Must-Have Items for Your RV Living Areas

We’ve talked about the kitchen and bath. Now let’s talk about the living room and bedrooms and what you need to complete them.

Whether you have a brand new RV that you wish to customize or have an older rig that needs some upgrades, there are many places to focus your time and investment. Once the bathroom and kitchen are upgraded, you need to turn your attention to the living areas. The bedroom and main living area can certainly benefit from upgrades, and here are some must-have features to consider adding.

Upgraded Hardware

Just like the cabinets and drawers in the kitchen and bathroom, the cabinets and drawers in your living area, including your closets, have hardware. If that hardware is visible, you may want to consider upgrading it to a more attractive and modern design. This is one area where you can let your personality shine in your RV. The interior hardware can be upgraded as well. These pieces have less to do with the aesthetics of the RV and more to do with the function of the drawers and cabinets, but if it’s time for an upgrade, you will enjoy greater function if you go ahead and change out the drawer slides.

Heating and Cooling System

While the heating and cooling system technically covers the entire RV, it is worth mentioning here as it makes the living areas more usable. When it comes to aesthetics, the covers of your ventsare an important consideration. If they’re looking dingy or are covered with grime, it may be time to consider a replacement. The roto vents are important for the function of your heating and cooling system. When they start to wear out or become too dirty, you can replace them quite affordably. Finally, consider the ductwork, and replace it when it starts to get caked with grit and grime.

Stereo and Radio

Is it time to upgrade your rig’s radio with a more modern design? Today, Bluetooth stereos are increasingly popular in RVs, providing you the option to stream your favorite channels or playlists wirelessly from your phone or tablet. Since it can be challenging to take a stash of music with you on the road, and figuring out what local channel to listen to isn’t any simpler, a Bluetooth radio will make your music easier to enjoy. You may also want to consider a waterproof optionfor use outdoors or near the bathroom or kitchen.

Lighting Upgrades

A well-lit bedroom and living area is going to make your enjoyment of your RV just that much better. Lighting can quickly become outdated, so consider upgrading this part of your RV as you renovate it. From ceiling lights to pancake lights and wall sconces, there are several lighting optionsfor you to consider for your RV. Do you need more light in an area? Consider a strategically placed bunk or reading light. You can even upgrade some of your overhead lighting to an attractive chandelier to give your RV more character and pizzazz. Upgrading switches can also provide more enjoyment for your rig. Consider dimmer switches and switches that are LED backlitfor a more modern flair.

An Entertainment System

What are you going to do on those rainy days when you’re not out camping? An entertainment system ensures you never miss your favorite shows or can enjoy a movie night when the weather isn’t cooperative for outdoor exploration. When it comes to building that entertainment system, the sky’s the limit. Start with a high-definition LED TV, then add a media center that gives you streaming and DVD-playing options. Add speakers and a sound bar– you may even want to consider full surround sound.

As you customize and update your RV for your next trip, don’t neglect these main living areas. After all, they are where you will spend much of your time – so make them as attractive, comfortable and functional as possible with these upgrades

Must-Have Items for Your RV Kitchen

Transform your motorhome’s kitchen with modern hardware and sleek appliances.

Before you take to the road in your RV this season, you need to make sure that it is truly ready for your adventure. This includes stocking the kitchen. If your kitchen is due for an overhaul, or you’re simply looking to stock it for the summer, here are some items you will not want to overlook.

Upgrade the Hardware

Is your kitchen looking a little outdated? One easy way to adjust this is to upgrade the hardware. This is a relatively simple and affordable fix, but it will go far in helping improve the appearance of your kitchen. From the cabinets knobs and drawer pulls, to the hinges and even the slides, installing new upgraded hardware may also help your kitchen function a bit better – particularly if these pieces are getting worn out.

Add Some Function

There are some functional items that your kitchen may not have that are worth considering. For example, do you currently have cup hooks? Cup hooks can keep your cups in place during transit and also help you maximize your storage space. Do you have door bumpers? You want to protect your RV from damage, and swinging doors in tight spaces can be problematic. Adding a lazy Susanto your corner cabinetry will help you store more items and access them more easily. Don’t forget to add some non-slip material to the cabinet shelving and drawers to keep things in place while the RV is moving. Add these types of functional items to help keep everything safe. 

Update Your Appliances

Updated, upgraded appliances make your kitchen more enjoyable to cook in. Take an assessment of your kitchen, oven, and cooktopand determine if they’re ready for an upgrade. You can even swap out the stove knobs if they’re starting to look a little gunky. With newer appliances, you’ll improve the feel and function of your kitchen instantly. 

Consider Smart Storage

In an RV, storage is always a consideration. As you are stocking your kitchen, consider smart storage. Food should be stored inside sealed containers, just in case you have a critter that gets inside your RV while you’re out exploring. Small utensils and dishes should also be inside a container to make them more easily accessible and prevent loss or damage. 

Choose the Right Coffee Maker

Coffee makers take up a lot of kitchen space, but you need your morning cup to enjoy your camping experience. Instead of a traditional coffee maker, consider a French press. These take up less space, create very tasty coffee, and are quick to use every morning. You’ll save counter space without having to sacrifice your caffeine fix. 

Think Small 

Like the French press, when you’re choosing appliances for your RV, think small. An immersion blender is a better option than a countertop blender. A small food chopper is better than a bulky food processor. An instant pot, which can double as a slow cooker, is better than having both a pressure cooker and a slow cooker. A collapsible colander instead of a bulky plastic option works better. Space saving is always helpful when you have a smaller space, so think small and compact when shopping for kitchen appliances.

Grab an Over-the-Sink Drying Rack

For those dishes you need to wash by hand, give them a place to dry over your sink instead of on the counter with an over-the-sink drying rack. Make sure you choose one that can roll up and be stored easily. Remember, you need to maximize space every chance you get! 

When you’re camping, the convenience of a kitchen is helpful, but you don’t want to fight with your kitchen space too much. Choose the right gear to fully enjoy your RV kitchen, and start your road trip off right knowing you can cook conveniently whenever needed.

Must-Have Items for Your RV Bathroom

Take your rig’s bathroom from functional to first-class.

RV bathrooms are definitely not the most luxurious part of RV ownership, yet the bathroom is an important part of your rig. It is the bathroom that makes it possible for you to have the freedom that you love in your RV lifestyle. Yet, over time, your bathroom may start to feel less like a luxury and more like an eyesore. Whether you’re stocking a brand new RV for the first time and want to make sure your bathroom has everything it needs, or you are upgrading an outdated bathroom, here are some must-have items that you’ll want to have on hand. 

Add the Right Toiletry Items

First, you will want to stock your bathrooms with the shampoos, soaps and other toiletry supplies that your family uses. However, because of the small nature of RV bathrooms, you will want to use caution to avoid bringing too many items in. Consider items that your entire family can share, like the same shampoo or soap. Also, consider wall-mounted soap dispensers. This will better use your space, as you will not have any bottles to store. Mount the dispenser for hand soap next to the sink and then one each for shampoo, conditioner, and body soap inside the shower to save space. 

Choose the Right Linens

Linens, like towels and washcloths, are important additions to your bathroom – but you don’t want to have too many and take up valuable storage space. Two towels per person is a great number to aim for, so everyone will always have a clean towel available to use. Consider the hanging apparatus you will need to ensure they can dry well when not in use. Back-of-the-door towel racks and hooksare a great space saver for your RV bathroom. Add a rug to the floor to help soak up water and give your feet some comfort.

Upgrade the Hardware

An RV typically comes with plain bathroom hardware. This is a place where you can create a more upgraded, updated look… even if your RV is older. Upgrade the bathroom hardwareto something that better fits your tastes and style to elevate the look and refine the space just a bit. Everything from the drawer pulls to the door handles and lockscan be swapped out for something more elegant.  

Improve the Faucets

The faucet in the sink and in the shower may need improvement. Take a look and see if they are worn or outdated, then upgrade them for a more modern look that is also more functional. Consider a hand-held shower head and hose kit, which gives you greater freedom when bathing, and upgrade the bathroom faucet to match the overall look you’re creating.

Get Creative Storage

Storage is a challenge in RV bathrooms, so you may need to get creative. Some upgrades, like a wall-mounted toothbrush holderfor example, can give you a spot to conveniently store your most important items. Take a look at your bathroom and see if you have any wall or floor space that is free, then find a storage solution to fit that space. 

Remember the Plumbing

Plumbing is the less glamorous part of your RV bathroom, but if you’re planning an upgrade, make sure you take a closer look at the plumbing. You’ll want to know that it’s all in good, working order, without a breakdown looming. While you are looking at the plumbing, consider if there are any additional upgrades to install, like an outdoor showerfor example, that would make your camping experience even better. 

Remember, you are going to be using your RV bathroom daily. You want to be sure that it’s ready to serve you well and provide a comfortable place to clean up after a busy day of camping. Use these tips to ensure your bathroom has everything it needs for your comfort and convenience.

What to Look for in an RV Sound System

Get your road trip playlist ready!

Whether you’re listening to your favorite soundtrack while driving down the road, or want to enjoy a movie night in your RV once you’ve reached your destination, a great sound system is an important part of enjoying your RV experience. Yes, it may not be as crucial as functional locksand a working engine or generator, but it’s still a helpful addition. With the right sound system, you can enjoy your music and media to the fullest. Here’s a closer look at what you should consider when shopping for an RV sound system.

Consider a Subwoofer

If you love music, you may want to consider a sound system that includes a subwoofer. You can easily stash these underneath your couch so they do not take up too much space in your RV. You will love the fact that they eliminate distortion and unpleasant noises, all while boosting the bass significantly when you need it.

Choose Quality Speakers

The in-wall speakers that came with your RV are most likely the least effective option in terms of sound quality. If you want to achieve better sound quality, you’ll probably need an upgrade. Look for speakerswith a high frequency response range, an impedance of around 4ohm, and sensitivity between 80 and 90 dB. No matter which you choose, an upgrade over the OEM speakers will give you better sound quality.

Add a Receiver

Speakers and subwoofers will integrate with your music experience, but if you are looking to also integrate yourtelevisionviewing experience, invest in a good receiver. This will allow you to experience optimal sound when watching movies and TV with the same speakers you use for your music.

Invest in the Right Sound Bar

To give yourself theater-quality sound in your RV – without the expense, hassle, and clutter of surround sound – consider a full-featured home theater sound bar. A sound bar will amplify the sound from your TV and audio systems, giving you a more movie theater-like sound experience. Look for one with an FM tuner and Bluetooth connectivity to make things even more convenient.

Go Wireless

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity make it possible for you to create a wireless sound system. This is particularly helpful for those who are not in need of the highest possible sound quality, but want to have flexibility with speaker placement. Some systems even offer app-based controls, so if the kids are listening to their tunes too loudly, you can go into the bedroom, close the door and use your phone to turn off the speakers in that area. All of this is available without wires, meaning you can actually move the speakers around your RV if you desire. 

Consider the Controls

With an RV audio system, you will want to consider sound controls, especially if you are particular about the sound quality you get to enjoy. Look for a system that allows you to adjust more than just the treble and bass levels. For ultimate control, look for a system that offers parametric equalization. This will give you the ability to set the amount of decibels a particular frequency band changes – and that is the best possible control available. Of course, not all RV owners will require this level of control, but if sound quality is extremely important to you then make sure to invest in this technology. 

We know that shopping for a new audio systemfor your RV can feel a little overwhelming. There are so many options, and you need to know that you’re getting the best one so you don’t feel any buyer’s remorse. Take your time doing your research so you can be comfortable and confident in your choice, and then go ahead and make the investment. You will enjoy much better sound quality and a better overall music or TV watching experience with the right sound system for your rig.

Spring Maintenance Tips to Prepare for Summer Camping: Part II

Even though it is still cold in much of the country, camping season is just around the corner. As you continue to think about ways to prepare your RV for the upcoming season, here are some additional steps to take. By paying attention to maintenance and preparation now – before you hit the campgrounds and the open road – you can enjoy a longer, more relaxing travel season.

1. Check the Roof

Before you hit the road with your RV for the first time, make sure you have spent some time on the roof. You need to inspect your roof to ensure that it has no signs of wear and tear, as this is the most common place for leaks and seal problems. Make sure that all openings are properly sealed, and add any caulking that looks like it is needed. Clean the roof to remove bird droppings, leaves, dust, and other residue that may cause problems for your RV’s paint job.

2. Clean the Holding Tanks

You have already given your water systems some TLCas you prepare for summer camping season, but what about the holding tanks? If your holding tanks fail, you will face a messy and costly problem. Use diluted bleach to clean them completely, and inspect them for any signs of cracking or other problems. Then, fill the tanks about 1/3 of the way full and add some soap. Drive the RV around to allow the soapy water solution to clean the sensors. Empty the tanks, and check to see if the sensors read as empty. Repeat the process until the sensors are working as they should, then fill the fresh water tank.

3. Inspect the HVAC System

One of the benefits of the RV lifestyle is the ability to have air conditioning and heat while camping… but not if your HVAC isn’t working. Grab the manufacturer’s literature for your RV or HVAC systemand perform any recommended maintenance. You should also inspect the exterior unit for signs of problems, like cracks in the casing. Replace the filter screens before you head out for your first camping excursion to remove the grit and grime that built up over the winter storage months. 

4. Generator

Make sure the generator on your RV is properly primed and ready to go. Check all fluid levels and top off as needed, then start the engine to ensure it is working correctly. If the generator is due for an oil change, be sure to change the oil as needed. Double check that the exhaust system is functioning properly. If possible, start the generator and allow it to run for about two hours to test that it is working. If there are any issues, make sure to get it repaired by a professional before embarking on your next road trip. 

5. Test Your Safety Systems 

Test the fire and CO alarms on your RV to make sure they are working properly. Test the LP gasleak detector as well. Make sure your RV has a fire extinguisher, and inspect it to ensure it is fully charged. If the fire extinguisher is a dry powder model, shake it and tap the bottom to allow the powder to release. Make sure all adults who are traveling with you know how to use the model of fire extinguisher you have. 

6. Lubricate

Finally, check all “pinch points” in your RV (such as hinges,drawer slides, and locks) and lubricate them with the correct lubricant. Make sure to lube all of the mechanisms in your slide-out. Avoid petroleum based lubes which will cause dirt to stick to your RV. If you’re not sure which product you should use, ask your local dealership. 

It’s a lot of work to get an RV ready for summer travel, but it is work worth doing. By spending the time now, you will be confident that your system will be ready for reliable performance, and plenty of fun, once you hit the road. This is time worth investing, so invest it well. 

Detailed Guide to Prepping Your RV Water System for Spring

Before you head out for spring and summer travel, you need to get your RV ready. This means undoing all of the important steps you did to winterize your rig, including de-winterizing your motorhome’s water system. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to show how you can do just that. 

1. Refill and Re-pressurize the System

If you did not use antifreeze when you winterized your rig in the fall, then the first step you need to take when preparing your RV for the warmer temperatures is filling and re-pressurizing your water system. If you used low pressure air to remove the water in the system, close the drain and fill it again. Next, turn on the water pumpto allow the system to pressurize. Once the water heater has filled and pressure has built up, the pump will shut off. 

2. Flush the Antifreeze 

If you did use antifreezewhen you winterized your rig in the fall, then you will need to thoroughly flush it out of the water system. To accomplish this, fill the unit with fresh water and run it through until all traces of the coolant are gone. If you bypassed the hot water heater when winterizing the system, leave the bypass on while flushing the antifreeze. Only allow water back into the water heaterwhen you are confident that you’ve removed all of the coolant. If you allowed antifreeze into the hot water heater, it will need to be drained as well.  

3. Sanitize the System

Sanitizing the water system is a good idea, especially if it had antifreeze and sat untouched for the entire winter season. Luckily, this isn’t a tough task to perform. Simply add a cup of bleach to a gallon of water pour it into the water tank. Fill the tank and turn on the faucetsuntil you can smell the bleach. Turn off the faucets, and let the bleach soak in the system for a full 24 hours. Once enough time has passed, drain the tank and re-fill it with fresh water. Run the water through, flushing the tank again, until you cannot detect any scent of bleach at all. You may have to repeat draining and refilling the water system to remove all signs of bleach. 

4. Check for Leaks

After you’ve sanitized and filled the system, it’s time to check for leaks. Leaks can leave you with water damage after you hit the road, and water damage can be extremely costly to repair. However, there’s no need to worry – checking for leaks in the water system and plumbingis pretty easy to do. 

Once the fresh water holding tank is full, turn on the water pumpto pressurize the system. The pump should shut off once the system has reached maximum pressure. If it cycles back on even though you haven’t run any water that indicates that you probably have a leak somewhere. If this is the case, locate the leak and make sure you repair it before you drive off to your next adventure. 

5. Make Necessary Repairs 

Finally, check the faucets, pumps, connectors, and pipes for any signs of wear and tear. You will want to repair these items before you begin your travels, rather than waiting until you have a problem and are at a campsite away from easy repair options. Hitting the road in a functional RV that has a working water system will mean a much more pleasant camping season for you. 

Prepping the water system can be one of the more time consuming tasks when it comes to getting your rig ready for spring and summer travel, but these are chores worth doing. With a working RV water system, you will have peace of mind as you head out for a season of camping knowing that you’ll always be able to come home from a day of exploration to a hot shower and a cold glass of water. 

RV Spring Prep: Don’t Skip These Checks

It may still be winter, but now that the holidays are over, you’re probably finding yourself dreaming more and more about the upcoming travel season. Before you head out on your next RV adventure, you need to make sure your rig is ready for the road. Tackle these seven spring checks before you hit the ground rolling. 

1. Batteries 

All throughout your RV, you have batteries that power everything from your smoke detectors to the engine. You may have removed some of these for winter. If so, put them back in and confirm they’re working well. Test any remaining batteries in your camper and make certain they’re fully charged. 

2. Water System

If needed, de-winterize your water system, then check it thoroughly for leaks and other problems. Double-check that all of the faucetsare running properly and that the toilet flushes correctly. If the unit had antifreeze, flush it out before you hit the road. Prepare the fresh water holding tank and water filter cartridges, as well as the water pump and hot water heater, for use.

3. Plumbing

As you test your water system, look at your plumbingas well. Verify that nothing is leaking by visually examining your RV both inside and out. To check for leaks that you may not be able to see, use the water pump on the fresh water holding tank to pressurize the water system. If the pump does not shut off and stay off after fully pressurizing the water system, then you likely have a leak somewhere.

4. Water Pump

After getting the water system and plumbing up and running, check the water pumpitself. First, sanitize it using a quarter-cup of bleach for every 15 gallons in your water tank. Fill the tank with water after adding bleach, and turn the water pump on, running the hot and cold faucets until the smell of bleach is noticeable. Turn off the faucets and let the system sit for at least 12 hours. Then, drain all of the water with the bleach and re-fill with clean water. Run the water until you can no longer smell bleach, and re-fill the system again.

5. Appliances

More than likely, part of the reason you have an RV is so you that you can enjoy travel without giving up some of the comforts of home, but if your appliances aren’t working, your trip may be less pleasant. Check the operation of all of your appliancesbefore you leave. Sometimes pests will be attracted to the odor from your LP gas, and their nests can create problems for your appliances. Take care of these issues so you can fully enjoy your appliances when you arrive at your first campsite of the season. 

6. Tires

Your tires probably lost air pressure while they sat unused. Before heading out, check them to ensure they are properly inflated. You should also confirm that they have good tread, and that you have a spare handy should you face a problem on the road.

7. Seams and Seals

Every seam on your RV is an opportunity for moisture and pests to get inside, so you need to inspect all of them. Determine that the seams and other sealsare in good condition and properly sealed. If you see any signs of damage or cracking, you will want to repair them before you take your RV out of storage to avoid water damage. 

As you prepare for spring and summer travel, don’t neglect to properly look over and check your RV from top to bottom. While this takes a little bit of time, the result is the peace of mind that comes from knowing your RV is primed and ready to serve you well all season long.