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The Best Things to Do in Cape Cod National Seashore

05 Wednesday Oct 2022

Posted by in Travel Destinations

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I’m honestly not sure how we went all these years without seeing Cape Cod National Seashore. We finally made it this summer though, and we were blown away by the beauty and fun we found there. Seriously, if you’re trying to decide where to take your RV next, this is the place.

Oddly, we went into this particular RV adventure without doing much research at all. This isn’t like me, but we were so rushed at the beginning of our summer travels that it just happened this way. It worked out alright, but I don’t recommend doing it that way. Instead, read the rest of this article so you can know what we had to learn for ourselves once we got there. This will allow you to skip the frustrating bits and jump into the fun.

Without further ado, here are the best things to do in Cape Cod National Seashore!

Boondock on the Beach

Did you know you can boondock on the beach in Cape Cod National Seashore? I didn’t, and I really, really wished I had known. In fact, I didn’t even figure this out until our last day there when I happened to see an RV parked on the beach and asked someone about it. Otherwise, I might have skipped the rest of our RV park stay and moved my rig over to that beautiful sandy beach.

If you’re visiting this area in your RV, this is definitely something to look into while researching your lodging options.

Photograph Lighthouses

Everyone knows that Cape Cod is famous for its lighthouses, so it only makes sense to make a point of seeing some of those lighthouses while you’re there. Luckily, it’s pretty easy to find many of these, and you won’t really have to go out of your way to do it. I made a game of photographing as many as I could while we were there and ended up leaving with some great photos and even better memories.

Enjoy a Beach Day (or Five)

Perhaps the most obvious thing to do while at any national seashore is to enjoy the beach. We ended up spending several days just relaxing on the beach while we were in Cape Cod and I don’t regret one minute of it.

We especially loved Nauset Light Beach for the views of the lighthouse and Marconi Beach for surfing. That said, Nauset Light Beach plays host to a lot of tiny biting bugs, so be sure to pack bug spray!

Watch for Seals

Seal watching was one of the coolest things we did at Cape Cod National Seashore. The thing is, we didn’t even mean to go seal watching. The adorable animals just sort of appeared in front of us while we were out enjoying the beach!

This happened several times in several different locations, so spotting some seals while you’re there shouldn’t be a hard thing to do, and it’s a totally fun and unique adventure that the whole family can enjoy together. Just make sure to pack some binoculars!

(Note: I hear whales can sometimes be spotted as well, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for those.)

Go on a Hike

Most people don’t think of hiking when they think of the seaside, but being the hiking fanatics we are, we thought we’d give it a try. Amazingly, there are a number of trails all over Cape Cod and many of them are located along the national seashore.

We ended up on the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail and thoroughly enjoyed it (though the bugs were a bit overwhelming). We’ve also heard good things about the Great Island Trail, the Sand Dune Trail, and the Long Point Lighthouse Trail.

Learn Some History

During our week in Cape Cod, we also visited the Old Life Saving Station. This was a fun way to squeeze in a history lesson for our road schooling kiddos. The whole space was set up like it would have been when still in use as a life-saving station. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a lot of signage explaining what the people living and working here did, but the ranger on duty was incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share all kinds of information.

Eat Lobster and Ice Cream

No trip to Cape Cod is complete without a meal of lobster followed by soft-serve ice cream, so we made sure to enjoy both. You will need to leave the national seashore to obtain either thing, but both are available very nearby at a number of eateries.

We ended up at JT’s Seafood and enjoyed our lobster rolls as well as the amazingly creamy soft-serve ice cream. (It was probably the best soft-serve we’ve ever had, in fact.)

Attend a Ranger Program

We’ve been to a lot of NPS ranger programs over the years. Cape Cod had two of the best ones we’ve ever experienced.

One was a program geared toward kids (perfect for putting toward that Junior Ranger badge) that was all about horseshoe crabs. The ranger was obviously passionate about the animals—to the point of having a horseshoe crab tattoo!—and came prepared with plenty of hands-on ways for the kids to learn about these fascinating animals. Both our 10-year-old and our two-year-old loved this presentation.

The other program we attended was a nighttime celebration of the June supermoon. It was also a fabulous time, and it brings us to our final point:

Look at the Night Sky

Cape Cod is an official International Dark Sky Park. This means the light pollution here is very low, leading to some seriously spectacular night skies. Be sure to look up after the sun goes down so you can enjoy the show while you’re there. It’s worth staying up for!

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About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Matthew W. ~ “Mary was very friendly and very knowledgeable. She went above and beyond to make sure we were ok. Overall it was a great experience!”

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) – Is My DEF Expired?

07 Wednesday Sep 2022

Posted by in Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

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Before we start, here’s a quick review of Deisel Exhaust Fluid. DEF is designed to treat exhaust coming through the exhaust chamber to meet emissions that were implemented in 2010. Basically, the government issued mandates for lower emissions from diesel engines. DEF uses a mixture of Urea (32.5%) and water (67.5%) sprayed on the exhaust fumes which reduces the NOx to nitrogen and water in order to meet the recommended levels. Since my last article on DEF for Coach-Net was published we have been getting numerous questions regarding DEF and its shelf life, how we know if it’s contaminated, and how to get rid of it.

Is There A Shelf Life For DEF?

I talked with a representative from Blue Sky that stated their DEF has a general one-year shelf life. They went on to state that the Urea will degrade if exposed to direct sunlight or stored in temperatures above 90 degrees. The actual amount of degradation can not be determined unless you purchase a DEF tester.

The representative went on to clarify that if the DEF is stored between temperatures of 10 degrees to 90 degrees it has a one-year shelf life BUT if it is kept out of sunlight and under 75 degrees, it can be used for up to two years, however, it’s best not to use it if it’s over 3 years old.

I have run a company for the past 10 years that had 3 diesel trucks pulling trailers that put over 100,000 miles on each vehicle every year, therefore we have had lots of experience and education regarding DEF. In face, we received a service notice from Ford Motor Company on DEF Shelf Life vs Temperature which listed the following:

Constant Ambient Storage Temperature / Shelf Life In Months

  • ≤ 50 °F degrees – 36 months
  • < 77 °F degrees – 18 months
  • ≤ 86 °F degrees – 12 months
  • ≤ 95 °F degrees – 6 months
  • < 104 °F degrees – 2 months

Interpreting DEF Codes

How do you know when your DEF was produced in order to determine its shelf life? Off-the-shelf products such as the 2.5-gallon versions have a code on the box that includes a date stamp. However, these codes can be difficult to decipher.

I talked with Peak Technical Product Support and he said there are many different codes used on their product due to the bottling and packaging at different plants all over the country. He dissected this one for me as follows:

23/169 /CP7/ 00591/ 0125

  • 23 is a year minus 1 year=2022
  • 169 is how many days are left in the year 2022=July 15, 2022
  • Cp7 is the bottling plant
  • 00591 is tank number
  • 0125 is the batch number

He also stated that they have a two-year shelf life recommendation however it was best to purchase a digital refractometer to be sure what you are putting in your tank has not expired. If you have any doubts as to the date code recommend, call their tech support number and a technician will help dissect the code for you. He also stated that both Walmart and Home Depot are the largest distributors and would have the newest product.

DEF Life At The Pump

Ok, but what about the DEF that is pumped at a larger fueling station from an underground tank and does not have anything printed? The easiest way to tell if the DEF has expired or been contaminated is by looking at it. When DEF is in good shape, it should look clear and free of any contaminants or discoloration. If it is cloudy, discolored, or difficult to see through, it is likely expired.

I spoke with a technician at Cummins and they stated that The NOx sensors monitor the DEF quality and will provide an indication when DEF is not in compliance which is the check engine light.

So what happens if you do have a full tank of DEF and the dreaded “Check Engine” light shows? There are service centers that will drain the tank for you however it can be expensive. Alternatively, you can do it yourself with a mechanical pump or even a hand pump depending on how much you have in the tank. If you have a truck the DEF tank will only be about 3-4 gallons which can be pumped out with a hand pump and put in an empty DEF container or gallon jugs.

According to Daimler Worldwide and specifically the Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation (FCCC):

DEF life will vary based on temp and direct sunlight, so having the tank in a compartment like it is on RVs is much better than on a vehicle where the tank is exposed to direct sunlight. FCCC has not seen a large number of people having an issue with DEF quality, but I would recommend always leaving some room in the tank so that if you do get an indicator you can still put some fresh DEF in the tank and help revive the DEF quality. In some cases service centers have had to force air into the tank with a hose and then have a second hose to allow it to drain, but that’s certainly not the norm.

What Do You Do If You Have Expired DEF In Your Tank?

So if the shelf life is one year, what should we do about units that have DEF sitting in the tank for longer than that? I’ve talked with several owners who stored their rig during the pandemic and their DEF could be 2-3 years old! As FCCC indicated, try to leave the tank less than ½ full as you can strengthen or rejuvenate degraded DEF with the addition of new DEF!

Being from the Midwest, I contacted the local farm equipment dealer as well as PetroBlend, one of the largest distributors of DEF in the agricultural industry. They stated the very same thing that proper DEF management is the key, as sometimes combines will not go through their 30-gallon tank for a couple of years.

Where Can You Properly Dispose Of Bad DEF?

The internet is flooded with DEF information with some stating it is the same chemical composition as fertilizer so you can dump it just about anywhere. While DEF is non toxic, it should be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way. Do not pour bad DEF down the drain or dump it on the side of the road. It’s recommended to contact your local environmental waste disposal company for a nearby disposal site. I also called the local landfill as they have a hazardous materials division and they will take it at no cost as it is considered residential and falls under fertilizer or engine fluids. Anything over 10 gallons is considered commercial and assessed per gallon.

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

Sean S. ~ “If you’re on the fence about this, jump on over. Coach-Net paid for itself for us with a freak accident within the first 24 hours of signing up. You never know when something could go wrong and you’ll be wishing you had gotten this coverage.” 

Coach-Net Camping | The Gregory Family

07 Wednesday Sep 2022

Posted by in We Love It. We Live It.

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Kim Gregory, our VP of Sales, has been a faithful member of the Coach-Net family for over 14 years.  She, her husband, Jake, and their 5 children love to go RVing!  They recently took an RV out west to see some family in California and had a blast along the way. The following blog is written by Jake Gregory, Kim’s Husband.

Living in Texas we don’t get to see family very often…usually once a year. At the beginning of July, we were on the road for two weeks, had 6 stops, and spent 4 of those stops with the people we love. Our kids were able to see their cousins from both sides of the family and even spent time with cousins they had never seen. Over 14 days we traveled about 3,500 miles and spent 6 total days driving across the country.

Day 1-2

We left Argyle at about 7:00 am and traveled through the Texas Panhandle to Angel Fire, NM. Stayed the night at a great RV Resort, got up early, and went through Taos, Farmington, Shiprock, Red Mesa, Kayenta, Page, Kanab, and Hurricane to get to St. George, UT.

Day 3-4

We spent a couple nights, which included the 4th of July with Carl and Lacy Newby Franke. The kids had a blast spending time getting spoiled with toys, treats, their backyard resort, some amazing Franke BBQ, and some great neighborhood fireworks. We love the time we get to spend with this family! We got up the morning of 7/5 and made our way down I-15 through Vegas, beautiful Barstow, Tehachapi, Bakersfield, Paso Robles, Cayucos, Morro Bay, and into the Valley of the Bear Los Osos, CA.

Day 5-7

We were able to spend some time at Grandma and Papa Gregory’s house in Los Osos. They are in a great location at the back of the bay and right next to Sea Pines Resort which has a 9-hole golf course. We were able to spend time at the beach in Cayucos, wine tasting at Baileyana, shopping in SLO, pottery class with grandma, and walking the Embarcadero in Morro Bay. The temp ranged between 50°-70° There was lots of fog and just enough sunshine! It had been 5 years since these cousins had all been in the same place together, and we recreated a picture taken in front of the beach house.

Day 8-9

One of the main reasons for this trip was to make sure to be there for the celebration of life for John and Diane. Growing up a Gregory meant you were going to be with your extended family multiple times a year. We all lived within 30 minutes of each other, so everyone was always there, you knew you were loved, and it was always a good time. It’s something I feel like my kids miss out on since we live so far away from any of our family. This was the first time all of our kids were able to spend some time with their second cousins. It was very bittersweet because of the reason everyone was together, but we were glad so many could be there. Lots of love to all of my cousins for all the tough times they’ve gone through with the loss of Uncle Bob, Uncle Verdo, Uncle John, and Aunt Diane. Thank you to my parents for opening their home to everyone.

Day 10-13

Havasu here we come. On our way, we stopped in Bakersfield for food and ended up going right past BHS, which is where I coached my first HS Football game. We rolled into Havasu around 11:00 pm and it was still 100°. The kids spent most of the week in the pool with Grandma, Makenna was at a volleyball camp at LHHS from 8-5 each day, and Logan hung out with Tyler and Trevor at the baseball field, HS weight room, and at the Thompson’s playing video games. We saw some beautiful sunsets and an unbelievably bright full moon over the desert! Big Mike was nice enough to not mess with the thermostat too much and didn’t set it to 82° while there. Joanne treated us like royalty, making everyone their favorite meals, and constantly checked the thermostat to make sure Mike hadn’t turned it up! Most importantly the kids got to spend some quality time with the Kupfer/Thompson side of the family!

Day 14-15

We left Havasu without Makenna (she was going to Vegas with her best friend’s family) and we headed to Phoenix to stay the night at The Foss Inn (Jake and Robin Fossen). After a quick stay with our amazing friends, we dropped Logan off at Sky Harbor (don’t ask) and the 5 of us +Willie started our way back home! We drove across the beautiful Mogollon Rim through Payson, Show Low, and Springerville in Northern AZ, into New Mexico, and stayed the last night of the trip in Ruidoso. The last day was a drive down into Texas and straight across the state all on Hwy 380…about the only thing that threw us off course was a large West Texas dirt devil that about knocked us off the road…👀 (Kim still has the bruises to prove it). We returned home on Saturday and I think we are still trying to recover from the trip.

Adam H. ~“We had a tire blowout.  I want to thank the staff at Coach-Net for their quick response in finding an excellent tire shop with the correct size and brand very quickly. Communication with Coach-Net, the tire shop, and us was excellent.  A bad day turned out pretty well as we were back on the road very quickly thanks to your help!”

5 Reasons to Travel in an RV Instead of A Car

11 Thursday Aug 2022

Posted by in Traveling with your Pet, Uncategorized

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RVs are a great way to travel. They take you off the beaten path and into nature. There are many types of RVs to choose from, ranging from Class A motor homes to Class C motor homes and even pop-up campers. The choice is yours based on your needs and your budget.

These vehicles have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, and some people are even converting their RVs into permanent homes. No wonder! It’s a great way to lower overhead and enjoy living and traveling without sacrificing comfort or style. There are a variety of reasons why people choose to travel in recreational vehicles. Here are some reasons you might want to as well.

RVs Bring More Comfort

There’s no comparison between the comfort of a car and that of a recreational vehicle. With an RV, you often have access to a bathroom and kitchen too, so you don’t have to deal with the discomforts of “holding it” until you can find a bathroom or waiting until you can find a restaurant to eat in. You can cook a meal on the road and enjoy it in comfort.

When you travel the country in an RV, you explore the countryside in comfort and style, without having to put up with the hassles of a traditional hotel stay (or worse, having to sleep in your car). Your lodging travels with you and it’s easy to access.

RVs Can Be a Cheaper Way to Travel

Recreational vehicles are often cheaper to run than rental cars or public transportation, especially if you camp instead of using paid overnight sites. Some large box stores, like Walmart, welcome recreational vehicles overnight too. Needless to say, that’s cheaper than staying in a hotel. The conveniences of home can be brought along without worrying about paying for lodgings. If you have an RV or camper van, then you’re probably already aware of some of the great benefits that bring. Your lodging travels with you.

RVs Have More Storage Space

If you like to bring the house with you when you travel, an RV is the obvious choice. The spacious interior allows you to set up your house inside for maximal comfort and convenience when you travel. The first and foremost benefit is that you will have more space and storage required to accommodate your personal items. This will give you the freedom to carry along your favorite things while traveling.

You Can Bring Your Pets Comfortably

One of the worst aspects of traveling in a car is how hard it makes it to bring your pets along, but it’s easier in a recreational vehicle with the extra room. Although there are a few guidelines you need to follow when traveling with pets in an RV, the benefits are well worth the extra effort. Not only will your pet have a wonderful time riding with you, but you also get to enjoy his/her company in a different way than you usual. Don’t leave Fido behind!

A RV Can Be Your Office on Wheels

RVs have long been an affordable and fun way to travel the open road. And now, thanks to technology and the entrepreneurial spirit, you can get an office on wheels to stay productive no matter where ever you roam. If you’re using your recreational vehicle as an office, you may also be able to write off a portion of it to save on taxes. Many people dream of having an office in their RV so they can travel all over the country while accomplishing their work goals. It’s more achievable than ever!

The Bottom Line

Traveling in an RV is an experience unlike any other. From the amount of freedom that comes from traveling wherever, whenever, to the amenities and comforts of home, a recreational vehicle can make your travels easier, cheaper, and more comfortable. RVs are anything but just a vehicle to get from one place to another. They are, in fact, a home away from home for those who love to travel in comfort. Take advantage of it by planning an excursion of your own, RV-style!

Douglas M. ~ “The concern displayed by the call agent was awesome. The response was fast by the service provider and was terrific. Thanks so very much for this fantastic coverage!” 

12 Camping Safety Rules for Children

20 Wednesday Jul 2022

Posted by in RV Safety

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Children love camping. They get the freedom to run around and explore, and the entire experience is one big adventure for them. Camping also provides an excellent family bonding experience and an opportunity for kids to learn more about nature.

Of course, you will want to give your kids the freedom to enjoy the outdoors. However, the woods are not as safe as your backyard. Consequently, setting safety rules to keep kids safe on a camping trip would be wise. Here are twelve safety rules to allow kids to enjoy a family camping trip and stay safe.

1. Stay Within the Campsite Boundaries

Beyond the boundaries of the immediate campsite, there are likely miles and miles of unpopulated country containing wild animals, water hazards, and other dangers. And in wooded areas, it will be easy for children to lose their way. It is best, therefore, to set boundaries around the campsite beyond which children must not go.

2. Stay Together

When children go outside the campsite boundary, it is best to always go in twos. Younger kids might partner up with an older sibling if they go exploring. Alternatively, you might prefer to insist on an adult accompanying a younger child. If children are never alone, there will always be someone there to raise the alarm should a child have an accident.

3. Keep the Campsite Clean

Animals have a keen sense of smell. So, kids should be aware of the dangers of leaving litter out. If you leave out any food, scraps, or garbage, you might get wild animals visiting your campsite, including bears. Consequently, cleanliness is even more important when camping.

4. Don’t Touch the Campfire

Sitting around the campfire is part of the family camping experience. Still, children need to be extra careful around fire. So, kids should be supervised when you have a campfire, and there should be no playing with the fire or embers. The same applies to lanterns, stoves, and grills.

5. Never Approach a Wild Animal

Wild animals may look cute and cuddly, but they have teeth! Kids should be taught never to approach wild animals or try to pet them. It would also be wise to explain to children that even harmless-looking small or young animals should be left alone. Wherever there is a baby animal, there is likely to be a much larger and very protective mum or dad nearby.

6. Always Carry a Whistle

It’s a good idea to give children a safety whistle on a camping trip, both at the campsite and when hiking. Then, if kids lose sight of their parents or can’t find their way back to camp, they can call for help with the whistle. However, you will also need to establish that the whistle is only for use in an emergency.

7. Don’t Eat Anything You Find

Berries, nuts, and mushrooms you find in the woods might look tempting. However, they might be poisonous. So, kids should be taught not to eat anything they find in the woods, even if it appears to be something they would eat at home. You should also not drink any water you find, however clean and refreshing it may look.

8. Drink Plenty of Water

Children are likely to be highly active on a camping holiday, and, if you are lucky, the sun will be shining too. Consequently, it will be easy for kids to get dehydrated. So, kids should be encouraged to drink plenty of water throughout the day. But, as mentioned above, they should only drink the water you provide.

9. Stay on The Trail

When hiking, older children will likely want to run ahead of you and explore by themselves. When they do, it would be best for them to stick to the trail and stay within sight of their parents or guardians. And as mentioned above, children should also carry their safety whistles. If kids go off-trail, they can quickly get lost or stumble into a dangerous situation.

10. No Bare Feet

It is best not to allow kids to run around barefoot when camping. You might want to use sandals or flip-flops around the campsite, but sturdier footwear will be needed when hiking trails. Without shoes, kids’ feet can be injured by thorns, rocks, and poisonous plants. The no bare feet rule is also a good one for adults to follow.

11. Watch Out for Poisonous Plants

If kids are unfamiliar with the outdoors, giving them a pre-camping-trip lesson on identifying poisonous plants would be a good move. Show them pictures of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac, and tell them to avoid these plants. Insect nests should be avoided, too. So, ‘no poking ants, hornets, or any other insect nests’ would be another good camping safety rule to have in place.

12. No Food or Fire inside Tents

Your kids will undoubtedly know not to play with fire. Nevertheless, items such as matches and lighters may be easier to come by on the campsite. So, it is worth reinforcing this rule and emphasizing the dangers of having a naked flame inside or near tents. It is also best not to allow food inside tents because it attracts wildlife.

Conclusion

Making a load of rules for kids on holiday might feel like you are taking some of the fun out of camping. But kids can still have plenty of fun and freedom, even when playing within the boundaries of these rules. What’s more, if you play it safe, there is less chance that you will have to cut the holiday short. So, not only will a few camping safety rules keep your kids safe, but they will also ensure the fun lasts for longer.

Scott H. ~ “We have been extremely happy with Coach-Net’s service agents as well as the overall service that they provide.”

Unexpected Items to Put on Your Van-Life Packing List

22 Wednesday Jun 2022

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Tips & Tricks

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If you are planning a road trip vacation or looking to become a full-time van-lifer, there has never been a better time. There are a lot of adventurers taking the leap and hitting the road thanks to that little life-changing pandemic going around. COVID-19 has thrown a wrench in a lot of folk’s plans, so whether you are changing your summer vacation accordingly or finding yourself unemployed with the sudden opportunity to change course, you will be in good company. 

Pulling it all together requires a masterpiece in the art of planning because nobody wants to be 100 miles from the next town (without cell service, of course) just to realize they forgot something major. As you plan, you are going to find plenty of helpful packing lists to walk you through the basics, but here are the extras they forgot to mention. 

Extra Blankets

Elevation: call it earth’s original thermostat. You can spend your day driving through a 110º valley and with just a couple thousand miles straight up, you will be looking for your heaviest socks. This is where the extra blankets will come in handy. As you travel through any of the mountainous states, you will be delighted to have the extra covers when you snuggle into bed for the night. 

They will also save your upholstery, which is especially important if you’re renting or planning to sell your camper at the end of your trip. Tuck your blankets around couches or chairs like a makeshift seat cover. It’s an easy way to sneak in a couple of extra blankets without using up precious storage space, and it also makes cleaning up any crumbs or spills easy. You can toss a blanket in a standard washer and dryer and it’s clean in an hour. Alternatively, trying to remove a stain from the original upholstery can quickly turn into a day of tentatively blotting and asking the universe for a miracle. 

Camping Laundry Line 

It’s a small convenience, but for under $10, it can make your camping life just a little easier. There’s the obvious use — you might need it to dry your clothes — but it’s also great for airing out towels, rugs, and the aforementioned blankets between washes. 

Drink Koozies

Can’t beat a cold beverage in hot places, right? But seriously, koozies are surprisingly efficient at keeping cans and jars and anything else that wiggles from constantly bumping against each other as you’re driving down the road. They’re cheap, you’ve probably already got a drawer full of them somewhere, and they’ll slide right over everything from spaghetti sauce to mason jars. 

Chapstick 

Friends from humid places, this one is for you. If you so much as put your big toe into one of those “it’s a dry heat!” states, your lips will dry out in a second. They’re not kidding, it is a dry heat and chapped lips hurt. 

Accept That You Will Forget Things

Almost certainly, you are going to be 100 miles from the nearest town when you think of something you wished you had packed. That’s probably also where you’ll be when you see something taking up valuable space that you still haven’t used. It’s all part of the adventure! But with these items on your packing list, you’ll have a couple of bases covered that you didn’t even know you needed. 

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Thomas Z. ~“Kudos to Coach-Net! I served the Northeast Area of another roadside company for over 12 years including President & National VP. I recommend Coach-Net over all the others every time. Outstanding company 🔥💥”

6 Things That Need to Be Maintained on an RV

15 Wednesday Jun 2022

Posted by in RV Information, RV Newbie, RV Safety, Tech Tips

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Owning an RV is a fantastic investment for outdoorsy people and families. If you own an RV, you can spontaneously hit the road and travel anywhere at any time! Plus, you’re more likely to go camping and enjoy the Great Outdoors if you have an RV sitting outside.

Importance of Maintenance Checks for RV

Before you embark on your next road trip, it is essential to check that your RV is safe to drive. The maintenance of any vehicle is vital to help prevent breakdowns, safety problems, or costly headaches. After all, purchasing an RV is certainly not cheap! 

To learn more about the importance of routine maintenance, check out these tips to alleviate financial stress.

How Often Should I Perform RV Maintenance? 

The frequency of maintenance for your RV will depend on how often you use it and what type of maintenance is performed. In general, some maintenance should be performed annually, while other things can be left for a quick check-up before you use your RV.  

Things to Maintain on your RV

1. Tires

The whole point of an RV is to drive it. As such, your RV’s tires are likely to be prone to wear and tear. Just like a car or any other vehicle, tire maintenance is essential for safety. Before you embark on your next RV adventure, perform a visual inspection of the tires. Look for uneven tread wear, low pressure, or visible problems. It is a good idea to invest in a tire pressure gauge in case your tire pressure gets wonky on the road. For more information on tire care, check out our previous blog here.

2. Batteries & Lights

Your RV’s batteries must be maintained in the same way as any other vehicle. Most batteries will last between three to five years but should be checked regularly, as failure and malfunctions may occur. Proper RV battery maintenance also includes appropriate storage during the cold winter months. When not using your RV, take out the battery and store it in a warm place. This will help ensure it won’t freeze or break, which can void the battery warranty.

For safety purposes, all of your RV’s lights must be working correctly, including the high beams, brake lights, fog lamps, and turn signals. This will help make sure you’re safe on the road, as well as for the protection of other drivers you share the road with.

3. Oil and Oil Filters

Oil changes on a regular schedule are essential to ensure your engine runs smoothly. Without oil changes, your engine could be damaged, leading to costly problems or repairs. Your RV’s owner manual should tell you how frequently (in mileage) the manufacturer recommends oil changes and if you should be using synthetic oil.

Looking for more ways to save money on your car and RV needs? Find the best car insurance here.

4. RV Generator

An RV generator works to provide electricity to appliances and equipment in your RV. When your RV is not used, it is important to periodically run the generator to prevent build-up on the carburetor. Experts recommend having your RV generator professionally serviced once per year. Each month, you should aim to run your generator for at least two hours at 50% load each time.

5. Sewer System

Using biodegradable RV toilet paper will help protect your sewer system in your RV. Clearing the holding tank regularly is also crucial in regular maintenance, preventing unwanted backups. 

6. Roof of your RV

Often, RV owners neglect roof maintenance. Inspecting the roof seams and seals at least twice per year is essential. As you examine your RV’s roof, you may wish to apply a sealant layer on top, preventing and protecting against water damage which can lead to expensive repairs.

RV Roadside Assistance

Worried about breaking down on the side of the road? Consider adding RV roadside assistance to help protect yourself. Coach-Net offers 24/7 RV technical and roadside assistance, tire and wheel protection, and many other amazing benefits to help you feel confident and assured on your trip.

Planning your next RV adventure but not sure where to go? Check out this ultimate RV trips guide to inspire your next adventure. Whether you’re looking for a short trip or a cross-country vacation, these top ten road trip circuits provide great inspiration.

Author: Tim Setterfield

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Tips For Using Your RV Oven

08 Wednesday Jun 2022

Posted by in RV Newbie, RV Safety, Tips & Tricks

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We love having the ability to cook in our motorhome no matter where we may end up parking. That said, it took us a while to get used to our RV oven. Not only is lighting the thing a little bit complicated, but even once we figured out how to light it, we had trouble getting the right temperature and dispersing the heat to avoid burned spots.

Now though, we use our oven on a regular basis. Here are our top tips and tricks for getting the most out of the oven in your RV.

Get an Oven Thermometer

First, I highly recommend grabbing an oven thermometer. You see, we’ve found that the ovens in our RVs rarely meet the temperature we set them to, resulting in prolonged cooking times. An oven thermometer allows you to see exactly how warm your oven is so you can adjust the dial accordingly.

Check the Door

Another common RV oven problem? The door doesn’t shut all the way. If you find that your oven is never coming to temperature, check the door to make sure there isn’t a gap that’s letting heat escape. If there is, you can solve the problem very easily by leaning something against the oven door to keep it shut tight. We use a simple folding step stool for this, which comes in handy for all sorts of other things too!

Use a Pizza Stone

Perhaps the biggest RV oven complaint is that the heat in these tiny ovens is hard to disperse properly. This leads to hot spots, resulting in food that burns in one spot—usually the middle of the bottom—and is undercooked in other areas. One way to solve this problem is by placing a pizza stone under whatever you’re baking.

…or Put In a Muffin Tin

Some people say the pizza stone doesn’t quite do it for them. If you find that the stone isn’t working for you, you might turn to a muffin tin instead. That’s right: a regular, cheap muffin tin turned upside down under your baking dish will actually help evenly distribute heat! The end result is food that is cooked evenly throughout.

Turn on the Vent Fan

Obviously, RV ovens are hot, and that heat can spread into the living space of your RV while the oven is doing its thing. This leads to an uncomfortably hot tiny home during the summer months, especially if you can’t run your A/C for any reason.

Not only that, but because RV ovens run on propane, they also release moisture into the air. This leads to issues in the colder months, as the moisture tends to create condensation on the walls.

Fortunately, there is an easy solution to both of these problems. Running the vent fan helps get rid of the heat and moisture in the air while the RV oven is running. This trick works equally well when using the RV propane stove. Therefore, you should always run your kitchen vent fan while cooking.

Turn to Other Appliances

Our last tip for using your RV oven? Don’t use your RV oven! While this isn’t always the best option, it is a good option to have. There are a number of small electric kitchen appliances that you can use for baking purposes. When you have access to electricity, it often makes more sense to use one of these instead of the RV oven.

Some of our favorite small kitchen appliances to use in place of the oven include:

That said, absolutely any air fryer, countertop oven, or toaster oven should do the trick just fine.

Hopefully, these tips help you get some baking done in your RV so you can have cakes, casseroles, and all of those other delicious baked goods you enjoy at home while out on the road. What will you bake first?

About the author: Chelsea Gonzales

Chelsea has the amazing opportunity to take part in full-time RV living and traveling with her tiny tribe. She homeschools her five-year-old son as they travel, and takes full advantage of their unique situation by using the entire world as her son’s classroom. A group of total Disney fanatics, Chelsea and her family often find themselves in the Orlando area in order to visit the Disney parks, but they have also visited over 25 of the 50 states with plans to see many more along the way. No matter where her travels take her, Chelsea enjoys riding bikes, gazing at beautiful sunsets, finding new coffee shops, Irish dancing, and sitting around a campfire with her family.

You can join her adventures through her blog, Wonder Wherever We Wander.

Considering Lithium RV Batteries? | Part 2

04 Wednesday May 2022

Posted by in Tech Tips

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In part one we discussed the difference between lead-acid, AGM, and Lithium batteries. Since then I have talked with our technical department and asked “how do you know if the lithium battery you are considering is good quality? They indicated that “lithium” is the new hot button in the RV industry and they are flying off the shelves. Many “opportunistic” companies are doing a “lick & stick” (his words exactly) by purchasing cheap overseas lithium and putting their sticker name on it. Many of these have prismatic and palmer cells that can not withstand the vibration and bouncing the typical RV encounters as well as temperature changes. This creates connectivity issues and produces thermal events.

Quality lithium batteries use cylindrical cells for the internal pack and protect them with molded ribs instead of foam filler. Also, the connection between these cells is best with mechanical connection rather than solder which is cheaper but is not as stable.

So how do you know? First, look for the UL listing and the file number. Then ask for an exploded view and description of the interior of the battery! If they can’t provide it, chances are the components are sub-par!

Then I asked; “What else should we look for in Lithium Batteries for an RV?” The answer was a good Battery Management System or BMS built into the battery. A BMS monitors the cells within the battery and keeps them from operating in an unsafe condition due to overcharging or undercharging. It can detect any shorts in the connections and balance the charge in each individual cell. If it does find an issue, it will shut the battery down before any damage can occur. This is especially important if your charger has a bulk charge stage or if you’re trying to get that last bit of sunlight in your solar panel charging system.

Temperature Is Important

The BMS will also monitor the temperature to make sure the battery either shuts down during extreme high and low temperatures or controls fans or heaters that could be part of the system. Extreme high temperatures can cause thermal runaway and charging a Lithium Battery at below-freezing temperatures will ruin the battery. The BMS will shut down the battery if it is not equipped with a cooling fan or heater. A quality Lithium Battery will either have an internal heater or heat pad/blanket that the BMS will activate when needed.

Now that we know what to look for in a quality Lithium Battery, there is more information you need to consider before jumping into the Lithium world! In Part 1 we talked about the WFCO converter that was used in the RV and how it only provided a 13.6-volt charge however you need to research what converter/charger or inverter/charger you have and how it operates. Most Lithium Batteries want 14.6-volts for charging and can be charged much faster than the typical lead-acid batteries. If your converter only provides 13.6-volts it will take longer to charge and will not charge 100% so you lose about 35% of what you paid for. Even worse, if you have a multi-stage charger it will start the bulk charge at 16-volts to break up sulfation in the lead-acid battery and then go to a float and equalizing charge. 16-volts will ruin a Lithium Battery unless it has a BMS in which case it will shut down and won’t charge!

One option is to install an upgrade to your converter such as the Progressive Dynamics 4655CSV model. This runs approximately $250 but is well worth it to get 100% out of your Lithium Battery.

If your converter, inverter, or solar charger is not putting out 14.6-volts I would recommend you consider upgrading the charger, lead-acid, or AGM. I did speak to a representative at Magnatek which is owned by Parallel Power Supply and they are using a stand-alone converter that puts out 13.8-volts and recommending it for use with Lithium. If you have a larger diesel pusher model and/or a residential refrigerator chances are you have a larger inverter that is also a battery charger and need to verify what voltage it is providing. Most newer models have a setting for Lithium.

DC To DC Charger

If your rig has the capability to provide a charge from the engine battery whether it’s a tow vehicle pulling a trailer with the 7-pin connection or a motorhome through the Battery Isolation Management solenoid (BIM) your alternator could potentially provide over 225 amps such as the case with a Mercedes model. This would require a DC to DC Charger that will regulate the amps. Battery Born recommends the Victron and Mike Sokol of The No Shock Zone recommends the Redarc model.

The Advantage Of Lithium Batteries

The biggest advantage of Lithium Batteries in my opinion is they do not sulfate and do not require much maintenance. Yes, the cost can be 5 times as much, however, the average lead-acid battery lasts about 2-3 years unless it is maintained religiously then it could last up to 4-5 years. The average Lithium Battery will last 8-10 years, so if you plan to keep your rig for more than 5 years, it will most likely cost about the same, however, you get all the other advantages.

A Lithium Battery can be drawn down to almost 100% vs a lead-acid battery at only about 50% and it will charge up about 5 times as fast so you get longer battery usage when dry camping and faster recharging so you don’t have to run the generator all day or worry about only getting a few hours of sun with a solar charging system.

Lithium Batteries are about ½ the weight of lead-acid batteries and you get the same amp hours out of one 100-amp hour Lithium vs two lead-acid batteries. So the Lithium Battery is lighter and takes up ½ the room in a compartment or on the tongue of your trailer.

Once you review all the information and what type of charging system you have, you can now decide if Lithium is the right choice for you and worth the money.

About the author: Dave Solberg: Managing Editor, RV Repair Club

For the last 25 years, Dave has conducted RV maintenance and safety seminars, developed dealer and owner training programs, written RV safety and handyman articles authored an RV handbook reference guide, and logged over 100,000 miles on the road in an RV.

RV Repair Club

RV Repair Club is your go-to online resource for enthusiasts who want quality RV maintenance, repair, and upgrade information – a community where passionate RVers can come together to gather knowledge and share their experiences.

Learn more about RV Repair Club.

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Rosita J. ~ “Coach-Net agents always ask at beginning of a conversation if you are in a safe place…that is awesome! Every agent we have dealt with has been attentive, patient, friendly, and quick to make note of the issue. Within minutes they were connecting us to a technician who talked us through fixing our problem. We are extremely satisfied with Coach-Net’s services.”

 

Must-See Stops When You Go RVing on Route 66

20 Wednesday Apr 2022

Posted by in RV Information, The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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Get Your Kicks on Historic Route 66

U.S. Highway 66 – Will Rogers Highway – Main Street of America – Mother Road

Historic Route 66 has many names. It runs from downtown Chicago through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona and ends at the Santa Monica Pier in California. Of course, travelers cannot drive the entire route uninterrupted nowadays. But what remains “holds a special place in American consciousness and evokes images of simpler times, mom and pop businesses, and the icons of a mobile nation on the road,” as the National Park Service so eloquently phrased it.

If you have not made the trip down Route 66, this spring or summer is as good as any time to do so. Grab the family and take off in the RV. There are several RV parks and campgrounds to rest at between sightseeing ventures along the route. Be sure to include these must-see stops on your Route 66 RV journey.

Ambler Texaco Gas Station

The first stop is Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station, also known as Becker’s Marathon Gas Station, in Dwight, Illinois. This filling station turned visitor’s center was the longest operational station on the route from 1933 to 1999. Much of the establishment has been restored to its original luster, giving visitors a snapshot of what things looked like in the 1930s.

Gateway Arch

Gateway Arch

St. Louis, Missouri’s iconic Gateway Arch is another popular stop on Route 66. Dubbed the “Gateway to the West,” this impressive structure is over 600 feet tall. Visitors can travel up the legs of the arch via an egg-shaped tram that seats five. Once at the top of the arch, they can take in sweeping views of the surrounding areas. On particularly windy days, spectators at the top will feel the arch sway side to side.

Meramec Caverns

There is plenty to see above ground along Route 66 and some pretty amazing sights below, like the Meramec Caverns in the Ozarks, near Stanton, Missouri. This 4.6 mile-long system of caves is a treasure trove of unique rock formations, and visitors can opt for a guided tour. Meramec Caverns also offers a slew of above-ground activities for families to enjoy, including zip-lining, wall climbing, boat tours along the Meramec River, and more. Plus, a restaurant, snack bar, and ice cream shop are located on-site.

Cars on the Route

Cars on the Route

A mere 13 miles of Route 66 traverses through Kansas, but the little town that folks first pass through boasts big pride for the Mother Road. The old mining town of Galena is full of Route 66 attractions, including Cars on the Route. This service station that dates back to 1934 was transformed into a roadside café and a souvenir shop with all things Route 66. Vehicles designed to look like characters from Pixar’s Cars movie (particularly Mater the Tow Truck) sit outside the restored station and make for whimsical photo ops.

Pops 66 Soda Ranch

Pops 66 Soda Ranch

All this exploring will probably make you thirsty. Simply head for the 66-foot-tall neon, bottle-shaped sign in Arcadia, Oklahoma. Established in 2007, Pops is a full-service restaurant, gas station, and convenience store wrapped up into one family-friendly environment. And let’s not forget the soda pop! Thirsty customers can choose between over 700 different kinds of sodas and drinks, from classic to whacky flavors.

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch

Like Galena, Kansas, Amarillo, Texas offers a variety of Route 66 attractions to anyone traveling through. Fans of Route 66 can check out the RV museum, Historic District (named after the route), and the Cadillac Ranch art installation. An Insta-worthy photo op, Cadillac Ranch is a line of 10 spray-painted Cadillacs half-buried in the ground. Visitors sometimes bring their own spray can and mark a car or two.

Blue Hole

You aren’t seeing a mirage when you pass through the desert of Santa Rosa, New Mexico. That’s the Blue Hole, a natural pool with hidden caves once used by cowboys and earlier Route 66 travelers as a place to cool off. Today people come to swim, dive, cliff jump, scuba dive, and snorkel in the crystal-blue water. The Blue Hole stays at a constant 62 °F and has a constant inflow of 3,000 gallons per minute, enough for the water to completely renew itself every six hours

Meteor Crater

Meteor Crater

You don’t have to travel to the Moon to see a crater, just travel a bit further down Route 66 and stop at the Meteor Crater in Winslow, Arizona. Created about 50,000 years ago, when a meteorite hit the Earth, the impact made a dent in the Earth’s surface, measuring about .7 miles in diameter and is 560 feet deep. Visitors can take a rim tour, peruse the Discovery Center, and more.

Calico Ghost Town

Route 66 passes through its fair share of ghost towns. Some are entirely abandoned, some have a few residents, and others are tourist attractions. Once a bustling silver mining town in California, Calico Ghost Town was abandoned in the late 1800s and later transformed into an old west tourist attraction. Throughout the year, folks can go on ghost and mining tours, pan for precious minerals, ride on a train, or attend special events.

Don’t Hit The Mother Road Without the Mother of All Roadside Assistance Plans

“We’re here to help you enjoy your RV to the fullest. We offer products and services that help you travel worry-free and spend more of your time enjoying the great outdoors.”

–Coach-Net

When you purchase a Coach-Net membership, you invest in peace of mind. Help from a trusted RV expert is just a phone call away and is always available 24/7.

With Coach-Net Roadside Assistance, you receive:

  • 24/7 RV Technical and Roadside Assistance,
  • Tire and Wheel Protection,
  • Service Agreement for New and Used RVs,
  • Guaranteed Asset Protection,
  • Paint & Fabric Protection,
  • And much more. 

Learn more about how Coach-Net can make your Historic Route 66 adventures unforgettable.

What are other Historic Route 66 attractions you would add to this list?

About The Author: Natalie Henley

Levi Henley and his wife, Natalie, have been full-time RVers for over 5 years. They have also been Coach-Net customers for the same amount of time.  They travel and work camp around the U.S. in their 26-foot Itasca Sunstar motorhome with their two cats.  They write for multiple RV-related publications and recently co-wrote “Seasonal Workamping for a Living: How We Did It.” You can follow their adventures on the road at henleyshappytrails.com 

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