RV Winter Prep after the Last Trip: What to Do Before Freezing Temperatures Hit Late summer and early fall can be some of the best times of the year to use your RV. The days are cooler. Campgrounds are quieter. The leaves are changing. And after the busy summer travel season, those last few trips
Last RV Trips Before Winter: What to Do Before Freezing Temperatures Hit Read More »
Roadside RV Repair Kit Checklist The Practical RV Repair Kit for Common Trip-Ruining Problems A good RV repair kit is not about carrying everything. It is about carrying the right items to handle the most common problems: electrical issues, water leaks, roof sealant problems, sewer fitting failures, propane connection concerns, and loose parts. Use this
How to Build a Roadside Repair Kit That Actually Works Read More »
RV Outlets Not Working? It Might Be One GFCI There are few things more frustrating than plugging something into your RV outlet and getting nothing. Maybe it is the coffee maker. Maybe it is a phone charger. Maybe it is the outlet outside the RV or the one in the bathroom. You try another
RV Outlets Not Working? It Might Be One GFCI Read More »
Topargee RV Water Gauges: A Better Way to Track Your Fresh Water Most RVers have pushed the fresh water button on their monitor panel and wondered whether the reading is even close. The panel may say full, two-thirds, one-third, or empty, but that does not tell you how many gallons are actually available. When you
Topargee RV Water Gauges: A Better Way to Track Your Fresh Water Read More »
RV Water Heater Not Working? Start Here Before You Replace It Few things will get your attention faster than stepping into your RV shower and getting nothing but cold water. When an RV water heater stops working, it is easy to assume the entire appliance has failed. However, most water heater problems are not mysterious,
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Solbio RV Tank Treatment Review: A Natural Alternative to Harsh Chemicals Solbio RV Tank Treatment is a natural RV holding tank treatment designed to control odor, break down waste and toilet paper, and keep your waste system cleaner without harsh chemical smells. Here’s what RV owners should know. If you have owned an RV for
Solbio RV Tank Treatment Review: A Natural Alternative to Harsh Chemicals Read More »
Spring RV Maintenance: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using a link in this article, we may make a commission. Article written by Wholesale Warranties, the leading provider of RV Extended Warranties direct to consumers. With a focus on education, customer service, and reliable coverage, Wholesale Warranties has established itself as
Spring RV Maintenance Checklist: What to Inspect Before Your First Trip of the Season Read More »
RV faucet Replacement: Water Lines Made Simple – Replace a Faucet Without Creating Leaks Replacing an RV faucet sounds simple—until you open the cabinet and see the water lines and fittings underneath. Tight spaces, plastic connectors, and hard-to-reach connections can make even confident DIYers hesitate. This guide is built around a real-world scenario: replacing your
RV Faucet Replacement at Home: Understand RV Water Lines & Fittings: Avoid Leaks Read More »
When Electrical Problems Seem Relentless (RV 12V vs 120V Made Simple) If you’ve ever felt like your RV has “electrical gremlins,” you’re not alone. I’m constantly barraged with questions about weird power issues—lights dimming, furnaces quitting, outlets dead, water pumps slowing down—and a lot of the time it feels relentless because the symptoms bounce around.
When RV Electrical Problems Seem Relentless (Battery + GFCI Troubleshooting) Read More »
RV Roof Sealing Tapes VS Dicor Lap Sealant! RV roof sealant “tapes” such as Eterna Bond, Stick n Bond, Cofair Kwik Roof, Dicor Diseal, and Dicor lap sealant —self-leveling or non-sag — are both legit—just meant for different jobs. The best results usually come from using each where it makes sense. 1) What do people
RV Roof Sealing Tapes VS Dicor Lap Sealant! Read More »
Weigh Safe Weight Distribution Hitches: Why So Many RVers Are Paying Attention If you tow a travel trailer, you already know that weight distribution and sway control can make or break your driving experience. Too much tongue weight, not enough, or poorly distributed load can all lead to white-knuckle miles, extra wear on your truck,
Weigh Safe WD Hitches: Smarter Weight Distribution for Safer RV Towing Read More »
Crowd-Free Winter RV Boondocking If you’ve ever stood in a popular national park parking lot on a Saturday in March, you know the soundtrack: generators humming, doors slamming, kids yelling, engines idling. The scenery may be amazing, but the vibe isn’t exactly peaceful. Now picture the complete opposite. You wake up in your RV on
Desert Super-Quiet Weeks: How to Enjoy Crowd-Free Winter RV Boondocking Read More »
RV Help: Who They Are and How They Keep You on the Road If you’ve RVed for any length of time, you already know the truth: it’s not if something will break—it’s when. A water heater misbehaves, your slide won’t move, the fridge stops cooling, or a mystery leak appears right before a big trip.
RV Help: Who They Are and How They Keep You on the Road Read More »
Travel More, Spend Less: Shaving RV Costs vs. Building Wealth When most people start RVing, they realize something quickly: the lifestyle isn’t free. Fuel, campgrounds, food, maintenance, upgrades—it all adds up. That’s where shaving RV costs to make travel more affordable comes in. Strategic cost-cutting helps you offset the cost of RV ownership so you
Shaving costs to make travel more affordable vs building wealth Read More »
Bring Nostalgia into Your RV Adventures When you think back on your favorite memories, they probably aren’t about the perfect Wi-Fi signal or the newest RV gadget. They’re about feelings: the smell of campfire smoke, the crackle of a favorite song on the radio, neon diner signs at dusk, and kids playing tag under a
Bring Nostalgia into Your RV Adventures Read More »
Winter Bird Migrations Safari (Bosque del Apache, NM & Aransas, TX) Why this “Next Stop” belongs on your winter loop If you’ve ever wanted nature to shake the ground before your first cup of coffee, put Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico and Aransas National Wildlife Refuge on the Texas coast on
Winter Bird Migrations Safari (Bosque del Apache, NM & Aransas, TX) Read More »
7 Ways to Save Money (That Actually Work) Why “7 Ways to Save Money” tips punch above their weight Big upgrades (solar arrays, lithium banks) get the headlines, but small, repeatable behaviors often deliver the best cost per effort. These bonus oddball savers are field tricks RVers share at rallies and between campsites—easy to test,
7 Quick tips to Save Some Hard-Earned Cash! Read More »
Why full-time RVers are gold mines of real-world knowledge When you are Seeking Advice from Full-Time RVers, you’re tapping into thousands of miles of lessons—campground wins, boondocking hiccups, repair shortcuts, and budgeting tricks earned the hard way. Full-time RVers test gear across climates and seasons. They’ve dealt with wind, weight, water, watts, and where-do-we-sleep-tonight. That
EZ Grease-N-Go: Hitch Greasing Without the Mess If you’ve ever tried to grease a trailer hitch ball on the road, you know the drill: bulky grease gun, sticky lithium grease, and more product on your hands and clothes than on the ball itself. The founders of EZ Grease N Go had that exact experience during
EZ Grease-N-Go: A Clean, Easy Way to Grease Your Hitch and Protect Your Tow Rig191 Envy Read More »
Coast Storm Watching (Safely!): Why It’s Worth the Trip There’s nothing quite like standing on a rugged coastline while the sky darkens, waves explode against the rocks, and the wind fills the air with salt spray. Coast storm watching has become a favorite off-season adventure for RVers and road-trippers because you get drama, beauty,
Coast Storm Watching (Safely!): Why It’s Worth the Trip Read More »
Why a Weight Distributing Hitch Matters for RVers If you’re towing a travel trailer or toy hauler, a weight distributing hitch (also called a weight distribution hitch) is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment you can buy. Instead of letting all the tongue weight push down on the back of your tow
Weight Distributing Hitches – Why You Need One and Why You Must Maintain It Read More »
Maintaining Your Tow Vehicle or Motorhome to Avoid Costly Repairs Maintaining your tow vehicle or motorhome isn’t just about keeping things shiny—it’s about avoiding costly repairs, breakdowns on the side of the road, and vacations cut short. Your RV is your home, but your tow vehicle or motorhome chassis is the engine that makes the
Maintaining Your Tow Vehicle or Motorhome to Avoid Costly Repairs Read More »
Kid friendly RV activities Travel days and long campground stays get a LOT more fun when you have a playbook of kid friendly RV activities ready to go. From classic yard games to app-powered nature walks and themed road trips, you can turn almost any campsite into an outdoor playground and classroom. Whether you’re parked
Kid-friendly RV activities: Outdoor games, adventures & learning on the road Read More »
Lithium RV Batteries for RVs: Why They’re Worth It (Cold-Weather Myths, Setup Tips & Real-World ROI) Thinking about upgrading to lithium RV Batteries? If you value longer life, low maintenance, fast charging, and dependable power for boondocking, lithium (LiFePO4) is a smart move. This guide distills expert insights, clears up cold-weather confusion, and lays out exactly
Lithium RV Batteries and Battle Born Batteries Read More »
Winter Bird Migrations Safari “Feathers, fog, and a sky that lifts off like confetti.” Why this “Next Stop” belongs on your winter loop If you’ve ever wanted nature to shake the ground before your first cup of coffee, put Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge in New Mexico and Aransas National Wildlife Refuge on the
Winter Bird Migrations Safari (Bosque del Apache, NM & Aransas, TX) Read More »
Money Saving Tips: 7 Oddball Ways RVers Cut Costs Why “oddball” tips punch above their weight Big upgrades (solar arrays, lithium banks) get the headlines, but small, repeatable behaviors often deliver the best cost-per-effort. These bonus oddball savers are field tricks RVers share at rallies and between campsites—easy to test, cheap to try, and simple
7 Quirky Ways RVers Cut Costs (That Actually Work) Read More »
Why full time RVers are gold mines of real-world knowledge When you ask a full-time RVer a question, you’re tapping into thousands of miles of lessons—campground wins, boondocking hiccups, repair shortcuts, and budgeting tricks earned the hard way. Full-timers test gear across climates and seasons. They’ve dealt with wind, weight, water, watts, and where-do-we-sleep-tonight. That
Next Stop: The Hot Springs & Steam Trail (ID • MT • NM) “From frost to toast in 30 seconds.” When winter roads cool your bones, nothing hits like rolling into camp, grabbing a towel, and sinking into a mineral pool while snow dusts the banks. This four-stop Hot Springs & Steam Trail routes you
Hot Springs & Steam Trail (ID • MT • NM) Read More »
The Four-Corner Weigh-In How accurate RV weights + smarter speed save fuel, tires, and repair bills Why “close enough” weight guesses cost you money Most owners air up the tires to a round number, set the cruise to 68–72 mph, and hope for the best. The RV four-corner weigh tells you the real load on
Feature Tip: Four-Corner Weigh Read More »
15 Practical Tips for Selling an RV (and Getting Top Dollar) Why a Plan Beats a “For Sale” Sign The used RV market rewards clean rigs, complete records, and sharp ads. With the right prep, your buyer pool grows, time-to-sale shrinks, and offers improve. These tips for selling an RV balance presentation, pricing, safety, and
15 Practical Tips for Selling an RV Read More »
RV Inverters How to Choose the Right Brand, Size, and Features If you’ve ever stood in the aisle (or scrolled online) wondering why RV inverters cost $199 at one place and at another $1,499—this guide is for you. We’ll cut through marketing jargon and help you choose an RV inverter that matches your rig, your
Stargazing Road Trip – Capitol Reef → Great Basin → Chaco → Big Bend “Park the rig, kill the lights, and let the Milky Way do the talking.” Why winter? Early sunsets + crisp, dry air = longer, clearer starscapes with fewer crowds. If you’ve already “gone south,” this loop gives you bucket-list skies without
Next Stop: Dark-Sky Stargazing Road Trip (Capitol Reef → Great Basin → Chaco → Big Bend) Read More »
RV Awnings Made Simple RV awnings do more than look good. The right setup expands living space, protects the coach, and keeps you moving—rain or shine—without costly surprises. Below is a straight-talk guide to why awnings matter, which brands lead the U.S. market, what to avoid, and how to choose between electric vs. manual mechanisms
Mudflap Fuel App for RVers: How to Cut Diesel Costs on Every Trip If you run a diesel motorhome or tow vehicle, the Mudflap fuel app can feel like finding a “secret menu” for discounted fuel. Originally built for truckers, Mudflap has grown into a nationwide network of independent and major-brand truck stops offering instant
Mudflap Fuel App for RVers: How to Cut Diesel Costs on Every Trip Read More »
How Many RV Apps Do You Really Need? (And Which Ones Are Actually Worth It) Short answer: you can install dozens of RV apps, but most RVers are best served with 8–12 intentional apps. Of those, 6–8 core RV apps deliver 80–90% of the value; the rest should be RV-specific control apps (only what your
How Many RV Apps are too Many Apps Read More »
Ten Creative RV Hacks That Can Make Life on the Road Easier and More Enjoyable When you live or travel in an RV, space and efficiency become more valuable than ever. Every inch counts, and every clever idea can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. That’s where a few smart RV hacks come in
Ten Creative RV Hacks Can Make Life on the Road Easier and More Enjoyable Read More »
Hughes Power Watchdog 30 & 50 Amp Voltage Booster Power Center ( Formerly Hughes Autoformer) The Hughes Watchdog Power Center is the all-in-one RV power protection system with surge protection, voltage boosting, WiFi/Bluetooth monitoring, and automatic recovery—built to keep your RV safe anywhere you travel. Key Features: Voltage Boosting Technology: Automatically boosts low park voltage
Hughes Power Watchdog Voltage Boosters with Surge Protection Read More »
How Heatline RV Heating Cables Save You Money and Protect Your RV from Frozen Water Lines When winter rolls in, one of the biggest challenges RVers face is keeping their water lines from freezing. A frozen water line can quickly turn an enjoyable winter trip into a costly and stressful situation. Whether you’re camping
Money Saving Tips – Heatline Heating Cable Can Save Money and Reduce Headaches Read More »
Top 10 Winter RV Destinations for Snowbird RVers When the temperatures drop up north, RVers hit the road in search of warmer weather, sunshine, and new adventures. Winter is “snowbird season,” and thousands of RV travelers flock to the southern states for long-term stays, festivals, and affordable camping. Whether you want beaches, desert boondocking,
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https://youtu.be/4zQnEjmMcik RV Sewer Hose Supports For RVers, managing grey and black water discharge is a routine part of life on the road. One often overlooked but very helpful accessory is a sewer hose support. The Camco Rhino (orange) sewer hose support is one of the more popular models out there, known for its bright
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Your RV Is Talking—Are You Listening? Understanding the Sounds, Smells, and Signs of Trouble Every RV has a voice. It might not speak in words, but if you’ve spent any time on the road, you know exactly what that means. A strange rattle in the back. A faint whiff of propane. A flickering light that
Why Southern Arizona is the Ultimate Winter Escape for RVers As the days grow shorter and the first snowflakes begin to fall, a mass migration begins across North America. The snowbirds, a flock of thousands of RVers, turn their wheels toward a single destination: the warm, sun-drenched landscape of Southe rn Arizona. For those of
Why Southern Arizona is the Ultimate Winter Escape for RVers Read More »
Prepping For Winter Storage Prepping Your RV for Winter Storage is a crucial process that can save you from expensive repairs come spring. The key is to protect against the three main threats: freezing water, pests, and moisture. Here is a detailed guide on how to properly prepare your RV for winter storage. 1. Prepare
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Welcome back to the show, and our segment on Money Saving Tips. We all love a good deal, but today we’re talking about a kind of money-saving that might not feel like it at the time: Prepping Your RV for Winter. This isn’t just about preparing for the cold; it’s about protecting your RV and
Money Saving Tips – How Winter Prep Can Save Some Cash! Read More »
Mastering Full-Time RV Life: Logistics, Mail, Meds, and Money: The appeal of the open road is the promise of freedom: chasing sunsets, exploring national parks, and leaving the routine behind. But for the true Smart RVer, that freedom isn’t found in chaos—it’s built on a foundation of solid organization. The biggest challenge for anyone transitioning
Mail, Meds, and Money: Mastering the Essential Logistics of Full-Time RV Life Read More »
Goldfield, NV — A Living Ghost Town for Curious RVers Why Goldfield Belongs on Your Desert Route If you’re craving a stop that’s more story than selfie, Goldfield NV delivers. Just 26 miles south of Tonopah on US-95, this living ghost town blends boomtown history with modern desert art—and it’s incredibly convenient for RVers. In
Goldfield Nevada Meets the Car Forest! Read More »
Next Stop: Tonopah, NV — An RV Basecamp for History, Quirk, and Dark Skies Why Tonopah Belongs on Every RVer’s Map If your idea of adventure is part Old West, part roadside oddity, and part cosmic wonder, Tonopah RV travel is your sweet spot. Set roughly halfway between Las Vegas and Reno along US-95, Tonopah
Tonopah Nevada – Is There More Than the Clown Motel? Read More »
5 Unique Ways RVers Save Money to Fuel More Travel RVers Save Money: For most RVers, the joy of hitting the open road comes with a constant balancing act between expenses and experiences. Fuel, campground fees, and everyday costs can add up quickly, leaving less money for the adventures you really want. But what if
5 Unique Ways RVers Can Save Money to Fuel More Travel Read More »
Discover the Charm of Cambridge, Wisconsin: A Hidden Gem for RV Adventurers Nestled in the heart of southern Wisconsin, Cambridge, WI is a quaint village that beckons RV travelers with its blend of small-town charm, rich history, and abundant outdoor recreation. If you’re cruising the Midwest in your RV, seeking a spot where history whispers
Discover the Charm of Cambridge, Wisconsin: A Hidden Gem for RV Adventurers Read More »
Exploring Madison, Wisconsin: A Capital City with Small-Town Charm Nestled between two sparkling lakes in south-central Wisconsin, Madison is a city that effortlessly blends the vibrancy of a state capital with the warmth of a close-knit community. Known for its progressive spirit, rich cultural scene, and outdoor lifestyle, Madison consistently ranks as one of the best places
Exploring Madison, Wisconsin: A Capital City with Small-Town Charm Read More »
The Psychology of Downsizing: Letting Go to Live on the Go There’s a special kind of freedom that comes from life on the road—endless horizons, spontaneous stops, and the open schedule of your choosing. But before you ever hitch up the trailer or start the engine of your Class A, there’s a hurdle that catches
The Psychology of Downsizing: Letting Go to Live on the Go Read More »
Understanding Your RV Furnace: A Guide to Function and Diagnosis Welcome! This information is designed to give you a foundational understanding of how a typical RV furnace operates, helping you to better diagnose any issues you may encounter. While there are many different models, they all share a similar core function. Most RV furnaces operate
Essential RV Furnace Maintenance Before Winter Hits! Read More »
Next Stop: Richmond, VA — The Perfect Hub for RV Day Trips Why Richmond Makes RV Life Easy Set along the James River with quick access to I-95 and I-64, Richmond is a sweet spot for Richmond VA day trips. It blends city conveniences with small-town charm and easy highways in every direction. You’ll find
Richmond, VA – A Hub for RV Day Trips Read More »
Shadows of the Past – Towns That Once Were! – Kilmarnock Virginia—a once-thriving town in the Northern Neck that still holds echoes of its storied past. On this Shadows of the Past – Towns That Once Were, we’re heading to the quiet edge of Virginia’s Northern Neck… to a place where the Chesapeake breeze once
Visiting Kilmarnock, Virginia Read More »
RV Solar Panels and Harnessing The SunFor RVers chasing adventure across wide-open highways and off-grid campsites, one modern upgrade is shining brighter than the rest—solar panels. Not long ago, these systems were considered a luxury. Today, they’ve become a staple for full-timers, weekend warriors, and anyone looking to reduce generator time and gain true energy
Harnessing the Sun: A Practical Guide to RV Solar Panels Read More »
Know The Life Cycle of an RV and How to Extend It When you walk into a dealership and see a gleaming new RV, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. Shiny countertops, soft lighting, slide-outs that extend with the push of a button—it’s like a rolling dream home. But that dream home
From Factory to Frontier: The Life Cycle of an RV and How to Extend It Read More »
Discovering Bodie Ghost Town: California’s Gold Rush Time Capsule Tucked away in the arid hills east of the Sierra Nevada, just north of Mono Lake, lies one of the most authentic and eerily beautiful ghost towns in America—Bodie, California. Once a booming gold-mining town, Bodie now rests in a state of “arrested decay,” preserved
Discovering Bodie Ghost Read More »
Exploring Bodie Ghost Town and 4 Nearby Cities Welcome to the Next Stop section of The Smart RVer Podcast! I’m Eric Stark, your host, and today we’re diving into four fantastic cities—Bishop, Bridgeport, Gardnerville, and Mammoth Lakes—that serve as perfect bases for RVers exploring Bodie Ghost Town. Nestled in California’s Eastern Sierra, Bodie is a
Exploring 4 Cities Near Bodie Ghost Town Read More »
Upgrading to Lithium Batteries in Your RV: A Comprehensive Guide Today we’re exploring the upgrade from traditional lead-acid or AGM batteries to lithium batteries in your RV. As of July 2025, this switch is gaining traction among RVers for its efficiency and longevity. However, it’s not a simple swap—let’s break down the key considerations to
Upgrading RV Batteries to Lithium: A Comprehensive Guide Read More »
Traveling at Night in an RV: Safety Tips, Precautions, and Money-Saving Benefits for The Smart RVer Welcome to The Smart RVer Podcast website! I’m Eric Stark, your host, and today, as we roll into July 2025, we’re exploring nighttime RV travel. While the starry roads offer a unique adventure, driving after dark comes with challenges—but
Traveling in an RV at Night: Safety Tips, Precautions, and Money-Saving Benefits Read More »
RVing After Dark: Tips for Safe and Comfortable Night Arrivals for The Smart RVer There’s nothing quite like hitting the road in your RV, watching the sun dip below the horizon as the miles roll by. But while evening driving can be peaceful, arriving at your destination after dark can turn even the most seasoned
RVing After Dark: Tips for Safe and Comfortable Night Arrivals Read More »
Top 10 Most Overlooked RV Maintenance Tasks (And Why Skipping Them Can Cost You) RV ownership is a gateway to freedom, adventure, and unforgettable road trips—but it also comes with a responsibility that’s easy to forget when the sunsets are glowing and the wheels are turning: maintenance. Staying on top of RV Maintenance isn’t just
Top 10 Most Overlooked RV Maintenance Tasks (And Why Skipping Them Can Cost You) Read More »
Shadows of the Past: Virginia City, Montana – A Town That Once Was Welcome back to The Smart RVer Podcast and our Shadows of the Past – Towns That Once Were segment! I’m your host, Eric Stark, and today we’re stepping back in time to Virginia City, Montana—a gold rush boomtown frozen in the 1860s,
Virginia City, Montana Read More »
DIY RV Repairs and Maintenance Save Cash Welcome to the Money Saving Tips section of The Smart RVer Podcast website! I’m Eric Stark, your host, and today we’re diving into a topic that can keep more cash in your pocket while keeping your RV road-ready: doing DIY RV Repairs and maintenance yourself. With the right
Money Saving Tips: DIY RV Repairs and Maintenance Save Cash! Read More »
RV Maintenance Top 10 Most Overlooked RV Maintenance Tasks (And Why Skipping Them Can Cost You) RV ownership is a gateway to freedom, adventure, and unforgettable road trips—but it also comes with a responsibility that’s easy to forget when the sunsets are glowing and the wheels are turning: maintenance. Staying on top of RV Maintenance
Top 10 Most Overlooked RV Maintenance Tasks (And Why Skipping Them Can Cost You) Read More »
Dillon, Montana: Your Ultimate RV Camping Guide Dillon, Montana. Nestled in the heart of the Beaverhead Valley, Dillon is a charming town of approximately 4,000 people, renowned for its scenic beauty, rich history, and easy access to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re passing through on I-15 or making Dillon your basecamp, this episode will cover why
Visiting Dillion Montana Read More »
Upgrading to LED Lights in Your RV: A Bright Idea for Smart RVers Why Switch to RV LED Lights? If you’re still running incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, you’re paying in battery drain, heat, and hassle. RV LED lights deliver the same or better brightness while using far less energy and producing much less heat—perfect for
Upgrading to LED Lights in Your RV: A Bright Idea for Smart RVers Read More »
Silver City, Idaho Silver City, Idaho, nestled at 6,200 feet in the rugged Owyhee Mountains of northwestern Owyhee County, is one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the United States, listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. Founded in 1864 after silver was discovered at nearby War Eagle Mountain, it became a
Welcome to Nampa, Idaho Nampa, Idaho, the third-largest city in the state with a population of over 100,000, is a vibrant hub in the Treasure Valley, just 20 miles west of Boise. Founded in 1886 by Alexander and Hannah Duffes, Nampa grew from a railroad stop along the Oregon Short Line into a bustling agricultural and
Summer RV Maintenance Checklist: 8 Pitfalls to Fix Before You Hit the Road As temperatures climb and campgrounds fill up, many RVers focus on trip planning and forget the unglamorous stuff: summer RV maintenance. But skipping a few “boring” checks can turn a dream vacation into a week on the shoulder of a hot highway.
Summer RV Maintenance Checklist: 8 Pitfalls to Fix Before You Hit the Road Read More »
WFCO vs PowerMax RV Converters: Which One’s Right for Your Rig? Introduction If your lights are flickering, your batteries aren’t holding a charge, or your fan spins up like a jet whenever you plug in, your RV converter may be the culprit—or your next best upgrade. Two names dominate DIY discussions: WFCO vs PowerMax. Both
Powermax VS WFCO RV Power Converters Read More »
Insurance Quote Time to do an RV Insurance Audit “Imagine saving enough on insurance to fund a weekend at Yellowstone!” Auditing your RV insurance annually is a smart way to cut costs while ensuring you’re adequately covered for your adventures. Here’s an expanded look at how RVers can save money by reviewing their insurance policy
Money Saving Tip – Time to Do an RV Insurance Audit Read More »
Boondocking Like a Boss: How to Master Off-Grid RV Life For many RVers, freedom on the open road isn’t complete without a little off-grid adventure. There’s just something magical about waking up to a mountain sunrise or desert silence with no one else around—no reservations, no neighbors, and no hookups. That’s boondocking, or dry camping,
Boondocking Like a Boss: How to Master Off-Grid RV Life Read More »
Olympic National Park Olympic National Park, spanning nearly a million acres on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve renowned for its diverse ecosystems, from rugged Pacific coastlines to temperate rainforests and glaciated peaks. Established as a national monument in 1909 by President Theodore Roosevelt and upgraded to a national
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RV Preparedness: You’ve pictured it a hundred times—rolling into a quiet campground, leveling the rig, brewing that first cup of coffee while the sun rises over the mountains. That’s the RV life you were promised. But if we’re honest, a lot of RVers aren’t feeling that dream. Instead of freedom, they’re feeling stress. Instead of
The #1 Thing That’s Robbing RVers of the Joy They Were Promised—And How to Fix It Read More »
RV Brake Maintenance Today we’re hitting the brakes—literally. We’re talking RV brake maintenance for travel trailers and motorhomes. Brakes aren’t the sexiest topic, I get it, but they’re the unsung heroes that keep you, your rig, and everyone else on the road out of trouble. Whether you’re towing a trailer or driving a big Class
Mastering RV Brake Maintenance: Ensuring Safety on the Road Read More »
Sprucing Up Your RV: Cosmetic Fixes and Light Repairs for the RV DIYer “Hey there, Smart RVer crew! Today we’re rolling up our sleeves for some hands-on action. We’re talking cosmetic fixes and light repairs—those little projects that make your RV feel like home and keep it running without breaking the bank. Whether your rig’s
Sprucing Up Your Rig: Cosmetic Fixes and Light Repairs for the RV DIYer Read More »
RV Maintenance Hello, RV explorers! Keeping your rig in top shape doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Repairs, upgrades, and gear can add up fast, but with some clever strategies, you can save serious cash while ensuring your home-on-wheels is ready for the road. Here’s how to keep your RV adventures thriving on a budget.
Gear Up for Less: Saving Money on RV Maintenance and Upgrades Read More »
Hey, Smart RVing crew! Welcome back to The Smart RVer Podcast, where we’re all about making your RV life easier, cheaper, and way more fun. I’m your host, Eric Stark, and today we’re diving into a topic every RVer with a slide-out needs to hear: maintenance and repair. Those slide-outs? They’re game-changers, giving you extra
Keeping Your RV Slide Outs Smooth and Trouble-Free Read More »
How do I know if my RV Water Pump is not working? There are several key indicators that your RV’s water pump is not working properly, including low water pressure, unusual noises, and the pump running continuously. Water pump type basics: Most RV water pumps are 12 volts, 3 gallons per minute (gpm), and ½”
The Essentials of RV Water Pump Troubleshooting Read More »
Buying the Right Product the First Time: A Lesson for RVers in 2025 Save Money: As an RVer, you’re no stranger to the balancing act of managing space, budget, and the open road. When it comes to outfitting your rig, the temptation to save a few bucks on a lower-priced product can be strong. After
Smart RV Purchases: Save Money and Avoid Headaches Read More »
In 2025 Joining an RV Club can offer several money-saving benefits for RVers. RV Clubs aren’t for everyone, and choosing one should be a family decision based on the services they provide and how they will benefit the family’s RVing activities. Check with fellow RVers about the club they belong to or do internet searches
Save Big: Benefits of Joining an RV Club in 2025 Read More »
The True Cost of Buying Cheap: Why Quality Pays Off We’ve all been tempted by a great deal. Whether it’s a set of tools, RV Parts, a household appliance, or even clothing, the idea of saving money upfront can be incredibly appealing. However, the saying “you get what you pay for” holds true in most
Money Saving Tip- Cheap vs Quality Read More »
Harbor Freight Icon vs. Snap-On Wrenches: A Quality Comparison When it comes to hand tools, mechanics and DIY enthusiasts often debate whether high-end tools like Snap-On wrenches are worth the premium price or if budget-friendly alternatives like Harbor Freight’s Icon wrenches can compete in terms of quality and performance. This comparison breaks down the key
Money Saving Tip – Icon Wrenches vs Snap On Wrenches Read More »
How much weight can my vehicle tow? The good news is it’s easy to determine your vehicle’s tow capacity. Typically, this information can be found within the sticker on your driver’s side door frame. The rating on the sticker should determine what kind of Towable RV you can safely tow. Remember, when deciding how heavy
Towing Capacities – Does The Math Add Up with Your Truck and Trailer? Read More »
Mentone, AL This time, we’re delving into the past and exploring the historic town of Mentone in the great state of Alabama! Mentone’s charm lies in its ability to preserve the essence of small-town mountain life. Whether it’s the echo of children’s laughter from summer camps, the memories of quiet mornings in a mountain cabin,
Shadows of the Past: Towns That Once Were, Mentone Alabama Read More »
How to Measure for a Completer RV Slide Out Awning (Hardware, Roller Tube and Fabric) It is very easy to measure your Slide Out Room to add a Completer Slide Out Awning or Topper. The Slide Out doesn’t have to be extended, this measurement can take place with the room closed.There are only 2 steps. Step
How to Measure RV Awnings to Replace or Repair Read More »
10 Money Saving Tips for RVers 1. Try Boondocking or Parking Lot CampingFinding free or low-cost places to park overnight is a great way to save money. Try boondocking (dry camping) on public lands or staying overnight in parking lots of friendly businesses like Walmart or Cracker Barrel. These options eliminate campground fees, but you’ll
Money Saving Tips 1-10 Read More »
Episode 151 Next Stop: Buellton California There is much to see and do when visiting Buellton, California. It’s a great place to travel with your RV and family! With so much to do, you can plan outings every day that you’re there, or you can relax and chill sometimes. Whatever suits your needs, Buellton has
Uniquely Wonderful Buellton California Read More »
50 Amp RV Power Cords nd Adapters – Twist Lock and Plug In 30 Amp RV Cords and Adapters – Twist Lock and Plug In
RV Power Cords & Adapters Read More »
-The Jase Medical Jase Case-The Jase Case…what is it, and why in the world would I need one? We will investigate why this potentially life-saving medical case should be in your household. What is it? It’s a personalized medical case that consists of medications needed in an emergency. This case could mean the difference
Enjoying the RV Life – 146“Wheels of Fortune: Unleashing the Road to Income for RVers” Embarking on the open road in an RV is a dream for many, offering the freedom to explore new horizons and embrace a nomadic lifestyle. What if this journey could be a pursuit of passion and a source of income?
“Wheels of Fortune: Unleashing the Road to Income for RVers” Read More »
RV Maintenance Guide for RVers Plus Parts & Tools To help you enjoy the RV Lifestyle and avoid being bogged down by persistent problems or the stress of not understanding your RV, we have put together this simple guide to help remove the frustration from RV Maintenance. The following list is a suggestion of how
RV Maintenance Guide and Spare Parts Suggestion Read More »
Allow TheSmartRVer.com to break down the world of converters for new RVers. There are 3 basic components of converters that you should understand as a Smart RVer:Note: We use WFCO brand converters as our example in this article. This information is based on newer converters with new technology for charging Lead-Acid, AGM, and Lithium Batteries.
RV Power Converters Made Easy! Read More »
Below are some helpful images to help you identify which trailer axle you have and which components are required for it. For more information, listen to Podcast Episode 140 about Trailer Axles.
Trailer Axle Information Read More »
RV Slide Out Awning Replacement Fabric We have taken the worry out of replacing your RV Slide Out Awning Fabric! Each fabric is built a foundation of beliefs that has made Sunpro Mfg the leader in Sun Shade Products. We firmly believe that our simple, hassle-free ordering process and our 5 Star customer service are
RV Slide-Out RV Awning Fabrics Read More »
Freightliner M2 & S2RV 100% Solid Block Out Windshield Cover https://youtu.be/qr-Pq1_1gEM?si=YjH5BFuoGc8U3MYe Freightliner Windshield Cover – Sunpro Manufacturing offers a specialized Windshield Cover designed for Freightliner M2 & S2RV Chassis, particularly for Super C RV owners. This Weather Max Windshield Cover offers many features and benefits: Sun and Weather Protection: The cover is designed to block out
Freightliner S2RV Solid Black 100% Block Out Super C Windshield Covers Read More »
Hughes Autoformers: The Best RV Voltage Boosters! The ONLY Product on the Market to Offer Complete Protection fromLow Voltage & Power Surges! Hughes RV Voltage Booster Replacement Surge Module!This can easily be replaced in the event of a Destructive Power Surge! VOLTAGE BOOSTING As voltage drops, Hughes boosts to give you 10% more volts keeping
Hughes Autoformers:Voltage Boosters Read More »
