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Snowbirds migrate from the northern reaches of the continent to the Sun Belt when the weather starts to get cold and snowy, just like millions of actual birds that migrate back and forth ever year. And just like the flocks of birds that follow familiar routes, RV snowbirds tend to make this journey on a few well-traveled arterials.

The two major routes connecting these two seasonal zones are the two interstate highways near the west and east coastlines. That would be I-5 in the west and I-95 in the east.

Although there are several north-south interstate routes in the interior of the continent, these two main routes carry the bulk of RV snowbirds simply because the coastal regions of the continent are the most densely populated areas; therefore, there are more RVers in the coastal states and more RV snowbirds.

When you see a large luxury RV driving down the road, it’s natural to wonder, ‘do you need a special license to drive an RV?’ With modern motorhomes being comparable in size to semi-trucks, it’s a legitimate question to ask. 

For most RVs, you’ll only need a valid driver’s license to rent an RV and drive it legally, but some states or RV types will require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or another type of special license. 

Whether you’re looking to rent a class A motorhome with Good Sam RV Rentals or you’re shopping for a sizable RV yourself, here’s what you need to know about driving and maneuvering recreational vehicles.

What Are The Different Types of RVs?

If you’re new here, let’s begin with an overview of the various RV types and classes:  

Motorized RVs

Towable Campers

Towable campers include travel trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and pop-up campers. Truck campers are kind of in their own category, but they still rely on you having a truck that can handle the camper’s weight. 

If you’re looking for a luxurious way to give your family a home away from home without spending a fortune on building a vacation home, these destination trailers for sale today are the best option. You’ll find each unit is packed with amenities and features that you’ll love! Plan your next big vacation with your family in one of these luxurious destination trailers.

You’ll feel like your family is spending a weekend in the Hamptons no matter where you park this CrossRoads Hampton HP364MBL destination trailer. Inside, you’ll find sleeping space for up to eight, with a private bunkhouse that features a set of bunks and plenty of storage space. There’s even a loft over the bunkhouse for additional sleeping space.

Additional Features:

Another excellent option for weeks away from the buzz and bustle, this CrossRoads Hampton HPFKL destination trailer offers a double loft with plenty of sleeping space for the kids. You’ll love that the front kitchen features a bar with stools that are ideal for a quick breakfast before heading to bed. In the master bedroom, you’ll get a great night’s sleep in the king bed that’s set into a slide for additional sleeping space.

Additional Features:

An out-of-this-world scene awaits those interested in RVing Saguaro National Park near Tucson, Arizona. You’ll find yourself surrounded by miles of giant cacti covering a starkly beautiful landscape. A forest of 60-foot-tall saguaro cacti stands as sentries across the Sonoran Desert, like soldiers in an army of colossal succulents.

These amazing plants take hundreds of years to grow and can only be found in southern Arizona and a small part of southern California, making this place a truly magical destination that must be seen to be believed. It’s an unusual landscape of living wonder, full of spine-covered vegetation in a harsh setting, but in need of preservation for the generations still to come.

To help you plan your visit, here’s our guide to RVing Saguaro National Park in Arizona.

Why Visit Saguaro National Park in an RV?

The park is split in half by the city of Tucson. The east side exists within the Rincon Mountain District and receives more moisture than the west side in the Tucson Mountains.

Both areas protect an amazing desert environment that includes prickly pear, cholla, ocotillo, barrel cactus, and, of course, the giant Saguaro cactus. It’s also home to an astounding variety of wildlife. Roadrunners and rattlesnakes are common here, but so are bobcats, deer, black bears, and mountain lions.

If you live in cooler climates, you need to know how to winterize an RV. In late fall, that is job one. This week, we talk with a Master Certified RV Technician and one of the country’s top RV experts to learn when, how, and exactly what steps to take to protect the plumbing system of your RV from cold weather.

Our guest on Episode 418 f the RV Podcast is Todd Henson, Director of Education for the National RV Training Academy. Also known as “the Beard,” Todd is the lead technical instructor for a very popular home study RV tech training course that teaches everyday RVers how to do basic maintenance and repairs.

Continue reading How to winterize an RV: The complete guide at RV Lifestyle.

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No RV trip to Arizona is complete without a stay at Distant Drum RV Resort in Camp Verde. Conveniently located off Interstate 17 and W Middle Verde Road, this highly rated resort does not require a lot of driving to get to your site. It’s easy to get set up and start exploring immediately. Here’s why you need to add this stop to your RV itinerary.

Amenities at Distant Drums RV Resort

Distant Drums RV Resort has paved sites big enough to park towed vehicles; some of the sites provide views of the mountains. The sites are a bit close, but the staff is friendly, and they work hard to keep the park immaculate. The sites can be a little unlevel due to the rolling hills in the area, so you may need to pay special attention to your leveling. Not all sites have picnic tables though, so keep that in mind.

The resort offers full hookups including 50-amp power, as well as 30/20/15-amp power, sewer, cable, and water. Monthly rates also include electric. The resort has propane available to purchase.

Guests have access to pull-through sites, restrooms, and showers, as well as a heated pool with a hot tub. There is an onsite gym, which is larger than most and has a good variety of equipment. 

Like most things in life, you can’t learn all there is to know about RVing until you give it a try. When you do, you’ll learn that some myths about RVs and the RV lifestyle are greatly over-exaggerated or downright false. The truth about RV living is that it’s different for everyone. But debunking these common RV myths will help you create realistic expectations if you’re thinking of buying your first RV or renting an RV for the first time.

RV Lifestyle Myths

Most aspiring RVers are attracted to the lifestyle over everything else – the freedom to roam and explore. While others question the RV lifestyle, influenced by myths about RV living that just aren’t true.

Myth 1: Full-Time RVing is Hard

Truth: Depending upon your definition of hard, this one could go either way. Is RVing more difficult than maintaining a sticks-and-bricks home? No, but it’s not necessarily easier, either. When you’re living on the road, your lifestyle is different than when you’re in a stationary house. Traveling in an RV takes adjustments, like having to downsize your belongings or limit long showers if you’re boondocking, but we think they’re well worth it for the ability to travel with the comforts of home.

Check out more information about becoming a full-timer before hitting the road:

Myth 2: RVs Aren’t Good Living Spaces for Pets

Truth: Not only is this false, but it’s unfair. Our pets crave a life of adventure just as we do. It’s important to create an interior space that your pet will love and research pet-friendly campgrounds before you arrive. With a little effort, your RV will be more than a good living space for your pet — it will be great.

Good Sam has added 53 new Good Sam Campgrounds to its network, expanding your chances of finding savings and value on the road. Good Sam members can save big with the 10 percent discount, and while you’re exploring, discover all of the RV campgrounds in the Good Sam Network.

If you’re not a member, joining is simple: Purchase a membership at any Good Sam Campground, or sign up online. Check each campground’s link to determine seasonal availability and to make reservations.

Grand Canyon Oasis RV Resort & Glampground, Flagstaff

Immerse yourself in the world of glamping, an approach to camping that seamlessly blends luxury with the great outdoors. Located near the east entrance of the Grand Canyon north of Flagstaff, this resort has ample RV spaces in an awe-inspiring setting.

Village Camp Flagstaff, Flagstaff

Surrounded by national forests and beautiful views of Humphreys Peak — the highest mountain in Arizona — the 10-acre park offers an escape into cooler temperatures during the summer months or playtime in snow during winter days.

We've already discussed how to prevent mice from getting into your RV. Now, here's how to get rid of mice in a camper if the furry fiends have already made their way inside...

No one likes a pest. Especially small, furry ones that can carry disease and cause serious damage to your RV. That is why if you find yourself with an RV mouse problem, you will want to get rid of those unwanted creatures as quick as you can!

Continue reading How to Get Rid of Mice in a Camper (5 Effective Ways) at RV Lifestyle.

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How To Cook Corn On The Cob Over A Campfire

Corn roasted in tin foil

One of the best ways to cook corn on the cob is the classic tin foil approach. This works for all kinds of camping dinners, so keep a roll of this stuff on hand. Tin foil ensures that the corn stays moist and protects it from the ashes. This approach is low effort, plus you don’t have to worry about the corn burning if you leave it for awhile. 

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RV Kitchen Storage: How To Store Pots And Pans

The ability to cook on the road is one of the best parts of traveling in an RV. However, with the limited amount of storage space, it’s important to know how to store pots and pans in an RV. These items are necessary for a variety of dishes, but they can be quite bulky. 

If you want to cook during your travels, it’s essential to have at least a couple of pots and pans in your arsenal. However, RV kitchens are usually quite small, and there’s a finite amount of storage space where you can keep cooking utensils and appliances. RVers sometimes have to make sacrifices when they decide what to bring.

It’s possible to store pots and pans in an RV, though! You just have to get a little bit creative. Below, we have a few suggestions that will help you maximize your storage space while still keeping things accessible. 

Nesting sets

The first thing you could try is conserving space by using a set of nesting pans. These are designed to fit neatly inside of each other, so they don’t spread out and take up unnecessary space.

On the go and need to go? Here are the best places and the best apps to find clean public restrooms on your next road trip... RVers can't always use their RV's bathroom, nor do they always want to. Sometimes slide-outs prevent you from easily using it. Sometimes you're trying to minimize using your black water tank until you reach camp. Sometimes you just like to use a big, clean bathroom. Whatever the reason, it's helpful for every RVer to know how to find clean public restrooms near your current location. So, I'm going to share my best tips and the best apps to help you do just that. That way, you'll always know where to go when you need to go!

Continue reading 7 Best Places & Apps to Find Clean Public Restrooms at RV Lifestyle.

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Redwood National Park in California is one of the only places on Earth you can still find coastal redwood trees. The park is home to a string of forests, beaches, and grasslands, giving visitors diverse scenery and activities. 

Photographs of the Redwoods might spark your initial interest, but there’s nothing like experiencing them in person. It’s truly a magical place to explore, and even a drive through the park will leave you breathless.

Why Visit Redwood National Park in an RV?

Exploring nearly endless groves of the world’s largest and oldest trees can feel like somewhat of a spiritual experience. It feels as though you’ve stepped into a completely different world, and you can’t help but feel a deep connection with nature.

All of your senses will be heightened. Not only will the sheer size of the trees amaze you, but the fresh, cool air and smell of the forest will be something you’ll remember forever. When amidst these majestic giants, the peace and quiet you’ll feel is incredible.

The park has so many other reasons to visit, including its wildlife and the wide variety of plant species. Redwood National Park’s range of habitats makes it home to many rare animals and birds, some of which are on endangered species lists.

What a relief that cooler temperatures are finally here. It’s a welcome change of seasons and a perfect chance to comfortably explore the best dark-sky destinations in the Southwest. Whether you’re headed to the sunny Southern California coast or gathering with winter Texans on the Gulf Coast, the most popular winter snowbird journeys are often filled with stargazing under crystal-clear skies.

A Short List of the Best Dark Sky Destinations in the Southwest

The Southwestern desert has inky-black starry skies all year. But if you’re a weather wimp like me, exploring them in fall and winter is much more appealing. As an astronomy fan, I enjoy planning our travels around the International Dark-Sky Association’s Dark Sky Site Directory. It’s a great resource for locating North America’s darkest skies and also includes a list of dozens of Dark Sky Parks near popular winter snowbird destinations. My favorite places in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas include:

Arizona: Saguaro National Park

If you hide from winter in Arizona, take a break from your usual spot and head south to Organ Pipe National Monument. Located two hours west of Tucson, Organ Pipe is not only an International Dark Sky Park, but is also an International Biosphere Reserve. The dual designation means that along with a peaceful stay underneath Southern Arizona’s darkest skies, you can also experience one of the few intact, undeveloped slices of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem. It’s a two-for-one deal that takes your breath away with the starriest skies at night and untouched desert scenery by day. There’s a rustic, RV-friendly campground inside the monument, but Ajo Heights RV Park offers full-hookup comforts just minutes from the park entrance.

alifornia: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Of all the camping adventures I’ve been on, the ones I cherish the most are the adventures with our kids.

Don’t get me wrong. Before children, my husband and I went on some epic camping trips across the country. However, now that we have two toddlers, camping feels meaningful and impactful for the kids too. But traveling with children is also challenging. There is a lot more planning involved, and packing up the RV often feels like we’re moving to another house — almost. 

For our family, the most important things while RVing are eating, sleeping, and exploring. I’ve narrowed down our favorite essential camping gear for kids which has helped our family enjoy the camping experience more. 

Safe Place to Sleep

It might sound obvious, but we all need a safe place to sleep at night. If your RV isn’t equipped with the right kind of beds for the age your kids are, then you need to adapt. Thankfully, there are lots of portable bed options that make it easy to create a safe place to sleep while on the go.

Snuggle Nest Portable Infant Lounger

We are big fans of portable “cribs” for babies. Think of it as a bassinet on the go. The Snuggle Nest Portable Infant Lounger can be folded up for easy transportation. Depending on what you prefer, it can be placed next to you on your RV bed, on the ground, or outside on the grass as a place for your littlest campers to lounge and hang out. 

RVing in Mammoth Cave National Park is truly unique, as the park’s marquee feature is unlike anything else in the national park system. As its name implies, the park’s focal point is the world’s longest known cave system that’s more than 400 miles long. 

Even at that length, there are new sections still being discovered. According to Molly Schroer, the park’s Public Information Officer, another six miles were recently added, and “there’s no end in sight.” 

For that reason, it might not offer the same instant drama as other national parks. You don’t drive up and immediately see a memorable mountain range, historic fort, or one of the biggest canyons in the world. You must work just a little harder to immerse yourself into the beauty of this park – but it is worth every bit of the effort.

Why Visit Mammoth Cave National Park in an RV?

Whether you’re exploring the cave itself or engaging in some other adventure, it’s great to have an RV as a base camp in this park. Two campgrounds in the park allow RVs and private campgrounds for RVs in the nearby gateway (and aptly named) communities of Park City and Cave City.

The incredible cave that is the park’s namesake (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is full of intriguing chambers, tunnels, stalactites/mites, and domes. It runs under four Kentucky counties, extending well beyond the park’s boundaries.