|
|
 |
 |
| Bill and Dot Bell |
Dot and Bill Bell are Mexican RV experts and have taught and led seminars about camping in Mexico throughout Canada and the US. Their website is considered the most up-to-date source about camping and RVing south of the border.
Questions this issue:
Best rig size for Baja
Top things to pack for a trip
Bringing a dog into Mexico
Dear Dot and Bill,
I have decided one way or the other I'm going to Baja, hopefully for a comfortable, peaceful stay of six months. The journey began in my mind some years ago. Now it's time to put my foot to the pedal, hopefully within a few months. I have read your log index and have not found an answer to my most basic question -- what size trailer would you recommend? While I want to get off the beaten path, I realize that an RV is not a four-wheel drive vehicle.
Here is what I'm interested in doing in Baja. First, I'm retired, single, and get around very well. So I would like to surf fish and kayak and maybe do some snorkeling. I'm looking at various trailer options (mostly convenience stuff) and I'm getting hung up on length. So, assuming I can tow it, what do you think should be the maximum length? Camping in full hookup sites is nice, but I'd like to get to places more secluded.
 |
| Beach Camping on the Bay of Conception Bill Bell Photograph |
Also, would you recommend the top ten items I should bring along with me? --Rick Walters
Dear Rick,
Congratulations on deciding to go to Mexico. The Baja is a wonderful place to start your journey. Remember, it can get really (REALLY) hot there in the summer, so either plan to stay in the northern area or postpone your trip a few months. October is better. Boondocking, because of the lack of electricity and therefore AC or fans, would be next to impossible during the summer.
Rig size: Obviously you sacrifice comfort for the ability to travel to out-of-the-way places. On the Baja, the highways (two-lane paved roads without shoulders) will take you to many remote places where you can camp right on the beach. You could easily travel with even a great big 45-foot rig! Most places that will take almost any sized rig.
Basics. Baja roads can be narrow. Forget a wide body. If you buy a new rig it will experience lots of wear and tear because some back roads have lots of potholes or have topes. Make sure you have AC. We have driven a 28-foot trailer and found it tough but not impossible to explore the upgraded East Cape Road. Consider a 20-21 foot trailer with extra springs.
As for the Top Ten Baja List:
Spare tire (additional)
Lots of Fans
Digital Camera
Empty expandable water cubes
Black cube solar shower
Water toys (Kayaks/boogie boards/ snorkeling equipment )
Fishing gear (expensive)
A good gas barbeque (hard to purchase)
Water shoes (to protect against sting rays)
School or medical supplies to donate
***image3:center***We list the last category because most folks want to "give back" something to this amazing country. Go to a dollar store and pick up $20 worth of colorful pencils or basic medical supplies. Scout around flea markets for a useable pair of crutches or a walker. A trip highlight will be when you give your gift to the Red Cross or an orphanage. (If you don't find a place along the way, Brisa Del Mar RV Park in San Jose has a great program for the outlying communities.)
Enjoy your trip and write to let us know how it went. By the way, we are glad you purchased the Baja Road Log. It will warn you of every military stop, tope and gas station along the way.
Dear Dot and Bill,
My problem is a nine-pound Chihuahua that we can't leave behind. Can we enter Mexico with a pet? -- Anonymous via email
Dear Chihuahua Owner,
By all means. But before you leave get a certificate of good health from your local vet that indicates all the shots are up to date. It is unlikely that you will get stopped going into Mexico, but on your return trip you will probably be asked for the certificate. Like everywhere in Canada and the U.S., pets are an RVers' best friend. They provide good company and are excellent watchdogs when away from your rig.
Helpful Hint: Get an additional bank card or better yet, get an additional bank account before you leave home. An additional card protects you against your card being swallowed in a bank machine leaving you without funds.
For more information about RVing and exploring Mexico, go to The Bell's website or to ask your question about RVing in Mexico write editor@ontheroadin.com
|
|
|
|
Traveler's
Guide to Mexican Camping
Headed to Mexico? Make this your guide. Authors
Mike and Terri Church cover everything you need to know to RV in this
inexpensive, fascinating land. More than 250 campgrounds listed, too! |
Mexico
By RV
Have you ever wondered what it would be like
to stay on one of the pristine beaches pictured in all the Mexico travel
books, or explore the historic Colonial regions and visit the ancient
ruin sites. |
Frommer's
Mexico 2005
Everything a visitor to Mexico needs
to know about spending time in the country is here. This is not a camping
guide, but anyone who plans to head south will find it a wealth of necessary
information. |
|
|
|
Traveling
to Mexico?
If you're headed to Mexico with your RV, check out the big selection of
books and DVDs about traveling and RV camping south of the (USA) border.
RV
Boondocking Basics
Learn all about RV camping without plugging into public utilities in
best selling guidebook. Not only does boondocking afford freedom, it saves money!
Learn
more.
Learn
all about Full-Time RVing
New 90-minute DVD interviews actual fulltime RVers who tell about how
they do it. If you're thinking of going full-time, don't miss this. Learn
more.
Locate
Wal-Mart stores
Use this directory to plan free overnight stays. Get easy driving directions
to every Wal-Mart in America. Learn
more or order the Wal-Mart Locator. 20% Off.
Explorer
RV — Insurance Designed To Protect And Save.
Owners of motor homes, travel trailers, fifth wheels and medium duty tow vehicles
save up to 15% over our largest competitors by tailoring their coverage from
over a dozen options.
Buying
an RV?
Get online prices
from dealers in your area & SAVE! In less than 60 seconds, request quotes
on new or used RVs from up to three dealers in your area. Compare quotes to
find your best deal! No charge, no obligation. Learn
more or get quotes.
Do
you tow dinghy behind your motorhome?
Then you need Protect-a-Tow to protect it from flying debris. Also protects
hitch, wiring, safety cables & more. Get
information.
Shopping
for an Extended Warranty for your RV?
The Good Sam Club's Continued Service Plan covers your coach, engine, appliances,
and accessories in your RV and even tow vehicle! Get
an online quote.
Don't Pay to Stay:
Camp for free in your RV
Learn where to camp for free or nearly free in your RV across the USA.
Camping
At Casinos.
Learn which casinos have RV parks and which offer free overnight stays
in their parking lots.
Exciting Jobs for RVers!
Workamper® News has helped more than 60,000 people find great jobs in
great places since 1987.
|
|
