From RVtravel.com: The common sense resource for RVers since 2001 • Issue 2793
Today’s thought
“The earth has its music for those who will listen…” ―
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Lager Day! Cheers!
On this day in history: 1768 – The first edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica is published.
Tip of the day
Tips for using five-gallon buckets for the RV and campsite
By Gail Marsh
You may have one or two five-gallon buckets stashed in your RV basement right now! There are so many different ways these buckets (and lids) come in handy when camping. The following tips and hacks for RVers using five-gallon buckets can make RVing easier. Check these out and see for yourself.
RV review
First look: Escape 13’—The smallest and lightest in the Escape fiberglass lineup
The Escape 13′ Trailer, or E13, is built for campers who want a compact fiberglass RV that still feels capable and comfortable. It stays light, is easy to tow, and is simple to set up, yet it offers features that make weekends away or longer trips feel relaxed and cozy. Check it out.
In the RV shop with Dustin
Selling your RV? Consider a presale inspection
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 to learn more.
Christmas-ify your dinette cushions
How cute is this?! These dinette cushion covers are made of polyester and spandex and are soft, stretchable, wrinkle-resistant, comfortable, and long-lasting. Stretchy and strong enough to fit most dinette cushions perfectly. Here is this design, but check out all the other Christmas/holiday ones here, too!
Article and video
The best RV layouts for pets
By Cheri Sicard
Travel days feel very different when a pet is pacing with nowhere to lie down or when a litter box sits awkwardly in the middle of the floor. For anyone shopping for an RV, pets are not an afterthought. They change which layout works and which one becomes a daily headache. Here’s what to look for in your pet-friendly RV layout, and which ones are the best.
Did you miss it? Here’s the latest news:
- Marcus Lemonis steps down as Camping World announces new CEO
- Buc-ee’s opening new locations in 2026
- Viral video shows bison flipping over a motorhome—Is it real?
- Upcoming holiday events at national park sites across the U.S.
- National Park Service announces 2026 fee-free entry days, changes who qualifies
Featured article
The things we dream of doing… What’s stopping you?
By Nanci Dixon
I was recently reading an article in AARP about forming strong relationships. In it, they asked a question that stood out to me: “If you always dreamed of doing something and haven’t, why not?” It is a question that bears contemplation along with a little bit of excitement. Continue reading Nanci’s insightful essay.
Ask Dave
Twelve Days of Christmas RV Tools—Fourth day: Kill A Watt electricity usage monitor
By Dave Solberg
Managing your RV’s energy usage is crucial—especially when you’re limited to a 30-amp distribution center. Overloading your electrical system can lead to tripped breakers, interrupted comfort, and even safety hazards. The Kill A Watt® electricity usage monitor will help you understand how much power your appliances use and how to avoid exceeding your limits. Continue reading.
Reader poll
How often do you eat bacon?
Respond here. [I can’t. My fingers are too greasy.🤣 –Diane]
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!
Helpful resources
• NATIONAL TRAFFIC AND ROAD CLOSURE INFORMATION
• ROAD AND TRAFFIC CONDITIONS ACROSS THE NATION
• WEATHER ALERTS FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE
• LATEST RV RECALLS
Quick tip
Always retract your steps when parked temporarily!
“NEVER leave your steps extended in a public place where cars and people are moving around. I pulled into a gas station and jumped out to see if I had pulled far enough forward to reach the fuel filler with the hose. Seconds later as I came back around the RV to get in, a car was trying to squeeze in between my RV and the pumps and ran over my steps! In my hurry I had not flipped the switch to retract the steps when the door was closed.” —Thanks to Jimmie C. for letting us learn from his painful lesson!
On this day last year…
- RV review: Tour Optimized Overlanding’s unusual gull wing popup truck camper
- Article & video: How to ship an RV to Europe
- Featured article: It’s time to rethink RVing with an Instant Pot
Website of the day
40 Famous Houses From Movies and TV Shows You Can Actually Visit
Visiting sets where movies and TV shows were filmed is always fun, and it would be so neat to see some of these houses in person along the road. Don’t you agree?
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
These are soooo stupid and they’re soooo funny and they’re soooo stupid funny! Even if this is not your “thing” of choice, we know for a fact you’ll chuckle and groan at these. Hilarious!
Trivia
Did you know Lady Liberty wears a size 879 shoe? That’s based on the length of her 25-foot-long feet. The 151-foot copper statue, a gift from the people of France, was dedicated on October 28, 1886, and became a national monument in 1924. The statue’s light green color is caused by natural weathering of its copper layer, which is 3/32 of an inch thick (less than the thickness of two pennies).
Readers’ pet of the day
“Sophie (Mini Australian Shepherd, age 2) loves to travel. As soon as we back the truck under our fifth wheel, she wants in to go. She has her own campfire chair. Her favorite job is watching campers out the window.” —Cheryl Hollingsworth
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.
FREE IS GOOD! View the Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide and the Kentucky Trip Planning Guide and start planning your trip to help celebrate “America 250.”
Leave here with a laugh
Today’s weather forecast across the nation
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Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
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RVtravel.com All-Star Team
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Once again I will point out that “RV Roof Magic” is NOT….is NOT the “only liquid rubber in the world!”
But they do engage in false advertising.
Sophie is a doll! Keep an eye on those campers, girl!
Sophie is absolutely gorgeous and looks like she really enjoys camping.
Sophie has grabbed the best spot! Hence, the big smile!
Best part today is Sophie, thank you for sharing that sweet dog! dogs really enjoy RV and people watching!🐶🥰
I also use buckets for storing lights and other campsite decorations, water resistant storage for kindling and fire starters, storing wet water hookup items, and recycling. Also a good place to camouflage a beverage,