Prepping for Your First Trip of the Season  

 

Spring is here, and with the change of the season comes the desire to take your RV out for your first camping trip of the year. If you have had it in storage, or even just parked in your driveway, you're going to want to do a little prep before you hit the road. These tips will help you ensure that your rig is ready to go for a spring and summer full of camping fun.

1. Consider New Locks

If you haven't changed your locks from the factory-issued models, now is the time to consider doing so. Factory-issued locks are somewhat universal, which means other RV owners can easily get into your RV. This puts your rig and belongings at risk. Protect yourself by upgrading your locks before you hit the road. If you don't want to upgrade, consider at least re-keying your existing locks to make them more secure.

2. Check the Batteries

Make sure your battery has a good charge and will be able to start your RV every time you need it to do so. Any batteries inside the rig, such as the smoke detector batteries, should also be checked. If you’re unsure about the batteries, switch them out.

3. Look for Leaks

Check all of the plumbing lines and other fluid lines to see if anything is leaking. When you de-winterize your plumbing, carefully watch for signs of leaks. If you notice leaks, repair the plumbing fixture or lines before you hit the road when you can control the cost of your supplies.

4. Change Fluids and Pump Tires

As part of your pre-trip checklist, check all the fluids in your engine. Make sure they are topped off well. Check the tire pressure as well and pump up the tires if needed. This is something you should check before every trip, but it’s most important for that first trip of the season. Over the winter, fluid levels and air in the tires will likely drop a bit so this is critical before you hit the road.

5. Make Some Upgrades

Were there features of your rig that you didn’t fully enjoy last season? Before you hit the road this year, take time to upgrade them. For instance, do you want new speakers or media systems? Install them now to enjoy them for the full camping season. Were you thinking an outdoor shower would be helpful? Consider adding that before you go out. Making the upgrades at the start of the camping season gives you the longest possible time to enjoy them.

6. Test Your Appliances

One of the reasons you are an RV owner is so that you can have many of the comforts of home while traveling. However, if your fridge or stove doesn’t work, you miss a lot of that benefit. Before your first camping trip, test all of your appliances. Make sure they are fully working, and replace or repair them if they are not, so you can cook up your favorite camping meals while on the road.

The excitement of the first camping trip of the year is quickly dampened if something goes wrong with your rig. By checking these items carefully before you head out, you will have a better, more enjoyable time on the road and at your destination.

RV Sales Expected to Be High in 2021 - Are You Ready

 RV Sales Expected to Be High in 2021 - Are You Ready  

 

The RV Industry Association expects a record sales year in 2021. There are two reasons for this. First, the industry was already on an upward growth pattern, one that has been steadily growing over the past four decades. Second, the after-effects of COVID have taught people to appreciate nature and time with family in a way they never have, and the closure of the national parks for a period created pent-up demand to see these. Today's RV dealerships can capitalize on these trends by being well-stocked for the coming sales season.

Keep RV Inventory High

To make sure you are ready for demand, keep your inventory of available rigs high. If you are a dealership that focuses on custom orders instead of in-stock inventory, make sure you have some models available for potential customers to tour.

Stock the Extras Your Customers Need When Buying a New Rig

Prepare well for a high sales season by stocking the extras that you can up-sell to your customers when they buy a rig. Items like floor mats, upgraded media and electronics, and water or plumbing systems are all great opportunities to make an additional sale after your initial RV sale.

In addition, consider adding a number of lock and key options. Brand new RV owners are often unaware of the security risks that come with the factory-base key and lock system. Having keys on hand gives you a chance to educate your customers and sell them a useful item.

Try to think about what comes in a rig, and plan to have those products on hand that would make it more enjoyable. When they can get what they need from you, your customers will have a better buying experience, and you'll be able to make a bit more of a profit.

Stock the Repair and Remodeling Supplies for Existing RV Owners

An increased interest in the RV life doesn't just affect new RV sales. You'll also find that your existing owners are more interested in jetting out on the road and upgrading their rig before they go. After all, many of their favorite destinations were closed or had limited access in 2020, so they are itching to get out there and explore.

When they are ready to get their rigs prepared, you can be there to provide the gear they need. Stock up on kitchen and bathroom hardware as well as sink and shower fixtures, so they can repair anything that has broken. Don't forget heating and cooling vent covers and appliances, which can also be important after a long winter in storage. Exterior showers can be a fun upgrade for seasoned RVers, and many owners will find that their rigs need some basic repair or gear replacement that you can provide for.

Camping and RV season is just around the corner, and if the experts are right, this is going to be a good one. Take time now to stock your supplies so you will be well prepared for the coming demand. By having your dealership well stocked with the products both new and existing RV owners need, you will be able to increase your sales even further when the 2021 demand hits. Failing to prepare now could mean missing out on this income potential.

 Luxuries to Add to Your RV This Year

As you think ahead to the next camping season, why not add some luxury finishes to your RV? There are many ways to improve your RV experience with luxury additions and finishes. When you give your rig these little perks, you make your next camping trip just a bit more comfortable. Here are some features to consider adding to your RV this season.

1. Enhanced Entertainment System

Sure, you don’t go camping for the movie nights, but sometimes it’s fun to just sit back with your family and enjoy some television, especially when it rains. Upgrading your entertainment system can make those movie nights more enjoyable for everyone.

First, start with the TV. Do you have a high-definition TV? Consider upgrading if not. Then, add surround sound and an upgraded sound system. While you’re at it, make sure the TV has headphone jacks or wireless connectivity, so you can use headphones when you want a bit of peace and quiet.

Entertainment systems don’t just involve the TV, though that may be your main focus. You may also want to upgrade your stereo. A Bluetooth wall stereo can make your radio more enjoyable and wireless.

2. Add Water Filtration

When you hit the road, you have no way of controlling the quality of the water at your next stop. While water has to be safe to drink, it may still have unwelcome tastes and contaminates that you’d rather not be consuming. A water filtration system attached to your water system can ensure clean, tasty water every time you stop, no matter what the water conditions may be. After adding filtration, consider adding a Nautilus system to give you greater control over your water use and intake.

3. Update and Upgrade Your Lighting

Lighting is another area where you can update your rig to have more enjoyment. Not only can you update the light fixtures to look better, but you can also add things like dimmable lighting, wall lighting for more light and additional light fixtures in key areas like the kitchen or bathroom. Look around your RV and see where you could use more light, then use this off season to add it.

4. Update your Bath Hardware

Does your bathroom hardware look like something out of the 1980s? If so, then updating it could be the luxury fix you need. While you may not feel like this is a luxury change, your bathroom area is one of the most important parts of your RV, so making it look beautiful will increase your enjoyment of your rig significantly.

One type of lighting that can feel very luxurious is under-the-bed lighting. This lights up your bedroom, makes it easier to see what you have stored underneath the bed and adds an overall touch of class to your rig.

5. Digital Observation System

There’s no denying that backing up an RV is a challenge. Even the most experienced driver can struggle with this common task because of the sheer size of an RV. A digital wireless observation system makes it easier to see where you are heading when you’re backing up. It also helps eliminate blind spots when you are driving. A wireless observation system will be a luxury you didn’t know how you ever lived without once you have one in your RV.

6. New Flooring

Finally, consider an upgrade to the flooring. Flooring in an RV takes a beating, and updating it not only modernizes the space, but it can also make it feel clean and inviting again. Opt for something easy to clean, like vinyl planks, especially in the main living areas of the RV.

Camping season is just around the corner. You’re already camping in luxury when you have an RV, but this is the year to step things up. With these additional touches, you can enjoy even more comfort and luxury.

 

 Prep for the Camping Season by Stocking Locks Today 

 

Even though it’s the middle of the winter off-season, now is the time for your dealership to prepare for the spring rush. When your customers are ready to purchase new rigs or get their current RVs ready for the road, you want to be well-stocked in the products they need. One of those products is a new lock. By preparing now, you can be fully stocked with the locks and other security products your customers want to keep their rigs safe when they head out on their next camping adventure.

Why New Locks are Critical to RV Safety

As you probably already know, RVs come from the dealership with standard keys that are from master keys, or passkeys. This means that they are easily unlocked, even without your personal key. Many first-time RV owners are shocked to learn just how easily their RVs can be broken into, even without breaking any locks or handles.

The key to fixing this is changing the RV lock. By swapping out the dealership lock with a custom lock, your customers can better secure their RV. RV Locks and More has replacement locks you can stock to give your customers this option. If your customers are concerned about security, ease their minds with new locks and keys.

Enhanced Locks Provide Important Security Upgrades

One of the easiest ways to upgrade the security of an RV is with a new lock that includes a deadbolt. These are harder to break into and less likely to accept a master key. By replacing standard locks with ones that include a deadbolt, RV owners can instantly improve their security. Choose from chrome, black, or white to match the style of any RV.

Global Link G391 Dealer Key Program

If you are looking to add a new revenue stream while improving security for your customers even further, consider the Global Link G391 Dealer Key series. The G391 series gives 90 different key codes in one key setup. When at the dealership, you can master key the units for one key for ease of showing, then give your customers the option to re-key the doors to a different configuration, so you can give them security without the need to replace the entire lock system. Consider upgrading your entire fleet to the Global Link G391 Dealer Key system, and improve your sales while also giving your customers the security they crave. You can also sell the G391 series as a security upgrade, adding a revenue stream to customers who already have a rig.

Don’t Forget Keying Kits, Replacement Keys, and Key Blanks

Finally, before the spring season make sure you are stocked up with the supplies you need for replacing customer keys and keying new keys. RV keying kits, cut keys, and key blanks are all vital to have on hand when someone pulls in with a security need. You’ll also want replacement parts for locks on hand, including master cylinders, hatch key locks, non-mastered cylinders, and keys, so you can easily service any customer’s needs. While you are stocking up, get the key bins and rings you need to stay organized.

Spring is Just Around the Corner. Get Prepared Now

Though it’s cold and snowy, now, spring is just around the corner. You will soon have people who are ready to hit the road, and many of them will want new security measures to protect their rigs and their belongings. Order your security products, locks, and keys now, before the spring rush, and be prepared to meet the needs of your customers quickly.

 

RV Water Filtration 101

 RV Water Filtration 101

When you are constantly plugging into the water system at a new campsite day after day, you want to know that you’re going to have clean, good-tasting water to drink. While campsites are required to deliver potable water, it may not be the good-tasting water you crave. A water filtration system can help you know with confidence that you will enjoy the water you have, no matter where you are camping. This guide will discuss how to choose a water filtration system and why you need one for your well-being while out on the road.

Why Water Filtration is Important for Your RV System

When you pull into a new campsite, one of the first things you will do is plug into the electrical and the water system. You will run the campsite’s water through your RV’s water system. If you’re using the Nautilus System, you can plug into city fills or water fills, and you can also handle your black water flushing through one unit.

Yet just because the water is potable does not mean it is distilled to true purity. Sometimes, that will mean water that has an unpleasant taste, odor, or color. Water filtration can help protect against this.

Choosing the Right Type of Filtration System

Not all filtration systems are created equal. There are a few different ways to filter the water for your RV. These include:

• External water filtration – This type of filtration is installed on the hose that connects city water to the RV. An external water filtration system removes particles from the RV water supply. These are also called inline filters.
• Internal Water Filters – Internal water filters are installed within the RV near the point where the water enters. Because these are inside, they can have a larger capacity than external filters.
• Hybrid Filtration Systems – Hybrid systems have an external water filter to start the filtration system, then an additional filter near the kitchen sink to further filter the drinking water. This means you have fresh-tasting drinking water and also cleaner water for other needs, without the need to fully filter the water you use for your shower or dishwasher.

In addition, you can break down water filtration into these additional types:

• Reverse Osmosis System – This is the cleanest option for your RV but also causes a lot of water waste.
• Berkey Style Water Filters – This countertop option has a small filter tank and a spout to dispense the filtered water, and it also is quite clean.
• Canister Filters – These send the water through several filters before sending it to your faucet.

No matter which of these you choose, they will all help you enjoy cleaner water. Consider where you could most conveniently place the filter and how pure you want the water to be.

Choosing the Right Type of Water Filter

In addition to the type of filtration system, you will need to choose the right type of water filter. To choose, first consider the micron measurement of the filter. Particles in water are measured in tiny measurements known as microns. The smaller the micron measurement, the more effective the filter.

Next, consider the flow rate. Small micron measurements have a direct impact on how well the water can flow through the filter and into your RV’s faucets. A small micron measurement can also impact water pressure. You want to balance the flow rate with microns to find the right system.

Finally, consider the life of the filtration system. You will need to change filters from time to time, so make sure you know how often this will be needed.

Water filtration gives you peace of mind that every time you turn on the faucet, you will have clean, tasty water to drink. Consider adding one to your plumbing system before you hit the road again.

 

 RV Locks - Why Your Customers Need Them  

 

RV locks are one of the most important upgrades a new RV owner can make, but many don't know they need to. If you operate a dealership, this is an area where you can add some additional sales. Here is a closer look at why your customers need new RV locks, and what options you can offer them.

Assembly-Line Keys are Universal

So why do your customers need to upgrade their RV locks? Well, most RVs come off of the assembly line with the same key. That means there are hundreds of thousands of people out there that have keys that can open each others' RVs. That is far from secure, leaving your customers and their rigs, not to mention the belongings inside of them, vulnerable. Even though most people at the RV resort or campground are good people, there are always risky ones, and your customers don't want to leave their stuff vulnerable.

RV Locks Provide an Upselling Opportunity

Most RV purchasers, especially first-time RV owners, won't know this fact about their RV. However, after spending the money to buy one, they're going to want to be fully confident that the rig is secure. This is where your dealership can upsell. By offering new locks to your customers, you can help them with this problem.

Not only can you help them meet an important security need, but by offering new locks you can add some sales to your bottom line. Your customers will be thankful that you took the time to help them protect their investments, and you will be able to add some profits to your overall sale.

Types of RV Locks to Consider

So what RV locks would be best for your customers? Here are some options to consider.

The 900 Secure Series Entrance Lock is a great option for those who want a unique key. This series comes with a non-mastered key code that is not accessible using any existing master key. The lock comes with a serial number that the RV owner has to use to order more keys. This helps protect against the risk that someone has a master key and is able to open the RV lock. This is a major security upgrade.

For RV owners with cam locks, the CH-751 cam lock is common. Unfortunately, this means there are many keys floating around that can open this lock. The CLB Cam from Global Link is easy to use and reduces this risk. Simply unscrew the existing CH-751 lock and add the new CLB Cam to give your customer more security. This is a task your customers should be able to do on their own if they wish.

If you have customers that demand the ultimate security, you want to offer the G391 Series. This key and lock set allows your dealership to create 90 different key codes from one system. It features a removable core that allows fast re-keying at your dealership. This means even more security for your customers, giving them added confidence in your dealership.

Remember, your customers don't know the risk that comes with the key and lock system from the manufacturer. You can inform them of this risk, and offer a solution. Stock up on replacement locks and keys, and give your customers the option to upgrade their security with your help.

 6 RV Renovation Tips

Buying a used RV can be a great way to save some money. However, sometimes you will get your hands on one, only to realize that it is incredibly outdated inside. Thankfully, you can renovate an RV and make it exactly what you want it to be. Here are some tips to help you as you tackle this fun and rewarding project.

1. Start with the Fabrics

Curtains, cornice boards, and furniture upholstery can quickly make your RV look outdated. If you are renovating on a tight budget, start with these items. Carefully choose the colors so they coordinate, then start with the curtains. After replacing the curtains, remove the cornice boards and recover them with the matching fabric. Then have the furniture reupholstered in a coordinating fabric. This will make a huge difference in how the space looks.

2. Upgrade the Tech

If you're renovating an outdated RV, chances are it has outdated technology. From the media center to the radios and observation systems, this is a place where you can make a quick upgrade. Not only will this make your RV look more modern, but it will also make it more enjoyable.

Start with the TV and the speakers. Install an LED TV, then add some surround sound speakers or a soundbar. Then, consider upgrading the radios and observation systems. Soon you will have a tech-savvy space that will be enjoyable to camp in.

3. Tackle the Tacky Flooring

It seems like RV interior designers of past decades loved to use garish colors for the flooring. This is a place where you can do a little work to make it look better. Laying new carpet, linoleum, or laminate in a small space is tricky, and you might want a pro's assistance to help with the task, but it can make a big difference if you take the time to do it.

4. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

You might be surprised to learn that you can paint over the walls in your RV. Even if it has wallpaper or paneling, with the right pre-treatment and finishing coat, you can give it a fresh color. Once you have tackled the color and finish of the walls, consider adding a decal or hanging some art to make it feel more like home.

5. Take a Look at the Plumbing

It may not be the most glamorous part of your RV, but if it doesn't work properly, your enjoyment of the rig will go down the drain. While you're renovating, make sure you inspect the plumbing. Replace what is broken, then consider upgrading the faucet and sink if they're outdated to make it look better. But when it comes to plumbing, focus on function rather than aesthetics first, because you need to know you can rely on these systems to do their jobs.

6. Update Your Locks

If you have an older RV that you're renovating, chances are high it has a fairly universal lock system. This means it can be very easy for a thief to break in. Before you hit the road with your rig stocked with all of your stuff, consider swapping out the locks for something more secure. The G391 Series is a particularly beneficial one, providing greater security through 90 different key codes in one lock system.

Renovating an RV can be a fun, exciting project. As you get started, prioritize those features you need to look great, and then focus on those first. You can then move through your list, and soon you will have a modern, updated rig you will be proud to pull into the campsite.