RV Tips & Articles
A year on the road teaches you a lot. Hopefully I can share some of what I've learned.
Here are a few quick tips that mostly I learned the hard way.
- Crank your rear stabilizer jacks all the way up when on the road.
- Turn off the water heater AC breaker when operating on inverter power.
- Have a plan B for extended sunless periods; for me this means a place to get onto the grid. It could also ultimately mean a generator.
- Hang a bucket under the satellite dish tripod to stabilize in the wind; fill with water, rocks, sand or whatever is handy.
- Buy bungies. I use them to secure my desk drawers, wine glasses,
cabinet doors & my office chair when we are on the road.
I wrote the following articles for the NewRVer.com website. They are pretty basic, intended oddly enough for new RVers, but I hope there is useful information here for every current or future RV owner.
Backing
trailers gets easier with practice
Some folks find backing a trailer into a confined space intimidating,
but it doesn't have to be. By practicing a few simple techniques you
will learn to handle your trailer like a pro.
Leveling
motorhomes - easy deal
Motorhome leveling is usually a simple exercise, even for those without
automated systems. But it can be easier with a level indicator visible
to the driver.
Leveling
a trailer or fifth wheel: Not difficult
Leveling a fifth wheel or travel trailer is something we have to do
just about every time we park our rigs. But it's not difficult. The
basic principles apply to all trailers. Here are some some hands-on
tips and suggested tools and other items that can make things easier.
Spend
more time camping: Organize your Stuff
RVers carry a lot of tools and accessories. If your tools are organized
and easily accessible, setting up and taking down camp can be routine.
RV
Solar - practical energy independence
For the ultimate in RV energy independence, solar energy can’t
be beat. As long as the sun is shining, solar panels silently capture
the sun's abundant energy. This article introduces the basic components
of an RV solar power system.
Generators
and Solar - RV power options
An ancillary electrical power supply is essential for extended camping
many state and regional parks and more remote locations. There are really
only two choices for power without hookups: generators and solar.
Your
RV water supply - keep it fresh and clean
Keeping our RVs supplied with clean, fresh tasting water involves more
than just hooking up a garden hose to a faucet. Following few tips will
help ensure that your water supply is clean and healthy.
RV
Dumping: Keeping it clean
A few simple techniques can make dumping your waste tanks easier and
help you avoid unpleasant accidents.
So
many choices - Class A, B and C pros and cons
If you are thinking of purchasing of a motor home, start by considering
the relative advantages of Class A, Class B and Class C coaches. Understanding
the pros and cons of each group will help. you make an informed selection.
RV
Choices: Motor Homes or Trailers
So many choices: Class A, B and C motor homes, truck campers, travel
trailers and fifth wheels. There is no “right” answer. Tailor
the selection process to your personal needs, understand the trade-offs,
to help select the RV that is right for you.
Tow-able
Choices: Travel Trailer vs Fifth Wheel
Choosing between travel trailers and fifth wheel trailers. As with other
decisions in the RV spectrum, there is no single right answer. Learn
their advantages. Then hink about your needs and the choice will be
easier.
Driving
grades: Keep it steady
Taking an RV on mountain grades can seem daunting. By using your transmission
effectively, you can make it easier on your vehicle, safer and more
fun.
Online
on the road - you have options
Getting online on the road has become a lot easier in recent years.
There is a solution for most needs, but costs will vary.
Extending
your stay - battery conservation tips
Sometimes you need to rely on your RV's 12-volt batteries for lights
and some electrical needs. These tips will help you get the most out
of your batteries, extending them and your enjoyment of your RV.
Dry
camping - extending your stay
Dry camping (camping without hookups) allows us to enjoy camping in
special places while still enjoying our creature comforts. A few tips
and techniques can help extend your stay.
What is boondocking?
The terms boondocking and dry camping can mean different things to different
RVers, sometimes resulting in confusion. What we really need is a new
term for casino and WalMart parking lot stays.
