RV Lifestyle Expert
By Margo Armstrong
She brings out-of-the-box topics to you every month. As an advocate of this lifestyle, you can expect her to keep you current on the RV industry's shenanigans, latest toys, and new designs.
RV Lifestyle ExpertJun 13, 2021
Late News for National Travelers
Today's podcast is all about the Great America Outdoors Act and late news on Florida and California travel.
Great American Outdoors Act
[https://www.hcn.org/articles/what-happened-to-the-great-american-outdoors-act/ ]
National Park Services Index
[https://www.nps.gov/subjects/infrastructure/index.htm ]
Free Entry Fee April 20, 2024 All National Parks
[https://www.nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/national-park-week.htm ]
Russ and Tina DeMaris, RVTravel.com: Florida Drivers
[https://www.rvtravel.com/florida-cracking-distracted-drivers/ ]
Big Sur California Highway Conditions
[https://www.bigsurcalifornia.org/highway_conditions.html ]
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road, RV Maintenance for Travelers [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Updates on Solar Eclipse, BLM, National Parks
Updates on the BLM and the Security & Exchange shinnigans, the BLM and the Internet, the civil suit against the Cashless policy at National Parks, the Solar Eclipse, and Fairground camping.
Official Statement of the SEC: [https://www.sec.gov/files/rules/sro/nyse/2024/34-99355.pdf ]
RV Travel Eclipse Article: [https://www.rvtravel.com/texas-state-parks-eclipse-gazers ]
Russ & Tina DeMaris Fairground Article: [https://www.rvtravel.com/fairgrounds-camping-alternatives-rvers-hoof ]
Margo's Book: Traveling Solo, the Adventure of a Lifetime [https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Latest Trends and More
There is never a dull moment in the RV lifestyle. Check out the latest Trends.
Consumer Disclosure Reports
Lexis/Nexis Report: [https://vehicleprivacyreport.com ]
Verisk Report: [https://fcra.verisk.com/#/ ]
RV Travel Article: Motorhome Towing a Helicopter [https://www.rvtravel.com/helicopter959/ ]
RVTravel.com/Andy Zipser's Dyrt Camping Report [https://www.rvtravel.com/the-dyrt-report-new-trends-1148b/ ]
Russ & Tina Demaris RVTravel.com [https://www.rvtravel.com/suit-stop-park-service-cashless-filed ]
Forbes Road Rage Article [https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/state-rankings-confrontational-drivers/ ]
Margo's Book at Amazon: "RV Lifestyle Collection" [https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Update: Electric RVs - Fake News?
All Electric recreational vehicles are popping to the surface rapidly now, folks. Sadly for us, it is The European market that is offering several alternatives to gas hogs, the USA is slowly moving in that direction.
All the latest innovations will be in Las Vegas, NV, November 2024 at the RVDA Convention Expo.
Margo's Book: For Women Only: RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Take a Trip Down Chocolate Road
During this Valentine Holiday, come with me to explore the Chocolate Road across the nation. Visit the best states for full-time living too and great chocolates.
The Best Chocolate Shops in Every State: [https://www.thedailymeal.com/eat/best-chocolate-shop-every-state-gallery/ ]
Best States for Full-time RVers: [ https://www.rvtravel.com/draft-top-states-full-time-rvers-ft48]
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road: RV Maintenance for Travelers [https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
The Good Life and Workamping
If you belong to the retired group of RV travelers (called Boomers) that are happy with a supplemental income or simply a cut in expenses, the workamping lifestyle is a good fit for you. This part-time job may give you a feeling of satisfaction and continued value to society. Rather than sit home waiting for the end, you prefer to venture out and learn new things, meet new people, see the world. Cutting your ties to the dreary workaday, your life now has excitement every day.
If you are younger and adventureous, this life also works for you. With the pressure on for better ways to communicate by Wi-fi and Satellite, your future looks bright. Now you can work anywhere and still cut your living expenses.
Websites mentioned in the podcast:
Tina & RussDemaris Article at RVTravel.com [ https://www.rvtravel.com/campground-host-mountain-states-apply/ ]
CoolWorks.com
Workampers.com
Escapees.com
Margo's Book: RV Lifestyle Collection [https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
National Parks May be Lost to American Campers
This podcast is part 2 of the explanation of how the BLM and the SEC is planning to lease our National Parks and other lands including the BLM lands in Arizona. Supposedly all in the name of conservation and management. Remember the title "Conservation and Landscape Health" because it spells the end of RVing on public lands, in national parks, and probably even our annual Quartsite festivities.
Here are links to articles that more fully explain this scheme:
Randall Brink, RVTravel.com: https://www.rvtravel.com/blm-sec-maneuvering-sell-public-lands-future-camping-could-be-significantly-impacted-1138b
Congresswoman Hageman of Wyoming Links:
Comments can be submitted here:
https://www.sec.gov/rules/sro/sr-nyse-2023-09
Attorneys General of 25 states Comment:
https://americanstewards.us/states-attorneys-general-send-scathing-letter-opposing-nacs/
The Latest Scheme to Destroy our National Sovereignty
The Latest Scheme to Destroy our National Sovereignty
Do you want our National Parks, momuments, and open ranges sold off to foreign entities?
Yes, yet another attempt to dissolve the United States of America is apparent in the latest scheme to create a new SEC option, Natural Asset Companies or NAC. Find out the rest of the story...
Randall Brink, RVTravel.com: [https://www.rvtravel.com/blm-sec-maneuvering-sell-public-lands-future-camping-could-be-significantly-impacted-1138b ]
Congresswoman Hageman of Wyoming Links:
Attorneys General of 25 states - Comment:
[https://americanstewards.us/states-attorneys-general-send-scathing-letter-opposing-nacs/ ]
Your Comments can be submitted here:
[ https://www.sec.gov/rules/sro/sr-nyse-2023-09 ]
Margo's Book: The RV Lifestyle: A Dream Come True
What's New in 2024 for the RV Adventure
What’s Happening in 2024
Yes, 2024 is going to be a year to remember. This year is full of changes, so relax and enjoy. Keep in mind the way to really enjoy 2024 is following the 3-3-3 rule of RVing.
Russ and Tiña De Maris, RV Travel.com: National Park Free FeeEntry Days
[ https://www.rvtravel.com/national-parks-announces-fee-free-entry-days
Amazon News - Kuiper November Update
[ https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/innovation-at-amazon/what-is-amazon-project-kuiper ]
Chuck Woodbury, RV Travel.com
[ https://www.rvtravel.com/unscrupulous-towing-services-charge-figures-tow]
[ https://landline.media/predatory-towing-remains-a-costly-issue/ ]
RV Lifestyle Magazine List of RV Shows for 2024
[ https://www.rvlifemag.com/rv-show-calendar-2023-usa-events/ ]
Margo's Book: RV Lifestyle Collection - 3 books in one edition: Traveling Solo, Motorhome Care, & How to Save Money. [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g]
Helpful Tips for 2024
Here are some great tips for 2024!
Find a qualified RV technician: RV Technician Association of America [https://RVTAA.org ]
About RV Tire Pressure: Roger Marble's article RVTravel.com
[https://www.rvtravel.com/what-does-max-psi-on-tire-sidewall-mean-rvt-1136 ]
Basement Air Conditioning: Dave Solberg RVTravel.com
[https://www.rvtravel.com/looking-to-purchase-a-class-a-with-basement-ac-your-thoughts-rvdt-2279 ]
RV Warranties:Are they worth it? [https://drivinvibin.com/2021/10/26/void-rv-warranty/ ]
Driving in the Fog: Gail Marsh's article in RVTravel.com:
[https://www.rvtravel.com/10-tips-driving-rv-fog-2279 ]
Margo's Book: For Women Only: Traveling Solo in Your RV, An Adventure of a Lifetime [https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Thanksgiving: One More Year of Grace
Here we are on Thanksgiving eve looking out over hundreds of RV roofs OR possibly a lovely vista with not an RV in sight. We take this moment to give thanks to the Universe for giving us this wonderful choice of lifestyle, to be free of the hum drum of living and the world’s troubles, even if just for a few weeks.
Margo's book: "For Women Only: RV Lifestyle Collection" [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Safety On My Mind
If you are heading West for the winter, you might want to readjust your expectations about the RV Lifestyle. Safety is now at the top of my list for this winter’s trip. No more pulling into a dark shopping center lot for a few hours rest, certainly not stopping on the side of the road. I yearn for the carefree days when everyone including the environment was my friend. Here are a few tips to keep you safe.
The Russos [ https://weretherussos.com/rv-safety/]
Garmin Satellite Phone [ https://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Explorer-Satellite-Communicator-Navigation/dp/B01MY03CZP/]
Margo's Book "For Women Only: Traveling Solo in Your RV, the Adventure of a Lifetime" [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f]
RV Lifestyle Exposed
The RV lifestyle public relations picture is changing with every current article or critique that hits the electronic press. The reason may be that more people are being exposed to the realities of a traveling lifestyle. As cool as “the life” sounds, many sacrifices may be required for it to be successful for you. Plus, the lack of qualified support for the lifestyle is finally being exposed.
RV Travel's Janet Groene "Scammers" [ https://www.rvtravel.com/scammers-creative-rv-scams-careful-1128 ]
Camping in America's City & Town Parks - July 2023
[ https://www.amazon.com/Camping-Americas-City-Town-Parks/dp/1885464959 ]
Love's RV Stops [ https://www.camplife.com/campground/Loves+RV+Stops ]
Margo's Book: 25 years Full-time Travel "For Women Only: RV Lifestyle Collection" [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Time to Cut Road Expenses
We may have to reexamine our lifestyle and break out of the loop we have created for our lives. Without an increase in income, it gets tougher to meet today’s overhead and still have enough to enjoy all the pleasures the RV life offers us.
Workamping Jobs [ https://workamping.com ]
CARB (California Air Resources Board) [ https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/new-california-requirements-heavy-duty-vehicles-and-trus ]
Nanci Dixon - RV Industry [ https://www.rvtravel.com/rv-service-centers-readers-speak-out-1122/ ]
Escapees Online University: [ https://escapees.com/education/rvers-online-university/ ]
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road, RV Maintenance [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Hot News Starlink
*RV Lifestyle Expert Podcast - Hot News*
Starlink Article: [ https://www.rvtravel.com/starlink-news-spacex-gets-green-light-for-two-new-dishes-loses-200-satellites-rvt-1123b/ ]
Emergency Alert Info: [https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20230803/fema-and-fcc-plan-nationwide-emergency-alert-test-oct-4-2023 ]
Workampers Article [https://liveworkdream.com/2022/03/23/new-workampers-today/]
News about 2024 Quartzsite AZ
Rock & Gem Show: January 5th - 14th, 2024. Show Hours 9 AM – 5 PM each day.
PowWow Gem & Mineral Show: January 17th-22nd, 2024
Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV show runs Jan 21 – Jan 29. 9 AM to 5 PM
New Quartzsite RV Park Desert Gardens Quartzsite RV Park off exit 17 on i-10, full hookups.
Free camping as usual at the Plamosa Road BLM area Exit 17, then north on US 95 about 5.7 miles.
Margo's Book: "RV Lifestyle Collection" [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Hot Weather Pet Reminder
Traveling at any time with a pet means having a plan for emergencies and the expenses that follow. Below are a few websites mentioned in the podcast that you can explore to make travel safer for your pets.
Barx Buddy Trainer.com [ https://www.barxbuddytrainer.com/enV1/deal.php ]
Bring Fido.com Reviews on Pet Friendly Accommodations [ https://www.bringfido.com/ ]
Waggin'Tail Ranch RV Park [ http://www.waggintailrv.com ]
Social Media for Pets [ https://www.petdwelling.com/ ]
Waggle Pet Monitor [ https://mywaggle.com/pages/how-waggle-works ]
My book: For Women Only: Traveling Solo in Your RV, The Adventure of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
The Homeless Epidemic & You
With the problem of homelessness now front and center, some states are taking action to help RVers find safe parking spots. States that are popular destinations for RVers are facing multiple problems finding RV accommodations they can afford. Here is the latest information in the news.
Oregon's Long-Term Stay Laws [ https://www.rvtravel.com/oregon-law-alters-rv-park-tenancy-1117b ]
Los Angeles, CA New RV Homelessness Project [ https://yovenice.com/2023/03/23/los-angeles-city-council-takes-steps-to-address-rv-homelessness/ ]
San Jose, CA [ https://abc7news.com/rv-parking-site-san-jose-city-council-homeless/13353089 ]
Phoenix, AZ [ https://www.azfamily.com/2023/06/29/phoenix-city-council-approves-homeless-campground-downtown/ ]
Texas: Operation Texas Strong: [ https://operationtexasstrong.com ] RVs for Vets
Washington: Washington Christian Ministry, Minister William Sweet, 63 Cosmic Lane, Richlang WA 99354 [Phone: 509-438-8974 eMail: wmrsweet@gmail.com]
Oregon: Home on Wheels Project, David Strahan - Facebook: Hope on Wheels Strahan
National: Vehicles for Veterans [ https://www.vehiclesforveterans.org/ ] National organization
Margo's Book: Condo on Wheels, RV Luxury Home Under $30,000 [ https://amzn.to/2SyHDow ]
Help with RV Travel Emergencies
We are now past the ability to project weather with any predictability. Snow in the summer, hot weather patches in the winter, it is crazy. Unfortunately, for those of us that live the life, it throws a kink in our plan to make the RVing lifestyle pretty effortless.
Here are some tools to help smooth out the lifestyle:
RV Weather [ https://rvweather.com/weather-for-action-2 ]
Hazard Call [ weathercallservices.com/hazardcall-for-rvs]
Campflare [ https://apps.apple.com/us/app/campflare/id1670055811 ]
CampNab [ https://campnab.com ]
Dyrt Alerts [ https://thedyrt.com/alerts ]
4-person Survival Kit [ https://www.stealthangelsurvival.com/products/stealth-angel-4-person-emergency-kit-survival-bag-72-hours ]
Margo's Book: RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
On the Road in Dangerous Weather
We are now very aware that the weather itself holds some hazardous signs for summer travel. It does not seem to matter where you head for the summer, expect sudden changes to affect your plans. Since making reservations for destinations and even nightly travel stops are important right now, be prepared to change course mid-stream.
Websites Addresses to save for traveling in dangerous weather:
https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/index.htm - National Traffic & Road Closure Info
http://www.safetravelusa.com/ - Road & Traffic Conditions Across the Nation
https://www.weather.gov/alerts - National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA.gov) – Individual states linked at the bottom of page
https://www.rvtravel.com/resources/ - RV Travel.com Road Resources
https://www.rvtravel.com/storm-shelters946 - RVTravel.com's List RV Parks with Storm Shelters
https://www.amazon.com/DK-CD03-LED-Road-Flare-Emergency/dp/B0BJVM8SG9 - Sample of Road Emergency LED Equipment at Amazon
Handling Unexpected Death on the Road
We are so blessed to have the months and years living real freedom on the road. But at some point, we must all “hang up the keys” for the last time. Possibly your first exposure to death comes from your neighbor in the next site, or your travel partner for many years. Find out what to do in the first few hours of your panic.
Call someone to talk to: Crisis Call Center (775) 784-8090
Get details on donating their body to science for a no-cost cremation:
AARP Checklist of items to cover in the first few weeks:
https://www.aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-2020/when-loved-one-dies-checklist
Facebook Group: [ https://www.facebook.com/groups/legacylossofaspouse ]
Pet Compassion Careline: [ https://www.gatewayservicesinc.com/pet-compassion-careline ]
Lap of Love: [ https://www.lapoflove.com/our-services/pet-loss-support ]
Everlife Support Groups by State: [ https://www.everlifememorials.com/Pet-Loss-Support-Groups-s/443.htm ]
Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: [ https://www.aplb.org/ ]
Margo's Book: For Women Only: RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Outdoor Base Camps Trending
The latest polls taken among RVers point to spending more time outdoors, using a base camp to explore the area. Buying luxury fifth wheels and motorhomes is not what the millennial age group is interested in right now. Evidently they want to develop their careers or fortune-building period of their lives and see the USA at the same time.
Margo's Book: RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Start Your RV Adventure, Be Maintenance Ready!
For those of you just starting your RV adventure, one of the mental preparations to make for the first trip (and really all future trips) is patience. You may have heard the rumor that maintenance can be ongoing and expensive. “Be maintenance ready” is a phase that resounds with all RV travelers, and many that just live in an RV all year.
Escapees RV Club Online Univerity [ https://escapees.com/education/rvers-online-university/ ]
Escapees In-Person Boot Camp & Training [ https://escapees.com/education/rvers-boot-camp/
National RV Training Academy [ https://nrvta.com/ ]
NRVIA Certification Class For Women [ https://www.rvia.org/article-tags/certification ]
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road: RV Maintenance for Travelers [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Live the Full-Time RV Lifestyle - Solo
Ah… traveling down the road on your first RV adventure. It is exciting but scary too. All alone except for the sound of barking … or purring by your side. Making all the decisions about where to go, when to stop, and even the choice of what’s for lunch. Exhilarating isn’t it.
RV Clubs that cater to solo travelers:
Escapees RV Club [ https://escapees.com ]
Wandering Individuals Network [ https://wanderingindividualsnetwork.com ]
RVing Women [ https://www.rvingwomen.com ]
At Amazon - Margo's Book (paperback and eBook): For Women Only: Traveling Solo, the Adventure of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
RVers & eBikes
You may of thought about bringing a bicycle along on the next RV trip, but the negatives seem to overpower the positives, and you forget about it. Think about bicycles in a new way if you add an electric engine. Now you can travel farther with less effort.
Margo's Book: Healthcare & The RV Lifestyle: Learn the rules of the Healthcare Game [ https://amzn.to/2L20pBI ]
Artificial Intelligence - Love or Hate?
In the RVing world, we are often on the road with little or no real information about what is going on in the world in which we travel. Although we are not affected as much as people stuck in one place, any time our online world is challenged with a new development, we need to be read in. Artificial Intelligence is just the latest adventure.
Margo's Book: For Women Only, Traveling Solo in your RV, the Adventure of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
The Village Lifestyle Now Available
The Village Lifestyle Now Available
The world we live in here in the United States is finally catching on to the real RV lifestyle. It is not for everyone, just for the adventurous freedom-loving among us. To really GET this life you must be ready to put materialism in the past. This is not as easy as it seems. Letting go is tougher than you think.
Margo's Book: Condo-on-Wheels, Luxury Home Under $30,000 [ https://amzn.to/38KIF6c ]
What Now! Legal Changes That May Affect You
Now what! New Legal Changes That May Affect You
This year with crowded campgrounds being the rule, be a good neighbor and make reservations early and be there on time. Most states are creating new rules to handle this overload. Changes in legal definitions that apply to RVers are in the works.
In this issue:
Causal photography Restrictions in the National Park system
[ https://www.rvtravel.com/shoot-videos-national-park-permit-again-1093b/ ]
Voting in South Dakota for Full-timers is in jeopardy.
Cashless registration is picking up momentum along with RV Park laundry use.
Law against allowing Junk Fees on Recreational.GOV is in the court room right now.
California Golden Bear Pass is available this year, many other passes too. [ https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1049 ]
Margo's book: Condo-on-Wheels [ https://amzn.to/2SyHDow ]
News Update
Tune into the News Update from Margo that covers the closing of RVillage, new voter registration bills coming out of the South Datota legislature, FMCA Rally date change and travel trends for 2023.
Margo's book, RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Volunteering's Effect on Ageing
Volunteering is good for your health!
Websites that provide volunteer opportunities:
National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) [ https://www.nvoad.org/about-us/ ]
FEMA National Disaster Relief: [ https://www.fema.gov/disasters/volunteer-donate ]
Habitat for Humanity - search for local division
Volunteer openings in 6 government divisions
* National Park Service,
* US Forest Service,
* Corps of Engineers,
* U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
* US Geological Survey,
* Bureau of Land Management
Margo's book: RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Dealing with Loneliness
Is the thrill of the RV lifestyle fading? Is boredom setting in? Are you dealing with loneliness? Think about volunteering for a few hours a week or more. Here are 7 steps to make the transition work out for you. Start loving life again!
Margo's Book: "For Women Only: Traveling Solo, For the Adventure of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Making Money on the Road
The New Year brings thousands of new pre-boomer age RVers to the road. After a few months, or perhaps after the first maintenance repair bill, their thoughts turn to finding work on the road. The RV lifestyle is not the carefree and thrifty lifestyle they envisioned.
Workamping.com [ https://www.workamper.com ]
Cooljobs.com [ https://cooljobs.com ]
Margo's Book, Conquer the Road, RV Maintenance for Travelers [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Planet Friendly Products for the New Year
Planet Friendly Products for the New Year
2023 brings many changes to the Lifestyle. Okay RVers, the time has come to change our old habits as the ecosystem changes. Some of the enjoyable features of RVing in the past have to change if we want to live on this planet a while longer.
BioLite Firepit - https://www.bioliteenergy.com/products/firepit-plus
Radiate Firepit - https://www.amazon.com/Radiate-Portable-Campfire-Pack-Made/dp/B073QXYW38
Goal Zero Lantern - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HRM4J8Y
Pine Mountain Java Firelogs - https://www.amazon.com/Pine-Mountain-Recycled-4152501471-Fireplace/dp/B00LQZPHVK
Tune in January 5th for my next blog, MovingOnWithMargo.com.
Quartzsite Fun
Quartzsite Fun
If you are on the road in January and February, stop by Quartzsite, Arizona and join the circus. A great time is had by all. RVers, rock hounds, gold panners, and people watchers - Buyers and Sellers united again.
https://www.quartzsitervshow.com/copy-of-exhibitor-list - Exhibitor List for RV Show
https://oregonmotorcoachcenter.com/ - Used RVs and interior/exterior RV modifications
https://www.desertusa.com/desert-prospecting/geocaching-in-desert.html - Geocaching
https://quartzsitetourism.com/explore-quartzsite/ - RV Camping Map – BLM
https://www.jeeptheusa.com/quartzsite-jeep-trails.html - Jeep Tours
How will Electric Vehicles Change the RV Park?
How Will Electric Vehicles Change the RV Park?
What decisions will RV Parks make about charging for EV service?
Read more about the future of Electric Vehicles and RV Parks. [ https://www.rvtravel.com/andy-zipser-conventions-elephant-1078b/ ]
What does Thor and Winnebago have to offer the EV world?
Margo's Book: THE RV LIFESTYLE: A DREAM COME TRUE [ https://amzn.to/2JcYCER ]
Thanksgiving Gratitude
Thankful for Our Lifestyle
Here we are near the Thanksgiving holiday looking out over hundreds of RV roofs OR possibly a lovely vista with not an RV in sight. Perhaps we take this moment to give thanks to the Universe for giving us this wonderful choice of lifestyle, to be free of the hum drum of living and the world’s troubles, even if just for a few weeks.
MARGO'S BOOK: For Women Only: Traveling Solo, the Adventure of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Be Prepared for Weather Change
As weather everywhere becomes more chaotic, here are a few travel tips:
https://rvweather.com/ - Private weather site run by a retired US Navy Meteorologist and professed Airstream owner.
https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/trafficinfo/index.htm - National Traffic & Road Closure Info
http://www.safetravelusa.com/ - Road & Traffic Conditions Across the Nation
https://www.weather.gov/alerts - National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration – States listed at the bottom of page
https://www.rvtravel.com/storm-shelters946 - RV Travel.com List of RV Parks with Weather Shelters
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road: RV Maintenance for Travelers [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Legal Action Against the RV Industry - Does it Work?
The focus of this post is to prevent you from finding that lemon and avoiding any legal hassles. If stuck with a lemon, you cannot legally re-sell it, so pay attention.
RV Travel Manufacturer Recalls: https://www.rvtravel.com/category/rv-recalls/
National Highway And Travel Safety Administration: Manufacturer Recalls: https://www.nhtsa.gov
Review Thor: https://thor-industries.pissedconsumer.com/review.html#reviews
Contact Camping World: https://rv.campingworld.com/marcusvip - Directly to Marcus Lemonis, Chairman/CEO Camping World and Good Sam
Find a Pre-Purchase Inspector: NRVIA.org (National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association)
Solar for my RV, do I Need it?
Solar for my RV, do I Need it?
If you are confused about whether you need or want to install solar on your RV, hopefully this podcast helps sort out the details.
Part 1: What is the best solar panel for my RV and how many do I need? - RV Travel
https://www.rvtravel.com/solar-panel-rv-part-1-1010b
Part 2: What's the best solar panel for your RV? How many do you need? - RV Travel
https://www.rvtravel.com/solar-panel-rv-part-2-1010b
Quick RV Tech Tip: Are lithium batteries good for full-time RVers?
https://www.rvtravel.com/dave-quick-rv-tech-tip-lithium-batteries-full-timers-1946/
A Look into Past RV Quality and Today
Let's take a look at quality RV Manufacturers that have closed up shop. What is left in the quality RV market today, in my humble opinion.
End of the Line for Lazy Daze [ https://www.rvtravel.com/end-line-lazy-daze-kind-rv-builder-rvt-1062b/ ] Russ & Tina DeMaris
Everything-about-Rving.com [ https://www.everything-about-rving.com/is-the-rv-dealer-responsible-for-warranty-when-the-manufacturer-goes-bankrupt.html ]
Margo's Book: TRAVELING SOLO IN YOUR RV, THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Starlink Update and RV Road Service
Here is the latest in the Starlink Internet saga plus new info to help you make the wise choice for RV road service.
Russ and Tina De Maris’s article in RV Travel [ https://www.rvtravel.com/whats-best-rv-road-service-rvt-1066/ ]
Margo's Book: For Women Only: Traveling Solo, the Experience of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Winter Reservations - Calming Places
Having lived through the tension of 2021 and 2022, most of us are heading out in the fall season to spend some time in a healing place.
The Springs at Borrego [ https://www.springsatborrego.com/borrego-springs-camping-rv-park ]
Rancho Sedona RV Park [ https://ranchosedona.com/home/ ]
Mill Creek Ranch Resort [ https://millcreekranchresort.com/ ]
Camp Gulf RV Resort [ https://campgulf.com/ ]
Reservation Booking Agency mentioned in the podcast: Hip Camp.com [ https://www.HipCamp.com ]
Margo's Book: For Women Only: Traveling Solo For the Adventure of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Hot Weather Pet Tips
Traveling at any time with a pet means having a plan for emergencies and the expenses that follow. Below are a few websites mentioned in the podcast that you can explore to make travel safer for your pets.
Barx Buddy Trainer.com [ https://www.barxbuddytrainer.com/enV1/deal.php ]
Bring Fido.com Reviews on Pet Friendly Accommodations [ https://www.bringfido.com/ ]
Waggin'Tail Ranch RV Park [ http://www.waggintailrv.com ]
Social Media for Pets [ https://www.petdwelling.com/ ]
Waggle Pet Monitor [ https://mywaggle.com/pages/how-waggle-works ]
My book: For Women Only: Traveling Solo in Your RV, The Adventure of a Lifetime [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Summertime Fun
Summertime fun is in full swing. Check out all these ways to entertain the family.
Suitcase Cinema - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/suitcasecinema/bring-the-magic-of-the-big-screen-anywhere
Corn Hole Games - https://www.amazon.com/Himal-Collapsible-Portable-Boards-Cornhole/dp/B01LXZBAC4/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KRWH9XY
Walkie Talkies - https://www.amazon.com/Wishouse-Wearable-Flashlight-Lanyards-Birthday/dp/B08M5KBLFW
Jumbo Checker - https://www.amazon.com/Multiflex-Designs-Jumbo-Checker-Game/dp/B0002OKFA4
Frisbee Golf - https://www.amazon.com/Dynamic-Starter-Escape-Fairway-Midrange/dp/B07NGLX67H
https://www.etsy.com/listing/1073815765/usa-disc-golf-top-course-in-each-state
https://www.dgcoursereview.com/browse_map.php
Margo's Book: For Women Only: RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
The Future Brings Freedom
Future Brings Freedom
Going mobile seemed a good choice for Americans to handle all the changes without a lot of stress. The Boomer generation saw the opportunity first. If you are interested in owning an RV park, now is a good time to invest in one or two. An excellent investment can be an in/out RV park. We can easily construct this type of park on a small parcel of land outside populated areas.
Check out Russ and Tina De Maris’ article in RVTravel.com for more details. [ https://www.rvtravel.com/serve-rv-park-coming-freeway-rvt-1049b ]
Margo's Book: For Women Only: Traveling Solo [ https://amzn.to/2KP4t9f ]
Price Gouging and Lemons
PRICE GOUGING AND LEMONS
Buying an RV can turn into a long-term project when it turns out to be a lemon. Check out the ways to prevent this.
If you are in the market for a Park Model, watch out for price gouging these days from brokers. Find a FSBO if possible.
RV Lemons in the real world: details here @ The RV Show USA "Angry RVers" [ https://www.thervshowusa.com ]
Find an inspector at National RV Inspectors Assoc. (NRVIA) [ https://www.nrvia.org ]
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road: RV Maintenance for Travelers [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Electric Trailers and Motorhomes, YES!
The current concepts for electric vehicles in the trailer and motorhome category displayed on the Internet recently. The eStream from Airstream and the eRV from Winnebago are the first to hit the spotlight.
https://www.winnebagoind.com/electric
Find out the latest results from the North American Motorized Electric RV Study and what it reveals for America's electric future.
Read about the pending California legislation requiring RV parks, mobile home and trailer parks to get licensed for your safety.
https://www.rvtravel.com/rv-park-managers-be-certified-rvt-1050b/
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road, RV Maintenance for Travelers [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Express RV Parks & Full-timers Test
Finally, the idea of cheap, no-frills RV parks is coming of age. Get the latest information here.
Take the Full-timers test to find out if you will succeed on the road with this lifestyle.
RVtravel.com Express RV Parks [ https://www.rvtravel.com/serve-rv-park-coming-freeway-rvt-1049b/ ]
Full-timers Test [ www.rv.com/archive/the-maxwell-full-timing-aptitude-test ]
Margo's Book: The RV Lifestyle Collection [ https://amzn.to/2LQoE3g ]
Travel List for Healthcare
If you are approaching the magic age of 65, it is time to prepare your travel list for Healthcare.
Free form for Will & Health Directive: [ https://www.Lawdepot.com ]
Margo's Book: Healthcare & the RV Lifestyle [ https://amzn.to/2L20pBI ]
Are You Maintenance-Ready?
For those of you just starting your RV adventure, one of the mental preparations to make for that first trip (and really all future trips) is patience. You may have heard the rumor that maintenance can be ongoing and expensive. “Be maintenance ready” is a phase that resounds with all RV travelers, and many that just live in an RV all year.
NRVIA.org [ nrvia.org ]
Margo's Book: Conquer the Road [ https://amzn.to/2L5H7bk ]
Time to Relax and Let Go
Explore Mindfulness. Relax and let go of all the tension around you. Be one with your beautiful surroundings and enjoy the life. Explore full-time living at its best.
Margo's Book: Condo-on-Wheels, Luxury Homes Under $30,000 [ https://amzn.to/38KIF6c ]