RV Today Issue 16 | January 2024

ISSUE 16 | JANUARY | 2024

24

Features & Trends

for 2024

Best Selling Travel Trailers Page 26

MUST-SEE SOUTH DAKOTA DESTINATIONS NAVIGATING RV LIFE AMID RISING COSTS VISITING PIONEERTOWN

LEARN MORE

Check out our new 2024 Fifth Wheel Buying Guide

7

From the Publisher

9

Contributor Spotlight

11

The Feed

12 HAPPY CAMPERS

Readers Share Their Love for RV Travel

15 VINTAGE RV

Take a Ride on the Retro Side

17 Featured RVer 19 THINKING OUTSIDE THE BUDGET

Family Navigates RV Life Amid Rising Costs

22 Trapped in a Nevada Blizzard 25 RVers Who Love the Snow 26 Best Selling Travel Trailers 40 Our Journey From Tent to Fifth Wheel 43 PLACES TO SEE AND STAY

Campsites and Nearby Attractions

52 24 NEW FEATURES & TRENDS FOR 2024

64 10 Must-See South Dakota Destinations

71 RVing the Iconic Pacific Coast Highway

78 Boondocking 80 Gear Guide 82 Events 83 RV Yesterday

Airstream Trade Wind

ON

A

REAL

VACATION

CHANGE OF SEASON CALLS FOR A CHANGE OF SCENERY.

GO

GO EXPLORE

FOR

RVers BY

RVers

RV TODAY MAGAZINE Issue 16 | January | 2024 Publisher: Demian Ross Chief Editor: Nikki Kirk Editorial Director: Jamie May Art Director: Melinda Galjour Copy Editor: Kristin Skaggs Sales Team: Richard Kirby, richard@rvtoday.com Scott Stahley, scott@rvtoday.com

LET’S CONNECT #rvtoday @rvtodaymag /rvtoday @rvtoday

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If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@rvtoday.com Copyright ©2024 Blue Compass Media LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

No responsibility is assumed for unsolicited submissions.

PUBLISHER Happy New Year! And welcome to all of our Rootless Living subscribers who are now RV Today magazine subscribers. We are truly excited to have everyone here in one spot under one publication.

With the merging of Rootless Living and RV Today – as well as the acquisition of RV Camping Magazine in June of last year – we are excited for what's ahead in 2024. We are quickly growing. Our ultimate goal is to reach 1,000,000 readers.

We are excited to see how many new readers we add to the community this year. The changes we have made to the design and the editorial content will allow us to have a massive growth spurt in 2024, but growing will also require your help.

RV Today is the largest independent RV owners magazine. We have no other mission, but to help you no matter where you are in your RVing journey – whether you are just getting started, shopping for your next RV, or want to find the best ways and places to travel with your current RV. Our goal is to make the content in the magazine as helpful for you as possible. One of the biggest ways we'll continue to grow is from readers sharing the magazine

with other readers. If you've found anything here to help you, please show others what you've learned or found interesting. Tell your RVing friends, share it on social media, or gift a subscription to your family and friends who love to travel or dream of RVing.

I'm excited for the future and hope to see you soon at a rally, RV show, or on the road.

Being based in the RV Capital of the World, we have a unique opportunity to bring you information about what we’re seeing that's new for 2024. That's what our cover story in this issue of RV Today is all about.

Flipping through the pages of this issue you'll also notice that RV Today has a new look and feel to start the new year. As you are reading through, we would love to know what thoughts are coming to mind for you. You can tell us at rvtoday.com/feedback and potentially be featured in an upcoming issue of RV Today.

We worked hard to put this issue together for you, and we hope you are as pleasantly surprised as we were to find out what's ahead in the world of RVing in 2024. Enjoy!

Jamie May Editorial Director jamie@rvtoday.com

ISSUE 16 • JANUARY 1, 2024

FROM THE

24

Features & Trends

for 2024

Have a great 2024!

Demian Ross, Publisher @demianross demian@rvtoday.com

Best Selling s Travel Trailer 26 Page

MUST-SEE SOUTH DAKOTA DESTINATIONS NAVIGATING RV LIFE AMID RISING COSTS VISITING PIONEERTOWN

ON THE COVER:

Photo provided by Heartland of their new 2024 Corterra, See more on pages 56 & 63.

ULTIMATE PROTECTION FOR THE ROAD AHEAD TRUE COURSE™ SWAY CONTROL SYSTEM • Prevents trailer sway during emergency maneuvers, poor road conditions or heavy winds • Activates brakes independently of driver and brake controller • Easy plug-and-play installation; module mounts on trailer and plugs in 7-way

Advanced technology

Motion detecting

Additional protection

Rigorously tested, microprocessor technology precisely detects trailer movement and provides active alerts through the OneControl app.

Motion-sensing technology prevents sway by detecting trailer movements that are not controlled by your weight distribution hitch and applying the trailer brakes

While many of today's weight distributions have some sway protection, True Course protects drivers from movement outside the normal range.

TRUST THE TOWING EXPERTS | curtmfg.com

CONTRIBUTOR SPOTLIGHT Rilde Leon and Alyssa Smith Gwendolyn Call Tim and Urs Elkins Anna Roberts Earl H. McCreary Melissa Parsons Janae M. Stacy Foster Ramona and Mike Kimberly Crossland Ryan Ponto Melissa Sheremeta-Ponto Brooks Smothers Amelia Gardner Connor Holsted Renee Hayes Roxanne and Gary Brooks Julia Winokur

TANYA VIRNELLI

@letsturnitupworld Trapped in a Nevada Blizzard A crazy fun married couple that share the same birthday, Tanya and her husband Dave are two RVing humanoids who love to travel. They’re on a mission to find some of the coolest hidden gems, embrace other cultures, and inspire people to get out there and live an adventurous life. Follow their travels on their website turnitupworld.com.

FRANCES HAMBLIN

@ramblin_hamblins RVing the Iconic Pacific Coast Highway Frances and Bill travel in their Airstream, seeking good food and fun experiences wherever they go. Including a journey to Alaska that began as a tribute to Bill’s parents, RVing has taken Frances and Bill all over the country with no plans to stop anytime soon! For their latest updates, visit their blog ramblinhamblins.com.

Giancarlo Damiani Erica Pickett Christina Pate Nancy Walters Bill McLeod Sarah Sanville Celeste Davia Gretchen Watson Kyle and Michelle Shore

To learn how to become a contributor with our magazine, please visit rvtoday.com/work-with-us

STAN AND RHONDA WIJNHAMER

@overthehilladventures 10 Must-See South Dakota Destinations Stan and Rhonda are retired RVers traveling the country in a Grand Design Imagine 2500RL and sharing their journey along the way. In this issue of RV Today, they give us a glimpse into their experiences adventuring through the beautiful state of South Dakota and explain why you’ll want to visit too. You can also find them on YouTube @overthehilladventures.

CARLEY THOMPSON

@wherethethompsonsroam_ Thinking Outside the Budget Carley is fulfilling her dream of traveling full time with her family and loving it! A former teacher turned freelance writer and homeschool mom, she has traveled the country intermittently for the last decade led by her husband Steven’s union welding career. Carley and her family have visited 26 states with more to go! Find her on Instagram @wherethethompsonsroam_.

We didn’t just raise the bar we eliminated the need for sway bars entirely.

RATED UP TO 16,000 LBS GTWR & 1,600 LBS TONGUE WEIGHT

ANDERSENHITCHES.COM

THE FEED

“Having the platform of being featured in @rootlessliving was a huge goal and honor!”

@thebucketlist_

rv

In 2023, we’ve visited 10 states & explored 17 national parks!

@therobertswerehere

“We work hard to keep our school routine going strong, and we call so many different places our classroom.”

y sandharmon

@chaoskiddo

@airstreamvagabond “Some of our checklist items to help decide if we carry on during mediocre weather are road conditions, visibility, and temperatures.”

Take a picture of yourself with the magazine for your chance to be featured in The Feed! Tag us on Instagram @rvtodaymag or use the hashtag #rvtoday. You can also find us on Facebook @rvtoday.

RV TODAY | 11

CAMPERS

Our readers share what they love about RVing!

“The opportunity to experience new and unique places with our children” @grablifebythefosters

“Adventuring and finding new beauty and memories in the great outdoors” Earl H. McCreary

12 | RVTODAY.COM

“The freedom it provides us to explore the United States while bringing our home with us” @adventures_with_ tucknae

“Exploring new states while meeting many wonderful people along the way!” @melexploring_

For a chance to be featured visit rvtoday.com/happycamper RV TODAY | 13

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Vintage Rig I

Take a ride on the retro side with this vintage RV

T MAY BE trendy to travel in a modern Ford Transit, but what about one from 1977?

Part-time travelers Ramona and Mike have owned their Ford Transit MK1, fondly named Fonse, for six years.

They came across Fonse when it was brought in for sale at Mike’s car dealership, and Mike immediately fell in love. “We love the uniqueness,” the couple said.

“Fonse is his own character.”

One special feature Fonse has is a siren, because this Ford Transit MK1 was originally a civil protection vehicle. After purchasing the vehicle, Mike and Ramona converted it into a campervan. “That meant many hours of learning and work, especially for Mike,” Ramona said, “because we were converting a van for the first time.”

“

We love the uniqueness.

Fonse is his own

character.

”

Once Fonse was transformed, the couple was able to journey around Europe, and they realized firsthand how special Fonse was to others, too. “You get to know new people and have interesting conversations,” they said.

Even though Fonse poses a challenge navigating narrow and steep roads, Ramona and Mike adore their retro relic. “Traveling in a vintage rig is more fun than traveling in a new van,” they said.

“The journey is the reward!”

For more vintage vibes, follow Ramona and Mike on Instagram @rolling.fonse.

RV TODAY | 15

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FEATURED RVer

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Kimberly Crossland

“

WITH A HOME on wheels, the possibilities for living—truly living— are endless.”

Kimberly Crossland and her husband are committed to a lifetime of travel with their two children and their dog. They travel in a 2019 Forest River Alpha Wolf.

“The RV lifestyle has the most freedom to explore close to home, as well as across the country and around the world. There’s comfort in it, along with the ability to meet new people, and the opportunity to explore on your own terms.”

Kimberly said their favorite RVing memories involve spending time together, like the time they were able to pull off a camping trip right before the pandemic.

“Things were about to get locked down, but that trip was so memorable. About an hour after we arrived, the snow hit and it was absolutely beautiful. We had so much fun camping in six inches of snow, building igloos, snowmen, roasting s’mores, and sledding down little hills around the campsite. We drank tons of hot chocolate, and it quickly became one of our favorite adventures.”

Kimberly and her family have perfected their travel style, which involves traveling at off-peak times, making trips easier and camping spots more accessible. They also travel with intention, knowing how they will earn money, being flexible, adapting to circumstances, and remaining open to meeting a wide variety of people.

“Perhaps that’s why RVing is so beautiful. It honors the planners inside of us, as well as the adventure-seekers who never want to be bored.”

For more on Kimberly and her family’s travels, find them on Instagram and YouTube @roadpreneur, and on their website, roadpreneur.com.

RV TODAY | 17

WEIGHT DISTRIBUTION HITCH The whole point of a weight distribution hitch is getting the correct amount of weight moved from the rear axles to the front axles of your vehicle. Current weight distribution hitches take an all-or-nothing approach: loaded or unloaded.

Our composite LITEFLEX® bars make it possible to fine-tune your setup with just the pump of a handle.

Preset head angle works for every setup

Setup is all done on the driver’s side.

Load the bars by pumping the handle until desired weight is transferred to the front axle.

Immediate and continuous friction sway prevention

Single pivot point eliminates noise and wear points

Our tapered composite spring bars made with LITEFLEX® technology by Hendrickson cover 600 - 1,600 lb tongue weight.

Composite bars are lighter-weight and 5x more flexible than steel, but with similar strength.

Unload the bars by simply twisting the needle valve knob.

Pressure gauge to ensure a repeatable setup

THINKING OUTSIDE

D

the Budget

URING THE LAST decade on the road, I’ve talked to hundreds of people about RVing and what the lifestyle is like. They always have the same questions for me, and the first ones are always about finances: Is RVing cheaper than having a house? What do you do for work?

Isn’t it so expensive?

Those questions may sound invasive coming from a stranger you’ve just met, but I’ve found that many people who ask have dreamed of living this lifestyle, but can’t quite figure out how to make it work financially.

Luckily, I’m an open book and love to spill my guts to strangers.

But when I answer these financial questions, I always mention that I’m only telling our story. Just like RVers themselves, our experiences and finances are unique and never the same. That’s the beauty

Family navigates RV life amid rising costs

By Carley Thompson

We were essentially doubling our of being nomadic—your finances bills, which made his well-paying can be just as diverse as the new job seem less adequate. We had scenes out your window. to make a substantial change to We’ve seen a significant differalleviate the financial burden, so ence between our traditional we needed to choose budget and our travelbetween a traditional ing budget, and these That's the lifestyle or a full-time budgets have changed beauty of being RV lifestyle. drastically several When we sat down times. At the beginnomadic— to decide which ning of our marriage, your finances choice would be most my husband was living can be just as budget-friendly, I in a camper out of diverse as the thought I had a pretty town for his job as a new scenes out solid comparison, since pipeliner, and I stayed we’d been experienchome with our daughyour window. ing both for several ter, trying to live a years. But ultimately, normal life. He would it was more of a wiggly, jello-like, come home to visit on the weekebb-and-flow comparison. While ends or we would go stay with him my basic budgeting was close for a week or two at a time. because I had always kept track of After our second daughter our bills, there were many unexarrived, this lifestyle became hardpected costs and savings that you er to sustain, not only physically just can’t account for on paper. and emotionally, but financially.

RV TODAY | 19

In the summer of 2019, we were weighing our options, and the mortgage for our 2,000-squarefoot house was about $1,200 per month. The electric bill was about $250, plus water, sewer, trash, and lawn care for another $250. In total, our stationary living expenses were pushing $1,800 per month.

On the other end of the spectrum, we only had an RV payment of about $500 at the time, and lot rent had consistently been about $500 to $700 per month in most places, including electricity, water, sewer, and trash. I didn’t include our truck payment in this comparison because we would have that either way.

All in all, we expected to save $600 to $800 a month on basic housing bills by choosing RV life.

Saving sounded like a no-brainer, so we packed up our house and hit the road. The first six months were amazing, and we really felt the weight of those double bills lift off of our shoulders. We were seeing new places, going on adventures, spending time together every single day, and rapidly building our savings.

But all good things come to an end, right? We all know that 2020 changed everything, and the RV industry changed like nothing I had ever seen. With more and 20 | RVTODAY.COM

more people picking up camping as a hobby, costs started to rise— including camper prices, lot rent, vehicle costs, fuel costs, insurance premiums, and attraction fees. We certainly hadn’t planned for this, especially in our first year on the road! We quickly ate up that extra $600 to $800 of monthly savings, and then some.

Many people we met had the same story. They initially chose this life because of the cheaper living it afforded them, and now it was the exact opposite. Many of them ended up coming off the road and going back to a traditional lifestyle, and I can’t blame them.

We had to sit back down with our own budget and figure out what was most important to us.

Were we only doing this to save money? Or was it something we had grown to love, no matter the cost?

We all quickly answered that question. It was no longer about the money for our family.

Did it feel good to spend that extra money every month instead of saving it? Of course not. But we loved the opportunities this lifestyle gave us, the people we had met, the

once-in-a-lifetime adventures we had experienced, and how it brought us closer together.

Whether you’re looking to start this lifestyle, or are currently in it and second-guessing your choice with the rising costs, think outside your budget spreadsheet. You can plan and plot, but this beautiful life will always hand you surprises.

Money makes the world go round, but just like our grandparents have always told us, it’s not everything.

If you can make the life you’ve dreamed of work within your budget, whether traditional or traveling, that is truly a dream!

Carley shares more of her family’s adventures on Instagram @wherethethompsonsroam_.

START PLANNING YOUR 2024 TRAVEL, NOW! It’s never too early to be prepared for your next RV trip, and a Harvest Hosts Membership can help you do just that.

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TRAPPED IN A NEVADA

BLIZZARD

By Tanya Virnelli

22 | RVTODAY.COM

A

NYTIME WE TELL our fellow RVers about our love for winter camping, the response is usually the same.

“Why in the world would you intentionally head into the snow?!”

Many RVers are snowbirds who actively avoid snow, so we understand the confusion. Our usual response is, “The name of our RV is Desert Snow!” That pretty much says it all.

We’ve been RV camping all over the United States, traveling to more than 30 states so far, and we’ve made some amazing memories. One of our most memorable experiences was camping in a blizzard.

We’d been snow camping on Mount Charleston in Nevada for a couple of days. Although we checked the weather forecast before heading up and knew there was some snow in the forecast, we didn’t expect a whiteout blizzard! I

Never heard of a blizzard in Nevada before? Mt. Charleston is an alpine area west of Las Vegas and a popular camping spot. Its high altitude makes it a cooler destination for locals in the summer, and a popular recreation area in winter.

guess you should always expect the unexpected when you’re camping above 7,000 feet in elevation.

As the snow picked up, we were approached by a ranger who informed us that we would be stuck for at least two days as the blizzard made its way through Mount Charleston. She told us they were expecting several feet of snow. Did that scare us? Not at all.

When we head into the snow to camp, we always remember the most important rule: Always be prepared, and even when you think you’re prepared, prepare some more.

When we searched for an RV, we knew we wanted one that could handle cold weather—sometimes even extreme cold weather. We have a 2022 Winnebago EKKO, an all-wheeldrive, 23-foot Class C designed

to handle extreme weather conditions. The rig has tremendous insulation throughout, and all the tanks are inside the RV within heated compartments.

This keeps things nice and warm during the cold winter months, for both us and our tanks. We also made a few modifications to the suspension and tires, giving us more off-road capabilities.

Since we were already set up at the campsite with electric hookups, we felt prepared for the worst case, and we decided to hunker down and wait the blizzard out. As the day went on, the snow started to come down harder and harder.

By nightfall, the blizzard was in full force. The wind was howling, the snow was falling heavily, and visibility was down to a few feet.

Camping in a blizzard was an unforgettable experience for us.

It was challenging, but it was also exhilarating! We learned a lot about ourselves, and we came out of it stronger than ever. There’s something magical about the fresh white snow that’s refreshing to the mind and body.

With a little planning and preparation, you can survive a blizzard in your RV and come out of it unscathed. The best part is that once the blizzard is over, you can get out there and enjoy a winter wonderland! We ended up getting about three feet of snow over the course of three days. Being snowed in was a great excuse to cook

TIPS FOR WINTER CAMPING IN AN RV: • Make sure your RV is designed to be able to withstand extreme winter conditions • Stock up on food and water.

You may be stuck in your RV for several days, so it’s essential to have enough food and water to last the duration • Bring plenty of warm clothes, as well as extra blankets or sleeping bags • If you use propane to heat your rig, fill up your propane tank before departure • Keep your RV warm using a space heater or generator • Stay informed about the weather. Listen to the radio or check for updates online • Don’t panic. If you start to panic, take a few deep breaths and remind yourself that you’re safe in your RV

comfort meals in our dutch oven in the snow over a natural charcoal grill. We went snowshoeing and sledding, and enjoyed many campfires.

You can find Tanya and Dave on Instagram @letsturnitupworld, Facebook and YouTube @turnitupworld, and their website, turnitupworld.com.

RV TODAY | 23

RVERS WHO LOVE

THE SNOW We asked some of our readers what they love most about RVing in the snow. Here's what they had to say.

RYAN PONTO AND MELISSA SHEREMETA-PONTO @dasponto, @mshereme "We both absolutely love the freedom of winter camping. We’re able to bring our two golden retrievers, Finn and Tucker, along for our adventures, and it gives us that perfect base camp to venture into the backcountry for splitboard touring, hunting for fresh, untouched powder. "

BROOKS SMOTHERS @rv_out_west “I love chasing powder in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State.

Ski-in, ski-out at Stevens Pass Ski Resort, complete with 30-amp hookups.”

AMELIA GARDNER AND CONNOR HOLSTED @living_large_camping “We love camping in the winter since it allows us to see the same beautiful views with less of a crowd. The challenge isn’t for everyone and we try to show that reality in our YouTube videos.”

RV TODAY | 25

Best Selling

TRAVELTRAILERS T

HERE ARE MANY reasons travel trailers are considered great starter rigs for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

If you’re looking to start with short trips and weekend camping, a travel trailer will have you covered with all the basics, including a sleeping area, kitchen, and bathroom.

Trailer lengths vary, so if you’re worried about the towing aspect, you can start out with something small until you’re ready to upgrade. You may even be able to tow your trailer with the vehicle you already have, if the towing capacity of your vehicle is compatible with the length and weight of the trailer.

For these reasons and more, a travel trailer is a great place to start if you’re new to camping or towing on the open road.

We checked in with some of the industry’s leading manufacturers to find out what their most popular travel trailer models are. This list is a great place to start your search for a new travel trailer in 2024—take a look.

* Always be sure to check the compatibility of the towing capacity of your vehicle and your travel trailer of choice. Trailers are listed in no particular order. These are seven of the manufacturers’ top sellers. Not all features are listed. Please visit the manufacturer’s website for up-to-date information.

26 | RVTODAY.COM

Full-width rear bathroom

Lance 1985 Travel Trailer

Features:

Lance’s 1985 travel trailer is one of the company’s two best-selling models, along with the 1995. Its size makes it easy to tow and maneuver, and its thoughtful layout includes everything you’ll need to stay comfortable on a longer trip.

The 1985 travel trailer is designed with true camping couples in mind.

With features like a walk-around bed and wall-to-wall bathroom in the back, you won’t be sacrificing any comforts of home while on the road.

• Entertainment center

• Lightweight premium quality • Open, spacious interior • Walk-around queen bed • Dual wardrobes • LED reading lights • Full-width rear bathroom • Porcelain toilet • Ample storage • 54-inch by 78-inch convertible bed / dinette • Exterior solar quick-connect • Power awning w/ LED lights and wind sensor • Stainless steel oven, range hood, and microwave

Specs: GVWR: 7,000 pounds Length: 23 feet, 8 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 4 RV TODAY | 27

Jayco Jay Flight 280BHK

Jayco’s Jay Flight is the brand’s most popular travel trailer and is designed for families. The 280BHK features a bunkhouse and a contemporary design.

With several other Jay Flight floor plans to choose from, you’ll be able to find the perfect fit for your family. Standard features include a seamless roof, heated underbelly, residential-style kitchen counters, and tinted windows for privacy.

Bunks

Residentialstyle kitchen countertops

28 | RVTODAY.COM

Features: • Vinyl flooring • Solid hardwood cabinet doors • Queen bed • Residential-style countertops • Shower/tub surround • Window shades • Microwave • USB charging station • On-demand tankless water heater • Power awning with LED lights • 81-inch ceiling height

Specs: GVWR: 8,250 pounds Length: 34 feet, 7 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 9

RV TODAY | 29

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New in 2024!

Cup washing station Read more on page 60

Forest River Cherokee Grey Wolf 26DBH

Features:

With more than enough space for the entire family, Forest River’s Grey Wolf 26DBH is one of the most popular models in the company’s Cherokee travel trailer lineup.

This bunkhouse has all the comforts of home, as well as thoughtful features like a built-in hand sanitizer system and a leash latch. The double entry doors help keep dirt at bay and give direct access to the bathroom from the outside.

• Air fryer / convection oven combo

• Double entry doorways • Tankless water heater • Dinette drawer storage • Shower skylight

• Farm-style black stainless steel kitchen sink • Bedside power inverter • Zebra blinds • Leash latch • Solar reflective windows • Back-up camera • Solar packages • Heated tank pads • Oversized full pantry • Electric fireplace • Cup washing station (new in 2024)

Specs: GVWR: 7,725 pounds Length: 31 feet, 9 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 10 RV TODAY | 31

Grand Design Imagine XLS 22MLE

Grand Design’s Imagine XLS 22MLE is a customer favorite for a reason. RVers love the open-concept floor plan that also offers ample storage and multiple charging ports with both outlets and USB. This model offers plenty of seating, as well as special features like a walk-in shower with a skylight and a rear kitchen. Depending on how your family likes to camp, you may want to opt for one of their special upgrade packages, such as the four seasons or solar package.

Features: • Open bedroom concept with residential queen mattress • Centrally-positioned theater seat for an enhanced entertainment experience • Built-in dinette shoe storage • ABS • 2-inch accessory hitch • On-demand tankless water heater • Dedicated sewer hose carrier • Built-in wardrobe charging stations w/ dual USB and power outlets • Fully enclosed and heated underbelly • Industry leading batten ceiling LED lights with dimmer switch • Oversized windows for campsite views • Rooftop solar panel with 40-amp MPPT charge controller

Specs: GVWR: 6,995 pounds Length: 26 feet, 1 inch Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 4

Telescoping dinette table

RV TODAY | 33

Breakfast bar

Alliance RV Delta 294RK Delta is Alliance RV’s premium lightweight travel trailer. The 2024 Delta 294RK is an award-winning floor plan with customer-driven features. It includes a rear kitchen with a breakfast bar, undermount sink, and a 16-inch pantry with motion LED lights and adjustable shelves.

This floor plan packs in extra storage wherever possible, including adjustable closet shelves in the bedroom that also allow for hanging storage. It is family- and pet-friendly.

Features: • Quiet, efficient air conditioning • Large dinettes and bunks • Main bedroom with queen bed, reading lights, USB ports, and storage • 60-inch hide-a-bed sofa • 62-cubic-foot pass-through storage • 50-inch LED smart TV • 40-inch fireplace with supplemental heat • 200-watt solar panel / 40-amp charge controller • Enclosed underbelly with heating pads

Specs: GVWR: 9,250 pounds Length: 33 feet, 11 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 3–4

34 | RVTODAY.COM

Private multipurpose room

Heartland RV Prowler 303SBH The Prowler has been around for more than 50 years. It is one of the most popular travel trailer options for good reason, and the 2024 Prowler 303SBH is no exception.

It is one of 12 Prowler floor plans on the market now. This versatile floor plan offers a private room that can be used as a bunkhouse, office, or additional TV room. All of this is in addition to the primary bedroom, which has a queen bed, USB charging ports, and extra storage.

Features: • Multi-functional private room • 10.7-cubic-foot refrigerator • Stainless steel sink • High-efficiency air conditioning • Pass-through storage • Easy button camping setup • Tailgate package • Full-length dual wardrobes • CPAP storage compartment • Convertible sleeper sofas • Convection oven • Roof-mounted solar prep • Outdoor griddle

Specs: GVWR: 9,450 pounds Length: 35 feet, 5 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 7–8

RV TODAY | 35

Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 30BHS 84-inch ceiling height

King Bed

36 | RVTODAY.COM

If you’re looking for luxury and also like to boondock, take a look at Keystone’s Cougar Half-Ton 30BHS. With larger tank capacities and solar as a standard feature, this floor plan will help you get set up for off-grid camping at its finest.

The main bedroom includes a king bed. Extra sleeping areas include double bunks and a dinette that converts to a lounge sleeper. Optional features include theater seating with heat and massage.

Features: • Rear bunk loft • Full basement storage • Full auto-leveling • Solar packages • Residential shaker cabinet doors and drawers • One-piece heated and enclosed underbelly • Heavy-duty axles with never-adjust brakes • 84-inch ceiling height • Crown molding • Stainless steel undermount sink • High-rise chef’s faucet and sprayer • On-demand water heater • Microwave • King bed • LED reading lights • USB charging ports and outlets on bedsides • Shower with skylight • Medicine cabinet • Porcelain foot flush toilet

Specs: GVWR: 9,500 pounds Length: 34 feet, 5 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 10 RV TODAY | 37

Best Selling Travel Trailer

Floor plans Specs:

GVWR: 7,000 pounds Length: 23 feet, 8 inches Axles: 2

LANCE 1985 TRAVEL TRAILER

Sleeping capacity: 4

Specs: GVWR: 8,250 pounds Length: 34 feet, 7 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 9

JAYCO JAY FLIGHT 280BHK

Specs: GVWR: 7,725 pounds Length: 31 feet, 9 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 10

FOREST RIVER CHEROKEE GREY WOLF 26DBH

38 | RVTODAY.COM

GRAND DESIGN IMAGINE XLS 22MLE

ALLIANCE RV DELTA 294RK Specs:

Specs:

GVWR: 9,250 pounds

GVWR: 6,995 pounds

Length: 33 feet, 11 inches

Length: 26 feet, 1 inch

Axles: 2

Axles: 2

Sleeping capacity: 3–4

Sleeping capacity: 4

Specs: GVWR: 9,450 pounds Length: 35 feet, 5 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 7–8

HEARTLAND RV PROWLER 303SBH

68” TRI-FOLD SLEEPER SOFA

CARGO DOOR

12 VOLT REFER

PANTRY

OPTIONAL THEATER SEATING

FRONT WINDSHIELD DESIGN

PASS THRU STORAGE

KING BED 70 x 80

CE LA

EP

FIR

MINI REFER

TV O/H

MICROWAVE

WARD. NIGHT STAND

O/H

PASS THRU STORAGE

19’ AWNING CAPITAL GRIDDLE

O/H

POWER TONGUE JACK

OTTOMAN/ BENCH SEAT

LOWER BUNK FLIPS UP FOR STORAGE

DOUBLE BED OVER DOUBLE BED

BOOTH DINETTE

Specs:

WARD. NIGHT STAND

O/H

2” ACCESSORY HITCH

PASS THRU STORAGE

O/H

LCI® SOLID STEP®

GVWR: 9,500 pounds Length: 34 feet, 5 inches Axles: 2 Sleeping capacity: 10

LCI® SOLID STEP®

KEYSTONE COUGAR HALF-TON 30BHS

RV TODAY | 39

gently- us ed Our first RV: a p- up 19 99 Viking po

Kelley's parents' pop-up camper

Our current RV: 2019 Keystone Raptor 421CK fifth wheel toy hauler

T Our Journey

From Tent to Fifth Wheel

By Renee Hayes

40 | RVTODAY.COM

HE PAST 30-PLUS years have taken us through what I call “The Stages of Camping.” It started out in high school and college, when we went tent camping with friends on float trips and at state parks.

Although we loved cooking over bonfires and enjoying time outside, tent camping comes with some drawbacks. It requires complete setup and teardown every time. Everything gets wet and needs to be dried out if it rains.

Also, it’s not an ideal choice for camping in hot or cold locations.

Early in our marriage, Kelley and I went camping with his parents in their Jayco pop-up camper. We traveled to Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico as well as Breckenridge and Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado. A few years later, now with two toddlers, we were itching to get back into camping, but the thought of tent camping for four seemed like more work than fun. We purchased a gently used 1999 Viking pop-up camper, which had a toilet/shower combo— perfect for washing up the kids at night after fun-filled days. We found private RV parks and

"We have thoroughly enjoyed all our stages of camping. Each tent or camper provided us with what we needed at the time."

Our second RV: 2003 Key ston e Outback 28BHS

state parks nearby and camped with friends one or two weekends a month.

The pop-up got us back to camping, but after dealing with a rainstorm in Missouri on the last day of a trip (which requires you to reopen the pop-up when you get home to dry everything out and then pack it up again), a heat wave in Texas (the pop-up had air conditioning, but could not keep up with the Texas heat), and the lack of storage (we always forgot something), we decided to upgrade to a travel trailer.

We purchased a 2003 Keystone Outback 28BHS with bunks for the kids. It also had a full kitchen, full bathroom, and plenty of storage.

Plus, it was insulated. For eight years, we continued to camp with friends, enjoyed camp-and-ride trips with our motorcycles and

four-wheelers, and had some great cross-country camping trips to Florida, Arizona, South Dakota, and Arkansas. We loved the Outback camper, but as the kids grew and began participating in year-round sports, we had limited free weekends, so we sold it.

Six years later, we were empty nesters looking to fill our now-quiet weekends. We decided to start camping again, and purchased a 2019 Keystone Raptor 421CK fifth wheel toy hauler. It is perfect for us because we actually need space to haul our toys— including bikes, kayaks, golf clubs, and a four-wheeler.

The camper has three queen-size beds, which is great for when

our kids or friends join us on our camping adventures. Our weekend camping trips turned into full-time RV living less than a year later, when Kelley’s job relocated us to the Atlanta area. We were stationary for the first year, and then began traveling full time.

We have thoroughly enjoyed all our stages of camping. Each tent or camper provided us with what we needed at the time.

Camping has always been a part of our lives, and we hope to continue camping as long as possible.

There is still so much to see and do!

Follow Kelley and Renee @fiftyandfifthwheeling on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

RV TODAY | 41

NOT THE TIME TO WISH YOU BOUGHT AN RV WITH ABS.

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) have been a requirement on all passenger vehicles in the United States for over a decade. So, why aren’t these life-saving systems standard on all RVs?

PROTECT WHAT YOU LOVE WITH LIPPERT ABS.

Watch the video to learn more about Lippert ABS and find out what brands are currently helping owners protect what they love. lippert.com

Places to

SEE & STAY

COST $ Up to $30 / night $$ $31-$60 / night $$$ $61+ / night

FAST FACTS

Whether you’re venturing out for a cross-country road trip or exploring locally, here are some famous and unique muststop places to see and stay across America!

Attractions Campgrounds H Harvest Hosts

Harvest Hosts locations and reviews generously provided by the team at Harvest Hosts.

Visit harvesthosts.com for a 15% off discount.

Full Hookups Big Rig Friendly Kid-friendly Pet-friendly Pool Wi-Fi

Have a place to see and/or stay?

Visit rvtoday.com/work-with-us and click the Campground or Attractions form to share your favorite road trip spots!

RV TODAY | 43

HART’S CAMP

33145 Webb Park Road Pacific City, OR 97135

Pacific

$$$ Hart’s offers full-hookup RV sites as well as cabins and luxury Airstream accommodations. The campground is pristine, and they have doggie bags and bins everywhere.

There are many places to walk, and Pacific City Beach is right across the street. You can even see a view of Haystack Rock from some of the campsites.

It was great waking up and walking to the beach! We went during the off season, so we had the beach to ourselves for the most part. Pelican Brewing Company, Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa, a wine shop, a coffee shop, and a great little convenience store are all walking distance from the campground.

We’ll definitely be back; this was one of our favorite stays on the Oregon coast!

44 | RVTODAY.COM

Roxanne and Gary Brooks @dreaminofairstreamin

SANDERS FAMILY WINERY Pahrump, NV

Sanders Family Winery is located in southern Nevada’s wine country and serves as the perfect ode to Renaissance-era Tuscan architecture. Check out the statue of Teresa Lilianna, enjoy a free wine tasting, and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. More than 300 Harvest Hosts members have stayed here, and for good reason! If you’ve always wanted to go to Tuscany, Sanders Family Winery is where you’ll want to stop.

PIONEERTOWN

53626 Mane St. Pioneertown, CA 92268 Get a feel for the Wild West in Pioneertown!

This California attraction came about in 1946, when actor Dick Curtis envisioned a living movie set. With the help of investors, 32,000 acres of land near Palm Springs was purchased and turned into a replica of a late1800s town.

The area has been a filming location, a tourist attraction, and even a home to some.

Original businesses included the Red Dog Saloon, the Golden Stallion Restaurant, Pioneertown Likker, the Klip ‘N’ Kurl Beauty Shop, Trigger Bill’s Shooting Gallery, the Pioneertown Gazette, and more.

For some time, the town was fully functional, but it has slowly dwindled. That said, visitors can still venture into Pioneertown stores, eat and drink at restaurants, listen to live music at Pappy and Harriet’s, and stay at the Pioneertown Motel.

Photos by Julia Winokur @juleswinokur

THE SILVER KNOT Ronan, MT

Mountain

The Silver Knot is a serene ranch and wedding venue in the Mission Mountains of Montana. Silver Knot offers visitors a warm Montana welcome, a gift shop full of local treasures, and great nearby hiking trails.

This spot is a favorite of many Harvest Hosts members—see for yourself!

46 | RVTODAY.COM

QUAIL CREEK CAMPGROUND 472 North 5300 West Hurricane, UT 84737

$$ The Quail Creek Campground at Quail Creek State Park in Utah offers RV campers a picturesque haven with its stunning reservoir and red rock landscapes. The standout feature is the peaceful Quail Creek Reservoir, which is ideal for boating and water recreation. The serene atmosphere, as well as activities such as hiking and fishing, make it a consistent choice. Families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil yet adventurous escape will find Quail Creek appealing. Plus, it’s less than an hour drive from Zion National Park!

By Giancarlo Damiani @yearlongweekend

FOUR CORNERS MONUMENT

There is only one place in the United States where you can stand in four states at the same time, and it rests on Navajo land at the Four Corners Monument. Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico converge at a brass marker stamped into the ground in the middle of the desert. Be sure to snap a photo with your feet next to the marker, and bring some sunglasses if you want to stage the view from above, as there is no shade! Managed by the Navajo Nation, the monument is surrounded by stalls where you can purchase beautiful jewelry, pottery, and other Navajo crafts. There are no amenities nearby, but there is a large lot for RV parking and restrooms available. This is a perfect stopover spot for RVers.

By Erica Pickett, @our_pickett_fences

Central 48 | RVTODAY.COM

WENDY OAKS RV RESORT 4160 US 49 Florence, MS 39073

$$ Wendy Oaks RV Resort is a peaceful campground in Mississippi. Several of the RV sites back up directly to a small lake, and campers have complimentary access to kayaks and pedal boats. As a digital nomad, the small RV park was a great place to spend a week working. I had beautiful views from my window, and a quiet place to work. I recommend booking a lakeside campsite, as they have the best views and are farthest from the noise of the highway.

By Christina Pate @tedsrvtravels

LICON DAIRY San Elizario, TX

Stay at Licon Dairy to experience handmade, farm-fresh dairy products. Licon Dairy is located in Texas near the Mexican border, which influences the types of cheese for sale.

Their claim to fame is their queso asadero, which originates in Chihuahua, Mexico.

During your visit, try the cheese, visit the petting zoo, and have a meal at the on-site restaurant, Outlaw Saloon & Grill!

Harvest Hosts locations and reviews generously provided by the team at Harvest Hosts. Visit harvesthosts.com for 15% off.

OLD GLORY DISTILLING COMPANY

451 Alfred Thun Road Clarksville, TN 37040 We loved our overnight stay at Old Glory Distilling Company! The distillery produces bourbon, gin, vodka, rum, and moonshine and offers fun, informative tours followed by a free tasting and complimentary souvenir shot glass. The tasting room offers flights of their spirits, as well as delicious cocktails.

Minors are allowed on tours and in the tasting room. The gift shop has a wonderful assortment of items, and their spirits can also be purchased here.

The distillery is conveniently located at an exit off Interstate 24 in Tennessee. There is ample parking in a level lot, so we had no problem with our 45-foot RV and tow car.

By Nancy Walters @rvagogo

RV TODAY | 49

Eastern

LANE SOUTHERN ORCHARDS Fort Valley, GA

Experience fresh Georgia peaches at Lane Southern Orchards. The orchard has a cafe and bakery where you can indulge in Southern comfort food. You can also go strawberry picking, or shop at the roadside market that sells jarred goods, fresh peaches and pecans, and local produce from neighboring farms. Be sure to visit if you’re in the area!

50 | RVTODAY.COM

BIG RIG FRIENDLY RV RESORT

336 Gardners Terrace Road West Columbia, SC 29172

$$$ Big Rig Friendly Resort is in West Columbia, South Carolina, near Interstate 26 and Interstate 77. This facility has 153 full-hookup RV sites ranging from 70 feet to 120 feet long. The sites are mostly pull-through, so they are easy to access for all.

Amenities include a clubhouse with laundry, gym, bathrooms and showers, plus a meeting room, a dog park, a playground, and walking areas. This is an awesome park, and I think you’ll love staying here!

By Bill McLeod, Owner of Big Rig Friendly RV Resort @bigrigfriendly

APRIL’S MAPLE

6507 VT Rt 114, Canaan, VT 05903

Have a place to see and/or stay?

Visit rvtoday.com/work-with-us and click the Campground or Attractions form to share your favorite road trip spots!

XP 3.0 eBike, only $999!

Light, Foldable, Fully Assembled.

LectriceBikes.com

The famous April’s Maple is situated on beautiful land just a few miles from the Canadian border. The land has been in the Jackson family for generations, and it’s now owned by the granddaughter of Audrey and Elmont Jackson. This spot is extra special to me as I grew up in a family that has made maple syrup for many generations in Island Pond, Vermont, just a few miles from April’s Maple. On this site, there is an amazing restaurant, gift shop, and maple sugaring operation. The food is all maple themed, and their maple creemee with maple spread and maple crunchies is an absolute must-try! The restaurant itself has outdoor and indoor dining areas, and the parking lot would be suitable for small RVs. It is family- and pet-friendly.

By Sarah Sanville @sanvilleinvestments

24 R

New Features and Trends for 2024

V MANUFACTURERS ARE pushing boundaries, increasing innovations, and incorporating bold trends and features in their 2024 lineups. New RVs on the market this year reflect how the changing world of the last few years has, in turn, changed how people work, live, and play.

From luxury RV camping to new features you’d never expect to see in an RV, here are 24 of the latest and greatest features and trends you’ll see popping up in the year ahead.

TREND noun: a

prevailing tendency or inclination / a general movement / a current style or preference / a line of development

Photo courtesy Living Vehicle

Source: www.merriam-webster.com/ dictionary/trends

52 | RVTODAY.COM

MODERN LIVING SOLUTIONS

Photos courtesy Forest River

Although the balcony (see page 54) is what first drew us in, it’s far from the only thing to love about Forest River’s RV Suite. The team at Forest River developed the RV Suite as “a comprehensive living solution that combines the adventurous spirit of camping with the convenience and sophistication of a high-end apartment.” They say it “heralds a new era in outdoor experiences, offering a glimpse into the future of eco-conscious yet luxurious travel.”

All-electric functionality, a flipdown king bed, a sliding glass door, and improved climate control are all part of that vision. The RV Suite is available for two of their brands— Ibex and No Boundaries.

RV TODAY | 53

DESIGNATED OUTDOOR SPACE

You’ve never seen a balcony like this on an RV before. The four-foot sun deck off the king suite in Forest River’s new RV Suite (see page 53) has us dreaming of slow mornings with a cozy cup of coffee in hand. It’s the perfect place to sit and enjoy the view. Tie-downs on the deck allow you to transport e-bikes or other equipment while on the road. You can also attach an optional HitchFire grill to the balcony for outdoor cooking.

GATEWAY RVS

EFFICIENT, EVEN COOLING IS COMING If you’ve ever had trouble staying as cool as you’d like in your RV, you’ll be happy to know the research and development team at Heartland has been working on an innovative solution—their new Trio Airflow A/C System.

The system has three major components that help with cooling efficiency. Specially designed rotears that catch and direct cool air are combined with a new plenum block that forces the air through the ducts. Since ducts have a tendency to collapse slightly, which can block airflow, they’ve also added splice blocks to support the ducts.

According to Heartland, these components combine to capture and force the cool air to travel throughout your entire RV, resulting in better, more even cooling. This new airflow system is in select 2024 models offered by Heartland, and will become the standard air conditioning system for future Heartland models.

54 | RVTODAY.COM

What matters most to new RVers?

The team at Keystone RV Company has answered that question with their new Keystone Classics Collection—a line of RVs focused on making prices, weights, and sizes manageable for first-time RVers.

INTEGRATED TECH LEVELS UP

The Innovation Team at THOR is using existing technology in a new way. Their 2024 initiatives will make it easier for RVers to monitor important stats—like tank levels, battery status, tire pressure, and inside temperature of their RV—from an Apple CarPlay-compatible vehicle. The first RV manufacturer to pave the way with CarPlay support in its app is Airstream, a subsidiary of THOR.

Source: www.thorindustries.com/news-events/ blog-airstream-carplay

RUGGEDNESS MEETS SOPHISTICATION

Photos courtesy Airstream

Speaking of Airstream, they’ve built an impressive off-grid-capable travel trailer that’s all-new for 2024 called the Trade Wind. It includes standard features like a three-inch suspension lift kit for higher off-road clearance.

Trade Wind boasts an electrical system powerful enough to run the air conditioning and microwave off-grid at the same time. Its recirculating water heater conserves precious water while boondocking. It’s built for rugged adventures while giving you all the amenities of home.

RV TODAY | 55

Courtesy Heartland

2024 Heartland Corterra

INTERIORS REDEFINED

TRAVEL TRAILERS REMAIN POPULAR

Check out page 26: Best Selling Travel Trailers!

Data collected from Statistical Surveys, a company affiliated with RV Trader that monitors data from the RV industry, shows that travel trailers continue to be the most registered type of RV. Travel trailers make a great starter rig, come in lightweight options, and are easy to tow and store, so it’s easy to understand why they’re such a popular choice.

56 | RVTODAY.COM

Courtesy Heartland

Recognizing that your RV should be a peaceful retreat, the design team at Heartland RV is redefining interiors for 2024. So what can you expect to see?

They’re adding more warmth and depth to their RVs through richer wood finishes, layered textures, and moody wall colors.

In hardware, mixed metals are popular. And gold isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

This new interior design direction is meant to reflect the camping experience of the last few years, as people reconnected with nature during the pandemic to find peace and comfort. That sentiment is working its way to the interiors of the RVs coming on the market in 2024 from Heartland.

Smaller RV models offer a flexibility that caters to a wide range of needs, whether customers are planning a family vacation, a quick weekend getaway, or an epic cross-country adventure.

RYAN KLOPPE, Director of Sales, Statistical Surveys

OUTSIDE-THE-BOX THINKING, IN A BOX

Cargo trailers are made for hauling, but they’re also a perfect blank slate for a tiny home or getaway camper. The team at Forest River has recognized this, debuting the new Continental Cargo V-Series Camper Unit at their most recent fall expo.

The rig was designed with several sleeping areas, including a pop-up tent on top, a pop-out bed on the side, a sofa, and a bed on an electric lift. A countertop, sink, cooktop, and microwave give you a kitchenette, and a fireplace adds ambience for those cooler camping nights.

UNRIVALED TECHNOLOGY Off-grid power is amping up, allowing RVers to boondock for longer, or even live off-grid indefinitely. Future Solutions, based in Elkhart, Indiana, is pioneering an innovative 400-amp-hour lithium battery, which they debuted at the most recent SEMA Show.

Future Solutions is taking RVers into the future with this unrivaled technology, and opening up new possibilities for RV travel.

Photos courtesy Newmar

LUXURY LIKE NEVER BEFORE

While many RV manufacturers incorporate luxurious details into their rigs, one is taking it to a whole new level.

Newmar’s King Aire is the epitome of luxury in a motorhome. With features like heated floors, fully tiled showers, and solid quartz countertops throughout, owners will be sacrificing nothing while on the road. In the King Aire, you’ll also find a massage feature in the driver and passenger seats, cathedral ceilings, a built-in safe, a coffee nook, a wine cooler, and a front door with a doorbell and camera system.

RV TODAY | 57

VARIABLE-USE, FLEX-FUNCTION SPACE

• Seating that converts to either single or double twin beds that can be separated or put together to convert to a king • A rear ramp door that doubles as a party deck • A sliding, moveable closet • Removable tables • A patent-pending repositionable bunk system called EmberTrack™ 58 | RVTODAY.COM

See the Cougar 30BHS on pages 36–37 and the Prowler 303SBH on page 35.

Photos courtesy Ember RV

People are using their RVs in more and different ways than ever before, and manufacturers are responding with flexible spaces and utilitarian designs.

This will show up in many forms in new models, including flexible furniture and flexible floor plans. You’ll see this in the Keystone Sprinter and Bullet bunkhouses, which quickly convert to a bonus room where kids can study or play.

This trend also shows up in Keystone’s Cougar 30BHS and Heartland’s Prowler 303SBH. A new series of wide-open toy haulers from Keystone gets rid of the garage barrier and incorporates tie-downs throughout the body of the coach, giving you even more optional space for securing equipment like all-terrain vehicles, dirt bikes, and kayaks. You can find this new feature in Keystone’s Fuzion Impact and Raptor Carbon toy haulers.

Ember RV’s 2024 Overland Series 240TKR has maximized the flexfunction trend. More than an off-roading travel trailer, and more than a toy hauler, Ember’s design on this overlanding travel trailer is something you have to see to believe. Multi-use options are abundant on this RV, and include unique features such as:

"The EmberTrack system comes with two doubleover-double bunk bed or shelving platforms that can hold up to 600 pounds or 300 pounds each in a single configuration. Using the E-track system, Owners can reconfigure this space into almost anything they want— bunks, mobile office, extra storage shelving, pantry, or even an open locker to haul cargo—allowing reconfiguration of their RV setup for each trip or use.”

Source: www.emberrv.com/ story/say-hello-to-the-newember-e-series/

ELECTRIC RVS

Photos courtesy Lightship

Manufacturers are developing prototypes that advance the technology of all-electric RVs. One new company, Lightship, has a mission of electrifying the future of RV travel. Lightship touts a self-propelled structure that’s “three times more aerodynamic than a traditional travel trailer for longer range and greater efficiency, which means a 300-mile range electric vehicle (EV) used to tow it remains a 300-mile range EV, and a 25-mpg gas truck remains a 25-mpg gas truck.”

Lightship is set to begin operations in Colorado early this year, with production of their L1 slated for later in the year.

Source: lightshiprv.com/journal/ introducing-the-lightship-l1

RV TODAY | 59

Forest River

RV SHIPMENTS ARE REBOUNDING

2024 Forest River Riverstone 425FO

DEDICATED OFFICE SPACE

Good news is on the horizon for the RV industry. As RV travel grew more popular during the pandemic, RV shipments rose to an all-time high of 600,000 units in 2021, then fell to just under 500,000 in 2022.

Inflation and interest rates led to another decrease in 2023, with year-end numbers expected to be around 300,000. But the numbers may be turning back around—the RV shipment forecast for 2024 shows a median of 369,700 units, a 22 to 24% increase from 2023’s expected year-end numbers.

ESSENTIALS ONLY

Manufacturers have new strategies in 2024 to try to capture customers in the market for their first RV. Some of these strategies include smaller floor plans, new lower price points, and streamlined versions of current floor plans. You’ll see this in Ember’s E-Series, where the “E” stands for “essentials” needed to go camping in an RV. Forest River is also offering an “Essentials Only” version of some of their models. Other manufacturers are removing unnecessary features or amenities to attract new customers with lower price points.

Working from home is great.

What’s even better is being able to close your office door at the end of a long day and step away from work, keeping it out of sight and out of mind. This can be difficult with the limited space of an RV, but Forest River’s Riverstone 425FO changes that. It’s a fifth wheel that not only has an entire room dedicated to office space, but also hides it behind a moveable wall. With two desks and plenty of cabinet space, you can create the home office of your dreams.

LIGHTWEIGHT COMPONENTS

RV manufacturers continue to innovate new ways to reduce the weight on their rigs while maintaining value and quality.

We’re seeing this translate to lighter-weight chassis as well as lighter-weight countertops.

60 | RVTODAY.COM

USEFUL AMENITIES New in 2024, Forest River is adding a feature you’re more likely to see in a restaurant than in an RV—a cup washing station! In addition to the standard soap dispenser and pullout faucets, the new cup washer is incredibly easy to use. Simply flip a dirty cup or glass upside down and push into the mechanism, and a strong stream of water sprays up into the cup/glass. Units will come standard with seven features total, including a solid wood cutting board, a drying rack, a vegetable tray, and a strainer.

Courtesy Living Vehicle

Courtesy Living Vehicle

FOCUS ON SUSTAINABILITY Many RV manufacturers are creating RVs with eco-friendly features, but one company is taking sustainability to a whole new level. Living Vehicle has made it their mission to create the first-ever net-zero living space, and with features like perpetual solar power and water-air generation already in production, they are well on their way. Living Vehicle may be a glimpse into the future of RVing.

RV TODAY | 61

Photos courtesy RV Miles

Jason & Abby - RV Miles

HYBRID LIFE: THE “NEW” ROOTLESS Traveling full time is a dream come true for some, and a bucket-list goal for many. But there is a happy medium, and it’s what we call the hybrid life. It’s about finding ways to have the best of both worlds—a home base as well as the ability to travel freely. No longer do you have to choose between the two. It’s the new way to be rootless.

A perfect example of this is the full-time RVing family behind RV Miles, who recently claimed a home base after seven years on the road. Since RVing is in their blood, they’ll continue to travel freely while also putting down roots in their community. Their website, podcast, YouTube channel, and social media accounts have become top destinations for RVing news.

MULTI-PURPOSE USES FOR STATIONARY RVS

There is more than one way to use an RV, and we’ve seen how creative RV owners are getting with theirs. Some use them as guest quarters on their property, some use the extra space to work from home, and some even list them on Airbnb.

F il e

ph

ot

o

62 | RVTODAY.COM

Read more in issue #15 of RV Today

While in previous years, RV travelers prioritized bucket-list trips and visited crowded tourist destinations, it seems that might be changing in 2024. RV travelers are looking for peace and quiet, away from the crowds. They want to feel rested and refreshed during and after vacation. Travelers also enjoy the benefits and control that RV travel brings when compared to traveling by plane.

Source: RV Share’s 2024 Travel Trend Report

Bigger isn’t always better, especially when it comes to towing. There are many reasons why smaller RVs appeal to travelers—they’re easily towable by many SUVs, they’re easier to maneuver, and they have more options for parking and storage.

Manufacturers are catering to these preferences, and it is reflected in the 2024 lineups.

Keystone RV is building more fifth wheels for 2024 under 8,000 pounds than they ever have before, including their Cougar Sport—a smaller, lighter version of their popular New 2024 Shasta Compact brand that still retains all the features that customers love best. Keystone’s new models, with a starting dry weight of 3,000 pounds, are opening up options for possible new tow vehicles with lower capacities.

Shasta also showed off their new Compact model at Forest River’s fall open house. It has all the comforts of a home on wheels in the cutest little package.

Forest River

RESTORATIVE TRAVEL

SMALLER FLOOR PLANS

Courtesy Keystone RV

ATTENTIVE FEATURES Cortni Armstrong of The Flipping Nomad sets the stage for outside-the-box thinking for attentive features that can be built into RVs. Her custom 2024 Fuzion 425 features built-in dog beds, an appliance garage, a residential bathtub, built-in bathroom trash storage, and more.

Although Cortni’s rig is one-of-a-kind, you’ll find similarly thoughtful features in many RVs currently on the market, including a builtin hamper in the new Keystone Montana 3857BR and a special compartment for CPAP storage in Heartland’s Prowler, as well as a hidden storage mantle in their new Corterra. Another great example is Ember’s built-in wheel chock and true four-wheel independent suspension system (as opposed to tandem axles) with a CURT trailing arm suspension system.

What’s your favorite new feature or trend?

Tell us at rvtoday.com/feedback for your chance to be featured in an upcoming issue of RV Today.

RV TODAY | 63

istockphoto.com/DS70

10 SOUTH MUST-SEE

DAKOTA DESTINATIONS

By Stan and Rhonda Wijnhamer

I

N SPRING OF 2023, we took an adventure to South Dakota, and it was an amazing trip! The state is best known for the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, but that’s far from the only reason to visit. Here is a glimpse of our itinerary and the 10 destinations we feel are the best of South Dakota.

Custer State Park

1. WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK

We started our journey at the Hot Springs SD / Black Hills KOA Holiday, which we chose for its proximity to Wind Cave National Park.

From the visitor center, we took the Natural Entrance Tour. This ranger-led tour lasts 1 hour and 15 minutes, is 2/3 of a mile long, and has 300 stairs. Throughout the cave, you’ll see a honeycomb pattern called boxwork.

This is one of the only places where you can see these rare formations.

Further inside the park, the scenic Highway 87 will take you over the historic Beaver Creek Bridge. This deck arch bridge was built in 1929 to provide travelers access to the newly-developed Custer State Park.

Rankin Ridge Nature Trail will lead you to the highest point in the park. On a clear day, you can see Badlands National Park from the top of this 1-mile loop. For safety reasons, the fire tower is no longer open to the public. If you have mobility issues, you can take the dirt road to the right of the trailhead to the top.

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2. WALL DRUG STORE

istock.com/Solange_Z

If you’re traveling to Badlands National Park, be sure to stop at Wall Drug. This store became a success by offering free ice water to weary travelers. With 76,000 square feet of shops and restaurants, including an operating drug store, Wall Drug serves the small town of Wall, as well as visiting tourists. It’s a must-stop along Interstate 90, and you can still get a free glass of ice water. Don’t forget to ride the jackalope!

3. BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK

From Wall Drug, we traveled south on SD 240 toward Badlands National Park. We took a quick detour to see the nearby dispersed camping area, where you can camp for free on public land that sits atop cliffs of the Badlands. This area, sometimes referred to as The Wall at Badlands National Park or Badlands Boondocking Area, has become a very popular place for RV boondockers. Free camping is allowed here for a maximum of 14 days between May 15 and November 15.

We continued to the Pinnacles Entrance Station and drove Badlands Loop Road. This scenic road covers 31 miles through the buttes, cliffs, and multi-colored spires of the park. We stopped at overlooks and viewed wildlife along the way.

We hiked Notch Trail, the most popular trail in the park. It travels through the canyons of the Badlands to the base of a 50-foot log ladder ascending up the side

of a cliff. At the top, you walk along the ridge of the sandstone. This trail is 1.5 miles and takes about 1.5 hours.

We brought our lunch with us and stopped at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, which has a picnic area with tables. We feel Badlands National Park can easily be done in a day.

4. CUSTER STATE PARK

Our next camping destination was Blue Bell Campground in Custer State Park. This was our favorite campground in South Dakota.

Custer State Park is great for outdoor enthusiasts. Covering 71,000 acres in the Black Hills, there is literally something for everyone. Here are the must-dos in our opinion: Wildlife Loop Road is an 18-mile loop through the prairie dog towns and the ponderosa pine-covered hills. You’re almost certain to encounter pronghorn, deer, elk, coyotes, prairie dogs, burros, and many of the 1,350 bison that call this park home.

Needles Highway takes you through the pinnacles and through two historic tunnels—Iron Creek and Needles Eye. These tunnels are not made for large recreational vehicles, so only one vehicle at a time can enter while opposing traffic waits. Along the scenic highway, you can stop and hike the moderate 1.6-mile Cathedral Spires Trail and view the Needles Eye rock formation. Also, don’t miss hiking or kayaking at Sylvan Lake.

Mount Coolidge Lookout Tower, built in the 1930s, is the highest point in the park. The observation deck gives 360-degree views of the Black Hills. It is still used as a fire tower lookout today.

If you like to ride bikes, there are plenty of options. We rode our e-mountain bikes on the back roads and came across some wildlife. We also rode Grace Coolidge Fishing Area Trail, where we jumped 14 stream crossings, and Grace Coolidge Creekside Trail, where we ran into bighorn sheep right along the trail.

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5. MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL

Iron Mountain Road is another one-of-a-kind scenic byway. This 17-mile historic road has three tunnels framing Mount Rushmore in the distance, three pigtail bridges, two splits, and 314 curves. The bookends are Custer State Park and Mount Rushmore.

Though controversial, the Mount Rushmore National Memorial sculpture is an extraordinary sight.

If you choose to visit, don’t miss the 0.6-mile Presidential Trail that takes you directly underneath the presidents’ heads. Educational material is available inside the exhibit hall, the Sculptor’s Studio, and the theater. From late May to the end of September, a patriotic lighting ceremony is held nightly.

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6. HILL CITY

Our next RV stay was at Mount Rushmore KOA Resort at Palmer Gulch in Hill City. With plenty to do, this resort is a destination in itself, and it’s also centrally located to many attractions.

We loved riding our bikes on the Mickelson Trail from Hill City to Mystic. This section has been hailed as the most beautiful part of this 109-mile trail, which is a Rails-to-Trails Hall of Fame inductee.

Hill City is home to the 1880 Train, a steam locomotive that travels through the Black Hills to the Keystone depot. Enjoy your day exploring all Keystone has to offer.

8. JEWEL CAVE NATIONAL MONUMENT

If you have to choose between Wind Cave or Jewel Cave, choose Jewel Cave. We took the Scenic Tour, with 734 stairs (40 flights of stairs) in a 1/2-mile loop, which took 1.5 hours. Jewel Cave is one of the longest caves in the world, and the sheer beauty of this cave is a jewel in itself. They also have a shorter tour, the Discovery Tour, which is good for those with mobility issues.

7. CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL

The Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to the Lakota leader, will be the largest mountain carving in the world once it’s finished. We took a bus to the base of the memorial and stood amazed at the enormity of this work of art. The memorial has been under construction for 75 years, and there is no end date in sight.

10 SOUTH DAKOTA MUST-SEE

DESTINATIONS

Check as you go!

1. Wind Cave National Park 2. Wall Drug Store 3. Badlands National Park 4. Custer State Park 5. Mount Rushmore National Memorial 6. Hill City 7. Crazy Horse Memorial

Spearfish Falls

9. SPEARFISH

Our final RV camping destination was Spearfish / Black Hills KOA Holiday. This KOA is conveniently located near the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway.

Along this byway, you will encounter three main waterfalls— Bridal Veil Falls, Spearfish Falls, and Roughlock Falls. Be sure to keep your eyes open for mountain goats! This 19-mile route will take you through some of the most scenic and panoramic views of the Black Hills, and will lead you to the historic city of Deadwood.

10. DEADWOOD

Deadwood is known for its gold rush history. It’s also known as the place where Wild Bill Hickok was murdered and buried at Mount Moriah Cemetery. Alongside Wild Bill Hickok’s grave is that of the famous Calamity Jane, who was known as a sharpshooter and storyteller. Deadwood offers outdoor concerts, museums, reenactments, and plenty of casinos.

You’ll love the history in this small town, so plan to spend plenty of time there.

8. Jewel Cave National Monument 9. Spearfish 10. Deadwood Notes:

Stan and Rhonda are retired RVers traveling the country in a Grand Design Imagine 2500RL. Find them on Instagram and YouTube @overthehilladventures.

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RVING THE ICONIC

Pacific Coast Highway

By Bill and Frances Hamblin

T

HE PACIFIC COAST Highway (PCH) is one of the most iconic drives in America. It takes you through beautiful beaches, misty rainforests, towering redwoods, rocky bluffs, windswept sand dunes, quaint towns, and bustling cities, with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean from the mostly two-lane highway. It can be intimidating, but with planning, the drive is one that shouldn’t be missed.

When we started researching a coastal road trip, it became clear that there weren’t many resources aimed at the RV community. We formulated a plan and completed the drive over the course of four months starting in August 2022, camping at 16 stops along the way to explore each

distinct area. Only certain areas of California’s State Route 1 are technically designated as the Pacific Coast Highway, but the term is often used to refer to the entire coastal drive. Our route was 1,620 miles starting on U.S. Route 101 in Olympia, Washington, up into the Olympic Peninsula, down to Oregon, and then all the way south through California, bouncing between the 101 and State Route 1 to San Diego. Driving north to south kept us on the side of the road closest to the ocean, which we think offers the best views.

WEATHER A benefit of driving north to south in the fall was staying ahead of rainy weather, which can cause slides and washouts. Check the weather and DOT websites in advance for road closures, and explore detour options.

Closures can sometimes last months, so don’t assume the whole road will be open! Thankfully, we stayed well ahead of closures and were able to drive straight through.

ROAD RESTRICTIONS Our rig is a 25-foot travel trailer towed by a full-size pickup, putting our overall length at 52 feet. Length restrictions in California limit overall vehicle length to a maximum of 65 feet.

Motorhomes are capped at 45 feet, with some sections limited to 40 feet or shorter.

The highway includes multiple tunnels, all tall enough to accommodate any modern-day RV. There are propane restrictions through some tunnels, but these are mostly aimed at commercial vehicles. Still, be sure to refer to the DOT websites to ensure you’re aware of any restrictions that might apply to you.

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW There are sections that feel narrower than others, and there are plenty of hairpin turns.

Other drivers on the road were gracious and gave us time and space to make our way through the curves.

Navigation systems will continually direct you off PCH in favor of major highways, so be sure to review your route in advance. Fuel stops are readily available, even in remote areas, but they are small, so be prepared for that. Expect to pay more for fuel in smaller coastal towns.

Washington Washington’s Olympic Peninsula is home to many historic forts that protected the Puget Sound waterways. Fort Flagler Historical State Park offers camping right on the beach along with access to the gun emplacements. Further along the coast, Port Angeles affords views of Victoria, British Columbia, across the Strait of Juan de Fuca; and the Salt Creek Recreation Area is home to miles of trails.

The beaches slowly fade to temperate rainforest as you skirt the west side of Olympic National Forest. Staying on the 101 south of Forks, you get your first glimpse of the Pacific Ocean, your near-constant companion for the rest of the journey. But the views of the Pacific will be short-lived at this point.

Heading inland, you’ll travel through towering trees and forest as you make your way over the Columbia River and into Astoria.

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Oregon Astoria, where “The Goonies” was filmed, is also the terminus of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, so there are multiple museums dedicated to the subject. The Columbia River Maritime Museum offers insight into the importance of the Columbia River and its treacherous nature. The area is riddled with shipwrecks, including the Peter Iredale, which is accessible onshore.

Continuing your way down the coast, you’ll come through the small town of Tillamook, home to some big cheese. The Tillamook Creamery is open daily for tours and tastings. The Blue Heron French Cheese Company, one of many artisanal cheesemakers in the area, is a Harvest Hosts location, so RVers with a membership can camp on their property.

Moving south will put you in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, one of the largest coastal sand dunes in the world. Take a guided buggy tour to learn about the history and future outlook of the dunes. In Florence, the Heceta Head Lighthouse is a must-see. Perched atop the craggy coast, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

Humbug Mountain State Park in Port Orford offers year-round camping, with a trail running under Highway 101 that leads to a sandy beach. This park is great for enjoying sunsets and the sounds of the Oregon Coast.

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Northern California Crescent City sits just over the border and offers camping under the redwoods.

The Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is just minutes from town. Howland Hill Road, a one-way dirt road through the park, has trailheads and walking paths to admire these giant ancient trees.

Northern California has arguably the twistiest section of the entire coastal drive. The 44-mile section between Leggett and Fort Bragg is still completely drivable with an RV. Leggett is also the start of California Highway 1, and where your route will leave the 101 as you head back to the coast.

From there, you’re treated to the little town of Fort Bragg. Glass Beach, the former site of a 1950s-era trash dump, is now a tourist site where you'll see multi-colored glass, worn smooth by the waves and rocks.

Continuing south toward San Francisco, the road leading up to the Golden Gate Bridge was just as twisty as the Leggett to Fort Bragg stretch, but with more traffic and cyclists to navigate.

The town of Pacifica, 15 miles south of downtown San Francisco, offered a great base for exploring the Bay Area while staying in a beach town with a surf vibe. Take a walk on Devil’s Slide Trail, a closed section of the old Highway 1.

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Central California You’ll get more of that surfing vibe as you roll into Santa Cruz, with its boardwalk, laid-back attitude, and surf and skateboard culture, but the sophistication turns up a notch as you enter Monterey. Take the 17-mile drive through Pebble Beach to see the famous golf course and mansions, and check out the Monterey Bay Aquarium, with its regional focus and exhibits, as well as Ivy, the sea otter.

Less than an hour south is Big Sur. Bordered by the ragged cliffs of the coast and the rustic Santa Lucia mountains, Big Sur is filled with state parks, hikes, and scenic views. The Bixby Bridge and McWay Falls are two bucket list stops.

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Southern California The 21 miles of Malibu coast offer stunning views of homes perched on bluffs overlooking the Pacific. Malibu Creek State Park was used for films such as “M*A*S*H” and “Planet of the Apes,” and has many hiking trails.

When you get to Los Angeles, drive down Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills and check out the sights and shops.

About 150 miles south of LA is San Diego, the terminus of this journey. It’s steeped in naval history, so be sure to visit the USS Midway Museum. Explore Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre park in the middle of the city, with 17 museums as well as the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Check out Little Italy, which has an incredible food scene including multiple Italian grocers and pasta makers.

If driving PCH has ever been on your bucket list, don’t be discouraged by warnings of the narrow, twisty roads.

Was it stressful? A little bit! Was it worth it? Absolutely.

For more about each stop, including videos, find Bill and Frances on Instagram @ramblin_hamblins.

BOONDOCKING Red Mountain Drive Gunnison National Forest near Almont, CO 38.92684, -106.59215

This remote area of Colorado is in the Gunnison National Forest’s Taylor Park Reservoir, and it is the perfect getaway.

Colorado Road 742 around the lake is paved and turns into a well-maintained gravel road as you progress into the dispersed camping areas.

Taylor Park is a nature lover’s dream. There are ample hiking and mountain biking trails, fishing spots, and OHV adventures within a 10-minute drive. You can also visit Crested Butte, one of America’s most charming mountain towns, nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.

This spot is known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and world-class outdoor recreation opportunities.

There’s water (via hand pump) at the Rivers End Campground.

Also, you will find the Taylor Park Trading Post near the reservoir; they have a limited supply of groceries, camping supplies, and necessities. One nice part about the Trading Post is that you can have packages delivered there. We did not find a dump station. Be advised there is no cell service in the area, but we were able to stay connected with Starlink.

Red Mountain Drive dispersed camping area has become one of our favorite free campsites in the country.

By Kyle and Michelle Shore @thewanderingshores

BOONDOCKING Tripod Meadow

Valley County, ID 44.29905, -116.12260

In the 1970s, my parents took us to Tripod Meadow to camp and fish most weekends during the summer. I even broke my first bone riding dirt bikes there. I wanted to go back at least once in my adult life, and I’m glad I did.

There is so much beauty in Tripod Meadow—a small brook runs down the center loaded with brook trout, the stars are bright, and there is so much peace and tranquility.

There are plenty of spots, suitable for big rigs all the way to tent camping.

There are also many lakes within 30 miles. The city of Cascade, where you can get whatever you need, is roughly 30 minutes away.

Plenty of activities are available, including off-roading, hiking, and fishing, as well as just enjoying the beauty of the surrounding mountains. The location is easy to get to, so you can set up camp and let the adventures begin.

By Earl H. McCreary

GEAR GUIDE

MOUNTAIN 1. GREEN SMOKER "Great for boondocking. You can smoke or grill and it runs off 12-volt DC." Submitted by reader @earl_h_mccreary

2. SEASUCKER SHOWER CADDY

SeaSucker's Shower Caddy has a unique handle that unsnaps. Move it to the top for toting it across the campground, or to the bottom for use as a towel bar. The integrated vacuum mount holds 120 pounds and mounts virtually anywhere, including the side of the car, so it's perfect for overlanding.

WATER 3. 12V KETTLE

This 12-volt water kettle, paired with instant coffee, is a portable way to get your coffee fix during a long day on the road—because you can't exactly tow through a drive-through.

TETON SPORTS 4.SLEEPING TWO-PERSON BAG

Rated for zero-degree weather, this two-person sleeping bag makes total comfort during cold-weather camping possible. It's also great to have on hand at home in case of winter power outages.

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SPORTS 5. TETON SLEEPING BAG LINER Here's a camping hack: Adding a liner to your sleeping bag adds an extra 10 degrees of warmth.

Try this one!

12-VOLT 6. BOUGERV REFRIGERATOR

Say bye-bye to bags of ice with this 12-volt refrigerator, which also doubles as a freezer. Gain extra cold food storage space, or simply leave it in your vehicle for road trip days.

7. PORTABLE OVEN

Yes, it's a portable oven you can use on the road! This is perfect for cooking or heating up a dish so you can log more miles.

8. CAMPING TOWELS

Because regular towels take up too much space and take too long to dry, check out this camping towel—complete with its own carrying case.

VACUUM 9. CAR CLEANER

Keep this car vacuum cleaner on hand for quick clean-ups!

10. BATTERY TENDER

This device charges and maintains the battery for your car, truck, or SUV. It's perfect for when you're away snowbirding, or if you've just drained your battery too far. It plugs into the wall.

Have a product you love and want to share? Tell us about it!

Visit rvtoday.com/products for a chance to have your product review featured in an upcoming issue of RV Today.

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EVENTS

Upcoming RV Events and Rallies Stay connected with fellow RVers at these events.

Visit rvtoday.com/rv-rallies for more information.

Rainbow RV’s Zion Memorial Weekend National Parks Rally May 24–26 Zion, UT

JANUARY

MARCH

Progressive NCRVDA Greensboro RV Show January 4-7 Greensboro, NC

Airstream Club’s Rollin to the Big Easy Caravan March 3–15 Kinder, LA

Florida RV SuperShow January 17-21 Tampa, FL

Virginia RV Expo at Hampton Roads March 8–10 Hampton, VA

International Sportsmen’s Expo January 18–21 Sacramento, CA

New Hampshire RV Show March 22–24 Bedford, NH

Tampa Bay Summer RV Show June 6–9 Tampa, FL

The Kansas City RV Show January 25–28 Kansas City, MO

APRIL

New England Grand Design Rally June 19–23 Foxboro, MA

FEBRUARY Peace, Love, and Vans Florida February 16–19 Dade City, FL RV and Boat Main Sales Event February 23–25 Oshkosh, WI Escapees RV Club’s North to Alaska Adventure Aurora Borealis February 25–March 2 Fairbanks, AK

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Grand Design RV Owners Texas Eclipse Rally April 5–8 Waco, TX Airstream Club’s Eclipse Rally April 6–9 Lampasas, TX NorCal RV Group Round-Up April 25–28 Hollister, CA

MAY Escapees RV Club’s Alaska Cruise and Land Adventure HOP May 17–29 Vancouver, BC

RVing Women’s Mid-Atlantic Chapter May 30–June 2 Lancaster, PA

JUNE

Airstream Club’s Viking Trail Caravan June 23–August 20 Little Bras D’Or, Nova Scotia, Canada

Events listed are a courtesy to our readers, with dates and details subject to change. For more information, contact the event organizers directly.

To have your event listed, please visit rvtoday.com/submit-event

RV YESTERDAY

Camping at Indiana Dunes State Park in the 1930s.

Photo credit: C. R. Childs Company (circa 1930s). Camping at Indiana Dunes State Park, circa 1930s - Chesterton, Indiana [Photograph]. Wikimedia Commons, Steven R. Shook collection.

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A collection of smaller, lighter and more affordable RVs designed for today’s owners who want to get back to camping basics without sacrificing the features they love.

Welcome to RVing Within Reach.

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