WEnRV travel news, products, and industry trends

Sitting by the campfire telling stories, mesmerized by the flames, makes for some of the best camping trip moments. Of course, there is an art to the campfire, and preparation is key. 

Even if you know how to build the perfect campfire, you probably rely on modern technology, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Why labor over the simple act of starting a fire when the right campfire accessories can make life much easier?

Must-Have Campfire Accessories

We’ve probably all been caught, at least once, without our best campfire setup during perfect campfire conditions. To help you always be ready for the perfect campfire, here’s a list of must-have campfire accessories and patio furniture for your next camping trip. 

1. Axe, Hatchet, and/or Multi-Tool

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Fuel is a vital component of building a campfire. Getting wood of the right size is where your axe, hatchet, and/or multi-tool comes in handy. Ideally, you can use something like dry grass or dead pine needles. 

However, there are times when none can be found, especially at developed campgrounds. As long as you remember firewood, these tools allow you to create tinder without using a dangerous amount of lighter fluid. 

Most RV owners can tell you about the freedom and adventure the lifestyle allows but they will also likely follow by telling you just what an investment it’s going to be to maintain that RV.

From plumbing to brake pads, fuses to hydraulic fluid, and anything in-between, owning an RV can be an education in DIY maintenance, resourcefulness, and handiwork. And even then, with the best upkeep and care, there are still inevitable repairs that require professional help.

To plan for and stay ahead of potentially expensive and inconvenient RV issues throughout the years of ownership, we’re looking at a wide-ranging list of major RV repairs to expect and what you can do to prepare.

Plumbing and Water Systems

Let’s start with what many dread: plumbing and water. Not only can plumbing be potentially unpleasant, water systems in general can lead to significant damage to your RV. Knowing common problems and repairs is a good defense. 

Clogged toilets

Clogged toilets are a crass reality of RV ownership, but certainly, one that can be mitigated with proper care and attention.

You turn the key, and the engine roars to life. That low rumble in the engine compartment is music to your ears and the perfect soundtrack to what’s shaping up to be a perfect trip. You’ve followed all the checklists for a trouble-free journey and you’re confident that the sunny weather will hold up. As you guide your RV out onto the main highway, you ask yourself, what could possibly go wrong?

An hour later, you get your answer. You hear a loud pop, and the vehicle shakes and loses traction as your right-front tire disintegrates into tatters. With white knuckles, you limp to the shoulder as cars whiz past. You evaluate the damage to your vehicle and realize that you’re going to need professional help, stat. Now what? You’re stranded on the side of the road and the dream of a trip to America’s top national parks melts away.

Breaking the Ice on RV Breakdowns

Let’s face it: We don’t like to think about RV breakdowns. Our beautiful machines were meant for fun and exploration, not for getting stranded on the edge of the highway. But bad things happen, and a decent roadside assistance plan can bring unmatched peace of mind to travelers who want a worry-free vacation. 

That begs the question: How much protection is enough protection? Do we really need more than the emergency road service that we already have for our automobiles? 

If your RV experiences freezing temperatures, you must learn how to winterize your RV. A big part of that process is using RV antifreeze, and there are many questions about what to choose and how to use it correctly. 

For starters, let’s give you a brief overview of the RV winterization process: 

Now that you’re familiar, here’s everything you need to know about RV antifreeze.

What is RV Antifreeze?

Some RV owners call it “the pink stuff,” but antifreeze can be many colors. More importantly, it’s a liquid with a much lower freezing point than water. Replacing the water in your plumbing lines with RV antifreeze protects it from freezing, expanding, and potentially bursting. 

Not too long ago while touring around the east coast in our camper van, we decided to take a few days and finally explore part ... Read more

Most new motorhomes and travel trailers come equipped with a retractable RV awning. There’s really no better way to deploy added protection from the sun and light rain when you’re camping. But RV awnings don’t last forever.

Our guide to RV awnings covers how to maintain your awning and replace the awning fabric if it’s damaged. But what if you need an entirely new awning? 

Find RV awning replacement and enhancement accessories at Camping World online.

What’s the Difference Between a Retractable Awning and a Standard Awning?

Photo by Camping World

Retractable awnings permanently mount to the side of your RV and extend or retract manually or mechanically, with the latter typically using a 12-volt DC electric motor. Awning sizes typically range from 8 to 21 feet, depending on the RV. 

Standard awnings (also known as canopies or instant shelters) are independent of your RV and must be stored underneath between uses. They aren’t as easy to deploy, but they can be moved around according to where you need shade in your campsite. 

Does this sound familiar?

‘I love the idea of traveling in an RV, but I’ve never driven anything bigger than a sedan.’

Many would-be RV campers worry about driving a motorhome safely, but it’s not as difficult as you might think. Unless you have an especially long or heavy model, you don’t need a special license, and you’ll learn easily with a little practice. 

Are RVs Hard to Drive?

Photo by Camping World

In short, all RVs are easy to drive once you get used to them. Longer, heavier motorhomes will feel like a new driving experience for beginners. Of course, towable RVs have their own considerations compared to motorized RVs. Today, we’re talking about RVs with a steering wheel – motorhomes.

Motorhomes aren’t hard to drive once you learn how to make wider turns and get used to accelerating and braking slower than in a car. RV drivers must look further down the road to prepare for stopped or slowed traffic. 

With the new year in full swing, you’re probably starting to think about where you want to spend your family vacations. If you’re looking for a luxurious RV to help you make the most of your time at your dream destination, don’t miss the DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites fifth wheels. These incredible fifth wheels are packed with features to ensure you and your family are comfortable and happy no matter where you go.

Find more deals on fifth wheels when you shop at RVingPlanet.com.

2022 DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites MS 41FKMB Fifth Wheel

Save big on a luxury RV for your family when you take home this DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites MS 41FKMB fifth wheel. This unit offers an impressive six slide-outs to maximize your living space. You’ll find that the front kitchen gives you a perfect place to make meals for your crew and offers a bar with seating.

Additional Features

Six Slide OutsSpacious Front KitchenFireplaceDishwasherTwo SofasFull Rear BathThis kitchen is built for a master chef!

2023 DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites MS 41RKDB Fifth Wheel

There’s sleeping for up to five inside this DRV Luxury Suites Mobile Suites MS 41RKDB fifth wheel. This unit offers a residential dishwasher, so you won’t have to worry about cleanup after the meal. The master bedroom offers a private bathroom with a walk-in closet and a dual vanity sink.

Additional Features

Welcome to the Good Sam camping news spotlight, where we cover some of the month’s notable trends, events, news stories, and information helpful to campers and RVers. In the first month of 2023, we’re making note of fuel price projections for the year, recent winter camping popularity, RV and outdoor shows in January, camping predictions for 2023, and more. 

Winter Camping

This year saw more RVers and campers enjoying the outdoors this winter. Recent poll numbers indicate winter camping has been more popular in 2022 and 2023 than a year ago. Over 8.2 million households said they planned or plan to camp this winter, and 15.3 million planned to travel in RVs between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. 

Winter camping means a lot of different things depending on which part of the country you go to. While sunbelt states like Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona offer warm temperatures for snowbirds looking to escape the cold, more moderate climates like those in the Pacific Northwest offer more traditional winter weather camping while avoiding many travel hazards caused by snow and extreme temperatures. 

Ultimate RV Show

January kicks off the 2023 Ultimate RV Show with January events in Denver, Syracuse, and Nampa, and a February event in Minneapolis, MN. These events showcase new and used RVs for sale of various types, sizes, and classes, with many shows featuring outdoor vendors displaying countless products and accessories. Unique to these events are the special show pricing on both new and used RVs unavailable anywhere else.

Special VIP appointments are available at each event and include such perks as:

After spending three winters camping and exploring Tucson, Arizona, we can easily say it’s one of our favorite places to be during the winter months. ... Read more

The rolling, snow-like dunes of White Sands National Park offer a stark but truly unique landscape – a brilliant minimalist canvas worthy of quiet contemplation, reflection, and peaceful moments of solitude.

There are some 275 square miles of dune fields in the Tularosa Basin, with the park holding nearly 40% or about 115 square miles. Elevations range from 3,890 to 4,116 feet above sea level, and it’s home to the world’s largest collection of fossilized footprints from the Ice Age – prints that tell the story of more than 20,000 years of human presence in the region.

Why Visit White Sands National Park in an RV?

Photo by Andriy Blokhin via Shutterstock

Using an RV to explore White Sands National Park is a great way to experience this unique park, which is home to the world’s largest gypsum dune field. The dunes are quite dynamic, and some individual dunes move up to 30 feet per year. 

This white, rolling landscape is home to various species of plants and animals, all of which have evolved to survive cold winters, broiling summers, minimal surface water sources, and ground waters that are very high in mineral content.

When winter temperatures start plummeting, some RVers outfit their rig for winter RV camping and others prepare to put their RV in storage. If you’re going to brave the winter chill, however, it pays to know about the different types of space heaters for RVs.

Even if you don’t plan on RVing during the winter months, a space heater will help you keep things toasty on cool nights. Let’s discuss the varying types of space heaters so you can choose the right kind for your motorhome.

Why Space Heaters for RVs Makes Sense

When the temperature drops, you naturally run your RV’s furnace more frequently. Your furnace is the most efficient way to heat your RV and it will certainly do a reliable job, as long as you don’t run out of propane. 

Therein lies the rub of relying solely on your furnace as a heat source. Not only will you burn through propane quickly, but you’ll also use electricity to circulate hot air throughout your RV.

During the coldest months, you’ll burn through propane way faster than normal. If you can’t move your RV to refill or find a propane company that offers a mobile refill service, things in your RV will get dangerously cold dangerously fast. 

Urban camping isn’t for everyone, but if your camping adventures take you to Washington D.C., you should take your RV along, as one of the nation’s best campgrounds provides a perfect base camp for exploring the city. Cherry Hill Park, located in College Park, Maryland, offers an outstanding camping experience and easy access to the nation’s capital. 

While my family had a lengthy debate while picking our summer road trip destination, once we selected Washington, D.C., we didn’t have a hard time choosing a place to stay. Cherry Hill Park is a renowned camping destination that visitors brag on far and wide. We were eager to camp at a park we had already heard so much about.

When camping, my family (which includes my husband and two young adult sons) has three main requirements: electricity, cell service and a safe, clean environment. Beyond these, our favorite campgrounds have run the gamut from rustic state parks to over-the-top resorts, as we easily find things to enjoy about each. Our goal is constantly to find ways adjust our expectations for the type of park we are visiting.

After a quick check on the Good Sam website, it was clear that Cherry Hill Park should easily meet our initial requirements — and more with high Good Sam ratings on all aspects. But would it live up to our expectations in person?

Whether you have a motorhome or a towable RV, driving can be a daunting experience for new RV owners, especially if you choose a larger model. However, with practice and patience, you’ll be a pro at navigating parking lots, gas stations, and narrow campsites in no time.

Here are 17 RV driving safety tips for beginners to help you stay safe on your RV journey.

Tip #1: Make Sure You’re Legal

Photo by Camping World

The good news is that just about anyone with a non-commercial class C license can drive an RV. However, there are certain exceptions depending on RV size and weight, as well as the state you register your RV in. 

There’s not too much to be concerned about here, but it’s always good to ensure you’re on the right side of the law before driving an RV. So here’s an answer to a very important question: Do You Need a Special License to Drive an RV?

Finding the right destination trailer for your family vacations can be a big decision. With all of the new destination trailers launched for the new year, you might find yourself overwhelmed with the number of choices. Take a look at six of our favorite destination trailers to help you make your 2023 camping season one to remember.

Find more amazing destination trailers for sale at RvingPlanet.com.

2023 Jayco Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS Destination Trailer

The 2023 Jay Flight Bungalow 40RLTS destination trailer has all the features you and your family need to make your next camping trip a memorable one. This destination trailer comfortably sleeps four and has amenities to entertain all day long. With dual lounge recliners and a large kitchen island, you will have no trouble hosting a comfortable movie night over dinner with the members of your family on your next outdoor adventure.

2023 Coachmen RV Catalina Destination 39FKTS Destination Trailer

The 2023 Coachman RV Catalina 39FKTS destination trailer is a great RV for large families who plan to take long trips away from home. This trailer has a private bunkhouse with a pullout sofa and a bunk, and a trifold couch to lounge on in the living area. The 39FKTS has two points of entry and a full bathroom to help make the duration of your vacation as comfortable as possible. Enjoy breakfast with your family at the breakfast bar in front of the fireplace to start your cozy camping mornings on a positive note.

Order one today!

2023 Coachmen RV Catalina Destination Series 39RLTS Destination Trailer

If you are looking for a destination trailer with a good amount of storage, a place to entertain guests, and a sizable kitchen to prepare all of your meals, the Coachmen Catalina Destination Series 39RLTS destination trailer is the right fit for you and your family. You will not regret making an investment in this destination trailer. You are going to love having a private bedroom to sleep in to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy days. Kick back and relax in front of the fireplace in one of the dual recliners in the living area while you watch a movie with your loved ones. Bring the comfort of your home to the outdoors with this 2023 destination trailer.

2023 Coachmen RV Catalina Destination Series 40BHTS Destination Trailer

If you have kids, you plan to take them with you on your next camping trip. You should consider the 2023 Catalina Destination Series 40BHTS destination trailer. There is a private rear bunk with a COA cube futon, a flip-up bunk above, and another bunk on the other side. This room is the perfect place to allow your kids to play together after the sun goes down and they can’t run around outside anymore. The adults on your trip are going to love hanging out in the living area with the breakfast bar and trifold sofa. This destination trailer is sure to give everyone in your family the space to relax when they are done enjoying the great outdoors for the day. Take a long weekend or even a week with this spacious destination trailer.

 

Travelers everywhere fear the dreaded roadside breakdown. Aside from an injury-causing event, these are worst-case scenarios for your trip. Breakdowns interrupt plans, delay arrivals, cause reservation cancellations, put an unexpected expense into the budget, and, perhaps worst of all, add an element of the unknown to your trip.

Often with a roadside breakdown, we just don’t know just how bad it’s going to get in terms of delay, cost, repair, and hassle. Even a problem as simple as a flat tire could escalate into a bigger, more formidable issue

If you don’t have a spareIf the flat damages the wheel or vehicleIf the service center doesn’t carry your tire sizeIf you don’t have cell service If the weather is badIf you’re stuck in the middle of nowhereIf you’re towing a trailer or driving an RV

And that’s just a flat tire. The more serious the reason for the breakdown, the worse the impact. For trucks, semis, and RVers, the problems can escalate when you incorporate larger vehicles and tires, towables and towing setups, additional weight, and more.  

All travelers should have a plan for roadside breakdowns. The better you can prevent, predict, or quickly resolve on-the-road problems, the less danger, stress, delay, and expenses you’ll encounter. 

Many people in the lower 48 have never heard of our nation’s largest national park. Wrangell-St. Elias is massive, covering more than six times the acreage of Yellowstone. The park encompasses 18,000-foot mountain peaks, tidewater glaciers that calf into the sea, and resident wildlife like moose, bears, Dall sheep, and elk.

One active volcano melts the snow from its summit while extensive glaciers scour the landscape in every direction. From fishing in mountain rivers to sea kayaking with glacier views, visitors can experience the park’s charms from the air, by sea, or on foot, absorbing the entire Alaskan Experience in one amazing national park.

Why Visit Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Your RV?

The vast wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is home to stunning landscapes, topography, and wildlife –  it encapsulates the American sense of adventure. Where else can one climb from sea level to 18,000 feet, venture down rushing mountain streams, or hike across immense ice fields within the same boundaries? This park is Webster’s definition of expansive grandeur.

Like other Alaskan national parks, such as Gates of the Arctic, there are few roads within Wrangell-St. Elias. However, RVs can travel many miles on the park’s two pathways. The visitor center at Copper Center offers several trails to hike right from its spacious parking lot.

Bringing your motorhome or travel trailer this far into the Alaskan wilderness would truly be a trip of a lifetime. Park at one of the entrance centers and enjoy hiking and fishing from your door.

 

This Good Sam RV Rentals series highlights locations across the US we think are well worth the trip. Check out this guide for everything the RV renter needs to know about Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is regularly called a “hiker’s paradise,” and for good reason. More than that, it’s also a perfect place to visit on an RV road trip. Texas is known for being a huge state, so taking the state in by road means you get to see a lot. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is no different.

The Guadalupe Mountain range runs for 40 miles. It also contains the tallest peak in Texas (no small feat there) and is also home to El Capitan, one of the world’s most famous climbing rocks. Its close proximity to Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico also makes it an obvious place to stop for a while and enjoy the many acres of hiking and other recreational opportunities.

Why Visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Your Rented RV?

Of the four parks in Colorado, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is the least visited and the most remote. Named for the minimal sunlight the canyon receives during the shorter months of the year, it’s a sight to behold when the sun graces its mountains and the shores of the Gunnison River. 

Why Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in an RV?

Photo by LHBLLC via Shutterstock

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park beckons to RVers and campers. The 300,000-plus acre park is small compared to others but makes up for it in grandeur and intimacy. You won’t be overwhelmed by crowds, and the chances of finding a spot to park your RV or camper at the campsites is higher, making it easier to pull off a last-minute trip in the summer without much planning. 

Black Canyon can also easily work into a multi-day itinerary that includes all four Colorado parks, looping in Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde, and Great Sand Dunes.

Beware that RVs up to 35 feet can access the South Rim Campground, but there are restrictions on the other park roads that only allow access to vehicles up to 22 feet.

When to Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is open 24/7, 365 days a year, but the North Rim Road is closed in the winter, starting around mid-November. The South Rim Road is open year-round, but sections are closed to motor vehicles in the winter. Peak season typically runs from April to September, but it rarely gets busy enough that you can’t find a place to park.

Taking care of your RV’s sewer hose properly eliminates headaches when emptying your gray and black water tanks, but there comes a time when every RVer needs to shop for an RV sewer hose replacement.

When that happens, don’t run out and buy the first thing you see. Avoid cheap products and focus on brand names people know and trust.

How to Choose an RV Sewer Hose Replacement

Photo by Camping World

Shopping for a new sewer hose for your RV isn’t the most exciting experience. It’s not something you or anyone else likes to deal with. However, it is necessary, and if you must buy a new hose, you might as well get something good.

Length

Once you’ve traveled in your RV for a while, you’ll realize that all sewer connections aren’t created equal. At some campsites and dump stations, you’ll be fine with a 10-foot sewer hose, but that length will leave you short more often than not.