Tips & Tricks – Campanda News

Easy RV Recipes To Make With The Kids

Tom Sperner — Mon, 21 May 2018 15:33:38 +0000

By Liz Wilcox People sometimes don’t realize how rewarding it can be for kids to participate in daily tasks. I think that’s one of the reasons children enjoy camping so much — they get to help out!

These recipes have been tried and tested by my own little family. They’re both kid- and parent-approved!

I love walking around a campground and seeing families working together to get things done. Camping is a real bonding experience for everyone involved — and cooking around your RV site should be no exception. Here are six simple recipes you can make with your kids during your next RV trip, whether you’re RVing in your own rig or an RV rental from Campanda. They’ll get to eat something that they made with their own hands, and you’ll get wholesome family memories to carry you through the teenage years to come!

Breakfast

Bacon & Egg In A Bag

The fact that the paper bag could go up in flames makes this recipe extra exciting for kids. (Photo credit)

Making bacon and eggs in a paper bag may be a little unconventional, but it’s a great way to get the kids involved in breakfast! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 paper bag per person
2 pieces of bacon and 1 egg per person (the fattier the bacon, the better)
Long, strong sticks
Campfire

Here’s what you do: Cut or tear your bacon pieces in half. This can be really fun for the kids! Have them line the pieces of bacon on the bottom of the paper bag. Then crack the egg and empty it into the bag. If your child is anything like mine, they will find this both gross and delightful. Next, the kids can fold the top of the bag down. Do this two or three times. Then you or your older kids poke a hole through the folded (thick) part with your stick. Now comes the cookin’! Have your kids hold the bag over the fire. With younger kids, you may want to help them hold the stick or take turns, as it can take a few minutes to cook the egg thoroughly. Remind them not to stick the bag into the fire or their breakfast will literally be burnt to a crisp. When the bacon and egg is done cooking, you’re able to eat right out of the bag! The bottom of the bag will be hot and greasy, so put it on a plate or set it on the picnic table when you’re ready to eat!

Blueberry and Orange Muffins

This RV recipe is so fun and simple. And you get to make a muffin in an orange! I mean, who doesn’t want to try that?

The hint of orange takes these blueberry muffins next level. (Photo credit)

Here’s what you’ll need:

Blueberry muffin mix and the ingredients listed on the box (likely eggs, milk, water, oil)
Oranges (at least 1 per person)
Aluminum foil
Bowl
Campfire

Here’s what you do: Gather the kids together to make the blueberry muffin mix. This can be done outside for minimum clean up and stress. Let your kids help gather ingredients, pour and stir. See? Everyone can be involved, and if you’re doing this outside you don’t have to worry about too many elbows rubbing. Next, cut all your oranges in half. If you have an older child, you can have them do this while you and the others make the blueberry mix. When oranges are cut, scoop all the fruit into a bowl. Take the orange shells and fill one empty half with blueberry muffin mix (you can hold the orange while your child scoops, or vice versa). Then take the other half and put the orange back together.

Once you’ve wrapped them in foil, just toss these babies in the fire! (Photo credit)

Next, cover the orange with three layers of aluminum foil. Yes, three. This helps prevent burning while cooking. Let your kids help you with this. It could get messy, but remember these RV recipes are supposed to be fun, not Food Network worthy! When you’ve successfully covered the oranges, just (gently) toss them in the fire. Turn the balls over every 60 to 90 seconds (I’d suggest helping younger kids with this using long tongs or a skewer). This process usually takes 10 minutes. When the time is up, unwrap and enjoy! (I recommend eating this with a spoon.) Bonus: You can use the orange you scooped out to make fresh juice. It’s the perfect pairing!

Lunch

When you’re RVing with kids, it can be really hard to wrangle them up for a meal during the middle of the day. After all, there is dirt to play in and trees to climb! I highly recommend keeping things simple. Here is an easy RV recipe that will satisfy big appetites.

Walking Tacos

Like I said, it’s hard to get kids to settle down for lunch. But nothing will rally your little troops better than chips and a taco bar. Here’s what you’ll need:

Individual sized bags of Fritos Corn Chips (one per person)
Hamburger or turkey meat
Toppings for tacos (tomato, lettuce, sour cream, shredded cheese, salsa, etc.)

Here’s what you do:

Tacos in a bag — what could be easier? (Photo credit)

This recipe takes just a little preparation. You can do this by yourself or with any interested kids around camp. Just like regular tacos, cook your meat and season it to taste. Your kids can help chop and stir the meat (this is easiest done in the RV kitchen rather than outside). Next, prep your toppings. Cut the tomato, get out the sour cream, etc. Place everything outside on the picnic table. Last, get the Fritos chips and holler out for the kids! Give each a bag and tell them to crunch up the chips with the bag still closed. Once they’re done breaking up the chips, let them choose their toppings from the taco bar. Then have them close up their bag tightly and shake. Voila! Walking taco. Hand those hungry kids a fork and let them eat!

Dinner

Campfire Pizza

Pizza and a bonfire. What could be better? I love making these because it makes dinner the easiest meal of the day.

The kids don’t get to play with fire for this recipe, but they do get to eat pizza!

Here’s what you’ll need:

English muffins
Pizza sauce
Shredded cheese
Toppings (pepperoni, veggies, etc)
Aluminum foil
Campfire with grill or BBQ grill

Here’s what you do: Each kid (and parent) gets their own English muffin. Have the kids split them in half and spread the sauce on both halves. A spoon is easiest to scoop and spread. Then of course comes the cheese and toppings. Put the foil down on the grill and place each kids’ pizzas atop. Cook until golden brown — or until your kids (who will likely be watching these cook like hungry hawks) inform you that dinner is ready!

Messless Camp Burgers

This RV recipe is a bit like the orange blueberry muffins above.

You can put these on a grill, but it’s more fun to just toss ’em in the fire.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Hamburger (or ground turkey)
Seasonings
Favorite burger toppings and condiments
Campfire

Here’s what you do: The aluminum foil makes these easy burgers wonderfully mess-free. Place the patties on the foil, wrap it up and unwrap to eat! First, make your patties like you normally would, but on the tinfoil. You can give each kid their own ball of meat and let them season as they’d like. The kids will love this! Place veggies like onion or peppers on the meat. Encourage your kids to have fun. Maybe they want to smother the burger in barbecue sauce. Go for it, kid. Just make sure it all stays in the foil! When everyone is done, wrap the patties tightly. Make sure they completely covered. You might want to put an extra layer of foil over the first. Then just place your burgers right in the fire. (Yep, just like the muffins.) Cook the patties for about 10 minutes for medium, longer for well-done. Then, unwrap the burger and eat straight from the foil with a fork! Or dress it up with a bun and extra toppings if desired.

Snacks

Fruit Kebob

This one is pretty self-explanatory. The best part about this “recipe”? It’ll keep the kiddos entertained leading up to snack time!

Let the kids help pick out the fruit to get them even more engaged.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Skewers
Assorted fruit (apples, pineapples, grapes, strawberries, and melon are great!)

Here’s what you do: With or without the kids, dice the fruit. If the kids are around but you don’t want them anywhere near the cutting board, have them put the cut up fruit into separate bowls and line them up. Then, hand the kids the skewers and let them have at it! The kids can pick out which fruit combinations they like the best. You might even suggest they try to make a rainbow or other pattern.

Feeling hungry and ready to head to camp to try out one of these RV recipes yourself? Click below to search for RV rentals in your area.

Click Here To Rent An RV

If your RV is parked in the driveway more than you’d like, consider renting it out on Campanda! You can choose your own dates, pick your renters and name your price. The money you earn could even fund your next big RV trip!

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The post Easy RV Recipes To Make With The Kids appeared first on Campanda News.

How To Use Pinterest To Plan Your RV Trip

Tom Sperner — Wed, 09 May 2018 17:04:25 +0000

By Camille Attell

RV trip planning can be fun and exciting. It can also be overwhelming. What should you pack, where should you go, what route should you take? Questions like these are just the beginning of what can feel like a daunting set of tasks. Luckily it’s Pinterest to the rescue!

Keep reading to find out how Pinterest could make your next RV rental even better.

What is Pinterest?

A good “pin” will have a well-crafted description explaining the image.

When Pinterest came onto the scene back in 2010, people used it to search for and save (“pin”) things like recipes and wedding dresses. If you loved scrapbooking then you were guaranteed to love Pinterest even more. It’s like a massive, online vision board with infinite possibilities of ideas.

If you haven’t logged in to Pinterest in a while (or ever) then you might be puzzled when I say that it’s also an amazing tool to plan road trips and vacations. It’s not just for cupcakes anymore!

When you click on a pin it will take you to the source of the content, like a website, where you can get more information.

Why Pinterest Is A Great Tool

Over the years Pinterest has evolved into a search engine. A search engine helps you locate information on the internet. Google is what everyone thinks of as the go-to search engine. But Pinterest is a powerful search engine too, which surprises people because they think it’s a social media platform like Facebook. It isn’t, and that distinction is important for a couple for reasons.

Although it’s a social platform, Pinterest functions like a search engine. That means you can use it to look up information and tips.

For consumers (aka RVers browsing the internet), it’s a place where you can search and find information. For example, let’s say you want to travel to Utah and see national parks. If you type “Utah National Parks,” you’ll to find a wealth of information.

For content creators (bloggers, companies, etc.) it’s a useful platform to share your content and drive traffic back to your site. Let’s say you’re a travel blogger who writes articles about national parks: If you write one about Utah and make a great visual pin, there’s a good chance that your pin (and therefore your article) could be found in a search.

How To Use Pinterest To Plan An RV Trip

So how exactly do you use Pinterest to plan a vacation? To get started, you’ll need set up a profile on Pinterest. This will enable you to set up “boards” where you can organize all the pins you collect. Think of boards like file folders or different pages in a scrapbook, each with its own category.

You can use Pinterest to search for travel inspiration and discover amazing destinations.

Here’s how a board works: Using the Utah national parks example, you would create a board called “Utah Travel Board.” Then, you’d search for terms that fit the type of trip you’re planning, such as:

Utah National Parks
Utah driving routes
Hiking in Utah
Utah RV Parks

After you’ve collected a bunch of images and resources about your destination, you can then search for other helpful information. For example, if you want ideas about what to pack, you could search for terms like “RV travel checklist,” “hiking gear” or “packing for RVing.”

You can find tons of RV resources on Pinterest, like helpful checklists and packing tips.

You can even look for awesome camping recipes by searching terms like “RV recipes,” “camping recipes,” “food for camping” and so on.

As you discover new pins, you can keep adding them to your board. Over time you’ll collect a wide range of pins that you can refer to as you plan — all in one place!

(As a side note, Utah has some truly awesome National Parks. Check out this article for my favorite hikes while RVing, including Bryce Canyon in Utah.)

Using Pinterest Long-Term

You can also create multiple boards for different categories. For example, if you plan to take multiple trips, you could categorize your boards. This could mean one for each destination, or you could set up boards like this:

North America Travel
Route Planning
RV Parks
RV Gear
RV Cooking & Recipes

This way, whenever you plan a new trip, you can consult your boards and look at the pins that relate to that trip. You can check out how I’ve organized my own RV Pinterest boards here.

Think of boards as folders. These can be organized however you want, and one pin can be put in multiple folders for cross-categorization.

Over time you’ll build a great resource for trip planning. Your account becomes like a resource library and you become a part of the Pinterest information-sharing community (you can also set your boards to “private” if you’re feeling secretive about your travel plans).

In short, Pinterest is a wonderful way to plan an RV trip. It’s easy to use and fun too! The next time you plan a trip, consider using Pinterest as a source of helpful information.

Already have a Pinterest full of road trip ideas? Hit the road in an RV rental from Campanda! Click the link below to search our selection of camper vans, motorhomes and trailers:

Rent An RV

If you already own an RV that’s sitting idle, rent it out! Campanda makes it easy to rent your RV. Click the link below to learn more:

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A Guide To Finding The Perfect RV Campsite

Tom Sperner — Wed, 09 May 2018 14:11:22 +0000

By Liz Wilcox You’ve rented an RV on Campanda. You’ve planned your route. Everyone is thrilled to hit the open road. But what about where you’re actually going to camp? How do you find RV parks and campgrounds that are perfect for you and your rig? Finding the perfect RV campsite can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. As a full-time RVer, I’ve learned some tips and tricks — and I want to share them with you. And no, I’m not just going to tell you to Google “RV parks near ___.” Keep reading or skip ahead to:

What To Know Before Choosing An RV Campsite
Understand Your RV Camping Options
Resources For Finding The Perfect RV Campsite
Tips For Snagging The Best RV Campsite

What To Know Before Choosing An RV Campsite

The very first thing you need to do before you start searching for a great place to park your RV is to understand your options and requirements. Not all trips are created equal. It’s important to consider the following:

1. Budget

What does your budget look like? How much can you spend per night? Figure this number out and commit to it — having a clear budget will help you tremendously when you’re looking at parks.

Consider proximity to activities carefully. Aim to strike a balance between comfort and convenience.

2. Length Of Stay

You may stop at a few places on your RV trip. Some may be one-night stops, in which case you might want to consider if there are free or cheap places to park your rig and sleep for the night. If you’re planning to spend a few days in one spot, you may want to consider a place with more amenities.

3. Proximity To Planned Activities

You’re probably traveling for a reason, whether that’s a specific theme park or just some peace and quiet in the woods. Really consider the activities you have planned and how close they are to where you want to stay. You don’t want to pick an RV park that’s 45 minutes from Disney World if you bought a four-day pass.

4. Your Camping Style

If you don’t know your camping style, you can’t pick the perfect RV campsite. If you’re renting an RV for the first time, you should take some time to think about what your ideal camping trip looks like.

I don’t mind roughing it … but I do love a good RVer-friendly pool.

Do you like lots of amenities or prefer open space with room to run? Are you a social butterfly or a lone wolf? Check out campgrounds that fit your style. For example, I love RV parks with lots of people. I like to mingle and love when they have activities to attend. I recently attended an ice cream social and literally ran to the activity center so I wouldn’t miss it! On the other hand, a lot of my RV friends enjoy parking at slower, less accessible state parks to enjoy the solitude. Take your camping style — and that of your travel companions — into consideration when you search for the perfect RV spot!

Understand Your RV Camping Options

Many new RVers get confused by all the different RV camping options: Why is one place called a campground and the other an RV park? What is the difference between an RV park and an RV resort? How can one place be a campground, RV park and resort?! What does it all mean? Never fear, fellow camper! I’ve broken down all the different RV camping options for you:

Campgrounds

Campground accommodations are usually pleasant but basic.

If you’re into nature and are looking for a simple place to park, this is the option for you. National and state parks will usually have campgrounds with an electric hookup as well as water. Other times, a campground can simply mean a flat(ish) place to park with a fire pit. Dump sites, water fill stations and bathrooms are usually on the property, but may not be available at individual sites.

RV Parks

RV parks will usually have kid-friendly amenities like playgrounds.

RV parks typically have fewer trees and more parking sites than campgrounds. There may even be amenities like a clubhouse, cable TV hookups and a playground for kids. You’ll also have a sewer connection. RV parks can vary. When planning your trip, it’s important to review pictures and read reviews to get a good feel for what the park offers.

RV Resorts

Luxury RV resorts usually offer lush landscaping and premium amenities. Photo credit: Desert Shores Resort

RV resorts are great! They will be very well-maintained, have lots of amenities and be close to “civilization”. If you are renting an RV and want to ease into camping, this is definitely a fun option for you! Unfortunately, there is no industry standard for the term “resort.” That means that some resorts are much better than others. Price is usually a good indication of the quality of resort. You get what you pay for, basically. Another good rule of thumb is that a place that is billed as an “RV park and resort” is probably not as luxurious as a place that simply calls itself an RV resort. You can check out this article, which showcases some of the best luxury RV resorts around the country. They’re not cheap, but boy are they pretty!

Free Camping

If you plan ahead, boondocking can be a perfectly comfortable way to spend a night or two en route to your main destination.

Sometimes it’s late and you just want to park overnight, get some rest and head out in the morning. Many RVers opt out of paid camping on such occasions. Of course, this almost always means that you will have no hookups or water — in other words, you’ll be boondocking. But it really is a great option to keep your average nightly cost down while traveling to your main destination. The easiest places to park for free are casinos, businesses with large parking lots like Walmart and even Camping World. However, not all businesses allow boondocking so make sure you call ahead and ask for permission. My fellow Campanda Ambassador wrote an article about how to find free RV camping, which you can read here.

Resources For Finding The Perfect RV Campsite

Alright, now that you’ve given your camping style some thought and have brushed up on your RV camping options, you’re ready to start searching! There are plenty of resources for finding the perfect RV campsite. These are my favorite:

RV Websites

Google is amazing. It’s turned our entire way of learning upside down. But when it comes to finding a place to park your RV, it doesn’t reign supreme. Try these sites instead:

Campendium

Campendium is a free site with thousands of search results. Just type in your desired location and boom! You’ll have a list of camping spots with information on price, hookups and amenities — plus peer reviews. This is a favorite among every RVer I know. Bonus: Campendium even tells you whether or not a spot has good wifi.

Good Sam is the world’s largest organization of RV owners. You have to pay to be a member, but their online directory of campsites is free.

Good Sam

Good Sam is an RV organization that has a large database of RV parks, resorts and campgrounds around North America. While you must pay to be a member, anyone can look online to search for places to stay in their RV. The best part about searching through Good Sam? They have a rating system and each campsite they list is carefully reviewed and scored every single year! This makes it easy to judge the campgrounds because they are all rated on the same system, not just someone’s opinion online.

Casino Camper

While Casino Camper may not be on every RVer’s list, it’s definitely on mine! This is a great resource for finding free or inexpensive places to park. You can search by state and you’re likely to find a nicer overnight stay than a Walmart parking lot.

RV Apps

It seems like a new RV app pops up every week. Most aren’t very good, to be honest. So forget the gimmicky apps and keep it simple. Just about every RVer I know uses these two apps to find RV sites to park:

The Allstays app costs $10 to download but trust me, it’s well worth it!

Allstays

This is a great app if you have an iPhone. And while it costs $10 to download, it’s well worth the small investment. Not only will it show you the different RV campsites in a given area, it’s also an interactive map. This means you’ll be able to find gas stations, rest areas and stores!

This one might seem a little odd, but stay with me. In the last five years, Pinterest has evolved into an incredible visual search engine, and bloggers like me are using it to get their content out there. And this content is full of campground reviews! Use the Pinterest app to search instead of Google and you just may find the perfect place to stay on your next RV road trip. If you hate apps, don’t worry — there’s a website, too. For more RV apps worth the space on your phone, check out this list of 30 must-have apps.

RV Clubs

Even if you’re just renting an RV, joining an RV club may be the perfect solution to finding the best, most affordable campsite for you! Here are some inexpensive RV clubs you can join to find crazy discounts and great parks:

A Passport America membership really does pay for itself in just a couple nights.

Passport America

At just $44 for an entire year, this club is hard to say no to. With half-off discounts for over 2,000 parks, it really pays for itself in a couple of nights. We use our Passport America membership as much as possible. There is an app you can use, and it’s always the first thing we pull up when route planning. Honestly, we would not be able to travel full-time without this amazing club. And yes, I’m willing to admit that not all the parks are ah-mazing. But I’ve never been to a park that made me feel unwelcome! Anywhere we’ve stayed has been super friendly and accommodating. These discounted parks are perfect for overnight stays on your way to a specific destination.

Harvest Hosts

If your idea of a perfect RV campsite involves great views, an intimate setting and wine, Harvest Hosts is for you! Just like Campanda introduces RV owners to people looking to rent an RV, this unique membership club brings RVers and landowners together to allow RVers to park overnight at certain wineries, vineyards, breweries and the like — all for free. Buy this membership ($40 for a year) if you’re looking for a truly unique and remarkable experience on your RV road trip. Like Passport America, it pays for itself in just a few nights.

RVer Facebook Groups

This resource is still untapped by the majority of RVers. With Facebook groups, you are able to talk to real people in real time about your route and campgrounds along the way.

Facebook groups like “Camping Is Our Life” are fantastic, underused resources for RVers.

Where’d You Stay RV

Like the name states, this group is for sharing where you stayed on your RV trips! Members post pictures and personal reviews. Feel free to ask questions about a specific area or RV park or use the group search option to see if it’s already been discussed.

Camping Is Our Life

Even if camping isn’t your life, this group is a great resource. This Facebook group was made for showing pictures and videos of members’ camping trips, so it’s perfect for asking questions about any type of RVing — whether you’re looking for campgrounds, parks or resorts.

A good old-fashioned phone call is often the best way to ensure that you’re given the best possible site for your RV.

Tips For Snagging The Best RV Campsite

Online resources are amazing. But to truly find the best RV campsite time after time, you’ve got to know some “tricks of the trade.”

1. Read reviews.

Whether you’re looking on Google or another site, read the reviews! Look at pictures. Use that Pinterest app to search a blog post about the campground you’re considering. All the research is well worth it when you arrive at a campground and fall in love immediately!

2. Call ahead.

Think you’ve found a park you’ll really enjoy? Call ahead and talk with the desk about your rig. Discuss your needs and wants. Make sure they can accommodate you. Taking the extra time to call and chat will ensure that they put you in the best spot available.

3. Make your reservation ASAP.

If you’re traveling to a popular destination during the busy season, your chances of driving up and simply finding a vacant spot are slim to none. Call as soon as possible to guarantee a spot close to where you’d like to be.

4. Ask about the refund policy.

Sometimes you arrive at a site and just don’t like it. Make sure to ask about a refund policy before they take your payment! Some parks — especially those in popular, high-demand areas — have a “no refund” policy. But don’t let that scare you off! If you’ve followed my advice and done your research, you’re sure to find the perfect park for you and your RV!

Now that you’ve got a good grasp on how to find the perfect campsite for you, it’s time to rent your RV! Click below to search for listings in your area on Campanda!

Click Here To Rent An RV

If you own an RV but can’t use it all the time, consider renting it out on Campanda. You could earn a LOT of money by renting your rig out on your own terms. Click below to find out more:

Click Here To List Your RV

The post A Guide To Finding The Perfect RV Campsite appeared first on Campanda News.

Driving A Class A Motorhome For The First Time

Tom Sperner — Wed, 02 May 2018 19:45:12 +0000

By Bryce Cripe

Driving a large motorhome for the first time can seem challenging — or even stressful. But there are a few things you can do to make your first RV driving experience a positive one as you head off on your well-earned vacation.

The First Drive

When my wife Camille and I started test driving Class A motorhomes, I had barely been in an RV, let alone driven one! We test drove several motorhomes over two months before buying our RV — a 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 32SA gas-powered motorcoach. (Read this article to find out how to choose the right RV for you.)

Our RV: A 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 32SA gas-powered motorcoach.

Less than a month before hitting the road to travel full time, we took a 250-mile weekend test trip from our home in Orange County, California to an RV resort on the Colorado River near Parker, Arizona. We had a lot thrown at us on our first drive and were fortunate to learn many valuable lessons that have served us well ever since.

Freeway Driving In An RV

As we set off on that first drive, I felt the absence of my safety net — our RV salesperson calmly guiding and reassuring me during our test drives. We were on our own now! The first miles passed easily along wide, suburban boulevards with courteous drivers and a nearly deserted toll road. And then we merged onto one of Southern California’s notorious freeways.

The most difficult kind of traffic for an RV driver — especially a new one — is what I call fast-and-busy traffic. We were immediately dropped into it. Nearly everyone was driving at least 70 miles per hour, making sharp lane changes and following too closely. I was used to this kind of driving in my car, but not comfortable yet in a 34-foot RV.

I took a couple of deep breaths and tried to settle in. After thirty minutes of white-knuckle driving, I actually got more comfortable. I had already learned some valuable lessons:

Lesson 1: Stay Calm And Drive On

At first, I had felt like nobody saw me. Drivers cut me off or wouldn’t allow me to change lanes. I wanted to yell out, “Don’t you see me? I’m bigger than you!” Then it dawned on me: they did see me, perhaps even feared me and were moving quickly to get out of my way. I learned to accept that traffic would “buzz” all around me but wasn’t interested in bumping into me.

Driving a large RV through heavy traffic was scary at first, but I soon got the hang of it.

I also discovered that motorhomes require more reaction time and stopping distance than a normal passenger vehicle. I quickly learned to give myself at least twice as much following distance as I did in my car. I drove at a steady and predictable speed when possible. And I focused most of my attention on the road ahead scanning for traffic patterns, merging vehicles and brake lights instead of fiddling with the radio.

I had to unlearn some habits from years of driving a car. Learning to rely on my side mirrors and rear camera was a big adjustment. I caught myself looking over my shoulder to check my blindspot as I do in my car when making lane changes. Well, that doesn’t work in a Class A motorhome. The side mirrors and the rear and side view cameras were put there for a reason — and I was going to have to use them!

After a few lane changes, I learned to trust that I could actually see everything. The mirrors and cameras quickly became my friends.

After about an hour and a half on the road, traffic began to thin out as we left the Southern California metropolitan area and got out into the desert. While I welcomed the change, I was already feeling more comfortable in fast, heavy traffic. And on the drive back at the end of the weekend, I was not nearly as stressed.

Lesson 2: RV Miles Are Different Than Car Miles

Driving an RV requires a lot more energy and focus than driving a car. Plan for frequent stops to make your trip enjoyable.

We passed the Palm Springs area and after over 100 miles of driving, I began to feel fatigued. My arms and shoulders were starting to ache from the road vibrations and my tight, two-handed grip on the steering wheel. I also needed a mental break from the hours of intense focus.

Camille found a truck stop for us to take a lunch break. During our hour-long rest, we took stock of our trip: We were three and a half hours in and had traveled almost 150 miles. When I had mapped the trip before on my phone app, it calculated the trip would take just over four hours. The math wasn’t adding up.

I discovered that most map apps estimate trip durations for car travel — not RV travel. Car drivers tend to drive faster than RV drivers and take fewer and shorter breaks. My estimated driving time did not include any breaks.

What I Learned About Drive Day

Since that initial lunch break discovery, I’ve learned quite a bit about the “drive day” experience:

Your RV journey will take longer than you expect. We’ve learned to slow down and enjoy the drive.
RV travel is more demanding, so you’ll want to take more breaks. I try to take a break every 75 to 100 miles to get out for some fresh air and to stretch my legs.
Our preferred travel distance is around 250 miles — and never more than 300 miles.

Lesson 3: Get Centered

Like everything else about RV driving, narrow roads took some getting used to — but turned out fine in the end.

Feeling rested from our break, we headed back down the federal interstate freeway before turning onto a two-lane state highway across the desert. The pavement turned rough, the lanes looked narrow and there wasn’t much of a road shoulder. I had to adjust again to different driving conditions.

After a few miles, I learned that a narrow or non-existent shoulder can make your lane feel more narrow than it really is. And even though the lane was wide enough for our vehicle, I had less margin for error.

Thankfully, traffic was very light and I got a better feel for where I was within my lane. On our test drives, the salespeople said it would feel like you’re closer to the center line than you are. I looked in my side mirrors and realized I could get over further and be better centered in my lane.

You feel very wide in a motorhome, but you’re probably not more than one to two feet wider than you would be in a car. I like to drive about a foot off the center line and then yield a little more space to oncoming traffic, if needed (especially for big rigs).

Lesson 4: Don’t Fight The Steering Wheel

Just as I was getting two-lane highway driving down, I noticed the weather worsening. What started out as a sunny, summer day turned dark and threatening. August and September is monsoon season in the Mojave and Sonoran deserts and a thunderstorm was bearing down on us. What luck!

First, the winds picked up and started blowing our twelve-foot-high motorhome around. They were not only strong 40 mile per hour winds, but also unpredictably gusty. Once again, the drive had my full attention. My wife and I discussed pulling over and waiting out the storm. I got very close to doing that a couple of times, but I felt in control and we pressed on.

I quickly learned that it is important not to overreact when driving in heavy wind and rain.

As we were being pushed around, I learned not to fight the steering wheel. When the wind pushed me, I let it. I then made small steering corrections to get us back on course.

Making corrections for wind is similar to the steering adjustments needed when being passed by a big rig, or driving on ice or rough pavement. Don’t overreact. Instead, let the coach go where it wants to go, and then make the steering corrections.

A downpour of rain came after the winds. We got to “test out” our windshield wipers, which thankfully worked great and were able to push large volumes of water off our windshield — at no time was our visibility compromised despite the heavy rains. Our coach also felt solid on the wet roads and we had no trouble with our tire traction. After about 30 minutes, the storm passed and it was a calmer last hour to our destination.

Lesson 5: Watch Out For Donkeys

Coming across this family of burros on the roadside felt like an appropriate end to an eventful day.

We were just a few miles to our destination when one last test was thrown our way. On a curvy, two-lane stretch, we came around a corner and were “greeted” by a pack of wild burros along the roadside. At first I was startled, but after easily avoiding them, I broke out in laughter. We had seen it all on our first drive.

We pulled into our resort destination along the banks of the Colorado River. It was about six in the evening and we had been on the road for close to seven hours. Our eventful drive was filled with many lessons learned, and I felt much more confident and prepared for all the driving to come. And I even had fun!

Feeling accomplished and satisfied, it was time for a well-earned beer at the resort’s pool bar. Cheers to your own first drive!

Rent an RV on Campanda for your next trip. Whether you’re looking for a Class A or a smaller motorhome (which are easier to drive!), you’re sure to find the perfect RV for your vacation.

Click Here To Rent An RV

If you already own an RV but aren’t using it right now, consider renting it out on Campanda. You can name your price, pick your dates and even choose your renters.

Click Here To List Your RV

The post Driving A Class A Motorhome For The First Time appeared first on Campanda News.

How I Found Remote Work While RVing

Tom Sperner — Wed, 02 May 2018 18:06:25 +0000

By Camille Attell My husband and I walked away from the best jobs we ever had to RV full time. I had worked for years to secure a position with a really good company, good pay and great benefits. But after eleven years and a lack of creative freedom, it was time to move on. We didn’t walk away for bigger and better career opportunities. We walked away for the freedom and flexibility that a desk job would never provide. Ditching that level of security was really scary, but not walking away and wondering what life could be like felt even scarier. So we took a calculated risk to leave it all behind and go RVing.

Working Remotely From Our RV: How We Planned It All

Bryce giving a thumbs up for being on track with our transition plan.

We are planners by nature, so we built a comprehensive project plan to guide us through the process. The plan contained everything from RV shopping, finances to employment decisions. The hardest part was picturing what remote work looked like. We had worked in cubicles out whole lives and it was hard to imagine what the options were. So we planned to use some of our savings to bridge the gap between leaving our jobs and finding remote work, along with offsetting costs by boondocking (which you can learn more about here) and using camping memberships. But I lasted four months before I panicked and started looking for remote work.

How I Found Remote Work While RVing

I have a storm to thank for my first remote gig.

Our first remote job was a fluke. While in Florence, Oregon, a storm rolled through that grounded us for several days. I decided that I would look for a local job since we couldn’t do much else. I searched on Craigslist, which is a great resource to find short-term, local jobs. I found four job possibilities and landed a one-hour acting job that paid $100. It wasn’t a lot of money, but it helped me build confidence — I knew that when I put my mind to it I could find employment. After that, I started networking in Facebook Groups, specifically groups like the RV Entrepreneur where business owners interact and sometimes hire for contract work. I have partnered with many entrepreneurs to create blog content and courses. Now I’m generating income through our blog and contract work, and recently I launched a course called Remote Work 101: Work, Live, and Travel Where You Want to help other people learn how to navigate working remotely. And of course, I’m a Campanda contributor, along with my husband Bryce.

Tips For Finding Remote Work As An RVer

Boondocking (and working) on fairgrounds in Kentucky.

Navigating the transition from traditional employment to remote work is different for everyone. However here are some of my top tips for people who are curious about the process.

- Start with a budget and decide how much money you need to make. If you’re traveling, research ways to offset your costs — offsetting costs should be part of your overall income strategy.

- Pick a date and try to work towards that as a goal, otherwise you may never leave your current employment.

- If you would prefer to keep your current job, approach your boss about a short-term experimental remote work period. Try a few days a month and slowly work up to a full-time remote role if possible. Prove to your company that a remote role will not negatively impact your contribution to the team.

- Do a skills assessment to see what job types you’re qualified for. Don’t get stuck on a work “identity” like computer coder as it will narrow your perception about what’s possible.

Put yourself out there. Tell people what you are good at, show that you’re willing to learn and offer to work on a trial basis. This works well for freelance roles.

Tips For Setting Up An RV Office

Bryce and I use our dinette as for work. It isn’t ideal, but it gets the job done!

Ideally you’d have a dedicated space in your RV for an office. But not all RVs will have that available. Some people have converted closets or even second bathrooms into offices. My husband and I use our dinette, which isn’t perfect but is totally workable. Additionally, the passenger seat offers a pull out surface that we use as a desk sometimes. Internet is a hot topic in the working RVer community. You’ll want to choose a main carrier and a backup carrier in case cell service is limited. In some cases even a cell booster comes in handy, especially if you need to upload or download documents. The bottom line is that you need to be prepared with plan A and B and even C — which sometimes might include hitting up a local Starbucks for Wi-Fi.

Resources For Finding Remote Work

I mentioned earlier that I network in Facebook Groups and have found jobs on Craigslist. But there are so many more great places to look for remote jobs. Here are a few websites to start your search:

Escapees | A total support network for RVers services including a job board for employers and job seekers of mobile and flexible work.
Facebook | The world’s preeminent social networking site allows users to make connections and share job opportunities and income ideas.
FlexJobs | An innovative, professional subscription-based job service to find telecommuting and part-time jobs and freelance work.
Indeed | The world’s top job search site with job opportunities aggregated from thousands of websites.
Upwork | Another innovative, professional subscription-based job service to find telecommuting and part-time jobs and freelance work.

For a more comprehensive list, check out this article on my blog.

Transitioning to remote work can feel intimidating at first, but it’s so rewarding in the end.

It’s important to remember that the journey to remote work isn’t always linear. It takes a bit of adjustment and adaptability as you try out different roles and options. If you keep an open mind, put yourself out there and are willing to learn new skills, then remote work is a real possibility and can enable you to live a more flexible lifestyle. Oh, and remember when I said that Bryce and I made a transition plan? We made that plan available to our More Than A Wheelin’ readers here.

Find out if the digital nomad life is right for you. Rent an RV on Campanda and give working remotely a trial run — or just have an amazing vacation!

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Own an RV but only use it occasionally? It could be earning you money. Find out to turn your underused vehicle into a second income by renting it on Campanda:

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8 Rainy Day RV Camping Activities

Tom Sperner — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 17:35:01 +0000

By Liz Wilcox

No matter how much you plan ahead, you simply can’t control the weather. Sometimes it rains on your RV trip, and that’s just the way it goes. But with proper planning and a little creativity, you can turn these potentially dreadful days into some of the most memorable of your trip!

Here are eight rainy day camping activities to try the next time the skies darken on your RV trip, whether you’re renting an RV on Campanda or hitting the road in a rig of your own!

Rainy Day Activities Inside The RV

1. Marshmallow Crafts And Games

If there’s one unspoken rule of RVing, it’s that you must have marshmallows on hand at all times.

And while s’mores are off the menu on a rainy day (unless you go the microwave route), you can still get some use out of them! Get creative and play tic-tac-toe with marshmallows and chocolate. The winner gets to eat the pieces!

Marshmallows are great for crafts, too. They’re sticky, which makes them perfect for building towers. On rainy days, my husband and I like to compete to see who can get their tower the highest. We up the ante by placing weight on top. Whoever wins gets out of dish duty for the day — needless to say, things can get pretty intense.

2. Craft A Story

When you’re stuck inside an RV, there’s going to be a lot of chatter. Make it fun and light by telling stories!

People don’t seem to read aloud much these days, which is a shame. Revive old traditions by reading the books that you have on hand to each other. Or find new and interesting stories online to share with your RV crew.

One of my family’s favorite things to do is play a game called “Pass The Story.” This is an interactive storytelling game where one person starts telling a story, then passes a ball to another to keep the story going.

I love this particular game the most because it’s great for just about any age and gets everyone involved flexing their creative muscles. The key is to say a few sentences and pass the ball at a cliffhanger. This can really liven up the story!

3. Make Movie Watching Into An Event

Okay, so maybe watching a movie inside the RV isn’t such a novel idea.

But simply popping in a DVD isn’t going to entertain you and the other campers in your RV for very long. That’s why you should turn it into an event!

Make popcorn. Bake cookies. If you don’t have either of those things, get creative and make some finger foods from what’s in your pantry. We don’t normally use our oven, so in lieu of cookies we make peanut butter tortillas. They’re easy to make and cut into bite-size portions. I like to put them on a small tray and serve them to my family. It’s just that little bit of fun you need on a rainy day at camp.

It can also be fun to build a fort and watch movies in there. String a blanket over the dinette and across to the couch. Snuggle up with all your pillows and put an old favorite on your laptop or TV.

Rainy Day Activities Outside

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not go outside? Some of my favorite RV memories are playing in the rain.

4. Have A Puddle Contest

If there’s one guarantee in life, it’s that a campground is going to have puddles when it rains. Take advantage of this and have a contest.

Explore the park looking for the biggest puddle. Give everyone a turn to splash to determine the winner.

Bonus points if you can splash over someone’s head!

5. Take A Wet-Weather Hike

Photo credit: Joe Hendricks

Things look different in the rain. Go outside and explore! See what kinds of animals and bugs you can find. My daughter loves going out in the rain to point out all the frogs and worms (why do kids love worms so much?). I like to point out the animals that are hiding, like the birds and squirrels. It’s a great learning opportunity for everyone to consider why certain animals are out and others have found shelter.

I’m not afraid of a little dirt, and my daughter and I also like to make mud pies during our rainy hikes. Another activity you can do in the rain is a scavenger hunt. Make a list of things you think you can find and see who can spot the most!

6. Make Paper Boats

Okay, so technically you do the first half of this activity inside, but you still need to go out to see it through.

Gather around the dinette of your RV and make paper boats. Try a few different styles and then head outside to see which one floats best in the puddles.

Tip: Don’t try this one when it’s pouring rain. The boats will hold up better in a drizzle.

Rainy Day Activities In And Around The RV Park

7. Utilize The Clubhouse

Photo credit: Joe Hendricks

Many RV parks and campgrounds have clubhouses or activity centers. Check the schedule to see if the park you’re in has any scheduled events that you can take advantage of during your rainy stay.

This year we stayed at an RV park that had Valentine’s Day activities, which was great because the rain was relentless but we were still able to have fun with Candy Bar Bingo and a potluck. It also gave us the opportunity to get to know our neighbors — which would otherwise have been impossible in the rain!

8. Visit Local Libraries, Museums And Attractions

Do a quick online search to find a library or museum near you. Spend the day inside getting to know the local area and discover what it has to offer.

In December, we brought our RV to Connecticut. We took advantage of the amazing local science center and children’s museums around the state. We even hit up the mall to get some “urban hiking” in when it was too cold to be outside.

Yes, the point of an RV trip is spend a lot of time outside. But when the skies don’t cooperate with your plans, there are still plenty of things you can do to enjoy your RV trip no matter what the weather. Don’t be afraid to get creative, slow down your schedule to share some stories — and maybe even get a little wet!

Ready to try RVing, rain or shine? Click below to see Campanda’s selection of RV rentals in your area.

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Have an RV sitting in your driveway? Rent it out during the times you can’t use it. Help other families create lasting memories — and earn a pretty penny in the process!

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RV Checklists: 6 Printable Packing Lists

Tom Sperner — Fri, 16 Mar 2018 16:05:17 +0000

If you’re the type of person who always thinks “I know I’m forgetting something” when you leave the house, then you need (yes, need) a good checklist to help you pack for your RV trip. Because trust us, there’s nothing like arriving at camp and realizing you forgot the s’mores materials — or worse, disposable gloves for the dumping station! — to put a damper on your RV vacation. Luckily for you, we made some handy printable checklists to help you prepare for your next RV rental or family vacation. Click on the links below to download and print them at home. Happy travels!

RV Maintenance & Safety Checklist
RV Camping Essentials Checklist
RV Kitchen Checklist
RV Grocery Checklist
RV Bed & Bath Checklist
Make Your Own RV Checklist
Download All RV Checklists

RV Maintenance & Safety Checklist

Download RV Maintenance & Safety Checklist

RV Camping Essentials Checklist

Download RV Camping Essentials Checklist

RV Kitchen Checklist

Download RV Kitchen Checklist

RV Grocery Checklist

Download RV Grocery Checklist

RV Bed & Bath Checklist

Download RV Bed & Bath Checklist

Make Your Own RV Checklist

Download Blank RV Checklist

All RV Checklists

Click the links below to download PDFs of all Campanda’s RV checklists!

RV owners: You could be earning money from the RV in your driveway. Name your price, choose your renters and set your own schedule with Campanda. (Pro tip: Many renters don’t travel their own kitchen utensils, RV toilet paper or comforters. You can offer these items as add-ons to your RV for extra money — it’s a win-win!)

Click Here To List Your RV

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How To Find Free & Inexpensive RV Camping

Tom Sperner — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 21:00:09 +0000

By Camille Attell Finding free and inexpensive camping is both an art and a science. There are so many resources to help you find great camping spots, but sometimes all the technology in the world can’t predict how you’ll “feel” about a place. Always do your research in advance to ensure that you choose the best camping option to suit your style. This article will provide you with both practical tips for finding free and inexpensive camping, as well as tips for feeling a place out.

Boondocking

Free camping usually means that you’ll be going off the grid, or at least without electrical, water and sewage hookups. This type of camping is called “boondocking”, “dry camping” or “dispersed camping” and involves camping outside of established campgrounds. My husband and I didn’t even know this type of RV camping existed until we started RVing and learning the tricks of the trade.

Here’s a spot we found at American Girl Mine in California, which you can easily locate on Google Maps.

Our first time dry camping wasn’t free, but it was inexpensive for the area we were in. We stayed at O’Neill Park in Orange County, California for $22 a night, which by comparison is much cheaper than anywhere else you’ll find in that area. It was a great experience! But we had to learn how to boondock within the first week of owning our rig. It wasn’t hard once we figured out what we were doing. Here are the basic steps you should take to prepare for this type of RV camping:

Fill up your tank with water, and bring extra drinking water.
Make sure you have a generator or solar panels to stay powered.
Empty your black and gray tanks in advance (trust me on this one).
If you’re going far off the grid, ensure you have plenty of food and first aid supplies.

These are the essential preparations (consider them must-dos) for any free camping experience. For some more creative ideas, you can check out Pinterest and type “boondocking” in the search. You’ll get all kinds of great tips!

How do you find free and inexpensive campsites?

The following websites and apps helped us locate some great cheap RV campsites.

1. Campendium

With Campendium you can search for various camping options, including land owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), national forests and traditional campsites. You will find reviews and evaluations of important features like cell coverage. You may not find comprehensive information on every location, since reviews are left by fellow campers. In other words, the more popular the location, the more reviews there will be. Be sure to leave a review of your experience so that others can plan a trip based on information that you provide!

Here’s a great spot we found on Campendium called Upper Teton View in Wyoming. It’s a hilly road, but we managed to get our RV up there and saw larger fifth wheels too!

2. AllStays

Allstays is a paid app that offers information on free campsites including truck stops, casinos, Walmarts (all places you can camp for free) and even RV stores in case you need to pick a few items on your way. Once you buy the app, you basically own it forever (no monthly subscription), and it’s a comprehensive, one-stop resource that many RVers say is well worth the $10 price tag.

For inexpensive camping options, check out Boondockers Welcome and Harvest Hosts. Each offers a different type of experience for a low annual membership fee.

3. Boondockers Welcome

This site lists individuals who have offered up land on their property for boondockers. These are usually one- or two-night stays and you can even find some sites to camp for free in the city. Click here to read my article about camping near big cities.

4. Harvest Hosts

We had a lovely stay at the Jaxon Keys winery.

You can find some great camping sites on Harvest Hosts. These are typically wineries, ranches or even museums where you can stay overnight in exchange for buying your host’s products or services. (While you don’t have to buy their products, it’s nice to support local businesses and good hospitality when you can!) We stayed at the Jaxon Keys winery in Hopland, California using Harvest Hosts. We camped just behind their vineyards and had a lovely wine tasting too!

5. Google Maps

Finding your own camping locations is another option. Free and legal camping is available on BLM land and in many national forests. With Google Maps, you can look for places in advance and scope out a site. This is when the “feel” of a campsite comes into play: Search for the site on Google Maps in advance and then arrive early to scope out the terrain. It’s good to have a backup plan, since you might find that you need to navigate challenging roads or someone might beat you to the site. Pay attention to how you feel in a location. Generally speaking, free camping on open land is safe, but be aware of your surroundings and ensure you have a good exit strategy if something like a storm comes through.

Free RV Camping Is Easier Than You Think

This style of camping might not be for everyone, but I believe that what holds many people back is a lack of information. A little planning, a few online resources and feeling a place out can lead to some truly memorable experiences!

Ready for your own off-grid adventure? Rent an RV on Campanda to get started:

Click Here To Rent An RV

Do you already own an RV? Don’t let it sit idle! List it on Campanda to share the RV life (and earn some extra money)!

Click Here To List Your RV

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A Beginner’s Guide To RV Holding Tanks

Tom Sperner — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 18:57:51 +0000

By Liz Wilcox

RVing can take you to some beautiful locations and help you create wonderful memories. But not every part of RVing is pretty. Maintaining and emptying your septic system on a regular basis is an unglamorous — but necessary — part of any RV adventure. And without proper maintenance and care of this system, things can get pretty ugly.

Whether you’re a new RV owner or you plan to rent an RV on Campanda, it’s important to know how to care for your RV tanks properly. This handy guide will help you get started:

What does an RV septic system look like?

Recreational vehicles typically come with three tanks, located on the underside of the RV, to keep things running smoothly.

1. Fresh Water Tank

There are usually three tanks on an RV: fresh water, grey and black.

As the name suggests, this tank is for fresh water. This is the water that comes out of your taps.

2. Grey Water Tank

The grey tank holds the dirty water from your RV shower and the kitchen sink. Some used campers and vintage RVs may not have this tank.

3. Black Water Tank

This is the one that tends to scare new RVers. The black tank holds waste water from the toilet. If your RV does not have a gray tank, all dirty water is dispensed into this tank.

When not maintained properly, any one of these tanks can cause problems.

How often should I empty my RV tanks?

There’s no hard and fast rule about when to empty your tanks — it all depends on how much you use them.

How often you need to empty your tanks is relative. If you are traveling with a large number of people, you may need to empty your tanks every other day. If it is just you and your spouse, once a week may be enough.

A general rule of thumb is to wait until your tanks are about two-thirds full before emptying them. It creates a much better “flow” when dumping, making the process much more efficient.

Some recreational vehicles come with systems to show you exactly how full your tanks are. This is a great way to gauge when to dump, but be warned! After a few years, these sensors don’t always work well. Even new ones may give an incorrect reading because of paper or other waste sticking to the sensor making it read “full” when it’s not. It’s important to stay cognizant of how much water waste you are really accumulating.

How do I empty my RV tanks?

The holding tanks should be clearly marked on your RV. If renting, be sure to request a walkthrough from the RV owner.

Before your first waste water dump, make sure you have a sewer hose and some gloves to protect your hands.

Next, be sure to identify the valves on the outside of your RV. These will be clearly marked “grey” and “black”.

Hook your sewer hose up to the valve on the RV. Take the other end and secure it to the sewer you are using. Ensure it is fastened on both ends before pulling the valves!

Start with the black tank. Remember, the toilet waste water dumps directly into this tank. Never dump this water anywhere except designated dump stations. Dump stations are always clearly marked.

To empty, pull the valve and let the tank drain. Close the valve when you can no longer hear any liquid coming through the hose. Ensure the valve is closed completely. This is very important. Leaving a black tank valve open is an absolute no-no. It will cause all the liquid to flow out, leaving the solids no way of draining.

Always make sure the valve on your black tank is closed completely after dumping.

When you’ve ensured the valve is shut, pull the grey tank valve. Again, close when done.

Some people leave the gray tank valve open outside of the RV and let it drain continuously. This is a mistake. Flushing the gray tank after the black tank helps flush any solids stuck in your sewer hose. If you keep this valve open, you will not have that extra water to flush out the sewer hose after the black tank.

For easy clean up, go slowly when detaching the sewer hose. Many RVers use a bucket or tub to contain the hose when not in use.

How do I maintain my RV septic system?

You can find starter kits like this one at Walmart or RV stores.

Once you get the hang of emptying the tanks on your recreational vehicle, the process can go quickly and smoothly. But there’s more to using your tanks properly than emptying them — maintenance is just as important and will help prevent trouble down the line.

In general, regularly flushing along with cleaning and sanitizing your tanks will keep the system up and running fairly free of problems.

Other things to know about your RV holding tanks:

Fresh Water Tank

The least scary of the three tanks, the fresh water tank still needs maintenance from time to time.

When hooked up to water or filling the tank, use only a potable water hose. These are easy to spot because of their white color.

With this tank, it’s important to pay attention to the weather. Insulate your hose during freezing weather and drain your fresh water in extreme heat to prevent water stagnation.

The fresh water tank holds the water that comes out of your taps. It’s the least scary of all the RV tanks.

If the tank begins to smell, it may be contaminated. Use household bleach to clean the tank.

Pour ¼ cup of bleach for every 15 gallons of water in your tank.
Run the water until you smell bleach.
Continue to run until all the bleached water is out.
Let your tank sit for 24 hours.
Refill your tank and run the water until bleach smell is gone.
Use as normal.

Gray Water Tank

Again, this is where runoff water from your sink or RV shower is held. In large travel trailers and fifth wheels, there may be two gray tanks.

It’s important to note that the drain into this tank is small. Take every precaution to ensure food particles do not go down the drain. Even something as small as a pea may cause a clog.

Black Water Tank

You should only ever empty your tanks at a designated dumping station.

There are a few good rules of thumb for minimizing trouble with the dreaded black tank:

Use single-ply toilet paper. Two-ply can clog the tank.
Flush regularly, always adding water to the toilet bowl before flushing.
Sanitize your tank after dumping. You can find special chemicals for this in the RV section of any big box store.
Clean this tank often by putting a garden hose down the toilet. This should help flush your system and clear up any build ups.

Your #vanlife fantasies may not involve draining sewage, but this is a very real and essential part of RVing. When done properly, it should be a quick and painless process. Follow the guidelines above and after a few turns at the dump station, you’re going to be a pro at handling your RV septic system!

Emptying your tanks may not be a fun job, but it’s a necessary part of RV living.

Totally grossed out by the idea of emptying your own RV tanks? Many RV owners on Campanda offer to dump your tanks on return for an extra fee. Browse Campanda’s selection of trailers, motorhomes and campers by clicking the link below:

Click Here To Rent An RV

Looking to share the joys of RVing — black water tank included — with other RV enthusiasts? Rent your RV on Campanda and turn your rig into a second stream on income!

Click Here To List Your RV

The post A Beginner’s Guide To RV Holding Tanks appeared first on Campanda News.

Choosing The Right RV: 7 Things You Need To Know Before Driving Off The Lot

Tom Sperner — Fri, 16 Feb 2018 19:32:29 +0000

By Liz Wilcox

Choosing The Right RV: What You Need To Know Before You Buy (Or Rent)

Choosing the right RV is important. Trust me, I know: I bought two RVs within 13 months due to complications with the first. To help you make a confident and informed purchase — and get it right the first time! — I put together a list of important things to consider when buying an RV.

(Click here to read “Choosing The Right RV: Part 1” by my fellow Campanda Ambassador Camille Attell.)

Note: This article isn’t just for prospective RV owners. Some things — like safety, comfort and drivability — are equally important for anyone looking to rent an RV.

1. Safety

Beware of any RV that doesn’t come with maintenance records.

You may assume that every RV on the dealership floor is roadworthy. But with a purchase this big, you deserve proof.

If you’re buying a used rig, make sure it comes with maintenance records. It’s important to know that the RV had proper care over its lifetime.

When my husband and I bought our first RV (a fifth-wheel) we knew nothing about its past. We soon found out that it had not been stored properly and that the seals were not maintained. We had to spend our Thanksgiving and Christmas completely replacing walls due to water damage (you can read that fun story on my blog). In total, we spent about nine months renovating the rig to bring it up to code.

But all that time was not in vain! When we purchased our second RV, we knew exactly what to do: We asked for maintenance records, we checked seals and we inspected the roof for any signs of water damage. When the rig was confirmed roadworthy, we knew it was the right RV for us.

Even in a new rig, inspect everything — from seals to fans to upholstery stitching.

These checks are just as important when you buy a brand new vehicle. Make the dealer go through all the systems to ensure they are working. This includes propane, air conditioner, slide mechanisms, engine (if applicable) and any other amenities that come standard with your prospective rig.

If these systems aren’t working, do not hesitate to stop the process. Do not buy if you have even the smallest suspicion that the RV is not ready to hit the road!

2. Comfort

The cabover bunk in our Class C gives my daughter a space of her own.

If we’re being honest with ourselves, full-time RVers like myself will be the first to admit that most RVs aren’t as cushy or comfortable as the houses we left behind. For full-timers, that’s a fair trade-off for the freedom and adventure that life in an RV offers. But that doesn’t mean you should settle for an uncomfortable RV!

Find a rig that feels good to you. You don’t want to feel claustrophobic or cramped on long trips. Do you cook a lot? Make sure you like the layout of the kitchen. Do you need your privacy? Look for an RV that has doors and dividers.

Some people love the Class As because of the large windshield. They say it provides a more open feel with stellar views while driving. Others love fifth-wheels or travel trailers because they feel the most like “a regular house.”

Personally, I love our Class C because the seats in the driver’s cab are so comfortable for traveling and the overhead bunk gives my daughter a place of her own without sacrificing any space.

Go to a dealership to get a feel for the different RV classes. (Campanda’s comprehensive guide to the different RV classes is another great place to start your research.)

3. Storage

Be realistic about how much storage space you’ll need and make it a priority in your RV search.

When we made the move from our apartment to our first RV, I thought we would have to downsize a lot. With the storage our fifth-wheel provided, that wasn’t the case. In fact, we ended up tearing out some inside storage for a cleaner look.

But when we made the switch to our Class C motorhome, there was almost no outside storage. My husband had to build a chest inside.

Always consider storage capacity when buying an RV! Think about who is going camping with you and how much stuff they need to bring.

Is there enough room for your clothes, shoes and other important belongings? Where will you store your camping gear and RV accessories? What does the kitchen offer in terms of food storage?

4. Floor Plan

Choosing the perfect RV floor plan can be very time consuming. After all, there are literally thousands of them!

With so many floor plan options, choosing just one can feel overwhelming.

Pick a floor plan where every camper has their own place to sleep (unless you plan to regularly travel with eight people — good luck finding a vehicle large enough for eight separate beds!).

Whether you use your RV for weekend trips or want to become a full-timer, this decision is going end up affecting the quality of your experience for better or worse. You should also consider your pets and if you will bring them — they also need a place to rest.

Make a list of “must-haves” and stick to it. Different floor plans offer different amenities.

Do you need a washer and dryer? How many TVs would you like? Are bunk beds essential or can you make do with fold-out couches? How many bathrooms do you need? Would you like a door that closes to your bedroom?

A single RV model usually comes in many different floor plans.

When we first started RV shopping, I thought I wanted a travel trailer with a separate bunkhouse. On paper, this layout looked perfect! After walking through a few of those floorplans, I realized they were way too big for our family and we could choose an RV without a bunkhouse.

The best way to get a feel for different floor plans is to visit a dealership and walk through them all. If you’re torn, you can rent an RV on Campanda to get a feel for what the space is like when you’re actually living in it.

Other Things To Consider:

5. Camping Style

The type of camping that you plan to do will impact your decision.

Think about what kind of camping you’d like to do. If you want to camp in state and national parks, you may need a smaller rig.

Our rig is 32 feet long. I would suggest this as the maximum length for the public park system. If you prefer a full hookup site, most dedicated RV parks will accommodate a larger RV without any issue.

6. Budget

Be honest about your budget. You may love the feel of a fifth -wheel, but you must consider if you can afford the truck to pull it.

My husband and I had a strict budget of $50,000. We fell in love with a certain travel trailer, but buying the right truck to pull it would have put us over our budget. Thankfully, we were able to buy our Class C motorhome for a conservative $40,000.

7. Drivability

I find our new Class C (on the right) much easier to drive than our old fifth-wheel (left).

Can you drive the RV? Even a small RV can be intimidating, especially if you’re not a confident driver to begin with. While I loved the idea of a Class A, I was just too intimidated by its size and height.

This is one of the reasons I fell in love with our current RV. I felt it was just big enough to live in full-time without being “scary” to drive, reverse and maneuver through traffic. If you and your partner are buying an RV together, you should both feel comfortable behind the wheel — that way you can share the responsibility of driving on long road trips.

Want to test out an RV before you make the big purchase?

Whether you’re still trying to figure out what the perfect RV looks like for you or you’re ready for a trial run, Campanda is here to help. With an incredible selection of RVs, you can now try before you buy!

Click Here To Find An RV

If you’re an RV owner and would like to help someone else discover the joys of RVing, you can rent your RV on Campanda. (You’ll make money, too!)

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