Gifts for the enthusiast who has everything It can be challenging to shop for the outdoor enthusiast who seems to have everything. If you have an avid RVer on your list this year, read on for some creative gift ideas sure to bring a smile to their face.
Decorative MapsOne of the best parts of RV life are the memories you make. Help your loved one record those memories creatively with decorative interactive maps. There are lots of options to choose from. Some have magnets for each state to be added once you’ve visited, some are scratch off, others have a slot to put in a state coin. The bonus is these maps are perfect decor for the inside of an RV.
Creative Storage OptionsStorage space is always limited [...]
Be prepared for winter roads Winter can be a beautiful time to travel and explore the outdoors, but it does require a little more preparation. There are maintenance issues that are wise to take care of (for example checking the antifreeze levels and making sure your lights and wipers function well). However, there are also several items that you will want to make sure to have with you if you are still planning on being out and exploring after the snow falls. Read on to learn the must haves to stow in your RV or car.
Extra ClothesIn the case of an accident or emergency, and extra set of pants, gloves, and shirt can make a huge difference in your ability to handle the cold temperatures. Make sure you pack enough for every member [...]
How to divvy up limited resources Like it or not, most of us have a limited amount of resources to spend on outdoor gear. It can be challenging to decide which gear to splurge on, and which to skimp on. Thankfully, the Washington State Parks blog Adventure Awaits recently consulted with State Park staff to find out their recommendations. Read on for tips from the experts on what to splurge and what to skimp on when it comes to outdoor gear.
SKIMP – camp chairsBasic camp chairs are fine for most campers. They cost $10 to $20 and they’re easy to pack around. Most state park campsites have picnic tables, but something a little bit softer can make the whole camping experience better.
A few staff consider this item [...]
Bring along your best friend Fall is one of the most popular hiking seasons, and for good reason. As you head out to enjoy the incredible foliage, you may be tempted to bring along your four legged best friend. Hiking with your pooch can be a great activity for both of you, but there are a few tips to keep in mind before you hit the trail.
Check the rulesDifferent trails have different regulations when it comes to dogs. On many trails dogs are allowed if they are leashed, but there are some trails they are prohibited. Hiking on a prohibited trail with your dog could result in an expensive fine. Before you drive an hour for a hike, make sure your dog is allowed.
Keep your dog leashedRegardless of [...]
Summer might just be overrated If you’ve spent anytime at RV parks, you may believe summer is the best time to camp. Indeed, summer is probably the most popular time to camp, but we’re here to argue that fall is in fact the best season for RV camping. Bring on the cooler mornings, changing colors, and crowd free parks. We’re hitting the road this fall.
Reason #1: Fall ColorsYou probably guessed this one right off the bat. However, there is just nothing quite so spectacular as fall foliage. You do not get the same hues any other time of the year. A tip for enjoying the foliage – the smaller the road you travel, the more stunning the view. The back roads are transformed into a kaleidoscope of colorful [...]
Unsavory but Necessary Dump stations are one of those aspects of RV life that are not entirely pleasant, but are entirely necessary. If you’re using your RV, you’re likely using your RV bathroom. If you’re using your RV bathroom, you’re going to need a dump station. A dump station is a place where raw, untreated sewage can be sent into the sanitary sewer system. Using a dump station to dump raw waste is not only the safest, but also most responsible way to dispose of raw human waste. It is illegal to dump raw waste in the wild, and you can get a ticket if you choose to do so.
How do I find a dump station?There are some typical locations that often have dump stations. These include:
- State Parks
- National Parks
- RV Parks [...]
A common problem One of the most common interior complaints we hear from RV owners is that their couches begin to peel far before they expect them to. This can be a costly problem to fix, so it is important to both take preventative measures as well as be aware of creative fixes. Read on to learn how to both prevent and deal with peeling couches.
What type of couches are most likely to peel?Couches with fake leather, or “pleather” surfaces are the most likely to peel in an RV. RV manufactures like to use this kind of material, even in high end RVs, to give the furniture the look of high-end furniture (without the cost). When first picking out your RV, you can investigate options to change the fabric or couches in your rig [...]
The perfect outdoor adventure In recent years, paddleboarding has grown rapidly in popularity. Many people are adopting this fun water activity, and the fitness and adventure it provides. Paddleboarding is a budget-friendly activity – and you don’t even have to invest in a board! Many state parks offer paddleboard rentals. If you do choose to invest in a paddleboard, consider getting an inflatable board. These boards will take up far less space in your RV as you travel.
Paddleboarding is a great activity for a wide range of ages and skills. You don’t have to stand up on a paddleboard! You can choose to sit, kneel, stand or even do yoga based on your own balance.
Paddleboard Safety TipsThere are a few safety tips to keep in mind before you head out [...]
Preparing for the inevitable If you use your RV regularly, chances are that sometime during a trip you are going to need to fill up your RV tires. However, this is not always as simple as pulling into the pump at the gas station with your car. RV’s can be hard to maneuver around gas station air pumps, and station pumps are often limited in the PSI you can go up to. This means that you might not be able to get a high enough PSI for your large rig. So what can you do when you need to fill up your RV tires when you’re on the road?
Truck stops are your new best friendTruck stops are designed for larger vehicles, making filling your RV tires at their air pumps that much easier. Many [...]
Make the most of your space The blessing and the curse of the RV is the amount of space available to you. The ability to scale back on “stuff” and get out to enjoy nature and the outdoors is phenomenal. However, if you’re traveling extensively you will need to make the most of the space you have.
There are several tips and hacks for making the most of the limited space in your RV, all while not making your rig feel cluttered or stuffed to the gills.
Use packing and unpacking listsIf you’re traveling by airplane and limited to a carry-on, you are likely to be very selective when you pack. When you have an entire RV before you it can be tempting to go by the method of “oh, just throw it [...]
