Upgrade Your Camper with an RV Central Vacuum System

It's not uncommon to see a central vacuum system in a home, but in an RV or boat?  About 15 years ago HP products developed a small compact central vacuum for boats and RV's under the Dirt Devil brand.  Initially found in upscale motorhomes, over time, manufacturers have found it to be a great option for all types of RV's due to it's compact size and amazing power.  Today it's one of the hottest RV upgrades a camper or motorhome owner can make in the battle to keep their RV clean.

No Need to Carry a Large Vacuum

While many RV's have lost the carpet in place of solid floor surfaces, trying to sweep up after a fun filled camping weekend isn't going to get the floor very clean.  It may take care of the big stuff, but the dust and small dirt is left behind.  This can lead you to consider packing along an upright vacuum cleaner to try an keep things clean. Unfortunately, RVs don't have a lot of storage space and loosing a big portion of a closet for a large house hold vacuum isn't always ideal.  A central vacuum system installed in your unit can give you the cleaning power you need without taking up additional space.  The Dirt Devil RV Central Vacuum system for instance measures just 7.5" x 7" x 14.25" and can be mounted under a bed, dinette or even in a storage bay.

Added Health Benefits

Many individuals love camping, even those who suffer from allergies and other respiratory issues that are made worse by pollen, dust and other debris that floats around while you camp. These individuals may avoid doing something they love to keep their symptoms at bay. Being able to vacuum your RV on a regular basis can cut back on the symptoms, making camping a more enjoyable experience once again. Both the Dirt Devil and the Intervac RV central vacuum systems feature HEPA filtration preventing the dust and pollen from being spread in the air during vacuuming.

Clean Inside and Out

Most people understand they can clean the inside of their RV with their central vacuum. When that large bag of open chips hits the carpets or furniture you can quickly and easily have the mess vacuumed up with your central vacuum at the ready.  However, with the hoses and other attachments that often come with these systems, you can even clean up spills on the outside of your RV. For instance, perhaps your child put a sand bucket that still had sand in it inside your external storage bay. This mess used to be difficult to take care of. With your central vacuum, you can easily stretch the hose outside and take care of the mess.

Installing a RV central vacuum systems in an RV doesn't take a pro either.  With just a few tools many times a system can be installed in under an hour depending on location.  For those who want a custom installation with possible a few remote inlets and a vac pan for the kitchen, plan a few hours extra to get it just right.

Those who camp in RV's often have a difficult time keeping things clean, especially if they camp in areas where there is a lot of dirt or other debris and many little feet entering and exiting the RV.  With the convenience of an rv central vacuum system, keeping your RV clean is no longer a major chore. 

If you are interested in purchasing and installing a central vacuum system in your RV, contact us. We can help you choose the right one and give tips on how to install it so your next trip is cleaner.

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Tips for Planning your Valentine’s Day RV Road Trip

Are you an RV'er who has been visited by Cupid and his well-stocked quiver?  As an RV accessory retailer who's employees have gone on their share of romantic RV road trips, we’re about to reveal a few of our tips for planning Valentine’s Day camping excursions:

Remember Luxury Counts

One romantic road trip truism that the RVupgrades family can agree upon is that luxury counts. So we’d suggest stocking your RV with  high thread count bed linens. In most instances, a thread count of 200 or higher tends to create an ideal, soft, romantic space. While you are at it, consider packing towels with a high thread count and absorbency level as well. They, along with scented bath products, will make sprucing up during your Valentine’s Day camping trip a luxurious experience.

Opt for Convenience

While on a romantic Valentine’s Day camping trip, absolutely no one wants to wash a huge pile of dishes or otherwise slave away in the kitchen. Because of that, we’d recommend stocking up on easy to prepare, romantic foods and picnic products as well. Good choices are fresh fruits, cheeses, wines, shrimp, pasta and pasta sauces. Having RV accessories like portable ice makers, digital coffee makers, microwave pressure cookers and collapsible produce keepers available can help make preparing Valentine’s Day dinners a cinch too.

Create a Great Atmosphere

Lastly, consider creating a romantic mood at your campsite with RV lighting and stereo systems. Examples of items that may help your efforts are the Kelty LumaSpot Rhythm Lantern and Jensen JRV201B SIRIUS Ready 2.0 DIN Stereo. The lantern can provide both lighting and MP3 music simultaneously. The stereo system, on the other hand, has multiple features that may enhance a romantic evening. Among them are EQ presets, backlit displays, a wireless remote control and song seek alert capabilities.

To learn more about these romantic road trip products, please contact us. Our RV accessory retail experts are poised to provide all of the information that you’ll need to make this year’s Valentine’s Day camping trip special.

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Boondock Longer By Switching to RV LED Light Bulbs

One concern for most RV'ers is making sure that they have enough power when they go off grid and head into the wilderness.  While most commercial and state parks offer on site electrical hookups, that may not be where you would like to spend your whole trip.  And if you're thinking of dry camping, or boondocking, one fast and simple way to reduce the amount of power you use is by switching to RV LED light bulbs.

A typical 50 watt halogen bulb has a lifetime of 2,500 hours.  The LED equivalent uses 7 watts of power and has a lifetime of 25,000 hours.  Simply switching over to LED's can cut your electricity usage down to 1/7th and increase that trip into the woods comfortably by hours.

But saving electricity isn't the only reason to switch over to LED.  Here's a la few more benefits of getting rid of your old bulbs:

• Halogen bulbs get hot but LED bulbs don't.  Those hot bulb discolor plastic lenses and if you have children on board, knowing that they cannot burn themselves on the lights is reassuring.
• Many people are initially offput by the price of LED bulbs.  While they generally cost more upfront, the savings you incur from using less power and having to replace bulbs much less often will save you in the long run.  An average LED bulb will outperform (become cheaper) than its halogen equivalent in roughly two and a half years of equal usage.
• LED bulbs are greener!  Having longer lifespans means less trash to throw away and using less electricity makes everyone happier.

Still not sure if the switch is right for you?  Please contact us.  We'd love to hear your concerns, questions and feedback!

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3 RV Accessories to Eliminate Winter Condensation Problems

It’s well known that winter condensation problems can be both annoying and detrimental to your RV over time. Windows full of condensation leak water that can delaminate fiberglass, rust metal frame work, rot wood structure, and ruin wall board and wall coverings  So it’s best, as they say, to “nip the drip in the bud” as soon as possible. Thankfully, there are affordable RV Accessories that can help you do that. Here’s a rundown on three of the best ones:

Eva-Dry Dehumidifiers

Adding an Eva-Dry Dehumidifier to your camper is one surefire way to beat back condensation problems. The company makes several different models that range in size from petite to high capacity. Some of the dehumidifiers, like the EDV-500 and EH-500F, do not require a power source and utilize renewable crystals. Others, like the EDV-2200 and EDV-1100, run on 120v electricity and feature a removable drip container. The drip container is designed to be easily emptied and cleaned in between uses.

Dri-Z-Air Cans & Crystals

The Dri-Z-Air Company also manufactures a handy condensation solution for campers. It consists of a canister that gets filled with odorless, non-flammable, water absorbing crystals. The crystals are made with a calcium chloride material that will need to be kept away from salt sensitive materials. If you do decide to go with the canister and crystal combination, keep in mind that you may need to buy more than one. In general, one unit is capable of only controlling moisture in a 10’ x 10’ interior camping space or less.

Roof Vents

Of course opening a window or roof vent can prove to be beneficial too. It will allow the excess hot air to escape, thereby reducing the camper’s interior humidity levels. There is an array of roof vents on the market today. Some feature power operated doors. Others require manual operation. They may be paired with other camper parts and supplies like Barker Vent Stik/Knob Kits. 

To make inquires and learn more about camper parts and supplies like these, please contact us at (866) 332-7881.

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Blue Ox Towing Products Let You Bring a Car Along on Your Motorhome Adventures

A motorhome lets you bring many of the comforts of home along as you explore new places, whether

they are historic sites, campgrounds or other tourist areas. Many new RV owners think they will be able to tour around in their motorhome, but quickly come to the realization that preparing the RV to travel after a nights sleep takes quite a bit of time.  Also parking becomes an issue as does clearance under bridges, building overhangs and entry gates.  Bikes or walking are an option, but you will miss out on everything other than what is close by to the campground. 

Bring a Vehicle Along
So wouldn't it be great to have a car or SUV to run around in? Then you could go exploring without needing to disturb your nicely settled in RV. So what are the options?  Well, you could go with a trailer which would allow you to tow pretty much any vehicle within the towing limits of your motorhome.  But, you have to find a place to store it and loading and unloading will get old pretty quick.  A tow dolly is easier to store at your destination, but requires you to tow a front wheel drive car or a car that could be towed 4 wheels down.  Our almost 20 years of experience towing a vehicle behind a motorhome points to using a tow bar and towing a car or SUV 4 wheels down.  And Blue Ox towing products is one of the most trusted name in towing a vehicle behind your motorhome safely and economically. 

Selecting the Right Equipment

Whether your a budget conscious motorhome owner who only plans to tow a few times a year or a weekend warrior who will be towing through out the camping season, selecting the right components the first time is key. But first the most vital piece of the puzzle is determining if the vehicle you own or plan to purchase is capable of being towed 4 wheels down.  Do not assume since you saw another RV'er towing a car 4 wheels down that it can be done, there are factors such as manual or automatic transmission, 2 wheel or all wheel drive or possibly add on aftermarket transmission pumps used.  Be sure to check with the manufacturer of the vehicle to be sure!  We have also found Motorhome Magazines Dinghy Towing guide to be a great resource.

Last year we put out an article called "Blue Ox Towing System For Towed Vehicles" which details everything you need to safely tow a vehicle behind your motorhome which we recommend for anyone researching the subject.  It reviews the 4 major components you will need to tow a car or SUV including; a baseplate that is attached to the frame of the towed vehicle, a tow bar which links the tow vehicle and the motorhome, the braking system which applies brakes to the towed vehicle and towing accessories which include wiring kits, safety products and protective equipment.

The most popular Blue Ox towing setup includes the following products:

• Tow Bar - The Blue Ox Aventa LX, this is a 10,000 lb rated tow bar which will cover most vehicles and features the innovative ball and socket joint design. This tow bar also includes safety cables which are required by law.
• Baseplate - These are vehicle specific and can be selected here.
• Braking System - Blue Ox Patriot which is portable and requires very little in the way of installation.  This includes a brake away system, again required by law based on tow weight ratings.
• Wiring - The Blue Ox 7 to 6 way coiled cable kit which extends the lighting from your motorhome to the front of your towed vehicle.  And the Demco Towed Wiring Kit which features a plug and play design to activate your towed vehicles brake & taillights.

All of these products can be found in our Towing Section and will have you up and towing in no time

If you would like help in selecting the best towing option for your needs, contact us, either online or by calling toll free 866-332-7881. RVupgrades.com wants to help you have most enjoyable and trouble free RV experiences possible.

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Hot New RV Accessories to Kick Off the 2014 Camping Season

In the past we would wait patiently for RV Accessory manufacturers to release the latest and greatest accessories to hit the market each spring.  Traditionally many would tease the product release in March or April and finally have stock available in June.   What they didn't realize is that most RV'ers spend the last half of winter researching and purchasing products for spring upgrades. So many of these items would sell poorly due to how late they where released into the market.  Well, we are happy to see this tradition begin to loose it's grip on the industry with many manufacturers rushing new products to market at all times of the year. Here are a few RV accessories that we really like to kick off 2014.

TST Flow Through Sensor Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Check out that compact monitor!  With so many in vehicle devices vying for space on your vehicles dash board, we are loving the compact size of this tire pressure monitor. Other great features are the flow through design of the tire sensors and the ability to change out the batteries without sending them back to the manufacturer.  Complete systems start with 6 tire sensors at industry leading pricing and monitors will handle up to 22 tire positions as your RV grows.

Click Here to check out the full line up of TST tire pressure monitors and accessories

Aervoe Battery Operated Red LED Road Flare

With a show of hands, how many of you have road flares packed away in your truck, motorhome or camper?  We are thinking more than a few cannot get that hand up.  And you probably have seen that poor family or couple on the side of the road; cars and trucks whizzing by, while they try and change a tire or wait for help with only hazards flashing. Can you say dangerous!  Well the Aervoe LED road flare is here to save the day.  Line 3 of these a couple of hundred feet back of the vehicle and motorist will have plenty of time to get over and give you room.  These compact units are easy to store and even easier to be seen with up to a 1/2 mile range.  The road flare is available with warning red LED's or caution amber LED's.

Click Here to improve you and your RV's roadside safety

Camco TastePURE Heated Drinking Water Hose

Full timers and die-hard RV'ers who sometimes take chances with the weather are going to love this heated water hose. The hose features machined, nickel-plated fittings, self-regulated heated wire which eliminates the need for thermostat or temperature controller (a point of failure in other heated hoses) and a feature we really like, both ends are female. So with the included female-to-male adapter you can more easily position the power plug close to the power source.  Heavy-duty heat shrink provides strain relief on both ends of the hose for less stress on the fitting and hose connection.  The hose has a 1/2" diameter and is available in 12', 25' and 50' lengths. Requires 120V  and has a 3 year warranty.

Click Here to keep your water flowing this winter

To stay on top of all of the new RV accessories that become available this year, check out our New RV Accessories category that is updated almost daily with new products.

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Best RV Accessories and Traveling Games for Dominoes Fans

Dominoes are one of those games that have been around for centuries. They also happen to have ties to more than one country. Some people claim that it was invented during the 12th century by the Chinese. Others assert that the game was the brainchild of Egyptians. All we can say with a surety is that the games’ many variations remain popular with today’s RVers.  With that said, here’s a look at a few of the best RV accessories and traveling games for dominoes fans:

Domino Trays

We think that every dominoes player needs a sturdy, wooden domino tray to keep his or her tiles in order during the game. That’s why Fundex Games’ Domino Trays tops our list of RV accessories for traditional gamers. They are sold four to a box, which is enough to hold 60 dominoes.

Highrise Dominoes

Modern day fans that crave a new variation of the game may appreciate Fundex Games’ Highrise Dominoes too. It comes with 12 spacers, 36 tiles and a square base. The game starts with one player strategically filling the base with eight tiles. The rest of the players are dealt five tiles each.

Each player’s mission is to use those five dominoes to cover the base. The tricky part is that each of the five dominoes must touch two matching tiles on the base. The scoring is identical to the traditional game. So the player with the most points wins.

Mexican Train Dominoes

Fundex Games also manufactures another version of the game called Mexican Train. It includes 91 tiles, which during the game are referred to as box cars. The set also includes a sound enabled, train station hub and train engine markers. Depending on the number of people in the game, each player is given a marker and 8 to 15 tiles. There is also a marker that’s designated as the Mexican train.

Once they’ve been dealt, the players place their markers near the hub. The markers are followed by box cars. Each player gets an opportunity to build his or her own straight train as well as add to the others. The game doesn’t end until someone goes out or all of the moves are exhausted. The person with the most points then gets to make train noises and is declared the winner.

To learn more about these items and other RV accessories that are ideal for keeping campers entertained, please contact us at RV Upgrades.

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RV Accessories that are Perfect for Keeping Camping Chefs Organized

It’s no secret that whether you’re cooking inside of your RV or outside over an open flame, herbs and spices are needed to make a meal complete. So today, we wanted to talk about a few RV accessories designed to keep the chef in the family well organized.

One of the most convenient RV accessories to incorporate into a kitchen is Spice Clips. As you might have guessed, they are ideal for keeping your RV spice collection in order. What we really like about this organizing system is the attachment system. The clips get affixed to the inside of your motorhome using 3M tape instead of nails or screws. So you don’t have to worry about permanently marring your motorhome’s interior in the name of organization. The 3M tape is very effective when it comes to holding the clips in place as well, we've had ours up for two years now and they are still perfectly in place.

We also love the fact that these can be cut down in to individual holders or any other configuration you may need.  Each clip set can hold 12 standard jars of spices at a time, which should be enough to prepare most campground cuisine. Seasoned culinary kings and queens of the road, however, may want to add another set or two. That way, they can prepare more exotic dishes on a whim

If your RV’s cabinets feature glass or otherwise see-thru facing, you may want to go with the Stayzz Kitchen/Bath Utility instead. It’s made of lightweight, self-adhesive, removable foam that’s designed to sit inside of a cabinet as opposed to hanging on a door or wall. This foam holder is capable of holding 11 spice containers that range in size from 2 to 3 inches in diameter.

Of course all of those motorhome accessories are well and good if you are cooking indoors. So at this point you may be ready to ask “What’s an outdoor chef supposed to do?” In our experience, for that situation, you may want to consider buying a Camco Table Caddy, a see-thru container or a small,portable tote. The table caddy is large enough to hold the simple things such as salt, pepper and sugar. The portable totes and containers will clearly be able to handle much more than that. To learn more about these organizing rv accessories, please check the store or contact us at (866) 332-7881.

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Camping Trailer Accessories: A Look at Camco’s Little Red Portable Campfire

Nowadays, many state parks and federal lands have rules that prohibit ground level or in-ground fires. Some areas also have strict restrictions on which fuel sources may be used to create camp fires. That said, it never hurts to have a backup plan in place. One camping trailer accessory that can effectively serve as a backup is the Camco Little Red Portable Campfire.

The Camco Little Red Portable Campfire does not run on firewood or charcoal. So there is no need to worry about firewood restrictions or ash residue disposal. It’s a self-contained beauty that runs on regular LP gas cylinders and features ceramic logs instead. The unit comes with a 9.5” ring burner, 11.25” fire tray, carrying handle and an 8’ propane hose for attachment purposes.

What we like about the Little Red, besides its self-contained portability, is the BTU output and adjustable flame. It makes achieving the right amount of light and heat very easy. The unit may be feasibly paired with other camping trailer accessories like a freestanding, metal, campfire grill or a couple of Rome Pie Irons. The campfire grill has a stake that is driven into the ground and allows for easy height adjustment. The Rome Pie Irons are compact and keep your Little Red Campfire from getting grease or melted cheese dripped onto the logs.

If you do decide to try and cook something over the portable campfire, remember that propane can leave black marks onto the bottom of metal pans. So you’ll want to try and remove them right away or use old cookware. Sometimes submerging the stained pans into a boiling hot, 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and water will help to remove the stains. Commercial cleaners might be of use in such instances too. 

To learn more about camping trailer accessories like the Camco Little Red Portable Campfire, please contact us at (866) 332-7881.

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RV Accessories: A Closer Look at the Blue Ox Motorcycle Carrier I

Blue Ox Motorcycle Carrier I

Your RV is a means to embark on adventurous travels on the open roads of America. For some of us, being able to hop on our motorcycle to see the scenic sights makes for an an amazing and memorable journey. Here at RVupgrades we understand bringing your bike with your while you travel can be tough without the proper equipment, and the thought of leaving your motorcycle at home can be frustrating.

This is why we offer RV accessories perfect for the motorhome and motorcycle aficionado.  This month we are featuring the Blue Ox Motorcycle Carrier. A sturdy motorcycle carrier capable of being installed on to your motorhome quickly and easily, which is a big plus when it comes to the thought of bringing your bike along on the adventure.

This unique carrier allows you to bring your bike along for the journey and still have the ability to tow a vehicle with a tow bar. This is accomplished by welding the two included receivers to the frame of your motorhome and using the included receiver extension in your 2" receiver hitch. Blue Ox powder-coats the carrier effectively preventing rust and corrosion. The durable frame construction is guaranteed to not interfere with vehicle towing equipment and will fit most motorcycles due to the fully adjustable tire stop.

The Blue Ox Motorcycle Carrier I weighs approximately 130 lbs and is easily removed if the need should arise. The included tie down brackets and six inch wide tire rail will ensure your bike's safe and stable transport. Since the weight limit exceeds 900 lbs, you should have no trouble towing a cruiser-style or sport motorcycle.  

For more information on the Blue Ox Motorcycle Carrier or other RV accessories, please visit RV Upgrades.com. We proudly provide RV owners with the highest quality products and service for all your motorhome needs.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have regarding our products.

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Top Destinations for Winter Snowbirds

Not everyone chooses to put an RV into storage during the winter months. Many people turn into “snowbirds”, heading to warmer destinations in their RVs to wait out the winter. If you’re interested in winter travel, here are a few top destinations we recommend.

Mesa, Arizona

Located in southwestern Arizona near the Mexican border, Mesa temperatures average from in the 40s
at night to the 60s during the day. Mesa is also home to several golf courses, and contains nearly 2,300 acres of parks and green spaces. The Good Sam Club lists several RV parks in Mesa as being ideal for snowbirds, including Mesa Spirit RV Resort, Apache Wells RV Resort, Arizona Cowboy RV Park, and Eagle View RV Resort.

Mission, Texas

Like Mesa, Arizona, Mission, Texas is also located in close proximity to the U.S./Mexican border. People often flock here to participate in bird watching, as the World Birding Center is also located here. Temperatures here are relatively mild during the winter months, with daytime temperatures often reaching in the 60s and 70s. Good Sam recommends staying at Bentsen Grove Resort or Bentsen Palm Village Resort.

Fort Myers, Florida

Fort Myers is located along the Gulf of Mexico in south-central Florida. This town is popular for its beaches, which are somewhat less crowded to visit during the winter months. There are also a number of parks and farmer’s markets to visit as well. Daytime highs average somewhere in the mid 70s, while nighttime lows are typically in the high 50s. According to the Good Sam Club, an excellent RV spot to spend the winter in is Woodsmoke Camping Resort.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

This town is also located along the Gulf of Mexico. Average winter temperatures range from the high
40s at night to low 60s during the day. The town has plenty of scenic attractions, including a zoo, craft farm and several golf courses. Boating and fishing are popular year round activities here as well. An excellent place to stay in Gulf Shores is Bella Terra RV Resort.

No matter where your winter travels take you, we are sure to have all the gear you need to make your trip as pleasurable as possible. Check our website or contact us today to find a great selection of merchandise at affordable prices.

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Featuring The Best Eternabond RV Leak Repair Products

As you contemplate the upcoming RV season, possibly deciding what to include in your storage bays for emergency repairs, be sure to include Eternabond RV Leak Repair Tape.  As many of us road warriors know, there is nothing worse than being out on the road with a leaky roof. Having the right tools for the job can make your trip unforgettable - in a good way.

Best Leak Repair Products and Basic Uses

• Eternabond As-2-50 AlumiBond: This extra tough 2" X 50" roll can repair leaking roofs in a jiffy. It offers 4 mils of aluminum with UV replant that can be painted the color of your choice. The backing is so durable, it has been proven to withstand UV abuse for over 16 years. The patented backing material includes an integrated primer which forms a nearly indestructible, permanent, water tight seal to metal surfaces. AlumiBond is Abrasive and corrosion resistant. Basic uses include: roof repair, siding repair, ductwork repair, drain pipe repair, boat repair, and canoe repair.
• Eternabond RSW-2-50 RoofSeal White: Much like the AlumiBond, RoofSeal uses patented technology to ensure years of use and abuse. It can be used with various RV roof types, such as EPDM, TPO, hypalon, most PVC, modified and all metal. The elongation factor exceeds standards at 700%, making it able to expand and contract for ensured durability in any environment. 
• Eternabond UVW-4-5CS Micro Sealant Leak Repair Kit: This leak repair kit uses a one-step repair process that will have your RV dry in no time. Using patented adhesive technology found in all Eternabond products, you can rest assured leaks repaired with this kit won't return.

For more great RV accessories and products, be sure to visit RV Upgrades.com. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff is available to answer any questions you have about outfitting your RV with the highest quality parts and accessories on the market. Please contact us for more information.

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A Day at the RV Show

Each year we make the pilgrimage to an RV show, mainly the Cleveland RV Super Show which is held the second week of January.  It comes along at the perfect time, almost the mid point of winter and as cabin fever is just starting to set in.  You can really tell how the industry is doing by the number of RV's the dealers bring as well as the attendance.  I am thinking 2014 is going to be a big year.  The place was packed with more people and RV's than I have seen in the past 13 years we have attended.

The show for us has never been about looking for that perfect new RV.  Although I will admit, it probably has gotten the "I need a new RV" itch started.  But more times than not we meet friends who may have that itch and help pursued them that they need a new RV for the upcoming season.  With the increase in RV's to look at we have noticed fewer and fewer aftermarket RV product suppliers at the show.  I am thinking that most people don't want to carry around that new camping chair or they figure they can find it cheaper online.  RVupgrades does not attend the shows at this time because we see more value in improving our online store, warehouse facility, products offered and stock levels.

The thing I think about most at the RV show is all of the "new to RV'ing" buyers who get caught up with the interior layout and pretty couch colors and never even look into the structural aspects of the RV.  From ill handling motorhomes to inadequate tow vehicles new buyers are many times in for a rude awakening when they leave the dealership with that new RV.  I know because I was once one of those new buyers.  I think most newbies associate RV's to cars and feel that they will be able to drive or tow their new RV off the lot and not come back for service for many years.  And that a motorhome will handle like Mom's minivan and a trailer only requires a hitch on the back of SUV or truck to tow safely.

It was funny, we spotted the salesperson who had sold us a Class C motorhome a few years back and I told him how bad it handled and how we got tossed around on a trip out west.   He said "oh yeah those class C's are terrible to drive, I would have never done that trip in one."  Of course he would have never said that while we where purchasing it, but he knew it.  It almost surprises me why the whole industry hasn't folded with so many disillusioned RV buyers.  The only thing I can think of is that the hobby is so great that many overcome that initial shock of new RV ownership and learn to repair, maintain and improve their RV so it can be used as it was intended.  I know that was my experience.

Come to think of it, maybe the RV industry actually has it all figured out.  Maybe they realize that if you have to work really hard on your RV, that you will be so worn out you will have to have it to go and relax in. :-)

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Camper Parts and Supplies you'll need for your Winter RV Emergency Kit

You’re probably already aware of the fact that you need to pack an emergency kit whenever you are traveling during the winter. When that travel involves an RV, you’ll need a few extra items that wouldn't be necessary if you were traveling by automobile. Here are some camper parts and supplies that should be included in your winter RV emergency kit in order to ensure you are prepared for any situation that arises.

Basic Necessities

Your emergency kit should contain some of the basic items that would be needed in your car. A few of these things include:

• Drinking water
• Non-perishable food
• Manual can opener
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Warning triangles/flares
• Fully charged cell phone
• Lighter or Waterproof matches
• Blankets and extra clothing
• Kitty litter or sand for traction
• Folding shovel

RV Repair Items
You’ll also need some extra items on hand in order to make performing simple repairs on your recreational vehicle easy to do. A few things you should have readily available include:

• Wheel chocks
• Hose repair kit with tape
• Emergency tire repair kit
• Jumper cables
• Duct and electrical tape
• Extra fuses
• High lift jack
• Tow chain or strap

Although not required, you may want to have some additional items on hand just in case you find yourself needing an extended stay at an RV park while waiting on road conditions to clear up a bit. For example, you could find pie irons and hot dog forks to be extremely useful in the event you need to cook over an open fire. In fact, a portable fire ring could come in handy as well, since many locations may not have them out in the off season. Having a few lanterns and some board games on hand can help you pass the time while you are waiting on the snow to clear.

Here at the RVupgrade Store, we have everything you’ll need to make winter traveling a breeze. To see the selection of items we carry, visit us at rvupgradestore.com or contact us.

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RV Accessories: A Look at the Jobar Pancake Batter Dispenser

One of the joys of camping is waking up to a hearty breakfast that can be enjoyed around a campfire or from the comfy confines of your RV. If you agree with us, you may want to pick up a Jobar Pancake Batter Dispenser. It can make getting everyone off to a great breakfast quick and easy.

The Jobar Pancake Batter Dispenser is drip-less, trigger fed and just the right size for single hand use. It also holds four cups of pancake batter at a time. So if you use 2 ounces of mix per pancake, you should be able to serve roughly four to five people at a time. The other great thing about the Jobar Pancake Batter Dispenser is that it can hold more than just pancake batter. We know of people that use it to make breakfast muffins, waffles, crepes, appetizers and snack cakes.

If you want to simplify your mornings even more, consider making the pancakes up ahead of time and freezing them. It’s easy enough to do with the right RV accessories. Once the pancakes are initially made, let them cool down. Then grab some wax paper, aluminum foil, paper towels and resealable freezer bags. Place one cool pancake on top of a sheet of wax paper. Next, top it with another sheet of wax paper. It will help to keep the individual pancakes from sticking to one another. Continue the procedure until you've stacked four pancakes. That should be enough for one person.

From there, wrap the pancake stack in aluminum foil followed by paper towels. The paper towels will help to keep any moisture away from the stacks of pancakes. Afterward, slide the wrapped stack of pancakes into an airtight freezer bag and store them in your ice chest, built-in or portable compressor freezer/refrigerator.

When you are ready to make breakfast, reheat the pancakes in your RV’s oven or microwave. You could also warm them over a campfire. If you are worried about the pancakes drying out in the process, try reheating them with the aid of a Progressive International Steamer Basket or Jobar Microwave Steamer. The moisture from the steam should do the trick.

For more information about the pancake batter dispenser and other RV accessories that will make your mornings go smoother, please contact us at (866) 332-7881.

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Great Motorhome Accessories for Cold Weather Road Trips

Right about this time of year, many of us tend to come down with a case of cabin fever. On a high note, it’s not incurable. All you need to do is set your sights on a warm destination and grab the following motorhome accessories:

Two-Way Radios with NOAA Channels

Two-way radios with NOAA channels, like the Microtalk FRS/GMRS, can really give winter campers a piece of mind. They feature phenomenal reception, battery-saving options and the ability to keep on top of changing road conditions. Pair it with a state-of-the-art, RV GPS system and you should be good to go.

Engine/Tank Monitoring Systems
Engine and tank monitoring systems can also make your winter trips less stressful. Two top brands to consider in that regard are Silverleaf and Seelevel. Silverleaf manufactures engine monitoring systems and Seelevel produces tank monitoring systems. Between the two, they’ll ensure that you know precisely what’s going on with your motorhome’s most important components at all times.

Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems/Portable Compressors
Speaking of system monitoring, it’s a well known fact that tire pressure fluctuates due to temperature changes. So you may want to invest in a tire pressure monitoring system, portable compressors and JR Products Snow/Mud Grip Mats. That way, you can stay on top of your motorhome’s tire issues too.

Battery MINDers/Booster Cables
A motorhome’s battery can also act up in cold weather. Therefore, it’s always a great idea to store road flares, a battery MINDer and booster cables in your RV as well. One of our favorites is the BatteryMINDer Model 2012-AGM. It works perfectly in cold weather and does more than just charge the battery.

Portable Generators/Heaters
Last on our list are portable generators and heaters. They are great to have if the campground that you’re visiting loses power. Of course they could be used at rest stops, parking lots and other areas too. Some of the portable generators and heaters are designed for outdoor use. Others are best left inside of the motorhome.

To ask questions and find out more about these winter approved, motorhome accessories, please contact us. Our motorhome accessories experts may be reached online or by calling (866) 332-7881.

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RV Accessory Review: Rand McNally TripMaker RV GPS

Product Overview: The Rand McNally 7" RV GPS has been designed specifically for RV'ers and their larger motorhomes and campers. The RV easy routing begins with award winning navigation from Rand McNally which includes legal (propane, RV allowed) routes, along with parkway and boulevard weight and height restrictions. This can be tailored for the specific type of RV you are using. The TripMaker RVND 7720 is packed with all of the information you need to have an enjoyable and safe trip in your RV, including campgrounds, parks, RV service locations, travel centers and suggested road trips! The display is a huge 7.0" TFT High Definition Widescreen.

Product Review: Initially, I had a love hate relationship with this GPS. I generally plug in a new device and try to use it before reading the instructions.  It generally works with many of my past GPS's, but with this unit and all of it's features, I should have read the manual first.  I got myself into a number of bad situations with routing because I had not carefully setup the RV options.  When I first received the GPS I had put the wrong height in and found myself confronted with a 10' railroad bridge in Jamestown, Ny, with a 12' 6" tall RV.  After avoiding that disaster and updating the height setting, I still seem to be directed on roads that made no sense.  I later figured out that due to the high weight rating of the RV, it took me on roads that may have been legal, but where not meant for my RV.  I lowered this rating and the routes became much more accurate and many times matched google maps directions.  It was about that time that I decided I better read the whole manual to ensure I wasn't missing some other feature or setting.

We have now put over 15,000 miles on the Tripmaker since my initial issues, mostly self induced, and what I really enjoy are all of the RV related points of interest this GPS has to offer. From the huge number of campgrounds to rest areas and travel plazas, having this information at your finger tips is a great help.    We used this unit on a 4 day trip with no idea how far we would get each day, but no problem with the Tripmaker, as we got close to ending our day we could quickly hit the campground search along our route, found a good fit and stopped for the night.  Not a huge feat since most GPS systems have campgrounds preloaded, but out of all of the units we have used including Tom Tom, Garmin & Magellan this unit seems to have every campground in existence. Campgrounds are broken into types including state, commercial and KOA's for even faster location.  Multi-stop trips are also a breeze with a dedicated section for these types of adventures.  Usually I will bring the unit in the house and add all of our destinations from the comfort of my recliner a few days prior to taking off.

The size of the screen and the big navigation buttons are nice when your changing screens and the road is not perfectly smooth.  This is by far the most sturdy window mount we have ever had with a GPS, even on hot days it never lost grip and is always super sturdy.  Since this is for RV'ers they probably should have included an adhesive disc for Class A motorhome owners that cannot mount a GPS to the windshield.

Overall we are really happy with the features, size and ease of use of this RV GPS.  For more information on the Rand McNally 7720 LM Tripmaker RV GPS Click Here

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