RV Lifestyle & Travel

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.

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

Basics of Camping in National Parks

Basics of Camping in National Parks Setting up camp at a National Park opens up a world of affordable and beautiful camp sites and great vacation destinations. Camping at a National Park can be very different from an average RV resort. From campgrounds built in the 50’s to accommodate older RVs to different rules than you typically see at privately owned resorts. As you prepare for your national park RV getaway keep these preparation tips in mind. 1. Know the Route to the Park A large number of national park campgrounds are reached by windy and narrow roads because they are located in remote yet stunning places. The best place to find special information on the road leading into the the park is on the park’s website under the “Things to Know Before You Come” section. Another great tool for navigating roads with an RV is a GPS system made specifically for RVs. These systems will not only give directions, but will let you know of any special road conditions for RVs. 2. Remember the Size of Your RV It has happened to many many many RV campers, they find an awesome destination, get excited, hop in the RV, and show up at the campground only to try and fit into a camp site that is too short or too narrow. This can be avoided by knowing the exact measurements of your RV including with tow vehicle (if applicable), with any slide outs extended, with the height of the air conditioner, etc. When you know these measurements you can look up the size of campsites on the park website or call the ranger station to ask if your specific RV will fit. 3. Research All Campsite Accommodations National park campgrounds are designed with enjoying the environment in its natural state and beauty as much as possible. Since the goal of national parks is to maintain the natural beauty of the area you may find campsites with features like rocks, thick trees, and canyons that can make it tricky to fit an RV into. Thoroughly study the campground website to learn all you can about the camping spaces. Another way to learn about the fine details of a campground is to check out travel forums and read reviews of people who have stayed there before. Being aware of capacity is important, many Park campgrounds are booked out in advance especially at popular National Parks. 4. Be Willing to Boondock Some national park campgrounds are outfitted with RV hookups and modern amenities like a communal bathroom and pay showers, but many do not have any of these at all. In these cases you will be Boondocking- camping without hookups. If you have never boondocked you will want to know how your RV works on battery and generator use. You will want to know how much power the appliances consume and how long you can go using the battery to power your RV. Many RVers who boondock like to bring a generator along. Read More on Boondocking 5. Expect to Limit Generator Use If you are at a national park that requires boondock camping know that there will probably be rules on the use of your generator. Some parks allow generator use, but only during sunlight hours. The best way to get use out of your generator, stay within the rules, and be a good fellow camper (not constantly creating generator noise) is to recharge your batteries for a short time just before sunset everyday. Ready to get out on the road and enjoy some national parks in an RV? 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 fleet 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, Camping, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Secrets to parking a Big RV

Secrets to parking a Big RV Table of Contents Upon reaching your camp grounds, or destination, the initial task at hand is parking and level your RV, a task that might appear daunting, particularly when dealing with a trailer. However, with deliberate attention, it’s entirely manageable. Although most parking in campsites are designed with smaller RVs in mind, even larger ones can be accommodated with patience and precision. Parking the RV Understanding Your RV’s Dimensions Before attempting to park your RV, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with its dimensions. Measure the length, width, and height of your vehicle, including any protrusions like mirrors or awnings. This knowledge will help you gauge whether a parking spot is suitable and avoid potential obstacles. Scout for Spacious Parking Areas When planning your camping route, prioritize locations with spacious parking areas suitable for RVs. Look for designated RV parks, campgrounds, or large parking lots that can accommodate your vehicle’s size without difficulty. Avoid narrow streets, low-hanging branches, and tight corners that could pose challenges during parking. Plan Your Approach Before entering a parking spot, assess the surroundings and plan your approach carefully. Consider factors such as the angle of entry, the position of neighboring vehicles, and any potential obstructions. Choose an approach that allows for easy maneuverability and minimizes the need for complex maneuvers. Utilize Technology Take advantage of technology to assist you in parking your RV safely. Many modern RVs come equipped with backup cameras, proximity sensors, and parking assist systems that make maneuvering easier. Additionally, smartphone apps like RV Trip Wizard or ParkAdvisor can help you locate RV-friendly parking spots along your route. Practice Proper Mirroring Techniques Mastering mirroring techniques is essential for parking a big RV with precision. Adjust your side mirrors to provide maximum visibility of your surroundings, including blind spots. Use your mirrors to gauge the distance between your RV and nearby obstacles, allowing for precise positioning during parking maneuvers. Take It Slow and Steady Patience is key when parking a big RV. Take your time, and don’t rush the process. Approach parking spots slowly and cautiously, giving yourself ample time to assess the situation and make adjustments as needed. Avoid sudden movements or sharp turns that could lead to accidents or damage to your vehicle. RV Parking solutions on the campgrounds Utilize reference points on your RV to gauge distance and alignment while parking. For instance, use the corner of your RV’s side mirror as a guide for determining how close you are to nearby objects. By leveraging these reference points, you can improve your spatial awareness and precision when maneuvering your RV into a parking spot. Ask for Assistance when backing up Don’t hesitate to seek assistance when parking your RV, especially in challenging situations. Enlist the help of a spotter to guide you into tight spots or provide directions when backing up. Communicate clearly with your spotter and trust their instructions to ensure a smooth parking experience. To conclude RV parking Mastering parking solutions for a big RV requires a combination of preparation, skill, and practice. By understanding your RV’s dimensions, scouting for suitable parking areas, utilizing technology, and practicing proper techniques, you can navigate parking challenges with ease. Remember to take it slow, ask for assistance when needed, and embrace the learning process. With these secrets in your arsenal, you’ll be parking your big RV like a seasoned pro in no time. Happy travels! Now you are all set and ready to go enjoy your RV camping trip! 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 fleet 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

Difference Between RV Parks, RV Resorts, and RV Campgrounds

Difference Between RV Parks, RV Resorts, and RV Campgrounds When you are looking for a place to set up your RV you may find a number of different options depending upon the location you are planning to stay. You will probably come across three very common terms: RV Resort, RV Park, and RV Campground. They may raise some questions if you are new to RV adventuring. Here we look at each type of RV location to give you a broad overview and sense of what you will find (these descriptions are not set in stone as to how a place is required to label themselves, so be prepared to do some more research like reviews to be sure you will be happy setting up camp there) This is based on what we’ve learned from 1000s of adventurers who’ve stayed in our Seattle RVs.  RV Resort In most cases when a location labels themselves as an RV Resort this means you can expect to get a few more amenities than your usual RV spot. This can include cable TV hook up, wireless internet service, swimming pool, tennis courts, golf course, bath house with showers, coin laundry machines and more. RV sites at resorts are usually roomy with level paved parking pads and there will be a large number of RV spaces. Some resorts are quite fancy and you may find a manned gate and requirements as to the caliber of RV you can bring on the property. Some of these resorts even offer shuttle services to get you to nearby attractions. RV Parks Rv Parks, like their name, are usually more woodsy and park like. The amenities are not as widely available as an RV Resort, but an RV Park does offer more seclusion and privacy. An RV Park is still geared toward accommodating most RVs so if you are bringing a large motorhome or trailer on your trip an RV park will most likely be able to accommodate. Usually the roads are paved or well kept gravel and parking pads are level and spacious. RV Campgrounds If you are looking for a rustic outdoorsy experience you want an RV campground. There may or may not be an electrical hook up available and some of the nicer grounds will have water and sewer, but not always. There is usually a dump station somewhere on the property though there are some campgrounds that do not provide one. Camp sites are usually large and level enough for larger RVs to set up camp, but if you are bringing a 45 foot or larger motorhome you may want to walk through or contact someone personally who will guarantee they have a spot to accommodate you. Standard Campgrounds A regular campground can mean a number of things. Some can accommodate small to medium size RVs while others are pack in tent sites only. If you have any size RV you should check out the site first by walking through it before driving through, you don’t want to end up catching an antenna on a tree branch. Some of these sites can surprise you with the amount of space they offer and can be a nice break for your vacation budget. Before committing to stay in any RV facility make sure you have done your homework by checking reviews , looking at any available pictures, and reading all information available. 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 fleet 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, Camping, RV, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Pack it in Pack it out – How to Be More Eco-Friendly When Camping

Pack it in Pack it out – How to Be More Eco-Friendly When Camping When it comes to camping, there are many different mantras about the unwritten rules of enjoying the wide open spaces. Several of them include respecting the environment around you. “Leave no trace behind.” “Take nothing but pictures; leave nothing but footprints.” “Pack it in, pack it out.” “Leave the place better than you found it.” All cute sayings aside, it is actually important to be eco-friendly and conscientious of the wilderness around you, especially as camping continues to grow in popularity. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics has compiled a list of Seven Leave No Trace Principles to help you prepare for your next outdoor camping adventure. Plan Ahead and Prepare Do some research and get familiar with the area you plan to visit. Make note of the rules for hiking and camping in the area and plan around them. Consider traveling in smaller groups and during non peak times when the location is at high occupancy. Make Use of Durable Surfaces A durable surface is one that is already forged out for recreational use, such as a pre-made campsite or an established hiking trail. Try to avoid creating new campsites or paths which can disrupt the purity of the area. Dispose of Waste This one is pretty standard and easy. Anything that was brought in by your camping party should be taken out or placed in the campsite dumpster. Make sure RV waste is dumped in a place specifically designated for RV waste. Basically don’t leave anything that wasn’t there before. Leave What You Find Don’t take a large amount of natural elements such as rocks, plants, etc. from your campsite. The reason is to avoid transporting non-native species to or from the site. Minimize Campfire Impact Always use designated fire pits and watch the fire as it is burning. Do not leave the fire unattended, make sure that there is nothing but ashes when you leave the campsite for the next camper. Don’t leave hot embers when you walk away from the fire pit. Be a Good House Guest Even though you are outdoors, you are still in someone’s home. There are many animals at the campground that call the wilderness you are vacationing in home. Be aware of the animals around you out of respect and also your own safety. Respect Other Campers Refrain from walking through other campsites, keep noise down especially during quiet hours, keep pets on a leash when away from your RV, and yield to others when out hiking on the trail. Considering others makes your trip more enjoyable for all including the people in your camping party and yourself. 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 fleet 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, Camping, RV, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Reasons to Rent an RV Instead of Staying in a Hotel

Reasons to Rent an RV Instead of Staying in a Hotel Staying in a hotel on vacation has its perks, but if you would like a little more freedom to do vacation on your timing an RV rental is a great way to go. In these days, staying safe is of utmost priority and your own “Hotel on Wheels” allows you complete control of your own environment! Her are some reasons why you might want to choose an RV over a hotel for your next vacation. 1. A New Experience Renting an RV for a vacation is a new and exciting experience for many people. Staying in hotels is sort of a vacation standard, not many have had the chance to do vacation in an RV rental. Renting an RV allows you to pick your spot and settle in then move on to the next place with a bit more relaxation than a hotel does. Ever get back to your room only to find the maid there? Or scramble to wake up the last morning so you can be out of the room by checkout? Those things don’t happen in an RV. 2. Make it Feel Like Home Today’s RVs are full of so many modern comforts they are almost like rolling mini homes (for some they actually are). In an RV you can have a private master bedroom, full kitchen, living space, dining area, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, etc. An added bonus is you can also pack in your own comfort items from home such as pillows, favorite blankets, or your Instant Pot. You can easily customize an RV rental to make it more homey and make every one more comfortable on vacation, especially the young ones. 3. More Location Choices No matter where your destination, be it a theme park or a remote mountain lake, the world is your oyster in an RV. There are so many places you can park an RV and spend the night, even a Walmart Parking lot. Pick your main vacation focus and go, you will find a spot to put the RV near the activities you want to enjoy for one low price. No more paying premium fees for a hotel right across the street. 4. Budget Friendly Just 40 miles outside of Boise is Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area. Just a half hour from the action is the Boise Riverside RV Park not only close to the mountain; it is also just minutes from all the amenities in Boise. After your snow adventure relax those muscles in the hot tub or take a swim at Roystone Hot Springs, just 40 minutes north of the city and fed by natural mountain springs. 5. Freedom to Pack What You Want No more being limited to one suitcase, a carry on, and a personal item. No more limiting the number of bags to what will fit in the trunk. With an RV rental you can pack almost as much as you want. Long trips are made more comfortable when you don’t have to pare down your clothes and try to figure out how many times you can get away with wearing the same pair of jeans. 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 fleet of motorhomes and travel trailers, conveniently located in the Pacific Northwest at our Seattle location! Let us help you have a great outdoor vacation!

Camping, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Beating the Summer Heat While Boondocking

Beating the Summer Heat While Boondocking It has been pretty warm here in the Pacific Northwest over the last week or so, and this amazing weather is great for RV camping. If you are boondocking (camping without any hookups, also referred to as primitive camping and dry camping), you might need to get creative to keep cool. Here is a list of ways to beat the heat when you are boondocking: 1. Keep Sun off the Front Door The best place to boondock in the heat is with the RV parked under a nice shady tree. This is not always a possibility though. If there are not big enough trees to settle under, try parking your RV where the shade will at least cover your front door in the hot afternoon sun. Why? It creates an opportunity to leave the screen door open and get some cool air flow. 2. Awnings and Shades are a Boondocker’s Best Friends This may seem like a given, but that large exterior awning can help lower the internal temperature of the RV by at least 10 degrees. If you have inside window shades, make use of those as well. Keep them drawn about halfway and keep the windows open to allow breezes to travel through. 3. Make Additional Shade A great RV gadget is an RV awning sun screen shade kit. It is a screen that attaches to the end of the awning and down to the ground. These provide a nice shady spot outside the RV and give a little more foot space to hang out in. 4. Keep Air Circulating Some RVs will have ceiling fans. It is okay to use these while boondocking because they use very little battery power and make a drastic difference in the inside temperature of the RV. DO conserve power by only turning them on during the hottest part of the day. To get the best airflow, turn one on the “in” position and the other on the “out” position. 5. Keep the Kitchen Cool Using the RV stove is going to heat up the RV a great deal. Plan to prepare cool summer salads and cook over the camp fire or on an outdoor grill for most meals to keep the heat outside. 6. Take Care of Yourself Part of keeping cool is taking care of your body temperature as well as the RV temperature. The best way to lower your body temp is internally by drinking lots of fluids. Continuously sip on plain water and sports drinks or coconut water to keep yourself hydrated and to help handle the heat. Also avoid activities that require a lot of physical exertion. Limit that hike or bike ride to the morning or at dusk when it is cooler out. Summertime RV boondocking can be amazing with the right preparedness. Make sure to check the weather and plan ahead so you can enjoy your trip all the more. NW Adventure Rentals has a luxurious fleet 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, Camping, RV, RV Lifestyle & Travel, RV Ownership Tips

Finding the Best Spot in the Campground

Finding the Best Spot in the Campground You could find the best campground with the most beautiful scenery only to discover it isn’t all its cracked up to be. You might find yourself, for instance, in a lakeside lot only to discover you are right next to the public beach access and there is more noise than you were hoping for or people walking through/past your site, often leaving little privacy. Though there are little hiccups that could happen on any vacation, there are ways to help ensure you find a campsite that best fits your needs and vacation preferences. The key to a great RV trip is all about planning. The more planning you do, the more you can be sure of what you are in for and that your vacation will be just as you hoped. Some tips for finding the best campsite With a little bit of planning and thinking about each scenario you may encounter, it will help you to find the best campsite to fit your RV camping needs and lifestyle comforts. 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 fleet of motorhomes and travel trailers, conveniently located in the Pacific Northwest at our Seattle location! Let us help you have a great outdoor vacation!