Nothing will wear you down faster than a long day of RV driving with banging and clanging going on behind you. Random RV rattles and squeaks can drive you crazy! Fortunately, most RV noises that are created by road travel can easily be quieted with a simple RV hack. These are the ones that work best!
Motorhomes
If it has to do with full-size motorcoaches and motor homes, then we're talking about it here! RVers share their personal tips for downsizing your life to become a full-time RVer and travel in a motor home, how to do motorhome repairs yourself, and the best motorhome accessories & add-ons for newbies.
Must-Have RV Tools: 10 Items Every RVer Needs In Their RV Toolbox (Advice From Someone Who’s Been RVing Over 50 Years!)
What’s in your RV tool kit? Here’s a checklist of 10 must-have RV tools that you should always carry with you + 6 RV tool boxes that make traveling with tools much easier!
RV Resale Value: 10 Things That Increase The Value Of Your RV
RV resale value is a tricky thing. Because RV dealers are looking for trade-ins that still look like they just drove off the lot last week. And personal RV buyers may not have the same appreciation for what you think looks good inside an RV, or for the add-on features that you believe enhance RV life on the road. That said, there are a few things you can do to get more money for it when it comes time to sell your RV! Here are 5 ways to get a higher trade-in value from an RV dealer + 5 ways to get a higher RV resale value when selling your RV privately.
Used RV Values: 10 Things That Decrease The Value Of Your RV
See how much your RV is worth (RV values explained), plus the top 10 things that decrease the value of your RV. The biggest takeaways here are: 1) Seriously consider every single change you want to make to your camper BEFORE you make it, and 2) Evaluate the degree to which that change could be detrimental to your RV’s resale value (because not everyone will appreciate what you happen to like). So… pick the best RV for your needs from the get-go. Then, get out there and use it (rather than keep it parked). Take care of your camper… and use it!
10 Things You Need To Do Immediately After Buying A Used RV
Even though you recently bought a used RV, it’s NOT ready for a road trip just yet. There are a few things you must do in order to make sure that your RV is safe, disinfected, and ready for you to travel in first! Here’s your checklist of 10 things to do before hitting the road in a secondhand RV.
How To Equip Your RV For Self-Rescue [In Case Your RV Gets Stuck In Mud, Sand, Grass, Or Ruts]
Every RVer will eventually make the mistake of turning down a road or path that won’t support their rig. The desire to explore remote camping locations makes the chance of getting stuck a real danger. It happened to me! Since then, I carry some specific RV gear and equipment with me at all times. See my list of RV self-rescue gear you need. Plus tips that I’ve learned firsthand to help you get out of a bad situation when you’re stuck in your RV.
Help! My RV Slide-Out Is Stuck… How Do I Adjust The Slide-Out Manually?
Is your RV slide-out stuck? As much as slide-outs improve livability in an RV, the mechanical issues can be a huge negative. And a stuck RV slide-out tends to happen fairly often. Here are some ways to manually adjust a slide-out that won’t budge.
RV Slide-Out Maintenance Tips + 4 Ways To Avoid Expensive RV Slide-Out Repairs
Here’s a list of the most common things that go wrong with RV slide-outs. See how to prevent those things from happening in the first place. Plus, how to fix them after they’ve happened. RV motorhome and trailer slide-out maintenance tips you need to know!
How Long Does An RV Last? See The Life Expectancy Of Everything Inside Your RV
Just like the items inside your house, RV components have a certain life expectancy. Following is a list of all the items in and on your RV — and their expected lifespan. Items are listed in the order they are most likely to wear out, with time ranges showing the approximate number of years each item typically lasts. The list includes all major RV components — from the drivetrain and electronics to slideouts, roof vents, toilets, refrigerators, and more! A checklist of RV repair issues that you should be prepared for + DIY tips to make things last longer.
RV Maintenance Checklist For Fall – Things You Should Check Each Year Before Winter
See a list of fall/winter RV maintenance tasks that are most important. These are the things you should do every year during the fall before winter hits. One of the MOST important is RV roof maintenance… see why!
Driving An RV For The First Time? 12 Ways RV Driving Is Completely Different From Car Driving!
Driving an RV is very different than driving a car! Most of us learned how to drive an RV the hard way — through trial and error (and a lot of mistakes). But sitting behind the wheel of a large RV on your first road trip is not the best time to figure out all the challenges and nuances that come with driving RVs. Here are 12 important first-time RV driving tips for newbies to learn before renting an RV… or buying one.
Winter RV Tip: How To Winterize Your RV Better Than An RV Dealer Would
Should you take your RV to a professional to have it winterized? Or is this something you can do yourself? The professionals are only concerned with what damage ice in the water system will do to your RV. Here’s how to do ALL of the RV winterizing yourself… according to someone who’s been winterizing RVs for over 50 years!
My DIY Cargo Van Conversion To A Class B RV – Step 3: Insulating The Floor, Roof, And Walls
My hands-on DIY cargo van insulation tips. See step-by-step how to insulate a van roof, how to insulate cargo van walls, and how to insulate a van floor. I’ve done it myself… and you can too!
My DIY Cargo Van Conversion To A Class B RV – Step 2: Installing Items On The Roof (RV Solar Panels, A TV Antenna, And An RV Roof Vent)
For your DIY RV van conversion, you’ll want to start from the top down. That way, one step won’t interfere with another while constructing your Class B motorhome. First, determine which amenities you want to include. Then, install everything that you plan to have mounted on the roof before you do anything else. I’ll show you how to install RV solar panels, an RV vent, and a TV antenna on the roof of your RV van.
My DIY Cargo Van Conversion – Step 1: Choosing From The Best Cargo Vans For Class B RV Conversions
See how I built a Class B motorhome from a cargo van. Today, I’m covering the first step in my DIY RV camper van conversion series: How to choose the best cargo van for an RV conversion.
RV Seat Belt Laws By State + Tips For Keeping Children Safely Restrained While RVing
Do you have to wear a seat belt as a passenger in an RV? Do kids have to wear RV seat belts? See what’s legal & what’s not. Plus, what’s safe for children and adults riding in the back of RVs. Since most RVers travel between states, it’s important that you know the RV seat belt laws in each state.
Triple Towing: What You Need To Know Before You Pull 2 Trailers Behind A Car, Truck, Or RV
Do you know your state’s triple towing laws (or double towing laws)?… In many states it’s legal to tow 2 trailers at the same time! Here’s a list of states that permit triple towing. Plus, what you need to know before you pull 2 trailers behind 1 vehicle.
Motorhome Towing Guide: Flat Towing vs. Trailering Pros & Cons (Also, See Which Cars Can Be Towed With 4 Wheels Down)
Motorhome towing tips — so you can bring your own vehicle with you whenever you’re RVing. See the pros & cons of flat towing four wheels down vs trailering with a tow dolly, a list of vehicles that can be flat towed, and how to flat tow cars.
RV Windshield Replacement Cost: Here’s What You Can Expect If You Need To Fix A Rock Chip Or Replace A Cracked Windshield
Whether you’ve got a rock chip (that will lead to a cracked windshield in no time, or an RV windshield that needs replaced for some other reason. Here’s what I’ve learned firsthand about RV windshield replacement cost vs RV windshield repair cost.
RV Values & RV Prices: How To Find Out What Your RV Is Really Worth
Before you let the salesman at the RV dealership get you into that chair in his office, you should know ahead of time what your trade-in is worth, and what the RV you’re interested in buying is really worth. That way, you will know the bottom line that you are willing to accept before he even starts the routine of going back and forth to the sales manager. Here’s how to determine RV prices and values.
How To Decorate An RV For The Holidays… Pictures & Videos Of RVs With Christmas Lights
Decorating your RV with Christmas lights and holiday decorations this year? Need some ideas?… Or perhaps some motivation?… What follows is a photo & video gallery featuring RVs decorated to the hilt for Christmas.
Got Issues With Your Computerized RV Leveling Jacks? Low Battery Light On? My Simple RV Hydraulic Leveling Jacks Repair Tips
RV leveling jacks giving you problems? Here’s how to troubleshoot what’s going on. I’ll show you how to find the source of the problem step-by-step and repair your RV levelers yourself!
Pros & Cons Of The LevelMatePRO For RVers: It’s A Bluetooth RV Leveling System That Works With Your Smartphone Or Tablet
The LevelMatePRO is the best way I’ve found to accurately determine if your RV is level. Here’s my review of this handy Bluetooth RV leveling system.
Want To Color Coordinate Your Motorhome With Your Toad? Here’s How To Paint RV Stripes Yourself
I added some orange RV stripes to mimic the color of my Jeep toad. Now my motorhome and my Jeep match! It was easy. Here’s how to paint stripes on your RV.
How To Find RV Brake Parts For Old Motorhomes
When the brakes went out on my 22-yr-old motorhome, it became a challenge to find RV brake parts. Here’s good info if you need to find old RV parts!
How I Organized And Protected The RV Wiring For Electronics In My Motorhome
When you buy a used RV, you work with what you’ve got. For my latest RV project, I re-organized the RV wiring to make it neater & safer. Here’s how I did it
A DIY RV Windshield Sun Shade Idea: Reflective Bubble Wrap Insulation Makes Your Motorhome Much Cooler Inside Without Running The AC!
Some RVers put reflective bubble wrap insulation on all RV windows. I just put it on the RV windshield. It’s the easiest way to keep your RV cool in summer!
Your RV Entertainment System: What You Need To Know About RV Antennas, TV Signal Boosters & Satellite Receivers
Want good TV reception in your RV? Your RV entertainment system matters! Heres what you need to know about RV antennas, signal boosters, satellite receivers
A Fulltime RVer’s Tips For Downsizing Your Life In Preparation For Living In An RV
When it comes to closing up your house and downsizing your life to fit inside an RV, drastic measures must be taken. But living in an RV is worth it!
Choosing The Right RV Tow Dolly So You Can Tow A Car Behind Your Motorhome
Want to tow a car behind your motorhome? Then you’ll need an RV tow dolly. Here are all of the things you need to consider when you’re choosing a tow dolly.
Need New RV Carpet? Here’s How To Install Carpet In Your Motorhome Yourself
Here’s an RV project you can definitely do yourself! See how I installed new carpet in my 20-yr-old motorhome using a large carpet remnant I got for $45.
RV Gas Mileage: Tips For Balancing RV Fuel Economy With Comfort And Luxury
Obviously, a luxury motorhome doesn’t get the best RV gas mileage. But see how RV travel trailers and diesel pushers compare in terms of RV fuel economy.
See Why A Diesel Pusher Gives You The Most Bang For Your Buck When Buying A Used Motorhome
I bought a used diesel pusher. Here are 5 things you should closely examine before buying a used motorhome. Plus reasons a diesel pusher is usually the best buy.
How To Replace Your Failed RV Speedometer With A GPS Speedometer
RV speedometer in your old motorhome doesn’t work properly? Step-by-step instructions to replace your speedometer / odometer with a modern GPS speedometer.
RV Wheels 101: When Was The Last Time You Checked The Torque On Your Lug Nuts?
The owners manual on every new RV states that you should re-torque the wheel nuts or lug nuts after the first 100 miles or so. Then periodically recheck the torque to make sure nothing has changed. This is a critical safety issue that often gets overlooked or just ignored. Here’s how to properly install RV wheels and torque lug nuts.
Go Behind The Scenes In The RV Industry: Take A Free RV Factory Tour!
You probably have a lot of questions about the RV industry and how RVs are made. By touring an RV manufacturing facility you will find answers to many of your questions. RV factory tours take you behind the scenes in the RV industry. There’s no better way to see firsthand how an RV is built — from start to finish. You get to watch as an RV is transformed from a bare frame to a finished product.
Using Your RV Mirrors: Advice For Backing Up + How To Use RV Hand Signals
The following tips show you how to best use your RV mirrors when backing up, plus how to use RV hand signals from a spotter outside the vehicle.
RV Warranty Issues + How To Avoid Rejected Extended RV Warranty Claims
Extended warranties offer protection from high cost RV repairs. Beware… seldom do they cover everything! Also, extended RV warranty claims are being rejected more than ever before. See why…
RV Awning Tips: How To Avoid Damage In High Winds
High wind and RV awnings are a bad combination. Awnings just can’t stand up to a good stiff breeze. Here are some tips to make your RV awning last longer, plus tricks to prevent damage in high winds.
RV Locks & Trailer Hitch Locks: What You Need To Know
Here’s everything you need to know about RV locks, keys, and trailer hitch locks that will ultimately prevent thieves from driving away with your RV trailer or fifth wheel.
RV Class A, Class B, and Class C Motorhomes Explained
If you haven’t had much exposure to the RV lifestyle before, then you’re probably wondering what Class A, B, and C are all about. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of the 3 RV types.
My Top Picks For RV Accessories & Add-Ons That Make Life On The Road Even Better
Here are some examples of today’s must-have RV accessories. How many of these do you have?…
Your RV Radio Options: FRS Radios, CB Radios & Ham Radio
We explore all of the RV radio options that are useful when traveling: FRS radios, CB radios, and Ham radio. Plus tips from RVers on choosing the best RV radio for your needs.
RV Photos: Our 2002 Monaco Signature Series Motorhome
When it comes to all the RVs that we’ve driven, Jim and I are in a rather unique situation. While many people have driven one or maybe 2 RVs in their lifetime… we have been renting, borrowing, and transporting RVs for years now thanks to our relationship with Terry McMillen of Hoosier Thunder Motorsports. In fact, […]
Avoid RV Weight Issues By Going To A Truck Scale Before Each Trip
Avoid RV weight problems by going to a truck scale first. It’s the only way to know for sure you haven’t added too much cargo inside your RV or trailer. These videos show how easy it is to weigh your RV at a truck scale.
RV Bus Conversions – Yes, Old Buses Do Make Comfortable RVs!
Thinking of converting an old bus or motorcoach into an RV? Here’s what you need to know BEFORE you begin the project. RV bus conversions and bus motorhome conversions are well worth the effort, as long as you think it through ahead of time.
RV Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems Give You Enough Time To Save The Tire
RV tire pressure monitoring systems will give you advance warning when a tire starts to loose air pressure. This video show how easy they are to install, and the peace of mind knowing that your much less likely to experience a blowout is priceless.
2 Popular RV Washer Dryer Options: Combo Unit vs Stacked Washer/Dryer
As an RVer, doing your laundry on the road can be a real pain. Here are some reasons to consider installing an RV washer & dryer. Plus, some features that you should look for when purchasing an RV washer & dryer — whether it’s an all-in-one washer/dryer combo unit or a stacked RV washer dryer.
Fireproof Safes & Other Options For Keeping Valuables In Your RV Safe
Your RV isn’t a secure place to leave valuables. Aside from changing the locks and installing RV alarms, what are your options? Floor safes or small fireproof safes will help keep the valuables inside your RV safe. Here’s what to look for.
RV Driving For Beginners: All The Best Tips You Need To Drive An RV For The First Time
These tips cover the main ways that RV driving is different from driving any other type of vehicle. You’ll want to familiarize yourself with these unique scenarios BEFORE your first solo driving adventure behind the wheel of an RV!
