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For readers aged 70+: Do you feel you are mentally declining?

RV Travel
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For readers aged 70+: Do you feel you are mentally declining?

We know from a recent poll that 69 percent of our readers are over the age of 70. And if you clicked on this poll today, that’s probably you!

Aging is a journey that affects everyone differently. Some RVers say they feel just as sharp as ever, staying engaged by traveling, socializing at campgrounds, and learning new skills on the road. Others admit they sometimes forget names, misplace items, or struggle with tasks that once seemed effortless. But does that mean they’re in decline, or just experiencing normal aging?

Research suggests that staying active—physically and mentally—can help keep your mind sharp. Many RVers take advantage of the lifestyle to do just that—exploring new places, meeting new people, and solving the everyday challenges that come with life on the road. Others keep their minds engaged by reading, playing games, or using technology to stay connected. But do you ever feel like those efforts aren’t enough?

Some RVers worry about memory loss or slowing reaction times, especially when it comes to driving. Others notice a change in their ability to multi-task or learn new things. Are these concerns you share? Or do you feel confident in your mental sharpness despite the years passing by?

If you’re over 70, do you feel that you are mentally declining?

After you vote, please leave a comment and tell us how or why you feel that way. Thank you!

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Nation’s largest hands-on motorhome training event opens to all coaches in 2026

RV Travel
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Nation’s largest hands-on motorhome training event opens to all coaches in 2026

By Roger Stickley
Each year since 1990, the Ramblin’ Pushers have hosted an event focused on proper maintenance and safe operation of all motorhome classes. The event was initiated by a group of Holiday Rambler owners who met in the spring to have their annual maintenance performed and share their knowledge of coach systems. They called their gathering a Maintenance Session (MS for short) to distinguish it from more casual, socially oriented RV rallies.

Recently, the MS has expanded its list of eligible coaches to include all motorized Class A, B, C, and Super-C coaches. In addition, a new class of attendees, referred to as RV Finders, has been added and includes individuals with any type of RV, or none at all, who may be looking to buy or upgrade to a motorhome.

Additionally, all former members of the Ramblin’ Pushers who own a non-qualifying motorhome, including no RV at all, are invited to reactivate their membership and participate in the MS.

Why attend the Ramblin’ Pushers MS

Comprehensive 6-day educational event

Over six days, attendees enjoy an immersive lineup of educational seminars covering every crucial aspect of operating and maintaining a motorized RV—from engine systems to tire safety and RV inspections. The structure goes beyond a typical rally, focusing on practical knowledge rather than entertainment.

In addition, everyone receives a free coach height measurement upon arrival and can also have their coach weighed on all four corners with certified scales for a small voluntary donation.

Hands-on learning and personalized mentoring

Participants have access to roundtables tailored to chassis types and a unique mentorship program. First-timers can even request a mentor to visit their rig on-site to provide guidance, ensuring one-on-one support from experienced owners.

Access to technical support and on-site services

This event brings together top-tier suppliers and service providers. Attendees can attend specialized sessions on hydronic heating, lithium batteries, internet setups, fire and tire safety, Aqua-Hot systems, and more RV lifestyle support services.

You can even receive services like oil changes for both your coach and generator, courtesy of participating technical teams from qualified RV and chassis repair facilities.

Networking with peers and volunteer-driven culture

With typically around 120 coaches attending (including approximately 40% first-timers), this event provides ample opportunity to connect with fellow owners. Everything is volunteer-run, and while there’s a strong sense of community and support, there’s no commercial pressure.

Tailored programming for everyone, including non-tech partners

Recognizing that not everyone wants to attend hands-on tech sessions, the event offers programming for partners or family members. This includes crafting, cooking demos (using slow cookers, Instant Pots, air fryers, etc.), system orientation, and social activities, ensuring everyone can engage in meaningful ways.

Unique cultural and behind-the-scenes experiences

In addition to classroom learning, participants enjoy:

• Traditional Amish-style dinner events, offering cultural immersion and culinary delight.
• Factory tours, such as visits to Newmar, Entegra, Jayco, and Forest River, where you can witness how motorized RVs are built and an enlightening peek behind the scenes.

Rpdinner

Rpstarlink

Rpdrive

Height

Ideal venue with full RV infrastructure

The Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds, located in RV-centric Amish country, offers robust amenities: over 380 acres, more than 40 buildings, and camping accommodations for up to 700 RV units, including 30- and 50-amp full hookups.

Expanding to welcome all motorized RVs

The Maintenance Session is open to all motorized RVs, including gasoline-powered units.

Where and when is this happening?

The MS takes place in the RV Manufacturing Capital of the U.S., Elkhart County, Indiana, at the Elkhart County 4H Fairgrounds in Goshen, Indiana. The event will take place from April 30 to May 6, 2026. This location enables local RV and component manufacturers to provide seminars on their products and on-site services without requiring you to move your coach.

The MS is also supported by commercial vendors who offer RV accessories and related items. Local service providers can perform troubleshooting and minor repairs and schedule work to be done in their shops.

In addition, we have Palmer Trucks from South Bend, Indiana, on-site to do chassis service at your site during this event.

What makes this event unmissable

• Depth of expertise: Learn from seasoned owners, technicians, and part manufacturers across a wide range of coach systems.

• Hands-on help: Access personalized troubleshooting and mentorship right at your campsite.

• Holistic offering: From technical seminars to partner activities and cultural events, there’s something for everyone.

• Community and camaraderie: Connect with fellow RVers in a volunteer-led, supportive environment.

• Top-notch facilities: A well-equipped venue that’s spacious and RV-friendly.

• Inclusive future: Expanded to include gas-powered RV families in 2026.

What will we do and what will I learn?

The mission of the Ramblin’ Pushers Maintenance Session is to provide owners of all motorized coaches with an educational program that emphasizes proper maintenance and safe operation of their motorhomes. That mission is accomplished through expert-led seminars and convenient maintenance services.

There is one evening during the MS when owners of similar coaches are brought together for roundtables to highlight problems they have had or are facing and discuss solutions other owners have found.

The MS program also includes daily opportunities for social contact. The morning Hospitality and Announcements period provides a complimentary breakfast and essential information. Early evenings often find casual groups assembling for conversation and refreshments.

RV dealers and vendors may offer a social period that includes food and provides an opportunity to inspect sale RVs and vendor booths.

One evening, we will visit a local Amish farm for dinner. The closing dinner, catered by a local firm, is a time for reflection on the previous week and to spend time with the many new friends we’ve made throughout this week-long event.

Ramblin’ Pushers Inc. is a Chapter of FRVA and offers a unique experience where you can learn about your RV and access highly useful information for the RVing lifestyle.

Join us at our upcoming Maintenance Session!

For more information about Ramblin’ Pushers and to access this year’s registration form, see www.ramblinpushers.org.

Note that the 2026 registration fee for seven nights of camping with full hookups and WiFi, daily breakfast hospitality, an extensive educational program, an opportunity to receive coach maintenance, several socials with food, and a sumptuous closing dinner is $545 (per coach, for two persons).

We hope to see you at the 2026 Ramblin’ Pushers Maintenance Session.

All photos copyright 2026 Ramblin’ Pushers

RVT1249b

RV Daily Tips. Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Newsletter Editor
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RV Daily Tips. Wednesday, February 18, 2026

America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2843 • New issue every weekday
If you find this newsletter helpful, please consider supporting our staff’s work producing it 260 days of the year with a donation of your choice.

Today’s thought

“People don’t take trips, trips take people.” ―John Steinbeck

Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Drink Wine Day!

On this day in history: 1930 – Elm Farm Ollie becomes the first cow to fly in a fixed-wing aircraft and also the first cow to be milked in an aircraft.

Tip of the day
Believe it or not, tennis balls come in very handy for daily tasks around the RV

Perhaps you play tennis, perhaps you have a tennis ball-obsessed dog, or perhaps you find an old tennis ball at the campground. Well, don’t toss them out! Try these tips for reusing tennis balls while RVing or in and around your home.

ScreenshotRV review
Brand-new Exodus Capax pop-up camper: Garageable and off-grid

At the LA Auto Show, Brian Chow from Everyday Reviews checked out a brand-new trailer called the Capax. The first impression was simple: It looked pretty wild, especially because it can tow low, then open up into a full-height camper. This camper is a father-son project built from a love of exploring. They wanted one trailer that checked all the boxes and removed common pain points, so they built it themselves when they couldn’t find anything similar on the market. Check it out because it might be just what you’re looking for.

In the RV shop with Dustin
Preventing dump valve handles from coming loose in travel

I [Dustin] was recently asked by a customer about RV dump valve handles coming loose in travel. They wanted to know where they could get a replacement handle and how they could prevent it from coming loose again. If the handle on your RV dump valve is loose, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to prevent any accidental openings or difficulties in operation.

RV MAINTENANCE ADVICE: That’s the topic at RVtravel.com’s Facebook group, where more than 91,000 members discuss keeping their RVs in tip-top shape (and how to fix things that break!).

Version 1.0.0Balance for seniors: Easy-to-perform fall prevention exercises 
Keep your balance sharp and your independence strong on and off the road. This easy, step-by-step program shows you simple exercises to improve stability, coordination, and confidence so you can get out of your RV, hike around camp, explore town, or just walk through the grocery store with less worry about a tumble. Gentle, practical moves you can do daily help reduce fall risk and keep you moving well. This might save your life! 

Article and video
Slate EV Truck: A $25K EV you can repair yourself

Buying a new vehicle in the mid-$20,000s sounds almost impossible right now. In the video at the end of this post from Jay Leno’s Garage, Jay meets the Slate prototype truck, an American-made electric pickup that tries to do exactly that, without turning into a bare-bones penalty box. Slate’s pitch is simple. Build one basic truck efficiently, keep costs down, then let owners make it their own over time, from looks to body style to audio. Leno also likes what it stands for: manufacturing coming back to the U.S., instead of rebadging something imported. Check it out.

Featured article
Don’t judge an RV, or RVer, by its cover

By Emily Woodbury
Today I’d like to ask you not to judge. I’d like to ask that you put your discriminations, your hate, and your preconceived notions aside and just read Mary’s story about her and her husband’s experience RVing in Arizona. She sent us the following note…

FACTOID: Lake Tahoe is the second deepest lake (1,645 feet deep) in the United States and the tenth deepest in the world. Crater Lake in Oregon (1,943 feet deep) is the deepest lake in the United States, and Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, Russia, is the deepest lake in the world (5,387 feet deep).

Ask Dave
Are there covers to protect RV roof vents and skylights from hail?

Click here to read Dave’s answer.

Reader poll
Have you ever adopted a stray dog or cat?

Respond here.

Helpful resources

• NATIONAL TRAFFIC AND ROAD CLOSURE INFORMATION
• UNITED STATES ROAD CONDITIONS FROM NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
• WEATHER ALERTS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
• LATEST RV RECALLS

Owltra electric mousetrapAn electric mousetrap that works
Keep unwanted rodents out of your RV with the Owltra electronic rodent trap—a clean, humane, and RV-friendly solution that actually works. Powered by just 4 AA batteries, the trap delivers a quick, high-voltage zap for instant elimination, no chemicals or glue. It’s pet-safe. When it’s time to empty, simply pop the magnetic lid and dump—no mess, no touching. Cheri Sicard recommends it here.

Quick tip: Health
Study reveals insights into dementia risk

A University of Florida study suggests certain brain-training exercises may reduce dementia risk even decades later. Researchers followed nearly 3,000 older adults who completed cognitive training in the late 1990s. Twenty years later, those who practiced computerized “speed-of-processing” exercises—especially with booster sessions—were about 25% less likely to develop dementia than with no training. Scientists say the findings offer strong evidence that a non-drug intervention can help lower dementia risk, though brain training should still be combined with healthy lifestyle habits.

On this day last year…

Website of the day

Top 10 Wild West towns in America
Get your cowboy hats and boots on and yee-haw your way over to one of these Old West towns. Have you visited any of these?

? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Oh, having and using this would make us such happy little…, well, you’ll see. Have a very happy time camping, won’t you?

Trivia

In 2025, insurance carriers reported 43,811 incidents of suspected motor vehicle insurance fraud to the New York State Department of Financial Services (DFS) Insurance Frauds Bureau.

Readers’ pet of the day

Resized 20250727 145537 0613b8d11b28042a5b4a325e43806e63“When we adopted Bode as a young dog (now age 8), believe it or nor he didn’t know how to swim. He picked it up quickly and now we can’t keep him out of the water. He loves to fetch sticks in rivers or lakes and is a great camp dog.” —Cynthia Westover

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.

Leave here with a laugh

Funny dog cartoon

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 Team

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.

Are there covers to protect RV roof vents and skylights from hail?

RV Travel
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Are there covers to protect RV roof vents and skylights from hail?

By Dave Solberg
Chuck, et al.,
Great newsletter, as always! My question is, does anyone make hail protection covers for roof vents and skylights for RVs? —Dave T.

From Dave S.:
This question actually came as a comment from a newsletter. It had a couple of responses from readers:

From Bernie: Maxxair vent covers will protect your roof vents. That’s what has worked for us.

From Bob: Yes, they are much heavier plastic than the vent cover. Plus, they allow you to keep the vent open while traveling or during a rain shower.

David H.: I put the Maxx on my vents on one motorhome. Let me use the vent fans even in the rain. The only downside was that they didn’t let in very much light during the daytime.

Back to Dave S.
As stated, the Maxxair Roof Vent Cover is an excellent product that covers the traditional 14” x 14” roof vent that you would find in a bathroom and living room. It allows you to keep the roof vent open during rain to bring in fresh air or exhaust warm interior air. It also allows you to keep the vent open and running while driving down the road. I have used it to exhaust air through the roof with a small window open to get great airflow.

Although it does protect the roof vent cover from hail, I don’t think that is the intention as it is made of plastic and will get damaged in a hailstorm just like a roof vent cover.

Here is one we installed on a 2016 Thor Challenger. If there is a hailstorm, a new vent cover is typically around $25 and a new Maxxair Cover is $40-$50.

MaxxAir

Skylight covers?

I do not know of any skylight covers. An Amazon search did not come up with any matches, although I found skylight replacements. So I’m pretty sure if you can’t find it on Amazon, it doesn’t exist.🤔 However, as I always say, never say never when it comes to the RV industry.

Skylights are typically installed above a shower to provide additional headroom and ambient lighting, since most showers do not have a light fixture anywhere close. I have seen a few models that had a skylight in the living room or kitchen. However, it is not common, as the skylight cuts a huge opening in the roof with no insulation. Therefore, it’s a hot spot in warm temperatures and a cold spot in the winter.

The challenge I see with a cover for a skylight is the wide variety of shapes and sizes available, which means there is not a standardized size for mass production like the roof vent. And not all RVs have a skylight, so that makes the numbers even smaller.

Preventive maintenance

What I do recommend is to periodically clean and condition the roof vent covers and your skylights. They are made of plastic. When exposed to the harsh rays of the sun, they will develop UV degradation and start to weaken and even develop blistering and spider or hairline cracks. When this happens, it doesn’t take much for the plastic to crack or shatter with a slight impact such as a tree branch or hail.

Cleaning the plastic with a mild detergent and conditioning it with 303 Protectant or other UV protection product will help ensure the original integrity of the plastic and reduce the potential for damage. It is by no means a guaranteed protection from hail. However, I know several owners that have used this procedure and have weathered many storms without damage.

 You might also enjoy these posts from Dave 

What is the rule of thumb for using RV roof vents?

Dear Dave,
I’m confused about the proper use of my trailer’s roof vents. I just read where it is important to maintain/replace the seals on these to keep in hot or cold air. Also I have read about insulating the roof vents. My question is this: Aren’t these vents supposed to be open when the trailer has people in it for fresh air to breath and to exhaust bad air? Are there any rules of thumb to guide us on how best to ventilate when cooking or using auxiliary propane heaters, etc.? —Ted, 2015 Starcraft

Read Dave’s answer.

More 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
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Believe it or not, tennis balls come in very handy for daily tasks around the RV

RV Travel
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Believe it or not, tennis balls come in very handy for daily tasks around the RV

By Gail Marsh
Perhaps you play tennis, perhaps you have a tennis ball-obsessed dog, or perhaps you find an old tennis ball at the campground. Well, don’t toss them out! Try these tips for reusing tennis balls while RVing or in and around your home.

Note: For most of the tips, you’ll need a box cutter or similar cutting tool. Carefully cut an “x” on one side of a tennis ball. Be sure to keep the ball steady as you cut to prevent injury.

Ways to use tennis balls around your home or RV

• Cleaner. Slide a tennis ball on the handle end of your RV broom. It will help catch and remove cobwebs that form in your rig’s ceiling corners and other hard-to-reach areas. The tennis ball will always be right at hand to help you remove black scuff marks from your RV floors, too. The ball simply erases the marks away.

• Wiper keeper. Put a ball under each windshield wiper arm to keep the rubber away from the hot glass or to keep it from freezing to the windshield in cold weather.

• Laundry helper. Tennis balls will help fluff linens as they dry in your RV’s dryer. You can also wrap the ball in aluminum foil to lessen clothing static.

• Keep bugs away. Gnats and flies will steer clear of your RV picnic table with this hack. Tie a large knot in one end of a length of string. Push the knot into the “x” cut into the ball (like I mentioned above) so that it stays in place. Then coat the ball with Vaseline and hang the ball from a nearby tree or bush. Insects generally do not like the scent and will stay away.

• Steady chairs. I’ve put tennis balls on our deck chair’s “feet.” That way the chairs won’t get hung up between the deck boards. You can also protect your RV floors from scratches by covering the “feet” on your dining chairs, ottoman, etc.

• Jar opener. Cut the ball in half. Place the open end of the half ball over a lid to grip and open beer bottles and other twist-off lids. You can also cut along a tennis ball seam. This will result in a piece of rubber big enough to open larger lids, too.

• Ball masseuse. Put one or two tennis balls inside a tube sock. Toss the sock/ball over your back as you hold both ends of the sock. Guide the sock/ball to the sore spot on your back. Then lean against a wall or lay on the floor to soothe sore muscles. Or put a ball on the floor. Place your foot on the ball and roll it around in circles for a great foot massage.

• Trailer hitch. Put a tennis ball over your trailer hitch. It will not only protect the hitch, but it will also protect your shin.

• Treasure keeper. Cut a slit in a tennis ball. Children can hide money or other treasures inside. Use a permanent marker to label each ball and prevent mix-ups.

• Kickstand assist. We keep a slit tennis ball in the side bags of our motorcycle. The ball takes up very little space and comes in handy if we must park in a wet or sandy spot. We slip the ball over the end of the bike’s kickstand and the ball keeps the bike stand from sinking. (Hint: This works with bicycles, too.)

• Stuck, broken bulb. Cut a tennis ball in half. Place the open end of the ball over the stuck lightbulb and twist to remove.

If you still have tennis balls after implementing all these tips and hacks, you can recycle them. Go to reBounces.com for information.

You’ll also enjoy…

RVDT2843

Slate EV Truck: A $25K EV you can repair yourself

Video Editor
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Slate EV Truck: A $25K EV you can repair yourself

Buying a new vehicle in the mid-$20,000s sounds almost impossible right now. In the video at the end of this post from Jay Leno’s Garage [3.94M subscribers, almost 1.1B views], Jay meets the Slate prototype truck, an American-made electric pickup that tries to do exactly that, without turning into a bare-bones penalty box.

Slate’s pitch is simple. Build one basic truck efficiently, keep costs down, then let owners make it their own over time, from looks to body style to audio. Leno also likes what it stands for: manufacturing coming back to the U.S., instead of rebadging something imported.

Built in Indiana, with a plan to bring jobs back

Slate says the company was created to rebuild manufacturing in America from day one. The truck is set to be built in Warsaw, Indiana, and the factory choice matters. Instead of building a brand-new plant, Slate bought an existing facility that used to print Sears catalogs. The plan is to rebuild and reuse it, and employ about 2,000 people.

Leno frames it as the kind of “ultimate recycling” he likes to see, reviving work in the heartland. He also points out Indiana’s long history with car names that once rivaled Detroit, and he puts Slate in the newer wave of American EV makers.

Why the Slate EV truck targets the mid-$20Ks

Slate puts the truck’s price in the mid-$20,000s, with Leno hearing a range somewhere between $20,000 and $30,000. The context is harsh: Slate cites the average new car price around $50,000, and says most Americans can’t afford that.

The cost control starts with manufacturing. Every truck comes off the assembly line the same, which helps scale production efficiently. Slate also plans direct-to-consumer sales, with one price for everyone, so dealer markups do not erase the whole point of an affordable truck.

One truck platform, then owners choose pickup, SUV, or open-air

Slate’s modular idea kicks in after the truck leaves the line. The company designs access points around the vehicle so people can install parts themselves, or have Slate deliver the truck with a kit already installed.

Configurations discussed on the show include:

  1. Pickup truck with a 4×5 bed sized to handle 4×8 building sheets
  2. Five-seat SUV options, including squareback and fastback kits
  3. Open-air setup with an exposed roll cage and rear bench

Fasteners are left visible on purpose, making it clear that panels and add-ons are meant to come off and go back on.

Wrapped, not painted, with simple details meant for DIY style

Slate’s factory color is a flat slate gray with the color formed in the tool (impregnated in the plastic body panels), not painted. That helps eliminate the need for a paint shop, and the truck is designed to be wrapped. Slate also builds in smaller “landing areas,” like on mirrors, for stickers or accents.

Even the wheels are intentionally simple, so an owner can change the look quickly with a decal.

Range, charging, and the basics that still matter

Slate says buyers can choose a 150-mile battery pack or a 230-mile pack. The battery sits low and central, and it is liquid-cooled. The motor is also mounted in the center. Regenerative braking is included, but not adjustable. The truck is rear-wheel drive, and Leno notices the five-lug setup up front, hinting a future option is possible.

Slate also says it uses the North American charge standard, with access to the Supercharger network. That matters for people in apartments or multi-unit buildings who cannot count on home charging every night. The truck includes a “frunk” (front trunk) for extra storage, and the bed is kept low to make loading easier.

Safety and right-to-repair, without dealer-only restrictions

Slate says safety is the top priority, aiming for a five-star crash rating and an IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick. The company claims it has built dozens of beta prototypes, with many crash-tested in both truck and SUV forms. Airbags and seat belts are part of the plan, even with the open-air SUV setup.

On repairs, Slate takes the opposite approach from locked-down service models. Customers can do DIY repairs, including warranty repairs, and use a RepairPal network of more than 4,000 independent shops. The Slate app is meant to show error codes, so owners can diagnose problems before they even book a visit.

A minimalist interior that grows with the owner

Inside, the prototype keeps things simple. There are no traditional gauges, and there is no built-in stereo system beyond small speakers for alerts. Slate expects some owners to bring a Bluetooth speaker, with a designed spot to secure it, then step up later to more integrated audio options.

Air conditioning stays in, even though the team debated it early on. Roll-up windows are part of the cost-minded approach.

What stood out after the drive

Leno calls out the hard part: Building something affordable in the U.S. means working smarter, not cheaper. He says the prototype has the usual early-vehicle rattles, but the concept feels solid, and it delivers many EV basics for about half the price of typical electric trucks.

Slate says it revealed the truck after three years in stealth, it has pulled in more than 150,000 reservations, and it is backed by investors including Jeff Bezos and Mark Walter. The plan shared on the episode is for trucks to be available in about a year, with reservations open now.

RELATED

RVDT2843

Have you ever adopted a stray dog or cat?

RV Travel
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Have you ever adopted a stray dog or cat?

Think back to the animals that have come into your life over the years. The planned pets, the unexpected ones… and maybe even the ones that found you instead of the other way around.

Have you ever adopted a stray dog or cat?

For some of you, the answer is yep—and you probably remember the moment clearly. A skinny cat hanging around your campsite. A dog wandering into your neighborhood. What started as leaving out food or water turned into something more permanent before you even realized it.

Others of you may not have adopted one personally, but you’ve certainly met strays along your travels. Campgrounds, rural roads, truck stops—animals sometimes show up where you least expect them, often looking for kindness from whoever crosses their path.

Then there are those of you who haven’t adopted a stray, but not for lack of heart. Travel schedules, housing restrictions, allergies, or existing pets can make it complicated, even when the desire to help is there. Sometimes caring means finding them assistance rather than bringing them home. Maybe you’ve found a stray another home, or taken it to a nearby vet or animal shelter.

So what about you? Have you ever taken in a stray dog or cat and made them part of your family? Go ahead and vote in today’s poll, and if you have a story, we’d love to hear how that animal found you. Animal stories are our favorite.

MORE POLLS YOU MIGHT LIKE:

RVDT2843

Preventing dump valve handles from coming loose in travel

RV Travel
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Preventing dump valve handles from coming loose in travel

By Dustin Simpson
I was recently asked by a customer about RV dump valve handles coming loose in travel. They wanted to know where they could get a replacement handle and how they could prevent it from coming loose again.

There are typically two major dump valve brands in the RV industry that are well-known. In this example, the brand name happens to be LaSalle Bristol and they use this dump valve with cable.

If the handle on your RV dump valve is loose, it’s essential to address the issue promptly to prevent any accidental openings or difficulties in operation.

Here are steps you can take to secure a loose dump valve handle

  1. Tighten screws or bolts

    —Examine the handle and the mechanism it operates. Look for screws or bolts that may have become loose.
    —Use the appropriate screwdriver or wrench to tighten any loose screws or bolts. This might require accessing the backside of the valve or removing a cover.

  2. Check for wear and tear

    —Inspect the handle for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage.
    —If the handle is worn or damaged, consider replacing it with a new one. Replacement handles are often available at any RV supply store or dealership.

  3. Use thread locker

    —Apply thread locker (such as Loctite) to the screws or bolts before tightening them. This can help prevent them from coming loose due to vibrations during travel.

  4. Add washers

    —If the handle is still loose after tightening the screws or bolts, consider adding washers between the handle and the mounting surface. This can create a tighter fit and reduce play in the handle.

  5. Inspect internal mechanism

    —If the dump valve handle is connected to a cable or rod that operates the valve, check the entire mechanism for wear or misalignment.
    —Lubricate moving parts with a suitable lubricant to ensure smooth operation.

The threaded handles are available in black or gray. It’s also a good idea to add a little bit of blue Loctite to ensure that the screw doesn’t back out of the handle during travel even if you have not yet lost a handle.

Here is the black handle, and here is the gray handle.

I really hope this information is helpful to you and others to prevent the loss of your dump valve handles.

More from Dustin

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

RELATED

RVDT2843

Brand-new Exodus Capax pop-up camper: Garageable and off-grid

Cheri Sicard
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Brand-new Exodus Capax pop-up camper: Garageable and off-grid

At the 2025 LA Auto Show, Brian Chow from Everyday Reviews stopped by the Exodus booth to check out a brand-new trailer called the Capax [pronounced cay-pax]. The first impression was simple: It looked pretty wild, especially because it can tow low, then open up into a full-height camper.

This camper is a father-son project built from a love of exploring. They wanted one trailer that checked all the boxes and removed common pain points, so they built it themselves when they couldn’t find anything similar on the market.

Three modes that change how the trailer gets used

Towing mode

In towing mode, the Capax sits right behind the tow vehicle and keeps a compact shape. It uses an axle-less air suspension with Bilstein shocks, so it can lower on the freeway for better aerodynamics and energy use, then raise up for everything you need.

Up top, it’s set to carry four 200-watt solar panels. The pitch was straightforward: Solar plus batteries can keep power going for a long time without chasing hookups.

Picnic mode: half-open, still fully useful

Picnic mode shows the trailer at about a 50 percent collapsed state, with the walls partway up. The key idea is that features stay usable even while it’s still folded down. That means it can work for tailgating, other events, or quick stops without committing to a full camp setup. The Capax is built so people don’t have to sleep in it to get value out of it.

A big highlight here is access. The outdoor kitchen area, dual-access pantry, and kitchenette prep space can still be used, and the bottom bunk (a full-size bed) stays reachable for naps during long road trips.

At the front, a proprietary, patent-pending collapsible A-frame retracts. It needs the extra length for towing, but not for camping or storage, so it swings out, and an actuator pulls it back in. According to the booth walkthrough, this saves about 2.5 feet of cabin space.

Even in the collapsed state, the bathroom remains accessible from outside. That’s useful for quick roadside needs without opening the whole trailer.

Storage is a major theme. The closet can be stocked from the outside while it’s parked at home, and those same drawers become accessible from inside later. There’s also a large compartment for clothes, plus a fishing and hunting compartment secured with a passcode.

Other details included a custom Exodus taillight and a spare tire cover that converts into a table.

Camping mode: office by day, beds by night

In full camping mode, the Capax opens to full height (over 7 feet was mentioned). Inside, the materials were described as high-quality, including marine-grade natural woods.

A dedicated workspace functions like a real desk, with a drawer, monitor storage, and outlets. When not in use, it folds down and becomes a bunk setup (full-size bottom, twin top). Nearby, the kitchenette supports lighter cooking, and a dinette seats 6 to 8 people, then converts into a residential king-size bed.

The fridge uses a drawer design so it can be accessed from both inside and outside.

The bathroom includes marine teakwood floors designed to drain, a dry flush toilet, a sleek vanity, and a semi-dry shower setup with a curtain.

The layout keeps daily tasks simple, even when the trailer is partially collapsed.

Exodus Capax Popup Camper floorplan

Specs and pricing shared at the booth

Here’s what Exodus shared for size, weight, and price:

Spec Detail
Length (towing format) About 21 ft. 7 in. (and some change)
Length (garage and camping format) 19 ft. 7 in.
Weight (wet, GVWR fully loaded) 7,700 lbs.
Starting price $120,000
Premier Edition shown $160,000

In short, the Capax stands out because it’s garageable, it keeps key areas accessible when collapsed, and it’s built to handle off-grid and off-road use. For buyers who want one trailer that can tailgate on Saturday and camp hard on Monday, the design choices clearly point in that direction.

Learn more about the Exodus Capax popup camper here.

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Camp hosted before? You may already qualify for a Forest Service job

Russ and Tiña De Maris
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Camp hosted before? You may already qualify for a Forest Service job

If you’ve ever been a camp host, some of this may sound familiar.

You’ve unlocked bathrooms in the morning. You have answered the same questions—about fire restrictions, dump stations, or where the trail starts—over and over. You’ve picked up trash that wasn’t yours, calmed down frustrated campers, and kept an eye on things when no ranger was around.

After years of staffing shortages, the U.S. Forest Service is now actively trying to rebuild its seasonal workforce, advertising thousands of short-term recreation and maintenance jobs nationwide. Agency officials say the push is aimed at restoring basic services—from campground operations to trail upkeep—that were scaled back when positions went unfilled.

What many RVers don’t realize is that this experience already overlaps with the work the U.S. Forest Service is now trying to hire for.

A staffing gap RVers have been living with

Across national forests, staffing shortages—especially in recreation and campground roles—have been quietly shaping the camping experience. Shorter seasons. Fewer open campgrounds. Locked restrooms. Less on-site help.

Camp hosts have often been the first to feel it, because when paid positions go unfilled, more responsibility lands on volunteers by default. Forest Service officials have acknowledged that hosts and volunteers are helping keep facilities functioning while the agency works to rebuild its seasonal workforce.

That rebuilding effort is now underway.

Why former camp hosts stand out

Many current Forest Service openings are seasonal recreation jobs, including campground technicians, visitor services staff, and maintenance roles. These positions don’t require law-enforcement credentials or advanced degrees—but they do require comfort with the public, independence, and practical campground know-how.

In other words, much of what camp hosts already do.

Former hosts typically bring:

  • Experience managing campgrounds day-to-day
  • Familiarity with public land rules and visitor expectations
  • Comfort living on site in an RV
  • The ability to work independently with limited supervision
  • A realistic understanding of what campground work actually involves

That last point matters. These aren’t desk jobs, and they aren’t glamorous. Forest Service managers know that people who’ve already hosted tend to arrive with eyes wide open.

Volunteer vs. paid: what changes

A Forest Service seasonal job isn’t the same as hosting, and it’s not a promotion in the traditional sense. It is different in a few key ways.

Paid seasonal employees:

  • Are compensated with hourly wages
  • Have defined duties and limits on responsibility
  • Can perform certain maintenance or operational tasks volunteers cannot
  • Work under federal employment rules and schedules

For some RVers, that structure is a downside. For others—especially those who enjoy hosting but feel stretched thin—it’s an appealing shift.

Not a silver bullet, but a real option

These jobs won’t suit everyone. Pay is modest, hiring paperwork can be slow, and positions are seasonal by design. But for RVers who already enjoy camp hosting and want to stay active, involved, and useful on public lands, they offer something different: a chance to do familiar work with clearer boundaries and a paycheck.

They also help address a reality RVers already see on the ground. When Forest Service positions stay vacant, services shrink. When they’re filled, campgrounds tend to function better for everyone.

Where to learn more

Forest Service seasonal jobs are posted through the federal hiring system at USAJOBS.gov. Searching for “Forest Service recreation,” “campground technician,” or similar terms will surface current openings, along with application windows and qualification details.

For RVers who have already camp hosted, the learning curve may be shorter than expected—and the timing may be right.

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Health: Why people continue weight loss drugs even if they get sick

RV Travel
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Health: Why people continue weight loss drugs even if they get sick

Many people including RVers who take the weight loss drug semaglutide—sold under brand names like Ozempic®—continue to use it despite unpleasant side effects because they believe it works.

Rutgers Health researchers found that perceived effectiveness, such as weight loss or reduced appetite, is the strongest predictor of satisfaction and willingness to stay on the medication.

Semaglutide helps regulate insulin, slows stomach emptying and affects brain pathways tied to appetite, helping users feel full and eat less. Although originally approved for type 2 diabetes, it’s increasingly used for weight management because of these effects.

To better understand patient experiences, researchers analyzed 60 anonymous online reviews using a method called “infoveillance,” which examines publicly available health data. Most users reported satisfaction when they saw noticeable weight loss or fewer cravings.

Digestive problems such as nausea and vomiting were common, reported by 62% of users, but they didn’t strongly affect whether people continued treatment.

Instead, people who didn’t lose weight or had other side effects were more likely to quit. About two-thirds reported weight loss or appetite reduction overall.

Researchers say the findings highlight the strong demand for effective weight-loss treatments and the importance of realistic expectations about side effects and long-term results.

Future research will explore differences by sex, long-term attitudes, mental health effects and more detailed patient data

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You might enjoy these popular polls from RVtravel.com:

•Do you see yourself still RVing in five years?
•Do you still enjoy RVing as much as when you first started?
•Have you ever had a problem with a slide-out that delayed your travel?
•Have you ever stayed at a nudist resort with your RV? Would you?
•Have you spent a free night in a parking lot with your RV in the last year?

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Campspot names top 10 campgrounds for 2026

RV Travel
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Campspot names top 10 campgrounds for 2026

Campspot has recognized the ten top-performing campgrounds across its marketplace in the United States and Canada for 2026, selected through analysis of 3.3 million data points and category-specific criteria.

Now in its fifth year, the Campspot Awards highlight parks that consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences, spanning family resorts, riverfront retreats, glamping destinations, and campgrounds known for one-of-a-kind programming and amenities.

The 2026 winners reflect the evolving ways people camp today, whether at a big, amenity-rich family resort, a glamping-forward destination, or a campground that turns a weekend stay into something communal and memorable. That’s especially relevant as recent Campspot research shows many travelers are prioritizing reconnection and shared experiences in their 2026 travel plans.

The 2026 Campspot Awards Highlights:

#1 Top Campground in the U.S.: Camp Fimfo – Texas Hill Country (New Braunfels, TX)
A one-of-a-kind Hill Country getaway on the Guadalupe River with a resort-style pool scene, plus a swim-up bar, waterslides and high-energy programming.

#1 Top Campground in Canada: Sun Retreats Sherkston Shores (Port Colborne, ON)
A sprawling Lake Erie resort known for its sandy shoreline and family energy, with water attractions, on-site dining, and an activity lineup including unlimited mini golf and paddle boating that makes it a popular summer destination.

#1 Top RV Campground: Verde Ranch RV Resort (Camp Verde, AZ)
A repeat standout that pairs basecamp access to Northern Arizona adventures with elevated on-site comfort like full-hookup big-rig sites, cabins and glamping, plus a heated pool and hot tubs.

#1 Top Glamping Campground: Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay (Millsboro, DE)
A polished coastal stay on Rehoboth Bay with a private, pet-friendly beach, two pools (including an adults pool with a swim-up bar), and on-site dining, built for campers who want waterfront relaxation with resort-level convenience.

#1 Top Unique Campground: Brialee Family Campground (Ashford, CT)
A family-run campground that stands out for its themed-weekends, with everything from Retro Rewind to an on-site Renaissance Faire, plus unique touches like a pet beach and gem mining experience.

#1 Top Campground for Families: Jellystone Park™ Caledonia (Caledonia, WI)
A family destination that includes America’s largest floating obstacle course, high ropes, laser tag and a signature drone show.

For more information about the 2026 Campspot Awards and a complete list of winners, visit https://www.campspot.com/awards.

This article is based on a news release from Campspot.

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