America’s Original RV Newsletter. Since 2001
Issue 2863 • New issue every weekday
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Today’s thought
“A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike. And all plans, safeguards, policing, and coercion are fruitless. We find after years of struggle that we do not take a trip; a trip takes us”. —John Steinbeck, “Travels with Charley” (It’s one of our favorite books.)
Need an excuse to celebrate? Today is National Sloppy Joe Day!
On this day in history: 1990 – In the largest art theft in U.S. history, 12 paintings, collectively worth around $500 million, are stolen from the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. (If you want to learn more about this, we recommend this book!)
Tip of the day
How to fix stripped-out screw holes in your RV: 3 simple methods
By Cheri Sicard
It doesn’t matter whether you are a seasoned handyperson or just a beginner; this invaluable article and video will show you three practical methods for how to fix stripped-out screw holes in your RV when you DON’T have access to the back of the hole.
For beginners like me, these how-tos are beneficial because they give me the confidence to attempt simple repairs I previously had no idea how to do. Of course, the DIY methods for fixing stripped-out screws will also work in your sticks-and-bricks home. Click here to read and watch.
RV review
The versatile 2026 Rockwood A123RG A-frame pop-up—Nice!
A small camper usually means at least a few sacrifices. The 2026 Rockwood A123RG (also sold as Flagstaff, depending on the badge) tries a different approach: it packs in a bathroom, real kitchen functionality, and a rear space that can quickly change roles. Here, Josh the RV Nerd at Bish’s RV sums it up as a flex-function convertible camper that can feel like several layouts in one. Check it out.
YIKES: The average price of a gallon of diesel fuel yesterday afternoon in San Francisco was $6.913, less than a dime shy of $7 — about $1.70 more than a year ago. So reports AAA.
Clear your mirrors in seconds with this simple gadget
Keep your view clear, no matter what the road or weather. This retractable rearview mirror wiper wipes away rain, mud or road spray with a simple slide. Don’t wait for the mirror defrost to kick in—this is faster! Easy to use and built for travel. Check it out.
In the RV shop with Dustin
Your RV takes on water damage through more than rain. Protect those sealants!
In this video, I walk you around several RVs currently parked on my RV repair lot. You’ll see just how much morning condensation drips off the RVs, even during moderate conditions. This video proves why keeping up on your RV roof and body sealants is so important—your RV is taking on water for potential damage even when it’s NOT raining!
Article and video
How to stay safe while boondocking without firearms
A strange sound outside an RV at night can hit like a punch. When someone is off grid, alone, and out of cell range, fear gets louder fast, mostly because there’s no plan to lean on. In this video, John of Gone With John shares a simple three-layer RV security setup that stays legal across state lines and avoids firearms. It’s built to help RVers stop feeling like an easy target and start feeling steady.
Tanner Toons
with Tanner Woods
Featured article
In defense of the good ol’ American V8 pickup. It’s still the best for RVing
By Tony Barthel
The best kind of vehicle for RVing is the simple American V8 pickup truck. Period. And I also realize those are fighting words with some people. Further, my defense is of the gasoline V8 pickup. Why do I feel this way? Find out here.
“OH, I REALLY BLEW IT!” That’s what you’ll say if you miss a super-great bargain today only on something you really want! CHECK HERE!
Ask Dave
RVing with pets: 10 campground hazards to be aware of
Read Dave’s important information here.
HA… HA… Rodney Dangerfield says: “I told my psychiatrist that everyone hates me. He said I was being ridiculous — everyone hasn’t met me yet.”
Reader poll
Have you ever driven with your RV to Alaska, or do you plan to?
Quick tip
Use the space over your head for storage
Instagram user @rvideas posted this one: “So smart—this RV owner installed a wire closet shelf above her bed and added collapsible storage bins.”
On this day last year…
- Tip: 13 tips about work camping that will point you to success
- Ask Dave: My RV’s roof air conditioner drips inside when running. How can I fix it?
- Video: TrunkMate’s sleeping platforms turn cars into cozy campers
- Featured article: Hiking with the Angels: Everything to know about RVing around Zion National Park
Website of the day
The Surprising Origins of 15 Pasta Shapes
Now, this is fun! Have you ever wondered how your favorite pasta shapes came to be? This article tells all, and it’s fascinating!
? MYSTERY PRODUCT OF THE DAY ?
Go ahead, put those magnifiers on—ready… aim… fire! Well, not really, but sort of! Let us know how this goes. We’re curious.
Trivia
Sherlock Holmes, the beloved character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, never spoke the phrase, “Elementary, my dear Watson.” In the adventure “The Crooked Man,” the famous detective makes several deductions about his assistant Dr. Watson based on Watson’s appearance. Watson exclaims, “Excellent,” whereupon Holmes replies, “Elementary.”
Readers’ pets of the day
“Our Boxers, Brutus (2 years) and Kieva (1 year). This is how we travel with them in our F-350 when pulling the 5th wheel.” —Joseph Shryock
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
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Visit Current National Radar Weather Map
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RVtravel.com All-Star Team
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Brutus and Kieva are great looking boxers and clearly ‘big’-time travelers 😊
thanks for sharing.
Brutus and Kieva are big cuties, they have their back seat like my pup does. They appear to be excellent campers. Keep on camping.
Love those faces with the big jowls!
Couldn’t get today’s poll to load. BUT. We have camped to Alaska and all around. Loved it planning another trip. Mile Post is a must!
Instead of toothpicks or matchsticks, use wooden golf tees. They are very hard, made of ash. They are a quick fix that will last forever!! Toothpicks and matchsticks are too soft!!