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Editor's Corner
By Chuck Woodbury
Have you seen the results of last week's reader survey question where we asked if you had ever lived, even briefly in your RV during an emergency? A staggering 56 percent of the more than 1,650 readers who responded said they had. Imagine that!
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| In an emergency, an RV can serve as a temporary shelter. | It's ironic, too, that a few days after posing that question to you, I retreated to my own RV during an emergency. The big rain storm that blew through the Northwest left our offices and warehouse surrounded by about eight inches of water. The main road into our complex was closed. Everyone but me went home early. I stayed in case the waters continued to rise and threatened to flood our facility. At about 2 p.m. the power went out and stayed out. Lights and Internet access were cut off. Lucky for me, I store my motorhome in the rear of our warehouse. So I moved into the RV, plugged in my laptop to my small power inverter, and by using my Aircard was able to get online and monitor our store activity and customer/reader emails. I had enough food aboard to make dinner. Later in the evening as the waters subsided, I managed to drive out of the parking lot to my home.
RVTRAVEL.COM READERS who left comments on our survey said they holed up in their RVs for extended periods -- some for weeks, months or even longer as victims of hurricanes, ice and wind storms, fires or other disasters. .
While our RVs are made for fun and adventure, there is a more serious side to them that's revealed at times when an emergency forces us from our traditional homes. And when that happens, it sure is nice to have a backup shelter available where we can live our lives comfortably until conditions return to normal.
Last issue's big story
In case you missed our last issue, here's another look at our cover story:
National RV shuts down, lays off all workers
National RV Holdings Inc., of Perris, Calif., shut down its headquarters and main production facility Friday, Nov. 30 and laid off all its 600 employees. The company is a producer of Class A diesel and gas motorhomes with the model names Surf Side, Sea Breeze, Dolphin, Tropi-Cal, Pacifica and Tradewinds. Read more including dozens of comments from RVtravel.com readers.
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Then send for the official Alaska Vacation Planner, available free from the state of Alaska. You'll receive page after page chock full of Alaska travel information, chosen just for you! Learn where to go, what to see, where to stay including where to camp with your RV. This is the official state vacation planner. Get yours now.
Why some casinos say "No" to
freebie overnight stays in their parking lots
SATURDAY UPDATE: Many readers have complained that the posting here is not sufficient. I agree, and will talk to the casino management personally next week to get the true and complete story.
Last week we printed a letter from an RVtravel.com reader who reported about the downright rude treatment he received when parking his motorhome at northern California's Thunder Valley Casino. In response, Jane Kenny, the author of Casino Camping, provides some reasons why the casino -- and others -- may choose to deny overnight parking privileges to RVers. Read her posting.
2008 RVers Friend -- Just published!
This best-selling directory lists RV services at truck stops 鈥?free "camping," dumps, Internet, propane, repair services & more. Truck stops offer more to RVers than ever. Let this best selling book be your guide. Learn more or order.
Recent RV recalls
Each month we list the latest recalls of RVs at RVtravel.com. Here are the most recent ones: October -- September -- August -- July -- June
2008 RV Show Schedule
Learn about RV shows through the spring of 2008. Check in here to learn when shows will be held in your area.
Books and DVDs about Full-time RVing
Largest selection in the World.
Are those RV fake fireplaces worth the cost?
Those fake fireplaces in RVs look nice and add psychological warmth, but blogger Jim Twamley is skeptical about their value. See what his objections are.
Will Fleetwood discontinue its towable RVs?
There's talk that RV manufacturer Fleetwood may discontinue its production of towable RVs. Learn why.
Which RV floor plan is best for you?
When shopping for an RV you will quickly discover that there are many available floor plans. So which one is right for you? RV expert Mark Polk offers advice.
 Just published! Best book on the subject
The Complete Book
of Boondock RVing
Yearn to camp in the wild beside a babbling mountain brook or with a remote panoramic vista? This is the complete guide to camping without hookups (aka "dry camping").Learn more or order.
This Week's Reader Survey
Have you ever stayed overnight in your RV at a truck stop? Answer here.
Last week's survey question
Have you ever "lived" in your RV, even briefly, during a local power outage or other emergency?Read the results here.
Past reader surveys and results.
 Find Wal-Mart stores for FREE overnight stays
The 2007 Wal-Mart Locator is the best resource for locating Wal-Mart stores (with driving directions), most of which allow free overnight RV stays in their parking lots. This 2007 edition includes hundreds of updates from the previous edition. Our low price only $19.96. Learn more or order.
Avoid lemons when shopping for a used RV
Buying a used RV rather than a new one saves money initially, but if you end up with a lemon, repair bills could ultimately increase the cost to what you would have paid for the new unit. So how does a shopper for a used RV avoid lemons? Read this article.
Even expensive RV makers cut corners in construction
RVtravel.com blogger Jim Twamley travels in a Country Coach, a motorhome considered to be "high end." Yet even in this high priced rig, Jim notes that the manufacturer has taken some construction short cuts that impact the coach's durability and thus require its constant attention and maintenance. Read Jim's story.
 Bargains at RVbookstore.com
Low, low prices. Save up to 80% and even more!
NEW ARRIVALS at RVbookstore.com. Check them out
Contest updates: Cash prizes now total $666.00
Our Pot of Gold Contest cash prize is now $310, and the pot at our Your Name is Money contest is now an impressive $356. Check weekdays between 8-2 (Pacific time) to see if you're a winner.
 Heaven on Earth - Enjoy nature in Tennessee
If you prefer a breath of fresh air without actually getting your heart rate up, Tennessee is your kind of sightseeing tour. Come unwind in Tennessee, a state known for its abundance of natural resources in eye candy. Learn more.
Frustrated RV buyer takes his grievances to TV station
At his wit's end about his new fifth wheel trailer's shoddy workmanship, an RVer took his case to the local TV station, which checked out the RVer's complaints and then filed this report.
All about RV batteries
 and solar battery charging
These products will make you an expert!
Managing 12 volts (book)
RVers Guide to Solar Battery Charging (book)
Deep Cycle Batteries (DVD)
The RVers Solar Primer (book)
The best small SUV for towing behind a motorhome
This story is no longer available. We apologize.
RV bathroom design often underrated in buying process
The most under-rated area in an RV is the bathroom. First-time buyers tend to ignore the size and features of RV bathrooms, only to learn later that they spend more time in those tiny spaces than they thought they would. Learn here what to look for in an RV bathroom (or be sorry).
Replace that damaged RV marker lens
Got a cracked marker light lens on your RV? New lenses are inexpensive, and replacement is simple. Read more.
 Cross that bridge BEFORE you get to it with CoPilot!
CoPilot is the award-winning GPS navigation system trusted by thousands of RV owners on the road today. With a quick installation on your laptop, CoPilot's great views and clearly spoken turn-by-turn directions provide worry-free route guidance to any destination nationwide. Learn more about CoPilot GPS systems here.
A whole new direction for RV slideouts
Some motorhomes have four slideouts. Some truck campers have two of them. Several RVs have a slideout screen room. What will we be seeing next in slideouts? Here it is.
eBooks: INSTANT READING!
With eBooks you don't have to wait to read your book. Just place your order and your eBook will be delivered almost instantly to your email inbox. You can be reading it moments later. All these eBooks are written by RV experts and delivered instantly in PDF format.
ABCs of RVing
The 3 Primary Systems of an RV: LP Gas, Water & Electricity
Trailer Towing, Weights, Hitchwork and Backing
RV Check-List
Buying an RV the Smart Way
I Have A Convection Oven in My RV. Now What?
The ABCs of Pop Up Campers
Boondocking Tips - More Fun Without Hookups
Complete Guide to Dinghy Towing
The Woman's Guide to Solo RVing
A Collection of RV Tips
Get rid of that interior debris with this device
Dust, dirt, lint, sand, dead bugs, food particles--you can't live in an RV without accumulating such stuff. Cleaning up effectively means having the right tool. Here's one to consider.
A back-up camera for a truck camper?
Why in the world would a truck camper owner want a back-up camera? Well, there are two good reasons. Click here.
 Best Seller! 2008 Next Exit Directory
Be the first to get this hot-off-the-press directory. Learn what you will find at every Interstate highway exit: gas/diesel, campgrounds, truck stops, casinos, stores, malls, hospitals, factory outlet stores, parks and more. Learn more.
Trivia. . .
New York City's bus line M-14A is the slowest route in the city, earning it the most recent "Pokey" award. The bus travels between the heavily congested West Village and the Lower East Side. Its average speed is a whopping 3.9 miles per hour, just slightly more than an average walking speed of three miles per hour.
Explorer RV Insurance
Owners of motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels and medium duty tow vehicles save up to 15% over our largest competitors by tailoring their coverage from more than a dozen options. Get a quote now.
 Fire Safety Tip from Mac McCoy
In a compact galley, all combustibles-from paper towels to curtains-are apt to be closer to the stove, so use even more caution in your coach than you do at home. A box of baking soda-the ingredient in powder extinguishers-can be used in lieu of a fire extinguisher for minor galley flare-ups.
The RV Kitchen: Fix It in Foil
Easy prep, great taste, good nutrition and quick clean-up - what more could you want from a meal? This cookbook combines the best of all worlds! Featuring 51 fantastic recipes that each include instructions for cooking in an oven, over a campfire, or on an outdoor grill. Learn more or order
Just for fun!
Listen to a TV theme song from long ago
Click here to hear the theme song from a TV program from long ago. Hint: It was from a "mighty" fine show.
 ROADTREK MOTORHOMES
The Fuel Efficient Motorhomes You'll Love to Drive! Learn all about them here.
Great Reading in our RV Travel Blogs
FEATURED BLOGS:
RVs in the News
"Concentrated RV news." Practical, useful, and fun news on recreational vehicle issues. Always be up to date.
Great RV Stuff
The latest neat RV stuff in this always fasincating blog. Gizmos and gadgets that might even make your RVing more enjoyable.
RV Tech Tips with Mark Polk
A veteran RV technician, gives useful tips and advice.
Working on the RV Road
Get up-to-date about news and information about earning income while RVing.
Boondocking
Do you use your RV away from utilities? Here you'll pick up tips on how to do it, and learn about some great places to boondock.
RV Short Stops
Our RVtravel.com blogger's favorite places to visit in their RVs -- Great suggestions for places to visit on your own travels.
Casino RV Camping
Learn about casino RV parks, freebie camping, and great deals on gaming and dining for RVers who visit.
Fulltime RVer
If you're a fulltime RVer or plan to be someday, then stop by for the latest news and information about fulltiming.
See the complete lineup of RV Travel blogs
Press releases
Kingsley Coach to develop hydrogen injection fuel system
Workhorse offers first power-enhanced Cat C7 engine RV chassis.
Fleetwood RV debuts low-end American Coach motorhome
RV maker Winnebago unveils new models at RV trade show
 GOOD SAM CLUB: Join the World's Largest RV Club
Save 10% discount at most RV parks. Join for $19 a year.
The green machine! A new environmentally friendly RV
In the spirit of the times, one manufacturer is introducing a new line of RVs it claims will be lighter and more environmentally friendly than traditional RVs. Details.
Brrrr! Prepare the RV for winter workcamping
RV workcamping is just for the warm-weather months, right? Actually, some RVers live in their units while working in very chilly places in the middle of winter. But first, you have to prepare the RV for that kind of environment. More information.
 Workhorse UFO Chassis
The hottest RV chassis going these days is the UFO from Workhorse. Poke around the company's website to learn about this chassis, and about everything else going on at Workhorse (which is a LOT). Don't miss the entertaining videos. Learn more.
Check out our RV Travel Forum discussions
Towing a dinghy
Is there a considerable reduction in gas mileage when towing a dingy?
Prospective RV newby needs encouragement with rising gas prices
Have been researching and have finally narrowed my choices when hit with the obvious phenomenal rise in gas prices. Now having second thoughts about buying an RV, and need some encouragement and support. How do retirees reconcile and live with this budgeting problem? Are any manufacturers working to develop hybrid RVs?
Catalytic heaters
Are catalytic heaters safe in trailers? Especially at night while sleeping if 1 or 2 windows are cracked. The new ones have low oxygen shutoff. It would save on battery power and probably propane over using the trailer furnace.
Toddlers, RVs and sleeping -- do they mix?
We are going on our first RV trip with our twin boys who are 22 months old. They still sleep in a crib at home and we don't quite know where to put them in the RV. They usually go to bed at 7 pm (plus 2-hour nap in the afternoon) so co-sleeping is not a good option. Worst case scenario, I think we will put their pack n' plays on the queen bed in back and hubbie and I will sleep on pull out up front. Has anyone tried guard rails on beds for kids this young?
Want to take the cats with us -- need advice
We would like to go full time with our 3 cats. We haven't taken them anywhere yet. so we don't know if it will work or not. We have a 30' TT and an extended cab pickup. What do you do with them while you are driving? Do you keep them in cages? What if you stop for lunch where it's hot? Where do you put them?
Terrific books & DVDs
 from RVbookstore.com
Book: RV Retirement
DVD Working on the RV Road
Book: Fifth Wheel Bible
Book: RV Boondocking Basics
DVD: Towing Behind Your Motorhome
Book: 2007 Big Rig Best Bets Campground Directory
CD-rom: Military Campground Directory on CD Rom.
Is there room for late arrivals at Quartzsite?
You've heard about the large RV gathering at Quartzsite in Arizona each winter, when tens of thousands of RVers camp in the desert and visit the local flea marketrs and gem shows. But if you can't get down to Quartzsite until later in the season, will there be room for you? Should you even bother to come? Read this report.
Add more counter space to your RV kitchen
If you prepared Thanksgiving dinner in your RV, perhaps you felt that you could have used some more counter space. You can have extra space for the next large meal, or just for everyday use. For some ideas, click here.
 FREE SHIPPING at RVbookstore.com
Order $49 or more and choose to pay absolutely no postage or handling fees (USA addresses only). Nearly ALL orders ship same day. Our motto is "You need it so we speed it." RVbookstore.com.
Bumper Snicker
Stupidity is not a crime so you're free to go
 Find Free RV Campgrounds
"Don't pay to stay!" Visit FreeCampgrounds.com and find more than 1,700 free and inexpensive places to stay in the USA in an RV. Stretch your RVing budget by staying at these freebie locations.
Add some tang to that simple meal
From the RV Kitchen this week comes a tangy dish to accompany a simple meal such as sandwiches. Spice it up! The recipe.
A do-it-yourself RV
People build their own houses, boats and airplanes. Why not RVs? Here is a photo of one homebuilt, which looks it. Click here.
Nova Scotia may lift freebie overnight RV parking ban
It's not illegal for an RVer to stay overnight in a shopping mall or Wal-Mart parking lot in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. But that may change. Find out why.
 Alaska Marine Highway
The Alaska Marine Highway System has been awarded status as an "All-American Road". It provides an exceptional traveling experience recognized by travelers as the primary reason for their trip. Plan your trip now.
Worth Pondering
Nothing is permanent but change. -- Heraclitus
2008 Dinghy Towing Guide now available
If you plan to pull a vehicle behind your motorhome, the 2008 Guide to Dinghy Towing is an essential resource. Get the scoop about every vehicle that is approved to be towed behind a motorhome. Learn more or order.
Read back issues of the RV Travel newsletter. Click here.
RVs for sale at NewRVer.com. See them here.
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