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  • The RV Lifestyle – On a Budget

    Grandma should make wiser decisions when traveling…

    How do I know this?

    Well, for starters if she had been in the safety of an RV, she wouldn’t have gotten run over by one of Santa’s pesky reindeers! 

    As we continue to roll through this holiday season, many RV enthusiasts are already taking the right steps to achieving safe passage through the season by looking at new ways to budget for the RV lifestyle.

    Throughout my time working in the RV business, the question of how to better budget one’s money for the RV lifestyle has been a constant from potential customers, peers and more. For many travelers, it’s a tough question. After all, how does one find time to budget for the RV lifestyle? 


    Well thankfully, there is a remedy for you RV budgeting woes and it involves following a few simple money-saving tips. 


    Quit Eating Out So Much!

    Let’s face it. Odds are if you’re a traveler then you definitely enjoy trying new restaurants when you’re out on adventures.  With that said, if you’re planning to create a more budget friendly RV lifestyle, you may want to consider backing off the convenience of eating out in order to save some more of those hard-earned nickels and dimes.

    According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistic 2011 Consumer Expenditure Report, the average American household spends $2,620 per year dining out. That’s a pretty decent chunk of change folks!
    Here’s the thing, you’re RV has a kitchen in it so use it! Most come with everything you need to make a top-notch meal for you and your family.
    Think about it. Not only will you be able to save more money because you’re eating out less, but you’ll also be able to come up with some handy recipes just in time for your first trip in your new toy.


    There’s No Place Like Home… I Mean Your RV

    Sure, there’s nothing better than getting comfortable at a little hotel when out on the open road, but why not take advantage of well, owning that RV!

    Sometimes finding a place to pull over for the night can be a daunting task. Taking advantage of travel-based member groups like AAA or RV parks like KOA can help you save a ton of money.
    Also, there are a number of state and national parks in the country which offer overnight parking for RVs. Not only are these a great way to save some extra money when out on the road, but they also offer easy access to some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery.
    Would you rather wake up looking out of a 15thstory hotel window in some big city or wake up to the sun setting over the Rocky Mountains (which is also far less as expensive)? 


    It’s Time To Talk About the Giant White Elephant in the RV…GASOLINE!

    Ok, so obviously one of the most difficult parts of budgeting for the RV lifestyle is the cost of fuel.

    One of the first and easiest to start saving on fuel is by taking advantage of the right types of vehicles. Ever considered towing a smaller car or even a motorcycle trailer with you on your adventure? What better way to shave a few dollars off the travel budget than having the ability to park it and forget it while still being able to travel around.
    Even better, have you ever considered parking your RV and jumping on a bicycle to get around, at least when it comes to the immediate area? Who wouldn’t want to save some money and get a little healthy exercise in at the same time?


    The Wrap Up

    Perhaps the most challenging part for any traveler when it comes to budgeting for the RV lifestyle is coming to the realization that in order to save money, it actually requires them to adapt to new habits. For many of us, we’re so set in our existing traveling ideals we’ve become unwilling to change.

    But, if you want to save money, then it’s time to acknowledge the luxuries you can survive without! The small things add up – so start working on that budget and Happy Holidays!


    Darrin Michael currently serves as the eCommerce/Marketing Director at Dave Arbogast Buick GMC Vans RVs in Troy, Ohio. In addition, he also teaches Internet Development at Edison Community College.  He’s been featured on a number of other industry related blogs including Woodalls, RV-Pro.com, DealerRefresh.com and more.

     

  • EverGreen Site Features Updated Product Info

    Middlebury, Ind.-based EverGreen Recreational Vehicles LLC recently launched a new website, www.GoEverGreenRV.com, in conjunction with its new product introductions during the Louisville Show.
    According to a press release new features include:
    • Inclusion of Bay Hill, EverGreen’s newest fifth-wheel product and the new Sun Valley travel trailer series, along with photos, floorplans and specifications for both.
    • Up-to-date floorplans, décors, specifications and brochures for all of EverGreen’s existing product lines updated for 2013 including the Ever-Lite, Ascend, i-Go and Element travel trailer lines.
    • Improved navigation to better assist users in finding the exact EverGreen brand and floorplan they are looking for, along with information pertaining to each floorplan’s décor, specifications, amenities and features.
    • Optimization of the site so it is easier to view on mobile devices such as smart phones and tablets.
    • An enhanced dealer locator that will enable consumers to more easily find EverGreen dealers, map their locations, and in some cases view their available EverGreen units on the lot.
    • A calendar on the main page to keep consumers and dealers updated about upcoming shows and other special events where EverGreen products can be seen.
    • A news feed on the main page that allows web surfers to see the latest information and blog entries pertaining to all of EverGreen’s products.
    “There have been so many new developments, new brands and exciting changes here at EverGreen in the last year, we decided to launch a new website that is specifically designed and enhanced to showcase all of our products and keep our dealers and consumers up to date on everything that is going on,” said EverGreen Vice President of Sales and Marketing Doug Lantz. “Our dealers rely on this information to serve their customers and consumers use this information to make the most informed buying decisions about our products, so it was important for us to create this new website to serve both groups and to create a site that will be viewable via newer devices such as second generation tablets and smart phones.”

  • EverGreen’s New Sun Valley Travel Trailer Now on Lots for 2013

    EverGreen Recreational Vehicles, LLC announced the premiere of Sun Valley, their newest travel trailer brand for 2013.
    The Sun Valley travel trailer was designed with the input of RV enthusiasts and dealers to be EverGreen’s most exciting travel trailer to date. Like other EverGreen products, Sun Valley is lightweight, easy-to-tow and utilizes many of the same revolutionary design features that have made EverGreen an industry leader in innovation. The 2013 Sun Valley will debut with many of the most popular floor plan designs and features that dealers and consumers want most.
    The Most Floor Plans of Any EverGreen Brand!

    Model S24RBfeatures a rear dry bath and tub with a mid lounge and kitchen with sofa slide out.
    Model S26FK is Sun Valley’s front kitchen model with the bedroom in the rear and comfortable sofa slide out.
    Model S29RLW is a deep slide model with sofa/dinette slide out, rear lounge chairs, dual entrances, and front queen sleeping area.
    Model S29KIS was built with EverGreen’s popular island kitchen, rear dry bath, deep slide sofa/kitchenette seating area, and kitchen slide out, adding lots of entertainment space.
    Model S28RBK has a fun and versatile outside kitchen, rear bath, and kitchen slide out.
    Model S28RLSfeatures a pair of rear lounge chairs, with a sofa and kitchen slide out facing a dinette slide out, mid dry bath, and queen sleeping area with a separate entrance.
    Model S29RBK is a deep slide model housing a sofa and dinette with a rear dry bath and outside kitchen.
    Model S30BHKmakes plenty of sleeping room available in a bunkhouse configuration with a deep slide for lounge and seating, outside kitchen and plenty of entertaining space.
    Model S29QB has additional sleeping space with rear bunks separated from the kitchen, lounging, and sleeping areas by a mid dry bath.
    Model S29QBK has additional sleeping space with rear bunks separated from the kitchen, lounging, and sleeping areas by a mid dry bath and EverGreen’s popular outside kitchen.
    Model S31REWfeatures lots of floor space due to its dual deep slide outs housing a pair of lounge chairs on one side and a sofa/dinette on the other with a mid dry bath between the living and sleeping areas.
    Model S300BHSLfeatures cube chairs with a flip-up bunk, an additional bunk for guests or children and an outside kitchen.
    Model S311SQB is one of Sun Valley’s spacious deep slide models with a sofa and lounge area, rear bunk, outside kitchen, and dual entrances.
    About Sun Valley Travel Trailers

    Steel I-beam frame construction with vacuum-laminated sidewalls, roof, and floors inside of a tough fiberglass reinforced exterior, and walk-on crowned roof fully laminated with white reflective TPO material add to Sun Valley’s durability.
    Large, dark tinted radius windows with a porch light, exterior speakers, awning, radius entry door, large pass through storage bins and designer graphics are all standard features. The interior is equipped with padded “no crack” vinyl flooring, screwed and glued solid wood cabinetry, plywood drawers with full extension bearing guides, a large kitchen window with blind, and a double door, full-sized refrigerator freezer.
    Sun Valley’s bedroom is centered on a queen bed with an inner spring mattress on most models and under bed storage. The bathroom offers either a full tub or neo-angled shower, skylight over the shower or tub, and a power exhaust fan. A value package is available which bundles several popular features together.
    For more information: www.GoEverGreenRV.com
    EverGreen Recreational Vehicles, LLC 10758 County Road 2, Middlebury, IN 46540 Phone: 574-825-4298 Fax: 574-825-4298

  • EverGreen RV’s New 2013 Bay Hill Fifth-Wheel—Best Value and Most Luxurious in its Class

    EverGreen Recreational Vehicles, LLC has had very positive interest in Bay Hill, its new fifth-wheel product.  EverGreen has five floor plans currently slated for production of the 2013 Bay Hill fifth wheel.
    The All-New Bay Hill Floor Plans

    Model 340RKfeatures home theater seating with a nicely appointed rear kitchen and mid bath separating the entertaining space from the private bedroom.
    Model 385BHfeatures multiple slide outs for the kitchen along with a kitchen island with a stainless steel dishwasher and two bathrooms, topped off by an additional outside kitchen.
    Model 365RL is roomy with lounge and seating space for a large group and a mid kitchen, punctuated by a unique angled hallway that leads to the bathroom and secluded bedroom.
    Model 320RS was created with space for entertaining in mind, placing a kitchen island with a stainless steel dishwasher in the center of multiple slide outs housing a mid kitchen, sofa, lounge chairs, and an dinette with a mid bath and private bedroom quarters.
    Model 295RL is spacious and comfortable with slide outs for lounge chairs, a dinette table, sofa, kitchen and a large mid bath separating the living space and bedroom.
    About Bay Hill—Fully Equipped at an Affordable Price

    Each Bay Hill fifth wheel is built with a metallic fiberglass exterior and painted gel coated fiberglass front cap. Other exterior details include monster-sized pass through storage, an electric awning, aluminum wheels and a six-point auto level up system for easy leveling. The interior of Bay Hill features a big screen television, fireplace with heater, designer glass and comfortable innerspring residential style furniture with optional leather. The kitchen has a stainless steel double door refrigerator freezer, stainless steel microwave and sink, 
    No Slam kitchen drawer guides, Corian® countertops, and plenty of overhead cabinets and doors. The bedroom is based around an 80-inch Queen sized bed with LED reading lights, power equipped night stands, TV jack with LCD bracket, and spa inspired wardrobe doors. The bathroom features a walk-in shower with glass doors, skylight over the shower or tub, recessed vanity light, hand sprayer, and power exhaust fan. Options include a stainless steel dishwasher, 12 cubic foot refrigerator, dual paned windows, a second 13,500 BTU A/C unit, Trailair™ hitch, vacuum, booth dinette, king sized bed, and rolling galley island, among other amenities.
    For more information: www.GoEverGreenRV.com
    EverGreen Recreational Vehicles, LLC 10758 County Road 2, Middlebury, IN 46540 Phone: 574-825-4298 Fax: 574-825-4299

  • EverGreen’s Bay Hill Targets High-End Market

    EverGreen Recreational Vehicles LLC has entered the high-end fifth-wheel segment with the introduction of the Bay Hill series, offering six floorplans with as many as five slideouts. ”We are looking for first-time at fifth-wheel buyers who want a little higher-end coach,” said Dymon Farrer, Bay Hill production manager for the Shipshewana, Ind.-based manufacturer. 

    Indeed, Bay Hill has little touches that aren’t usually seen in fifth-wheels that retail in the $58,000 range, such as mosaic glass chandeliers, standard fireplaces in all but one floorplan and cabinets with black glass inlays. The 385BH offers opposing rear-bedroom slideouts along with slides in the living room, kitchen and front bedroom. 

    Other features on the welded aluminum-and-fiberglass Bay Hill include large pass through storage with slam-latch doors, frameless deep-tinted windows, electric awning, six-point auto leveling system, LED lighting throughout, residential style furniture, and Martha Stuart Corian countertops. Also at the Louisville Show EverGreen showed a new Ascend lightweight 17- to 23-foot travel trailer with MSRPs starting at $18,000 and an affordable Sun Valley travel trailer series with a welded-aluminum frame and a base price beginning at $19,900.

    To read the rest of the article, click here.

  • Top Motorhome Manufacturer Unveils 2 New Diesel Super C Motorhomes

    November 27, 2012 (Elkhart, In.) – Super C Motorhomes are back at Thor Motor Coach, North America’s most chosen motorhome brand, with the introduction of the new 33SW F550 Super C Motorhomes. These new “Heavy Duty” diesel powered Ford F-550 Super Duty class C motorhomes will be available in both the Four Winds and Chateau brands, rounding out two of the most recognized and popular Class C RV brands in the market.

    Sporting a Ford F-550 chassis, the 33SW motorhomes have a GVWR topping out at 19,500-lbs.  Power comes from a fuel sipping PowerStroke™ 6.7L diesel engine flexing a full 300-hp, and hefty 660-lb.ft, of torque.  That powerful combination, along with the Ford 6-speed transmission allows the 33SW to maximize the 10,000-lb. trailer hitch.  The coach comes standard with an electronic brake controller integrated in the dash, so consumers simply get in and go.
    Thor Motor Coach’s HD-MAX™ full color exteriors offer a sizzling, high-end exterior finish.  Every 33SW Super C comes with a long list of standard exterior features which include a 5.5 Onan generator with automatic start, dual 13.5K roof air conditioners, slam latch baggage doors, one-touch Bigfoot leveling jacks and a fully molded one-piece front cap.
    Things get even better inside the motorhome with features which resemble a luxury yacht, instead of a typical class C motorhome.  Residential refrigerator, 30” over the range microwave, Solid surface countertops, solar and privacy window roller shades, and an 1800-watt power inverter make the short list of the motorhome’s game changing features.

    “We are confident these new Super C’s will turn heads with the additional living space created using the Ford F550 super duty chassis.   Features like diesel power, more maneuverability, increased towing capability and better driving comfort  are what our customers tell us is missing from the larger Class C RV market”, remarked Joel Grimm, National Sales Manager for gas motorhomes at Thor Motor Coach.
    The full details the new Thor Motor Coach Super Class C Motorhomes can be found at: http://fourwinds-super-c.com  or http://chateau-super-c.com
    For more information about motorhome manufacturer Thor Motor Coach, call (800) 860-5658, visit http://ThorMotorCoach.com, or write to: Thor Motor Coach, Inc., PO Box 1486, Elkhart, Indiana 46515.
    About Thor Motor Coach
    Thor Motor Coach, Inc is an operating unit of Thor Industries, Inc. (NYSE:THO), manufacturer of various motorhomes and recreational vehicles that are sold throughout the United States, Canada and around the world. Thor Motor Coach’s RV brands include Super C Motorhomes and Class C Motorhomes; Four Winds and Chateau, Mercedes Benz Sprinter Based Diesel Motorhomes; Siesta Sprinter and Citation Sprinter, Class B Plus Motorhomes; Siesta and Citation, Class A Motorhomes Gas; A.C.E., Daybreak, Challenger, Hurricane, Windsport, and Outlaw Toy Haulers, Class A Diesel Motorhomes; Palazzo and Tuscany TAG & XTE.

  • Tuscany Diesel Motorhomes Makes Big Splash with a Little Pusher

    <!–[if supportFields]> DATE @ “MMMM d, yyyy” <![endif]–>November 21, 2012<!–[if supportFields]><![endif]–> (Elkhart, In.)– North America’s most chosen motorhome brand, Thor Motor Coach, announced today the addition of the travel-sized 34ST model to their Tuscany XTE brand of luxury diesel motorhomes.  The new 34ST joins the 36MQ and 40EX as the most compact floor plan to date on the already popular Tuscany line of class A diesel pushers. 
    “We are excited to bring this unit to market. We have heard the customers speak and we are listening.  We have seen major retail market share increases in our larger Tuscany and Tuscany XTE models, but we continue to get requests for that smaller coach, with big time diesel amenities.  The 34ST is the full package!”, replied an excited Adam Gudger, National Sales Manager for Thor Motor Coach diesel motorhomes.
    The 34ST diesel pushers will get up to speed at a rapid pace, powered by the Cummins™ ISB-XT engine rated at 360-hp, and 800-lb.ft. of torque.  Compared to gas engine motorhomes in the 35’ range, the 34ST boasts 75 percent more hill busting torque.  Standard exterior features include an Onan™ QD 8,000-watt diesel generator, Energy Management system, 2000-watt power inverter, and lateral arm patio awnings.  The Freightliner™ chassis has a 55-degree cramp angle on the front steer axle, allowing the 34ST unsurpassed maneuverability and increased stability.

    The new compact 34ST floorplan makes great use of interior space while not sacrificing the amenities expected in the Tuscany XTE line of coaches.  A large U-shaped dinette makes a great place to enjoy a meal, while the opposing Hide-a-bed sofa with air mattress can be converted for additional sleeping when needed.  Modern cooking conveniences include a stainless steel residential refrigerator, stainless 30” over the range convection microwave and timeless Samsung solid surface countertops.

    The all in one bath provides privacy while leaving hallway space to navigate from the living area to bedroom.  The master suite includes a premium Denver Mattress™ sleep system, and room for a stackable washer dryer. 
    The full details on all Tuscany XTE models can be found at: http://TuscanyRV.com
    For more information about Thor Motor Coach, call (800) 860-5658, visit http://ThorMotorCoach.com, or write to: Thor Motor Coach, Inc., PO Box 1486, Elkhart, Indiana 46515.
    About Thor Motor Coach
    Thor Motor Coach, Inc is an operating unit of Thor Industries, Inc. (NYSE:THO), producing various motorized recreational vehicles that are sold throughout the United States and Canada. Thor Motor Coach’s RV brands include Class C Motorhomes; Four Winds and Chateau, Mercedes Benz Sprinter Based Diesel Motorhomes; Siesta Sprinter and Citation Sprinter, Class B Plus Motorhomes; Siesta and Citation, Class A Motorhomes Gas; A.C.E., Daybreak, Challenger, Hurricane, Windsport, and Outlaw Toy Haulers, Class A Diesel Motorhomes; Palazzo and Tuscany TAG & XTE.

  • Thor Motor Coach Unveils All New Outlaw 37MD

    <!–[if supportFields]> DATE @ “MMMM d, yyyy” <![endif]–>November 21, 2012<!–[if supportFields]><![endif]–> (Elkhart, In.)– North America’s top selling motorhome manufacturer, Thor Motor Coach had unleashed a new redesigned and bolder Outlaw toy hauler motorhome with the introduction of the 37LS model earlier this year.  Joining the Outlaw’s posse is the all new 37MD, the new model provides even more storage and sleeping capacity along with the most flexible hauling options in this very popular toy hauling Class A RV.


    The 37MD extends the Outlaw brand as the most flexible motorhome available by adding a second slide room, which is dual-purposed as a second living area or dedicated bedroom.  This functionality is the result of input from consumers looking to own a motorized toy hauler for hauling people and toys, but also want to have a single motorhome that can be converted for full-time camping.
    The 37MD exterior provides massive, side-opening, storage compartments, full body paint packages and separate entries for the living room and garage.  An exterior fueling station can be used to fill-up ATV’s and dirt bikes, while outside entertainment options include garage radio controls, wall mounted marine grade speakers and 32” LCD TV located under the patio awning.
    Inside the coach an array of upgrade appointments await, with Leatherette seating surfaces, solid surface kitchen countertop, 30” over the range convection microwave and easy-clean vinyl flooring throughout the entire coach.  A new optional overhead bunk bed is located above the cockpit for added sleeping flexibility.  The second living room/bedroom has a convertible sofa that makes into a queen sized air bed with a loft area for kids or storage.
    A sliding glass door separates the garage from the front of the coach and includes a powered shade for privacy.  Transform the Outlaw into the hottest hangout in the campground by turning the garage and ramp door into a place for entertaining with the optional ‘Party Deck’. This patio railing system allows a veranda off the rear of the coach, while optional fold-down sofas will accommodate seating for six inside the garage or be converted in beds.

    The full details on all Outlaw brand toy haulers can be found at: http://OutlawRV.com/
    For more information about Thor Motor Coach, call (800) 860-5658, visit http://ThorMotorCoach.com, or write to: Thor Motor Coach, Inc., PO Box 1486, Elkhart, Indiana 46515.
    About Thor Motor Coach
    Thor Motor Coach, Inc is an operating unit of Thor Industries, Inc. (NYSE:THO), producing various motorized recreational vehicles that are sold throughout the United States and Canada. Thor Motor Coach’s RV brands include Class C Motorhomes; Four Winds and Chateau, Mercedes Benz Sprinter Based Diesel Motorhomes; Siesta Sprinter and Citation Sprinter, Class B Plus Motorhomes; Siesta and Citation, Class A Motorhomes Gas; A.C.E., Daybreak, Challenger, Hurricane, Windsport, and Outlaw Toy Haulers, Class A Diesel Motorhomes; Palazzo and Tuscany TAG & XTE.

  • Lance Truck Campers Honored with DSI Quality Circle Award

    Lance Camper is proud that the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) will honor Lance Camper along with 12 other manufacturers with its Quality Circle Award November 26, prior to opening of the National RV Trade Show in Louisville, Kentucky.

    According to the RVDA the honored brands had to receive at least 15 dealer responses and score 80% or above for overall dealer satisfaction in the Association’s 19th Annual Dealer Satisfaction Index (DSI) survey.

    “We’re honored by the continued recognition by our dealers as represented by the DSI Award,” says Jack Cole, President of Lance Campers. “We continually strive to build an exceptional product – constantly challenging to best ourselves. And by incorporating dealer and consumer feedback, we seem to have a successful formula.”

    In consideration of the DSI Award, the RVDA asks dealers to express their level of satisfaction on a number of factors that directly affect a high quality experience for the consumer.

    The 19th Annual DSI survey was conducted between April and July 2012. Four hundred and sixty-one dealers responded to the DSI providing extensive data in the selection of the honorees.

  • Lance Camper Introduces Their New Flagship – The 1172

    When Lance introduces a new model the camping world expects something special. Well, be prepared to be impressed.

    This is no ordinary camper. It’s Lances new flagship double-slide version of luxury in the wilderness.
    But what makes it a Lance? Lance was determined to build a no-compromise double slide while saving as much weight as possible. And that’s … the 1172.

    The new 1172 features giant windows and skylights that bathe the interior making it light and airy. There’s the “Super Slide” dinette opposite the spacious dry. All-new interiors feature warmer woods, beautiful floors, molded counter tops and glazed raised panel doors.

    The big news comes as the rear wall slides out with a sofa incliner for your relaxation. With both slides open the space is cavernous. The 1172 is the definition of the ultimate flagship truck camper. If you are in the market for a full-sized luxury camper – Lance has put together the perfect package.