Do you really need RV insurance on your travel trailer?
As RVers, we know the allure of the open road and the freedom it offers. However, with freedom comes responsibility, including the important decision of securing insurance.
RV insurance is designed to cover various types of RVs, including travel trailers, toy haulers, motor homes, fth wheels, and camper vans. While liability insurance is not required for most travel trailers, having RV coverage could bene t you and your adventures.
• Protection against accidents: May provide nancial protection for repair costs, medical expenses, and liability in case of an accident.
• Coverage for theft and vandalism: Could help with repairs or replace your trailer with less out-of-pocket expenses if it’s lost or stolen.
• Natural disasters and weather events: May cover the cost of damage from storms, oods, or other natural disasters.
Is your travel trailer covered under your home or auto insurance?
While your home or auto policy can protect your trailer in certain instances, it can also leave you with gaps in your coverage.
*Available for RVs less than 6 years old, and a $250 deductible applies
insure your investment
For example, your auto policy may only cover your trailer while you’re on the road, not if you’re parked or at a campsite. The same goes for home insurance—if you’re on your home’s property it might be covered, but damage from a storm at a campground wouldn’t be.
What specialized coverages does Progressive offer?
Progressive offers a variety of specialized coverages that aren’t included on a standard auto insurance policy like:
• Roof Protection Plus®: Covers repairs or replacements for RV roofs, including if the cause is wear and tear.*
• Pest Damage Protection SM: Covers the cost of repairs from pest infestations.*
Con
dence on the road
Having RV insurance gives you con dence you’re protected no matter where you roam. From remote national parks to bustling campgrounds, RV insurance ensures you have the support and nancial protection you need if something goes wrong.
While insurance for your travel trailer may not be legally required, it’s a crucial investment in protecting your RV, nances, and peace of mind.
Scan to get a quote in as little as 4 minutes.
to learn more.
PUBLISHER AND FOUNDER
Demian Ross
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TRENDS COME AND GO, but unfortunately, one seems poised to stick around forever: clickbait. What I’m increasingly noticing across all niche media is a rise in negative clickbait. Weʼve shifted from “If it bleeds, it leads” to “If it's dire, it spreads like fire.”
Across nearly every niche industry, content seems to focus on the negative—what some call being “real.” But in reality, many of these creators are determining what is “real” for you. Never trust a case study based on one person ʼs experience, or someone who has to go full-time negative to keep you watching.
Here’s what’s happening: A content creator has a genuinely negative experience, posts it, and it ends up being one of their most-viewed videos, blogs, or podcasts. Now, they feel the pressure to repeat that success, and the only way they can do that is by fabricating new negative moments.
As RVers, we all encounter flat tires and clogged black tanks. But we often forget that before we had an RV, we still dealt with flat tires and clogged toilets. How many people would give up their home because they had a flat tire or a clogged toilet, or even post a video titled, “That’s it—home life sucks” just because of those everyday occurrences? It’s life. And honestly, your life probably doesn’t suck.
For me—and for most RVers I know—about 90% of the time is good to great, with the remaining 10% being the usual setbacks that can happen in any hobby. A lot of the negativity also comes from a lack of understanding about the wear and tear that occurs when an RV is cruising down the highway at 70 miles per hour or enduring the kind of stress an RV goes through during hours of rough terrain.
Another troubling trend I see is the “ we ʼre quitting RV life” narrative. Honestly, these videos are just sad to me. After looking into it, many of these creators are simply going on a cruise or renting a home for a few weeks, and they’re labeling it as “quitting RV life.” Others are quitting because making content while RVing doesn’t provide a stable income, and they don’t want to admit that publicly.
For me, burnout did set in around five years into full-time RVing, but that’s to be expected. Everyone’s burnout rate is different; some people never experience it. But just because I got burned out from not having a home base doesn’t erase the 90% of incredible experiences I had on the road.
The point here is simple: don’t let other people's negative experiences hold you back, especially when it comes to RVing and camping. It’s about the amazing moments that make it all worthwhile. Keep your focus on your personal adventure, and don’t let clickbait or othersʼ failures prevent you from enjoying the journey.
DEMIAN ROSS Founder/Publisher demian@rvtoday.com
WHETHER YOU’RE A WEEKEND
WARRIOR OR A FULL-TIME TRAVELER, this issue of RV Today has tons of inspiration for your next adventure and suggestions on how to travel in style. We’re exploring luxury travel trailers, proving that RVing doesn’t mean “roughing it.” With upscale finishes and smart design, these rolling retreats elevate your travel experience. We’re also excited to feature an Alaskan road trip guide, packed with must-see spots and tips. If Alaska is on your bucket list, you won’t want to miss it! Grab a coffee, settle in, and enjoy this issue of RV Today!
Jamie May Editorial Director jamie@rvtoday.com
CPG specializes in those hard to find RV/Motor home parts for upgrades or replacement. The time is never convenient but the place to go to is. RVLAM.com is a great place to find that specific RV lifestyle item.
LuxuryTravel Trailers
RV CAMPING DOES NOT HAVE TO MEAN ROUGHING IT. Today’s travel trailers are taking luxury to new levels, offering comfort, style, and more choices than ever before for almost every type of RVer.
Whether you’re looking for unique features, beautiful finishes, high-end style, or off-grid capabilities, today’s luxury travel trailers leave no need unmet. We asked manufacturers which of their travel trailers they make with luxury in mind, and here are the models they shared.
From the Latin for “high” or “elevated,” East to West (a division of Forest River) is introducing their new Alta model that speaks to RVers looking for something a little more luxurious. A huge rear kitchen and large 60-inch window open up the space, as does the drop frame construction. A 50-inch LED TV on a power lift hides away so you can enjoy the views.
Power lift TV
FEATURES:
Wall-to-wall rear kitchen
Dedicated pet dish area
30-by-36-inch shower
• Tankless water heater
• Goodyear tires with aluminum rims
• Dual entryways
Large 19-foot awning provides shade over both entries
Offering both comfort and flexibility for your next adventure, the Open Range Travel Trailer does not skimp on the amenities. It’s 100 inches wide and the main slide is 42 inches deep, using the ACCU-SLIDE Slide System to add more room, not weight. The Norco 5.1 Stabilizer System with BAL Lock Arms eliminates the rocking motion when towing.
100-inch-wide body 42-inch-deep main slide 9-inch, three-layer firm/ soft option residential mattress
Optional king bed in primary
Washer/dryer prep
• Two 15,000-Btu ACs with quiet residential return air
Smart Entertainment HDTV with Bluetooth, soundbar, and built-in stereo
• TravelLINK smart RV system allows for Bluetooth control of awnings, lighting, slides, heating, cooling, and more
• Pet/child screen guard on screen door
PVC roofing membrane (limited lifetime warranty)
SPECS:
GVWR: 11,500 pounds
Length: 37 feet, 9 inches
Axles: 2
Sleeping capacity: 6
JAYCO Eagle HT 295RUCD
The Eagle 295RUCD combines comfort and functionality with a cozy entertainment area and a modern kitchen. Its smart design maximizes storage and living space, making it ideal for any getaway. This travel trailer ensures a relaxing and enjoyable camping experience.
FEATURES:
• Entertainment area with large TV and cozy seating
Plush, stain-resistant theater-style sofa
• Fully-equipped outdoor kitchen
• Residential appliances and ample counter space
Freestanding dinette with panoramic views
• Spacious front bedroom with 66-by-80-inch mattress with cooling tech and abundant wardrobe space
• Luxury spa-style bathroom with roomy shower, built-in linen storage, and washer/dryer prep
Pass-through storage roomy enough for outdoor furniture
• Stylish finishes, sleek fixtures, and premium materials provide high-end, modern design
The Living Vehicle is a 5-star mobile escape. With a range of trim levels and a wealth of customization options, it offers a travel experience like no other. High-end design meets unparalleled quality, ensuring that the journey is as memorable as the destination. These all-electric sanctuaries epitomize the future of travel, marrying the allure of wild adventures with uncompromising luxury, independent of traditional utilities.
Offering size-conscious design for more versatile travel, the HD24 features a gear closet that doubles as an adventurer’s haven or a digital nomad’s workspace. It’s perfect for couples who want to maximize the amount of gear they can take with them in a smaller unit.
Generates up to five gallons of purified water daily
For Living Vehicle owners, the HD is equal to experiencing a high-end yacht, designed for land-based expeditions and journeys. LV is ideal for those desiring to embark on multi-week trips to ranches or privately owned land, indulging in fly fishing trips, invigorating hikes, or simply taking time to seek solitude in nature.
-Matthew Hofmann, Living Vehicle CEO
FEATURES:
Run high-end appliances and off-grid air conditioning with a 72 kWh energy system and all-solar roof
Stay comfortable in any climate in temperatures from 4 degrees below zero to 120 degrees with a dual-zone inverter mini-split HVAC system
• Customize your living space and choose from closet and gear locker option or office and bunk room option
Generate up to five gallons of purified water daily with water-from-air technology
Inspired by motor yachts, the HD model is designed for extended off-grid adventures on private land or in nature
SPECS:
GVWR: 14,000 to 16,000 pounds
Length: 24 feet
Axles: 2
Sleeping capacity: 4
North Trail 2611BH
The North Trail 2611BH is designed for comfort and convenience, making it perfect for families and groups. With a double-over-double bunk, a spacious dinette booth, and a pullout sofa, it can easily sleep eight. Dual entrances, including one that leads directly into the bathroom, help reduce traffic in the kitchen and living area. Plus, the 19-foot awning provides plenty of shade while you cook in the fully-equipped outdoor kitchen.
FEATURES:
• Super-sized pass-through storage
Prepped for tire pressure monitoring system, slide topper, backup camera, solar with optional upgrade, Wi-Fi, and rear ladder
Power awning with LED lights
51-gallon fresh water tank (includes water heater)
• Stainless steel appliances
• Heated and enclosed underbelly
• Fully walkable roof
SPECS:
GVWR: 7,986 pounds
Length: 31 feet, 5 inches
Axles: 2
Sleeping capacity: 8
GRAND DESIGN
Reflection 322FKTS
The Grand Design Reflection 322FKTS is a luxury travel trailer designed for travelers seeking comfort and functionality. Its unique front kitchen layout offers expansive counter space, premium appliances, and a large pantry, creating an inviting area for cooking and dining. The spacious primary bedroom features a queen bed slide (with an optional king bed), ample closet space, and a full rear bath equipped with dual sinks, ensuring a comfortable and residential feel on the road.
• Solar package with 180-watt solar panel and 60-amp charge controller
SPECS:
GVWR: 9,995 pounds
Length: 35 feet, 9 inches
Axles: 2
Sleeping capacity: 2
TravlFi on-board Wi-Fi ready
BOWLUS Endless Highways
The all new Endless Highways continues the Bowlus legacy of the ultimate off-grid lightweight luxury RV. Its luxurious floor plan features elegant finishes, a large separate bedroom with larger convertible twins and king bed, a luxury ensuite bathroom, and a roomy living room and kitchen while readily traversing the country’s most dramatic and remote campsites.
The Endless Highways model powers appliances such as air conditioners, and operates uninterrupted off-grid thanks to the Bowlus Power Management System and optioned AeroSolar technology. This trailer is extraordinarily light at only 4,000 pounds, and the Bowlus has an extended EV towing range.
Signature Bowlus skylight shape maintains full tensile strength along the RV’s armor-like shell
• Lithium iron phosphate battery starts at 4 kWh for up to a week off-grid, expandable to 17 kWh for unlimited off-grid use
• 3,000-watt pure sine inverter with a system that fully charges in 3 to 4 hours
Battery-powered air conditioner runs without shore power, with all outlets live at all times for seamless energy use
AeroSolar System charges automatically while driving or camping with no setup required, providing continuous off-grid power monitoring
SPECS:
GVWR: 3,970 or 4,000 pounds, depending on options
Length: 26 feet, 9 inches or 27 feet, 2 inches
Axles: 1
Sleeping capacity: 4
Off-grid capable luxury
95th Anniversary Limited Edition Endless Highways
From Bowlus: “The Endless Highways 95th Anniversary Edition celebrates the incredible history of the Bowlus brand— both modern and vintage, that includes the first riveted aluminum RV. Commemorating Hawley Bowlus’ vision of aerodynamic land travel is very special and close to our hearts. The Bowlus brand continues to ignite the spirit of adventure and deliver on our promise as the ultimate in luxury land travel.”
The Endless Highways 95th Anniversary Edition, which is limited to 25 exquisite RVs, includes the following packages and options:
• Adventure Package Luxe Package
• Off-Grid Power Package II
The stunning exquisite Bowlus screen door
Each 95th Anniversary Edition is badged, numbered, and signed by CEO Geneva Long and is available in two color stories.
STAY ON TRACK: THE BEST NAVIGATION TOOLS FOR RVERS
If you’ve ever gotten lost or stuck somewhere in your RV, then you know the importance of scouting a road, campsite, or route and being thorough in your advance planning.
Staying vigilant, being prepared, and having as many tools at your disposal as possible to keep you informed are all preventative measures you can take to keep yourself and your family safe while you’re on the road.
Default phone navigation apps are free and might be your go-to, but they won’t help you with custom RV routing based on the size and
weight of your rig, and they won’t alert you of propane restrictions. It’s also risky to rely on your phone map alone as you may travel through areas with no signal.
Having up-to-date maps is also important, so a system that automatically makes those updates for you is helpful.
Of course, no single tool is a substitute for paying attention on the road, reading road signs, and heeding all warnings. But if you need to know where to start when it comes to finding tools to help you navigate, here are three great options.
Garmin RV 895
Garmin is the leader in RV GPS navigation systems and offers many options to choose from. The Garmin RV 895 features a large 8-inch touch screen with custom izable RV routing based on your rig’s size and weight, providing road warnings and vivid BirdsEye
GPS helps you travel confidently and discover the best spots along your route.
RV LIFE RV Safe GPS
Would you like to avoid steep mountain grades, low bridges, bridges with weight limits, and tunnels with propane restrictions? Then consider a subscription to RV LIFE Pro. Their RV Safe GPS will create a custom route based on the height and weight of your rig.
With your Pro subscription, the app will continue to work, even when you’re offline. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices. Location services must
It’s better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. A backup paper map is always helpful to have on hand, and this one comes with extra information that other road maps don’t, including restricted routes and low clearance locations.
FEATURES:
Laminated, durable pages resist stains, liquids, and wear
Lays flat for easy use
Updated information covers low clearances, weigh stations, and restricted roads
Includes construction and hotline information for current road conditions
be enabled on your device and the device must have GPS and cell capabilities.
FEATURES: Free 7-day trial
Turn-by-turn navigation
Voice and lane guidance
Works offline
Integrates with your preplanned trips from RV LIFE Trip Wizard
ROUNDUP
WINGAMM DEBUTS IN AMERICA
An Italian manufacturer is debuting their first product in America. Wingamm’s Oasi 540.1 Class B touts a “for everything” floorplan that families will love. With a length of less than 18 feet, this could replace your daily driver. Visit rvtoday.com/wingamm for more details.
AAA MEMBERS SAVE AT LOVE’S
AAA members can save on fuel at more than 650 Love’s locations nationwide by linking their membership to the Love’s Connect App. Discounts per gallon include $0.13 off gasoline, $0.20 off auto diesel, and $0.50 off bulk propane, plus food and drink perks like a free item on Mondays. To save, scan your barcode, enter your app account number, or use your phone number at the pump. Learn more at rvtoday. com/aaa-loves
AIRSTREAM LAUNCHES BASECAMP XE
Airstream just launched the Basecamp Xe, a 20-foot travel trailer built for off-grid exploration with an electric-first design. Equipped with a 30A fully inverted electrical system, 600 watts of rooftop solar, a 10.3kWh Battle Born lithium battery pack, and a 3000-watt inverter, you can power your adventures with the sun. The Basecamp Xe combines Airstream’s iconic craftsmanship with modern energy independence for the next generation of RVing, and starts at $76,900.
Wingamm
ROUNDUP
Cougar Named Top Selling Fifth Wheel
Keystone RV Company’s Cougar has reclaimed its spot as the No. 1 selling fifth wheel in North America, which the company says is a testament to its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Known for modern floorplans, advanced technology, and durable construction, Cougar continues to evolve to meet the needs of today’s RVers. This achievement reinforces Keystone’s dedication to delivering industry-leading towable RVs designed to enhance the camping experience.
NEW RV OWNER REPORT OUT
Who do you think the average RVer is? How far from home do they roam? What’s their reason for going? Are you the typical RVer? The answers may surprise you! A new report from the RV Industry Association and Go RVing gives an overview of RV owner demographics. Here are some of the main findings.
meet FEATURED RVERS
Thomas and Melissa Baity
Who travels with you?
Our miniature dachshund, Honey
What do you travel in?
2018 Open Range 323RLS Roamer travel trailer
What kind of RVers are you? Full-timers
How long have you been RVing?
We have been RVing since 2015 and full-timing for the past two years.
What has been your most memorable RVing moment?
We’ve had so many amazing experiences while on this RVing journey that it’s hard to pick one favorite. Our trip through the Canadian Rockies, Banff, and on to the many wonders of Alaska is definitely at the top of the list. It’s the kind of trip that shows you how big the world is and how small you are. It was totally aweinspiring, to say the least.
Is there anything specific that made you want to RV?
RVing was a draw Thomas always felt. He believes it was passed down from his father, who always talked about selling it all and buying a Winnebago. He never got that chance, but we believe he really did mean it. When we got the chance, we took it, and have really never looked back.
What’s
something about
you that people might find surprising to know?
Thomas loves to work with wood. He’s been known to build a few fine instruments for select customers from time to time. Melissa is a painter and potter, as well as an allaround crafty person. Pottery is her favorite thing to create.
We’re so thankful for the opportunity to be able to travel, meet new people, and see new places. We’ve made so many great friends along the way and formed lifelong friendships with people we would have never met otherwise. It has been such a blessing for us.
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
Our
Unload the bars by simply twisting the needle valve knob.
Composite bars are lighter-weight and 5x more exible than steel, but with similar strength.
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
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.
RVHacks
Pet Edition!
BY MARC AND JULIE BENNETT OF RVLOVE.COM
CREATE A KITTY LITTER CABINET
Wondering where to hide your litter box? Remove your lower bathroom cabinet door and place your litter box inside, then hang a small curtain in place of the door to hide it. This keeps it out of the way and provides a great little private spot for your cat to do their business. And you can leave the ceiling vent in the bathroom open for extra
ADD
YOUR CURRENT
LOCATION TO YOUR PET’S TAGS
In addition to the pet’s usual tags and/or chips, add a temporary tag for where you are staying. Pick up write-on tags—the little round white tags with metal on the rim. Write the name of the campground and your RV site number on it.
-Contributed by Juliet Whitfield of TailsFromTheRoad.com
RUN BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD
Before heading out on a long road trip, take your dog out for a long exercise run first. They rest better during travel if they are tired.
MAKE A STOP JUST BEFORE YOU ARRIVE AT THE CAMPGROUND
About 30 minutes to an hour before reaching your final destination, stop somewhere to walk your dogs and let them have a good sniff and potty break. You too—get a snack or have a meal! This way, when you reach your RV park, the dogs will be less anxious to get out, and you can take your time setting up your RV.
-Contributed by Juliet Whitfield of TailsFromTheRoad.com
Marc and Julie Bennett have been living, working, and traveling in RVs since 2014. They’ve traveled to all 50 U.S. states, plus Canada, Mexico, and Australia. They share on their blog, YouTube, and social media, in addition to writing books and running online courses. Learn more at rvlove.com/rvhacks.
SETTLERS POINT LuxurY RV RESORT
SETTLERS POINT IS AN RV PARK DONE RIGHT. Located in Washington, Utah, it’s just a short drive from Zion National Park, Hurricane, and St. George. We immediately felt welcomed and enjoyed our stay so much we extended it by two weeks.
From pickleball courts to a pristine laundry room, the amenities are top notch. Additional services, including visiting food trucks and weekly RV trainings, really take this park to the next level. We look forward to returning next time we’re in the area!
Kristen Bates @perpetualmoves
MANRV102 MANRV102
TravelGuide THE ULTIMATE ALASKAN ROAD TRIP
By Patty Gill @gills_on_wheels
LAST SUMMER, WE TRAVELED MORE THAN 5,000 MILES FROM FLORIDA TO ALASKA, and it turned out to be the best summer ever!
We experienced countless beautiful sights, boondocking locations, campgrounds, excursions, and wild animals along the way. We believe this RV adventure should be on everyone’s bucket list. This guide details everything we learned—we hope it helps as you plan your own once-in-a-lifetime trip!
PREPARATION
CHOOSE YOUR RV
The first thing to decide is what type of RV you’ll take for your trip. This may seem odd since you’d usually just take your current camper, but for this trip, you may want to consider a different approach. We decided we didn’t want to tow our 43-foot fifth wheel all the way to Alaska. The poor road
conditions are one consideration, but we also intended to boondock as much as possible, and smaller RVs really open up your options to stay in some amazing locations. Since we already owned a large truck, we chose to purchase a 16-foot truck camper. We did see many others traveling with large fifth wheels and Class A motorhomes, so it can be done, but we found a smaller RV much easier to manage.
RV AND VEHICLE PREP
Before you head up:
Get a maintenance check on your RV and vehicles
• Check your tires
• Get your oil changed
CHOOSE A CAMPING STYLE
First, decide how you want to camp while you’re in Alaska. Do you have solar power, and do you enjoy boondocking? There are many fantastic boondocking spots available, and you can even spend the night at most pull offs and rest stops. If you plan to camp off the grid, ensure you have everything prepared, including solar equipment. Even with a great solar setup, you may want to bring a generator, as cloudy and rainy conditions can hinder your solar charging.
If you prefer not to camp off-grid and want full hookups with amenities, we recommend making your campground reservations well in
[TravelGuide]
advance. There are full-hookup campgrounds in nearly every town. The only campground we reserved ahead of time was at Denali National Park, and it’s important to note that there are no hookups available in the Denali campgrounds.
There are also recreation site campgrounds with no hookups, and you can pay for your spot when you arrive. These campgrounds operate on a first come, first served basis and typically provide a toilet and sometimes potable water for filling up.
RESEARCH
Of course, for a trip this big, you’ll want to do a lot of research in advance. We recommend deciding in advance which roads you want to take, where you’re going to cross the border, which towns you want to visit, and any excursions that may be of interest. I’m going to share all of our choices and the places we visited, but your preferences might differ.
We highly recommend purchasing The Milepost, which is the DEFINITIVE Alaska travel guide.
We highly recommend purchasing The Milepost, which is the definitive Alaska travel guide. We referred to this as our Alaska Bible. It provides detailed information about all the roads leading to Alaska, as well as every town along the way and what to do in those towns. It also includes information on campgrounds, boondocking spots, gas stations, pull offs, and much more. Another excellent way to conduct your research is to join Facebook groups dedicated to Alaska and RVing to Alaska.
WI-FI AND PHONES
If you want to make sure you have cell and Wi-Fi service the entire trip to Alaska and through Canada, we recommend getting Starlink. We had zero cell service most of the way, but Starlink worked for us everywhere we traveled in Canada and Alaska. We also took a satellite phone as backup, but we never needed to use it.
The drive to reach Alaska is long, and the roads can be rough, but Alaska’s beauty is truly mind-blowing.
24/7 DAYLIGHT
One of the most important things to know about traveling to Alaska is that the sun doesn’t really go down in the summer. In our experience, the middle of the night was almost like dusk. Bring blackout blinds, Reflectix, or a sleep mask to help you sleep. Overall, we loved the extra daylight because it gave us more time to explore, but be careful—sometimes we thought it was 8 p.m. when it was really 11!
WHERE TO CROSS THE BORDER
There are several border crossings you can use to cross into Canada, and you can find all of them in The Milepost and the iOverlander app. We crossed from Idaho because we were heading to Banff National Park and Jasper National Park before hitting the
Border Information
• You will need a passport to cross the border into Canada.
• Fresh fruit, vegetables, and some fresh meat products are not allowed over the border. Sometimes they don’t allow other food items, so be sure to check right before you cross.
• If you are traveling with a pet, check online for a list of the documents you’ll need for them to cross.
• Always consult the Canada Border Services Agency website for the most up-to-date information on allowed items.
ALASKA
british
[TravelGuide]
Alaska Highway, but another crossing might make more sense for your route.
WHICH ROAD TO TAKE
The Alaska Highway, also known as Alcan, is the main highway and the most popular option. There are a lot of towns and tourist stops, as well as more gas stations, grocery stores, and campgrounds. We took this highway on the way to Alaska.
Stewart-Cassiar Highway is more scenic, with fewer services and more remote conditions. You need to really watch your fuel levels. We took this highway on the way back.
Alaska Marine Highway is an alternative where you drive to a port in different areas and load your RV onto a ferry that will take you to Alaska. We did not take this highway, so we can’t speak to it much. It is more expensive, but very scenic.
EXTRAS TO TAKE ALONG
Many groups and books will tell you to take extra of everything. But as long as you stop in every town to top off on fuel and groceries, you should be fine. Here is what we took and whether we ended up needing it or not.
• Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF): We did use our DEF, and there were a few gas stations where we couldn’t find it.
• RV parts: We did not take any extra parts, but we did need a new tire, so we do recommend taking a spare vehicle or RV tire.
• Tools: On a long trip like this, any number of things could happen where you might need to fix or repair something in your RV or vehicle. You will not find a repair shop on every corner, so we definitely say bring the tools.
• Food: We took extra food, but we never needed it. There are grocery stores everywhere, including a few Costcos where we stocked up.
• Medicine: Of course, be sure to take all your prescription medications, and enough to last your whole trip. You may also want to take some allergy and pain medications, just because they are a little more expensive.
• Bear spray: We never needed it, but we brought bear spray just in case. Keep your campsite clean and take food and
[TravelGuide]
cooking items in with you at night to keep bears and any other animals away.
• Pet items: We don’t have a pet, but if your pet eats a certain kind of food or needs medications, be sure you take those with you.
WILDLIFE
You will see tons of wildlife while driving and sometimes while out hiking or walking around a town. We saw bears, elk, bison, seals, orcas, humpback whales, otters, bald eagles, and more. Just
like anywhere, don’t approach the animals. We had a bear walk almost right beside us, but he just walked right down to the lake to get some fish. I took my bear spray with me everywhere, but I never had to use it.
ROAD CONDITIONS
For the most part, we didn’t feel the roads were that bad. But people who crossed a month before us said it was much worse. We crossed in June, and a lot of the roads had been repaired before we arrived.
If you see a flag or cone set on the side of the road, slow down— that means there is a frost heave, dip, or pothole. Of course, these are not always marked with a flag or cone, so you should still pay close attention to the road!
If you notice the lines in the road are wavy, that is likely a frost heave coming up.
Once you get past Destruction Bay in Canada, you will be driving pretty slowly, as this is where the road is the worst. Drive carefully and pay attention.
CAMPGROUND TYPES
• There are full-hookup campsites in Canada and in Alaska, and they fill up fast, so we recommend making reservations as soon as possible if you want to camp with full hookups.
• There are provincial parks in Canada the whole way up to Alaska, and most are first come, first served. Most do not have any type of hookups, and they
[TravelGuide]
do charge. They usually have a place to put in cash when you enter, or someone will stop by your campsite to collect cash.
• Recreation sites in Alaska are also first come, first served. They will have a box or a machine where you pay at the entrance of the campground.
• National park campgrounds in Alaska and Canada are all on a reservation basis, and we recommend reserving in advance. Some of these have hookups and some do not. Check their websites for more information.
• We tried to boondock as much as possible to save money. If your setup allows for it, we highly recommend camping this way, as we were able to stay at some of the most beautiful, amazing spots we’ve ever seen. We used the iOverlander app
to find all of our boondocking spots. You can stay overnight at most pull offs—there are generally signs if it’s not allowed. It’s often a good idea to walk in and look at the spot first to make sure you’ll have room to get in and out.
• Several stores in Canada and Alaska allow overnight parking for RVers. Canadian Tire, Real Canadian Superstore, Walmart, and Cabela’s are a few we encountered, but it’s always a good idea to check in advance to make sure you’re allowed to stay.
CANADA
TIPS FOR CANADA
• Get Canadian money from your bank before you cross the border, or you can get some at an ATM after you cross. You may need cash at some of the remote gas stations, and sometimes
even the less-remote ones only take cash if there is a fire or their Wi-Fi is out. As mentioned above, you may need cash for some campsites as well.
• Don’t forget the gas is in Canadian dollars!
• Pay attention to the name on the pump—some diesel fuel handles are different colors, not green like in the U.S.
This trip requires a lot of planning, but it is so worth it. The drive to reach Alaska is long, and the roads can be rough, but Alaska’s beauty is truly mind-blowing. We did a lot while we were there, but you don’t have to visit every town on our list or do every tour. You just need to choose the ones that you really want to see and do. Prepare a few months in advance, take as much time as you can, and enjoy all of Alaska’s beauty.
ALASKA
PLACES TO VISIT AND WHAT TO DO
tok
Small town with a few full-hookup campgrounds
❑ Stop for a few days to rest after the long, rough drive
❑ Fuel up and grab some groceries. This is a good place for that.
❑ Wash the RV. It will be filthy from the roads.
Fairbanks
❑ Fairbanks Ice Museum
❑ Chena Hot Springs
❑ Riverboat Discovery
❑ Midnight Sun Festival
❑ Midnight Sun Baseball Game
❑ Pioneer Park
❑ Santa Claus House—This is in North Pole, which is about 20 minutes outside Fairbanks
Denali National Park and Preserve
❑ Stay at park campground—we highly recommend reserving months in advance
❑ Take the bus tour in the park
❑ Watch the sled dog demonstrations
❑ Visit the nearby town of Healy for shopping, restaurants, and breweries
Talkeetna
❑ Fly over Denali and land on a glacier—we recommend reserving in advance, especially if there are more than two in your party
❑ River boat and hovercraft tours
❑ Talkeetna Riverfront Park has a great view of Denali
Anchorage
❑ Stock up at Costco
❑ Restaurants and breweries
❑ Lots of museums
❑ Chugach State Park
Soldotna
❑ Salmon fishing on the Kenai River
❑ Beaches
❑ Soldotna Creek Park
❑ Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Homer
❑ Fishing
❑ Homer Spit
❑ Famous Salty Dawg Saloon
❑ Seafood
❑ Boat tours
❑ Katmai bear tours
❑ Watch the bald eagles
Whittier
❑ Wildlife tours
❑ Jet ski tours
❑ Portage Glacier
❑ Fishing and kayaking trips
Seward
❑ Kenai Fjords National Park
❑ Wildlife cruises
❑ Kayak to a glacier
❑ Exit Glacier
❑ Mount Marathon
❑ Alaska SeaLife Center
Palmer
❑ Drive Hatcher Pass
❑ Reindeer Farm
❑ Matanuska Glacier has a walking tour on the glacier, and you can drink the water
❑ Alaska State Fair is here in late August
Valdez
❑ Bear viewing
❑ Magpie’s on the Fly cafe
❑ The Potato restaurant
❑ Wildlife cruises
❑ Fishing tours
❑ Great seafood
❑ Kayak the Valdez Glacier lake
❑ Bridal Veil Falls and other falls on the way into Valdez
❑ Solomon Gulch Hatchery—watch salmon, and the seals and bears come feed on the salmon
Haines
❑ Take a trip to Chilkat State Park to watch the bears feed on salmon
❑ Ferry/wildlife cruise to Juneau
❑ Brewery
❑ Hammer Museum
❑ Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve
Juneau
Nice small town with tons of stores, restaurants, shops
❑ Tracy’s King Crab Shack
❑ Breweries
❑ Mendenhall Glacier
CANADA
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
❑ Banff National Park, Alberta
❑ Jasper National Park, Alberta
❑ Icefields Parkway, Alberta
❑ Dawson Creek, British Columbia—This is mile zero of the Alaska Highway and there’s a large photo op at the visitor center
❑ Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, British Columbia
❑ Watson Lake, Yukon—Stop at the Sign Post Forest, and don’t forget to take your sign to put up!
❑ Stop at the Welcome to Alaska sign for photos
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TRAVEL DAYTIPS
BY JASON & ABBY EPPERSON @rvmiles
LONG RV TRAVEL DAYS CAN BE BOTH MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY TAXING. Spending hours on the road takes a toll on your body, but with a few simple steps, you can stay healthy and energized. Here are six essential tips to keep you feeling your best on long drive days.
1 GET EVERYONE MOVING ON BREAKS
Whenever you stop for fuel or food, take a few minutes to walk around. Even if they don’t feel like it, encourage kids (and adults) to stretch their legs. Sitting for long periods can be exhausting, especially on rough or bumpy roads. Moving your body improves circulation and gives you a much-needed break from sitting. Even a short walk can help reduce stiffness and boost your energy.
Information adapted from RV Miles and Episode 287 of the RV Miles podcast. The RV Miles podcast is the highest-rated RV-focused podcast for outdoor enthusiasts. To listen, visit rvmiles.com/podcast
Image by freepik
2
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE SUN
Driving can expose you to significant UV rays, particularly on your left side. Studies actually show that skin cancer is more likely to appear on the left arm due to sun exposure while driving. A member of the RV Miles community introduced us to the idea of a driving sleeve—a protective covering for your left arm that shields it from the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen to your left arm as well as the left side of your face, including your neck and ear. You can also block side-window exposure by adjusting your sun visor. These small steps can make a significant difference in your longterm health.
3
HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE
Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health, especially during
long drives. While staying hydrated may lead to more bathroom breaks, the benefits far outweigh the inconvenience. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and muscle cramps—none of which make for an enjoyable travel day.
4
PLAN FOR ENTERTAINMENT
If you’re traveling through areas with limited cell service, make sure kids and adults download their favorite shows, movies, or games ahead of time. Devices can be a great tool for keeping passengers occupied, though those prone to motion sickness may need to limit screen time. The key to a smooth travel day is variety—pack a mix of books, toys, music, and other activities to keep things interesting.
BONUS TIP:
The key to a long travel day is variety. Have a variety of different activities on hand for the kids to do in the car.
5
KEEP SNACKS HANDY
The first thing we do when we get in the truck is hand out snacks. A shared snack bag ensures everyone has something to munch on, and each passenger gets their own water bottle to stay hydrated. We typically stop for lunch, but for extra-long travel days, packing meals can help minimize unnecessary stops.
6
SET REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS
Communicating the travel plan with your family is crucial. Letting everyone know how long the drive will be, where you’re headed, and when you plan to stop can help set expectations and ease anxiety. If unexpected changes arise, take time to explain the situation so everyone is on the same page.
Image by freepik
Image by freepik
Recommended Products
1.
Filtering water bottle
Fitness tracker 3. Sun visor 4. Mineral sunscreen 5. Driving sleeve 6. Snack tote 7. Road trip activity
Hickory CampingHill Resort
7531 County Route 13
Bath, NY 14810
hickoryhillcampingresort.com
This resort's ideal location in the Finger Lakes region of New York provides easy access to wineries, breweries, and scenic drives while offering its own secluded feel and outdoor activities. It is family-oriented, with weekly activities and useful amenities such as a dog park, multiple playground areas, hiking trails, and an on-site store. There are also cozy cottages and cabins for those traveling without RVs. The unique pool and splash pad area has been great for my young family. Overall, I love the country feel, with plenty of shaded options and space for any size RV.
Stay connected with fellow RVers at these upcoming events. Visit rvtoday.com/rv-rallies for more information.
MAY
1–4:: Coalville, UT
RV Miles High Desert Hangout
13–18: Coldwater, MI
Grand Design Owners Michigan Rally
14–18: Hurricane, UT
Grand Design Owners Utah Rally
15–18: Salida, CO Camp Carpe Diem
May 29–June 2: Roseburg, OR Switch It Up Oregon Huddle
JUNE
2–8: Goshen, IN
Heartland Owners National RV Rally
4–7: Allegan, MI
FRVA Great Lakes Area Rally
17–21: Elkhorn, WI
FRVA Midwest Area Rally
18–21: Albany, OR
FRVA Northwest Area Rally
18–22: Foxboro, MA
Grand Design Owners New England Rally
18–22: Canyonville, OR Grand Design Owners Oregon Rally—10 Year Celebration
JULY
16–19: Gillette, WY
FRVA’s 111th International Convention
July 14–September 5: Alaska
Newmar Kountry Klub Alaska Caravan Special Event
AUGUST
6–10: North Stonington, CT
The Flock RV Rally Company / Jayco Owners Rally Connecticut '25
SEPTEMBER
11–15: Spearfish, SD Switch It Up South Dakota Huddle
11–14: Cascade, ID Camp Carpe Diem
24–27: Mineola, TX
FRVA South Central Area Rally
OCTOBER
1–5: Farmington, NM
FRVA Rocky Mountain Area Rally
6–11: Elkhart, IN
The Flock RV Rally Company / Jayco Owners Rally Indiana '25
8–12: Las Vegas, NV
Grand Design RV Owners Las Vegas Regional Rally
8–11: Essex Junction, VT
FRVA Northeast Area Rally
22–26: WaKeeney, KS
The Flock RV Rally Company / Jayco Owners Rally Kansas '25
Events listed are a courtesy to our readers, with dates and details subject to change. For more information, contact the event organizers directly.
To have your event listed, please visit rvtoday.com/submit-event
GEAR
1.
WATER FLOW METER
Want to keep track of exactly how much water you’re using? This flow meter attaches to your RV’s hose connection and measures the gallons used. It’s perfect for filling your freshwater tank or ensuring you’re properly flushing your black tank—just make sure you don’t use the same meter for both!
2.
FASTWAY ZIP BREAKAWAY CABLE
A breakaway cable is an essential safety item, and this coiled version prevents dragging while staying flexible and easy to use. It provides a reliable connection to your tow vehicle, ensuring your trailer brakes activate in case of an emergency disconnect.
3.
MAXXFAN DELUXE RV VENT AND FAN
This all-in-one RV vent system includes a built-in rain shield, a 10-speed reversible fan, and a thermostat for automatic climate control. Whether you’re looking to vent out cooking fumes or cool down your rig, this fan is a game-changer for airflow.
4.
PROVEN INDUSTRIES TRAILER LOCK
Protect your RV from theft with this high-security trailer lock. With several models for various coupler styles, it secures not only the coupler but also the safety chains, making it significantly harder for thieves to bypass. It’s also made in the United States.
5.
PLASTIC SPICE JARS
These lightweight spice jars are perfect for storing seasonings without the worry of glass breaking on travel days. The uniform size also makes them easy to fit into compact storage solutions—ours live in a kitchen drawer.
6. GASSTOP PROPANE SHUT OFF WITH LEAK DETECTOR
This is a propane safety must-have! This device lets you monitor your propane levels and automatically shuts off gas flow in the event of a major leak, providing an extra layer of protection against propane-related accidents. It can also help you identify minor system leaks.
7. ROVE R2-4K DASH CAM
Capture every mile with this 4K dash cam, a great addition for RVers who want to document their travels or have an extra layer of security while on the road. It records crisp, clear video with night vision, GPS tracking, and loop recording.
Joshua is an avid adventurer, gear enthusiast, and content creator at RV Gear & Far. Connect with Joshua and find RV tips, gear reviews, and howtos at rvgearandfar.com
8.
MICRO-AIR EASYTOUCH DIGITAL THERMOSTAT
Upgrade your RV’s climate control with this Wi-Fi and Bluetoothenabled thermostat. It replaces your existing RV thermostat and allows remote control via an app, so you can adjust the temperature from the comfort of your bed or before you even step inside.
9.
RATCHET PEX CINCH TOOL
A must-have for DIY RV plumbing repairs, this PEX tool combo makes securing and cutting PEX tubing quick and easy. When a plumbing issue comes up, this tool ensures reliable connections at a low price.
10.
WATER HEATER ANODE RODS
If you have a Suburban RV water heater, replacing the anode rod regularly is key to preventing tank corrosion. These magnesium rods help extend the life of your water heater by attracting corrosive elements before they can damage the tank itself.
Compiled by Joshua Sheehan RV Gear & Far
NEW & NOTEWORTHY
Sabre Fifth Wheel 37RVMILES
BASED ON YEARS OF RVING EXPERIENCE, RV Miles has collaborated with Sabre and created the perfect floor plan for RVing families. Stay tuned to an upcoming issue of RV Today or visit rvtoday.com/37rvmiles to learn more.
CONTRIBUTORS
PATTY GILL
@gills_on_wheels
Travel Guide: The Ultimate Alaskan Road Trip
Patty Gill and her husband, Shane, are empty nesters who sold their house and belongings more than four years ago to live and travel full time. After being on the road for a while and downsizing even further, they now travel full time in their truck camper. They love the outdoors and the new adventures of the RV lifestyle.
THOMAS AND MELISSA
BAITY
@home_on_the_hitch
KRISTEN BATES @perpetualmoves
JASON AND ABBY | RV MILES @rvmiles
MARC AND JULIE BENNETT @rvlovetravel
JOSHUA SHEEHAN @rvgearandfar
RV Gear
Joshua Sheehan is an avid adventurer, gear enthusiast, and content creator at RV Gear & Far. You can connect with Joshua and watch RV tips, gear reviews, and howtos on your favorite social media platform and at rvgearandfar.com
