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Category: Living

  • FMCA Wants You In Wyoming

    FMCA Wants You In Wyoming

    Come mid-July, the deer and antelope that call Wyoming home will share the range with thousands of RVs thundering toward Gillette for FMCA’s 98th International Convention and RV Expo, set for July 18 through 21. This will be FMCA’s second roundup at the fantastic CAM-PLEX Multi-Event Facilities; the association celebrated its 50-year anniversary at the venue in 2013.

    “CAM-PLEX is truly a ‘made-for-FMCA’ facility,” said Doug Uhlenbrock, Director of Events. “It has everything we need to put on a successful convention: plenty of RV parking sites; terrific buildings for seminars, exhibits, and entertainment; an incredible grounds staff; and a welcoming town that bends over backwards to make sure everyone feels at home.”

    The “Wanted In Wyoming” convention has all the makings of a bang-up time for cowpokes who circle their wagons in this northeastern Cowboy State settlement. On Tuesday, July 17, even before the jamboree kicks off, attendees will get to try their luck at card bingo in the Wyoming Center and aspiring superstars can show off their vocal skills during karaoke at the FMCA Town Center.

    The show officially begins on Wednesday, July 18, with morning seminars, followed by the opening of the indoor exhibits and RV displays at 1:00 p.m.

    Starting Thursday, July 19, and continuing through Saturday, July 21, early risers can grab a cup of joe and a doughnut (or two) at the FMCA Town Center while enjoying some fancy music provided by FMCA’s band of vagabond musicians, the Frustrated Maestros. It’s also a great time to meet new people and get the day started with a smile as big as the Wyoming sky.

    Once coffee hour wraps up, a good number of attendees will hit the seminar circuit to learn more about the RVing lifestyle, the mechanics of their RVs, fun things to do when traveling, and much more. With 100-plus sessions scheduled, plenty of educational opportunities will be available, covering just about any RVing interest.

     

    While some folks hit the learning trail, others will saunter over to the RV displays to inspect hundreds of shiny new wagons outfitted with the latest features. Take a tour, look under the hood, or test drive one of the demo coaches on site. Could be you’re looking at your next RV.

    Still other attendees will sidle over to Central Pavilion to visit with the good folks manning booths at this modern-day trading post. If there’s something you need for your RV or to satisfy your wandering lifestyle, chances are you’ll find it inside the exhibit hall.

    Around high noon each day, folks can grab some vittles and a sarsaparilla, kick back, and enjoy a variety of entertainment at the FMCA Town Center. The break also gives attendees time to head back to the RV to walk the dog, drop off their purchases, or hobnob with the RVers hitched next door.

    When the sun begins to sink into the western sky, the stars will come out inside Wyoming Center as four great acts take the main stage. On Wednesday night, Thomas Michael Riley will perform his unique brand of Texas country music. On Thursday, you won’t believe your eyes (and ears) as New Odyssey (three men, 30 instruments) makes more music than a trio should be allowed. Friday, step back in time as Matthew and Gunnar Nelson, known as Nelson in the biz, perform a tribute to their dad with “Ricky Nelson Remembered.” On Saturday, keep your dancing shoes handy as The Flashback Boyz rock the hall with favorites from the 1950s, ’60s, and more.

    Other activities that will catch the fancy of attendees are the Ladies’ Luncheon on Thursday; the Ice Cream Social on Friday; and the Super-Size Book Club on Saturday with Craig Johnson, best-selling author of the popular Walt Longmire mystery series. There’s also sure to be some surprises along the way just to keep folks on their toes.

    If you’re looking for an ace-high RVing experience this summer, Gillette, Wyoming, is the place. There’s still time to sign up, but you better get your wiggle on. To register for the “Wanted In Wyoming” convention, visit FMCA.com or call (800) 543-3622. If you can’t make the full event and want to stop by for a day, $10 day passes will be available at the gate.

  • In Case You Missed It: May RV News

    In Case You Missed It: May RV News

    Keeping you in the know is important to us – so this month, we’ve selected four RV-related stories that we think are too good to miss Take a look at your May industry news below.

    Winnebago ‘Travato’ Offers Volta Energy System – Trying to go off the grid? Winnebago has got you covered with their Volta Energy System, a lithium ion energy storage system that replaces the need for a generator. The system charges in just under 90 minutes with nearly 10,000 watt-hours of capacity – enough to power standard appliances including the main air conditioner for several hours or overnight. It charges while the unit is driving, idling, connected to shore, or through a MPPT solar charger (a 200-watt solar panel comes standard). The 2019 Travato will roll out this summer and we can’t wait. Read More.

    Keystone Hits Industry Milestone – Keystone recently announced they have produced their 150,000 ‘Cougar’ towable, which solidifies it as one of the all-time best selling models. The manufacturer selected Tacoma RV of Fife, Wash., as the recipient of the 150,000 unit (Cougar’s largest single location dealership). We certainly think they have a great reason to celebrate – congrats! Read More.

    Wilson Electronics Intros New Cell Signal Booster – And for those of you who don’t want to go completely off of the grid, Wilson Electronics, a supplier of cellular boosting products, recently announced the launch of Connect RV 65. The new in-vehicle cellular signal booster is designed to provide cellular connectivity in a stationary RV. The device is compatible with all cell phones and wireless carriers and will assist users in call quality, reducing the amount of dead zones and faster download and upload speeds while parked at a campground or anywhere else! Read More.

    In Other Big Winnebago News… – The company announced the launch of an all electric and zero-emissions commercial vehicle platform. The commercial vehicle is based off of a Class A and is suited for urban and semi-urban short-range applications such as: medical clinics, bloodmobiles, mobile classrooms, etc. The vehicle has six batteries and delivers an expected range of 85 to 125 miles on a full charge. We’re excited to see all the good that this new sustainable RV can bring. Read More.

    Out of all our RV story highlights, which one sparked your interest this month? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Eating Healthy on the Road

    Eating Healthy on the Road

    As RVers we are constantly on the go, and a lot of the time, grabbing fast food seems like the easiest option while traveling. But contrary to popular belief, eating healthy while on the road is actually possible and isn’t as hard as you might think! Check out our top tips on how to eat healthy while RVing.

    • Meal prep – Meal prepping is one of the top ways to save time and money in the kitchen – but it’s also a great way to eat healthy. Planning and prepping your meals ahead of time gives you no excuse to choose unhealthy options while on the go. We suggest picking one day a week where you plan out your (healthy) meals and begin prepping. It’s important to keep meals simple since you have limited space to cook in your kitchen on wheels. It’s also important to try to keep any perishable foods in airtight containers to preserve their shelf life. Check out some of these great tips for easy/healthy meal prepping.
    • Keep your RV stocked with healthy snacks – When you’re traveling from point A to point B someone in your RV is bound to get hungry. So, take away the temptation of those gas station treats and rest stop vending machines by having an RV that’s fully stocked with healthy snacks. Protein bars and trail mix are great, filling snacks that can be stored for long periods of time. Having fresh fruit on board is also a great option that requires virtually no prep time. Some other healthy snacks perfect for road trips include: Beef/turkey jerky, dried fruits, peanut butter, oatmeal, popcorn, string cheese, etc.
    • Eat local – One of the many beauties of being RVers is that we have the luxury of traveling to new places and experiencing new things – food included! There’s amazing, healthy food all over the country and we encourage you to check out the local cuisine on your next adventure. A great way to do this is to check out a local farmer’s market. You’ll be able to find the best seasonal, healthy options that all of the locals are eating. To make it even easier, you can check out Local Harvest, a website dedicated to finding you the nearest family farms, farmers markets, and restaurants that all feature local foods.
    We hope these three tips have you thinking about how you’ll choose healthier options on your next trip. Food is the fuel that keeps us going, so it’s crucial to pick healthy options that will give you the energy you need to take on the day. What are some of your tips on eating healthy while on the road?
  • Your April Industry News Recap

    Your April Industry News Recap

    We love to keep you in the know with the lastest news and industry updates. So this month, we’ve selected five stories that you don’t want to miss. Take a look at some of the latest April headlines below.

    The National Park Service Announces Changes – As RVers, we love exploring our country’s incredible national parks, and the National Park Service (NPS) has recently announced a few changes you should be aware of. In an effort to address aging park infrastructure and improve visitor experience, NPS announced they will slightly raise entrance fees in order to conduct the required maintenance to over 400 parks, monuments, and historical/cultural sites. Most seven-day vehicle passes will be increased by $5 and this will be implemented on June 1, 2018. But fear not – more than two-thirds of national parks will still be free to enter! Read More.
    KOA Launches “Get Out There” Adventure Grants – KOA’s new Get Out There grant program was designed to encourage more North Americans to get outside and enjoy an adventure of a lifetime. Get Out There grants are available to all U.S and Canadian citizens and will provide the funds for recipients to go on a dream adventure of their choice. Sounds pretty awesome, right? All you have to do is fill out an application describing your dream adventure and why you deserve the grant and you’ll be in the running. Read More.
    Airstream Launches Fiberglass Line of Travel Trailers – We all know Airstream by their signature aluminum cased RVs and coaches, but the manufacturer has recently unveiled a new line of fiberglass trailers called “Nest”. The line will make its way to Airstream dealers later this month and will have a compact design that’s so light, you don’t need an SUV to tow it. The trailer manages to perfectly fit a two-burner stove, a microwave, and a wet bath. There are two available floor plans, one including a dinette that converts into a bed, and another with a permanent bed. We can’t wait to see these trailers in action! Read More.
    BundutecUSA Debuts Pop-Up Truck Camper – BundutecUSA recently announced they will be adding to their truck camper line with the release of a new self-contained pop-up for half-ton trucks called “Wild”. The new self-contained truck camper will allow longer trips in the backcountry without having to go into town for service. Wild has an updated floor plan for those looking to enhance their camping set up. Read More.
    Camping is on the Rise According to Newly Released Report – According to the 2018 North American Camping Report (sponsored by KOA), the total number of camping households in the U.S is nearing 77 million, which is an increase of six million since 2014. The report shows that RVers spent the most nights camping in 2017 and that more than one-third of RVers are now millennials. The report shares interesting and exciting numbers as we see more people joining the camping and adventure lifestyle. Read More.
    Are there any RV-related stories that have sparked your interest this month? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
  • Tech Tip: Spring RV Exterior Prep

    Tech Tip: Spring RV Exterior Prep

    Are you itching to hit the road this spring? March is when many RVers dewinterize their RV, prepping it for the travel season. It’s important to not overlook your RV’s exterior. Here are a few reminders on behalf of FMCA and Gary Bunzer, the “RV Doctor.”

    With frigid winter temperatures, chances are you haven’t been venturing outside over the past several months to take a close look at your RV. Now is the time to conduct a thorough inspection before you hit the road. A clean RV will more clearly reveal potential problems than a dirty one. So, unless you used a heavy-duty RV cover during the winter, a detailed washing of the RV is necessary. Begin by removing the protective boxes used to cover the plastic roof vents. Also, remove any tape or foil you applied over exhaust vents, such as at the furnace assembly.

    After the coach exterior has been cleaned, begin airing out the unit. Remove the insulating foam inserts that were placed in the windows and roof vents and fully open each window and roof vent. While you are at each window, double-check the weather stripping and the exterior weep holes, ensuring they are still in good shape. If necessary, lubricate the slider tracks on any windows or screens that open.

    Perform a complete and detailed inspection of all the roof components, seams, and edges. Now is the time to seal any areas that need attention. Inspect the roof air conditioners for damage incurred during the winter months. Carefully straighten any bent or damaged fins that may be exposed on the condenser coil. Once you get inside the RV, clean or replace the return air filters.

    Inspect and operate all compartment bay doors, access doors, access panels, etc. Check the sealant around every window, as well as all components attached to the exterior sides of the RV. Lubricate all mechanical latches and keyed locks. Use a dry lubricant, such as Boeshield T-9. Many RVers use a product like WD-40 to lubricate latches and locks. Products like this should not be considered a lubricant; truly, they are water displacement products that prohibit rust and corrosion.

    Operate and lubricate the moving components of all the manually operated awnings. Be sure to consult your RV owner’s manual; awning manufacturer recommendations can vary widely. Use a mild detergent to remove any mold or mildew that may have developed on the awning material since last fall.

    Don’t forget to check under the RV and look for anything out of the ordinary, such as darkened areas on the ground that may indicate a leak. Inspect the areas that you made repairs to during the winterizing procedure last fall. You’ll want to make sure those repairs can withstand another season of travel.

    Lastly, inspect and lubricate all of your RV’s slide-out mechanisms. Again, be sure to use only a dry lubricant on these mechanisms.

    These exterior maintenance steps are a necessary part of readying your RV for the season. Inspecting the RV’s exterior is a step many RVers overlook, but it is an important part of the dewinterization process that should not be forgotten. Take the time now to help prevent potential problems down the road. Safe travels this spring!

    FMCA RV Club brings you this monthly tech tip to Enhance Your RV Lifestyle. FMCA delivers RV know-how to its members. Learn more at FMCA.com.

    This information is for educational purposes. FMCA shall not be responsible nor retain liability for RVer’s use of the provided information. Prior to making any RV service decision, you are advised to consult with a RV professional.

  • How to Avoid Breaking the Bank on the Road

    How to Avoid Breaking the Bank on the Road

    Some folks have the misconception that affordable RVing isn’t a real possibility – but we are here to prove them wrong! There are tons of simple ways to cut costs while out on the road (just like at home). Check out our 5 tips for RVing on the cheap:

    Create a budget – The last thing you want to do while adventuring is plan a budget – but planning ahead can save you some serious cash in the long run. Before creating your RV travel budget, you should consider what you currently spend at home and how those costs might translate while on the road. It’s important to realize that everyone’s needs are different, therefore everyone’s budget is going to look a little different. Once you have a solid budget in place, it’s also a great idea to have some funds tucked away for any maintenance issues or unexpected expenses that might (and often do) pop up while traveling.
    Save on gas – Gas is one big expense that can’t be avoided while RVing – but we’ve found a solution or two to help minimize that cost. First and foremost, it’s crucial to make sure your RV is tuned up and in top running condition to help maximize fuel efficiency. Once you’re out on the road, there are many fuel related apps that can help save you money at the pump. GasBuddy is a popular app that can help you find the least expensive gas along your route – and when filling up an RV, every penny saved helps! It’s also a good idea to consider different types of gas cards that might work for you – we all love a great discount!
     
    Get your chef on – Food is another major expense when traveling, but meal planning and prepping can be a huge cost saver. Take advantage of your kitchen on wheels and minimize eating out on the road. 9 times out of 10, cooking in your mobile kitchen will be more affordable than eating at a restaurant (no tips required)! If you do want to try the local cuisine during your trip, we suggest doing some preliminary research to see if certain restaurants have any deals or specials available – check to see if kids eat free on Tuesday’s or if Groupon has a deal.
     
    Take advantage of free activities – Before spending money on fancy excursions, why not see if there are any free entertainment options along your route or at your destination? The U.S. is filled with so many amazing (FREE) parks, museums, beaches and more. Bank of America offers members who present a debit card and a picture ID on the first full weekend of every month one free general admission to select museums. Purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass is also a great option for people who love exploring our nation’s national parks. For just an $80 annual fee, the pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 Federal Recreation sites across the U.S.
     
    Consider going off the grid – If you think about it, it’s a no-brainer that RVing saves huge costs on lodging compared to hotel stays. But, it’s still important to consider the cost of where you’re parking your RV every night. Some campgrounds charge upwards of $30-50 per night, so if you’re looking to save a buck try free camping, also known as boondocking. If you’re not familiar with boondocking, it’s essentially camping without any hookups on public land (usually far out in nature, in someone’s driveway, or even in a store parking lot). If you enjoy going “off the grid” or a more primitive camping experience – boondocking might be a great money saving option for you! Check out Boondockers Welcome to find your perfect boondocking location. They are essentially the AirBnB of boondocking and our readers get $5 off the Guest Privileges Subscription using the code RVTRADER5OFF.
    We hope these tips have helped you realize that the RV life doesn’t have to be expensive. If you’re willing to make a few budget-friendly changes, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars while out on the road. So, stop worrying about breaking the bank and get out there!
  • Crazy Creative RV & Camping Hacks

    Crazy Creative RV & Camping Hacks

    There’s nothing we love more than a good hack. Usually, they are so simple, but so smart that they make us jealous we didn’t think of them first. But – let me tell you – the list of hacks we’ve compiled below has us green with envy – these truly are the best of the best.

    Doritos make the best fire starters

    As surprising as it may sound – there really isn’t a better fire starter out there than a good old bag of Doritos – and the best part? There’s literally nothing to it! Pick up your favorite – or maybe least favorite – bag at the grocery store, light one corner on fire, and watch it burn. But there’s a catch – it’s actually necessary to get the Doritos brand. Apparently it has something to do with their fat content. This is one of our favorites – but definitely slightly concerning if you’re a Doritos lover because once you see how long these burn, you might lose your appetite.

    Make a zipline for your dog

    We, like many RVers, are big time dog people – so we’re all about anything we can do to make our pup’s trip more comfortable. And making them a zipline, instead of tying them out, gives them way more freedom to enjoy their interesting, new surroundings. And, like the Doritos, this is another super easy trick. You just need a piece of rope and some carabiners to attach their leashes to it. From there – find some trees a decent distance apart to tie the rope to and hitch Fido on up. He’ll be much happier being able to wander back and forth freely – but you’ll still have peace of mind knowing he’s not going to take off on you.

    Sage bundles repel mosquitos

    We hate mosquitos. They are the fastest way we can think of to drive even the most tolerant RVer back inside. So this hack is definitely worth a try. This particular article says that you can also throw some lavender and mint in there – but the majority of reading we did specifically called out the sage – so if you add nothing else, make sure to have that. You can hang these outside of your camper or put them in your fire – either way, they seem like an essential way to keep the ultimate pest away.

    Turn an acorn cap into a whistle

    This is a great hack – and this link shows you exactly how to do it, step by step. Thankfully, there are plenty of acorns to practice on out in the woods – so even if it takes you a few tries to get it right, this is sure to come in handy – and hopefully, you will only need to use this for fun.

    Ok – so tell us the truth. Had you heard of these before? We hope there were at least a few that surprised you and will make their way into your bag of tricks as you head out on your next great adventure.

  • 5 Totally Unexpected Benefits of RVing

    5 Totally Unexpected Benefits of RVing


    By Kimberly Travaglino 
    Fulltime Families Co-Founder

    You’ve seen the brochures of RVs parked along the banks of picturesque lakes, and wide smiling faces sticky with fire roasted s’mores. You probably know that RVing is a great way to explore national treasures while still enjoying all the comforts of home. See America mile-by-mile by day and sleep in your own bed each night! Stock up the fridge before you leave and you’ll have all your favorite nibbles wherever you roam.

    You’re probably already familiar with these great benefits of RVing, so we asked 5 families who are “RVing experts” exactly how RVing has benefited their families in unexpected ways…benefits that might be missed during a walk through a dealership.

    A note about these experts: they are all part of an organization called Fulltime Families, dedicated to young, working, full-time RVers. These experts have sold their homes and hit the road in search of a stronger bond with their children, a slower lifestyle… and, ultimately, the adventure of a lifetime.

    Unexpected Benefit #1: Less is more!

    Let’s face it, whether you’re heading out for the weekend, or launching on a summer-long cross country trip, there’s only so much stuff you can bring along in your limited space. Somewhere in the midst of enjoying an evening campfire or an early morning pancake breakfast, you realize you actually have everything you truly need in your RV. You may start questioning why you even have all that “extra” stuff back home!

    Jessica Jeffrey reminds us, “Having less stuff and less to take care of means I get to spend more quality time with my husband and kids.”

    Unexpected Benefit #2: Learning alongside your kids truly is the best way to learn.

    Summer vacation usually means that education is put on hold, but when you go RVing as a family, learning opportunities abound around every corner. How can you not talk Civil War history while picnicking at Gettysburg? How can you not discuss the wonders of creation while unearthing anemones in the tide pools along the Pacific? How can you resist pointing out the constellations while your eyes are raised to the heavens on those incomparably beautiful evenings?

    Kimberly Travaglino, co-host of Roadschool Moms, a weekly podcast for homeschoolers on the road, remind us:

    “You only need to think back to your own childhood to know the best lessons can be taught in pajamas, under a starry sky”.

    Unexpected Benefit #3: Leave your stress behind.


    Did you know there’s no room for anxiety in a hammock? How about that a campfire can melt your worries away? RVing is the antidote to the “busy” so many of us find ourselves stuck in. Instead of spending your weekend at your local home improvement store, drive your RV to your local soul improvement area (i.e., your favorite campground)and spend some time unwinding.

    “Simplifying our life and living a simple life (TV’s have been replaced with board games, puzzles, music at meals, etc) as a family created a noticeable and surprising peace and calm for all of us,” says Eric Benson of RoamingWell.com.

    Unexpected Benefit #4: Have you tried to cook in a hotel room?

    Seriously – have you tried to fit a gallon of milk in that tiny fridge? When you RV, not only do you bring along all the comforts of home, but you get to bring your favorite foods, too. With a refrigerator, microwave, and oven in your RV galley, you can make your family’s favorite meals on-the-go. On a special diet? RVing makes it easy to stick to the foods that fuel your fun! Wanna keep it simple? The @JamesGang suggests: “Why not cook some of your meals over a campfire? You’ll be making cherished memories as dinner becomes an adventure of it’s own.”

    Unexpected Benefit #5: Three cheers for new friends!

    If you’ve never gone RVing, then you may know the most important, most vital and most priceless unexpected benefit you’ll likely encounter are new friends! Remember that 1950s community your grandparents always tell stories about? Well, here’s a secret: it’s alive and well, recaptured in campgrounds across America. You’ll find lots of friendly folks enjoying the simple life as you stroll around the campground. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to random campfires or if your children strike up friendships at the playground. It’s common for campers to connect and make plans for future RVing adventures down the road!

    So, there you have it – the top 5 most unexpected benefits of RVing.

    We hope you find many more unexpected benefits as you and your family launch your own RV adventures!

  • RV Safety Resources You Need to Know About

    RV Safety Resources You Need to Know About

    Isn’t it interesting that you need a specific license to drive a bus and certain kinds of trucks, but you can drive RVs right off the lot of the dealership? Isn’t it curious that the biggest RV fires can be caused by the improper maintenance of the tiniest wire?

    RV emergency preparedness and overall safety can be a little overwhelming and downright confusing at times. But with the proper resources, it is possible for you to feel like you have it all together… After all, the more prepared you are for incidents before they occur and the more trained you are to deal with potential issues, the less likely you are to be sidelined by mishaps on your vacation.

    Check out this list of some of our top-ranked resources, and your friends and family will call you the RV safety guru in no time.

     

    Escapees RV Club

    Image: TripSavvy

    Full access to safety and education resources, including weight and load management, driving tips, towing safety, tire and accessory resources, and more. They also provide updates on recent RV model recalls, and give you access to a collection of valuable safety websites.

     

    Image: FEMA Life Safety 

    It’s been said that the hardest part about operating a fire extinguisher, for many people, is knowing how to maneuver it the first time you use it. But did you know there are 8 different types of extinguishers, all with specific, targeted purposes and functions? Don’t be left wondering if you bought the right one… you don’t want to find out when it’s too late. Use this guide to choose the right one, or even buy more than one to further prepare yourself for worst case scenarios before they appear.

     

    Good Sam RV Roadside Assistance

    Image: Gold Dust West 

    There’s a reason why so many RVers (and automobile drivers in general) use Good Sam’s services. Their Roadside Assistance program is ranked #1 on TopConsumerReviews.com, and the way they combine affordability with a thorough provision of resources is honestly incomparable. With towing and tire services, family and vehicle coverage, and on-staff techs available for dispatch, they’ve got everything you need to ensure you’re always taken care of during an emergency. And you won’t believe the price until you see it… talk about a great deal. Find out more about this top-ranked program now.

     

    DIY RV’s RV Technician Finder

    Image: DIY RV 

     

    Trouble figuring out where to look for the best technician for your RV? No problem. In this handy guide, DIY RV walks you through the best way to find a trusted and successful technician, no matter where in the country you are or what kind of issue you’re having.

     

    Roadtrip America’s RV Fire Safety Questionnaire

    In this insightful article, you’ll find a list of some of the top questions to ask yourself if you really want to know whether your RV is truly ‘fire safe’ while on the road. They also provide you with an interesting guide to the most common causes of fires for different types of RVs – some of which may be surprising.

     

    Motorhome Magazine’s Open Roads Forum

    There will come a point in time where, just like with everything else in life, you will have a question that websites and resources just don’t seem to have the answer for. Why not ask the larger community of RVers instead? On Motorhome Mag’s Open Roads forum, you can ask any question you’d like, broken out into tons of different categories. You’ll get honest answers from a caring and thoughtful community of RV owners, and will likely get the answers you need in no time.

     

    Recreation Vehicle Safety and Education Federation

     

    Image: Larry and Lu’s Travels 

    The purpose of RVSEF is to provide the RV community with professional advice and training resources so that RVers can enjoy their experience to the fullest. The group is endorsed by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), with emphasis on “its unbiased focus solely on safety advocacy.” Countless resources can be found on the RVSEF website, but a few of our favorites are their printable list of emergency numbers, Driving Safety program (available both online and at some rallies), and their RV Weight and Tire Glossary.

     

    RV Education 101 – RV University

     

    If you’re looking for the full package when it comes to RV safety training and preparation, look no further than RV Education 101. Just as their name claims, they are all about one thing: teaching RVers like you exactly what you need to know before you hit the road. The big winner here: they provide a full program called “RV University,” where educational videos, books, and more will give you all the information you’d ever need to RV safely. One of our top picks when it comes to their resources would be the “Learning RVs the Easy Way” program, which comes in both eBook and DVD format. It’s simple, to-the-point, and will still give you all the info you need to become a pro RVer in no time.

  • 5 Reasons Every RV Family Needs an FMCA Membership

    5 Reasons Every RV Family Needs an FMCA Membership

    Countless readers have shared with us exactly why they love being a part of certain RV membership groups – and Family Motor Coach Association memberships were one of the most frequently recommended! With such an awesome resource at hand for family RV travelers, we’ve rounded up a list of the top 5 reasons why you should join FMCA today.

    1. Make tons of friends and join a welcoming, vibrant RV community.

    The FMCA is all about catering to RV families, and the members of this organization are just that – one big family! Make more friends at numerous campgrounds, receive assistance from fellow members as part of the ‘Stoppin’ Spots’ program, and spot fellow FMCA members on the road with the custom membership license plates provided. There are even countless meet-and-greets held across the country every year, where you can bond with other members, and some where you can tour new RV models, learn about new updates in the industry and shop the best of travel-essential items, all on-site. Plus, don’t forget to attend their much-anticipated 97th International Convention and RV Expo in Perry, Georgia, March 15 through 18, 2018, and the 98th International Convention and RV Expo in Gillette, Wyoming, July 18 through 21, 2018.

    2. Save tons of money.

    With FMCA, the options are practically endless when it comes to savings programs — and not just on RV maintenance! Just a few of FMCA’s discount programs include, but are not limited to:
    • Tire Savings Program
    • Discounts at numerous campgrounds
    • Passport America
    • Staples
    • Office Depot/OfficeMax
    • Blue Beacon Truck Washes
    • Costco Wholesale
    • Car Rentals
    • UPS Shipping
    • Sam’s Club
    • Free classified ads
    • Recruitment rewards for signing up new members
    • DakotaPost mail forwarding discounts
    • Unbeatable insurance rates
    • Windshield replacement program

    3. Travel with peace of mind knowing you’re automatically covered by FMCAssist Medical Emergency and Travel Assistance. 

    As a complimentary emergency medical evacuation and repatriation program, there are no special fees or signups required for this potentially life-saving service. Coverage is available 100+ miles from your home, and includes return of not only your RV, but also your dependents, pets, and more. The best part? Even if you’re not RVing at the time of an emergency, you’re covered – travel situations via car, plane, ship, or motorcycle are all included.

    4. Roadside problems = no problem for FMCA members.

    For just a $109 a year, American and Canadian FMCA members can receive roadside assistance including towing, jump starts, tire changes, lockout assistance, and vehicle fluid delivery. Mobile mechanics are also available, along with numerous other services.

    5. Complimentary Subscription to Family Motor Coaching Magazine

    FMCA members get free, full access to this go-to motorhome lifestyle magazine, and are able to receive both print and digital editions every month. The resource includes tons of valuable articles on RVing, including maintenance and how-to guides, travel features, industry news, classifieds, and even a calendar of upcoming FMCA rallies throughout the year.

    And these aren’t the only benefits and perks to joining FMCA, either! With so many positives, what’s stopping you from joining? Click here to join the FMCA family and save with a special RV Trader discount code!

    Are you an FMCA member already? What’s your favorite part about being a part of the community? Comment and let us know!