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August 11, 2024
Issue 1169
Free, abbreviated edition
Cover story
Why retirement isn’t as straightforward as it seems
By Chuck Woodbury
FOUNDER AND PUBLISHER
How many times have I announced in this space that I was retiring? How many times have I hinted that I was retiring? Hmmm… Let me count the ways.
A whole buncha times… Apparently I have failed.
I am well past 65. For the approximately 17 readers in this audience younger than 40, that means I am really old. For those readers, maybe 7 or 8 of them, younger than 30, I am as old as dirt: I could have been Abe Lincoln’s drinking buddy.
Let me be clear: For most of my life I never thought I would get old. Oh, it would happen, but it would be so long it would like walking from Seattle to Miami and back maybe 50 times — essentially an eternity.
Then one day I looked at the mirror and I realized I was no longer 35 (or 45 or even 65!). I hadn’t even made it halfway to Miami one time! What the heck?
To be honest, as I always am, I have been guilt-ridden of late about still working. When I grew up in the 1950s, most working men looked forward to turning 65, whereupon they would get a silver watch, and their fellow employees would make farewell speeches saying they would remember them forever. And everyone would clap (and then the next day, when someone mentioned their name to another employee, he or she would ask “Who?”). That idea of retirement has stuck in my subconscious my whole life.
Now what?
Back in those days of old, on the first day of a retiree’s retirement he would awake, sit up in bed and think: “OK, what do I do now?” He might wonder, “Should I watch TV or head over to the Senior Center for a Sloppy Joe?”
Oh, there are those who thrive in retirement — avid fishermen, golfers, grandparents with adoring grandchildren, and even a lot of RVers who at last can travel to their heart’s content (health permitting). You, perhaps?
Many if not most of the guys of the “Greatest Generation” were like my father: They worked 40 hours a week and then retired and spent the next decade mowing their lawns. They may or may not have enjoyed their jobs (read Stud Terkel’s excellent book Working). My father, raised in Boston, was still a bit of a Puritan. If work was fun, it was not work. He never understood why I loved my “job” so much.
For guys like him, the purpose of work was to put food on your family’s table; personal fulfillment was not relevant.
I am one of those lucky people who never worked a day in his life: I have loved every minute! My work has been so enjoyable that for most of my life Monday has been my favorite day of the week. Call me a workaholic; no argument there. Still, after a huge sombrero was placed upon my head at a Mexican restaurant in celebration of my 65th birthday, I began to feel guilty about still working.
The thing about retiring is that you cannot JUST RETIRE. You have to RETIRE TO something — hopefully something you have always wanted to do but never had time. For many people, that’s RVing. For those who do not replace their work with something they love, retirement is just a pit stop on their journey to their final frontier.
If you are like me and have combined your work and passion for your entire adult life, why retire? That’s what I keep asking myself, and I keep answering that there really is no good reason. So here I am, fighting a little guilt but still having the time of my life.
What about you? Email me at chuck (at) RVtravel.com with your retirement story. We’d love to include it in a future feature article.
Related
When is it time to quit RVing?
By Chuck Woodbury
This was posted in our RVing Over 70 Facebook group, where it is drawing many comments. But we think it’s a question on the minds of many RVers who are well into their senior years. Here is the post from the Facebook group… Please read and leave your thoughts.
• • •
Did you miss last Sunday’s important essay by RVtravel.com founder and publisher Chuck Woodbury? It’s titled: Why your favorite RV website may soon disappear.
STAY COOL THIS SUMMER WITH A SOFT START RV. Use your RV air conditioner when you never could before. This can be a game changer (and at a discount price).
Yesterday’s top news for RVers
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
- Lemonis’ Camping World violates the law again over American flag
- Is BLM land open? New system lets you know
- BLM says Lake Havasu burros must go
- Propane explosion blasts RV and RVer. But wait, there’s more!
- BLM wants your help identifying more recreational land
Read the rest of the news in yesterday’s newsletter here.
Keep your generator fuel fresh—or do this!
By Russ and Tiña De Maris
For us, it was a lesson hard-learned. Keep your generator fuel fresh. We thought we did. After all, we frequent hot country in our RV, and don’t much care for RV parks. That means to keep cool, but avoid shore-power hookups, our portable generator gets a thorough running. Trouble is, it’s those off-travel times. We paid the penalty for the schoolboy’s lament, “I just didn’t think!” Learn from Russ and Tiña’s mistake.
Nearly a third of our readers have had to evacuate a campground
In a recent poll, nearly a third of RVtravel.com readers reported they had faced the unexpected challenge of being evacuated from a campground. Four percent of them have had to evacuate more than once. Read the story here.
Pros and cons of single-axle vs. double-axle towing
By Cheri Sicard
If you have wondered about the pros and cons of single-axle RVs versus double-axle trailers, this information from Josh the RV Nerd will answer all. Read and watch.
Today’s RV preview…
Salem-Wildwood’s new Veranda models—Wow!
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review isn’t of a specific RV, but rather of a series of new products. Those products come from Forest River’s Wildwood and Salem divisions and are a completely new idea in RVing.
What you have here is something I’ve never seen before in the Salem and Wildwood Veranda package.
Other RV reviews this week:
- Forest River Salem 29VIEW trailer features hidden room
- Wildwood Heritage Glen ROOST43—The largest RV I’ve ever seen!
- MDC XT12HR compact overland travel trailer—tiny but feature-full
- New 2025 Alliance RV Delta Ultra Lite RK234—easier to join ‘the Alliance’
RV service centers and repairs report
How to find local, reliable mobile RV repair? This RVer has the answer
This week, Nanci Dixon relates a story regarding the lack of customer service from Grand Design, and several positive reviews for service shops and mobile techs.
UPDATED WEEKLY: A list of RV dealers, service centers, and mobile techs as recommended by our readers. Click here.
Around the campfire
RVers share their funny and “yikes” newbie mistakes
By Gail Marsh
It was a fun night around the campfire as we all shared our personal “newbie misadventures.” The great thing about RVing (and really about much that happens in life) is that the harsh sting of mistakes lessens with the passage of time. … “We were all newbies once.” Perhaps by sharing our stories of misadventures we’ll help today’s newbies avoid our mistakes.
Cheap sewer hose sends “horrific” stuff out pinholes
By Russ and Tiña De Maris
It doesn’t seem to matter what grade of sewer hose you buy, sooner or later the thing will give up the ghost and leave you wading around in unwholesome liquids. Experience does teach us that the less money you spend on your hose, the sooner you’ll be looking for another one. Continue reading.
You’ve heard of sleepwalking, but what about sleep-driving?
We RVers spend a lot of time driving. Sadly, we’ve mastered “distracted driving”—settling arguments with our kids as they scream in the back seat, telling our dog to quit barking at a passing truck, ignoring a ringing cell phone when we just know it could be something IMPORTANT! Anyone who drives knows all about this. But we bet you’ve never heard of something a whole lot more dangerous—sleep-driving — driving while asleep. No kidding!
I’ve got those post-RV trip blues. Do you?
By Gail Marsh
RV vacations—those glorious times when we hit the pause button on our hectic lives, bask in relaxation and create treasured memories. But what happens when the vacation ends, the RV is back in storage, and we return to our regular routines? Enter the post-vacation blues. Continue reading.
Letter to the Editor
Reader describes what it’s like to RV in Germany
We received this letter from reader Jim Johnson, who tells us about his recent trip to Germany. He writes: “I just returned from a trip to Germany. Based on the number of RVs (“caravans” in Europe) I see on the roads and parked near homes, the industry is bigger in Europe than in North America.”
Fix roof leaks and extend your RV roof another 18-20 years with the ONLY liquid butyl rubber in the world
RV Roof Magic’s unique solvent-based drying process allows for a chemical bond not found in other RV sealants. That is why it never needs a primer and only one coat. We offer a 10-year warranty. Apply RV Roof Magic to all roofs except silicone and PVC. Over 30 years of history of success. Visit our site for our monthly special!
RVing with dogs
Do these things in case of a dog attack
By Gail Marsh
I recently wrote an article about off-leash dogs and how to best approach them. One reader, Gene, commented: “Your article on off-leash dogs seems incomplete. I believe you missed an opportunity to also inform PEOPLE how to protect themselves against an aggressive dog….” Read the rest of Gene’s comment and Gail’s important tips.
Dogs LOVE healthy DIY Woof Pupsicle frozen treats
By Cheri Sicard
I LOVE this gadget and, more importantly, the dogs I know LOVE this gadget. Especially in hot weather, but really any time. The Woof Pupsicle lets you easily create healthy frozen dog treats from ingredients you already have. The innovative design keeps dogs occupied for 30 minutes or more as they lick the tasty frozen goodness. Read more.
RV tire safety
Expert explains what causes tire failure
By Roger Marble
Tires do not fail because of “magic.” They do not fail because the tire company has a certain ZIP code. In my 50 years in the tire industry, I inspected an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 “failed” tires in my job of doing “Failed Tire Forensics” aka “tire autopsies.” With my unique background in the tire industry, and based on close inspection of these tires, I was able to identify the basic reason for the claimed “failure” was some external cause or condition.
Travel destinations
Visiting the wild horses of Assateague Island National Seashore
By Nanci Dixon
There are wild horses a mere 114 miles from Washington, D.C.! I had always wanted to see the wild horses and so we finally made the trek out to Assateague Island National Seashore from our campground in Washington, D.C. Read more and check out Nanci’s pictures.
The American spirit lives on at Colorado rodeos; there’s still time to go!
By Gail Marsh
When you think of Colorado, the stunning Rocky Mountains immediately come to mind, but this state is also home to a rich rodeo tradition. It’s not too late to attend a Colorado rodeo in 2024. There are still plenty of rodeos to see, each offering a slice of the Wild West with a generous amount of patriotism and amazing skills on display. Learn more.
Reader poll
Should drivers with RVs 40 feet or longer need a special driver’s license?
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: Are you right- or left-handed? You can probably guess that more readers are right-handed than left, but you might be surprised at how many are ambidextrous! Find out here.
?? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ??
You know when you hear that unfamiliar rattling sound in the back of the RV? Or that time you found a loose screw? Or what about that new squeak that came out of nowhere? Well, you might need this. (And even if you don’t, this is funny!)
Highlights from this week’s RV Daily Tips Newsletter
- It’s time to change your water filters. Yes, now!
- Why you need an extra set of RV keys
- Tips from the experts: Get the most from your air conditioner and heat pump
- My new high-quality water flow meter; perfect for flushing holding tanks
- Which are best, white or black tire covers?
NOT SIGNED UP FOR OUR RV DAILY TIPS NEWSLETTER? You’re missing out! It’s our reader’s favorite newsletter for a reason! Read a few issues here to see if you want to subscribe.
Just for fun
Our best-selling item among RVers is… a snack?
We were shocked to see our Amazon seller stats last week—THIS was our most-sold item? REALLY?! We mentioned it one time, as our “Mystery Product of the Day” in one of our newsletters. That’s it! Not even a full ad! And it was our best-selling product! Have you tried it yet?
Click to see what we’re talking about
In the RV shop with Dustin
Buying a used RV? Follow this inspection advice
By Dustin Simpson
Let us help you take the risk out of buying an RV! We want you to be aware of any issues before you buy it, not after! The best way to do that? Perform an RV inspection. … Watch the two videos below for advice on what to look for during an RV inspection. They’ll walk you through what important parts of the RV to inspect before making the decision to purchase.
Click here to watch the short videos
RV gadgets and gizmos
SodaStream Terra sparkling water maker saves space and money!
By Cheri Sicard
The SodaStream Terra is without a doubt one of my favorite RV kitchen accessories. Why? Because I am a bona fide fizz fiend! While I don’t usually drink sweetened or diet sodas, I am addicted to sparkling water, both plain and flavored. After a recent particularly large grocery shopping excursion, two things finally occurred to me.
Vintage RVs
Vintage RVs can be wheelchair-accessible too
By Paul Lacitinola
RV camping is a cherished pastime for many. Offering the freedom to explore the great outdoors or at vintage trailer rallies while bringing the comforts of home along for the ride. However, for individuals with mobility challenges, traditional RVs may not meet accessibility needs. Fortunately, the world of wheelchair-accessible RV camping is opening doors to adventure and independence for those who require more accessible options.
Quit struggling with hose and cable hookups at the campsite
Are you tired of struggling to hook up your coax cables, water hoses and other connections when you arrive at your campsite? It’s a snap with Cable and Hose Grips from J Wright Concepts. Save time and frustration! Life is too short to hassle with the little stuff! Learn more or order.
Recipe of the day
Loaded Summer Squash Casserole
by Julie Bailey from Durham, NC
We fell in love with this creamy, cheesy summer squash casserole. It has a pop of sweetness from the onions and a smoky flavor thanks to the crispy bacon. Cutting the summer squash into chunks adds a nice crunchy texture. This is a very versatile summer squash casserole that you can really customize and make your own.
Readers’ pets of the day
“The girls, Lexi, Ruby, and Blaze (Australian Shepherds), enjoying the Oregon coast on their month-long, 6,000-mile adventure!” —Caprice Palmer
• RVing with Dogs group on Facebook. You’ll love it.
Want to see your pet in this newsletter? Please send us a photo of your pet with a short description. We publish one each weekday in RV Daily Tips and in our Sunday RV Travel newsletter. No blurry photos, please! Please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!
Don’t kill yourself or loved ones out of ignorance
• If you ever feel a shock when touching your RV, take action. Otherwise, you could kill yourself or loved ones.
• If you blow a front tire, do this. The result could be a disaster if you follow your instincts.
Trivia
Think being a neurosurgeon is a stressful job? Think again! Scientists at Southern Medical University in Guangzhou, China, have found it is more stressful to be a waiter in a restaurant than to be a neurosurgeon. If you’ve ever been rude to a server, you can read about the study here. You probably won’t be rude to a server ever again!
Sunday funny
Did you miss last week’s RVtravel.com newsletter?
DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR OTHER NEWSLETTERS
- Weekly News Highlights. 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.
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RVtravel.com All Star Team
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Having been into hundreds of restaurants ,and bars, in my life I have seen way more smart *** waiters and waitresses than friendly ones. People are people no matter what job they do or where it is…if you don’t like the situation…get up and walk out.
Retirement does need to be your journey to the next part of life. You have to have a plan, whether for the next day, week or month. Just getting up in the morning and thinking, what I’m I going to do today, in my opinion will lead to boredom. Like the author said, do the things that you didn’t have time for when working. Such as visiting a local museum you just haven’t had time to get to. Or paint that room that you’ve been wanting to do for years. For us RV’ers, we have hundreds of choices out there to see and do. We also don’t have to plan every trip around a weekend. Take a walk, go to the beach or lake. Just don’t turn on the TV. I wish the best for all my fellow retired RV’ers.
Retirement – Simple as can be – The ones who love what they do – they don’t retire. Example: Clint Eastwood
The ones who hate their job but have to work to live – They retire at the first opportunity to draw their Social Security. Examples: Anyone who hates their job but have to work to live. Pick one…
As my father always said, you don’t retire, you change chapters. I’ve had two fulfilling careers. I started working paying jobs at 12. My first “real’ job was joining the US Coast Guard upon turning 18. I retired (changed chapters) from the Coast Guard 23 years later and took my hobby (woodworking) and turned it into a very successful cabinet/furniture business for the next 23 years. A year and a half ago, I retired (changed chapters) again and now do more things with kids and grandkids. This new chapter has been very fulfilling. Like you, I never really “worked”. I was very passionate about what I was doing and really enjoyed what I did. As in previous life chapters, I really enjoy this!
I read where you say you turned 65. My aunt turned 83 and I turned 61 last January. We both asked ourselves when did we turn an age where we are now considered senior and can join a senior center. I mean she says she feels young although her body is aging and I am like still able to do things but again do not feel old. Between the two of us its all a state of mind. But yes it creepy to think we only have 40 more years left and all we can do is enjoy the time we have left. About that soda stream machine. I have one and got my husband hooked on mine. Amazon has them on sale. $10 cheaper then where I bought mine and yes you save a lot of money by just fizzing water.
As for camping? My mother loved it and got me hooked on it years ago. It was after she died that my family kind of just went eh camping? Its fun but when I look back it was all for her and yes I enjoyed it. But after a disastrous camping trip in Florida. I parked the small camper in the backyard and bought a 27 foot and parked it on a seasonal site in Maine. I am done camping and now I get an air bnb and find it much easier to just walk in and relax. As for the seasonal site? I can be set up and done. No more towing no more trying to figure out where we are going every year. Cheaper too.
Retired at just past 60 and NEVER looked back! Golfing, RV’ing, traveling, reading and renovating our condos have kept me busy!
I 100% agree that you must retire to something though. I just turned 65 last month and look forward to my first Old Age Security cheque from the Canadian government!
61 here and at 59 1/2 I retired and never looked back. Getting my government check next year. As for golfing? I always wanted to take lessons. I have my mothers golf clubs.