Get prepared to figure out all you need to know about camping. Camping lets you and your family share a fabulous experience together. To have the best trip possible, check out the tips and advice given in this article.

Find your best place for a camping shelter before nightfall. Once blackness falls out there in the woods, it can be extremely difficult to pitch a tent, pitch your tent and prepare some food. This is particularly the case for city slickers who are not used to pitch-black darkness. Avoid this situation by securing your accommodations ahead of time.
TIP! Let those you are camping with help pick the site. Discuss what state you want to visit.

It is important to remember that your person and all of your possessions will get dirty during a camping trip. Have fun in nature and don’t worry about getting messy; it happens. You can return to being clean when you get back home.

Allow everyone on the trip to have a say about the location. Discuss what state you wish to visit. There are a lot of choices in the United States and it may make it hard to choose just one. You can select a few places to have the family vote from there.
TIP! Check weather reports in the area you plan to camp in. There are several websites that will give you the weather forecast for the week.

When you buy a new tent, take it out and set it up at home before you go camping. This helps you to get the experience needed for erecting your tent. This will also help you not to be frustrated when you’re trying to pitch your tent.

Do not worry that you have packed too much for your kids. Camping can get very messy. This means that your children and their clothes can be quite soiled. While you can’t do much about that, be sure to pack some extra clothing.
TIP! During a camping trip, try to go swimming at some point. The thing people tend to miss most while camping is the convenience of their home shower.

Take a first-aid class, particularly if you are traveling with children. Be sure to do some research on the area you are visiting.

Camping can be dangerous if you’re prepared or not. Always be well prepared prior to leaving on a camping trip.
TIP! If you are going to tough it out, you can still bring along a few luxury items to add comfort to your camping trip. Bring an interesting book, some luxurious candy, or even a nice fluffy pillow. These things can really brighten your spirits

A handkerchief is a great addition to your trip. These can be used for several things, towel,s or even something to carry an item in.
TIP! Don’t forget to pack up some duct tape when you’re camping because it’s very versatile. This can help to seal and protect your tent and even protect your body.

You can not afford to forget essential items.

Take some things with you to entertain yourself while you’re camping.

Take along a specialized pillow or two for camping. If you take along a regular bedroom pillow, it can get hot and sticky when it is humid outside.

Duct tape is a handy item to include in your camping trip. It is as convenient for repairs while camping as it is at home. It can be used to repair holes in the air mattress should it get a hole. It can also seal rips in tarps, a sleeping bag, or tarp. You can even protect your feet before walking long distances by putting duct tape on them. It can also work as emergency bandaging.

Are you a novice at camping, having just bought your tent? If you are not sure how to put your tent up, practice before going on your camping trip. This will give you the confidence to pitch your tent at any time.

The idea of camping is to live with just the essentials, but it’s important to be prepared for anything. While a sleeping bag is a necessity, it’s also recommended to have extra blankets. This will keep you stay warm if it cools down at night and/or you can use them for additional padding.

Plan out all of your clothing before setting off on a camping trip. Make sure you’ll have plenty of clean clothes for the duration of your trip. Pack ample clothing appropriate for your campsite’s climate and weather. Sturdy shoes or boots are considered essential footwear for any camping trip.
TIP! A pre-made list will help you remember exactly what you need for your camping excursion. A list will help you to not forget to bring any essentials.

The helpful advice in the article above will give you the confidence you need to feel safe and relaxed on your next camping trip. Camping is a great experience, especially when you go prepared. You are fortunate to know that after today, fun is in your future.

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It can still prove to be enjoyable if you plan ahead and are passionate about your experience with Mother Nature. These tips will make your way.

When purchasing a brand new tent, always set it up at home once before taking it camping. This helps you to get the experience needed for erecting your tent. This can eliminate some of the aggravation felt when setting up your tent.
TIP! When camping, get your shelter squared away before nightfall. When night falls, making food, finding wood, and pitching your tent can be very difficult.

Flare Gun
Bring a survival kit with you and be sure to always have it on you. Your survival kit should contain a survival knife, a type of survival knife, a first-aid kit, and a flare gun. This kit may just be what helps you to stay alive if you are lost and these items are indispensable for longer than planned. Remember to take it everywhere with you and do not leave it at your campsite.

TIP! Make sure that you find out what sort of weather is forecast for the place where you are going to be camping at. There are several websites that will give you the weather forecast for the week.

Take a first-aid class, particularly if you are traveling with children. Be sure to do thorough research beforehand.
Dryer lint makes surprisingly good kindling for starting your campfire. Collect the lint from your clothes dryer and store it in a bag a few weeks before you go camping to prepare for this. Keep a plastic or ziplock bag right next to the dryer to make collecting easier. This is a good way to have kindling and leave when you’re ready.

TIP! Review your health insurance policy. Sometimes when you go to a different place, you’ll have to get an additional policy to cover you.

Duct tape is a good thing. It works quickly in a pinch for tent holes, tent holes, shoes with worn soles, sealing mosquito nets, securing tent poles, and so much more.

It would be horrible to forget something you really need like the tent or camp mat.

TIP! Not only are oranges a great snack for camping, but they also serve as a natural mosquito repellant. Use the peels to rub your body down.

Kids generally love camping, especially when you plan activities that they can do. They may not have any experience with things such as fishing or campfires. Teach them how to perform these things ahead of time to ensure a great trip.

Are you a first-time camper who has just purchased your first tent? This will give you an understanding of how the confidence to pitch your tent is to be set up and taken down. This will help you get it done before night falls.

TIP! Pillows are a good item to bring to maximize your level of comfort while camping. Don’t bring the pillows you use in your bedroom.

When you are at your campsite, look for the area of the campsite with the flattest and softest ground. Choosing a slanted or rocky area to camp in can make for an unpleasant experience. Always lay down some tarp first to prevent any water from getting into your tent.

Write down a list of all the materials you need before embarking on your trip. This will really be handy if the campgrounds are in a remote location.

TIP! Learn about any dangers that may exist at your campsite before heading out on the highway. There may be spiders or bears that could pose a threat to your safety.

Be mindful of where you set up your camp. You want to avoid erecting your tent near a wasps nest or anthills. If you are by plants or flowers, make sure that you wear tops with long sleeves and full-length pants in order to protect your body’s skin from insect bites. You should bring insect repellent.

Snacks are great for taking on a hike or as a snack after a long day when you don’t feel like preparing a meal. These kinds of foods do not spoil quickly, eliminating the worry of spoilage.

TIP! Don’t go far from home during your first couple of camping trips. You may run into problems that will require you to shorten your trip, like problems with equipment.

You may have fond memories of camping as a child and have been wanting to immerse yourself in that sort of trip again. But you may need some information to refresh yourself. Let this article inspire you to make your next camping trip an enjoyable experience that you will never forget.

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RV Accessories Checklist

Our RV Accessories Checklist can help you determine which items are ‘must haves’ for your RV living. It’s a good idea to be aware that every item on your RV Accessories Checklist has a direct impact on your RV’s weight limit.

Sliding storage tray in basement
Electric storage tank dump valves
Electric leveling jacks
Automatic leveling system
Hitch receiver on rear bumper designed for platform or towing

Floor Plan
One bedroom, separate from the main living area
Two bedrooms, separate from the main living area
Opposing slides in the main living area
Enclosed bathroom, including shower, toilet, and sink
Enclosed toilet area
Washer and dryer space for stackable units
Washer/dryer space for the combined unit
Electrical and Water Systems
One bedroom, separate from the main living area
Additional batteries for extended boondocking
RV generator for making AC power
Inverter for converting DC to AC power
RV solar panels for converting sunlight to DC power
RV water heater operates on AC power and propane
Upgraded water heater to larger capacity
High-pressure cleaning system for the black tank
Heated basement and pipe compartments for freeze protection

Kitchen
High output propane stove for high elevation cooking
Automatic ice maker
Filter for drinking water and ice maker
Countertop extension

Living Area
Recliners
Sleeper sofa
Computer or office desk and drawers
Ceiling fan
Coat closet next to the entry
Sunroof/skylight

Bedroom(s)
Queen size bed
King size bed
Two beds
Bunk beds
Large closet spanning the width of RV
Vanity
Nightshades on all windows
Separate A/C controls for bedroom and living area
Upgraded insulation for cold weather and noise reduction
Double-pane windows for cold weather
Electric heater or fireplace

Entertainment
Large screen TV in the living area
TV in bedroom
Stereo system
In-motion satellite system

Overall Design
Suitable for full-timers
Suitable for snowbirds
Suitable for vacationers
Suitable for RV campers or weekenders

Trailers: All weights within tow vehicle’s manufacturer ratings
Can be operated on state and federal highways without a CDL

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RV Departure Checklist

Our RV Departure Checklist is intended for RV campgrounds and RV parks. We encourage you to add items that suit your needs.

Review your Owner’s Manual to ensure that you complete all steps on their RV Departure Checklist for the safe operation of your RV.

Many items on this list may be completed out of sequence.

Days Before Departure:
Confirm reservations at the next RV campground.
Change postal mail forwarding instructions.
Pay RV bills for current location (ask about deposit refund).
Prepare maps and directions.
Wash laundry.
Buy groceries and supplies for the trip.
Check propane bottle levels, and fill if needed.
Check RV generator fuel levels, and fill if needed.
Check two-way radio batteries.
Check flashlight battery.
Check vehicle’s fluid levels (oil, transmission, brake, coolant, power steering).
Close gray tank valves to collect water for flushing sewer hose after dumping black tank.
Fill the freshwater tank to the desired level.

Day of Departure:
Check tire pressures.
Clean windows and mirrors.
Arrange breakable items in the fridge to prevent breakage.
Fill drinking water containers.

Departure:
Lower roof-mounted TV antenna.
Lower roof-mounted RV satellite dish (TV & Internet).
Collect and store all items from outside the RV (chairs, mats, satellite dishes on tripods, grills, etc.).
Secure items inside cabinets and storage compartments.
Secure items on the kitchen sink and counter.
Secure items on the bathroom sink.
Secure items in the shower.
Secure all other loose items.
Latch shower and closet doors.
Latch all cabinet doors.
Latch refrigerator doors.
Close and latch stovetop and oven door.
Lock tabs on external range hood vent.
Secure TVs and sliding TV trays.
Secure other entertainment electronics.
Secure computer and accessories.
Close roof vents and windows.
Remove decorative and other items and store (lights, bird feeders, etc).
Stowe and secure awnings.
Check slide tops for debris and water.
Move items out of the slides’ way inside the RV.
Move in slides and lock slide mechanism, if available.
Lie down and pad large items which may fall or shift (chairs, tables, etc).
Confirm that all sliding trays are latched and secure (external storage compartment trays, propane bottle trays, battery trays).
Empty black tanks (do this first so the sewer hose gets flushed with contents of gray tanks).
Close black tank valves.
Empty gray tanks.
Close gray tank valves.
Add treatment chemicals and a small amount of water to black tanks.
If traveling with pets, make arrangements for their needs.
Disconnect cable TV and telephone lines, and store cables.
Disconnect electricity, and store cable and adapters.
Disconnect sewer hose, and store hose and related accessories.
Disconnect water hose, and store hose and related accessories.
Confirm that refrigerator is running on 12 volt DC or is turned off.
Turn off all other propane appliances (water heater, furnace).
Shut off all propane bottle valves.
Discard all trash.
Stow all remaining external RV features such as steps.
Secure all items carried on outside or the roof of RV (chairs, bicycles, coolers, etc.).
Raise or remove all stabilizing jacks.
Raise leveling jacks.
Collect and store leveling blocks from under jacks.
Remove wheel chocks.
Confirm that all is clear under the RV.
Confirm that all slides are moved in completely and check the overall exterior of the RV for protruding items.
If carrying items on a hitch platform, load and secure (bicycles, motorcycles, etc.).
Close all internal doors (bathroom, bedroom, living room).
Lock all external RV doors and panels.
Check lights (including signal and brake lights).
Perform a final walk around. Look under and around RV.

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RV Inspection Checklist

This RV Inspection Checklist is intended as a guide for inspecting new and used recreational vehicles.

When buying a new rig, use the RV Inspection Checklist below as your PDI (pre-delivery checklist). The dealer will provide their own pre-delivery inspection, but those tend to be less detailed and performed by someone other than you. In case you are not able to perform a detailed RV inspection before taking delivery, inspect the RV as soon as possible, while still near the dealer to request warranty repairs.

When buying a used RV, consider running through this RV Inspection Checklist with several new RVs first, so that you will be able to spot problems on used units more easily.

RV Inspection Checklist (Exterior):
RV Number (your own #):
Year:
Make:
Model:
RV Type:
VIN:
License Plate: __________
Inspected By:
Owner:
Address:
City:
Phone:
Asking $:
Mileage: __________

Items to Take to Inspection:
Inspection checklist.
Notebook and pen.
Fifty-foot tape measure.
Calculator.
Flashlight with fresh batteries.
Screwdriver with Phillips and flathead tips.
Pliers.
A small mirror (for looking into hard-to-see areas).
Tire pressure gauge with 100 psi range.
Work gloves.
Rags (for checking fluid levels, wiping hands).
Wet towels (for cleaning hands).

Outside Walls:
Surface Condition
Signs of leaks
Seals and caulking
Trim
Doors & screens
Windows & screens
Vents
Handrails
RV Awning mechanisms
Awning canvas
Lights
Mirrors
Steps
Connector covers & sockets
Fuel doors, locks, and caps
Slide external seals
Slide operation, motorized
Slide operation, manual crank
Slide locking mechanism
Slide covers (toppers)

OUTSIDE Roof:
Surface condition.
Corners and edges where walls attach.
Signs of leaks.
Seals and caulking.
Vents and vent hoods.
Slide covers (toppers).
RV Air conditioners.
Antennas and satellite dishes.
Ladder condition and caulking where it attaches to RV.
RV Solar panels.

OUTSIDE Underside:
Fluid leaks.
Frame condition, signs of damage or repair.
Welds.
Axles.
Suspension.
Electric brake wiring.
Plumbing.
Holding tanks (water, waste).
Underside enclosure and insulation.
Straps, pipes, hoses, wires.< Leveling jacks (landing legs). Stabilizing jacks. OUTSIDE Storage Compartments: Overall condition. Signs of leaks. In lower compartments, look up to inspect floor condition. Shine a flashlight into all openings, inspecting all visible components. Doors and seals. Lights. Sliding tray and locking mechanism. OUTSIDE Wheels: Tire pressure. Tire tread. Tire walls. Tire date of manufacture. Spare tire. Wheel rims. OUTSIDE Utilities: Power cable and connectors. RV batteries (house batteries). RV battery disconnect switch. RV battery sliding tray secure. Cable TV connector. Telephone connector. Satellite dish connector. Freshwater hose and connectors. Outside faucet. Freshwater tank fill valve. Freshwater tank drain valve. Water heater tank drain valve. Sewer hose and connectors. Sewer hose storage tube or compartment. Gray tank dump valve. Black tank dump valve. Black tank pressure wash connector and valve. Generator hours. Generator fluid levels. Generator operation. OUTSIDE Propane: Propane bottle condition. Propane bottles and sliding tray secure. Tanks have OPD valves (triangular shape). Connections, pipes, and hoses. Level or empty indicators. Automatic tank selector device. Regulator output pressure. OUTSIDE Trailer Coupling Components: Tongue or King Pin overall condition. Supplemental hitching equipment (sway bars, weight-distributing hitch, etc.). Safety chains. Umbilical cord and connector. Breakaway switch and cable. Hitch receiver (on or under rear bumper). Trailer wiring harness and plug (for pulling toad or trailer behind RV). INSIDE GeneralFloor plan (layout): Necessities are accessible w/slides in Flooring Slide internal seals Windows and screens Drapes and shades Door locks or latches Cabinetry hinges, slides, latches Cabinetry interior Remove drawers, inspect behind them Ceiling Press up on the ceiling to detect sagging Ceiling exhaust vents and fans Furniture Look under and behind movable furniture Mattresses Pull out and fold-down beds Rodent and pest presence or damage INSIDE Kitchen: Countertops. Countertop extensions. Sink. Seals and caulking around the sink. Stovetop, burners, igniters. Stove hood exhaust fan and vent cover. Oven and pilot light. Microwave oven. Coffee maker. Dishwasher. The refrigerator works on all power sources (A/C, propane). Freezer. Ice maker. Drinking water filter. INSIDE Bathroom Toilet flushes. Signs of leaks around the toilet base. Look into the black tank through the toilet for hardened solid waste. Sink and fixtures. Shower and tub walls. Shower fixtures. Shower door and latch. Shower skylight. Washer and dryer connections. Washer and dryer. Washer hoses, any indication of leaks. Dryer vent. INSIDE Fresh Water Systems: Faucets work. The water heater works on A/C and propane. The water pump works. The water pump shuts off automatically soon after all faucets are closed. The water pump on/off switch. Freshwater tank level indicator. INSIDE Waste Systems: Gray tank level indicator. Black tank level indicator. The sink and shower drains work. INSIDE Heating & Cooling: Furnace controls. The furnace puts out hot air through all floor vents. Air conditioner controls. Air conditioners put out cool air through all ducted ceiling vents. Air conditioner filters. Electric heater or fireplace. Ceiling fans. Entertainment Electronics: TVs. TV security straps. TV sliding tray locking mechanism. Audio equipment. Video equipment. Video source switch box (antenna, VCR, DVD, satellite, etc.). Antenna signal amplifier. TV antenna controls for raising, lowering, and rotating. Satellite dish controls for raising, lowering, and rotating. INSIDE Electrical: Lights, 116.25 Volt A/C. Lights, 12 Volt DC. A/C outlets have power. GFCI breakers function. 12 Volt DC ports have power. A/C supply to RV when connected to shore power. A/C supply to RV when the generator is running. A/C supply to RV when the inverter is running off batteries. DC supply to RV when connected to shore power. DC supply to RV when the generator is running. DC supply to RV from batteries. DC supply to RV from tow vehicle via the umbilical cord. Battery charging when connected to shore power. Battery charging when the generator is running. Battery charging from tow vehicle via the umbilical cord. Battery charging from solar panels. Automatic power switching between available systems (shore power, generator, inverter). Location of fuse and breaker boxes. INSIDE Safety Devices: Fire extinguisher. Smoke detector. Carbon Monoxide detector. Propane gas detector. Emergency exit windows. Documentation: Title. MSRP sheet. RV manuals. Engine manuals. Appliance manuals. Maintenance records. Warranty documentation for all major components and appliances. Extended warranty documentation. Most items listed on this RV Inspection Checklist can be inspected by an average person; for more specialized items such as brakes, engines, air conditioners, solar panels, etc., consider having a qualified technician do the inspection. Dealers have techs on staff or contract out technicians to make sure everything is in proper working order prior to handing the rig over but it’s up to you – the RV purchaser – to make sure everything is in full and complete working order before you sign the papers and take delivery of your “new baby”. It is our hope that the RV Inspection Checklist you've just read will help you find the RV you've been dreaming of. ====================gtg A Toy Hauler is sort of like a moving target. It’s hard to hit on an exact definition for this recreational vehicle. Some would feel that utility trailers meet all of the requirements. Others would say that you have to be able to sleep in it. In fact, there are many rigs that fall into this classification of RV. Almost any rig that can carry toys of a larger variety and can accommodate people for sleeping qualifies. A Class A Motorhome which can carry a small car ‘might’ fit into this group of RVs. Or, how about the fancy extended Class C (Super C) which also houses a ‘garage’ for ATVs? Or, the towable trailer with room in the rear for motorcycles? There was a time when you could limit these rigs to those RVs which can accommodate people and off-road vehicles for fun and travel. As you can see, it’s a definition that is moving. Once, the interior accommodations for people were very basic: bunks, low technology surroundings, minimal kitchens, and bathrooms with the most basic holding tanks. Of course, when you see that guy with the Class A Motorhome hauling his all luxury golf cart or his sports car, please don’t tell him you admire his (well you know). He may not know he has a hauler. : ) Although this class of RV comes in so many varieties, the RV Manufacturers who make them have some familiar names. Please check out your RV dealership. ==================gtg RV Setup Checklist This RV Setup Checklist is intended for all RVs. We encourage you to add items that suit your needs. Review your Owner's Manual to ensure that you complete all necessary steps in its RV Setup Checklist as well for safety. Many items on this list may be completed out of sequence. Arrival & Checking In: Check-in. Ask if a discount is offered for RV clubs. Request a map of the RV campground. If arriving after the office is closed, look for after-hours check-in instructions posted near the entrance or office. Locating RV Site: Find your site on the park map and determine entry and exit plans. Walk or take alternate transportation to the RV site before driving RV into the park. Before driving into the RV park, determine if the RV will fit into the site and if all slides can be deployed. Confirm that site has the advertised facilities. Test the water faucet, especially in freezing weather. Plan RV approach path and angle, especially if this is a back-in slot. Driving In & Parking: If the site has no sewer facilities, drive to the dump station and empty waste tanks. If the slot has no water, drive to the water source and fill freshwater tanks. Perform a two-way radio check, if using a spotter. Confirm that all necessary facilities are reachable from this position. Walk around RV to confirm position allows space for slides and other RV features without obstruction. decks, etc. ). Place blocks under leveling jacks. Use leveling jacks to level RV laterally and lengthwise. Chock RV wheels. Setting Up Deploy steps and handrails. Unlock slide mechanism, if available. Deploy slides (from inside RV, confirm that slides form a seal all around). Lower or install stabilizing jacks and apply enough tension to minimize RV movement. If you have an electric outlet tester, use it now. If you have an RV surge protector, plug it into the outlet. Connect electricity and make sure the breaker is turned on. Connect cable TV and telephone line. Connect water hose and water pressure regulator. If the site has sewer: Connect the sewer hose and make sure both ends are secure. If the site has sewer: Open gray tank valves. If the site has sewer: Empty black tanks, if needed. If the site has sewer: Close black tank valves. Turn on all propane bottle valves and check for leaks. Fill the water heater tank by opening the hot water faucet valve until water comes out. Turn on the propane water heater, if needed. Turn on the water pump, if no external water source is available. Confirm that refrigerator is turned on and running on AC. Turn on air conditioners or furnaces and set the thermostat. Remove items from RV which are kept outside (chairs, grills, etc. ). Remove all fasteners used to secure cabinet doors and other items. Unlock tabs on the external range hood vent. Return all items to their normal locations. Raise roof-mounted TV antenna and RV satellite dish. Your RV Setup Checklist should be complete. ===========================gtg Toilet Paper creating havoc? All Q and A information is provided as a guide only. Please don't accept any answers as true and safe unless you have researched the topic or product yourself. If you want to comment on toilet paper, please use our contact us form. Your comment will be added to our discussion. We love to hear from you. Here’s a question that makes us all chuckle just a bit. Yet it’s a question that can have a huge impact on our RV lifestyle. Do you really need to use the expensive RV toilet paper sold by the RV supply stores for RV use only? The short answer is no. For more fun facts, continue reading. Toilet paper test: If you wish to be scientific or to set up a big production for fun with the grandkids, try this. Take the kids to the store and have them purchase 5 different types of toilet paper, maybe the expensive RV toilet paper, a ‘green’ brand and two or three ‘normal’ household versions. Set up 5 large glasses of regular tap water. Label each jar with one type of toilet paper. Place one sheet of toilet paper in its jar. If the toilet paper dissolves within 3 minutes (some people say within an hour), you have a safe RV toilet paper. The shortcut is to read the toilet paper label for ‘safe for septic systems’. OR You can buy the following brands which have been reported to us as testing ‘safe’ by RVers. Angel Soft 2 Ply, septic safe, and Scotts Note: Many RVers report using Calgon in their RV toilet tank, black water tank, as a water softener, and a deodorizer that keeps their bathroom smelling fresh. We sure hope this helps when you begin to research your toilet paper needs. =====================gtg