Welcome to the RVtravel.com newsletter. Be sure to check out all our other RV-related newsletters.
This is the abbreviated free edition of this newsletter. For the ad-free, full edition, please become a voluntary subscriber for a one-time donation of your choice. Your support means a lot to us!
April 21, 2024
Issue 1153
Free, abbreviated edition
Cover story
Signing off, presumably for the last time
By Chuck Woodbury
Ihave written essays most weeks in this space for 23 years. Before writing here, I spent a decade writing essays in my on-the-road newspaper Out West. Before that, I spent more than a decade writing almost daily in my personal journal, which grew to a couple million words before I penned my last entry. That’s where I learned to write.
This will be my last opening essay in this free edition. I will continue to write in our paid edition (supported by our voluntary subscribers), but only when I have something important to say. I will stay involved with this newsletter and the RVtravel.com website, but I’ll be in the background, working on ways to make your reading experience more rewarding.
In the last three decades, I have spent at least 8 years, maybe longer, on the road in an RV, two years as a full-timer. I loved every minute. I have visited every state, most Canadian provinces, and even roamed in camper vans around Iceland and New Zealand. I’ve personally observed RVing in many countries in Asia and Europe — not by traveling there in an RV but by keeping a close eye on the lifestyle when visiting other times. I took my first RV trip as an adult in my 20s and now I am in my mid-70s. Wow! Where did the time go?
I have never lost my love of RVing, but you might not know it from all the whining I have done in this space for last couple of years. I never aspired to being a “broken record” when I began my career, but that’s what has happened. Enough is enough.
My burning interest these days is no longer RVing (although I still love getting away with the RV), but the state of the news media and how easily it can be abused, and how hard it is to differentiate between truth, lies and propaganda. It horrifies me. I am terribly sad to see the traditional media disappear. It has never been perfect, but it has and still is a far more reliable source of information than Facebook, TikTok and cable TV, most of which have a political agenda. Propaganda is running wild. Here is a book you can read for free online, titled “Propaganda,” written in 1928 by Edward Bernays, the “father of public relations.” And if you are interested in keeping up with the state of the newspaper industry I urge you to monitor Editor and Publisher.
I’ll continue to write at times in the paid edition of this newsletter. But I am finished here. It’s been a good run (at least from my perspective). Our future, maybe months away, maybe years, will be with a subscriber–supported edition. That’s true of most other quality news and information websites.
So, after 23 years and another couple million words in thousands of other articles on this website, I am signing off. As you may recall, I have tried this before and failed. I’m 92.3 percent sure I’ll succeed this time.
P.S. We have tweaked our advertising placements to make viewing on mobile devices easier. Please leave a comment if you notice the improvement. We are continuing to work to improve your reading experience.
Yesterday’s Top News for RVers
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- RV market update: Mixed wholesale prices signal uncertainty. Expert offers crucial repair advice
- NASA unveils moon version of RV
- Changes to traffic camera laws. Be careful where you’re headed
- RVer says, “Campgrounds have forgotten their mission as campgrounds… the RVIA has failed campers as a whole”
- Semitruck “can opener” slices open a Class A which sideswiped it – Video
- 4,200 acres of Placitas, NM, lands are now under protection. Can you still RV there?
Read the rest of the news in yesterday’s newsletter here.
Today’s RV review…
Cherokee Grey Wolf 18RR – updated and still unique-ish
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of the 2024 Cherokee Grey Wolf 18RR. This is a smaller trailer that has a rear patio ramp—which means it does have toy hauler functionality. Does the big patio door and ability to hold cargo outweigh the way the bed has been configured in this trailer? You tell me.
RV Service Centers and Repairs Report
Warranty requires yearly $200 inspection; missing the date voids the warranty
In this column, we summarize some of your emails and comments regarding RV service centers and repairs. This week, Nanci Dixon relates issues with an extended warranty program, a dealership that wouldn’t perform the repairs in a timely manner, and more suggestions to just do the RV work yourself or with the help of friends. However, and we think this is a first, there are more recommendations for service centers and mobile techs than there are complaints. Woo hoo!
UPDATED WEEKLY: A list of RV dealers, service centers, and mobile techs as recommended by our readers. Click here.
RV tech reveals biggest RVer mistakes
By Nanci Dixon
What are some of the biggest RV mistakes that RVers make? I had the opportunity to ask our mobile tech that question when he had finished working on our RV. Dayton Hill, the owner of Coach Connection LLC in Red Bay, Alabama, has had years of experience both as an employee in every aspect at Tiffin Motorhomes and now with his own business as a mobile tech. These are the things he sees causing the most and biggest problems:…
New RV park owner asks, “What do RVers want?” Help him build the perfect RV park!
Reader Scott left this comment on a recent Crowded Campgrounds post, and we know you can help him out with his new RV park. Scott says: “I have been reading the comments on RV parks. My wife and I just purchased a 52-spot RV park. We are updating all the hookups and remodeling parking spots. I am RVIA and RVDA certified with many years in the repair field. My question is, what is the best way to get campers here and make people want to come back? Hoping for words of wisdom. Thank you for your time.” Leave your advice here.
Boondocking: A comprehensive how-to guide for a great trip
By Nanci Dixon
Every camper needs a boondocking how-to guide. Boondocking is so underrated! Even among ardent campers, boondocking is often viewed as a last resort—an overnight stop when there is nowhere else to stay. Learn all about boondocking in this very thorough guide.
Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter
- Readers say THIS is the worst kind of road to drive on. We offer tips
- Keep this small, essential item in your RV or run the risk of draining your fresh water tank
- The #1 MOST important thing to do BEFORE starting an RV remodel
- An easy trick that’ll make RV dumping a lot more sanitary
- The best “life hacks” for RVers
First Airstream Clipper, owned by a President, resurfaces
By Paul Lacitinola
It is rare that anyone has the opportunity to find, obtain, and restore the very first example of something as iconic as a riveted aluminum Airstream Clipper. This is the backstory of the first Airstream Clipper ever built. This is a fascinating look at the trailer’s history, from presidential ownership to beautiful restoration.
Rev up your RV adventures: Cruise down memory lane at local car shows
By Gail Marsh
RVers, start your engines! It’s time to add a car show to your RVing itinerary! I’m convinced. While my husband has enjoyed car shows for years, I only recently discovered the joy of attending one. For decades I believed that only guys attended car shows. Not anymore! Once you learn a little about these events, I really believe you will begin to appreciate them—no matter your gender. I hope this article will encourage readers to visit a show during their RV travels.
RVers, if you don’t know what balds are, you should! And no, not tires!
By Gail Marsh
Forget what usually comes to your mind when you hear the word “bald,” like: no hair on top of one’s head; a statement that needs further explanation; missing spot of tread on your RV tires. Yes, all of these certainly relate to the word “bald.” However, none relates to these balds. RVers, if you don’t know what balds are, you should! What is a bald? Find out here.
Rub on stain remover laundry stick and stains are gone!
Cheri Sicard loves the Cadie Stubborn Stain Remover laundry stick. She writes, “What is so great about a laundry stick stain remover? It’s the consistency of a stick deodorant. You just rub it on the stain and toss the clothes in the hamper until laundry day, when you wash as usual. Presto! No more stains.” Learn more about it here.
Reader Poll (and informative article)
Who, or what, will decide when it’s time to hang up the RV keys?
Please let us know. After you click your response, you’ll see how others have responded. Feel free to leave a comment.
POPULAR POLL FROM THIS PAST WEEK
We asked: How many countries have you visited outside the North American continent? See how more than 1,300 other RVers responded.
DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERS AND RSS FEEDS!
- Breaking news for RVers. Every Saturday.
- RV Daily Tips. RVing tips, advice, maintenance and repair guidance, RV reviews, gadgets, and more. Monday-Friday.
- Great RV Accessories. The best gadgets for RVers. Every other Thursday.
- Daily RVing news. Get the latest news about RVing every weekday afternoon straight to your inbox.
- RV Maintenance & Repair tips. Don’t ever miss a maintenance or repair article. Every Tuesday.
- New! RV Reviews. We write one RV review every day! They’ll be delivered to your inbox every other Friday.
- New! RV Recalls. Never miss an important RV or RV-related recall. Every other Wednesday.
Learn more or sign up for any of these great newsletters here.
(No spam. Easy unsubscribe if you don’t like it.)
Outstanding but affordable RV parks
In this column, we’re sharing information taken from our Facebook group Outstanding but affordable RV parks. Also, from time to time, we’ll include our staff’s favorite affordable campgrounds. We hope to provide real options for folks looking to RV in reasonably priced, well-kept RV parks all across the country.
Click here to see this week’s picks for outstanding but affordable RV parks.
Click here for a state-by-state guide to outstanding but affordable RV parks as recommended by our readers, staff and Facebook users. Updated weekly.
Ask Dave
Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and author of the “RV Handbook”.
This past week’s questions that Dave answered:
- My RV’s Dometic roof air conditioner isn’t working. How do I check if the thermostat is dead?
- My frameless window leaks. How do I reseal it?
- RV’s roof air conditioner wires shorted, almost caught on fire! Why didn’t circuit breaker trip?
- One RV theater seat is flaking. Can I fix it or replace just that section?
- Can ceramic coating be applied over decals? And DON’T use Dawn dish soap? Say what?!
Click here to see more questions for Dave.
DON’T MISS ANY RV REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE ARTICLES! Every Tuesday we issue a free weekly email digest of all our articles from the past week on the subject. Sign up here for RV Repair and Maintenance Tips (and check out all our other reports and newsletters).
?? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ??
Would you ever consider eating roadkill for dinner? Ever stopped and thought that run-over possum looked appetizing? Well, this will make roadkill taste alive again… or dead again… or just delicious again!
In the RV Shop with Dustin
Make RV diagnostics easy with the Sperry Wire Tracker
By Dustin Simpson
In the past, Dave Solberg and I hosted a livestream called Talkin’ RV Tech. We not only answered technical questions, but we also shared what we like to call “cool tools.” These are tools and gadgets that we actually use and we believe they will be helpful to you. This clip is from one of our videos where we discuss the Sperry Wire Tracker. … This can be a useful tool for RV diagnostics, especially when dealing with electrical issues.
Read more and watch the short video
RV Gadgets and Gizmos
You need a jump starter. Seriously.
By Tony Barthel
You should have a portable jump starter. Seriously. But why, you ask? Many reasons. I have had a portable jump start device that lives in my truck for years. The most obvious reason to have one is to jump start a vehicle with a dead or weak battery. But it can serve a lot of other purposes as well. Continue reading.
Travel Destinations
Visiting the Donkey History Museum is something to bray about!
By Bob Mims
I don’t know about you, but my spouse has occasionally warned me, “Don’t make an ass of yourself.” Now, visiting Mesquite, Nevada—and its quartet of casinos tempting Arizona, Utah and Nevada I-15 travelers to detour for a bit of gambling—might pay off or deplete that RVing gas and groceries budget. Hence the risk, amigos. Dreams of fortune versus, in my case, the wrath of my wife, she of Norwegian ancestry and the dormant genes of the Valkyrie: DNA and ancestry best left to rest in Valhalla—trust me.
RV Tire Safety
Do you want better quality tires? Here’s how you can help achieve this goal
By Roger Marble
If you want better quality tires on your RV, then there are a few things we as owners need to do. All tires sold in the U.S. and Canada must, by law, be certified by the tire manufacturer or importer to meet the published DOT standards. If tires do not meet the standards, the DOT can and has in the past ordered recalls and FREE replacement of all non-complying tires.
The best book for National Forest Camping
The U.S. Forest Service manages nearly 193 million acres of public land in 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands. These areas provide many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Forest Service areas offer some of the best camping experiences in the United States. In this directory, you’ll discover 4,108 select camping areas at 141 forests in 42 states. Learn more or order.
RVing with Pets
Sherpa Pet Tube tunnel travel kennel keeps dogs or cats safe during travel
By Cheri Sicard
This ingenious collapsible travel kennel works equally well for dogs or cats. It installs in the back seat of your vehicle, giving your pets the entire length of the seat to move about while keeping them safely contained. Read more about this (p)awesome product.
How well do you know your cat? Is he a drinker?
By Russ and Tiña De Maris
How well do you know your cat? Yeah, you may know that Fluffy is feisty and tears up the carpet if left alone too long, but do you know how many toes Fluffy has for sheathing those damaging claws? Nearly all cat owners (92%) believe they’re knowledgeable about cats, as revealed in a recent poll of 2,000 American cat owners. Still, most don’t know basic facts about their feline—or its health needs. Learn all about cats here, especially if you have a cat who owns you. (Kidding. Sorta.)
Recipe of the Day
Lasagna With Zucchini
by Terri Opgenorth from Lake Mills, WI
Substituting zucchini strips for pasta is a delicious low-carb option for lasagna. It’s so robust and delicious you don’t even miss the noodles. This easy lasagna recipe is hearty and cheesy with just a hint of spice thanks to the red pepper flakes. Even if you’re not low carb, give this recipe a try. It’s super tasty.
Readers’ Pet of the Day
“We adopted Melton (Jack Russell Terrier mix) through a local rescue group a year-and-a-half ago. He loves traveling and sitting beside me at the dinette, especially when we’re playing cards. Here he is checking the score!!” —Renee Galligher
Help! We’re running low on photos! Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. We publish one each weekday in RV Daily Tips and in this Sunday RV Travel newsletter. No blurry photos, please! Please do not submit your photo more than once. Thank you!
• RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.
Trivia
Wall Drug sees up to 20,000 visitors on a summer day. Read about the history of this beloved roadside stop here. (You’ll love the story!)
Sunday funny
Oh, what we’d give to hear that story!
Did you miss last week’s RV Travel?
RVtravel.com All Star Team
Publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Editor: Emily Woodbury. Associate editor: Diane McGovern. Senior editors: Russ and Tiña De Maris. Senior writers: Nanci Dixon, Gail Marsh, Dave Solberg and Cheri Sicard. Contributors: Roger Marble, Dave Helgeson, J.R. Montigel, Randall Brink, Dustin Simpson, Dale Wade, Tony Barthel, and Janet Groene. Financial affairs director: Gail Meyring. IT wrangler: Kim Christiansen. Social Media staff: Gary Pratt. Mascots: Archie and Astor “the Disaster”
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally get something wrong. We’re just human! So don’t go spending $10,000 on something we said was good simply because we said so, or fixing something according to what we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake. Tips and/or comments in this newsletter are those of the authors and may not reflect the views of RVtravel.com or this newsletter.
RVtravel.com is a participant in many affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Regardless of the potential revenue, unless stated otherwise, we only recommend products or services we believe provide value to our readers.
CONTACT US
Editorial (all but news): editor@rvtravel.com
Editorial (news): chuck@rvtravel.com
Help desk: Contact us.
Mail us at 9792 Edmonds Way, #265, Edmonds, WA 98020
This newsletter is copyright 2024 by RV Travel LLC.
Thanks Chuck, for everything!
RV newsletter is not the newsletter that you (Chuck) started years ago. You did your best. Thank you. Everything the left says the right is doing is really exactly what the left is doing. The news that most people hear every day is fake news full of lies.
So true , and as I watch the impatient , spoiled phone face crowd shuffling around I realize we have already lost the war and just don’t realize it. i pray it’s not too late.
Everything the left says the right is doing is really exactly what the left is doing. The news that most people hear every day is fake news full of lies. This applies to the “right” also.
Agreed; to varying degrees. The Left has weaponized it, and quite successfully at that. It’s much easier for the Left as that’s where the alliance lies for the corporate, alphabet “news” outlets; they despise the Right and attempt to shut down that voice at every opportunity. Quick: Name a major conservative network news station; FOX doesn’t count anymore. You won’t be able to, which serves to make my point. News is not much more than opinion or commentary these days.
RIP journalism.
Thank you Chuck and staff for a quality newsletter. We have been camping and RVing for over 50 years and continue to learn new and exciting things. Folks who are having trouble with pop up ads, use Mozilla Firefox. We never see a pop up.
Cheers and best wishes.
Thank you for all you do
Chucks letter this morning should be a LOUD knock on the door to all. I at 74 like him have seen the death and passing of Journalism. Pray for our country because the few controlling the media don’t have Americas best interests in mind.
My thoughts exactly.
T. Jefferson letter to John Norvell, June 11, 1807 – start at paragraph 3. The more things change, the more they stay the same!!! 🙂
https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Jefferson/99-01-02-5737
“it is a melancholy truth that a suppression of the press could not more compleatly deprive the nation of it’s benefits, than is done by it’s abandoned prostitution to falsehood. nothing can now be believed which is seen in a newspaper. truth itself becomes suspicious by being put into that polluted vehicle”
Always enjoyed your articles, Chuck.
Chuck, you are a treasure, godspeed.
That’s much better! I bitched about the pop ups yesterday and said good bye. But couldn’t resist another issue. Not great but a HUGE improvement.
Best wishes on your “retirement” (ha-ha)…
I am in my seventies and have never owned or participated in the RV lifestyle. Not my cup of tea. I have camped in everything from a truck, tent or just rolled up in a tarp or bag. I enjoy reading the posts and comments here. Some great – some not so great. Many are quite informative.
An aside – In most news reporting there is a kernal of truth. One must be astute enough to locate the good kernal and discard the rest.
Good luck!!!!!!!!!
For sure. Thanks Chuck. God bless ya
I thought Pet of the Day was maybe proofreading Chuck’s work from the 90’s. Maybe Diane replaced Melton? 🤔 enjoy your new retirement.
👍😅 Yep, I replaced Melton when his eyesight got too bad from all the proofreading. Have a great day, Tom. 😀 –Diane
Happy retirement! And if you’re running low on pet pictures it is possible that others are having the same issues I have had trying to post pictures. I’ve tried twice and after filling everything out about half has orange asterisk no matter what I do it won’t let me submit the picture
Hi Cdp922,
I just tested the form and was able to submit a picture of my pet.
The form does require that you allow RVtravel.com to run scripts in your browser, in fact a large portion of our site requires that functionality.
So if you have an anti-virus or privacy plugin that is blocking our scripts in your browser then the form will not work. Or if your browser has Javascript turned off the same thing will happen.
Check your settings and see if we’re being blocked by your browser or by an extension you added to your browser such as Privacy Badger or NoScript. You should be able to whitelist RVtravel.com.
-Kim
I will miss your essays in the free newsletter! You are an excellent writer. Journalistic wordsmithing seems to have become rare and diminishing. I’m happy to see you will still be a contributor to this family of online publications.
I’m 72 and grew up watching Walter Cronkite. Boy did I hate to see him go! Boy do I hate to see you go! You’ve done a great job in the few years that I’ve been reading this newsletter.I have NO problem with what you’ve had to do to keep it going, after all it’s FREE! So thank you. I agree with you about most everything including the death of real journalism. No one wants the news anymore, they just want what they want to hear on both sides, so the entertainment cable networks give it to them. The only thing I dislike about this newsletter is the determination of some people to bring their political views to a RV information site and that’s not intended for that and it’s not your fault.