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Author: Emily Sullivan

  • Spring Break Travel Tips

    Spring Break Travel Tips

     

    Spring break is just around the corner for millions of Americans – cue the excitement! It’s a time to relax, recharge, and get away with family and friends after a particularly stressful year. But before you set out on your spring break adventure, consider these tips when planning your trip and while you’re out exploring.

    Before You Go… 

    Research Locations

    First, you’ll want to decide where you’d like to go. Are you looking for a local weekend getaway or are you looking for a longer road trip opportunity? Looking to escape to the mountains or the beach? There are so many options out there! Take some time to research different locations and come up with a few ideas to present. Get the whole family involved in the research process and come together to select your destination. 

    Check COVID Restrictions

    When selecting your destination, check any COVID-19 restrictions that may apply to the location you would like to visit. Also be sure to follow any regulations that the state has put in place for your safety.

    Set a Budget

    If you’re looking to get away this spring break, the time to start saving is now. Once you’ve set a maximum budget, stick to it during your planning process. Make a list of the major and minor expenses related to your travels so you can be prepared ahead of time. Start with the basics of gas, food, and campgrounds then go from there. This part of the planning process isn’t the most fun, but it will ensure that you can relax and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

    Determine How You Will Get There

    There are a few different options when it comes to getting to your destination in an RV. If you have an RV of your own, using it for your vacation could be the ideal option for you and your family. If you don’t, there are options to rent RVs if that’s something you are interested in pursuing. There are options to rent both towable RVs as well as drivable RVs – the choice is completely yours. Drivable RVs are great for larger groups looking for additional amenities and towable RVs give you the flexibility to unhitch from your unit and explore the area in your personal vehicle. As air travel decreases due to safety concerns,  people across the country are turning to RVs to get them to their next destination. It’s a worthwhile – and fun – option to consider.

    Book Early

    As we mentioned, road trips will most likely be on the rise this spring break as many people still want to avoid flying due to the pandemic. You’ll want to make sure you are booking all aspects of your trip well in advance. If you’re renting an RV for your adventure, make sure you book as early as you can. If you plan to stay at campgrounds or RV parks, make sure you reserve your site ASAP. 

    Plan Your Itinerary

    Before you set out to your destination, come up with a game plan for each day. It doesn’t have to be super in-depth, but creating a general itinerary for each day ensures you’ll get to complete as many activities as possible. Research popular activities, restaurants, and reviews in the area you’re traveling. Make reservations where possible and don’t forget to double-check to make sure these destinations are open when you plan on visiting. 

    Packing 

    Before you hit the road, take the time to create a quick packing checklist for each member of your family. Take note of the climate where you are traveling so you pack proper attire and don’t forget to pack the essentials (medications, masks, chargers, toothbrushes, etc.). 

    While You’re There… 

    Capture the Moment

    We encourage you to be in the moment when you’re traveling, but taking a picture or two during the fun is perfectly fine and a great way to look back at memories. You can also re-live your spring break memories by journaling about your favorite moments at the end of each day. 

    Look For Teaching Opportunities

    If you’re traveling with the kiddos, keep in mind that there’s always something new to learn even on vacation. Look for opportunities to teach your kids during your trip. Popular options include visiting national parks, famous landmarks, museums, and more. Check out our roadschooling tips for more creative ideas to learn on the road.

    Are you ready to hit the road this spring break? We’re right there with you! Remember to travel safe and keep these tips in mind when planning your next adventure.

  • 6 Signs It’s Time to Sell Your RV

    6 Signs It’s Time to Sell Your RV

    On the fence about selling your used RV? You’ve come to the right place! Before you put up a listing on RV Trader, where it’ll be available to millions of shoppers, you’ll want to feel confident knowing that the time is right to sell. Read through our top tips to sell your used RV, and check out the signs below that indicate it’s time to list your RV on the market. 

    Here are a few signs that it might be time to sell your RV.

    You’re Ready for an Upgrade

    Do you love your RV, but notice it’s getting a little rough around the edges? It might be time to upgrade the unit you currently own. New and improved models are coming out yearly, so you can still have the same type of RV you know and love but with modern upgrades and advanced features. 

    It’s Time to Change RV Type

    Changing RV type is more common than you might think. For example, you might start off your RV journey with a pop-up camper and want to upgrade to a full travel trailer in the future. There are a variety of reasons to change RV types: your family grows, you need more or less space, you want more amenities, etc. Take a good look at the RV you currently have to see if it’s meeting all of your needs or if it’s time to make a switch.

    Old Age & Costly Repairs

    We become emotionally attached to our RVs. It makes sense – we create lasting memories in them, and it’s difficult to let our trusty unit go. But the reality is, if your RV has many broken components and outdated features, or if it’s costing significant money to repair pretty frequently, selling could be a good option. 

    High Mileage 

    Have you put serious miles on your RV thanks to many adventures? Great! That’s the whole point of owning an RV. But, if you’re looking to use your current unit to help pay for an upgrade, you’ll need to consider mileage. RVs that have a higher mileage are worth less than units with comparable features. If your RV has a lot of miles, you may want to sell it before repairs are required or the value depreciates.

    Not Using Your RV

    If your RV is collecting dust and you haven’t made plans to travel with it in a while, it might be a good idea to consider selling your unit. You could be sitting on a pretty penny and another family could get great use out of your RV if it’s in good condition. In addition to what you’ll earn in the sale, you’ll also save money with the end of insurance, storage fees, and maintenance costs.  

    High Market Demand

    RVing has never been more popular, and some dealerships are struggling with low inventory. When your used RV is in high demand, you can sell it at a premium price. Keep an eye on consumer trends and sell when the market is hot (hint: it’s HOT right now!). It’s also a great idea to consider the seasonality of RVing. Many RVers travel in the spring and summer months, so it’s a good plan to put up your listing before these peak times. Selling on a nationwide marketplace like RV Trader makes it easy to reach these eager RV shoppers thanks to millions of monthly site visitors.

    Pro Tip: If you do list your RV on RVTrader.com, consider getting a pre-purchase inspection with RV Trader Assurance powered by Lemon Squad. This service allows private sellers to order quick and convenient inspections on their for-sale RVs, which include a comprehensive internal and external examination, complete mechanical and appliance inspection, road test, and more than 40 high-quality photos. A pre-purchase inspection can validate your RV’s listing price, build buyer confidence, and save time in the selling process.

    If it’s the right time for you to sell your used RV, we hope you list your unit for sale on RV Trader’s nationwide online marketplace. Browse our RV Seller’s Guide for additional resources!

  • Top Tips for RV Spring Cleaning

    Top Tips for RV Spring Cleaning

    Warmer weather is almost here. We can practically feel it! Before you know it, you’ll be loading up the RV for your next road trip. But slow your roll before you roll out. When was the last time you deep cleaned your RV? Spring is the perfect time to put a little elbow grease into your beloved home on wheels and we’ve got a few helpful tips. Check out our top tips for RV spring cleaning. 

    Inside:

    • Wipe down ceilings, walls, hard surfaces, and appliances with a multi-surface cleaner that is EPA registered to disinfect and remove bacteria, viruses, mold, and other allergens.
    • Empty, vacuum, and wipe out storage areas and cabinet pulls. Haven’t used an item in a couple of years? Get rid of it. Toss out any old or expired foods or spices. 
    • Strip and wash bedding, vacuum the mattress, and spray with an aerosol disinfectant before remaking the bed.
    • Vacuum blinds, valances, and lampshades with a soft brush, then go over with an adhesive lint roller.
    • Remove spots with a damp, soapy cloth. For hard-to-remove grease stains, scrape with a knife, then layer paper towels on top of the stain. Using the lowest heat setting, iron the paper towels to lift the grease. Then, gently scrub the spot with a mix of dish soap, white vinegar, and water. Finish your routine by steam cleaning.

     

    • To flush your freshwater system lines, connect a clean water hose to your home’s outdoor faucet and connect the other end to your RV city water connection. Open your gray tank, turn on all the faucets, and run until the water looks, smells, and tastes clean. Use an RV freshwater deodorizer to flush your freshwater tank.

     

    Outside:

    • Start at the top. For fiberglass roofs, use a soft brush, hose, and any wash-and-wax product to remove grime. While you’re up there, look for any loose or cracked sealant and follow the manufacturer’s directions to remove old caulking and repair. If you have an older RV with a rubber roof, you’ll need specific rubber roof cleaning products.
    • Know what you’re made of – metal or fiberglass. For painted or polished metal bodies, use a pre-wash to remove grime and grit, then clean with a non-abrasive cleaner, soft-bristled brush, and microfiber cloth or mitts. High-pressure washing is not recommended because these RVs are clad and riveted, and water can seep in between the seams. For fiberglass, use a wash-and-wax product with UV protection. Again, beware of the high-pressure washer – it can damage slideout seals and peel exterior decals. 
    • Use a silicone-based cleaner on all window, door, and slide-in gaskets or flexible weather sealants. Most spray on and don’t require any wiping or additional cleaning. Don’t neglect your awnings—they need a rinse, too.

     

    Remember, spring cleaning is an opportunity to look for any problems and give your RV the attention it deserves so you’ll be ready to roll on your next adventure. Happy cleaning!

    Looking for an RV of your own this spring?

    Browse thousands of models on RVTrader.com 

     

    *Before tackling any cleaning jobs, check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

  • What to Know About Researching & Buying an RV

    What to Know About Researching & Buying an RV

    We recently hosted a live Facebook Q&A answering questions from real RV shoppers about the researching and buying process — but we’re also sharing many of our tips here on the blog. We’ve previously discussed what you need to know before shopping for an RV. In this article, we’re breaking down the three major steps to take once you’re ready to browse available units and make a purchase: 

    Do Your Research.

    It’s time to finally find and compare relevant RVs that are available to purchase; but where do you start? For-sale RVs can be easily found online by visiting dealership websites and online marketplaces like RVTrader.com. On these digital platforms you are able to browse listings and filter results based on your preferred criteria. RV listings provide you with a number of ways to evaluate for-sale units: 

    • Photos: Images are the most foundational way to get a good look at the RV you might buy. The best dealers will post plenty of pictures, including every angle of the exterior, as well as pictures of each area of the interior.
    • Videos: Even more than photos, videos give you the best idea of what the RV will look like in “real life.” Videos can show you the RV in-action, demonstrating each of its main features.
    • Specific details: Listings should include key details about the RV, including the year, condition, mileage, sleeping capacity, and more.
    • Descriptions: Dealers will also describe all the features you can find both inside and outside of the RV.

    While you’re researching, be sure to compare listings. Just because you’ve found one RV that could be a good fit doesn’t mean there’s not a better RV or a better deal out there. As you more seriously consider different RVs, be sure to research the dealer themselves, as well as the history of the RV if you’re buying used. Knowing you’re buying a quality unit from a trustworthy dealer can give you greater confidence in your purchase, and may be the deciding factor when deliberating between different RV buying options.

    Connect with the Seller.

    Once you’re interested in an RV, you don’t have to immediately visit a dealership to connect with a dealer or learn more about the for-sale unit. In today’s virtual world, there are a number of ways you can reach out to a seller without stepping onto the dealership lot. Most dealers can be reached via a phone call or email, of course, but many dealers also offer texting, live chat messaging, and live video chats.

    Video chats are an especially useful communication tool, because — in addition to speaking with the seller — they also allow you to conduct a virtual inspection of the RV without going to the physical dealership. Just like an in-person inspection, scheduling a live video appointment with the dealer lets you…

    • View the RV’s exterior and interior, 
    • Hear the engine running, 
    • See the mileage, 
    • Review parts or potential damage, 
    • Ask questions, and 
    • Hear the dealer’s sales pitch.

    Pro Tip: If you’re shopping for RVs on RVTrader.com, look for the RV Trader Inspection Badge on specific listings. This indicates that an RV has been inspected by RV Trader Assurance powered by Lemon Squad. You can view a complete inspection report, detailing the condition of the unit’s internal and external structure, mechanical components, appliances, and the results of a road test. You can also view over 40 high-quality photos of the for-sale RV.

    From phone calls and emails to texting and video chats, any RV listing — as well as the dealership’s website — should provide you with all the relevant seller contact information and communication options. When reaching out to a dealer, don’t hesitate to request more photos, seek out additional details, ask questions, talk financing, make an offer, negotiate price, or communicate about anything else you think is important.

    Review Virtual Buying Options.

    Once you’ve decided to purchase an RV, you may be able to complete most or all of the buying steps online, depending on state laws and dealership policies. Check with the seller to see if virtual options are available for…

    • Signing documents to finalize the sale of the RV,
    • Obtaining financing (from the dealership or 3rd party), or
    • Obtaining warranties (from the dealership or 3rd party).

    You can also check to see if you have to go to the dealership lot yourself, or if the RV can be delivered. If you’re local, a seller may bring the RV right to your driveway. If you’re further away, you may be able to arrange for the RV to be shipped to you. Finally, throughout the buying process, keep an eye out for indicators of scam or fraud, browse on secure sites, and be careful when sharing personal information online.

     

    Congratulations! Soon you’ll be out on the road, on your way to the campsite and memory-making fun. If you’d like to take a deeper dive into researching, shopping, and purchasing RVs, don’t forget check out our Facebook Live Q&A! If you’re ready to jump right into browsing RVs, head on over to RVTrader.com and don’t forget to check out our full site of virtual buying resources.

  • What to Know Before Shopping for an RV

    What to Know Before Shopping for an RV

    After so much time dreaming of exploring new places, embarking on adventures, and making delicious s’mores over a campfire, you’ve finally decided to pursue your RV dream. But how do you actually get started? Even before researching and buying a specific RV, there are a number of things you need to consider. Especially if you’ve never purchased an RV before, it can be an overwhelming process.

    To help smooth the ride, we hosted a Facebook live Q&A on March 18, 2021 at 1PM ET about the RV buying process. You can access the Facebook Q&A here. Additionally, we’re putting many of those tips right here on the blog. Before shopping for an RV, here are three steps you need to take:

    Build Your Wishlist.

    Before shopping online or in-person for an RV, you need to think through the kind of experiences you want to have and what features would be required to achieve them. To get started, we commonly ask new RVers questions like:

    • Where will you be taking your RV? 
    • Do you plan on finding yourself on a solo adventure, or is the RV a memory-making machine for family and friends? 
    • Will you need amenities to replicate the comforts of home, or are you looking to rough it out in the wild?

    The experiences you aspire to will determine what you look for in an RV, so building a wishlist of features is an essential first step. Here are some things to consider as you craft your RV wishlist:

    • Sleeping space: Think about how many people you want to be able to take with you on trips.
    • Storage space: Figure out how much stuff you feel will be essential to take on any trip, and then add additional space for the extra items that always ends up along for the ride.
    • Living space: Honestly reflect on if you’re willing to spend most of your time outdoors, or if you admittedly need space to spend time inside as well.
    • Kitchen space & appliances: If you’re not prepared to cook every meal over a campfire, even in the rain, consider how much space you’ll require to prepare meals.
    • Where you want to travel: Does your RV need to be able to navigate tight city streets or take to the interstate highways, and do you feel capable operating larger RVs on long-haul trips?
    • If you require electricity, heat/AC, running water, Wi-Fi, etc.: Again, you need to be honest with yourself about what amenities you can and cannot go without.
    • If you’ll have pets travelling with you: Think about if an RV will provide enough room for your pet, and if you’re prepared for any damages a pet may cause to the RV.
    • If you’ll drive through city streets or narrow roads: Once more, you need to consider how comfortable you are operating your RV down any road you may come across.
    • If you’ll need to haul extra toys: If you’re preparing for high-adrenaline adventure, figure out if an RV has the capacity to haul your dirt-bike, PWC, or other items

    Determine Your Budget.

    You’ll obviously want to purchase an RV that is within a reasonable price range for your individual financial situation. To know if an RV is going to fit within your allotted budget, it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership for the RV, not just the sticker price. Here are three things to remember: 

    • The down-payment: You’ll obviously have to pay a percentage of the price to the dealer up-front. This can vary by the RV you’re buying, dealership policies, and the financing you’re able to obtain.
    • Recurring expenses: Unless you pay the full cost of the RV all at once, you’ll have monthly payments to make, as well as bills for RV insurance. As you drive the RV, you’ll need to buy fuel, and some people will also have to pay for storage if they cannot keep the RV at their own residence.
    • Maintenance and repairs: It won’t be every month (hopefully!), but from time-to-time you’ll have to pay for preventative maintenance to keep your RV safe and operational. It’s also likely that at some point during your ownership of the RV, you’ll have to pay for unexpected repairs, which always seem to happen in the most inconvenient times — so be ready for those expenses!

    New RVs will cost more than used RVs, of course, but keep in mind that used units come with some risk of needing additional unexpected repairs. When calculating the total cost of ownership, especially if you’re buying a new RV, you should also consider how you can sell your RV as a used unit once you’re done with it or want to upgrade, helping you recoup some of your money.

    Choose Your RV Type.

    There are so many different types of RVs out there. It will be important to research each type of RV to determine which type would be the best fit for you and your lifestyle. Keep in mind how you want to use the RV, your level of expertise, and your price range. The main types of RVs include: 

    • Class A Motorhomes: These RVs are the largest and roomiest RVs on the road, typically ranging from 24 ft. to 45 ft. in length, and are either diesel or gas-powered.
    • Class B Motorhomes: These RVs are typically referred to as camper vans and are built on a standard full-sized van chassis, but still have amenities and a raised roof for upright walking.
    • Class C Motorhomes: These RVs are a compromise between Class A and Class B, with more space than Class B RVs, but easier to drive than Class A RVs.
    • Travel Trailers: These RVs are towed behind a truck or SUV. Also known as “campers,” they’ve become increasingly popular because they’re more affordable than drivable RVs.
    • Toy Haulers: These RVs are towable travel trailers with a built-in ramp and space that can be used for a small garage, along with a kitchen and living quarters. 
    • Fifth Wheels: These RVs are large trailers towed by a pick-up truck. They can be bigger than drivable motorhomes, but allow for the option of detaching the truck for easier travel to and from the campsite during a trip.


    Once you have built your wishlist, determined your budget, and chosen your RV type, you’re ready to begin your RV shopping experience. For tips on that part of the process, you can check out our companion     article about researching and buying RVs. And if you’d like to really take a deep dive into any of these topics, don’t forget to check out our Facebook Live Q&A!

  • What Are the Different Types of RVs?

    What Are the Different Types of RVs?

    Whether you’re looking to take quick weekend trips or a cross-country adventure, there’s an RV for you out there! Searching for an RV online can be an overwhelming experience with so many different options, but we’ll break down a few of the most common RV types. 

    Drivable Types: 

    Class A RVs are the largest of all drivable motorhomes and are truly a home on wheels. These luxurious models are typically built on a commercial bus or truck chassis that have full kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, and large living spaces. They are great for larger groups and full-timers and can include king-sized beds, full living rooms with sofas, washers and dryers, televisions, kitchens, refrigerators, and full-sized bathrooms.

    Class B motorhomes, otherwise known as camper vans, are driven like regular vans but are typically taller to allow for additional living space. Class Bs are great for smaller groups and are fairly easy to maneuver due to their size. Most include a living area, sleeping area, kitchen, and bathroom – all the necessities you would need on a short trip.

    Class C RVs are very similar to Class As but with more compact features. They are built on a truck or van chassis and are usually designed to have an overhang over the cab that is typically an extra bed or additional storage. These units can be very luxurious and include a wide range of amenities like full kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, cab-over beds, fold-out beds, and more. 

    Towable Types:

    Travel Trailers are RVs that are towed behind a vehicle. They typically include living spaces, multiple sleeping areas, kitchens, and bathrooms. One of the main benefits of a Travel Trailer is that the unit can be detached from the towing vehicle, so you are free to easily travel to nearby destinations and attractions in your car while your trailer is parked in designated areas.

    Fifth Wheels are designed to be towed by a pickup truck with a “fifth-wheel” trailer hitch. These units are BIG and can, in some cases, be larger than Class A RVs. Most include full-sized kitchens, master bedrooms, sleeping areas, living rooms, ample storage space, and full bathrooms. They also allow you to disconnect from your truck if you want to explore nearby towns or parks off the beaten path. 

    Toy Haulers are towable travel trailers that feature a garage and built-in ramp on the back, allowing easy access to any toys or adventure gear the owner might be traveling with – for example, ATVs, motorcycles, mountain bikes, etc. Keep in mind that these units are typically on the heavier side so you will need a vehicle that has ample towing capabilities. 

    Ready to find your perfect RV? Visit RVTrader.com to start your search, today and be sure to check out our virtual buying resources!

  • Your RV News Roundup – February 2021

    Your RV News Roundup – February 2021

    We know you love to stay up-to-date with the latest RV news. Luckily, at RV Trader, we feel the same way. We’re rounding up some of the top RV headlines to keep you in the know. Sit back and relax while we breakdown your RV news roundup. 

    Keystone Reveals New Line of RVs

    In January, Keystone RV revealed their new fifth wheel line at the Florida Super Show. The new line named Arcadia has been in development for more than a year, and includes two floor plans, a three-quarter ton 3660 and half-ton 325. The Arcadia is bigger and better than ever and includes more storage and fresh water than previous years to accommodate the ever-growing trend of dry camping. Custom cabinets, flooring, and modern furniture are all included in the new line bringing a fresh look to RVing. You’ll want to see the new models for yourself. Read More. 

    Blue Dog RV Grants a Make-A-Wish

    Blue Dog RV and Montana’s Make-A-Wish Foundation recently granted the wish of 7-year-old, Charlotte. Charlotte, who has the rare disorder Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis, wished for a way to spend more time with her family. She loves spending time outdoors, and now her family has a camper to do just that! We are thrilled for Charlotte and hope her and her family enjoy the RV for years to come. Read More. 

    Chicago Company’s Speaker Technology to Be Featured in New Airstreams

    Airstream recently announced that they will be coming out with a new line later this year that will include a new speaker technology from a Chicago start-up. Resonado Labs, a maker of proprietary flat core speaker technology, is designing the speakers for Airstream’s upcoming line. The company specializes in creating slim and lightweight speakers that take up less space than traditional options. These speakers can be placed in ceilings, headrests, and other small areas to save space without sacrificing quality. We’re all about saving precious space in RVs and can’t wait to see the additional features included in Airstream’s new line. Read More. 

    Family of Three Downsize and Travel the Country

    As the trend of full-time RVing grows, many families across the country are weighing the pros and cons of RV living and roadschooling. At the beginning of 2020, Karen and Sylvester Akpan and their son made the leap to sell their home and move into an RV full-time. Their motivation: financial and physical freedom. We can’t blame them! The family first rented an RV and enjoyed the experience so much, they decided to buy one of their own. Now, they are saving an incredible amount of money each month and have visited over 20 states. Check out their adorable RV and all of their tips and tricks in INSIDER’S recent article! Read More. 

    You are officially caught up on some updates from the RV world! Which story caught your eye this month? Have a story of your own we didn’t cover? Let us know in the comment section below.

  • 10 Tips for Winter RVing

    10 Tips for Winter RVing

    Did you know? You can RV all year round! Many travelers love to explore in the winter so they can enjoy snow-covered views and activities like snowboarding, skiing, and more. Prepare for cold weather RVing with our 10 top tips:

    Have the Right Kind of RV

    Before you set out on a snow-filled adventure, make sure you have the right kind of RV for the job. For the most enjoyable winter travel experience, we suggest camping in a fully enclosed and insulated four season RV.  

    Check the Forecast Before You Head Out

    Check the forecast in the area where you’ll be traveling BEFORE you hit the road. If there’s a snowstorm coming that your RV can’t handle, it might be best to postpone the trip or adjust the itinerary.

    Make Sure Campgrounds Are Open

    Campgrounds can have seasonal availability. Many popular spots close during winter months due to inaccessibility or management preference. Check the campground’s availability and hours of operations before you leave to make sure they are open for business during the colder months.

    Have a Reliable Heat Source

    Double check that your RV’s furnace is in working order before hitting the road.  If your unit uses propane, bring additional tanks with you. Many RVers also use electric space heaters or onboard fireplaces as added heat sources on chilly days.* 

    Protect Your Plumbing and Holding Tanks

    Avoid the hassle of frozen pipes and holding tanks by adding RV-specific antifreeze to your tanks and using heat tape on your hoses and pipes for added insulation. For those with fresh-water hookups, invest in a heated water hose to minimize the risks of freezing. 

    Park in the Sun

    Use the sun to provide an additional layer of protection to your RV in the winter months. Parking in the sun can minimize the risk of frozen pipes and ice, and help your RV stay warmer than parking in the shade or under tree cover. 

    Use Drapes, Curtains, and Rugs for Additional Insulation

    Heavy drapes and curtains can provide additional insulation on your RV’s windows by blocking cool air from entering your RV. Consider adding a few heavy rugs on the floor and using door draft blockers to keep chilly air from coming into your unit. 

    Check Seals and Weather Stripping

    Make sure your weather stripping and seals are fully intact for additional protection against drafts and moisture. Swapping out old or broken seals and weather stripping doesn’t take too long and is definitely worth the extra effort before heading to your destination. 

    Consider a Skirt

    An RV skirt is a material that is placed around the bottom of the RV that minimizes wind and cold weather from entering your unit. You can DIY or buy!

    Use Your Oven

    When you’re finished cooking a meal in your RV’s oven, leave the oven door open as it begins to cool to provide additional heat to your RV.*

    Ready to head out on a snow-filled adventure of your own?

    Find your dream RV on RVTrader.com today!

    *Don’t leave a space heater or oven unattended and always travel with a fire extinguisher. 

  • Valentine’s Date Night Ideas For RVers

    Valentine’s Date Night Ideas For RVers

    An RV has the ability to take you just about anywhere, so use it to your advantage this Valentine’s Day! We’re breaking down a few romantic date night options that any RVer would love.

    Go For a Weekend Getaway

    Traveling is the way to any RVers heart, so why not plan a romantic weekend getaway for your significant other? Conduct some research and find a nearby destination that you’ve never visited to keep things exciting. It could be a drive to the mountains, a beach getaway, or simply a campground you’ve never visited before – the options are endless! Reserve the campsite ahead of time and plan a few fun activities that you both can do together.

    Cook for Each Other

    If your RV has a kitchen, try cooking a romantic meal for your partner. There are tons of on-the-go recipes that are equally delicious as they are simple. You could even set up a virtual cooking class where you can both follow along with the instructor to craft a perfect meal together. If your RV isn’t equipped with a full kitchen, try some delicious over-the-fire recipes to try. Or keep it simple and grab some takeout from a local restaurant!

    Cozy Up by the Campfire

    Once you’ve cooked your delicious dinner, gather some firewood, light a match, pour your favorite drink, and cozy up by the campfire. There’s nothing better than kicking your feet up after a long day of travel or outdoor activities. Don’t forget to bring supplies for s’mores or campfire turnovers to top off the night with a delicious treat!

    Pack a Picnic

    See if you can find a nearby trail or scenic location and add a hike or nature stroll to your itinerary. Before you head out, pack a small picnic to take with you to enjoy when it’s time for a scenic break. You can bring whatever your partner likes whether it be a charcuterie board full of cheese and crackers or a lovingly crafted PB&J. It’s the thought that counts!

    No matter where you go, what really matters is who you are going there with! We hope you have fun trying these Valentine’s Day date night options.

    Need an RV to take you there?
    Find your perfect unit on RVTrader.com.
  • 7 New Year’s Resolutions Perfect for RVers

    7 New Year’s Resolutions Perfect for RVers

    We’re saying good riddance to 2020 (it was a doozy) and making way for 2021! A new year means a fresh start and people across the world are making resolutions for the upcoming year. You might have a few goals already planned out for 2021, but did you include any RV related resolutions into the mix? We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites that are sure to make 2021 great.

    Go on More Trips

    It’s no secret that RVers love to travel, but are you making time for new adventures? Try creating your very own bucket list of short treks and long adventures for the year and involve the whole family in the research process.

    Take the Long Way

    RVing is all about enjoying the journey, not just getting from point A to point B. It’s often more exciting to take the scenic route as you never know what you’ll find on the road less traveled.

    Attempt Boondocking

    Have you always wanted to try dry camping? Why not try it in 2021? Boondocking can save you money and can be an incredible experience if you’re interested in really going off the grid.

    Make New RV Friends

    Building an RV community is one of the best parts of the lifestyle. Host a socially distanced campfire at your campsite or walk around and meet new people who enjoy similar activities as you do. There also are tons of online RV groups on social media that you can join to chat with like-minded people who love RVing just as much as you do. The RV community is BIG – take advantage of it!

    Plan for a Change in Scenery

    Have you been traveling to the same locations year after year? Branch out in 2021 and go to a new destination. Usually travel to the mountains in your RV? Why not try a beach trip this year? Remember, variety is the spice of life.

    Enjoy Nature

    It can be easy to have the go-go-go mentality when you’re an RVer, but take some time to slow down this coming year and really enjoy the beauty of nature. Snap a few photos, but don’t forget to take a few deep breaths of the fresh air and enjoy the silence and beauty of your surroundings.

    Try Something New

    This resolution can apply to just about anything! From going to new restaurants to stopping at exciting pit stops to activities like white water rafting or rock climbing. One of the best parts of RVing is that it allows you to explore new places and try new things.

    Are you ready to buy an RV and make a few resolutions of your own this year?
    Start your search on RVTrader.com today!