Next to our homes, an RV is probably the most expensive purchase we will ever make. Even used RVs come with a steep pricetag.

This week, we offer some very practical advice about shopping for a used RV.

Our guest is Terry Cooper, President of the National RV Inspectors Association. Just as we hire a home inspector before purchasing a house, we can hire RV inspectors to make sure we don't get ripped off or stuck with a used unit with major problems.

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Show Notes for Episode #49 Aug. 19, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast:

First Things First:

This week's show kicks off with Jennifer joining Mike to talk about their recent Motorsports and Music NASCAR gathering with a bunch of other RVers at the Michigan International Speedway.[spp-timestamp time="2:20"]

Jennifer's Tip of the Week:

In this edition of Jennifer's Tip of the Week, she brings you her list of five things NOT to take on an RV trip. Listen up, she can make your travel much easier, efficient and less cluttered. [spp-timestamp time="4:30"]

Listener Feedback: More Tips

A listener named Jeanette asks about driving an RV off pavement, down gravel and dirt roads.[spp-timestamp time="8:56"]

Don asks about how long batteries can operate air conditioning in hot ans steamy south florida[spp-timestamp time="12:10"]

And by email, Kathi asks us to share the so-called Tape measure illustration that she can use to convince her husband that now is the time to buy an RV [spp-timestamp time="14:38"]

Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo.

Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. Owner Ray Dwyer has been in the RV business for 44 years and is considered the dean of Class B RVs. Nobody knows more about small motorhomes that Ray and his crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel, complete with full tanks of fuel and propane. After a complete orientation with their staff on your new RV, you can take delivery and set out for home. Dan the Van Man gives the week's specials on the podcast.

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RV News of the Week:

Man killed when Kansas storm flips his RV : It was caused by 100 mph straight line winds [spp-timestamp time="18:45"]

There’s a shortage of Michelin RV tires : It will most likely last for several weeks [spp-timestamp time="20:25"]

Why it’s important to keep a clean campsite: Bears can smell food up at your campsite to three miles away [spp-timestamp time="21:45"]

This portion of the podcast is brought to you by Alde, the only name in heat that you need to know for your RV.

The Alde hydronic system brings many features and benefits not found with any other product.

Silent Radiant Heat - providing a warm even natural heated interior. Great for pets. (And Humans)

Increased Interior Space by combining two systems in one.

Efficiency. The whole system draws less than 1 amp on 12V DC and will extend the life of your propane roughly 40% over forced air.

Heating on Electric or Gas.

Multiple Options and Amenities: Towel Warmers, Floor Heat, Tank Heating, 4 Season Camping, Engine Heat, Driver Comfort,

Modern Programable Color Touch Screen Thermostat and Interface

Minimal Side-Wall Penetration. Small combined intake and exhaust eliminate big cut outs and sidewall congestion.

Traveling Tech with Paul Ulreich, Verizon's Uber User

Paul Ulreich, Verizon's Uber User, talks about new smartphones from Samnsung.[spp-timestamp time="27:26"]

This podcast is brought to you by Verizon Wireless, the nation’s largest and most reliable 4G LTE network. 

Shopping for a data plan shouldn’t be complicated. Thanks to Verizon, choosing a wireless plan is now easier than ever. Simply choose the size that fits your needs—small, medium, large or extra large. It’s just that easy.

That’s right,