

Have you wondered what's behind the RV backlog and why new RVs are sold out for many, many months to come? 



As they say, it's complicated. And very frustrating to the industry. Even more frustrating for those who wanted to buy and go traveling in an RV this year.



That's what we dig into this week in Episode 349 of the RV Podcast.



Here's the complete audio version.







And here's the video version, from our RV Lifestyle Channel on YouTube:








But the main reason is the continuing shortage of parts and chassis and the unprecedented, overwhelming demand for new RVs. Quite frankly, most of the major manufacturers are sold out!



The RV Backlog and Dealer Shortages is unprecedented



Let's start with a vivid example of how big this problem is. The numbers from Thor Industries -the world's largest RV manufacturer - are staggering.



Thot's CEO, Bob Martin, was brutally honest in an interview he did with CNBC last week. He said they have $14 billion in backorders for new RVs. Let me say that again: $14 BILLION…with a B. 



They are SOLD OUT for the next year



Thor Industries is the company that owns many popular brands including Airstream, Jayco, Dutchmen, Heartland, Hymer, Keystone and many others. It makes tow-able trailers and RVs of all shapes and sizes.



Martin said that demand took off during the pandemic, and it keeps growing day-by-day.. In the US and in Europe, Martin said they are unable to build units fast enough and that what they do build are promised to customers who have been waiting, sometimes for months. As a result, inventory on RV dealer lots is extremely low.



It’s not just Thor. This is happening across North America.



The RV Backlog is the result of a perfect storm of circumstances



A cascading series of events came together to create this crisis: 



* First, it was COVID plant closures that halted RV assembly lines for weeks* Those closures also shuttered the factories used by RV suppliers, creating an instant parts shortage.* The resulting delivery issues caused a total breakdown in the supply chain has now put the industry in the never-before-experienced position of having unprecedented, massive demands… but no inventory to give them.



What follows is a series of very candid interviews that unpacks this crisis from the perspective of the three major players in the RV Industry - an RV manufacturer, a parts supplier, and an RV dealer.



A Manufacturer's Perspective in the RV Backlog



Dean Corrigal of Leisure Travel Vans discusses the RV backlog and parts shortages affecting the industry



To get an idea of what it's like from a manufacturer's perspective, we interviewed our friend Dean Corrigal from Leisure Travel Vans up in Winkler, Manitoba, Canada. Here's the edited transcript:



Behind the RV Backlog: Why they’re sold out for the next year or more

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Call it a Rolling RV Renovation but we have some very affordable RV Interior Makeover Ideas to share that can really revitalize your camper's interior vibe.



Our guest on Episode 475 of the RV Podcast is Cortni Armstrong, otherwise known as "The Flipping Nomad." Cortni is an RV makeover expert and our conversation is all about remodeling your RV interior on a budget. Now's the time to upgrade the look while waiting for the spring travel season.



You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below.







If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below.







Cortni's RV Interior Makeover Ideas



We regularly hear from RVers who want to personalize their RV, freshen it up, and give it a new look without breaking the bank. 



Maybe you are in that category - you've had your RV for a couple of years and love it, but the interior could use a little updating. 



Or maybe your RV is brand new to you, and it just isn't quite your taste. To help us with several fun, easy, and inexpensive ways to give your RV a facelift, we have as our guest today Cortni Armstrong of The Flippin' Nomad. 



Cortni specializes in renovating RVs and has a wealth of ideas we think you will find very helpful. 



Here's an edited transcript:



Cortni Armstrong of The Flippin' Nomad. 



Mike and Jennifer Wendland Well, Cortni joins us right now. It's always good to see you. You have been a busy woman these past several months.



Cortni I have been, it never ends around here.



Mike and Jennifer Wendland Today I want to talk about the average RVer who wants to do a refresh or a makeover, an RV interior makeover. Is this possible for the average person to do at an affordable rate and does it affect the value of the RV? Give us some ideas of what's possible.



Cortni Yeah, well, I've got a lot of experience doing this. You know, I started the business about six or seven years ago. And so I've coached hundreds of people through how to kind of DIY a refresh of their own rig. 



We're kind of most commonly known for these big over-the-top overhauls, but you don't have to do a big over-the-top, extremely expensive, very labor-intensive overhaul to get your rig feeling like your own. What I always tell students is there is a refresh for any type of budget that's out there. So even if you've got basically next to nothing, there's a few things that you can do to refresh your rig.



Some things that are really easy to implement for low budget or even no budget would be things like, window valances that are in RVs. You know, they're kind of like the big boxes that trim out windows like this. And a lot of people think that those have to be there for the structural integrity of the roller shade that is mounted to them, but that's actually not the case. 



The only reason the manufacturers mount the roller shade to that valance is because it's an efficiency thing for when the rig is on the assembly line. That roller shade does not need the valance to operate. So you can take that valance box down and then just reattach that roller shade to your wall.




Affordable RV Interior Makeover Ideas


RV thefts are on the rise. An RV GPS tracker will help recover your investment if thieves decide to steal it. Here's what to look for in choosing a tracker and how to install it.



This week on Episode 474 of the RV Podcast:




* Why your RV needs a GPS tracker



* Why you may want not to take your RV on the Pennsylvania Turnpike!



* Apps to help RVers easily send out their holiday greetings



* All this, plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode #474 of the RV Podcast




You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below.







If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below.







Interview of the Week: Installing an RV GPS Tracker



This is not the type of GPS tracker we need...watch the video to see more.



This week, we’re going to talk about how to combat a growing problem facing RV owners - Theft.



Your RV is more than just a vehicle; it's a home on wheels. Safeguarding this significant investment is crucial, and a GPS tracker provides an additional layer of security. In the unfortunate event of theft, having real-time location data significantly increases the chances of recovering your beloved RV.



Every week we hear about stolen RVs that are never recovered. Just the other day, a Class A motorhome was stolen from Myrtle Beach and the owner said, “My whole life is in that RV. I want it back.”



But like so many other stolen RVs, police have no clue where it is and the likelihood of it being found and recovered is pretty slim.



That’s where a GPS tracker would help. First, it would have alerted the owner when his RV was moved. And more importantly it would allow police to know where it is and then recover it.



Recently we told the story of a camper whose RV was stolen from an RV storage facility in California and she was never notified. During that interview, we shared several tips that you could take to safeguard your RV, and today we would like to share one more.



Our guest is Conrad Galambos, president of Solutions into Motion LTD which owns a product called WhereSafe, a GPS tracking device. Conrad explains various ways a GPS tracker on an RV can be used by RVers, that you'll not want to miss. 



Listen or watch the interview with the players above.



Meantime...



What is an RV GPS Tracker?



RV GPS tracker devices are specialized tracking systems designed for recreational vehicles (RVs) to help owners keep tabs on the location and status of their vehicles. These devices utilize Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to determine the precise location of the RV and often provide additional features for enhanced monitoring and security. 



Here are some key aspects of RV GPS tracker devices:




* Location Tracking: The primary function of an RV GPS tracker is to provide real-time location information. This allows owners to know the current whereabouts of their RV, which can be crucial for planning trips, ensuring security, and locating the vehicle in case of theft.



* Geo-Fencing: Many RV GPS trackers offer geo-fencing cap...

Lost and Found: Peace of Mind with a RV GPS Tracker


Lots of RVers are spending Thanksgiving in an RV.  It takes planning to pull it off successfully, but provides lots of great memories for families and friends. 



It's Thanksgiving week and we RVers and campers have so much to be thankful for this season. In this week's episode 473, we'll share lots of Thanksgiving notes and hear from a couple that has hosted Thanksgiving in an RV for the past 10 years.



This year, they'll be joined at the campground by 23 family members.



You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below.







If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below.







With Thanksgiving, it's time for some great Black Friday and Cyber Monday bargains on RV, Camping and Outdoor accessories and gadgets.



Last night, we did a one-hour livestream on Amazon Live that featured many of the best Black Friday shopping deals available. I urge you to go to our Amazon Live page and watch that video… it’s at https://www.amazon.com/live/rvlifestyle, and while there please hit the follow button because we will be doing these regularly.



But, since then, we have heard of a few more extraordinary savings on things of interest to RVers and campers. 




* First, Jackery solar generators that offer back up power for all your electronic devices, has all their power systems on sale at really low prices. If you are thinking of getting one, you’ll never find better pricing at https://amzn.to/3G61a7s 



* Battleborn Batteries has an amazing 40% off Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale. Go to https://rvlifestyle.com/lithium for details.



* RV Mattress has 30% off if you use the coupon code rvlifestyle. That’s a fantastic price. See them at https://rvmattress.com/rvlifestyle



* Beddys, which has amazing bed coverings that zip up and make it so easy to make your beds in the RV has an excellent sale for Black Friday. Go to  https://rvlifestyle.com/beddys



* RVLock, which is a combination replacement lock for RVs that allows keyless entry and is available for trailers, fifth wheels and motorhomes, has the best sale I’ve ever seen them offer: 36% off. Check it out at https://amzn.to/3SIoP5E 



* Finally, Waggle pet monitors - perfect to keep track of the temperature in your RV if you leave pets there while you go out - is having a 50% sale on its products, including the newest one. Details at https://amzn.to/3ukEmOR 




And again, for a full look at a whole slew of other RV and Camping accessories with great Black Friday discounts, check out our most recent Amazon Live stream, at https://www.amazon.com/live/rvlifestyle



SOCIAL MEDIA BUZZ - Wendy Bowyer







Wendy Bowyer reports on the hot issues most talked about this past week on our RV Lifestyle Facebook Group:



William wrote: Still learning the ropes, what are the top three handy/new/nifty things I need to buy before RVing around the country?



Thanksgiving in an RV


RV Storage theft happens a lot more than many people realize. We have an unbelievable tale from an RVing couple who learned this the hard way.



Their RV was stolen from what was supposed to be a secure storage facility. When police recovered it and took it to their storage facility, the same thief stole it again. 



And when police recovered it the second time, they ended up selling it at auction. The owners knew none of this, thinking their RV was still safe in the facility they were renting.



They only discovered this when they went to pick up their RV in the spring. They have since spent months frustratingly trying to figure how out this could have happened and what recourse they have.



That's the story we share in the interview of the week in Episode 472 of the RV Podcast. 



Also in this episode:




* The best day of the week for RV travel



* How to find the best RV and camping gadgets and gear



* Campground etiquette for outside-the-RV lights




You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below.







If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below.







Interview of the Week - RV Storage Theft



Steve and Claudia Sorensen have spent three months of every summer traveling in their RV for the past 15 years. 



From Mount Rushmore to Glacier National Park to Chaco Canyon, they went up and down the American West in their 22-foot Minnie Winnie, which they had remodeled with new upholstery, curtains, paint, flooring, kitchen fixtures, solar panels, lithium batteries, and an inverter. 



When they were done traveling each summer, they would store their RV in a storage facility in whatever town they happened to be near. They planned to continue doing this for years to come.



But when they went to their storage facility last July ready to hit the road and camp they were in for a shock: Their RV was gone. It had been stolen.



And how the RV storage theft happened and what they uncovered and experienced subsequently is an unbelievable tale that you just have to hear.



The Sorensens have learned a lot.  



And today Claudia is here to help us all better understand what every RVer should know when storing their RV.



Click either the video or audio players above to hear the entire story of their RV storage theft.



Social Media Buzz







Wendy Bowyer reports on the hot issues most talked about this past week on our RV Lifestyle Facebook Group:



Have you ever wondered what state has the worst roads? Well, Michael was wondering just this so he asked the question on the RVLifestyle Facebook Group. Michael thought the state with the worst roads was probably Tennessee, but said he was told Louisiana was the worst.



More than 1,200 people weighed in with their vote, and I have to tell you, there are a LOT of contenders!



So what states did the group say have the worst roads?



Michigan and Pennsylvania came up a LOT, but so did California, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas,

RV Storage Theft: One Camper’s Shockingly True Story


There's more to safe and secure RV storage than just winterizing it and putting it away. Among other things, you need to pay attention to the roof, tires, and electrical system.



Our guest in the Interview of the Week segment in Episode 471 of the RV podcast is our friend Todd “The Beard” Henson of the National RV Training Academy. 



Todd is one of the RV industry’s top experts in maintaining and caring for your RV and the chef instructor in a special home training course that any RVer can benefit from.



You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below.







If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below.











RV INTERVIEW OF THE WEEK: What you need to know about RV Storage



Here’s an edited transcript of the interview:



The best solution for RV Storage is indoor storage



Todd:



Let's go over a lot of the considerations. I mean, we have a large investment sitting in the cold weather, and the one thing we don't want to do is just simply leave it out there in all cases, so let's look at some of the best preferences.



So number one is, if it's possible, is to store it indoors. The worst thing that we can do is leave this out in the field by itself. But I know that in some cases we've got no option. So how do we protect that investment? 



If you can't store it indoors, I would recommend storing it even outside of trees. The problem with that is that most trees, of course, they go into winterization mode as well, and that's when we get a lot of foliage that drops, and then of course we get limbs that drop. And guys, most of our roofs are either some type of rubber membrane or PVC membrane and falling objects are not desirable. So I would not recommend storing it in an open air situation.



If outside, watch out for tree damage during RV storage



Now, from there, what are some other things that we can do? 



Okay, now we know that these RVs, the tires are just sitting there. There's a couple of things that I want to look at. 



One is, of course, if you can roll them up on some wooden blocks, especially if it's going to be on concrete, go ahead and roll them up on wooden blocks. The second thing is that as the air gets cooler and there's really not much going on, the tires can deflate. 



Take care of your tires







So I'm going to ask you to look at that every once in a while because we've had several situations even with FEMA, where we would store these, and of course we had survivors (from hurricanes) living in them, but the tires would begin to actually decrease their pressure, release their pressure, however you want to say it, and the frame would move and our survivors couldn't get out of the door because the frame was on the ground.



So we want to make sure that we're keeping an eye on it. So what we want to do is just make sure that we're checking on this every once in a while, checking the pressure of our tires, but also looking around for any signs of rodents, any other type of wild animals, because they're looking for a place that's warm and they will chew their way in and get outside of the cold weather.



Now, to me, because people ask this all the time,

Behind the RV Backlog: Why they’re sold out for the next year or more

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