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  • Amusement Parks with Nearby RV Parks to Visit This Summer

    Amusement Parks with Nearby RV Parks to Visit This Summer

    Imagine this: You wake up in your cozy RV, just minutes away from the rush of adrenaline-pumping roller coasters and splash-tastic water rides. No long drives. No pricey hotels. Just adventure at your doorstep. That’s the magic of pairing RV travel with amusement park thrills. Staying at an RV park near an amusement park offers convenience, cost savings, and a front-row seat to summer fun. Whether you’re a family looking for a budget-friendly getaway, a couple chasing nostalgia, or a group of thrill-seekers ready for nonstop excitement, this little guide is your ticket to the best amusement parks with nearby RV accommodations.

    Ready to plan the ultimate roller-coaster road trip with RV Trader? Buckle up! This summer’s adventure starts now.

     

    8 Amusement Parks with RV Campsites for Close By

    Walt Disney World Resort – Orlando, Florida

    Walt Disney World is the ultimate theme park destination. It offers four major parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom — along with two water parks, Disney Springs, and endless entertainment. Families travel worldwide to experience the magic, from iconic attractions like Space Mountain and Cinderella’s Castle to immersive lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

    The resort is massive. So, staying on Disney property makes a huge difference in convenience. For RV travelers, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is the best way to stay close to the action while enjoying a scenic, relaxing retreat between park visits.

    Fort Wilderness offers spacious RV sites with full hookups and premium amenities. There also  and family-friendly activities, such as horseback riding, archery, and nightly campfires with Disney character meet-and-greets. Guests here enjoy exclusive perks like early park entry, complimentary transportation to Disney parks, and access to pools, restaurants, and recreational areas. During the summer, visitors can take advantage of extended park hours, special nighttime shows, and EPCOT’s International Food & Wine Festival. Fort Wilderness seamlessly blends the comforts of RV camping with the magic of Disney. All this makes it one of the best amusement park stays for families.

     

    Cedar Point – Sandusky, Ohio

    Cedar Point, known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” is a thrill-seeker’s paradise. It has 17 record-breaking coasters, a sprawling water park, and live entertainment. The park sits on the shores of Lake Erie, offering stunning waterfront views alongside heart-pounding rides. Visitors can take on adrenaline-pumping attractions like Steel Vengeance, Maverick, and Millennium Force. Or they can cool off at Cedar Point Shores Waterpark. Because Cedar Point is a multiday experience, staying on-site makes it easier to maximize park time without commuting. For RVers, Lighthouse Point Campground provides a scenic and convenient place to stay. (The area is so popular, it even inspired a NoiRV thriller novel.)

    Lighthouse Point Campground is located right next to the park. The campground offers full-hookup RV sites, lakefront views, and a peaceful atmosphere after a day of excitement. Guests at the campground receive early park entry, making it easier to hit the most popular rides before the crowds arrive. Summer at Cedar Point includes live music, fireworks, and exclusive nighttime events. It all adds up to make it one of the most exciting places to visit during the season. Staying in an RV park near the park allows visitors to fully enjoy all the entertainment without the hassle of traveling back and forth. 

     

    Universal Studios Hollywood – Los Angeles, California

    Universal Studios Hollywood brings the magic of movies to life. There are thrilling attractions, immersive lands, and behind-the-scenes experiences. Visitors can explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. They can take on high-speed thrills in the Jurassic World ride. Or they can even step into the world of Super Nintendo. Because the park is in Los Angeles, staying nearby is essential for avoiding the notorious traffic. While there is no on-site RV campground, several excellent RV parks are within a reasonable distance, making it easy to visit the park while enjoying the flexibility of RV camping.

    Hollywood RV Park is one of the best choices for RV travelers. This location offers a quiet retreat close to Universal Studios. Another great option is Walnut RV Park. This well-maintained, centrally-located campground has full hookups. Since Los Angeles is a sprawling city, planning for traffic and parking is essential. Some RV parks offer convenient public transit options to the park. Universal Studios Hollywood is particularly exciting in the summer, with extended park hours, live entertainment, and special nighttime events. Visiting amusement parks like this, with a nearby RV park, simply allows you to enjoy a stress-free experience while exploring one of California’s top attractions.

     

    Busch Gardens Williamsburg – Williamsburg, Virginia

    Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a European-inspired theme park featuring thrilling roller coasters, beautiful landscaping, and family-friendly attractions. Known for its immersive theming, the park transports visitors to villages styled after England, France, Germany, and Italy. Rides like Alpengeist, Griffon, and Verbolten offer high-speed thrills, while shows and animal encounters entertain all ages. Beyond the park, Williamsburg is rich in history, with nearby Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown offering additional attractions.

    Williamsburg Campground is an excellent choice for RV travelers, offering full-hookup sites, a pool, and a short drive to Busch Gardens. Other nearby campgrounds provide great alternatives with easy access to the park and historical sites. Summer is an exciting time at Busch Gardens, with live concerts, extended hours, and special nighttime experiences. Staying at an RV park near the park allows visitors to enjoy the thrill of the rides and the beauty of the surrounding area without the stress of long drives.

     

    Dollywood – Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

    Dollywood, nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, is a one-of-a-kind theme park. It  blends thrilling rides, live entertainment, and Southern charm. Visitors can experience high-speed roller coasters like Lightning Rod, enjoy traditional Appalachian music, and explore Dolly Parton-inspired attractions throughout the park. Beyond the theme park, Dollywood’s Splash Country water park offers a refreshing escape during the hot summer. The surrounding town of Pigeon Forge is also packed with attractions. From dinner theaters to scenic mountain trails, all these things make it an excellent vacation destination for all types of travelers.

    For RVers, Camp Riverslanding and the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Holiday offer prime locations with full-hookup sites and top-tier amenities. Camp Riverslanding is especially convenient since it provides a trolley service to Dollywood, eliminating the need for parking at the park. These campgrounds also offer pools, playgrounds, and recreational activities, making them ideal for families. Summer visitors can enjoy Dollywood’s annual Summer Celebration, which features extended park hours, nighttime drone shows, and seasonal entertainment. Staying at a nearby RV park allows visitors to relax in a peaceful setting after a fun-filled day there.

     

    Hersheypark – Hershey, Pennsylvania

    Hersheypark is a paradise for thrill-seekers and chocolate lovers. This special place features an impressive lineup of roller coasters, water attractions, and interactive chocolate-themed experiences. Created as a leisure park for Hershey factory employees, the park has grown into a world-class amusement destination. Guests can ride towering coasters like Candymonium and Storm Runner. They can cool off at The Boardwalk water park and indulge in sweet treats at Hershey’s Chocolate World. Hersheypark is an ideal summer vacation spot with a blend of high-energy attractions and family-friendly entertainment.

    RV travelers can stay just minutes from the park at the Hersheypark Camping Resort. It offers both full and partial hookup sites. Campers receive preferred pricing on park admission and complimentary shuttle service to the park. Both make it a particularly convenient option for visitors. Hershey Road Campground provides additional RV-friendly accommodations in a scenic setting for those looking for alternative lodging. Summer events at Hersheypark include special nighttime shows and limited-time chocolate-themed experiences. All of which makes it an exciting time to visit. Staying at a nearby RV campground ensures easy access to the park while allowing visitors to unwind in a relaxed environment after a day of fun.

     

    Lake Compounce – Bristol, Connecticut

    Lake Compounce holds the title of North America’s oldest continuously operating amusement park, blending historic charm with modern thrills. This New England favorite offers a variety of attractions, including the world-renowned Boulder Dash wooden roller coaster, a massive water park, and classic rides like the Wildcat coaster. The park’s lakeside location provides a beautiful backdrop, and visitors can enjoy everything from high-speed rides to relaxing paddleboat adventures. Its smaller size than other major theme parks makes it an excellent choice for families looking for a more manageable, laid-back experience.

    For RVers, the Lake Compounce Campground offers an unbeatable location just steps from the park entrance. It provides a comfortable base for visitors with full hookups, and family-friendly amenities like a basketball court, volleyball court, and modern shower facilities. In addition to giving you great access to one of the great American amusement parks, campers also receive discounted admission to the park, making it a cost-effective lodging choice for RV travelers. The park hosts seasonal events throughout the summer, including concerts and themed celebrations. Staying at the on-site campground allows guests to easily take breaks during the day and make the most of their visit without having to commute.

     

    Silverwood Theme Park – Athol, Idaho

    Silverwood Theme Park is the largest amusement park in the Pacific Northwest, featuring a mix of high-speed roller coasters, a massive water park, and unique themed attractions. Located in northern Idaho, Silverwood offers an experience that combines big thrills with the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Guests can enjoy heart-racing coasters like Tremors and Aftershock, then head to Boulder Beach Water Park to cool off. The park’s relaxed atmosphere and smaller crowds make it a great destination for families and those looking for an alternative to the major theme parks.

    RV travelers can stay directly across the street from the park at Silverwood RV Park, which offers full-hookup sites and easy underground tunnel access to the main entrance. Campers at Silverwood RV Park receive discounted theme park admission, making it an even more affordable choice for a summer getaway. With special summer events, late-night ride experiences, and unique entertainment offerings, Silverwood provides a well-rounded amusement park experience with the convenience of staying nearby in an RV.

     

    Pair Summer Amusement Parks with Pure RV Joy

    For those looking to upgrade their RV or find the perfect model for an adventure-filled summer, RV Trader offers a wide selection of new and used RVs to fit any travel style. Planning early and choosing the right amusement park destination with an RV park you’ll stay at during it can make all the difference in creating a stress-free, excitement-filled vacation for you and your family. If you’re ready to hit the road and experience the best amusement parks this summer, start planning now for one of these amusement park trips filled with RV memories that will last a lifetime.

  • The Kids Are Gone … and So Are We! RVs for Empty Nesters

    The Kids Are Gone … and So Are We! RVs for Empty Nesters

    Spring is coming and with it all those graduations. It’s a time when lots of nests get empty. But instead of getting all teary-bleary-eyed, you could distract yourself with a more joyful question. What are the best RVs for empty nesters looking to get away?

    We’re going to look at a few ideas for this, but first, think about where you’re going. Every RVer has a priority in how and where they camp. Some RVers want to get away from it all and be far off the grid. Some are looking to find an RV resort with plenty of amenities. There are those who might want to travel for specific destinations or adventures such as visiting all the National Parks or chasing hobbies or interests. And some people want to spend time with family or friends who have ended-up in specific places across this great land. 

    All of this matter when shopping RVs for empty nesters. So, before we get to those glorious RV models, let’s briefly talk about this new chapter you’re embarking on — and your new needs.

     

    Prioritizing Your New Priorities

    Imagine the Destination

    Part of the decision making process will inevitably be to consider where you’re going to travel. For example, we do a lot of driveway hopping where we stay with friends and relatives whom we haven’t seen in a while. Therefore, we prioritized an RV that would comfortably fit in a normal driveway. 

    If you’re thinking of visiting all the national parks, you might also look into the maximum size of RV that most parks can accommodate. But if you’re seasonal camping and spending long times in resorts, most of those can accommodate the largest of RVs. (And some are motorhome-exclusive.) 

     

    Consider the Model’s Build

    A big thing to consider is how the RV is built. I always recommend starting at the road and working your way up. That definitely applies when perusing RVs for empty nesters. The caliber of suspension and the way the RV is built is going to make a big difference in your overall experience. I know plenty of people who have had to spend many thousands of dollars on upgraded suspensions, braking systems, and tires after they realized that what came with their RV was not optimal. Give yourself an easier start.

     

    Let Your Lifestyle Guide You

    Naturally, you need consider your own lifestyle. And it should be more actual than aspirational. For example, if you tend to go out to eat a lot, you likely will follow that pattern in an RV. There’s a lot to be said for enjoying the dining delights across this vast land. If you’re someone who loves to cook, then the RV’s kitchen may be a priority, especially if you have dietary preferences or demands. 

    I know people who love to entertain. You might be surprised that you can collect plenty of friends whom you run into on your travels and that enjoying their company could well become an integral part of your adventures. There are definitely RVs for empty nesters that are well-suited to entertaining. My wife loves playing games. So, an RV where people can gather when the weather gets lousy was a factor in our own recent decision. 

     

    Pull It All Together

    What I’ve done with this list is put together some RVs I’ve written about recently that I think would be great couples’ campers and RVs for empty nesters. These models can serve a variety of people well. These are also rigs that I like from a quality standpoint. (Each of these lists are in alphabetical order.)

     

    Five Tantalizing Travel Trailers

    The biggest portion of the RV market is travel trailers. So, I started here with some choices that have stood out to me lately. 

     

    Airstream Classic 28RB

    28 feet 10 inches • $179,900 MSRP

    This revised floorplan in the Airstream Classic 28RB offers a couch at the front as well as a four-person dinette. You can choose either a queen-size bed or two twin beds when ordering this trailer. These feature all the aesthetics of an Airstream including the quiet Alde heating system. Plus, there’s the overall cache of the Airstream brand in a rather usable floorplan. 

     

     

    Grand Design Imagine 2300MK

    26 feet 6 inches • $46,791 MSRP

    This is the smallest in the traditional Imagine line for Grand Design. But the Grand Design Imagine 2300MK still features a theater seat and a breakfast bar. Grand Design has recently added the safety benefits of anti-lock braking. There is a true queen bed with a wall that separates the bedroom from the main living space and the bathroom spans the full width of the trailer. A lot to like in a shorter package. 

     

     

    Highland Ridge Open Range 322RLS

    37 feet 3 inches • $79,124 MSRP

    This is on the larger side of travel trailers, but there are some very unique features in this wide-body (measures 101 inches wide, as opposed to the typical 96-inch width) floorplan. That includes two desks, a lot of storage, a very nice kitchen, and several pet-focused features. 

    The roof in the Highland Ridge Open Range 322RLS is built the way many motorhome roofs are. And there’s also a better-than-average suspension. While this is a large trailer. it’s also very livable and would serve a couple well who still wants to have work space and plenty of room for daily living. 

     

     

    Jayco Eagle HT 230MLCS

    27 feet 8 inches • $58,749 MSRP

    Often smaller trailers get short-changed on features. But not with the Jayco Eagle HT 230MLCS. Jayco has recently upgraded things like mattresses and furnace ducting , and the company puts all their RVs through an extensive predelivery process before they leave the plant. I also like that this trailer offers the benefits of an anti-lock braking system, a significant safety advance. 

    This also features a nice kitchen with good counter space and usable systems. So, cooks will enjoy this RV. There is both a theater seat and a dinette so there’s room for friends, too. 

     

     

    Rockwood Mini Lite 2506FK

    25 feet 11 inches • $51,766 MSRP (estimate)

    Rockwood is a brand that may not be on your radar. But it should be. The company does a lot of things that elevate their products but that starts with a torsion axle suspension, Goodyear Endurance tires with tire pressure monitoring and internal balance beads and many other features that will show-up over time as having value. This is the same suspension system used in the Airstream, for example. 

    This is a front-kitchen model. Traveling cooks will appreciate the counter space and more capable appliances. There is a choice of U-shaped dinette or theater seats in the slide. The bathroom in this RV separates the bedroom in back from the kitchen in front, which works out for those who have different sleep schedules. 

    For those who like to camp off the grid, Rockwood offers features like the Shower Miser which helps save water plus up to 400 watts of factory-installed solar panels. There is also an inverter which can operate power outlets on battery power. 

    (A few others I really like are the Lance 2075, the inTech Aucta line and Ember Touring Edition series.)

     

     

    Three Fifth Wheels for Fun Lovers

    For those who spend a lot of time on the road, fifth wheels are often popular RVs for empty nesters. 

     

    Flagstaff Classic 301RKS

    31 feet 4 inches • $72,883 MSRP

    Flagstaff recently upgraded suspension and braking on their Classic-series fifth wheels, making a good thing even better. This Flagstaff Classic 301RKS floorplan has a lot of kitchen counter space and even a drawer for a trash can. The kitchen is another example of one that road chefs will like. 

    As for seating, Flagstaff offers a choice of a U-shaped dinette, table and chairs with an ottoman or theater seats in the slide. There’s also a 60-inch, hide-a-bed sofa as well. For those who like to camp off the gridm, Flagstaff offers their Power Package. It’s a state-of-the-art battery and solar system that offers a single 460-amp-hour lithium battery plus 1,000 watts of solar. There is also the option of a second 460=amp-hour lithium battery. So, this might be one of the better choices for off-the-grid camping enthusiasts. 

     

     

    Grand Design Reflection 320MKS

    34 feet 9 inches • $88,558 MSRP

    There are a lot of travelers who need to get some work done whether that just be emails and catching up on social media to actually getting work done from the road. So, the Grand Design Reflection 320MKS features a desk in the back to accomplish just that. There’s also a dining table with an ottoman that can be used for storage or whose fusion can even be raised to be a table at the couch. There are also theater seats and a trifold sofa. 

    The kitchen, too, will accommodate those who love cooking. There’s even a pull-out tray with pet bowls in case the chef activities include meals for the furry travelers. This fifth wheel makes good use of space and offers a very livable interior whether that life includes some work time or entertaining. 

     

     

    Keystone Montana High Country 377FL

    41 feet 11 inches • $108,608 MSRP

    The Keystone Montana High Country 377FL is the largest RV in this article, but I think some travelers are going to want something of this size. Keystone’s Montana remains a popular choice among fifth-wheel buyers. And this model offers a front living room which is great for gatherings. There’s also a mid-ship kitchen that may rival some home kitchens. It includes both a breakfast bar and a dining table. 

    This also offers a rear bedroom with a loft overhead which could be storage but can accommodate grandchildren or other smaller travelers if need be. 

     

     

    One Untraditional Toy Hauler

    A toy hauler can be so many things to so many RVers, but a lot of people ignore them because of the perception that they’re just for toys. In fact the large cargo bays in the back can accommodate hobbies such as crafting, office space, pets, and so much more. Some newer toy haulers are rather luxurious and some are still spartan examples of function over fashion. (On top of all that, obviously, toy haulers are among the top RVs for empty nesters with big toys and an adrenaline rush.)

     

    Ember RV Overland Series 240TKR

    28 feet 3 inches • $74,935 MSRP

    One toy hauler that might be a big surprise is the Ember RV Overland 240TKR. This travel trailer has a front bed that can pushed together to make a single queen-sized bed, or split to make two full-sized beds. 

    The back features Ember’s E-Track system. So, you could have bunks, a desk, cargo space, hang a hammock. It’s remarkably flexible. There is an additional set of rails, which means you could also use that space for a desk, dining table, additional sleeping, and more. The flexibility of this trailer is game-changing. 

    Since it’s technically a toy hauler, there’s a ramp in the back that can also fold-down to become a patio deck and there’s a cabinet with a sink back there so it could be a bar.

     

     

    Two Majestic Motorhomes

    Thor Pasadena 38XL

    39 feet 10 inches • $347,060 MSRP

    We got to spend time in this motorhome in September, and Thor’s attention to detail with the Pasadena 38XL was quite evident. Little things like cabinets with two access points, a tilt-adjustable bed ,and huge skylight over the over-cab bunk were stand-out features. This is a Super C which means towing is a strong point, and this is a prime example with up to 15,000 pounds of towing capacity. 

    While this does have bunks those can double as a lot of closet space and there’s a washer and dryer aboard plus a kitchen that features both propane and induction cooktops. Another plus of this floorplan is the sheer volume of under-floor or basement storage and a chassis that can handle the load. 

     

     

    Winnebago EKKO

    23 feet • $215,551 MSRP (Ford Chassis)

    Some couples love adventure and the Winnebago EKKO has hit a home run with those seeking adventure with its all-wheel-drive, plentiful storage and solid off-grid capabilities. This is also a relatively nimble rig based on the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit cutaway chassis. 

    These also have a unique twin bed set-up that can also be converted to a single king-size bed. These also have a second row of seats which makes them good for regular transportation and you can spin the front cockpit seats around to create a cozy space for meals, games or conversation. 

     

  • Manufacturing Giant Lippert Acquires RVibrake Maker

    Manufacturing Giant Lippert Acquires RVibrake Maker

    Component manufacturer Lippert, known for its RV brands Curt, Furrion, and Magic Chef, has acquired RVi, the maker of RVibrake, which the company will incorporate into the Curt product line.

    The RVibrake is a device designed for RVers who flat-tow vehicles behind their motorhome, automatically applying the brakes on the towed vehicle based on an on-device accelerometer that detects deceleration, obviating the need for a connection, wired or otherwise, between the two vehicles.

    Speaking to RV News, Shane McNallie, senior vice president of Lippert Automotive Sales, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition: “We are excited about this opportunity to expand the Curt offering of flat towing products. RVibrake has wonderful brand recognition in flat tow braking, and their technology is far ahead of anything else in the market.”

    RVi marks the latest acquisition by Lippert, which has accumulated an impressive portfolio of industry brands and technologies since the turn of the century. Its strategic investments have made it the largest supplier of parts in the RV business. In addition to manufacturing and end-user sales, the company also runs maintenance and repair seminars for RV owners.

  • Solo RV Camping 101: A Get-Started Guide

    Solo RV Camping 101: A Get-Started Guide

    Solo RV camping can be an incredibly rewarding experience. While it offers the standard opportunity to truly recharge and relax that all camping offers, it provides something else too.  Camping on your own allows you to embrace a level of freedom that few humans ever get to experience. It lets you camp exactly the way you want. In places you love. On your own schedule. The benefits of solo RV camping don’t end there. It also gives campers a rare opportunity to experience and connect with nature in a supremely intimate way. Its blend of peaceful tranquility, adventure, and complete and utter freedom have made it addicting for many people. It’s no wonder solo RV camping has gained so much popularity in recent years.

    However, this level of freedom comes with certain caveats. By definition, solo RV camping means camping by yourself. For some, solo camping is a celebration of independence and self-discovery. For others, it can be a reminder of just how much they appreciate the company of other people.

    Practically, how much you enjoy solo RV camping may depend in no small part on how much preparation you do in advance. That being said, you’re less likely to crave the company of other people when you have everything you need to be happy without them. In this article, we’ll take a look at everything you need for a safe, enjoyable solo RV camping trip. 

     

    1. Decide on a budget — and a timeline.

    Solo RV camping can be a fantastic way to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. However, it can quickly become expensive if you’re not careful. Knowing how much you can expect to spend on each camping trip — and how long you want that camping trip to last — will help you to manage expenses.  These are the foremost expenses your should consider.

    • Camping gear
    • Food
    • Fuel
    • Propane and firewood
    • Restaurant meals
    • Entrance fees for attractions
    • Campsite fees

     

    2. Pick an RV or tent that suits your needs.

    There are really only two types of campers. There are campers who prefer to get back to nature with rustic tent camping. And there are campers who won’t consider camping without the amenities and relative security of an RV.  

    If you’d like to try solo tent camping, it’s a good idea to have a relatively lightweight tent that goes up (and comes down) with very little effort. There are many tents available, but with set up time of just a few seconds, pop-up tents are by far the easiest to set up and take down. The drawback of pop-up tents is that they tend to weigh slightly more than other styles of tents.

    Solo RV campers have a variety of options. If you don’t already own an RV, there are a few things to consider before picking out a model for your solo RV camping adventures. 

    • Do I want to be self-contained? Many solo RVers who boondock or travel extensively prefer to have a fully self-contained Class A, B, or C motorhome. The ability to quickly jump in the driver’s seat and drive away,  letting them escape any potentially dangerous situations.   
    • What is my camping style? For example, Do you prefer being off-grid or do you love having all the amenities of a luxury RV park?
    • Should I rent to do a test run? In short, yes. Consider renting a few different RVs so you can decide while one is best for you.
    • Do I need to train up? If you aren’t confident with  your present RV driving skills, consider taking an RV driving course. RV driving courses offer instruction to  help you drive and back any RV with confidence. Remember, if your goal is to experience a new level of freedom, you need to be self-reliant. Train the skills you intend to use.
    • Does location matter? Some states and provinces require a special license endorsement to tow or drive some RVs.

     

    3. Make safety a priority.

    In spite of what you might have heard, solo RV camping isn’t inherently dangerous. As a matter of fact, it’s probably one of the safest activities you can do, perhaps especially if you’re a woman. After all, violent crime rates are almost nonexistent in campgrounds, even in dispersed camping areas. The same can’t be said for cities and towns.

    With that being said, there still are some good reasons to keep personal safety in mind when you’re camping on your own. Yes, solo RV camping is all about exploring the natural world independently. But it’s also no fun being injured and by yourself, especially in an unfamiliar area. So, it makes sense to find safe places to camp. It’s also wise to be aware of your surroundings and avoid unnecessary high-risk activities. Additionally, these safety tips will help you to stay safe when you’re camping by yourself.

     

    Safety Tips for Solo RV Camping

    Equip Yourself for Success

    • Pack at least one class ABC fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers are classed A, B, C, or D  according to the type of fire they’re designed to put out. An ABC fire extinguisher is designed to extinguish any fire you’ll encounter when camping. This includes ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and energized electrical equipment. 
    • Take a standard first aid course and pack a first aid kit.  
    • Bring a hand crank weather radio to stay up to date on weather alerts.
    • Stay connected via satellite when there’s no cell signal available. For Apple users, iPhones 14 and up with IOS 18 have a feature that allows you to connect via satellite in case of emergency, or to send a text message.  
    • Bring more water than you think you’ll need.
    • Use an old-fashioned paper map to map out your route. That way, if your favorite map app directs you down some side road towards a certain danger, you won’t fall for it.  (Don’t ask me how I learned this).

     

    Practice Good Situational Awareness

    • Don’t advertise that you’re solo camping. For instance, if you have only one camp chair by the fire pit it is pretty obvious you’re on your own. Instead, put two camping chairs out. 
    • Let someone know where you’re headed and when you intend to return.
    • Exercise situational awareness and never open your door to strangers, especially at night.
    • Never feed or attract wildlife. Bring any food items or pet food into the RV at night. If you’re tent camping, lock food in the trunk of your vehicle or use a cache.
    • Trust your instincts.  If a campground or camping area feels sketchy, it’s usually for a good reason. Campgrounds can look great online, but sometimes when you get there, you get a different picture. 

     

    4. Use apps to plan your adventure.

    Map apps and camping apps can be very helpful when it comes to planning a solo RV camping trip. Map apps can help with route options. Camping apps can give you a general idea of the good, the bad, and ugly about possible camping spots. Here are a some of the more popular apps for planning camping adventures:

    • iOverlander: overnight spots,  campsites, campgrounds, and more with user reviews.
    • Free Campsites: overnighting spots and campsites with user reviews.
    • RV Life Campground Reviews: RV-friendly campgrounds with extensive information about amenities, photos, and user reviews.
    • RV Life Trip Wizard: A complete trip and RV friendly route planner, especially for RV campers.  
    • Harvest Hosts/Boondockers Welcome: Self-contained RVs can overnight at wineries, breweries, golf courses, and on farms with this subscription based app.
    • Hip Camp: Campsites for every camping style.
    • Google Maps: This map app help with route planning and directions, but be warned: The directions function on Google Maps sometimes misroutes travellers, and can get you lost. (Always use this app in conjunction with a traditional map to avoid this issue.)
    • Apple Maps: This map app that is slightly more reliable than Google when it comes to directions. Even so, still use this app in conjunction with a traditional map to avoid the possibility of getting lost.

     

    5. Plan your first solo run close to home.

    It’s a good idea to plan to do a “trial run” close to home if you haven’t solo camped before. This will allow you to work out any bugs and lets you run home for anything you wish you’d brought. 

     

    6. Pack for solo RV camping.

    When it comes to packing for a solo camping adventure, everybody has their own preferences when it comes to what to bring. However, the following list is meant to give you an idea the basic supplies you’ll need for camping

    • A tent (for tent campers especially)
    • A sleeping bag and sleeping pad (for tenting)
    • Bedding and pillows for RV camping
    • Clothing appropriate to the season
    • Toilet paper
    • Personal grooming supplies 
    • Rain gear
    • Towel
    • Pet equipment including food, bowls, bed a towel and at least a gallon of water for each day you’ll be camping
    • Water (count on using three gallons per camping day)
    • Food and beverages
    • A cooler (if tent camping)
    • Eating utensils and cups
    • Cooking utensils
    • Coffee maker
    • Dish cloth and towel
    • Paper towels
    • Lighter, matches or ferro and striker
    • Tinder, kindling and firewood
    • Flashlight 
    • Camping lantern
    • Propane
    • Optional: self-heating beverages

     

    Final Thoughts About Solo RV Camping

    To be honest, sometimes the best company is your own. Solo RV camping offers a delightful escape from the noise and chaos of everyday life. You can camp on your own schedule, go wherever you want, and enjoy your favorite activities without judgment. Camping on your own allows you to experience nature in a whole new way, at your own pace.  

  • Risk, Reward, and Rocket Fuel: Alexandra’s RV Life

    Risk, Reward, and Rocket Fuel: Alexandra’s RV Life

    Alexandra is a woman on fire. With a soft demeanor, you wouldn’t guess that she is propelled by rocket fuel. In her quest to live her life her way, she faced constant road blocks. But they were continually outmatched by her perpetual determination. Not once did she consider throwing in the towel.

    As part of Women’s History Month, we’re sharing stories from the world of female solo RV campers — who break the mold, brave dangers, and experience extraordinary beauty in the world around them.

    This is Alexandra’s story.

     

    “Black women just don’t do that.”

    Before the start of her journey — long before she became known by the Instagram handle @alexandra_abroad — Alexandra’s mother discouraged her. Her mother’s misgivings about her daughter going all-in to the solo camper lifestyle were partly because of her sex, but also her race. Being a black woman alone, camping in an RV, doesn’t exactly fit the mold. “Black women just don’t do that,” she said to Alexandra. Little did her mother know, she was only putting more gas in the tank. No one was going to tell Alexandra what she couldn’t do. 

    In July of 2017, Alexandra bought an 1987 Itasca Phasar RV. She loved the layout of it, with its pop-up bathrooms and spacious interior. Alexandra spent three months renovating it. Everything was given a tune up. (Except for the dials on the dash.)

    She made it to Illinois from Michigan on her fresh new start in life. Unbeknownst to her, the meters on the dash weren’t functioning. There was no way for her to know that the engine was overheating. That is, until it was too late. The Phasar suffered a massive breakdown and died for good in Illinois. The engine was old, and repairs were estimated to cost more than the value of the RV. 

    This would have been the end of most people’s camping journey. But for Alexandra, it was just the beginning. She found a teardrop trailer in Grand Junction and made it her own. It was a custom-built “tin can,” around nine by five feet. (About as small as a camper can possibly be.) She towed it with her car and embarked upon her adventures across the Southwest. The small size was a huge asset to her. It was light enough for her to detach and push by hand on her own, which she had to do more than once! 

     

     

    “I may not be by myself.”

    Alexandra spent years of her life carving out a career as a photographer. She went to a meeting with HipCamp in San Francisco, to enter into a paid partnership. After the meeting, she walked back to her car, only to find her window busted open. Everything was stolen. Her laptops, modem, hard drive, and camera equipment. All forever gone. As a photographer, there is nothing more devastating than losing a collection of photographs. It is a lifetime of work, visions, and individual artistic license. Gone. 

    That night, she drove to a Walmart parking lot to try and get some teary-eyed sleep. In the state of California, you aren’t allowed to boondock a camper near any city center, so she was forced to leave not once, but twice. The catch was that she couldn’t actually drive outside of the city with a broken car window without getting pulled over. 

    Not long after the robbery, Alexandra decided to camp in the Redwoods of California. She was camping alone on a little sandbar, when someone approached her. It was a man, and he started asking her questions: 

    What are you doing out here?

    Are you alone?

    A woman camping alone in a quirky little camper invites questions from bystanders pretty frequently. But this seemed to come from a place of bad intentions, not just innocent curiosity. 

    Her feminine intuition shot off warning after warning: They weren’t on BLM land where it would make sense for other people to be camping — this man had approached her from the bushes, which looked like a hiding place— and he was drunk at 9 a.m. in the morning. 

    The stranger’s body language and manner gave her all the signals she needed to move along. After she made her move to get out of there, she began to question the validity of camping so far off the beaten path. 

    “Maybe I shouldn’t be out in the complete middle of nowhere by myself, because I may not be by myself.” 

    After everything Alexandra had undergone up to that point, I ask her if she ever thought about calling it quits.

    “Oh, definitely not,” she says, “It’s hard to have a bad day when the view is so good.”

    She considers herself lucky. Not everyone walks away from a situation like that unharmed. Alexandra travels with her dog and with a handgun that she keeps for protection.  

     

     

    “Being outside is where we’re supposed to be.”

    So, why suffer through all that misery? What reward can be worth losing a career, a lifetime of photographs, and all your artistic equipment? 

    Truth be told it can be hard to explain, but the reward is something you experience. When in reality, one accidental moment could be worth a thousand planned ones. You could be looking at the stars in Zion, and the sky might suddenly open — showering fireballs of debris from a Japanese space craft. Alexandra did. She witnessed this with her own eyes in a brief moment of perfect coincidence.

    Sometime after her experience with the stranger in the Redwoods, Alexandra had a different kind of experience. One night, she pulled into an off-road hot spring in Nevada. She hadn’t known about it because it wasn’t even on the map. But it was there that she met Ted and his wife. She didn’t know them from before, but that night the three of them got to know each other, share dinner, and celebrate Ted’s fiftieth birthday. Alexandra recalls it was the prettiest evening, all foggy and gloomy. Snow covered the ground so that, “It looked like Iceland in March.” It’s hard to explain, but it was an experience that touched Alexandra deeply.

    “If I hadn’t been robbed, or harassed by that guy in the Redwoods, I wouldn’t have met Ted.” 

    Sure, that kind of reward is not luxurious. Or grand. Or monetary.  But it’s little moments of sublime perfection connecting with friends, or one vast moment spent in an open canyon, as Alexandra says, “hearing everything but then also hearing nothing at the same time.” 

    “There is a quietness that comes with [this life] but also, intensified sounds and experiences … Being outside is where we’re supposed to be. It’s very intense, but it’s also centering to have that intensity around you, and being able to manage it and feel comfort in it.”

    Wherever Alexandra is, it’s her own little piece of that place. Her own little piece of Moab, or her own little piece of the Rocky Mountains.It’s also her own moment in time. Whether it’s a perfect view, a mundane daily task, or a challenge, it’s hers — something that she carved out for herself. 

     

  • Canadian RVers Are Shying Away From Cross-Border Travel

    Canadian RVers Are Shying Away From Cross-Border Travel

    Amid a combination of an unfavorable exchange rate, tariff threats, and political uncertainty, many Canadian travelers are choosing to stay home this year. The first sign of this was at the Quartzsite Sports Vacation and RV show, where the usual throngs of RVs with maple leaf flags just weren’t there.

    Why Are Canadians Staying Home?

    The U.S. Travel Association said that Canada is the top source of international visitors to the U.S. In 2024, there were 20.4 million visits from Canada generating $20.5 billion in spending and supporting 140,000 American jobs. The Association claims that a 10 percent reduction in Canadian travel could mean two million fewer visits and $2.1 billion in lost spending affecting some 14,000 jobs.

    According to Go RVing Canada, 74 percent of Canadians elected to stay within their own borders in 2024. How will that figure change? “You can imagine what that’s probably going to look like given the current climate,” says the trade organization’s president Christopher Mahony.

    According to Mahony, the pandemic spurred Canadians to vacation domestically and the trend has continued. With the weak Canadian dollar, the uncertainty over tariffs, and other news coming out of Washington, D.C., it’s unlikely we’ll see a reversal in current travel patterns.

    Mahony’s numbers were supported by a study by Deloitte on summer travel outlook that examined travel habits and plans. In the study Canadians are reported to average $2,405 in summer travel spending which, according to the document, does not include ice cream, fishing tackle, theater tickets, or pints of beer.

    But one of the telling statistics is that 88% prioritize safety as they’re booking travel, and the news is certainly doing nothing to reinforce that feeling. Further, about half expressed concern that they or their traveling companion might feel unwelcome due to language or cultural differences.

    Ponderosa Campground, located on the New Jersey Shore, is one destination that’s seeing cancellations. Speaking with NJ.com, campground owner Marcia Kelleher said Canadians make up a large portion of bookings, and many of them are regulars who visit every year. But she’s recently been getting cancellations by Canadians who are concerned about rising tensions, with potential visa issues and even border detentions making headlines. According to Kelleher, she’s not the only Jersey Shore campgrounds owner who has received such calls.

    RV Industry Also Feeling the Pinch

    Canada-based CTV News reports that many Canadian RV dealers planned to cancel their orders for RVs amid the threat of tariffs. This comes in the face of predictions by the RV Industry Association that 2025 sales are expected to increase. The tariff picture is ever-changing, with tariffs being announced, postponed, exempted, or even doubled – all in a few days. And that’s not including reciprocal measures by the Canadian federal and provincial governments.

    “We canceled $3 million in orders. Lots of dealers were similar,” said Andy Thomson, the owner of Can-Am RV near London, Ont. Another dealership, RV World in St. Thomas, Ont., made a similar move. “We’ve told our manufacturers if the tariffs come in, don’t ship us any product that the U.S. tariffs apply [to]. I mean our dollar is bad enough,” said Don Ferguson, owner of RV World.

    According to CTV, 12 percent of RVs built in the U.S. are shipped to Canada. “You can’t take 12 percent of sales away from any company and not go from a profit to a loss position,” said Thomson. “So there is going to be a lot of hurt everywhere.”

    So where are sales going? A number of Canadian buyers are refocusing their shopping on Canadian-made RVs such as Escape Trailer, Bigfoot, Prolite, Roadtrek, and Leisure Travel Vans. In fact, Canada has a solid choice of domestic-built RVs.

    A New Normal?

    While travel preferences and economic factors do contribute to the current decline of Canadian interest in cross-border travel, the impact of the political climate cannot be overstated, not just within the RV and tourism industries, but across all areas of trade. Without a dramatic course correction in the relationship between the U.S. and Canada, it’s unlikely that the trend will improve. For the next four years, the U.S. tourism industry will have to look within our borders to make up the shortfall in visitors and trade.

  • National Park Staffing Upheaval: How It Will Affect Your Vacation

    National Park Staffing Upheaval: How It Will Affect Your Vacation

    Recent cuts to the National Park Service (NPS) have created challenges for visitors, be it canceled reservations, increased wait times to enter parks, or a reduction in services. Though the government has pledged to increase seasonal staffing in response to backlash, long-term effects of this downsizing can already be felt. Here’s what you need to know if you’re visiting a national park this year.

    How Has Staffing Been Affected?

    As part of a broader cost-slashing campaign by the Department of Government Efficiency, about 1,000 new hires had their offers rescinded in February. With the NPS employing roughly 20,000 people in total, this amounted to a 5% reduction in headcount, further straining an agency whose workforce had already declined 15% since 2010, even though park attendance has gone up 16% over that same period.

    Just two days later, in response to the uproar that followed, the government announced a 21% increase to seasonal staffing, from the three-year average of 6,350 positions to 7,700. The agency is also planning to hire back at least 50 of the people affected by the initial cut. Though both the re-hiring and boost to seasonal staff are not without challenges: as reported by Jason Epperson from RV Miles, permanent staff who would be hiring and training new employees were themselves let go, such as at Grand Teton National Park, where 16 out of 17 supervisors were fired.

    Though two federal judges have handed down orders to reinstate fired probationary workers, the government is appealing these rulings, so it’s not clear if or when these jobs will be restored.

    How Do the Changes Affect the Parks?

    It is estimated that over 325 million individuals visit the nation’s 433 National Park Service units that include parks, historic sites, and other attractions each year. To meet the demand, the NPS and other public agencies routinely add seasonal workers as the weather gets warmer and the parks reopen. In addition, there are a huge number of volunteers. Together with the permanent staff, they maintain the parks and guide visitors, among other responsibilities.

    There are other crucial employees, however, whom most visitors never interact with. Nate Vince, a locksmith who was fired from Yosemite National Park, was in charge of all locked doors, gates, and safes in the park, which is roughly the size of Rhode Island. Though you may have never encountered him unless you were accidentally locked in a toilet, he was the only person who installed and maintained all those locks and played a key role in the park’s security.

    How Will This Affect Visitors?

    The most immediate effects can be felt even before you arrive at the park. At Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, the layoff gutted the team that managed reservations for visiting historic farm houses. Prospective visitors received notifications that their reservations had been canceled indefinitely. Meanwhile, the wait to enter the Grand Canyon has doubled since four employees were removed from the south entrance where about 90 percent of the park’s visitors pass through.

    At many parks, visitor center hours have been cut and tours have been canceled. Visitors should keep an eye out for canceled or delayed park programming, canceled reservations or delays in confirmation, and reduced staff presence at the parks. Confirm your itinerary and all reservations before you leave for the park, and be prepared for unexpected delays.

  • Rolling the RV Film: Best RV Movies and TV Shows

    Rolling the RV Film: Best RV Movies and TV Shows

    Good evening everybody, and welcome to the very first RV Film Awards! We have an exciting evening planned for you all. I’m looking out over the DVD shelf (and of course those joining us virtually from the Smart TV), and I see a lot of films that have been forgotten for far too long. Except for Nomadland, of course. It already won a real Oscar, so being nominated as one of the best RV movies here tonight might be kind of a downgrade. 

    Now, we’ve got a lot of great films out tonight, but, of course, not all can win. Tonight, we honor our nominees for their casting, their settings, and their dedication to the RV lifestyle. But more than that, we honor them for their popularity! A great RV movie can have drone shots and tense silences, but more than that, it needs to be worth sharing with your whole family an extra two hours indoors.

    So, we’ve got a great show planned for you tonight. Quite simply, these are some of the best RV movies ever made, starting first with the award for Best Animated Feature Film. 

     

     

    Best Animated RV Feature Film

    Computer animation has come a long way since its first film, “Toy Story.” “Toy Story” came out in 1995, and here they are being nominated for the fourth installation in the series (with a Class C rental in a supporting role. Anyone that’s had kids since then knows there have been thousands of computer animated films, but these nominees are the ones we didn’t mind watching again and again.

    So, without further ado, the nominees for Best Animated Feature Film are …

     

    The Incredibles, 2004

     

    Bolt, 2008

     

    Toy Story 4, 2019

     

    And the winner is … Bolt!

    “Bolt” is a subversive tale of a young dog who stars in a TV show with his owner Penny. To ensure the best performance possible, the show is shot to convince Bolt that the situations and his powers are real. But what makes “Bolt” one of the best RV movies is that after Bolt escapes from his Hollywood trailer, he bounds into a classic American road trip tale. Along the way, he stumbles into the wilds of the RV campgrounds where he discovers his true canine super power — begging. Bolt and his cash in on campground hospitality and discover Bolt’s biggest super fan, Rhino the hamster.

     

     

    Best RV Documentary Feature Film

    Coming up next we have the nominees for Best RV Documentary Feature Film. Documentaries provide us with a window into the lives of real people. In the RV life, that can mean exposing controversial parking tactics, foul-mouthed moments, and the challenges of life-altering travel.

    The nominees for Best RV Documentary Feature Film are…

     

    This is Nowhere, 2002

     

    Winnebago Man, 2009

     

    180º South, 2010

     

    The Far Green Country, 2019

     

    And the winner is … Winnebago Man!

    While it’s certainly not a family film, “Winnebago Man” is … truly unique. Back when the internet was young, director Ben Steinbauer had an obsession with the profane and cantankerous “Winnebago Man,” a collection of outtakes from the commercial shoot of a frustrated salesman. The original footage stars Jack Rebney and the off-camera “Tony” trying and failing to shoot a local sales commercial. He tracks Rebney down for an interview. Rebney is angry that his career as a broadcast journalist was overshadowed by a meme. Steinbauer invites Rebney to the Found Footage Festival, where he learns that his fans view him as a friend rather than a failure. For countless RVers, this documentary hits their funny bone just right — and if you ask them if it’s one of the best RV movies, they’re ready to swear to it.

     

     

    Best RV Comedy Film

    Our next set of nominees focus on showing a different side of the human experience. While a  documentary may reinforce an RVer’s affinity for the actual, comedy is truly the heart of the campground. Laughing, in fact, is one of the best ways we deal with real life — from black tanks to nasty roads. 

    The nominees for Best RV Comedy Film are …

     

    Space Balls, 1987

     

    National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, 1989

     

    RV, 2006 

     

    And the winner is … National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation!

    “Christmas Vacation” has been in Forbes’s top three viewed Christmas movies for over a decade, and this year it finally took the top spot. In the film, Clark Griswold is determined to have a jolly, happy, good old-fashioned family Christmas. Things take so many turns for the worse that you’re dizzy, but the very best ones come from Cousin Eddie, Clark’s RV-owning kinsman. (We once waxed eloquent on how Cousin Eddie makes the film what it is.) “Christmas Vacation” has been an American holiday staple since its release, and it will continue to be so for as long as everyone around the dinner table eats the Christmas turkey with their own cousin Eddie. 

     

     

    Best RV in a Supporting Role

    That’s enough about our favorite films. Now it’s time to honor the RVs in them! Our next category has to do with rigs that keep our favorite characters sheltered, supported, and safe throughout their travels — even as they’re chased by neo-Nazis, caught behind enemy lines, or being hunted by prehistoric beasts. Some RVs apparently have harder jobs than others, but they all do their very best for the cargo they carry.

    The nominees for Best RV in a Supporting Role are …

     

    “The Winnebago” in The Blues Brothers, 1980

     

    EM-50 Urban Assault Vehicle in Stripes, 1981

     

    Fleetwood Mobile Lab in The Lost World: Jurassic Park, 1997

     

    And the winner is … The Lost World: Jurassic Park!

    Another sequel, sure, but this Fleetwood RV Mobile Lab is second to none. The film returns to the land of the dinosaurs where Ian Malcolm and Sarah try to set up protections for the dinosaurs from Dr. Hammond’s greedy nephew. During the film, a baby T-Rex is injured and used as bait to lure its mom into a trap. Ian and Sarah take the crying dino back to their station, a state-of-the-art surveillance rig, to treat its wounds when mom pushes them off a cliff. The RV does its best, holding out against Mama Rex’s assault for as long as it can before tragically sacrificing itself so Ian and Sarah can get away. But without the Mobile Lab? No more Ian Malcolm. Even in the comfort of our own RVs, we couldn’t handle that.

     

     

    Best RV in a Television Series

    Of course, the RVs in film aren’t the only heroes. Our next nominees have the arguably worse job, since they had to carry their people every single week. They drove through zombie hordes, harbored drug lords, and sidled up to disgruntled uncles.

    The nominees for Best RV in a Television Series are …

     

    Breaking Bad, 2008

     

    The Walking Dead, 2010

     

    This is Us, 2016

     

    And the winner is … The Walking Dead!

    The show’s most underrated character first makes an appearance in Season 1 and shuttles our survivors through guts and gore until it went up in flames at the end of Season 2 (much as the show’s plot lines would by Season 7). Even so, on a show where it’s often hard to remember characters, Dale’s 1973 D-27C Winnebago Chieftain is impossible to forget. Further, it makes just about every RV attribute shine. Shelter? Check. Escape route? Check. Undead battering ram? Wait, that may be unique to the show. One can only hope that no rig has seen more blood, more teeth, or more death than this one.

     

    Best RV Picture

    It’s that time, everyone. As our evening draws to a close, it’s my honor to present our final round of nominees. We did save the best RV movies for last, and I thank you for going on this cinematic road trip with me.

    The nominees for Best RV Picture are …

     

    About Schmidt, 2002

     

    Little Miss Sunshine, 2006

     

    The Leisure Seeker, 2017

     

    Nomadland, 2020

     

    And the winner, to no one’s surprise, is … Nomadland!

    Nomadland was a balm to the entire nation during the events of 2020 — but campers most of all. It showed the cost of freedom and the value of community, two important things that were in short supply. It’s strange to think of it as a period piece, but in a way, it is. Set just after the Recession, Fern embarks on a journey to begin her life anew as a modern nomad. She meets others, and finds that living alone on the road isn’t actually all that lonely. The film won a slew of awards, including the 93rd Academy Award for Best Picture, and we are honored to sit on the shelf behind it. 

     

    There You Have It! The Best RV Movies in Hollywood

    Thank you sticking around. (You know how these award shows can drag.) But we hope that now you have your own short list for the cabin, for the campground, for that fancy projector screen your RV comes with. (Looking at you, Grech RV.) Good night, everyone!

  • 6 RV Kitchen Makeovers to Drool Over

    6 RV Kitchen Makeovers to Drool Over

    Social media is a treasure trove of RV inspo. Follow the right folks, and you’ll never be far from some drool-worthy RV kitchen makeovers that blend style and functionality. Here are six of our favorite standouts, plus some bonus best-in-show candidates. Take them in. Drool to your heart’s content.

    But don’t stop there — now could be the time to embrace the reno in your own galley!

     

    1. Modern Elegance in a Fifth Wheel 

    Traci swung big turning this fifth whee’s kitchen into a modern, elegant space. Better known as @beneathmyheart, her renovation features white cabinetry, gold hardware, and a subway tile backsplash that gives an endlessly cozy vibe. Her Instagram reel detailing the makeover has taken off, as fellow RVers use her work as inspiration to undertake similar projects. You can be one of those RVers, too!

     

    2. Rustic Charm in a Travel Trailer

    Carrie and David, the duo behind @revampingcamping, specialize in RV renovations that cram space and functionality into a delightfully rustic package. Their travel trailer kitchen makeover incorporates a custom-built herringbone dinette table and bench, adding charm and practicality. They clearly have a knack for creating versatile spaces, and note how many different ways they add vertical space to their storage solution. 

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Carrie & David (@revampingcamping)

    3. Boho Chic in a Class C Motorhome

    The team at @mauka_to_makai_rv_renovations brings a touch of bohemian chic to their Class C motorhome kitchen in this sharp reno. It features open shelving, patterned tile backsplash, and eclectic decor elements that reflect their Insta-friendly style. This isn’t a one-off highlight for them either, as their Instagram feed is a constant stream of tasty RV updates.

     

    4. Sleek Modernity in a Class A Motorhome

    For those looking for a more detailed in-process look at a big-time kitchen upgrade, here’s one from Lindi and Russ, known as @lindiandruss. They gave their Class A motorhome kitchen a sleek, modern update that includes updated appliances, minimalist cabinetry, and a cohesive color scheme, resulting in a contemporary and functional space. The reel documents their progress in a step-by-step way, making it easier to see all the actual hard work that goes into these huge renovations. 

     

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Lindi Vanderschaaf (@lindiandruss)

    5. Cozy Farmhouse in a Fifth Wheel

    The @thehappyglamperco account is another favorite follow for frequent fantastic project inspiration. This travel trailer update features a cozy farmhouse-style kitchen makeover in a fifth wheel. The renovation features shiplap walls, open shelving, and vintage-inspired fixtures, creating a warm and inviting space. Come for the shiplap. Stay for the organic, nature-inspired colors and textures. 

     

    6. Industrial Minimalism in a Travel Trailer 

    If you’re like us, the constant stream of white-on-gray mono-color gets a little mono-tonous. That’s why we picked this kitchen from the folks at @rvinspiration, who transformed a travel trailer kitchen into an industrial minimalist haven. It just goes to show that renovations with a dark side can still be pretty righteous.

     

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by RV Inspiration (@rvinspiration)

    Best in Show Bonus: Breaking It Down by Category

    Best Vintage Glam in a Caravan

    Holly and James, known as @TaylorTheSwift_Caravan, transformed their caravan kitchen into a vintage glam masterpiece. The renovation features brass accents, a retro-inspired color palette, and art deco lighting, creating a unique and luxurious space. Their Instagram post detailing the makeover has captivated followers, showcasing their bold design choices. 

     

    Best Backsplash in a ‘Bago

    The @rvinspiration account hits another one out of the park with this 19-foot Winnebago camper that shows once and for all that there are more elegant ways to highlight a backsplash than subway tiles. This one pairs a marble-like pattern with black and neutral green to cram a ton of character into the tiny towable. 

     

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by RV Inspiration (@rvinspiration)

    Best-in-Class Counters in a Class B 

    Trina Sholin, known as @rvfixerupper, incorporates the cleanest quartz countertops into this dramatic kitchen, which combines bold colors, mixed textures, and global-inspired decor. The kitchen is drool-worthy—a vibrant and personalized space. Don’t stop at this one post either. Her feed is an easy follow—another highlight in the reno space as she puts out a steady stream of her unique creativity and distinctive style. 

     

    Unbelievable RV Kitchen Makeovers

    These RV kitchen makeovers demonstrate the endless possibilities for transforming small spaces. They’re also proof of the power and beauty of taking your mobile life by the reins. In an RV, instead of spending tens of thousands on the kitchen of your dreams, budgets come in tiny packages just like the counters. Take these drool-worthy kitchens and pick and pull your favorite parts to make your own renovation happen! 

  • RV Acronyms Every Camper Should Know

    RV Acronyms Every Camper Should Know

    If you’re new to the RV world, you’ve probably come across a conversation (or ten) that flourishes RV acronyms like a secret code. “Our TT has a GVWR of 9,000 pounds, but the CCC is only 1,500 pounds. So, we make sure to check the PSI before heading out, especially when boondocking with no hookups.”

    Wait … what?

    OK, that might be a little extreme. (Just a little example for ya.) But it’s not far off. RV lingo is packed with crazy acronyms. Don’t let the alphabet soup overwhelm you though. Having a little guide that helps you know what they mean can make your life on the road much easier. Whether you’re shopping for your first RV, learning about weight limits, or planning your next trip, these acronyms will help you navigate the world of RVing like a pro.

    Let’s break down the most important RV acronyms that every camper should know.

     

    RV Types and Classes

    One of the first things you’ll encounter in the RV world is different types of RVs. Knowing the lingo will help you determine what kind of RV fits your travel style. (Especially because some folks use the shorthand.)

    A (Class A Motorhome)

    Class As are typically the largest and most luxurious motorhome type, and they are built on a bus or commercial truck chassis. These are the big guys — perfect for full-time or multi-month RVers who want all the amenities of home but require more maintenance and space to park.

    B (Class B Motorhome)

    Also known as camper vans, these are compact, fuel-efficient, and easy to drive. We have had our B, a THOR Sequence 20L, for a few years now — and we love it. Class Bs fit in standard parking spaces and are great for solo travelers, couples, or those who love van life.

    C (Class C Motorhome)

    These mid-sized motorhomes are built on a van or truck chassis with an overhead sleeping area. Class Cs are a nice balance between Class A and B, offering comfort while still being manageable to drive. We have since let our family travel in our Class B, and we now have a C on a Mercedes van chassis. 

    5W (Fifth Wheel)

    A large towable RV that connects to a special hitch in the bed of a truck. Fifth wheels provide spacious living areas and are a great option for full-time RVers. Just know that these are normally larger in size and can require 2500 or even 3500+ size (HD) heavy duty trucks. 

    TT (Travel Trailer)

    A towable RV that hitches to the bumper of a vehicle. Available in a variety of sizes, travel trailers are a great entry-level option for those who already own a capable tow vehicle.

    PUC (Pop-Up Camper)

    A small, collapsible trailer that expands into a tent-like RV. These pop-up campers are lightweight, easy to tow, and perfect for occasional campers.

    TC (Truck Camper)

    A compact RV that sits in the bed of a pickup truck. Ideal for off-grid adventures, these truck campers offer a small but mighty option for travelers who love boondocking. Many of these are heavy and can require an HD truck as well. Always refer to the weight capacity of your vehicle and the RV you are considering.

    And that is a great segue to our next category.

     

    Weight and Towing Terms

    When it comes to towing an RV safely, understanding weight ratings is critical. These acronyms will ensure you’re not exceeding your limits.

    GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)

    The maximum weight your RV or tow vehicle is rated to safely carry, including passengers, cargo, fuel, and fluids. Exceeding this can lead to dangerous driving conditions.

    GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating)

    The total maximum weight of both your tow vehicle and your fully loaded RV combined. This number is crucial to avoid overloading your setup.

    UVW (Unloaded Vehicle Weight)

    The weight of your RV as it comes from the manufacturer, with no cargo, passengers, or fluids added.

    CCC (Cargo Carrying Capacity)

    The amount of weight you can safely add to your RV, including food, gear, water, and personal items, etc. This is calculated as: GVWR – UVW = CCC

    GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)

    The maximum weight that each axle of your RV or tow vehicle can handle.

    TW (Tongue Weight)

    The amount of weight that rests on your tow hitch when pulling a travel trailer on your vehicle’s bumber. Proper weight distribution is key to safe towing.

    HW (Hitch Weight)

    The weight a fifth wheel places on the truck bed hitch.

    PC (Payload Capacity)

    How much weight your tow vehicle can carry, including passengers, cargo, and the hitch weight.

     

    Camping and Travel Terms

    Once you’re on the road, knowing these acronyms will help you navigate campgrounds, hookups, and off-grid adventures.

    FHU (Full Hookups)

    A campsite with electric, water, and sewer connections, making it easy to stay for extended periods without worrying about tank levels.

    W/E (Water and Electric)

    A campsite that offers water and electricity but no sewer hookup—you’ll need to use the dump station for waste.

    DRY (Dry Camping)

    Camping without hookups, meaning you rely on your RV’s battery, water tanks, and propane.

    BLM (Bureau of Land Management)

    Public lands where boondocking is allowed, often free and located in remote, scenic areas.

    NPS (National Park Service)

    Governs national parks and campgrounds. Many NPS sites have strict RV length limits, so check before booking.

    COE (Corps of Engineers)

    Campgrounds managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, often near lakes and rivers, offering beautiful and affordable camping options. These are usually hidden gems in the RV world, because not many people consider them as a first or even second option.

    TT (Thousand Trails)

    A popular membership-based RV park network offering discounted stays. This is great for those looking to have full hook-ups and extended stays.

     

    RV Maintenance and Systems

    Keeping your RV in top shape means knowing the ins and outs of its systems.

    PSI (Pounds Per Square Inch)

    The recommended air pressure for your vehicle’s tires, be it the RV or tow vehicle. Keeping them at the right PSI prevents blowouts and uneven wear.

    LP (Liquid Propane)

    Used to fuel stoves, water heaters, furnaces, and refrigerators in many RVs. It can sometimes be referred to as gas, so make sure you understand the difference between LP and gas/diesel for your vehicle.

    GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter)

    An electrical outlet safety feature that trips when it detects an issue. If your outlets stop working, check your GFI reset button. Many of them have a little light that indicates it has been tripped/turned off.

    ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System)

    A safety system that prevents skidding when braking hard.

    TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

    A device that monitors tire pressure and alerts you to low or high PSI levels to prevent blowouts.

     

    Boondocking and Off-Grid Living

    For those who love to camp off-grid like my wife and I do, these acronyms will come in handy.

    AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)

    A type of deep-cycle battery used for RV solar setups and off-grid power storage.

    LiFePO4 (Lithium Iron Phosphate)

    The current king of the deep-cycle battery world used for RV solar setups and off-grid power storage. They are the best option as of the writing of this article, but they are also the most expensive. As avid boondockers, we have found them to be a must have for our lifestyle. 

    MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking)

    A solar charge controller that improves the efficiency of solar panels and charges your house batteries faster than PWM.

    PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)

    A solar charge controller that connects your solar panels and charges your house batteries.

    AH (Amp Hours)

    A measurement of battery capacity, showing how much power your battery can store before needing a recharge.

    GPH (Gallons Per Hour)

    Used to measure water pump efficiency and propane usage.

     

    Don’t Worry! RV Acronyms Soon Become Second Nature

    Now, take a breather and save this list, because learning RV acronyms might save your travels. And once you get the hang of them, they become second nature. Whether you’re shopping for your first rig, planning your next trip, or troubleshooting an issue, knowing these terms will make your RV life smoother and more enjoyable.

    So, next time someone asks about your GVWR, FHU site, or TPMS, you’ll be able to nod knowingly and answer like a seasoned RVer.