Author name: nwadventurerent

sgt holden submitted picture
Adventure, Camping, Destinations & Itineraries, Parks, RV Lifestyle & Travel

Planning a 4-Week Road Trip Across America: Guide & Itinerary

Planning a 4-Week Road Trip Across America: Guide & Itinerary Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Picture this: a 4-week road trip across America, where you’ll have the chance to explore the USA’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and historic landmarks. Starting from the heart of Seattle, home to our RV rental store, we’ve crafted an itinerary that will guide you on an unforgettable journey across the country. Week 1: The Pacific Northwest and Beyond Your American road trip kicks off in Seattle, the Emerald City. This vibrant metropolis nestled between Puget Sound and Lake Washington is your gateway to the Pacific Northwest. **Climb up the Space Needle for a bird’s eye view of the city’s skyline, mountains, and waters. Then, dive into the bustling Pike Place Market, one of the country’s oldest farmers markets. Here, you can sample local delicacies, browse unique crafts, and witness the spectacle of fishmongers tossing fresh salmon. Art lovers should visit the Museum of Pop Culture and the Chihuly Garden and Glass, while coffee enthusiasts can’t miss the original Starbucks store. After soaking up Seattle’s culture, it’s time to hit the road. Your first stop outside the city is Leavenworth, a Bavarian-styled village in the Cascade Mountains. Explore the alpine-style buildings, savor German beer, and visit the Nutcracker Museum. If you’re visiting in winter, the Christmas Lighting Festival is a must-see. Next, journey to Yellowstone National Park, a natural wonderland of geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. Witness Old Faithful’s eruptions, marvel at the rainbow-colored Grand Prismatic Spring, and drive through Hayden and Lamar Valleys, known as the Serengeti of North America. Don’t miss the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, a dramatic gorge with stunning waterfalls. This first week blends urban exploration with nature’s beauty, setting the tone for your road trip. As you leave Yellowstone, you’ll be filled with anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead. Week 2: The Midwest Charm As you bid farewell to the rugged landscapes of the West, prepare to be charmed by the heartland of America. Your first stop? South Dakota, where the majestic Mount Rushmore awaits. This monumental granite sculpture nestled in the Black Hills showcases the 60-foot visages of four U.S. Presidents. Spend a few hours wandering the Presidential Trail, soaking in the history of this national treasure. While in South Dakota, consider a side trip to Badlands National Park. This geological marvel boasts a rugged beauty, with layered rock formations, deep canyons, and towering spires. It’s a haven for fossil hunters, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Next, set your sights on Chicago, the Windy City. Situated on Lake Michigan’s shores, Chicago is a cultural melting pot, known for its unique architecture, diverse food scene, and rich history. Begin your city exploration at Millennium Park, where the famous “The Bean” sculpture resides. Take a river cruise to admire the city’s architectural wonders, including the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center. Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Art Institute of Chicago, home to an extensive collection spanning 5,000 years. Indulge in Chicago’s culinary scene. Sample the city’s renowned deep-dish pizza and visit a jazz club for live music and a taste of a Chicago-style hot dog or Italian beef sandwich. As you depart from Chicago, you’ll carry with you the essence of the Midwest’s charm, ready for the next chapter of your 4-week road trip across America. Week 3: The Historic East As you travel into Week 3, leave behind the Midwest’s charm for the East Coast’s rich history and cultural vibrancy. First up is Washington D.C., the United States’ capital, brimming with iconic landmarks and world-class museums. Begin your exploration at the National Mall, a greenway lined with monuments from the United States Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. Don’t miss the towering Washington Monument or the poignant Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Pay homage to the civil rights leader at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Spend a day delving into the Smithsonian Institution’s wealth of knowledge. With museums spanning from Air and Space to Natural History and African American History and Culture, there’s something for every curiosity. Next, stroll through Georgetown’s cobblestone streets, admiring Federal-style architecture and the bustling waterfront. Sample a local sausage delicacy, the half-smoke, at the iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl. From D.C., journey to the Big Apple, New York City. This city, a melting pot of cultures, never sleeps. Begin in Manhattan, where Central Park offers an urban oasis. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, visit the zoo, or relax on the Great Lawn. Experience the energy of Times Square, the “Crossroads of the World,” known for its dazzling billboards and Broadway theaters. Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the world’s largest art museums, and stroll along shopping paradise, Fifth Avenue. No trip to NYC is complete without a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. These iconic landmarks echo the tales of the nation’s immigrant past. As the day winds down, ascend the Empire State Building. From its observation deck, the city unfurls beneath you, a glittering panorama of skyscrapers and lights. Week 3 plunges you into the heart of the nation’s history, culture, and urban vibrancy. As you leave the East Coast behind, you’ll carry with you a newfound appreciation for its distinctive charm. Week 4: The Southern Hospitality As the final week of your 4-week road trip across America dawns, get ready for the South’s warm embrace. First up, Nashville, Tennessee, the beating heart of country music. Immerse yourself in the genre’s history at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and catch a show at the legendary Grand Ole Opry. Nashville’s food scene is a must-explore. Sample hot chicken, a local favorite, and savor a meal at a farm-to-table eatery. Whiskey aficionados should consider a distillery tour. Next, journey to Savannah, Georgia. Its historic district, antebellum architecture, and charming public squares are a sight to behold. Meander along cobblestone streets, visit historic houses, and soak up the Southern charm. Don’t leave without trying shrimp and grits or fried green tomatoes. Then, it’s off

Person holding a DSLR camera outdoors, preparing to take landscape photos.
Adventure, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Simple Outdoor Photography Tips for Your RV Adventures

Did you get a new camera recently, or have you been wanting to pull an old one out of its dusty box and put it to good use? You are probably itching to take it on your next RV adventure and capture the beauty of your trip. Here are some tips to get the best vacation photos possible. They may even turn out so well that you will want to frame a couple and display them as art in your home! Some photographing geniuses make it look so easy to take perfect pictures of the great outdoors. The colors pop, the detail is stunning, and you feel like you are walking right into the picture just staring at it. Pictures like this, however, take a little know-how; but the good news is that you can take a very good photo without having to buy thousands of dollars worth of professional equipment with just some basick knowledge! You can accomplish a lot with just a camera, tripod, and alarm clock Timing is important Keep your focus in mind Don’t stress over perfect night photos A tripod is useful for camera stability, but it can also be a great asset in times of low light, taking pictures at night, action photos, and close-ups. There are many great lightweight versions of tripods out there that are easy to fold up and carry for traveling. Use the alarm clock to help remind you to get up and out and capture those photos at the right time of day. The best time to capture outdoor beauty is when the lighting is optimal at sunrise and sunset. The lighting at these times produces the best detail and color in your photos. When you take a photo you will want to determine what you want the main focal point to be. Pick the main subject and move it around in the frame of the photo. Try different angles like standing on a tree or crouching down on the ground. Use the classic “rule of thirds” to place the subject right where you want it. This rule divides the picture into nine equal parts with two lines vertically and horizontally. The places in which these lines intersect are a good place to line up your main subject. Some other great composition tips for photos: If you have one main subject, keep the background simple. Objects in the foreground help to bring depth to a photo Don’t place the horizon in the middle of the frame. Taking pictures at night is one of the most difficult to master. If you do not get the perfect nighttime photo at first, don’t fret; just keep practicing! Make sure to use the tripod, use a manual focus, focus on a good light source ( you can even use a headlamp), point your camera at the stars and take long exposures. This may take many tries, but if you keep at it you may find you will get some of your favorite shots. Of course the number one rule of taking photos is to get a camera you love and have fun. Don’t take it too seriously and forget to enjoy your RV adventure. Make memories and bring the camera along to capture them forever. For more tips on RV camping or information on RV rental please feel free to browse our website or contact us anytime. NW Adventure Rentals has a luxurious fleets of motorhomes and travel trailers, conveniently located in the Pacific Northwest at our Seattle location! Let us help you have a great outdoor vacation!

RV, RV Maintenance & Care, RV Ownership Tips

How to Winterize Your RV – NW Adventure Rentals

How to Winterize Your RV – NW Adventure Rentals Why and How to Winterize Your RV Winter is coming and not only does it bring cozy hearth-fires and exciting outdoor activities, it can bring frigid temperatures and harsh weather.  Before the snow flies, you’ll want to make sure that your RV is safely stored and tucked in for the cold months ahead.  Winterizing is of the utmost importance for the longevity of your rig and, when done properly, can save you a ton of money in costly repairs. Depending on what the winter season is like in your area, there are generally two procedures to winterizing that will ensure you won’t have cracked pipes and leaks when the weather warms in the spring. #1 The Compressed Air Method, which uses an air compressor to remove all water from the pipes in your RV. #2 The Antifreeze Method, which uses a pump to fill the water lines in your RV with a special, non-toxic, RV specific antifreeze. Here, we will go through the process of winterizing your RV step by step, so that you can do this service yourself.  However, if the process seems too overwhelming or you do not have the ability to complete these steps on your own, we have highly trained service technicians that are happy to take care of all your winterizing needs for you. Please keep in mind that every RV is different, some units may have additional items that are harder to winterize.  Not every situation is covered in this DIY guide, but it does provide all the basic knowledge you will need to be successful. The Compressed Air Method If your area is not subject to extremely cold temperatures, you are now finished winterizing.  For some added security, you can pour about a cup of RV specific antifreeze down each drain to fill the P-traps, just remember to wipe away all splashed antifreeze from plastic surfaces like sinks and shower basins as the pink tint in the antifreeze can stain. On the other hand, if you live in an area that frequently sees temperatures drop below freezing for weeks on end, then we recommend adding an RV specific antifreeze to your plumbing system.  For this next portion of the winterizing process, you will need either an Antifreeze Hand Pump Kit or a permanent Pump Converter Winterizing Kit. Antifreeze Hand Pump Kit This kit allows you to manually pump antifreeze directly from the jug through the city water inlet of your RV. Pump Converter Winterizing Kit This is a permanent winterizing kit that allows a bypass of the fresh water tank and utilizes the onboard water pump to push antifreeze through the water lines of your RV eliminating the need for a hand pump. We recommend following steps 1 – 6 listed in The Compressed Air Method before following the steps listed below in The Antifreeze Method. Antifreeze Method Additional things to consider while preparing your RV for winter storage Batteries: Fully charge the coach and house batteries. In areas that are subject to extremely cold winters, remove the batteries and store them somewhere warm. Engine: If you have a motorhome, it is always a good idea to fill it with fuel and add a fuel stabilizer.  Double check all fluid levels in the motor and make sure they are topped off. Electrical System: Turn off the main circuit breaker and disconnect from shore power.  You might also consider removing batteries from any clocks or detectors. Interior: You won’t want to head into a dirty camper in the spring so consider doing a thorough cleaning of the interior of the RV.  Prop open the refrigerator and freezer doors and place a box of baking soda inside to minimize the chances of that “fridge funk” when the weather warms back up. Roof: Make sure all vents are closed and complete a thorough inspection of all seals. Tires: Be sure that your tires are properly inflated.  Allowing your RV to sit for months with improperly inflated tires can cause flat spots to develop.  A quick check of the pressure can save you hundreds come spring. Awning: Extend the awning and clean it thoroughly. It is best to allow it to dry completely before pulling it back in.  This will help minimize the chance of mildew staining and sour smells come spring. Once you have completed these steps, the water system in your RV is officially safe from winter’s chill! If you aren’t the winterizing type, our team here at NW Adventure Rentals would be happy to take care of all your winterizing needs.  Give us a call at (855) 745-9816

Adventure, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Living & Cooking, RV Ownership Tips

Can I Host Thanksgiving in an RV?

Can I Host Thanksgiving in an RV? Ask any RV traveler what they are grateful for this year and traveling the open road is probably at or near the top of the list. Traveling in an RV allows you to go so many places for a lower cost than other forms of travel. Why not take a trip over Thanksgiving? Autumn is a great time to get away in an RV. Many families get together for a vacation away from their homes for the holidays. If this is you, or your family is looking for a new tradition to make theirs’ we have some great tips for cooking up a feast from an RV. Have the Right Tools The great thing about an RV is you bring a kitchen with you. One of the setbacks when cooking a large feast, is that the RV kitchen is not as big as many home kitchens. The oven and stove may not be as large as you are used to. May we suggest bringing in a couple of trusty helpers that RVers enjoy cooking with year round; the IntstaPot and the Crockpot. These great cooking helpers are like having a sous chef to help you with the side dishes. Even better they take up very little space in the RV kitchen. Some people swear by making mash potatoes in a crock pot. Cook Outside For more cooking space make use of your campsite. If its raining fold out the awning and use your new “patio” space for grilling. Many campgrounds have grills in each camping space. The grill is a great place to cook up some vegetables or even just a turkey breast. If you have a smaller crowd or white meat lovers grill up just the turkey breast or two. How about a deep fried bird? The outdoors is a great safe place to try a turkey fryer. Make sure you treat it the same as a campfire. Give it plenty of space from other flammable objects and always keep an eye on it. Deep fried turkey is so juicy with nice crispy skin and it cooks up in a fraction of the time it takes to roast one. Consider Less Food Thanksgiving is all about a huge feast, but with the limited space you may want to keep your feast a little more scaled back. Hosting Thanksgiving in an RV limits your space so to make things less stressful plan to have enough food to satisfy just the number of guests at the table without copious amounts of leftovers. Start with just cooking the must have traditional favorites like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce; or whatever your family deems as the traditional thanksgiving staples. With the right prep, Thanksgiving in an RV could be your best holiday yet, especially with a luxurious, spacious RV from NW Adventure Rentals! For more great camping tips and to view our fleet of Seattle rentals, please check out our website or contact us anytime.

Adventure, RV Ownership Tips

Make RV Ownership Easier with Our Leaseback Option

Make RV Ownership Easier with Our Leaseback Option An RV leaseback is a great way to turn an expensive RV purchase into an even bigger asset. There are significant benefits in participating in a leaseback program with an RV rental company. If you are considering purchasing your own RV and are wondering if you can really afford ownership, or if you have owned an RV and have experienced some strain in the responsibilities of ownership, this may be a great option for you. Owning an RV and being able to head out on an outdoor adventure anytime you would like is an awesome thing. However, there are quite a few aspects to RV ownership. There are the payments, the insurance, finding a place to store the RV, maintenance, prepping it for winter weather, and so on. One in ten American households have an RV, and 9 out of 10 of those privately owned RVs are used less than 25 to 30 days per year. RVs that sit unused for long periods of time will require more maintenance than those that are used on a regular basis, costing owners even more. Renting your RV to others through an RV leaseback program gives you the opportunity to make money to cover the cost of payments and maintenance, and also gives you a place to store your RV. No more neighbors complaining to the HOA about an RV parked in front of your home. Most RV owners who take part in a leaseback program with NW Adventure Rentals make more than enough money to cover monthly payments. Owners can also take advantage of tax benefits by writing off depreciation and expenses of ownership when they rent their RV. NW Adventure Rentals offers a great leaseback program for RV owners, giving you the opportunity to place your RV in either of our three fleets of motorhomes and travel trailers in Seattle. We manage all parts of the rental procedure for you; the advertising, scheduling, renter screening, contracts, and payment collection. We provide storage, maintenance inspections, winterizing/de-winterizing, and furnishing the RV with kitchen supplies, towels, and bed linens. Every quarter we will send a summary statement and check for your earnings. We take care of everything, and you still get the use of your RV whenever you want, as long as a rental agreement is not already signed. If an agreement is signed for your RV for the dates in question, we will do our best to rearrange the rental or provide you with another RV from our fleet. For more detailed information on our leaseback program please feel free to contact us at anytime. We are happy to answer all your RV rental questions.

Adventure, Camping, RV, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

RV Rental For Winter Camping

RV Rental For Winter Camping Winter RV recreation will require more effort and is only for the most enthusiastic of campers. While RV travel in the summertime is definitely easier, there is a benefit to camping in the winter. In the winter there are less campers out, which means more quiet and solitude, making for the perfect time to simply get away and completely unwind (as long as you are well prepared). Here are some things you should do to prepare for a winter RV trip: In addition to these great tips, you will also want to be familiar with your destination. Call ahead to make sure the camping spot is open. Also check the route you are taking and make sure the roads you will be traveling are still safe to navigate. For more tips on RV camping or information on RV rental please feel free to browse our website or contact us anytime. NW Adventure Rentals has a luxurious fleets of motorhomes and travel trailers, conveniently located in the Pacific Northwest at our Seattle location! Let us help you have a great outdoor vacation!

Adventure, RV, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Preparing for Harsh Weather in an RV

Preparing for Harsh Weather in an RV Being out in the wilderness on an RV camping vacation means you are bound to come in contact with some harsh weather at some point; especially here in the Northwest where the weather is quite unpredictable. No one wants to get stuck in harsh weather while they are camping and be unprepared. Here are a few ways to be prepared for stormy weather while camping. First thing on the list of preparing for harsh weather is to always know the forecast. It is a good idea to check the forecast on a daily basis for everyday of your trip, or as far out as is available, so you are aware of what is coming up and what changes are occurring. Here are the 4 stages of weather warnings that the weather service uses for inclement weather. Make sure you have an emergency kit handy it should include a first aid kit, plenty of extra water, snacks or non-perishable foods, a flashlight, emergency radio, matches, blankets, candles, etc. Make sure to check the kit before each trip for anything that is past its expiration date or any missing items that need to be replenished. When you hear a weather warning in the forecast check your RV and camping spot for safety and potential hazards. Many people like to camp in the trees; look around for signs of weak branches that could come down in high winds. Look for anything that could get blown away or into something else in high winds such as furniture, BBQs, toys, garbage cans, etc. Bring them inside or tie them down. Make sure all storage doors are secure and locked. Retract awnings and securely fasten them. Close and latch windows. If evacuation has been suggested then do so right at the time of suggestion don’t wait things out. Know where safe shelter is like a brick bath house in case you need to run to shelter and there is no time to evacuate. Other things you want to be aware of when a storm is on the way is the possibility of flooding and the predicted speed of the winds. If you are in a place prone to flooding it is best to evacuate early. If the storm is going to have really high winds an RV is not the best place to be during the storm, find shelter in a building or in your car as RVs don’t stand up to severe winds well. When heading out on an RV trip it is always good to be knowledgeable of the weather and be prepared for any harsh weather that could come your way during your trip. Luckily, NW Adventure Rentals is here to provide you with safe, secure, and luxury RV rentals for your next getaway, providing the perfect retreat no matter what weather may come your way! For more great camping tips and tricks please feel free to browse our website. For more information on renting a gorgeous, luxury RV from NW Adventure Rentals’ Seattle fleet, don’t hesitate to contact us at anytime.

Adventure, RV, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Money Saving Tips When Camping

Money Saving Tips When Camping Camping is one of the most cost friendly ways to travel/vacation. There are many ways you can make RV travel even more frugal so that you can put more money towards other things, like even more RV vacations! Nobody ever says “I can use a little less vacation in my life.” Here are some easy ways to cut costs while you are on an RV adventure: This is true for RV travel just like any other travel. Campgrounds, RV parks, resorts, theme parks, etc. all have lower rates during times when less people travel to help keep business going. Many times city, state, county, and federal campgrounds will have cheaper rates than commercial resorts and privately owned campsites. There are places all over that will allow you to park your RV free; some just for one night and others for longer. Get a discount from many different campgrounds for staying longer than the average camper. It is usually in the form of a percentage off per night. Eating out while road tripping can be one of the most fun and enjoyable parts of the trip (plus it gives the cook a break). Eating out can turn into the most expensive part of your trip. To save money, look for restaurants with “kids eat free” options, two-for-one coupons, dinner for two meals, deals in the Entertainment book, etc. Eat out during lunch instead of dinner or eat some appetizers during happy hour. If you want to save on your food budget check out thrift bakeries, discount stores, or even farmer’s markets. If you don’t mind looking for coupons that can be an option to save a little on your campfire cooking supplies as well. Another great way to save on your meal budget is to write out a meal plan or a menu for your trip to ensure you don’t buy a bunch of extra food and snacks that you never end up using. With a meal plan you will know everything you need for each meal and can shop accordingly instead of just throwing what sounds good in the cart. Filling up the RV can take a large chunk of change. Check out our article on gas saving tips for RV travelers. Try out boondocking (that means camping without hookups). Boondocking can be done in a number of places including cheaply priced campsites that don’t offer hookups or a completely free off the beaten path locale. If you plan to hit a theme park, camping is a great way to save on a vacation, and some theme parks that have their own campgrounds offer discounted admission tickets when you stay there. Now that you know how to save even more money on an RV camping adventure, there is nothing stopping you from getting out there and enjoying a vacation. Of course, the ultimate way for you to save money on your RV trip is by renting with NW Adventure Rentals; our luxurious and competitively priced motorhomes and travel trailers are guaranteed to please! For more great camping tips and tricks please feel free to browse our website. For more information on renting a gorgeous, fully stocked RV from NW Adventure Rentals’ Seattle fleet, don’t hesitate to contact us at anytime.

Adventure, RV, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Reasons to try an RV before buying

Reasons to try an RV before buying Investing in an RV is a major decision, but renting offers invaluable insights. Explore diverse factors to pinpoint your ideal RV fit. Discover whether RV ownership aligns with your lifestyle. Opt for a hands-on experience on the RV to make an informed choice. Start your journey to owning an RV today! Here are the top reasons why renting an RV before buying is a great idea. When it comes to RV camping, we all have our distinct preferences. If you haven’t grown up with the RV lifestyle, pinpointing your exact needs can feel like navigating uncharted territory. You might be tempted by luxurious amenities, only to realize in the great outdoors that they rarely get used. Why pay for features that don’t enhance your adventure? Embarking on your first RV journey can be daunting. But fear not! Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through the process, offering invaluable insights and expertise. We specialize in helping first-time RVers feel at ease inside their new home on wheels, without the hassle of lengthy orientations. By renting before you buy, you can test the waters and discover the perfect RV fit for your lifestyle. Our seamless rental experience allows you to explore different models, amenities, and layouts, ensuring that your investment aligns perfectly with your needs and preferences. Don’t let hesitation hinder your adventure! Dive into the world of RV travel with assurance and tranquility. Rent the RV that speaks to your wanderlust today and set off on the ultimate adventure! Spending a few nights in different RVs offers invaluable insights into your ideal layout. Whether it’s a kitchen facing the door for optimal visibility or a cozy couch orientation, finding your perfect configuration is essential for a comfortable journey. Perhaps you envision the bedroom at the front, breaking away from the conventional rear placement. Renting allows you to explore these options and tailor your RV experience to suit your clan’s preferences. Driving an RV is a unique experience, vastly different from maneuvering a typical minivan. Whether it’s a spacious motorhome or a towable trailer, mastering RV navigation requires practice. Renting provides the opportunity to hone your driving skills and determine the most comfortable option for you, whether it’s behind the wheel of a motorhome or towing a trailer. Avoid the disappointment of an ill-suited RV purchase by testing the waters with rentals. Ensure that your investment aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and preferences. Discovering post-purchase that your RV doesn’t meet your needs can be costly and frustrating, akin to the depreciation experienced with new vehicles. Make an informed decision and embrace the RV lifestyle with confidence, knowing that your investment will bring years of joy and adventure. At NW Adventure Rentals, we can help you try out an RV before you buy it. You wouldn’t buy a car without test driving it, right? Let us help you have a test sleep and a test drive in an RV or Travel Trailer! Try an RV or two? NW Adventure Rentals has a wide variety of RVs available to rent. For more information on renting a gorgeous, luxury RV from our Seattle fleet, don’t hesitate to contact us at anytime.