Issue 182. You'll find information about free: fishing, campground directories and a great DVD in this issue.
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Editor's Corner
By Chuck Woodbury
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| Want to pamper your pooch? For $2,500, you can buy your favorite furry critter this limited edition doghouse fromStraightlinedesigns.com. |
Here are a few tips you might find useful:
First, here's one for anglers who are frustrated that there is no national fishing license to allow them to fish in every state. A great solution is to seek out RV parks that have their own private fishing lakes and ponds where no fishing license is required. In most cases, the policy will be "catch and release," but sometimes it's okay to keep the catch if you pay for it. I always bring along my fishing pole and take advantage of these easy fishing opportunities. And the other benefit is that the fishing hole is typically a short walk away from your campsite.
If you're a member of AAA, be sure to visit your nearest office and pick up its free "CampBooks" which list campgrounds by state or region. While these are not as comprehensive as many larger RV park directories, they often provide better details on public campgrounds than the commercially oriented guides published by Trailer Life and Woodall's (these are best for RVers who stay at private RV parks more than at public campgrounds).
And a final tip. . . if you're just getting started as an RVer, by all means request to receive the free "Introduction to RVing" DVD, VHS video or CD Rom from the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association. It provides an excellent overview of the RV lifestyle. The idea is to "sell" the viewer on buying an RV. Still, the information on both the video and in the accompanying literature is valuable. You can request it (for free) by calling 1-888-GoRVing.
RVing on a shoestring
If you have some tips and tricks about RVing on a shoestring, would you please consider sharing them with other RVers at our RVtravel.com Readers Forum? There are plenty of folks these days who seek ways to save a dollar here and there to help offset increased fuel costs, and they will appreciate any creative solutions other RVers have used to trim their costs.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Pot of Gold Contest News
No winner last week. The pot is now $290 cash. Check each weekday at RVbookstore.com between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. (Pacific time) to see if you live in the Zip Code of the Day. Our last winner pocketed a cool $380!
If you own a retail store that caters to RVers and would like to sell many of the most popular books and DVDs from RVbookstore.com, please contact us about our new wholesalers program. Our catalog is online and it's easy as pie to order. Email chuck@RVtravel.com for information.
This Week's Reader Survey
What mileage on average do you get when driving or towing your RV? Answer here.
Past reader surveys and results
How did RV Travel readers respond to this question:
"If you were to able to live as you wish, would you prefer to live in a regular house or travel full-time with an RV?"
Learn how more than 2100 readers responded.
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Fractional RV Ownership
CoachShare is a better way to own a luxury motorcoach!
Do you dream of owning a luxurious motorcoach, but don't want the year-round expense and hassles of private ownership? Why not "share" a luxury coach with CoachShare? Pay only for the time you need and save up to 80 percent over full-time ownership. Learn more.
RV Boondocking Tips
By Russ and Tina Demaris
Gamble on a Casino?
Nearly all casinos welcome RVers to park and come in and spend some cash. Often times they'll allow overnight parking on their parking lot. Even if you're not into chancing your money on "Lady Luck," casino restaurants often have low-priced meals and if overnight stays are free, then is one sure bet for a money saving one night stand.
Russ and Tina Demaris are authors of RV Boondocking Basics and Boondocking Tips for RVers: More Fun Without Hookups
Books and videos about Boondocking
What RV is best for you?
The array of choices facing the new RVer can seem daunting: Class A, B and C motorhomes, truck campers, travel trailers and fifth wheels. But you need to remember that there is no “right” answer. By tailoring the selection process to your personal needs and understanding that it’s really a matter of tradeoffs, you can select the RV that is right for you. Learn more.
How to dump your holding tanks.
Dumping the waste tanks: if you camp, you can’t avoid it. But a few simple techniques can make this aspect of RV life easier and help you avoid unpleasant accidents. Here are some tips about how to dump whether you are on hook ups at a campground or just emptying your tanks at an RV dump site.
New Gearbox models announced
Fleetwood RV has announced the nationwide launch of the 2006 GearBox, boasting significant upgrades as well as two new special editions. Read more.
New Arrivals at RV Bookstore
There's a lot of good reading and viewing material at the world's largest RV bookstore. Check it out.
ABCs of RVing:
For absolute beginners and RV novices only.
QUESTION: I have a problem walking and wonder where I can learn about RVing for people with physical limitations? ANSWER: There is definitely help available. First, request a directory with information on RV accessibility for the disabled from RVIA, P.O. Box 2999, Dept. P, Reston, VA 20195. And be sure to check for resources for the disabled traveler through the Handicapped Travel Club.
The basics of RV insurance and of RV financing.
Beginners Guide to RVing: Articles and information for brand new RVers. Learn the ropes.
New Additions to FreeCampgrounds.com
Free or inexpensive places to camp with your RV
Airport: Moab, Utah
Just a few miles south of Moab on 191, look to the east. There is an old airport that allows boondocking on the runways. There is no camping on the far runway as they leave that one open for landing emergencies. No hookups, but it's a nice quiet place, level and paved. Free.
Eureka Ghost Town Site: Silverton, Colorado
Wide-open camping halfway between Animas Forks and Silverton. Take Highway 110 northeast out of Silverton. Dump in Silverton for a $6 fee and free water at the Silverton Visitors Center. Easy, well-maintained road is suitable for large
Books & DVDs at RVbookstore.com
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2005 Big Rig Best Bets Campground Directory
Drive a king-sized RV? This directory is for you. Buy or get info.
Manage Your RV's 12 Volt System
Learn all about your RVs 12-volt electrical system including how to upgrade and operate it and troubleshoot problems.
Truck Stops love RVers! Directory tells what they offer!
The 2005 RVers Friend lists every Travel Center in the U.S. and Canada and the services each provides RVers. Learn which offer overnight stays, dump stations, Internet access, propane or other services. Learn more or order for only $12.95
RVers Guide to Solar Battery Charging
Learn everything an RVer needs to know to enjoy the comforts of household power through the power of the sun.
Buying an RV?
Don't buy one before reading The RV Buyers Survival Guide. Ex-RV sales manager Bob Randall reveals how to get the best deal from an RV dealer. Don't pay too much. Available as printed book or instant eBook.
RVing the Alaska Highway
Join Bob and Judy Howen as they drive the Alaska Highway in their motorhome. See the road through their front window. Visit campgrounds and other RVer attractions.
Quartzsite, Arizona. See it on DVD!
Visit the Boondocking Capital of the West on DVD. Like being there!
2005 Campground Directories
. . . from Trailer Life, Woodall's and Frommer's.
Headed to Alaska? The Milepost is the #1 guide to getting there.
DVDs show how to operate your RV
Learn how to use every system, how to set up, how to drive or pull your RV and more. Class A motorhome • Class C motorhome • Pop Up • Travel Trailer/Fifth Wheel
Camp at Casino RV Parks. . . (Sometimes for FREE)
Learn which casinos have RV parks and which ones offer free overnight stays in their parking lots. Learn more.
Next Exit Directory. . . Don't get lost!
Never take a wrong exit off an Interstate highway again. The 2005 Next Exit lists every exit along every Interstate and what's at each: campgrounds, fuel, truck stops, casinos, malls, rest areas, hospitals and more. A bargain at only $12.95.
Camping and RVing with Dogs
Get expert advice on traveling with a dog and learn about dog-friendly campgrounds and RV parks Learn more or order
2005 Guide to Free Campgrounds of the West
Tired of paying too much for campgrounds. How about staying for free (or nearly free). Learn more or order.
Traveler's Guide To The Firearm Laws of the 50 States
Don't carry a weapon across state lines without knowing the laws. Explains the specific gun laws of every U.S. state.
All The Stuff You Need To Know About RVing
The best book for beginning RVers. Order or get more information.
Books and DVDs about how to buy an RV
Books about earning an income on the road
RV books for less than $9.99
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Super fast delivery. Nine out of ten orders (Mon.-Sat.) ship within 6 hours. "You need it, so we speed it!" |
motorhomes. Free .
City Park: Paris, Illinois
Sixteen sites in the Twin Lakes (west) area off Illinois Route 1 just north of the town center. Water and electric on sites and dump station by bath house. The attendant asks $8 per night when he is there.
The information above was provided by visitors to FreeCampgrounds.com. The information has not been verified.
Learn about more than 835 free and inexpensive campgrounds at FreeCampgrounds.com
Bumper Snicker
"Coffee, Chocolate and Men: Some things are better rich!"
Read other funny bumper stickers or buy them.
RVing to Mexico
Mexico RVing experts Dot and Bill Bell discuss travel by RV south of the border. Read their articles.
Guidebooks and DVDs about RVing in Mexico
GOOD SAM EMERGENCY ROAD SERVICE
Protects you, your spouse, AND all children age 25 or younger (living at home or attending college), your RV, AND all household cars, SUVs, minivans, and pickups! Only $79.95!
Bill's Hint
"Before retracting a slideout, check for dew, snow, tree leaves or other debris on the slideout roof. Remember that the roof will be inside your vehicle when it is retracted." From Motorhomes Made Easy
Visit Camping World for RV supplies and accessories
Cold weather RVing
If you'll be using your RV this winter in areas where the temperature can dip pretty low, here are some tips from the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association about how to RV efficiently.
•Check your water system. Some RVs are constructed and insulated so the entire water system can be used, provided that heat is maintained in the unit. Look in your owner's manual to find out if your unit has this feature and how low the temperature can go before a potential freezing problem may occur.
•If you're not sure about your vehicle's capabilities, leave the water system winterized and use a portable water source. Also, remember to add more nontoxic antifreeze to the holding tanks, as waste water added to the tanks during the trip will dilute the antifreeze.
•Heating an RV in the winter requires an adequate LP gas supply. LP gas tanks should be full for extended cold-weather trips. RVers should also make sure only propane is used in the tanks, not butane. Butane will not work in temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
•Winter campers should select a sunny campsite over a shady one, near a wind break if possible. Park with either the front or rear of the RV into the wind. It is wise to make reservations ahead to ensure the campground is open.
•Driving speeds should be kept down on icy roads. RV drivers should frequently check the "feel" of the road when no other vehicles are near to determine limits for safe acceleration and braking.
EXPLORER RV: INSURANCE TO PROTECT & SAVE
Owners of motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels & medium-duty tow vehicles save up to 15% over our largest competitors by tailoring their coverage from over a dozen options. Learn more or get a quote.
Weird, Wacky and/or Wonderful Festivals
Harvest Festival: Beatrice, Nebraska
Experience farm life at harvest time with old-time music, wagon rides, threshing, pumpkin carving, marble making and more at the Elijah Filley Stone Barn two miles south of Filley, Nebraska on October 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by donation. For information: (402) 228-1679.
Do you camp in a Pop Up Trailer?
Then you will enjoy Pop Up Times, America’s only magazine devoted to camping with a pop up. Learn more.
Museum of the Week
The Santa Maria Museum: Columbus, Ohio
Imagine what it must have been like more than 500 years ago to step aboard the "Santa Maria," embarking on a voyage that would forever alter the world in which we live. Imagine using only wind and current for propulsion and a crude compass, the sun and the stars for direction. Visit the world's most authentic, museum-quality replica of Christopher Columbus' flagship, the "Santa Maria." Tours dramatize the daring and determination it took for Columbus and his explorers to set out on their mission. Experience the lives they led, interact with replicas of the navigational tools they used, and play the games they played to pass the time. For information: (614) 645-8760.
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.
How to be 'weight and space efficient' in your RV kitchen.
No matter how large your rig is or how much storage space you think you have to fill, the weight of what you store can be a problem. Read more.
Trivia
Alexander the Great introduced the eggplant in Europe.
This issue's
Knowledge Quiz
THREE QUIZZES
with three prizes today. Win:
•A "Beyond Bright Lantern." Features 12 LED bulbs and includes a remote control to turn it on or off from afar.
•A packet of medium roast, "Rainy Day Blend" Space Needle Coffee, acquired from Seattle's famous Space Needle.
•An RVbookstore.com coffee mug. Your favorite beverage tastes better in this mug.
Answer the Quizzes here at 11 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Pacific Time, Oct. 16.
Knowledge Quiz official rules
Join the Good Sam Club. Only $19 a year. Save on campground fees.
Zany Business Slogan of the Week
We don't know if this is true, but here's the claim: "My brother, tired of being a taxidermist after 15 years, went to veterinarian school. His new business never got off the ground so he decided to operate both his taxidermy and vet business together to save money. His new slogan was 'No Matter What Happens - You Get Your Cat Back!' "
Seen a good one? Email it to the editor.
Want to travel full-time with an RV?
Anyone who is thinking of traveling full-time with an RV will have his or her questions answered in this wonderful 90-minute DVD. Interviews with dozens of fulltimers as well as experts on the lifestyle. Learn more or order.
Women RVers
If you're a woman and you RV alone (or want to), then there is a lot of good information for you here.
DID YOU KNOW?
A cockroach can live for a week after its head is cut off. Its nervous system, or "brain," is scattered throughout its body, and thus its head is not really needed to stay alive. Cockroaches have been around for about 280 million years and can live a month without eating, but they need to drink water about every week. Since a cockroach can drink only through its mouth, a headless roach dies of dehydration within about a week.
Do you tow a 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.
RV Tech Topics
To cover or not to cover (your RV)
While covering an RV in the off season can help to preserve it, there are some things to consider to make sure covering the coach doesn't cause it damage.
How to tow a trailer or fifth wheel
Whether we tow a fifth wheel or a travel trailer, we all need to back it into a confined space sooner or later. Some folks find backing a trailer intimidating, but it shouldn’t be. Here are a few simple techniques and you will be handling your trailer like a pro.
Towing a vehicle behind a motorhome
Some vehicles can be towed behind a motorhome with all four wheels on the ground and don't require any modifications. Other vehicles require modifications to the drive train or transmission before they can be towed with all four wheels on the ground. Most vehicle manufacturers cover towing requirements in the vehicle owner’s manual. If you still have doubts talk to an engineer from the automobile manufacturer. Another reliable source is the Motorhome Magazine website, which each year publishes a list of vehicles that can be towed with all four wheels on the ground. You also need to be sure that the motorhome and the receiver hitch on the motorhome are rated for the amount of weight you will be towing. Be careful not to exceed the Gross Combined Weight Rating also. — Mark Polk (Learn about Mark Polk's RV "How-to" DVDs and eBooks.
Advertise in this newsletter or on one of our many RV websites. More than a 800,000 RVers turn to us for news and information every month. Interested? Call Kristin at 425-744-0415 or email her at kristin@rvtravel.com.
RVing Resources. . .
Archives of early issues of RV Travel
Upcoming RV Shows
RV-Links
Loads of links to great websites about RVing
Investigate a company with the
Better Business Bureau before making a purchase.
RV Travel Forum
Exchange ideas and information with other RVers.
Full Time RVing
RV Recalls
Workamping Information
Worth Pondering
"Living at risk is jumping off the cliff and building your wings on the way down. — Ray Bradbury
Random RV Thought
When you do something really stupid with your RV like bang it into a tree branch and make a hole, don't fret. Such misfortunes happen to all RVers sooner or later. Just get it fixed and get on with your life. It's no big deal. Stuff happens.
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we may get something wrong. We're just human! So don't go spending $10,000 on something we said was good just because we said so, or fixing something like we suggested (check with your own technician first). Maybe we made a mistake. So be sure to check things out.
RV Travel is rated PG* by the Detroit United Motor Babes (DUMB)
RV Travel is copyright 2005 by RVbookstore.com. Our International Headquarters: RVbookstore.com, 170 W. Dayton Street, Suite 103, Edmonds WA 98020, USA, Earth, Milky Way, Known Universe, Unknown Universe.
RVbookstore.com is a proud member of the Better Business Bureau. We strive for excellence in all we do and that's the absolutely, 100 percent and honest truth. Our customers receive really, really fast service. We move so fast in sending out a customer's order that sometimes we look like big ol' human blurs. Our motto is "You need it so we speed it, and no truer words were ever spoken! If you're in Edmonds, Wash., stop by to tour our offices and warehouse. We're a block from the fishing pier near the traffic holding area for the Kingston Ferry, gateway to the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas.
*Pretty good
RV Travel staff
Editor: Chuck Woodbury. Contributors: Russ and Tina Demaris, Malia Lane, Chris Dougherty, Mark Polk, Bill and Dot Bell. Proofreader: Adrienne Kristine. Website Administrator: Zoey Platt. Office Manager: Jody Allcott. Warehouse Manager: Walter Cardwell. Clapper Loader: Emily Woodbury. Mascot: Captain Jack Platt -- the Energizer Doggie.
2006
RVers Friend
(Truckstop Directory)
This handy directory lists every Travel Center in the U.S. and Canada
and the services each provides to RVers.
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2006
Mapquest RV & Campsites
Finally, a road atlas especially for RVers. This road atlas and campground
directory is the first publication of its kind. Complete with state and
Canadian province road maps, color photos and 3700 campground listings.
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RV Travel
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