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New Chinese passenger car would include hidden, built-in toilet

RV Travel
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New Chinese passenger car would include hidden, built-in toilet

By J.R. Montigel
A proposal for a built-in toilet in a passenger car is way too weird to ever get into production. That’s what we think. But who knows? Frankly, I’m not waiting in line for this car to hit the market. Come on? A toilet that magically appears so you can do your business without leaving your seat. This is a joke, right?

Nope. It’s a real deal! At least in theory.

A Chinese automaker, Seres, has patented such a device for future electric vehicles. We kid you not. The idea is simple: A small toilet seat slides out from under the passenger seat when nature calls, then tucks neatly away when you’ve completed your business. No need to “hold it” until the next rest area.

And while you do your due diligence, fellow passengers sit a few feet away observing, and perhaps hearing and smelling, too, whether #1 or #2. Thank goodness the device is not part of the driver’s seat. A visual image of a driver doing his thing while driving is best avoided.

Toilet

What the system includes

The system includes a waste tank (think RV cassette toilet), plus a fan and exhaust pipe to deal with odors. There’s even a heating element designed to speed up evaporation and make cleanup easier.

If this sounds familiar, it should. RVers have been solving this “problem” for decades—with actual bathrooms. The difference? Space, privacy… and not sitting two feet from your traveling companion, obeying the call of nature.

The concept, it seems, is designed for long drives, traffic jams, and perhaps camping situations where restrooms aren’t available.

But before you trade your rest stops for a rolling restroom, consider the downsides: emptying the tank, lingering smells, and the awkward reality of using it inside a compact vehicle and then sharing the vehicle’s new aroma afterwards with your passengers. Perhaps an enhanced version could be marketed for carpools, where each seat would do double-duty as its own comfort station.

For now, the idea is merely a patent. No production plans have been announced, and if we were betting people, we’d consider the chances of it ever happening a very long shot.

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California announces major expansion of its State Parks system

Gail Marsh
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California announces major expansion of its State Parks system

California just announced a major expansion of its State Parks system, and RV travelers should keep an eye on it.

Governor Gavin Newsom unveiled State Parks Forward this week. It would create three new state parks in the Central Valley and add thousands of acres to existing parks. State officials say the effort would bring the total number of California state parks to 283 and grow the system by 30,000 acres by the end of the decade.

For RVers, the biggest takeaway is simple: More public land usually means more places to explore, more scenic drives, and more options for day trips once the parks open. The new parks are still in the planning and acquisition stage, so they are not ready-made travel stops yet, but California says it will begin public engagement right away before submitting a visioning report later this fall. As of now, there is no mention of public campgrounds at these new parks.

New parks

One of the planned parks is Feather River Park in Yuba County. California says the site covers nearly 2,000 acres along the Feather River. It would be the first state park in the county. The proposal includes river access, a boat launch, and a riverside beach, which makes it especially interesting for travelers who like fishing, paddling, or a relaxed stop near the water.

Another proposed addition is the San Joaquin River Parkway in Fresno and Madera counties. Officials say this would join several public properties into an 874-acre state park and help create a bigger recreation hub near Millerton Lake State Recreation Area. For RVers crossing the Central Valley, that could eventually mean a stronger cluster of outdoor stops in one stretch of the state.

The third site, Dust Bowl Camp in Bakersfield, would bring a different kind of experience. California says the Sunset Migratory Labor Camp is listed on both the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historical Resources. It was among the first federal camps set up for farm workers who came to California during the Dust Bowl. The state says the roughly 2-acre site could become a history-focused stop tied to “The Grapes of Wrath” and the migrant labor story of the Great Depression.

Existing parks to add land

California is also adding land to existing parks. The announcement says three recent property donations already total about 804 acres. This includes additions to Montgomery Woods State Natural Reserve, South Yuba River State Park, and Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park. State officials describe the broader expansion as a mix of low-cost land transfers and conservation partnerships that should increase access without adding major operating costs. These areas are currently day-use only.

Future trip?

If the planning process moves forward as announced, these spots could become smart additions to future California RV routes.

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RVT1258b

RV Daily Tips. Friday, April 24, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Friday, April 24, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2890 • 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

“You get what anybody gets – you get a lifetime.” ―Neil Gaiman

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Bucket List Day! What’s on your bucket list? Leave a comment below.

On this day in history: 1885 – American sharpshooter Annie Oakley is hired by Nate Salsbury to be a part of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show.

Tip of the day
How to fix drill batteries that won’t charge

This video from Eric at Flannel Guy DIY has millions of views. Needing to know how to fix drill batteries that won’t charge must be a common problem, and since drills are such an essential RV tool, this is also likely a common RV problem.

The tips in the video will work for 20v, 18v or almost any lithium battery for your tools. It works for DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ryobi, Black & Decker, Rigid, and more. This could save you from buying a new drill or new batteries!

Salem FSX 135ICE travel trailerRV review
For minimalists, this little trailer fits the bill

This little RV will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It will keep you out of the rain and sun, and it will do it without the frills and electronic gizmos that so many RV manufacturers include these days to one-up their competitors. For RVers who want something simple and compact without sacrificing too much comfort, this pint-sized 2026 Salem FSX 135ICE travel trailer might be the ticket.

PRO TIP: If you must roll up your awning when rain threatens (as opposed to putting a big slant on it to let the rain roll off), be sure to roll it out to dry as soon as possible. Rolled up awnings, when wet, are a great place to grow a crop of mold and mildew.

SoftStartRVWhy we recommend the SoftStartRV™
If you camp in hot weather, this is one upgrade you’ll wish you had sooner. The SoftStartRV lets you run your A/C on limited power—like a small generator or even household current—without tripping breakers or stressing your system. It’s simple to install, built by people we trust, and it just works. If you’ve ever struggled to keep cool at a campground, this is worth a closer look.

In the RV shop with Dustin
RV roof sealants: The best product for every type of roof

In this video, join me in our store as I explain the different types of sealants available for various RV roof materials such as fiberglass, rubber, TPO, and PVC. Discover the essential products needed for cleaning and sealing your RV roof, and get expert tips on application techniques.

Article and video
RV inspector debunks the top 3 RV myths and lies

A lot of RV advice online sounds confident, but that doesn’t make it true. New buyers and seasoned campers alike can get pulled into claims that are built more on drama than real experience. On the RV Inspection And Care channel, our favorite certified RV inspector, Duane, pushes back on that noise and shares it in this video. Duane’s point is simple: People need clear facts about RVs, not hype. That matters most when money, travel plans, and safety are on the line.

Featured article
RVer’s anxiety: Worrying is just a part of the lifestyle

By Jeff Clemishaw
In no area of life does Murphy’s Law apply more succinctly than with RVing. As the saying goes, “Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.” While RVing is often associated with a carefree, wanderlust life, the actual day-to-day of it all can be starkly different. Continue reading about RVer’s anxiety. Do you agree?

REMINDER: Enter the lottery beginning today, April 24, through April 27 for a chance to see the famous synchronous fireflies at Great Smoky Mountains National Park this May.

Ask Dave
Does it matter what color engine antifreeze I use?

Find out here.

71duoef7y5l Ac Sl1300See every detail clearly with this 5X magnifier with LED light
See every detail clearly with this handheld LED magnifying glass. Featuring a large 4.72″ x 3″ rectangular lens with 5X magnification, crystal-clear acrylic optics, and 12 bright LEDs, it makes reading, crafting, or inspecting small items effortless. Lightweight, rechargeable, and designed for comfort, it’s portable and perfect for precision viewing. Learn more here.

You may have missed these recent popular stories…

Reader poll
If there were a permanent moon base, would you spend a week there if invited?

Respond here.

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

Quick tip
RV “dog runner” system

Dog tie-out. Courtesy Jeff-Z.com (Click to enlarge.)

Need a tie-out system to allow your dog to run a bit, yet not get into trouble? Here’s a tip from Jeff-Z.com and their take on how to clip a cable to each end of your RV for a tie-off for Not-So-Rover. “I drilled a 1/2″ hole at the edge of the bumper for a dog tie-out. I added another 1/2″ hole at the front frame rail.”

On this day last year…

Website of the day

Travel + Leisure: Road Trips
Here’s the link to the Travel + Leisure Road Trip section. Looking for road trip inspiration? Start here. You’ll get inspired, all right!

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Oh, kids and adults alike will have so much fun with this! If you don’t click here now, it might disappear into thin air!

Trivia

As a result of the Coriolis effect, which is the deflection of moving objects based on the Earth’s rotation, hurricanes and tropical storms rotate in a clockwise direction in the Southern Hemisphere and counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere.

Readers’ pet of the day

Img 3183 806031fab621a8dffd3d1c4d8c86124c“We got Daphne (Mini Bernedoodle, age 4) in Berlin, Ohio. She loves to swim and has swum in Lake Erie, the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and the Gulf. She loves traveling in the RV; it’s the only life she has ever known.” —Tom Wilson

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!

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Leave here with a laugh

Rvtravel 300x250 Promo 10bTake an extra 10% off a GhostBed luxury RV mattress!
The GhostBed RV mattress is 10” deep, crafted with gel memory foam for coolness, has 3 layers of luxurious comfort and is perfectly sized for your RV! Ahhhh… Wake up relaxed and rejuvenated. RVtravel.com readers now get an EXTRA 10% OFF a GhostBed Luxury RV Mattress! CLICK HERE and use code RVTRAVEL10. Watch RVtravel.com’s Tony Barthel’s RV mattress review here.

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Does it matter what color engine antifreeze I use?

Dave Solberg
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Does it matter what color engine antifreeze I use?

Dear Dave, 
What is the difference between green and orange antifreeze, and which should I use? —Greg, 2023 Grand Design Imagine

Dear Greg,
Since you have a GD travel trailer, I assume you are referring to automotive antifreeze for your tow vehicle. I worked in gas stations all through high school and college, and even owned one for a few years with a friend before starting my career at Winnebago. Back then it was all green antifreeze with a 60/40 mixture ratio.

Automotive antifreeze helps protect an engine during extreme temperatures which helps lower the freezing point during cold weather and raise the boiling point in extreme heat. Most internal combustion engines are water-cooled to remove heat and therefore the antifreeze mixture was called “engine coolant”. Mixed properly, some engine coolants can protect from temperatures as low at -34 degrees and as high as +265 degrees. Up here in Northern Iowa, I believe we can get close to those temperatures in a single day!

Green antifreeze

Early antifreeze was made with  methanol (methyl alcohol) and labeled Inorganic Additive Technology (IAT). It is typically green and is recommended for engines from 2000 and older, as they were built with more steel and copper components. IAT antifreeze has a recommended flush schedule of 36,000 miles.

Orange antifreeze

Orange antifreeze is a more modern formula labeled Organic Acid Technologies (OAT). It is designed for engines manufactured with more aluminum and nylon components. It is also designed to last longer, as the recommended flush period is 50,000 miles.

There are other colors such as pink/red recommended by Toyota, Honda, Kia and others. Blue is common in European models such as BMW, Volvo, and some Japanese models. Yellow is typically a “universal”-type antifreeze. And purple is developed for other European models such as Audi, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz.

Red Antifreeze
Red/pink antifreeze
Blue Antifreeze
Blue antifreeze

How do I know what antifreeze to use?

It is not a good idea to mix the two types of antifreeze as it could cause a sludge or slurry effect. It most likely will not cause catastrophic failure, but it could affect the flow of the mixture through the engine and radiator. Your owner’s manual most likely will have a recommendation for your specific engine and model year.

You can use a “universal” antifreeze temporarily in case of an emergency. If in doubt, it’s OK to use the newer orange antifreeze in most engines. Most auto parts stores can help determine which brand and composition is best for your engine.

How do I test my antifreeze?

Every type of antifreeze has a recommended change or “flush” routine at a certain mileage, which is listed on the label. However, it is a good idea to periodically test the antifreeze for not only cooling and overheating situations but also for the additives that help protect the wear and tear of engine components. Worn or old coolant becomes an electrical conductor, accelerating electrolysis inside an engine

You can test the pH and glycol concentration with an antifreeze tester, which you can find on Amazon here.

Antifreeze tester
Antifreeze tester

Or use a more accurate test strip such as this one available on Amazon here. 

Antifreeze test strips
Antifreeze test strips

Check for anti-corrosion capability

To check for the mixture’s anti-corrosion capabilities, use a multimeter set to the DC 20 range to verify continuity. Touch the black (negative) lead to the negative post of the battery and place the red (positive) lead into the antifreeze mixture in the reservoir container. If the reading is less than 0.4, the mixture is good and still protects the components.

Antifreeze Test
Antifreeze test

Premixed versus concentrate

The concentrated antifreeze is my favorite as it is more economical, but it must be diluted 50/50 with distilled water. Premixed is more convenient, especially if you are traveling and distilled water might be hard to find.

Concentrate is a good choice to use when flushing the system as you will need twice as much premixed. I can purchase distilled water at my local grocery store in the “bring your own jug” filling station for 39 cents a gallon.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

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

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

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

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RVDT2890

How to fix drill batteries that won’t charge

Video Editor
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How to fix drill batteries that won’t charge

By Cheri Sicard
The video below from Eric at Flannel Guy DIY has millions of views. Needing to know how to fix drill batteries that won’t charge must be a common problem, and since drills are such an essential RV tool, this is also likely a common RV problem.

The tips in the video will work for 20v, 18v or almost any lithium battery for your tools. It works for DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, Ryobi, Black & Decker, Rigid, and more.

Will it always work? No, but it merits trying before tossing or replacing a battery that still might work.

The demonstration begins by comparing a good battery versus one that won’t charge and how they react on a charger.

Of course, the defective battery will not power the tool and will not charge when connected to the charger.

What our host discovered is that for a battery to charge, it must have a little power left in it to send a signal to the charger that it needs to be charged. If your battery is completely dead, it can’t send the signal that triggers the charge and therefore, nothing happens, and you think the battery is defective. But it might not be!

To find out, you have to give the battery a bit of a jump-start.

How do you do that? Watch the demonstration in the video, as it will be more beneficial than me describing it. But judging from the 117,000 likes and nearly 3,200 comments on the video, the technique works, and it may save you from having to buy another battery.

In the video demo, it worked perfectly. A short jump-start of the dead battery, and it started charging again, as always. Watch as he demos with two different style batteries.

RELATED

RVDT2890

RV inspector debunks the top 3 RV myths and lies

Video Editor
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RV inspector debunks the top 3 RV myths and lies

By Cheri Sicard
A lot of RV advice online sounds confident, but that doesn’t make it true. New buyers and seasoned campers alike can get pulled into claims that are built more on drama than real experience. On the RV Inspection And Care channel, our favorite certified RV inspector, Duane, pushes back on that noise and shares it in the video at the end of this post.

Duane’s point is simple: People need clear facts about RVs, not hype. That matters most when money, travel plans, and safety are on the line.

Why so much RV misinformation keeps spreading

Duane says there’s an incredible amount of misinformation about RVs, RV travel, and camping on the internet. A lot of it spreads because some online creators tell people what they want to hear. Negativity and sensational claims also get attention, so those messages travel fast.

That creates a problem for shoppers and owners who are trying to make smart choices. It also makes normal RV issues sound bigger than they are. Duane’s approach is different. He’d rather give the plain truth, even if some people don’t like it, because bad RV advice can cost people comfort, money, and confidence.

So without further ado, here are the major RV myths and lies that Duane says consumers should be aware of.

#1 The truth about four-season RVs

Duane says the label “four-season capable” sounds stronger than it often is. In many cases, it simply means the RV can stretch the camping season a bit farther into hot weather and cold weather than an average unit.

That does not mean it can stay comfortable for long periods in triple-digit heat or deep sub-freezing cold. Some RVs can handle those conditions, but they are rare and usually expensive because they’re built much better.

So, the safest way to read that sticker is this:

  • Most four-season RVs extend comfort; they don’t promise extreme-weather living.
  • A small number are built for harsh conditions.
  • Those better-built models usually cost more.

#2 The 10-year RV rule is often misunderstood

The 10-year rule sounds scary until the reason behind it becomes clear. Yes, many RV parks and campgrounds have that rule on the books. Still, Duane says it usually isn’t there to ban every older RV. Instead, it gives park owners a way to screen out poorly maintained rigs that could break down and get abandoned. When that happens, owners can face a long legal process to remove them. So, the rule often works as a filter for condition, not age alone.

Duane shares his own example. He and his family travel full-time in a 2004 Newmar diesel pusher motorhome. Several parks asked for a photo before confirming the reservation. Each time, the RV was approved, and they were never refused.

The takeaway is plain. If an older RV is clean and well-cared-for, getting a site usually won’t be a major problem.

#3 Not all RVs are trash, and not all builders are cheats

One of the loudest claims online is that all RVs are garbage and nobody builds them well anymore. Duane rejects that idea. Some brands do turn out poor-quality units, especially high-volume models built to hit the lowest possible price. But that is not the entire industry.

He says the worst quality is usually found among the cheapest RVs, especially in the travel trailer market. Buyers want low prices, and makers compete hard for that business. As a result, quality often drops because good materials and better construction cost more.

That doesn’t mean every builder is dishonest. Duane’s view is that manufacturers follow the money. If more buyers choose quality over the lowest price, the market will respond.

Final thoughts

Buying the right RV matters more than repeating myths.

Duane says that buyers can still find a good RV. The key is to focus on the right brands and follow a smart buying process. Through RV Inspection And Care, he offers help for both parts of that process.

He says the biggest RV myths fall apart once real-world context is added. A four-season sticker has limits; the 10-year rule is mostly about condition; and RV quality depends heavily on price, brand, and how carefully someone shops.

For anyone sorting through loud opinions online, keep in mind that good RV decisions start with facts, not fear.

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RVDT2890

If there were a permanent moon base, would you spend a week there if invited?

RV Travel
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If there were a permanent moon base, would you spend a week there if invited?

Some people dream of going up in space or landing on the moon; others wouldn’t accept a trip even if it were free! What about you? If you were invited to a permanent moon base, would you spend a week there? If so, would you be excited about it or would you be scared?

For RVers, the idea might actually feel kind of familiar—after all, life in an RV is a bit like living in a spaceship. You’re in a compact space, hauling your home across long distances, relying on your own power, water, and ingenuity. Swapping your Class C for a lunar module? It’s not that far-fetched! And just like boondocking in the middle of nowhere, the moon would come with incredible views… and zero neighbors.

But, of course, there’s the flip side. No trees, no lakes, no campfires, no dogs curled up by your feet. And unless you count freeze-dried meals and vacuum toilets as part of the charm, it’s a far cry from your favorite national park. The thought of being so far from Earth—literally—might feel too isolating, even for those who love peace and solitude.

Would you miss the sound of birdsong? Would you feel the thrill of adventure, or the sting of homesickness? Well, remember, it’s just one week…

Still, some RVers might say, “Why not?” After all, travel is about experiencing the unknown. And if you’ve already driven the Alaska Highway, braved desert heat in Arizona, or weathered a storm on the coast, you’ve already proven your adventurous spirit. Maybe the moon could be just another wild stop on your journey.

After you vote in today’s poll below, please leave a comment and explain your answer. We want to know if you would or wouldn’t go, and why. We think we’d go… See you there (or not).

MORE POLLS YOU MAY ENJOY

RVDT2890

RV roof sealants: The best product for every type of roof

RV Travel
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2
RV roof sealants: The best product for every type of roof

By Dustin Simpson
In this video, join me in our store as I explain the different types of sealants available for various RV roof materials such as fiberglass, rubber, TPO, and PVC.

Discover the essential products needed for cleaning and sealing your RV roof, and get expert tips on application techniques.

Types of sealants for different RV roofs

Fiberglass roofs

• Sealant type: Use a non-sag sealant or self-leveling sealant designed for fiberglass.

• Tip: Ensure the sealant is UV-resistant to prevent degradation from sun exposure.

Rubber roofs (EPDM and TPO)

• Sealant type: Use lap sealant or self-leveling sealant specifically formulated for rubber roofs.

• Tip: Choose a sealant compatible with your rubber roof type (EPDM or TPO) to ensure proper adhesion and durability.

*RVtravel.com recommends RV Roof Magic. 

PVC roofs

• Sealant type: Use a PVC roof sealant that is flexible and weather-resistant.

• Tip: PVC roofs often require a primer before applying the sealant for better adhesion.

TPO roofs

• Sealant type: Use a TPO-specific sealant or a universal sealant compatible with TPO.

• Tip: Clean the surface thoroughly before applying the sealant to ensure a strong bond.

Essential products for cleaning and sealing your RV roof

Cleaning products

• RV roof cleaner: Use a cleaner formulated for your specific roof material (fiberglass, rubber, PVC, or TPO).

• Soft brush or sponge: To scrub the roof without damaging the material.

• Water hose: For rinsing off the cleaner and debris.

Sealing products

• Sealant: Choose the appropriate sealant for your roof type, as discussed.

• Primer (if needed): Some roof materials, like PVC, may require a primer for better sealant adhesion.

• Caulking gun: For applying the sealant smoothly and evenly.

Application tools

• Utility knife: For cutting the sealant tube tip.

• Putty knife: For smoothing the sealant and removing old sealant.

• Gloves: To protect your hands during application.

Expert tips on application techniques

Preparation

• Clean the roof thoroughly with the appropriate cleaner and let it dry completely.

• Remove any old or loose sealant with a putty knife.

Application

• Cut the sealant tube tip at a 45-degree angle to control the flow of the sealant.

• Apply a continuous bead of sealant along seams, joints, and around roof fixtures.

• Use a putty knife to smooth out the sealant and ensure it covers the area evenly.

Drying time

• Allow the sealant to dry and cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes 24-48 hours.

• Avoid exposing the roof to water or heavy use during the curing period.

Regular inspections

• Inspect your roof sealant periodically for cracks, gaps, or wear.

• Reapply sealant as needed to maintain a watertight seal and prevent leaks.

Properly sealing your RV roof is essential for preventing leaks and extending the lifespan of your roof. By understanding the different types of sealants and following expert application techniques, you can keep your RV roof in excellent condition.

Make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel for more RV maintenance tips and keep your RV ready for every adventure!

More from Dustin

Make sure you check out my website, California RV Specialists, and our YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.

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RVDT2890

Grand Design rolls out a ‘worry-free’ RV roof, promises fewer leaks

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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Grand Design rolls out a ‘worry-free’ RV roof, promises fewer leaks

If you’ve owned an RV for any length of time, you already know the drill: Climb up the ladder, check the seams, touch up the sealant, and hope you caught things before water did. Roof maintenance isn’t glamorous, but it’s one of the most important—and most dreaded—parts of RV ownership.

Now, Grand Design RV says it has a better idea. The company is expanding what it calls a “worry-free” roof system to more of its lineup, including Momentum toy haulers. The pitch is simple: fewer seams, less sealant, and less routine upkeep.

That’s the promise. The real question is whether it actually changes anything for RVers.

What Grand Design is trying to fix

Traditional RV roofs haven’t changed much in decades. Whether you’re dealing with rubber (EPDM or TPO) or fiberglass, the construction usually involves multiple layers and, more importantly, a lot of seams and sealant.

Those seams are the weak point. They show up around vents, skylights, edges, and caps—anywhere the roof is interrupted. Over time, sealant dries out, cracks, or pulls away. Water finds its way in, often long before you see any sign inside.

That’s why routine inspections and resealing are simply part of the lifestyle.

RV roofs have always needed babysitting—this one is trying to change that.

So what’s different here?

Grand Design’s “worry-free” approach doesn’t reinvent the idea of a roof, but it does change the way it’s built.

Instead of a multi-piece surface with lots of joints, the company is using a single-piece, seamless composite roof—closer to what you’d see in marine construction. The idea is straightforward: Remove the seams, and you remove the most common failure points.

They’re also moving away from traditional lap sealant along the roof edges, replacing it with automotive-style gaskets. That’s a meaningful shift. In theory, it reduces the number of places where sealant can fail over time.

The roof itself uses layered composite materials designed to resist impact and flex without cracking, another nod to how boats are built rather than how most RVs are assembled.

Does this eliminate maintenance?

No—and this is where it’s worth slowing down.

Even with a seamless roof, you still have penetrations: air conditioners, vents, antennas, skylights. Every one of those openings still needs to be sealed and checked over time, and any one of them can become a failure point if something goes wrong.

What this system may do is reduce the number of vulnerable areas, especially along seams and edges, which have historically been the biggest trouble spots.

In other words, this isn’t “set it and forget it.” But it could mean less frequent attention and fewer long-term surprises.

Why this matters beyond one brand

RV roofs have been a pain point for years, and manufacturers know it. Water intrusion leads to warranty claims, unhappy owners, and expensive repairs.

If a company can genuinely reduce those issues, it’s a big deal—not just for buyers, but for the builders themselves.

So, if this system holds up in real-world use, don’t be surprised if other manufacturers start experimenting with similar approaches.

There are some tradeoffs, though. Systems like this can cost more to build, require changes on the factory floor, and may be more complicated to repair if they’re damaged. That combination could slow adoption, especially in lower-cost rigs.

What it means for RVers shopping today

If you’re in the market, this kind of roof is worth a closer look, but it pays to ask a few practical questions.

What’s actually covered under warranty? How are roof penetrations handled and sealed? And if something does go wrong, can the roof be repaired easily, or are you looking at a more involved fix?

Those answers will matter more than the marketing label. Because at the end of the day, “worry-free” is a goal—not a guarantee.

The bottom line

Grand Design isn’t inventing a brand-new concept, but it is bringing a seam-reducing approach into more mainstream RV production.

For RVers, the takeaway is simple: This could mean fewer leaks and less maintenance—but not the end of roof care altogether.

If it performs the way it’s advertised, it may push the rest of the industry to rethink how RV roofs are built. And that’s something just about every RV owner can get behind.

If it holds up in the real world, other RV builders may not have much choice but to follow.

Sources: 

RVBusiness: Grand Design expands “worry-free” roofs to Momentum
Grand Design RV (official release): Seamless composite roof details

RELATED

RVT1258b

Charlie Sheen’s old tour bus could be your new RV for ‘cheap’

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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Charlie Sheen’s old tour bus could be your new RV for ‘cheap’

A used Prevost bus conversion that once cost around $500,000 just went begging at auction. The 1998 Marathon-built coach, originally owned by Charlie Sheen and later converted into a band tour bus, stalled at $84,525 with the reserve unmet on Bring a Trailer.

On paper, that sounds like the deal of the decade. A stainless-sided, commercial-grade motorcoach for less than many new pickups? You can almost hear folks reaching for their checkbooks.

But before you do, it’s worth asking the obvious question: If this thing is such a bargain, why didn’t it sell?

The layout


This isn’t a traditional RV. It’s an entertainer coach—a rolling bunkhouse designed to move people between shows, not to live in full-time.

That means:

  • Six narrow bunks instead of a proper bedroom
  • A compact galley meant for quick meals, not real cooking
  • Limited bathing setup—fine on tour, less so in a campground
  • Tight aisle space and a layout built for throughput, not comfort

In other words, it works great if you’re hauling a band across the country. It’s a different story if you’re trying to settle in for a month at Quartzsite.

Why RV buyers walk away

Here’s where that attractive price starts to lose its shine.

A used Prevost bus conversion isn’t maintained like a motorhome—it’s maintained like a commercial bus. That means higher parts costs, specialized service, and fewer places willing to work on it. You’re often dealing with truck shops, not RV dealers.

Then there’s the scale. At 45 feet with a tag axle, this isn’t a casual weekend rig. It takes planning, space, and a driver who’s comfortable handling something closer to a Greyhound than a Class A.

And finally, there’s the reality of customization. To make a coach like this truly livable, you’d likely need a significant interior redo. By the time you price that out, the “cheap luxury” starts looking a lot less cheap.

The surprising part: This is happening more often. Older high-end bus conversions have been slipping into a strange market gap. They’re still built like tanks—far more robust than most production RVs—but their layouts and upkeep costs put off typical buyers.

The result? Prices that look shockingly low compared to what these coaches cost new… paired with auctions that don’t meet reserve.

That mismatch tells you something important: Value isn’t just about build quality. It’s about how well a rig fits the way RVers actually travel today.

Who might actually want one

There is a niche where a used Prevost bus conversion makes sense.

If you’re a full-timer who values durability over floorplan… or someone willing to gut and rebuild an interior to your liking… or even a stationary user who won’t be moving the rig much, the equation can start to tilt in your favor.

You’re getting a commercial shell designed to go hundreds of thousands—if not millions—of miles. That’s something most RVs can’t claim.

What this means for RVers

Looks like a bargain—but for most RVers, it’s a very expensive way to learn what you don’t want.

That $85K near-sale isn’t a fluke; it’s a reminder. Not every “luxury bargain” is a good fit for RV life.

If you’re tempted by a used Prevost bus conversion, look past the price tag. Study the layout. Price the maintenance. Think hard about how you actually camp.

Because sometimes the reason a deal looks so good… is that it isn’t one.

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RVT1258

Great RV Accessories Newsletter #88

Cheri Sicard
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Great RV Accessories Newsletter #88

Greetings, fellow RVers!

Spring is upon us! That’s why in this issue, among other great stuff we are liking, we focus on spring cleaning. It’s time to get the rig ready for this season’s big adventures. Read on!

Spring cleaning 

spring rv cleaning cartoon

22 of RV Travel’s BEST spring cleaning articles and gadgets

There is a TON of RV cleaning advice and products covered in these articles—22 of our best on RV spring cleaning and maintenance. Check out the best from RVT’s cleaning archive here.

A woman holds a squirt bottle as she gets ready to clean an RV

My 11 favorite RV cleaning products

(Ex-) full-time RVer Nanci Dixon has some RV cleaning products she just can’t live without.  Check them out here and see if your favorites are on her list. If not, you’ll probably find something new!

Your RV is a rolling earthquake—These gadgets protect what’s inside

According to Russ and Tiña De Maris, if you can hear it rattling going down the road, something inside is paying the price. In other words, premature wear or damage, especially to dishes, glasses, cookware, etc. Discover gadgets and tips to keep things from moving while you travel.

Spin scrubbing brushUSB rechargeable spin-scrubbing brush cleans RVs inside and out

I (Cheri) admit it. I am not a great housekeeper. A great cook, yes, but I would almost rather go to the dentist than clean. However, I found that this spinning scrubber brush makes cleaning easier. And with so many different attachments, I can use it to clean almost any surface on the RV, inside or out. Learn more about the many ways to use this handy gadget here.

Dustin and the Thetford tank cleaner

The 2-in-1 RV tank cleaner for all RV water tanks

Say goodbye to stubborn tank deposits and hello to hassle-free cleaning with the revolutionary Thetford 2-in-1 tank cleaner. Specially formulated for black, gray, and portable tanks, this cleaner offers a comprehensive solution to keep your tanks in top condition. Discover why Dustin Simpson loves this product the most.

Our highest-trending products on Amazon this month (so far):

Other stuff we’re liking:

SoftStartRVWhy I recommend the SoftStartRV™

By Chuck Woodbury
PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER
If you camp in hot weather, this is one upgrade you’ll wish you had sooner. The SoftStartRV lets you run your A/C on limited power—like a small generator or even household current—without tripping breakers or stressing your system. It’s simple to install, built by people we trust, and it just works. If you’ve ever struggled to keep cool at a campground, this is worth a closer look.

Multi-use, transforming RV furniture

Do you remember the Transformers toys? Gail Marsh thought about the toys recently when she discovered several examples of transforming RV furniture. Take a look, and you’ll see what she means.

Jared Gillis and the best RV sewer hoses

Evaluating RV sewer hoses and putting the best one to the test

Jared Gillis puts an RV sewer hose to the test to see if it can live up to its advertisement claims. The advertising made it seem like it was indestructible, so he wanted to see for himself if it could pass the test. Here are the test results.

The simple fix for a rocking RV

Even when your trailer looks perfectly level, the tires can still shift just a bit. It could be a little give in the suspension, a touch of soft ground, or just the natural play between tandem wheels. That motion travels through the frame, and you feel it inside as that familiar wiggle. Leveling jacks and blocks aren’t built to stop that. They’re doing their job just fine. They’re just not meant to handle this particular kind of movement. Discover the easy solution.

Gadget quick takes

RV range hood vent filters

Range hood vent filter replacement

When was the last time you changed your RV stove’s hood vent filter? Yeah. We thought so. It’s astounding how much grease these things can hold. And do you know what can start a fire? Grease! Change yours today!

Sweish dish towels

Eliminate paper towels with reusable Swedish dishcloths

A Swedish dishcloth is crafted to absorb up to 20 times its weight in liquid, helping you efficiently clean dishes, countertops, and other surfaces. Made from a natural blend of cellulose and cotton, these cloths offer a reusable cleaning option and are home-compostable at the end of their life. Designed to air dry quickly between uses, helping to minimize odors often found in traditional sponges and dish rags. Suitable for cleaning glass, stainless steel, marble, and wood without leaving scratches.

Fix roof leaks and extend your RV roof another 18-20 years with the ONLY liquid butyl rubber in the world
RV Roof Magic’s unique solvent-based drying process allows for a chemical bond not found in other RV sealants. That is why it never needs a primer and only one coat. We offer a 10-year warranty. Apply RV Roof Magic to all roofs except silicone and PVC. Over 30 years of history of success. Visit our site for our monthly special!

How to clean everything bookThe book nook
How to Clean Everything: A practical, down-to-earth guide for anyone who doesn’t know where to start

While not an RV book, TikTok star Ann Russell’s book is full of genuinely useful tips and tricks, and advice about not just what but also what not to do when it comes to cleaning anything—and that includes your RV. Covering everything from laundry to messy accidents, to cleaning room by room, this book also contains sections on more general household maintenance. Ann’s approach is realistic, reassuring, and easy to follow, whatever your circumstances. Learn more or order here.

More recent gadget articles and reviews:

squirrel wearing underpants air freshenerGadget giggles
Squirrel wearing underpants air freshener

Folks, this is what happens when a woodland creature makes some very questionable life choices—and then gets trapped in your car forever. This wide-eyed squirrel, proudly rocking a pair of tighty-whitey briefs, doesn’t just freshen your ride… he silently judges your driving, your snack choices, and possibly your entire life trajectory. One whiff of its piney scent and you’ll wonder: Is that forest freshness… or just the lingering shame of a squirrel who got dressed in the dark? Either way, it’s weird, and it’s wonderful. Order here.

AmazonfindsrvtOur all-time favorite products at Amazon
Welcome to the wonderful world of RVtravel.com’s favorite Amazon finds! This is the first time EVER that we’re sharing this list with you. Yep, that’s right, this is our personal list that we use every day to recommend products to YOU. These are the products we actually use, talk about, recommend, and keep in our own rigs. And no, none of them are sponsored or paid for or anything like that. We’ve been compiling this list for years! Not to toot our own horn, but this is impressive!

FINISHED READING THIS ISSUE? Great! Now you can move on over to today’s brand-new RV Daily Tips newsletter.

RVtravel.com All-Star Staff

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

RV Daily Tips. Thursday, April 23, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Thursday, April 23, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2889 • 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

“No road is long with good company.” —Turkish proverb

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

On this day in history: 1985 – Coca-Cola changes its formula and releases New Coke. The response is overwhelmingly negative, and the original formula is back on the market in less than three months.

Tip of the day
Don’t throw out your Pringles can! Use it these 11 ways in your RV

By Gail Marsh
They are a favorite for campers: Pringles® crisps. You know what they look like and how they taste, but did you ever wonder how Pringles were invented? I’ll tell you a quick history, then we’ll look at 11 smart ways you can reuse a Pringles can in and around your RV. These are smart tips! 

Article and video
How to clean an RV awning

By Cheri Sicard
If you have wondered how to clean an RV awning, you have come to the right place. In this video, Kevin from Kevin and Kim Outdoor Adventures shares a simple and effective way to clean your RV’s awning and keep it in tip-top shape. Why bother to clean your RV’s awning? Because water is the enemy of awning longevity, and a clean awning repels water more effectively than a dirty one. Here’s a quick, easy way to do it. (I tell you in the article, too, if you don’t want to watch the video.)

Featured article
The numbers you should memorize as an RVer

By Gail Marsh
There are certain numbers that you’ll come to recognize the more you travel in your RV. Here is just a sampling.
1/2 to 2/3. Fractional numbers like these indicate how full your water tanks are at any given time.
3 to 6. Number of years generally recommended between RV tire replacement. (Of course, it depends on how much you drive in any given year and how the tires wear.)
Continue reading. Can you think of other numbers not on the list? (We personally like the last one.)

READER REC: “Sara’s Restaurant at the mouth of Presque Isle State Park in Erie, PA. All their food is delicious, but the burgers and shakes are fantastic! Presque Isle is absolutely beautiful with a 14-mile walking/biking/blading trail.” —Jerry Seamans

MirrorwiperClear your mirrors in seconds with this simple gadget
Keep your view clear, no matter what the road or weather. This retractable rearview mirror wiper wipes away rain, mud or road spray with a simple slide. Don’t wait for the mirror defrost to kick in—this is faster! Easy to use and built for travel. Check it out.

Ask Dave
Switching to 600Ah lithium batteries. Is 200W solar panel sufficient?

Read Dave’s answer.

Reader poll
Which do you most often prefer: a well-lighted campground or a dark one?

Respond here.

Quick tip
Campground etiquette: No corner cutting!

Think back to when our parents told us to stay on the sidewalk and not to cut between people’s yards. Well, that same etiquette rule applies to other people’s campsites. Typically, the unspoken camping rule is a campsite’s boundaries are from electric pedestal to electric pedestal. Site cutting can be interpreted as intrusive, invasive and quite frankly, very rude. It’s disrupting to campers who want their own space; after all, they paid for it.

Site cutting violates families who are trying to enjoy meal times outside, conversations, pet owners who are trying to keep their pup quiet, etc. So, be mindful of others and use the designated walkways and streets to get to the pool, camp store or laundry. And lastly, don’t park in someone else’s site nor block any RV or vehicle from getting in or out of their campsites. Courtesy suggestions from the folks at alwaysonliberty.com.

THE MORE YOU KNOW… A gallon of water weighs about 8.34 pounds or 3.78 kilograms at room temperature. Now you can calculate how much water weight your RV carries…

On this day last year…

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
If you’re hungry right now, consider yourself warned. We’re hungry and this just made it much, much worse! This is craaaazy!!

Website of the day

6 of the Best Reminders for Your Medications
If you have trouble remembering to take your medications, or remembering if you took your medications, check out these six great websites, gadgets and apps.

Thursdayrvt

And the survey says…

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

• When asked if social media has been a blessing or a curse to society, 85 percent answered “curse.”
• 56 percent prefer sleeping in the dark to sleeping with a nightlight or other light source.
• 28 percent do not drink alcoholic beverages. For those that do, the highest percentage, 28 percent, say beer is their alcoholic beverage of choice, followed by wine, then hard liquor.

TELL US: Have you missed out on booking a campsite or campground you really wanted this year?

Trivia

In the Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoon show, Bullwinkle the Moose was named after a Berkeley, Calif., used car salesman named Clarence Bulwinkel.

Readers’ pet of the day

20251128 151714 D4c3e6b2302c4fd245a58145a37e9efa“We rescued Zoey (Beagle/Dalmation mix, age 15) when she was 9 from a small dog rescue in Phoenix. Everyone else was there for the puppies, but we chose best! She has a heart of gold and wants to meet anyone and everything (including coyotes!).” —Richard Brown

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

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

FREE IS GOOD! Free plantable seed paper heart that grows colorful wildflowers to help support bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. From The Gabby Wild Foundation, Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

WrapitHeavy-duty Wrap-It storage straps are a must-have for RVers
Tired of all your cords getting tangled? That shouldn’t happen, and it won’t if you use these Wrap-It storage straps! Family-owned and made in the USA, these polypropylene straps hold up to 50 lbs.—perfect for RV hoses, extension cords, tools, and garage gear. One simple solution for a clean, pro-level organization. Come in a 6-pack! Learn more or order.

Leave here with a laugh

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

Visit Current National Radar Weather Map

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

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!). 

RVtravel.com All-Star Staff

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

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