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Category: Living

  • Top 10 Apps for RVers

    Top 10 Apps for RVers

    Whether you’re road tripping through the mountains or taking a quick weekend getaway to the lake, RVing can show us some of the greatest joys and frustrations that traveling has to give. But now that technology has come such a long way, we have tools that allow us to make the good times even better. The best part? We now have the ability to easily access all of these resources in the palm of our hands.

    Check out these 10 awesome apps to make the most out of planning, executing, and problem-solving on your next RV trip!

    AllStays Camp And RV ($9.99)

    AllStays Camp and RV app is the ultimate app for RVers. This camping app easily lets you find nearby campgrounds and RV parks without the need for internet access. AllStays includes more than 30,000 campgrounds in the U.S. and Canada so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your needs. You can easily filter your search to look for specific campgrounds or locations, or even parking lots where you can boondock for the night – the options are endless!

    Gas Buddy (free)

    Gas Buddy is helpful no matter what you drive because it helps you find the cheapest gas in your area and makes pit stops quick and painless. You can even refine your search by price, location, brand, and other amenities like restaurants and restrooms which are super helpful during a long trip. This app loves, and rewards, user participation by encouraging you to report prices and leave reviews for the chance to win giveaways. You can even pay for your gas within the app and receive additional discounts.

    Oh, Ranger! (free)

    Oh, Ranger! is an app ideal for helping you plan your trip before you go. If you’re making your way to multiple destinations, Oh, Ranger! eliminates the need to research while you’re on the road or camping. This app works as a database, helping you find the perfect campsite, national park, national forest… the list goes on. Enjoy time with your family in nature without wondering what your next destination is going to be with this app. 

    Roadtrippers (free)

    This app was built for adventure-loving travelers because you’re always minutes away from something awesome with Roadtrippers. Whether you’re planning an epic cross-country road trip or a weekend escape, you can discover millions of places like local diners, quirky roadside attractions, scenic points, national parks and hotels with the click of a button. Plan trips directly from the app, or through the web at roadtrippers.com then share them with your friends. Any trips you’ve saved or places you love will be synced automatically across devices, so you don’t have to worry about manually syncing them yourself. Get your roadtripping on with Roadtrippers today!

    Passport America

    Passport America is a discount camping club and offers 1,800 locations for members to save while camping in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Both members and non-members can browse the directory of participating campgrounds, RV Parks, Resorts, and more. Locate parks near you, or save future parks for later. The app is free, and paid membership with Passport America is surprisingly low cost for the deals you get! 

    Waze (free)

    Waze is a GPS navigation app that suggests multiple routes, provides turn-by-turn directions, route details, and travel times. But this isn’t your average GPS app. It takes navigation to the next level by letting other motorists share information on traffic, police presence, and potential hazards along your route, and as a user, you can share that same information with others along the way.

    Night Sky (free)

    The Night Sky app encourages you to get out of your RV or tent and experience stargazing in a new way. Night Sky helps you quickly identify planets, constellations, and satellites by holding your iPhone, iPad, or even your Apple Watch into the sky. The app has been coined as a “planetarium in your pocket” and lets you explore the night sky with Augmented Reality (AR). As a bonus, it will even tell you optimal times for stargazing. 

    Harvest Hosts (free)

    Are you looking for a unique camping experience? Harvest Hosts can help! The app allows users to find free places to stay ranging from 1900+ wineries, breweries, farms, museums, golf courses, and other unique attractions. If you’re looking to change things up from boondocking in parking lots or staying at traditional campgrounds, you’ll want to check out Harvest Hosts. The app encourages you to support local economies by making purchases from your hosts as a thank you for their hospitality. 

    AllTrails (free)

    As RVers, many of us love to connect with the great outdoors and the app AllTrails lets you do just that. If you’re looking to explore, let AllTrails help you find the best trails near you! The app hosts more than 200,000+ hand-curated trail maps to help guide you along your journey or help you pick your next great adventure. The trails are crowd-sourced from travelers just like you. The app allows you to record your adventures, set your favorite trails, and so much more! 

    RV Trader (free)

    We obviously couldn’t just end this article without mentioning our favorite app of them all – the RV Trader app! Whether you’re actively searching or just browsing for fun, our app has thousands of for-sale motorhomes for you to look through. In the app, you have the option to filter your listing search by type, location, year, make, price, mileage, and so much more, taking the hassle out of finding your new RV. You can also easily save your searches and can quickly calculate payments for the unit of your dreams. If you’re looking to sell your RV, our app also gives you easy access to post a listing on our site.

    Do you have any apps you swear by? Let us know in the comments below! And if you’re in the market for a new RV, don’t forget to check out the most up-to-date models on RVTrader.com. 

  • 7 Tips for Keeping Your RV Cool in the Summer – Updated For Summer 2023

    7 Tips for Keeping Your RV Cool in the Summer – Updated For Summer 2023

    Updated for Summer 2023

    Summer is officially in full swing and that (hopefully) means you’re headed out on a few road trips in your RV. But as temperatures rise, it’s incredibly important to keep your RV as cool as possible in the sweltering summer heat, and RV Trader has a few tips. Check out our top 7 tips for keeping you and your RV cool and comfortable this summer.

    1. Keep the Door Shut

    This one sounds like a no-brainer, but many RVers come in and out of their unit all day long. Try to minimize how often you are keeping your RV’s door open, especially when the AC is running. 

    2. Rest in the Shade

    Shade is an RVer’s best friend in the summer months, so try to select a shady campsite when possible. Resting in shade can keep your rig a few degrees cooler even during the heat of the afternoon sun. Don’t forget, you also have the option of creating your own shade if you have access to tarps or if you have a pull-out awning!

    3. Protect and Insulate Windows

    To block out the heat of the sun, make sure to utilize your window shades or look into tinting options. It’s also a great idea before any trip to ensure your windows are properly insulated and that there are no cracks letting warm air inside. If your shades just aren’t cutting it, try investing in additional insulation like this popular reflective solution. And don’t forget to cover those skylights!

    4. Improve Circulation

    No one likes stagnant air, especially inside of an RV. Luckily, there are a few simple ways to increase air circulation like utilizing indoor fans, making sure your RV is free of dirt and grime build up, or purchasing a portable indoor AC unit. There are many affordable options on the market that will help your RV stay even cooler during extreme heat.

    5. Clean Your Filters and Get Your Unit Serviced

    A lot of RVs have air conditioning these days, but it’s important to keep your filters maintained for optimal results. To keep your AC running efficiently, change or clean your air filters on a regular basis. Manufacturers recommend cleaning at least every two weeks. As a bonus, it’s always a great idea to have your AC unit serviced annually by a licensed professional to ensure your unit is ready to hit the road!

    6. Fire Up the Grill

    Nothing heats up an RV faster than cooking indoors with the oven or stove. If it’s a particularly hot day, consider going outside to fire up the grill or check out a few of our favorite campfire dishes that you can cook over the fire to minimize indoor heat. 

    7. Switch Your Bulbs

    You might not consider it, but indoor RV lighting can produce more heat than you’d expect. Consider swapping your older light bulbs for LED options that give off less heat and are better for the environment – a win-win!

    With our top tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy summer RV trips in no time. Do you have any RV cooling hacks we didn’t cover? Let us know in the comments below.

    Ready to hit the road in an RV of your own? Check out our latest models on RVTrader.com today!

  • Your RV Road Trip Just Got Easier

    Your RV Road Trip Just Got Easier

    It’s time to hit the road, and you’ve got the RV packed and ready to go. 

    Where to?

    That answer can now be found with a click of a button inside the Togo RV app!

    The ultimate RV companion, it’s got everything you need to travel safely: pre-made checklists so you don’t leave home without the essentials, nearby mobile RV repair technicians that can help you if you get stuck (wherever that may be!), and online courses that help new owners learn the ropes.

    One of the first steps is entering your RV information into the Togo RV app. Entering this info seamlessly downloads your RV user manual, specific to the year/make/model of your unit, which is then easily accessed digitally by you within the app. No need to go hunting through your rig to find the printed manual when you hit a snag, just easily search the digital version right within the app. Togo RV will also notify you of any recall alerts, as they pop up from time to time and you may miss them if you’re on the road.

    So now you can leave the house with confidence — but where should you go?

    A Togo RV Plus membership may be your best bet to hitting the road safely. It’s easy to get a little lost out there, especially on the open road. Its RV GPS navigation keeps you aware of tunnels and bridges to avoid due to low clearance, and it gives you simple directions to get to your destination quickly and easily. 

    Want to schedule a road trip with multiple stops? When you register as a Togo RV Plus member for $39.99 annually, you will have access to Roadtrippers Plus, which helps you plan your adventures and keep everything organized in one place (a standalone $29.99 value). You can even see the various destinations on a map with up to 150 stops included! 

    We all know we have to plan ahead to book stays at RV parks and campgrounds, and Togo RV Plus offers discounts at some of your go-to overnight stops like KOA, Thousand Trails, Harvest Hosts and more. Can’t find an opening at the campground? You’re in luck! Plus members receive access to OvernightRVParking.com, the largest database of free parking locations near you. You’ll never worry about where to stay – Togo RV’s got you covered!

    Now that you can leave for your road trip with Togo RV in your pocket, we’re throwing in one last surprise. You can receive 25% OFF a Togo RV Plus membership just for being a valued RV Trader enthusiast; simply enter promo code RVTRADER25PLUS at checkout.

    Travel with confidence using Togo RV. See you on the road!

     

     

    *This post contains affiliate link(s). This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

  • The Basic Safety Tools You Should Keep in Your RV

    The Basic Safety Tools You Should Keep in Your RV

     

     

    We all know that RVing is a great way to travel and there are endless benefits to having a home on wheels. From family bonding to enjoying the great outdoors – the RV lifestyle is one of adventure and fun. We also know that the unexpected can happen while out on the road, and it’s important to be prepared. Safety while RVing should be a top priority for every family, and if you keep these basic safety tools on hand, you should be ready if you’re ever caught in a sticky situation.

    Fire Extinguisher

    An RV is essentially a home you can take with you, which means they have more fire-related dangers than an average automobile. Having a fire extinguisher onboard is crucial and will be your first defense should a fire start. Make sure to keep your fire extinguisher in an easy to reach location, and inspect it regularly before traveling to ensure that it’s in good working condition.

    First Aid Kit

    This may seem like a no-brainer, but we couldn’t leave a basic first aid kit off of our list. You can either buy a prepackaged first-aid kit or you can customize your own. Every family is different so before you hit the road, determine what items should be included in your kit to fit your specific needs. Here are a few basic items you can include: BAND-AIDs® (all sizes), scissors, tweezers, latex gloves, thermometer, antibiotic ointment, gauze, cold pack, heat pack, adhesive tape, general medication (pain relief, allergy relief, etc.), antiseptic wipes, ace bandage, aloe vera, flashlight, sunscreen, bug repellent, and hand sanitizer.

    Roadside Emergency Kit

    Being out on the road is just one of the many benefits of RVing, but as any seasoned traveler knows, accidents unfortunately happen. From getting into a slight fender bender to having a flat tire – it’s important to always be ready. Having a roadside emergency kit in your RV can save you time and trouble when you need to pull over. There are tons of kits on the market that include items like flares, flashlights, batteries, jumper cables, and more.

    Tire Pressure Monitoring System

    Tires are the foundation of an RV, so it’s important to keep them in top condition. There are many tire pressure monitoring systems on the market, and these systems are crucial to make sure your RV tires are at their proper pressure. The last thing you want is a tire blowout to occur while driving. A blowout is dangerous and can not only damage your RV, but it has the potential to cause accidents with other vehicles. Avoid stress and gain peace of mind by getting a reliable tire pressure monitoring system.

    Basic Tool Kit

    When you are far from home and a minor mechanical issue happens, what do you do? If you have an RV tool kit onboard you might be able to avoid going to a mechanic or calling a roadside assistance service (though we do recommend being a member of one). We suggest keeping a basic tool kit in your RV including a few basic items such as: a drill, drill bit set, hammer, socket set, wrench set, screwdriver set, pliers, electrical tape, etc.

    SPOT Tracking Device

    As we mentioned earlier, RVing gives many families the opportunity to unplug and simply enjoy the great outdoors. If you are ever in an emergency situation where you do not have cell phone access/service you can use SPOT. This device uses satellite technology to provide location-based messaging and emergency notification technology so you can communicate from remote locations.

    We hope that you continue to stay safe on the road, and have confidence that you’ll be able to tackle a variety of safety issues that may arise with these tools.
  • 10 Ways to Go Green While RVing

    10 Ways to Go Green While RVing

    Is green RVing really possible? With our quick tips, you can be on your way to reducing your carbon footprint while on the road just in time for Earth Day! Here are 10 easy ways to help you conserve energy and save money all while having fun on your next RV road trip. 

    Stay In Tune

    Poor performance leads to less fuel efficiency and more pollution. One of the easiest paths to a greener on-the-road lifestyle and energy conservation is to properly maintain and service your RV.

    Rest in the Shade

    Generators use fuel when you’re running them. Reduce how much fuel you’re using by limiting how often you run your unit’s air conditioner in hot climates. We recommend installing shades and awnings on your RV or parking in campsites that are protected by a tree canopy during the day to keep your RV cool without the high environmental price of fuel usage. 

    Improve Circulation

    By strategically using fans and ventilation, it is possible to get more from RV heating and air conditioning systems. When the weather is cold, use your ceiling fans to keep warm air moving through your RV, rather than letting it heat just one room or rise up and accumulate close to the ceiling where you don’t feel it. On those warmer days when air conditioning is not absolutely necessary, just turn it off, open some windows, and use a fan as a ‘cool’ way to conserve energy and save money on fuel. 

    Recycle on the Road

    Recycling is one of the most fundamental ways to stick to a green lifestyle, so maintain a system in your RV for separating and storing those items that can be recycled. The key to recycling successfully on the road is to offload recycling bins frequently. 

    Eat Fresh & Local

    Buying fresh, local food is a great and delicious way to help the environment while RVing. When you eat locally, you can rest assured that the food you’re eating didn’t have to travel a long distance contributing to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, eating fresh food sourced locally is a great way to connect with the area you’re visiting in your RV.

    Use Green Products

    When you’re shopping for any type of cleaning supplies for your RV, take some extra time to read the label to ensure the items you are purchasing are natural and don’t include toxic chemicals. There are entire brands dedicated to environmentally safe cleaning products, find one you like and bring the products on the road! 

    Change Your Lightbulbs 

    Energy-saving fluorescent bulbs are widely available at chain stores and, although they cost more than conventional bulbs, they last 10 times longer while using 75% less energy. While swapping out your lightbulbs, consider using rechargeable batteries in gadgets like flashlights and automatic timers and dimmers to reduce your overall electrical use.

    Use Reusable Items 

    While single-use and paper products are convenient, they create unnecessary pollution and can be problematic in national parks and other nature sites. Instead of using paper towels, plastic utensils, or paper plates, stock your RV with kitchenware that you can use over and over again. It will save you money in the long run, and help you save the Earth! 

    Add Solar Panels 

    Adding solar panels to your RV can be a great way to save money on fuel and benefit the environment. While they can be costly up-front, if you do a lot of dry camping or boondocking, they could be a great fit for your RV lifestyle. 

    Leave No Trace

    One of the main rules of the RV lifestyle is to leave no trace wherever you travel. Why not take it up a notch and leave your campsite or boondocking location better than you found it? Pick up not only your own trash but if you see any in your vicinity dispose of it properly.

    Green RVing is possible and a great way to honor the places you visit. Are you ready to explore the RV lifestyle for yourself? Check out thousands of models on RVTrader.com today!

  • Spring Break Travel Tips

    Spring Break Travel Tips

     

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

    Before You Go… 

    Research Locations

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

    Check COVID Restrictions

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

    Set a Budget

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

    Determine How You Will Get There

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

    Book Early

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

    Plan Your Itinerary

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

    Packing 

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

    While You’re There… 

    Capture the Moment

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

    Look For Teaching Opportunities

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

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

  • Your RV News Roundup – February 2021

    Your RV News Roundup – February 2021

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

    Keystone Reveals New Line of RVs

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

    Blue Dog RV Grants a Make-A-Wish

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

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

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

    Family of Three Downsize and Travel the Country

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

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

  • 10 Tips for Winter RVing

    10 Tips for Winter RVing

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

    Have the Right Kind of RV

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

    Check the Forecast Before You Head Out

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

    Make Sure Campgrounds Are Open

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

    Have a Reliable Heat Source

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

    Protect Your Plumbing and Holding Tanks

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

    Park in the Sun

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

    Use Drapes, Curtains, and Rugs for Additional Insulation

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

    Check Seals and Weather Stripping

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

    Consider a Skirt

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

    Use Your Oven

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

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

    Find your dream RV on RVTrader.com today!

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

  • Valentine’s Date Night Ideas For RVers

    Valentine’s Date Night Ideas For RVers

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

    Go For a Weekend Getaway

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

    Cook for Each Other

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

    Cozy Up by the Campfire

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

    Pack a Picnic

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

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

    Need an RV to take you there?
    Find your perfect unit on RVTrader.com.
  • Where to Boondock?

    Where to Boondock?

    For many RVers, boondocking is their favorite style of camping. Boondocking refers to a style of free camping without access to utility hookups. Now that we know the boondocking basics, we’re covering where to boondock.

    An RVer can boondock in a wide variety of locations. These include public lands, such as national forests and other federally-protected lands, casino parking lots, the parking lots of many businesses, locations offered through several types of membership clubs, rest stops, and more. Here, we will list and describe in detail all the places available for free boondocking across the United States. You may be surprised at just how many places are available!

    1. Public Lands

    Did you know that the United States has over 610 million acres of publicly-owned land across the country? This includes lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the United States Forest Service (USFS), the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and the National Park Service (NPS). Besides the lands managed by the NPS, most of the other public lands across America are open to campers for boondocking purposes. Rangers in federal land offices sometimes refer to this as dispersed camping. Among those who love to boondock, dispersed camping (camping on public lands) tends to be the most popular.

    Credit: Public Lands Foundation

    There are many benefits to camping on public lands. These include gorgeous views, minimal interactions with others, peace and solitude, access to nature in its purest form, and plenty of wide open spaces. However, free access to these gorgeous places comes with a few rules.

    • First of all, campers must ensure that they cause minimal impact to their campsite by leaving no trace and packing out all trash and waste.
    • In addition, all campers must be sure to camp for a maximum of fourteen days, although this number can vary depending on the location.
    • Finally, campers must respect any burn bans that may be in place, as well as any other conditional rules their camping area may have. When in doubt, call the nearest ranger station to double check on the rules.

     

    Camping on public lands is incredible for all those able to experience it, and it is able to be regulated and enjoyed by everyone when campers adhere to the rules in place.

    2. Business Parking Lots

    There are many businesses that also allow RVers to park overnight for a night or two, free of charge. As a general corporate rule, some of these locations include Walmarts, Home Depots, Cracker Barrels, Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, K-Marts, Targets, Costcos, and many other places. However, while camping is generally permitted at these locations, city ordinances in certain places may prohibit camping. As with each other free camping location, there is a process you should follow to ensure that camping is actually permitted at each individual location.

    • Start by locating the business where you are thinking of staying. Find the contact information and call, asking to speak with a manager.
    • Once you get a hold of someone, confirm whether or not camping is allowed, and ask if there are any specific rules to follow. This could include allowance of generator usage, where to park, if you are allowed to open your slide-outs, and more.
    • If you are unable to get a hold of a manager, it is not recommended that you try to stay overnight, as this could lead to fines or ticketing. However, keep in mind that most Walmarts are allowed, unless signage indicates otherwise.

     

    3. Membership Clubs

    There are a few membership clubs that RVers can join for access to even more overnight camping. Each of these has a yearly fee, but after paying this one-time price, members can access to many unique locations for an entire year.

    Boondockers Welcome is a great program in which hosts allow RVers to stay on their personal properties for free. Often, this may be in someone’s driveway or even in their backyard. A membership will allow members to gain access to the full repertoire of over 2,000 locations, each complete with information such as number of days permitted, what size RVs are allowed, whether or not the location is pet-friendly, and more. Often, this can be a great option for those camping in cities where overnighting in business lots is not permitted. In addition, it is also great for building a network of friends with similar camping interests.

    Harvest Hosts is another unique program that allows those in self-contained RVs to stay overnight for free at over 1,100 business locations across North America. These include locations such as farms, vineyards, breweries, museums, and so much more. The membership costs a low yearly fee, and members are expected to patron their Hosts’ business, but the total amount spent is still significantly less than what one would spend at a campground. In addition, it gives campers tons of personal and interesting experiences that cannot be found in typical campgrounds or parking lots. Once you have joined, the website’s interactive map allows members to view hosts and details about their location before requesting to camp.

    4. Rest stops

    As a last resort, most rest stops along interstates and highways allow free overnight camping. While this may not be ideal, due to safety, noise, and comfort, this can be a very convenient option when traveling quickly from one place to another. Generally, there are few rules at rest stops. Just be sure to look for signage indicating that camping is permitted before setting up for the night. And as always, keep noise to a minimum, and properly dispose of all garbage.

    5. Casinos

    Finally, many casinos across the United States allow visitors to camp overnight in their self-contained RVs, free of charge. Most of these locations are Native American-owned and can be found in the western half of the United States. This camping option is excellent for those who wish to be near a city and save some money on camping fees. Like dispersed camping, casino camping tends to have a few rules.

    • First, campers will need to check in with security and ask where in the parking lot they are allowed to camp. Typically, there is a set area where the casino owners would like RVs to park if they are staying overnight.
    • Next, you will want to check to see if there are certain hours when generator use is permitted. If there are no set hours, you will want to stick to a 9pm-9am schedule for quiet hours, during which time your generator should be off, out of politeness to fellow campers and your host.
    • Then you will need to check and see how many days you are allowed to stay. This can be anywhere from a single night all the way up to two or three weeks, depending on the casino.
    • Finally, any campers enjoying their free overnight accommodations should be sure to patronize the casino with a small purchase of some entertainment or a meal. After all, the camping is permitted because it is profitable for the casino, so if RVers do not spend any money, the casino may begin to rethink whether or not it wants to allow free overnight camping.

     

    If there is no public land and no casino camping available nearby, then you may look to any of the next three options for free campsites.

    Free campsites are available in almost every area an RVer could wish to visit. Even if you only wish to camp for free occasionally, the money saved can allow you to enjoy even more fun while on vacation. Consider any of these location possibilities for an excellent variety of campsites to choose from. Stay tuned for our next post, where we will discuss what tools are most useful for locating and selecting specific boondocking sites.

    Where do you like to boondock? Did we miss any of your favorite places? Feel free to share in the comments below!