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Category: Living

  • What RV Snowbirds are Saying about Traveling South for the Winter

    What RV Snowbirds are Saying about Traveling South for the Winter

    RVers love hitting the road for camping and traveling throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. However, cold weather can bring on the winter blues for many people, which is why some RV owners are snowbirds. A snowbird is a winter traveler who leaves their cold-weather home up north for a warmer, southern destination.

    Ahead of the upcoming winter season, RV Trader recently surveyed 795 consumers and asked them about their winter travel plans. We found that more than one in three RVers (39%) are snowbirds who travel to warmer destinations during winter. Here’s how these RV snowbirds travel:

    Where do RV Snowbirds Travel?

    We asked our survey respondents, who travel to warmer destinations, where they go and 53% answered that they travel to the southeast. The southeast part of the U.S. includes states like Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas.

    Florida is one of the top destinations in the country for snowbirds. A 2021 study from STORAGECafe, a self-storage company that specializes in RV storage, ranked six cities in The Sunshine State among the top 10 cities for snowbirds. Since Florida is the southernmost state in the contiguous U.S., many snowbirds hit the road for the warm winter weather and array of attractions and activities, such as theme parks and beaches.

    The southwest part of the U.S. was the second-highest answer, with 37% of respondents saying they travel to states in this region, including California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. The typically scorching desert weather in this region cools down to more comfortable temperatures during the winter season. This is a great time of year to visit one of the many national parks in the southwest for a less crowded experience compared to spring and summer.

    Following the southwest region, 21% of survey respondents said they also travel to the south central part of the country. This region includes states like Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. In the south central region, Texas boasts some of the most popular destinations for snowbirds. Snow is rare in most parts of Texas, allowing snowbirds to take part in an array of outdoor activities.

    Another locale our survey respondents said they travel to in winter is Central America (7%). If you do travel outside of the U.S., make sure you have a valid passport. You should also verify any regulations when crossing the border, especially if you’re traveling with pets.

    How do RV Snowbirds Travel?

    While there are several types of RVs for travelers to choose from, a majority (33%) of our survey respondents answered that they use a Class A motorhome to get to their warm-weather destinations. This was followed by Class C RVs (16%), indicating that our respondents may consider drivable RVs, such as a motorhome, easier to maneuver than a towable RV.

    Class A RVs are the largest option on the market. These spacious motorhomes are perfect for long-distance trips, such as traveling hundreds of miles south for the winter, with the sleeping capacity to accommodate everyone from couples to families with children. These RVs often come equipped with full kitchens, cozy lounge areas, and luxury amenities to keep everyone comfortable, both during the drive and once you arrive at your southern destination.

    Smaller than a Class A motorhome, but larger than a Class B, a Class C motorhome was the second choice for travel among survey respondents. Most Class C RVs offer some living space in addition to the raised sleeping or storage areas that extend over the cab of the RV. Since Class Cs are smaller, they’re also a more fuel-efficient option compared to Class A.

    Fifth-wheels (15%) and travel trailers (14%) are towable options that are popular choices for RVers who spend more time on the road. Both come in varying sizes and floorplans, allowing you to find the right model for your snowbirding needs. Towable RVs also give you the ability to leave your camper at the RV park or campsite and just travel by truck once you’re at your snowbird destination.

    Instead of storing your RV for the winter season, become a snowbird and hit the road for a warm-weather getaway. And, if you’re searching for a winter-ready RV, browse the nationwide online inventory of new and used RVs on RVTrader.com.

  • 6 Tips for Planning a Snowbird RV Trip

    6 Tips for Planning a Snowbird RV Trip

    While many store their RV away for the winter months, “snowbirds” are packing for their next getaway. Snowbirds take advantage of the winter travel season and escape the icy chill of their home up north for warmer RVing destinations in the South. If you’re thinking of driving in search of sunnier weather this winter, check out RV Trader’s six tips for planning a snowbird RV trip.

    1. Choose Your Destination

    First, decide where you want to go for your snowbird getaway. Since you’re a snowbird, you already know that you’ll be traveling south, but where? You have your pick of anywhere in the southern United States and, if you have a passport, you can also travel south of the border to Mexico or Central America.

    When choosing a southern destination, you should consider how much you want to spend, who you’re traveling with, and what you want to do when you get there. For example, if you’re traveling with kids or a large group, but don’t want to break the bank, you might choose an area with an array of free or budget-friendly attractions and activities. Or, if you’re trying to save money, you’ll likely want to avoid the most popular destinations that come with more competitive campground costs.

    If you do decide to travel internationally, make sure you’re aware of any regulations when crossing the border, especially if you’re traveling with pets.

    2. Decide How Long You’ll Travel

    Many snowbirds spend months on the road or at their southern destination, traveling throughout the winter season. Longer trips give you the opportunity to explore multiple destinations or make one locale feel like your winter home away from home.

    You could also plan shorter snowbird trips for a weekend or a few weeks at a time. Shorter trips are a great way to get out of town for a bit, then return to your residential home for the rest of the season. If you have children with winter/holiday breaks at school, consider taking a snowbird RV trip. Even if it’s just a long weekend, any escape from freezing temperatures can be a welcomed reprieve.

    3. Book Your Campground

    Once you know where you’re going and for how long, you can start looking at campground and RV park reservations. Similar to planning an RV trip in peak camping season, you’ll want to reserve your spot early, especially if you plan on being there for a long period of time. Remember, RVers aren’t the only types of travelers seeking a warm-weather escape. Be sure to keep in mind any holidays and long weekends, when travel is busier, as you’re booking your campground reservation.

    If you decide to skip the campground and boondock instead, you may want to make a few calls in advance. Boondocking is typically free, dispersed camping on public lands outside of organized campgrounds, which can range from the wilderness to business parking lots, such as a Walmart or Cracker Barrel. Keep in mind that boondocking does not include any electrical, water, or sewage hookups. To make sure you’re welcome at a potential boondocking location, make a call before you go to ensure there are no specific requirements for parking in a business lot. Check out our previous article for more information on overnight parking at Cracker Barrel.

    4. Get Your RV Ready

    Before you go on your RV trip, you’ll want to make sure your rig is ready by performing any routine maintenance. Here are a few tasks to add to your checklist before you hit the road:

    • Check the roof to ensure all seals are intact.
    • Make sure the tires are inflated to the proper PSI.
    • Check tire lugnuts for tightness.
    • Inspect the levels of all fluids and refill as needed.
    • Inspect the air, oil, and fuel filters and replace as needed.
    • Make sure lights and horn are working properly.

    If you have a fifth-wheel or travel trailer, you should also make sure that your hitch and towing equipment are in good working order.

    Although you’re traveling to a warmer destination, you still have to depart from the chilly temperatures of your current locale. Make sure that all of the exterior seals of your RV, including around your doors, windows, and slides, are in good shape. Cracked seals will not keep the freezing air out, which could mean a cold ride south in your RV.

    If you are driving in below-freezing temperatures for a part of your ride, you should also keep an eye on your camper’s temperature monitoring system to make sure your pipes aren’t at risk of freezing. Depending on how long your drive is, you may even be able to keep your RV winterized while you travel and de-winterize once you get to your destination. This is a great option if you don’t need your RV’s water systems as you’re driving in cold weather. If you do this, it can be helpful to pack a few water bottles for the ride. Read our previous article to learn the steps for winterizing your RV.

    5. Prepare Your House

    If you have a residential home, you should also take a few steps to make sure it’s ready for you to leave for either a few days or the whole winter season. Unlike traveling in the spring or summer, cold winter temperatures can wreak havoc on your home if you aren’t prepared.

    • Turn your heat on at a low temperature to keep your pipes from freezing.
    • See if your water heater has a vacation setting.
    • Put your mail on hold.
    • Clean out your refrigerator and dispose of any trash.

    6. Pack the Right Clothes

    Depending on how far you have to travel, you should pack not only for your destination, but also the temperatures of the places you may stop along the way. Check the weather ahead of your trip for every stop along your route to make sure you’re dressed properly.

    Even though you’re traveling south, it’s always a good idea to pack a jacket and long pants just in case. The southwest has warm days but chilly evenings. A huge perk of RVing instead of flying is that you aren’t restricted to the size of one or two bags, which means you can pack plenty of options for a range of temperatures.

    Now that you know how to plan a snowbird RV trip, get ready to hit the road this winter. And, if you’re shopping for your next RV, browse the nationwide online inventory of new and used RVs for sale on RVTrader.com.

  • 5 Quick Tips for Decorating Your RV for the Holidays

    5 Quick Tips for Decorating Your RV for the Holidays

    The holiday season is a time for twinkling lights, vibrant garland, and decorative wreaths. If you’re a full-time RVer, or you travel in your camper during the holiday season, you might think that you can’t decorate as much as in a residential home. However, there are a number of ways you can deck the halls of your motorhome, camper van or fifth-wheel. Take your holiday spirit on the road with RV Trader’s five tips for decorating your RV for the holidays.

    1. Hang Wreaths

    A wreath is one of the most popular types of holiday decorations. You can hang a wreath both inside and outside your RV’s doors, as well as a smaller one on the grill of your truck if you’re driving a tow vehicle. A wreath is also a great statement piece to add to your camper if you’re parked at a campsite or RV park. Purchase a wreath from a big-box store or local retailer, or you can DIY this decor with garland, ribbon, and more for a fun activity to do with kids. 

    You can use a 3M hook for a damage free way to hang your wreath. If you do hang a wreath on the outside of your RV door, make sure to bring it inside before you hit the road.

    2. Decorate the Windows

    You love gazing out of your RV’s wide windows when you’re on the road. Give them a touch of holiday cheer by covering them with window clings. Holiday-themed window clings feature festive imagery. These don’t take up valuable space in your camper and are easy to apply and remove. You can buy large clings that fill the full window, or smaller decals like snowflakes that create a winter scene.

    You can also make paper snowflakes as another craft to do with kids. All you need is plain white paper and scissors to turn their creative cuts into decoration.

    3. Add Battery-Powered Lights

    In a residential home, you may have plenty of outlets to hang twinkling lights, but this can be more challenging in an RV. Instead, use small, battery-powered lights that add a cozy, festive glow to your camper. You can hang these lights on their own, concealing the battery packs to the wall with command strips, or wrap them around garland.

    4. Use Festive Decor

    Swap your regular throw pillows, blankets, and art for more festive choices. Stores across the country have no shortage of holiday decor to choose from. To save space, buy holiday pillow covers to place over your current pillows.

    If you celebrate Christmas, you can also hang stockings on the wall or over the mantle, depending on your RV’s layout. As always, 3M hooks are an easy way to hang decor and safely remove it without damaging your walls.

    5. Don’t Forget Your Christmas Tree

    If you celebrate Christmas, you know no holiday decor is complete without a tree. While a grand, towering Christmas tree is off the table in your RV, on the table is precisely where you can put a smaller tree. Since floor space can be at a minimum in your motorhome or travel trailer, the corner of your dinette table is a great place to showcase an artificial Christmas tree. Plus, you won’t have to worry about pine needles getting all over the place. Or, if you want a live tree, you can go with a small, potted evergreen. Make sure you measure the height of your ceiling before you buy your tree to make sure it fits.

    As you can see, a few small touches can transform your RV into a dazzling holiday display. No matter where you take your RV this holiday season, you can still feel festive inside your camper. And, if you’re searching for an RV as a holiday gift, browse the nationwide inventory of new and used units on RVTrader.com.

  • Best Autumn Meals to Cook Over the Campfire

    Best Autumn Meals to Cook Over the Campfire

    Colorful leaves, crisp air, and starry skies at night—the autumn camping season is here, inviting RVers to gather around the campfire for an enticing feast over a flame. You can taste the flavors of fall with tips for cooking at your RV campsite (if your campground allows open fires for cooking), and nothing’s better for warming up you and your family and friends than hearty dishes with seasonal ingredients. Plus, many of fall foods can be conveniently prepared using a Dutch oven or cast iron skillet while you’re camping out at destinations for a quick autumn RV trip. RV Trader is sharing the best autumn meals to cook over the campfire.

    Apple and Sweet Potato Hash

    Recipe by Fresh Off The Grid

    You’ll Need:

    • camp stove
    • cast iron skillet or Dutch oven

    Ingredients:

    • 4 slices bacon
    • 1 medium sweet potato
    • 1 granny smith apple
    • 1 teaspoon thyme
    • 1 tablespoon butter
    • 2 eggs

    Instructions:

    1. Slice the sweet potatoes and apple into small chunks.
    2. Place bacon in the skillet over the flame, cooking until it’s crispy and then flip. Place on a towel-lined plate.
    3. Cook the sweet potato and apple, and add a pinch of salt in the skillet and sauté until soft. Chop the bacon and add it to the skillet and sprinkle with thyme.
    4. Push the hash together to make two wells and cook the eggs within the wells.

    Brussel Sprouts in Maple Bourbon Sauce


    Recipe adapted from I Am Baker

    You’ll Need:

    • Dutch Oven or cast iron skillet

    Ingredients:

    • 2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
    • 4 Strips bacon, diced
    • 1/2 cup candied pecans, chopped
    • 2 ounces bourbon
    • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
    • 1/2 cup maple syrup
    • 1/2 cup brown sugar
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

    Instructions:

    1. Place Dutch oven or cast iron skillet over fire.
    2. Combine the Brussel sprouts, olive oil, salt, and pepper in the Dutch oven, toss, and flatten into an even layer.
    3. Bake until crispy, turning halfway through.
    4. In the skillet, add bacon and cook until crispy on both sides. Remove bacon bits and drain on a towel.
    5. Remove skillet from flame and add bourbon and balsamic vinegar. Place skillet over the flame, scraping up browned bits from the skillet, and stir with sauce.
    6. Bring the bourbon to a boil, then add maple syrup and brown sugar, stirring constantly until sauce begins to thicken.
    7. Remove from heat and add to cooked Brussel sprouts, bacon, and candied pecans.

    Campfire Chili and Cornbread


    Recipe adapted from HonestlyYUM

    You’ll Need:

    • Dutch oven

    Ingredients:

    • 3 pounds ground beef
    • 1 large onion, diced
    • 1 green bell pepper, diced
    • 8 cloves of garlic, minced
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 28-oz can diced tomatoes
    • 1 6-oz tomato paste
    • 1 16-oz can can of kidney beans or black beans
    • 5 tablespoons chili powder
    • 2 tablespoons ground chipotle powder
    • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
    • 1 can of beer or water
    • 2 8.5-oz boxes of cornbread mix
    • Salt and pepper

    Directions:

    1. Heat up Dutch oven over a flame.
    2. Cook the ground beef until it browns, breaking it up with a spatula.
    3. Add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper and continue to cook until the vegetables are soft.
    4. Add the chili powder, chipotle powder, cumin, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
    5. Add the can of beer and beans and continue to cook. Season with salt and pepper.
    6. Make the cornbread mix in a bowl and pour over top of the chili.
    7. Cover with lid and continue to cook. Poke the cornbread with a skewer, if it comes off clean it is done and the chili is ready to serve.

    Hasselback Sweet Potato Casserole

    Sweet Potato Casserole
    Recipe adapted from Greens & Chocolate

    You’ll Need:

    • Dutch oven

    Ingredients:

    • 4 sweet potatoes
    • 1/4 cup butter, melted
    • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
    • Kosher salt
    • 2-3 tablespoon brown sugar
    • Mini marshmallows
    • Chopped pecans

    Directions:

    1. Heat up Dutch oven over a flame.
    2. Scrub potatoes. Slice into thin pieces, stopping 3/4 of the way through the potato.
    3. Whisk together melted butter and maple syrup.
    4. Brush butter/maple mixture onto each sweet potato.
    5. Sprinkle with kosher salt.
    6. Cover the Dutch oven and bake over the flame.
    7. After the potatoes have softened and slightly browned, top with brown sugar and continue to bake.
    8. Top with marshmallows and pecans.

    Pumpkin French Toast

    pumpkin French toast
    Recipe by Do It Yourself RV

    You’ll Need:

    • cast iron skillet

    Ingredients:

    • 4 eggs
    • 1/4 cup milk
    • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
    • 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice blend
    • 1/2 loaf of sliced bread

    Directions:

    1. Heat up a cast iron skillet over flame.
    2. Beat the eggs, milk, puree, and spices together. If it’s too thick, add more milk to thin it out.
    3. Dip the bread into the mixture and drop it into the cast iron skillet to toast both sides.
    4. Service with maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, or any other toppings.

     

    Make adjustments to these recipes and ingredients based on your own tastes, remembering that cooking over a campfire can be much hotter than a conventional oven. When you get these delicious dishes down, learn how to cook Thanksgiving dinner on a campfire. If you’re ready to find your next new or used RV, be sure to check out all the listings on the nationwide marketplace at RVTrader.com.

  • 5 of the Best Low-Maintenance Pets That Can RV

    5 of the Best Low-Maintenance Pets That Can RV

    You can enjoy many of the same comforts of home while living in your RV, including bringing your pet along for the ride in your vehicle! As an RVer and pet owner, you should make sure that travel with your companion animal won’t cause them anxiety in your vehicle and, if they’re in a crate or cage, make sure they’re secure as you move down the road. RV Trader is sharing five of the best low-maintenance pets that can join you on an open-road adventure! 

    Quick Tips for Safe Travel with Your Pet

    The main safety concern for RVing with pets is the bumps and jostling that happens while driving, so you need to make sure everything is secure before you hit the road. This also means making adjustments to your driving, ensuring you’re taking corners slowly, following the speed limit, driving slowly over speedbumps, and avoiding potholes. 

    If you’re traveling with a pet that has a tank, aquarium, cage, or crate, use straps or bungee cords to secure the habitat to a wall or other large stationary object before driving. Or, for a more permanent solution, secure it to the surface it sits on using putty, which grips both the tank and the surface and keeps the tank from sliding around. Objects inside a tank or aquarium need to be secured as well so they don’t spill or tip over; fasten food bowls, water bottles, wheels/toys, and other items with clips, cords, suction cups, or non-toxic adhesives.

    5 of the Best Low-Maintenance Pets That Can RV

    1. Asian Painted Bullfrog

    The Asian painted bullfrog, or chubby frog, is one the best pet frogs for beginners, and is hardy, friendly, and cute. Because they’re only 7–8 cm long, two adults can live happily in a 15–gallon tank, so it’s not difficult to bring them along in your RV. These frogs are crepuscular, which means they become active in the evenings, eating the live insects you feed them and burrowing in their loose substrate. Following the aforementioned advice for safety, make sure this critter’s habitat is secure when on the move with your RV.

    2. Leopard Gecko

    Leopard geckos are one of the most popular pet reptiles of any kind, largely because they are so easy to care for, along with being very cute. While a 20–gallon tank is probably preferable, a single small leopard gecko can be perfectly happy and healthy in a 10–gallon tank while joining for your adventure, even if you’re traveling in a small RV. Whatever size you choose, your tank should have a warm side—between 80–90 degrees Fahrenheit—and a cool side, between 75–80 degrees. Make sure their tank has a thermometer gauge you can easily read to maintain the right temperature for your pet while bringing them along in your RV.

    3. Hamster

    For people who want the convenience of RVing with an animal in a tank or enclosure and the cuddle factor of a warm, fuzzy mammal, hamsters are a great choice! Unlike many rodent pets, they don’t need a companion in their habitat, and can be housed alone in a 15–20-gallon tank or cage. So whether you’re driving a Sprinter van camper, or a larger RV class, your hamster’s home won’t take too much room. When your vehicle is stationary, put a hamster wheel in their tank or cage so they can exercise and work out their energy. You can also install tubing so you can watch them freely scamper around, or give them a hamster ball so they can safely move around a designated area in your stationary vehicle under your supervision.

    4. Pygmy Chameleon

    Pygmy chameleons have two major advantages over other reptiles when it comes to keeping them in your RV. They can thrive in a small tank and they don’t require a temperature gradient or UVB lighting. Pygmy chameleons are, as their name suggests, small—most are only slightly larger than a fingernail. Because of this, these East African lizards can live their whole lives in a 10– or even 5–gallon tank. In an RV, where space is at a premium, this is obviously ideal. As an added bonus, pygmy chameleons are remarkably versatile and hardy little creatures that are content with a single-temperature tank anywhere between 70–80 degrees Fahrenheit. They can also handle a wide range of humidity, between 60–80%, and don’t require UVB lighting. All of this makes them a great choice for the RVer that doesn’t want to fiddle with the temperature inside their RV living space.

    5. Cat

    Yes, you can RV with a cat! In some ways, cats are even lower maintenance than the other animals listed here, as you don’t have to worry about securing a tank or cage for them, or maintaining a higher temperature in their habitat. Of course, cats have their own list of needs, like finding a way to secure their litter box and at least partially contain the smell. The key is to get a litter box with a lid, and also to rely on odor-control methods that eliminate scents with pet-friendly products. Some cats are also notorious for motion sickness and hating car rides, so it’s best to take a few short trips with your cat to see how they handle the open road before you commit them to life on the highway. In fact, that’s a good policy to follow for any pet you might want to keep in an RV. 

    Bringing a pet along for your next adventure in your vehicle is one more thing to love about RVing. Before you hit the road, know tips and tricks for traveling with pets and take into consideration your pet’s various needs to ensure they’re safe and healthy. If you’re ready to find your next new or used vehicle, be sure to see all the nationwide listings on RVTrader.com.

    By Nigel Robert

  • Famous RVs Featured in 10 of Our Favorite Movies

    Famous RVs Featured in 10 of Our Favorite Movies

    From campy comedies to action-packed adventures, RVs have rolled on to the big screen in a number of Hollywood movies. When you plan your next RV trip, set aside time for movie night and watch these favorite flicks starring new and vintage vehicles and RVs that are out of this world. Here are RV Trader’s famous RVs featured in 10 of our favorite movies.

    1. Fleetwood Southwind – The Blues Brothers

    The Blues Brothers set records with the number of vehicles destroyed during the movie’s multiple car chases, including the Fleetwood Southwind. Decorated with bull horns and desert scenery, the vehicle belongs to the Nashville Country and Western musicians the Good Ole Boys. The RV takes a dip in deep water after an incident involving super glue and the gas pedal.

    2. Nomanisan Staff RV – The Incredibles

    Disney Pixar’s animated feature The Incredibles is a favorite for all ages, packing laughs with adventure as the superhero family saves the day. In the movie, they make their escape from the Nomanisan Island headquarters after hijacking a white and blue-striped RV. The getaway vehicle takes flight with the help of their superpowers, and gets beat up on the road in a tense landing scene.

    3. Winnebago Brave – Independence Day

    The 1990s summer blockbuster Independence Day stars Will Smith and Randy Quaid (who appears later on this list as another memorable character). In the midst of an alien invasion, Quaid leads the charge with a fleet or RVs bound for Area 51 in the desert. You’ll see the 1967 Winnebago Brave, living up to its name on the screen.

    4. Winnebago – Lost in America

    Albert Brooks and Julie Hagerty headline the ’80s comedy Lost in America as a married couple that (sort of) deal with a midlife crisis and hope to find themselves on the road. After losing their jobs and getting rid of their house, they travel cross-country in a Winnebago. The two take a gamble with their money and all the risks while out on the highway in this now-retro RV.

    5. Fleetwood Southwind Storm – The Lost World: Jurassic Park

    Steven Spielberg’s sequel to Jurassic Park keeps you on the edge of your seat as an angry T-rex terrorizes dinosaur explorers in their Fleetwood Southwind Storm. The vehicle featured here is a customized mobile lab with modified trailers, making it suited for scientific research. Spoiler alert: not much from the vehicle is salvaged when it’s parked in the path of a T-rex during a frightening scene that’s literally a cliffhanger.

    6. Fleetwood Pace Arrow – Meet the Fockers

    RV trips can bring families together, however, things get messy when meeting the in-laws in the Meet the Parents sequel, Meet the Fockers. Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller roll down the road in the dysfunctional family’s Fleetwood Pace Arrow motorhome before they hit some bumps along the way. And while the family reunion has many awkward encounters in this cringe comedy full of errors, the Pace Arrow sure does shine on screen.

    7. Ford Condor II – National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

    Now considered a Christmas classic, this outrageous comedy that’s part of National Lampoon’s Vacation movie series includes memorable lines and moments that will leave you laughing with tears. The Griswold family Christmas is nearly ruined as Clark (Chevy Chase) gets an unexpected visit from cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) and his beat up Ford Condor II that has seen better days. Eddie plans on parking in the driveway for the snowy winter, but things take a turn for the worst after an explosion involving RV sewage and Santa’s sleigh.

    8. Forest River Georgetown 359 and Flxible Clipper — RV

    The always charismatic Robin Williams turns into an RVing dad wishing to restrengthen family bonds on a road trip out west in the slapstick comedy RV. Williams’ character and his family take a spin in an over-the-top Forest River Georgetown 359 with a giant “Rent Me” inscribed on its side. They encounter mishaps and a community of fellow RVers, including a couple driving a cool collector’s RV—a vintage 1948 Flxble Clipper.

    9. 986 Winnebago Chieftain 33 — Spaceballs

    When it’s time to take an intergalactic voyage to rescue a distressed princess from an evil empire, you can trust on a 1986 Winnebago Chieftain to help you complete the mission. That’s basically the premise to Spaceballs, a cult classic ’80s parody of Star Wars. The high-flying Winne is refitted as a spaceship known as “Eagle 5” in the movie.

    10. Coachmen Encounter – We’re The Millers

    Jason Sudeikis and Jennifer Aniston’s characters smuggle contraband and cross the border with a fake family in a Class A Coachmen Encounter in the comedy We’re The Millers. They use the Coachmen as a decoy to fool the authorities as if they’re on vacation, leaving no trace of their real misdeeds. However, things don’t go without a hitch, as they run into border agents, the cartel, and a venomous tarantula. 

    These 10 titles feature famous RVs that light up on the big screen. Watch these movies with your family and friends the next time you’re at the RV park or camping out at night with your vehicle. And if you’re ready to find your next new or used RV, be sure to check out all the listings online at RVTrader.com.

  • Shoppers Should Keep an Eye Out for RV One at the Hershey RV Show

    Shoppers Should Keep an Eye Out for RV One at the Hershey RV Show

    Guest Post by RV One

    It’s an annual tradition for thousands of RV enthusiasts to make their way to Hershey, Pennsylvania, for America’s Largest RV Show, anxious to check out the newest offerings from RV manufacturers, dealers, and other suppliers. The 2022 show is being held September 14th through the 18th, and dealers will be bringing their A-game to attract shoppers. Here’s how one dealership plans to excite buyers at the Hershey RV Show:

    Showcasing Popular Brands in Multiple Locations

    RV One Superstores, part of the family of dealerships in the RV Retailer group, will follow up a strong 2021 show and be in full force at the Hershey RV Show this year, hosting displays in multiple spaces throughout the show. Their Entegra Motorhome display will be available in space E1, Newmar rigs in space E6, Aurora RVs in A1, Zinger and Redwood brands in F6, and Twilight RVs in F7. Shoppers interested in these brands should definitely plan to stop by these locations to get more information on these models.

    Check Out Hershey RV Show Specials

    As part of their commitment to being the best, RV One is offering the following special perks for Hershey RV Show customers:

    • A large selection of America’s favorite brands
    • RV Complete VIP membership with every RV purchase
    • Special RV show interest rates for buyers
    • Top dollar trade-in values
    • Price Lock Guarantee on all new units ordered at the Hershey RV Show

    Here’s a closer look at just a few of these special incentives:

    A Chance to Win a Free RV

    During the length of the Hershey RV Show, everyone has the chance to win a free RV. This year, RV One is giving away a 2022 Geneva Class C motorhome from THOR. Be sure to enter to win the Geneva Class C motorhome.

    RV One Price Lock Guarantee

    Sometimes a dealer will give you an initial quote, but when it’s time to pay, they cite higher material costs, fuel costs, delivery expense, and rising labor costs to justify a higher final price. These can be valid claims, but it can be difficult for RV consumers to understand or afford. That’s why RV One offers a Price Lock Guarantee, a commitment to buyers that they will lock in your price, even if it goes up between order date and delivery date.

    Trade-In Top Dollar

    Anyone can say they will give you top dollar for your RV trade-in, but this dealership can actually deliver. Because RV One’s network covers such a vast market, almost every RV is in-demand somewhere at any given time, which means they can deliver on giving you top dollar for your RV trade-in. This larger reach gives RV One the ability to view your trade-in value within a broader market picture, giving you the best value possible.

    RV Complete VIP Membership With Every RV Purchase

    Every customer who purchases an RV from RV One will receive an RV Complete VIP Membership, which provides exclusive protection for their RV. The all-inclusive benefits can be accessed through a mobile app on your smartphone and include:

    • Roadside assistance
    • Technical assistance
    • Windshield repair
    • Lockout assistance
    • Paintless dent repair

    It also lets you:

    • Schedule maintenance on your RV
    • Contact the dealership with questions
    • Find campgrounds, RV parks, and RV resorts
    • Access the RV LIFE Pro suite of tools

    Everyone is thrilled to be making their way to the Hershey RV Show, and RV One is planning on making a big splash as well. Be sure to stop by, meet the team, and learn more about how you can find your next RV.

  • FMCA: 6 Benefits of Belonging to FMCA

    FMCA: 6 Benefits of Belonging to FMCA

    Adventure and community are among the most coveted aspects of the RV lifestyle, and RV Trader is committed to sharing resources to enhance the experiences of RV enthusiasts in these areas. For this, FMCA is discussing the benefits of joining the Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA), which has issued more than 500,000 family memberships to RVers. Many who look to the association as another source of information about all facets of RV ownership and travel.

    FMCA has three levels of membership: Family membership, which is for any person who owns a qualifying RV; Associate membership, which is for any Family member who no longer owns an RV but wants to stay connected and take advantage of benefits; and Commercial membership, which is for any business that serves RV owners or the RV industry.

    Over the past 59 years, FMCA has been able to add numerous great benefits for RVers to enjoy, with many included at no additional cost beyond the membership dues.

    1. FMCAssist Medical Emergency & Travel Assistance Program 

    One of FMCA’s current leading benefits for Family members is the FMCAssist Medical Emergency & Travel Assistance Program. Valued at $200, this program was designed with RVers in mind. FMCAssist provides you peace of mind knowing that your family, pets, RV, and car will be returned home safely if something unexpected happens to you while away from home.

    2. Family RVing Magazine

    Since the beginning, FMCA has offered its members a magazine – which started as a quarterly publication in 1964. Now known as Family RVing magazine, the publication offers great monthly content for RVers, covering RV maintenance and repair tips, product reviews, travel inspiration, and so much more related to the RV lifestyle. Plus, many FMCA members have had their photos showcased on the cover of the magazine. 

    3. FMCA University

    RV education is key to owning an RV. Whether you’re new to RVing or a veteran, there’s always something to learn. FMCA University, created by FMCA Academy, houses decades of RV know-how in an online library that consists of articles and videos in one convenient location. With 24/7 access to these materials, you can test your knowledge and earn virtual badges as you complete topics. You can become an “RVer Extraordinaire” and earn $10 off your next year of FMCA membership!

    4. Advocacy

    As the largest nonprofit RV association, FCMA is dedicated to helping RVers enjoy the freedom and fun of ownership. FCMA works to protect RV owners’ rights, as traveling in an RV can present unique situations. While most concerns may stem from rig size, this benefit helps alleviate any issues that may arise.

    5. FMCA Campground

    FMCA members are invited to stay at the member-only campground in Cincinnati, Ohio, which offers great nightly rates on full-hookup and electric-only sites. A dump station is available 24/7. Plus, the campground is pet friendly, with a large fenced-in dog park, providing your furry friends a place to stretch their legs, too! Just minutes away from Cincinnati’s major highways: Interstate 275, I-75, and I-71. Come and stay a week or stop in on your way through town for a clean, quiet, comfortable night’s stay.

    6. Membership Plate

    All FMCA family members receive a membership plate and a window cling when they join. FMCA members take pride in displaying their plate, making it easier to spot other FMCA members on the road or at campgrounds. The membership plates also serve as a great way to let other RVers know about FMCA, and they open the door to any conversation.

    These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to all the great benefits FMCA provides to RVers. FMCA also offers a variety of discounts and savings for RV owners. To learn more about FMCA and all the benefits and discounts the association supplies RV owners, visit the FMCA website. If you’re an RV enthusiast considering FMCA membership, enter promo code TRADER18 at checkout to save $10 off your first year.

    And, if you’re searching for an RV to use while you enjoy all of the benefits FCMA has to offer, browse our nationwide inventory for RV deals on RVTrader.com.

     

    FMCA educates, equips, and empowers RV owners in their journey to creating, experiencing, and benefiting from the outdoor lifestyle they dream of and deserve. FMCA is your ally to the outdoor lifestyle you love and enjoy.

  • 5 Ways to Make the Most of Roadschooling Your Kids in Your RV

    5 Ways to Make the Most of Roadschooling Your Kids in Your RV

    Homeschooling as you travel with your vehicle, also known as “roadschooling,” is popular among the RV community, as it provides a flexible and interactive educational experience. Once you know how to outfit an RV for roadschooling, you’ll discover a number of benefits, including the ability to learn and work without distractions, more time with your children, and extracurricular activities that enrich the learning experience while traveling. Here are RV Trader’s five ways to make the most out of roadschooling your kids in your RV.

    1. Learn Online

    There’s an established curriculum and requirements for homeschooling set by each state’s educational department that’s available online. Aside from your own instruction, you can make use of pre-recorded and live-stream educational lectures available through different educational sites by state. If you’re staying in one state for a longer period of time, this is a chance to keep up with their academics by using all online resources available for education. And regardless of what state you’re in, there are lots of online resources offering tips for roadschooling, such as information about homeschooling kids with special needs. Do your research and determine what may be best for your schedule and what subjects your children need to learn.

    2. Visit National Parks

    Learn about the natural wonders of the country, get out in nature, enjoy recreation, and appreciate your surroundings. At national parks, your kids can learn history and science, and stay active. You can even have your kids do a report on what they saw and discovered. The National Park service also has resources online that you can introduce to your roadschooling students. Your children can also get involved in the Junior Ranger Program, which focuses on the National Park’s mission and efforts to protect the environment.

    3. Get Involved with Recreation and Social Groups

    Get your kids involved with social groups so they can develop necessary interpersonal skills. Make sure they’re active with their age group while you’re out traveling with your new or used fifth wheel, camper, or other type of RV. When you visit a town or city, see what community recreation groups or clubs are available for kids after school. Whether it’s sports, music, theater, or other activities, these will improve the roadschooling experience. And even if you’re out in the country or a park, there’s still a chance for your kids to socialize with fellow campers at RV campgrounds.

    4. Develop Life Skills

    Traveling with your RV gives you a chance to teach some important life skills while on the road. This is a chance to teach your kids to cook at a campsite, change a tire, play an instrument, or get involved with local causes you care about. It’s also an opportunity to reinforce positive habits and responsibilities, like keeping track of an allowance, cleaning, or even helping set up camp when you visit an RV park.

    5. Tour Colleges and Universities

    Go out and explore with your new or used RV while touring the top campuses in the country. If you have kids that are high school-aged, this is a chance to visit colleges, universities, and other higher education institutions. Your RV gives you the chance to easily move around and see where your students will continue their studies. You’ll be able to visit more schools and surrounding communities up close and get a better idea of what’s the best path for your kids once they graduate.

    Roadschooling is a unique chance for your kids to excel by taking on educational activities and projects while you travel with your RV. Set aside time in your schedule for instruction, visiting new places, and staying active in social groups for a positive learning experience. If you’re ready to purchase your next new or used vehicle, be sure to see all the listings nationwide on RVTrader.com.

  • 5 Tips for Outfitting an RV for Roadschooling

    5 Tips for Outfitting an RV for Roadschooling

    Traveling with your family adds to the fun of RVing, but it can be challenging to plan your trips around your child’s school schedule. Take their education mobile by embracing the “roadschooling” trend. This allows you to teach your own kid while you travel, creating lesson plans for both in and out of your RV. First, you have to get your rig ready to be a classroom on wheels. RV Trader has five tips for outfitting an RV for roadschooling.

    1. Think About What You Really Need

    Unlike a traditional school, you likely won’t have multiple rooms for your child to learn in. This means you’ll have to make a list of the most important things they’ll need for their lessons. This will typically include a laptop/tablet, writing utensils, paper, books, and a few enrichment activities. You likely won’t need a printer, multiple monitors, and anything else that would clutter or take up unnecessary space in your RV.

    2. Designate a Space for their Classroom

    Most RVs don’t have the capacity to set up a full workspace for your kid. And, unless you do a custom build on your camper, you likely don’t have a designated desk area. However, you can maximize the space you already have in your RV.

    A dinette would be the best choice since it’s comfortable and sturdy enough for your child to read, write, and type on while you’re moving. You can also install a fold-out desk that is mounted to the wall or inside a closet to be their workspace. That way, you can simply fold it back up so it’s out of the way at the end of each school day.

    Give your kid the best view in the house by letting them work from the passenger seat of your RV. Many Class A motorhomes have large, cushioned seats that, when used with a lapdesk, make for an excellent place to study or do homework.

    You can also transform your bedroom’s dresser into an RV workspace and give your child a quiet place to work. Here, your kid will be able to close the bedroom door and eliminate any distractions when you’re on the road. This works best if you have a low enough dresser. You can even remove some of the drawers to add some leg room.

    If you stop your RV at a destination with nice enough weather, let them do their work outside. Your  kid can get some fresh air by setting up a folding table right outside your RV, or take advantage of any picnic tables at a campsite.

    3. Get Organized

    Wherever your child does their schoolwork, make sure to keep it tidy. Like any classroom, it’s easy for clutter to build up quickly, which is why organization is key. Utilize storage cubes to hold your child’s school supplies, books, and other materials. These can also keep them out of sight when your kid is finished learning for the day.

    4. Add Decoration

    Once you have your child’s designated school area picked out, add some decoration. Let your kid decorate the space with colorful wallpaper, posters, and even a corkboard for them to hang their artwork and good grades.

    5. Equip Your RV with Internet

    You certainly don’t want to rely on stopping at coffee shops and libraries for your kid to have access to Wi-Fi. You can purchase a hotspot from your cell phone provider, or use your smartphone as one, to get the internet almost anywhere.

    Just keep in mind that you won’t have the same signal strength as you would using residential Wi-Fi. If your child has to video chat for school, the connection might not be strong enough for a clear picture.

    While most of your child’s lessons will happen in your RV classroom, don’t forget to turn your travels into educational opportunities too. A mix of in-RV lessons and hands-on learning at historic sites and museums offers your student a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn while having fun. And, if you’re looking for an RV to take on the road with your family, browse the nationwide inventory of used and new RVs for sale on RVTrader.com.