Planning a camping trip can feel like juggling maps, campground reservations, apps… and about 27 open browser tabs.

If you’ve ever found yourself bouncing between Google Maps, campground websites, and trying to figure out where you can actually fit your rig for fuel—you know exactly what I mean.

So in this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, we tried something different.

Instead of starting from scratch, we used AI to help plan two real road trips:

And let’s just say… I was impressed.

Jen shares how she used AI to map out her cross-country trip—and what stood out most was how quickly it helped her organize the big picture.

Instead of spending hours researching routes and stops, she was able to:

But one of the biggest takeaways?

AI didn’t replace her planning—it helped her refine it faster.

For my trip down to Camp Margaritaville in Texas, I decided to try the same approach.

I asked AI to:

“Plan an RV-friendly route with driving days under 8 hours and interesting stops along the way.”

And just like that, I had a starting point. AI helped me:

It gave me the framework—and that’s what made everything else easier.

This is where things really clicked.

AI is great for ideas—but when it comes to making real decisions, I still rely on trusted tools.

Once AI suggested areas to stop, I used The Dyrt to:

Because let’s be honest… we all want to know what we’re pulling into at the end of the day.

For more unique stays, I turned to RV Overnights.

This is where you can find:

👉 And if you want to try it, you can get 30% off with code GirlCamper

One of the most practical ways Jenn used AI?

Finding fuel stops that actually work for an RV.

Instead of guessing, she asked:

“Where are RV-friendly fuel stops along my route?”

That helped her locate:

No more white-knuckling into tiny gas stations.

This might be my favorite part.

AI helped me discover:

Because getting there should be just as fun as arriving. However, I did notice in Nebraska it suggested Scotts Bluff National Monument and that was NOT on my route.

AI is incredibly helpful—but there are a few things to keep in mind.

The more details you give, the better your results.

Instead of:
“Plan a trip”

Try:

AI is a starting point—not the final answer.

Always double-check:

Like I mentioned, it tried to detour me to an attraction that was NOT on my route.

One of the best parts of using AI is that you can refine your plan.

Ask follow-ups like:

AI isn’t here to replace the way we plan our trips. It’s here to make it easier. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, you can start with a plan—and then shape it into the adventure you want. And when you combine AI with tools like The Dyrt and RV Overnights? That’s when trip planning really becomes fun again.

A big thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode and helping keep our adventures on the road.

To learn more about Jen and her work, visit:
👉 Jen Grover

Have you tried using AI to plan a camping trip?

We’d love to hear how you’re using it—come share your experience with the Girl Camper community!

Watch the episode!

Looking for more great camping advice? Check out our Camping 101 section on our website.

If you’ve ever loaded your e-bike onto the back of your camper and hit the road without a second thought… you’re not alone.

But here’s the truth: not every bike rack setup is safe for an RV—and using the wrong one can lead to damaged bikes, damaged campers, or worse. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, we sat down with Cameron Hahn from Buzz Bikes and Sean Kneale from Hollywood Racks, both experts in e-bikes and bike rack safety and design, to break down exactly what you need to know before transporting your e-bike. Let’s dive into what every camper should understand before their next trip.

At first glance, it seems simple: a bike rack is a bike rack, right? Not exactly.

RVs and travel trailers experience much more movement and bounce than a standard vehicle. The farther back you go on a camper, the more amplified that movement becomes. That means:

And here’s the kicker—many standard bike racks are not rated for RV use.

One of the biggest mistakes campers make is assuming that any hitch-mounted rack will work on the back of their RV.

According to Sean from Hollywood Racks: Many racks are only designed for use on passenger vehicles—not travel trailers or motorhomes.

When choosing a rack, you need to look for one that is specifically:

E-bikes are heavier than traditional bikes—sometimes twice as heavy.

Before loading up your bikes, you need to consider:

Ignoring these limits can lead to:

Yes… it happens more often than you think.

Many travel trailers come with a rear bumper, and it’s tempting to use that as a mounting point. But here’s where things get tricky.

Most RV bumpers are not designed to support the dynamic weight of e-bikes and racks bouncing down the road.

This can lead to:

If you’re using a bumper-mounted solution, it’s worth double-checking whether your setup is truly safe.

If the back of your camper isn’t the best option, here are safer alternatives:

Mount your bike rack on your tow vehicle instead of the camper.

A secure and stable option for many campers.

Not always convenient, but often the safest option.

Some RVs can be upgraded with a properly installed hitch designed for bike racks.

Are you wanting to learn more about e-bikes? Things you should know before you buy one, what to look for in one, what to avoid? Check out this previous podcast episode we did on just that! ALL ABOUT E-BIKES

If you’re thinking about adding an e-bike to your camping adventures, Buzz Bikes offers options designed for comfort, ease, and fun on the road.

👉 Use code GIRLCAMPER to get 20% off your purchase: Buzz Bikes

At Girl Camper, we believe there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl—but there is a smarter way to do it.

Join a community of women who love camping, adventure, and learning together.

👉 Become a member and start your next adventure: https://girlcamper.com

A special thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode.

Whether you’re traveling with an RV, towing your camper, or bringing along your bikes, it’s important to make sure you’re properly covered.

👉 Learn more about RV coverage and get a quote today: Progressive Insurance

Many women dream about RV travel but wonder if they have the skills or confidence to make it happen. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Christine Swartz proves that women RV travel is not only possible but empowering. From tent camping as a child to towing a 35-foot RV across the country with four kids, Christine’s story shows how confidence grows with every mile.

Christine Swartz, known online as RV Mama of Four, is proof that you don’t have to know everything to get started.

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Janine Pettit talks with Christine about her journey from childhood tent camping to traveling across the country in a 35-foot RV.

Christine’s story is full of adventure, learning experiences, and the kind of determination that inspires other women to get out and explore.

Christine’s love of camping started early.

Growing up, her family regularly went tent camping, creating memories that stayed with her into adulthood. Later, when her own kids were young, she and her sister decided to start RVing so they could travel to their children’s sports events and explore new places.

What started as simple weekend trips quickly turned into something much bigger.

Like many new RVers, Christine learned through experience.

Her first RV was a 32-foot trailer that she initially tried towing with a vehicle that wasn’t powerful enough. During one early trip through Utah, she realized just how important towing capacity and preparation can be.

Instead of giving up, Christine adapted, upgraded her truck, and kept traveling.

Over time she learned everything from:

Today, those early challenges have become lessons she shares with other women who want to learn RV life.

For Christine, RV travel was never just about the destinations.

It was about the time spent with her four children.

For years she traveled with them across the country, visiting campgrounds, attending events, and creating unforgettable experiences together.

They’ve now visited nearly every state, and those trips became a central part of their family memories.

As Christine’s kids have grown older and started college, her RV adventures have evolved.

Sometimes she travels with one child. Sometimes she travels alone. And sometimes she turns trips into creative road adventures, like RVing across the country to visit family or attend RV shows.

She’s even started working remotely from the road as a freelance attorney.

Thanks to modern technology like mobile internet and Starlink, remote work and RV travel can go hand in hand.

Christine now shares her experience through her RV Mama membership community, where she teaches women the practical skills needed to RV confidently.

Her mission is simple: help women realize they are capable of doing more than they think.

Many RV tasks may seem intimidating at first, but with practice they become second nature.

One theme throughout Christine’s story is community.

Whether it’s meeting other campers at events, gathering around campfires, or connecting through Girl Camper, the friendships formed on the road often become just as meaningful as the travel itself.

Camping isn’t just about places. It’s about people.

In this episode you’ll hear:

A special thank you to Progressive Insurance, sponsor of this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast.

If you’ve ever dreamed about camping, road trips, or meeting amazing women who share your love of adventure, Girl Camper is the place to start.

👉 Join Girl Camper today at GirlCamper.com

Because adventure is always better with friends.

Camping can change your weekends.
Community can change your life.

For many women, the real challenge of camping isn’t learning how to tow, back up, or set up camp. It’s stepping into something new without knowing anyone. That’s why finding community through camping is often the moment everything clicks.

In this Girl Camper Podcast episode, Janine interviews Girl Camper Roseanne Palmer, whose journey perfectly captures what happens when courage meets connection.

Her story is a reminder that you don’t have to be fearless. You just have to be willing.

Roseanne didn’t grow up camping. She didn’t start out with a lifetime of outdoor experience or a long list of camping friends. What she did have was a quiet pull toward the outdoors—and a belief that someday she’d figure it out.

That “someday” started small.

Before she ever towed a camper, Roseanne camped in her own backyard, sleeping outside under the stars. It wasn’t glamorous. It wasn’t Instagram-worthy. But it was a first step—and first steps matter.

Finding community through camping often starts long before the campsite.

Learning to camp is easier than learning to believe you belong.

For new campers, especially women starting later in life or starting solo, the unknown can feel overwhelming:

Community answers those questions before you even ask them.

Through the Girl Camper community and podcast, Roseanne began learning the practical skills—towing basics, RV terminology, confidence behind the wheel. But more importantly, she learned that other women were figuring it out too.

That shared experience is powerful.

Roseanne eventually bought a small camper and faced the fear many first-time campers know well: towing.

Her solution wasn’t perfection. It was practice.

Two blocks turned into a few miles.
A short drive turned into a local camping trip.
A local trip turned into something much bigger.

When she decided to attend her first Girl Camper Camporee, Roseanne drove thousands of miles from California to Colorado—despite never having traveled that far with a camper before.

She didn’t go because she felt ready.
She went because she felt supported.

That’s what finding community through camping makes possible.

One of the most meaningful parts of Roseanne’s story isn’t the distance she traveled—it’s the friendships she formed along the way.

Camping community doesn’t end when the trip is over.
It turns into lunches, shared holidays, spontaneous adventures, and people who show up when life shifts.

Roseanne didn’t just find camping buddies. She found her people.

And that’s something many women don’t realize they’re missing until they experience it.

One of the biggest misconceptions about camping groups is that you need the “right” gear to belong.

You don’t.

You can:

Community isn’t about what you bring. It’s about showing up.

If the desire is there, the rest can be learned.

Roseanne’s journey is proof that you don’t need to wait until everything is perfect.

You don’t need:

You just need one yes.

Yes to curiosity.
Yes to connection.
Yes to yourself.

And sometimes, yes to showing up scared—and doing it anyway.

Hear Roseanne’s full story on the Girl Camper Podcast, where she and Janine talk about courage, grief, friendship, and how community changes everything.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take your first step—this might be it.

Because there is no wrong way to camp like a girl.
And there’s always room for one more chair around the campfire. 🔥

Big Thank You to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this podcast episode!

Be sure to check out our other article on why community is so important.

Grandma Gatewood didn’t just hike the Appalachian Trail. She changed how the world saw it.

In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Janine Pettit sat down with author Ben Montgomery to talk about his bestselling book Grandma Gatewood’s Walk and the extraordinary woman behind it. Emma “Grandma” Gatewood became the first woman to solo thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 1955 at age 67, carrying minimal gear and an enormous amount of determination.

Our conversation explored her legacy, the early history of the Appalachian Trail, and why her story continues to inspire women to step outside and claim their own adventures.

Emma Gatewood was born in 1898 and lived a life shaped by hardship, resilience, and independence. After surviving years of domestic abuse and raising 11 children, she found freedom in walking. When she read about the Appalachian Trail in a magazine, she decided to hike it.

What makes her journey so remarkable is not just the distance. It is how she did it. Grandma Gatewood carried a simple canvas sack, slept under a plastic shower curtain, and relied on kindness from strangers along the way. At a time when long-distance hiking was almost unheard of, especially for women, she set out alone and succeeded.

Her hike brought national attention to the Appalachian Trail. Newspapers across the country followed her progress, and her story helped spark renewed interest in maintaining and preserving the trail.

One of the most memorable parts of our conversation with Ben Montgomery was the discussion of “trail magic.” Trail magic refers to the unexpected kindness hikers receive from strangers. Grandma Gatewood often knocked on doors, introduced herself, and was welcomed with meals, shelter, and encouragement.

Ben shared how her presence inspired families along the trail to continue helping hikers for generations. He also told a personal story about receiving trail magic during his own thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. A stranger offered him rides, meals, and friendship at a moment when he needed it most.

These stories highlight something beautiful about outdoor culture. Hiking is not just about miles walked. It is about connection, generosity, and shared humanity.

One theme that stood out in the interview was Grandma Gatewood’s refusal to let age define her. Starting a 2,000-mile hike at 67 challenges modern assumptions about what is possible later in life.

For the Girl Camper community, her story is a powerful reminder that adventure has no expiration date. Many women hesitate to try camping or traveling outdoors because they worry they are too old, too inexperienced, or too late to start. Grandma Gatewood’s life argues the opposite.

Her journey shows that curiosity and courage matter more than perfect timing.

Today, Grandma Gatewood’s influence can still be felt along the Appalachian Trail. Hikers share her story in shelters. Trails and memorials honor her name. Many people begin their outdoor journeys after learning about her determination.

Ben Montgomery described meeting hikers who set out specifically because of Grandma Gatewood’s example. Her legacy is not frozen in history. It is alive in every woman who decides to step outside her comfort zone and explore.

At Girl Camper, we believe there is no wrong way to camp like a girl. Grandma Gatewood embodies that spirit. She did not wait for perfect gear or perfect conditions. She started with what she had and figured it out along the way.

Her story encourages women to trust themselves, seek adventure, and build community. Whether you are pitching your first tent, traveling in an RV, or planning a weekend getaway, her example reminds us that the outdoors belongs to everyone.

If you have ever dreamed of exploring more, this podcast episode is a wonderful place to start.

You can watch the full video podcast or listen to the episode wherever you stream podcasts. Ben Montgomery’s storytelling brings Grandma Gatewood’s journey to life and offers deeper insight into her courage and impact.

If Grandma Gatewood’s story inspires you, consider joining the Girl Camper community. We are a group of women who support each other in getting outside, building friendships, and creating unforgettable adventures together.

Adventure is waiting. And as Grandma Gatewood proved, it is never too late to begin.

Be sure to check out Janine’s article on the lessons she learned from reading Grandma Gatewood’s Walk.

Special thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this podcast episode!

A link to the video podcast version is coming soon!

The Florida RV SuperShow is one of the largest RV shows in the country, and every year it offers a snapshot of where RVing is headed. This year, Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott attended the show with a very intentional lens: What actually works for women who camp?

In the latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, they go beyond the shiny RV displays to talk about standout campers, meaningful industry changes, and why Girl Camper is doubling down on camping, connection, and community in 2026.

Rather than focusing on massive fifth wheels and luxury motorhomes, Janine and Lesa gravitated toward small, smart, and flexible RVs. These are campers designed for solo women, friends camping together, and people who want freedom without excess.

Some of the biggest standouts included:

One clear trend at the show was versatility. RVs that can serve multiple purposes, adjust to different travel styles, and feel manageable rather than overwhelming stood out the most.

👉 You can watch full walk-through videos of the campers discussed in this episode on our YouTube playlist: RV Tours

This year’s Florida RV Supershow felt different, and not just because of the weather.

Janine and Lesa noticed signs of a broader shift in the RV industry, including:

During the pandemic, RV sales surged and production expanded quickly. Now, the industry is recalibrating. That shift is impacting not just manufacturers and dealers, but content creators, educators, and community-driven brands like Girl Camper.

For over a decade, Girl Camper has inspired women to get outside, try camping in their own way, and build friendships along the way. But as the industry changes, so is Girl Camper’s strategy.

In this episode, Janine and Lesa share why Girl Camper is intentionally moving toward:

The Girl Camper Podcast will now release episodes twice a month, allowing more time for camping, community engagement, and deeper storytelling. Interviews may be longer, but they’ll be richer and more meaningful.

One of the core messages of this episode is simple but powerful:
There is no wrong way to camp like a girl.

Girl Camper members include women who tent camp, car camp, RV full-time, camp solo, camp with friends, or camp once a year. Many are married or partnered. Many are navigating career changes, caregiving, grief, or new chapters of life.

Camping, for many women, isn’t about escaping life. It’s about resetting, reconnecting, and remembering who you are outside of daily responsibilities.

That’s why Girl Camper is expanding its Hostess program, making it easier for members to host simple, local camping meetups at their favorite parks. No fees. No pressure. Just book your site, bring your food, and show up.

Looking ahead to 2026, Girl Camper’s commitment is clear:

Whether you’re actively shopping for a small RV, curious about RV trends, or simply looking for a supportive outdoor community, Girl Camper is here to walk alongside you.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode:
Beyond the RV Show: Favorite Finds, Industry Changes & the Future of Girl Camper

🏕️ Want to camp with us or host an event?
Email [email protected] to get started.

There is no wrong way to camp like a girl.
Just go places. Do things. Interested in finding great places to camp in 2026? Check our our America The Beautiful Section of our Website.

When making a major purchase, knowing the right questions to ask when buying a used RV can protect both your budget and your peace of mind. In Part 3 of this Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott wraps up her conversation with Mike Harlan, General Manager of North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida.

This final episode focuses on the decisions buyers often rush through but should never skip.

Not all RV dealers operate the same way. Mike explains why choosing the right dealer is just as important as choosing the right RV. Service capacity, technician availability, and long-term support all play a role after the sale.

A dealer who cannot properly service what they sell may create frustration down the road.

Dealer fees can be confusing for used RV buyers. In this episode, Mike explains what common fees often include and which charges should raise questions.

Knowing what is normal helps buyers avoid unpleasant surprises at closing.

One of the most overlooked questions to ask when buying a used RV is about financing. Mike discusses why buyers should always compare credit unions, banks, and dealer financing.

Even small differences in interest rates can have a big impact over time.

Inspections play a key role in protecting used RV buyers. Mike explains why inspections should never be skipped and why a dealer refusing one should be considered a red flag.

He also highlights a commonly forgotten area buyers should always ask about: the roof.

Perhaps the most important takeaway from this episode is knowing when to walk away. A used RV purchase should never feel rushed or pressured.

By slowing the process down and asking the right questions, buyers can avoid costly mistakes.

This episode completes the three-part series on questions to ask when buying a used RV. Be sure to also listen to Part 1 for early red flags and preparation tips, and Part 2 for inspections, pricing, and “as-is” sales.

Together, these episodes give buyers the confidence to shop smart and protect their investment.

Big thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance.

Buying a used RV can be a great way to get on the road for less. But once you move past first impressions, it becomes critical to know the questions to ask when buying a used RV. In Part 2 of this Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott continues her candid conversation with Mike Harlan from North Trail RV Center, focusing on inspections, pricing, and what “as-is” really means for buyers.

This episode helps buyers understand what they should confirm before signing any paperwork.

Many used RVs are sold “as-is,” but buyers often misunderstand that term. An as-is sale means the RV is being sold in its current condition, with no warranty unless an extended warranty is purchased separately.

Because of this, buyers should never assume that everything works properly. Asking to see systems operate before purchase is essential.

One of the most important questions to ask when buying a used RV is whether you can have it inspected. Mike strongly recommends inspections before signing any contract.

Buyers should ask to see:

These items are often overlooked, but they are critical for safety and peace of mind.

Many buyers assume lemon laws apply to all RVs. That is not the case. Mike explains that most travel trailers are not covered under lemon laws, and protections vary widely by state.

This makes it especially important to research your state laws before purchasing a used RV.

Pricing a used RV is based on market value, not emotion. Mike explains how JD Power pricing guides work and why trade-in values are often lower than owners expect.

Upgrades and personal improvements rarely increase resale value. Buyers should focus on condition, demand, and realistic pricing.

This episode reinforces why knowing the questions to ask when buying a used RV can save buyers thousands of dollars and prevent costly surprises.

Be sure to also check out Part 1 of this series for early red flags and preparation tips, and Part 3 for guidance on dealers, fees, and financing.

🎧 Catch Part 2 of Questions to Ask When Buying a Used RV on the Girl Camper Podcast, available on your favorite podcast platform and on our YouTube channel.

Special thanks to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance.

Buying a used RV can be a smart and affordable way to get on the road. But before you step onto a dealer lot, it’s important to know the questions to ask when buying a used RV. Asking the right questions early can help you avoid costly mistakes and buyer’s remorse.

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott kicks off a three-part series with Mike Harlan from North Trail RV Center. The goal of this series is simple: help buyers feel informed, confident, and prepared.

One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is shopping before doing any research. Many people fall in love with how an RV looks and forget to ask practical questions. Mike explains why slowing down and gathering information first can save thousands of dollars later.

Another common mistake is assuming a used RV will be problem-free. Every used RV has a history. Understanding that history matters.

These steps help narrow choices and prevent impulse decisions.

Even with a used RV, tow ratings and weight limits are critical. Mike explains why exceeding limits can create safety issues and damage vehicles. Floorplans also deserve careful thought. Buyers should consider daily use, storage needs, and bad-weather days.

Mike shares early warning signs buyers should never ignore. These include strong odors, visible water damage, worn tires, and missing maintenance records. Asking direct questions about these issues is essential when buying a used RV.

This episode lays the foundation for the entire series. If you’re considering a used RV, learning the questions to ask when buying a used RV will help you shop smarter and with more confidence.

👉 Be sure to also listen to Part 2 and Part 3 of this series to get the full picture before you buy.

For tips on buying a New RV, check out Episode 1 of that 3 part series we also did.

Special thanks to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. Check Progressive out for all your insurance needs.

Cooking in a small camper kitchen doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, creativity, or enjoyment. With the right gear, pantry staples, and mindset, it’s possible to make satisfying meals in even the smallest of spaces.

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast and our On the Road with Girl Camper series with nuCamp RV, Lesa sits down with Allana Bykes, a professionally trained chef and nuCamp T@B 320 owner, to talk about how she cooks real meals while camping in a small camper.

Instead of focusing on trendy gadgets, Allana shared what truly earns a place in her camper kitchen—and why.

Allana approaches camper cooking with intention. Every piece of gear and every pantry item has a purpose.

Her philosophy is simple:

This approach allows her to cook confidently without overcrowding her limited space.

Rather than filling cabinets with single-use tools, Allana focuses on a streamlined setup. Her small camper kitchen essentials include:

Each item earns its place by being versatile and easy to store.

A well-planned pantry makes all the difference when cooking in a small camper. Allana relies on ingredients that are shelf-stable, compact, and flexible.

Her go-to camper pantry staples include:

With these basics on hand, she can create a wide variety of meals without overpacking.

🍳 Recipe Call-Out: Easy Dirty Rice for Camp Cooking
One of Allana’s favorite camper meals is dirty rice—a one-pan dish that’s simple, filling, and easy to adapt.

Easy Camper Dirty Rice (Chef-Style)
Why it works at camp:
✔ One pan
✔ Minimal cleanup
✔ Flexible ingredients
✔ Great for small camper kitchens

Ingredients (ratio-based):
1 part cooked sausage (or protein of choice)
1 part sautéed vegetables (onion, pepper, celery)
1 part rice
2 parts liquid (water or broth)
Garlic, herbs, and seasoning to taste

How to Make It:
Warm cooked sausage and vegetables in a pan with a little oil.
Add garlic, herbs, and tomato paste if desired.
Stir in rice and toast briefly.
Add liquid gradually, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked.
Adjust seasoning and serve.
This technique-based recipe makes it easy to swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand—perfect for camping.

Whether you’re new to RVing or downsizing your setup, a small camper kitchen can feel limiting. This episode proves that thoughtful planning makes all the difference.

You don’t need:

You do need:

You can listen to the full conversation on the Girl Camper Podcast or watch the video as part of our On the Road with Girl Camper series.

Be sure to check out nuCamp RV and their thoughtfully designed campers, including the T@B 320 featured in this episode.

And if you’re looking for connection, confidence, and community on the road, we’d love for you to join Girl Camper and come along on one of our many adventures.

Because there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl.