RV Today Issue 18 | Spring 2024

For some, the long way is home.

More scenic routes, more mile markers, more roads less travelled. We take our time, doing things the right way, so you can go any way the spirit takes you. That’s true for all our toy haulers, fifth wheels, and travel trailers. That’s what makes the Grand Design family of recreational vehicles the best on the road, and around the campfire. We do more of what matters, so you can too.

24,000 LBS GTWR / 4,500 LBS TONGUE

LIGHTEST HITCH IN CLASS (40 LBS)

compatible with all gooseneck ball mounts

ADJUSTABLE HEIGHT BALL

*SAE certified - EXCEEDS SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

oem puck system compatible with bed shaft connector adjustable

andersenhitches.com

FROM THE PUBLISHER

It might be weird to hear the founder of a magazine say that where we started isn’t where we’re going. And I’m excited for the new direction in which we’re headed.

We launched this title in November 2021, and it’s taken some revamping over the last six months. We’re in a place where the new team is crushing it. Now this is not just my opinion. Many of you have emailed or sent messages on our social channels sharing the same sentiment.

This got me thinking about how I want to hear more from you, the RVers, in the coming months and years.

Share your feedback (the good and the bad), and tell us what you want to see on these pages. This is your magazine. We have always said it’s a magazine for RVers, by RVers. And that doesn’t mean you have to write for us; you can also suggest things you want to see and read about.

One of my favorite quotes attributed to Henry Ford (that I believe he didn’t say, but I love nonetheless) is, “If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.”

I am not comparing myself or this magazine to the invention of the Model T, and I’m not saying you’re asking for a faster horse. I am saying that there might be purposeful reasons why we do or don’t include some of the things you want to see or that other magazines used to include – especially magazines that are out of business. That content might be the very reason they are out of business.

But regardless, we want to hear from you. Please take a moment to email us to let us know what

you like, dislike, or what is missing. You can email us to ask questions about owning an RV and we will try to get those answered in upcoming articles.

A big thank you to the thousands of new subscribers that have joined us so far this year. Our goal is 1,000,000 readers and we appreciate every one of you.

Now close the magazine, open up your email, and send a message to demian@rvtoday. com and let me know your thoughts.

Thank you in advance and I truly hope to see you on the road soon-

Demian Ross, Publisher demian@rvtoday.com

Dear RV Today Magazine,

I wanted you all to know how captivated I was in reading this issue. We’re experienced RVers, but enjoyed the many stories and locations covered. Congratulations on publishing an interesting and informative magazine.

Drew M.

Over and over again on the road, I’ve met people who have survived all kinds of things they shouldn’t have. I’ve heard so many stories of trauma, illness, and survival that it seems it’s a fairly common pattern among RVers, and especially among full-timers.

I think this might be because surviving difficult things can force you to decide what you’re hoping to get from the rest of your life. Given a second chance, so many RVers have chosen to hit the road with the goals of seeing things they’ve always wanted to see, finding peace and freedom, existing with nature, and healing from what they’ve been through.

These are common denominators that many of us share, and we’re happy to share some of those stories in this issue of RV Today.

Enjoy, and if you have a story of your own that relates to this theme, please let us know at rvtoday.com/feedback. Jamie

insure your journey

Peace of mind on the road

PROTECTING YOUR TRAVEL TRAILER ADVENTURES

Embarking on the open road with your travel trailer is an exciting experience, lled with adventure and the promise of new discoveries. However, ensuring that your journey remains carefree involves more than just planning the perfect route and destination. It involves protecting your travel trailer with insurance customized for you. Here are a few reasons why having insurance for your travel trailer is not just a wise decision, but an essential one.

Traveling comes with its share of uncertainties, and having insurance for your travel trailer provides you with the peace of mind that you deserve. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or parked at a scenic campsite, knowing that your investment is protected can make your travels even more enjoyable.

Protection against the unexpected

Damage to your travel trailer can happen when you least expect it. Comprehensive and collision travel trailer insurance can cover you in case of events that are out of your control, like a tree limb falling on your trailer. Optional Pest Damage ProtectionSM provides coverage for damage from pests such as rats, mice, insects, birds, or other nondomesticated animals.

Coverage for personal belongings

Your travel trailer is not just a mode of transportation; it’s your home on wheels. Optional personal effects coverage can help cover the cost of personal belongings inside the trailer, providing nancial assistance in case of theft or damage.

When auto insurance isn’t enough

Auto insurance generally provides coverage for your travel trailer only when it is connected to your vehicle and may assist in cases where your trailer causes damage to another vehicle. However, it typically does not provide standalone coverage for repairing or replacing your trailer if it sustains damage or is totaled.

You can choose travel trailer insurance options that help cover those expenses and may even offer the bene t of total loss replacement coverage.

When homeowners insurance isn’t enough

Homeowners insurance may provide some coverage for your belongings, but often has limitations when the trailer is off your property. A customized travel trailer insurance policy can ensure that your trailer and belongings are adequately covered.

Liability protection

Accidents involving your travel trailer can also lead to liability issues. Insurance can provide protection against third-party claims, covering medical expenses or property damage that may arise from an incident involving your trailer.

Insuring your travel trailer is not just a precaution; it’s a commitment to a worry-free travel experience. Safeguard your investment, enjoy the journey, and make every moment on the road a memory worth cherishing. Start your adventure with the con dence that comes from knowing your travel trailer is protected against life’s unexpected twists and turns.

CONTRIBUTORS

Chelsea Pambuka @kufamba_thetravelingtribe

Cortnie Jones and Michael Jastroch @well.branded.van

Patty Gill @gills_on_wheels

Andrea and Tab Kolehouse @ourbarefoottravel

Charity and Shylah Clark @dash.of.adventure

Sandi Falin @trynsomethingnew

Karen Wilson @flo_the_caravan

Katie Hoessle @venture_wild

Julia Thomas @natural.jules

Da Leigh Townsley @lukeanddaleigh

Kristen Bates @perpetualmoves

Stephanie Lincoln @borntobebravebook

Charity DeVries @gratefulglamper

Emma Christie @theemmachristie

Melissa Parsons @melexploring_

Lauren Lynass @alittlebitunhitched

Beth Cronin @vintageglampers

Renee Hayes @fiftyandfifthwheeling

Marco Brugnoli @marcobrugnoli

To learn how to become a contributor with our magazine, please visit rvtoday.com/work-with-us

GRETCHEN WATSON

@themindfulnomadic

Three Easy Recipes: Cooking For Seven in a Small Space

Gretchen and her husband, Lee, travel full time in a travel trailer with their five kids, who are between 9 and 16 years old. They’ve been on the road for five years and have explored 29 states so far. They share their travels, real facts about full-time RVing, and product must-haves on their social media and in their blog at themindfulnomadic.com

FRANCES HAMBLIN

@ramblin_hamblins

Finding Life-Work Balance

Frances and her husband, Bill, have been traveling full time in their Airstream since selling their farm in 2022. Working from the road, they enjoy exploring new areas, meeting locals, and learning the history of each place they visit. They love cooking and showing just how easy it can be to prepare delicious meals in a tiny RV kitchen. Follow them for food, photography, and adventures

@ramblin_hamblins or ramblinhamblins.com

JASON AND ABBY | RV MILES

@rvmiles

10 Tank Care Tips

RV Miles, run by Jason and Abby, is a top source for RV news and lifestyle updates, as well as national park information, travel guides, and more. The community consists of a Facebook group, a YouTube channel with 100,000 subscribers, and the highest-rated weekly RV podcast, with 1,200-plus reviews and 4.8 stars. To catch their latest, visit rvmiles.com

MARC AND JULIE BENNETT @rvlovetravel

RV Hacks

In their 10 years of RVing, Marc and Julie Bennett have lived, worked, and traveled through all 50 states, in all kinds of RVs— including Class A to Class C motorhomes, a small travel trailer, and now a fifth wheel. From full-time RVing nomads to part-time snowbirds with a home base, they’ve learned to appreciate every stage and season of RVing. Visit them at rvlove.com

READER FEEDBACK

"We just had our second publication released! This one focuses on our RV adventures and highlights the time we spent towing and staying along the Pacific Coast Highway. Our trip took us from Olympia, Washington, south along the 101 through rainforests, coastal beach towns, and the giant Redwoods, and all the way down Highway 1 to San Diego, California. For four months we hugged the coast and were treated to amazing views and great memories

If you’ve ever thought about adding PCH to your travels, hop on over to @rvtodaymag and grab yourself a digital copy. We share some of our favorite spots along the way that you can’t miss and give you tips to help make the trip a dream, not a nightmare "

@ramblin_hamblins

"We love contributing to magazines and sharing our camper renovation story and tips!

This piece was written for @rvtodaymag and we titled it “How To Put the Glam in Glamping.” We shared some simple, cost-effective DIYs we did to elevate our vintage camper."

@vintageglampers

@fiftyandfifthwheeling

"Thank you @rvtodaymag for sharing our story. We have made the progression from tent to pop-up camper to travel trailer to our current fifth wheel toy hauler. 30-plus years of camping. We continue to love it, and look forward to many more years. Check out RV Today to see our story and many other great articles."

Share your thoughts and shape our stories! Submit your reader feedback for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue: rvtoday.com/feedback

“The time we get as a family”

Chelsea Pambuka @kufamba_thetravelingtribe

“The freedom of traveling and not having a house tying me down”

Patty Gill @gills_on_wheels

What do you love about RVing?

Go to rvtoday.com/ happycamper and let us know for a chance to be featured!

RV

Hacks

BY MARC AND JULIE BENNETT OF RVLOVE.COM

DON’T BE SHOCKED BY YOUR POWER PEDESTAL

Always turn the power off at the power pedestal breaker before plugging in – or unplugging – your RV to avoid a potential shock to you or the RV.

GET A GRIP

Add strips of anti-slip grip tape to your RV entry steps to provide safer entry and exit for you and your pets. Prevent slipping in the shower by applying a few strips of grip tape on your bathroom shower floor.

DO A PRACTICE RUN WITH GEAR AT HOME

CHARGE YOUR DEVICES FASTER

Your devices will charge much faster when you put your smartphone and tablet into airplane mode when they are plugged in.

Instead of learning how to use new gear like boots, backpacks, and hiking poles while out on a camping trip, do a trial run with your kids at home in your yard or in a nearby park before going on a long-distance trip. The kids will feel more comfortable with the gear if it isn’t the first time, which can minimize complaining. And your own practice will make you more efficient in setup and ensure you have everything before you leave.

HANG AND CLIP SUPPLIES IN THE SHOWER

Connect clear vinyl name badge clips to shower curtain rings and use the clips to hold small bathroom items like tubes of toothpaste or lotions. This keeps items out of other drawers and shelves and helps them stay put.

Marc and Julie Bennett have been living, working, and traveling in RVs since 2014. They have traveled to all fifty US states, plus Canada, Mexico, and Australia, while still working full-time. They share on their blog, YouTube, social media, and write books and run online courses, to help make the road to RVing easier for others. Their book “RV Hacks: 400+ Ways to Make Life on the Road Easier, Safer, and More Fun!” is available in print and digital where books and sold. Learn more at rvlove.com/rvhacks

FIFTH WHEELS

for Full-Time Families

WITH PRIVATE BEDROOMS and sometimes bunkrooms or multi-purpose rooms, fifth wheels can be perfect for families or couples living full time on the road.

Many fifth wheels are equipped with extras that smaller RVs typically aren’t, such as washer/dryer prep, dishwashers, and even basements.

We checked with several fifth wheel manufacturers to find out which of their models are designed for full-time RV living.

Photo Courtesy DRV

Photos Courtesy GDRV

With back bunk quarters and an attached half bathroom, the Influence 3704BH from Grand Design is a perfect floor plan for families living on the road. The large outdoor kitchen gives families additional space to cook while enjoying time outside. The primary bedroom comes standard with a large walk-in closet, queen bed, and optional king bed upgrade.

FEATURES:

Oversized kitchen pantry with LED rope lighting

• Built-in desk in bunkroom

• Entertainment center with electric fireplace heater

Under-step shoe storage

Solar prep

• Large outdoor kitchen

• ABS braking system

• On demand tankless water heater

SPECS:

GVWR: 16,800 pounds

Length: 40 feet, 4 inches

Axles: 2

Sleeping capacity: 8

Bunk room with built-ins

Palomino River Ranch 393RL

Photos Courtesy Forest River

Ideal for couples

Is storage one of your main priorities for full-time RV living? The 393RL River Ranch is the unit for you. Palomino raised the floor in this unit, giving RVers what they claim is more basement storage than any other fifth wheel on the market. This also creates a completely single-level fifth wheel, meaning there are zero interior stairs to get to your bedroom, bathroom, or living areas.

FEATURES:

Large bedroom with king bed and full-length closet

Residential fridge with ice maker

Full profile basement storage

Dishwasher prep in kitchen island

50-inch TV

Soft close doors and drawers

Theater seating with USB charging

Mirrored sliding closet doors

5,000 BTU fireplace

Stainless steel kitchen sink with accessories

• Walk-in shower with teak wood seat

• Washer/dryer prep

SPECS:

GVWR: 17,999 pounds

Length: 42 feet, 7 inches

Axles: 2

Sleeping capacity: 4

Keystone Alpine Avalanche Edition 390DS

The Alpine Avalanche Edition 390DS is a great choice for those who travel with older children or another couple. With two suites (one queen and one king), two full baths, and a massive loft that can easily sleep three kids, everyone can have the privacy they deserve. The living room comes standard with a free-standing table with chairs and theater seating, but owners can upgrade to a super sofa with TV tables, which allows for more space to entertain and provides additional storage space. The kitchen has a large island and plenty of countertop space, and the bathroom has a built-in trash can and toilet paper storage, plus convenient linen storage.

“We chose the Alpine Avalanche 390DS to best accommodate our family as our children grow with us on the road. We have two daughters, 7 and 10, and this RV gives us all the space we need and the privacy our girls will grow to appreciate as they get older. We have two full bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and a loft space. We also travel with our pets, and we’re so happy to have enough space that they also don’t feel cramped! We have thoroughly enjoyed making this RV into our cozy home on the road. We absolutely love our life and all the adventures our family has experienced!”

Photos Courtesy Keystone RV Company

“We are a full-time RV family of seven with four boys and one girl. Our teenage daughter is the oldest, so finding an RV that gives her the privacy she needs yet offers our boys their own space as well was a must. Looking for the perfect RV was like finding a needle in a haystack, but when we found the Keystone Avalanche 390DS our search immediately ended. We’ve been traveling the country going on epic adventures with the 390DS as our home on wheels for two years. We love having two spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large, 33-inch-high loft that fits three growing boys, a dual-slide, extra-wide living space, our 6-foot kitchen island, and more than enough storage space for a large family living on the road. This RV is a dream tiny home for any size family!”

ANDREA AND TAB

@ourbarefoottravel Keystone Ambassadors

SPECS:

GVWR: 16,740 pounds

Length: 42 feet, 11 inches

Axles: 2

Sleeping capacity: 8

FEATURES:

Double suite

Two full bathrooms

• Lofted bunk

• Tinted safety glass windows

• Heated and enclosed underbelly

Slide rooms with 6 foot, 10 inch interior height

• Solid wood cabinet doors and drawer fronts

Theater seating with heat, massage, USB ports, and LED lights

• Crown molding 40-inch fireplace

Extra deep stainless steel kitchen sinks

• High-rise faucet with sprayer

50-inch LED TV

Dual air conditioners with zoned temperature control

• Stackable washer/dryer prep

DRV Luxury Suites –Mobile Suites Orlando

Photos Courtesy DRV

Designed for full-time RV living, the Orlando from DRV is luxury on wheels. The front room has an entertainment center and two twin beds. It also has a large peninsula desk that’s perfect for homeschooling. The gourmet kitchen includes residential appliances and a kitchen island with overhead accent lighting. The primary bedroom comes with a king bed and en suite bathroom.

FEATURES:

Primary suite with king bed

Private multi-purpose room

• Kitchen island

• Dishwasher

Lighted pantries

Washer/dryer prep

Extra tall shower

• Traditional oven and convection oven

• Plenty of storage cabinets

• Hidden storage behind main living room TV

SPECS:

GVWR: 24,000 pounds

Length: 46 feet

Axles: 3

Sleeping capacity: 4

DRV Orlando shown in paint option Havana Moon

Private multi-purpose room

Photos Courtesy Jayco Farmhouse vibes

This luxury fifth wheel from Jayco exudes farmhouse vibes. It features GE residential appliances, including a microwave with a built-in air fryer. The television is on a lift, so it can be stored out of sight when not in use. The main bathroom, with double vessel bowl sinks and a large walk-in closet, is located off the primary bedroom. The main living area has another half bath.

FEATURES:

Kitchen pantry

Solid hardwood cabinets

• Cedar lined closet

• Farmhouse-style stainless steel kitchen sink

Vessel bowl sink with high-rise faucet in bathroom

Cup holders in nightstands

• King bed

• Walk-in shower

• Walk-in closet

One and a half bathrooms

Designated sewer hose compartment

Walk-in shower with seat and skylight

SPECS:

GVWR: 17,250 pounds

Length: 40 feet, 9 inches

Axles: 2

Sleeping capacity: 6

The whole point of a weight distribution hitch is getting the correct amount of weight moved from the rear axles to the

axles of your vehicle. Current weight distribution hitches take an all-or-nothing approach: loaded or unloaded.

Our composite LITEFLEX® bars make it possible to ne-tune your setup with just the pump of a handle.

front

Our tapered composite spring bars made with LITEFLEX ® technology by Hendrickson cover 600 - 1,600 lb tongue weight.

Preset head angle works for every setup

Single pivot point eliminates noise and wear points

Unload the bars by simply twisting the needle valve knob.

Load the bars by pumping the handle until desired weight is transferred to the front axle.

Pressure gauge to ensure a repeatable setup

Setup is all done on the driver’s side.

Composite bars are lighter-weight and 5x more exible than steel, but with similar strength.

Immediate and continuous friction sway prevention

ROUND UP

AB 618 IMPACT ON CALIFORNIA STATE PARKS

If you’ve ever had trouble finding a camping spot at a California state park, you’ll be happy to know AB 618 is now in effect and may help. The bill requires certain rules for any future contract the department enters into for managing the reservation system. These rules will set up booking restrictions for campers who are no-shows three times in a calendar year, and establish guidelines with regard to how much of a refund will be available based on when a reservation is canceled, among other changes.

New Certi-PUR RV Mattresses Available

North Carolina-based Custom Mattress Factory is launching a line of American-made Certi-PUR RV mattresses. The certification means the mattresses contain no formaldehyde or ozone depleters; are manufactured with no phthalates, mercury, lead, or heavy metals; maintain low VOC emissions; and are screened for chemicals classified as carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxins and harmful to human health. Need a custom-shaped mattress for your rig? They can help you with that, too—contact them at 800.979.1924.

Costs of RV Travel Versus Air Travel

Families of four will see significant cost savings when traveling by RV compared to other types of travel, according to the key findings from a study released by the RV Industry Association. Here are the average cost differences per day of a four-person camping vacation using a lightweight travel trailer compared to other types of vacations:

• About 34 percent lower than the average daily cost of comparable four-person car/hotel combination vacations

• About 48 percent lower than the average daily cost of comparable four-person air/hotel vacations

About 41 percent lower than the average daily cost of comparable four-person air/rental home or condo vacations

The Dyrt Releases Reservation Dates Guide

If you’re looking to snag a spot at a public campground or national park, perfecting your timing can be tricky. To help, The Dyrt has put together their comprehensive 2024 Camping Reservation Opening Dates Guide. It provides campers with information about when reservations open—from 30 days to 13 months in advance—at state and national parks across the country. The free guide is available on their website.

Image Courtesy RVIA

The Dyrt istock.com/Thomas De Wever San Elijo State Beach, Cardiff, CA

ROUND UP

Lazydays Gets a New Look

If you’re familiar with the RV dealership Lazydays, get ready to see a new look and a new website experience when shopping for your next RV there. They’ve rebranded with a new logo that embodies the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road that Lazydays has come to symbolize since its founding in 1976. Their website will introduce Transparency Mode—a fully itemized and detailed breakdown of inventory pricing, inclusive of all discounts and incentives, plus accurate taxes and documentation fees.

Winnebago Corporate Responsibility

Winnebago has been recognized for its efforts to promote conservation, protect the outdoors, diversify the company’s board, and reduce waste going into landfills. These and other efforts have earned Winnebago the honor of being named one of America’s Most Responsible Companies 2024 by Newsweek.

KEYSTONE RV ADDS TO TRAVEL TRAILER TEAM

With recent additions to their travel trailer team, look for good things to come from Keystone in the near future. Two product design leaders will be championing the company’s ultra-light and conventionally built travel trailers. Jeff Rank is now the general manager overseeing the Springdale and Hideout business. Cody Schade, the driving force behind Ibex, NoBo, and R-Pod, has been named the general manager of Keystone’s Passport and Bullet brands. Schade is an avid camper with a passion for producing capable, reliable, value-based products for outdoor enthusiasts.

FMCA AND T-MOBILE COLLAB

The world’s largest not-for-profit association for RV owners—the Family Motor Coach Association—has teamed up with T-Mobile to offer special deals to members for internet service on the road. Benefits include no annual contract, a 5G mobile hotspot device, 5GB of high-speed data, and unlimited data at up to 256 kbps in Canada and Mexico, depending on the plan. For more information about FMCA’s Tech Connect+ plan, including the new T-Mobile option, visit fmca.com/techconnect

Winnebago Industries, Inc

FEATURED RVERS

meet The Falin Family Sandi, Jimi, Nixon, Skylar, and Ryder

PHOTOS BY E. PEREZ

What do you travel in?

2024 Heartland Cyclone 4006 fifth wheel

What kind of RVer are you?

Full-timer

How long have you been RVing?

Full time for more than nine years

What has been your most memorable RVing moment?

We’ve had so many amazing experiences while living in our RV. If I had to pick one, it would be mining for crystals in Hot Springs, Arkansas. We stumbled upon this gem of a town and created some lifelong memories with our three kids. We had so much fun that we did it again a few years later, and it still was a top pick for all of us as one of our favorite experiences.

Is there anything specific that made you want to RV?

We were sick of the daily grind and knew we needed travel and adventure in our lives. We wanted to show our kids what life is all about—tons of experiences and learning everything hands-on. Our youngest was 2 years old when we started this adventure, so he pretty much grew up on the road. This was the best decision we ever made, and we are pretty certain that we will never live in a house again.

What's something about you that people might find surprising to know?

We’ve had a film production company for 14 years, so we’ve documented our travel experiences ever since our kids were really young. That naturally turned into our social media channels, which now have more than 2 million followers total. We

many messages about how we’ve inspired others to live their best lives, either by selling it all and moving into an RV, or just making time to travel more. That means the world to us. Creating all our videos is a ton of work, but it’s so worth it.

ADD CRITICAL SUSPENSION STRENGTH TO YOUR TRUCK. WITHOUT THE HASSLE.

Better bounce isolation over bridges and rough roads

Improve handling and stability at all times

Reduce rear truck squat caused by tongue weight

Unmatched ride comfort with or without a load

Fit-and-forget with no maintenance or readjustments

Tried and true for over 25 years

VERIFIED REVIEW | SCOTT’S STORY

TANK CARE TANK CARE10TANK CARE TANK

For Black and Gray Tanks TIPS

THE LEAST GLAMOROUS part of RV life? Black and gray tanks. But they’re a necessary evil, so learning the best ways to empty, clean, and maintain them can help make the dirty work as easy as possible. Implementing these improvements can help keep your tanks from smelling, clogging, and building up residue. It can also make dumping easier, and make your tanks more efficient for years to come. Here are some helpful tips from our friends at RV Miles, who have learned a lot about tank care in their seven years on the road with a family of five.

1. USE 1-PLY TOILET PAPER

Toilet paper doesn’t have to be RV-specific, as long as it’s 1-ply. Another option is to put your used toilet paper in a special container, like an Ubbi or Diaper Genie.

BONUS TIP: Using an Ubbi or Diaper Genie can also save space in your tank when boondocking.

2.FLUSH THE BLACK TANK REGULARLY

If you have a built-in black tank flush, it will be helpful in this process. If not, achieve a deep clean with a toilet wand. Alternatively, after you’ve dumped, you can fill the black tank with fresh water, and then empty it out again.

BONUS TIP: Get a clear elbow adaptor so you can see when the water runs clear.

3. USE A GOOD QUALITY TANK TREATMENT AFTER EVERY FLUSH-OUT

Your tank treatment can be in either liquid or tablet form. Be sure to add enough fresh water for it to dissolve and move around—a good rule of thumb is 20 percent of the tank capacity.

4.WATER USAGE WHEN FLUSHING THE TOILET IS IMPORTANT

Use plenty of water when flushing. Keep your foot on the pedal for a good 30 seconds and keep the water going down to flush all tissue. Also, fill the toilet with water before you do your business—it’s the way RV toilets are designed to be used.

5. KEEP BLACK TANK VALVES CLOSED

If you don’t, the liquid will run out and the solids will stay. Keeping the black tank valves closed will ensure you have enough liquid in the tanks that all the solids run out when you empty them.

6.DUMP TANKS WHEN THEY’RE TWO-THIRDS FULL OR MORE

This will ensure there is a strong rush of water when you’re draining the tanks.

7. PUT ONLY WASTEWATER IN THE GRAY TANKS

Be sure not to let any food particles, coffee grounds, hair, grease, or sand through. Use strainers to help.

8.INSPECT SEALS AND VALVES REGULARLY

You can also lubricate the valves by pouring lubricant down the toilet to keep them from leaking.

9. INSTALL A SECONDARY WASTE TANK VALVE

A secondary waste tank valve gives you a backup in case a failure or leak happens. It’s worth the peace of mind.

Tank Care Products

Here are a few of our favorite things

10. EMPTY THE BLACK TANK FIRST, THEN THE GRAY

The water from the gray tank can help push through any leftover residue from the black tank. If tanks are not full when emptying, fill them up. It’ll help with the water rushing out.

Scott 1-ply toilet paper

Information adapted from Episode 289 of the RV Miles podcast, the highest-rated RV-focused podcast for outdoor enthusiasts. To listen, visit rvmiles.com/podcast

Valterra black tank valve cover

Camco tank rinser

Valterra tank cleaning wand

Camco clear elbow connector

Ubbi Liquified tank treatment

Camco sink and shower drain strainers

Thetford valve lubricant

Camco portable tote tank

istock.com/Onfokus

rvtoday.com/happycamper Roadtrippers rvtoday.com/attractions

CHANGE OF SEASON CALLS FOR A CHANGE OF SCENERY.

RV INTERIORS AND DECOR

“During the styling and decor stage of my renovation, I created the triple seagrass storage pocket. I started sharing my pockets on social media, and I had no idea that others would want them too. Soon, a coastal shop asked about stocking them, so I created an Etsy store to sell them, and now I’ve launched a website.”

-KAREN WILSON

1978 Millard | Karen Wilson | @flo_the_caravan | Etsy: FloandCoTrading | floandcotrading.com.au

Introducing the Trek Handle by RVLock

The latest innovation from the company that brought you The Original Keyless Handle. Fueled by thousands of reviews, improvements driven by real-world use in every terrain and every climate. The Trek is the culmination of everything we have learned. Our family owned, Utah based company, is driven by passion and quality to provide the best handle for your trailer. By pairing security with convenience, we help bring peace of mind to your adventure.

The Transformative Power of RVing

RVING HAS THE power to heal, educate, and unify us. It can add balance to our lives and give us more time with those we love. It forces us to slow down, turn inward, and reflect. It can also give us the chance to reset, recalibrate, and restart our lives.

RVing is a journey for the body, mind, and soul. It can be an escape, but it can also be a place where bad habits follow us, unless we choose to allow the journey to transform us.

Here are four stories of RVers who have experienced transformational journeys through RVing:

• An adventurous nomadic couple who, instead of helping others fulfill dreams, started traveling to fulfill their own. When faced with burnout, they had to decide if full-time travel was still worth fighting for. (Page 49)

A corporate employee struggling with balance chooses to put living above climbing the corporate ladder. (Page 50)

• A sister finds healing through travel after loss. (Page 52)

A shifting mindset brings a couple closer together through the RV lifestyle. (Page 55)

Fulfilling Our Own Dreams, Facing Burnout, and Finding Balance

BY KATIE HOESSLE • @VENTURE_WILD

MY HUSBAND, DJ, and I have been traveling full time for five years now, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that life will always follow you. You can’t outrun work, dishes, laundry, or bills, no matter how hard you try, or how far you travel.

Having both worked in the outdoors our entire lives, as a park ranger, a climbing guide, and outdoor educators, we reached a point where we were tired of being facilitators, fulfilling the dreams of others while shelving our own.

We dreamed of a life of endless adventure. Neither of us possessed a skill set that was easily transferable to remote work, but with a lot of tenacity and hustle, we made it happen. We spent three years working toward transitioning out of traditional work and into fully remote jobs.

DJ secured work in logistical operations in the nonprofit sector with a focus on wilderness therapy. I was able to teach environmental education online, as well as picking up freelance writing and photography jobs as often as possible. We also started working diligently on a shared passion project—an adventure travel website. We had to work hard, but eventually, in the fall of 2019, we were out there living the dream.

The past five years have been amazing. We’ve traveled across the

United States, Mexico, and Canada in our homes on wheels. We’ve lived on a sailboat in the Florida Keys, explored the Bahamas and the Caribbean Sea, and visited 27 countries across four continents, including two trips to the high Arctic.

But in our family, we have a saying: “It’s not an adventure until everything goes wrong.”

Three homes in five years is a lot. Surviving a global pandemic with no permanent place to call home, something many full-time travelers had to navigate, is a lot. Two people working a total of four full-time jobs while moving through ever-changing time zones

This is a lifestyle worth fighting for.

and juggling the logistics of where we’re going to live each night is a lot.

On hard days, we remind ourselves that we have to work hard in order to make this lifestyle work. It’s important to remember that we chose to live this way, and we’re continuing to choose it every day.

But four years in, we began to question everything, and we felt like we had reached our breaking point. We had surpassed the average shelf life of most full-time travelers, and while many of our friends had settled back down into “normal” life, here we were, still floating along like a plastic bag in the breeze. The life we had built for ourselves, which was meant to be founded on freedom, had started to feel more like a cage.

In four years, we had pushed so hard and so fast that we had run headfirst into burnout, and it seemed like the magic was gone. We were still waking up every day and going through the motions, but the spark was dead.

We realized that we needed to reevaluate everything we had come to know, so we untangled our lives, tossed out everything toxic, and replaced it with a new approach. We slowed down. We stopped chasing every opportunity

that came our way, and instead focused on projects that we genuinely loved.

We had to make some tough decisions. As much as we loved our boat, it was a burden, so we let it go. And as much as we love life on the road, we also love exploring new cultures and landscapes, so we rewrote our travel formula. We started splitting our time between living in our home on wheels and living out of a suitcase, going on adventures around the globe.

After five years of constant motion, we’ve learned that balance doesn’t just happen. It’s something you have to work for, and what works for someone else won’t necessarily work for you. Travel has taught us so many things, but perhaps the biggest lesson of them all is: don’t let your dreams die. After five years on the go, we can say wholeheartedly that this is a lifestyle worth fighting for.

Finding Life-Work Balance

BY FRANCES HAMBLIN • @RAMBLIN_HAMBLINS

WHEN I QUIT my office job to take a remote position in anticipation of traveling full time, one of my close colleagues reminded me that even though I would be traveling, I still needed to take time off work. I laughed and disregarded her advice, but she knew me all too well.

I had been working at the same organization for nearly 20 years and had worked my way up the corporate ladder. I had enough seniority that I was accruing vacation time faster than I could use it. But even before that, I never took enough time off. When I left, I got paid out for more than 350 hours of time off that I hadn’t used. Trust me when I say that your vacation time is worth more to you if you use it than if you get paid out for it.

I had followed in my parents’ footsteps when it came to my career—land a decent job out of college, work hard, prove your worth and loyalty, and make enough money to save for an eventual retirement. (All at the same company, of course.) But in their generation, working hard didn’t involve a smartphone, and work ended when you left the office.

When I was climbing the ladder, I was genuinely passionate about the work I was doing. But at some point, that chapter ended for me. I was at a turning point in my career where I no longer wanted to lead a department. I wanted to be a worker. I wanted a job that allowed me to focus more on the aspects of work that brought me joy and less on the pieces that sucked the life out of me, even if that meant sliding down the career ladder.

Simultaneously, my husband and I were toying with the idea of selling our house, buying an RV, and living on the road full time. Both of my in-laws died in 2020, just a few years after their own retirements, and the circumstances were similar when my dad died years prior. We found ourselves asking what the point was of maintaining this grind only to finally retire and die—if we even made it that long. So we set a plan in motion, and I secured a fully remote job.

When I started the new job, I vowed that I would set new boundaries for myself. I was at a new company with a new role, a new lifestyle, and so much adventure waiting right outside my front door—unplugging at the end of the workday would be easy! This was no longer a career I was building; it was a job. And while I could give my best at it every day and take pride in my work, it would no longer define me. At least, that’s what I told myself in the beginning.

In our first six months on the road, we moved almost every weekend, and after work during the week, we would head out and explore. This meant there was no downtime, and certainly no rest. I work Monday through Friday, with a fairly set schedule and a reasonable amount of flexibility. And while the clients I support are based in the United States, I’m part of a global team, which means the emails never stop. With the outdoors calling my name, I choose to power through the day so I can get off early, but working in a remote role for eight hours straight can be mentally exhausting. There aren’t the usual interruptions of office life, and while I find that to be an overall benefit, it also means there aren’t natural breaks.

I was putting a ton of pressure on myself and was hyper-focused on what others thought of my performance, and I was thinking about it more than I would have if I was stationary. I wanted to prove to them that being on the road didn’t mean I took my work any less seriously. I wanted to demonstrate that my internet was just as good as everyone else’s, and that I could be counted on just the same. It was all self-imposed doubt. I waited six months after going full time to even tell my manager and co-workers what we were doing, and when I finally told my team, everyone was incredibly supportive.

The excitement of the journey and seeing new sights fueled me, but the need to slow down eventually became clear. We needed some evenings at home to just chill rather than sightsee. And we

I’m making a concerted effort to take days off here and there, even if the only reason is to not be working.

needed some weekends to binge Netflix rather than move. Nowadays, we stay in one spot for two to four weeks at a time. This allows us plenty of time to rest without feeling guilty that we’re wasting time, because we know we still have plenty of time to explore.

But once again, I found myself not taking time off! I felt lucky that I could visit a national monument in the afternoon and check out a new restaurant for dinner. I was doing the things most people take entire vacations for, but I didn’t need to. I found myself only taking time off if we needed to move on a weekday, or for big occasions, like when we visited Glacier National Park, or when my mom came to visit us for Christmas in Malibu.

Now I’m making a concerted effort to take days off here and there, even if the only reason is to not be working. I’m proud to say I took a week off to attend the Airstream International Rally, and I legitimately unplugged for once.

I’ve been performing well and have been rewarded for it via merit increases. The culture of my company is to promote from within, and when conversations came up with my manager about what’s next in my career, I responded with, “I’m happy where I am.” These are words I never heard an employee say

when I was a manager.

Earlier this year, I was presented with an opportunity that could lead to an eventual promotion, and for about 48 hours, I was seriously considering it. I felt like I would be letting everyone down if I didn’t take it. But the thought of it wasn’t filling me with any excitement, just a very familiar feeling of stress. I turned it down and gave myself a little pat on the back for staying true to my life goals, and not giving in to work goals.

This past year of full-time living and remote working has been exciting, exhausting, rewarding, and challenging. It’s tested boundaries I’ve set, and I’ve had to adapt. As it turns out, changing where you live doesn’t negate your type-A personality. The pressure to perform, get promoted, and say yes will follow you from a sticks and bricks house to a home on wheels.

For many of us, getting a remote job is just one piece of the puzzle for living this lifestyle. The truth is that I’m still trying to figure out what work-life balance really is. For me, it’s come to mean the following: Get paid in exchange for doing a job, make enough money to support my lifestyle, work for a company that recognizes my contributions in ways other than promotion, and finally, for the first time, take all of my PTO!

HEALING THROUGH RVING:

Processing Grief in Extraordinary Places

BY JULIA THOMAS • @NATURAL.JULES

FOR THE FIRST 15 years of adulthood, my life was as plain and traditional as they come. I was certain that my path was the correct one, and societal expectations—particularly in New York City, where I had lived and worked for most of my adult life— proved me right.

Then everything changed.

In June 2019, my little brother, Nathan, was hit and killed by a drunk driver. He was only 29 years old. My life was irreparably shattered in an instant.

Nathan and I were extremely close. He was a cherished friend and confidant to me for as long as I can remember. We shared stories, secrets, and mutual traumas that we vowed to take to our graves. But unlike me, Nathan grew up to be a soulful and fearless adventurer, unconstrained by societal expectations. He poured himself into his most important relationships, and everything else was secondary. He was the kind of person who would stop whatever he was doing to help a friend, even if his generosity was never reciprocated. His heart was pure, and he blindly followed it. He simply knew no other way to live or to love.

The weeks and months that followed Nathan’s death were filled with sadness, tears, and grief. In hindsight, I realized that I was also losing what I had thought was my identity. Suddenly, the things I had prioritized didn’t matter at all, and the only life I knew became meaningless to me. Finding a

different path years into my career, with the ultimate promotion dangling in front of me, was a fight for which I had no energy. I simply wanted to give up for a bit. And that’s what I did until the world found itself in crisis mode with the onset of the pandemic less than a year later.

The impact that the global pandemic had on American corporate culture was a literal lifeline for me. The expectation of in-office work was lifted indefinitely. I knew that I wanted to leave New York City and be present with my family in Colorado.

Enter RV life.

I searched for a suitable rig for three weeks, and then I found myself driving my own vehicle for the first time in a decade while towing a trailer for the first time in my life. I was Coloradobound. After four nights and five days of driving, I was greeted by the first of many “Welcome to Colorful Colorado” signs that I would see in my travels, and I immediately fell apart. My journey from New York to Colorado had concluded about one year after Nathan was killed, and it felt wrong to be in this beautiful place without him.

After tending to some basic maintenance issues arising from my cross-country trip, I

decided to make a nearby national forest boondocking site my home for a bit. I was surrounded by secondgrowth pines and a wide variety of rarely-seen wildlife. I set up my hammock and had lots of time for journaling. Full of unspoken and misunderstood grief, I cried rivers for a month straight. It was quiet and I was alone with my thoughts, and I was not yet comfortable with that dynamic.

Then, at the recommendation of newfound RVer friends, I left Colorado over Labor Day weekend in 2020 to travel until winter settled in, starting in Moab, Utah. Those who have been to Moab will know what I mean when I say that the drive into town via Highway 191 South changed my life, and I had barely scratched the surface. This was the change of scenery I needed, and for the first time since my brother’s death, I felt like I had stumbled upon a life worth living.

I felt like I had stumbled upon a life worth living.

Since then, I’ve traveled all over the western United States and revisited a number of favorite spots. I continued to find myself grieving for much of this time, but gradually, the tears of grief mixed with tears of gratitude for the beauty that consistently surrounded me. From the crystal-clear lakes and rivers of Washington to the forceful waterfalls of Oregon and the unobstructed summit views in Colorado’s high country, I constantly found myself thinking, “Man, would Nathan love this place!”

I know with certainty that Nathan would be proud of me. I’ve changed the course of my career and rebuilt my entire life to showcase his most important lessons: Take the risk, find common ground, be kind, and love hard.

A Positive Shift in Mindset Leads to a New Lifestyle

BY DA LEIGH TOWNSLEY • @LUKEANDDALEIGH

IN 2020, WE noticed a big shift—not only for us, but for others as well. It was as if a great awakening was in the works, but people were struggling with falling back asleep. That year, my husband, Luke, got a job offer halfway across the country, so we sold our home and half our stuff in the hopes of finding what we were looking for, even though we still weren’t sure what that was.

This was our first time moving away and living in a place where we knew no one. We knew it would be a struggle, but we promised ourselves we would give Florida a year of our time and see how we felt after that. We learned about ourselves and the world around us while we were there, but six months into our new lives, we were miserable. Luke was working at a job he didn’t enjoy, and when he came home, he was totally drained. I hated spending so much time alone in a city I didn’t understand, and although both of us were there, we felt so far from one another.

One day while I was home cleaning, YouTube videos about RV living popped into my feed. Thank the robot overlords for this, because it sparked something within me! I’d thought about living on the road before, but Luke worried about us having a place to sleep

and a means to keep ourselves going. He’s always been an amazing protector and provider, and did not want to see us go without, even though I’ve told him I would be happy no matter what as long as I was with him.

We were lying in bed one night, mentally preparing ourselves for the next day, when we began to talk about our future plans. We knew we didn’t want to spend another year in Florida, and we knew we could move back to Oklahoma. But that would wipe out our savings, and we’d just be in the same place we started. We had played around with the idea of selling the rest of our belongings and moving into an RV, but we were too focused on what could go wrong and the reasons it wouldn’t work.

Adjusting our mindset changed things for us. We realized there was as much room for this to be successful as there was for it to be a failure. We could never know how it would turn out unless we tried.

Was it scary selling the rest of our belongings? Yes. Was it terrifying purchasing an RV? Absolutely. Was it exhausting rebuilding and modifying it to meet our needs? You’d better believe it!

But it was also worth it.

We’ve been traveling in our motorhome for close to two years now, and it’s unlike anything we could have imagined. We’ve seen beautiful sunrises and sunsets, experienced four seasons in a day’s

We realized there was as much room for this to be successful as there was for it to be a failure.

drive, made lifelong friends out of neighbors, and started making healthier choices for ourselves.

There are lots of issues that come up with mobile living, but the majority of our problems are immediately in front of us, and if we put our heads together, we can usually figure out how to fix them.

RV life isn’t for everyone, but the pros far outweigh the cons for us. We spend more time together, focus on what is truly important to us, and see so much more of this beautiful earth. We’ve been able to save more money living this lifestyle because we look for workamping jobs that allow us to work on-site while getting a free spot with hookups. The mental clarity and sense of relief we feel from working to live, not living to work, is indescribable.

A PHOTO TOUR OF

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

SOME OF THE most beautiful areas in the Midwest lie on the shore of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP). Separated from the Lower Peninsula, also known as “The Mitten,” by the Straits of Mackinac, the UP is known for its hiking, waterfalls, and coastline, including the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

This photo tour takes you from east to west along the northern Upper Peninsula coast, stopping at all the best sights along the way.

Whitefish Point

Soo Locks Point Iroquois Lighthouse

Tahquamenon Falls

Van Riper State Park

Muldoons Pasties and Gifts, Munising

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Sable Falls

Marquette

Houghton

Marquette

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Copper Harbor

Cooking For Seven in a Small Space

BY GRETCHEN WATSON

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE a tiny kitchen, especially when it comes to cooking in an RV. People often ask me if you can actually cook meals in an RV the same way you can in a stationary home. Of course you can! It just might take a little creativity to cook with fewer kitchen appliances and in smaller spaces.

As a full-time RV family of seven, eating at restaurants is not very budget-friendly, so we make a lot of meals at home in our 2018 KZ Sportsmen travel trailer. I’ve always cooked for my family, and I definitely didn’t plan on giving that up when we became fulltime RVers. Growing up, my mom made meals from scratch, and dinners were meant to bring our family together, and I followed suit with my family. But RV living has a way of changing your style and methods of cooking.

We used to be busy chasing the American dream, but now our days are spent roadschooling and going on adventures. I still crave home-cooked meals, but

the reality is that with our new lifestyle, it’s not always possible to cook from scratch. That’s why I’ve found myself turning to convenience appliances to give my family the home-cooked meals they desire.

My method of cooking now is still homemade, but with convenience. I save time by using appliances such as slow cookers and the Ninja Foodi XL. This allows me to still make delicious meals, but without all the fuss. I also try to incorporate outdoor cooking into our days when possible; making meals on the grill is a great way to change things up and add variety.

Since RVs have such limited kitchen space, I

Make cooking in your RV more convenient with these products:

Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker

Set it and forget it. This large-capacity 10-quart slow cooker will help you prepare dinner for a large family without spending all day in the kitchen.

Ninja Foodi XL

Bake, broil, toast, or air fry meals for a large family in a fraction of the time of a conventional oven.

Blackstone Griddle

Take cooking (and the mess) outdoors with a griddle from Blackstone. This 22-inch gas-fueled countertop griddle makes clean-up easy—simply wipe the surface clean and empty the grease catcher when done.

Instant Pot

A family favorite, this is the ultimate convenience appliance. Cook meals in a fraction of the time of traditional cooking.

Electric Kettle

Boil water quickly for coffee, tea, or instant meals with this electric kettle.

had to be very selective when it came to choosing the appliances I brought with me. At first, I tried to take all of my kitchen appliances from our house, but I quickly realized there was not enough space, and I wasn’t using them as much as I thought I would. After a year of living in an RV, I realized I needed to narrow down our appliances, so I chose the ones that were multifunctional and fit my cooking style.

One of those appliances even took the place of our RV oven. I wanted something more consistent to bake with, and I was hoping to eliminate some other appliances, like the toaster and

air fryer. So we replaced our oven with the Ninja Foodi XL. This has been especially helpful since it has the ability to cook on two levels, and allows us to cook for our large family with less effort and time. It was a decision that definitely made a difference for our family, and we use the Ninja Foodi XL every single day.

This lifestyle has been a great adventure, and I’ve found that I can still make delicious homecooked meals without sacrificing the time I need to explore our beautiful world. It may not be the same as when we were chasing the American dream, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

So what does a full-time RV family of seven cook in their RV? Here are some of our favorite recipes we make often in our small kitchen.

CRESCENT ROLL BREAKFAST CASSEROLE

This makes a great breakfast, and you can add variations such as onions, peppers, or even cooked hash browns to change it up. You can assemble this the night before and store it in the fridge for a quick breakfast the next morning.

Ingredients:

1 tube crescent rolls

8 ounces breakfast sausage

6 eggs

1 cup cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Spread out the crescent roll dough in a greased 9x11 pan or a pan that will fit your oven. Next, brown 8 ounces of breakfast sausage. We use sausage patties if we don’t have a roll of sausage available. Add the layer of cooked sausage to the crescent roll dough, then beat six eggs and pour on top. Add salt and pepper, then sprinkle one cup of cheese on top. Bake for 20 to 22 minutes at 350 degrees.

SLOW COOKER SHRIMP SCAMPI

One of the reasons we love our slow cooker is the convenience to set it and forget it. As a full-time traveling family, we spend many days out adventuring or doing hands-on learning, so coming home to a hot meal makes this recipe most appealing. Feel free to double this recipe if you have a large family like ours.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds frozen, shelled, and deveined shrimp

1/3 cup chicken broth

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons minced garlic

Juice from half a lemon

Salt and pepper to taste

Spaghetti noodles

Instructions:

Combine shrimp, chicken broth, oil, butter, garlic, and lemon juice in a crock pot. Cook on low for 2 1/2 hours. When shrimp is cooked, boil spaghetti and add to the mixture before serving.

TWO INGREDIENT MOCK CHERRY TURNOVERS

Here is a quick and easy recipe that will be a sweet treat for everyone in your family.

Ingredients:

1 can cinnamon rolls

1 can cherry pie filling

Instructions:

Add one cinnamon roll to a greased muffin tin. Make an indentation in the middle and add one spoonful of cherry pie mixture. Continue until the muffin tin is full. Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes or until cooked. Once the turnovers are done, drizzle cinnamon roll icing on top and serve hot or at room temperature. Warming the icing up helps it to drizzle best.

We find these helpful tips ensure that we can create yummy feasts for our family in our tiny space.

1. Choose kitchen appliances based on which ones help you save time and money

2. Save time and space by prepping vegetables, fruits, and meats ahead of time

3. Cook in phases if you don’t have enough appliances

4. Use recipes that can be cooked in one pot or pan to save space Gretchen shares more familyfriendly travel tips on Instagram @themindfulnomadic

CAREERS on the Road

FINDING A WAY to fund travel is essential, and there are many different ways to make the full-time lifestyle work for you. From creative businesses to seasonal gigs to unique side hustles, our readers reveal how they make money on the road.

“We are full-time video producers and content creators!”

CHARITY DEVRIES @gratefulglamper

“[My husband is a] nonprofit chaplain”

GRETCHEN WATSON

“I am a hiker who leads educational tours in the Pyrenees”

EMMA CHRISTIE @theemmachristie

istockphoto.com/T Schofield

“I work

in marketing

and also teach digital art classes online!”

MELISSA PARSONS @melexploring_

“I’m a physical therapist, and my husband is a dentist.”

LAUREN LYNASS @alittlebitunhitched

Do you work from the road? Share your job for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue of RV Today: rvtoday.com/careersfromtheroad

Here are other unique jobs from our readers:

• Land investment business

• Entrepreneur teaching RVers how to build businesses Novelist

• Social media (blogging and YouTube)

• Writing true history scripts for Noiser podcasts

GEAR GUIDE

1. REFRIGERATOR BARS

Spring-loaded bars

help keep items in your refrigerator and cabinets in place during travel.

2. WIRELESS VEHICLE LEVELING SYSTEM

Level your RV without leaving the driver's seat. This system is easy to use and takes the guesswork out of leveling.

3.

RV PROPANE TANK GAUGE

Monitor propane levels on tanks up to 40 pounds with this easy-to-install gauge.

4. AIRSKIRTS TIRE COVERS

These dual-axle tire covers are designed for all-season use and have UV protection to ensure longevity. They come in a set of two and include a reusable drawstring storage bag.

5. MORRYDE CORD SPOOLER

MORryde's cord spooler stores your 30- or 50-AMP cord, and has a small footprint.

6. ANDERSEN HITCHES EZ BLOCKS

These jack blocks work with jacks of all kinds. They're also stackable for extra height.

7. RV WATER PRESSURE REGULATOR

Protect the pipes in your motorhome or RV with this easy-to-adjust and easy-to-read water pressure regulator.

8. MOTORHOME SUNSHADE

Protect your interior, gain privacy, and help your motorhome stay cooler. These XXL window shades are foldable and fit many popular motorhome models.

9. RV STEP COVERS

These carpeted stair covers velcro down and are available in two different sizes.

10. BOXIO PORTABLE SINK

This portable camping sink has fresh water and gray water tanks and gives you an extra solution for cleaning and washing at your campsite.

Campground

The Big Texan RV Ranch

1414 Sunrise Drive Amarillo, TX 79104

The Big Texan RV Ranch welcomed us with warm Texas hospitality. We were greeted by a large arrivals area, and promptly checked in by their friendly staff. We found the arrival process fast and enjoyable, which was nice after a long travel day.

This park has easy access from Interstate 40 and convenient pullthrough sites, and it’s packed with amenities. We enjoyed the heated indoor pool and sauna. Our pup enjoyed her choice of three dog parks. And they even offer a free shuttle to the Big Texan Steak Ranch so you don’t have to disconnect your vehicle.

Cascade Peaks Campground

11519 US-12 Randle, WA 98377

This campground is a hidden gem near Mount Rainier National Park. The water view and river access make it a campground worth visiting. Weekends can be busy with campers, but during the week it’s so quiet and you have the whole place to yourself. The river view sites—especially the sites in the 60s and 70s—are fantastic, and provide direct access to the water for a cold plunge and sunshine. Sites have power and water hookups, but no sewer. There is a dump station up front.

Stephanie Lincoln @borntobebravebook

Lighthouse Point at Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Drive Sandusky, OH 44870

This campground is on the grounds of Cedar Point. We loved being able to walk back and forth from the amusement park to our home base—it was especially convenient to be able to let the dog out when needed. It was a great spot on Lake Erie, and our site had waterfront views. There are sites for all sizes of RVs, including big rigs. Check out the cabins if you have family who do not RV but who want to join in on the fun!

Charity DeVries @gratefulglamper

EVENTS

Upcoming RV Events and Rallies

Stay connected with fellow RVers at these 2024 events. Visit rvtoday.com/rv-rallies for more information.

APRIL 2024

2–9: 8-Day Great American Eclipse and Homecoming Rally

Branson, MO

3–9: Total Solar Eclipse Vintage Class A RV Rally

Mineola, TX

5–8: Grand Design RV Owners Texas Eclipse Rally

Waco, TX

5–9: Airstream Club Region 5 Special Event Eclipse Rally

Columbus, IN

6–9: Airstream Club 4CU Eclipse Rally

Lampasas, TX

17–21: 2024 Grand Design Owners Southern California Rally

San Dimas, CA

19–21: 10th Annual Vintage Camper and Classic Car Show

Hemet, CA

27–28: 9th Annual Georgia Tiny House Festival

Madison, GA

25–28: NorCal RV Group Round-Up

Hollister, CA

28–May 4:

Escapees RV Club Best of Nashville HOP

Nashville, TN

MAY 2024

2-5: Puyallup RV Show

Puyallup, WA

17-19: Rainbow RV Moab, Utah National Parks Rally

2024

Moab, UT

15-18: 2024 Grand Design Owners Utah Rally

Kanab, UT

17-29:

Escapees RV Club’s Alaska Cruise and Land

Adventure HOP

Vancouver, BC

21-29: 9 Day Abbey Road Music Festival Rally

Clarksville, IN

24-26: Rainbow RV’s Zion Memorial Weekend

National Parks Rally

Zion, UT

30-June 2:

RVing Women’s Mid-Atlantic Chapter

Lancaster, PA

30-June 2:

Ontario Grand Design Owners Rally

Cherry Valley, Ontario, Canada

30-June 3:

Rainbow RV Las Vegas Memorial Weekend Rally

Las Vegas, NV

EVENTS

Upcoming RV Events

Stay connected with fellow RVers at these 2024 events. Visit rvtoday.com/rv-rallies

JUNE 2024

4-7: Music City Motorhome Expo

Lebanon, TN

5-9: The Flock RV Rally Company

Cherry Valley, Ontario, Canada

5-9: FMCA’s Great Lakes Area Rally (GLAMARAMA)

Greenville, OH

6-9: Tampa Bay Summer RV Show

Tampa, FL

19-23: New England Grand Design Rally

Foxboro, MA

20-23:

Airstream Club’s 2024 NC Waterfalls

Galore Rally

Toxaway, NC

23-August 20:

Airstream Club’s Viking Trail Caravan

Little Bras D’Or, North Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada