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Author: Emily Sullivan

  • Tips and Tricks for Traveling with Pets

    Tips and Tricks for Traveling with Pets

    RVing with pets can be a wonderful experience for you and your beloved furry friends. Check out nine tips to keep in mind when RVing with your pet.

     

    Prepare Your Pet

    Does your pet do well in new situations and environments? If so, great! If not, going on a year-long adventure right off the bat might not be the best idea. Starting out with a few smaller-scale trips will help minimize the stress your pet might feel on the road.

    Mind the Paperwork

    Bring your pet’s health certificate and vaccination records, since many RV parks require you to have them with you in order to enter the grounds.

    Make a List

    The essentials like food and water are a no-brainer, of course, but be sure to write down absolutely everything you need for your furry friend, including dishes, leashes, a litter box for your cat, waste bags, treats and toys, cages, a brush, and a crate, if needed. Don’t forget medications if your pet takes any.

    Call Ahead

    Get in touch with the RV parks and campgrounds you plan to stop at. Make sure they allow pets, and also ask if they have any rules or regulations regarding pets at their facility.

    Stay up to Date

    Make sure your pet’s vaccinations and shots are up-to-date, with the records to prove it. This will avoid paperwork hangups, but it’s also important in order to keep your animal companion safe from disease as you travel through new areas.

    ID Your Pet

    If you haven’t already done so, take the time to put your cell phone number on your pet’s ID tags.

    Protect Your Pets

    Bring along flea and tick spray, or make sure your pets are already treated before leaving on the RV trip.It’s easy to pick up fleas and ticks, especially in the great outdoors, so ask your vet about treatment for your particular furry family member.

    Be a Good Citizen

    Remember to pick up after your pets in all locations. This is not only polite and courteous, but it also encourages RV parks and campgrounds to keep allowing pets.

    Get Outside!

    Exercise isn’t just important for humans, it’s extremely important for pets to have quality time in the great outdoors (especially during long road trips). Make potty breaks fun for everyone by taking a long walk or playing fetch with your pooch.

  • Tips For Renting an RV For the First Time

    Tips For Renting an RV For the First Time

    With states slowly opening and summer just around the corner, people across America are easing back into the world of travel. But the reality is, summer getaways might look a little different this year, and considering many people aren’t ready to fly to their next destination, road trips are making a huge comeback. RVs give you the option to truly have a home on wheels and are ideal for social distancing. Don’t have an RV, but still want to take a trip this summer? RV Trader Rentals could be the perfect option for you. Before you select the RV rental for your next escape, check out some of our tips for renting an RV for the first time.

    Select the RV Type

    There are so many different types of RVs out there and it can be hard to choose which is best for you, but let’s start with the basics. You’ll need to ask yourself if you’d like to tow or drive the unit you want to rent. Travel trailers are towable RVs that you can hitch to the back of your vehicle, and units like Class As, Class Bs, and Class Cs are all drivable units that don’t require towing mechanisms. You’ll also want to consider the group you’re traveling with. RVs come in all shapes and sizes so it’s important to make sure you have enough room to accommodate those who you’re traveling with. For instance, a larger group may want to consider renting a larger travel trailer or a Class A unit, while the couple or solo traveler might just need the basics that you’d find in a Class B RV. The options are endless so take some time to research and to look at the photos and descriptions of the RVs you’re interested in renting to ensure they will fit your specific travel needs. 

    Consider Sleeping Arrangements

    As we mentioned above, you’ll need to take a good look at the group you’re traveling with to make sure the unit you’re renting has enough sleeping space. The owner of the unit will clearly state the exact number of people the unit can sleep so you can know right off the bat. Keep in mind that many RVs have conversions throughout the vehicle to create additional sleeping space such as dinette conversions, sleeper sofas, pop-ups, slideouts, and more. 

    Compare Pricing

    Once you’ve decided on the type of RV you want to rent, it’s time to select your perfect rental. Price is a big factor to anyone looking to rent, and luckily, our RV Trader Rentals platform makes it incredibly easy to compare RV pricing. We give you the ability to filter by minimum and maximum price to find an RV within your ideal price range. 

    Book Early

    Roadtrips will most certainly be on the rise this summer as many people still want to avoid flying so you’ll want to book your RV rental in advance to make sure you are locked in for your trip. Many of our owners have flexible policies if a cancellation needs to occur, but we recommend checking their specific policy before you book. It will be listed on their “Read More About This RV Section”.

    Find the Perfect Destination

    Now for the really fun part – selecting your destination. Your rental can take you just about anywhere and you won’t have to worry about hotels along the way. National parks and state parks are some of the most popular attractions for RVers and they typically have campgrounds nearby, but you’ll want to keep in mind that some parks have size restrictions on RVs. Be sure to check size restrictions on the park’s website before setting off on your next adventure.  

    Plan Your Route

    A GPS can usually get you to where you want to go but RVing is all about enjoying the ride. Most of the time a GPS will give you the fastest route to your destination, but what if you want to take the scenic route, or take pit stops along the way? We recommend planning your route before you hit the road and Roadtrippers is a great app to help you do just that. Roadtrippers can help you find amazing places along your route that you never knew existed. Check it out.

    Book Your Campsites in Advance

    Campsites tend to fill up fairly quickly in the summer and even more so if you’re going to a popular destination. You’ll want to reserve your site well ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about searching where to park your RV for the night. 

    Remember – RVs Are Much Different Than Cars

    It’s crucial to remember that when you’re driving an RV, you’re not driving a car. RVs are much larger than the average car and you need to take your time out on the road. Practice parking and take a quick test drive with the owner before you head out so you can hear their tips, tricks, and safe practices.

    Make a Packing Checklist

    Packing an RV is a little different than the average trip. You need to think about all the essentials you’ll need out on the road. With RV Trader Rentals, we give our owners the opportunity to offer Add-Ons such as kitchen kits, linen sets, camping accessories, and more. Check to see what your owner offers and then plan your packing checklist accordingly. It’s also a great idea to stock up on food and snacks. Many RVs have full or partial kitchens that you can take advantage of to save some money out on the road.

    Ask Questions

    There are no dumb questions when it comes to RVs – especially if this is your first renting experience. Some common question topics could surround insurance policies, roadside assistance, tours of the unit, test drives, how to tow, general operation, slideouts, and more. 

    Don’t be intimidated by renting an RV for the first time – it’s a lot easier than you might think. Traveling in an RV is an incredible way to see the country all while social distancing and can be a great litmus test to see if you’d actually like to buy an RV of your own in the future. Ready to rent? Visit RV Trader Rentals to get started.

    Happy traveling.

  • Mistakes to Avoid When Financing An RV

    Mistakes to Avoid When Financing An RV

    So, you’re ready to take the plunge into RV life? We’re excited to welcome you to the club – but before you dive head-first into the world of RVing, you’ll need to make sure you’re actually financially ready to make the big purchase. We’ve compiled a quick list of mistakes you should avoid making to make sure you’re ready to finance an RV when the time comes.

    Not Having a Budget

    Budgeting is a word no one likes to hear, but when buying a large purchase like an RV, it’s definitely something you need to consider. It’s fun to look at luxury Class A RVs, but if that type of unit isn’t in your budget then it’s time to move on to more realistic options. We encourage you to use online sites like RV Trader to research and compare the pricing of the types of units you’re interested in. Remember, it’s always important to buy within your means so you don’t regret your purchase down the road.

    Failure to Consider Other Costs

    When planning your overall budget, you’ll also need to account for other costs rather than just the RV itself. Additional costs associated with an RV can include fuel, taxes, insurance, maintenance, and more. You’ll want to create a spreadsheet with all of the expenses that your new RV could include and then add those to your other monthly expenditures like your mortgage payment, car payment, utilities, food, etc. After adding up all of these expenses, ask yourself if you can afford an RV loan on top of those recurring payments.

    Forgetting About Your Credit Score

    As with any loan, you’ll need to make sure your credit is in good standing and that you have enough credit history to qualify for an RV loan. You can request a free copy of your credit report from each of three major credit reporting agencies – Equifax®, Experian®, and TransUnion®. If your credit score needs some work, that could slow down the process of getting a loan. To build your credit score, you’ll need to make sure you’re paying your bills on time and that you’re working to eliminate any outstanding credit card debt.

    Not Saving For a Downpayment

    Once you see what a potential downpayment might look like for the unit you’re interested in, you’ll need to start saving. For some, this can take weeks, months, or even years depending on the amount required. For most of us, it’s unlikely that we will have those funds on hand at any given time so you’ll want to start planning well in advance. Keep in mind that the more you put down, the more likely you are to receive a lower interest rate.

    Avoiding Talking to a Lender

    Once you feel like you’re in a good place to consider buying an RV, you’ll want to reach out to a lender or have the dealership you’re working with reach out to various lenders – the option is up to you. Unless you’re paying cash, you’ll need to consult with a lender at some point in the buying process. There are various types of places to obtain a loan like credit unions, banks, RV dealerships, and online lenders. It’s okay to shop around to find the best rate and loan options for you and we encourage you to do so. Remember, lenders are here to help you and guide you through the buying process, so you can reach out to them at any stage of the financing process and lean on their expertise.

    The initial financing process might seem daunting, but it really doesn’t have to be if you avoid these mistakes. Ready to start the buying process? Check out some of our most recent listings on RV Trader.

  • Tips for Buying an RV Online

    Tips for Buying an RV Online

    COVID-19 has the majority of the country staying at home. If you had been interested in buying an RV, the quarantine might have put a damper on your plans – but in today’s world, it really doesn’t have to. With all of the technology we have access to, buying an RV is still possible with minimal in-person contact. So, are you still looking to buy? Despite the stay at home orders – it’s still possible with these easy tips.
    Check out our quick tips for buying an RV online:

    Determine Your Budget

    When looking for an RV, the first step you need to take is to look at your budget. What kind of funds are you working with? There are a wide range of budget options for every buyer and whether you’d like to buy new or used, RV Trader has an option for you.

    Decide on Type

    There are tons of options out there when it comes to RVs, so you’ll need to determine what type of RV fits your lifestyle and what exactly you’ll be using it for in the future. Have a large family and need a lot of space? A Class A RV might be a great fit for you. Enjoy camping, but want to step it up a notch? You might want to start with a pop-up camper. The possibilities while selecting a type of RV are endless.

    Do Your Research

    Most shoppers start their search for an RV by using a search engine. But the search engines aren’t the only place you can begin your journey to finding an RV. There are also a slew of other valuable resources, like online RV classified sites such as RV Trader. We encourage you to use RV Trader to conduct research on different types of RVs, see different price ranges, and check out a wide variety of floorplans. When you’re in the search phase, remember that it’s okay to browse. There is no pressure. All you’re doing is simply gathering any and all information about an RV you’re interested in. You’re free to explore any and all RV options out there and the best part is it will only take a few mouse-clicks to do so. Take notes to remember features that you like, read through the unit’s descriptions, and check out all of the photos and videos you can to get a feel for the unit. Don’t forget to utilize RV Trader’s MyTrader feature to save your favorite listings and searches and to get notified about new listings or price drops.

    Connect With the Seller

    Once you’ve seen a unit that you’re interested in, reach out to the seller by phone, email, or chat to see additional photos or to set up a video chat or virtual walkthrough if available. Dealers are eager to help you find the right RV for you, and through virtual meetings or through apps like Zoom or Facetime, they can give you a complete tour of the unit you’re interested in, without even stepping foot on their lot. Use the virtual meetings to ask questions and take notes while the dealer guides you through the unit.

    Ask for An Inspection

    Once you connect with the seller, don’t be afraid to ask for an inspection of the RV. Technology gives buyers the opportunity to conduct a virtual inspection over video call with the seller. If you’re shopping on RVTrader.com, you’ll be able to easily pinpoint for-sale RVs that have already received inspections with the RV Trader Inspection Badge. Listings with this badge have received a comprehensive inspection from RV Trader Assurance powered by Lemon Squad. Pre-purchase inspections can provide not only extensive information, but also peace of mind during the buying process.

    Purchase

    There’s nothing like finding the perfect RV for you. When you think you are ready to make your final purchase decision, you have the option of setting up an appointment with the dealership to view and purchase the unit (while keeping social distancing in mind) or you can have the dealer come to you (if available). Many dealerships are offering virtual buying options such as conducting financing entirely online, offering to deliver documents to sign in person (at a safe distance), and RV delivery options where the seller will bring your RV directly to your driveway.

    Social distancing doesn’t mean all purchasing has to stop, everyone just has to get more creative to stay safe during the process. Looking to buy an RV of your own?

     

    Start your search on RV Trader today.

  • How to Virtually Spring Break in a Pandemic

    How to Virtually Spring Break in a Pandemic

    Ahh, Spring Break. A time for RV road trips across the country, lounging on the beaches, or taking time to travel abroad. A time for students to take a break from their studies, celebrate Spring finally being here and the school semester almost ending. However, with the current COVID-19 situation happening across the entire world, Spring Break will be a bit different this year.

    With social distancing guidelines set in place, and many states requiring mandatory stay-at-home orders, schools across the nation are already closed and will remain that way for weeks to come. So, how do you successfully Spring Break during these difficult times? We’ve put together a few ideas that will make this year’s Spring Break just as magical and memorable – just in a more virtual way.

    Check out a few of our favorite virtual spring break options below:

    Virtual Theme Parks

    • Disney World – There’s nothing like the magic of Disney, and now you don’t even need to leave your house to experience it. Gather the kids around and let them take virtual rides on Space Mountain The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure attraction or on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride.
    • Legoland- Legoland has created a virtual experience for the whole family. When you visit their site you can now “walk” through the Great Lego Race and Miniland USA taking in all of the colorful Lego creations. This virtual tour will brighten anyone’s mood.
    • SeaWorld – You can almost feel the sunshine on your back as you tour sunny Sea World virtually. SeaWorld offers virtual tours of attractions such as Discovery Cove, Empire of the Penguin, and so much more.

    Virtual Zoos/Aquariums Across America  

    • Oakland Zoo – Zoos might be empty across the country, but the animals are still there. The Oakland Zoo has created a 30-minute live show that will air on the zoo’s website every Monday-Friday and give viewers a behind the scenes look at the zoo and all of its exhibits. While watching you can send in live questions for the hosts to answer and learn the ins and outs of the zoo itself!
    • Houston Zoo Live Cam – If you’re looking for more on-demand excitement, the Houston Zoo has seven different live cameras set up across different exhibits. You can check in from 7AM-7PM to see gorillas, elephants, flamingos, giraffes, and more.
    • Monterey Bay Aquarium – If under the sea is more your vibe, Monterey Bay Aquarium also has a variety of live webcams rolling. You’ll be able to see coral reefs, jellyfish, sharks, turtles, and more of your favorite sea life.
    • Atlanta Zoo – Who doesn’t love pandas? These cuddly creatures are so fun to watch and now you can see them up close on your screens. The Atlanta Zoo has a live panda cam where you can watch them play and roll around all day. They will surely bring a smile to your face during these unusual times.

    Virtual National Park Tours

    • Yellowstone – Our nation’s national parks are incredible to see in person, but they are equally as impressive online. Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous in the country and is offering virtual tours on their website. You can see the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, their Mud Volcano, and more. We definitely think it’s worth checking out.
    • Google Earth National Parks – We have never been more grateful to Google Earth as we are right now. This platform has SO many of our nation’s parks in their platform including Acadia, Arches, Great Smoky Mountain, Yosemite, Zion, and many more. Just drag your mouse in different directions and you can explore the entire park of your choosing.

    Explore Another Country 

    • The Great Wall of China – Visit China’s most famous attraction – no passport required. The Great Wall of China is one of the Wonders of the World and is truly magical, and now you can now tour this magnificent structure all online.
    • The Louvre – Paris, France – The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world and now you can visit some of its exhibits from your computer. The Louvre has set up four virtual exhibits including Egyptian artifacts, and an exhibition titled ‘The Advent of the Artist’ where you can discover the works of Delacroix, Rembrandt or Tintoretto, and more.
    • The British Museum – London – Grab some tea and enjoy The British Museum’s online “History of the World” where you’ll see The Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies – just to name a few.
    • Africam – This is just about as close as you’re going to get to a live African safari experience. With Africam, you can watch wild animals in the beautiful African bush live and unscripted. You’ll be able to view different animals such as elephants, giraffes, lions, and tons more.

    Visit Classic American Museums  

    • Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – It’s a great time to catch up on your history and the Smithsonian is the perfect place to do just that. You can explore each room of the museum and access every exhibit. Travel back in time to see the dinosaurs or see the stunning collection of some of the world’s most famous jewels.
    • Metropolitan Museum of Art – Access the institution’s 26 online exhibits just the click of a button. You’ll see works by some of your favorite artists as well as Egyptian artifacts galore.
    • Museum of Fine Arts – This Boston museum hosts 16 virtual exhibitions where you’ll have access to fashion, modern art, stunning photography, and more.
     
    With all of these virtual options, you’re guaranteed to have a fun indoor Spring Break. We hope visiting these destinations online will inspire you to plan a road trip of your own in the future. Ready to start planning your next adventure now? Try renting an RV with RV Trader’s new rental platform.We can’t wait to get back on the road, but in the meantime, we hope these virtual experiences provide a much needed escape. Which of these virtual tours was your favorite? Let us know in the comments below. Have fun exploring!

  • RVs 4 MDs Helps Front Line Healthcare Workers and First Responders During COVID-19

    RVs 4 MDs Helps Front Line Healthcare Workers and First Responders During COVID-19

    With all that’s going on in the world today, it can be hard to find the positive. But in the midst of these trying times, people all over the world are stepping up to show kindness to others in big ways.

    An online movement has recently begun in light of COVID-19, and what started out as a wife’s simple request to help her family, has quickly grown into a global campaign of action. Emily Phillips is married to ER Physician Dr. Jason Phillips and took to Facebook in mid-March to ask family and friends for help in finding a temporary housing solution for her husband. Working in the ER, Jason had been exposed to many germs and infections and that was worrisome to his family. Once Emily’s Facebook post was live, a friend connected her to Holly Haggard and later that same day, the Phillips’ family received an RV from the Haggards for Jason to use as temporary housing during the pandemic.

    From there RVs 4 MDs was born.

    RVs 4 MDs is a now a Facebook group that has grown to 24,000 members (and rising) that is used as a free “matching service” to connect RV owners to front line medical/healthcare workers and first responders that are in need of temporary housing to quarantine due to the coronavirus. Since the Facebook group’s creation on March 24th, RVs 4 MDs is now matching donors and recipients in all 50 states, Canada, Australia, and Dubai.

    “It doesn’t matter how you vote, or what your race, religion, or social status is… this is all about love and kindness,” said Holly Haggard, founder of RVs for MDs. “This is what America should be about. Complete strangers coming together, offering help to someone they’ve never met, and changing lives forever. I didn’t give it a second thought. We had my Mom’s camper in the shop, so I checked with her first to make sure it was ok, and then contacted Emily to tell her she could use it for as long as she liked. The only thing I asked of her, was to please pay it forward.”
     
    RVs for MDs is run entirely by volunteers to help front line heroes during the COVID-19 crisis and we are grateful to see that one simple act of kindness has spread into a global movement.

    Have an RV and Want to help?

    Donors:

    If your RV isn’t currently in use, now is a great time to help others in need. The first step in becoming an RV donor is to join the RVs for MDs public Facebook group, and then complete and submit this designated Google Form.

    Recipients:

    Front line medical workers and first responders who are in need of an RV are also encouraged to join the public Facebook group and complete this Google Form.

    From there, the forms will be viewed by RVs for MDs volunteers and the matching process will begin. While you’re waiting to be matched, RVs for MDs encourages potential donors and recipients to enter their city or state into the search bar in the Facebook group, to start connecting with others in their area. Once they have found a match, the donor and recipient work out the specific details and arrangements together. No money is exchanged, as the group is based solely on donations.

    For more information or to begin the RV matching process, visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvs4mds/

  • FMCA’s Sunsets + Saguaros Convention in Tucson, AZ

    FMCA’s Sunsets + Saguaros Convention in Tucson, AZ

    If you’ve never been to an FMCA convention, or any RV convention for that matter, we’d advise checking one out. It is worth your while. You’ll find countless opportunities to learn, network, and enjoy the comradery that makes RVing such a wonderful lifestyle.

    FMCA, a not-for-profit, member-owned association for RV owners, is gearing up for its 101st International Convention and RV Expo. The event will take place at the Pima County Fairgrounds in Tucson, Arizona, March 26 through 29, 2020. Being set on the cusp of spring makes this the ideal end-of-winter outing for snowbirds who are beginning to make their way back north with the warmer weather.

    During the week leading up to the convention, the fairgrounds will be converted into a city of RVs, with all the necessary services, including shopping opportunities. RVers will find items needed to improve, repair, or upgrade their homes on wheels.

    Socialize with other RVers

    If there is one thing that can be said about nearly all RVers, it’s that they are a social group. The festive environment becomes apparent from the moment you enter the convention grounds. The campgrounds are full of travelers who are eager to start making new friends, catching up with familiar faces, and sharing stories from the road. The first-timer opportunities offered help to ensure you feel right at home when you arrive.

    One aspect of FMCA that keeps members social while on the road is chapters. These groups are organized around a common interest, hobby, geographic location, or RV brand. A chapter fair will take place during the convention, where various groups set up information tables, and newcomers are welcome to inquire about the chapter and sign up if they feel inclined to join. Another great opportunity to see what each chapter has to offer will be during the Chapter Block Party, an evening event that takes place within the campgrounds.

    Educational Opportunities

    Over the course of the event, dozens of educational seminars will be held. Topics range from very informative and technical to relaxed and fun. They are taught by industry experts who are seeking to share their knowledge of various aspects of RVing with eager ears.

    If you’re interested in learning about RV driving safety or you want to understand the way RV brakes work, there is a seminar for that. If you’d rather learn a new craft or get tips about boondocking on public land, there is a seminar for that. Some seminars are held more than once throughout the event so that you don’t have to worry about schedule conflicts. A list of all the topics of discussion is available to give you a better idea of the wide spectrum of subjects.

    Shop ´til you Drop

    If you’re looking to make a purchase for your RV, odds are you’ll be able to do so at one of the many vendors who are on-site. You can stroll the aisles of the vendor hall daydreaming about upgrading different aspects of your RV, take the plunge and replace that one thing that you’ve been meaning to replace for months, or even make an appointment to have your RV serviced by one of the companies performing on-site RV service work.

    Besides the vendor booths, there will be multiple RV manufacturers and dealers at the convention inviting you to shop for a new RV. You can browse the newest models from Newmar, Tiffin, Entegra, Jayco, Winnebago, Fleetwood, Airstream, Grand Design, Lance, Renegade, and more. Even if you are just daydreaming, it is a lot of fun to tour the newest, nicest models on display!

    Entertainment & Activities

    The F in FMCA stands for Family, but who says it can’t also stand for Fun? Plenty of fun-filled activities will take place throughout the convention. Registered attendees will enjoy live music from classic rockers Three Dog Night and national country megastar Josh Turner. Aside from the headlining artists, attendees also can enjoy daytime entertainment, starting with coffee and doughnuts each morning.

    Other entertainment includes stand-up comedy, bingo, karaoke, a charity walk-a-thon, and the Mr. Whiskers facial hair competition. Check out the events page on FMCA’s website to see all the scheduled activities.

    Sign up today

    If you haven’t already registered for the convention, there is still time to do so. Online registration is available here or by phone until March 18, 2020. After March 18, registrations will be accepted on-site at the fairgrounds. Daily passports (with no on-site RV parking) also will be available for $50 a person on-site, allowing you to attend seminars, tour the display RVs, shop in the vendor hall, and enjoy the evening entertainment. Day passes ($10 per person; $25 for a family of three or more) also will be available for those who wish to visit the RV displays and indoor booths only.

    So, no matter what type of RV you own, and no matter how long you’ve been participating in the RV lifestyle, there will be something for you to do, learn, and experience at the “Sunsets + Saguaros” convention in Tucson. Will we see you there?

  • Your January RV News Fix

    Your January RV News Fix

    A new year brings new RV headlines and – and as always – we’re here to fill you in on the latest and greatest stories. From new towable units to awesome camper vans at this weekend’s Florida RV Supershow – we’ve got all the news you need to know in this edition of “Your RV News Fix.”

    Image: Easy Caravanning
     

    New Pop-Up Camper Can Be Towed by Almost Any Vehicle

    If you’re looking to dip your toe into the RV lifestyle, a pop-up camper is a great place to start. Luckily the designs of these popular models are getting better each year. The Dutch startup Easy Caravanning just debuted the TakeOff – a pop-up camper that sets up under one minute. The ease of set up is ideal for first-time RVers and it comes in at just 1,650 pounds – making it easy to tow for most vehicles. The inside is simple but includes the kitchen basics (stove, electric fridge, and sink), a dining area, and an optional annex tent that lets you sleep a family. Pricing starts from $15,000-$21,000. As a startup company, Easy Caravanning will be launching first in the European markets – but if all goes well, they plan on international distribution. We’ll keep you posted.

    Image: Airstream
     

    2020 Airstream Classics Might be Nicer Than Your Apartment

    The latest design from Airstream has arrived, bringing a lighter and brighter look to RVing. The manufacturer recently announced that the 2020 Airstream Classics will now feature a new “Comfort White” color scheme as opposed to dark wood that is often used in RVs. The 2020 Classics design is beyond sleek with updated brass hardware throughout, and ample use of whites, blacks, and greys in the unit. You could easily style this unit with a modern farmhouse look or coastal chic – or simply leave the Classic as is. We commend Airstream for creating a more modern RV that people of all ages will love.
    Image: Winnebago

    Winnebago Introduces Solis Camper & HIKE Trailer

    The Florida RV Supershow is in full swing and debuts are happening left and right. Speaking of debuts, Winnebago has just revealed their new Solis Camper and HIKE Trailer at the show. The new Solis is a camper van made with a fiberglass pop-top that raises into a sleeping area for two. The van has all-season capabilities and even offers buyers a heated bathroom that doubles as a drying room for wet gear. Russ Garfin, director, product management said, “features on the Solis allow you to easily explore everything from the beach to the ski slopes and locations in-between.” Winnebago also released their new HIKE Travel Trailer. This trailer was designed with offset wheels and off-road tires for rough roads and paths. The HIKE has five different floor plans to choose from so you can be sure to find your perfect fit.

    Thor Motor Coach Showcases More Than 80 Models at FL Supershow

    Among Thor’s 80 different models at the Florida RV Supershow, there are a few new models to brag on including the Tellaro Class B van. This van is ready for anything with its compact & versatile design, along with modern cabinetry, a pop-top with Sky Bunk, and updated technology. The Venetian F42, a new Class A diesel pusher floor plan, is also on display at the show for the first time ever. This model has dual vanities in the rear master en-suite bathroom, a king bed, and an even electric fireplace. We’re excited to see these models and other units Thor brings to the show.
    You are officially caught up on all things RV! Are you at the Florida Supershow this weekend? Have a favorite story? Let us know in the comments below.
  • Spooky Destinations: Haunted Spots Across the Country

    Spooky Destinations: Haunted Spots Across the Country

    It’s the spookiest time of the year and we’re highlighting the top 4 haunted destinations you’ll want to check out this Halloween. Get ready to pack up the RV and hit the road.

    With Halloween just around the corner, there’s no better time to plan a road trip to somewhere truly terrifying. If you’re not sure where take your RV this season, we’ve got 4 spooky suggestions for you.

    Emily’s Bridge, Stowe, VT

    Golden Brook Bridge is haunted by a ghost named Emily (thus the name) who is known for harassing cars that park there. Drivers have reported hearing noises – like footsteps or screams – even when no one is around. Others have had the ghost of Emily bang on or drag herself across their cars – leaving scratches. She is most active between 12 a.m. and 3:30 a.m. – so if you choose to stop by, make sure it’s late at night.

    Nearby Attractions:

    • Smuggler’s Notch State Park
    • Green Mountain Fine Art Gallery
    • Moss Glen Falls

    Biltmore Estate, Asheville, NC

    Biltmore Estate is a historic mansion located in Asheville on over 8,000 acres that boasts gorgeous gardens, a winery, a small village, an outdoor adventure center, and occasionally – supernatural experiences. The grounds are truly stunning – so much so that their original owner, George Washington Vanderbilt II and his wife decided to never leave. While the ghost of late George Vanderbilt has been seen around the property – many workers and visitors have reported hearing Mrs. Vanderbilt calling to her husband in the library where he will sometimes join her for a chat. Also – keep your eyes peeled for a headless orange cat that is said to roam the gardens.

    Nearby Attractions: 
    • Fork Art Center
    • Pisgah National Forest
    • North Carolina Arboretum

    Texas Ghost Tracks, San Antonio, TX

    These train tracks were the site of a tragic accident back in the 1930s or 40s (depending on the account) where a train collided with a school bus full of children. Unfortunately, all the children perished in the accident – but now it’s their mission to save anyone else who parks on those same tracks by pushing their vehicle to safety. A couple of tips before your visit – make sure to put your vehicle in neutral before you approach the tracks and sprinkle baby powder on your bumper so you can see the handprints of the children that pushed you to safety.

    Nearby Attractions:

    • San Antonio Riverwalk
    • Natural Bridge Caverns
    • The Alamo

    Rio Grande Train Depot, Salt Lake City, UT

    This spooky destination is home to the Purple Lady. This ghostly woman has been seen around the depot – but is most frequently spotted in the ladies restroom. She is said to be beautiful and always appears, dressed in all purple garb from the 1900s, looking quite forlorn. Legend says she was killed at the train station when she dove on to the tracks to retrieve an engagement ring after her fiance threw it there during a heated argument. There have also been reports of phantom parties in the basement of the building and a lone walker’s footsteps can be heard traipsing across the mezzanine every afternoon at the same time.

    Nearby Attractions:

    • Antelope Island State Park
    • Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
    • Temple Square

     

    Ready for a spine-tingling road trip of your own? No matter which of these destinations you choose to check out – you are sure to get in the Halloween spirit and have a hauntingly good time.

  • Your October RV News Fix is Here

    Your October RV News Fix is Here

    Between the Hershey RV Show and RV Open House, we’ve seen A LOT of news break in the RV industry this fall. And as always, we are here to break down the top RV stories you need to know. Check out some of the recent headlines below. Hint hint… get ready for some new models!

    Image: WOF

    First Completely Electric Motorhome is Officially on the Market

    A few months back, the world’s first completely electric RV was revealed at a German trade show, and now this unit – the Iridiumis – is officially on the market in Europe. During the trade show, the unit only had a range of 124 miles, but now the Iridium comes with a 249 mile-range with the motorhome’s highest battery pack. The interior of the Iridiumis is fairly standard including a bathroom and shower, kitchen, and a double bed. The 249-mile Iridium will cost buyers $219,000, while the 186-mile version comes in at $188,000. We’re interested to see how this unit does in the market, and if similar electric versions will make their way to the U.S. Read More.

    L’air Camper Co. Reveals Super-Light Travel Trailer

    L’air Camper Co. just came out with their brand-new fiberglass trailer and it made its debut at this year’s RV Open House Show. The new model is extremely lightweight and easy to tow. The camper weighs in at just over 2,000 pounds due to its fiberglass exterior. The compact camper might be small, but it includes all the comforts of home like a kitchen galley, full bath with shower, and room to sleep up to four people. We’re excited to see this unit out on the open road. Read More.

    Image: Yahoo! 

    CEO of Trader Interactive Highlights the Current State of the RV Market

    Lori Stacy, CEO of Trader Interactive, recently shared her thoughts on the state of the RV industry with Yahoo! Finance. Although the overall RV market has seen a decline in sales over the last year, things are looking up for the industry when it comes to first time and millennial buyers. To learn more, check out her segment here.

    Image: Winnebago

    Winnebago Debuts New Class B RV at Open House

    This year’s Open House was filled with new models and this includes a new Class B from Winnebago. The manufacturer revealed the Solis, their new Class B RV aimed specifically towards the millennial market. The new unit features a “pop-up” sleeping area that extends off of the roof of the vehicle for added space and a murphy-style bed in the lower level. The combined space sleeps up to four people in just less than 20ft of living space – we’re impressed. The unit has a workspace area for all of the full-timers out there as well as a curtained outdoor area to rinse off sand for all of you beach lovers out there. If you’re ready to experience #Vanlife – check this unit out for yourself.

    You’re officially all caught up on the RV news you need to know this month. Which stories interested you? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below and stay tuned for more news.