Home Blog Page 6

Thinking about Starlink? New pricing changes could affect your decision

Russ and Tiña De Maris
-
16
Thinking about Starlink? New pricing changes could affect your decision

Starlink RV internet remains one of the most popular connectivity options for RVers. But recent price changes mean it’s worth taking another look before you sign up.

Starlink has increased prices on several service plans and, in some markets, appears to be steering new Residential customers toward renting equipment instead of buying it outright. The changes don’t make Starlink a bad choice. But they do give RVers a few more things to consider before signing up.

Some monthly prices are going up

According to 9to5Google, Starlink recently increased prices on several plans.

Among the changes RVers are most likely to notice:

  • Roam 100GB increased from $50 to $55 per month.
  • Roam Unlimited increased from $165 to $175 per month.
  • Roam 300GB remained at $80 per month.

A $5 or $10 increase may not sound dramatic, but it adds to the overall cost of a service many RVers already consider a premium option.

The bigger change may be how some customers get equipment

The more interesting development is Starlink’s apparent shift away from outright equipment purchases for some new Residential customers.

According to both 9to5Google and CNET, Starlink has removed the purchase option from portions of its Residential signup process and is instead offering hardware rentals for $10 per month in some markets.

That does not mean Starlink has stopped selling equipment.

Starlink Mini hardware remains available for purchase, and many RVers use Mini systems with Roam plans rather than Residential service.

That’s an important distinction because the change affects some Residential customers. RVers can still purchase Starlink Mini hardware outright.

“The biggest change may not be the monthly price increase. It’s Starlink’s move toward equipment rentals for some new customers.”

What it means for RVers

For RVers shopping for Starlink RV internet today, the decision may come down to how they travel.

A rental option could appeal to someone who wants to try Starlink without spending hundreds of dollars on hardware upfront. It may also make sense for occasional users who camp only part of the year.

On the other hand, RVers who expect to use Starlink for years may still prefer owning their equipment rather than adding another monthly charge to the budget.

The new pricing also makes the Roam 300GB plan worth a closer look. At $80 per month, it now sits between the entry-level 100GB plan and the much more expensive unlimited option.

For some RVers, that may be the sweet spot.

Starlink still fills a unique role

Despite the price increases, Starlink RV internet remains one of the few options that can deliver broadband service in many places where cellular coverage is weak or nonexistent.

That’s why it continues to attract RVers who work remotely, stream video or spend extended periods camping away from cities.

The latest changes don’t change the fact that Starlink can work where other internet options simply don’t.

Before you order, it may be worth spending a few minutes comparing the plans. A small amount of homework could save a surprising amount of money.

Sources
Starlink service plans 
9to5Google
CNET

MORE ON STARLINK

RVT1265b

Airstream adds Rangeline 21PL Class B motorhome to lineup

RV Travel
-
0
Airstream adds Rangeline 21PL Class B motorhome to lineup

Airstream has introduced the Rangeline® 21 Premier Loft (21PL), a new Class B motorhome built on the Ram ProMaster chassis. The new model expands the company’s Rangeline lineup with a floor plan designed to increase sleeping capacity, storage and interior flexibility.

“We took everything owners loved about our original Rangeline and added features to offer greater standard sleeping capacity, more storage solutions, and freedom for owners to customize their travel,” said Airstream President and CEO Bob Wheeler. “Rangeline 21PL adapts to everyday life on the road, whether that’s hauling gear, hosting family, or having a more comfortable place to rest, without limiting quality design and comfort.”

The Rangeline 21PL Touring Coach will be available through Airstream’s nationwide dealer network. Pricing starts at $173,400. It joins the recently renamed Rangeline 21 Premier Suite (21PS), formerly sold simply as the Rangeline.

Powered loft bed

The most notable addition is a powered loft bed that allows the coach to sleep up to four people without the use of a pop-top roof. The loft bed can be positioned in three ways:

• Centered above the rear seating area to create bunk-style sleeping for up to four people.
• Lowered to form a larger primary sleeping area.
• Raised to open additional living, storage or sleeping space below.

The loft bed includes a 4-inch memory foam mattress and safety nets on both sides.

Smartbench seating system

The rear of the coach centers around Airstream’s Smartbench seating system, which rides on an integrated L-track floor. The bench can slide forward for easier storage access or be removed entirely to create space for large gear such as bicycles, kayaks or other equipment. A storage drawer beneath the bench and an overhead track system provide additional cargo organization options.

Airstream Rangelie 21PL interiorThe Smartbench works with a stationary side bench to create an L-shaped lounge area. A repositionable table allows the space to be used for dining or gathering. The Smartbench can also accommodate two child safety seats.

Other floor-plan features include:

• A split galley kitchen.
• An exterior-facing table surface for outdoor use.
• Two skylights, including one above the shower that increases standing height to 74.5 inches.

Power comes from a system that combines a 3.5-kWh lithium battery, a 3,000-watt inverter, 200 watts of solar capacity and a 2.8-kW onboard generator. The generator draws fuel from the vehicle’s gasoline tank, eliminating the need for a separate fuel source.

Airstream also equipped the 21PL with an upgraded suspension system designed to help maintain ride height and reduce body roll under varying loads. According to the company, the rear springs automatically adjust under load, while the front springs help absorb impacts and reduce sway.

The new floor plan is aimed at travelers who want additional sleeping space and cargo flexibility while retaining the compact footprint of a Class B motorhome.

Tour this new Airstream in the video below.

SIMILAR RV REVIEWS

RV Daily Tips. Friday, June 12, 2026

Newsletter Editor
-
19
RV Daily Tips. Friday, June 12, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2925 • New issue every weekday

Today’s thought

“Love is friendship that has caught fire. It is quiet understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weaknesses.” —Ann Landers

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Jerky Day! Have you ever had bacon jerky? Yep, it exists, and it’s as good as it sounds. 

On this day in history: 1942 – Anne Frank receives a diary for her 13th birthday.

Tip of the day
13 tips to keep your RV’s refrigerator cool all summer

By Gail Marsh
If it’s not already, it’s about to get hot soon, and your RV refrigerator will need your help.

Here are some tips for keeping your RV fridge cooling effectively all summer long:

• Check the seals located all along the edge of the refrigerator and/or freezer doors. If you notice cracking, loose seals, or even places where the seals are missing, make repairs before you head to the campground.

An easy way to check seals that show no visible signs of compromise is take a piece of paper about the size of a dollar bill (or just use a dollar bill!). Place the paper into the open freezer door and then close the door. When you gently tug on the paper, you should feel some resistance. That means the rubber is sealing properly. Test with the paper or dollar bill all around every side of the door(s). Continue reading.

Oliver Campers Off Grid CampingRV review
New changes to the 2027 Oliver Legacy Elite II fiberglass trailer

The 2027 Oliver Legacy Elite II gets one of the biggest updates Oliver Travel Trailers has made in years. This model still starts with the same long-life mindset Oliver owners expect. The new parts are there to make towing, camping, and off-grid use feel easier every day. Oliver kept the quad-shell, double-hull fiberglass construction and the 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum frame. That pairing is still the heart of the Legacy Elite II, because it aims for low maintenance and a trailer that can stay on the road for decades. Continue reading.

FrozenfruitsoftserveHealthy “ice cream” in your RV without the guilt (or price tag)
Craving something sweet but trying to eat healthier? This frozen fruit soft-serve maker turns any frozen fruit into creamy, ice-cream-style treats in minutes—no added sugar, dairy, or mystery ingredients. Gadgets like this are usually pricey, but this one keeps it simple and affordable. Easy to clean and perfect for small kitchens, it’s a good way to satisfy dessert cravings.

FRIDAY FORECAST: 100% chance you’ll remember the thing you forgot to pack approximately 50 miles from home.

Be nice!
Rat snake

This curious eastern rat snake recently greeted some Blue Ridge Parkway rangers. Also known as the black rat snake, eastern rat snakes are large and non-venomous and can grow to 7 feet long. They play an important role in the ecosystem by helping control rodent populations. So, while they may startle us, they’re great pest managers. If you spot one, take a moment to appreciate this hardworking and beneficial neighbor from a respectful distance!

Run your air conditioner with little power
Running an RV air conditioner on a 20-amp household outlet sounds impossible—unless you have a SoftStartRV™. This small device reduces startup current dramatically, helping many RVers cool their rig when they never could before. Learn more.

Article and video
Do solar panels inside windshields work?

In this video from Project of Science, our host, a custom van builder by trade, wanted to do an experiment with portable solar panels. He wanted to know if setting up solar panels inside windshields would work to power a van’s battery or devices, so he set out to find out.

Featured article
Unleashing the untold wonders of the Midwest’s top state parks

After several important caveats, Gail Marsh lists a few of the best state parks in the Midwestern United States that she and her family have enjoyed. These parks are gorgeous!

Ask Dave
What is New World screwworm (NWS) and what can I do to protect my pet?

Dave explains here.

Picniccover
This cute picnic table cover is perfect for July 4th and the rest of summer. Learn more or order.

Reader poll
If given the choice between vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream, which would you pick?

Respond here.

Quick tip
Safely store aerosol cans

After the cap came off one of my spray cans and emptied its contents into a storage bay, I decided to see if I could find a better way to store them. I found that the popular plastic bicycle water bottle cage works for most of my cans. Just mount the cage(s) to any appropriate surface, then stuff the otherwise-runaway aerosol cans in the cage. Our thanks to Jim A. for the “canny” idea.

On this day last year…

Website of the day

Ghost Towns
This must surely be the best source of information about American ghost towns.

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Even if you never wear a tie and hope to never wear one again, we bet you would have no problem wearing this one. People will stare, we guarantee. Wear this to a party and you’ll be the highlight of the event. Ummm, literally…

Trivia

The average car on the road in America is almost 13 years old, according to industry data reported by Ford. A vehicle bought new when the first iPhone 5 came out is now squarely average. Thirty years ago, that number was closer to 8 years old.

Readers’ pet of the day

“Misty (German Shepherd, age 3.5) is a rescue who was only 40 lbs., had non-infectious mange, and had given up on life. She is now 80 lbs. and the sweetest, kindest companion. Here she is at Christmas, healthy and happy. You would never know it was the same girl. My wife is jealous because she caught me singing to Misty (Me and My Arrow). She said, ‘After 40 years, you never sang to ME!’ Misty loves to travel and ride with us.” —A. Dudley

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

Leave here with a laugh

(Groan.)

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

Visit Current National Radar Weather Map

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!

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

RVtravel.com All-Star Staff

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

WHY WE ASK FOR DONATIONS INSTEAD OF SELLING SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Our policy on using artificial intelligence.

What is New World screwworm (NWS) and what can I do to protect my pet?

Dave Solberg
-
2
What is New World screwworm (NWS) and what can I do to protect my pet?

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced New World screwworm has again been reported in the United States. According to the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHLS) website, New World screwworm is a fly that leaves their larvae on living tissue of warm-blooded animals such as livestock, wildlife and even pets. The risk is very low to humans. However, it is still important to understand the effects of this parasite and take precautions.

More information from the USDA

The USDA fact sheet (pdf) also states the following:

NWS is not contagious and does not spread directly from animals to people or from person to person. Screwworm infestations begin when a female fly lays eggs on a wound or body opening. Eggs hatch into larvae that burrow into the wound and feed on living tissue. After about 7 days of feeding, larvae drop to the ground, burrow into the soil, and pupate. The adult screwworm fly emerges from the soil after 7–54 days depending on temperature and humidity. Female flies mate after 3 days, while males can mate within 24 hours of maturation, and the cycle continues.

New World Screwworm
New World screwworm. Photo courtesy USDA

If you are traveling to or from a known infected country such as Mexico, there are precautions that the USDA recommends:

    • Clean and cover wounds.
    • Avoid bug bites by using insect repellent and wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants, socks, and hats.
    • Sleep in a room with screened windows, or under a bed net, or inside a screened tent.
    • Avoid spending time where livestock or other infested animals are located.

PET DOGS – UPDATE (June 10, 2026): Pet dog travel to Mexico will proceed according to previously established procedures. Updated requirements will be posted once they are finalized.

Also: As of November 22, 2024, Mexico is considered to be affected with screwworm. All dogs (including U.S. origin dogs returning to the U.S. after traveling to Mexico) must meet APHIS requirements for screwworm freedom certification upon entry (re-entry) into the United States. Additional information can be found on the APHIS Dog Import website.

Requirements for pets returning to U.S.

Here are the requirements for pets coming back from Screwworm-affected countries:

If your pet dog is coming from a country or region where screwworm is known to exist, it may enter the United States only if it is accompanied by a certificate signed by a full-time salaried veterinary official (official government veterinarian) of the region of origin stating that the dog:

    • Has been inspected for screwworm within 5 days before shipment to the United States, and
    • Is either free from screwworm, or
    • Was infested with screwworm, held in quarantine, and treated until free from screwworm before leaving the region.

Certification

For more information about obtaining certificate endorsement by an official government veterinarian, contact the Animal Health Competent Authority of the country your pet is traveling from. The Competent Authority of the exporting country is the governmental entity responsible for establishing and ensuring or overseeing implementation of national standards of animal and veterinary health, international veterinary certification, and approval or accreditation of certifying veterinarians.

What to look for

    • Irritated behavior
    • Head shaking
    • The smell of decay
    • Presence of fly larvae (maggots) in wounds

The best way to protect against NWS is to keep your pet away from areas that are known to be infected and away from livestock and wildlife. Visually inspect your pet periodically and contact a Certified Veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet is infected.

For more information on the New World screwworm, visit the USDA information page here.

 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.

Name
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload

RVDT2925

13 tips to keep your RV’s refrigerator cool all summer

RV Travel
-
8
13 tips to keep your RV’s refrigerator cool all summer

By Gail Marsh
If it’s not already, it’s about to get hot soon, and your RV refrigerator will need your help.

Here are some tips for keeping your RV fridge cooling effectively all summer long:

• Check the seals located all along the edge of the refrigerator and/or freezer doors. If you notice cracking, loose seals, or even places where the seals are missing, make repairs before you head to the campground.

An easy way to check seals that show no visible signs of compromise is take a piece of paper about the size of a dollar bill (or just use a dollar bill!). Place the paper into the open freezer door and then close the door. When you gently tug on the paper, you should feel some resistance. That means the rubber is sealing properly. Test with the paper or dollar bill all around every side of the door(s).

• Also, check the outside refrigerator vent. Clear out any debris and wasp or bird nests that may impede air circulation.

• Consider purchasing a digital remote thermometer like this one. This will enable you to check the inside temps of both the fridge and freezer without having to open the doors—letting all that nice cold air escape. (This is especially important if you have health medications that must be stored at a specified temp.)

• Purchase a fridge fan to keep inside. It will evenly circulate the air and help your refrigerator run more efficiently.

• Turn on your RV refrigerator 12-24 hours before you leave home. This will give the unit a head start in cooling by using propane. Stock the shelves in the fridge with foods and condiments that are already cooled. These items will aid in cooling the fridge interior.

• Do not overfill the refrigerator. It needs adequate airflow around items in order to keep foods consistently cooled.

• Load the freezer with foods that are already frozen. (I like to bring made-ahead meals when we camp for several weeks, but I always freeze the meals in our home freezer before placing them inside the RV freezer.)

• When you are ready to travel, switch to your 12-volt DC power. (Gas cools your fridge down most effectively, but electricity is more efficient in keeping it cold. Plus, you won’t have to worry about using propane while driving.)

• Consider buying ice rather than adding that extra stress on your RV refrigerator’s ice maker—especially when it’s really hot outside.

• When possible, park your rig so that the refrigerator side is in the shade to assist with cooling. Also, make sure the RV is as level as possible. Your fridge may not operate properly if your rig is too far off-level.

• Always cool down leftovers to room temperature before placing them in the fridge.

• Know what you want to remove from your freezer or fridge before you open the door. It will help keep the inside air temps cool/cold.

• Defrost your freezer when ice builds up. To do this, put frozen foods inside a cooler to keep them frozen. You can put a pan of hot water inside the freezer, close the door, and wait for the ice to melt. Some folks like to use a hairdryer on a low heat setting because it’s quicker.

RELATED

RVDT2925

Do solar panels inside windshields work?

Video Editor
-
3
Do solar panels inside windshields work?

By Cheri Sicard
In the video below from Project of Science, our host, a custom van builder by trade, wanted to do an experiment with portable solar panels. He wanted to know if setting up solar panels inside windshields would work to power a van’s battery or devices, and he set out to find out.

Why did he want to see if putting the panel in the windshield would work? Because there are times you can’t put them outside for one reason or another. And you certainly don’t want to put them out and go away as they would likely not be there when you returned. But what kind of performance can you expect from a solar panel inside of a windshield?

Our host collected data on his inside windshield solar panel for about a week before making the video that compared its performance to a portable solar panel that was outside on the ground.

The actual experiment begins at about the 3-minute mark. Check out the video to get the specifics on how it was set up.

Unfortunately, Project of Science has their playback on other websites disabled, so you’ll have to click here and watch the video on YouTube.

If you want to cut to the chase and skip the video, the bottom line is that putting the solar panel inside the windshield reduced its efficiency by about 60%. That said, it did perform, so if you wanted things to charge while you went away for a few hours or a few days, this would, in fact, work.

Watch the video to examine the collected data more closely and analyze what worked and what did not work in this interesting portable solar panel experiment.

RELATED

RVDT2925

If given the choice between vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream, which would you pick?

RV Travel
-
19
If given the choice between vanilla, chocolate or strawberry ice cream, which would you pick?

Look! Over there! There’s a truck handing out FREE ice cream! Looks like they have vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry flavors for free. Hurry up and go get some before it’s gone!

Oh, good, you’re back. What flavor did you decide on? Vanilla? Chocolate? Strawberry?

Now, we know there are a gazillion other flavors of ice cream (mint chip, cookie dough, black cherry, rocky road, coffee, you name it), but we couldn’t possibly make up a poll with all those options, could we? That’s right.

So, for today, if you absolutely had to pick, just pick one of those three flavors. And if you don’t like any of those flavors, well, maybe today’s poll isn’t for you. (But come on, if you haaaaad to pick?)

If you want to leave a comment and tell us what your favorite ice cream flavor is, we won’t object. We loooove talking about ice cream. Ice cream, ice cream, ice cream!

Oh, and also… Did you know you can make ice cream at home or in the RV in a mug? It’s true, and it’s easy! Here’s how.

MORE FUN POLLS:

RVDT2924

New changes to the 2027 Oliver Legacy Elite II fiberglass trailer

Cheri Sicard
-
2
New changes to the 2027 Oliver Legacy Elite II fiberglass trailer

The 2027 Oliver Legacy Elite II gets one of the biggest updates Oliver Travel Trailers has made in years. In Jason Essary’s walkthrough tour in the video at the end of this post, the changes show up across the whole trailer, not only in one headline feature.

This model still starts with the same long-life mindset Oliver owners expect. The new parts are there to make towing, camping, and off-grid use feel easier every day.

The shell and chassis still set the tone

Oliver kept the quad-shell, double-hull fiberglass construction and the 6061 aircraft-grade aluminum frame. That pairing is still the heart of the Legacy Elite II, because it aims for low maintenance and a trailer that can stay on the road for decades.

The running gear follows the same logic. Dexter Nev-R-Lube® axles, easy flex suspension, leaf springs, and shock absorbers work together for a smoother, more controlled tow, whether the route stays on pavement or heads farther out.

Off-grid power gets much more serious

In the Platinum Pro setup shown in the walkthrough, the curb-side solar awning brings a 48-volt, 960-watt solar package built right into the awning itself. Add the 400-watt rooftop array, and total solar climbs to 1,360 watts.

That power feeds 640 amp-hours of heated lithium battery capacity. A 3,000-watt inverter ties it together, so the trailer can keep running the kind of gear people usually expect to use only on hookups, including the TV, microwave, and air conditioner.

Oliver also added a built-in DC-to-DC charger through the seven-pin connection. While towing, it can send 20 amps into the lithium battery bank without extra setup.

Small upgrades should make daily use easier

Oliver Legacy Elite II floorplans

The new front jack moves from 3,500 pounds to 4,000 pounds. It also gets simpler controls, with clear extend and retract operation.

Another useful change is the tank monitoring system. The sensors now sit directly in the tanks, which should give more accurate readings than older probe setups.

Hot water also gets an upgrade across the lineup. Oliver switched to a 60,000 BTU RecPro on-demand water heater, now standard on all models.

The cabin changes are easy to notice

Inside, a centralized thermostat now controls the air conditioner, heat pump, and furnace from one interface. Oliver also moved to a new Dometic furnace and redesigned the ducting, including a dedicated heat duct for the bathroom, which should help during cold-weather trips.

The new dual-pane windows may be the most visible update. They open fully in an awning style, and the day and night shades are built into the frame. During the day, the shade works as the screen. At night, the blackout shade adds privacy and darkness for sleep.

The galley gets solid surface countertops, a redesigned faucet, and a new stainless steel sink. Oliver kept the dovetail drawers and soft-close hardware.

Up above, the cabin air fan now includes LED lighting, with a softer amber tone for evenings and bright white light for tasks.

Travel Trailers Floorplan Dinette 768x512 Legacy Elite 2 Standard Floorplan

Final thoughts

The 2027 Legacy Elite II still leans on the same strong shell and frame Oliver is famous for, but the update feels focused on real use. Better airflow, better windows, stronger charging, and more useful tank readings all point to a trailer that is easier to live with.

That is the clearest takeaway from this walkthrough. Oliver left the core build alone and spent its effort on the parts owners notice every day.

Learn more about Oliver Legacy Elite II travel trailers here.

RELATED

RVDT2925

National parks are busier than ever, but funding hasn’t kept pace

Russ and Tiña De Maris
-
4
National parks are busier than ever, but funding hasn’t kept pace

America’s national parks remain as popular as ever. Campground reservations fill months in advance, entrance stations see long lines during peak season, and millions of visitors continue to pass through park gates each year.

But while demand for national parks has grown, funding has not increased as quickly as visitation. At the same time, inflation and rising operating costs have continued to pressure park budgets. Congress has increased park funding in some years, and separate federal programs have helped tackle deferred maintenance projects. Even so, budget analysts say inflation and growing visitation continue to put pressure on the system.

For RVers, the issue matters because those dollars help maintain campgrounds, roads, restrooms and visitor services.

A recent Congressional Research Service (CRS) analysis highlighted the challenge. The report noted that visitation and operating costs have increased over time, raising questions about whether funding growth has kept pace with demand.

More visitors, more pressure

National parks have become increasingly popular over the past decade.

According to the CRS, national park visitation climbed from about 294 million visits in 2014 to roughly 325 million in 2023. More recent National Park Service figures show visitation remains near historic highs.

More visitors means more wear and tear on roads, campgrounds, restrooms, water systems, trails and visitor facilities. As usage grows, so do maintenance and operating costs.

“More visitors meanS more wear and tear on everything from campgrounds and roads to restrooms and trails.”

Inflation changes the picture

The CRS report notes that most National Park Service funding comes through annual congressional appropriations.

But while demand for national parks has grown, funding hasn’t kept pace with visitation. According to the CRS, inflation-adjusted National Park Service funding increased about 7 percent between 2014 and 2023. Visitation grew about 10 percent during the same period. At the same time, labor, construction and other operating costs continued to rise, putting additional pressure on park budgets.

A Government Accountability Office review found that National Park Service funding declined in inflation-adjusted terms between 2005 and 2014, even as visitation and operating costs continued to grow. In simple terms, the agency received funding, but those dollars bought less than they had in the past.

Labor costs, construction expenses, utilities and other operating costs have continued to rise. When funding growth doesn’t match those increases, park managers must stretch available resources further.

Staffing enters the conversation

Staffing often enters the conversation, as well.

The National Parks Conservation Association says National Park Service staffing declined by about 13 percent between 2012 and 2022, while visitation increased about 10 percent during the same period.

Whether measured through staffing levels, maintenance needs or operating costs, the underlying challenge remains the same: Demand for park services has continued to grow.

That doesn’t mean parks are falling apart. Congress has approved funding increases in some years, and separate federal programs have directed billions of dollars toward deferred maintenance projects. Still, budget analysts continue to debate whether overall funding growth has matched long-term needs.

What visitors may notice

Most travelers will never read a federal budget report, but they will notice the visitor experience.

Funding pressures can show up as delayed maintenance projects, reduced operating hours, postponed facility improvements or increased pressure on existing staff and infrastructure.

The effects vary widely from park to park. Some parks have benefited from major infrastructure investments in recent years. Others continue to manage aging facilities while serving growing numbers of visitors.

For RVers, the issue is especially relevant because campgrounds, roads, dump stations, restrooms and visitor facilities all require ongoing maintenance.

The bottom line

Most RVers don’t spend much time thinking about federal budget formulas. They do notice when a campground needs repairs, a restroom is closed, or a visitor center cuts its hours.

America’s national parks remain one of the country’s most popular travel destinations. Visitors continue to arrive in historically high numbers, and public interest shows little sign of fading.

National parks remain one of America’s great travel bargains. But as visitation stays high and costs continue to rise, the question of how to pay for those parks isn’t likely to disappear anytime soon.

Sources
• Congressional Research Service, National Park Service (NPS) Appropriations: Ten-Year Trends (R42757)
• U.S. Government Accountability Office, National Park Service: Revenues from Fees and Donations Increased, but Some Enhancements Are Needed to Continue This Trend (GAO-16-166)
• U.S. Government Accountability Office, The National Park Service Is Turning 100—How Are Its Finances?
• National Park Service visitation statistics (2025 visitation announcement)

RELATED

RVT1265b

Iowa campers squeezed out as data center workers fill RV parks year-round

RV Travel
-
22
Iowa campers squeezed out as data center workers fill RV parks year-round

Campgrounds across Eastern Iowa are filling up faster than ever as thousands of out-of-state workers arrive to help build data centers across the region.

What was once a weekend getaway is now home away from home for many workers who say finding an affordable place to stay has become difficult.

“Some people I think sleep in their cars,” said Josh Burt, a union lineman helping build infrastructure for the QTS project in Fairfax.

For Burt, camping became the answer. He has spent the last month at Pleasant Creek Campground in Palo. At $26 a night, he says it’s cheaper than a hotel.

“They range from 100 to 500 dollars a night. And these aren’t five-star hotels,” Burt said.

Burt works 10- to 12-hour shifts. When the workday ends, he says the campground offers an affordable escape from the noise and congestion surrounding the work sites.

Campgrounds reach capacity year-round

Finding a spot might not be easy. Campground managers say workers connected to the data center projects are filling spots faster than ever before.

Stephanie Chrisman manages Unhitched Sleepy Hollow and Lazy Acres RV parks in Eastern Iowa.

“We’re practically 100 percent full,” Chrisman said.

She says her campgrounds used to sit around 20 to 30 percent capacity in winter but are now nearly full year-round.

“We’ve tried to move people around, but it’s just impossible to make space for everyone,” Chrisman said.

Chrisman says data center workers call daily looking for a spot, and right now she has a waiting list of about 20. She says while it’s convenient for them, it can frustrate long-time campers.

“There’s a lot of campers that are used to having spots over the summer, and they’re having trouble getting in,” Chrisman said.

Long-term stays becoming common

Chrisman says some workers stay a few weeks. Others plan to stay for years.

The Amana RV Park & Event Center said it’s seen the most long-term camping this year the park has ever experienced due to the data center construction.

The park receives multiple calls daily from people saying everywhere from hotels to other campgrounds are full.

For Burt, the Fairfax project could mean another year at the campgrounds.

RELATED

RVT1265b

RV Daily Tips. Thursday, June 11, 2026

Newsletter Editor
-
6
RV Daily Tips. Thursday, June 11, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2924 • New issue every weekday

Today’s thought

“Even if you are on the right track, you’ll get run over if you just sit there.” ―Will Rogers

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Corn on the Cob Day!

On this day in history: 1935 – Inventor Edwin Armstrong gives the first public demonstration of FM broadcasting in the United States at Alpine, New Jersey.

Tip of the day
Trailer users – Here’s a front/rear leveling tip

By Dave Helgeson
When you’re logging long miles and pull into a campsite for the night, the last thing you want to do is take the time to unhitch, just to hitch back up to leave the next morning.

If you have a level campsite, you can just stay hooked up, but what do you do when the campsite slopes to the front or rear so much that you are unable to level the RV without unhitching? This!

Article and video
4 essential RV sewer valve maintenance tips

A sticky RV sewer valve can turn a routine tank dump into a mess. In many cases, the problem starts with dirt, dry seals, or a cable that has too many tight bends. Here, Jared Gillis of All About RVs focuses on simple maintenance that keeps drain valves moving smoothly and helps them last longer. A few small fixes can often prevent a full valve replacement.

Featured article
RV road trip fails: Update your packing lists or be prepared to face the consequences!

By Rod Andrew
No matter what kind of RV you own, I’ll bet you’ve said this sentence many times: “Do you remember where we packed the …?” Or, perhaps even scarier: “Did we pack the …?” Sometimes the missing item can be simply annoying. Or it can be nothing short of potentially disastrous. Here’s a tale of one of the latter. (And you know this is gonna be a kick, being from Rod!)

Bread in a toaster bag inside a yellow toaster Amazon imageTurn your RV toaster into a mini grill
These reusable toaster bags make quick RV meals, with less mess. Grill sandwiches, reheat pizza, warm leftovers or toast snacks without dirtying the toaster—perfect for fast meals without mess. Gail Marsh recommends them here.

Ask Dave
My slide room floor is rotten from water damage. How can I fix and waterproof it?

Read Dave’s answer.

Reader poll
In honor of National Corn on the Cob Day… How do YOU eat corn on the cob?

Respond here.

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

Run your air conditioner with little power
Running an RV air conditioner on a 20-amp household outlet sounds impossible—unless you have a SoftStartRV™. This small device reduces startup current dramatically, helping many RVers cool their rig when they never could before. Learn more.

Bumper snicker

Leakingpower
Funny! Order one for yourself here.

Quick tip
Easy non-skid shower stall floor

Shower stall floor too slick for safety? Cut a piece or two of non-skid mat (normally used in the kitchen cupboard to restrain unruly dishes) and lay it in the shower.

On this day last year…

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Get a whole new set of tires AND a cup of coffee for about $25! Hey, would we lie? We never lie!

Website of the day

Unusual RVs: Pinterest
You’ll love this! This Pinterest page features hundreds of unusual RVs. Just scroll through and look at some of these—Wow!

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:

• At a nice RV park, 24 percent would choose using the park’s showers over their own RV’s shower.
• 25 percent do not believe chalk should be allowed in campgrounds.
• When asked what genre of movies our readers most often watch, the highest percentage of voters, 24 percent, say they most often watch action movies. The second most popular genre was comedy followed by drama and sci-fi or fantasy. Rom-coms were the least watched.

Recent poll: Does today’s technology enhance or detract from the RV experience?

Trivia

Earlier this month, Academy Award-winning composer Justin Hurwitz needed a replacement when his keyboard player became ill during a live screening of La La Land. He asked the audience if anyone who was a skilled sight reader could fill in, whereupon 21-year-old student Sterling Nasa volunteered. After a 30-second briefing, Nasa impressed the crowd with a solo and some improvisation. He later said the experience inspired him to consider a music career.

VIEW CAMPSITES just like you were driving through the campground using Google Street View. See one you like? Learn instantly if it’s available and reserve it on the spot at Campground Views.

Readers’ pet of the day

1000001081 274110a3c875e6af9749a3e74b0233ac“This is a Bailey (Aussiedoodle, age 2.5): definitely a ‘Wind in my Ears and Bugs in my Teeth’ kind of guy. He loves the RVing adventure, and once we’re underway he can be found sitting up on the center console making sure Dad is going the right way.” —Beverly Bensing

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.

RvflagholderThe easiest way to fly a flag from your RV
Recently, one of our Facebook members shared a really cool suction cup flag holder for RVs, and I couldn’t be prouder to highlight it here. This handy little accessory makes it easy to show your love for our country and support for our troops wherever you are. Sticks to any surface.

FREE IS GOOD! Sign up for Panda Express Rewards® and choose from multiple gift options on your birthday, plus earn Panda Points® for more rewards and offers.

Leave here with a laugh

Click to enlarge.

Join RVtravel.com on Facebook. Here are our most popular groups:

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.

WHY WE ASK FOR DONATIONS INSTEAD OF SELLING SUBSCRIPTIONS.

Our policy on using artificial intelligence.

My slide room floor is rotten from water damage. How can I fix and waterproof it?

Dave Solberg
-
2
My slide room floor is rotten from water damage. How can I fix and waterproof it?

Dear Dave,
I bought my RV new. The slide room floor has rotted under the fridge. I’m guessing the icemaker has been leaking. What wood would you recommend putting in the slide as waterproofing? Will this be a hard project? Or do you recommend taking it to a shop? Thank you, and God bless you. —Corrie Lynn, 2021 Crossroads Hampton 374BAR

Dear Corrie Lynn,
I’m afraid you will need to replace the floor rather than doing some type of waterproof Band-Aid.

Slide room repair

Most slide rooms are made with a Thermo-Panel sidewall design for the sides and simply a plywood floor. The repair would require removing the slide room completely and all the contents, including the refrigerator. This is not an easy task and typically requires a forklift or some type of jacking device or hoist.

The room needs to rest on some type of platform and the old floor removed. (Most have a metal “L” bracket at the corners to connect it.) Then a new floor can be installed. You would also want to cover the underside of the plywood with an aluminum skin or polyethylene underbelly material such as this one on Amazon.

Underbelly Material

So, yes, this is a big project and not a typical DIY in the driveway.

Slideroom floor
Slide room floor

As for waterproofing after the fact, I would use marine-grade plywood, which is treated and withstands some moisture. However, it is more important to prevent the leaks in the first place.

I am not a big fan of ice makers in RVs as it is easy to forget about the water in the line when it comes time to winterize. Then you have an out-of-sight leak that you only find when it is too late. A couple of trays of ice in the freezer wouldn’t cause nearly as much potential damage.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

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

Read more from Dave here. 

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DAVE?

Send your inquiries to him using the form below.

Name
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload

RVDT2924

1...567...2,227Page 6 of 2,227