I received this question from an RVtravel.com reader regarding tire cold inflation pressure:
I have read a lot of your posts and that makes me think my manufacturer has my Cold Inflation Pressure (CIP) wrong or used too much tire on my unit (maybe not a bad thing).
5th wheel, GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) 12,025 lbs.
Tires—Goodyear Endurance ST235/80R/16
CIP—80 psi per label and max CIP on tire
Per the GY load/inflation chart, 80 psi will support 3,420 lbs. per tire.
Fully loaded before a trip on a CAT scale, trailer axles weighed 4,060 front and 4,080 rear, tongue weight 1,800 lbs.
This is what I come up with. Being conservative, I used 2,270 from the chart at 40 psi for my operating pressure. Using your guidelines I used 50 psi as 25% reserve.
I think 40-50 psi is too little pressure. I think I should run 65 psi as CIP rather than the 80 psi on the label. I’m running 80 psi CIP and I had pressure go to 100 psi and temp as high as 130 degrees on TPMS, which both seemed high to me.
Is 65 a good CIP with MOP at 50 based on the info I provided? Does a high (80 psi) CIP cause tires to run hot with high pressures?
I hope I didn’t muddy the waters with my numbers, but I’m finding it difficult to ask the right questions. I would greatly appreciate it if you could help me clear this up. Thank you.
My reply
Thanks for the question. Yes, understanding the Certification Label psi versus information in the tables can be confusing. We need to remember that these different inflations are based on different requirements.
You didn’t provide the Max load that is stated on your Certification label. I am guessing it says something like GAWR 6,850# for each axle. The inflation stated on the label, by law, must be sufficient to support the stated GAWR (gross axle weight rating). ST235/80R16 LR-E tires are rated for 3,420# each at 80 psi.
If you do a search on “MAX inflation” on the RVtravel.com Maintenance posts you will get a number of posts explaining the meaning of “MAX” and why you may be misunderstanding what it means.
I agree that 40 psi is way too low. I would consider 65 to 70 psi CIP more appropriate, assuming that no tire is supporting more than 3,000#. BUT if you are seeing a psi increase from 80 to 100, that might indicate you need CIP of 80. Have you checked your digital pressure gauge for accuracy?
I do not think your RV company put “too much tire” on your RV. If anything, I would be recommending Load Range F LT-type tires for heavy 5th wheel trailers.
No, running “a high psi of 80” will not result in a tire running hot. Excess psi comes from low inflation and excess speed. I consider 65 mph a MAX operation speed for ST-type tires. I also consider that running any CIP below the Certification Label CIP as “consuming” tire life due to interply shear.
You can learn more about tires in RV application on my Blog www.RVTireSafety.net and by reviewing the posts regarding RV Tire Safety on RVtravel.com.
If you’ve ever timed your fuel stop around a Costco run, you’re not alone.
For years, Costco Wholesale has built a loyal following among drivers—especially RVers—thanks to consistently lower fuel prices and high-volume stations. Now, the company is testing something entirely new that could reshape how and where you fill up on the road.
A first for Costco
According to a March 26, 2026, report from CNBC, Costco is building its first-ever standalone gas station. This means it won’t be attached to one of its iconic warehouse stores.
This new location is planned for Mission Viejo, California, and it’s not a small experiment. The site will feature approximately 40 fuel pumps and span roughly 17,000 square feet. It will be one of the largest fuel stations Costco has ever built.
Why standalone?
Costco currently operates hundreds of gas stations, but they’ve always been tied to warehouse locations. That setup works well for shoppers, but it also creates bottlenecks. If you’ve ever tried to maneuver a larger rig through a crowded Costco parking lot, you know the struggle.
The standalone model aims to solve that problem. By separating fuel stations from retail warehouses, Costco can place pumps in high-demand areas without needing space for a full store. Analysts say this move could help attract new members while also keeping existing ones loyal, especially during periods of high fuel prices.
Costco strategy
Gas has always been a key part of Costco’s strategy. The company sells billions of gallons of fuel annually. Prices for Costco fuel is typically significantly lower than competitors, sometimes by 20 to 30 cents per gallon.
Company executives know that Costco’s fuel margins are relatively slim. However, the real payoff comes from membership growth and repeat visits.
What this means for RVers
For RV travelers, this shift could be a big win.
More accessible fueling locations. Standalone stations can be built closer to highways and major travel corridors instead of tucked into busy retail centers. That means fewer tight turns, less congestion, and easier entrance and exit with larger rigs.
Less crowding. Costco gas stations are famously busy. By adding dedicated fuel-only locations, the company could spread out demand and reduce long waiting times.
Potential for RVers. While final designs may vary, larger standalone sites open the door for wider lanes and better pump spacing. This is something many RVers need but rarely get.
Strategic placement. The first station is in Southern California, a hotspot for road trips and RV travel. Costco already has plans for additional standalone stations, including another large location in Honolulu.
A broader trend in fuel retail
Costco isn’t alone in seeing opportunity in fuel. Big-box retailers are increasingly investing in gas stations as a way to drive customer loyalty and foot traffic.
Fuel, unlike many retail products, brings customers back frequently. For RVers logging long miles, that frequency increases even more. And when prices are volatile, drivers tend to seek out brands they trust for savings.
That’s where Costco has a clear advantage. Its membership model allows it to undercut competitors while still maintaining profitability through annual fees and bulk sales.
What to watch next
This first standalone station in California is essentially a test case. If it performs well, expect to see more popping up along major travel routes across the U.S.
For RVers, that could eventually mean planning fuel stops around Costco locations without needing to detour into crowded shopping centers.
It’s also worth noting that these stations will remain members-only. You’ll still need an active Costco membership to take advantage of the savings.
America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001 Issue 1254 If you find this newsletter helpful, please consider supporting our work with a donation of your choice. Thank you!
Today’s thought
“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” —Oscar Wilde
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Something On A Stick Day! (Like a corn dog! Or grilled skewers! Or roasted marshmallows for s’mores! Or a popsicle!) To celebrate, we’ve put together a whole list of recipes for you.
On this day in history: 1910 – Henri Fabre becomes the first person to fly a seaplane, the Fabre Hydravion, an aircraft he designed and built, after taking off from a water runway near Martigues, France.
Featured news
AAA reported on March 26 that the national average price of a gallon of regular gasoline was up 10 cents from the previous week and one dollar from last month. The graph shows the steep rise from $2.98 on February 26 to $3.98 on March 26. Crude oil prices remain high as the Iran conflict nears the 4-week mark. The national average could reach $4 a gallon in the coming days for the first time since August 2022. Here are the numbers (gulp).
Amazon’s Starlink rival is suddenly accelerating—and RVers are hearing about it now for a reason. The company has more than 80 rocket launches lined up as it races to meet a federal deadline requiring it to deploy a large share of its satellites by the middle of this year. So should you be excited? Well, um, maybe not quite yet…
Two massive RV parks tied to the AI boom could soon reshape Abilene, Texas, where traditional housing is hard to come by. The first park is the $15 million Cottages at the Frontier with about 945 RV sites on 109 acres. The project is designed specifically to house workers for a nearby $25 billion data center campus, one of the largest in the country, expected to employ thousands. The park would include paved roads, walkways, and amenities such as a gym, dog park, pickleball courts, and green space. But wait… there’s more!
Speaking of AI data centers… Data centers near national parks are moving closer, and that could change what you hear, see, and experience when you stay. A new report warns that more than 70 National Park Service sites could be affected by rapid data center growth. Demand for cloud computing, streaming, and AI has exploded. And all that digital activity has to live somewhere—in the form of large, power-hungry facilities built on real land. Your campsite might soon be a lot louder…
You’re sitting outside the rig, maybe early morning, maybe late afternoon. Coffee in hand. Quiet. Then—crack. Gunfire. In a national park? Yep. Volunteer hunters are being enlisted to help manage wildlife in national parks. It’s the kind of thing that would make most RVers sit up straight and wonder what just went wrong. But in some places, what you’re hearing may be part of one of those controlled efforts.
The big Amazon spring RV gear sale is underway and runs through Tuesday, March 31. If you’ve been putting off replacing worn-out gear, this may be the time to take a look. We sifted through pages of lookalike items and found a handful that line up with what RVers actually use every trip—water, waste, setup, and safety gear. Check out our best picks.
If you’ve noticed more retirees in campgrounds—and not many lining up for glamping tents—you’re not imagining it. The older campers’ glamping trend is going in the opposite direction of the hype: Older campers are traveling more, but they’re choosing RVs over luxury camping by a wide margin. New survey data from a 2026 camping report backs that up.
If you have been waiting for a good excuse to plan your next RV trip, National Park Week 2026 just handed you one. The National Park Service recently announced that this year’s celebration will run from August 22-30, 2026. This year’s celebration dates have been changed from their usual April timing around Earth Day, and the NPS has stretched the event across two weekends and made a few other changes, too.
RV shipments continued their slide for the year 2026 in February. Results for the RV Industry Association’s February 2026 survey of manufacturers found that total RV shipments ended the month with 29,206 units, an 11.1% decrease from the 32,871 units shipped in February 2025. For the year, shipments were off 10.9%. Continue reading.
A quiet blueberry barren in Northport, Maine, has turned into the center of a heated debate over a proposed RV park—and now a possible 180-day moratorium on new campgrounds. Town officials want time to review rules as residents clash over development versus preserving open space. For RVers, it’s another sign that new camping options may face growing resistance in scenic areas. Here’s the story.
Lorelei Scott had lived in her RV in British Columbia for four years. Strange noises under the rig weren’t unusual. She’d come to expect the occasional nighttime visitor—usually raccoons. So when she heard a loud rustling and what she described as “angry cats,” her first instinct was to go outside and take a look. But something stopped her, and that hesitation may have been the smartest move she made all day. Yikes!! (Hint: It was NOT raccoons!)
DON’T WAIT FOR THE NEWS: Did you know you can receive a daily roundup of the latest news for RVers? Delivered to your inbox Monday-Friday, we’ll send you the biggest headlines. Stay up to date, learn about important closures, recalls, and much more. Click here and subscribe to “Breaking RV News.”
Road-ready gadgets that make RV life easier, especially for seniors
Gail Marsh writes, “Living the RV life should feel like freedom, but lately it’s been a bit of a struggle. My husband awaits knee replacement surgery, and I’ve been on the hunt for tips, tricks, and gadgets that can help restore his joy of RVing and also keep us comfortable (and safe) as we RV. Here’s what I’ve found.”
RV review 2026 Dynamax Isata 3 24FW— A compact Class C that doesn’t skimp on amenities
By Gail Marsh
I’ve been looking at several Class C RVs lately, and like most of what I see in the 2026 Dynamax Isata 3 24FW. In my opinion, this Class C is a good choice for couples who prefer a smaller rig but don’t want to skimp on the amenities. Dynamax builds the Isata 3 with durability in mind, and the 24FW reflects that approach. Take a look and let me know what you think.
Beyond the headlines with Tony Barthel
Campers are changing their ways as RV industry tensions rise
Campers are stepping up—more are actually showing up for reservations—but that’s just one piece of a much bigger shift happening across the RV world. From a rebounding California RV show to massive new parks, stalled developments, and growing pressure on the industry, Tony connects the dots on what it all means for your next trip.
News briefs
Another wave of scam text messages is circulating across Idaho. They claim that an outstanding traffic fine must be paid online or that a vehicle registration is overdue. “They … look official but are completely fraudulent,” said Lisa McClellan, Idaho DMV Administrator. “If the link does not end in a dot gov address, it’s a scam.” Other states are reporting the same activity.
Campgrounds at Georgia’s J. Strom Thurmond Lake, also known as Clarks Hill, are reopening for the spring and summer season, with most sites available now.
Grand Canyon National Park will open its North Rim May 15 for the summer season. All paved roadways inside the park will reopen, including Highway 67, Cape Royal and Point Imperial Roads. RVs or vehicles longer than 22 feet long will not be allowed on Cape Royal and Point Imperial Roads because of tight turns, limited parking and narrow conditions.
Northwest Indiana leaders are pushing to have sections of U.S. 12, an early pre-interstate highway along Lake Michigan’s southern shore, designated first as a State Scenic Byway and ultimately a National Scenic Byway. The route passes dunes, beaches and steel mills, offering a mix of natural and industrial scenery.
Pilot Eats Express, a grab-and-go companion to Pilot Eats, is rolling out at approximately 200 Pilot-Flying J Travel Centers. It delivers artisan-style pizza, chicken wings and tenders and snackable sides made for eating on-the-go.
Despite rising gas prices, the California RV Show, held March 20-22 in Pomona, Calif., drew more than 20,000 paying visitors. It was the first major RV show in Southern California in almost six years.
Buc-ee’s will break ground April 7 on a new travel center in Forsyth, Georgia, its fourth location in the state, at 1080 Rumble Road. It will span about 74,000 square feet with 100 fuel pumps. Buc-ee’s now operates 54 locations nationwide and continues expanding across the Southeast and beyond.
Winnebago Industries reported fiscal Q2 2026 revenue of $657.4 million, up about 6% from a year earlier, as higher prices and product mix offset lower unit sales. Net income improved to $4.8 million from a loss last year. Motorhome sales climbed roughly 29% while towable RV revenue declined about 9%.
George Byron Lee, 77, was killed following a camper fire that was started by a space heater in a small RV park in D’Iberville, Miss., this past week. The fire occurred overnight and burned out on its own, but not before taking Lee’s life.
The 47th Annual York RV Show was held March 20–22 at the York Expo Center in York, Pa. Paid admissions were reported at a mere 3,000.
Santa Barbara officials are exploring a plan to convert 127 waterfront parking spaces at Chase Palm Park into overnight RV sites which could generate up to $348,000 a year. The proposal could create 16 to 26 “dry camping” spaces for self-contained RVs, with no hookups or restrooms, at nightly rates around $100–$110.
The $7,000, 80×40-foot American flag along I-80 at Camping World in Roseville, Calif., is flying once again, roughly two months after thieves stole it, causing thousands of dollars in damage to the flagpole.
Theodore Roosevelt National Park will transition to a fully cashless fee system beginning May 1. Entrance fees and other in-person sales will be processed using mobile payments, credit cards, or debit cards at park sales outlets.
The Family RV Association (formerly FMCA), reports that it had a successful International Convention March 18-21 in Perry, Georgia. Although 1,005 member RVs were registered, some cancelled last-minute for various reasons. In its heyday in the late ’90s, more than 7,000 RVs would be on hand for the annual event.
500 campgrounds worth the drive
In this comprehensive sequel to National Geographic’s best-selling 50 States, 5,000 Ideas, you’ll discover the 500 best camping destinations across the United States and Canada. You’ll find 10 featured campgrounds in every state, plus tips on what to do, where to eat, and must-see attractions nearby—from national parks to local gems. Learn more or order.
Tanner Toons with Tanner Woods
You may share this Tanner Toon, unaltered, on your website, blog or social media with our compliments. The musings from Tanner Woods’ creative mind appear in this newsletter every Saturday and Sunday and in many RV Daily Tips newsletters through the week.
FACTOID: American frontier pioneers were sometimes so desperate for a cure for their ailments that they turned to a “quacksalver, or quack, for short. Quacks claimed to have miracle cures for all sorts of illnesses, some of which contained unhealthy or even dangerous ingredients. Today we call a doctor with questionable credentials a quack.
Keystone is recalling certain 2026 Montana fifth wheel trailers. The 12-volt and 120-volt wiring may be improperly secured so the wires may be pinched and damaged when the bedroom slide-out moves. More info: 866-425-4369 regarding recall 26-480.
The countdown is on:
There are 2-6 more days until the Washington, D.C., cherry blossoms reach their peak bloom.
**If you’re near Las Vegas, NV, be sure to see Dave Solberg at his always educational and entertaining seminars at the Las Vegas RV Show through tomorrow, March 29.
Trivia
According to botanists (those who study plants), a fruit is the part of the plant that develops from a flower. It’s also the section of the plant that contains the seeds. The other parts of plants are considered vegetables. These include the stems, leaves and roots—and even the flower bud.
Laugh of the week
Top scams RVers should watch for right now
Scammers are getting smarter as travel season picks up—and RVers are squarely in their sights. Here are three scams making the rounds right now:
• “Campground reservation” phishing texts: Messages claiming there’s an issue with your upcoming reservation, urging you to click a link to “confirm” or “pay a balance.” The link leads to a fake booking site designed to steal your info or payment.
• Fuel pump card skimmers (still surging): Skimmers are popping up again at busy travel stops. If the pump looks tampered with or won’t accept tap-to-pay, move on—and consider paying inside.
• Fake RV parts and service deals online: Deep discounts on hard-to-find parts or mobile RV repair services advertised on social media. Payment is requested upfront, then the seller disappears—or sends junk.
Today in history
Today’s weather forecast across the nation THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY
Has this ever happened to you? You’re ready to leave your campsite. Checkout time is upon you. Everything is packed up. It’s time to push the button that retracts your slideout. But, Oh, no! Nothing happens when you do! The slideout is stuck in its “out” position.
You check everything to figure out what could be wrong. You try a few things, but no luck! You once read that when this sort of thing happens you can retract the slide manually, but you can’t remember how to do it. Or you’ve got a bad back and you know getting down under the slide and messing around with it could be very bad news for your spine.
So what do you do? The park has been packed every day since you arrived, so you know the camper who has reserved the spot you’re currently in will be along soon.
This is not good, right?
And let’s be honest—this isn’t just a minor inconvenience. A stuck slide can throw your entire day (or trip) into chaos, especially if you’re on a tight travel schedule or the campground is fully booked. Suddenly, you’re troubleshooting under pressure, hoping for a quick fix while watching the clock and wondering how long the next guest will wait before knocking on your door.
Has this ever happened to you, or something similar where your slide (or slides) was stuck and you couldn’t continue your trip on schedule? If so, after responding to the poll, please leave a comment and tell us your story.
In this week’s Beyond the Headlines, I want to first welcome those of you who are bringing your campers out of hibernation back to the camping world. Well, not Camping World, but back among those of us who have been camping.
I got a good reminder from Jason Epperson of RV Miles to check all the batteries around the RV as step one, and that’s especially true of smoke and LP detectors, too.
The battery in these things can fail over the winter, and while we’d normally be annoyed by the chirping of them, you may not have heard that while the RV has been in its winter nap, that battery may have completely died.
We have reported on several RV fires here, and it’s good to test and likely replace those smoke and LP detector batteries before you set out on your first journey.
Y’all are being good campers
According to The Dyrt, an app for finding campsites, we campers are being better about utilizing the reservations we’re making.
In their 2026 Camping Report, The Dyrt reported that only 58.9% of campers said they showed up every time they reserved a site in 2023, but that number jumped all the way to 70.7% in 2024 and 72.9% in 2025. Also, the number of campers who arrived a day or more late fell by 9% last year, and no-shows decreased by 5%.
The report—compiled from the results of surveys conducted with thousands of members of The Dyrt Community, a representative sample of U.S. residents, and camping property managers across all 50 states—also found that short-notice cancellations increased by 22% in 2025.
Because availability has been such a hot-button topic in the camping industry, The Dyrt asked both campers and property owners the same question: Is it OK to reserve sites on multiple dates, knowing all won’t be used, for the purpose of providing options and flexibility?
Campers generally don’t support this approach, with 61.3% saying no, 35.5% saying yes as long as they cancel the extra sites well in advance, and only 3.2% saying yes. Camping property owners were slightly more favorable to this idea with less than half (49.8%) saying no, with 36.2% saying yes as long as they cancel with plenty of notice, and 14% saying yes.
California RV Show was a success
According to Woodall’s Campground Magazine, the California RV Show, held March 20-22 at the Fairplex in Pomona, was a resounding success. California is a huge RV and camping market, but has been without a solid RV show since 2020. At that time, the show was considered a manufacturer’s show where companies would bring rigs in. But this was a dealer’s show, although many manufacturers had reps there. There were even some new rigs displayed. [For another eyewitness report, read Dave Solberg’s post.]
One of the new rigs displayed was the Aboard RV, another of those electric trailers like the Pebble, Evotrex, and Lightship. Again, another new trailer that promises to have a big battery and mitigate the losses inherent in towing a trailer by using electric drive motors.
A prototype of the new Aboard RV was shown at the California RV Show. Photo by Ingall Bull.
But the Aboard is also like the others in that it uses a lot of Chinese-made parts, seemingly those used in Chinese EV and hybrid vehicle manufacturing, and then assembles those into an RV here in the good ol’ US of A.
I keep repeating this, hoping the domestic RV industry will take notice. But today’s RV industry is much like Detroit of the 1970s. Quality can be questionable, manufacturing processes are antiquated, customers are grumpy, and the door is wide open to a foreign wave of competition.
Consider that one of my friends who went to the show went specifically to see the new Wingamm offerings, which come from Europe, because domestic motorhomes are just too big.
Wingamm was one of the companies that said they would be at the show, but my friend just couldn’t find them.
There are a lot of RV shows at this time of year. If you haven’t already seen it, I shared 10 tips for visiting an RV show, which I think you will find helpful.
Additionally, Love’s is expanding its offerings to RVers, including overnight accommodations, all over the country. I got to interview the Director of RV Operations at Love’s, Jim Wheeler, for this story (coming in tomorrow’s newsletter).
I bring these up to encourage you all to keep an ear to the ground with regard to your local legislators. While we RVers are familiar with RV parks and what a well-managed park can bring to the community, a lot of people aren’t. I had written that many government decision makers’ only awareness of RVing can be the homeless population they see on the way to the office. Oh boy, did that make some people mad, even though it wasn’t at all intended as a dig against anyone.
The point is, the more we RVers can educate the people making the rules, the better off we all will be. Many communities don’t even have legislation on the books to cover building an RV park, so it’s almost impossible to do so expediently. This is part of why companies are buying the old parks, making them fancier, and then charging us a lot to stay there.
Hopefully, we all can be a voice in the community to make our collective lives better. I did an interview with a couple who had to overcome the hurdles of building an RV park in a community that wasn’t really aware of them in this podcast episode.
As always, I’m looking forward to reading your replies to this and hope you’re already looking forward to a great camping season.
Stay up to date with all the news headlines for RVers. Click here.
I’ve been looking at several Class C RVs lately, and like most of what I see in the 2026 Dynamax Isata 3 24FW.
In my opinion, this Class C is a good choice for couples who prefer a smaller rig but don’t want to skimp on the amenities. Take a look and let me know what you think.
Behind the walls
Dynamax builds the Isata 3 with durability in mind, and the 24FW reflects that approach. The coach uses laminated sidewalls with aluminum framing and block foam insulation. It has a composite fiberglass exterior that eliminates wood in key structural areas.
The floor is also aluminum-framed, and the roof features aluminum trusses topped with a one-piece fiberglass cap. The 24FW includes one full-wall slide, which runs nearly the length of the coach and plays a major role in opening up the interior.
A feature I really like is the windows that open fully. With that feature and the window placement, getting a fresh breeze inside this RV will be easy. There’s also generous basement storage available.
I like the integrated screen door that greeted me in this RV. One step inside and I immediately noticed the feeling of space—something you won’t get in many Class C’s. The full slide really makes a huge difference! The coach didn’t feel at all tight. Instead, the 2026 Dynamax Isata 3 24FW opens up into a continuous, easy-flowing living area.
I like the upscale finishes with hardwood cabinetry, solid-surface countertops, soft-close drawers, and LED lighting. The clean, light color palette keeps the space feeling bright without feeling sterile.
Cab seats
The 2026 Dynamax Isata 3 24FW’s front seats swivel for convenience and extra seating. They come with “boosters,” which is a bit odd to me. I understand that some folks may want to sit a bit higher, but this struck me as unnecessary, although it’s a better height when facing the interior of the RV.
Kitchen
At first glance, I wondered about prep space in this compact kitchen. Countertop space is quite limited unless you use the sink cover. The extra pop-up counter space will help, at least a little.
The Dynamax Isata 3 24FW features a two-door 12V compressor refrigerator, a three-burner gas cooktop with cover, and a convection microwave. I appreciate the stainless sink, though it’s quite small. The residential-style faucet is a good design choice.
Kitchen storage is better than I expected for a Class C coach. There’s a large space under the sink and above-sink storage, too. On the opposite side of the coach, you’ll find more storage for dry goods, and the pull-out drawers are a practical feature that I really like.
Living room
The living area is centered around an optional three-seat power recliner, with full recline, heat, and massage. (This option was featured in the model I toured and would definitely be my preference.) A dinette comes standard.
Built-in trays on the recliners are convenient, and the middle of the recliner comes down, forming an armrest, and has additional cup holders.
Across from the recliner, you’ll find a smart TV and a Bluetooth-capable sound system. This layout works well for the way we prefer to camp. Most of the time, we prep and cook outside. When we do eat inside, it’s usually in front of the TV.
With the full-wall slide, you won’t be bumping elbows.
Bath
The bathroom was a pleasant surprise. It’s positioned mid-coach and includes a shower, toilet, and sink. (Some smaller RVs use a split-plan bath. I much prefer to have all three fixtures in one space.) The toilet’s position allows plenty of room, the sink top and below storage offers places for bath necessities. There’s a medicine cabinet, as well.
The shower is small, but doable. The skylight helps make the space feel bigger, and I like the upgraded roof vent. Overall, the bath in the Dynamax Isata 3 24FW is practical and makes optimum use of the space. I appreciate that an actual door provides privacy.
Bedroom
In the rear, the 24FW offers a dedicated sleeping area with a queen-size bed and a gel-infused memory foam mattress. The big downside here is accessing the bed. There is no walk-around space, and that’s a big disappointment to me. However, in a small RV like this, it’s to be expected.
There’s storage underneath the bed, along with wardrobe space and drawers. Reading lights add convenience; however, a CPAP user would need to use a drawer or the closet area for the machine. I do like the privacy divider that separates the bedroom from the main living area.
Dynamax offers an optional cab-over bunk with a mattress and privacy curtain. This adds extra sleeping capacity without changing the core layout. It would be useful for occasional grandkids’ overnights.
Overall take
The 2026 Dynamax Isata 3 24FW stands out to me because it doesn’t try to do too much. Instead, it focuses on doing the essentials well. I like the smart open layout and the upgraded finishes.
For couples who want a diesel-powered coach that’s easy to drive and comfortable to live in, the 24FW is a well-balanced option.
Here’s a video for you to get a better look. Then please share your thoughts about this Class C RV using the comments below.
Two massive RV parks tied to the AI boom could soon reshape Abilene, Texas, where traditional housing is hard to come by.
The first park is the $15 million Cottages at the Frontier with about 945 RV sites on 109 acres. The project is designed specifically to house workers for a nearby $25 billion data center campus, one of the largest in the country, expected to employ thousands.
Rendering of Cottages at the Frontier RV Park
The park would include paved roads, walkways and amenities such as a gym, dog park, pickleball courts and green space. Construction could begin soon and run through late summer. Rents are expected to be $1,550 per month.
But wait, there’s more (RV spaces)
Cottages at the Frontier is one of two large RV developments planned along the same road, but it’s the baby of the two. Another nearby project, Elmdale RV Park, would dwarf it by accommodating roughly 2,300 self-contained RVs on 148 acres, making it among the largest RV parks in the country.
The creation of the two parks signals how demand for temporary housing is surging as the data center expands.
Not all are happy campers
Not everyone is pleased. Some residents worry about increased traffic, pressure on water supplies, falling property values and the broader industrialization of the area.
City leaders, however, see the projects as a response to a housing shortage driven by the rapid influx of workers tied to the data center boom, which is transforming the local economy—and potentially turning Abilene into an “RV city.”
The Amazon RV gear sale is underway and runs through March 31. If you’ve been putting off replacing worn-out gear, this may be the time to take a look. We sifted through pages of lookalike items and found a handful that line up with what RVers actually use every trip—water, waste, setup, and safety gear.
Most of what shows up in this sale isn’t flashy. It’s the stuff that wears out, gets forgotten, or quietly makes life easier when it works right. That’s where the better values tend to hide.
One quick note: The “regular prices” we’re using here reflect what these items typically sell for day to day—not the sometimes optimistic comparison prices you’ll see on Amazon listings.
The gear you’ll actually use every trip
If there was a theme to what surfaced, it’s this: The basics are where the action is.
Tank treatments, sewer hoses, rinsers—none of it glamorous, all of it essential. Items like Camco TST Drop-Ins Tank Treatment typically run about $20, but are showing up closer to $15 in this sale—roughly 25% off. The Camco Rhino Ultimate 20′ RV Sewer Hose Kit typically sells in the $80 to $100 range. At $63.64 in this sale, that’s roughly 25–30% off what many RVers would normally pay—a solid discount on a well-equipped all-in-one kit.
Not all that glitters in the Amazon sale ad is genuine buyer gold. A 12V RV Macerator Pump can change how and where you dump. Budget versions usually run $70 to $90, with sale pricing in the mid-$60s—more a small break than a true deal. Brand and build quality matter more than the discount. Looks like some Amazon lackey didn’t do much in the way of homework for the “spring sale.” Here’s how the advert partially brings you in: “Quick Release Sewage Pump with Fresh Water Crushing for Halloween Christmas.” Yep, I’m looking to crush Halloween and Christmas with my fresh water sewer pump!
Where it pays to be a little picky
Water systems showed up again and again—and this is where you don’t cut corners.
A regulator like the RVGUARD Adjustable Water Pressure Regulator typically sells in the $25 to $35 range, with current pricing in the low-to-mid $20s—about 10–20% off what many RVers would normally pay. It’s not a huge discount, but it’s still cheap insurance compared to plumbing repairs.
The Camco EvoFlex Drinking Water Hose typically sells in the $40 to $55 range, with current pricing around $31. That puts it roughly 25–40% below what many RVers would normally pay—a solid discount on a hose you’ll use every trip.
The land of lookalikes
Leveling blocks show up everywhere—different names, similar designs.
Not all leveling systems are the same. Traditional stackable blocks—like the Keltrion Leveling Blocks—often show up in the $45 to $65 range based on current listings, with Amazon pricing around $24.99. That’s roughly 40–60% below what we found elsewhere, making this one of the stronger discounts in the sale.
The ROBLOC Interlocking Leveling Blocks, on the other hand, isn’t a stack-and-build system at all. It’s a drive-on ramp that lets you fine-tune height from about a half-inch up to roughly four inches. We found at least one other listing near $49, compared to $24.99 on Amazon—a noticeable drop, though pricing for this model isn’t widely established.
They work for many RVers, but this is one category where material quality matters. Heat, weight, and repeated use tend to expose the weak ones.
The upgrades you actually notice
Every now and then, something shows up that isn’t just maintenance—it’s comfort.
An RV mattress like the Dyonery RV Mattress typically sells in the $230 to $270 range based on recent pricing, with current Amazon pricing around $229. That’s roughly 10–15% below what many RVers would normally pay—not a huge discount, but still a modest break on an upgrade you’ll feel right away.
The tempting stuff that deserves a pause
Some of the bigger-ticket items look appealing—but this is where you slow down.
Portable inverter generators like the maXpeedingrods Portable Inverter Generator are currently selling across multiple retailers in the $390 to $420 range, with Amazon pricing at $389. That’s only a small break from typical pricing—not a major sale—so reliability and support matter more than the discount here.
Tankless systems like the APUS Tankless RV Water Heater have recently sold in the $300 to $350 range, with current Amazon pricing around $297. That’s only a modest drop—roughly 10–15% at best—so this isn’t a major sale. Installation and compatibility still matter more than the discount here. Some buyers have said these are best used in rigs that only go out a couple of weeks a year, and that replacement costs at failure will eat up any real savings.
The quiet essentials
A few items fall into the “not exciting, but important” category. A backup camera like the Yakry Wireless Backup Camera has been selling in the mid-$60 range, with current pricing around $66. That’s essentially unchanged from recent pricing, making this more of a steady price than a true sale.
A 12V RV Carbon Monoxide Detector typically sells through many retailers in the $58 to $83 range, with Amazon pricing now at $42.99—roughly 25–45% lower than what we found elsewhere, and about 5–10% below its recent price. That makes this a solid value on a safety item you don’t want to skip.
The small upgrade that feels big
If you still crank your tongue jack by hand, this is one to consider.
A 7500 lb. Electric Trailer Tongue Jack typically lands in the $200 to $270 range based on recent and competing listings. With Amazon pricing around $187—and closer to $178 with a coupon—that’s roughly 10–35% below what many RVers would normally pay, making this one of the more meaningful discounts in the sale.
Not everything on sale is a deal
These sale pages are full of duplicates. Same product, different branding. Some of it works fine. Some of it doesn’t.
LED lighting kits and similar add-ons show up often, but they’re more about looks than function. You can buy them cheap, and annoy your campground neighbors by leaving them on alllllll night.
If something on your rig is due—or overdue—this sale window is where these basics tend to dip in price, though what’s actually discounted can shift day to day.
And if you’ve read this piece closely, you’ll see that Amazon’s “sales” aren’t always as big as the company would like you to believe. If you find something that looks good, take a minute and comparison shop. And be sure to read the customer reviews—the price might be “great!” but buying what could be junk for a great price leaves a sour taste in one’s mouth.
The Amazon RV gear sale runs through March 31. If you’ve been putting off replacing the gear you rely on every trip, this may be one of those moments where it makes sense to act before the window closes.
America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2870 • 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
“We shall not cease from exploration and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” —T.S. Elliot
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Paella Day!
On this day in history:1794 – The United States Government establishes a permanent navy and authorizes the building of six frigates.
Tip of the day The best magnetic gadgets for your RV
By Gail Marsh
Stick ‘em up! No, this isn’t a robbery tutorial. Instead, here are several great RV tips that use magnets to make life on the road easier.
A couple of years ago, I wrote about magnets in a previous article. Since that time, I’ve collected even more tips for these popular RV helpers.
I like to use magnets because it often eliminates the need for nails or screws. Magnets are easily repositioned and are inexpensive and lightweight, as well. Continue reading for these great tips and gadgets.
RV review
The nüCamp 2026 Haven 220 travel trailer—Big-ticket comfort
The nüCamp 2026 Haven 220 travel trailer looks like a clear step up for couples who want more room than a teardrop without jumping to a huge trailer. Shown at the 2026 Florida RV SuperShow, it mixes nüCamp’s usual fit and finish with big-ticket comfort features, including roof solar, standard lithium, a walk-around queen bed, and a true dry bath. Check it out and take a tour.
MAKE YOUR “OLD” RV FEEL LUXURIOUS AGAIN! One simple change can make all the difference. And if you haven’t replaced the one in your RV in a while, this will make you feel like you’re living in luxury! No, really, this is dangerously luxurious…
In the RV shop with Dustin FlexArmor roofs—RV expert’s concerns
While we don’t install FlexArmor on RVs at our repair shop, we do see them from time to time. Check out the video below for an inspection of a FlexArmor roof in the shop. There are certainly some benefits to this upgrade, but as an RV repair shop owner and former technician, I do have some concerns regarding the application.
Article and video How to build an RV pad on a sloped lot
“A level RV is a happy RV,” set the tone for this project, and Lauren and Sam of A Little Bit Unhitched took that seriously. At their home base in South Carolina, the lot had too much slope, gravel kept getting tracked into the trailer, and parking on grass for long stretches brought extra wear on the tires and gave insects an easier path inside. So they built a level gravel parking pad themselves, and they did it for far less than the price of hiring it out. Here’s how they did it, and what you should know.
RANDOM RV THOUGHT:Some people worry about safety when it comes to RV living—but think about it. In a space that small, you’d likely know right away if something wasn’t right. Meanwhile, homes get broken into all the time without anyone noticing until morning. An RV? Not exactly a burglar’s first choice—especially when they don’t know who (or what) might be inside.
Featured article Around the Campfire: The meanings and origins of many fun camping idioms
By Gail Marsh
A recent weekend brought several families to the campground. Folks of all ages joined us around the campfire. After brief introductions were made, a young child asked an RVer this question: “Can I see ‘your neck of the woods’?” The RVer had mentioned this phrase during the conversation. The little boy thought it meant a tattoo! A lively conversation followed—all about camping idioms or folk-isms—their meanings and origins. Learn about them here.
Ask Dave Lug nuts on trailer seize up. Lubricate them or use anti-seize?
The best window shade for your RV’s door
Block the light without blocking your view. This RV door window shade gives you full blackout when you want it—but, unlike most shades, it folds up so you can enjoy the scenery when you want, too. Easy to install in minutes with no drilling, it helps keep your rig cooler, adds privacy, and lets you switch from “sleep mode” to “view mode” instantly. A simple, smart upgrade for better comfort on the road. Check it out.
Loyal reader Jeff considers a critical safety factor in RVing is traveling with the LP gas valves closed. To help him remember, he’s had a special “red flag” tag designed, which he hangs in his rig’s electrical power center. Thanks, Jeff!
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ? Ladies, you’re just a girl who loves… what? We bet it’s this. No, we know it’s this. We are this girl! *Raises hand* Yes, men, don’t worry. You love this too, but you can’t have it!
Trivia
The first commercially successful bottled water in the United States was called “Hunyadi Janos” and was introduced in 1869. This Hungarian mineral water gained popularity for its purported health benefits and was sold in distinctive green glass bottles. The success of Hunyadi Janos helped pave the way for the bottled water industry that we see today.
Readers’ pet of the day
“Ursa (Staffy mix, age 5), the leader of our pack, took to camping easily and loves to be involved in everything. This was taken during our third trip. She was helping us play Uno!” —Gretchen Lange
Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!
If you shop at Amazon.com we’d appreciate you using this link. We get an itty bitty commission if you buy something, but they add up and help us pay our bills (most importantly our hard-working writers!).
Dear Dave,
The lug nuts on my travel trailer rims seem to lock up or seize, making them hard to break loose when retorquing or changing a tire. Should I use any type of lubrication or anti-seize product? —Adam, 2023 Forest River Salem
Dear Adam,
This has long been a common topic not only for RV travel trailers, but also for cars, trucks, and motorhomes.
Unlike motorized vehicles, travel trailers and fifth wheels do not have steering and drive tires with different wear patterns, so there is no standard tire rotation pattern. As a result, lug nuts can remain untouched for long periods, even though wheel bearings should still be inspected and lubricated regularly.
However, many trailer owners are unaware that lug nuts should be retorqued monthly while the trailer is in use. According to the Tire & Rim Association, any wheel that has been removed and reinstalled should have its lug nuts retorqued at 10, 25, and 50 miles, and then checked monthly thereafter.
They also advise against using lubrication or anti-seize on the studs or lug nuts. Lubrication reduces friction, which can lead to over-tightening, since torque specifications are based on clean, dry threads.
Another issue some trailer owners encounter is lug nuts loosening over time. This can be caused by factors such as metal fatigue or compression between the wheel rim and brake drum, especially under extreme road conditions and temperature changes. Road vibration, lateral stress from tight turns, and temperature fluctuations can all contribute to this problem.
Stick ‘em up! (No, this isn’t a robbery tutorial.) Instead, here are several great RV tips that use magnets to make life on the road easier.
A couple of years ago, I wrote about magnets in a previous article. Since that time, I’ve collected even more tips for these popular RV helpers. Keep reading and see for yourself.
Why use magnets?
I like to use magnets because it often eliminates the need for nails or screws. Magnets are easily repositioned and are inexpensive and lightweight, as well.
Magnets
Match the magnet strength to the weight and motion expected. Neodymium (“rare-earth”) magnets are compact but very strong—great for hooks or bars—while coated magnetic hooks reduce scratching on painted surfaces.
Tips and tricks
• Drop a magnet into your shirt pocket when working on your RV. Brads, screws, and other small metal objects will “stick” to the outside of the pocket and conveniently remain at hand when needed.
• Swap screws on access panels for magnets to simplify maintenance. Just pull down the panel to access, then let the magnets snap it back into place.
Photo credit: Reiner Baugut
• You can use small magnetic clips to hold small, twinkling lights on your RV awning. (Be sure to turn them off when going to bed.) The clips also work well affixed to inside windows.
• Keep magnets on your griddle or outdoor grill. Magnetic hooks will keep grilling utensils and potholders easily at hand.
Photo by Harbor Freight
• A long, magnetized bar sweeper can help you “sweep” your campsite for nails and other metal objects that can cause tire damage or danger to pets and children. This also helps locate any dropped washer or screw that falls under your RV.
• Apply small magnets securely to the side of a child’s plastic cup. The cup will adhere to the RV refrigerator and remain within their reach. [Not advised for very young children.]
• A telescoping magnetic pick-up tool can pick up many things attracted by the magnet. Use it to find metal nuts, bolts, screws, needles, pins, and more.
• A magnetic torpedo level will help you quickly level your RV. This one is lit and turns green when level, so you can check the level at a distance.
• Use a magnetic furnace vent cover to keep dust out of your vents during the off-season. There are several different types. Just remember to remove them when operating the furnace.
• A magnetic screen door allows the breeze to enter your RV while keeping bugs out. This one is specifically made for RVs and attaches with hook-and-loop fasteners for easy removal. The company also makes a compatible insulated thermal door for cold-weather camping.
• Prevent your RV’s seven-way electrical connection from falling to the ground with a magnetic hook. Just place the hook on your hitch or pin box and hook up the electrical cord.
• Keep beach sand out of your RV with this magnetic tip. Attach magnetic hooks to the RV entry steps’ outside panel. Then hang sandals and flip flops on the hooks. A small towel hung here can help wipe residual sand off your feet.
• Show pride in your country with this magnetic flag mount. It conveniently attaches to your pin box or truck bed. It’s adjustable, too.
Do you use magnets when RVing? Tell us in the comments below.
By Cheri Sicard
“A level RV is a happy RV,” set the tone for this project, and Lauren and Sam of A Little Bit Unhitched took that seriously. At their home base in South Carolina, the lot had too much slope, gravel kept getting tracked into the trailer, and parking on grass for long stretches brought extra wear on the tires and gave insects an easier path inside. So they built a level gravel parking pad themselves, and they did it for far less than the price of hiring it out.
Learn how in the video at the end of this post.
How to build an RV pad on a sloped lot
This wasn’t just about looks. Lauren and Sam’s lot needed a real fix that would make parking easier and daily use more comfortable.
The project cost about $1,500 as a DIY build. Had they hired it out, they estimated it would have cost around $8,000. That big price gap made the long day of labor worth it.
The design came together after plenty of late-night planning, pacing, and rough sketches. Two things shaped almost every choice: drainage and elevation. Because the lot sat low, they needed to bring in at least two feet of fill so the trailer’s waste tanks would drain downhill into the septic tank. That part mattered most.
Drainage was just as important. South Carolina storms can bring serious water, including hurricane conditions, so the pad had to move water away instead of trapping it.
The pad design and retaining wall
They settled on a 28-by-16-foot pad. The 16-foot width gave them more room to park, step out onto gravel instead of grass, and leave space for chairs under the awning.
Because the lot dropped off on one side, they built a landscaping wall to hold the pad at the right height and control runoff. Under that wall, they laid 4 inches of gravel for the base. Behind it, they added 6 inches of drainage rock, so water wouldn’t make the soil too heavy over time.
Moving dirt was the hardest part
They brought in 12 cubic yards of fill dirt first, then spent the day shoveling, spreading, and tamping it down. Later that same evening, they added another six cubic yards and kept going until the base was built up and compacted.
At the end, Sam drove the truck over the fill to help pack it even more. It was very much a full DIY job, with a lot of repeat work and not much glamour.
Once the base was ready, they bordered the pad with stained pressure-treated 4x4s. Then they spread about 3 cubic yards of gravel over the top and packed that down. Compared with the dirt work, the gravel went down fast.
They also planted small shrubs around the outside. Later, they planned to add topsoil and grass around the edges for a cleaner finish.
What they would change if they did it again
Two things stood out after the build. First, they would make the pad about five feet longer. The shorter length made unhitching harder because the off-ramp still had more slope than they wanted.
Second, the pressure-treated wood was still too damp when Lauren stained it. As a result, some areas didn’t absorb the stain evenly and needed another coat later.
The good news, the drainage test has already passed. After one big rainstorm, the water moved exactly where they wanted it to go. For phase one of their home base, that counted as a win.
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