Issue 2531
Today’s thought
“Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.” ―
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Pastry Day!
On this day in history: 1868 – The first traffic lights are installed, outside the Palace of Westminster in London. Resembling railway signals, they use semaphore arms and are illuminated at night by red and green gas lamps.
Tip of the day
Tackling the never-ending RV maintenance checklist
Let’s face it: RV checklists can feel like a black hole of tasks. Every time you cross off one item, three more seem to pop up. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-timer, you’ve probably asked yourself, will I ever finish everything on this list?
Spoiler alert: probably not. But that’s okay! By prioritizing the essentials and keeping some practical strategies in mind, you can avoid stress and ensure your adventures roll on smoothly.
Start with safety. When it comes to maintenance, safety should always take the front seat. Focus on… Continue reading.
RV review
2025 Coachmen Freedom Express 252RBS—tall people welcome here
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of the 2025 Coachmen Freedom Express Ultra Lite 252RBS travel trailer. You may have noticed I’ve mentioned how much I appreciate your comments on these reviews. Something I’ve gathered is that there are a good number of you that are tall. This is a nice rig with good headroom and a layout that I can see working for some campers. Click here to read my review.
Ask Dave
I winterized the RV and it still froze. Why?
By Dave Solberg
Dear Dave,
I recently incorporated a temperature controlled 100w ceramic heater lamp, designed for a fish tank, into my water closet, hopefully to keep the manifold and other nearby exposed lines from freeze damage. I always blow the lines and then pump antifreeze thru all of the faucets via the winterize setting in the manifold. But that apparently wasn’t enough for the manifold in the Big Freeze we had here awhile ago. In addition, my 5th wheel has an underbelly and I’m thinking of cutting a strategically placed hatch to install another heater of the same capacity while it sits in storage during the winter months. Any thoughts? I have to wonder why underbelly heaters are not built-in. —Ray, 2015 Jayco FLQS 339 Read Dave’s answer.
In the RV shop with Dustin
Selling your RV? Consider a presale inspection
By Dustin Simpson
If you’re thinking about selling your RV, a presale inspection can be a game-changer. This proactive step offers numerous advantages for both sellers and potential buyers, providing valuable insights into your RV’s condition and fostering transparency and trust in the selling process. Continue reading.
Video of the day
10 secret Buc-ee’s rules nobody tells you about
By Cheri Sicard
Do you enjoy visiting Buc-ee’s, the super travel stops with lots of great things to see, do, and eat, plus seemingly endless fuel pumps? If you answered yes, you will want to check out the video below from The Grateful Glamper, as she reveals ten secret Buc-ee’s rules nobody seems to talk about.
RVing earrings for that special lady in your life
Name a cuter accessory, we dare you! That’s right, there isn’t one! These adorable acrylic dangle vintage travel trailer earrings are the accessory of the season and make the perfect gift and stocking stuffer for the lucky lady in your life. And yes, that lucky lady could be yourself! These are lightweight and have the design on both sides. Learn more or order for a great price, and check out the other designs, too!
The latest news for RVers
- Ukrainian–German company “prints” full-sized RVs using 3D and plastic bottles
- Only 35% of drivers are considered “safe” drivers, per recent study by AAA
- Follow-up: PA Turnpike RV explosion victim fights for life
- Gas prices plunge to near three-year low
- Used motorhome prices plummet. Could California “ban” reverse the trend?
To read more recent news, click here.
Featured article
Why you should consider a visit to a cemetery on your RV travels
By Gail Marsh
When I first approached my husband with the idea of visiting cemeteries, he paused and then laughed. “For a minute there I thought you said, ‘cemeteries.’” He’s not the only one who thinks cemeteries are reserved for the dead and the bereaved. However, in recent years, novice historians and genealogists have found a treasure trove of information in cemeteries across the country. Others simply enjoy the beautiful gardens and trees of our oldest graveyards. There are many fascinating cemeteries just waiting for you, but first, it’s important to have some background information. This is interesting.
Reader poll
Do you get more exercise at home or when RVing?
Quick tip
Newbie asks: What do I do with my tow bar when not in use?
A new RVer wants to know just what to do with his tow bar and associated electrical wiring when he’s not using the stuff. Several older-hands jumped in with advice. First, if just “overnighting” and using the toad car for a bit, simply leave the tow bar and wiring attached to the motorhome. For longer stays, put the tow bar and wiring in the tow bar’s carrying case. One added that he carefully uses bungees to keep the electrical wiring in place, as he once damaged his when dragging the tow bar. Another adds that they put a plastic bag around the motorhome’s electrical connector to keep out the weather. If you have a tip, please put it in the comments below.
Website of the day
Goldbelly
Goldbelly ships popular meals and treats from around the country straight to your door. Maine lobster roll, anyone? New York pizza? Philly cheesesteak? They’ve got it! Plus, the foods here make great holiday gifts!
?? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ??
We recently watched someone use one of these and it was neat! It’s like bringing the campfire inside. You’d be the fanciest person in the campground, that’s for sure! Cheers!
Recipes of the day
The best lasagna recipes for comfort food lovers
It’s the season for comfort food, and what food is more comforting than lasagna? Here, we’ve featured a few unique lasagna recipes. Think: buffalo chicken lasagna, white chicken and spinach lasagna, a roasted butternut squash lasagna, a traditional lasagna cooked in a skillet, and even a healthy keto lasagna. Win! Click here for the recipes.
Trivia
Nesting chinstrap penguins, native to Antarctica, take more than 10,000 microsleeps (naps) every day, according to a study published in Science.
Readers’ pet of the day
“Murphy (Pointer/Terrier mix) isn’t crazy about the water, so when he plays with his water-loving Lab friends he sometimes leaps over the water and finds himself a little stuck. How to get back??? It was easy getting over when he had room to get a running start, but now he’s stuck on the ‘island’.” —Terry Cuyler
HELP! We’re running very low on pet photos! Send us a photo of your pet with a short description. No blurry photos and please do not submit your photo more than once. Thanks!
Leave here with a laugh
Watch this whole video and we guarantee you’ll be howling with laughter the entire time! You might want to make it full-screen. And make sure your volume is turned up!
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
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RVtravel.com All-Star Team
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If you have a motorhome mounted tow bar put a cover on it. The coiled cable doesn’t have to be covered. It is designed to be used in the rain so doesn’t require covering.
Why do you cover your tow bar? It too is designed to be used in the rain. When I unhook my toad, I fold the tow bar to the side, wrap the safety cables and electrical cable around it. Been doing that for 10 + years with no problems.
Laugh of the day. That gal’s laughter is infectious!
I bet the laugh of the day was funny if you could understand what was being said. By the sheer excitement of the lady she sure thought if was funny!
Just my 2 cents!
Snoopy
Hi, Snoopy. Just turn on the CC (closed captioning) and then you can read what she’s saying. Have a great day. 😀 –Diane
I bought a 48” corduroy zippered bag that I cover my tow bar when not in use. Bungees keep it nice and tight.
I’ve often said that wild turkeys were either the bravest or dumbest birds. Still haven’t made up my mind.
Hi, Jim. That reminds me of a question my walking buddy and I got at the local track the other night. It was after dark (no lights at the track), and the track was slick from frozen fog (30°). There were two guys there. I mentioned to one that we needed ice skates, and the other one asked us if we all were dedicated or nuts? I said, “Both.” But we got it done with no broken bones. Whew! Have a great day. 😀 –Diane
First traffic lights in London: Now I understand, a worker installed the traffic signals on the wrong side of the road, and they have been driving on the wrong side of the road ever since. One person can make a difference!
Turkey Video: Someone please get that lady some help.
Every time my mother and I took a day trip or went camping we always stopped at an old cemetery just to see the history and look to see what stones were the oldest. One year I went on a field trip and was asked to stop at an out of the way cemetery that was pretty much abandoned. I thought this would be fun to take mom to. Yeah well a few months later I did. With surprising results. There was this huge stone that had a bishop name on it surrounded by a fence. My mother went up to it and was attacked by biting flies. Nothing happened to me but this spirit did not like my mother. It was crazy. Never before or after at any other cemetery. Believe it or not.
Thank you, Emily and Diane! I hope that you and Murphy have many joyous and memorable trips together, Terry! I don’t know that I understand the tip. I presumed it pertained to a driveable RV. If so, I don’t understand why the tow bar would be attached. I put ours in the “store” configuration, slide the cover over it, and hang the unattached ends of the safety chains and umbilical cord over the covered bar. In any case, happy new year and safe travels!