Tag Archives: Travel

Best RV Stops: Family-Friendly Children’s Museums Across the U.S.

05 Wednesday Mar 2025

Posted by in Kids and Camping, Travel Destinations

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When our son was younger, we would make a point of visiting children’s museums wherever we went. Now that our daughter is old enough to appreciate these museums, they are making their way back into our travel plans.

In this article, we will discuss the best children’s museums we’ve seen so far. Choose one from this list when planning your travels, and you really can’t go wrong!

The Magic House

St. Louis, MO

St. Louis is home to a number of great attractions. There is a free zoo that is amazing, as well as a free science center, a history museum, and an art museum. The city is also home to the incredible City Museum, which should be on every traveler’s must-see list. Another favorite St. Louis spot of ours? The Magic House.

I have fond memories of visiting the Magic House when I was little, and was pleasantly surprised to find that the museum met my expectations all these years later. The place plays host to climbing structures, sand- and water-play areas, an outdoor play area, and the crown jewel: a kid-sized city where kids can try out different occupations for a while.

Houston Children’s Museum

Houston, TX

Houston is another city with lots of wonderful museums to choose from. The Health Museum is fantastic, as is the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Of course, you definitely don’t want to miss the Houston Space Center, nor do you want to skip the amazing Houston Children’s Museum.

The latter museum features one of the bigger kid cities I’ve seen, and the city is complete with currency, meaning kids can get “jobs” and earn “money” to go spend at the businesses in the tiny town. Other cool things in this museum include a huge outdoor play area, an awesome indoor climbing structure, and a super fun maker space where kids can create new inventions.

Children of Gettysburg

Gettysburg, PA

One of the more unique children’s museums we’ve seen, Children of Gettysburg is small, but it has a very specific purpose, and it does its job well. The purpose? To present the story of Gettysburg in a way that kids can understand and appreciate.

The museum follows a set of children from various backgrounds through the events of the Battle of Gettysburg. Everything is explained in a way that kids can connect with and digest, and there are plenty of hands-on activities to engage young visitors and help them dive into the world of the 19th-century children they are learning about.

My kids especially loved the last room where they could care for an “injured soldier” and make a speech as President Lincoln.

Bay Area Children’s Museum

San Francisco, CA

Bay Area Children’s Museum may be a lesser-known children’s museum, but we thought it was absolutely magical. In fact, we loved this museum so much that we returned for a second round of fun a couple of years after the first.

The museum is set up in several different buildings, which I appreciated, as it helped my busy little guy focus on the thing he was doing rather than being distracted by all of the other exhibits. There was a lovely outdoor space between the buildings with the coolest “natural” play area. We really loved the art room at this museum and probably could have stayed there all day long.

How to Save on Children’s Museum Visits

One of the things I don’t love about children’s museums is how expensive they can be. Fortunately, we have found some ways around that:

  • Many children’s museums offer free or cheap days each week or once a month. Look for these days and try to plan your travels around them if you can.
  • Additionally, some museums will offer coupons or Groupons. Search for these before paying full price; you never know what you might find.
  • Lastly, a lot of children’s museums are part of reciprocal museum programs. ASTC is a science museum reciprocal program that offers members free admission to all member museums. ACM is a children’s museum reciprocal program that offers cardholders half-off admission to the museums in their program. Both include plenty of children’s museums all across the country.

As you can see, there are lots of amazing children’s museums scattered across the country, and really, these are just a handful of them. Hopefully, this article inspires you to check out a few of these super fun spots for yourself!

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.

The Best National Parks To Visit In Winter

12 Wednesday Feb 2025

Posted by in National Parks

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Winter is in full swing, but that doesn’t mean your RV travels have to come to a stop. My family enjoys traveling all year long, and yes, we do even work outdoor destinations into our winter schedule. In this article, I will share some of the best national parks to visit in winter so you can do the same!

The Best Cold Weather National Parks to Visit in Winter

Want to embrace the winter weather and take in the icy beauty it has to offer? Head to one of these gorgeous cold weather places, which are easily some of the best national parks to visit in winter.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the country’s most popular parks, and for good reason. This place is absolutely gorgeous, and in the winter it becomes a magical wonderland filled with snow-covered landscapes, steaming geysers, and plenty of wildlife, including bison and wolves.

  • Best Things to Do

Some of the best things to do in Yellowstone in the winter months include snowcoach or snowmobile tours to attractions like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular, along with wildlife watching in Lamar Valley.

  • Where to Camp

RV camping in the park itself is limited in winter. Mammoth Campground remains open year-round, so you might be able to snag a spot there, but be prepared to camp without hookups.

Otherwise, you might head to the nearby Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park in West Yellowstone, Montana. This campground stays open in winter and offers heated facilities.

Bryce Canyon National Park

I absolutely loved the bizarre hoodoos and other weird and wonderful rock formations in Bryce Canyon. These become even more strange and beautiful in winter when they are covered in snow, creating an otherworldly landscape you won’t soon forget.

  • Best Things to Do

Not sure what to do? Walk along the Rim Trail for breathtaking winter views. If possible, you’ll also want to attend ranger-led full-moon snowshoe hikes for a memorable experience. Cross-country skiing is also available near Fairyland Road.

  • Where to Camp

Inside the park, North Campground is open year-round. Sites are first-come, first-served and do not include hookups of any kind. If you do need hookups, head to Ruby’s Inn RV Park and Campground, located just outside the park entrance.

The Best Warm Weather National Parks to Visit in Winter

If you’re like me, you’d prefer to skip the winter cold altogether. In this case, you might want to consider one of these warm-weather national parks. They are the best national parks to visit in winter if you’re looking for warm temperatures and sunny skies.

Everglades National Park

We’ve visited the Everglades many times during the winter season. We love it because winter is the dry season, meaning lovely weather, fewer mosquitoes, and excellent wildlife viewing. Besides, who doesn’t love basking in the Florida sun in the wintertime?

  • Best Things to Do

I highly recommend taking a guided boat tour or renting a kayak to explore the mangroves and hopefully spot some manatees. It is also super fun to go birdwatching at Shark Valley or along the Anhinga Trail.

Lastly, make sure to join a ranger-led program to learn about the park’s unique ecosystem. We especially loved the nighttime tour to see the gators in action.

  • Where to Camp

Long Pine Key Campground and Flamingo Campground are both located inside the park and can accommodate RVs. Flamingo offers electrical hookups, while Long Pine Key has dry camping. Both fill up quickly though, so be sure to book early!

If you can’t grab a spot in the park, consider Miami Everglades RV Resort. This is a full-service option close to the park entrance and we’ve always enjoyed our stays there.

Joshua Tree National Park

Another park we’ve visited many times in winter, Joshua Tree is absolutely stunning. The mild weather during the cold months makes hiking and rock climbing more enjoyable than it might be during the heat of summer. Winter is also a quieter season, meaning fewer crowds.

  • Best Things to Do

While you’re in Joshua Tree, be sure to hike the Hidden Valley or Barker Dam trails, and rock climb at famous formations like Intersection Rock. It’s also a good idea to do some stargazing once the sun goes down. This is a designated International Dark Sky Park after all, and the night skies are suitably incredible!

  • Where to Camp

Inside the park, you will find that the Black Rock and Cottonwood campgrounds are RV-friendly, but there are no hookups to speak of, and big rigs may not fit. If you need to find a place outside of the park, you can boondock on the BLM land surrounding the park or head to an RV park such as Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, which offers full hookups.

Ready for a wintertime RV adventure? Choose one of the parks above, book a campsite, and get ready to see these beautiful places in all their wintery glory!

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.

The RV Extension Cord Guide

10 Wednesday Jul 2024

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

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Most RV campsites out there have a power pedestal not too far from the RV pad. This makes it easy to plug in using only the power cord that comes with your RV. That said, there are times when the power pedestal is set far away from the pad, and in these cases, an RV extension cord might be necessary.  

If you’re in a spot where an RV extension cord is required, there are a few things you should know.  

Choosing an RV Extension Cord

If you need to extend the length of your RV power cord, avoid using a typical household extension cord. These cords cannot handle the amperage an RV requires, will quickly become overheated, and could even melt or catch fire. 

Instead, you will need to purchase an RV extension cord—a cord made specifically for use with an RV. Here’s what you should look for as you shop. 

Amperage 

First, you must make sure you purchase a cord with the correct amperage. If your RV requires 30 amps or 50 amps, buy a corresponding RV extension cord. To determine which amperage you need, take a look at the RV plug. If it has three prongs, it is a 30-amp cord, while four-prong plugs indicate the RV is a 50-amp rig.  

Length 

Choosing an RV extension cord length can be tricky. Obviously, you want a cord that reaches where you need it to, but it is also important that the cord is not overly long.

This is because long cable runs can create dangerous and damaging voltage drops. It goes without saying that this isn’t good, so go as short as you can while still giving yourself enough slack to reach the outlet, and generally avoid extension cords that are more than 50 feet long.  

Durability 

Finally, you will, of course, want to purchase something that will last a long time. Make sure to read reviews before buying an RV extension cord to ensure you get a high-quality product that will last a long time.  

The Best RV Extension Cords

Still not sure what to buy? Our favorite option is the Camco Power Grip cord with a locking end. We love that the end locks into place and that the plug comes with a handle, making it easy to unplug the cord correctly. We’ve also found that these cords hold up well, even when used out in the elements.  

Using an RV Extension Cord

Okay, now that you have an extension cord picked out, it’s time to use it. Here are our top tips for using your RV extension cord safely.  

Use a Surge Protector 

First and foremost, it is important that you always use an RV surge protector when plugging your RV into any power outlet. This applies when using an RV extension cord and when you are not. 

Either way, plug the surge protector into the outlet and then plug the RV power cord or extension cord into the surge protector.  

Don’t Link Cords 

We mentioned the dangerous voltage drops that can occur in long runs above. This becomes especially likely when extension cords are linked. For this reason, we don’t recommend plugging one RV extension cord into the next. 

If you must have a longer extension cord than the one you already own, buy a new, longer one rather than a short one to link to your current cord.  

Avoid Water 

We all know that water and electricity do not mix. Even though RV extension cords are made for outdoor usage, keeping the connection points up off the ground and out of the water is a good idea. 

A small stool can be used to raise the connection and keep it out of puddles in case of rain. If you happen to have extra leveling blocks lying around, they also work well for this purpose.  

Pull at the Plug 

It can be tempting to unplug your RV extension cord by pulling on the cord itself. Don’t. Make sure you pull on the plug head itself. Pulling on the cord can cause internal damage to the wires inside the extension cord, which could actually be dangerous.

There you have it, everything you need to know about RV extension cords. Why not invest in an extension today so you’re ready the next time you need one? 

May contain affiliate links.  

About the Author: Chelsea G.

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.

Tim C. ~ “Patrick answered quickly, ensured we were safe, and immediately started working on options to get us safely on the road again! Incredible Service!”

Your Guide To Camping In The Everglades

18 Monday Dec 2023

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Tips & Tricks, Travel Destinations

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Winter is here, meaning those of us who prefer to camp year-round are heading south so we can keep warm. One of the options? Camping in the Everglades!

Located in southern Florida, the Everglades offer a lovely, warm escape from winter snow and ice, as well as some seriously beautiful plants and animals. Here you can enjoy the great outdoors without even breaking out a coat, and you won’t have to worry one bit about winterizing your RV.

Not sure how to begin planning your trip to go camping in the Everglades? Here’s what you need to know.

Best Spots for Camping in the Everglades

First, let’s talk about the best places to stay while camping in the Everglades. These campgrounds are perfect for RVers and offer easy access to all of the amazing things the Everglades have to offer, as well as plenty of amenities to keep you comfortable.

Long Pine Key Campground

Offering both reserved sites and first-come, first-served sites, Long Pine Key Campground is located in Everglades National Park, meaning you’ll be able to reach all the park has to offer quickly and easily. The sites here do not include any kind of hookups, but there is potable water, a dump station, and a restroom with showers.

Flamingo Campground

Want to have hookups while staying in the national park? Flamingo Campground is the perfect place for that. This campground has 27/4 campsites and 41 of those offer electric hookups. There are also dump stations, solar-heated showers, and potable water available onsite. Just be sure you make a reservation in advance!

Midway Campground

If you don’t mind staying outside of the park, Midway Campground in Big Cypress National Preserve is another good option. This campground is about 30 minutes away from Everglades National Park and offers electric hookups, potable water, a dump station, restrooms, and easy access to all the area has to offer.

Our Favorite Things to Do in the Everglades

Now that you know where to stay, the next question is what to do while camping in the Everglades. Luckily there are plenty of options, and it would be really hard to get bored while visiting this amazing place.

Explore the Visitor Centers

I always recommend visiting visitor centers when visiting national parks, and this is just as true in Everglades National Park as it is anywhere else. In my opinion it’s best to start at a visitor center, as this will introduce you to the park and all it has to offer. If you can, visit more than one center, as each one has unique exhibits and different information to offer.

The visitor centers in the park include:

  • Gulf Coast Visitor Center
  • Shark Valley Visitor Center
  • Ernest Coe Visitor Center
  • Royal Palm Visitor Center
  • Flamingo Visitor Center

Take a Hike (or a Stroll)

The best way to really connect with the Florida Everglades? Go on a hike or a walk. This allows you to get up close and personal with the amazing plants and animals that call the park home. We especially love the Anhinga Trail, which puts you on a boardwalk through the wetlands. There are a wide variety of birds found along the path at any given time, and often you will find alligators sunbathing along the way as well.

Attend Ranger Programs

Ranger programs are always a good way to learn more about any given national park. In Everglades National Park, we really like the nighttime ranger walk along the Anhinga Trail. Because it takes place at night, this walk often allows guests to see alligators in their most active state, something you certainly won’t soon forget.

Hop on an Airboat

No trip to the Everglades is complete without a ride in an airboat. Yes, these boats are loud, but the airboat tours offered in the Everglades give you the opportunity to go where visitors cannot normally go while seeing all kinds of awesome animals in the beautiful wetlands.

…or Opt for a Tram (or a Bike)

Don’t want to ride an airboat? You could hop on the Shark Valley tram instead. This tram takes you on a tour of the park, so you can see lots of awesome scenery in a short amount of time.

Alternatively, you can ride a bike along the Shark Valley Tram Road to see the same awesome scenery at your own pace while getting some exercise.

As you can see, camping in the Everglades is an awesome experience that every RVer should have at least once. Why not start planning your trip today?

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.

Dickie N. ~ “You had us on the road within two hours on Christmas day! The follow-up by Coach-Net to assure we were taken care of was great! Thank you!”

The Top 3 RV Adventures to Add to Your Bucket List

02 Friday Mar 2018

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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RV Bucket ListIf you think you have to travel overseas to have the adventure of a lifetime, think again! These three expeditions will have you diving, eating and gazing right in your own RV’s backyard. With any luck, you’ll be crossing these adventures off your bucket list in no time.

Go Cliff Jumping

If you’re looking for a thrill (and don’t mind heights), why not try your hand at cliff diving in one of the United States’ best cliff jumping spots? While some jumps are so unsafe it’s illegal to step off the edge, there are several majestic areas that you can explore with confidence. Crater Lake, in Oregon, offers crystal blue waters against a Pacific Mountain backdrop, while Red Rocks Park in Burlington, VT, is practically a right of passage for locals. Be sure to heed any and all safety warnings before you jump, of course, and get ready for some breathtaking (or breath-holding) excitement!cliff jumping

Take a Canadian Foodie Road Trip

Canada’s top three traditional foods — poutine, nanaimo bars and butter tarts — are must-eat treats in the Great White North. To find the best of the best, fill up the tank for a cross-country road trip. Start on the eastern side at Willy’s in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for a local poutine topped with sweet and garlicky donair meat. Next, stop into Maple Leaf Bakery on your way through Saskatchewan for some sweet and flaky butter tarts. Finish in Nanaimo, British Columbia, the namesake of the decadent bars, for a taste of the classic dessert at Perkins Coffee Company, which offers generous and delicious portions.poutine

See the Northern Lights

A standard on anyone’s bucket list, seeing the Northern Lights is a popular life goal. Plan a camping trip to Alaska to check out this impressive natural wonder, and you’ll be in for quite a show. From Denali National Park in central Alaska to the expansive Chena River Lakes (over 2,000 acres to explore), there are many great spots to park and gaze at the display of lights while enjoying your camping vacation.northern lights

There is plenty of excitement to be had in North America’s uppermost countries, for those who like a thrill and those who enjoy a meal alike. Wherever you decide to park your RV, you can be sure to find a great adventure nearby!

Sources:

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Patricia B. ~ “Awesome people and service! Would never like to be without Coach-Net! It’s the greatest service to have!!!! Thanks!”

 

Photo Journal of an RV Adventure – Part 2

10 Friday Nov 2017

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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RV AdventureIf you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and enjoy the adventures of Coach-Net member, Sharon B., as she takes you through her travels from Florida to the West Coast. She continues her journey in Part 2 to the Canadian Rockies — enjoy the ride!

I had a couple of weeks at home to plan the next leg of my 2017 Walkabout to the Canadian Rockies. I had never seen the rhododendron bloom on the Blue Ridge Parkway, so that was the start of my trip North.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Blue Ridge Parkway

Rhododendron Bloom

Rhododendron Bloom

Roan Mountain Sunset

Roan Mountain Sunset

You can see why it is hard to leave the Blue Ridge, there was so much to see, and it was less crowded than Smoky Mountains National Park.  Plus, this was June and there was still snow in the Canadian Rockies. I didn’t want to drive in snow. I had never seen Grand Teton National Park, so I headed west. Here are a few reasons why Grand Teton National Park is now one of my favorite places.

Sunset at Glacier Point

Sunset at Glacier Point

Schwabacker's Landing with Aplenglow

Schwabacker’s Landing with Aplenglow

Dawn at Oxbow River

Dawn at Oxbow River

Antelope Flats

Antelope Flats

After a week at Grand Tetons, I headed to Glacier NP via Beartooth Highway.  We boondocked at a pullout on top of the mountain. In the morning, a herd of mountain goats greeted us.

Lily and a sunset - Beartooth Highway

Lily and a sunset – Beartooth Highway

Baby mountain goat - Beartooth highway

Baby mountain goat – Beartooth highway

I had a boondock site in West Glacier, but it was so far away, I drove to the park early to snag a “first come, first served” campsite. I discovered a once-in-10-years Beargrass superbloom at Logan Pass, hiked a bit, and enjoyed the waterfalls.

Wild Goose Island

Wild Goose Island

Beargrass Superbloom

Beargrass Superbloom

Waterfall

Waterfall

Finally, it was time to head across the Canadian Border to Banff.  Moraine Lake was crowded at 7PM! And Lake Louise – I was there before sunrise to find parking. It paid off when the clouds turned pink.

Moraine Lake, Banff

Moraine Lake, Banff

Lake Louise, Banff

Lake Louise, Banff

While Lake Louise gets all the press, here are two very beautiful, less known photo hot spots.

Two Jack Lake, Banff

Two Jack Lake, Banff

Peyto Lake, Banff

Peyto Lake, Banff

Heading up the Icefields Parkway toward Jasper, you find Bow Lake,  Bow Glacier, the Columbia Icefields Visitor Center, and Athabasca Glacier.

Bow Lake, Banff

Bow Lake, Banff

Bow Glacier, Banff

Bow Glacier, Banff

Athabasca Glacier, Icefields Parkway

Athabasca Glacier, Icefields Parkway

Icefields Parkway

Icefields Parkway

I scouted Jasper for a week, but it was blanketed by smoke from wildfires that caused an evacuation about 50 miles the west.

The smoke cleared one day for a photo of Lake Mystaya, but that was all, so I headed South down the Icefields Parkway, back to the US border. I wasn’t quite ready to go home, so I turned West again…but that is another blog

Lake Mystaya, Jasper

Lake Mystaya, Jasper

Wildfire Smoke, Jasper

Wildfire Smoke, Jasper

About the author:

Coach-Net Member, Sharon B., has a passion for landscape photography and loves to RV with her cat, Lily.  You can also follow her on Instagram @sharon.burgess_.

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Photo Journal of an RV Adventure – Part 1

03 Friday Nov 2017

Posted by in The Great Outdoors, Travel Destinations

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Coach-Net Member, Sharon B., has a passion for landscape photography and loves to RV with her cat, Lily.  Join us as she takes you through her recent adventures.  You can also follow her on Instagram @sharon.burgess_.  Enjoy!

This year’s milestones for me were becoming eligible for Social Security and traveling from home in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida to the West Coast…twice, and the Canadian Rockies…with a few side trips along the way.

Sunrise on Santa Rosa Beach

Sunrise on Santa Rosa Beach

Sunrise on Santa Rosa Beach

Sunrise on Santa Rosa Beach

As a retiree and solo traveler (with my cat, Lily), I have had a great time sightseeing and taking photos of beautiful places. This Spring, with the early rains in California, I kept hearing whispers of an upcoming Superbloom in the Anzo-Borrego Desert. At my age, this stuff is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so in February, I packed up and headed west.  On the way, I ventured a couple side trips. The first was to Big Bend National Park in Texas, one of the least visited parks in the US. I reserved a boondock site a short rough ride off the highway and started looking for scenery.

The Window - Big Bend National Park

The Window – Big Bend National Park

Mules Ears

Mules Ears

Rio Grande at Santa Elena Canyon

Rio Grande at Santa Elena Canyon

After a couple days exploring Big Bend, I continued West on I-10, detouring in Arizona to see the poppy bloom at Peridot Mesa on the San Carlos Apache Reservation and spring flowers at nearby Bartlett Lake.

Peridot Mesa Poppy bloom

Peridot Mesa Poppy bloom

Bartlett Lake in Spring

Bartlett Lake in Spring

Photographing flowers at their peak is a matter of timing, and the Anzo-Borrego Superbloom did not disappoint. Hordes of flower-lovers descended on Borrego Springs. I found a boondock site and headed out for photos before sunrise brought heat and traffic. Flowers were everywhere, sunflowers, sand verbena, poppies, brittlebush, cactus flowers…it was glorious! Lily and I took 4 days to travel every road that didn’t require 4-wheel drive, then headed back East.

Borrego Springs Super Bloom

Borrego Springs Super Bloom

Borrego Springs Super Bloom

Borrego Springs Super Bloom

On the way home, we swung by Texas Hill country, where Bluebonnets, prickly poppy, and Indian paintbrush decorated the roadsides.

Texas Hill country bluebonnets

Texas Hill country bluebonnets

Texas Hill country bluebonnets

Texas Hill country bluebonnets

Stay tuned as Sharon takes us on the next leg of her 2017 walkabout to the Canadian Rockies.

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

All About Roadschooling

21 Wednesday Jun 2017

Posted by in RV Information

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All About RoadschoolingIf you are a parent who dreams of piling the kids into an RV and hitting the road for a full-time traveling adventure, you are not alone. There are a fairly large number of families taking up the full-time RVing lifestyle, and the number is still growing all the time.

So what’s keeping you from joining the ranks? For many parents, the answer is schooling for their children. Fortunately, there is a solution to the dilemma of educating kids while traveling. This solution is typically referred to as roadschooling.

What is roadschooling?

Roadschooling is essentially homeschooling while on the road, and is something that looks different from one family to the next.

Some people do their roadschooling lessons online, using a teacher or tutor to help with difficult subjects. Other families use a traditional book-based curriculum. Meanwhile, a few families do without structured curriculum entirely, relying solely on travel and life experiences to educate their children.roadschooling

Can I roadschool my children?

Anyone can roadschool their children. That said, it does take dedication, self-trust, and a whole lot of planning on the part of the parents. Additionally, it is important to note that each state has different homeschooling laws, and all roadschoolers must abide by the laws of their state of residency.

Want to find the homeschooling laws for your state? Check out this site.

How do roadschooled kids socialize?

Many people wonder how roadschooled kids find friends. The truth of the matter is that roadschoolers find friends in exactly the same way you or I would. They meet people at the campground pool, at the park, or during classes, events, or workshops.

In fact, it’s likely that roadschooled students are better at finding friends than most other people because they’re more open to spending time with people outside their own age group. They also tend to have fewer of the social inhibitions that are so often gained in a school setting.

roadschool

Do roadschooled kids do well later in life?

In short, yes: Roadschooled kids do tend to do well as adults.

In general, homeschooled children tend to score higher on tests than their public-schooled peers. In fact, many colleges actually seek out homeschooled students.

Roadschooled kids are also likely to have well-developed problem-solving skills, as well as a pretty strong creative streak. These things, as well as the variety of other life skills gained through living and learning on the road, lend themselves quite well to a variety of careers.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, roadschooled students are likely to have a more positive and open-minded outlook on life. Often, this leads them to skip the “traditional” life path entirely. Therefore, a roadschooled person might not end up going to college at all. Instead, they may choose to follow their passions, work for themselves doing what they love, and generally live life outside the box, knowing that the most important thing is to be happy and content.

As you can see, roadschooling is a wonderful answer to any questions you may have had about giving your children an education while traveling. Therefore, with a little bit more research, you could be well on your way to giving your family the traveling lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of!

About the Author:

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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Avoid Summer Campground Crowds in Three Easy Steps

29 Wednesday Mar 2017

Posted by in RV Information

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avoid crowded campgroundSummer sunshine is just around the corner and the best time for RVing is almost here. But when school gets out and thousands of RVers compete for prime spots in the great outdoors, do you know how to avoid summer campground crowds?

It Only Takes Three Steps to Avoid Summer Campground Crowds

Follow these three suggestions before hitting the road and you’ll score that perfect spot every time.

Plan Your Summer Vacation Now

make reservationsSome of the best RVing destinations like scenic national park beaches are on many RVer’s bucket lists for a reason. Unfortunately, these spots fill up fast when good weather happens. Popular RVing destinations almost always require advance reservations. Spontaneity is great outside of the high season but if you don’t want to get turned away at the gate do your research now.

  • Visit national park websites and choose the “Plan Your Visit” menu option to learn the best times to avoid campground crowds.
  • If you prefer staying in RV parks, call the park office and inquire about visiting during less busy times. Some even offer lower mid-week rates.
  • Whatever campground you choose, always reserve your spot if you’re visiting during peak season.

Try Dry Camping on Public Lands

dry camping Dry camping on public lands is a great option to avoid summer campground crowds and save money on your RV adventures. Many people enjoy the independence of living off-grid without RV hookups. Although it’s helpful to have the right RV solar power system for your needs, your RV generator can keep you just as comfy in the outback.

The Bureau of Land Management has millions of acres in the west where you can try dry camping and many cost nothing or charge very nominal fees. RVers in the eastern states don’t have BLM lands but can enjoy other free camping options like state-run Department of Wildlife / Natural Resources agencies, U.S. Forest Service managed lands and various recreation areas owned by individual states.

Some of these public camping spots are more well-loved than others, but a good Internet search about your destination will tell you when you’ll find fewer crowds.

  • Visit Recreation.gov to find a spot near your intended destination.
  • Search online for “Free camping in: _____” to find additional dry camping spots.

Camp on the Outskirts

camp on the outskirtsIf your summer vacation budget is tight, you can save money by camping on the outskirts of major attractions along your route. RV parks and campgrounds close to popular summer destinations like national parks and beaches will always be more crowded and cost more than competitors located down the highway. When your goal is to avoid summer crowds, choose campgrounds and RV parks that aren’t quite as convenient to major attractions. You may need to drive a couple of minutes longer to see things on your bucket list, but you’ll have more money to spend on souvenirs.

Let’s face it, even the best RV trip planning can go awry. Campgrounds get filled, traffic is often unavoidable and Mother Nature always bats last. Even the most detailed pre-trip planning should include an alternate trip itinerary just in case conditions become unfavorable at your destination. Keep a few other camping options up your sleeve just in case. Should you need to change destinations on the fly, everyone in your family will stress less and have a better time getting there.

About the Author:

Rene Agredano, a Coach-Net member since 2015, is a self-employed full-time RVer who enjoys writing, jewelry design and animal advocacy. Her adventures with a three-legged dog and husband Jim are chronicled at LiveWorkDream.com

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Reduce The Rattle: Tips For A Quieter RV Ride

07 Tuesday Mar 2017

Posted by in Tech Tips

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Reduce The RattleThere is something very calming about driving down the road in an RV – that is until you encounter that unwelcome rattle or broken dish. This experience is made even worse when the damage occurs in a trailer in tow and the resulting mess is not discovered until you make camp.

Recreational vehicles, regardless of the type and price point, often exhibit an annoying buzz, rattle, squeak, or other noise. Sometimes this originates in the coach itself, sometimes it is caused by something that has not been properly packed or stowed, and sometimes it’s a combination of both. The offending sound may occur while driving or stationary, and may be constant or intermittent. I once had a very frustrated coach owner bring his unit in because every time he walked across the floor of his fifth-wheel there would be an annoying creaking sound. After an investigation, I discovered that his in-floor furnace duct was rubbing against the underside of the floor whenever he put weight on it. I resolved the issue by installing braces and spacers between the duct and the floor.5th wheel

In terms of chassis noises, these are best identified when you first purchase your unit and before you have packed any of your belongings into it. If the unit is motorized, listen for any unusual noises or sounds as you are driving it home. Have somebody else with you when you pick it up. If you hear anything unusual, have your co-pilot walk around the coach and try to identify where the noise is coming from. One of my recent coaches exhibited an incessant rattle while driving. It wasn’t until my daughter took the wheel during a family trip that I was able to investigate. I determined that the rattle originated inside the range hood vent mechanism. If you encounter an inherent rattle in your coach, put your ear to everything to find the source. It is important to determine whether the sound originates with the “house” system, or if it is inherent to the chassis or mechanical system. You can often differentiate whether the sound is coming from inside the coach, the engine, or somewhere else, but if in doubt, have the unit checked by a qualified mechanic or RV technician. Mechanical rattles or other noises can be an indication of impending mechanical issues, so it’s best to have them investigated and remedied.rv kitchen

In terms of “owner-induced” noises, it is important to properly pack and stow your belongings before embarking on an RV trip. This is especially true for trailer owners, since noises inside the coach are unlikely to be heard, and breakage is an unwelcome surprise when camp is setup. If something rattles, find it and eliminate the source of the noise. Some simple fixes include:

  • Using tea towels to pack between dishes, glasses, etc.
  • Retightening a cabinet door handle or reclosing the cabinet door to make sure it is secure
  • Using a bungee cord to stop a screen door rattle

RVing is a very relaxing activity, but incessant rattles and other noises can cause frustration and annoyance. Fortunately, these can be eliminated most of the time with a little pre-planning and creative problem-solving.

What tips can you share?  Please comment below.

About the Author:

Steve Froese, an avid RV owner, traveler, and  Coach-Net member since 2013, is the principal of “A Word to the Wise Technical Communications”, a published RV author, certified RV technician, and licensed Professional Engineer. He frequently collaborates with the “RV Doctor”, Gary Bunzer, and has worked with the RVIA/RVDA as a technical and training writer and consultant. Professionally, he works as a quality engineer and musician. Watch for more of Steve’s work in upcoming Coach-Net publications.

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