Weekend of December 22, 2007
Issue 306 of RV Travel
Learn about RV camping, RV travel, RV news and much more. This newsletter is funded through sales at RVbookstore.com, the World's Largest RV Bookstore specializing in books and DVDs about RVs and the RV lifestyle. Email alerts for this issue were sent to 72,804 readers.
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FREE CD-Rom with Woodall's Campground Directory
This year's thick 2008 Woodall's North American Campground Directory includes a Bonus FREE CD-rom directory (PC & Mac). The 2008 directory includes 284,000 updates. Besides comprehensive info on campgrounds and RV parks, learn which offer Internet access and/or welcome pets!
Editor's Corner
By Chuck Woodbury
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| In 2008, despite high gas prices, most RVers will still find a way to get on the road. |
In a week 2007 will be history. What does the new year hold, and, in particular, what does it hold for RVers? Will the cost of fuel pass $4 a gallon? If so, how will that affect RV travel?
Even though the RV industry keeps painting a rosy picture of the future, I hear otherwise from rank and file RVers. Some have put their RV travels on hold. Most have cut back. Many have postponed plans to buy a new RV. Sure, the rich can pay $4, $5 or even $6 a gallon for fuel and still not feel a pinch, but the masses will find it tough to travel too far when the price of fuel exceeds their modest means. And, really, it's not only about the high price of RVing, but the high price of living -- fueling cars for trips to work or the store, or paying heating bills to keep homes warm. At the end of the month, what's left?
However, people who love RVs and RVing will do just about anything to keep on going. They'll cut back in other areas, and most will drive fewer miles. The cost of driving to a local state park for the weekend may cost $20 more than two years ago, but that won't stop most folks. Taking a cross country trip? Well, I imagine a lot of those trips of a lifetime are squarely on hold right now.
Yet the cost of fuel in Europe has been high for decades, but RVers there keep on truckin.' I was amazed a few years ago in France: the freeways were jammed with RVs, mostly "caravans" (travel trailers), but there were plenty of motorhomes, too, although most were small, fuel-efficient Class C's (suddenly getting more popular here in North America).
When gas passed $2 a gallon I wondered how long RVers would keep traveling. But they didn't stop. They just slowed. I don't think $4 gas will totally stop most either, although, like me, they'll probably cringe at the gas pump when the cost of a fill up is three figures instead of two.
How would $4 a gallon fuel affect your RV travels (answer a 10-second survey)?
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TWO WEEKS AGO we asked the readers of this newsletter if they had ever lived in their RV during an emergency. More than half of the 1,700 RVtravel.com readers who responded answered yes. Here is a letter we received last week that illustrates how handy an RV can be during a time when a regular home is out of action.
"We live in northeast Kansas, and as you may be aware because of a terrible ice storm, we were without power for a week. We bought a travel trailer last summer and are happy to report that we cooked in it and put a few items in the refrigerator during the storm. It was great that we had our travel trailer for cooking. Today, 9,000 people are still without power." -- Mary Ann in Kansas
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Cooking with Foil!
Learn to cook using foil! Easy prep, great taste, good nutrition and quick clean-up -- what more could you want? This cookbook features 51 fantastic recipes that each include instructions for cooking in an oven, over a campfire, or on an outdoor grill. 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: November -- October -- September -- August -- July -- June
2008 RVers Friend -- Just published!
This best-selling directory lists RV services at truck stops 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.
System warns of developing tire problems
A tire failure on the highway is one of the most dreaded problems RVers face. Unfortunately, a tire failure often happens without warning, and many RVers don't even know about it until the tire catches fire or someone waves them over. That's why this warning system is worth serious consideration. Take a look.
Amazing video of burning motorhome
Of all the amateur videos of RV fires we've seen, this is the most dramatic. Watching this motorhome and its dinghy erupt in flames is not for the faint of heart! Check your fire extinguishers after seeing this. Watch it.
Need a place to store your RV? Buy a "Parking Condo!"
It's just the answer that all those municipalities who want to ban residential area RV parking are looking for -- an RV parking condo. Phoenix developers will sell you a deeded RV garage to house your RV for as little as $90 a square foot. Got a big RV? How does $190,000 sound for your very own parking space? Read more.
Use these tips
to stretch your fuel dollars
What can you do about paying high fuel prices besides finding the cheapest fuel? Not much. But you can stretch your mileage as much as possible with these smart tips. Click here.
DVDs help new RVers learn about their rigs
RV Education 101 presents home videos on how to operate everything on an RV. The VHS videos are very useful to anyone new to RVing. Read more or order at:
Class A motorhome
Class C motorhome
Trailer/5th wheel
Pop Up Trailer
Towing a dinghy behind your motorhome
How to Winterize your RV
Protect your RV during winter storage
If you're parking your RV for much or all of the winter, you should take certain precautions to make sure the weather and long-term non-use don't result in damage. Follow these guidelines.
Do you RV with a dog?
If so, visit RVingWithDogs.com where you find a national directory of campgrounds and RV parks that welcome furry four-legged creatures. If you know of a campground that is not on the list, or have a comment about a place that is already listed, please feel free to add your input.
Should you pump nitrogen into your RV tires?
Why would anyone want to pump nitrogen into tires used for RVing? What's wrong with good old-fashioned air? Well, at least one RV manufacturer is boasting about using nitrogen in new models, claiming it has an advantage. But a tire manufacturer recommends against the the idea. Read about the controversy.
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.
This Week's Reader Survey
What type of telephone service(s) do you use? Answer here.
Last week's survey question
Have you ever stayed overnight for free in your RV in a casino parking lot? 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 $19.98. Learn more or order.
How solo RVers can help authorities
Solo RVers are welcome at virtually all campgrounds, but certain authorities have a grievance against them. The problem is easily resolved, so if you're a solo RVer, please read this post.
Oh gross. . . here is a
good reason to travel by RV and not stay in hotels
In this TV news segment a reporter goes undercover in three large hotels, and wait until you see what she discovered. Check out the video.
A tow vehicle like no other
Here it is! The world's most powerful tow vehicle for RV trailers. With this baby doing the pulling, you can scoot up the steepest incline like a rocket. If you have a really heavy trailer, you'll want to hitch up to this one (or will you?) Click here.
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 $686.00
Our Pot of Gold Contest cash prize is now $320, and the pot at our Your Name is Money contest is now an impressive $366. 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.
Keep your RV water supply fresh and clean
Your RV water system is vital to your RVing enjoyment, and you want to be sure that the water you use from it is clean and fresh. Here's what you need to know.
RV job fairs set for January
Workkamper News will sponsor job fairs in January in Arizona and Florida for RVers who want to find work or learn about working as they travel. Learn more.
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 perfect RV meal for a cold winter night
Regular readers of this newsletter know that blogger Jim Twamley consistently has some pretty good ideas, so when he recommends this simple but delicious dish in the RV after a day trip, you can bet it's worth trying. Click here.
Can you solve this electrical mystery?
Here's a puzzle for you. An RVer discovered that his fluorescent lights would not turn on, but his incandescent lights functioned normally. How come? Here's the explanation.
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 great state park to put on your camping list
State parks offer some of the nicest and most affordable RV camping available -- especially in the off-season. This state park is an example and is worth putting on your list of places to visit. Click here.
Would you take a job like this to support your RVing?
Are you an RV workcamper? Are you willing to take a job that would make many people squirm a bit? This is honest, important work that has to be done, but, uh... Click here.
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
A tough choice for an RVing teacher
Followers of blogger and solo RVer Adrienne Kristine's adventures know that she recently accepted a job at Camping World. That position has forced her to make a difficult decision concerning her RVing. Click here.
Take the yuck out of dumping the RV holding tanks
Phew! Few RVers enjoy dumping the gray and black water tanks, but it's a chore that must be done. The best way to reduce the unpleasantness is to keep the operation clean and tidy. Here's how.
Good Stuff from the Good Sam Club
Join the Club: $19 a year . Save on camping fees plus free RV magazine.
Continuing Service Plan: No More Major Repair Bills! Get a Fast Quote
RV Emergency Road Service. Special Low Rate! Join Today.
Trivia. . .
More than half the people in the world have never made or received a telephone call.
Your's free: Alaska Vacation Planner
Send for the Alaska Vacation Planner, available free from the state of Alaska. 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.
RV Boondocking Tips
By Russ and Tina Demaris
Sewer Mover?
Getting sewage out of your rig's holding tanks doesn't necessarily mean moving the rig to the dump station. Portable waste storage tanks or "blue boys," can tote that 'old black water' to the dump station in jig time. If your rig is parked just out of range of a suitable sewage receiver you can use a macerator pump to grind and pump sewage greater distances through a garden hose or small diameter plastic pipe. Some macerators operate on 12-volt power, others on water pressure alone. Some boondockers combine macerator pumps with portable waste tanks to move their sewage while saving their backs from heavy tank lifting. -- Russ and Tina Demaris are the authors of RV Boondocking Basics.
Fire Safety Tip from Mac McCoy
Make sure all travelers knows what the smoke alarm sounds like and what to do when they hear it. Test your smoke detector regularly.
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
Books and DVDs about Full-time RVing
Largest selection in the World.
Two offerings
from the RV Kitchen
A double treat! In this video, Evanne Schmarder suggests some great kitchen gadgets for under the Christmas tree and provides an easy recipe for yummy Tamari almonds. Watch her RV Kitchen video.
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.
Check out our RV Travel Forum discussions
Holiday Rambler
Looking at a new Savoy LE 28SKS. Does anyone have any experience with the Savoy line? Recommend? Holiday Rambler products in general?
Entry level RVer
I am about to join the ranks of solo women RVers. Never having done this sort of thing before, but just decided to quit my present job, buy a Winnebago, and tour the U.S. and Canada. I'm recently widowed and want to carry through with the plans that my former spouse and I had made --to do this after we had retired. Don't want to wait another 5 years, however, so have decided to do it now. Just need some encouragement from you veterans that I'm doing the right thing.
First Canadian protection warranty
This would be for Canadian members. Anyone used this company? I am in the process of buying a 2005 Pleasureway, and have been offered this coverage. The van has 76000 kms on it, and since I've never bought extended warranties before, having always driven older campervans, I am not sure what to do. Any experience out there with extended warranties in general? It's such a newer rig that I wonder if I won't just take my chances and decline the warranty. I need some info quick!
More power in the 454 Chevy
Does anyone know how to breathe life into a tiring but not yet totally tired 454 Chevy in a 33-foot Winnebago Sunrise? I've heard of the Banks System but that's a lot of money.
Engine battery problems
We have a 2005 Newmar Kountry Star class A gas coach which recently developed engine battery problems (diminished starting power to the point of it being dead). We swapped it with the higher end NAPA Auto Parts replacement which has also given us difficulties from the beginning. More specifically, after a stay of 1-1/2 to 2 weeks, the battery is pretty much fully drained and won't start the engine, even using the boost from the house batteries. We've had to jump it with our toad battery. As expected, it is recharged by the alternator after driving for a while, but then another 2-week stay drains it down to nothing. Pretty much the only thing we have in the 9V outlets is my PocketPC phone charger. I find it hard to believe that this would fully drain a fairly heavy duty (brand new) engine within two weeks. The only thing I'll add is that we've had leveler issues, which I know impacts the battery. Still...Have you had similar problems? What solutions do you see?
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
CD-rom: Military Campground Directory on CD Rom.
Bill's Hints
From Motorhomes Made Easy
"When approaching a red signal reduce your speed in advance, and try to catch the signal after it has turned green. This will save you fuel and help you keep up with traffic."
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.
Another award for RV excellence
Only one RV manufacturer has received the prestigious Quality Circle Award, presented by the Recreational Vehicle Dealers' Association, as many times as this company. See which manufacturer got the latest award and for which brands. Click here.
Can you believe it? A truck camper toy hauler
No way can a truck camper carry ATVs and other such "toys." But it's true. An RV manufacturer has designed such a camper. More information.
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
One more repo and I'll be debt free!
GOOD SAM CLUB: Join the World's Largest RV Club
Save 10% discount at most RV parks. Join for $19 a year.
Reserve a campground site soon at Alaska' s Denali
Denali National Park is one of Alaska's crown jewels, a treat not to be missed by an RVer visiting the 49th state. But the park's four campgrounds fill up fast in Alaska's relatively short travel season. Which campgrounds there accept reservations? And how early in the year can reservations be made? The answers.
Which type of motorhome is best for you?
New RVers planning to shop for a motorhome may be confused by the terms Class A, Class B and Class C. These designations refer to different types of motorhomes. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Read more.
Worth Pondering
What a man thinks of himself, that is what determines, or rather indicates, his fate. -- Henry David Thoreau
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.
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.
Read back issues of the RV Travel newsletter. Click here.
RVs for sale at NewRVer.com. See them here. 
