GONE GLAMPING 2021 by Southern Lakes Newspapers

2021 SUMMER CAMPING GUIDE

GO RVING TRAVEL HACKS

Published by Southern Lakes Newspapers

CAMPING SAFETY

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

How to make camper travel more comfortable The open road beckons millions of people across the globe every year. People’s idea of the ideal getaway varies depending on the individual, but few can deny the appeal of a road trip that allows travelers to move at their own pace. Campers can give road trips a more liberating feel. When taking to the road in a camper, drivers are not beholden to checkout times or many of the other restrictions that can govern how people spend their time on vacation. Campers may not have all the creature comforts of a five-star hotel room, but travelers can take steps to make their campers more comfortable.

• Furnish the floors Few drivers give much thought to the floors in their cars and trucks. But camper floors deserve a little more attention. Camper rugs and runners can ensure your first step out of bed in the morning isn’t a

frigid one. Many camper carpets and runners are built to withstand heavy traffic and take on all the dirt your hiking boots track in after a day enjoying the great outdoors. Custommade carpets and runners may be a tad expensive, but budget-conscious travelers can find durable mats to warm their toes each morning for around $20.

• Take stock of the mattress Much like that fold up cot that only comes out of the closet when your in-laws visit, a camper mattress is an afterthought until drivers go to bed on the first night of their trips, only to remember their factoryinstalled mattress is less than welcoming. Upgrading a factory camper mattress won’t cost as much as replacing the mattress on the bed inside your home. In fact, the most popular RV mattress sold by the custom mattress retailers at MattressInsider will cost travelers less than

• Warm it up Weather is unpredictable, and that can make nights in a camper uncomfortable. A portable camper/RV space heater can help travelers combat cold nights when the mercury unexpectedly dips. Most portable electric space heaters are compact, meaning they won’t take up much space inside the camper cabin. The market for portable camper heaters is flooded, so drivers may want to spend some time researching all their options before purchasing a new heater. Some heaters feature an adjustable thermostat. Safety features like overheat protection and cool-touch exteriors can provide some added peace of mind when going to bed at night.

Campers may not be made for comfort. But travelers can take various steps to make their campers more comfortable prior to hitting the open road. STOCK PHOTO Gone Glamping

$1,000. That’s an investment well worth making for the promise of a more restful night’s sleep on the road.

(METRO CREATIVE)

Be prepared&stay safe

National Park Service offers campsite safety tips

Camping is a great way to get away. Campers of all skill and experience levels can make the most of their trips by emphasizing safety at all times. STOCK PHOTO Gone Glamping

That no doubt inspired new generations of camping fans, many of whom will continue to pitch their tents and sit around campfires long after the pandemic has ended. The National Park Service recognizes the popularity of camping and urges people to stay safe. Veteran campers and novices alike can benefit from reviewing these safety tips, courtesy of the NPS.

• Plan ahead

find the best deals on flights and hotels. But camping trips still require ample planning. When planning a trip, take into account who’s coming along. Assess their camping skills and physical fitness to determine the most appropriate place to camp. Campers with limited mobility may be best suited for accessible campsites. The NPS urges campers to consider if everyone in the group will be able to make a long hike from the parking lot to the campsite. If

Camping trips may not require hours of scouring travel websites in an effort to

2021 Camping Guide A publication of Southern

Lakes Newspapers LLC 1102 Ann St., Delavan, WI 53115

(262) 728-3411

EDITOR:..............................................................................Tracy Ouellette CREATIVE/PRODUCTION DIRECTOR:..............................Heidi Schulz PAGE DESIGNER:................................................................ Jen DeGroot ADVERTISING DIRECTOR:......................................... Vicki Vanderwerff

• CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

On the cover: RVing is gaining in popularity with the camping crowd. RV sales and rentals have skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Families of all sizes are taking to the road this summer in search of a great vacation.

FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES: Call (262) 725-7701 ext. 134

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

The appeal of camping is undeniable. According to The Business Research Company, a market research and intelligence company, the global camping and caravanning market is expected to grow from just under $40 billion in 2020 to more than $45 billion in 2021. Estimates suggest the market will grow even more in the coming years, reaching $56.6 billion by 2025. Camping has long been a popular pastime for outdoor enthusiasts, but it may have developed an entirely new group of devotees in 2020. Traditional vacations may not have been possible in 2020, when governments across the globe urged citizens to avoid conventional travel as the world found itself in the throes of a global pandemic. In an effort to overcome cabin fever, many people viewed camping as a safe way to get out of the house while still limiting contact with people from other households.

RV dealer rides the wave

BURLINGTON RV SUPERSTORE STEPS UP AS DEMAND RISES by Jason Arndt STAFF WRITER

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Burlington RV Superstore, of Sturtevant, has experienced a surge in demand of recreational vehicles since the COVID-19 pandemic started more than a year ago. Bob Jankowski, sales manager, said the soaring sales came after some brief uncertainty starting in 2020 when the pandemic first came up. “When this started, we were worried, as everybody was, what is this going to look like,” he said. Since then, however, Burlington RV Superstore, which originated in Burlington, has seen an unprecedented influx of new customers looking to dive into the RV lifestyle. Burlington RV, in late spring, had 55 recreational vehicles available for sale and another 110 waiting for delivery. To keep up with demand, and to

replenish inventory, Burlington RV has ordered about 700 total units. “Things have exploded, so the demand right now for first time campers is the highest we have ever seen, all of the way from the lightweight travel trailers all the way up to big Class A motorhomes,” Jankowski said. He attributes the influx to customers, including young people, looking for a safe outdoor activity with family. The demand, meanwhile, comes on the heels of an industrywide surge in manufacturing and delivering recreational vehicles to dealers such as Burlington RV. The RV Industry Association, according to a quarterly report released in March, surveyed manufacturers and reported more recreational vehicles arrived at dealerships in March than any prior single month on record. The 54,291 wholesale RV units shipped

this past March is an increase of 5% from the previous record set in March 2018. The March shipments bring the total RV shipments in the first quarter of 2021 to a record-breaking 148,507 units. “Over the past year, many Americans have rediscovered the great outdoors and the desire to get outside and live an active outdoor lifestyle. And many of these same people also discovered for the first time that an RV is the perfect way to get the most out of the great outdoors,” said RV Industry Association President and CEO Craig Kirby in a March announcement. “What our members have accomplished over the past year has been incredible. They overcame challenges presented by the pandemic and delivered a record number of RVs.” The challenges, according the RV Industry Association, included manufacturers pausing operations for nearly two months as the nation came to grips with the pandemic in early 2020. While manufacturing resumed, some supply challenges remain, mainly because of rising building costs. “The demand is great, but as you are seeing in the building industry, these are just like building homes on wheels – wood, appliances, furniture is very tough to get,” • CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

Burlington RV Superstore offers customers many camping options, ranging from trailers to full-sized motorhome style recreational vehicles, at its Sturtevant facility. JASON ARNDT Gone Glamping

Kunes grows with RV industry

FIRM KNOWN FOR CARS NOW HAS EIGHT RV DEALERSHIPS by Heather Ruenz

Buying an RV can be an overwhelming task, and one of the easiest mistakes to make is to show up at a dealership and start shopping without doing a little homework, according to a blog on Kunes’ RV website. “Sure, this may be fun, but you’ll quickly realize that there are hundreds of different makes and models… add to that the everincreasing number of floor plans available in each model and your options are literally limitless,” it states. In an effort to make the shopping part easier on customers, the blog shares a list of the main types of RVs and a brief summary about each type. • Class A motorhome – resembles a bus with a flat, vertical front, measuring between 30 and 40 feet in length and recognized as top of the line; • Class B motorhome – known as the “van camper,” an RV built on a van chassis with the roof raised. Although small, it has a bathroom, • CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

Kunes RV in Elkhorn offers a wide selection of RVs, trailers and campers as well as service. Though they’re not quite as busy as they were last year at this time, General Manager Scott Remer said things are going well overall and the camping industry is continuing to grow, which bodes well for RV sales.

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

Get to know the types of RVs

started the company with Kunes Country Ford Lincoln in Delavan in 1996. Over the years, the company has grown to 30-plus Kunes has long had a presence in automotive sales and service in Wisconsin automotive and RV dealerships. A variety of new RVs and campers and Illinois, and now has numerous RV are available at Kunes RV in Elkhorn – dealerships that sell and service a wide including travel trailers and fifth wheels selection of RVs, trailers and campers. Coming off a great year for the industry – that range in price from about $20,000 to more than $100,000. as a whole, Scott Remer, general manager On the used side of things, the current of Kunes RV of Elkhorn, said sales aren’t lowest priced unit is a 2011 model listed quite at the level they were last year but for just under $16,000 while the highest are solid nonetheless. priced used unit is $36,000-plus. “Things are going really well. We’re Remer said there are many benefits not quite as busy as last year but we are on pace and see it being this way well into to owning an RV, which is like a second home to many. this year,” he said. “If you hook yourself up with a great Remer said the revitalization the pandemic brought to the camping industry dealer who will help you get a unit that will work for you and your family, and is still prevalent. “It’s a new lifestyle because of COVID, keep you traveling, it’s a great thing,” he which again taught people how much fun it said. can be, the great times with family it offers For those interested, Kunes’ website and the traveling that comes along with it,” contains complete listings of new and used inventory as well as a form customers can he said. Remer, who has been in the industry for submit to learn the approximate value if they were to trade in their current RV or 25-plus years, said he doesn’t see things camper. leveling off for some time. There is a tow rating guide on the “Camping is continuing to grow and campgrounds are exploding. Plus, families website as well, which is designed to help consumers understand the tow rating that go RV-ing or camping pass the capacity for their vehicle based on year, enjoyment and passion along to the next make and model. generation and so it carries on. Our hope Kunes RV has a wide selection of rental is that it continues to be that way and we units available, including some motorized think it will,” Remer said. Kunes is family owned as Gregg Kunes • CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 STAFF WRITER

HEATHER RUENZ Gone Glamping

KUNES

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RV options, beginning as low as $140 a night. “Our friendly staff can help you find the perfect RV for you and your family,” the website states. “Whether you’re looking for a travel trailer, fifth wheel, toy hauler, or motorhome – we can help you find the perfect fit for your family, lifestyle, and budget.” Kunes RV is at 9 Deere Rd., Elkhorn. Until early June, an alternate route may be required to visit Kunes RV due to construction on the Highway 67 overpass at Interstate 43 in Elkhorn. The RV dealership can be accessed from downtown Elkhorn and those traveling from the north on I-43 can exit at Highway 67. People traveling from the south, however, are temporarily not able to cross the bridge on Highway 67 so are advised to continue to the west Highway 12 “Madison” exit and then immediately loop back onto the I-43 south ramp. From there exit at Highway 67 to visit Kunes. Kunes makes an effort to not only serve its customers – with their automotive and RV needs – but also serve the communities where the company has dealerships, according to management. “Our mission is of course to deliver exceptional customer service, but also to serve our communities well in the form of projects, promotions support, donations and wherever else is needed,” the website states. Sales hours are Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The service department is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Other Kunes RV dealerships can be found in Green Bay, La Crosse, Neenah, Sheboygan, Slinger, Stoughton – all in Wisconsin, as well as a store in Monmouth, Illinois. For more information, call 262-723-2260 or visit kunesrvelkhorn.com.

GET TO KNOW

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stove, sink, mini-fridge and bed (that often doubles as a dinette during the day); • Class C motorhome – instantly recognizable as the RV is built on a truck chassis and the cab covered by an overhang. The luxury of the larger class motorhomes at a smaller price point; • Fifth wheel – can stretch in size from 25 to 45 feet with numerous options and floor plans. Offers the most spacious “living area” for its size; • Travel trailer – the No. 1 selling RV type in the history of the industry, ranging in size from 10 to 35 feet, can be towed by a vehicle most people already have. Considered by some as an apartment on wheels; • Pop-up trailer – also known as a tent trailer or folddown camper, it encompasses the novelty of tent camping with the conveniences of an RV and features beds in slideouts, a table (that often collapses to another bed), a small kitchen and there are many upgrades available; • Truck camper – mounted on the bed of a pick-up truck so compact yet spacious with the conveniences of a toilet, shower and cooking facilities. Also allows the option of towing a small boat or trailer at the same time; • Park models are also worth mentioning – a compromise between a house and an RV, these units are typically placed on rented, leased or purchased sites in campgrounds, RV resorts, etc. They often come standard with sliding patio doors, residential cabinets, full size appliances, a washer and dryer. They’re also bigger inside with 8-foot ceilings, and usually have better insulation and energy efficiency.

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said Jankowski. “It has been hard for manufacturers to keep up, they are doing the best they can.”

Unprecedented customer influx Jankowski touts Burlington RV Superstore as the top RV dealer in the state for several years and among the best 50 in the nation. For Jankowski, seeing an influx of new customers is a new experience for him, adding many first-time buyers, notably younger customers, are seeking lighter weight RVs. “Customers, especially younger customers, are always looking for that starter camper, that lighter camper that is anywhere from 20 feet or less,” he said. “The great thing is the manufacturers are responding by making their products lighter and lighter.” At Burlington RV, according to Jankowski, sales associates often offer customers – both old and new – an orientation on their recreational vehicle before taking them home or in the outdoors. “When you buy from us, we give you a full orientation,” he said. “You will get a 2-1/2 to 3-hour training on it.” However, since manufacturers are still fulfilling orders, Jankowski stressed

Sales Manager Bob Jankowski, of Burlington RV Superstore, stands behind a kitchen sink inside a Grand Design branded recreational vehicle. The Grand Design brand, which is a Momentum model, consists of a living room, garage for an ATV, bedroom, extra sleeping space, bathroom and other amenities. JASON ARNDT Gone Glamping

patience because delivery takes time amid an increased demand. “If you ordered a unit that is not inventory right now, you are going to be looking at anywhere from two to three months, best case scenario, to get an RV,” he said.

Established record Burlington RV Superstore, according to its website, started in 1963 as Burlington Camping and LP Gas Service as a pop-up rental service on the Burlington farm of owners Russ and Pat Wegge. Since then, Burlington RV Superstore has grown by leaps, and eventually moved to Sturtevant about 15 years ago to allow travelers easier access along Interstate 94. Tim and Brenda Wegge, secondgeneration owners, said Burlington RV touts decades of service as well as several

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not, choose a site that you can pull right up to or is just a short, easy walk from the parking lot.

• Research the campsite Know as much as possible about the campsite and surrounding area prior to embarking on your trip. Learn about everything from the local wildlife you may encounter while camping to the condition of surrounding areas, including the altitude, the difficulty of nearby hiking trails and where to go in case of emergency.

• Develop an emergency plan • Bring the right gear The NPS urges campers to develop an emergency plan, noting that it’s always wise to expect the unexpected when camping. Bring a first aid kid along when leaving the campsite to engage in activities like hiking or fishing. Go over safety protocols before going on a hike, including the need to stay together and remain on the trail at all times. More information about what to do should anyone be injured during your trip is available at www.nps.gov.

The NPS notes that each camping trip will have its own equipment needs, which will be dictated by the setting, the time of year of the trip, the difficulty of the terrain, and the duration of the trip. Navigational supplies, sun and insect protection, insulation (i.e., extra clothing and blankets), shelter, flashlights and headlamps, first aid kits, extra food and water, firestarters, repair kits and tools, and a communication device like a smartphone or satellite phone are the essential necessities that should be brought along on all camping trips. (METRO CREATIVE)

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

SAFETY TIPS

brands for customers to choose from. “After more than 50 years of helping thousands of people’s dreams come true, we represent many of the best brands that you can find in the market,” they wrote on its website. “We are a bigger dealer that enjoys doing business in a small town way.” Jankowski said Burlington RV Superstore has been a Jayco dealer since the company’s inception and introduced many other brands ranging from Grand Design as well Forest River brands. Jayco, according to Jankowski, has been among the most popular. Burlington RV Superstore, 390 S. Sylvania Ave., Sturtevant is located off of Highway 20 near Interstate 94 and registers sales 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Cashing in

HOW TO TURN YOUR RV INTO A MONEY-MAKING MACHINE

Have an RV, campervan or trailer sitting idle in your driveway? While you may have originally intended to use your RV throughout the year, a recent study by Go RVing found that most people use their RV only 20 days per year, on average. That means your RV sits unused about 345 days every single year – when it could be making you some serious cash. In the past year, travelers looking for RV rentals have increased exponentially, thereby boosting the wealth potential of your RV. Once you’ve learned how to rent, you could turn your RV into a great side hustle, or even a full-time business. And it’s a lot easier than you think. RVing has become a booming industry over the past decade, with more people enjoying travel on their own terms by either owning or renting an RV. The popular RV rental platform Outdoorsy was already seeing 100% growth in RV rental bookings year-over-year before the pandemic hit, but since the start of COVID-19, interest in RVing has been skyrocketing.

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CAMPING in Comfort

Renting out an RV when it’s not being used can be a great sidehustle. Most RVs sit idle for the majority of the year. Why not capitalize on your investment and earn money on the vehicle instead of having it collect dust. STOCK PHOTO Gone Glamping

summer months.

• Decide when to rent

Use your smartphone to take good photos of your RV, and consider doing a quick video tour as well. Upload your video tour to Vimeo or YouTube and put a link to the video in your listing description. “Stage” your RV with cozy blankets, plants, books or a couple of cups of coffee to make the scene more enticing before taking pics or videos.

First, decide when you want your RV to be available for renting. Your region and climate will play a role in deciding the best weeks or months to make your RV open to renters. Just keep in mind, the more days your RV is available, the more income you can earn – especially during the peak

• Spruce it up Make sure your RV is in great shape. Set yourself up for success by getting your RV up-to-date on all repairs and maintenance, as well as being thoroughly cleaned and ready to go, inside and out.

• Find the best platform The entire rental process is so much easier if you use a platform that does most of the work for you. For example, Outdoorsy.com provides RV owners with an easy-to-use listing portal, free access to listing coaches, as well as necessary insurance, 24/7 customer support, roadside assistance and a thorough vetting of renters – all geared toward making the process as seamless and transparent as possible for RV renters and owners alike.

• Take great photos

• Create a checklist Useful information found in Outdoorsy’s Owner Handbook can help with creating pre- and post-rental checklists. You’ll use these to ensure you’ve covered all of the essentials with your renter, like doing a thorough prerental tour and test drive of the RV to make sure they feel comfortable driving before their trip and to record any damage (or lack thereof) before and after their departure.

• Go the extra mile Being upfront and communicating well with renters throughout the process will help them have a good experience from beginning to end. But just as you would do if you were hosting on Airbnb, consider providing not only essentials like towels, flatware and coffee, but thoughtful perks to make a great impression, like a basket of snacks and a S’mores kit or travel-sized amenities and lawn games. And don’t forget to encourage renters to write a review on your listing page when you thank them for their business. Interested in earning extra income? Learn how to rent out your RV at Outdoorsy.com.

Set yourself up for rental success by updating your RV and making sure all the necessary repairs and maintenance are done. Then, have the RV thoroughly cleaned – inside and out. STOCK PHOTO Gone Glamping

(BPT)

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

More people than ever before are checking out of hotels and into RVing as a great way to travel safely and stay selfcontained in today’s environment, only to discover just how fun it can be to see the country in a whole new way. The platform has seen their bookings increase by more than 300% since the pandemic began, and this surge shows no sign of slowing down. How much can you earn? Income from renting out your RV will vary depending on how long you rent it out, the type of vehicle you own, how many vehicles you own, and where you live. But on average, RV owners listing on Outdoorsy made up to $36,000 per year for each vehicle listed on the platform. The highest grossing owner with a single vehicle made nearly $42,000 in 2020, and the highest grossing owner on the platform with multiple vehicles made nearly $2.4 million. Here are some tips to turn your RV into a top money-maker:

Be prepared before heading out Backpack essentials for road trips and outdoor adventures

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

After more than a year of staying home, people are eager to start exploring places both near and far again. Mother Nature offers ample opportunity for adventure, with outdoor recreation activities to suit every personality. Whether you’re planning a road trip across the country or opting for a local day trip, you can ensure you’re ready for a memorable experience outside by packing wisely.

have, as well as UV-blocking sunglasses. Of course, make sure to add sunscreen to your travel bag and reapply regularly throughout the day. The American Cancer Society recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and reapplying it every two hours, or more frequently when swimming or sweating.

Stay fueled and hydrated

From the beach to the mountains and beyond, having wholesome snacks and drinks on hand helps maintain energy levels so you can fully enjoy any outdoor activity. Pack a reusable water bottle and make sure you have enough to stay hydrated in the summer sun. As for snacks, the best backpack options are easily portable, don’t require refrigeration and are full of protein Use sunscreen and nutrients to keep you satisfied for long periods of time. Few things are better than the smell of A good example is new Nature’s Heart fresh air and the warm feeling of the sun on your skin. However, too much sun can cause Crunch nut cluster snacks, a delicious, sunburn, heat exhaustion or worse. No matter no-sugar-added snack option featuring protein-rich nuts, seeds and beans, with the outdoor activity, it’s important to take three varieties offering 6 grams or more of proper sun protection steps. protein per serving; bold spices bursting with Start by dressing in light layers, which flavor and health benefits; and functional can not only help you stay comfortable as superfoods, all slow-baked together in a temperatures change throughout the day, sugar-free glaze. but also serve as protection from the sun. Each bag is easily packable and Clothing made from cotton is a good option resealable, making them the ideal companion because it is lightweight and breathable. A for outdoor activities, from hiking and hat that protects the eyes and face is a must-

camping to rock climbing and mountain biking. All flavors are non-GMO, Keto certified, certified vegan and gluten-free. Learn more at us.naturesheart.com. “These superfood and nut cluster snacks feature a range of globally-inspired flavors to satisfy every craving,” said Nature’s Heart Co-Founder, David Bermeo. “For warm and spicy with a touch of sweet, try Golden Chai Pecan Crunch. For a fresh, bright and fruity flavor with a touch of Himalayan Pink Salt, the Blueberry Lemon Chia Crunch is sure to please. The Everything Bagel Cashew Crunch is a guilt-free way to enjoy the savory bagel taste you crave.”

Get the gear Comfort is key to enjoying the great outdoors. If your exploration will get you up close to Mother Nature, pack clothing and accessories that are easy to wash if they get dirty. You’ll also need the right apparel, like proper footwear for all day play. Feet may get wet or sweaty, so consider socks made with moisture-wicking wool to avoid blisters. Finally, the flora and fauna are some of the best parts of exploring the world around you, but keep in mind that includes bugs. Avoid wearing strong perfumes or heavily scented deodorants that may attract insects on adventure day and bring your preferred bug repellent in your bag to ward off bites.

From cross-country road trips, to camping, to local day trips, the key to a successful experience is being prepared and packing wisely. STOCK PHOTO Gone Glamping

(BPT)

Upgrade a summer road trip with an RV rental required and the RV insurance is built-in. “RV rentals are a great option for those to experience the RV lifestyle without having to buy an expensive vehicle,” RVshare’s CEO Jon Gray said. “Travelers come to our site to find RVs for a weekend of camping or a multi-week road trip. With a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen all onboard, an RV is essentially a hotel room wherever you want it.” Want to ditch the sedan and upgrade to a motor home? Here are a few tips for renting an RV for first-timers:

Use a trusted site Use a trusted site such as RVshare. com where payments are protected and the owner of the vehicle is verified. RVshare also offers roadside assistance, 24/7 customer service, insurance and other perks to protect your trip and payment.

Have a plan before booking With camping, road tripping and RV travel being in high demand this

summer, campgrounds will get booked up, especially on weekends.

Narrow down the options For a first-time renter, finding the right RV may feel daunting. First, consider the trip type, how many people will be traveling and what the goal of the road trip is. For a couple, a Class B Campervan is a great option for two. A family should look at a Class C driveable RV, which boasts a lot of space but is still maneuverable for those intimidated by big rigs.

Find the best resource When booking with a peer-to-peer platform, the owner is the best resource to answer questions about the vehicle, including what is included, their rules about pets and if the RV is suitable for long road trips. Interested in learning more about how to book an RV rental? Visit RVshare.com.

RVing is a great way to travel, especially with children. Peer-to-peer marketplaces provide potential RV renters with a variety of options. STOCK PHOTO Gone Glamping

(NEWSUSA)

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

An annual road trip is a staple for many American families. Whether plans for visiting relatives, exploring a new destination, or revisiting a favorite vacation spot, loading the car and getting behind the wheel is second nature. But, upgrading a road trip with an RV may be just the ticket to making the next adventure the best one yet. According to Phocuswright’s US Consumer Travel research, almost half of Millennials are interested in renting an RV for a leisure trip within the next 12 months. It may be because hitting the road in an RV is an exciting way to spend time traveling with friends or family on a nature-filled adventure. Don’t have an RV? Thanks to sites such as RVshare, RV rentals are easier to find and book than ever. With more than 100,000 RVs to choose from across the country, the peer-to-peer marketplace has a variety of vehicles with options ranging from a luxury motor home to a confined camper, there is something for everyone at any price point. There is no special license

Travel hacks to keep your family happy Whether you’re on a road trip or plane ride, every parent knows the journey can be a challenge. Long hours waiting or riding can test any kid’s – or parent’s – patience. With a little preparation, however, you can ensure your family (and you) will be happier throughout your trip. “One major challenge can be making sure your family members are well fed and hydrated while you travel, to prevent them from getting ‘hangry’ or resorting to high-sugar, low-nutrient snacks,” says nutritionist Kristin Kirkpatrick, MS, RDN. “Planning snacks and drinks ahead is worth the effort for a happier, healthier trip.” Here are some travel hacks to make the journey almost as much fun as getting to your destination.

• Car hacks The best way to prep for a car trip is planning age-appropriate activities and packing essentials – like snacks and water bottles. Keeping toys reserved only for trips will also make them special, giving kids something to look forward to.

• Drinks and snacks A small cooler can help keep drinks and fruit chilled during your ride. “You’ll also want to pack snacks that aren’t too messy, including some with protein to keep your family fueled up,” says Kirkpatrick. When passing fast food restaurants and candy-filled rest stops that leave your family begging for sweets, Quest Hero Protein Bars can satisfy your family’s desire for a crispy, crunchy and creamy snack. With a satiating 15-18g protein and 1 gram of sugar per bar, they are a perfect sweet treat or snack. Two new flavors have recently been added to their line-up: Cookies and Cream and Chocolate Coconut.

GONE GLAMPING - JULY 2021

• On-the-road games

Some old classics don’t need prep, but a little planning can create new spins on old games to keep them fun and challenging. • Track your map: Print a map of your route and post on the back of the front seats so kids can follow along. Use colored markers to indicate the route and use a dot for snack stops or other locations. At each

stop, have kids mark where you are on the map; • The license plate game: Kids spot license plates of cars to identify the states. They could write them down, or you can create bingo cards with states you’re most likely to see (like neighboring states); and • Scenery bingo: You could also create bingo cards with landmarks or scenery you’ll see on your route.

• Plane hacks The hardest part about plane journeys is waiting at the airport. Planning games and snacks ahead will result in much happier kids once they’re on the plane and distracted by the interesting surroundings (and hopefully views out the window).

• Bring a snack bag Avoid high prices and unhealthy snacking on the plane and in the airport by packing your own snacks in your travel bag. “Snacks can include nuts and dried fruits, whole fruit like a cut-up apple with individual peanut butter packets, Quest Candy Bites or Quest Peanut Butter Cups, which will satisfy all family members,” says Kirkpatrick.

• Pack an empty water bottle It’s easy to dehydrate while flying, and bringing an empty bottle helps avoid the temptation of sugary drinks, giving you the chance to fill up in the airport before you get on the plane.

• Airport and airplane games • I spy. This classic takes no preparation, and many ages can play. One player says, “I spy with my little eye ...” and gives clues about something they can see around them (without staring at it). Everyone else guesses, and the winner is the next to play. This game can also be played in the car. • Continue a story. For longer waits or trips, make up a “continuing story,” taking turns, using something you see around you as inspiration. A parent can model storytelling by starting, “Once upon a time, there was a girl arriving at the airport,” continuing for a few minutes until the next person’s turn. Set a timer to switch to the next storyteller or let someone raise a hand when they have an idea – the rules are up to you! Planning a family trip? Stay #Onaquest and find great travel snack options at QuestNutrition.com.

Keeping kids occupied during a road trip requires some advance planning, a few travel games, and, of course, plenty of snacks. STOCK PHOTO Gone Glamping

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Travel games!

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Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

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