Girl Camper

When I hit the road, whether I am towing my trailer or road tripping in my truck and staying in hotels, there are certain things that I must take with me. Some are for safety purposes, some in the event of an emergency and some for comfort. Here's my "Must Have Road Trip Essentials" list.

Safety 

Tire pressure tester and tire inflator.  Always check tires when they are cold. 

Car Emergency Kit 

Car Tool Kit 

When buying a tire pressure tester and inflator, make sure that you buy one that runs on a battery. When you need to inflate the tires, you many be someplace where eclectic is not available.

Make sure your car emergency kit has:

Reflective Warning Triangle ,

Reflective Safety Vest,

Tow rope,

Gloves with Gripping Palm ( 1 pair) ,

Safety Hammer and Seatbelt Cutter,   (good for breaking windows if necessary)

Hand Driven LED Flash Light ,

Adhesive Tape,

Jumper Cables,

Whistle

Make sure that you buy a car tool kit and not a home repair tool kit. A home repair tool kit has items to help you hang pictures on the wall and change an outlet cover but won't have adjustable wrenches and socket sets that you will likely need in the event that you have to make a repair or adjustment under the hood.

 

Emergency Items 

WD40 – loosen things, keep things from squeaking,

Electrical tape – to cover LED lights and to actually use on electrical fixes

Duct tape – to keep anything together!!

Wire cutting splicing tool – in case you need to fix your 7 way plug

Phone charger – car battery may be dead

Portable jumping kit – many on the market, can also charge your phone

Spare tire – not just a spare but the tools and know how to get at it

Old school Rand McNally Map – I’ve been in places too remote for GPS and also just like to study the map and see where the backroads are leading me

Firs Aid Kit – VSSL

Snow Supplies (scraper, shovel, lock de-icer, blanket, good gloves)

Fix a Flat – at least two cans - keep them in the car and not in the trunk

Zip ties – endless uses – not good for license plates though

Back up Fluids – washer fluid and anti freeze

Lighter – may need to start a camp fire or, God forbid, a signal fire

Emergency flashers – More than just the triangle one that comes in Emergency kit. Several for highway.

Luci Light

Flashlight

I have used almost all of the things I carry "just in case." Over time, even if I don't use it myself, I have had the occasion to loan it to someone in need. Most of the things in my Emergency list don't take up very much room and are

Comfort Items 

Cauldryn hot water boiler 

Tea, coffee, instant soup,

Protein (nuts, dried fruit, peanut butter, crackers)

Car pillow

Two gallons of water

Blanket

Umbrella

Rain coat

Have you ever been told not to park your RV on the grass when storing it for winter? Have you wondered what calamity would befall it if you disregarded this advice? Have you wondered if that advice was the Gospel truth or an old wives tale? Well, on today's podcast I am answering Frequently Asked Questions sent in by the Girl Campers.

Which comes first, choosing your camper or tow vehicle? Sent in by Vicki Tripplet. 

This is such a great question. You will need to ask yourself a few questions to get the answer which, of course, is going to be different for everyone.

Let’s start by approaching this as if we are speaking to recreating campers. Those weekend warriors and two week summer vacation RVers. In other words, not full timers or retired people.

Most of us drive our car every day so it is important that we really like what we are driving. There are some people who have a vehicle that they use just for towing but most do not. Their tow vehicle is their everyday ride.

The question I would be asking myself is:

Do I have an RV in mind that I really love and am unwilling to change? If so, you may have to change tow vehicles to accomodate that . Walter Cannon gave a great explanation of matching tow vehicles to RV's. The link for that very important topic is here. 

Conversely if you own a car or have brand loyalty to a vehicle that you don’t want to stop using, you may have to compromise on the RV you choose in order to keep that tow vehicle. The good news is that there have never been more options for the lightweight towable world.

Full timers need to be asking different questions. 

Where do I plan to travel?

Will I be boondocking on BLM land and need an off road model or larger tanks and solar options?

Will I be in one place for a long time, like those who park in Maine all summer and Florida all winter but don’t really travel in their RV’s.

Will I be outdoors a lot and just want a comfy bed?

Will I be working remotely and requiring an office area, wifi capability and a floor plan that won’t make me stir crazy if I am in the RV for long periods?

A good place to start is to listen to all of the Girl Camper Podcasts from last year where we covered the pros and cons of all the different RV types.

Re-imagining the Toy Hauler 

Pros and Cons of the Class C Motorhome

The Pop Up Camper Explored 

The Pros and Cons of Teardrop Trailers 

The Pros and Cons of Class A Motorhomes 

In the final analysis, it is such a personal decision and I recommend not signing on the bottom line, especially for full timers, without first renting the unit you are considering through RV Share or Outdoorsy. That’s a great way to get a realistic feel for the unit before you buy!

What do people on the road do for full time health insurance? Sent in by Chiarrai O’Mathghamhana

This is a tricky topic because most networks operate in a geographic zone so you’re signing up for doctors In Network in a prescribed area and some insurers require policy holders to live "in state." You have to carefully search this out though and do your homework.

Recently the Road Life Project, a member group of full time RVers, made a group health care policy available to members.  I encourage you to look into it. There are many benefits to belonging to this group of people who full time live on the road and one of them is the availability of a group health insurance plan.

Other options for health insurance on the road include working with a broker like RVerinsurance.com for a plan or checking with websites like ehealthinsurance.com for rates.

Should I park my RV on grass over the winter? sent in by Carol in North Carolina.

"I'm getting ready to store my travel trailer on the grass in my side yard for the winter. My father in law says I should put it up on blocks so the tires keep their shape and don't freeze. He said if I don't do that I could lower all four jacks and raise the RV off the ground a few inches to take the weight off the tires. I am not sure what to do. Is this a real thing?"

I went to Mark Polk with that question and here is what he had to say;

"Not to change the topic, but a major problem with RV tires when stored outside is damage caused by the sun. To protect the tires, keep them covered with covers that block out the sunlight. Something else that damages tires is when the RV is stored on frozen ground or on surfaces like asphalt. To avoid this, place some type of blocking like Lynx Levelers or a piece of treated 2X wood between the ground and the tires. Make sure whatever you use is larger than the footprint of the tire. No portion of the tire should hang over the edge of the tire blocking. This can cause internal damage to the tire. I would not recommend using the jacks to raise the RV off of the ground." Read this article for more tips on maintaining your RV tires

rvonlinetraining.com

It's important that when storing your RV on grass you park it on a board or Lynx leveler type foundation that is wider than the tire.

 

Should I cover my RV in the winter when it is stored?

"I have a question about covering your trailer for the winter. I have a large unit and the cost of the cover for it would be several hundred dollars. I want to maintain my investment but am wondering if this is really necessary. What are the advantages of covering it? Is there a difference in the qualitly of covers and what should I look for in a cover if I do buy one?" Thanks, Elizabeth, Virginia Beach, Virginia 

Again, I went to Mark Polk with this question. Here's what our expert had to say:

"When you store your RV outside for extended periods of time the exterior starts to show signs of wear, caused by the constant exposure to the elements. The sun is the primary threat to an uncovered RV, but wind, rain and snow aren’t far behind when it comes to damaging the RV’s exterior. It doesn’t take long for ozone and ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun to damage an RV. Early signs are when the paint on the exterior begins to fade, and eventually you start to notice other products like rubber, vinyl and plastic drying out and cracking. If it’s not possible to store the RV under a covered shelter an RV cover is a cost-effective way to protect the RV.  When you purchase a cover, you want one that properly fits the type and size of your RV you have, and it should be made from material that can withstand the elements. You also want a fabric that is breathable, this lets air circulate and keep surfaces dry which helps prevent mold and mildew. Never cover your RV with one of those blue plastic tarps. Tarps or covers similar to that promote mold and mildew, and keep moisture and water in rather than allowing it to evaporate and stay dry." Read this article for more information on pros and cons for covering your RV.

rvonlinetraining.com

RV Education 101

A good fitting cover is important for protecting your RV from sun, rain and elements that can damage tires, rubber seals and fade the finish on your RV.

 

Can you camp in a winterized trailer? Ann, Upstate NY

I live in the northeast and plan on winterizing my camper in late October. There is a Girl Camper event I want to attend in Georgia where many campgrounds are open year round. The event is in February and I want, weather permitting,  to tow my camper down there and join in the fun and maybe stay on for a while. Can you camp in your camper if it is winterized or should I dewinterize it when I get there and rewinterize it when I get back?

Either option works  Ann and I guess it depends on what compromises you are willing to make. You can camp in a winterized camper still using the heat, microwave, lighting and the stove if you have a site with electric and a propane tank. You won’t have the toilet, shower or kitchen sink unless you dewinterize to get the plumbing working again.

To me it would depend on how long you planned to be away.  I think its kind of a fun game, living without running water in your unit for two or three weeks. Use paper plates, grill outside, use the campground facilities for potty and shower and you should be fine.  If that doesn't sound like fun to you, it is not hard to drain your tanks, save the anti freeze and reuse it again when you get back to cold weather states. I have a trip to Tybee Island in late February and I am hoping to take my trailer which will be winterized. I won’t make that call until the last minute because, although I don’t mind going without the plumbing, I won’t tow it unless the roads are completely clear. I draw the line at towing in the snow.

"Showering" when your unit is winterized is possible if you don't mind 'roughing' it in your RV.

That completes our questions sent in by Girl Campers. I hope yours was answered! To see the first two episodes of FAQ's, click here.for Part One and here for Part Two.

I am just back from the big Open House in Elkhart, Indiana where the RV manufacturers were displaying their new products and updated older ones. There are some new RV’s out there for the lightweight set and some older ones that deserve a second look. My criteria for this list was that they unit weigh less than 3K pounds and that the user be able to stand up in it. I am often asked, "What can I tow with my (insert midsize SUV or Crossover with a tow package around 5K pounds here)? The Chevy Traverse, Ford Flex and Toyota Highlander are a few that come to mind. Here are a few travel trailers that make the cut for those tow vehicles.

 

The Evasion by Prolite. This is the classic floorplan used in canned hams throughout the 50's and 60's. I have often wondered why they stopped using this floor plan. It's perfect for a small family. This 1,900pound trailer can sleep five people, two in the rear convertible sofa, two on the front dinette once it is put down and one small child (weight limit 125 pounds) in the upper storage cabinet that can covert to a bunk. They even managed to get a bathroom in it. The unit is perfect for a Girl Camper who doesn't want a vintage trailer, and the accompanying headaches, and for a family with small children. Prolite is a Canadian company moving into the US market. I think they will be successful because there is a growing need for the lightweight models that offer a lot. What this trailer lacks in interior material choices, it  makes up for with the practical layout. I'd love to see what a Girl Camper could do styling this trailer!!  US pricing around $20K.

Perks 

Old school flexible floor plan

Sleeps five

Dry weight of only 1900#'s

Many nice standard features

Lots of windows and light

Negatives 

AC is an option and not standard

Small tanks (grey, black and fresh are each just 15 gallons)

Bland interior

 

Great Ascape by Aliner. This unit  is made by Aliner, the folks that brought us the cute A frame pop up. The Great Ascape Plus weighs in at just 1850#'s. It has a rear entry and a big U-shaped dinette that can be made up as a two twin beds, one large bed or a single twin with the use of the table on the side of it. That's a lot of options for such a small trailer. It's got a wet bath,  kitchen with two burner stove, three way refrigerator, a standard rear awning, and nice windows. The interior finishes are also nice and it would not take much to make this a rolling She Shed. An added bonus in my mind is that the rear entry would allow you to store a bicycle in it and not have to do a bike rack. It's a mini toy hauler!

Perks

has everything the larger models have

ability to arrange sleeping quarters to fit taste

has a wet bath

could store a bicycle in it while traveling.

light enough for midsize SUV

Negatives 

small inside

limited interior storage

,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMY-MweKMjk

 

In Tech RV's Sol Dawn  is a new addition to the lightweight towable world. Last year In Tech RV made a big splash with their Luna model. These folks know how to design and choose finishes. The Dawn looks like a sleek European rail car. The windows are huge and like the Ascape, the front bed has options for how you want to use the space. You can create two twin beds or one large bed across the front while maintaining the option of keeping the table in place. I normally don't like a floor plan where the booth becomes the bed and the table needs to be removed or lowered at night in order to make up the bed but, I would make an exception in this case. The area designated for the booth and sleeping area is very deep but there is still the feeling of plenty of floor space. The windows are just one of  the show stoppers in this RV. They are large and come with nice shades. The kitchen is in the rear and offers a two burner propane stove with steel grates and a glass cover for added counter space. It also has a beautiful, deep, stainless steel farm sink with an industrial looking beehive faucet. The wet bath is large with good hardware in it. From a design standpoint this RV was the standout to me. It has a big brother, the Horizon that didn't make the list because it weighs in at between 3,290 and 3,375 pounds. It is a stunning trailer with beautiful features and finishes including a grill and refrigerator that roll out from an outside storage space. There are really too many features to mention here but, follow the link and don't blame me if two hours passes by.

Perks 

Large windows and lots of light

Sleek interior finishes

Flexible sleeping options

Good storage

Seats 6 comfortably at the table

Deep stainless kitchen farm sink

Hidden propane tanks

Exterior kitchen on roll out

Negatives 

Storage under booth hard to get to

Awning is not electric

 

 

photo courtesy of RVUSA.com

 

Riverside Retro Silver Series 135 is a new addition to their line up. The Silver Series focuses less on their signature vintage look RV;s and has incorporated some design cues from HGTV with ship lap walls and "real" furniture in this little unit. This, like the Ascape, is a rear entry model but with a very different feel. This model has a full three piece bath which is pretty impressive in a 15' 9" RV. When you enter from the rear, the full bath is to your left. The right is a refrigerator and then a small but comfortable love seat. Across from the love seat is a small but functional kitchen. The front is the Queen size bed. The unit has USB ports, a flat screen TV and upgraded gray interior cabinets. It's a lot of comfort in a small travel trailer. It weighs in at just over 2,500 pounds.

Perks 

full three piece bath

really light weight

rear entry

electric awning is standard

comfortable sofa

Negatives 

no rear awning

no booth

no front window

 

Camp 365 is the latest in modern pop up design. This RV weighs in at only 1,500#'s. I was so impressed with the design. The company bills it as a 'cabin' and the name fits. To me it felt like a really upgraded military installation. I say upgraded because no troops ever got AC and heat in a camp cabin. This unit does so much and they have thought of everything here. The design is very multi-functional with the table doing double duty as the front cover of the RV as it rolls down the road. It's a perfect unit for off roading and boondocking but a great RV for family camping at campgrounds as well. There are multiple options for setting up the interior including two sets of bunk beds or two Queen beds or a set of bunks and a Queen bed. You can use the table option inside or outside. There is 5.6 cubic feet of dry lockable storage and the cabin interior height is 7'6". Of all the units I saw in Elkhart this one won first prize in my mind for innovation and smart design. At first glance it may not seem like a Girl Camper choice but I urge you to consider it from a different angle.

Perks 

holds a lot of people

flexible sleeping options

lightweight and easy to tow

doesn't require large tow vehicle

can be stored in a garage

lots of storage space

Negatives 

can't access interior while traveling

requires assembly when you arrive

have to reopen and dry if you fold it up in the rain

The RV industry is making more lightweight RV's than ever before.Consumer demand for products that are easy to tow, consume less gas and leave a smaller footprint is driving innovation across the industry.

Are you part of the crowd that goes to RV Shows and comes away thinking that the designers of these units are enamored with brown and grey? Do you wonder if Elkhart, Indiana is actually the set of a 1950’s TV show and it’s all in black and white? Well, I’m here to tell you that the times they are a changing, even if it is slowly.

I have just returned from the annual Manufacturers Open House in Elkhart, Indiana. This is the big kick off to the RV Show season and where all of the manufacturers show off what they have been working on all year. The new models are displayed for RV dealerships, media and industry insiders. The show is closed to the public but plenty of Press is there to report on what’s new.

I am happy to report some design changes happening in the industry. There are literally thousands of units on display and I had to stay disciplined to cover what I think all of you are most interested in – the lightweight towable world.

For so many years it seemed that all the bells and whistles that the RV industry had to offer were limited to the big Class A and Fifth Wheels out there. They were rolling residences with all the amenities of home while the lightweight world of travel trailers seemed to have the necessities with one or two luxury items thrown in for good measure. At this years Open House there was a trend toward more upscale features in small trailers, partly because there have never been more manufacturers making only small trailers.

In Tech, Riverside Retro, Camp 365, Pro-Lite, A Liner and Extreme Outdoors are all vying for a larger slice of the light weight towable market and they have to compete for it. In additon to these small independent companies the big guys at Forest River an Thor are producing small units with everything the big guys offer. Within the small manufacturers, In Tech and Extreme Outdoors are leading in design and innovation, but the others are catching up. Better awnings, convection ovens, trending design choices and thoughtful layouts are showing up in small trailers.

Some of the longtime standard features on large RV’s that are making their way into smaller units are:

Outdoor Kitchen and Appliance Storage 

The Outdoor Kitchen is something we are now seeing on even small trailers. In Tech had a great one on their Sol trailer. This solves the storage problem I struggle with when bringing my Camco Olympian grill and Dometic refrigerator with me. I love how these are secured and easily accessible.

Electric Awnings 

Even small units like this Riverside Retro 135 comes with an electric awning, an option normally reserved for larger RV’s.

Farmhouse Chic

Farmhouse Chic has made its way into RV design and one of the components of this style is shiplap paneling. The Riverside Retro 199FK has had the interior redesigned to include shiplap on the dining booth walls and behind the bed. Although I dislike the cushion fabric and window treatments, those are easy cosmetic changes.

Residential Furniture

Many smaller units now have more residential furniture in them now. The details and comfort in the RPod 196 jackknife sofa made reupholstering it worth the expense. If you are planning to keep a unit for a long time and spend a lot of time in it, going to the expense to make well constructed furniture feel even more homey is worth it!

Lighter wood on the cabinets

The dark, dark woods we are accustomed to seeing are giving way to lighter shades. Grey tones predominate following the national housing and home decor trend. There are lots of accent pieces available in home decor stores to compliment this color scheme.

Sleek European Styling 

NuCamp’s Avia and Barefoot, In Tech’s Sol and Winnebago’s Boldt  are just a few of the many RVs under the influence of the European market. The Avia and Barefoot  are European imports  but Winnebago and In Tech are homegrown brands mirroring the sophisticated and sleek design. Glossy cabinets, minimal hardware, large windows and stainless steel appliances make these models appeal to the minimalist in all of us. They’re very soothing to the mind and appealing to the “less is more” crowd.

Outdoor Settings 

Outdoor speakers, USB ports, television and cable outlets, lighted awnings, doorhandles, and steps all make even small RV’s an oasis for those who like to spend their down time enjoying the big game, tailgating with friends, or taking in a movie  with the kids. My Max trailer by Extreme Outdoors, while only weighing 3400 pounds, has  everything the big RVs offer when it comes to outdoor entertaining and lighting packages.

Technology

Photo courtesy of Colonial Airstream in Lakewood, New Jersey.

Lastly, technology. There’s so much happening here. We are a society that is “wired“. That is not going to go away. RV manufactures are accommodating that. Airstream offers an app with their Classic model that allows you to use your phone to turn your lights on and off,  raise or lower the thermostat, open and close your awning, and adjust your shades and vents.  It also helps you to maintain your RV. It will remind you to schedule maintenance, check tire pressure and it stores all of your RV manuals.

Small Rv’s are now offering everything the big guys have. What will you choose?

Fun with Ford! I recently had the opportunity to test drive the Ford Expedition for a week. I have been considering switching from my F150 truck to an SUV so  I put the question out there to Girl Campers - do you prefer an SUV to a truck and, if so, why? There were those who would only drive a truck and others that only want an SUV. Here are some of the pros and cons from our Girl Camper Poll.

PRO TRUCK 

 The bed of the truck is a great place to dump dirty stuff you don't want in your SUV.

 If you have a Crew Cab you will have extra interior storage space and added seating as well.

You can keep often used items in the bed of the truck all the time making packing for a camping trip a lot easier.

You can't hear things in the bed of the truck that may be rubbing and squeaking.

You can use the bed of your truck for other things beside camping gear - furniture, firewood and landscape materials can be loaded up without marring the interior.

 A truck is cheaper than an SUV with the same engine and chassis.

The F150 weighs less than the Expedition so it will get better mileage.

 You can carry a generator without worrying about fumes.

 You can put a cap on the back and use it to camp in.

Pro SUV

You have easier access to the things in the rear of the vehicle. You don't have to get out and uncover the bed to access your gear.

It is easier to carry bicycles and kayaks than it is with a truck. Kayaks don't fit in the rear of the truck bed while you are towing but bikes will fit in the rear of an SUV and kayaks will load easier on the top.

You have more seats with the SUV. The crew cab will hold 5-6 people with no leg room or space for purses, backpacks or purchases. The SUV will hold 7-8 people with plenty of room behind the third row seats for gear.

You can camp in an SUV really comfortably if you don't want to tow. With the seats folded down you can fit a full size mattress in the rear or make up just one side as a twin and use the other space for gear.

The rear of the SUV has more cubic feet of storage space than a truck. There is up to 120 cubic feet of cargo space in the Expedition Max.

Your gear is more secure in the rear of an SUV than in the bed of a truck.

The tailgate clears the tongue jack on a trailer (at least my Max trailer) when you open it with the trailer attached. The tailgate on the truck will not fully open when the trailer is attached.

Ford Expedition Review

This past week I had the opportunity to road test the Expedition.  I was personally interested in this particular model because, as I said earlier, I have been considering switching from a truck to an SUV and the Expedition has the same engine as the F150 that I drive. They both have the 3.5 L V6 Eco Boost  with the ten speed transmission. I knew that I would be happy with the engine performance but didn’t know if I would prefer the enclosed luxury model SUV to the Crew Cab Lariat short bed that I currently own. In 2018 the Expedition got a complete overhaul. The redesign included the 10 speed transmission, more horsepower, and better gas mileage.

In addition to mechanics, the interior was completely re-imagined as well.

Newly designed console with a large touch screen

Voice activated navigation system

Wireless phone charging pad,

Connectivity package

Adjustable pedal with memory

Three zone auto climate control

Three rows of seating with optional Captains Chairs in second row

Heated and ventilated front and second row seats

USB ports in each row for every passenger

Heated wrapped steering wheel with cruise and audio controls

In addition to the beautiful interior, the exterior had many amenities.

360 degree camera  (very helpful when backing into the campsite)

Running boards that automatically appear when you open the car door and retract when you close it.

Blind Spot Information System - a set of sensors that alert you to someone in your blind spot.

Hands free lift gate

Power mirrors auto fold

Privacy glass on rear windows

Windshield wiper de-icer

22" Aluminum tires

Towing Features 

Advance Trac - Roll Stability Control - senses sway and corrects it before it becomes a problem

Pro trailer back up assist - allows you to program your vehicle to your trailer for easy backing up

Slip differential - makes towing in slippery conditions easier

The Expedition had lots of power and towed really well. I took it out on an overnight camping trip about fifty miles from home. I was towing a trailer that weighed about 4,500 pounds on a vehicle with a tow capacity of 9,300 pounds so I was well within the limit. I towed it without a weight distribution hitch or anti sway bar. I took the winding back roads to the campground and the highway home so I experienced its towing power in two different elements. I was impressed that when I was pulling up hill and needed power the Expedition responded. It changed gears seamlessly without feeling any loss of power or struggle.

I did not have the opportunity to use the Pro Trailer back up assist because that requires measuring and input into the vehicles computer. I read the directions  in the vehicles book and it looks fairly simple and straightforward. The program allows you to enter more than one trailer and there is a lot of on line information with tips and tricks for using it. It seems simpler to learn to use Pro trailer back up assist than to learn to back a trailer up!  What I did use while towing and backing up was the 360 degree cameras. The rear camera allows you to back up to the ball on your trailer really easily and without a spotter. The side cameras were really helpful when backing into my site at the campground which was quite rocky. I turned the side camera on and could see how close my tires were to the rounded boulders that were jutting out of the ground on the edges of the campsite.

I really liked the available cargo space in the rear of the Expedition and set it up to see if I would be comfortable using it as an option to camp in when I don't feel like towing or want to go someplace that trailers are not allowed. I was pretty excited about the available space and how well the space could be used. The Expedition is so roomy that it can hold a full size mattress in the rear or be made up with a twin bed with lots of space left over for gear. Once I had my mocked up bed the second row seat had a feature that allows it to tilt up and slide forward making it easy to get in and out of the SUV. Once I was in the bed I was able to sit up in it without my head hitting the ceiling which would be a big plus when using it to camp in. I also really loved the viewing skylights on the roof. They covered half of the space and would be great for star gazing if you were camping in the Expedition. The skylight also opened so you would have airflow as well. One last bonus for car camping was the rear privacy windows!!

There were one or two things I didn't like about the Expedition. I wished that there was some kind of rear step built in for accessing the back of the SUV from the ground. It sits really high and you would need a stool to climb in and arrange your gear. I also prefer a skylight system that allows you to open the rear but leave the portion over the drivers seat closed. I like the extra light but not beating down on me when I am driving. It also comes with a pretty hefty price tag. All that technology comes at a price and in the case of the Expedition Limited Stealth 4 x 4 that I was testing, that price was 78K. The consolation is that warranties are much longer now and people often put 200K miles on a vehicle before they finally get a new one. You can get a regular Expedition with standard features starting at 53K.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tby3A29osDg

My guest today is Marlene Caraballo. She's a wife of 30 years, mom to three almost grown sons, an avid blogger at Cheers 2 Chapter 2 and a long time RVer who is now looking Chapter Two straight in the eye and, guess what, it’s looking good for this almost empty nester. I invited Marlene on the show today to talk about her annual RV vacation to Myrtle Beach and how what started out as a cheap way to travel,  has turned into something that is keeping her family ties tight.

Marlene was not born into RVing as so many of us were. She came to it through a friend who kept telling her about how affordable RV vacations could be. "You get to choose the cost of your site, whether to buy or make meals, how far away to travel." To Marlene it seemed like a great way to take her three sons to Disney without having to stay on site at an expensive hotel. They could cook their meals and do the trip on a budget. She and her husband rented a Class C motor home and by the time they took their third RV trip, they did it in an RV they purchased and that they still own today.

Somewhere along the way Marlene discovered a campground called Pirateland Family Campground. For over ten years now the Caraballo's have made an annual pilgrimage there. Their now grown sons love it so much that they are willing to fly in from out of state, use some of the precious few vacation days allotted to freshmen in the workforce and, sleep in their old RV bunk beds under the Power Ranger blankets still stored there!

What magic spell did Pirateland cast on them?  Pirateland, while big in size with over 1,000 sites, still manages to create a family feel. Paved streets allow kids to ride bikes through the RV neighborhoods, play in the pool or ride the lazy river, test their arcade skills or use one of the paddle boats on the man made water ways. This campground has it all and its all included in the price of the site. An added bonus is that it sits right on the ocean in beautiful Myrtle Beach. Location. Location. Location.

When a family finds a sweet spot, a campground that they really love and use it annually for their family vacations, they have allowed the campground industry to foot the bill for their summer home. Whenever I open a magazine and see some gorgeous spread featuring someone's multi generational summer home on a pristine lake, I think that anyone can have that if they own or even rent an RV. You can have a great gathering spot, fire pit, lake views or mountain top sunsets and all it takes is an annual reservation. Many families have enjoyed all of the aspects of a great family home without the insurance, maintenance, utilities or mortgage payments that go along. They have done it by revisiting their favorite place year after year, getting the same site, the same week and with the same friends.

 

I was so excited to have Marlene on the podcast today because I want young moms to know that what started out as an inexpensive way for her family  to vacation, turned into a family tradition that just keeps going. I can see Marlene pushing grand babies in strollers on those roads her sons once independently rode their bicycles on. I can see the future generations enjoying shovels and buckets on the beach again. I can see the Power Ranger blankets warming the next generation of Caraballo's. I want everyone to know that they have that option even if they don't own an RV because campgrounds offer so many rental options these days.  Everyone is welcome around the campfire.

Check out Marlene's blog here.

Check out Marlene on Facebook.

Check out Marlene's Instagram. 

Check out Pirateland Family Campground and book a site!

On this week's show I interview friends, travel companions and business partners Kelly Beasley and Marshall Wendler. Their paths crossing turned into a grand blessing for the RV world. Kelly is full of chutzpah and courage and made her dream of full time RVing a reality. Once in that world she met a "technical nerd" named Marshall Wendler. Marshall possessed all the qualities us non techies love in techno nerds, starting with a passion for research and an ability to simplify things that seem complicated to the technically challenged. When Kelly was new to RVing  she kept researching RV related topics looking for solutions to problems, recommendations for equipment and ways to improve the experience. More often than not she found the answers in her friend Marshall's vast knowledge. They combined their skill sets and developed Camp Addict, a comprehensive site for all RVers, not just newcomers and not just full timers.

They have over a dozen years of combined RVing experience yet, they are still learning. On this week's show they share a scary incident that could have ended very badly. Limbs - okay, maybe just digits, were in serious peril. The scare taught them some new lessons and I love that they are not afraid to tell a story that some RVers may have wanted to keep to themselves.

They also shared the realities of full timing. It's not really a solo adventure for them, but more like a traveling troupe of like minded, good willed people who share an unconventional but, full and happy life. They have a lot to teach us and I really enjoyed meeting them and getting a peek into their lives on the road. To listen, click the link at the bottom of the page.

 

My favorite rabbit holes on Camp Addict! 

The Ultimate Guide to the 27 Best RV Brands! Make yourself a cup of tea!

RV Clubs and Discount Groups. 

Follow the fun and information!

Facebook! 

Instagram 

Pinterest

Walter Cannon has dedicated his career to RV Saftey. He was a founding member of the RV Safety and Education Foundation, an organization created to increase awareness of RV saftey issues and create educational materials for that purpose. Over the years the Foundation has grown to be a comprehensive source for all things related to RV safety.

I first met Walter when he and I were both speaking at the same RV show. I was fairly new to RVing and towing a little trailer with a big tow vehicle. That was my way of making certain that I was "covered." Go big or go home. I was uneducated about how to match a tow vehicle to the RV. Walter was doing a talk on matching your tow vehicle to your RV. I sat in on all three presentations.

https://www.rvsafety.com/

https://rvacademy.com/

https://www.rvsafety.com/courses

https://www.rvsafety.com/registration

Each year Walter hosts a hands on RV Safety Conference in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Last year several of the Girl Campers attended the conference and found the event to be so comprehensive and invaluable for new and experienced RVers. This event is taking place again this year from September 29 - October 3. The RVSEF is offering a coupon code for Girl Campers for $25 off registration. The code is Girlcamper2019. You can access the registration in the link below.

For those who may not be able to make the Kentucky event, Girl Camper and the National RV Inspectors Association is offering a three day program in Athens, Texas from November 6-10, 2019.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/camp-in-camper-college-tickets-65575806001

Does the prospect of a camping trip sometimes become stressful? Are you tempted to just settle for an evening around your neighbors fire pit? You are not alone. Today I am giving you a set of tips that I have honed over the years that make camping trips, whether just a weekend or weeks away at a time, way easier to manage.

The difference between a happy camper and an unhappy one often comes down to planning. Having a plan and working that plan can often make a trip

Plan Ahead

Plan Your Campsite

Don't leave this to chance. Peak season is no time to risk arriving to find no sites available.

Research campground ahead of time

Read all of the online reviews

Study map of campground for proximity to things you want or don't want to be near

Call park and inquire about their most requested sites

Plan Your Clothing

Being prepared for whatever weather situation arises is just smart. I nearly froze on a late April camping trip in Texas because I just expected it to be hot. When my heater wouldn't kick on I had to put every piece of clothing I had with me on to keep warm because I only had a light blanket in the RV. Here are some things I keep in the RV all the time now.

Rain coat

Rain boots

Wool socks

Hoodie

Thermalware – long johns and shirt (Under Armor)

Quick dry hiking clothes

Extra jammies

Bathing suit and cover up

Campfire wrap

Plan your budget

Going over budget on vacation is one sure way to make you an unhappy camper. When it comes to vacation planning there are things you can control and things you cannot.

Start by being realistic about what the actual costs are.

Things to budget for are:

The cost of getting there – gas and tolls (partially controllable)

Check on Google Maps or other Apps to get an estimated cost for gas

Fill your tank before you leave home and avoid paying inflated thruway prices

Check the turnpike and tollroad websites of the states you will travel through for the fees with an RV

The cost of staying there – the campground (your choice - some control)

Campsites vary based on state, national, private or resort.

Another option is to boondock, or mooch dock.

Consider camping clubs like Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome.

Food (controllable)

Tourist things – kayak rental, fishing licenses, museum fees. (not controllable)

Souvenirs (not controllable)

Plan your route

Don’t just consider the cost of gas and tolls when planning your route. Consider the volume of traffic, time of day, condition of the roads, look at construction zones you may want to avoid. All of these things can make you an unhappy camper if it is a big surprise.

If there is no way around a congested area at peak traffic time, lean into it and accept it. So many of my friends that live in the Atlanta area just live with it! It seems to always be busy and congested there.

Start the vacation when you pull out of your driveway by having the mindset that you are on your way to fun. With each mile you drive the weeks stressors are farther behind you. Use the travel time to begin unwinding.

A catch up with a friend by making a long overdue phone call

B listen to an Audible book that everyone is talking about and you have no time to read

C download some new tunes to your playlist and tap your steering wheel to the rhythm all the way there.

I had a lot of fun last week answering listeners questions and this week I am wrapping up this installment of FAQ's. There's a lot of information out there and plenty of trusted resources. When I am unsure of something I pull in an expert which is why you will see links here to past podcasts with those "in the know."

Part Two - FAQ’s

Submitted by: Ginny McKinney

Can you be a Girl Camper if you have never camped before?

I can’t say yes to this in enough ways! I am so glad to have the opportunity to answer this question because it really is at the top of the FAQ list!

I want to go back a bit here and share a little story. When I started the podcast 3 1/2 years ago, I thought that the listeners would be Girl Campers, those already camping, towing, RVing etc…It shocked me then and still surprises now, that our audience is about half and half. There are so many Girl Camper wannabes. Over the years I have dedicated many podcast episodes to the topic of Becoming a Girl Camper and just a few months ago I gave these episodes a special spot on the Girl Camper website so that they would be easy to find. A few of the titles in that link are:

I don’t have a trailer

I don’t know how to tow

I don’t have anyone to fix up a vintage trailer for me

I live in an apartment and can’t store an RV

Episode 68: Becoming a Girl Camper in 2017

Episode 38: Hope for The RVing Widow

https://girlcamper.com/becoming-a-girl-camper/

Submitted by: Jeanne Gaffney

How do you bake in your camper if you don't have an oven?

That depends on whether you have hook ups and how badly you want that baked item. If you don't have hook ups, you can use a Coleman Cook Top oven that sits on top of a Coleman two burner portable stove. You can bake biscuits and small cakes in it. It folds flat, has a built in thermometer on the door so you can adjust the flame to maintain a desired temperature and then use it to keep food warm.

If you have hook ups at the campground and don't mind carrying around a portable oven, Camp Chef makes a great outdoor oven that is much nicer and more reliable than the Coleman. You can also use it much more safely inside.

A last option is just a toaster oven. I have one that I paid $19 for at the grocery store and it heats up so quickly and also broils. I use it to heat up leftovers,to make toast, bake things and it is small enough to take in a camper without giving up storage or a whole lot of counter space. Both the Camp Chef and the toaster oven can be placed on a table outside and used there as well keeping the heat out of the RV.

Camp Ovens

https://www.amazon.com/Nostalgia-BSET300AQ-BSET300BLUE-Breakfast-Station/dp/B01F5D10TG/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=camp+oven&qid=1562940639&s=gateway&sr=8-8

https://www.amazon.com/Camp-Chef-Deluxe-Outdoor-Oven/dp/B07H7T41KW/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=camp+oven&qid=1562941238&s=gateway&sr=8-5

https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000016462-Camp-Oven-13-5/dp/B0009PURJA/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=camp+oven&qid=1562941238&s=gateway&sr=8-3

Submitted by: Elizabeth

Do most girl Campers travel solo?

It depends on whether you are an experienced camper who is looking for friends to camp with or whether you are completely new to Girl Camping. Many newbies like the comfort and safety of being in the crowd and having help available in case they start to feel uncertain. Often what I observe is that once a Girl Camper has her sea legs, she wants to head out alone. Sometimes that will mean driving to an event without a caravan of friends with her. Other times it may mean a long road trip to places they have wanted to explore. For many years I camped solely with girlfriends but then I got the urge to use my camper on weekends for "me" time. I wanted to go it alone and recharge, write, read and rest!! I had the confidence to be on the road alone already but, at first, it was very strange being alone in a campground. I adjusted quickly though and love solo travel now.

Submitted by: Diana Kamper

How often do I run my generator to charge my battery when I am dry camping?

You should have a monitor that tells you how much of a charge is left on your battery. It will all depend on what you are running and if you are being supplemented by solar. Each unit will be different.

If you have a built in generator in a motor home, there is a switch that allows your to turn the generator on from inside the unit. The generator is being charged by the running of the engine on the motor home. In the Class C that we rented last spring we were told that one hour of generator use would consume one gallon of fuel.

If you are carrying a generator with you for use while boondocking you will need to comply with the regulations at the campground you are at. If you are boondocking on BLM land you just need to be courteous of any people that might be around you.

Submitted by: Jodi Hunt

Please explain the different parts of the hitching equipment/tow package so I can speak intelligently on them.

Here's a great diagram from the Curtis Manufacturing Company. I have also included the article it was included in. It is good to know these things by name. It looks better than arriving at the RV dealership and saying I think I need a new thing-a-ma-jig. Good luck with your homework Jodi. When you are RV shopping you will be perceived as the informed consumer that you are.

https://www.curtmfg.com/basic-towing-components

Submitted by: Susan Turner

Looking for a camper now. Is it best to buy from a dealer or individual seller? Looking for a cute glamper.

I believe that there are more reasons to buy from a dealer than from a private buyer and I did a podcast episode on Tips For Buying a Used RV. Whether you buy from an RV dealer or a private party it is recommended that you get your potential RV inspected by a certified RV Inspector. I have included the link below.

https://girlcamper.com/blog/2017/06/20/girl-camper-89-tips-for-buying-a-used-rv/

https://nrvia.org/locate/

Submitted by: Lois Wills

If you have a husband who doesn’t want to camp or if you have aging parents or a disabled child, what do you do? How have other Girl Campers worked around this?

Well the short answer is that you go without him. Most spouses want their partners to be happy. I have no desire to go to a Plen Air Painters Workshop with my husband, whose hobby is landscape painting, but I have a strong desire to see him happy. In fact, I often give him workshops for gifts and secretly plan what I will do when he is communing with his fellow artists. Everybody has their thing and reasonable people see this as an opportunity to do something they like, rather than feeling abandoned.

It's actually a little harder when you are taking care of aging parents or disabled children. Although your choices may be limited in that position there are a few things you can do. If your parents or disabled child are mobile, you can take them with you. Renting a cabin at a campground may be the better choice but, at least you are all out of your usual routine and hopefully enjoying the change. If you have relatives or people you trust that can give you access to respite care you can take advantage of that opportunity to get out and go camping. There are a few Girl Campers that I am aware of that travel with adult disabled children who love getting outdoors. This is a good question to post on the Girl Camper Facebook page and see what resources they use to make that easier.

Submitted by: Dana Hext

What would you say is the longest a camper could be and still be able to camp most anywhere? I have heard 24’-27’. We don’t want to make a mistake downsizing.

Lengths vary in National Parks but most of the parks were built way before the upsizing of RV’s. The designers never intended for fifth wheels to fit in those slots. US Parks.gov says this:

“Maximum lengths for trailers, campers and motor homes vary from park to park. The average maximum length permitted is 27 ft, but some parks can accommodate up to 40 feet in length. Some parks may have electrical hookups and dump stations. You should check with your favorite parks for their specific maximum lengths and available facilities so you won't be disappointed when you arrive.”

Outdoors RV has a one sheet of all the National Parks and the biggest unit allowed in each. Remember that the bigger the spot, the fewer available so book early.

https://outdoorsrvmfg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/National-Park-Trailer-Length-Chart.pdf

Submitted by: Theresa Corall

How do southern campers keep cool?

I know that you are in Florida Theresa and that is very hot and muggy in the summer. Texas too. So many of the Texas Girl Campers just close up shop in the summer. They camp in the spring until the weather becomes unbearable and then spend the summer by their pools until the fall weather kicks in. Another option is to camp with hook ups so that you always have respite from the heat. I remember camping in my vintage trailer in the hottest days of summer at a primitive state park with no hook ups and just going home early because it was just that bad. If you don’t mind the heat, you can employ some of the stay cool tricks that boondockers employ. Ginny McKinney, our Girl Camper from West Virginia just posted a picture of her on an overnight stay enroute to Colorado where she had no access to electric. She used a gallon jug of frozen water propped in front of a battery operated fan and positioned to blow directly on her. The ambient air is still hot but you are at least cooler. The last option is to camp in cool places. Our friend Sandy was camping in my driveway for the last two weeks but the mugginess of NJ got to her and she headed to upstate NY where she is enjoying evening temps in the 60’s. Perfect camping temperatures.