Issue 2645
Today’s thought
“Never leave a friend behind. Friends are all we have to get us through this life—and they are the only things from this world that we could hope to see in the next.” ―
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Barbecue Day!
On this day in history: 1842 – The first major wagon train heading for the Pacific Northwest sets out on the Oregon Trail from Elm Grove, Missouri, with 100 pioneers.
Tip of the day
Save your RV’s refrigerator: Leveling tips for overnight stops
By Dave Helgeson
I read this tip:
Do you level? That’s a question repeatedly posted on RV forums, regarding leveling an RV when stopping at the end of the day. Here’s a typical response: “I try to get it relatively close unless it’s just for an overnight stop, in which case I don’t bother.” Unless it’s an overnight stop? ALWAYS level your RV. Another comment tells you why: “I’m on my second Dometic 4-door. I level METICULOUSLY every time I stop to camp and I check level every morning. I refuse to go thru all that replacement AGAIN.”
RV refrigerators need to be level to work properly, and to prevent damage. No absorption-type RV refrigerator has ever read the fine print that says, “Don’t count the damage caused by operating off-level if it’s only overnight.” Seriously, damage to an RV cooling unit is CUMULATIVE, and every “only overnight” adds up. Can’t level? Shut off the fridge.
I was rather shocked by people’s thinking that running an absorption refrigerator out of level overnight or for any length of time is an acceptable practice. It’s not! Continue reading.
Ask Dave
Why does water sputter out of RV’s faucets and gets worse as tank gets low?
Dear Dave,
We always start with a full water tank while boondocking. We get a little air in the lines and the water will spurt some, but not much. As the water level in the tank gets lower, we get more and more air in the lines. I believe this suggests that the air is coming in the suction side of the water line in the tank somewhere. I am trying to figure out how to chase down the source of the air in the water line. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks. —Chuck, 2012 Heartland Cyclone HD 3612 Read Dave’s answer.
In the RV shop with Dustin
Reminder: Check that fridge drip tray before it floods into your RV
The below question was posted in one of my many Facebook groups. One group member, Alan, asked this question: “Any ideas where to start the investigation? 2022 Grand Design RV Solitude 380FL. Last night we noticed water collecting on the right side of the fridge on the flooring. The inside of the fridge is dry. … ” Continue reading.
Article and video
Smokeless fire pit showdown: Solo Stove, Slinky Stove, and BioLite compared
By Cheri Sicard
Campfires. Is there anything better? They bring warmth, light, and that unbeatable cozy vibe to any outdoor adventure. But let’s face it: Smoke can be a real buzzkill. That’s where “smokeless” fire pits come in. These nifty devices promise a fire with less of the eye-watering, lung-burning smoke we all dread. Portable fire pits are especially popular with RVers who want a contained and convenient campfire option. In this video, Jason Epperson of RV Miles puts three top contenders to the test.
BUMPER SNICKER: Stupidity ought to be painful! —Submitted by Jaye Jeffress
Featured article
Is BLM camping safe? Yes! Just look out for these signs and take these precautions
By Dave Helgeson
Is BLM camping safe? This was the core of a question posted on the BLM Camping Facebook group hosted by RVtravel.com. Unfortunately, the post was deleted before I could review the hundreds of comments. It drew such a response that RVtravel.com editor Chuck Woodbury reached out to me and asked that I write an article on the subject. Upon further research, I determined the original question had a bit more to it, as it asked, “How to determine if a BLM camping area is safe or not for a lonely camper.” Continue reading.
You may have missed these recent popular stories…
- Burned by the plug: A wake-up call on shore power safety
- The biggest issues we’re seeing as camp hosts
- Letter to the Editor: How RV salesmen will charge you double the price for an RV
- National parks face devastating cuts, with majority in jeopardy
- How to make sure thieves won’t steal your RV
Gadget makes RV battery maintenance EASY!
Dustin Simpson writes, “Maintaining the distilled water in your RV battery has never been simpler! This 2-quart battery filler design has been around for years and offers a convenient spring-loaded filler valve that helps keep any shop, garage, or workplace clean. It’s perfect for checking and filling water in your RV batteries. This easy-to-use maintenance tool takes the annoying chore out of watering batteries.” Find it here.
Reader poll
Do you plan to spend more or less time RVing this summer than last?
Quick tip
Automatic transmission trouble signs
- Frequent need to add fluid (could be a leak at seal in gasket, or worse, a malfunction).
- Fluid smells burnt, is dark brown (change it right away).
- Late or early shifting, slipping, or unusual noises (get thee and your RV to a tranny shop).
On this day last year…
- Ask Dave: What sealants do you recommend for the RV and what areas need to be sealed?
- RV walk-through: 2024 Taylor Coach Lil El 8’ rear door travel trailer—The “Smart car” of RVs
- Video: How to find secret boondocking spots in 3 easy steps
- Featured article: Worth a visit: A house made out of newspaper!
Website of the day
Ultimate Bunker
Okay, even if you’re not planning on building an underground bunker, this website is still totally cool. They build custom bunkers, safe rooms, custom shipping containers and more. You’ll want one of these as your man-cave or she-shed!
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Now THIS is fun! This would be a perfect rainy-day activity for a summer day. Wait, what? Oh, just click here and you’ll see.
Trivia
In 2025, Palm Beach, Florida, is the richest neighborhood in America. It boasts the highest average home value of $11,571,608.
Readers’ pets of the day
“Gypsy we have had since she was 9 weeks. Belle came to us almost a year ago as her previous owners were going to take her to a shelter. They are a German Shepherd and a Lab, and are both 4 years old. Hopefully Belle will become a great camping partner just like her sister.” —Kay Gale
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
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
THIS MAP UPDATES TWICE A DAY
Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
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RVtravel.com All-Star Team
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Thank you for the link to the national weather map; I use it almost every day!
👍
Gypsy & Belle are a great looking pair of RV Traveling Companions! Don
Gypsy and Belle are sooooo very special and precious doggies ! Thank you for sharing!🥰🐶
I enjoy a cold summer water while camping, only mine is flavored with hops & barley.
Love the bumper snicker. If only it were true.
Gypsy and Belle are beautiful dogs.
Thank you, Emily and Diane! Have a great week and safe travels!