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Tips For Hiking With Kids

16 Wednesday Dec 2020

Posted by in Healthy Lifestyle, Kids and Camping

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Tips For Hiking With Kids

One of the very best camping activities is hiking. There’s nothing like a nice morning hike to put you in a good mood, and hitting the trail is the perfect way to reconnect with nature. Hiking is fun during all parts of the year (though we do recommend heading south to do your winter hiking), and as long as you choose the right trail, it can be a good activity for people of all abilities and fitness levels.

All that said, you might be hesitant to add hiking to your list of camping activities if you have kids. After all, kids have a tendency to complain when a lot of walking has to happen, and there’s little reason to believe the same won’t be true of a hike. Besides, many parents can have trouble believing their kids will be up to the challenges a hike can pose.

The thing is, with a little bit of planning, hiking with kids can actually be fun. Try using the tips below to plan the perfect hiking adventure with your kids and rediscover your love of walking the trails.

Slow Down

First and foremost, it’s incredibly important that you slow down. Little legs can’t keep up with an adult’s longer stride, and asking them to will tire them out quickly, leading to the aforementioned whining.

Slow Down

Slowing your hike might seem like a huge bummer. However, this really isn’t the case. Slowing down can actually be a really nice thing if you choose to use the extra time to look around and really observe and appreciate your surroundings.

In fact, you might even find that you prefer slower hiking, opting to continue moving a bit slower even when the kids aren’t around.

Pack Snacks

Another thing that can lead to whining? Hunger. Unfortunately, kids get hungry quickly, especially when they’re moving around. For this reason, it’s crucial that you pack plenty of snacks that they will eat. This might seem silly if you’ll only be hiking for a couple of hours, but trust us when we say you won’t regret it.

Keep It Short and Sweet

Speaking of short two-hour hikes, that amount of time tends to be the sweet spot for kids. Go much longer than a couple of hours and you’re likely to have some unhappy little friends for the remainder of your exploration.

This will of course vary from one kid to the next, so you might want to experiment a bit to find the best hike length for your kids, but starting with two hours is a good plan of attack that isn’t likely to induce meltdowns or other negative outcomes.

Include Small Challenges

A short hike doesn’t have to be a boring one. If your kids are a bit older, consider picking short hikes with some challenging bits to keep things interesting. There’s no reason an 8- or 9-year-old can’t handle a bit of rock scrambling or bouldering, and they will likely feel more engaged during the hike and more accomplished after when challenges like this are put in their path.

Include Challenges In Your Hikes

Just be sure to know your own kids and their limits, testing with the smallest challenges and growing from there based on how they do.

Grab the Right Gear

The right gear can make all the difference in the world when hiking with little ones. A small backpack for each kid will allow them to carry their own things—a lifesaver when you have multiple kids, as putting everything in a single pack will get heavy fast. You’ll also want to make sure every kid has their own water container, as well as a hat to keep the sun out of their eyes.

Hiking Gear

Lastly, if you’ll be hiking with a baby or toddler, be sure to invest in a high-quality hiking baby carrier for their comfort and your own.

Head to National Parks

We love hiking with kids in national parks. Most national parks have plenty of short yet rewarding hikes, with some even offering some challenging bits. The views will always be gorgeous in these parks, and the Junior Ranger programs here offer young hikers some incentive to get out on the trails.

Give the Kids Cameras

Give The Kids A CameraLast but not least, we highly recommend handing each kid a camera to carry during the hike. This will help keep them engaged by encouraging them to truly observe their surroundings. It will also give you an opportunity to see the world from their point of view, something most adults don’t do enough of.

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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.

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RVing in a Pandemic Storm!

09 Thursday Apr 2020

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RVing In A Pandemic Storm

RVers have weathered some very intense storms from tornados to blizzards, so what about one of the biggest storms of all? The Coronavirus Pandemic!

On March 5th I drove to Denver Colorado in a Ford Transit 3500 to a show and at the time, the information available was that the virus was basically an overseas issue and we were not to worry.  Even the show management sent out an announcement that it would be safe and attendance was expected to be only down about 10%, however, it was down over 75%.  I drove home on March 10th still not too concerned about the potential to get the virus and in reality, not educated enough about the situation, although I did take the hand sanitizers given away at the show and used nitrate gloves at every fueling station!

When I got home, the pandemic hit in full force the next week and beyond.  As the news spread, toilet paper, water, and sanitizing wipes disappeared from every store in the nation!

On Thursday (3/26) we conducted a Go-Live for the RV Repair Club and had the largest turnout to date.  We have also seen a record number of participants logging in to the videos and blogs, mostly I believe due to the fact that we are sheltering in our homes and can’t stand what’s on TV!  Several people who have RVs are going to go out and “shelter” in their own space!  I think this is a wonderful idea…IF you prepare and take precautions.  Think about it…the astronauts “decompressed” in an RV returning from the moon!  So I believe we could “Shelter In Place” in our RVs.

  1. Understand the dangers of COVID-19 and how to protect yourself

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), COVID-19 is a new disease and they are still learning how it spreads, the severity of the illness it causes, and to what extent it might still spread.  The virus is thought to spread from person to person through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing within 6 feet.   It might also be possible that a person without symptoms could be infected and spread the virus so it’s important to practice “social distance” (6’) from everyone!  Limit your interaction with people, touching surfaces that others would be in contact with, and wash your hands!

  1. Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands!

Wash Your Hands

There is currently no vaccine so the best way to prevent getting the virus is to avoid being exposed.  Wash your hands often with soap and water lathering for at least 20 seconds before rinsing off.  According to the CDC is goes not have to be antibacterial soap and/or hot water, just wash your hands often.

Here is their recommendation:

  • Always use clean running water
  • Wet your hands first, turn off the water, and lather your hands with soap
  • Rub your hands together for 20 seconds getting the backs, in between fingers, and under fingernails
  • Turn the water on and rinse, dry using a clean towel or air dryer
  • If you do not have access to soap and water, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% isopropyl alcohol.  This is a good option for RVers that may have limited water supply?  Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes may be had to find.  Here is a good DIY recommended by the CDC:
    ¾ cup Isopropyl Alcohol (99%)
  • ¼ Cup Aloe Vera Gel (the alcohol will dry out your skin)
  • 10 Drops essential oil such as lavender or even lemon oil for a better smell
  • Place all ingredients in a clean/sanitized bowl, mix, and beat with a whisk to create a gel.  Pour the gel into a clean bottle, travel size bottles (3 oz) are available at Walgreens, Walmart and other stores that are a convenient size and have either flip top or pop-top for application.  According to the CDC, using a hand sanitizer with more than 60% alcohol for 60 seconds will kill the virus.

  1. Clean and disinfect your RV

Disinfecting Your RV

Typically your RV will not have an abundance of “retail traffic” or visitors other than you and your loved ones coming in that could introduce the virus.  However, it’s a good idea to periodically disinfect commonly touched areas such as the entrance door handle, faucets, toilets and such.

The EPA has listed the recommended products here.

  1. Do Your Homework Before Leaving

OK, wash your hands is the underlying theme, but after taking all the precautions about sanitizing and safety, where can I go?  Every day I see reports of campground closing, just recently Yellowstone NP has closed.  Some are still open to driving in, however, most campgrounds are closing.  The Bureau of Land Management has close their sites as well.

To see the latest status of National Parks, go to www.nps.gov

If you are considering a trip outside your local “comfort zone”, it is important to stock up on essential supplies such as fresh-water, RV approved toilet paper and food.  Items like rice, beans, nuts, and can goods can keep without using the refrigerator.

Make sure you let someone know where you are and if you do get symptoms, make sure you can get medical help.

  1. State of The RV Industry

Most RV manufacturers have ceased production and sent everyone home except for support personnel such as parts, technical support and such.  Most dealers are on a limited operation with service still available.

It is also important to research the area you intent to go to for what governors and local officials have enacted for “Shelter In Place” and other restrictions.  Here is an up to date guide for each state maintained by the National Governors Association.

CORONAVIRUS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Also, check with the individual campgrounds, or State Parks for updated information on availability.

  1. If You Do Go

As I stated earlier, several RV owners want to use their RVs to isolate themselves in remote areas.  Make sure you understand the sanitizing and washing procedures mentioned earlier, be careful at fuel stations as most now have throw away gloves and hand sanitizer at the pump, and keep you 6-foot distance!

Stay Safe And We Can Get Through This Together!

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.

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10 Tips For Cooking Meals While Camping.

01 Wednesday Apr 2020

Posted by in Favorite Recipes, Healthy Lifestyle, The Great Outdoors, Tips & Tricks

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10 Tips For Cooking While Camping

Anyone who enjoys spending evenings in a rustic environment under the stars, such as in your RV or camping in the woods, should know these ten tips for cooking meals while camping. With the use of water at a minimum in primitive camping spots, there are some tips and tricks to making easy and tasty dishes that require few utensils and even less clean up of camping cooking equipment.

  1. Get A Cast Iron

Cast Iron Cooking

Purchase just one medium-size cast iron skillet and you’ll find it comes in handy a multitude of ways while preparing your camping meals. Since cast iron disperses heat more evenly than other metals, a cast iron skillet will work beautifully for cooking everything from the freshest cornbread to the most delectable steak. Thinner metals also will tend to scorch that part of your meal which is over the hottest coals while leaving the cooler side less well done. When finished cooking with a cast-iron skillet, all you need to do is wipe out the skillet with a clean paper towel. A pretty easy cleanup and no water needed.

2. Make A One Pan Meal

Plan and prepare meals that use just one pan. Using that cast iron skillet as a cooking vessel for double or even triple duty will compute to less cleanup. So, fry your bacon in a cast iron skillet and dump some of the grease out. Add in your eggs, and you have a delicious campfire breakfast in no time. You can even butter toast and throw it into the same pan to brown it. Using just one pan will make clean up much easier. For a delicious dinner entrée, sauté some vegetables in olive oil, throw in some ground beef, and add some seasonal vegetables for a one-pan meal. Top with cheese for some added calories (if, of course, you need them…).

3. Bring A Grilling Basket

Grilling Basket

Bring along a grilling basket for grilling fresh vegetables. Fresh vegetables can be wrapped in aluminum or, for a more authentic campfire taste, place your vegetables in a grilling basket and place eight to twelve inches over your campfire, depending on the heat. Just turn frequently so your vegetables don’t burn in the basket. A grilling basket will also work well for grilling any type of meat, such as small pieces of chicken, beef or pork, or for grilling breakfast sausage.

4. Zip-Lock Storage

If you’re backpacking and are concerned about the weight you’re carrying, use gallon-size plastic zip-lock storage bags to store food items. Plastic storage bags are great to use to transport already marinated meat to your campsite. You can even pack some ice in a ziplock (double bagging it) and stow your meat next to the ice bag to keep it cool. A side benefit is that once the ice melts, you’ll have fresh, cool drinking water to sip. To prepare your meal, just open the bag containing the meat, place the meat on a grate above your campfire and voila – instant gourmet meal. Gallon size zip lock bags are also great to use for that pre-cocktail rum runner frozen drink. Freeze your drink overnight and it will thaw slowly during the day. Your rum runner will be just right for sipping in front of your campfire as you prepare the rest of your meal.

5. Use Nature’s Utensils (If You Need To)

Get creative and search your surroundings for cooking utensils. Instead of toting long-handled forks or skewers, find some long sticks at your campsite and strip them of any leaves or side branches. Use these homemade skewers to spear your hot dogs and place your entrée right over the campfire. When you’re done cooking those dogs, throw your stick right into the fire. Talk about recycling. Added benefit? No cleanup needed.

6. Get It Canned

Canned Food

If you’re concerned about spoilage of fresh vegetables, purchase canned vegetables instead. Pick up a few cans of good quality vegetables, open the cans and place directly in the campfire, on the coals, or on a propane camp stove. The vegetables are quite safe to eat when prepared this way, and you only need to throw away the can after cooking. Any item you purchase in the can may be heated up in this fashion.

7. Pre Season

For the easiest seasoning of camping meals, premix any seasonings you anticipate using. You can even add Worcestershire sauce to a zip lock bag, add in garlic powder, onion salt, and pepper and have steak seasoning ready to go. This mixture can be great to use on a baked potato or any type of vegetable also. Bring along only as much seasoning as you think you’ll use so you don’t have to tote the remainder home with you when you’re done camping.

8. Bring Charcoal

If you’re car camping and not concerned about weight, use a charcoal chimney to light the coals for your campfire. A charcoal chimney will start the coals in a fraction of the time that traditional charcoal fluid will use and will give you a cleaner taste to your food. All you need is one sheet of newspaper, a match, and charcoal. Place the newspaper in the bottom of the charcoal chimney and coals on top. Light the newspaper and sit back.  You’ll have glowing coals in 20 short minutes.

9. Hobo-Tatoes

Campfire Potatoes

Make delicious baked potatoes by wrapping cleaned potatoes in aluminum foil. These can even be prepared at home and toted along. For added interest, slit the potato in 5 or 6 slices, and then add butter to each slit along with a piece of onion. Simply toss your potato packets into the coals of the campfire and turn every ten minutes until soft in the middle. A delicious side dish for very little effort and, better yet, no cleanup except the crumpling of the aluminum foil.

10. MRE’s

If you’re looking for the easiest foods for cooking meals while camping, purchase some of the dehydrated packets found at any outdoor store. You’ll be able to find almost every type of food, including scrambled eggs, in dehydrated packs. Just add some heated water to the packet, seal for the prescribed amount of time, open and eat. If you want to have a complete meal, you can purchase some MRE (meals, ready-to-eat) which are 3 or 4 course meals, complete with a flavoring packet for your drinking water. MREs have come a long way from the meals our military had to endure during WWI and WW2.

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Coach-Net Camping: Beavers Bend State Park

05 Thursday Mar 2020

Posted by in National Parks, The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations, We Love It. We Live It.

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Beavers Bend State Park

Joseph (Right) is one of our highly skilled Learning Program Managers. He will have been with Coach-Net for a total of 3 years this coming May and we couldn’t be happier to have him! Joseph has taken the Airstream camping to Beaver’s Bend State Park twice and has had a blast both times! He loves the outdoors, musical theatre, and honing his skills as a singer! Read on to find out how his RV trips have gone!

Where did you go?

For my camping trips, I took two different groups of friends up to Broken Bow, Oklahoma, and we went camping in the Beaver’s Bend State Park in Coach-Net’s Airstream Flying Cloud. Beaver’s Bend is such an incredibly beautiful park and the area is full of fun things to do. The first trip was back in May, and we took full advantage of the numerous swimming opportunities. Our favorite spot was the spillway from the dam in the southern part of the park, but even though it was so warm and sunny, the water coming from the bottom of the lake above the dam was FREEZING! The second trip was in October, so swimming was definitely not an option, but we spent a large part of our day hiking and exploring along that same spillway, following the river.

Spillway

How long was your trip?

Both of our trips were about two days, getting to Broken Bow on Friday evening, and coming back to Denton/DFW on Sunday evening. We got to the park as it was getting dark, would set up for the weekend and head back to town for the last of our food supplies before making dinner, and then spent most of Saturday out swimming or exploring. The Sundays were a nice relaxing day where we slept in, ate some food before packing and cleaning up, and started the trek back home.

Was this your 1st time RVing?

My first time RVing was actually only about a week before the May trip. My mom and stepdad rented a travel trailer that we took out to Inks lake, west of Austin, TX, for about 4-5 days. Inks Lake State Park was a frequent camping spot for my parents when they were growing up, so it was cool for us to return to and have a relaxing few days in the outdoors. The May trip to Broken Bow was the first RVing trip though where I was the one towing the RV and showing my friends the ropes of RVing.

What’s the fondest memory of your trip?

RV DriveFor both of my trips, the majority of my friends had never been camping or used an RV before, so it was really great getting to show them how much fun RVing could be. For the May trip, I think one of my fondest memories was actually the time spent driving out to Broken Bow. We all act in musical theatre and we spent a lot of the drive singing and listening to different shows. During our second trip, we took a lot of videos and pictures, and my friend, Nolan, made a video commemorating the trip that was so funny and is a lot fun to look back on.

Did you find anything challenging about your RV trip?

Coach-Net AirstreamSurprisingly, there weren’t many challenges on our trips, even though I was the only one that knew much about RVs, and it was my first time taking one out myself. I am one of the trainers here at our call center and used to be an agent on our previous RV Core Team, so it was really cool to see the conceptual knowledge I have learned and taught over the years get put to use as we figured out things along the way. I will say that probably the most challenging part was setting up the first night on our May trip. It was already really dark and I hadn’t been to Beaver’s Bend before, so we didn’t know how to reserve and pay for a spot, and getting set up for the first time when it was so dark outside wasn’t easy.

Would you go again?

I know I will absolutely go out again. Working for a company that gives us the resource of using our Airstream anytime, and knowing it’s free to use, is so cool and such a blessing! All of my friends that have gone so far have talked about going out again, and there are even more that I want to go with.

Getting Ready In The Airstream

Where would you like to go next?

There are a few other parks I would like to go to, but they are a bit farther away. I think Beaver’s Bend is definitely going to be my usual spot, and likely where I will be going next time. It really is such a beautiful park!

Why do you love RVing?

I love RVing because it is such a fun escape. Growing up, we used to go tent camping all the time, between Cub and Boy Scouts, and just family trips, so going camping has always been a love of mine. RVing gives you that chance to still experience the outdoors and see such beautiful places, but without the risk of bad weather just ruining your trip and the chance to actually get some sleep in a bed. RVing is also a chance for me to bring my friends out on camping trips that would never want to go tent camping.

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Coach-Net Florida Holiday Trip

06 Thursday Feb 2020

Posted by in RV Information, We Love It. We Live It.

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Coach-Net Holiday Trip

At Coach-Net, we have a passion for helping other RVers as we are RVers ourselves. Leonard, one of our RV-certified technicians, has been with Coach-Net for 6 years but has been RVing for over 30 years. He owns a 2013 Forest River Wildwood, a 33-ft tow behind travel trailer. Leonard does not miss an opportunity to go camping and recently celebrated new years in Florida. Here’s a look into his trip!

1. Where did you go?

While visiting family in south Florida over the holidays, we celebrated bringing in the new year by camping in my dad’s 1999 Beaver Monticello (40″ diesel pusher) at the Everglades Isle Motorcoach Resort.  It’s located right in the middle of Everglade City, Florida along the Barron River.  We learned that the river was named after the famous real estate developer, Barron Collier, who established the town.  Everglade City is also known as the “Stone Crab Capital” of the world.  Boy, are they delicious to eat!  Experiencing the unique scenery, and discovering the history of the area are a couple of our favorite things to do wherever we are RVing.  There is always something new to see, to do, and to eat!

  1. How long was your trip?

RV Resort - FloridaWe spent 3 nights, 4 days with family and friends enjoying the resort’s amenities, as well as, exploring the historical surroundings, boating around the 10,000 Islands, watching the airboat tours taking people out to see the alligators, and soaking in the vibrant sunsets. As usual, we packed as much as we could to get the most out of each day.

  1. Was this your 1st time RVing?

No, but this was our 1st time RVing in just my dad’s rig, which made it extra special. We have been camping for over 30 years with our own kids and friends, enjoying many different types of campers and places.  Also, it was our 1st time staying in an exclusive “motorcoach” retreat. Being a master Certified Tech at Coach-Net, it was interesting to walk around comparing all the eclectic styles and features of so many of the RV’s we take calls on.

  1. What’s the fondest memory of your trip?

Our fondest memories of this trip were made celebrating New Year’s Eve at the resort.   We enjoyed a nice Prime Rib dinner and entertainment in the clubhouse, followed by a spectacular fireworks show over the water.  It was a wonderful way to ring in a new decade with exciting “cheers” to making many more memories together RVing.

  1. Did you find anything challenging about your RV trip?

Actually, while we were there the refrigerator supply line starting leaking.  My dad and I found that the compression fitting was the issue and had to replace it.  A quick trip to the hardware store and our problem was resolved.  Another reason RVing is so beneficial to me and my skills.  There are learning opportunities for every trip!

  1. Would you go again?

Leonard & FriendsWe are always up for another RVing adventure, whether it be in an RV Resort, State Park, or Campground. There are so many beautiful places left to be seen on our traveling bucket list.

  1. Where would you like to go next?

We would like to take a short camping trip out to see the Buffalo again in Caprock Canyon State Park.  We were there several years ago when the herd was just being established.  Our next long adventure will take us out to the Southwest desert area.  Visiting Lake Havasu City, Arizona to see the town where Coach-Net started would definitely on our list of things to do.

  1. Why do you love RVing?

My family and I love RVing for the many opportunities it gives us to explore new places, make lasting memories, meet new friends, and enjoy a relaxing lifestyle as we travel.  Cheers to safe travels

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Green Cleaning Solutions For Your RV

18 Wednesday Dec 2019

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Green Cleaning For Your RV

Green Cleaning Solutions For Your RV

RV ownership is more popular than ever — over nine million families in the U.S. currently own one, the RV Industry Association reports. Keeping your RV interiors nice and clean is an important part of ownership. Dirt gets tracked in by shoes, dust blows in through open windows, and general grime quickly accumulates on bathroom and kitchen surfaces. Fortunately, there are several eco-friendly cleaning solutions that can keep your RV clean while minimizing your environmental impact.

Green cleaning products

Conventional cleaning products are certainly effective, but they’re full of synthetic chemicals that harm the environment and human health. In particular, volatile organic compounds, phosphorus, nitrogen, and ammonia are commonly found in the household cleaners typically used to clean RVs. These chemicals are some of the worst pollutants of water and air, as identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. You can eliminate these chemicals from your cleaning routine by making your own natural cleaning products. Natural ingredients are better for the environment and just as effective as conventional cleaners.

Green Cleaning Products

For example, a DIY paste of baking soda, vinegar, and water can be used to clean your counters, stove, and bathroom. Vinegar and water can also be used to clean glass and mirrors. Using a minimal number of multi-purpose natural ingredients is cheaper, simplifies your cleaning routine, and takes up less space in your RV.

Robot vacuums

Even if you already have a comprehensive central vacuum system for your RV, a secondary robot vacuum is essential for those times when you’re low on time, energy, or power required to operate the central vac. A robot vacuum can effortlessly navigate your RV to vacuum the floors for you — no matter what type of floor surface you have. Smart models can connect to the Wi-Fi, which means you can control it with voice commands or smartphone apps from any location. Many models are also specifically designed to get into the tight corners and hard-to-reach areas you typically find in RVs. Robot vacuums are also eco-friendly because they’re battery-powered, which means they end up using less energy than regular plug-in cleaners.

Robot Vacuum

Robot mops

A good mop is essential for cleaning any wood, tile, and laminate floors in your RV. In particular, robot mops are a new technology that simplifies cleaning your floors greatly. They’re fitted with cutting-edge sensors able to navigate your RV and mop your floor for you. Getting around compact spaces and tight corners is no problem for robot mops. They’re also able to precisely spray cleaning solution onto the floor while taking care not to hit your furniture. If you have a robot mop with a Wi-Fi connection, you’ll be able to set the mop’s route and schedule with an app on your smartphone. Many models of robot mop are also eco-friendly — look for ones that use reusable cleaning pads. They’re also very efficient cleaners, which use up to 80% less water than conventional mops.

Robot Mop

Eco-friendly doormats

Investing in a good-quality doormat for your RV is a simple yet effective solution to keep dirt and mud at bay. It’ll also lessen the amount of time you spend vacuuming and mopping the floors. Look for a mat made from eco-friendly materials like recycled rubber, natural jute, or coconut fibers. Once it wears out, it’ll biodegrade, which is much better for the environment. Remember to also regularly vacuum your mat front and back. Additionally vacuuming the back of the mat helps dislodge any dirt embedded on the front.

Keeping your RV clean doesn’t have to be expensive, labor-intensive, or involve strong chemicals. With these smart eco-friendly products and devices, you can keep your RV floors and surfaces clean with minimal time and effort.

About the author: Ali Walker

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Simple Ways to Keep the Air in Your RV Clean

06 Wednesday Nov 2019

Posted by in RV Information

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Simple Ways to Keep the Air in Your RV Clean

With more than 141 million Americans breathing unhealthy air every single day, it’s clear that pollution has become a nationwide issue. With that said, it’s more important than ever that we keep the air in our RV’s as clean and pure as possible in order to protect against illness. No matter where you’re heading, keeping the air clean when on the road doesn’t have to be difficult – especially with these simple methods.

Avoiding mold

Along with dust and the dreaded pet dander, mold spores and growth can also prevent the air in your RV from being the cleanest. One of the best things you can do is to to avoid mold altogether, as it can easily trigger allergies and other respiratory issues – not to mention make your RV smell unpleasant. For that reason, proper ventilation is a must in order to prevent the creation of a damp environment that mold thrives in. In an RV, this means opening windows, using an air purifier, and even running the air conditioner, which can work to remove water-soluble air contaminants.

Natural remedies

RV PlantsWhile air purifiers can do the job, other natural remedies may work just as well. For example, bringing houseplants into the space can be an excellent all-natural way of boosting the air quality in your RV. In fact, using indoor plants offers benefits that you can’t get with other store-bought systems. For example, not only can plants absorb pollutants, but they may also be able to restore the air quality as well. Going with a natural remedy for controlling the air quality in your RV can bring other benefits too, as they can be a more cost-effective alternative to other indoor air quality systems on the market since only simple upkeep is needed – and they make a great ornamental piece.

Keeping pollution out

It’s important to realize that keeping pollutants out of your RV can play a key role in keeping the air clean. Smoking, for instance, can pose a major threat to the air quality in your RV. In fact, cigarette smoke produces a shocking 10 times more air pollution than that of diesel exhaust. That said, if you smoke, you’re better off lighting up elsewhere – especially when cigarette smoke has the potential to cling to furniture, fabrics, and other fixtures in your RV. However, cigarette smoke isn’t the only preventable pollutant to the air quality in an RV, as cleaning products may also be harmful.

Hazardous Cleaning Material

Harsh cleaning products may do their job well, though can leave behind a strong odor and varying consequences in regards to air quality. Chemical exposure from such products – even aerosol air fresheners – can cause a wide variety of health issues like eye and respiratory irritation, especially when used in a small space like an RV. To avoid these effects, using all-natural cleaning products while keeping your RV properly ventilated can provide a practical solution.

With pollution being a major factor in health and wellness, keeping the air clean in your RV is an absolute must, especially if you spend a lot of time in it. For that reason, taking the proper precautions, such as avoiding mold and the use of harsh cleaning products, you can ensure that the air quality in your RV is as clean and pure as possible.

About the author: Ali Walker

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Why Solar Power Should Be Your Next RV Investment

27 Friday Sep 2019

Posted by in Tech Tips, Tips & Tricks

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RV Solar Power

Renewable energy fever is engulfing the United States, and this is extending to people who like to live their life on the road, too. Batteries are coming down in price, as is equipment, while also improving in strength, with The Verge reporting that a super-powered battery charger that provides 16 amps – household current levels. For RV and tech enthusiasts, turning to solar power should become a question of when, rather than if. The benefits are not hypothetical, but are available to be gained today.

The range question

For RV owners, it’s understandable why solar power can be treated with a little trepidation. Endurance is a key part of the RV experience, and range anxiety – the fear that the vehicle will give up the ghost far short of a safe stop – features prominently among all US vehicle owners, according to the Washington Post. However, advancements in solar technology mean that this should no longer be a worry. Most of note are the RV charging bays that are currently being positioned throughout the country, and particularly in hot counties like California. These will allow you to charge electric batteries on the fly.

Effectiveness of solar

Solar Powered RVRV owners value their independence, and solar panels can help to achieve. However, it hasn’t always been this way, as noted by green energy advocates Energy Sage. Previously, solar panels were only useful for those engaging in boondocking. However, as solar panels have now reduced in price and weight considerably, it means that your appliances can be charged effectively and efficiently by simply getting out on the road. It’s financially feasible to get a solar panel RV setup going and keep charge during the day at a background level; this will be financially sound regardless of whether you look for off the beaten track or not.

The reform of batteries

Key in the changes making solar effective for RVs is the innovation and expansion of solar energy batteries. Japanese innovators have now produced new consumer-level batteries that will promise to reform the system entirely and make transporting electric energy far easier. Furthermore, big business, including Samsung, have outlined how the next generation of solar battery will be able to store and safeguard greater levels of juice than any other system before. For RV drivers, this has two major benefits. Firstly, moving into colder areas where there are fewer opportunities for solar-based energy will be less impactful. Secondly, you will have a greater range and quite simply be more durable on the road, and all for less cost.

When taking all of the factors into account, setting up a solar rig for your RV is becoming a no brainer. The energy is free, there are no longer constraints on your range or the power of charging available, and you’ll be doing a favor to the natural beauty that RV owners so often are able to take in. For the next improvement to your on-the-road rig, consider getting into renewable energy.

Author: Ali Walker 

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3 Top States for Off-Grid RV Living

04 Wednesday Sep 2019

Posted by in The Great Outdoors

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The great Charles Darwin himself once said: “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is the most adaptable to change.” Off-grid living is becoming increasingly popular globally and in the United States with more than 180,000 American families adhering to this lifestyle already. While there are many types of off-grid houses to choose from including cob houses, bamboo houses, and repurposed shipping containers, an RV can almost be turned into a very comfortable self-contained home. Although an RV does allow you to practically enjoy your off-grid living anywhere you fancy, there are some places that are more conducive to peaceful, self-sufficient living. The following U.S. states have proven to be particularly enticing to people wanting to break away from conventional utility-dependent living.

Alaska is an off-grid dream come true

Alaska
Alaska is without any doubt one of the most popular states as far as off-grid living is concerned. Not only is the natural scenery spectacular imagine witnessing the Northern lights right from your own doorstep) but there are also no laws in place that prohibit gardening and the raising of farm animals, as long as you are able to provide fenced pastures and safe housing. If you have children you will be able to homeschool them without any hassles as Alaska has no laws pertaining to homeschooling in place. One of the biggest factors to consider when living off the grid in an RV in Alaska is the inclement weather. In some areas of the state temperatures can reach below -65°F which can prove to be quite testing, especially if you are not used to such cold weather. Luckily the icy conditions can easily be negated with alternative energy sources and a propane furnace.

There is a lot to love about fuss-free Missouri

Missouri RVing Missouri is one of the states in the USA that actively promotes off-grid living to the greatest extent. If the extreme weather conditions of Alaska do not appeal to you, Missouri may be a good place for your off-grid RV living as the weather is a lot milder than the northernmost state’s. If you want to keep farm animals such as chickens, goats, and even a cow or two, Missouri is ideal as some areas allow not only for raising livestock but for the growing of grain for feeding purposes as well. As with Alaska, homeschooling is a breeze in Missouri and there is no legal requirement to inform the state of your intention to homeschool your children. While there are a number of superb RV parks across the state where you can live off-grid in tranquil surroundings, you might also want to consider buying your own rural plot of land that you can fully develop to your heart’s content.

Who wouldn’t want to live in Montana?

MontanaMontana is an exquisite state with beautiful natural scenery that makes it an ideal place to call home. While the winters can be quite harsh, the state is at its best during summer which, thankfully, does not get exceedingly hot. You will be able to keep farm animals should you wish as the laws surrounding them are almost as lax as the homeschooling laws. You will, however, have to invest in extra feed for your livestock as the growing season is surprisingly short. You will be required to have a permit if you want to keep chickens but there is no limit on how many you can keep and the permit tariff is also very reasonable. More good news is the fact that it is completely legal to harvest rainwater in Montana which is especially welcome as it tends to be one of the drier states in the country.
If you are already a proud RV owner and consider going off the grid, making your camper a permanent home is almost the obvious thing to do. While there is a considerable amount of research and work that goes into becoming self-sufficient it will more than likely turn out to be one of the best decisions you have ever made.

Author: Ali Walker 

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Top 10 Ways Not To Embarrass Yourself As An RV Newbie

29 Wednesday May 2019

Posted by in RV Information, Tips & Tricks

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RV Newbie

‘I love embarrassing myself!’ said no-one ever. The only benefit of making a mistake is learning from it. Instead of making an RVing mistake that COULD cost you a bundle and possibly damage your ego, read on and learn.

  1. Know Your Height Clearance

Your RV has a height. But did you consider the addition of your air conditioner and other things up top? Here are plenty of people who didn’t:

If you RV in the east, you likely will have to be aware of your true height. If you are in the west only, you will encounter major height restrictions less often. You still must know it!

If you can’t remember it, write it down and tape it in your odometer area.

  1. Learn The Basics About Battery Care

RV Battery

Your RV batteries- there’s a little bit of a learning curve to understand them.

Basic Knowledge: 

If you have the common lead-acid batteries, you cannot let them go below a 50% charge. (Somewhere around 12.0. 12.8 is fully charged.) Sounds unreasonable, but that’s how it is. Going below 50% charge even once starts to kill the life of your batteries.

If you are lucky enough to have very expensive lithium (fairly rare, especially in an RV sold at a dealership), this rule does not apply. You can let lithium drain much lower before recharging.

Medium Knowledge: 

When you aren’t plugged in, you need to keep an eye on your batteries state of charge using a multimeter. If you have a battery monitor, you don’t need the multimeter. If you’re always plugged into shore power, then your batteries will be fine. They get charged while plugged in.

Deeper Knowledge:

If you are planning on dry camping with no generator for a few days, plan ahead. You need to know if your batteries will last x number of days without using a generator. And without going below 50%.

If you DO have a generator, keep an eye on your batteries. Don’t let them get below 50% before charging them back up.

  1. Know Your Length Restrictions

Long Road

Many campgrounds and parks have restrictions on RV length. Even some roads have restrictions, such as the Going To The Sun Road in Glacier National Park. You can’t drive it if you are over 21 feet.

What a buzzkill to find out that you can’t go to where you wanted because you have too long of a motorhome. Check lengths in the places you want to go to BEFORE deciding on an RV to buy or rent.

  1. Don’t Leave Your ‘X’ Out

Well, we all are capable of doing any of these pretty much any time. But these are a tell-tale sign of a newbie in a campground:

  • Leaving your antenna up
  • Leaving steps out
  • Leaving windows/bays open
  • Forgetting to unplug power/water/cable from the power portal
  • Leaving surge protector at the pedestal
  • Forgetting to chock the RV before disconnecting
  • Forgetting to close the sewer valve

It might help to have a checklist. There are some good RV checklist phone apps out there.

  1. Know Your Weight Ratings

This can spell a lot of trouble for you. It is VITAL to make sure you stay under the GVWR of your RV, and to stay under the towing capacity of your tow vehicle.

Watch for these numbers and stay well under them for best results. Also, if you buy a used tow vehicle, make SURE you know the rating of the receiver. If it was an aftermarket receiver, it could be low.

My Ford Raptor has a tow rating of 6-8,000 lbs. After I purchased the truck, I was in for a surprise.

My aftermarket receiver is only rated for 5,000 lbs. Luckily my trailer only weighs 4,400 lbs. Eeek!

You can weigh your trailer at a truck stop scale. If you have a trailer, here’s a guide on how to weigh your trailer, tow vehicle, and find out your tongue weight.

  1. Buy An RV You Can Handle 

Large Truck

 

The bigger your RV is, the more work it’s going to take to maintain everything. There’s more to clean, more that can break, you are more restricted where you can go, and more.

You might start as small as you think you can handle and go from there. You likely can live with much less than you think you can.

  1. Don’t Bring Too Much

Too Much ClutterThis especially holds true for full-time RVers. I sure as heck brought along way, WAY too much. I only have about 20% of what I brought remaining.

I even have a photo of my mess of an RV the day I moved everything into it.

I look at it now, and I only still have maybe 10 things in that photo. Everything else has been donated.

If you’re a weekend warrior, chill. Bring the necessities. A few changes of clothing, food, games and such. You will soon figure out what you do and don’t need!

  1. Wait To Buy Camping Memberships

I didn’t know about this one. Not knowing ‘how’ I was going to camp, I got myself a Passport America membership (which I never used, not even once.) Someone gifted me an RV Club Membership but I rarely used it due to my camping style.

Start by camping some first. THEN decide if you really do need ‘X’ membership. There are quite a few to choose from.

  1. Get a Surge Protector/EMS

Oh boy. This is a very hot topic, though it shouldn’t be. If you will be plugged into power, and 90% of RVs are, you need protection. One brownout could cost you ALL the electronics in your RV.

This is not something to fool with. There are tons of stories out there of people who regret not having one. There are also people who say that they have camped for 10 or so years without one, and they have never had a problem. Great. You don’t have a problem until you have a problem.

Don’t roll the dice. Get an EMS (Electrical Management System) or at the very least, a good surge protector before you EVER plug in.

  1. Have Roadside Assistance For Your Setup

Once again, it only takes one incident for you to regret not planning ahead. Getting roadside assistance ahead of time is vital to saving the big bucks if you have a breakdown.

Typically, your first incident will pay for itself. Whether it’s a tire change, a lockout, or you need towing to the nearest shop, it will cost you big bucks without protection.

Conclusion

Hey, we all make mistakes. Making some of these mistakes will cost you more than others. We hope at the very least you protect yourself with an EMS, as having electrical damage will cost you the most.

You are now fitted with the knowledge you need to look like a seasoned vet when you pull into the campground. Get out there and enjoy!

Do you have a recommendation for newbies that is not listed here? Shout it out below!

About the Author: Kelly Beasley

Kelly Beasley is co-founder of Camp Addict and loves sharing her enthusiasm for the RVing lifestyle. As a full-time RVer since May 2015, Kelly’s playful writing style helps make learning about the sometimes dull subject of RV products a bit more interesting.

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