RV Today Issue 19 | Summer 2024

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

Immediate and continuous friction sway prevention

Unload

Our

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

learn more

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

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.

Publisher: Demian Ross

Chief Editor: Nikki Kirk

Editorial Director: Jamie May

Art Director: Melinda Galjour

Copy Editor: Kristin Skaggs

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.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

QR codes kill kittens.

Everyone says we live in a digital world, but I will tell you analog is making a strong comeback—and I don't mean 8-tracks are coming back into our cars.

When I started Rootless Living magazine in 2019, I was shocked that digital nomads and full-time RVers actually wanted a print version of the magazine. Rootless Living subscribers were 90% digital and 10% print, which stayed steady until we merged it with RV Today earlier this year.

With RV Today, we have seen a considerable uptick in print subscribers. In a year or so, we may have as many new print subscribers as digital-only subscribers. And it's not happening just with RV Today's print magazine. Look around and you'll see how popular other non-digital media is becoming. People seek film cameras and dumb phones (calls and text only). Even LP sales are growing. People want to get off their devices.

Now, the great thing about being a magazine that is available in print and digital is that we can cater to both types of content consumers. If you don't want to read a magazine on a device because you find yourself distracted by all the notifications from other apps, then grab a print subscription. If you like the experience of having the magazine with you at all times, clicking links, and having a more 360 experience, then grab a digital subscription.

All hobbies and lifestyle niches need print magazines. They're a staple in these communities. However, magazines are drying up in niches because advertisers don't understand how important a print magazine is to their ecosystem, or they get too excited about the next shiny object and go all in there (cough, TikTok).

You would think I would be excited about my competitor magazines shutting down or transitioning to digital-only and discontinuing their print version, but I am not. Print and analog are still very important.

As an example, have you heard of a magazine called Girl Camper? Well, if you haven't, my friend Janine and her team do a fantastic job creating a quarterly publication that is available in print and encourages women to get out and camp and RV either with their families or solo. The print quality is amazing, and it really is coffee table quality.

I started this letter with a statement about QR codes, so let's get back to that. While we continue to innovate, I always ask myself, "Are we doing what we're doing because 'that's the way things have always been done'? Or are we taking an innovative approach that truly meets a need for our readers and RVers?"

Behind this message is our goal of designing the print magazine to be a device-free version, and that will mean banning QR codes in the future. The digital version will be slightly different and more interactive but still with no QR codes, as the device you are reading the magazine with is probably the one that also holds the camera you need to scan said QR code. But don't worry, if you buy the print version you get the digital as well.

Print and analog content are here to stay. If the uptick in print subscribers over the last six months is an indicator of the future, then we are on the right track.

Demian Ross Founder/Publisher demian@rvtoday.com

AT A RECENT

camping event, we sat outside until long after dark, laughing harder than I had in a long time. Surrounding me were dozens and dozens of women who keep the RV industry running day in and day out. RVing brought us there, but we left with much more: new connections, friendships, and fun memories. Most of all, I left with a deep understanding of how passionately these women care about their work.

Female founders and CEOs of RV companies are a rare breed. In this issue of RV Today, we introduce you to someone who is reshaping luxury land travel in the modern day with a concept from history. You can read about innovations from the visionary founder and CEO of Bowlus, Geneva Long, beginning on page 42.

The face of RVing is changing. RVing doesn't have to look or be done in any one specific way. How do you RV? Where do you want to go? What do you hope to do and see along the way? Your thoughts can shape our stories in upcoming issues of RV Today. Share them with us at rvtoday.com/ feedback

Jamie May Editorial Director jamie@rvtoday.com

ON THE COVER: Bowlus’ 2025 Rivet. Read more beginning on page 42.

Photo courtesy Bowlus.

CONTRIBUTORS

Calling all...

Visit these links for your chance to be featured in an upcoming issue of RV Today

Happy Campers

rvtoday.com/happycamper

Photographers

rvtoday.com/collab

Gear Gurus

rvtoday.com/products

RVers

rvtoday.com/ campground-preview

Writers

rvtoday.com/submit-story

Roadtrippers

rvtoday.com/attractions

Storytellers rvtoday.com/storypitch

Digital Nomads

rvtoday.com/ careersfromtheroad

Readers

rvtoday.com/feedback

Rally Hosts

rvtoday.com/submit-event

KRISTEN BATES @perpetualmoves

Campground Spotlight: Biloxi Bay RV Resort and Marina

Kristen got her first RV at age 30. In the past 12 years, she’s traveled in a campervan, a travel trailer, and her current Class A motorhome, which she shares with her husband and dog. They say their next RV might be a tiny Casita! You’ll typically find them boondocking out West.

SCOTT RUSSELL @theadventuredetour

Campground Spotlight: Camp Margaritaville Auburndale

Scott, Van, and their daughter have traveled full time in their RV for more than eight years. They’ve worked and homeschooled on the road through 42 states so far. They blog about RVing tips, travel destinations, and the full-time RV lifestyle at theadventuredetour.com. They love connecting with fellow RVers, so be sure to reach out!

Luanne Porper @luanneporper

Marc and Julie Bennett @rvlovetravel

Mark and Val Domnenko @the.travel.show

Jason and Abby | RV Miles @rvmiles

Beth Cronin @vintageglampers

Jenn Frey @thejenniferfrey

Earl McCreary @earl_h_mccreary

Deanne Ferguson @deanneferguson

THE REARVIEW

Overflowing with gratitude to be featured in @rvtodaymag alongside an incredible community of fellow wanderers! ✨

What an amazing opportunity to showcase our home on wheels and share our journey and ways we lift the vibes in our house!

Thankful for the adventure and the wonderful people we’ve met along the way!! ������

@roamingwiththesmiths

Hello RV Today,

I own a 1994 Lazy Daze RV. I am the second owner of the Daze and grew up camping in a 1963 Ford Condor. We enjoy camping as a family. I was part of the MotorHome Magazine for 15 years, and was sick when MotorHome stopped publishing the magazine. I now have a year subscription and I look forward to being part of RV Today.

Chris

@theflippingnomad

So honored by this! ❤️

@2veterans.onthemove

What an amazing cover!!! ✨️��

@sanvilleinvestments

Gorgeous cover! ��

@gills_on_wheels This is awesome!!

Thanks so much for featuring our article! ❤

@ontheroadofadventure I’m always happy to be included in your publication!!

@happiercamper Yay!!! Thanks for featuring our fiberglass trailers! ❤❤

@boundlessbronnekes Stop it!! This is so cool

@theflippingnomad

@roamingwiththesmiths Ahhh! �� So honored to be a part of this issue, along with so many beautiful people!! ♥️

@dasponto Thanks for including us! Can't believe the 6 page spread. It looks so good

@travelinthoms Love this!! @theflippingnomad

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

CAMPERS

Our readers share what they love about RVing!

“THE SIGHTS I’VE seen and the people I’ve met during two cross-country trips with my husband in our 22-foot campervan have made me a happy camper. The incredible beauty of the United States never ceased to amaze us. Our country is home to so many awe-inspiring places, including Joshua Tree, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier national parks.

We felt so privileged to be able to hike along the Rio Grande at Big Bend National Park, to walk the boardwalks at Yellowstone National Park, and to hike to the bottom of Bryce Canyon and look up at the hoodoos glowing orange against the azure sky. We took a glorious hike at Mount Rainier among snow and spring flowers, ending at a waterfall. We saw many bears in the Canadian Rockies, and a moose stepping out from the woods in Idaho.

And though we love to experience wonder at the beautiful and spiritual places we’ve visited, it’s the people we met who stay on my mind the most. The connections we made along the way added depth and heart to our travels.

Some of our most memorable evenings were spent with fellow campers through Harvest Hosts, drinking craft beer or wine and sharing travel stories. In Texas, we spent the night in the parking lot of a honky-tonk BBQ place complete with a baby goat running around on the patio.

We learned how little we needed to get by. Simple meals of rice and beans or veggie burgers and soup sustained us many days. We brought only the most necessary clothing. Our entertainment was a beer and a chair outside watching the sunset and gazing at the stars.

Our RV life is simple, complicated, and inspiring—all rolled into a

22-foot package. We are hooked on the lifestyle and we always begin planning our next trip as soon as we return home. We are so glad we took the leap and bought our campervan. It has been the vehicle transporting us to a higher understanding of ourselves and our country, and bringing us true joy through experiences that can only be described as heavenly.”

Luanne P. @luanneporper

RV

Hacks

BY MARC AND JULIE BENNETT OF RVLOVE.COM

CREATE A PORTABLE OUTDOOR PAPER TOWEL HOLDER

Use a metal garden flag stand as a portable paper towel holder. Simply insert the stand into the ground near your barbecue picnic table! It can also come in handy when you’re doing mechanical or other dirty jobs around the RV, so you’ll always have easy access to wipe things up.

PLAN YOUR ROUTE IN ADVANCE

MAKE LESS-MESSY S’MORES IN A BAG

Add toasted marshmallows and a spoonful of chocolate chips to small bags of graham crackers, like Teddy Grahams. Mix it all together and eat your s’mores with a fork or spoon to avoid sticky fingers.

Spend time planning your route before you get behind the wheel so you’re familiar with the route and the best roads to take. This can save you time on travel days and ensure a safer and less stressful drive. The larger the RV, the more important advance trip planning becomes, since the consequences are higher and it’s not as easy to get out of a tricky situation. Proper planning and preparation pay off— sometimes literally!

DISCOVER HIDDEN GEMS

Instead of relying on local tourism guides, ask the locals for their personal favorites and recommendations when visiting an area. You’ll have a unique experience and avoid the crowds when visiting these lesser-known gems.

Marc and Julie Bennett have been living, working, and traveling in RVs since 2014. They have traveled to all 50 U.S. states, plus Canada, Mexico, and Australia, while still working full time. They share on their blog, YouTube, and social media, in addition to writing books and running 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 digitally where books are sold. Learn more at rvlove.com/rvhacks

TOY HAULERS TOY HAULERS

with Flex Space with Flex Space

BUILT FOR BRINGING your toys along, toy haulers provide extra garage space that can be turned into any kind of bonus room. The models shown in the following pages are built with multi-purpose use in mind. Manufacturers have created convertible spaces and features that not only allow you to bring kayaks, dirt bikes, and ATVs, but also allow you extra space for sleeping, entertaining, and enjoying the views. Take a look.

GRAND DESIGN Momentum M-Class 414M

Grand Design’s Momentum M-Class 414M gives you everything you need to take the entire family adventuring—including your pets! In the garage, you’ll find a HappiJac bed, plus a loft for extra sleeping space. You’ll also find built-in pet dishes that can flip up for storage.

With a floor-to-ceiling pull-out pantry, ample countertop space in the kitchen, and a sleeping capacity of nine, this model is ready for you to stock with supplies, load everyone up, and hit the road for your next adventure.

Photos Courtesy: GDRV

FEATURES:

HappiJac rollover sofas and table with optional top bed

U-shape kitchen with ample counter space

• Floor-to-ceiling pull-out pantry

Tri-fold sofa for added sleeping space

Queen bed slide with dual wardrobes (King bed optional)

• Triple pass-through basement storage

Garage side access to loft

SPECS:

GVWR: 20,000 pounds

Length: 46 feet, 4 inches

Axles: 3

Sleeping capacity: 9

Flip up pet dishes

Sleeping loft

EMBER Overland Series 240TKR

Repositionable bunk system

Maxing out flex space, Ember’s 240TKR takes full advantage of the multi-purpose concept. It’s mainly an off-roading travel trailer, but the back door also folds down to help you load in your toys, and levels out for extra outdoor patio space.

When being used for sleeping, the repositionable bunk system allows up to two double-overdouble bunk beds. And the convertible lounge space with lagun tables in front allows you to fold down either single or double twin mattresses that can also be combined into a king bed.

The dining table is also removable for extra cargo space.

Photos Courtesy: Ember RV

SPECS:

GVWR: 9,995 pounds

Length: 28 feet, 3 inches

Axles: Tandem

Sleeping capacity: 6

FEATURES:

• 18-plus feet of open/ convertible cargo space Rear ramp door that doubles as a party deck

• EmberTrack™ repositionable bunk and storage system

Convertible lounge sleeper and work area

• Removable dining table

• CURT independent suspension, tandem axle

Heavy-duty off-road tube steel chassis

• Goodyear nitro-filled tires

• Off-grid solar package

• Tire pressure monitoring system

KEYSTONE Raptor 431

At 13 feet, 6 inches, the long garage on Keystone’s new Raptor 431 gives you plenty of storage space for your toys, as well as several options for use when not storing them. The dual opposing sofas in the garage area allow you to lounge during the day. The electric bed comes down to give you extra sleeping options at night.

Frame-welded tie-downs in the garage keep your toys secure during transport. Another big feature of this toy hauler is that it includes two full bathrooms. The large primary bedroom includes a king bed, and an additional loft space comes with a twin bed.

Second full bathroom

Photos Courtesy: Keystone RV Company

FEATURES:

• Large living room with lots of seating and an L-shaped sofa

Kitchen separate from living room with large appliances including Insignia four-burner cooktop, 24-inch oven, and 30-inch convection microwave

Two full bathrooms

• Standard king bed with large wardrobe and washer/dryer prep

13-foot garage including patio package with awning, drop-down TV, dedicated air conditioning, frame-welded tie-downs, 3,000-pound capacity, HappiJac bed and sofa system

45-cubic-foot pass-through storage

• iN-Command control system

• Omni-Chill triple air conditioning cooling system

Standard 220-watt solar with optional 440-watt solar

• G-rated tires

• Onan 5,500-watt gas generator

• Standard hydraulic one-touch auto-level

Dual electric awnings

SPECS:

GVWR: 20,000 pounds

Length: 44 feet, 11 inches

Axles: 3

Sleeping capacity: 7

KEYSTONE Raptor Carbon Series 398

If you like Keystone’s Raptor 431, but you’re looking for even more garage space, check out their Raptor Carbon Series 398. The garage is 17 feet long and has an attached full bath. In the garage, a HappiJac bed with flip-down sofas comes standard. A second set is optional. Ducted heat and air conditioning provide maximum comfort in the garage. This model can sleep up to 10!

Photos Courtesy: Keystone RV Company

Extra-long garage

FEATURES:

Two full bathrooms

King bed

• Nightstands with wireless phone charging

Four-seat reclining Thomas Payne sofa HappiJac bed system

Available patio package with awning

• 17-foot garage with available second HappiJac bed system

Frame-welded tie-downs

Standard 220-watt solar with optional 440-watt solar

• Omni-Chill dual air conditioning cooling system

Standard hydraulic one-touch auto-level

16.5-cubic-foot 12-volt refrigerator

• Soft-close hinges on all cabinetry

• 45-cubic-foot pass-through storage

SPECS:

GVWR: 19,000 pounds

Length: 43 feet, 11 inches

Axles: 3

Sleeping capacity: 10

THOR MOTOR COACH Outlaw Class C 29J

With a dropdown bed, plus a back ramp door that doubles as a patio deck, the Outlaw Class C 29J gives you several ways to use the garage area. It’s built on a Ford® E-Series Chassis with a V8 engine and an 8,000-pound trailer hitch to tow even more. The 10-inch touchscreen on the dash connects to radio, Google Android® Auto, and Apple CarPlayTM, and includes a back-up monitor.

SPECS:

GVWR: 14,500 pounds

Length: 31 feet, 2 inches

Axles: 2

Sleeping capacity: 6

Photos Courtesy: Thor Motor Coach

FEATURES:

Garage ramp door doubles as a patio deck

• Electric drop-down queen bed in the garage

Tie-downs, USB charging station, 12-volt CPAP outlet all in garage

• Swivel leatherette captain’s chairs

Cruise control

Cab-over bunk sleeping area

32-inch TV in garage

• Removable table in garage

• Privacy covers and shades

Outlaw 29J shown in Blue Sparx

HEARTLAND Cyclone 4006

Heartland’s Cyclone 4006 blends interior luxuries, like ample countertop and cabinet space in the kitchen, with space for hauling and hanging out in the garage. The back ramp door doubles as an outdoor patio space, the windows in the garage are extra large to let the breeze through, and a loft and half bath give you extra living space in the garage. The Cyclone also boasts a massive 150-gallon freshwater tank!

Photos Courtesy: Heartland

Cross-conversation

FEATURES:

3,000-pound rated weather-resistant garage ramp door

• Half bath in garage

• Loft in garage for extra sleeping space

Digital / Bluetooth® door locks

Heat duct in garage

Power queen beds with a convertible sofa in garage

• Built-in overhead cabinets with entertainment center in garage

Three-sided access to the basement with extra storage capacity

• Trio air conditioning system for increased airflow and unmatched cooling power

Off-grid power with two 190-watt panels, 2,000-watt inverter, and 30-amp charge controller

• Easy reel power cord

Tilting king bed

Ample storage space

Step caddy

SPECS:

GVWR: 21,000 pounds

Length: 45 feet, 4-1/4 inches

Axles: 3

Sleeping capacity: 8

CPG Global PRO Series locks can be re-keyed to 1 of 91 unique key codes for a more secure key system on your RV.

SWITCH TO PURPLE! Experience the peace of mind you get by eliminating mass produced, generic key codes that everyone uses.

1KEY SYSTEM

There are lots of keys out there, but how unique are they?

Over 4 million RVs in the field today have at least one door that is keyed to one of these mass produced, generic key codes: CH751, G391, CK330, CH502, R001, 357

If you use these keys, then you have valuable items that millions have access to!

ROUND UP

New Class B Lineup Launches

The Patriot Class B RV lineup is the newest addition to Midwest Automotive Designs’ offerings. These premium luxury RVs include all the comforts of home, with high-end touches like handstitched plush fabric seating and hidden cabinet hinges. Visit midwestautomotivedesigns.com or call 574.522.4878 for more information.

MEMBERSHIP

FMCA now offers a $5 monthly membership option, providing flexibility for RVers. This option ensures continuous benefits without worrying about renewal deadlines. Alternatively, members can continue with the traditional annual dues of $50 per year. Both options require a $10 initiation fee. Certain benefits, including emergency roadside assistance and mobile internet, require annual membership.

Campspot Announces Direct Integration With Airbnb

Campspot—a reservation software provider for RV resorts and campgrounds—now offers a direct integration with Airbnb. This will help resorts and campgrounds maximize visibility and fill vacancies. It also may mean competing with Airbnb users for lodging at your favorite campground.

Photo Courtesy Campspot & Glampful, Broadalbin, NY

Midwest Automotive Designs

ULTIMATE CONNECTION

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

adjustable ball height at 40lbs the ultimate is the lightest hitch in its class learn more

andersenhitches.com

oem puck system compatible with bed shaft connector

ROUND UP

Adult-Oriented RV Resort Opens in Florida

A new adult-oriented RV destination, Sweet Citrus Acres RV Resort, is now open in Crystal River, Florida. Along with more than 500 oversized RV sites with full hookups, guests can enjoy numerous upscale amenities, a variety of social activities, and plenty of room to embrace the area’s natural beauty. Visit sweetcitrusacres.com to book.

Roam America Launches Modern RV Camping Experience

Roam America is a new outdoor adventure hospitality brand offering a modern RV and campground experience. The brand softopened its flagship property, Roam Horseshoe Bend, in Page, Arizona, offering 220 RV spaces and elevated amenities and facilities. 12 well-appointed glamping cabins are also being added. Additional Roam America properties, including destinations near Portland, Oregon, and Park City, Utah, are scheduled to open later this year.

TYPE 2 CAMPERS

UNVEILS NEW MODEL

Type 2 Campers has launched Model T2.3, a lightweight camper blending Volkswagen nostalgia with modern automotive design. Weighing less than 1,000 pounds, it’s towable by most cars with a standard hitch, including electric vehicles. At just 9.6 feet long, it offers more than six feet of headroom with the pop-up roof extended, and fits comfortably in a standard garage with the roof lowered. Visit type2campers.com for more information.

“Our goal is to extend the VW culture to those who seek the charm of a VW vehicle without the intensive mechanical upkeep or storage and hauling limitations of a traditional RV. The Model T2.3 camper is our way of sharing this iconic legacy in a modern, accessible design, with functionality that opens up the market to a broader range of customers.”

— Type 2 Campers president and co-owner HEATHER GARDELLA

Model T2.3 Camper, Dove Blue

Type 2 Campers

meet FEATURED RVERS

Mark and Val Domnenko

What do you travel in?

Motorhome

What kind of RVer are you?

Full-timer

How long have you been RVing?

3-plus years

Is there anything specific that made you want to RV?

After trying to run three businesses with 50 employees, then going bankrupt, we realized that we’d lost so much time with each other and with our kids. Money was not worth chasing—we want to share how important time is.

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

Val was born in Ukraine and does modeling, and Mark was born in Kazakhstan. We got married when we were 17 and 19 years old, and built up a business empire before basically losing it all.

What has been your most memorable RVing moment?

Our life is pretty darn memorable! We’re constantly filming, capturing unique food spots, thrilling amusement parks, and hidden gems that many folks never even notice. Lately, we’ve been hitting up some seriously exotic restaurants that have completely blown our minds.

But amid all the hustle and bustle, our favorite memories often come from the simplest moments, like sitting on top of our RV, soaking in the stunning sunsets of the Florida Keys. It’s those quiet, peaceful times that really stick with us, reminding us of the beauty in life’s little pleasures.

Instagram: @the.travel.show

Facebook:

10TIPS FOR DEWINTERIZING

1

UNCOVER AND INSPECT THE EXTERIOR

Get the RV out of storage, take the cover off, and check for critters, nests, and pests to make sure none took up residence in your rig over the winter. Get your ladder out and take a look at the roof. Make sure the roof sealant is intact.

BONUS TIP:

Dewinterize long before your first camping trip! Finding issues on what should otherwise be a relaxing weekend will ruin your trip.

2 PUT BATTERIES BACK IN

When you winterized, you should have either taken your batteries out or kept the batteries plugged in all winter. Batteries last longer when they are charged, and hold a bigger charge if they maintain a constant charge. Put the batteries back in if you removed them, and check the water level if you have lead-acids. Be sure to test the batteries as well.

3

INSPECT THE INTERIOR

Get out a flashlight, open cabinets, and look for any friends that shouldn’t be in your RV. Look for water damage and discoloration in the ceiling, carpet, and walls, and address any issues as soon as possible.

4 OPEN UP ALL SLIDES AND STEPS

Check all moving parts and make sure everything is moving well. Lube slides and seals.

5 CHECK THE PROPANE SYSTEM

To check for gas leaks, put soapy water in a spray bottle and spray down propane lines and connections with the propane open. The water will bubble anywhere there is a leak.

6

MONITOR TIRE CONDITION

Check your tires for dry rot, cracking, and tread depth, and fill them to the right pressure.

7 POP THE HOOD

If you have a motorhome, open the hood and check all fluid levels—and yes, look for critters and pests again. Vehicles that haven’t moved in a while are prime places for critters to chew lines and wires.

8

INSPECT HITCH COMPONENTS

Look for rust, wear, and damage, and replace anything that looks questionable. Put new tow chains on and replace the pigtail or wiring if needed.

9

DEWINTERIZE THE PLUMBING SYSTEM

Whether you used antifreeze or blew out the lines with air, the dewinterization process for your plumbing system is the same: flush it through with fresh water. Dust and bugs can collect in tanks, so this will help you clean things out.

10 GET THE WATER HEATER GOING

You probably drained and shut off connections to the water heater during the winterization process. Open the connections back up, turn the water pump on, and open up the hot water valve on any faucet. Let the water heater fill back up. Shut the faucet off and the pump should stop. If it doesn’t, that means there’s a leak, and you’ll need to find it quickly. Also, if you used antifreeze during the winterization process, go around and open up every faucet one at a time to flush the antifreeze out of each line. Open up the gray water tank to let it all out. A great place to do this is at a dump station.

Products to help you dewinterize

Roof Sealant

Carbon Monoxide Detector

Slide Lubricating Fluid

Spray Bottle

Tire Pressure Gauge

Weight Distribution Hitch

Trailer Safety Cables

BONUS TIP:

This is also a good time to sanitize your water system with bleach. Run bleach through, let it sit, and then flush it all out until the water is clear.

BONUS TIP:

If you have a compost toilet, now is a good time to give it a good clean and put new compost material in.

Auto Fire Extinguisher

Smoke Detector

BONUS TIP:

Check smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and carbon monoxide detectors.

Information adapted from Episode 35 of the RV Miles podcast, the highest-rated RV-focused podcast for outdoor enthusiasts. To listen, visit rvmiles.com/podcast

RV INTERIORS AND DECOR

OUR YEAR-LONG

CAMPER renovation was quite the adventure. We focused on neutral decor in order to brighten up the camper and create an illusion of extra space. We shopped at a range of places, from local shops all the way to big name stores.

We tried to treat the camper no differently than we treat our home. Our goal has been to achieve an elevated aesthetic without compromising durability, so we opted for materials like Sunbrella fabric for our cushions, and sturdy drop cloth for our custom curtains.

Preserving the camper’s original footprint became our design goal, challenging us to maximize

every inch. We wanted to retain its nostalgic charm while embracing modern conveniences.

In our pursuit of modernizing, we introduced amenities, including USB plugs, a smart TV, and an air conditioner. These additions elevated our camping experience and increased our ability to blend the comforts of home with adventures on the road.

Each carefully-chosen element reflects a balance between style and sturdiness, as well as nostalgia and modernity. Our camper isn't just a mode of transportation; it’s a curated space that mirrors our evolving journey—a home on wheels that captures our spirit of adventure.

1968 Serro Scotty Camper | Beth Cronin | @vintageglampers

BOWLUS

REINVENTED

Back on the Road and Better Than Ever

BOWLUS IS TURNING heads with its latest offering—the new 2025 Bowlus Rivet features so many innovations that no one can deny it’s blazing a new path in the RV world. We asked CEO Geneva Long all about the brand she brought back to life, as well as the new technology built into the Rivet.

*Interview answers have been lightly edited.

For those who may not know the history behind Bowlus, can you share a little about how your interest in the company came about?

Bowlus has the most iconic story in the RV industry as the original riveted aluminum travel trailer. The story spans nine decades, capturing the nation’s imagination for land travel. It would have stayed in the history books and the hands of a few collectors had it not been for my vision more than a decade ago, sparked by my family’s purchase of a 1935 Bowlus, which we restored over many years and took on a cross-country adventure.

Hawley Bowlus designed and built the first riveted aluminum travel trailer in 1934. Hawley was known for leading the construction of the Spirit of St. Louis, among other aerospace firsts. In his time, the Bowlus had luxurious finishes, and found homes in Hollywood and with the business elite. The Bowlus inspired more than a dozen copycats, but none could ever match the superiority of its design and function.

Bowlus was the most advanced and luxurious travel trailer at its inception, and my team and I envisioned its future as the most innovative travel trailer. We wanted it to be able to be towed by emerging electric vehicles and smaller traditional vehicles, and we wanted to make the Bowlus the first electric RV in the world, for a luxurious and sustainable RVing experience.

Today, we lead the RVing industry with an impressive list of innovations, including the first production of all-electric RVs and the first self-propelled, self-powered, and remote-controlled RV.

The dream of reviving the brand came from a cross-country road trip in my family’s vintage Bowlus to SXSW and Palm Springs Modernism in 2010. It felt like nearly everyone who saw our vintage Bowlus stopped us to ask where they could get one, too, and if they were still making something like this. I was finishing at Wharton then, and the idea of an innovative RV was sparked. When we began looking to develop an RV, we knew we had found something special in the Bowlus. We envisioned upgrading the form with an entirely aluminum, fully monocoque frame that would provide the lightness we sought as one of our core tenets for a fully sustainable RVing future. We wanted to create an RV that allowed people to travel on their own terms, whether that meant campgrounds, off-grid, working while away, or traveling with family and pets. We wanted to create an RV that was fun and easy to use, set the standard for quality, and reflected my idea of luxury land travel.

The 2025 Rivet is truly a work of art! What was your inspiration and motivation for the design and technology you’ve been able to combine in the latest Bowlus product offering?

Thank you! Bowlus has a long history of building RVs for a lifetime of adventures, and the Rivet certainly delivers on the Bowlus standard of incredible build quality, while also offering features for rugged experiences.

The Rivet has been in development for more than 5 years, and we’ve been honing in and perfecting it all along. Our inspiration always comes from the type of camping we like to do—easy, seamless, spontaneous camping. We want to be

able to hitch up and go in less than a minute. We want to be able to drive with a car we like driving. We want a separate bedroom with a king bed and a massive ensuite bathroom that doesn’t take up floor space when not in use, but can also expand for a luxury experience. We want the ability to work remotely for as long as we want with massive battery systems and AeroSolar™, and we want to get into any campsite—in terms of both length and ruggedness of terrain. We are proud to have accomplished that with the Rivet.

BOWLUS HISTORY

Hawley Bowlus was an innovative designer and engineer. His notable accomplishments in the aerospace industry include overseeing construction of the Spirit of St. Louis in 1934. According to the National Soaring Museum, he was hired by Ryan Aircraft Company in the late 1920s to fly between San Diego and Los Angeles. In 1929, he broke Orville Wright’s soaring duration record. In the early 1930s, he built the first USA high-performance sailplane, the Albatross.

His incredible aerospace experience led him to build the Bowlus, the first aluminum riveted travel trailer, in 1934. Between 1934 and 1936, he built more than 80 Bowlus trailers, which made appearances in major movies and were purchased by the California Highway Patrol and major movie stars.

In 1936, Wally Byam created the Airstream Clipper, which is based on the Bowlus design. The companies competed for less than two years before they both closed. Although internet lore often says that Airstream purchased Bowlus, that actually never happened. Today, half of the original Bowlus trailers survive, with the last one sold in 2011 for $187,000.

Please tell us about the design philosophy RVers can see in the Rivet.

User experience is at the core of everything we do, and we believe the best RV user experience comes from a lightweight, aerodynamic RV that is built to the highest quality for off-grid use. It allows adventurers to seek new destinations on their own terms and at their own pace.

The Rivet has a dry weight of 2,800 pounds and a GVWR of 3,500 pounds. This is critical to us because it allows our customers to tow with the largest variety of tow vehicles and not need to purchase a new tow vehicle just to tow their RV, saving money and providing a fun-to-drive experience.

The Bowlus design philosophy will always center around smart design—for example, all of our vents, jacks, etc., are manual. We do this on purpose; we want the battery power conserved for running important things, like the air conditioning, and all the laptops, tablets, and phones you want—staying off-grid longer. We believe camping should look like camping. While the Bowlus should be a solace you return to, it really should be about energizing you to access the great outdoors.

What new technologies and innovations will RVers find in the Rivet?

Robust-specced power management systems with yacht-quality 8 kilowatt-hour lithium and up to 660 watts of solar power generation allow indefinite time off-grid in all conditions. Like all Bowlus models, the Rivet can run all appliances (including the air conditioning and heating) off-grid via the best-in-class Bowlus Power Management System and AeroSolar™. A hearty three-inch lift kit for added off-road clearance with all-terrain tires supporting off-road access gives Bowlus owners complete flexibility in choosing campsites—from off-grid boondocking to luxury campgrounds.

The Rivet is the first production RV to be self-propelled, self-powered, and remote-controlled, enabling access virtually anywhere. With exceptional power and traction, the AeroMove™ drives up steep slopes, turns 360 degrees, and can maneuver the Rivet into campsites, driveways, and parallel parking spaces. Customers can add the AeroMove™ feature for an additional $10,000.

What’s ahead for Bowlus in the rest of 2024 and into next year? Where can people find more information about or see a Rivet? How do they reserve one?

How do you feel about releasing this to the public?

We’re absolutely thrilled and honored by the response from our customers. Now we just can’t wait to start delivering even more of these to customers so we can hear about their awesome travels and unique use cases.

We know the Rivet will continue to change the RV industry like Bowlus has for the last dozen years, and we can’t wait to keep doing work that makes everyone related to the Bowlus brand proud.

You can place your order for the Rivet at bowlus.com. The Bowlus Rivet is available for viewing at our Bowlus of California dealership.

WHICH SNAPPAD WILL FIT YOUR RIG

RV SnapPads are like heavy-duty shoes for your rig that makes RV camping easier and more enjoyable. With RV SnapPad, you can:

Level your RV quickly and easily, without the hassle of blocks or boards

Protect your RV from damage caused by uneven ground

Improve your RV’s stability and safety

RV SnapPad is so easy to install, just a few minutes under your rig with a few drops of dishsoap and you’ll never have to squat to place stacker pads ever again.

RV Camping Products

Just getting started? Here are a few things to make setting up your campsite easier.

Sand-Free RV Mat

Backup Camera

Walkie-Talkies

Camco Water Hose

Storage Bag

Andersen Hitches Levelers

SnapPads

Camco Sewer Hose

Oversized Camping Chair

RV Camping Set-Up

Checklist

These are the basics, but every rig and campground is different, so please follow what applies to you and put safety first.

First check the surroundings, especially if the site is a back-in (check room for slide-outs if applicable)

If connecting to water, electricity, and/or sewer park close enough for cords and hoses to reach

Test for proper voltage (specialty devices & knowledge needed) before plugging in. Notify the camp host if you find problems. You may have to move to a new spot.

Make sure the rig is level side to side. Use levelers if needed

Chock and/or lock the wheels

Disconnect the trailer from the tow vehicle (hitch, electrical, safety chains)

Lock the hitch

Level rig from front to back

Connect and turn on utilities if using (including propane)

Put stairs down

Set out any additional items you’re using for the trip: patio mat, chairs, awning, etc.

Unpack and set up inside the RV

RV Camping Tear Down Checklist

Pack up and secure items inside the RV for the trip ahead

Pull in any outdoor items such as patio mats, chairs, etc.

Put stairs up and handlebar in

Turn off propane and disconnect utilities and pack away hoses and cords

Connect trailer and tow vehicle (hitch, electrical, safety chains)

Test/verify brake lights and turn signals are working properly

Unlock the wheels and remove front chocks (if applicable)

Pull forward slightly, park, and remove back chocks (if applicable)

Final walkaround: Make sure all outdoor compartments are locked / slides are in. Take one last look around camp to ensure you didn't leave anything behind.

Stop at the dump station/trash/ recycling on the way out

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama A PHOTO TOUR OF

A Top RV Travel Destination

WITH 32 MILES of sugarwhite sand beaches and fun for the whole family, Alabama’s Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the perfect destination for RVers. The area is also a golfer’s paradise, boasting 20 miles of golf and the only Arnold Palmer-designed complex in the state. Here’s where to play, eat, and stay.

Tarrence Gordwin

WHERE TO GOLF

CRAFT FARMS 36 holes craftfarms.com

CYPRESS BEND

18 holes, par 72

Designer: Arnold Palmer

COTTON CREEK

18 holes, par 72

Designer: Arnold Palmer

GULF SHORES GOLF CLUB 18 holes gulfshoresgolfclub.com

KIVA DUNES 18 holes kivadunes.com

PENINSULA GOLF AND RACQUET CLUB 27 holes peninsulagolfclub.com

Kiva Dunes

Dave Sansom

PHOTO TOUR: Gulf Shores Orange Beach

Coast AL 25722 Perdido Beach Blvd. Orange Beach, AL 36561

coastalorangebeach.com

COBALT 28099 Perdido Beach Blvd. Orange Beach, AL 36561 cobaltrestaurant.net

GT’S ON THE BAY 26189 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561 gtsonthebay.com

LULU’S

200 E. 25th Ave. Gulf Shores, AL 36542 lulusfunfoodmusic.com

PIER HOUSE

22703 Perdido Beach Blvd. Orange Beach, AL 36561 pierhouseob.com

Cobalt

Lulu's

Alabama Tourism Dept.Chris Granger

PHOTO

WHERE TO STAY

BAY BREEZE RV ON THE BAY

1901 Bay Breeze Parkway

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.540.2362

baybreezerv.com

BEECH CAMPERS

4224 Orange Beach Blvd.

Orange Beach, AL 36561

251.981.4136

BUENA VISTA MOTOR COACH

RESORT

23601 Perdido Beach Blvd.

Orange Beach, AL 36561

251.980.1855 buenavistamotorcoachresort.com

DOC’S RV PARK

17595 Highway 180 West

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.968.4511 docsrvpark.com

FORT MORGAN RV PARK

10397 2nd St.

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.540.2416

fortmorganrvpark.com

GULF BREEZE RV RESORT

19800 Oak Road West

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.968.8884 thegulfbreezervresort.com

GULF COAST RV PARK

5584 County Road 6

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.968.6494

GULF SHORES RV RESORT

18717 Barefoot Way

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.244.1015 rvcoutdoors.com/ gulf-shores-rv-resort

GULF STATE PARK CAMPGROUND 22050 Campground Road

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.948.7275

alapark.com/parks/gulf-state-park

HERITAGE MOTOR COACH

RESORT AND MARINA

28888 Canal Road

Orange Beach, AL 36561

251.923.3400 heritageorangebeach.com

ISLAND RETREAT RV PARK

18201 Highway 180

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.967.1666 islandretreatrvpark.com

LAZY LAKE RV PARK

18950 Old Plash Island Road

Gulf Shores, AL 36542

251.968.7875 lazylakervpark.com

Gulf Shores Orange Beach Tourism

PHOTO

Tried

Love's RV Stops

DID YOU KNOW? In addition to travel stops, Love's has RV hookups across the United States. Amenities vary by location, but here's an overview to help you decide if you want to spend the night at one of their nearly 60 RV Stops.

Full hookups, including water and 30/50-amp power

Splash pad

Sports courts

Dump stations • Self check-in •RV-specific retail building

Dog

Campground

SPOTLIGHT

Starlight

Campground and RV Park

3060 Mancelona Road

Mancelona, MI 49659

starlightcampground.com

Starlight Campground is a private, family-owned, and family-friendly campground. The theme weekends are loads of fun, and there are lots of well-planned activities. The owner is phenomenal—she puts her heart and soul into everything. The campground just had a 30-site expansion, and there are more plans for growth in the future. There are vintage trailers to rent if you don’t have a camper. You do not want to miss this gem in Northern Michigan.

Jenn Frey

@thejenniferfrey

Auburndale

361 Denton Ave.

Auburndale, FL 33823

margaritavilleresorts.com/ camp-margaritaville-rv-resort-auburndale

Camp Margaritaville Auburndale is genuinely a resort experience. Similar to the Margaritaville hotel experience, the campground has high-end amenities, including two pools, a waterslide, two tiki bars, mini golf, live music, food, multiple dog parks, and daily activities for the whole family. What sets this campground apart are the campsites that include a private tiki hut, complete with a fan, bar, sink, party lights, chairs, and TV. Some campsites also offer a hammock and grill. This campground is RV glamping at its best!

Scott and Van Russell @theadventuredetour

Biloxi Bay RV Resort and Marina

6505 Riviera Drive Biloxi, MS 39532

biloxibayrvresort.com

Biloxi Bay RV Resort and Marina is between the Mississippi cities of Biloxi and Ocean Springs, and it’s also conveniently near Interstate 10. The resort is situated on the shores of Biloxi Bay, protected from the Gulf of Mexico by barrier islands. We enjoyed the on-site bar, swimming pool, and hot tub. There’s also a lazy river and playground.

The park is a modern, newlyconstructed resort, and they’re still building out more campsites on the 64-acre property. RVers who enjoy RV resorts with amenities and beautiful views will like this location. We appreciated the free laundry machines and daily trash pickup.

Kristen Bates @perpetualmoves

CHANGE OF SEASON CALLS FOR A CHANGE OF SCENERY.

NEW & C

NOTEWORTHY

ARGO TRAILERS ARE made for hauling, but they’re also a perfect blank slate for a tiny home or getaway camper. The team at Forest River recognized this and created the new Continental Cargo V-Series Camper Unit.

The rig was designed with several sleeping areas, including a pop-up tent on top, a pop-out bed on the side, a sofa, and a bed on an electric lift. A countertop, sink, cooktop, and microwave give you a kitchenette, and a fireplace adds ambience for those cooler camping nights.

Continental Cargo V-Series Camper Unit

GEAR GUIDE

1. CAMCO XLT HIGH FLOW ROOF VENT COVER

Mounting to existing 14-by-14inch roof vents, this cover allows you to keep your vents open even in light to moderate rainfall.

2. COLEMAN PORTABLE PROPANE GRILL

With collapsible legs and wheels, this portable grill is ideal for campsites.

3. COGHLAN'S POP-UP TRASH CAN

Grommets at the bottom allow you to stake these down so they don't blow away. The top zips closed to keep pests out.

4. GENERAC 7128 GP3500IO 3,500-WATT OPEN FRAME GENERATOR

This portable, gas-powered generator runs quieter than expected and includes standard outlets as well as USBs.

5. BLACKSTONE 22-INCH TABLETOP GRILL

"It works great for cooking any meal—I have made some great meals on this griddle. Big enough to cook for the family and wonderful for boondocking."

-Submitted by @earl_h_mccreary

6. REFLECTIVE BUBBLE WINDOW INSULATION

Keep the sun out, and keep things cool inside with this easyto-cut reflective insulation material.

7. SWAGMAN RV APPROVED FOUR BIKE BUMPER RACK

Install on 4-to-4.5-inch square bumpers and bring up to four bicycles along for the ride.

8. VENTILATED RV MATTRESS PAD

This mattress topper helps ease aches and pains caused during sleep, and heavy-duty elastic straps hold it in place.

9. TELESCOPING LADDER

This space-saving telescoping ladder is great for traveling.

10. SWITCHBACK HEATED CHAIR

"The Switchback Heated Chair is the first camping chair controlled by Bluetooth technology! With its DuoHeat Control System, the Kuma Heated App lets you choose between 10 heat settings. The chair is lightweight and compact for easy storage. Plus, it comes with a carry bag, and the battery is included."

-Submitted by @deanneferguson

EVENTS

Upcoming RV Events

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

JUNE 2024

4–7: Lebanon, TN

Music City Motorhome Expo

5–9: Cherry Valley, Ontario, Canada The Flock RV Rally Company

5–9: Greenville, OH

FMCA’s Great Lakes Area Rally (GLAMARAMA)

6–9: Tampa, FL

Tampa Bay Summer RV Show

16-21:

Rock Springs, WY Escapees 63rd Escapade

19–23: Foxboro, MA

New England Grand Design Rally

20–23: Toxaway, NC

Airstream Club’s 2024 NC Waterfalls Galore Rally

June 23–Aug. 20: Little Bras D’Or, Nova Scotia, Canada

Airstream Club’s Viking Trail Caravan

LIGHTWEIGHT Travel Trailers

EASY TO TOW, MAKING THE TRANSITION TO RVING EFFORTLESS