RV Recreation
- Using RV Rental Companies
- How to Join the Good Sam Club
- Class A RVs Offer Luxury Travel
- Why Retire to an RV?
- Is Roadside Assistance Necessary?
- Reflecting on Past Vacations
- 9th Annual The Rally 2008
- Wildlife at Disney Fort Wilderness
- Southern Louisiana RV Show
- Holiday Presents for RV Travelers
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Cruise America is just one option to consider when renting an RV - the company is the largest is the country and has many benefits to offer its customers.
Cruise America is a company to consider when planning a trip in a rented RV.
While the type of RVs that Cruise America offer are somewhat limited, the rental company has been in operation for over 30 years and has 127 rental locations across the United States and Canada - the company even offers one-way rentals at many of its locations. The company has a large and friendly staff with an easy to use website.
There are a few downsides to renting a motorhome with Cruise America as well - if you're new to the RV lifestyle they may not be an issue, but those used to certain amenities may miss out on their regular comforts. While pets are allowed on the Cruise America RVs, the unit does not come with an awning, television, pots and pans, or bedding. A personals package (bedding etc.) is offered by the company for $50 per person and a housewares package is available for $100 per trip - all items must be returned at the end of the rental period.
The company rents a variety of vehicles, but does not offer class A vehicles or pop-up campers. Motorhomes range in length from 22 ft to 30 ft while the travel trailers are 24 and a half ft. All of the rentals are in great condition and eventually the used vehicles are available for sale on the company's website.
Rental centers are open Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm. For reservations call: 1-800-671-8042.
While the type of RVs that Cruise America offer are somewhat limited, the rental company has been in operation for over 30 years and has 127 rental locations across the United States and Canada - the company even offers one-way rentals at many of its locations. The company has a large and friendly staff with an easy to use website.
There are a few downsides to renting a motorhome with Cruise America as well - if you're new to the RV lifestyle they may not be an issue, but those used to certain amenities may miss out on their regular comforts. While pets are allowed on the Cruise America RVs, the unit does not come with an awning, television, pots and pans, or bedding. A personals package (bedding etc.) is offered by the company for $50 per person and a housewares package is available for $100 per trip - all items must be returned at the end of the rental period.
The company rents a variety of vehicles, but does not offer class A vehicles or pop-up campers. Motorhomes range in length from 22 ft to 30 ft while the travel trailers are 24 and a half ft. All of the rentals are in great condition and eventually the used vehicles are available for sale on the company's website.
Rental centers are open Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm. For reservations call: 1-800-671-8042.
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Joining the Good Sam Club is a great idea for anyone - new to the RV lifestyle or veteran recreation travelers.
Discounts alone are a great reason to be a member of Good Sam - with $.02 off of gas and diesel at Petro, and 10% off of a large number of campground and service centers, plus insurance deals - it is easy to make up the cost of membership in a year.
It is simple to join - all that's needed is basic personal information, a credit card and valid email address for access to the member website. Simply visit the sign up page to join - membership fees are as follows:
It is simple to join - all that's needed is basic personal information, a credit card and valid email address for access to the member website. Simply visit the sign up page to join - membership fees are as follows:
- 1 year - $19
- 2 years - $32
- 3 years - $45
Class A RVs Offer Luxury Travel
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Resort travel now applies to the RV lifestyle - from high-end motor homes to luxury RV parks, the RV life is truly for every person and budget.
I first started researching luxury RV travel when I came across a press release announcing a $2.5 million dollar motor coach from 2006. From there, I found more information describing how RVs are now appealing to a wider variety of people and budgets -- many celebrities and athletes rave about their motor homes.
While RVs and their owners may have once been stereotyped as a cheap way for families to travel or a lifestyle for retired couples, the image of an RV owner has now been expanded to include every type of traveler. Now child-free couples can park their rig next to homeschooling families who are right along side single retirees.
While traveling in a recreational vehicle is still a great way for families to afford to take many vacations throughout the year, it is also an option for those looking for an exclusive travel option.
While RVs and their owners may have once been stereotyped as a cheap way for families to travel or a lifestyle for retired couples, the image of an RV owner has now been expanded to include every type of traveler. Now child-free couples can park their rig next to homeschooling families who are right along side single retirees.
While traveling in a recreational vehicle is still a great way for families to afford to take many vacations throughout the year, it is also an option for those looking for an exclusive travel option.
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Retiring to an RV brings stress-free living together with adventure travel.
As a teenager I remember a friend's grandparents would park their RV in the driveway for a few weeks in the summer to hang out and have fun before packing up and heading out - and I always thought that was such a cool way to live.
Now that my parents are getting older, they're not that old, but they are at a point where thinking about maintaining a house when their bodies aren't as strong is of concern. I can see first hand how RV living during retirement is possibly the perfect way to spend time while young enough to have adventures into a time where maintaining a home is a challenge.
Retiring doesn't have to mean living a quiet life in a retirement home - there are many benefits to having a different kind of home, on wheels. Now that so many people are retiring early, eliminating the stress of keeping a large traditional home and simplifying life in an RV is a great way to save money and see the world.
Now that my parents are getting older, they're not that old, but they are at a point where thinking about maintaining a house when their bodies aren't as strong is of concern. I can see first hand how RV living during retirement is possibly the perfect way to spend time while young enough to have adventures into a time where maintaining a home is a challenge.
Retiring doesn't have to mean living a quiet life in a retirement home - there are many benefits to having a different kind of home, on wheels. Now that so many people are retiring early, eliminating the stress of keeping a large traditional home and simplifying life in an RV is a great way to save money and see the world.
Is Roadside Assistance Necessary?
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
How important is it to have an Emergency Roadside Assistance membership or plan when you're RVing?
With GPS units and cell phones in the hands of so many people, is it really necessary to carry emergency services while RVing? Couldn't you just depend on a friendly person to stop and help, or a car driving by to call for you? Not likely. Even though communication has become faster and easier through the years, it doesn't mean you should put the wellness of yourself or your family in danger to save money.
Carrying some type of emergency service can only benefit you -- and many insurance companies even have the service built right in to many plans, you just need to be aware of what your specific provider offers. It is one thing to need coverage while driving a car locally, but a whole other issue when traveling in an RV in a new place. The security of knowing that help will be there when you need it is enough to make the choice to carry a membership or plan.
Here are a few ideas to consider if you are in the market for coverage:
Carrying some type of emergency service can only benefit you -- and many insurance companies even have the service built right in to many plans, you just need to be aware of what your specific provider offers. It is one thing to need coverage while driving a car locally, but a whole other issue when traveling in an RV in a new place. The security of knowing that help will be there when you need it is enough to make the choice to carry a membership or plan.
Here are a few ideas to consider if you are in the market for coverage:
- The Good Sam Club
- AAA
- Auto Club of America
- Allstate Motor Club
- Sam's Club
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
As a child I didn't understand the benefits of writing a family travel journal -- and then I grew up.
As a kid, my blended family spent many weekends on short trips and even took a few week-long vacations through the year, most of them outdoors. On each one we took turns jotting down our favorite parts about the trip and funny stories we experienced along the way in a family travel journal.
I didn't really get at the time what the point was, and as I grew older I thought I was too cool for the family stuff -- but I did it anyway.
It wasn't until I became a mother myself and saw the importance in family keepsakes that I found the purpose of the journaling. Looking at the books now, it's funny to see what I wrote and laugh about the old stories I had forgotten and share them with my adult siblings.
So, it is because of my gratitude for having the experience that I encourage all travelers to keep records of their time on the road to reflect back on -- you'll be thankful you did.
I didn't really get at the time what the point was, and as I grew older I thought I was too cool for the family stuff -- but I did it anyway.
It wasn't until I became a mother myself and saw the importance in family keepsakes that I found the purpose of the journaling. Looking at the books now, it's funny to see what I wrote and laugh about the old stories I had forgotten and share them with my adult siblings.
So, it is because of my gratitude for having the experience that I encourage all travelers to keep records of their time on the road to reflect back on -- you'll be thankful you did.
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Expect to have a great experience with fellow RVers at the 2008 Rally in Perry, Georgia March 14-17.
The Rally, which was originally called the Great North American RV Rally, is accepting reservations for the spring 2008 event. While rallies have similar exhibits to an RV show, the event is totally different. RVers from around the country gather to attend activities and stay on grounds in one location to experience the RV lifestyle and culture as a large community.
This year, the event is being held in Perry, Georgia at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter from March 14-17, with early bird dates on the 12th and 13th. Special attractions include a dog show, a large variety of seminars, golf tournament, "Prom Night in Perry" (where the record for the most couples dancing at one time will try to be broken), book discussion and exchange, dance contest, commercial exhibits, area tours, and more.
Musical performances will be from Frankie Valli, Michael Andrew Big Band, Ricky Skaggs, Jaimie Roberts, and The Vogues.
To register or get more details on The Rally, visit the event website.
This year, the event is being held in Perry, Georgia at the Georgia National Fairgrounds & Agricenter from March 14-17, with early bird dates on the 12th and 13th. Special attractions include a dog show, a large variety of seminars, golf tournament, "Prom Night in Perry" (where the record for the most couples dancing at one time will try to be broken), book discussion and exchange, dance contest, commercial exhibits, area tours, and more.
Musical performances will be from Frankie Valli, Michael Andrew Big Band, Ricky Skaggs, Jaimie Roberts, and The Vogues.
To register or get more details on The Rally, visit the event website.
Wildlife at Disney Fort Wilderness
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Camping at Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground and Resort will not only guarantee a view of Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, but wildlife in a natural setting as well.
Rvers are known for being nature enthusiasts. Many bird watchers, anglers, legal hunters, and general animal lovers are commonly found throughout campgrounds across the country.
Most visitors to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida would expect to see animals of a different kind -- namely, animated film characters roaming the park. A unique experience when staying at Fort Wilderness is the forest-like setting surrounding the resort.
According to Disney, in addition to the horses and ponies living on the ranch, the wildlife you can expect to see on your trip include:
Most visitors to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida would expect to see animals of a different kind -- namely, animated film characters roaming the park. A unique experience when staying at Fort Wilderness is the forest-like setting surrounding the resort.
According to Disney, in addition to the horses and ponies living on the ranch, the wildlife you can expect to see on your trip include:
- Osprey
- Great Blue Heron
- Snowy Egret
- Black Vulture
- Great Egret
- White Ibis
- Red-shouldered Hawk
- Grebe
- Anhinga
- Double-crested Cormorant
- Bald Eagle
- Limpkin
- River Otter
- White-tailed deer
- Armadillo
- Raccoon
- Opossum
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Enjoy a January weekend in Houma, Louisiana for the boat, sport and RV show -- just an hour SW of New Orleans.
Dates, Hours and Tickets
The 10th Annual Southern Louisiana Boat, Sport and RV Show will be held at the Houma Terrebonne Civic Center January 4 - 6, 2007. Opening day, Friday, will welcome guests from 3-9pm, while Saturday the show is open from 10am - 9pm, and Sunday from 11am - 5pm. Adult admission is $6, kids 6-15 $2, and children under 6 are free. A special on opening day offers children 12 and under free admission and get a free turn to fish in the Fish-O-Rama Pond. Directions and further details are available at the show website. The Civic Center is located at 346 Civic Center Blvd., Houma, LA 70360. For more information, the venue number is: 985-850-4657.
Show Attractions
The RV show will cover over 150,000 sq.ft. of space to showcase more than 40 brands of boats and 50 brands of RVs. For the complete sportsman, the show will also feature ATVs, golf carts, resort information, hunting and archery gear, fishing supplies and more. For fishermen, the show will have the world's largest mobile aquarium where fishing experts will demonstrate lures and techniques. kids, the Fish-O-Rama is a indoor pond with Rainbow Trout. Children are provided with rods and bait, and keep what they catch!
Where to Stay in Houma
Capri Court Campground in Houma is open year round and accepts Good Sam discounts. The park has 45 RV sites and includes a swimming pool, picnic areas, fishing pier and boat launch. For reservations, call: 985-879-4288.
The 10th Annual Southern Louisiana Boat, Sport and RV Show will be held at the Houma Terrebonne Civic Center January 4 - 6, 2007. Opening day, Friday, will welcome guests from 3-9pm, while Saturday the show is open from 10am - 9pm, and Sunday from 11am - 5pm. Adult admission is $6, kids 6-15 $2, and children under 6 are free. A special on opening day offers children 12 and under free admission and get a free turn to fish in the Fish-O-Rama Pond. Directions and further details are available at the show website. The Civic Center is located at 346 Civic Center Blvd., Houma, LA 70360. For more information, the venue number is: 985-850-4657.
Show Attractions
The RV show will cover over 150,000 sq.ft. of space to showcase more than 40 brands of boats and 50 brands of RVs. For the complete sportsman, the show will also feature ATVs, golf carts, resort information, hunting and archery gear, fishing supplies and more. For fishermen, the show will have the world's largest mobile aquarium where fishing experts will demonstrate lures and techniques. kids, the Fish-O-Rama is a indoor pond with Rainbow Trout. Children are provided with rods and bait, and keep what they catch!
Where to Stay in Houma
Capri Court Campground in Houma is open year round and accepts Good Sam discounts. The park has 45 RV sites and includes a swimming pool, picnic areas, fishing pier and boat launch. For reservations, call: 985-879-4288.
Holiday Presents for RV Travelers
Posted by
Elizabeth Borer
Sticking to simple gifts that meet traveling needs is a holiday plan that is sure to make every RVer on your shopping list happy.
This year, unlike most, I have waited until the last minute to buy Christmas gifts -- something that is normal for a number of people. So if you are anything like me, and need ideas for the RV enthusiast on your list, this holiday gift list for RV travelers is sure to provide plenty of spur-of-the-moment ideas.
Buying gifts that family and friends really want can be a difficult task -- so sticking to items that make living in an RV easier, whether for a weekend or years, is a plan that will keep shopping time to a minimum.
My personal favorites on the list include the GPS system, and cooking tools. Since my family doesn't travel in a Class-A motorhome, cooking can be somewhat of a challenge in a small space with limited equipment. Electric skillets and griddles, though very practical, will make daily life in an RV easier, and will definitely please the cook in the family. A GPS system, while on the expensive side, is a great gift for fathers, brothers or husbands -- even many women would appreciate the ability to know where they are going at all times. Since my family purchased a portable system, we have never had to worry about getting lost or finding an alternate route in construction -- the system automatically adjusts itself.
Buying gifts that family and friends really want can be a difficult task -- so sticking to items that make living in an RV easier, whether for a weekend or years, is a plan that will keep shopping time to a minimum.
My personal favorites on the list include the GPS system, and cooking tools. Since my family doesn't travel in a Class-A motorhome, cooking can be somewhat of a challenge in a small space with limited equipment. Electric skillets and griddles, though very practical, will make daily life in an RV easier, and will definitely please the cook in the family. A GPS system, while on the expensive side, is a great gift for fathers, brothers or husbands -- even many women would appreciate the ability to know where they are going at all times. Since my family purchased a portable system, we have never had to worry about getting lost or finding an alternate route in construction -- the system automatically adjusts itself.