I really like is Brinkley’s unique desk setup. The desk folds neatly into a wall cabinet and can be pulled out in sections when needed. It also comes with a couple of folding seats, and there’s a drawer at the front for extra storage.

The counter above this desk/table thingamabobber is part of a very significant amount of counter space that flows into the kitchen of this rig. That kitchen features a large, square sink and a three-burner propane cooktop. But that cooktop is more of a professional gadget than the sheet metal thing you’ll find in most RVs. 

Above that is a residential-sized convection air fryer microwave. There is no propane oven in here. 

The drawers are top-notch with dovetail construction. Brinkley also has a pull-out trash can and their now-famous drawer that has a paper towel holder in it. Quite honestly, this is a great kitchen, although I know some folks won’t like that there is no propane oven. But at least there’s not that awful 17” RV oven. 

The fridge in here is the same as in my own RV, and I find it to be remarkably efficient. 

Storage

There’s also a pantry, so storage is plentiful. Another place where storage is good includes under the lower bunk, where you’ll find four drawers, two large open drawers, and then two with dividers. This solves the problem that exists in many bunkhouse models of storage for the folks sleeping in the bunks. 

You have a choice of theater seats or a folding couch. The living space is open enough that you could bring some folding camp chairs in on a rainy day if you choose to. Don’t forget, there are those two folding chairs. 

The bathroom is big enough with a porcelain toilet and a high-performance vent fan.

This is a 50-amp trailer but comes with a single Furrion Chill Cube 18,000 BTU central A/C unit. How well that solves your problem of being too cool for school obviously depends on when and where you camp, but you can add a second A/C easily in the bedroom. 

Front bedroom in the Brinkley Model Ix 24x

The bedroom up front features a proper queen-sized (60” x 80”) bed. Mimicking the bunk drawers are four drawers under the bed, and there’s still space under the bed for more storage, as well. 

I love the fact that there is no windshield in the bedroom, as you can tell. There also is no window in the door to the bedroom from the outside. I’m cool with this, too. There is a window right next to the door if you hear the Sheriff knocking on the door and need to figure out what your spouse did. This time. Again. 

On either side of the bed is a hanging closet and a drawer. Behind the closet door is also an upper shelf for smaller items. This is a nice little touch. 

There’s also the obligatory space behind the closets with power outlets to charge your digital gadgets, even though you’re not really supposed to be reading RVtravel.com before bed, although we’re grateful that you do!

Boondocking and travel access in the Brinkley Model Ix 24x

I was surprised to learn that the whole trailer is basically usable even with the slide room in. Good job, Brinkley! Now, you do have to use the front exterior door to get to the front bedroom and the rear exterior door to get to the rest of the trailer, which remains functional. But I’m good with this compromise.

There is a single 200-watt solar panel, which may be able to compensate for the fridge’s use. I guess this is more of a battery tender than anything. For those who want to camp off the grid, either some ground-deployed portable panels or going whole-hog on a rooftop system is the way to go.

One more thing: There are 46 gallons of fresh water capacity in this trailer. That might go pretty quickly if you are camping with a whole load of people, but you will probably already know that.

Final thoughts on the Brinkley Model Ix 24x

This is the most affordable line in the Brinkley family, and yet, for the most part, it really has mostly top-notch features and equipment. In other words, it doesn’t feel entry-level by any means. 

An example of Brinkley paying attention to details is the little bar-sized fridge outside the trailer, which runs on 12 volts. This makes sense—your beer will be cold when you arrive at camp rather than waiting for a 120VAC fridge to cool it down once you finally get there. Little details matter, and I think it’s stuff like this that is earning Brinkley a good reputation. 

My thanks to Josh from Bish’s RV for the video and photos in this article.

More about these RV reviews

These RV reviews are written based on information provided by the manufacturers 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.

MORE BRINKLEY RV REVIEWS:

Jellystone Parks expands campgrounds to be as pet-friendly as family-friendly

RV Travel
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Jellystone Parks expands campgrounds to be as pet-friendly as family-friendly

Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts are expanding pet-friendly amenities, accommodations, and activities across their network of more than 75 franchised locations in the U.S. and Canada, as demand grows among RVers traveling with pets.

“We’re as pet-friendly as we are family-friendly,” said Trent Hershenson, vice president of marketing for Camp Jellystone, the Southfield, Michigan-based franchisor.

New dog-friendly amenities roll out across parks

New features include added infrastructure at several parks, highlighted by a dog splash park at the Uniontown, Ohio location—the first Yogi Bear-themed campground to introduce a dedicated water play area for dogs. The setup includes a wading pool and dog-friendly splash elements, joining existing amenities like dog parks, agility courses, and pet wash stations found at multiple locations.

Campgrounds are also increasing pet-friendly accommodations. More parks now offer RV sites and cabins designed with pets in mind, including fenced-in areas and private enclosures. Locations in Pelahatchie, Mississippi, and Quarryville, Pennsylvania, report pet-friendly cabins, while others have added dog runs, bark parks, and designated pet activity zones.

Campgrounds introduce pet-focused events

Programming is expanding alongside the physical upgrades. Many locations now host pet-centered events such as dog costume contests, pet parades, and themed weekends like “Pet Lovers Weekend,” “Pet Palooza,” and “Furry Friends Weekend.” Activities often include petting zoos, animal encounters, and interactive contests for both pets and their owners.

Some parks are also adding structured, ongoing programming. The Pittsfield, Illinois, location offers daily meetups for large and small dogs, while the Pelahatchie park hosts a weeklong event featuring pet-themed crafts and competitions. Other parks incorporate traveling petting zoos, wildlife weekends, and adoption events.

The pet-focused expansion builds on Jellystone Park’s broader family-oriented model, which includes pools, water slides, mini golf, and Yogi Bear-themed entertainment through its partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences.

For RVers, the move reflects a broader shift across the campground industry to better accommodate travelers who want to bring pets along—without sacrificing the amenities and activities typically geared toward families.

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When is a claim of a ‘defective tire’ not correct?

Roger Marble
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When is a claim of a ‘defective tire’ not correct?

I’ve been following a forum from one brand of RVs that was discussing a tire that failed. At the end of the thread, one person said the tire was “defective.” I decided to post a generic article on “tire defects.”

Tire Blowout Roger RVT 1257
Tire failure

Tire failures

It is easy to claim some “defect” in a tire that has failed, until you are asked to describe the specific “defect.” Having been involved in a number of class-action lawsuits, it is interesting to note how many plaintiffs start with a claim that “the tire was defective.” Yet, when asked for a specific description of what the “defect” was, I usually got the sound of crickets back.

In my 45 years as a tire design and forensic engineer, I have personally inspected and done “autopsies” on many thousands of tires at “end of life.” I have made presentations to many car company engineers who start the meeting with the question of, “What was wrong with the tire?” and end up with an understanding that external actions were usually the “root cause” for the tire’s condition.

There are some tire manufacturing errors

Not all tires are error-free, and I have seen tires with manufacturing errors. In fact, it was my personal inspection of some brand-new tires that resulted in a recall of some 3,000 tires. I was able to identify the “mistake” or mis-production that occurred. I did not simply say the tires were “defective,” but was able to identify the specific mistake and even identify what step in the production process resulted in a group of tires being classified as “defective.”

It only took a couple of weeks to accumulate production data and identify that 86 tires contained the improper rubber compound in a specific location of the subject tires. DOT was notified and they accepted the results of our inspection and analysis and approved a recall.

If I had simply said “The tires have a defect,” it would have been impossible to identify the error and identify the tires that were produced with the mistake.

Tires don’t fail because of “magic”

Tires do not fail because of some “Black Magic.” But if you want to make a claim of some mysterious “defect,” you will probably be mistaken.

If you insist on claiming there was a defect, then, in my professional opinion, you should be prepared to identify the specific error that was made during manufacturing. Or else just say, “It’s magic.”

If you review these posts here and in my blog RVTireSafety.net you will see that I have not made the claim that the tire failed due to some mysterious magical “defect.” I am hoping to educate people on the steps to take to prevent a future tire failure. The “defect” claim helps no one, in my opinion.

Roger Marble

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If you have tire questions, check out Roger’s posts on RVtravel.com. There are hundreds of posts covering everything to do with tires.

If you still have a question for Roger after searching the above posts, send your inquiries to him using the form below.

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Beyond the headlines with Tony Barthel: Bad behavior crackdown, risky road trips and Zion camping restrictions

Tony Barthel
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Beyond the headlines with Tony Barthel: Bad behavior crackdown, risky road trips and Zion camping restrictions

This week’s news insights are a bit different for the simple reason that this week has been a bit different in my world. I was invited to a product reveal of a motorhome manufacturer, who shall presently remain nameless, to look over the 2027 offerings, and this happened to be in Alabama. 

For a lot of reasons, I don’t fly. I have an RV, but I also own a car, and most of the country isn’t horribly far from my home base in New Mexico. Now, the interesting thing is, the car I have is a VW ID.4, which we bought after the tax incentives disappeared, and used EVs became super bargains. 

Our intention was to just piddle around town in a car that was a remarkable bargain used car, but I thought I’d try a long road trip from New Mexico to Alabama in the car. That means two things: A story, of course, and an endless stream of podcasts, including those with RV news to reflect upon. Here are some of the highlights. 

Zion National Park crowd
Shuttle lines at the Temple of Sinawava during the 2023 Fourth of July weekend.
NPS / Jonathan Shafer

Our behavior is lousy, and they’re taking away the toys

I really like Jason and Abby Epperson’s podcasts—RV Miles and PARKography. This first segment comes from PARKography, where Jason reported that the BLM is proposing major changes to boondocking near Zion National Park. 

Boondocking near the entrance is a big pressure relief valve for the very popular destination, where campsites can fill up well in advance. A lot of people choose to use our national lands, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, to stay outside the park. 

Their shared story was that the BLM was seeing more damage to the lands, including soil compaction, as well as people leaving trash and even human waste, along with putting up unpermitted fire pits. No surprise, some people are ruining it for many.

The BLM is considering closing off much of the 14,000 acres around Zion and directing people to specific areas, as well as paid campsites. This includes the land around Utah State Route 9—the main gateway to the park. If you’re wondering, yes, this includes Hurricane Cliffs, Gooseberry Cliffs, and Smithsonian Butte.

This is the first story where the moral is that some people’s moms didn’t teach them well. 

Yellowstone National Park
Visitors walking on the boardwalks at Mammoth Hot Springs. NPS photo

Stay on the paths already

A second story in Jason’s coverage centered around a man from Texas who wandered off the designated paths at Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone, causing damage to the natural landscape. (We covered this last week.) Apparently, he’s not alone. 

But he does get to become a guest of the local jail, where he will be spending five days. Apparently, park officials are sick of these misdeeds and are doing more to teach them what their moms should have taught them—common sense and respect for the signs.

From the news report, apparently, some 20 people have died in recent years by doing the same thing as our friend from the Lone Star State, where they break through the potentially thin crust and boil to death in the steamy water. 

Also, as for my long drive, why is it every time I curse someone’s driving, they have a Texas plate? Do we need to just put the whole state on a time-out? 

Long drives can be dangerous

My ears perked up when I heard Mike Wendland interview a doctor about the dangers of long drives, since I was listening to an episode of the RV Podcast while enduring a long drive, myself. 

What was said was that sitting for hours watching bugs splatter on your windshield can actually be very unhealthy for you. Blood clots can form in your legs, causing arterial problems, but those blood clots can migrate and cause lung problems, too. It’s not good. 

Unfortunately for those of us who have to scroll through a lot of years to get to our birth year when filling things out online and who also displace a lot of water in the pool, gulp, it’s especially bad. The doctor shared some tips for taking breaks and also simple exercises that can help potentially minimize the chance that your RV journey might include a ride in a shiny red ambulance. 

(Hint: We have a story about this coming in tomorrow’s RV Travel newsletter.)

Each type of RV traveler is different. This one likes to drink coffee around a campfireGoing outside can be good for your health

Finally, on another episode of the RV Podcast, Mike Wendland shared a press release he had been sent by Daniel Stone from TGA Mobility. 

In the press release, Stone said that many of our sleep issues are related to our exposure to daylight. His claim was that you should get at least 10 minutes of genuine outdoorsy sunshine before 10 a.m., which helps your internal body clock establish a rhythm. 

You should also experience a darker environment at night than the one you woke up to. 

Apparently, doing this simple thing can help you get to sleep at night and sleep better, as well. 

Sleep deprivation affects balance and reaction time. According to the news release, fixing your sleep pattern can actually help you in these areas. 

This could explain why we just sleep better when camping—we spend more time outside.

To see all recent news for RVers, click here. 

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Would you feel comfortable relying on AI for medical advice while RVing?

RV Travel
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Would you feel comfortable relying on AI for medical advice while RVing?

There you are—miles from the nearest town, parked somewhere beautiful, when something doesn’t feel right. Maybe it’s a weird rash, a lingering cough, or that “Is this serious or not?” kind of question that always seems to come up at the worst time. When you’re traveling in an RV, getting quick, reliable medical advice isn’t always easy… and that’s exactly where new technology is stepping in.

Over the past few years, telehealth has become a go-to for many RVers. A quick video call, a prescription sent to a nearby pharmacy, and you’re back to enjoying your trip. But now, there’s something new entering the picture: AI-powered health tools. Amazon just rolled out its new health assistant through Amazon Health AI, designed to answer medical questions, guide care decisions, and even help connect you with real providers—all from your phone or laptop. For RVers who are often far from clinics or urgent care, that kind of access could be a game changer.

But, it also raises a big question: Would you trust it?

Maybe for you, the idea of typing symptoms into an AI tool feels no different than what you’ve already been doing for years—just faster and (hopefully) more accurate. For others of you, it’s a hard no. When it comes to your health, especially on the road where options can already feel limited, relying on a digital assistant instead of a real, in-person doctor can feel like a big leap.

There’s also the reality that not all situations are equal. Getting advice for a minor issue while you’re boondocking in the desert is one thing. Dealing with something more serious in a remote area is another. Maybe AI is great as a first step—but not something you’d fully rely on.

Still, as RV travel and technology continue to collide, this is likely just the beginning. Between expanding cell coverage, satellite internet like Starlink, and now AI-powered health tools, the idea of having “doctor-like” access from anywhere is becoming more real than ever.

So what about you? Would you feel comfortable relying on AI for medical advice while RVing? Please leave a comment after you vote.

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

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The 2026 Grand Design Imagine AIM 19MLA hits a sweet spot

Gail Marsh
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The 2026 Grand Design Imagine AIM 19MLA hits a sweet spot

The 2026 Grand Design Imagine AIM 19MLA is one of those travel trailers that hits the sweet spot that I think many RVers are looking for right now.

It’s compact enough to tow without stress yet designed to feel open and livable once you step inside.

If you’re someone who values smart storage, a modern interior, and manageable towing weight, this trailer makes a strong case for itself.

Screenshot

Behind the walls

Grand Design has built a reputation for solid construction, and the Imagine 19MLA continues that trend. This RV features a laminated aluminum-framed structure with fiberglass exterior walls. It’s designed to provide a balance of durability and lighter weight.

The 19MLA roof is fully walkable and constructed with a crowned design to help shed water. The underbelly is fully enclosed and heated for extended-season camping.

This model includes one slide-out, which significantly opens up the living space. I think the slide gives the interior a much roomier feel than you’d expect from a sub-25-foot trailer.

Key specs

  • Length: approximately 23 feet 11 inches
  • Dry weight: about 5,176 pounds
  • GVWR: 6,995 pounds
  • Hitch weight: 490 pounds
  • Fresh water capacity: 52 gallons
  • Gray water capacity: 45 gallons
  • Black water capacity: 45 gallons
  • Awning: 16-foot power awning
  • Price: typically ranges from $34,000 to $42,000, depending on options and dealer

Interior and living space

Walking into the 19MLA, the first thing you’ll notice is how open it feels for its size. The slide-out creates a comfortable flow between the kitchen and living area. Large windows bring in plenty of natural light and visually open the space.

Grand Design uses a clean, modern aesthetic, with neutral tones, bright cabinetry, and subtle accents that make the space feel fresh.

It’s a layout that seems doable for weekend trips or extended stays.

Kitchen

The kitchen in the 19MLA is impressively functional, given the small footprint. The good news is that there’s a lot of counter space. The bad news is that much of the counter space to the left of the sink seems difficult to access. I suppose a toaster or coffee maker could ‘live’ there, but it won’t work well for prep space, in my mind at least.

19mla Kitchen Web

I appreciate the deep stainless-steel sink, two-burner cooktop, microwave, and a mid-size refrigerator. Storage is plentiful and well-positioned. I especially like the fully extended pullout drawers and soft-close cabinets. There’s even a pantry area that adds valuable food storage for longer trips.

Living/dining area

The living area centers around comfortable theater seating with a TV positioned directly across for easy viewing. Also across from the recliners is a convenient eating/desk area. It’s outfitted with a wall-hugging bar and two free standing bar stools that allow you to watch the sunrise while you enjoy breakfast.

There is plenty of storage in this area for electronics and gear. The large windows here really make the space feel connected to the outdoors.

19mla F2b Web

Bath

The bathroom is compact but efficient. It features a corner shower with handy, small built-in shelves, which I much prefer over a bench that takes up space. The shower includes a skylight, which adds headroom for taller campers. The skylight also brings in natural light, preventing the space from feeling cramped.

The AIM 19MLA also has a foot-flush toilet and a vanity with storage underneath. The vanity top offers space for essentials, and above you’ll find a medicine cabinet. I was surprised to find additional storage nooks in this space, as well.

The bathroom ventilation is handled with a powered fan to help keep moisture under control during longer stays.

19mla Bathroom Web

Bedroom

At the front of the AIM 19MLA trailer, a queen bed offers a comfortable space for sleeping.  Bed access is somewhat limited, with one side of the bed up against the wall.

There are overhead cabinets and a bedside wardrobe for clothing, as well as six generous cubbies located at the foot of the bed.

A small niche functions as a tiny nightstand on one side of the bed. I’m not sure if a CPAP will fit there. You’ll also see USB ports and outlets conveniently placed for charging your devices.

Bed

It’s not a private bedroom with a solid door or privacy curtain, which makes sense in a small camper. Still, designers were able to include practical space for clothing and shoes. If you enjoy watching TV, the 32 in. television pivots so that you can also watch while in bed.

Overall take

The 2026 Grand Design Imagine AIM 19MLA is a great example of how far compact travel trailers have come. This unit delivers a comfortable, residential feel without requiring a super heavy-duty truck to tow it.

I appreciate the thoughtful layout and smart use of space. It just may be the near-perfect downsized RV.

Here’s a video walkthrough for you to see the AIM 19MLA for yourself. Tell us your likes and dislikes about this RV using the comments below.

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Public lands camping near Zion National Park may change

RV Travel
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Public lands camping near Zion National Park may change

RVers could soon see more developed camping options along the busy corridor between Hurricane, Utah, and Zion National Park, as federal officials consider changes to how camping is managed in the area.

The Bureau of Land Management is proposing two new campgrounds, one near a former quarry and another on Gooseberry Mesa, that together would add roughly 230 sites with basic amenities.

At the same time, the plan would sharply reduce dispersed camping across nearly 14,000 acres of public land, pretty much limiting campers to designated sites.

This will be viewed by RVers as good news or bad news, depending upon how and where they camp. Those who prefer camping in designated areas with individual campsites will likely welcome this news. Those who boondock on public lands wherever they choose may not be happy.

Officials say the changes are needed to address environmental damage from heavy use, including trash and human waste pollution, and vegetation loss.

Critics argue the move could make it harder for RVers to find affordable places to stay near one of the nation’s most popular national parks, where campsites are already difficult to come by.

The proposal is still under review, with a final decision expected after the appeal process concludes.

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Amazon launches Health AI, bringing medical care to RVers anywhere

RV Travel
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Amazon launches Health AI, bringing medical care to RVers anywhere

Amazon has launched a new Health AI assistant designed to answer medical questions, guide care decisions, and connect users with real providers—all from a phone or laptop.

For RVers, it could help solve a common problem: getting reliable health guidance while on the road and far from home.

What it does

The tool functions as a virtual health assistant. It can:

  • Answer symptom-based questions
  • Explain lab results and medical terms
  • Suggest next steps, from self-care to urgent care
  • Help schedule virtual or in-person appointments
  • Assist with prescription refills
  • It can also integrate with your health information (if you allow it) to provide more personalized responses.

What makes it great for RVers

Access to healthcare is often inconsistent on the road. Clinics may be far away, unfamiliar, or booked out.

Amazon’s Health AI is built for exactly that gap:

  • Available 24/7 anywhere you have internet
  • Helps you decide how serious something is before seeking care
  • Reduces unnecessary urgent care visits
  • Provides continuity when you’re moving between states

In short, it adds a layer of decision-making support when your regular doctor isn’t nearby.

Screenshot

Cost and what’s included

  • Health AI access: Free for basic use
  • Amazon Prime members: Up to five free message-based consultations per year
  • Covers common conditions like colds, allergies, and minor infections
  • Additional care: Telehealth visits start around $29

An optional Amazon One Medical membership runs about $99/year for Prime members. With that membership, you get 24/7 on-demand virtual care, easy messaging with a consistent care team, fast appointments, and help with prescriptions and ongoing health needs. It’s designed to act like a portable primary care provider—something RVers often don’t have while traveling.

Screenshot

What it doesn’t replace

Amazon makes it clear this isn’t a substitute for emergency care. It’s designed to help guide decisions, but not diagnose complex conditions or handle serious situations.

Bottom line

For RVers, Amazon Health AI could become a practical travel tool. It offers quick answers, basic triage, and easier access to care, all without needing to track down a clinic in an unfamiliar place.

If you spend a lot of time on the road, that kind of backup could make a noticeable difference.

To learn more about Amazon Health AI, click here.

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Got a Norcold fridge? Here’s what the Norcold bankruptcy could mean for your warranty

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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Got a Norcold fridge? Here’s what the Norcold bankruptcy could mean for your warranty

If you own a Norcold refrigerator and still have an active warranty, you may be wondering what happens next.

According to reports from RV owners and service technicians, the outlook isn’t reassuring. When Norcold filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and shifted into a court-approved liquidation plan, the company began winding down operations rather than restructuring. That distinction is critical: warranties typically rely on a company continuing to operate—and honor them—which may no longer be the case here.

Why your warranty may not work as you expect

In a typical bankruptcy, where a company reorganizes and keeps operating, warranties often stay in place. But Norcold’s case took a different path. The court approved a liquidation plan, which shifts the focus from keeping customers happy to paying creditors what’s left.

That puts most existing warranties into the category of pre-bankruptcy obligations. In plain terms, that means they don’t function like normal service coverage anymore. They may be treated as claims in bankruptcy court, and payment—if any—can be limited or nonexistent.

It’s not that your warranty document disappears. It’s that the company backing it has changed or may effectively be gone.

Could a new owner step in?

There is a possible bright spot, though it comes with a big asterisk.

A buyer—identified in filings as Dave Carter & Associates—stepped in to acquire Norcold’s assets. That can include brand names, parts inventory, and distribution channels.

What it usually does not include is old warranty liability, unless the buyer explicitly agrees to take that on.

So far, there’s been no clear, public indication that existing Norcold warranties are being broadly honored under new ownership. That leaves most RVers in a gray area.

What RV owners were already dealing with

If this sounds like a sudden change, it really isn’t.

Even before the bankruptcy, RVers were reporting problems getting warranty claims approved or even processed.

One owner described a brand-new refrigerator that never worked properly, only to have Norcold decline warranty responsibility and point back to the RV manufacturer instead.¹

Another RVer dealing with a failed unit said trying to get authorization for warranty repair turned into an exercise in delays, long phone hold times, and being told to wait months for service.²

And in some cases, claims were denied outright over technicalities. One owner reported a repair refusal because corrosion was labeled “owner neglect,” leaving them stuck with the bill.³

Even technicians acknowledge how narrow the process can be. Warranty claims typically must go through authorized dealers, and if that chain breaks down, “you may be stuck with the bill.”⁴

Warranty sometimes is just a piece of paper with little or no value.

The bigger concern: orphaned refrigerators

For many RVers, the worry goes beyond warranty coverage: It’s what happens next.

If getting a claim handled was already a challenge, what happens when the company behind the product is being dismantled?

That’s where the term “orphaned refrigerator” starts coming into play: units still working today, but with an uncertain future if something breaks. Parts are still moving for now. But long-term support depends on who controls those assets, and whether supporting older units is part of the plan.

What this means for your next move

If your Norcold unit is working fine, there’s no reason to panic. Plenty of these refrigerators are still out there doing their job every day.

But if you’re counting on warranty coverage for a repair, it’s worth adjusting expectations now. Start with your dealer. Check whether you have any third-party service contract. And if something fails, be prepared for the possibility that it’s coming out of your pocket.

Some RVers are already making that calculation. Faced with repeat failures or warranty headaches, a number have opted to replace their units outright rather than fight through the process again.⁵

The bottom line

For RVers holding a Norcold warranty, the paperwork may still be valid—but the backing behind it has changed. And if past owner experience is any guide, that backing was already starting to feel shaky.

Now, many RVers are planning accordingly.

Sources:
1 Thor Forums — Norcold fridge warranty denial discussion
2 Grand Design RV Owners Forum — Warranty claim delays discussion
3 iRV2 Forums — Warranty coverage denial thread
4 JustAnswer — Technician response on Norcold warranty process
5 LiveWorkDream — Norcold refrigerator replacement experience

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Ford recalls 1.3 million trucks: drivers could lose control

RV Travel
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Ford recalls 1.3 million trucks: drivers could lose control

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling more than 1.3 million model year 2015-2017 F-150 trucks.

A loss of signal between the transmission range sensor (TRS) and the powertrain control module can cause the transmission to unexpectedly downshift into second gear.

The unexpected downshift to the lower gear could cause an abrupt wheel speed reduction for a short duration, which in some situations could cause the rear tires to slide until the vehicle speed slows. This condition could result in loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Identification of a problem

In some cases of TRS degradation, a driver may notice an illuminated malfunction indicator light (MIL) or wrench light in the instrument cluster

The recall was issued April 14 and may affect as many as 1,392,935 vehicles with six-speed automatic transmissions that were built between March 12, 2014 and August 18, 2017.

Remedy

Dealers will update the powertrain control module software, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed April 27.

Additional letters will be sent once the final remedy is available, anticipated in July 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 26S28. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 15, 2026.

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RV Daily Tips. Friday, April 17, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Friday, April 17, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2885 • New issue every weekday
If you find this newsletter helpful, please consider supporting our work with a donation of your choice. Thank you!

Today’s thought

“It takes half your life before you discover life is a do-it-yourself project.” —Napoleon Hill

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Cheeseball Day!

On this day in history: 1907 – The Ellis Island immigration center processes 11,747 people, more than on any other day.

Tip of the day
How to easily refresh your RV’s bedroom

By Gail Marsh
If your RV bedroom feels a little tired, the best (and easiest) ways to give it a refresh are to consider the following areas: window coverings, bedding, lighting, storage, and personal details.

Using light colors, soft textures, clean lines, and smart design makes a small RV bedroom feel calmer and more finished. Read on to see what I mean.

69c9b740682bda7551246534RV review
2026 Forest River Sunseeker 2350LE—comfort for couples

The 2026 Forest River Sunseeker 2350LE is a compact Class C. It makes the most of its short footprint and is best suited for couples or single travelers. If you’re looking to downsize or jump into RVing, this may be a good choice. What’s more, you have the option to choose either a Chevy 3500 or Ford E350 chassis. Check it out.

In the RV shop with Dustin
Checking out the Dicor Butyl Rubber Sealant

Here, I [Dustin] compare the original butyl/putty tape application to Dicor Butyl Rubber Sealant. I share my initial thoughts and the pros and cons of this product. Learn all about it here.

RV Camping in Corps of Engineers Parks
Many RVers consider Corps of Engineers campgrounds to be the best in the country. This guide is just for RVers. Of all the public lands, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has some of the best parks and campgrounds available. It’s the largest federal provider of outdoor recreation in the nation! Learn more or order.

 BE COOL THIS SUMMER: Run your RV’s air conditioner when you otherwise cannot! Learn why our publisher Chuck Woodbury raves about this.

Article and video
Essential IKEA RV gear for 2026

A lot of RV owners make the same mistake at first. They spend too much on camping gear that looks smart on the shelf, then find out it works worse than regular home stuff. Here, Jason Epperson of RV Miles makes a simple case for IKEA. For RV living, the best buys are often cheap, compact and easy to store, and not fancy. That idea shows up right away in the most-used parts of the rig. Continue reading for all the best products and then watch the video.

Featured article
Around the Campfire: To grease or not to grease a trailer’s hitch ball?

By Gail Marsh
To grease or not to grease a trailer’s hitch ball? That was the question around the campfire a few nights ago. Everyone seemed to have an opinion about greasing the trailer’s hitch ball, and were eager to share in the discussion. Read more.

CUTE FACT: Cows have best friends, and they get stressed when separated. So, yes, that herd you passed might actually be a bunch of road-tripping (er, field-tripping) buddies.

“WHY DO I ALWAYS MISS OUT?” That’s what you’ll say if you miss a super-great bargain today only on something you really want! CHECK HERE!

Ask Dave
What is the difference between a surge protector, EMS, and EPO? Do I need one?

Dave answers here.

You may have missed these recent popular stories…

MotorFun! The Motor Mixer stirs your beverages
This is funny! We love it! This little motorized stirrer is fun in a mug. Shaped like a vintage outboard motor, it winds up by hand (no batteries!) and gently mixes coffee, tea, or hot chocolate while giving you a grin. Check it out.

Reader poll
In the last 5 years, what’s the largest number of people who have slept overnight in your RV at one time?

Respond here.

IT’S AMAZING AND TRUE! View and participate in more than 2,000 of our previous polls!

Quick tip
RV kitchen drains are different

Don’t treat your RV drains like the ones at home. Pouring grease, coffee grounds, or anything that’s not truly a liquid down the sink (or toilet) is asking for trouble. Clogs, fouled up level sensors, and evil smells are just a few problems you can avoid by treating your waste system kindly.

On this day last year…

Website of the day

Florida Trippers
This website from local Florida residents will help you plan your trip to Florida… any type of trip! Select the region or city and they’ll direct you to the best restaurants, things to see and do, and more.

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
What if we told you that you could drink beer and water at the exact same time? Or iced coffee and juice? Well, you can!

Trivia

Think you’ve been to a desert before? Think again! You’ve never seen a desert like the Atacama Desert along the northern coast of Chile. The Atacama Desert is the driest desert in the world. How dry? Some weather stations in the desert have never (we repeat: never) recorded a drop of rainfall. Geologic evidence suggests that certain regions across the desert may not have had rainfall from 1570 to 1971. The desert is bone dry. NASA has used the region to test equipment for Mars missions.

Readers’ pet of the day

Img 1469 60ae529425fac99329cc4f2616cf13aa“Dash is our fifth Corgi over the last 30 years! We love this breed! Dash is a rambunctious boy (age 1) who loves to run (especially into water!). He has a lazy ear most of the time, but it is never the same one!! He is a great traveling companion!” —Susan L Johnston

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

• Corgi lover like Susan? Click here. 
• RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.

Leave here with a laugh

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Visit Current National Radar Weather Map

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