Category: Living

When the sun finally dips and the crickets kick in the summer’s subtle soundtrack, the right flick can make for an unforgettable night. And we’re not afraid to declare what we think the best outdoor movies are. These films just hit different when the air’s warm and the night feels infinite — especially in the late summer when the heat is starting to taper off.

These movies don’t just happen during summer — they’re about the essence of it. Freedom. Firsts. Escapes. Longing. The subtle sparkle that something magical might happen before sunrise. This list names the best outdoor movies that blend nostalgia, romance, rebellion, and a little danger — all wrapped in figurative celluloid that somehow still smells like sunscreen and sounds like cicadas.

So, set up that outdoor theater, and get your blankets and popcorn ready! These are the best outdoor movies to watch on an RV trip — no matter how you’re feeling.

 

For When You’re Feeling Nostalgic

Stand by Me

Adapted from Stephen King’s novella, Rob Reiner’s classic captures the fleeting, bright burn of preteen friendship. The 1950s setting, small-town boredom, and the kids’ dirt-road odyssey in search of a body — it’s a metaphor for crossing the invisible bridge between innocence and adulthood. Throw in a killer soundtrack, and you’ve got a film that scratches all the right summer itches.

 

The Sandlot

Endless summer days. The perfect thwack of ball hitting bat. That one terrifying neighbor behind the fence. This one leans hard into Americana and boyhood mythology, but does it with so much heart you can’t help but fall for it. It’s about baseball, sure. But you’ll watch it for the kind of memories that get a little shinier with every passing year.

 

The Goonies

What’s more summer than a ragtag crew of kids chasing buried treasure? This Spielberg-produced adventure is packed with booby traps, pirate ships, and one-eyed villains — but at its core, it’s about friendship, courage, and holding on to childhood just a little bit longer. 

 

For the Hopeless Romantics

Dirty Dancing

What starts as a fish-out-of-water teen vacation quickly turns into a rebellious love story set to the rhythm of summer nights. Beneath the dance-y montages and iconic one-liners is a story about class, agency, and transformation. Plus, it’s practically impossible to watch without shimmying in your summery seat.

 

10 Things I Hate About You

A Shakespearean rom-com set in late-’90s suburbia with a Bard-worthy swagger. Pre-Joker Heath Ledger’s breakout performance, a rooftop serenade, and that iconic paintball date—all wrapped in sharp dialogue and an angsty soundtrack that brought chick rock to pop radio. It’s funny, and Ledger and Julia Stiles were deeply swoon-worthy.

 

For the Ultimate Summer Vibes

Moonrise Kingdom

Wes Anderson’s hyper-stylized take on young love and misfit identity is drenched in vintage tones and framed like a storybook. The film walks a fine line between absurdity and sincerity, but always lands on surprise and almost-dainty delight. It’s about escaping the world to create your own — something all good summers help you do.

 

Adventureland

A low-key gem that uses a rundown amusement park as the staging ground for heartbreak, growing pains, and unexpected self-discovery. Stars Bill Hader, Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Ryan Reynolds, and Kristen Wiig were never more in their comedy sweet spot as they were here, packing more character study than rom-com. Add a killer ‘80s soundtrack, and the film hits a post-college slacker vibe right on the nose.

 

For Laughs Around the Campfire

Dazed and Confused

Richard Linklater’s rambling hangout film doesn’t follow a traditional story arc — it just lives in the aura of a Texas town on the last day of school in 1976. The characters are loose, the dialogue is real, and the whole thing hums with the electric sense of possibility that only comes with being young and free.

 

Clueless

OK, it’s technically set during the school year, but Clueless is dripping with warm-weather energy. The fashion, the friendships, the romantic misfires — this Jane Austen riff presents itself as breezy, but has a hidden bite. It’s still one of the sharpest teen comedies ever made, and it holds up beautifully.

 

For a Thrill in the Warm Night Air

Jaws

Steven Spielberg basically invented the summer blockbuster with this one. It’s tense, tightly edited, and surprisingly patient with its sharky scares. Watch it outside near a body of water if you dare — just be ready when that soundtrack kicks in.

 

The Lost Boys

Equal parts horror flick and glam rock music video, this vampire tale turns a sleepy California beach town into the coolest undead hangout ever. It’s campy, stylish, and weirdly poignant — a perfect pick for anyone who likes their summer nights with a little bite.

 

Rear Window

A slow-burn psychological thriller that simmers under the heat of a summer heatwave. Hitchcock uses the limited space of a single apartment to build world-class tension, making us voyeurs alongside James Stewart’s character as suspicion grows across the courtyard. Masterful and endlessly rewatchable.

 

For Watching with the Kids (or the Kids at Heart)

Lilo & Stitch

Underneath the alien hijinks and Elvis Presley needle drops is a heartfelt story about family that hits deeper than most adult dramas. The Hawaiian setting gives it all the tropical vibes you could ask for, and the sibling dynamic feels especially grounded. Ohana means go grab some shaved ice and settle in.

 

The Parent Trap

The Lindsay Lohan version is its own classic, but the original has an undeniable retro charm. Both explore identity and the power of family reunions in wildly implausible but thoroughly entertaining ways. Either makes for a perfect summer rewatch with the next generation.

 

My Girl

This tearjerker of the highest order belongs in any list of best summer movies. It pulls its emotional content out of smart, funny dialogue, and packs in more honest storytelling than just about any grown-up film. The story unfolds in small, tender moments, and Anna Chlumsky’s performance is all heart. Just have the tissues ready.

 

Bonus Pick: The Ultimate Drive-In Double Feature

Back to the Future + Grease

Time travel and summer love — two very different films, both perfect for a double feature under the stars. Back to the Future is a whip-smart sci-fi ride with more heart than it gets credit for, and Grease is pure joy with a side of musical swagger. Together, they paint the perfect summer scene and just might be the two best outdoor movies to watch in tandem.

Oh, the things we wish we had known earlier in life! For example, if I’d known how happy I could be living in an RV, I could have saved so much money on rent/mortgage over my lifetime. But until I tested the idea for myself, and found out just what I really needed, it remained a joke in the back of my head. (Kinda like Chris Farley’s character on Saturday Night Live who was “living in a van, down by the river!”) Once we made the switch, it made me wonder: How much earlier could we have done it? My wife and I were formerly education professionals. Could the RV life work for college students?

Turns out, we’re not the only ones who’ve thought of a mobile dorm. Although the RV life is not a larger trend, some college students are already doing it. And there’s a reason why.

 

The Main Problem the RV Solves for College Students: Money

The rising cost of affordable housing in college towns is common problem on campuses across the country. And that is not a new problem. Institutions of higher learning have always struggled with where and how to accommodate their students when they aren’t in class. There are never enough beds. And they are always too expensive. While some resourceful students are converting vans and delivery vehicles to make their education housing less expensive, often the challenges can overwhelm the willing. Who wants the stress of having to move their home night after night especially when cramming for finals week?

But for the creative and resourceful, living in an RV can help contribute to educational goals of college students in the following ways:

1. Spend less money on housing than a traditional apartment or residence hall room.
2. Facilitate living independently, while still being a part of the community.
3. Teach a vital lesson between needs vs. wants — super important for the good life!
4. Build creativity and resourcefulness — which employer doesn’t want these skills?

 

What We’re Hearing About RVs on Campuses

Shari and I were in higher education for nearly two decades before entering our current nomadic phase of life.  Since then we’ve kept one ear to the ground with trends at colleges and universities and stayed in touch with friends in the field. Recently, we reached out to them to see if this was a growing trend or just an anecdote. Most of our sources have heard of a few students managing life this way, but didn’t believe that it was a growing trend. While more and more campuses are attempting to address students’ “basic needs” with a knowing eye to the bottom line, housing is one of the primary concerns. 

Dorm, from the Latin dormitorium, or “sleeping place” means many different things to different generations of students, from unheated bunk rooms to comfortable condos with every kind of modern convenience. It should always be a safe space where most of those basic needs can be met — sleeping, studying, and eating among them. 

 

Strategies for Using an RV at College

Many RV owners only use their RV for weekend camping trips in the summer. So, during the school year, it sits on their property (or worse) in expensive rented storage. Anyone with a kid in college could be using that RV in a different way. Primarily, though, you need to tackle to big obstacles.

Parking

Challenges: Even more precious than beds are parking spots near classrooms.  Campuses, especially those in/near a city, guard these jealously. Often rules coming either from the campus directly or the municipality forbid people from sleeping in vehicles (Don’t get me started on home football game days!)

Solutions:

• Local RV parks. These often have seasonal or year-round sites that would be only too happy to have a site making money during the off-season. When compared to prices during the summer months especially, these longer term sites can offer a huge savings. 
• Work-Trade. Does a local farm or family need a few hours of work per week in exchange for a place to park your rig on their property? It could a great solution.
• Public transpo. Many schools have free or low cost public transportation to lessen the campus parking nightmare.  

 

Hygiene and Laundry

Challenge: Personal hygiene and laundry are big, even for college students. (I’m kidding!). In seriousness, many college students are handling things like laundry for the very first time.

Solutions: 

• A modern RV model. Modern RVs have modern facilities, and RV parks often offer full bathrooms and laundry, in addition to water refill and dump stations – or even full hook-ups.
• Rec centers and laundromats. Showering at the campus recreation center and doing laundry at the local laundromat is always an option. Lots of other students use these that aren’t even living in RVs.

 

So, How Much Money Can Be Saved? 

A quick search yielded that college housing in 2025 can be anywhere from $8,000 to $14,000 per year. In contrast, a similar search for year-round RV sites yielded between $6,000 and $14,000 in the US. So, there is money to save, but to get a true idea, you’ll need to localize the costs. (You know, university housing costs vs. local campground fees.)

Even so, that might not tell the whole story. Here are a few additional considerations:

• Can you take the RV home for winter break and/or summer to save some cash during the school year down time?
• Is there a way to volunteer or work for some of the expenses while staying at the RV park?  It’s a strong possibility the RV park or campground is hiring!
• Are there other places in the nearby community where you could park your rig legally and ethically that are less expensive than a traditional RV spot?

 

A Proposal for Universities: Create Quick and Inexpensive Housing Options

I know it’s a long shot — and that most readers are more likely parents than university officials — but in the off chance that a college administrator is listening in, hear this out.

When compared to a traditional residence hall, taking years and millions of dollars to build, a small college owned and run campground could be a quick and inexpensive way to help take some pressure off the housing crunch.

Imagine turning some nearby property into a lovely RV park which could not only offer places for students to live, but also a source of additional revenue for the school.  Which RV owner do you know who would rather bring their rig to campus for graduation or parent’s weekend, rather than have to stay in a hotel an hour’s drive away? The possibilities are endless! Think about it.

Looking to give your home on wheels a more natural autumn twist? You’re in luck! Organic styles and earthy tones are all the rage in interior design trends. Plus, you just happen to be traveling in an ever-changing landscape of natural beauty. Step out and take a look around. Just outside your RV are little pieces of fall decor that can be gleaned from your natural surroundings. (What’s more, they’re usually free!)

So, let’s talk about the specifics of turning nature into decoration this autumn. 

 

Accepting the Challenge of RV Decor

Decorating an RV can be a tricky affair. (Not to mention a trick-or-treaty affair come October.) There are no walls to drill or hammer nails into, and your canvas size is much smaller. But for every challenge, there is an opportunity for design creativity. While decorating an RV, we must take a somewhat roundabout approach.

Without the use of hammers, nails and screws, we are left with double-sided tape hooks, tension rods, and over-the-door racks. But don’t despair! All of these methods are manageable, sustainable, and simple to implement. 

 

Step 1: Curate Small Spaces

Think Small

It can feel frustrating to approach a small space for decoration. But design challenges like this can be turned into something creative and intriguing. Lean into the smallness of your canvas. Here is a great opportunity to pull visitors into a small and wonderful display of natural elements. 

Some of the coolest things I find on our RV travels are teeny tiny. Small seashells, small bugs, small plants, and small rocks. All of these things can be transformed into an array of natural displays for you and your guests to relish over. If you like to observe these tiny miracles in nature, start collecting them for thoughtful arrangments that can be displayed artfully in small spaces. Small works of nature-based art can entice the audience closer, giving them an opportunity to observe often overlooked details in our daily life.

 

Think Light

Sure, 3M Tape has made some serious leaps and bounds in recent years, but it is still just tape. So, before you hang a five-foot oil painting on that hook, consider something a little lighter. There are so many beautiful things lying right outside your camper — light as a feather — that could serve as natural decor. 

 

Step 2: Forage for RV Fall Decor

Foraging for dried flower arrangements is a joyful form of art and creation. And they are stunning on display. 

My favorite perks of using dried flower arrangements as art? Glad you asked.

• They weigh practically nothing.
• They are real, as opposed to plastic floral arrangements.
• They will fill a space with a calming scent.
• They are free.
• They can last forever.

The act of foraging for dried arrangements can be just as satisfying as looking for sea shells, shark teeth, or even driftwood on the beach. The added benefit is that your findings are a lot easier to put on artful display than a jar full of shells or teeth. 

 

How to Turn Forage into Decor

1. Find the flowers and natural elements that speak to you. Not all of them will dry to your liking. (You can research this ahead of time or learn by trial and error.)
2. Hang them for a few days to dry.
3. Arrange them according to your color palette, while taking texture and composition into account.
4. Hang them up, or put them in vases. I like to wrap and hang my bouquets with a natural colored rope, like hemp. I like to hang them from a natural stick in groups of three or more. (A benefit to hanging them instead of putting them in a vase is that you don’t have to worry about them falling over while you are on the road.)

 

Step 3: Integrate the Senses into RV Fall Decor

Some of my favorite interior design themes include elements found in the natural world. Antlers, drift wood, feathers, sea shells, rocks and geodes are just a few that come to mind. For the fall, depending on where you are or where you’re going, celebrate the season with color, smells, and texture in your design process. 

 

Smells: An Aroma of Autumn

Smell can have a huge impact on a decorated space. Just walk into any spa, floral shop, or even a dentist’s office. Think about how the smell impacts the way you feel about the space. It’s not something we can advertise or visually display, but it can invoke a very real and visceral response. (Dried lavender is my favorite way to add a calming sense of smell and fall flavor to a space. )

 

Sight: Mirror Fall’s Color Palette

Before approaching any interior design project, one of the first things to shop for is your color palette. I like to go on Pinterest and find moody images of natural settings. Do you want to invoke a canopied forest shrouded in fog with a whisper of crimson leaves? Or maybe you are going for a mountain range on fire as the foliage waxes to a rainbow of red, yellow, orange, and purple.

If you are staying on the beach, your vision of fall might be an array of sea shells after a hurricane, or a color palette of blues and grays to reflect the migrating whales. 

Whatever your vision is, find what speaks to you, and pull out some key colors. Arrange them with paint, cut outs, or markers/pens until you find the perfect recipe of colors to reflect your vision.  

 

Touch: Embracing Seasonal Textures

Another element that is easily forgotten when decorating a space is the sense of touch. Static shapes and compositions can be artistically arranged, but they won’t invoke a full response without addressing the physical dimension. In the fall, I think of finding turkey feathers, the crunch of dried leaves, or the shedding of antler horns. Either of these elements could invoke a sense of the season in a delightfully tangible way. 

 

The Foundations of RV Fall Decor

With these design foundations, any RV space can be transformed into a beautifully arranged place to usher in the fall season. You can entrance your visitors with small, thoughtfully arranged elements from outside that reflect the wonder and awe of traveling in an RV. You will also be surrounding yourself with all the little joys that spending time outside brings you. In the end, the goal of your RV fall decor is to capture the spirit of the road and the essence of the season, one small detail at a time. 

A few years ago, we met up with some friends at a rented vacation house. And, naturally, as full-time RVers, we came in our rig. During our stay there, it so happened that one of our friends was preparing dinner. And while she was, she was searching through the huge rental kitchen, saying “Darn it, I wish I’d brought the zester!” So, wanting to help (and knowing our little RV pantry stocked the staples), I answered, “We’ve got one. I’ll be right back.”

Then the relay continued. “Soy Sauce?” Yep! “Baking Soda?” Hold on a sec! “Chili Crisp?” Oh, 100 percent! (Yeah, she was testing us now.) When she finally realized that she couldn’t stump us, she asked, “How could you possibly have all this stuff in that little camper?” We told her the truth: It’s never about size; it’s always about imagination — and how you use it. And that’s especially true when it comes to stocking your RV pantry with the staples!

 

 

Personally, our kitchen and storage area may be small, but it’s mighty. We love to cook up gourmet feasts wherever we’re camping! So, if you’re looking at an empty RV kitchen and wondering where to begin, you’ve come to the right place for advice.

Now, let’s talk about what it takes to stock you RV pantry with staples you will always need.

 

A Little Tip for Meal Planning and Pantry Stocking

When planning what you’ll eat and how you’ll prepare it on an RV trip, focus on how long you’ll be away from home. A few days or weeks? Months or years? Listing the house on the market?  Your answer will lead you down some different paths.  

If you’re just going on a short trip, consider planning out a menu for each meal. Bring just what you need, including preprepared spices. (Nothing extra, no leftovers, and nothing left in the RV that might encourage pests when you return home.) Any trip longer than a week, and you’ll likely need to resupply. So, consider having a few planned meals (especially something quick and easy for longer travel days) and some basic pantry items that will help you feel at home (and able to whip up some regular favorite recipes while on the road). 

Pro-Tip!  When grocery shopping in a small town, be sure to scout out the parking situation on the satellite view of your favorite mapping app. It will help you determine if there’s enough room for your rig and reduce parking stress by tenfold.

 

Nonperishable Food Items

No matter the length of your travel itinerary, having what you need is always a good feeling. In addition to some quality cookware properly stored in the RV (clean and ready), here are just a few things that always make the cut for us. 

 

Main Ingredients and Snacks

• Canned and jarred goods. A variety of beans, sauces, vegetables, and your favorite proteins (fish or poultry). 
• Pasta, rice, quinoa. From spaghetti to salads to burritos, these staples are versatile, inexpensive, and popular.  
• Snacks. Cover the gamut from healthy to indulgent to easy for taking along on those hikes — nuts, pretzels, crackers, chips and salsa are all easy go-to appetizers after an active day outdoors.  
• Breakfast items. Cereal, granola, bagels, etc. 
• Extra carbs.  Bread, tortillas, pita, etc.
• Shelf-stable fruits and vegetables. Apples, oranges, lemons, limes, carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage can last for days if the fridge space is tight. 
• Other staples. Peanut butter, jelly, honey, agave.
• Coffee and tea. You know what you need in the morning, or even in the afternoon! 

 

Spices and Supplies

• Baking supplies. Flour(s), sugar, salt, baking soda/powder, oats, and other essentials. We always have the dry ingredients for our homemade pancake recipe for an easy, indulgent morning.  
• Condiments and salad dressing. You know your favorites (hot sauce, I’m looking at you!), but it’s also good to branch out and try something new to spice up your meals! 
• Spices and seasonings. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian spice mix, cayenne, your favorite herbs.  We have a small kit of spices and seasonings that literally goes with us everywhere, even when we’re away from the camper.  
• Cooking oil and spray. A good quality olive oil is super versatile, along with a spray for baking or cooking eggs.

 

 

Pantry Organization and Storage

• Food storage containers. Bring a variety of airtight containers to keep food fresh and organized. 
• Ziploc bags. Useful for storing leftovers, snacks, and other items, washing these out along with the dishes saves plastic from the landfill. 
• Pantry organizers. Consider organizers to maximize space and keep things tidy, always try to make use of the inside of doors to hang things or create a vertical rack. Pack cupboards in four dimensions. (Time, i.e., how often you use, is that fourth dimension.)

Pro Tip!  When setting up your kitchen, think about the pots and pans that do many things in one. Our stainless steel pasta pot steamer insert, pulls extra duty as a colander and grill basket for veggies or (baked potatoes) over the campfire. It even works as a salad spinner (outside only of course)!

 

Cookware Essentials

• Pots and pans. Solid, quality cookware that does more than one thing, including a Dutch oven if you want to try baking or cooking over a campfire. Don’t forget a lighter or two!
• Cooking utensils. Spatula, tongs, rubber scrapers, spoons, immersion blender, grater, and other essential utensils.
• Mixing bowls. Bring small and large bowls that can double large salad bowls.
• Measuring cups and spoons. Essential for accurate cooking.
• Cutting boards. One large, one small cutting board is all you need.
• Knives. A good chef’s knife, paring knife, and bread knife.
• Can opener. The one in your kitchen drawer that actually works!
• Colander. For draining pasta or rinsing vegetables.
• Dish bins. Most RV sinks are too small for useful washing. We use 3 stackable bins as portable sinks — one hot soapy water and one warm rinse.  If using lake/river water while boondocking, we have another with cold water and a dash of bleach for sanitizing.
• Cleaning supplies. Biodegradable dish soap, bleach spray, cleaning wipes and sprays, and any other cleaning supplies for the bathroom and kitchen.

 

 

Perfecting Your RV Pantry Staples

If you’ve been out on the road for several weeks or several trips during the summer, go through your pantry. And be real. What haven’t you used? What have you replenished? Figure out how you use your RV kitchen and lean into that. Get rid of things that you don’t use and pair down the clutter to the real RV pantry staples. Bon appetite! 

One of the greatest hidden benefits of roadschooling occurs naturally — lifeschooling. Sure, conventional public education has its benefits. It provides a steady stream of academic lessons and creates structure. But roadschooling truly has a knack for making education relevant to life. And that includes teaching your kids math in your RV.

In my early years of public education, I remember taking a home economics class. We learned to sew, cook eggs, and bake bread. I loved it. But I would have traded that in a heart beat for a practical course in life mathematics. I’m not talking about algebra and calculus. I’m talking about budgeting, sales taxes, gas prices, credit cards, and more.

And here’s the good news for all the roadschooling parents out there: That curriculum is conveniently built into life on the road. All you have to do is put down on paper what you’re already doing day-to-day with your kids. 

 

Giving Math the Texture of the Real World 

As my daughter and I embark on the ever evolving journey of mathematical education, one thing continues to surface in our application: Learning numbers on a page seems completely different than applying them to the real world. A child could be proficient in a fifth-grade math curriculum and still be unable to apply it in any real world situation. If math is confined to the inside of a book, classroom, or rote memorization, it may require a little dusting off before it can benefit them in the real time situations. 

Taking math education out of the classroom allows us to weave real-life scenarios into the subject. This will connect the learning mind with the doing mind. As an added bonus, it opens a whole new world of authentic engagement and curiosity. 

 

Playing with Distance, Speed, and Time

Whether your child is learning to read a clock, or utilizing multiplication, distance calculation on the road is a great tool for applied learning. (It’s also a clever answer to, “When are we gonna get there?”)

Personally, we like to use a manual clock and a paper map (or Google Maps) to calculate arrival times. This helps my daughter practice her time-telling, while also using math in an applied setting to determine how long the journey will take. (Incidentally, it pairs nicely with a geography lesson on the road!)

Depending on their math level, you can start to introduce speed to calculate a more precise arrival time. And from there, you can sprinkle in fuel prices to calculate trip costs. This segues nicely into a conversation about budgeting! 

 

Simplifying the Budget for Trip Costs

If the word “budget” invokes a visceral response in your nervous system, you are not alone. (for some of us, it’s hard to imagine a more overwhelming and foreboding term in the financial vocabulary?) “Budget” is laden with so many emotional, economical, and social stigmas that it can be easy to just avoid the subject altogether. But that’s the adult in you. Kids carry no stigma over the word “budget.” To them, it’s about money — a magical thing that’s they’re naturally interested in. So, make it a learning game.

Budgeting for a singular event, like a road trip, is a good way to isolate and simplify the subject. If you’re like me, you could take this opportunity to refresh yourself on healthy budgeting tools, while showing your children the basic mechanics of financial planning and healthy financial literacy.  

 

Step 1: Simplify it to fuel and food.

To start, you may want to isolate one or two items on your proposed trip budget, such as fuel and food expenses. Food budgeting alone can offer days of lesson plans. It can also unveil opportunities for colorful lessons in the kitchen with meal plans and budget friendly recipes and snack ideas.  

 

Step 2: Walk them through meal planning.

For financial planning around food, consider starting with a meal plan. This could be as simple as a list, or as complex as a graph chart. After your meal plan has been predetermined, start pricing out some of the food, and getting an idea of cost. After you estimate the cost of your meal plan, you may want to go back and shift your original menu, by adding a little or taking away.

You can start to see the endless opportunities that these types of lessons can hold for teaching our children! By allowing them to help see the cost of decisions, you really equip them to see the machinery of life.

 

Letting the Lessons Add Up Gradually

After isolating a few of the fundamental trips costs, you can start to use this as an opportunity for more extensive planning. So many things must be weighed when budgeting for, well, just about anything. This is a skill in itself. I have observed many seasoned travelers who possess proficient skills in project management and business oversight that could rival just about any professional business consultant or project manager. Planning and budgeting has been distilled down to a precise science for many vetted travelers. Involving our children with these fundamentals equips them with vital skills to survive in this financial world that we live in.

There’s a Guy Clark song lyric that comes to mind when I think about summertime’s vegetable bounty. It goes something like this: “Only two things that money can’t buy, and that’s true love and home grown tomatoes!” Personally, while we miss being able to grow our own food, the truth is that we can get close to homegrown vegetable nirvana by visiting a local farmer’s market near our campground or along our route. Further, there are some really great farmer’s market recipes that are perfect for life on the road.

Over the years, we’ve spent some seasons either working or volunteering in communities with amazing farmer’s markets.(Shout out to Stonington, Maine!). While there, we could get our fresh earth fix. Hutch even supplemented our purchases through busking at the market itself.  (How very Guy Clark of him.)

 

 

All this to say, we’re happy to share three of the best farmer’s market recipes we’ve had. You know, the ones that really allow you to taste the land, wherever you are.

 

Finding a Farmer’s Market to Feed Your Recipes

This may seem simple, but it is effective. While traveling, search “farmers market near me” or “farm stand near me” on your mapping app. Pay close attention to the weekends when many local communities bring their farmers together in one space. (Or stay at a farm-based Harvest Hosts site and stock up!)

We’ve gotten everything from the much coveted tomatoes and other fresh veggies to locally baked breads and pastries to home made soaps and crafts. It’s amazing what treasures you’ll find! As a side not (for the boondockers out there), some farmer’s market areas allow overnight parking, though typically NOT the night before the market as growers get there pretty early! Recently on our Canadian summer adventures, we stopped by the Charlottetown Farmers Market on Prince Edward Island and found a bounty of summer goodies!

Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Here are three scrumptious summer farmer’s market recipes that we created from our travels.

 

 

Glorious Gazpacho

 

Shari set out to find the best gazpacho recipe in 2018. And since then? She has honed it to perfection. Each time she makes it, it’s a bit different. (It all depends on the nature of the fruit available.) But each time, it is summertime in a bowl — sweet, tangy, spicy, with just enough texture to give it some toothiness. It’s filling enough to make it a meal, or just serve it as an appetizer.

The best part? Other than briefly blanching the tomatoes in boiling water, you don’t need to heat up the kitchen to prepare this cool and tasty treat! And, just like most soups, it’s even better the next day. Here’s how she does it.

 

Soup Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds vine-ripened tomatoes, peeled, seeded and chopped
• 1 cup zucchini, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet Italian pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
• 2 small jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• 4 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

 

Toppings

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Your favorite croutons
• Green onions or scallions, chopped
• Avocado slices or chunks

 

Instructions

Fill a three-to-four quart pot halfway full of water. Set over high heat and bring to a boil.

Make an X with a paring knife on the bottom of the tomatoes. Drop the tomatoes into the boiling water for 30 seconds, remove and transfer to an ice bath, and allow to cool until able to handle, approximately one minute. Remove and pat dry. Peel, core, and seed the tomatoes. When seeding the tomatoes, place the seeds and pulp into a fine mesh strainer set over a bowl in order to catch the juice. Press out one cup of juice.

Place the tomatoes and juice into a large mixing bowl. Add the zucchini, red pepper, onion, jalapeno, garlic clove, olive oil, lime juice, balsamic vinegar, red pepper flakes, cumin, salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Transfer mixture to a blender and puree for 15 to 20 seconds at high speed. Cover and chill overnight. 

Tops with your favorite extras!  Serves four to eight hungry campers depending on whether it’s a cup or bowl of soup. 

 

Kale, Beet, and Asparagus Salad with Goat Cheese Topped with Basil, Lemon, and Dijon Dressing

 

Kale, that wonderful green superfood which comes in at least 25 different varieties, sometimes gets scooped up at the market only to languish in the vegetable crisper. No stranger to strong opinions, this versatile green needs to be prepared right in order to reach a wider audience. Just a little hand massaging with some garlic oil is all it takes to convert the most ardent skeptic.  

 

Salad Ingredients

• 2-3 medium-sized beets
• 1/2 large Spanish onion
• 1 bunch asparagus
• 1/2 bunch of kale (your choice of variety)
• 1 medium red or yellow tomato
• 1/3 cup goat cheese 
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted

 

Lemon Basil Dijon Dressing

• 4-5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon agave syrup 
• 1 pinch sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

 

Mix ingredients together in a small container and shake!  

 

Instructions

Wash and cube the beets. (Or slice with a mandolin if you like a thinner, crispier beet.) Slice onion into small julienne pieces. Marinate beets and onions in a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar for approximately 10 minutes. Saute beets on medium to high heat first, as they will take longer to cook, around five minutes. Then add onions. Stir occasionally until you reach your desired texture. (We like the onions to be slightly crispy and brown on the edges, beets should be firm but yielding when forked.) Add a little salt, pepper and other spices to taste (dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes).  Set aside to cool or refrigerate for later use.   

Trim the asparagus bottoms and saute on medium to high heat. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and turn occasionally until desired texture is reached. Season with a bit of salt and pepper, and set aside to cool (or refrigerate).  

Wash and tear kale leaves off the stems and into bite sized pieces. Pat dry with a towel then place in a large bowl, and drizzle with garlic and olive oil. Massage the kale leaves for about 30 seconds. The oil and hand massage help break down the tougher texture and bitterness of the greens, which is why some people object to it in the first place. Do this about 10 minutes prior to assembling the rest of the salad, and you’ll reveal the tender sweetness that can come from this remarkable plant without having to cook it.  

Slice or cube tomato, crumble goat cheese, and add all ingredients to the kale bowl.  Top with freshly chopped walnuts, dress, and serve.  

Add some lightly toasted bread on the side and a good olive oil dip, and enjoy!  Serves four hungry campers.

 

Lettuce Wraps with Smoked Tofu and Thai Peanut Sauce 

 

We found a beautiful head of green leaf lettuce that reminded us of an amazing appetizer that we’d had at a restaurant along the California coast. We had some smoked tofu in the cooler, and the ingredients for peanut sauce at the ready! While we’ve got some go-to ingredients listed here, it’s really the dealer’s choice as to what you’re going to put in these crunchy babies, so go crazy! 

 

Filling Ingredients

• Carrots, shredded
• Purple cabbage, shredded
• Green onions, chopped
• Cucumbers, cubed
• Smoked or baked tofu (or your favorite protein), cubed
• Almonds or pistachios, chopped

 

Other Suggestions

• Bean sprouts
• Rice or chow mein noodles, chilled
• Red peppers, chopped
• Cherry tomatoes, sliced
• Avocados, chopped

 

Thai Peanut Sauce Ingredients

There are many recipes for peanut sauce, but this one is adapted from Jessica in the Kitchen.

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ginger garlic chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon agave syrup or spicy honey
• 2 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 3 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2 teaspoon to 1/4 cup warm water (enough to make it saucy, but not runny)
• Hot sauce to taste (sriracha is typical, but any good one will do)

Instructions 

Whisk all the sauce ingredients (minus the warm water) together in a bowl and stir vigorously.  Add the warm water a little at a time until it’s saucy and can be poured. This sauce can be made ahead of time or used immediately.

Assemble all the filling ingredients in a large bowl and dress heavily with peanut sauce. Pull off several big leaves from the lettuce head, wash, and pat dry with a towel. Arrange the lettuce heads on a serving platter along with a decorative bowl of the filling, and serve.  Serves four hungry campers.

 

Bonus Recipe: Cheddar Jalapeno Sourdough French Toast

 

OK, you are going to have to trust us on this one. Perhaps one of the zaniest farmer’s market recipes, it’s a new twist on an old standard! Sweet and savory with just a little kick to get your day started right. We found this delicious loaf of savory and spicy bread at the farmer’s market in Charlottetown, and woke up with inspiration!  Everyone knows how to make French toast, but add this main ingredient and you get the perfect blend of morning flavors. Remember to use warmed, REAL maple syrup. It makes a tremendous difference. Add a side of your favorite breakfast meat (or meat substitute) and it’s on!

If you’re into adventure, you’re already barking up the right tree with life in the RV. But adding a pet — or three!!! — takes it to a whole new level. As you might expect, RVstagram has become a goldmine of furry friend personalities and Instagram dogs who’ve stolen the spotlight from their human travel partners. (And that is A-OK with us — and their many followers.)

So, we’ve rounded up six of the cutest, fluffiest, good boys and girls from the photogenic world of Instagram dogs (and a few cat companions). These furry passengers prove that the road is always better when shared — especially with something a little wild riding shotgun.

 

@henrythecoloradodog | 2.3M Followers

 

View this profile on Instagram

 

Henry + Baloo (@henrythecoloradodog) • Instagram photos and videos

The Stars: Henry, a rescue dog, and his feline friend, Baloo, exploring the American West.

Why We Love Them: The unlikely friendship between a dog and a cat, coupled with breathtaking landscapes, makes their account a must-follow for adventure and animal lovers alike. 

 

@camperandleo | 61K Followers

 

View this profile on Instagram

 

Tricia Souza (@camperandleo) • Instagram photos and videos

The Stars: Camper the dog and Leo the cat, sharing their unique friendship and adventures.

Why We Love Them: Their account highlights the bond between a dog and a cat, showcasing their playful interactions and the joy they bring to their human companions.

RV life is unpredictable enough without adding a furry friend into the mix — but that’s exactly what makes these accounts so endlessly entertaining. Whether they’re hiking the backwoods, sunbathing on the dash, or chewing through another seatbelt, these two have carved out a wildly lovable corner of Instagram. 

 

@adventuresofcamper | 13.7K Followers

 

View this profile on Instagram

 

Camper Delventhal🐶 & “RV”🐕‍🦺 (@adventuresofcamper) • Instagram photos and videos

The Stars: Camper, a rescue dog, and his human, Nikki Delventhal, traveling full-time in a Prius.

Why We Love Them: Camper’s journey from being abandoned in the desert to becoming a full-time travel companion is heartwarming — the kind of story Instagram dogs seem made for. Their adventures showcase the bond between a pet and owner, highlighting the joys and challenges of life on the road.

 

@bigdogrv | 14.8K Followers

 

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Big Dog RV (@bigdogrv) • Instagram photos and videos

The Stars: Two Great Danes and a rescued tri-pawed dog traveling full-time with their owners.

Why We Love Them: Showcasing the challenges and rewards of RVing with large dogs, their account is more than inspiring. It’s also educational for pet owners considering life on the road.

 

@rvingdogsandwine | 10.6K Followers

 

View this profile on Instagram

 

RV’ing Dogs & Wine (@rvingdogsandwine) • Instagram photos and videos

The Stars: A couple, their dogs, and a shared love for wine, documenting their RV lifestyle.

Why We Love Them: Their account blends the joys of pet companionship, travel, and wine tasting. As you might expect, they offer a unique perspective on the RV lifestyle.

 

cruisingwithcooper | 9.6K Followers

 

View this profile on Instagram

 

Cooper | RV Life | Travel Dog (@cruisingwithcooper) • Instagram photos and videos

The Star: Cooper, a travel-loving dog, sharing his RV adventures across the country.

Why We Love Them: Cooper’s account offers a dog’s-eye view of RV life, complete with tips, tricks, and tales from the road, making it both entertaining and informative.

 

Bonus: 3 Tips for Living Life in an RV with a Pet

1. Prioritize Climate Control

Dogs don’t sweat like humans, so temperature management is critical. Always make sure your RV stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter — especially if you ever leave your pup alone inside. Invest in vent fans, blackout shades, and a temperature monitor that alerts your phone if things get too hot or cold.

 

2. Make Exercise Non-Negotiable

Campground walks are great, but most dogs need more than a few laps around the RV park. Plan daily outings like hikes, beach runs, or dog-friendly town strolls. It keeps your dog healthy and helps burn off excess energy, which means less chaos back inside the RV.

 

3. Stock a Dedicated Go-Bag

Keep a small, always-ready bag with your pet’s essentials: leash, waste bags, water bowl, treats, vaccination records, and any meds. Whether you’re heading out for a long hike or evacuating in bad weather, having this gear prepped saves time and keeps your furry co-pilot safe.

Maybe you’re like me. Personally, I can remember my American History class like it was yesterday — sitting in neat rows under halogen lights trying (desperately) to pay attention. Memories of my American history lessons were buried beneath a pile of heavy textbooks, frantic memorization, and sweaty test-taking. Fast-forward now twenty years, and I can say (gratefully) that American History lessons while roadschooling my children are nothing like that.

The difference is startling. Let me share a moment with you.

As we hike along the steep canyon trails of Walnut Canyon National Monument, dusty images of Native American history fill the panorama. My girls rush into the open cliff dwellings, making their own pretend homes behind stone walls. Imagination weaves the lessons of history into their memory through tactile play. Children possess a natural interest in the origins of our culture. Taking history lessons on the road only fans that flame.

And the road is full of those kind experiential American history lessons.

 

History Was Lived, Not Read

Not that long ago, our children drove through Monument Valley. There, history towered over us like ancient sentinels. Each impossible rock formation shadowed us with ancestral stories and life lessons, unrolling a carpet into America’s past.

Your children pick up something standing in places like that. Something that books can’t quite fully convey — and that’s the livingness of history. Once, a real person stood in this place. And their experience was real.

Being in places like this reminds us that history lives in the land and stories told by our predecessors. It lives in the pottery and beaded necklaces that we see under glass in museum gift stores. It also lives behind the bars of native schools on reservation land. No, it isn’t always pretty, but it is undoubtedly American and undeniably rich. Everything we encounter on the road unwinds an endless yo-yo of lessons in history to explore.  

 

Discovering Little Known History: An Example

Our country is full of history-rich places to explore. And a lot of the great ones (no surprise) are the standard ones in the text books. (Think of Williamsburg and Gettysburg and Washington D.C.) But discovering lesser known places can be absolutely captivating for your kids. 

Once, while exploring American History on the road, we came across a fascinating theme that exists all over the eastern portion of the US — the Underground Railroad. Most of us are familiar with what the Underground Railroad is. But did you know that barn quilts had hidden codes embedded as maps leading to safe havens through the woods? Or that many church sermons had hidden rhythms in their hymns signaling messages to escaped slaves hiding below the floors?

Stories like this are rich and exciting to a child’s imagination. (Or anyone’s imagination, for that matter.) Hidden passages with pieces of this history exist all over the United States. You can take a tour on the Schooner B as a part of the Waterfront Underground Railroad Musuem in Washington, North Carolina. Here, you can learn about slaves escaping on sailboats in complicated inland waterways. One enslaved woman had letters of passage for ship captains sewed into the seams of a dress made of quilt scraps. The letters were undetectable except for a gold thread sewed into one of the slips as a code, signifying the secret letters hidden within. I don’t think I could make this up if I tried!

But think about it. By imagining, children internalize the history in a personal way. And, once you have to inevitably return to those bookish lessons, they are way more interested.

 

American History Roadschooling Resources

There are so many resources available to roadschooling families. The number one resource that our family utilized are public libraries. At these locations, you can dive into the local history of each place that you visit. You will be surprised what you find. There are so many pockets of fascinating, and little known history around the U.S. That American history textbook might have felt heavy in your backpack, but it only had the space for the tiniest sliver of our country’s history. So much of it is buried, waiting for you to wipe the dust off and uncover the hidden gems beneath. 

Also, don’t forget to talk to the librarians! They are a wealth of local knowledge, hidden gems, and lesser known history lessons. Libraries are more than happy to support homeschooling, and they will likely offer many local activities that your children can partake in.

 

History as a Gateway to Lifeschooling

There are an endless number of terms used to describe homeschooling styles. There’s worldschooling and natureschooling. There’s travelschooling and unschooling and roadschooling, of course. Recently, however, I heard a new term that I liked: lifeschooling. To me, something about it stands out from the others. Life is the one thing that can’t be taught to our kids in school. And, honestly, I don’t think we want schools take that responsibility. That job belongs to us.

All the lessons we learn on the road weave their way into the tapestry of life. It’s my favorite thing about integrating American history while roadschooling. We learn about history in a raw and unseasoned capacity, and we can apply it to life in the now. Sure, history can make us feel proud and patriotic. But, equally important, it can also teach us not to make the same mistakes. Teaching children history in an applied setting means we don’t have to sugarcoat it. We can unravel it all under the same sky where it took place. The first hand impressions these lessons make on our children will lead to a deeper understanding of our country, influencing decisions they make going forward. And that is just as important as science, geography, and mathematics.

Let’s face it: Lighting doesn’t always get the attention it deserves when it comes to RV improvements. An upgrade in RV lighting is not as flashy as a new solar setup. And it’s not as exciting as a remodeled kitchen. But good lighting quietly affects nearly everything you do on the road — from cooking and cleaning to working, reading, or just relaxing after a long day.

If your current lighting setup feels a little dim, disorganized, or outdated, it might be time for a refresh. The right upgrades can help your RV feel more like home — and in many cases, they’re much easier (and more affordable) than you’d think.

Here are five practical and worthwhile ways to upgrade your RV lighting, both inside and out.

 

Tip No. 1: Make the switch to LED (if you haven’t already).

Let’s start with the obvious upgrade: LED bulbs. If your RV still has incandescent or halogen lights, switching to LEDs is one of the simplest ways to reduce power consumption, cut down on heat, and brighten your space.

What makes LEDs so ideal for RV life?

• They use less energy, which helps extend battery life while boondocking.
• They stay cool, which matters in small, enclosed spaces.
• They last a long time, meaning fewer bulb changes (especially in hard-to-reach places).
• You can choose from a range of color temperatures—from soft and cozy to crisp and bright.

Most standard RV light fixtures can be retrofitted with compatible LED bulbs in minutes. Some RVers even replace entire fixtures with upgraded LED versions for a cleaner, more modern look.

Pro Tip: Look for 12-volt-compatible LEDs designed for RV or marine use. They’re made to handle the slight voltage fluctuations that can happen in mobile setups.

 

Tip No. 2: Add focused lighting where it matters most.

A single overhead light in the center of a room might be fine for general use, but it often leaves key areas in the dark. Adding task lighting in places where you need it most can make a big difference in comfort and usability.

Good candidates for added task lights include:

• Kitchen prep areas. Under-cabinet puck lights or strip LEDs can illuminate countertops and help avoid cutting in the shadows.
• Dining or workspaces. A small desk lamp or focused overhead light makes meals, writing, or laptop time a lot easier on the eyes.
• Bedside areas. Wall-mounted reading lights or directional fixtures let one person read without lighting up the whole room.
• Bathroom mirrors. A soft, diffused light around the mirror is a big help during the morning routine.

These lights don’t have to be hardwired or permanent. There are plenty of battery-operated, stick-on, or USB-powered options that work well for RV use.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on outlets or want to avoid cords, look for rechargeable or motion-activated lights. They’re great for closets, drawers, and other areas that don’t see constant use.

 

Tip No. 3: Upgrade exterior lighting for safety and style.

Whether you’re setting up camp after dark, taking a quick walk around the rig, or just enjoying time outside, good exterior lighting makes a difference in both function and safety.

Here are a few exterior upgrades worth considering:

• Awning lights. LED strip lights mounted beneath the awning provide a pleasant glow for outdoor evenings without attracting too many bugs.
• Motion-sensor lights. A great choice for the entry door or rear bumper area — especially handy when arriving late or stepping outside at night.
• Underbody lighting or step lights. These not only add visual appeal but also help prevent missteps after dark.
• Storage compartment lights. Installing LED strips or battery-operated push lights in your exterior bays makes it easier to find gear without a flashlight.

When adding exterior lighting, be sure to choose weatherproof products rated for outdoor use. If you’re drilling new fixtures into the RV body, use proper sealants to protect against water intrusion.

 

Tip No. 4: Organize lighting zones and add dimmers.

Ever flip a switch expecting one light to turn on, only to be surprised by another? Disorganized switch layouts and harsh lighting levels are common frustrations in RVs — especially older models. Creating clear lighting zones and adding dimmers gives you more control and flexibility.

Here’s how to improve your lighting flow:

• Group switches by area (kitchen, bedroom, bathroom) and label them clearly if needed.
• Install dimmer switches in key areas like the living room or bedroom to adjust brightness as needed.
• Use remote controls or smart lighting hubs for convenience, especially for hard-to-reach lights.
• Replace clunky multi-switch panels with modern versions that are more intuitive and space-efficient.

If you’re planning a larger interior update, reorganizing your lighting zones is well worth doing while everything is accessible. But even simple changes — like installing a plug-in dimmer for a desk lamp — can immediately improve how your space feels.

 

Tip No. 5: Light up forgotten spaces.

Some of the most useful lighting upgrades aren’t flashy — they’re practical. Think about all the spots in your RV that are hard to see into, especially at night or in low light. A small light in the right spot can turn a hassle into a functional space.

Examples:

• Pantries and closets. Stick-on LEDs or motion-sensor lights make it easy to see what’s buried in the back.
• Under the bed. If you use this area for storage, adding a light here saves a lot of time and frustration.
• Stairs or entry steps. Prevent nighttime stumbles with a small strip light or low-glow step light.
• Utility bays or passthrough storage. These are often used during setup or teardown — adding lighting saves you from holding a flashlight in your mouth while you work.

An upgrade in RV lighting here doesn’t require a full electrical overhaul. Most can be installed in a matter of minutes with adhesive tape or magnetic mounts.

Pro Tip: Keep a few battery-powered lights or USB-rechargeable fixtures on hand. They’re great backups for boondocking or in case of a blown fuse.

 

Also! Consider light color … it matters more than you think.

Lighting isn’t just about brightness — it’s also about ambiance. The color temperature of your lights can affect how your RV feels, especially after sunset when your rig becomes your entire world.

Color temperatures are measured in Kelvins (K):

• 2,700K–3,000K. Warm white is cozy and inviting, great for bedrooms and lounges.
• 3,500K–4,100K. Neutral white is clean and functional, ideal for kitchens and bathrooms.
• 5,000K and up. Daylight white is bright and energizing, good for task areas.

Using consistent color temperature throughout your RV creates a unified look, while mixing different temperatures intentionally (warm in the bedroom, neutral in the kitchen) helps define each zone’s purpose.

 

Flipping the Switch for an Upgrade in RV lighting

You don’t have to live with dim or outdated lighting in your RV. Whether you’re full-timing, weekend camping, or prepping for a big trip, small lighting upgrades can have a big impact on your comfort, safety, and overall experience.

With the wide range of affordable, low-power LED solutions available today, most of these changes are DIY-friendly and budget-conscious. Even better? They help your RV feel brighter, more modern, and easier to live in day to day.

So go ahead: flip the switch on better lighting. Your eyes (and your mood) will thank you.