Weekend of June 21, 2008
Issue 332 of RV Travel
Learn about RV camping, RV travel, RV news and much more. This newsletter is funded through sales at RVbookstore.com, the World's Largest RV Bookstore specializing in books and DVDs about RVs and the RV lifestyle. Email alerts for this issue were sent to 73,666 readers.
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Learn where RVs can stay
free overnight at Wal-Marts
Save $3.59 by purchasing these popular directories together. Most Wal-Mart stores permit a free overnight stay in RVs. The thick 2008 Wal-Mart Atlas provides driving directions to more than 4,000 Wal-Marts and Sam's Clubs. It lists which stores sell diesel, have pharmacies -- and provides store GPS coordinates. The "Wal-Mart No Park" Directory lists more than 350 stores that DO NOT allow stays! Learn more or order.
Editor's Corner
By Guest Editor Russ De Maris
Last Sunday, Saudi Arabian officials said the price of world oil was too high. To back up their concerns, they said the oil producing kingdom will pump up their output of crude by 200,000 barrels a day.
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| Will gasoline "happy days" return again? |
The day following Saudi Arabia's turnabout, Kuwait jumped on the Saudi oil bandwagon. Regarding the price of oil, Kuwait's finance minister said, "I think it's high." What's a reasonable price? "More or less $100." As would be expected, the oil markets reacted quickly to Middle Eastern speech making. After hitting a high point of nearly $140, oil fell to $134.
Why such a quick turnabout? Some pundits say OPEC is simply putting on a front, soothing political tensions in an American election year. Others suggest the oil producing countries are recognizing that as the US economy goes, so goes their own. Tinker with oil prices, maybe you can give the economy a push out of the doldrums.
Others point to middle east economics (spell that huge inflation rates) coupled with a painful awareness: US auto markers are working with renewed vigor on alternative fuel vehicles. General Motors is aggressively developing its Chevy Volt' a "plug it in at night" electric mobile. Earlier this week Honda announced it will bring a new hydrogen and electric 'fired' vehicle to market.
To OPEC this is the same sort of nightmare that kerosene lamp oil producers had when Thomas Edison rolled out his light bulb.
AS THE WEEK ROLLED ALONG, oil news continued to gush onto America's newspapers and e-news outlets. Shortly after midnight Wednesday, The Economic Times reported oil analysts were predicting the much-awaited Energy Department report on oil and gasoline reserves would show a falloff in oil stockpiles by two million barrels. Those same analysts said the report would show an increase in gasoline stockpiles of a million barrels. Easy to believe, since a MasterCard report on gasoline purchases indicates Americans thirst for gasoline has dropped over four percent in the last month.
A few hours later, when the report was released, the analysts' predictions were upside down. Rather than decreasing by two million barrels, oil inventories dropped far less than expected. But despite the big drop in gasoline buying, gasoline inventories actually dropped 1.2 million barrels. Where did all that gasoline go? Leaky pipelines? Inventory 'shrinkage'? When the conflicting report came out, oil prices immediately jumped up $1 a barrel, then turned around and began to drop.
Where does this leave the average RVer? For some, making shorter trips and longer layovers in the nation's parks and RV resorts. Perhaps the increase in oil production from OPEC countries will spell lower fuel prices in the long run. For my money, when I'm not on the road, I'm taking my free time with a pencil and paper. I've given up on that perpetual motion machine I've been working on. Now I'm working an a new invention: Converting the huge fluctuations of the oil markets into energy to power my RV. If they can do it with the rise and fall of the tides, why not with that of oil prices?
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REBATES ON RVs
If you're searching for a new RV, it's a buyer's market. And you should see the whopper rebates you can get right now on the purchase of a new Coachmen motorhome or trailer -- up to $5,000. Check out the special Coachmenomic Stimulus Rebate and how you can pick up an amazing deal - and then get a big fat rebate check to boot! Learn more.
High fuel prices create hot market for this product
These are bad times for most segments of the RV industry, but opportunities often arise from adversity. Read about one product that's especially hot among RVers now because of high fuel prices. You might want one of these, too. Click here.
Oh, my goodness.
RV goes up in flames!
Here's yet another reminder of why RVers should carry more than one quality fire extinguisher in their rigs. In this two minute video, watch as a pint-sized fire truck tries to douse the flames of a burning rig. But no luck-- the diesel pusher motorhome turns to toast in minutes. Watch the video and weep.
2008 Big Rigs Best Bets Campground Directory
If you drive a king-sized RV, this directory is for you. The authors provide details about RV parks throughout the USA and six Canadian Provinces that welcome long RVs. A must for owners of large RVs. Learn more or order
Have a dream RV in mind? Here's your company
So you're interested in buying an RV but have some elaborate customization requirements that no standard manufacturer can satisfy? Well, if you've got the cash you can join the ranks of the celebrities who have turned to this company for their dream unit. Read on.
New car is powered by water!
Now that gas has passed $4 a gallon, there's lot of chatter about alternative fuels, both for cars and RVs. The latest example comes from the Japanese company Genepax which claims that it's devised a system that consists of a fuel cell and a so called energy generator. The energy generator is claimed to consume water and breaks it down to hydrogen and oxygen which is fed to the fuel cell. Read more and see a short video showing the car in action.
RELATED STORY: Chevy is developing the "Volt," and electric car that will travel on electricity alone for 40 miles before a gas motor kicks in to generate more power. The car should debut in 2010.
Check out this seaside destination in Texas
Mention Texas and many RVers think of dry, dusty plains. But the Lone Star state also has a substantial coastline. This seaside location in particular is immensely popular for its beauty, wildlife and water activities, and it's very RV-friendly. It's well worth a visit the next time your RVing takes you into deep Texas. Read more.
Best Seller!
2008 Next Exit Directory
Essential guide! Learn what you will find at every Interstate highway exit: gas/diesel, campgrounds, truck stops, casinos, stores, malls, hospitals, factory outlet stores, parks and more. Learn more.
Latest RV recalls issued by feds
Each month we list the latest recalls of RVs at RVtravel.com. Here are the most recent ones: May -- April -- March -- February -- January -- December -- November -- October -- September -- August
UPDATED!
2008 RV Show Schedule
Learn about RV shows through the spring of 2008. Check in here to learn when shows will be held in your area.
Bargains at RVbookstore.com
Low, low prices. Save up to 80% and even more!
Join Alaskans in celebrating this summer occasion
RVers in Alaska or on the way there will be interested in attending one of these annual celebrations. Even if you arrive too late for the actual event, you'll still have plenty of time to take advantage of the situation. What the heck are we talking about? Read on.
Keep this item by your side while you lounge
Here's an item that makes lounging outside the motorhome or trailer at an RV park more enjoyable. It's not too practical for RVers who stay only a night or two at each stop, but if you like to linger for a week or longer, you'll really appreciate the convenience of having this nearby while you're on the deck or patio. Take a look.
FMCA:
The best club for motorhome owners
If you drive a motorhome you should join the Family Motor 
Coaching Association, the largest and best club exclusively for motorhome owners. Many benefits including rallies, local chapters and thick monthly magazine. Special new member price of $35. Click here to learn more or join.
More opportunities for fans of casino camping
RVers who are fans of camping or gaming at casinos have a few new choices this summer, depending on where you're RVing. Here's a quick summary. Stop by for a visit if you're in the area! Click here.
Is birding an activity for you?
Thousands of RVers watch for birds on their trips. They try to identify them and, if possible, get good photos. They're birders. Blogger Jim Twamley caught the birding bug long ago. Read his comments and look at his neat photos of this special bird. Click here.
Winnebago profits nosedive
Winnebago Industries Inc. reported last week that its spring-quarter profit skidded 73 per cent as high gasoline prices, tighter credit and a soft economy drove motorhomes sales lower industrywide. Sales fell almost 40 per cent to $139.7 million from $231.7 million.
Discontinued Books and
RV Performance
with Eric Davis
Since 1972 Eric Davis has addressed RV engine performance. This week he answers this question:
Reader asks about jacking his RV using the frame
Dear Eric,
I just installed Firestone air springs on the rear of my 1998 Class A Itasca Suncruiser with a Ford chassis. In the owners instructions it states that you should not jack or lift the unit by the frame as it could over extend the air springs and cause damage. My question is how do you level the unit with the leveling system that is attached frame with out having it extend the air springs? I know there are thousands of units out in the field with this same set up. Could you safety strap the axle to the frame so it could not drop down enough to cause damage? Read Eric's response.
Bella Terra means "Beautiful Land"
and that's exactly what this RV Resort is! The Gulf Coast's first 5-star master planned RV Resort. Five minutes away from the beautiful sugar-white sands of the Gulf of Mexico, Bella Terra is poised to set the standard for outdoor RV resorts. See for yourself.
This Week's Reader Survey
How many miles will you travel this summer with your RV compared to last summer? Answer here.
Last week's survey question
Do you belong to a membership campground? Read the answer here.
Past reader surveys and results.
Essential for Fulltimers!
2008 Selecting An RV Home Base
For would-be fulltimers, which state to establish an official home base is critical. Picking the wrong state can result in paying thousands of dollars extra each year in taxes or RV registration fees. Don't let that happen! This best selling guidebook is an essential planning tool. Learn more or order.
Learn how to write or illustrate children's books
If you've ever dreamed about writing or illustrating children's books during your free time while RVing, here's your chance to learn the ropes. Attend this one-day workshop in the cool mountains of Arizona. Details.
It's a bird. It's a plane.
No, it's an Airstream car!
Ford has joined with Airstream to further expand its lineup of expressive crossover vehicles by developing the Ford Airstream Concept. The futuristic car with its sleek Airstream-looking design will get 41 miles per gallon. On a cold winter night, turn on the vehicle's virtual fireplace! Read the story and see a video.
Choose veggie or meat for this RV Kitchen delight
Here's an easy, colorful dish that can be vegetarian or with meat -- your choice. Either way, it's gotta be good; it's from the RV Kitchen. The recipe.
Wrinkle Free RV Laundry
Learn how to use your RV's Splendid washer to not only clean your clothes but dry them without wrinkles. If you have a washer-dryer on board your RV, you need this book! Learn more or order.
Contest updates: Cash prizes now totals $133.
Our Pot of Gold Contest cash prize is now $98, and the pot at our Your Name is Money contest is now $35 after yet another cash winner. Check weekdays between 8-2 (Pacific time) to see if you're a winner.
Stop the Shaking!
with the
Steadyfast Trailer Stabilizing System
Performance, quality, and ease of use makes Steadyfast the most effective fifth wheel and travel trailer stabilizing system. Learn more here.
Ask the RV Doctor
Gary Bunzer, The RV Doctor is a well known RV author and the host of RV Roadtrips, the DIY Network cable television show. He is one of the RV industry's most sought after speakers and the host of the popular DVD Do It Yourself RV Care.
Gary answers a question about a malfunctioning slideout
Dear RV Doctor,
My RV has three slides. The large one in the living area just stopped working. When you try to open the unit all the other slides open but the large one gets about half way out and gets stuck on the side the hydraulic cylinder is on. It is trying to open but the other side will jam. I have done everything I can think of. Can you give me any advice?
Read Gary's response.
Save on directories of Free campgroundsThe most comprehensive guides to free and inexpensive campgrounds in the East and West -- "must-haves" for budget-minded RVers. Save $5 by buying both East and West editions together. Learn more or order.
Trivia
The Empire State Building gets hit by lightning an average of 23 times each year.
ROADTREK
MOTORHOMES
The Fuel Efficient Motorhomes You'll Love to Drive!Learn all about them here.
Add more space to your dinghy
You invite some friends to ride along to the beach in your towed vehicle, then discover that you don't have enough room for all the stuff you need to take along plus the extra passengers. What to do? Try this solution.
New, improved Shasta trailer from '50s back in production
The popular Shasta travel trailer of yesterday, rear fins and all, is back in production. Outside, it looks pretty much like the original thing. But inside it's tricked out with all the modern conveniences. Read all about it.
RV workampers: get a temporary job at this event
Need some extra cash while on your RVing trip but don't want to commit to a long-term job? These events in towns and cities around the country always need temporary workers, and you'll find the atmosphere exciting! Read more.
Explorer RV Insurance
Owners of motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels and medium duty tow vehicles save up to 15% over our largest competitors by tailoring their coverage from more than a dozen options. Get a quote now.
Can you solve the mystery of the lighthouse?
What RVer doesn't enjoy lighthouses and their romantic, ocean environment? And what RVer isn't intrigued by a mystery? Just a short drive from San Francisco is a location with both attractions: a lighthouse with a mystery. Even if you can't solve the mystery, you'll enjoy the lighthouse. Read more.
Choose wisely from this list
New RVers planning to buy an RV might be tempted to skimp on options in order to save money. But many RVers later regret that decision when they discover what they're missing. Take a look at this list of common RV options and think about what you'd hate to do without as you travel the roads and visit destinations.
NOT TOO LATE TO REGISTER FOR JULY CONFERENCE
Join hundreds of other RVers and the best-known experts on RVs at the upcoming Life on Wheels Conference at Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston, Idaho, July 6-11. This is the very best way to learn about all aspects of RVing, whether you are a beginner of veteran. Learn more.
Keep your eyes open for a 2006 GMC Envoy motorhome. The guy driving it could be a wanted fugitive, who disappeared from sight on the day he was to start a 20-year-sentence for defrauding investors. Former hedge fund manager Sam Israel II, 48, was convicted of defrauding hedge fund Bayou Management investors out of some $450 million. His burgundy motorhome was last seen last week on Bear Mountain Bridge in upstate New York. "Suicide is Painless" was written in dust on the hood.
RELEASED IN 2008 BY FILMMAKER JOHN HOLOD
DVD: RVing Alaska
(with Joe and Vicki Kieva)
Learn everything you need to know about traveling by RV to and from Alaska via the Alaska Highway and the Alaska ferry. Essential viewing for Alaska-bound RVers. Learn more or order.
Great Reading in our RV Travel Blogs
FEATURED BLOGS:
Celebrity RVer
More famous people are taking up the RV lifestyle. Read about the stars and their RVing lifestyles in this blog.
The RV Kitchen
Recipes, tips and techniques to help you prepare healthy meals within the confines of a small space.
Eco RVing
Greener ways to hit the road.
Wheel Life
Veteran RV reporter Julianne Crane keeps you up-to-date with news and information about RVing, RVers and the RV lifestyle. Always entertaining!
Great RV Stuff
The latest neat RV stuff in this always fasincating blog. Gizmos and gadgets that might even make your RVing more enjoyable.
Working on the RV Road
Get up-to-date about news and information about earning income while RVing.
Boondocking
Do you use your RV away from utilities? Here you'll pick up tips on how to do it, and learn about some great places to boondock.
Casino RV Camping
Learn about casino RV parks, freebie camping, and great deals on gaming and dining for RVers who visit.
Fulltime RVer
If you're a fulltime RVer or plan to be someday, then stop by for the latest news and information about fulltiming.
See the complete lineup of RV Travel blogs
Best book on the subject
The Complete Book of Boondock RVing
Yearn to camp in the wild beside a babbling mountain brook or with a remote panoramic vista? This is the complete guide to camping without hookups (aka "dry camping").
Learn more or order.
Looking for new recipes?
Check out http://www.rvcookbooks.com/
Largest selection of RV cookbooks anywhere.
Increase your RVing vocabulary
If you're brand-new to RVing, you'll hear some strange terms at RV dealers, RV parks and other places where RVers gather. Someone might say, " I'm going to take my 'toad' to the store," or "See you in my 'fiver'." Experienced RVers know what these statements mean, and now you can, too. Click here.
Do the gadgets in your RV have these two features?
Technology continues to make life easier for RVers. For instance, many gadgets now have two special features that are especially useful to RVers. Chances are that you already have some of these gadgets. Click here.
Find Free RV Campgrounds
"Don't pay to stay!" Visit FreeCampgrounds.com and find nearly 2,000 free and inexpensive places to stay in the USA in an RV. Stretch your RVing budget by staying overnight at these freebie locations.
Boondocking Tip
Boondockers devise ingenious way
to supplement water supply
RV Travel blogger Jim Twamley introduces his readers to a boondocking couple who have devised a way to extend the supply of their fresh water. Using other creative techniques, they are able to afford their RV boondocking lifestyle in this time of high fuel prices. Read more.
RVers Guide to Truck Stops
The 2008 RVers Friend directory lists RV services at truck stops free "camping," dumps, Internet, propane, repair services & more. Truck stops offer more to RVers than ever. Let this best selling book be your guide. Learn more or order.
Check out our RV Travel Forum discussions
DC converter gone
Want to double check with someone that my DC converter needs to be replaced. Bought new RV/Marine battery but that was dead in 24 hours. All outlets (110) working but DC items (lights, radio, fridge...) not. Sounds like the converter to me. If yes, two questions: #1) What is the best and most cost effective way to get the right converter? #2) Do I need to keep a battery hooked up if I am seasonal?
Fabric on awning slipping out of roller
The awning fabric on our Dometic awning is slipping out of the roller on one end. We would like to stop this before it totally comes out of the roller. Right now about two inches of fabric have slipped out. Any suggestions?
Want to replace linoleum in 73 Terry 18�
I want to replace the linoleum in my "new" trailer. The surface is worn and it's ugly. Do I have to pull up the old flooring, or can I clean it really good and put the new on top like they do in a stick home?
Adventure Caravan tours
We are going to Panama in January 2009 with Adventure Caravans. Has anyone traveled with them? I can't find any info on them or anyone who has traveled with them. New member 2007 Jayflight 5th wheel and 2007 Ford super duty truck.
2003 Arctic Fox 1080 dry bath or 2003 990 wet bath need help
First of all, I have an 07 F-350 SRW with Timbrens. We are having a heck of a time deciding between the two campers. Our price range is $17k or less. We found the 1080 nearby for $15K. The 990 is 7 hours away for $17K. Is the 1080 too large for my truck? Is anyone unhappy with the dry bath in a 1080? The weights of the two seem pretty equivalent. Also can I put a draw bar extension on the truck so I can pull my boat with the 1080 on?
RVers Guide to Solar Battery Charging
RVers who yearn for independence from generators and RV park hookups will find this an essential guide to selecting, buying and using a solar electric system. The authors provide everything an RVer needs to know to enjoy the comforts of household power through the power of the sun. Learn more or order.
Bill's Hints
Air conditioners make a great load for the generator when you are giving it your monthly "run," even in the winter. -- From Motorhomes Made Easy
FREE SHIPPING
at RVbookstore.com
Order $49 or more and choose to pay absolutely no postage or handling fees (USA addresses only). Nearly ALL orders ship same day. Our motto is "You need it so we speed it." RVbookstore.com.
Bumper Snicker
My mother was a moonshiner, and I love her still.
Read other funny bumper stickers or buy them.
RVing creates slightly embarrassing situation
Oops! As wonderful as RVing is, it presents a few challenges. Here's one that has plagued many RVers, especially those who are on the road for extended trips. Have you experienced this problem, and if so do you have any suggestions for your fellow RVers? Click here.
Campgrounds often less popular that Wal-Mart, Cabela's parking lots
In Mitchell, South Dakota, staying overnight in the Wal-Mart or Cabela's lot has become so popular that on some nights there are more RVs in the stores' parking lots as there are in any of the six campgrounds in and around town. During the past week of nights, The Mitchell Daily Republic counted a total of 135 RVs camped in the two stores lots: 71 at Cabela's and 64 at Wal-Mart. The highest number in a single night was 36.
Worth Pondering
Until you make peace with who you are, you'll never be content with what you have. -- Doris Mortman
RVs for sale at NewRVer.com. See them here.
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RV Travel staff
Editor and Publisher: Chuck Woodbury. Contributing editors: Russ and Tina De Maris, Jim Twamley. Contributing writers: Jaimie Hall, Gerry Bruder. Forum Administrator: Adrienne Kristine. Office Manager: Jody Allcott. Fulfillment Manager: Erin Hanson. Web Operations Guru: Zoey Platt. Clapper/Loader: Emily Woodbury. Stress Relief: Mikey the slinky dog.
Everything in this newsletter is true to the best of our knowledge. But we occasionally 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. At RVbookstore.com we strive for excellence in all we do and that's the honest truth (as opposed to the dishonest truth). Our customers receive really, really fast service. We move so fast in sending out a customer's order that sometimes we pass through the sound barrier, which really upsets our neighbors. Our motto is "You need it so we speed it," and no truer words were ever spoken!
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RV Travel is copyright 2008 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, Expanding Universe.
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