WEnRV travel news, products, and industry trends

Towing can be one of the most stressful things about RVing. Even for veteran RVers and professional truckers, towing isn’t something to be taken lightly.

Whether you tow a vehicle with your motorhome, or an RV with a tow vehicle, you need to know the hitch and tow fundamentals to travel safely. Choosing an RV setup that works best for you is the first step. There are so many configuration setups to fit an RV lifestyle. As a rule, it’s best to practice with your setup to really get a feel for how it tows.

Consider these things when selecting your RV setup:

What type of towing are you most comfortable with for your ability level?What is the overall traveling length of your RV, tow vehicle, and hitch you can manage?What vehicle capabilities do you already have (truck, SUV, motorhome, toad)?What type of terrain will you encounter on your road trips?What destinations are you dreaming of visiting in your RV?What are your general transportation preferences at any given destination?What are your RV ownership maintenance preferences—money-saving DIY, versus time-saving outsourced to trained RV maintenance professionals?

Your choice here is key because your RV and tow vehicle must be compatible. This is where RV hitch types join the conversation.

Hitch Types for RVs

With motorhomes you’ll use a tow bar or a tow dolly to pull a towed vehicle. You can also use your motorhome to pull a boat trailer or haul toys, like ATVs.

Lewis-Clark Valley AVA is home to 2020 Pacific Northwest Winery of the Year as well as 2020 Idaho Winery of the Year. Wine judges are consistently ranking Lewis-Clark Valley wines among the best of the best in northwest competitions and beyond. Lewis-Clark Valley gained a lot of notoriety over these past years for our wine, landing us on the map as a go-to destination for wine lovers.

The Lewis-Clark Valley is the first and only wine region to be nestled in the unique mountainous backbone of the Bitterroot Mountains. With steep river canyons and plateaus, it is home to the lowest elevation vineyards in the state at 950 feet. It’s also unique in that it spans both Idaho and Washington. Nearly 72 percent of the land is in Idaho, while the rest lies in Washington State. The area is home to 16 vineyards growing more than 80 acres of grapes, including 14 red and 9 white wine grape varieties.

Wine Frontiers

This region is considered part of the new frontier of wine-growing areas in the United States. But the region actually has a long wine history. Grapes were introduced into the Clearwater Valley in 1872. Thanks to the pioneering efforts of two Frenchmen, Louis Delsol and Robert Schleicher, and one German immigrant, Jacob Schaefer, the region rapidly become known for its wines.

Learn about our area and its rich wine history by booking a wine tour with Twisted Vine Wine Tours. Customize your winery and vineyard tour for groups of 2 to 7 people. Your guide, Clint Hoiland, will take you to each location while narrating the rich history of the Lewis Clark Valley along the way.

RV safety practices put you back in the driver’s seat…literally! There will always be factors outside of your control, but a checklist of safe practices leaves less up to chance. Foresight, contingency planning, and practicality make up the bulk of RVing safety essentials. At the end of the day, being safe is a habit–one that could save you time, money, and heartache. But remember, when you’re out there one the road, it’s not what happens to the RVer that’s defining, but how the RVer responds to the situation.

Implement these simple precautionary actions to strengthen your safety readiness level. Afterwards, you’ll find that you truly have more control than you realized. An ounce of prevention outweighs a pound of cure.

Customize Checklists for Detailed RV Trip Prep

Cover road trip planning details that matter to you (Image from Glenn Carstens-Peters via Unsplash).

While the journey and destinations are unique and often spontaneous, the preparation process is routine and predictable. Organize RV planning and prep with manageable checklists. As your RVing experience grows, you’ll collect checklists along the way. Customize these checklists to match your RV lifestyle.

Checklists for the RV lifestyle:

Roadworthy RV preparationKids and petsPacking supplies, food, propane, equipment, and toolsPre-departure checksPost-trip RV cleaning and maintenance

Practice Driving, Parking, and Towing Your RV

Traveling unfamiliar roadways poses a challenge to safely operating your rig. Gaining confidence as a driver takes time and practice. Before setting out for your road trip, practice somewhere safe. Make turns, change lanes, get a feel for braking at various distances, back it up, and park it. Practice communicating with your spotter using radios and hand signals. If you still don’t feel comfortable towing your RV, you can always schedule a pick up and delivery to the campsite.

Among the RVing community, you’ll find many campground neighbors are especially gracious with first-time RVers to ease the learning curve.

Whether you’re a Florida native or you’ve only traveled there a few times, one thing you can’t help but notice is the advanced canal system that runs through all the cities and towns dotted across Florida.

This state is known for some of the best fishing in the world but what a lot of anglers don’t realize is that you don’t need to charter a huge fishing boat at sea to take in some awesome fishing. A lot of the best fishing happens in these canals and the goal of this guide is to teach you how to fish the canals, where to go, and what to expect when you’re there.

Best Canal Fishing in Florida

Here are some of the best canals you’ll want to plan a trip around.

Tamiami Canal

This canal rests right in the center of Miami-Dade County in southeast Florida. It drains eastward and provides 27 miles of accessible canals by boat and shore. There are also plenty of small lakes throughout those miles.

One big advantage of owning your camper is being able to style it your way. Creating the specific look and feel for your home-on-wheels is a breeze with these inexpensive fixes.

Even the least crafty among us will find some painless options in this article for making their rig feel more like the home they imagined. And the best part? Most of these options were designed with renters in mind, so they’re not only easy to install: they’re easy to remove. No matter you sense of style, there are plenty of lighting and decor options to choose from.

Try some of these DIY options and see how it transforms your space. If interior design isn’t your strength, have the Camping World team bring your vision to life with their renovation services.

Peel and Stick Backsplash Tiles

Hi all! Hope your summer of RVing is off to a great start! This month we’ve got some questions on common RV problems. Remember to send your RVing questions to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Howdy Mark,
What product can I use to remove “sap” from my rubber roof and travel trailer?
Thank you,
Frank

Hi Frank,
This is a common problem, and the rubber roof complicates it a bit as you should not use petroleum solvents on it. You can always use a cleaning product designed for rubber roofs, like Thetford’s Rubber Roof Cleaner & Conditioner, but there are some other possible solutions. Folks report good results using rubbing alcohol (or drinking alcohol), and some folks have successfully used Goo-Gone, but I would suggest caution as it is powerful stuff! You may think I’m a loony when I tell you that mayonnaise is very effective on tree sap. Really! I read about it somewhere years ago, tried it, and was amazed at how well it works. It will dissolve tree sap on skin, clothing, auto paint and even on rubber roofs. Spread it on, let it sit for a few minutes, and wipe off. Then clean the area with soapy water to remove the residue.

Hi Mark,
What is the best way to flush out the galley tank and the grey-water tank? For the black tank, you can pour water down the toilet. Do you do the grey water and galley the same way? It would take a while to fill the two tanks that way.
Sincerely,
Tom

While the downtown core of Grande Prairie is bursting with fantastic urban adventures, there’s a lot to do beyond the central streets of this beautiful city. With the Grande Plan, come explore the excellent shops, strolls and sports of the South Bear Creek neighborhood. There’s both indoor and outdoor fun for the whole family, so pick your favorites from the list and get ready for an unforgettable time together!

A great place to start is at the Bear Paw Par 3 Golf Course & RV Park, which is a perfect excuse to practice your short-game skills while still spending quality time with the family. It features a shortened 9-hole golf course that’s suitable for kids, and great for sinking those long-distance putts. After polishing up your game, kick back for some relaxation at your campsite. The Bear Paw Campground is the perfect site to explore this area!

Nearby in South Bear Creek is the Bike Skills Park. If you have an aspiring mountain biker or BMX rider in the family, this is a place for them to practice their wheelies, balance and descents before tackling the real thing on a bigger scale. Nothing builds confidence like getting better at something that was once difficult.

You, the pup, and the open road. It doesn’t get much better than that.

You might not be surprised, but over 60% of the RVers we surveyed said one of the main reasons they wanted an RV was to get out into nature with their dogs! In fact, if you’re reading this, you’re probably one of them! Most people I know wouldn’t dream of traveling without their dogs and I’m in the same boat.

We travel with a 65-pound Norwegian Elkhound named Bo. He’s 5 ½ years old now and has literally grown up RVing.

He is very popular among our followers. In fact, the other day at a gas statio off I-65 in Alabama, I was with him in a doggie exercise area when a couple who follow us on our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel recognized Bo. They pulled over and jumped out to come meet him. They were so excited it was as if they met a celebrity. They would have asked Bo for his autograph if he could hold a pen. When Bo went off sniffing, they turned to Jennifer and me and asked what is probably the most common question we get from our followers who travel with dogs:

“How do you keep Bo safe and happy when you bring him on an RV road trip?”

Every good road trip starts with a theme. If you’re a fan of craft beer and cool small towns, brew up your next RV adventure to these three awesome brewery towns in the west. Each of these western craft beer destinations has scenery and vibe unlike anywhere else, and they’re all home to some of the tastiest craft beers in the country. Here are my three favorite beer town getaways with convenient RV camping.

Eureka, California

My old hometown not only has several award-winning craft breweries but also lies in a region with such ideal summer weather that locals call it “The Santa Barbara of the North.” When everywhere else is baking in scorching hot temperatures, the cool, salty ocean breeze in Eureka and surrounding Humboldt County makes it one of the best brewery destinations in the west. Point your rig to Arcata, where RVs of any size can make Mad River Rapids RV Park home base. This oceanside resort is where we kicked off our full-time RVing adventures, and it makes a perfect spot to begin your North Coast brewery adventures. For the most authentic taste of Humboldt, add these three brewery destinations to your Humboldt County itinerary:

• Get a feel for the local lifestyle at Lost Coast Brewery in Eureka, one of the U.S.’s first certified organic breweries and also founded by one of the first female brewmasters in the nation, Barbara Groom. Hang out and get to know locals in the downtown Eureka restaurant, then take a free Lost Coast Brewery tour just down the road.

• Roll south on US Highway 101 to Eel River Brewery in Fortuna. Situated more inland than Eureka, it’s where you’ll find sunnier skies and many RVers’ favorite Riverwalk RV Park and Campground, located within walking distance of the brewery’s award-winning certified organic beer. Grab a bite from the pub menu that features steaks and burgers made from the brewery’s ranch operation. They take “locally made” to an all-new level, by raising Black Angus beef cows on diets of organic sweet alfalfa and brewery malt grown on the Eel River Brewery’s land.

After Phil Mickelson’s incredible win at the PGA Championship, he spoke about some of the techniques that he’d been using to prolong his career and become the oldest winner of a major at the age of 50. The longevity of Phil’s career (his first PGA Tour victory was over 30 years ago) is not only because he stays physically strong and flexible, but because he strengthens his mental game too. He said:

“I’m trying to use my mind like a muscle and just expand it”.

Whatever goals you are pursuing, whether in golf or otherwise, here are 5 mental skills that you’ll need to hone if you are to achieve them.

In this article, we’ll take a look at how he:

Improves his focus and ability to stay presentCalms his nervesCreates a picture for each shot and commitsKeeps a “Beginner’s Mindset”Uses a Mental Scorecard

1. Phil improved his focus and ability to be present

After the Wells Fargo Championship a few weeks before the PGA Championship, Phil said:

During our search for the next adventure vehicle, one option that was recommended to us over and over again were flatbed truck campers. Unlike the ... Read more

The French five-star resort Terre Blanche, one of Europe‘s most prestigious destinations for golf and gastronomy, has announced its reopening date and new Michelin-starred head chef.

The resort, set among the rolling hills and vineyards of Provence, less than an hour from Nice and the stunning coastline of the Cote d’Azur, is home to two championship level golf courses and a state-of-the-art golf academy, as well as luxurious suites and villas, an award-winning spa and Michelin-starred dining.

Following restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the resort will now fully reopen on June 17.

The resort has also appointed Christophe Schmitt as the new Chef des Cuisines, who will take over the reins at the resort’s restaurants including the Michelin-starred ‘Le Faventia’. Chef Schmitt built his reputation at Michelin level establishments including Le Diane in Paris where he was awarded a Michelin star.

Like Provence itself, Terre Blanche is a food lovers’ paradise. There is something for everyone with light lunches at Les Caroubiers with a view over the golf courses, Michelin-starred dining on the terrace at Le Faventia overlooking the local hills, the stylish Gaudina with its brasserie ambiance, and poolside meals at Le Tousco. Le Pitchoun caters just for children and, in summer, Le Patio and terrasses restaurants are perfect to enjoy meals outdoor.

I spent many of my childhood summers going on road trips with my family and we never left the house without games to keep everyone ... Read more

A house relies on natural gas piped in from a local gas company to operate some appliances. RVs on the other hand, are engineered to deliver the same heating and cooking conveniences of home, but in a mobile package. But how?

For most RV models, many major amenities are powered by the propane system, like refrigeration, hot water, and HVAC. You can start to see how running out of propane could really interrupt your RVing plans. Knowing how RV propane systems work will help you estimate the amount of propane you’ll need on a trip so you don’t run out at the wrong time. By the end of this article, you’ll know how to troubleshoot why the propane is not flowing and solve issues on the fly.

Why Do RVs Use Propane?

Let’s take a moment to remember our grade school science:

Gases change state between liquid and vapor in response to changes in pressure and temperature.

At higher pressure, the fuel molecules are compressed into liquid form (also dropping in temperature). At lower pressure the liquified molecules expand, vaporizing into gaseous form (also warming in temperature).

I assume you’ve landed on this article because you’re considering taking your baby on the road and you want validation that it’s possible, and furthermore, some guidance on how to do it. Well, I’m here to tell you that it’s not only possible, but enjoyable and special, too!

My husband and I spent two and a half years on the road full-time, living, working, and adventuring in our RV while traveling all across the U.S. We absolutely loved it and had no plans of stopping. But when we decided it was time to grow our family through adoption, our circumstances required us to take some time off the road in order to do so.

Not long after our son was born and in our arms, we started to get the itch to get back into RV traveling. We wondered if people would think we were crazy, or even worse, irresponsible parents, for wanting to take a five-week-old baby on an extended road trip in a tiny home on wheels! But we went for it anyway and our first trip was so successful and memorable that there’s no stopping us now.

I certainly hope that if you’re on the fence about RVing with your baby, that I can convince you to go for it. I’ve put together this helpful, 3-part Ready, Set, Go! guide to ensure you feel as prepared as you can be. So, let’s dive in.

The author and family on the road at Fire State Park.

Part 1: Get Ready for the Baby

What is your baby like?

You’ll likely have a good sense of whether or not your baby will be comfortable or able to adjust to being in the RV. But you’ll definitely want to consider the factors that may influence how your baby handles it. Is he healthy or does he need special medical care or frequent doctors visits? Is she generally a content baby or is she sensitive to loud noises and other stimuli? Does your baby thrive on a routine?

This Father’s Day (June 20), treat the dad in your life like he’s a camping VIP. Give him a gift that satisfies his craving for comfort, or consider an item that takes him out of his comfort zone and into new outdoor experiences.

Every camping dad is different. What do you give the dad who took you on your very first camping trip? What about that cagey father-in-law who’s nearly impossible to buy for? If you’re stumped about what to give pops, check out the gifts below for inspiration. 

Each of the following will help improve his RVing and glamping experience. Help Dad achieve true camping VIP status. 

KING WiFi Max

You wouldn’t deprive your dad of his favorite streaming content, would you? KING WiFi Max helps campers stay connected by providing a gateway between all your web-enabled devices and the local Wi-Fi source. The compact design requires no installation and the device can be set up in less than a minute. There’s no monthly service fee or contract, and no impact on bandwidth speed. Watch the big game with confidence at the campsite or set it up at the tailgate party so you can catch the pregame show. Don’t be vexed by weak Wi-Fi sources that thwart your ability to watch what you want. 

A record number of travelers are taking to the road these days, exploring America’s highways and byways and camping in RVs. But you don’t have to spend months or even weeks away from home to experience the RV life. It’s a unique form of travel that’s accessible to every kind of adventurer — even if you only have a weekend.

For working couples, busy families, or anyone on a budget, a shorter trip can offer all the benefits of a longer getaway without using up all your vacation days or breaking the bank. In fact, shorter trips can have some serious advantages over an extended stint on the road: They’re easier to plan and cheaper to execute, so you can afford to take them more often. Not only that, but when you’re gone for less time you won’t be coming back to piles of work and the stress that accompanies it.

When a weekend’s all you’ve got, you have to make the most of every minute. Traveling via airplane, for example, can mean wasting a big chunk of your vacation sitting in airport lounges and uncomfortable airline seats. In an RV, there’s none of that — when the clock strikes 5 on Friday, the adventure begins. Here’s how to make the most out of a weekend RV trip.

How to Make a Quick Trip Feel Like a Proper Vacation

Comprehensive planning and preparation will have you spending less of your precious trip time on logistics and more on the fun of the adventure. For instance, choose a destination within a few hours of home to minimize your driving time. It’s also a good idea to practice setting up camp before you leave—especially if you’re new to RVing—so when you reach your site there’s ample opportunity to relax.

Having the right accessories can ensure a weekend trip is exciting and rejuvenating, even if you’re staying in familiar territory. Turn your outdoor space into an oasis with comfortable furniture, lighting, perhaps even an outdoor fireplace. It’s amazing how simple it can be to make a basic campsite feel like a resort.

We can’t think of a better way to spend the summer than to hit the road and explore the outdoors after months of home isolation. Whether a minimalist camper that is searching for a small campsite in the mountains or a glamper that prefers parking your RV at parks with plenty of amenities, it’s easy to find your ideal outdoor destination and the right rig!

Summer is just around the corner as the U.S. is getting back to regular operations, and people are extra antsy. More than ever, it’s important to get as many useful tips for renting an RV this summer, especially with some campgrounds still complying to social distancing and sanitation orders.

Renting an RV this summer vacation

Large companies have said that this can be a unique way to experience the outdoors. Bookings have surged at large rental sites.

Booking a rental

Rental agencies might require you to be over 21 years old and have held your driver’s license for at least two years. Other than that, you can legally rent and drive a motorhome in the United States.

Book in advance. Booking one day before the scheduled trip will not impress the agencies. A lot of people are scrambling to book for one on the spot, and it takes a lot of preparation for packing up. Not to mention, you must consider inspecting and familiarizing yourself with the vehicle before heading out.

There’s nothing like the iconic Highway 1 road trip, especially when you do it by camper. Whether you know it as PCH or Highway 1, the scenic route snakes along undiscovered beaches, rolling green hills and quaint communities in SLO CAL. This bucket-list journey can’t be made in one day so don’t miss out and plan your multi-day stop in SLO CAL to see it all.

While you drive through Ragged Point, take time to enjoy the stunning coastal views and listen to the waves crashing below. As you head south, you’ll find the beaches occupied by a SLO CAL favorite, elephant seals. These mighty animals claim the beaches of San Simeon. The elephant seal viewing area has plenty of parking, accommodating vehicles of all sizes, no matter your RV’s size.

Next, it’s time to set up camp. There’s an array of coastal RV Parks waiting for you to check-in. Morro Strand RV Park has sites ranging from 20×30 all the way up to 40×70 to best accommodate whatever your needs may be. Enjoy fire pits and BBQs with Morro Rock standing tall as a backdrop. Forget the firewood? There is also a convenient general store onsite, stocked with all your needs to make your stay as stress-free as possible.

Welcome, Bionca and Carter Smith! Thanks for sharing your RV story with Camping World.

Q. Tell us a little about your various full-time rolling homes? How have you made it feel like home wherever you roam? 

A. We have a Campervan and a Travel Trailer. We make it feel like home, by always camping where campfires are allowed. A fire pit is must have at any campground since we cook meals outside on it.

Bionca and Carter cook over a fire almost everywhere they go.

Q. Describe your travel style in five words or less?! 

A. Fun, educational, engaging, spontaneous, and inspiring.