Issue 2551
Today’s thought
“Be clearly aware of the stars and infinity on high. Then life seems almost enchanted after all.” ―
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Bean Day! Don’t like beans? Perhaps you can celebrate National Cuddle Up Day instead!
On this day in history: 1912 – New Mexico is admitted to the Union as the 47th U.S. state.
Tip of the day
Tips for finding free (or nearly free) overnight RV spots
By Gail Marsh
Exploring the open road in your RV offers unparalleled freedom, but finding affordable overnight spots can be a challenge. Beyond the well-known options like Walmart, Cracker Barrel, Cabela’s, casinos, and truck stops, consider these free (or nearly free) overnight RV spots. Some may surprise you.
Many times, when we just want to get from here to someplace else, the distance between them requires an overnight stay. Sure, most RVers make reservations ahead of time, but what happens if the weather shifts during your annual trip to warmer climates? What can you do if an unexpected traffic issue prevents you from keeping your prearranged reservation? It’s good to know that there are places you can stay overnight for free (or nearly free) in your RV. Continue reading.
RV review
Ember RV E-Series Spark 18FBE—a big deal in a small trailer
By Tony Barthel
Today’s RV review is of the Ember RV E-Series Spark 18FBE travel trailer. Lately, one trend that’s catching my attention is the growing number of affordable models being introduced by RV manufacturers. Ember’s Spark series follows this path and is a more affordable and less lavishly equipped line of trailers from the company. Learn more.
Ask Dave
What seminars at an RV show are best for a new RV owner to attend?
By Dave Solberg
Hi Dave,
I plan on going to the January 17-20 RV show in Boston. I’d like to know, what’s the best way to re-caulk my roof, edges, vents, etc., followed by resealing the entire roof. Will you be doing any seminars at this show addressing this? Also, since I’m new, I’d like some guidance on operation of AC, heat, refrigerator, i.e., proper running of AC vs. propane, water pump and hot water heater. … Read the rest of Jim’s question and Dave’s answer.
In the RV shop with Dustin
How to maintain your RV vent lid seals
By Dustin Simpson
Proper maintenance of your RV vent lid seals is essential for maintaining the comfort and efficiency of your coach. In this article and video, we’ll show you how to keep these seals in top condition to ensure they effectively trap hot or cold air inside your RV. Let’s start with why vent lid seals are so important.
Video of the day
Work camping pros and cons evaluated
By Cheri Sicard
In the video below, we join Steve Turtle, a former full-time work camper who now hires worker campers. If you have been curious about working while traveling in your RV, this video will give you a glimpse into the lifestyle as Steve talks about four jobs he and his wife, Jill, have done. Give it a watch to learn more.
The latest news for RVers
- New year, new fuel tax rates: What’s changing at the pump in 2025?
- States crack down on license plate flippers
- New, updated driving laws going into effect in 2025
- Motorhome sales ‘ban’ could be delayed as trucking industry fights for regulation reprieve
- How will RV fuel prices impact your travel plans in 2025?
To read more recent news, click here.
Featured article
Nature’s GPS: The secret to tree “eyes” and how they can help you navigate
By Gail Marsh
“If a tree falls in the forest and there’s no one around to hear it, does it make a sound?” The answer may befuddle some, but what I want to know is, “Will other trees watch it happen?” Do trees have eyes? The answer may surprise you and perhaps make you wonder, “Are the trees watching me?” Learn about this amazing, and possibly helpful, fact.
Reader poll
Have you ever visited the #1 tourist attraction in the U.S.?
Quick tip
Used RV shopping: Low miles aren’t always the best
When buying a used RV, lower mileage isn’t necessarily a good thing. When someone is driving an RV often, it usually means it’s being well-maintained. Lower mileage when buying a used RV could mean it’s been sitting on an empty lot somewhere and you can wind up with a lot of issues. —From ”A Beginner’s Guide to Living in an RV: Everything I Wish I Knew Before Full-Time RVing Across America.” Available on Amazon.
Website of the day
Act Your Wage. Can You Guess the Minimum Wage the Year You Were Born?
This article from Cheapism is fascinating. It will tell you the minimum wage each year and what that was equal to in 2024.
?? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ??
We want this! Not only is it cool, but it could REALLY help some of us! If you’re experiencing this, the benefits are huge!
Recipes of the day
Celebrate National Bean Day with one of these hearty bean recipes
Beans, beans the magical fruit… These aren’t just boring bean recipes. No, no, no! These bean recipes are delicious. We’ve listed a twist on chili, a few soups, a taco pizza, a healthy bean salad, and a delicious new recipe for baked beans. But it’s the chili shepherd’s pie that we’re really craving here. YUM! Check these out.
Trivia
The world’s longest traffic jam lasted more than 12 days! It happened in China in 2010 on the Beijing-Tibet Expressway, stretching over 60 miles. Some drivers reported moving less than a mile a day!
Readers’ pet of the day
“Okie (Mini Australian Shepherd) is a camping doggo!! Loves going up on the hill and playing frisbee. Long walks on the trails of the campground. Loves loves loves the golf cart. By all rights, he thinks it’s his. When he’s not playing frisbee he is fetching his ball. He is a ‘ball’ of energy but knows when to shut it off. Pretty cool dude! He has blue and brown mixed eyes. Is a blue merle 25# of loving companion!” —Becky Traxler
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
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RVtravel.com All-Star Team
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Okie – sounds like quite the life! Looks like riding in a pontoon boat is pretty fun too…don
In 1964 I got my first real job in a factory. $2/hr. Minimum wage was $1.25. I was in tall cotton!
Loved the laugh of the day! Been there…
Both Okie was such a pleasure and the shredded bed was absolutely precious!🐶
Thank you, Emily and Diane! I am very jealous of you, Becky! Our Aussie is not miniature and doesn’t know when or how to stop short of exhaustion. Hope you and Okie have many joyous adventures together! I wonder what circumstances caused a 12-day, 60-miles-in-length traffic jam? Must have been a remarkably unique set of circumstances!?! Happy new year and safe travels! 🙂
Went downtown NYC about 60 years ago, saw Times Square., went up Empire State Bldg, did Rockets and left. Never been back, too many people and traffic.