Tag Archives: RV Living

Tips To Ward Off Insects In And Around Your RV

12 Tuesday Sep 2023

Posted by in Tips & Tricks

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , ,

Having lived in Northern Iowa my entire life, I am way too familiar with mosquitos and other annoying insects in and around my RV. Nothing is more annoying than the buzz of a flying insect in the middle of the night! Aside from harsh chemicals and nasty traps, there are some things you can do to keep them out of your rig and some safe and natural deterrents.

Check and seal all slide-outs.

Almost every RV has at least one slideout and this is a very easy entrance point for all types of insects. When the room is extended, check around the entire perimeter as there are often gaps at the top or especially lower corners. Verify the seals are in good condition, not torn, and not pulled away from the flange. Even with good seals, there may be gaps that need to be filled with temporary foam insulation or even a swim noodle cut down.

Check all entrance areas such as windows, doors, and roof vents.

It is not uncommon to have slight gaps in screen doors, especially where the notch for the deadbolt on the entrance frame is al. Check around the edge, especially in the corners and on the floor. Make sure the screen is in good condition with no holes or tears. Do the same with the window screens and the roof vents. Most appliances with outside access such as the furnace, water heater, and the roof air conditioners are enclosed enough to keep insects out however it wouldn’t hurt to pull off the cover and make sure the evaporator cover is tight. This is a shot of removing the evaporator cover from an older unit. If there are any gaps, use HVAC silver tape to cover them up.

Also, pull off the outside refrigerator vent cover and inspect the compartment to verify there are no gaps for access to the inside.

Keep your doors and windows shut.

This may seem like a fairly elementary point however most RVers don’t realize how often they go in and out of their rig leaving the screen door open for a very short time, especially when grilling outside or tailgating. Running in to get a cold one could let in enough flying pests to ruin an evening. If you do need to go in and out frequently, take a look at an awning screen room. This will allow you to enjoy the patio area of your rig, go in and out as you please, and keep the pests out. Just make sure all the edges are tight against the awning frames and the RV. Check out the tips for essential oils that can be used in these areas below.

Stay away from water and don’t let standing water around your rig.

Water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, mayflies, and other annoying flying pests. The farther away from water the better however that is not always easy to do. The more you can clean up stagnant water around your campsite the better such as fire pits and low spots. According to the CDC female mosquitos lay eggs in water and the eggs can hatch into larvae within 2 days and into full-fledged flying pests in 5 days.

If you come across standing water or can’t get rid of it, there are options to kill the eggs and larvae naturally. Several companies sell a Mosquito Dunk which is a natural product made with BTI that will kill the larvae within 24 hours.

Adding a few drops of dish soap to the water will kill not only the larvae but any adult mosquito that lands on the water. Adult mosquitos can stand on top of water due to the tension strength of the surface. The soap weakens that strength and the adult mosquito sinks and drowns and also suffocates the eggs and larvae. Another option is to use a few drops of cinnamon oil which will not only kill the larvae but also is a great deterrent.

Keep the RV and campsite clean.

Flies are attracted to smells from decaying food in garbage, fermentation from soda or beer, and sewage. Mosquitos are attracted to Carbon Dioxide which is emitted by humans, lactating, body heat, dark clothing, and uric acid which would be mostly from pets. Keep your campsite clean, get rid of the garbage often, and walk your pet to another area to tinkle! I’m not sure about the dark clothes but it is worth some research.

Try these popular deterrents

  • Wind: Mosquitoes are lightweight and any amount of wind will blow them around and hamper their ability to fly, so run a fan to keep them from your area. However, this most likely won’t keep them from coming inside.
  • Insect repellent: There are several good sprays that you could use on the seals around the slide rooms, screens, and doors. Some have DEET, while others are all natural.
  • Natural scents: Mosquitoes do not like citronella, cinnamon, peppermint, spearmint, and other mint scents. Some RVers have used lavender, catnip, cedar, and even garlic.
  • Smoke: A campfire with a little bit of smoke is a great deterrent if you like the smell of smoke lingering for a long time. Unfortunately, no matter where I sit around the campfire, the smoke follows me!
  • Use Thermacell: I ran into a product years ago that is one of the best mosquito deterrents I have found. Thermacell is available in a portable belt pack version for hiking, a lantern for around the campsite, or the Thermacell Patio Shield available on Amazon.

The butane cartridge heats the pads and there is very little heat and no smell and works well.

  • Reduce carbon dioxide (CO2): Our bodies give off CO2, and that attracts mosquitoes. Proper ventilation, as well as wearing proper clothing, will reduce the smell of CO2. Wash your face and arms periodically. An old-school option is two teaspoons of vanilla extract with a cup of water in a spray bottle, which is almost as fun as a video game!
  • Camp in cooler weather: Mosquitoes are inactive in temperatures below 50 degrees. Maybe it’s not the most ideal camping conditions, but worth the note.

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.

Sherilyn G. ~ “I didn’t have to wait very long at all! The tech was able to get my problem fixed over the phone. It was great! Than you so much!”

3 Things to Consider When Exploring or Relocating to City Life in an RV

05 Wednesday Jan 2022

Posted by in Tips & Tricks, Travel Destinations

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , ,

More than a million Americans live full-time in RVs, according to the RV Industry Association, with spikes in related internet searches proving just how popular the lifestyle is becoming. However, camping out and exploring nature isn’t the only option with an RV, as exploring and even relocating to a big city is equally as rewarding. From the importance of having a solid plan in place to making adjustments (both physically and mentally), here’s what you should know before heading out on the road.

Have A Solid Plan

When planning to explore big cities with your RV, having a solid plan in place before hitting the road is essential in order to make sure things go as smoothly as possible, and knowing the best places to park in your chosen city is a great way to start. Because driving your RV around a city isn’t advised, planning to park in an RV park or parking lot that’s close to public transportation can be a great way to explore without worrying about having to navigate through stressful city traffic with a large and bulky vehicle. 

Finances are another key element that will require planning ahead as well when exploring a city with your RV. Dining out and exploring a city’s cuisine is a great way to explore, though doing this is known to be a costly endeavor in most major cities, with past travelers spending an average of $37 on meals for just one day in New York City. Taking advantage of coupon books is always a great idea (and may even be available through your chosen RV park), though creating and sticking to a budget for the trip and cooking from the RV can also be a lifesaver when staying on track. 

It Can Be An Emotional Hurdle

If you find that you particularly enjoy a certain city, relocating for an extended period of time is definitely a possibility, though it’s necessary to keep in mind that the adjustment can be difficult if you’ve already set down roots in a more rural setting. If you’re relocating with the kids, the effect that relocating can have on their mental health can be challenging to navigate, especially if they have a group of friends they enjoy spending time with or if they find delight in being surrounded by nature. Maureen Heely, the author of The Emotionally Healthy Child, notes that “children are young and new to the world, and changing their ‘safe space’ is a big deal.” Thankfully, you can support your family through the move by ensuring they have a way to keep in touch with their friends and favorite activities. Finding a family-friendly campground that has plenty to do, and spending quality time as a family through exploring the city can also help make the adjustment easier mentally, too.

Be Ready To Make Adjustments

Whether you’re simply exploring a major city or you’re relocating for an extended period of time, you’re likely going to have to make some major adjustments if you’re not used to such an environment. For example, cities are known to be loud, with people living in cities are regularly exposed to noise above 85 decibels from sources like traffic, airports, and subways, making it enough to cause hearing loss over time. Depending on where you’re parked, you may even lose sleep over it at the beginning of your stay. Thankfully, investing in standard earplugs or noise-canceling headphones will help in making the adjustment successfully, especially in moments when the noise may become overbearing.

Exploring major cities in an RV might sound impossible, though it can be done successfully with a little planning beforehand. By creating a budget and knowing where to park — as well as how to handle the struggles of relocation, you and your family are sure to enjoy any city to the fullest extent possible.

Author: Alicia Rennoll

RV Protect

Dwight D. ~ “You are wonderful. The service and reps are fabulous.  THANK YOU!!  I AM GOING TO TO GET BOTH MY KIDS A PLAN FOR THEIR BIRTHDAYS.”

Red White & Bethune: The “American Dream”

09 Thursday Sep 2021

Posted by in The Great Outdoors

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

, , , , , , ,

Meet the Bethunes, a true “American dream” family who had it all, or so they thought. They sold everything, bought a bus, and are now living their true dream life all across the country! Check them out!

When we were growing up, we were sold the same “American Dream” as you probably were. You know the one? Where you work all the time to try to afford the big house, newest car, white picket fence, and a Golden Retriever. All the while you are working very hard every day at a job you hate so that you can pay for your “dream”.

Two years ago, that was us. We had a successful Pet Styling Spaw, our kids were getting a private school education, and we had our “dream home” on two acres of land in the Tampa Bay Area. From the outside, it looked like we had the PERFECT life, but in all reality, we were just burning the candle at both ends to trying to do it ALL.

Every summer, we would take a month-long trip in our RV to a different destination. This summer was no different, we had an AMAZING time with our 3 kids, laughing and making irreplaceable memories all summer. When we pulled into our driveway with our Monaco Windsor Class A, we were already dreading going back to “reality”.

 As I was loading my arms up with a basket of dirty laundry, my husband Kyle turned to me and uttered a question that would change the trajectory of our lives, forever. “Babe”, he whispered, “What if we sold everything, the house, the salon, all of our crap, and we bought a bus, remodeled it, and traveled the country?”

 A look of terror instantly came over my face as his question ended. My brain was frantically buzzing and about to short circuit. What in the world was he thinking!? We couldn’t possibly do that. You aren’t allowed to do that until your kids are grown and you retire. It’s totally out of the question. No. No way can we do this. 

I looked down at my expectant husband and I calmly answered “Babe, you know we can’t do that, it’s just not possible.” I kissed him on the forehead and sullenly went back to loading all our massive amount of laundry back into our “dream home”.

For the next two weeks, as I was shaving dog’s backsides, I kept dreaming each day of that beautiful life where we are at the Grand Canyon watching our kids laugh, play, and be free. I saw all our oversized smiles as we lived in the outdoors, experiencing new places, journeying wherever we wanted. THAT was a dream life, I thought.

On that 14th day of daydreaming, after work, tired and covered in dog hair, I walked up to my husband, and I gushed “Let’s do it.” He had an extremely puzzled look on his face as he questioned, “Uh, do what?”. In that moment a massive grin spread across my lips and up into my eyes as I stated, “Buy a bus, remodel it, sell our house, get rid of all the crap, and live a life of our dreams, traveling across the country.”

And the rest, my friends, is history. 

We bought a bus, spent 4 months remodeling the ENTIRE thing, front to back. We sold our house, getting rid of all the excess material possessions we truly didn’t need. Then, we moved into our TRUE dream home, a 1983 Silver Eagle Bus. 

We have been in that bus for nearly a year and a half now and I have to say, this was the single most important decision of our entire lives. Fulltime with our 3 kids and 4 dogs has truly SAVED our family.  Our marriage has never been stronger, the relationship with our kids has never been this connected, and we can finally say that we are totally happy, 100% to our core.

When we look back, we wonder what took us so long to take this leap. I suspect it was that society told us what was expected of us, we were supposed to live a certain way. We were told that you grow up, get married, buy a house you can’t afford, make sure you have new cars, don’t forget the white picket fence, have kids, send them to school, get the Golden Retriever, and never have family dinners around the table because you’re working too hard to pay for all the things that are supposed to make you happy….

We are incredibly thankful that we created this new dream life of ours. To us, THIS is what life is all about. Now, we disconnect from technology to truly connect with each other. Our kids are experiencing places that some adults will never get the opportunity to see. We get to meet new people, from all walks of life, right here in the USA. Our kids can BE KIDS and live outside. They get as dirty as possible, go fishing, hiking, and learn about this beautiful country we live in. More importantly, we are raising kind humans that have love for everyone and nature. 

As you can imagine, after we have curated this beautiful dream life of ours, we want to make sure that we protect it. The only one we trust with our little family is Coach-Net. No matter what this new life brings us, we have the peace of mind knowing that they are by our side. Whether that be from roadside assistance, having a RV problem and being able to speak with their RV Specialists, or having the most important tire and wheel protection. We feel safe and secure, Coach-Net will be there for us, no matter what we come across in our travels. 

Coach-Net isn’t just for Full Time RVers, it is for weekenders too! Being a weekend camper, you may not be as hands on with your rigs as the full time RVers are. This means that unexpected things are bound to come up when you take your RV out to go camping. Make sure that you have that protection behind you, so you can sit back and relax once you get to your camping spot. Coach-Net even has protection for towables in addition to your daily driver.

Want to know our only regret though? That we didn’t start this amazing life sooner. Don’t have any regrets of your own, live a life you WANT to wake up to and make sure to bring Coach-Net with you along the way!

About The Author: The Bethune’s

We are a Tampa-based family of 2 adults, 3 kids, and 4 dogs living in our remodeled 1983 Silver Eagle Bus! We are a Full-Time Family who is always up for an adventure.

Tag along as we show you America, through our lens!

Tune in and get to know us—we’re just an average American family!

RV Protect

Willie D. ~ “We LOVE Coach-Net!”

Generator Care And Maintenance

05 Wednesday May 2021

Posted by in Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

, , , , ,

The famous line from Star Trek’s “Scotty” while in the engine room was: “Captain, we need more dilithiam crystals!”  In other words, more power and it seems like that’s the case with today’s RVers as we are all trying to get the most out of every appliance we can get our hands on!

Ok, maybe not everyone, however a generator is an important component to not only help run appliances, but also charge the house batteries when dry camping or boondocking.  For the most part, generators require a limited amount of maintenance, however there are some things you need to know to make sure they provide the power you need and run as long as you need them to.  In this article we will cover permanently mounted or onboard generators.

Types of generators and their maintenance requirements:

Gasoline

Typically in a motorized RV, these generators are permanently mounted with rubberized motor mounts to the frame, although some are used in Toy Haulers as the fuel for these needs to be supplied by an onboard fuel source such as the gasoline tank.

Sizes can range from smaller 2000 watt versions, that have limited power, to the large 7000 watt version shown here that has enough power to make “Scotty” happy!

Gasoline fuel generators can use regular unleaded or an Ethanol Blend not to exceed 10% Ethanol.  The key is to use fresh gas, nothing older than 30 days, which is why it’s a good idea to run the tank low before refilling prior to storage. 

Larger generators (5000 watts and higher) have two circuit breakers on the generator itself, one that supplies 30 amp power to the distribution center, and a 20 amp breaker that is connected directly to the bedroom air conditioner if applicable. This allows you to run both roof airs with the front supplied by the distribution center and the back by the direct line on the generator.

Recommended maintenance includes changing oil as well as the oil and air filters.

Whether putting your RV to bed for a long while, or just getting it ready for an extended siesta, it’s important to take a little time preparing your generator for an extended period of rest by following these steps:

Step One – Fuel Recommendations

The first step is to make sure your fuel tank is full before letting it sit for anything longer than 30 days.  A partially full fuel tank allows condensation to form inside the tank which not only adds water to the mix, but can also lead to rust forming and causing all kinds of issues.  Most seasoned RVers calculate their storage/winterizing schedule and let the fuel tank get low prior to storage so they can fill it with the proper fresh fuel before storing. 

Step Two – Stabilize The Fuel Supply

Any fuel will deteriorate as it sits in an engine or fuel tank for a period of time, usually as quick as 30 days.  Gasoline will start to varnish producing a gummy residue that clogs the carburetor, fuel filter, and fuel pump and affects performance.  Unlike engine performance or fuel economy, the octane level or grade of fuel has little effect on the time factor of this fuel deterioration.  Diesel fuel does not deteriorate and produce varnish like gasoline, however it can suffer biological growth (algae) and gel in cold weather which will also affect engine performance. 

It is recommended to use a quality fuel preservative and stabilizer with either diesel or gasoline models.  There are several brands on the market with most of the popular diesel stabilizers available at the major truck stops.  Onan recommends OnaFresh fuel preservative and stabilizer. 

Keep in mind, once a fuel starts to deteriorate and varnish is present in the generator, a preservative and stabilizer will not restore the fuel.  At this point you will need to try a fuel system cleaner or disassemble the generator components and clean/remove the contaminants. 

Step Three – Run The Unit

Run the unit under load for at least 30 minutes.  The Onan owner’s manual recommends 30 minutes plus 2 minutes for each foot of fuel line to ensure the stabilizer makes it way through all the lines and engine components.  Other Onan service documents recommend running for 1-2 hours.  Running the unit for 1 hour should be sufficient and make sure you have something on the inside that will provide a load to the generator like the roof air units or plugging in an appliance like a space heater.

Step Four – Change The Oil And Filter

After running the unit, it’s recommended to change the oil and filter prior to storage.  This prevents acids from accumulating which could corrode bearings inside the engine.  It’s important to use the manufacturers original parts for oil filters and recommended oil.  Generic or replacement parts commonly referred to as “will-fit” parts are built for cost, not quality.  These parts often times have inferior materials used for filtering, sealing, and longevity which could cause expensive failures. 

Onan has blended their own specific oil branded as OnaMax, however they do allow other brands under warranty as long as they meet the following specifications:

– Use oil meeting any of the following API performance categories: SJ, SL or SM where SM is currently the highest quality available. Look for the “Energy Conserving” designation to optimize fuel economy.

Check your owner’s manual for weight or viscosity according to your genset and temperatures.

Step Five– Gasoline Engine Fogging

If you own a gasoline fueled RV generator it’s recommended to remove the spark plug and spray Onan’s OnaGard fogging spray to reduce rust and condensation in the cylinder.

Step Six – Check Connections

Make sure all cables, wires, and other connections are tight and protected.  You may need to clean battery cable connections and lubricate linkage points.

Step Seven – Disconnect The Battery

It’s a good idea to disconnect the ground terminal to the generator to eliminate any battery drain or accidental surge back from the house system if the unit is plugged in for storage.

Onan also recommends running the generator once a month for at least 30 minutes under 50% load to reduce the gasoline deterioration and varnish and keep the seals softened in the diesel and LP units.  In some situations this is not possible, so it’s important to take the necessary steps to clean, protect, and stabilize the fuel source to make sure your generator performs well for years to come.

Liquid Propane/LP

Propane fueled generators are not as common as gas or diesel since LP is a very precious commodity when dry camping or boondocking which is when you need a generator!  Some diesel pusher owners choose the LP genset as it originally ran quieter and did not have the smell of the diesel fumes; however, for the most part this has not been a factor with the newer diesel genset models.  Some trailer owners use this model as they do not have a gas tank other than the tow vehicle which they can not tap into and want a permanently mounted unit.

Propane generators do require a similar oil and filter change maintenance schedule and Onan has the following recommendation for the proper fuel:

— Use clean, HD-5 grade liquid propane in a mixture of at least 90% propane. Propane fuels other than HD-5 can contain more than 2.5 percent butane which can result in poor fuel vaporization and poor engine starting in outside temperatures below 32°F.

Propane generators are not as subject to the varnish issue that gasoline models are, however it is a good idea to run the generator periodically to lubricate the seals and gaskets.  Onan recommends running it for 30 minutes 2-3 times yearly.

Diesel Generator

The diesel generator has come a long way since I took to the road training dealers back in the mid 1990’s. OK I admit, most things have come a long way since that time!  Back then there were only 4 Rocky films and only 3 Star Wars films!

This unit is fueled by the chassis fuel tank just like the gas version and has the same maintenance schedule as the gas and propane with just a couple of additional items to be aware of.

Ensure the fuel selected for use has a minimum Cetane number of 45. No. 2-D or No.2-DLS diesel fuel gives the best economy and performance under most operating conditions. Use No. 1 diesel fuel when ambient temperatures are below 32°F and during long periods of light engine load. Use low sulfur or ultra low sulfur content fuel having a cloud point of at least 10°F below the lowest expected fuel temperature. Cloud point is the temperature at which wax crystals begin to form in diesel fuel.

Onan does have some recommendations for fuel type:

— Use any of the following ASTM certified fuels for your quiet diesel:

  • ASTM-No.2-D (ambient temperature greater than 23°F) (No. 2 Diesel)
  • or ASTM-1-D (No. 1 Diesel)
  • No.2-DLS (ambient temperature greater than 23°F)
  • No.1-D (ambient temperature less than 23°F)
  • No.1-DLS (ambient temperature less than 23°F)
  • B5 Biodiesel(ambient temperature greater than 50°F)

B20 Biodiesel

− The use of B20 biodiesel requires the generator to have an additional fuel/water separator. Long-term storage of biodiesel fuels can result in oxidation and/or mold growth. Consult your vehicle manufacturer and your generator owner’s manual to see if this option is applicable to your generator.

– Use oil meeting any of the following API performance categories: CF, CF-4, CG-4, CH-4, CI-4 or CJ-4 where CJ-4 is currently the highest quality available. The use of synthetic oil is not recommended during the warranty period. The use of oil meeting API performance category CF-4, CG-4, CH-4 or CI-4 while burning fuel with a sulfuric content greater than 0.5% or CJ-4 while burning fuel with a sulfuric content greater than 0.0015% is not recommended as oil service is negatively impacted.

Check your generator owner’s manual for recommended weight/viscosity for temperatures.

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.

RV Protect

Joe B. ~ “First time needing any services with Coach-Net and I was impressed. Joshua was outstanding. He communicated clearly and was easy to understand. Also, he was compassionate, helpful, efficient, and reliable. I was taken care of in a timely manner and felt like someone had by best interest at heart in a very stressful situation. Thank you!” 

Top Ten Camp Cooking Gadgets

07 Wednesday Apr 2021

Posted by in Tips & Tricks

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

, , , , , , ,

In the massive world of RVing, “cooking” can mean something different to everyone. But we are going to tackle it anyway and give my Top Ten and a few honorable mentions.  Hopefully this will open up a huge list of comments on what your favorites are.  Keep in mind there is no scientific data or NASA algorithms to back up this list.  I must confess, my first attempt at spelling algorithms looked like Al Goreisms!  Thank goodness for spill chick. 

In other words, cooking while RVing can be as simple as freeze-dried packets for the die-hard boondockers, or a 4-course meal prepared in a luxury motorcoach.  This blog will take a middle-of-the-road approach and focus on campfire cooking and outdoor grill items.

#1 – The Heat Source – Campfire, Grill, or Portable Stove

Ok, a campfire is not technically a “gadget” but, in my opinion, your heat source is the most important.  In an RV you have limited space to bring your Big Green Egg, however there are some smaller alternatives to grills and portable stoves, such as the Traeger or Green Mountain Grill wood pellet table top models and the Coleman Roadtrip, which operates on propane. 

My folks carried a small Weber charcoal grill all over the country for years, even to Alaska!  The challenge was finding charcoal but they used wood more often. 

If you are a campfire fan like I am, your #1 gadget is the type of cooking surface works for you. 

Many campgrounds have a fire pit with a grate already available.  If not, there are several options such as the tripod that hangs a slotted grate over the fire or folding grate.  Die-hard campfire enthusiasts will bury tinfoil pouches of delicacies such as cherry pie or everything potatoes, into the red hot embers.  You can even place a coffee pot or cast iron skillet directly on the campfire, however it’s difficult to adjust or monitor the heat. 

1.01 – Honorable Mention

If you are using a campfire or grill, you can enhance the flavor of whatever you are cooking by bringing wood chips or even grilling pellets to add to the heat source.  Most campgrounds do not allow bringing your own firewood, you are stuck with using what they want to sell you and it’s usually not top grade material.  You can bring wood chips or even the pellets that will give your cooking the fire source and flavor you want!

#2 – Cast Iron Skillet

This has been my “go-to” cooking pan for over 50 years!  My mother had one that was passed down from her grandmother that she made Spanish rice in two or three times a week. You can cook almost anything in a cast iron, from traditional food such as hamburgers, steak, fish, and omelets, but can also use it for pizza, popcorn, and even deep-fat frying with the likes of battered food such as hush puppies, fish, and other items.  If you get a deep sided version, it can double as a Dutch Oven. 

Here is a little cleaning tip I learned over the years.  Spread a little olive oil on the pan while it’s warm then sprinkle coarse sea salt on the pan.  Use a paper towel to scrub the pan and it will not only clean it, but condition it as well. 

#3 – Cooking Gloves

These are excellent for not only campfire cooking, but grill cooking as well.  These are heat resistant, and cut resistant.  You can hold meat and turn it over, cut it, and the food grade silicone also grips well so nothing will slip out of your hands.  They are easy to clean and take up little storage space.

#4 – Something to Make S’mores With

Whether it’s a long stick whittled to a sharp point, or a fancy 3-4 pronged telescoping rod, you definitely need something to roast the marshmallow either golden brown or burnt crisp depending on your preference. 

#5 – Coffee Pot

There is nothing like the taste of hot coffee coming off a campfire and there are many coffee pots that will work.  My favorite for many years was an old Pyrex glass percolator model that made the best coffee anywhere.  However it broke in a storage compartment one winter as we drove to Colorado and did not remember it was there.  I have searched and can not find a replacement…yet!  In the meantime, there are some close runner ups such as the French press.

This model has a metal base so it can be set on a campfire, others have a plastic bottom that only allow hot water to be poured in the top.  Be careful!  Another popular model is the stainless steel or even enameled version.  Plus these will not break!

#6 – Egg Container

Scrambled eggs, omelets, even fish fry batter are all staples of our camping trip, however with the abuse of a road trip, especially if we go off the “beaten” path (pun intended), the standard egg carton will have everything scrambled before we get there.  This handy plastic carton keeps them eggstra safe.  Sorry!

#7 – Insulated Mug

This is my “go-to” mug as it will keep coffee hot for over 4 hours and will keep ice beverage cold for the same amount of time.  However I seldom have a cold beverage last much longer than an hour! 

#8 – Insulated Cooler

Of course every RVer has a favorite cooler like the Yeti, Grizzly, and others.  I got this cooler years ago working at Winnebago when we did a camping shoot with Nashville. It has been my favorite for over 30 years.  It not only keeps things cold for a long period of time, but the soft side design makes it easier to pack and lightweight to carry.

#9 – Time Saver Dispensers

When the granddaughters were little and would go camping with us, they always wanted pancakes, sometimes for every meal!  With limited storage space, we decided to get creative and started prepping some common food items at home before heading out.  Not only did it save space and time, but clean up is always easier at home…besides who wants to waste time prepping and cleaning when you are camping?  So we filled empty ketchup bottles, dressing, and other items with premade pancake batter, scrambled eggs, and other items for a quick squirt in the morning.

9.01 – Honorable Mention – Vacuum Sealer Machine

When at home, every Sunday night, we would have a “Family Dinner” and my wife would cook the greatest meals ever made.  She did this every other night as well, but these were special.  When we set out RVing, she did not want to spend the hours chopping, sautéing, and whatever magic she did in our huge kitchen at home.  I agreed, we are recreating right?  But we also did not want to settle for store bought frozen meals either.  So we bought a vacuum sealer and make as many prepped meals and typically freeze them either in the small refrigerator freezer or bring a cooler.  They will stay fresh frozen for weeks and we can have gourmet dinners every night.

#10 – Plates and Containers

Since there is limited storage in most RVs you can’t take every plate, spice, and cooking utensil with you.  We have gotten creative with spices either using a divided spice container, or a simple, open plastic container (below), which allows us to bring a smaller version of our favorites.

Also, “nesting” pots and pans that can sit inside each other as well as plates.  And speaking of plates, we have come across a couple of brands of paper plates that are compostable, meaning you don’t have to fill up the landfill!

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.

RV Protect

Elsie H. ~ “My dispatch agent asked specific questions to understand the nature of our situation and problem. They were so friendly and knowledgeable and quickly resolved our issues. Great experience!” 

7 Tips For Saving Money While RVing

09 Tuesday Mar 2021

Posted by in Tips & Tricks

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , ,

There are many reasons to hit the road full-time. Most do it for the adventure. Some go full-time to give minimalism a try. Meanwhile, there are a few out there who decide to move into an RV in order to save money.

Many may say it isn’t possible to travel full-time and save money, but I know from experience that with careful planning, it is 100% possible. Not only that, it is quite possibly the most fun way to live on a budget!

So what’s the trick to it? Well, there are several tricks to RVing full-time on a budget. Below are my top tips for saving money while RVing full-time.

Camp For Less

My first and most important tip is to find ways to save on camping costs. This is actually easier than you might think.

First, be sure to invest in at least one camping membership or pass. We have and can definitely recommend Thousand Trails, Passport America, and Boondockers Welcome. However, there are several others out there that might be a better fit for you, so do your research.

Another way to save on camping is by taking advantage of free boondocking locations and even full-blown campgrounds all over the country. I like to find these on freecampsites.net.

More information on saving money on camping fees can be found here.

Use GasBuddy

If you need to save money on gas, GasBuddy is your friend. This tool is available in app form, making it super easy to check gas prices in whatever area you find yourself in. This way you can head to the gas station with the cheapest gas every single time, something that could save you quite a bit over time.

Look Into TSD Logistics

For those who drive diesel trucks or RVs, there is also the option of TSD Logistics. This super cool program saves members money on diesel fuel at certain truck stops all over the country. It’s a pretty significant savings, and though we don’t own any diesel vehicles ourselves, we feel comfortable recommending it based on the fact that many friends of ours use the service and love it.

Cut Back on Propane Usage

Honestly, propane isn’t too terribly expensive. That said, if you use it to run your furnace all the time, you’re going to blow through it pretty quick.

Cut back on propane usage by opting to use electric appliances such as electric space heaters, electric cooking appliances, and (if you have it) the electric side of your water heater. whenever possible.

This is especially good advice if the park you’re in includes electricity in your camping fees.

Buy Reciprocal Memberships

Traveling without seeing any of the sights is no fun. At the same time, sightseeing can get pricey pretty quickly. You can, of course, look for free attractions and discount days, but these options will only get you so far. This is where reciprocal memberships come into play.

At any given time, our family has at least 2 or 3 reciprocal memberships. These give us admission to national parks, museums, zoos, aquariums, theme parks, and other attractions. To learn more about reciprocal memberships, check out this post.

Meal Plan

There is also food to consider. Clearly, you are going to need to buy food no matter where you live. That said, when you’re traveling often and out sightseeing on a regular basis, it can be really tempting to eat out—a habit that can be incredibly expensive.

To avoid this problem, you have to plan ahead. Pack sandwiches for lunch, and start a soup in the slow cooker so that dinner is ready as soon as you get home. If you have other options for food, you are much less likely to indulge in food from a restaurant.

Purchase Roadside Assistance

My final tip is to make sure you purchase good RV-specific roadside assistance before taking your first trip. Coach-Net is my absolute favorite option for this. We’ve used the service a number of times, and every single time we do it saves us a boatload of money, making our Coach-Net membership an excellent investment that easily pays for itself.

Have a money-saving tip you’d like to share? We’d love to hear about it in the comments section below!

May contain affiliate links.

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.

RV ProtectGrimshaw Y. ~ “Coach-Net has always shown exceptional service in all levels of customer service. We have received the utmost service from the call person who works over the telephone to the gentleman who comes to give us roadside assistance. They keep us well informed and certainly ease our stress when our vehicle/RV is in need of repairs. I am always praising your company!”

Exterior Care & Maintenance Part 2 : Fiberglass Sidewalls, Decals, & Tires

03 Wednesday Mar 2021

Posted by in Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

, , , , , ,

Exterior Care & Maintenance Part 2 : Fiberglass Sidewalls, Decals, & Tires

The sidewall of your RV can take a beating from the weather elements such as wind, rain, hail, and especially the sun beating down on it.  This affects the outer skin which is typically a fiberglass panel, decals, sealants, and your tires.

Sidewalls

Let’s start with the sidewall’s outer skin.  There have been several materials used over the years including aluminum, steel, and the most popular being fiberglass.  Crane Composites is the leader in fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) and introduced the product to the RV industry over 30 years ago.  Most RVers have heard of their signature product, Filon but they also have several other products used in the RV industry.

These products range from the entry-level “ribbed” fiberglass commonly known as “mesa” sidewall to the high gloss material used on luxury RVs.  The basic composition of an FRP sidewall is the base material consisting of liquid plastic and mixed with strands of fiberglass to form a sheet or coil.  These can be colored and are typically available in white and various degrees of beige.  The outer layer gets a gel coat or clear finish which creates a shine.  Economy units have a very thin layer while more expensive units have thicker layers creating more of a shine or automotive finish.

The challenge is keeping the color from fading which has been a huge issue due to UV degradation.  Here is an example of a unit that sat in the California sun unprotected and not maintained.

Sidewall Discoloration

It’s hard to see the discoloration of the sidewall but it has turned to an almost pink hue and the decals show the effects of the exposure.  To minimize this, it’s important to clean the sidewall with a mild detergent such as Dawn dish soap and cover the unit whenever it is not in use.

According to Crane Composites the company that makes Filon, they recommend washing the material monthly with a mild detergent and microfiber rag and doing additional maintenance every 6 months which includes waxing the material.  The gel coat material will change color when exposed to sunlight, heat, and moist air therefore it is important to do the maintenance and reposition the rig frequently to limit full-time exposure to one side.  Crane suggests using Meguiar’s #56 boat and RV Pure Wax which has UV protection built-in.  More information on this procedure can be found on their website here:

If your sidewall already has some discoloration, they suggest Meguiar’s #49 Heavy-Duty Oxidation Remover and a mechanical buffer, then a coat of wax or Mirka Polar Shine 35.  I have also found that Bar Keepers Friend can be used to buff out the discoloration as well.

Decals

Vinyl graphics and decals come in an economical “Calendar” style or more premium Cast type.  The Calendar version has a 2-3 year life cycle while the Cast is 5-7 but both can be extended with periodic care and maintenance.  Most of the vinyl graphics I have researched were produced by Sharpline and Valley Screen and they both recommend washing with a mild detergent that has a PH between 3-11 and has no strong solvents.  Use a microfiber cloth and do not wash cold material with cold water.  Water should be over 70 degrees as cold water can shock the material and the adhesive will delaminate from the vinyl.  If using a pressure washer, keep the tip at least 12 inches from the material and the pressure at or below 1200 psi.  They do not recommend any type of wax as it can keep the vinyl from “breathing” and cause premature fading and cracking.

Tires

It has been said many times that tires are the most valuable component of an RV but also the most neglected.  There are far too many campground stories about tire failure on the road and many have suggested it’s not if…but when a tire will fail.  However, proper maintenance and education of weight and tire pressure will greatly reduce this.

Weighing Your RV

It is important to weigh your rig to determine the total weight does not exceed the GVWR Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of your rig, the axle weight does not exceed the GAWR Gross Axle Weight Rating, and find individual wheel position weights as well.  This can only be done with portable scales and you can find weighing teams through the RV Safety and Education Foundation here: www.rvsafety.com

Tire pressure should be checked every time you hit the road with a certified tire pressure gauge and not simply a glance.  You cannot tell the difference between a properly inflated tire and one that has 10 psi less.  AND…10 psi less than recommended pressure reduces weight carrying capacity by 25%!

Cover your tires when not in use.  Sun and heat can deteriorate the sidewalls and create weather checking which can also lead to tire failure.  Clean the tire with a mild detergent and do not use tire shine!  Check your sidewall often for signs of weather checking.

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 ClubRV 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.

RV Protect

Micheal S. ~ “Leonard was understanding, thorough, and helped us troubleshoot during the Texas ice storm. We were up and running in less than 15 minutes!” 

Tips For Staying Fit While RVing

11 Wednesday Nov 2020

Posted by in Healthy Lifestyle

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

, , , , ,

Tips For Staying Fit While RVing

Fitness is important for a huge number of reasons. However, many travelers find that it’s difficult to maintain physical fitness while on the road. Much of this is due to limited space, while a lack of routine is also a contributing factor. Still, staying active and in shape is a crucial part of a healthy lifestyle, meaning those who live on the road or travel on extended road trips often must find ways around these issues.

Fortunately, there are many ways to get exercise while traveling full-time. Most are less than traditional, and some require a bit of research, but they do work, meaning you can stay in shape even while living the mobile lifestyle of your dreams.

Here are our top tips for staying fit and active while traveling in your RV.

Hike, Walk or Run

When you’re out exploring the world, it’s easy to get in a good walk or run. There are fabulous trails all across the country, and whether you prefer a flat, paved option for jogging or something a bit more challenging for hiking, there’s something for you. Try making a game of it by setting a goal to find a trail everywhere you stop.

Ride a Bike

Go BikingAnother great option is to ride a bike. You can find trails for biking as well, or you could try using biking as your main mode of transportation when camped in towns and cities.

Of course, this will require finding a decent bike rack and ensuring it’s secured properly. There are plenty of options out there, including this rack that goes over a hitch, as well as front racks, roof racks, truck bed racks, and, of course bumper racks.

(It’s important to note that bike racks should never be secured to factory trailer bumpers, as the bumpers aren’t strong enough to support the weight of a loaded rack and often fail, leaving your bikes and bumper on the road.)

Use the Campground Pool

Many campgrounds come equipped with swimming pools. Take advantage of those by using the pool to get some exercise. In most cases, the pool will be a bit more crowded in the afternoons, so try going in the mornings or evenings so you have room to swim laps or do some water aerobics.

Take Advantage of Campground Gyms

Gyms are another amenity offered by many campgrounds. While you can’t count on gyms always being available, and certain things will vary from gym to gym—like the equipment provided, the cleanliness, and the overall quality—they are a good resource to put to use when you can.

Watch for Campground Activities

YogaYet another option found in many campgrounds are the organized exercise classes and clubs. In some cases, these come in the form of line-dancing clubs or yoga sessions. Other times there will be water aerobics classes or walking clubs.

Take advantage of whatever is being offered and make your exercise a social engagement that you look forward to.

Look for City Events

If you find that exercising with others is what works well for you, it might be helpful to know that many small towns also offer “drop-in” exercise classes or clubs. In some cases these are free, and in others, you will have to pay a small fee. They might include yoga in the park, biking clubs, or other outdoor exercise activities.

Take a Digital Class

Need something more routine to keep yourself motivated? A digital exercise class might be the tool you need. These include activities such as yoga and dance, and maybe prerecorded or can be done using video call services such as Zoom.

If you need to work on your own time, the prerecorded options are best. Meanwhile, group video chat classes are ideal for those who need accountability.

Get a Gym Membership

Get a Gym MembershipFinally, there is the option of investing in a gym membership. Many people don’t realize it’s possible to use a gym membership regularly while traveling full-time, but it is.

The trick is to choose a gym chain that offers admission to all gyms within that chain, regardless of where you signed up. Some great options include Planet Fitness and Gold’s Gym. Just make sure you get the correct type of membership.

By using these tips and tricks, you should be able to stay active and fit without much trouble at all. In fact, in some cases, you might even find that your exercise enhances your travels by motivating you to get out and see more nature trails along your route and encouraging you to attend group events and make new friends.

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.

RV ProtectAmanda A. ~“The Coach-Net call agents were very professional and very thorough. They explained the process clearly and called and checked on me every hour until I received the service needed! FANTASTIC customer service all the way around.”