There are countless reasons to opt for a solar setup. Remote camping spots. Unexpected power outages. Not to mention sustainable living, ecological ethics, and the pure elegance of silent power. Solar power has virtues out the wazoo. It provides a quiet, eco-friendly energy source, letting you enjoy the serenity of nature without the noise and fumes of traditional generators. Equally awesome, it offers long-term savings by reducing fuel needs and lowering maintenance costs. And RV solar power stations are a big part of your solar setup.
Fortunately for you, we’ve curated a selection of top-notch solar power stations that RV reviewers love. Whatever your need looks like — whether that’s drying camping in the boondocks or just powering up your devices — one of these five power stations will make a great hub for your solar setup.
More Cycles for a Longer Lifespan
VTOMAN 3096Wh
The VTOMAN 3096Wh is a versatile and robust power solution designed to meet the demands of RVers who want to keep creature comforts. With its expansive 3096Wh capacity, you can power everything from your smartphone to essential appliances like a portable cooler or coffee maker. This unit stands out with its impressive 1800W rated output and 3600W peak power, ensuring reliable energy for all your devices. Its high energy conversion rate and IP67 rating for waterproofing make it a durable companion for any journey.
What sets the VTOMAN apart is its dual PD 100W output and multiple ports, allowing you to charge several devices simultaneously. Its LiFePO4 battery boasts a lifespan of 3,000 full cycles, offering long-lasting reliability. This RV solar power station is perfect for those who seek convenience, reliability, and substantial power in a compact package. Whether camping in the wilderness or facing a power outage, the VTOMAN provides peace of mind with its 24-month warranty and user-friendly design.
The GRECELL 4000Wh is a game-changer for those needing serious power. With a massive 5040Wh capacity and 4000W output (7000W peak), this station can handle the massive energy load of most home appliances, making it perfect for long-distance travel and extended stays off-grid. The station includes 16 outlets, providing ample options for powering everything from your refrigerator to your TV.
The GRECELL’s rapid charging technology means you can fully recharge the station in just an hour and a half using AC and solar inputs. Its expandable capacity of up to 10.08kWh ensures you’re prepared for any situation, whether a natural disaster or a long road trip. The built-in advanced BMS system and LiFePO4 batteries guarantee safety and longevity, making this RV solar power station a reliable backup for any scenario.
The EF ECOFLOW DELTA Pro stands out for its extensive capacity and versatility. With a 3600Wh LFP battery expanding to 25kWh, this station can power heavy-duty devices and multiple appliances simultaneously. Its 3600W AC output can be boosted to 4500W, ensuring you have ample power for even the most demanding needs.
What makes the EF ECOFLOW DELTA Pro exceptional is its X-Stream fast charging technology, allowing a full recharge in under three hours. Additionally, it offers five ways to charge, including via an EV station, solar, and car outlets. The smart app control feature adds a layer of convenience, letting you monitor and manage your power usage remotely. This RV solar power station is an excellent choice for RVers needing a powerful, flexible, easy-to-use energy solution.
The GRECELL 2400Wh combines efficiency and portability, making it a great option for RVers on the move. With an 1843Wh capacity and the ability to power up to 11 devices simultaneously, this station covers all your basic needs. Its fast dual-charging capabilities allow a full recharge in under two hours. Which means it’s highly efficient for on-the-go power needs.
This RV solar power station’s LiFePO4 battery ensures long-term durability and safety, supported by advanced protection features. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry, while its ability to withstand rough handling makes it a reliable companion for outdoor adventures. Whether on a camping trip or facing an unexpected power outage, the GRECELL 2400W offers reliable and efficient power.
The Jackery E300 is perfect for those who need a compact and portable power solution. With a 293Wh lithium-ion battery, this generator is lightweight at just 7.1 pounds. It’s super easy to carry on any trip. However, despite its small size, it can power multiple devices simultaneously. Laptops. Cameras. Even small appliances.
This solar generator’s speed stands out. Its fast-recharging capabilities enables it to reach 80 percent via wall outlet and USB-C in just two hours. It’s also compatible with solar charging, making it an eco-friendly option for outdoor enthusiasts. The Jackery E300 is ideal for short trips, providing a reliable and quick power source that is both convenient and environmentally friendly.
These top RV solar power stations ensure you’re always ready, whether camping off-grid or dealing with an unexpected outage. They boast unique features tailored to the RV community, blending reliability, convenience, and sustainability. (A great reason to shop RVs with a solar kit if yours isn’t prepped yet.)
Solar helps keep your travels powered and worry-free, letting you focus on creating unforgettable memories wherever the road takes you — for as long as you want to stay there.
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Reliable power just might be the key to seamless adventure. Which makes an RV generator a must-have for most RVers. With enough power, you can enjoy all the comforts of home on the road. RV generators give you the muscle to power essential appliances like air conditioners, microwaves, and refrigerators. That keeps you comfortable, your devices charged, and your food fresh.
But purchasing an RV generator is more than a question of power. It’s also a question of noise, safety, and style of camping.
At RV Trader, we’ve scoured camper reviewers to recommend five generators that cover different levels of need and service different kinds of campers. Because with the right generator, you can focus on both the joy of the journey and the destination itself.
The Strong but Silent Type
Westinghouse 4500
The Westinghouse 4500 is designed with RV enthusiasts in mind — the kind at least that love power but not noise pollution. The Westinghouse 4500 offers 4,500 peak and 3,700 running watts, making it powerful enough to run all your essentials. The generator has a telescoping handle and built-in wheels, which means it’s also easy to transport. Its remote start includes a key fob and allows hassle-free operation. And that rotating digital display? It informs you about fuel levels, power output, and more.
One of the standout features of the Westinghouse 4500 is its ultra-quiet operation at just 52 dBA. (Who wants to disturb the campground neighbors after all?) The economy mode maximizes fuel efficiency, providing up to 18 hours of run time on a 3.4-gallon tank. This generator is efficient and versatile, featuring multiple outlets, including an RV-ready 30-amp outlet, making it perfect for travel trailers and home use.
The WEN 4800-watt portable inverter generator is an excellent choice for RVers seeking a balance between power and portability. Its 224cc engine delivers up to 4,800 surge and 4,000 running watts, providing clean power safe for sensitive electronics. The keyless electric start makes ignition a breeze, complementing a recoil start as a reliable backup.
This generator is powerful and smart, featuring the WEN Watchdog CO Shutdown Sensor, which automatically turns off the generator if dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected. The onboard wheels and telescoping handle ensure easy transportation, and the fuel shut-off helps limit maintenance by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before it shuts down.
The Champion’s 4500-watt inverter generator is designed for convenience and performance. The wireless remote start allows you to operate the generator up to 80 feet away, offering unparalleled ease of use. With 4,500 starting watts and 3,500 running watts, it can handle your RV’s electrical needs, including running the air conditioner and other appliances simultaneously.
This generator features Champion’s Quiet Technology, operating at 61 dBA, making it ideal for RVs, tailgating, and camping. The IntelliGauge system monitors voltage, frequency, and operating hours, while the EZ Start Dial simplifies startup. Its parallel-ready capability allows you to connect with another Champion inverter to double your power output.
The Generac 8251 is a compact and lightweight generator perfect for outdoor adventures. It produces 2,500 starting and 2,200 running watts, ensuring stable and clean power for sensitive electronics like smartphones and laptops. Its TruePower Technology delivers high-quality power, ideal for camping trips and tailgating events.
This generator is designed with convenience in mind, featuring an easy-to-carry handle and a compact build for effortless transportation and setup. It’s fuel-efficient, with an economy mode that reduces fuel consumption and noise emissions. The COsense Technology provides added safety by automatically shutting down the generator when dangerous levels of carbon monoxide are detected.
The A-iPower 7600W dual fuel generator is a versatile and powerful solution for RVers needing robust performance. Its 322cc OHV engine provides 7,600 starting watts and 6,100 running watts on gas, and 6,900 starting watts and 5,500 running watts on propane. This allows you to choose your fuel source based on availability and convenience.
The generator features a low noise level of 62 dBA, making it a quiet yet powerful addition to your RV setup. Its compact design, telescoping handle, and flat-free wheels ensure easy mobility. The inverter technology guarantees clean power output, making it safe for sensitive electronics. At the same time, the CO sensor provides additional safety by shutting down the unit if high levels of carbon monoxide are detected.
RV Trader wants your RV adventures are always powered and ready to go. By recommending these reliable and efficient generators, we want to help improve your travel experience, making it as smooth and enjoyable as possible — no matter which RV you own or are shopping for.
Whether parked in a remote campsite or on the move, these generators provide the peace of mind that comes with dependable power. Invest in one of these top-rated generators and focus on what truly matters — enjoying your journey and creating unforgettable memories on the road.
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Bringing bikes on an RV adventure instantly adds a whole new level of fun and exploration. Because while your RV is the perfect vehicle to put you on the doorstep of winding trails, secluded parks, scenic routes, and charming towns, you need a bike to explore them more fully. Which means you’ll need an RV bike rack.
Having a bike carrier is key to fully embracing the freedom of the open road. It keeps your bikes secure, preventing damage, and making setup at your destination quick and easy. A reliable bike carrier essentially makes every stop on your journey an opportunity for new adventures and unforgettable experiences.
So we’ve picked out the best-reviewed bike carriers for your RV. Whether you wanna go lean, have bikes for the whole fam, or need muscle for heavier e-bikes, we have an option for you.
Heavy-Duty for Your Personal Peloton
Swagman RV Bumper Rack
The Swagman RV Bumper Rack is a versatile and durable option for RVers transporting multiple bikes. This rack is designed to fit 4-inch to 4.5-inch square RV bumpers and is easy to install using the provided steel U-Bolts. Its heavy-duty steel construction ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion, making it a reliable choice for long journeys.
This rack carries up to four bicycles, with a maximum weight of 30 pounds per bike. The central upright bar provides added support, ensuring your bikes remain stable during transit. Reviewers recommend adding braces or using pool noodles to prevent bikes from rubbing against each other or your RV. Its sturdiness and dependability make it a favorite among RV enthusiasts.
For those with e-bikes, the HYPERAX Volt Lift offers a premium solution. This hitch-mounted rack can easily carry two e-bikes, each weighing up to 80 pounds. The integrated lift-assisted ramp simplifies loading, reducing the strain typically associated with heavy e-bikes. This feature alone makes it a standout choice for RVers who prioritize convenience.
The Volt Lift also boasts triple security protection, including clamping hooks that lock your bikes in place and a cable lock for extra security. The durable die-cast metal construction of the clamping hooks ensures your bikes are securely fastened, giving you peace of mind during your travels. The rack’s design also accommodates bikes with wheels up to 5-inch wide, making it versatile for various bike types.
The Swagman TRAVELER XC2 is an RV-approved hitch-mount bike rack that offers a reliable solution for transporting up to two bicycles. Its light yet sturdy design ensures your bikes remain secure, even on long journeys. The rack is compatible with a 2-inch Class 3 hitch receiver or can be mounted on a 4.5-inch continuous steel welded RV bumper adapter, providing versatility for different vehicle setups.
Assembly is straightforward, and loading your bikes is a breeze once installed. The upright bar can be folded down when not in use, allowing easy access to the rear of your RV. Reviewers appreciate the rack’s stability and the secure hold provided by the inverted U-wheel retainers. While some adjustments might be needed to prevent handlebars from rubbing against the RV, these are minor inconveniences to protect your rides.
The Stromberg Carlson is a durable bike rack that can be mounted on vehicles and RVs. Made of stable alloy steel, this rack can carry up to 80 pounds, making it suitable for heavier bikes. It can be installed on a 4-inch or 4.5-inch square bumper or a 2-inch receiver, offering flexibility for different mounting options.
Installation is simple, and the rack’s rigid structure ensures your bikes are securely placed during transit. The platform-mount design allows for easy loading and unloading of bikes, and the included bumper adapter provides additional stability. Reviewers appreciate the straightforward assembly process and the sturdy construction of the rack.
The YAKIMA is designed to meet the rigorous demands of RV and travel-trailer use. It can hold up to four bikes and fits 2-inch receivers only. The rack features SuperCush ZipStrip cradles that secure your bikes and make loading and unloading a breeze. Its anti-sway cradle design minimizes bike-to-bike contact, protecting your bikes during transit.
This rack is easy to install, with arms that fold down when not in use for convenient storage. The integrated Same Key System (SKS) security package locks the rack to your RV and secures your bikes with a single key, providing added peace of mind. This rack’s sturdy construction and thoughtful design features make it easy to use.
RV Trader knows the right bike carrier makes your RV adventures even better. Whether you’re transporting standard bikes or e-bikes, our top picks offer secure and practical options for every type of RVer — whether that’s for your old RV or the RV you’re shopping for.
With a quality bike rack, you can easily bring your bikes along for the ride, opening new trails and scenic routes to explore. No more worrying about bike damage or difficult setups—just smooth, hassle-free travel. So, gear up and get ready to discover new destinations with your bikes in tow every time you hit the open road.
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Let’s face it: Maneuvering your RV into tight spots is a challenge, especially in a busy RV park. There’s lots of weird geometry in play. And those blind spots? Well, you can’t see them. That’s where RV backup cameras really save the day. Getting a good one not only makes going in reverse more straightforward (and less stressful) — it can also save you from making a costly mistake. Quite simply, RV backup cameras boost safety in tight spaces and crowded campgrounds, giving you (and your RV’s fat behind) some peace of mind.
Anyone who’s been behind the wheel of an RV or angled a trailer into place doesn’t likely need a lot of convincing. The real question is: Which one should you get?
To help make that decision a little bit easier, we’ve researched lots of user reviews to bring you some of the top RV backup camera options.
The Deluxe View — Day or Night
Furrion Vision S
The Furrion Vision S system is a favorite among RV enthusiasts. Easy installation and multiple features are a big reason why. Most modern RVs are prepped for the Vision S sharkfin camera, which significantly reduces installation hassle. The waterproof camera also has night vision, providing a clear view even in low-light conditions. With a wide 120-degree viewing angle and intelligent infrared cut filters, it ensures you have a comprehensive view of your surroundings.
The system boasts a stable, long-range signal strength thanks to its 2.4GHz proprietary wireless communication, tested for up to 100 feet at high speeds and up to 492 feet in open spaces. The 7-inch touchscreen monitor offers antiglare properties and can display up to four cameras, providing all-around coverage. It even includes park assist marker lines and doubles as a security system with motion detection and audio transmission.
The AMTIFO A7 stands out with its user-friendly plug-and-play setup, particularly for RVs pre-wired for backup camera systems. This backup camera features a stable 2.4GHz wireless signal, ensuring a reliable connection without lag. It also supports up to four cameras simultaneously, giving you a comprehensive view of your RV’s surroundings.
One of the standout features of the AMTIFO A7 is its video recording function. The system includes an SD card recording option, akin to a dash cam, providing a record of everything around your RV. This can be crucial in case of incidents on the road. The camera is built to withstand harsh conditions with an all-metal construction and IP69 waterproof rating, ensuring durability and reliability.
The AUTO-VOX offers a great option to add a backup camera to an existing RV. Its installation is straightforward. It requires minimal effort to mount and connect the camera to the vehicle’s reverse lights. The 5-inch HD monitor provides clear and noise-free images, enhancing your ability to see your surroundings.
This camera system features a stable digital signal for real-time transmission, ensuring no delays or interference. It also excels in night-vision capabilities, restoring natural colors and high-resolution images even in low-light conditions. The system supports dual cameras, providing more comprehensive coverage and safer maneuvering.
The DoHonest S21 offers a seamless installation process, particularly for prewired systems, making it accessible even for novice RVers. It features a 1080P HD night vision display, ensuring a clear view regardless of the time of day. The powerful wireless digital signal transmission provides a stable connection over long distances, up to 320 feet, in open areas.
The system’s 7-inch monitor with a narrow bezel design offers a wide field of view and can support up to four cameras simultaneously. This makes it an excellent choice for those needing comprehensive coverage around their RV. The camera’s IP69 waterproof rating and durable aluminum alloy construction ensure it can withstand extreme weather conditions, providing long-lasting performance.
The DOUXURY IP69 is built to last with its unique dual-antenna design and advanced digital signal chip, offering a reliable connection up to 320 feet in open areas. The camera provides 1080P HD images, ensuring clarity and detail in day and night. Its IP69 waterproof rating and robust construction mean it can handle harsh environments without compromising performance.
This system also supports up to four split screens, allowing you to simultaneously monitor multiple angles around your RV. The DVR recording function provides continuous recording, making it a reliable choice for safety and security on the road. The easy installation process further enhances its appeal making it a great choice for any RV.
Investing in a high-quality backup camera system is a savvy move for any RVer. These systems make parking and reversing a breeze while boosting safety and security on the road. At RV Trader, we’re all about equipping RVers with the best tools and tips to get the most from their adventures.
Whether you opt for the advanced features of the Furrion Vision S, the dependable performance of the AMTIFO A7, the user-friendly AUTO-VOX, the comprehensive DoHonest S21, or the rugged DOUXURY IP69, each option brings unique perks to make your RV journeys smoother and more enjoyable. Trust us to guide you in finding the perfect RV backup camera for your needs.
This article includes affiliate links that generate small referral commissions for RV Trader.
Summer begins with a delightful problem. There are so many cool places to travel, and it feels like you’ll never get to all the places on your list before fall and winter set in. By then, your options will have shrunk to either putting your RV in storage or exploring a narrower range of places. So, selecting your summer road trip is a big deal. Because, like Robin Williams in “The Dead Poet’s Society,” you want to drive toward carpe diem this summer! (Don’t have your new RV yet? Be sure to seize that too.)
For an RV trip that’s jam-packed and full of adventures, Harvest Hosts can help you seize the summer — in a big way. Harvest Hosts provides a unique RV camping membership. It gives you unlimited overnight stays at over 5,200 farms, wineries, breweries, attractions, and other cool locations! And one the best things about that is that your adventures don’t have to stop once you park your RV for the night.
Here are five must-visit Harvest Hosts locations that are the perfect addition to make your summer road trip extraordinary.
Corona Heritage Park & Museum
Corona Heritage Park and Museum is a charming historical site that offers a glimpse into Southern California’s rich past. This park features beautifully preserved historic buildings, including a 1910 railroad depot and a vintage windmill. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits showcasing local history, from citrus industry artifacts to antique machinery. The park’s pride and joy is its picturesque botanical gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. Spend the day outdoors in this beautiful scenery, because, remember: Summer will be over before you know it!
The Castle Fun Center in New York is the epitome of family summer fun. From thrilling go-karts and mini-golf to exhilarating laser tag and rock climbing. Quite simply, there’s something for everyone. And if it’s too hot out, you can enjoy the indoor arcade indoor play areas too! Perfect for family outings or group adventures, The Castle Fun Center is sure to bring a lot of fun to your summer road trip.
Foster’s Watershed Farm in Tennessee is a serene place where sustainable farming meets natural beauty. Enjoy fresh, organic produce and embrace the tranquility of the farm’s picturesque landscape. The farm features a diverse array of crops, farm animals, and stunning views of their three large ponds, making it a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts. If you’re looking for the perfect place to RV camp and fish this summer, this is it!
Zoll Vineyards is a delightful winery in the Virginia countryside, offering a serene setting for wine tasting and relaxation. Guests can savor a variety of handcrafted wines while enjoying the beautiful outdoor patio and scenic vineyard views. With its welcoming atmosphere and exquisite wines, Zoll Vineyards is an ideal destination for both casual sippers and wine connoisseurs.
Wild Cider Brewing is a charming destination nestled in the scenic landscapes of Colorado, offering a unique blend of craft ciders and breathtaking mountain views. Known for their innovative cider flavors, made with fresh, local ingredients, this family-owned cidery provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Guests can enjoy their delicious brews in a relaxing outdoor setting, complete with live music and events. Wild Cider Brewing is a must-visit spot for cider enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the vibrant local culture.
No matter where you end up this summer, with Harvest Hosts, you’re sure to find a cool place to stay wherever you are. Cabin Creek Brewing, Zoll Vineyards, Foster’s Watershed Farm, The Castle Fun Center, and Corona Heritage Park and Museum are just a few of the places available to explore on Harvest Hosts. Wherever you stay, you’ll be making the most of your summertime.
There’s a cultural synergy between beach and RV life. Both activities are a form of escape from the mundane. Both involve an appreciation for nature. And both are filled with folks who like to swing their life’s pendulum away from the corporate cubicle. So it should be no surprise that most of the best beaches have great RV parks nearby. But the best RV beach destinations also come with an incredible perk — they’re perfect way to avoid the outrageous hotel and resort costs. Because after all, no matter where you lay your head, the main attraction is a hot and sandy day next to a big, beautiful body of water.
So here are our favorite RV beach destinations in each region of the US coastline, complete with a nearby parking spot to turn your RV, camper, or trailer into a beachside crash pad.
Floribama and Texas Coast
Orange Beach, Alabama
The Panhandle and the Alabama Coast remind me of Las Vegas — you can find pretty much anything you want if you look hard enough. For example, right next to trashy-chic party spots like the Flora-Bama Lounge — which calls itself, “The most famous beach bar in the country” — you’ll find Orange Beach, Alabama. It’s way more upscale. Orange Beach is quieter, significantly more distinguished than much of the Panhandle (and less trafficked by the spring break crowd). And yet … the party is always within arm’s reach. That’s the beauty of Orange Beach — everything is right at your fingertips.
Beachy RV Park
If you have a Class A or Super C motor coach that’s 32 feet or longer, and less than 15 years old, you can apply for a reservation at the Buena Vista Motor Coach Resort. But for us normies, the Gulf State Park Campground will do more than fine. It’s inland on a sleepy little lake with beach access, 28 miles of trails to enjoy, full hookups, camp store, pickle ball courts, and anything you need in between stays at one of the most beautiful Florida beaches you’ll find.
Beyond the Beach
Who are we trying to kid: It’s 100 percent worth the 10-minute drive to the Flora-Bama Lounge, just for the bushwackers alone.
South Florida
Sanibel Island, Florida
When I was in high school, the residents of Sanibel practically took up arms against a “not-from-around-here” small-businessperson trying to open a McDonald’s in town. Back then, the uproar was the silliest thing I had heard of. Today, I see it differently. It was farsighted. The Sanibel area has managed to stay a haven from the booze-soaked party vibe of the Fort Myers beach next door. In Sanibel, it’s just all untainted nature, all the time. Of note: Don’t expect a Big Mac when you get there. Sanibel still doesn’t have a McDonald’s. Score one for Mother Nature.
Beachy RV Park
Periwinkle Park is the perfect launching point to explore one of the country’s most pristine pebbly playgrounds surrounded by palms, pools, and maybe even a porpoise or two.
Beyond the Beach
The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is a prime bird-watching spot with a peaceful look at what an untouched Florida would look like.
Outer Banks
Cape Hatteras, North Carolina
The Outer Banks of North Carolina (and, technically, Virginia), or OBX, has an unmistakable energy. There’s something about being surrounded by that much saltwater that rejects the corporate. In short, it instills maximum chill for all who enter. The entire OBX is built for outdoor living, with watersports driving a big part of the economy. (Hear that, Boatmart?)
But the beauty, both literal and figuratively, is its ability to maintain an arms-length distance from the vacationing hordes. Again: maximum chill. Another distinct difference in the OBX experience is that while other coastlines typically keep their RV parks off the beach itself, it’s not unusual to find a parking spot with a direct ocean view, like the park we’re suggesting below. And that kind of ocean view is priceless in any zip code.
Beachy RV Park
Camp Hatteras is, as they say, “World-class camping: Oceanfront to Soundfront on the Outer Banks.”
Beyond the Beach
The numerous charter fishing options and plentiful marlin population have given the OBX the title of, “the billfish capital of the world.”
Midwest
Beach 404, Nowhere
Error. Not found. (Just kidding.) Love ya, Midwest, but no self-respecting son of Florida would call a lakeside dirt spot an RV beach destination, no matter how much sand you truck in! I just can’t do it!
Pacific Northwest
Cannon Beach, Oregon
Some 700 miles north of Sonoma, beaches become less about hot and sandy sun soaking and more about the views and the wildlife. The Pacific Northwest has almost unending miles of protected oceanfront, with plenty of visual drama. In fact, there’s so much drama that it’s hard to narrow in on a best option. You want lighthouses? You got ‘em. Want some whale watching? Cascadia and the PNW has that too.
But if we have to pick one, we’re going with Cannon Beach, where the famously majestic Haystack Rock inspires the romantic and melancholy alike. In the middle of what is essentially the PNW’s version of rainforest, Cannon Beach is a beach town in the summer, a sleepy forest town in the “magic season” when the beachgoers depart, and an ecological wonder every day of the year.
There’s a reason Haystack Rock (it’s just Haystack to locals) has been featured in countless pieces of media. There’s a gravity to it that’s undeniable, and well worth getting pulled into the half-mile trek from the RV park.
California
Sonoma Coast, California
One of my favorite trips I’ve ever taken was a 200-mile drive on the Pacific Coast Highway from Sonoma State Park in the north to Big Sur in the south. To say that the Pacific Coast is breathtaking grossly understates its beauty. It was nothing short of life-changing, even if only for the two weeks we spent in that awe-filled zone that combines the refined wine country vibe with world-famous-for-a-reason beach views.
The Sonoma Coast is unlike other beaches, but only partly because California is unlike anywhere that’s not California. The sand feels different. The visual variety is different. And the energy hits different. The entire region is a slice of Americana that’s a critical piece of any balanced view of what we offer the world. It’s the perfect zen yin to the hustle-bustle yang of the East Coast.
Even in the L.A. region, there are plenty of spots worth visiting, including tourist-friendly locations like Santa Monica, Coronado, or La Jolla, all of which have plenty of RV park and camping options. But for my money, the Sonoma Coast is one of the most unique RV destinations in the world. Come for the beaches. Stay for the redwoods. And live for those astounding views coasting your rig down the PCH.
Beachy RV Park
Sonoma Coast State Park has several RV options. For full hookups you’ll want Bodega Dunes. But if you want the ultimate RV beach destination experience, back yourself into a premium spot at Wright’s Beach.
Beyond the Beach
The hour drive from Sonoma Coast State Park to the Napa Valley Wine Train is all the way worth it. The train is a most elegant way to experience the region’s spectacular beauty and a glass or six of great American wine. Especially if you take the perfect RV for a wine tour.
RVing just might be the most ‘Merican way possible to spend Memorial Day — and personally, I don’t think it’s even close. Here’s why. On the day that the entire nation reflects on the enormous cost of liberty, experiencing that freedom to the fullest is one of the ways we honor the fallen — from the days of our forefathers to the present.
We’ve been given a great country. On Memorial Day, your RV clears the road to some of our nation’s most hallowed emotional territory. And as an added bonus, even if you’re behind the cockpit of a luxury Class B, you’re still basically carting around a wagon with your possessions in it. (Last I checked, pioneering is a pretty American thing to do.)
Here are the best ways to max out Memorial Day from your RV like a patriot. So, wherever you are on the road, you can celebrate this country and honor those who have sacrificed so much for us.
Camp Near a War Memorial
These days, seems like memorials only make the news if someone is defacing them. But politics aside, there’s little debate over the value of remembrance. In the quiet corners of our country, there are innumerable memorials to those who have fallen. And they’re all worth a visit.
Most of the well-known memorials are in Washington D.C., which might make it the best American RV destination for Memorial Day weekend. But wherever you’re camping, there’s likely one in driving distance. Some of our lesser known favorites are: the U.S. National Memorial Arch in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania and Grosse Point War Memorial in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. Each of these memorials is surrounded by history, and a visit to any is an opportunity to learn more about each conflict.
Visit a National Cemetery
This may sound somber, but that’s OK. Memorial Day is a day when we’re supposed to reflect directly upon the human cost of what we value. Little does that like being in proximity to our country’s fallen. It’s a potent but necessary reminder.
National cemeteries are also where many veterans and Gold Star Families go to remember loved ones they have lost. These cemeteries are situated across the country, and many observe Memorial Day with special ceremonies. Some, like Arlington National Cemetery, have national significance. Others, like the Presidio (the name for San Francisco National Cemetery), have a richer local history. Each, however, stands as a testament to the sacrifices that veterans and their families make on behalf of the nation we love.
Explore an Iconic American City
In 2009, four weeks before I shipped out to deploy to Iraq, I visited New York City for a weekend. The trip was amazing — a glowing reminder of many of the best things about the land of the free and the home of the brave. There were patriotic things to do, like the 9/11 Memorial, but my favorite was the Intrepid Museum, which lets you explore a retired WWI US Navy ship the USS Intrepid. Still, the most ‘Merican thing to do was just to wander, appreciating the diverse sights, sounds, and smells of one of the greatest cities in the world.
There are other cities that hold a special national significance, too. Consider Wallydocking near Boston’s Freedom Trail, where you can wander the historic streets where our freedom was incubated. Or park near Gettysburg (we especially love Gettysburg Battlefield Resort), the Alamo, Philadelphia, or Mount Rushmore. Each has plentiful options for RV parking, and plenty of patriotic sights to see over a freedom-filled weekend.
Send a Care Package
Memorial Day honors those who have fallen in defense of our freedom, but spreading the love to those currently deployed is a fantastic way to honor them. Several civilian organizations facilitate these care packages, including the USO, or civilian organizations like Operation Gratitude.
While in Iraq, my unit and I would receive care packages from time to time that were sent from some great Americans with no idea who we were. Packages would just arrive and be distributed to everyone. There would be cards in the packages, addressed generically, and always signed with love. Every time these packages arrived, it didn’t really matter what was in them. It always meant something that somebody was thinking of us.
Visit a Campground Memorial Day Celebration
Many large campgrounds, especially family-oriented locations like KOAs, have Memorial Day celebrations. Each will vary in the activities available, but each is certain to be a collection of diversely patriotic Americans gathering to let freedom ring. There’s usually lots of live music, games and rides for kids, and special food available. Because RV parks are already gathering places for like-minded American adventurers, when you add the extra emphasis of a patriotic weekend, there’s an extra friendly energy.
Celebrate Your Freedom
Most anyone who served, whether for a few years or a career, would agree that the best way for you to honor those who fought for our freedom is to live out your own. Live your best life, remembering that not everyone has the same liberty we do, and aggressively pursue your happiness in your own way. Remember the cost. And remember what’s at stake as we continue this great American experiment. Do those things, and you’ll join millions of Americans in livingout the legacy that every fallen veteran has given us.
Grech RV brings the executive jet experience down to earth with the meticulously equipped LUSSO. Wherever you’re going, this luxurious 24-foot executive van will get you there in superb comfort, fully provisioned with everything a mobile office needs. The Grech RV LUSSO is designed as a Wi-Fi-enabled executive retreat on wheels — with the goal of making both business travel and leisurely outings an absolute treat. And did they ever succeed.
Like the entire Grech RV line, the LUSSO is built on a smooth-riding, fully optioned, 4-cylinder, diesel, high-output Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis with an air-ride suspension. These chassis options ensure that driving is enjoyable, even over longer distances. From the cockpit alone, numerous features are in reach and at your control. Heated memory foam front seats, touchscreen navigation, a backup camera, and parking sensors all help ensure that driving the LUSSO is not only easy — it’s also a delight.
A Fully Loaded RV for Work — and Play
Stepping further inside the LUSSO’s cabin, you’ll find four exclusive heated and cooled reclining massage chairs, each with a concealed aircraft-style tray table built into an armrest. In the rear, two sumptuous sofas create a separate area for casual discussions or separate meetings. A detachable iPad that controls everything in the LUSSO, from climate control to transforming the sofas into a generous and comfortable sleeping area.
On top of that, a separate room at the rear of the coach holds a functional restroom and kitchenette.
As usual, Grech RV has given meticulous thought to the design and features in this versatile RV. So, let’s take a closer look at what makes this executive van such an elite people mover — whether that’s for remote work or pure pleasure.
At a Glance: LUSSO
Check the Specs
Overall Length: 24 feet
Seating Capacity: 10
Sleeping Capacity: 2
Available in four colors: iridium silver, grey white, tenorite grey, black
Features We Love
Grech RV exclusive memory foam, heated/cooled massage seating with power recline and power leg lift
Integrated pop-up, aircraft-style tray tables provide work areas and store neatly into the arms of the massage seating
Multiple USB ports and 110V power outlets are located throughout
Sofa transforms into a comfortable sleeping area via the iPad touchscreen
iPad Firefly control system adjusts the temperature, transform the sofa into a bed, and raises or lowers the blinds from anywhere in the LUSSO
LED TV with Apple TV
Mercedes Benz Starlink satellite Wi-Fi preinstalled
Rest room with porcelain toilet and macerator
Microwave
Nespresso machine
Sink
Power shades
LED lighting
300-watt solar panel package
3000-watt inverter
Lithionics batteries with 610 amp hours and 7,808 watt hours
Whisper-quiet Gree AC that works on battery power
Car seat anchors for family functions
A view from the cockpit of the LUSSO suffers no comparison with a private jet. The similarities only increase as you go further into the cabin.
Benefits
Lots of seating, up to 10 passengers
Heated massage chairs with flip up work surfaces and device charging
Two separate areas that could be used for discussions
Smart TV for presentations
Onboard restroom
Nespresso machine and refrigerator to serve beverages and snacks
Power shades for additional privacy
Sofas are long enough that two weary travelers could rest
Family friendly with child seat tethers throughout
Challenges
The LUSSO’s bathroom and kitchenette are in the same space, which is more than sufficient for short trips, but not ideal for longer ones.
While the LUSSO’s Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis gives it plenty of umph for any surface and its Lithionics energy package provides plenty of independent power, the LUSSO is not primarily designed for going off-road and into the great outdoors. The LUSSO’s greatest virtues are keeping its lucky occupants connected with the luxuries of civilization as they travel through it.
Who Is This For?
Executives who travel a lot for business travel and want to maintain a first-class work environment on the road
Families who want limousine-style privacy and comfort for leisurely family excursions, wine tours, concerts, and sporting events with friends
Our Reviews, Your Way
We asked RV shoppers (like you) what was most important in the RV buying process. Very quickly, six key areas came to the forefront: Sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capability, and storage space. So, for every RV Trader review, we hire independent RV experts to assess each RV primarily along those categories.
That’s where I come in. I’m Lynne Fedorick, an RV expert. RV Trader sent me to the Grech RV showroom in Riverside, California to thoroughly examine six Grech RVs models and floorplans, including the LUSSO.
The LUSSO is different from the rest of Grech RV Class B models. It’s more specifically an executive van —a perfect hybrid between luxury people transporter and an RV. So naturally there were some differences between the LUSSO and a conventional Class B. Discovering those differences had me checking out all of the features on the LUSSO from top to bottom, including testing the LUSSO’s sumptuously divine heated massage chairs.
Sleeping Space
While the LUSSO can seat up to 10 passengers, it can only sleep two. As mentioned previously, the detachable iPad is used to recline the two couches at the rear of the LUSSO into a single, generously sized memory foam sleeping area. Alternatively, each memory foam sofa is long enough to accommodate an adult who wants to catch some ZZZs.
Two power side sofas provide sleeping space for two in the back of the LUSSO’s cabin.
Living and Entertainment Area
Seating in the LUSSO is divided into two spaces. In the front section, you’ll find four of Grech RV’s exclusive ultraleather seats facing each other for en route discussions. These are more than the run-of-the-mill comfortable vehicle seats. That’s because each of them has an arm-mounted control panel that allows an occupant to recline the seat, adjusting the leg rest to a decadently perfect position.
As if that wasn’t enough, the same control panel allows users to slip into a relaxing, almost spa-like experience with heating, cooling, and massage controls. Each of the seats is equipped with an airplane tray style work surface that stows into one of its arms when not in use. Each of the seats also has a built-in USB port to keep electronic devices charged. An installed Starlink satellite internet system ensures that you’ll have access to Wi-Fi wherever you go.
In the Back
In the rear space of the LUSSO, you’ll find two luxurious ultraleather sofas across from one another for relaxed group discussions, perhaps over espresso and snacks. Tired travelers will appreciate that each sofa reclines with a touch of a control to form a single, spacious sleeping area. Here is where you’ll also find an LED Smart TV that includes an Apple TV. This is particularly handy for presentations, but of course can be used for entertainment like watching sports, or taking in a movie.
The LUSSO is accented with those blue Grech Motors — a signature of luxury travel in the transportation industry for years.
Welcome to first class. The four chairs inside the cabin heat you. Cool you. Massage you.
The LUSSO’s features are not just for play. They’re also highly functional for work. With their airport-style armrests that conceal flip-out tray tables, the LUSSO can easily accomodate six different work spaces.
Bathroom and Kitchenette
The restroom area is located through a door at the rear of the seating area of the LUSSO. It’s a very simple affair consisting of a ceramic toilet with a macerator and an above-counter, bowl-style sink with an elegant euro-style faucet.
The kitchenette in the LUSSO is in the same space as the restroom facilities. This was the only real drawback of the LUSSO we could find. However, when it comes down to it, it somehow makes sense to have a shared sink in this floorplan. Anyway, it’s difficult to imagine any other way for both the kitchenette and a restroom to be included in the LUSSO. With that being said, the kitchenette has some great features: a Nespresso machine, microwave oven, small refrigerator, and enough hand-crafted hardwood storage cabinets to store plenty of road trip snacks. This little kitchen area shares a sink with the restroom.
What the kitchenette lacks in size, it makes up for in class and versatility. Note the cabinet space and microwave about the porcelain sink, as well as the fridge below it.
A little Nesspresso hideaway for some caffeine-powered business fuel.
The fridge is compact but has plenty of room to stock for a day or weekend trip.
The toilet shares space with the kitchenette in the rear of the LUSSO, but note the amount of space around it (as well as the storage above it).
Four-Season Capability
While the LUSSO enjoys the multiple layers of insulation that go into all Grech RV floors, walls, and ceilings, this executive van is not primarily intended for extended stays in the elements. Even so, its freshwater and gray water tanks are carefully insulated, as well as heated too. Built for comfort, the LUSSO’s climate control system can successfully keep temperatures where you want them as you navigate from season to season. The LUSSO has a whisper-quiet Gree air conditioner and heat pump to keep the temperature perfectly comfortable.
While all these features help keep occupants cozy, Grech RV spokesperson John Black is quick to point out that these RVs are not designed to be used in extreme cold (like a Canadian winter). However, what these RVs will do is keep you comfortable for four seasons where winter temperatures are milder.
We love how everything on the on the LUSSO, including climate control, can be controlled from an iPad.
Storage Space
The rear area of the LUSSO lends itself perfectly for storing luggage or other items. In addition, there is plenty of cabinet storage here for food or personal items. This rear area is where you’ll also find an unobtrusive and hidden safe for storing electronics and other valuable items while you are on the road.
This secret storage spot next to the toilet can act as a hidden safe for storing electronics and other valuables.
Final Notes on the LUSSO
Exterior Appearance
The LUSSO has a refined elegance that sets it apart from many RVs. However, from the outside, it looks very much like any ordinary Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van. Appliances and extrusions on the roof of the LUSSO are painted to match the exterior color. So, unless you have a discerning eye, it’s hard to tell you’re looking at an RV. It makes them a natural fit for RVers that live in HOA communities.
What’s Underneath?
After exploring the interior and exterior features of the Grech RVs I can’t say I was surprised when I looked underneath the chassis. Here’s what I found: an incredibly neat and tidy undercarriage. Nothing is out of place. There are no mystery wires or misplaced screws. Instead, there are gleaming stainless-steel brackets, perfect welds, and not a nut or bolt out of place. Not only that, the holding tanks were custom-made to fit perfectly under the RVs, to help ensure that no space is wasted while providing the maximum possible holding capacity.
It’s indicative of a meticulous approach to building RVs with the clear goal of providing a flawless RV experience for many years.
A Flash of the Grech RV Origin Story
Grech RV is a relative newcomer to the RV industry. However, this family-owned company has been making sought after luxury limousines and buses for more than 40 years. So Grech RV had time to develop its luxury vehicle game long before jumping into the RV market in 2021.
The Grech RV LUSSO straddles the line between a limousine and an RV. It’s a unique hybrid. One which was designed and developed by a company that has become renowned for quality and customer service in both the luxury, people-mover business and in the Class B RV business.
Customer Service
Either way, if a Grech RV customer has an issue with their vehicle, they are advised to give Grech RV — not their dealer —the first call. (They even provide you with a personal number) That kind of responsive customer service enables Grech RV to diagnose over 90 percent of problems without an owner ever having to waste time, money, or energy getting repairs done.
And if a repair is required, Grech RV helps arrange for an approved technician to fix it right away. It’s a level of customer care that’s unusual where owners can spend months waiting for service when something goes wrong. And it’s the kind of service we’d love to see the rest of the RV industry match.
The buyer-to-owner journey involves a lot of big questions. When to have your RV inspected is one of the biggest. Here’s what the certified inspectors at NRVIA recommend.
Guest Post by NRVIA
Buying an RV is a thing of joy — a journey in and of itself. Every would-be owner has the same goal: a guilt-free purchase. With no buyer’s remorse, no regrets, and no lemons. So, every buyer also has to weigh the question of when they should have their new-found RV inspected.
Once your RV purchase is made, you cannot return it if you make a poor choice. The good news is that there are smart things you can do before you buy to make sure that doesn’t happen. And one of the most savvy things you can do is hire an certified inspector to help you avoid the mistakes other buyers make.
Read what certified inspectors at the National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association (NRVIA) recommend to ensure your next RV purchase gives you all the joy you deserve.
The Big Question: When is the right time to have your RV inspected, whether it’s new or pre-owned?
Some prospective RV buyers may question the necessity and cost of having a trained, certified inspector evaluate the RV they are considering purchasing. However, just as one would not think of buying a house without an inspection, your future home on the road should also be inspected for similar reasons.
The following are the biggest reasons to have your RV inspected before you buy.
Purchasing an RV is a huge investment.
Buying an RV is one of the most substantial investments in a person’s life. It’s crucial to have it thoroughly inspected by a competent professional to ensure its safety and to identify any potential costly issues that could affect its usability.
There may be missing components.
Many new RVs are quickly manufactured in factories and then transported hundreds, if not thousands, of miles to dealerships. Typically, it takes less than three days from the initial assembly to reach the dealership. While some manufacturers conduct basic walk-throughs to catch obvious oversights, such as missing components, this often represents the extent of their pre-delivery inspection.
Pre-owned purchases have wear and tear.
Pre-owned RVs are not exempt from problems either. Given the wear and tear they endure on the road, issues are bound to arise through regular use. Wouldn’t it be reassuring to know what repairs are necessary before finalizing a purchase agreement?
An RV Buyer Advantage:
Don’t dismiss the benefit of having an RV evaluated by a certified inspector.
Flat out: Getting your RV inspected before you buy gives you three key advantages.
Ensuring the vehicle’s safety.
Detecting potential hazards like propane leaks or outdated safety devices such as carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms isn’t just a buyer advantage. It could be life-saving.
Identifying major problems.
Finding evidence of water intrusion in critical areas like the roof, slide-outs, sidewalls, and floor is crucial. At worst, it gives you insight into unseen factors that affect the integrity of your RV. At best, it enables you to feel good about your purchase.
Identifying minor issues.
Providing a comprehensive list of repairs needed allows buyers to prioritize and budget accordingly.
It’s crucial to engage with a trained and certified RV inspector for an inspection. Certified RV inspectors, particularly those certified by the National RV Inspectors Association (NRVIA), have undergone extensive training to understand RV systems thoroughly and recognize signs of potential problems. Importantly, NRVIA inspectors adhere to a strict code of ethics, ensuring impartiality and honesty in their assessments.
By having your dream RV inspected before purchase, you can prevent potential nightmares down the road.
Your Next Move:
Find an independent third-party RV certified inspector by the NRVIA.
A map of the United States and Canada will appear with hundreds of green pins representing all the certified and master certified RV inspectors who are current members of NRVIA.
Type in the zip code or city and state of your location and indicate if you’d like to see all the inspectors within a 100- or 250-mile radius of that location. The map will center on your location and show pins for all member-certified RV inspectors in your area.
To learn more about an inspector, click on a pin within the map or click on the “View Profile” link to see their photo, business name, business website, phone number, email address, a brief description of their business, their credentials, and any vital information.
To schedule an appointment, visit the inspector’s website for more information, email or call them directly.
Please note: The inspector’s profile may show their current certifications, including any held with the RV Technician Association of America (RVTAA) as a registered or certified technician. If so, that NRVIA member is not allowed to work on any RV they have inspected for one year after the inspection.
If you have further questions, email info@nrvia.org or call (855) 472-9948.
The Grech RV Turismo-ion Twin AWD was made to get you off the beaten path for a carefree and flawless RV camping experience. At just over 19 feet long, the Turismo-ion is the smallest Class B in the remarkably elegant and upscale Grech RV line. However, just because the Turismo-ion is small doesn’t mean it lacks the luxury found in Grech RV’s larger 24-foot Strada-ion or the similarly appointed 22-foot Terreno-ion Twin. Like both of these larger models, the Turismo-ion has an air ride suspension, giving it a superbly smooth ride.
This all-electric Class B serves up all the amenities found in the Terreno-ion Twin, albeit in a smaller package. Plus (as with all Grech RVs) the fully electric Turismo-ion is built on a fully loaded diesel Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. Its shorter wheelbase (144-inch vs the Terreno-ion’s 170-inch wheelbase) gives the Turismo-ion increased nimbleness and maneuverability that make it as much at home on a city street as it is on a mountain road. And make no mistake: The Turismo is definitely meant to take you exploring roads less traveled and beyond.
A Tale of Two Floorplans
The Turismo-ion is available in two floorplans: Tour or Twin. The key difference between the two floorplans is that the Turismo-ion Tour has four seatbelts and a comfortable lounge area in the back of the RV with a memory foam sofa and twin ottomans, which, of course, transforms itself into a single sleeping area for up to two people; the Turismo-ion Twin’s lounge/sleeping area reveals it has different priorities.
While the Turismo-ion Twin’s floorplan is very similar to Tour in many ways, its floorplan is arranged with two reclining sofas facing each other at the rear of the RV. At night, an adult can stretch out comfortably on each sofa, but both sofas also transform into a single large sleeping area for up to two adults. Significantly, the Twin’s floorplan gives you additional space to store larger toys. Like a surfboard. Or fishing gear. Or a bicycle between the sofas. In short, the Tour give you room for (two) more people; the Twin gives you room for more toys.
If you’re looking for a luxurious, expedition-ready Class B RV — and you need room for gear — the Turismo-ion Twin AWD might be exactly what you’re looking for.
At a Glance: Turismo-Ion Twin AWD
Check the Specs
Height: 10 feet 2 inches
Width: 6 feet 6 inches
Overall Length: 19 feet 6 inches
Interior Height: 6 feet 1 inch
Bed: 66 inches (wide) by 73 inches (long)
Seating Capacity: 2
Sleeping Capacity: 2
Fresh/Gray/Black: 16/26/13 gallons
Features We Love
Stylish and simple exterior
Spacious, built cabinets
Firefly touch pad controls everything
No propane! No noisy generator!
Quiet, all-electric power system
Separate back and front areas
Dropdown insect screen at back
Insect screen on one-touch power side door
One-touch power side door
Oh-so-comfortable seating and sleeping
Shade at back that doubles as a movie screen
Twin couches offer sleeping options
Pop up table
Storage shelves and cubbies
Outdoor shower
Captain’s chairs with position memory
Lagun table can be deployed as needed
Rear windows open and have insect screens
Quiet 1260-watt-hour power system for up to six days off grid
Whisper-quiet Gree air conditioner/heat pump
Diesel furnace and hot water
Spacious wet bath with 3 mirrors
Ceramic toilet
5,000-pound towing capacity (with hidden tow hitch) to bring toys
Dog friendly features: Outdoor shower and easy-to-clean interior surfaces
Off-road capability can take you anywhere
Benefits
Perfect for one or two people
Clean, quiet, all-electric
No hassles with propane or noisy generators
Plenty of luxurious amenities
Superb build quality
Off-road capable
Starlink is prewired for easy installation
Extra storage for sports gear between the sofas
5000-pound towing capacity to bring extra toys
Challenges
No easy to access outdoor storage space for gear like camping chairs or a grill
Passenger capacity limited to two people
Who Is This For?
Couples or solo RVers who like to boondock but want to do so with some luxury
Class B lovers who would like some extra space in the cabin to stow some outdoor toys
Digital nomads who don’t need to bring more than one friend or family member
Real RV Reviews, Done Your Way
When RV Trader asked RV shoppers (like you) what was most important in their RV buying process, what do you think they said? They overwhelmingly mentioned six key areas: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, kitchen, four-season capability, and storage.
So, every time RV Trader reviews an RV, we take a close look at those six categories. RV Trader also hires experienced RV experts to evaluate each model and conduct an independent RV reviews process. So, you can know the good, the bad, and the unexpected about every RV we review.
I’m Lynne, and that’s where I come in. I’m an RV expert, and when I review an RV, my goal is always to review it objectively. So, when RV Trader sent me to evaluate six Grech RV models and floorplans in Riverside, California, I did exactly that. I went over every inch of this RV and put together an objective, unbiased review that I hope will be valuable to RV shoppers like you.
So, let’s get rolling with my review of the Twin floorplan of the Grech RV Turismo-ion AWD.
Sleeping Space
In the rear of this RV, you’ll find two sumptuous ultraleather sofas that face one another. When it’s time for bed, the Twin floorplan gives you two options to choose from. Travelers that don’t want to share a bed can each sleep very comfortably on the memory foam sofas. A single person, or two people that don’t mind sharing a bed can use the wall mounted Firefly touchscreen controller (or Firefly phone app) to recline both sofas into a comfortable 66-inch by 76-inch bed. There’s a spacious storage cabinet over the rear doors that is perfect for stowing bedding and pillows.Plus if you like to watch a movie at bedtime you’ll love that Grech RV puts a 24-inch LED smart TV in the rear area of this RV with a premium soundbar.
Other cool features you’ll find in the sleeping area are built-in shelves with 110V power outlets and USB charging outlets with handy shelves to stash your electronics neatly away so they’ll be charged and ready to go in the morning.
Nighty Night
Before you go to sleep, you’ll probably want to go to the Firefly panel (or the Firefly App on your phone) and choose the Shades option. From there you can choose the Master option to lower all the shades at once. Alternatively, you could choose to lower individual shades using the descriptive icons on the panel or on the app. The Firefly system is really flawless technology that’s designed to be easy to use without any learning curve.
Another thing I loved in the Grech RVs are the insect screens on the side and rear doors. The power insect screen at the back drops from the top of the doorway to protect RV occupants. This feature lets you have the rear doors open without worrying about mosquitos coming in. That means, you could back the Turismo-ion Twin AWD up to a beautiful river, open the rear doors, drop the screen, and enjoy a beautiful view without being bothered by bugs.
The twin sofas give owners great versatility of use. They create a spacious living area, shown here with the Lagun table set up; but their orientation also allows storage space for larger outdoor toys.
With the touch of a button on your Firefly panel or app, the sofas converge to create a large sleep space.
Bathroom
The Turismo-ion Twin has a spacious wet bath that’s packed with plenty of great little features that add up to an aura of elegant luxury. It’s true that many RV wet baths can feel cramped, this one has a bright and spacious feel. Some of the keys to this spacious feel is a concealed window as well as three mirrors strategically placed to reflect light. All the surfaces in the wet bath are uniformly light colored and glossy to reflect light and add to the roomy feel. The result is lighting that is good enough that it would be easy to shave or apply makeup in this bathroom. Those who need more privacy can pull the window’s manual shade closed.
I loved that the toilet is ceramic because ceramic RV toilets are easy to clean. Ceramic RV toilets also seem to maintain their appearance for much longer than the plastic toilets commonly found in RV bathrooms.
Bathroom Features We Love
One-piece, easy-to-clean, high-gloss surface
Excellent lighting for shaving or makeup
Concealed bathroom window
Pull-out, multi-position shaving/makeup mirror
Pull-out faucet and transforms into a shower head
Multiple hooks for hanging towels and washcloths
Manual pull-down window shade
Cloth shower curtain to contain moisture
Large mirror that can be used outside the bathroom when door is open
Protected toilet tissue holder that keeps toilet tissue dry while someone showers
Wet baths in Class Bs have a reputation for feeling cramped. Not so with the Grech RV wet bath. There’s lots of light, great utility of space, and luxury features, like the ceramic toilet shown here.
Inside the bathroom, little features go a long way. The smooth, single-piece surfaces are appealing (and easy-to-clean). The faucet pulls out and can be repositioned to become a shower head. There’s even a concealed window.
Living Area
As mentioned, two comfy sofas sit at the rear of the Twin floorplan. There is a multiposition Lagun style table, which can be quickly deployed or removed as needed. The Turismo-ion Twin’s sumptuous and fully adjustable captain’s chairs also swivel around to face the main area of the RV creating additional seating without compromising room in this space conscious RV. What’s more, the seat closest to the door can be positioned to make use of a pop up table that deploys from the end of the kitchen cabinetry as a desk or eating surface.
Outside the Turismo, there’s a generous awning that adds a sheltered outdoor living area. The awning even has a wind sensor. The Firefly App (or touch pad) lets you easily control and adjust both the awning and its adjustable lighting. By the way, I loved the design-conscious way that Grech RV adds the power awning onto all Grech RVs. Instead of just plunking it next to the roof of the RV and screwing it on (like many manufacturers do), Grech RV maintains the visual integrity of their RV’s elegant appearance by aerodynamically blending the awning cover into the exterior design. It’s the kind attention to detail that helps to create trust in Grech RV’s craftsmanship and quality. Grech RV seems aware that these little details make a big difference.
Letting the Outdoors In
To take even more living space outdoors, the exterior side of the rear door power shade is white. With the rear doors open, it makes a perfect projection screen for enjoying a movie night under the stars. All you’d need to add would be a starry night, a projector and some popcorn. I was impressed that Grech RV made one side of this particular shade white on all its 2025 RVs in response to a casual suggestion by a customer.
View of the cabin from the passenger-side sofa.
A wonderful 24-inch LED smart TV is positioned nicely on the drive-side sofa.
This screen door on the side entrance enables you to let the outdoors in, minus the bugs.
Features like this are what make these Grech RV models special. Not only can you drop a screen in the rear to open up while keeping the insects out, you can also drop a screen and watch movies outdoors if you have a projector.
Kitchen
The kitchen area of the Turismo-ion Twin has a lot of features that we’ve become accustomed to finding in Class As, Cs, and fifth wheels. There’s a lot to love in the Turismo-ion Twin’s functional kitchen, including its gorgeous quartz countertops. Grech RV maximizes counter space with an integrated two-burner induction cooktop and a removable countertop that can be placed over the spacious farmhouse-style sink. Grech RV has also added extra counter space with that cleverly concealed flip up table/work surface mentioned earlier. All of this makes for an unexpectedly practical and functional galley style kitchen in a Class B.
The Turismo-ion Twin AWD boasts an energy efficient induction range, a combination convection oven/air fryer/microwave, and a small fridge. Kitchen storage is more than adequate and contained in hand crafted solid hardwood cabinets and drawers. Here’s a list of the features our experts loved about this RV kitchen.
Our Favorite Kitchen Features
Flip-up work surface/table
Quartz countertops
Two-burner Induction stove
Combination microwave/convection/air fryer
Spacious farmhouse-style sink
Faucet with pull-out sprayer
Large 12V refrigerator with bottom freezer
Plenty of storage in hardwood cabinets and drawers
An integrated flip out storage caddy under the sink for dishwashing tools
This farmhouse-style sink is especially large and lovely. The faucet also pulls out. Further down the quartz countertop, you can see the two-burner induction stovetop.
The microwave/convection/air fryer gives your galley a multitude of cooking options.
This fridge is larger than you would expect for a Class B this size. It even has a little freezer in the top left corner.
Four-Season Capability
Grech RV puts multiple layers of insulation into all its RV floors, walls, and ceilings. The Turismo-ion Twin is no exception. Freshwater and gray water tanks are carefully insulated and heated too. The Gree air conditioner doubles as a delightfully quiet heat pump that keeps things nice and cozy when you want to camp in cooler temperatures. However, when it’s really cold out, you have heating options. There’s also the quiet Timberline heater that operates on diesel. (In winter, it’s quite nice to have the choice of two different heating appliances — neither of which involve filling/lugging a propane bottle.)
While all these features help occupants to stay comfortable, Grech RV spokesperson John Black is quick to point out that these RVs are not designed to be used in extreme cold (like a Canadian winter). However, what these RVs will do is keep you comfortable for four seasons where winter temperatures are even slightly milder. With that in mind, the Turismo-ion Twin is probably better classified as a three-and-a-half-season camper.
Storage Space
The Turismo-ion Twin has impressive storage capacity in the form of spacious, beautifully handcrafted hardwood cabinets. There’s lots of room to store all the essentials including bedding, clothing, and food. There’s enough room here to store everything you need for a road trip or a few days of camping. I was also delighted to find multiple shelves and cubbies throughout the RV where you could securely stash a book or an electronic device.
A bonus of the Twin floorplan is that there is storage space for sports gear such as fishing rods, a bicycle, or a surfboard between the two sofas at the rear of the RV. Additionally, the Turismo’s 5000-pound towing capacity allows you to easily tow a small trailer that could even carry extra toys, like ATVs or trail bikes.
About Those Cabinets
Cabinets in Grech RVs are beautifully hand-crafted from high-grade birch plywood using light or dark wood veneers. But it’s not all about beauty here: There is no MDF (otherwise known as particle board) in these cabinets at all. This gives the cabinets structural integrity and helps to ensure their longevity.
The cabinets also lock with an easy click of a pop-out button on the cabinet handle. Locking the cabinets keeps them from opening and spilling their contents while you’re bumping along a campground road. It’s yet another nice little touch in Grech RVs that gives you a carefree RV experience.
A view with the rear doors open gives you an idea the kind of extra space you get with the Twin floorplan. Perfect for outdoor toys you may want to stow.
Extra Details for Potential Buyers
Appearances Can Be … Revealing
Grech RVs have a refined and understated elegance — so much so that they camouflage themselves in cities and suburban neighborhoods. From the outside, they look very much like an ordinary Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van. A nice one. All appliances and extrusions on the roof of these RVs (like the A/C and the awning cap) are painted to match the exterior color. So, unless you have a discerning eye, it’s hard to tell you’re looking at an RV — which is especially nice for RVers who live in an HOA community.
Another cool feature is that there isn’t a single utility access hole cut into any of the side walls of Grech RVs. Instead, all the utility access points are concealed beneath a protective strip of stainless steel along the bottom quarter of the RV. Again, it’s in keeping with the RV’s elegant appearance. But there is more to this than good looks. No intrusion points mean fewer places water can get in. (It also means you don’t need to protect your RV from water damage with yearly resealing.)
The Fun-to-Drive Factor
The Turismo-ion Twin AWD is built on a fully optioned Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis. And it has super comfortable seats. In the Turismo-ion, you get adjustable heated and cooled driver and front passenger seats. Both driver and passenger seats have programmable memory for the seat position preferences of up to two people. Both driver and front passenger get a sumptuous, memory foam captain chair that has lumbar support.
A raised driving position and expansive windows offer an impressive view of the road. All the controls Sprinter are easy to find and within easy reach while you’re driving. The list of goodies goes on. A nice, big touch screen that includes a back-up camera and an on-board navigation system. And beautiful AWD handling. It felt remarkably responsive and had plenty of power for climbing hills. The Turismo-ion Twin AWD would be just at home running around town as it would be exploring the backcountry.
Extending Your Drive Off-Grid
On that note, the Turismo-ion Twin AWD is well-equipped to take you off the grid for up to six days at a time. That being said, it’s kitted out with 200 watts of solar panels, and a 1,260-amp-hour lithium-Ion battery package as well as a 3000-watt Xantrex inverter. The Turismo-ion Twin AWD also charges its batteries whenever you’re driving, so you don’t need to rely on sunny days to maintain your power supply.
Favorite Driving Features
Fantastic visibility of the road from the driver’s position
Off-road capability
Nimble enough for getting around a busy city with ease
Lots of power
Easy-to-operate navigation system
Great stereo
Backup camera
Rain sensors
Parking sensors
Super comfortable captain’s chair with fully customizable seat and back positions with preset controls for multiple drivers
Sublimely comfortable captain’s seat
Trailer tow package (5000-pound towing capacity)
One touch electric sliding door
Elevated and open with incredible visibility, the cockpit of the Turismo-ion Twin AWD is a wonderful place to be.
After the Sale Service
Grech RV is a relative newcomer to the RV industry, but its time in the luxury vehicle game (long before jumping into the RV market in 2021) means it has a refreshingly different approach to customer service.
Right from the start, Grech RV raised the bar for the RV industry with its quick response to customer concerns and outstanding commitment to both quality and customer service
If a Grech RV customer has an issue with their RV, Grech RV wants you to give them— not your dealer —the first call. (They even provide you with a personal number.) Doing so, Grech RV has been able to diagnose over 90 percent of problems without an owner ever having to waste time, money, or energy with maintenance.
If maintenance is required, Grech RV is there for that too, even helping arrange for an approved technician to fix it right away. This level of customer care is unusual — and it’s the kind of service we’d love to see the entire RV industry match.
