What about solar? Note that I advocate “substantial” amounts of energy for RV camping. Sure, solar power may be useful for certain applications (like illuminating low-wattage light bulbs as a parlor trick) but I’m afraid it falls short of meeting our needs on a daily basis. With the flick of a switch, my wife’s jet engine of a hair dryer can completely destroy solar panels.

A good old-fashioned fossil fuel generator, however, kicks out copious amounts of politically incorrect current. So the next question becomes, “What type of generator to buy?”

There are plenty of cheap generators on the market. These are easily distinguished by the raucous clatter they emit, which sounds like a genetic cross between a defective lawnmower, an enraged banshee, and a sick moose.

Once we were camping in the Grand Teton National Park. One of our fellow campers (who was parked, oh, a half mile down the road) had one of those horrible spirit-killing generators. On the comprehensive List of the World’s Most Annoying Sounds, his generator ranks an impressive #7 (right behind Fran Drescher’s voice). Every morning at about 8AM, he would crank the thing and rattle us out of bed. It was like a county-wide alarm clock over which we had no control. Tornado sirens are more subtle.

So we wanted a quiet generator, and this led us to “inverter” technology. There were a couple of inverter generators on the market that seemed appropriate for our needs.

One was made by Honda. The Honda was red in color. “Get the Honda,” I was told. “It’s quiet, it’s reliable, and if you ever need parts they are easy to find.”

But there was a competing generator made by Yamaha. The Yamaha was blue in color.

“Get the Yamaha,” I was told. “It’s just as quiet as the Honda, just as reliable as the Honda, and it includes a ‘boost’ technology that gives you a little extra power when you need it.”

In the final analysis, Yamaha won.

Why? I think it had something to do with the color. Blue matches our travel trailer.

So, did we make the right decision? After over 40,000 miles of travel and LOTS of boondocking along the way, I have no complaints about the Yamaha. It has been quiet and reliable so far.

But my friend owns a Honda, and he also reports many months of happy, quiet, and reliable usage.

So, what about you? What brand of generator do you like the best? Is there really a “best” generator for RV camping, or is there no such animal? Blue or red? PC or Mac? Beatles or Stones? Inquiring minds want to know.

Oh, and by the way, if you buy the Yamaha (and presumably the Honda) don’t forget to also buy one of these 30AMP plug adapters. Don’t ask me why, but you can’t plug your RV plug directly into the generator. You need a 30AMP adapter. (You could also use a 30 AMP to 20 AMP adapter, but this is a bad idea.) These adapters cost about $20.

The RV power cable plugs into to the "female" side of this adapter plug. Then the "male" side plugs into the generator itself. This way you get the full benefit of your 30 AMPs.

I wish someone had told me this on day one.

Of course, there are other options. Instead of buying one 3000 Watt generator, you can buy two 2000 Watt generators. Why would you want to take this route? When you link two together, you get slightly more power. Also, the smaller generators are easier to carry (which by the way makes them easier to steal). On the downside, owning two units means you get to service and maintain two units.

Personally, I think the fewer steps involved in using the generator, the better. I like to be able to pull over at any time and easily kick on the power. Anything we can do to minimize hassle is welcome.

So, one nice addition we made to ours is an extension cord that reaches to the back of the pickup bed. Now all I do is pull out the Airstream power, connect it to the extension, and turn the generator key. (No need to climb into the bed of the truck itself).

Note that our generator pretty much never moves — it remains locked & chained in place behind the cab of our truck.

If I had it to do over again, I’d get a nice cover for it on DAY ONE. I’d also consider the remote starting package. I love the idea of starting the unit from the comfort of the Airstream (no minor convenience on a cold morning when you’re wearing a bathrobe! )

Buying through these Amazon links helps to support LongLongHoneymoon.com.

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

In reality, we live in the land of the taxed and regulated — but that’s not such a catchy phrase.

Case in point: Maryland has BANNED ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION in state park campgrounds. No more frosty beer around the campfire. No more glass of wine with dinner. It may be five o’clock somewhere, but never in Maryland campgrounds.

There are a couple of exceptions. Apparently (and I am not making this up) groups can apply for a $35 permit to consume alcohol outside in a pavilion. If you have a motor home, you can cower inside with your beverage of choice; the booze gestapo stops at your door.

Sure, you may have served your country in Vietnam. Maybe you paid taxes for decades and retired after a productive career. But we can’t have you sipping a nice cabernet outside while watching the sunset, can we? No, not unless a government bureaucrat consents to sell you a $35 permit.

What’s the point of this ban? Every year, a few rude people drink too much, get noisy, and engage in boorish behavior. So instead of BANNING BOORISH BEHAVIOR, the government decided to punish everyone by banning alcohol entirely.

While we’re at it, why not ban kids? They’re noisy.

Pets? Bad for the environment.

Campfires? Too risky.

Swimming? Dangerous!

Maybe we should just go ahead and ban camping? The campgrounds would be much more quiet.

—–

Personally, I think the Maryland alcohol consumption ban is absurd and is another example of regulatory puritanism. If loud boorish behavior is a problem, BAN THE MISBEHAVIOR — not the responsible consumption of alcoholic beverages by grown adults.

In many other nations, this sort of government encroachment on individual liberty would be UNTHINKABLE. But here in America? We just sit back and take it.

In my opinion, grown adults should be allowed to act like adults in “the land of the free.”

That’s what I think. What do YOU think?

Should alcohol be BANNED in campgrounds?

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Okay, “fascinating” may be a stretch. I mean, I don’t sit around all day dreaming about floor plans. But it’s quite remarkable how many different combinations manufacturers create. I’ve likened RV floor plans to Mexican food entrees — the chef always starts with the SAME BASIC INGREDIENTS (meat, beans, cheese, lettuce, etc.) and somehow they concoct 347 different menu items. In truth, we’re all getting some version of a TACO, but they each seem so gloriously unique.

The latest and greatest trend in AIRSTREAM floor plans is the FRONT BEDROOM layout. For you non-Airstreamers, this means that the bedroom is located at the fore of the trailer — it’s closest to the tow vehicle. The basic idea is that since you BACK into most campsites, the most desirable view of nature is in the back. The front bedroom, in theory, allows you to enjoy that natural view all day long from your living room. That’s the advantage.

What do I think about this floor plan? WHO CARES what I think? I’m married. What MATTERS is what my WIFE thinks. Hence, this video (which is pretty much a simple vlog like granny used to make — sorry, film critics, this ain’t Citizen Kane ).

Look, I’m a MAN — toss me a shiny gadget and a cold beer, and I’ll be happy in ANY floor plan.

But my wife has definite opinions on the topic — as you’ll see in the video.

While I enjoy browsing different RV floor plans, Kristy has an intuitive sense of “what works,” and how livable the plan will be on a daily basis.

These different floor plans all have their strengths and weaknesses. There’s not really a clear cut “better.”

After all, sales of the front bedroom units have been booming. People LOVE their front bedroom Airstreams, so maybe we’ll hear some reasons WHY.

Ultimately, this is a personal preference issue, and there’s no right or wrong — what matters is what works for YOU.

So, what about you? If you have an OPINION on the contentious FRONT VS. REAR BEDROOM issue, please chime in…

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Bear in mind that even IF you currently own an RV, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself RV shopping again. A lot of people change RVs, moving up or down in size, or switching between travel trailers and fifth wheels and motor homes. So even if you already have an RV, it’s always wise to consider the shopping process, and making your next RV deal a good one…

There’s a lot to ponder when purchasing an RV. Although there are similarities with buying a car, it’s not the same. I mean, most of us grow up with some basic knowledge of cars; we all know the difference between a sedan and a SUV, right? But many of us have no clue when it comes to RVs. . Quick, can you tell me the differences between a Class B and a Class C motorhome? Maybe you can now, but you probably couldn’t when you first started looking for an RV.

One of the fundamental issues RV purchasers all confront, sooner or later, is whether to buy a NEW or USED RV. There are valid arguments to be made on both sides. This is ultimately a personal choice. Some might see it as strictly financial, but there’s more involved than just moula. I’ll outline a few pluses and minuses here. (Note that the issue is complicated if you are interested in Airstream travel trailers, since the desirable vintage units are all, by definition, used.)

Advantages to buying a NEW RV:

1. You can choose your preferred model & floor plan
If you’re buying new, you might as well get EXACTLY what you want. Getting an appropriate floor plan for your needs is crucial. Getting a “perfect” floor plan is priceless!

2. You get the latest RV technology.
Okay, at first glance “RV technology” seems a bit of an oxymoron. I mean, the technology of water tanks and propane lines is pretty mature and doesn’t change much from year to year. That said, there may be a few bells & whistles (flat screen TVs, media packages, etc.) on new models. Newer RVs are typically more spacious. (For example, Airstream switched all models to “widebody” dimensions in 1996.) And a few manufacturers push the envelope with regard to innovation. Sure, you may not need that mechanical screen porch that extends at the press of a button, but isn’t it cool?

3. You get a manufacturer’s warranty.
An RV is basically an apartment on wheels. Use it enough, and something will go wrong. Heck, even if you don’t use it, something will go wrong. With a warranty at least the manufacturer will pick up the repair tab.

4. It’s new!
Let’s face it. New is nice, whether it’s a car, tow vehicle, or a RV. When you buy used, there’s always a slight linger of doubt with regard to the unit’s history. Sure, it may appear to have been well maintained — but do you really know? And everyone loves that new car smell.

But what about the USED market? Unlike cars, RVs are not driven daily. Most are not used daily. Heck, many are barely used at all! When shopping for a used RV, it’s possible to find some incredible deals.

TRUE STORY: A friend of mine bought a NEW travel trailer, kept it in storage for a few months, and then resold it for a loss — having NEVER even SLEPT in it! The story is a bit unusual but hardly the only one of its kind. I once met a fellow who bought four year old Airstream Classic that was so new, it still had plastic wrap on the couch. The pre-owned market is replete with nice used RVs that have seen minimal actual usage. If you conduct a patient search, you can find what you want in “like new” condition — at a used price.

Advantages to buying a USED RV:

1. Lower up front cost.
RV values depreciate just like the values of cars, boats, and other such items. One recent depreciation chart states that the average new RV loses 35% off its full MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) in the first year of ownership. It loses 10% in the second year. So by year three, the RV is already worth 45% less than its original MSRP.

2. Less depreciation.
That depreciation chart I mentioned? It also shows that after the first few years, the depreciation curve levels out considerably. The RV depreciates 10% in year two, 6% in year three, and by year six it depreciates 5% or less annually. In other words, if you buy an RV that’s just a few years old, someone else has already taken the major depreciation hit. Not only do you enter the deal at a more attractive up front price, your rig will hold its value better than a brand new unit.

There’s an excellent financial book called The Millionaire Next Door. The authors studied the behavior and habits of American millionaires, and report their findings in the book. The book’s key message is that frugality and smart shopping lead to a high net worth. The majority of American millionaires NEVER buy new vehicles. They buy used vehicles that have depreciated a bit, so they can instead place their money in assets that will increase in value.

3. Customization
In the Airstream owners community, the hippest trailers are vintage units customized to their owners’ delight. All vintage Airstreams are “used.” Sure, new Airstreams are lovely and offer some amenities not present on the vintage rigs. But vintage units have a style and panache that is simply unmatched.

To a certain extent, the option of customization exists in all RVs, but it makes more sense in a used rig. I mean, if you are buying a new RV, why wouldn’t you just start with the interior you want? With a used rig, there will be fewer pangs of guilt should you decide to replace the flooring or upgrade the cabinetry and recover the couch. To a certain extent, an RV is like a home. You can decorate and renovate it to your desire. If you buy used, you can immediately start making those small changes that make a big difference to you.

—–

New or Used? Some final thoughts…

As mentioned above, if you want to pick up a hip vintage Airstream, then by definition you will be buying a used unit. Many people buy old Airstreams and renovate the trailers from the shell up. The key is to find one with “good bones,” but that’s another topic of discussion.

Another factor is how long you plan to keep the RV. Are you the type of person who frequently buys and sells this sort of thing? Then buying a brand spankin’ new unit may not make sense, due to the steep initial depreciation. Repeatedly buying and selling new, expensive, rapidly depreciating assets is a recipe for financial disaster.

On the other hand, are you a “buy and hold” type? Do you know EXACTLY what you want? Then maybe it makes sense for you to buy a new RV. Sure, you’ll weather the effects of massive depreciation, but if you are keeping the unit for a long time then it arguably doesn’t matter as much. The cost is amortized over time.

Have you never owned an RV before in your life? If so, then maybe a used model would be the safest bet. (When testing water temperatures, gingerly dip your big toe instead of leaping headfirst into the deep end.)

Have you never RV’d before in your life? Please, try one out before making a purchase. Borrow a friend’s, spend the night in a KOA Airstream, or try one of Cruise America’s motorhome rental deals. It’s definitely wise to try before you buy.

Any thoughts on the NEW versus USED issue? Feel free to chime in…

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Certainly one of the reasons we camp, whether we realize it or not, is to get closer to animals.

My favorite wild animal encounter from a filmmaking perspective is well documented in that beloved heart-warming American classic, The Goat Incident. Rocky mountain goats are always good filmmaking fodder.

My least favorite animal encounter were the ants in Malibu. Not only did that snobby campground cost $100 a night, it was jam packed with ants. The staff garners the inglorious recognition of being the rudest we’ve encountered in North America. Maybe all those ants put everyone in a bad mood?

What about bears, you ask? We’ve seen our share of bears (black and brown) in Yellowstone, Glacier, and Waterton parks. Seeing a bear is always a thrill, especially when you survive.

We’ve seen sea lions in Oregon, seals in Northern California, dolphins in Florida, moose in Wyoming, and lounge lizards in Los Angeles.

But for our “wildest” animal encounter, I’m pointing to the road-crossing tarantula in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Think about it. When have you seen a TARANTULA in the wild? For me, this was a new one. And yet — there it was, crossing the road.

What about you?

Have you had any interesting wild animal encounters?

Can you top a tarantula?

Let’s hear it!

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Kristy and I typically do our driving in the afternoon, and arrive at campgrounds in the evening. There have been a couple of occasions when we checked into a campground for an overnight stay at 10PM. The next morning, some guy in a golf cart was rapping on our door to boot us off our site by 11AM. At times we’ve even encountered nasty confrontational attitudes! In a tip of the hat to Seinfeld, we’ll dub these overzealous characters Campground Nazis.

We’re talking about a campground, not a hotel. There’s no team of maids coming through to clean the campsite. In most cases, there’s no shortage of available campsites for new arrivals. Why shouldn’t campers be able to stay until 2PM?

For those of us who are “location independent professionals,” mornings are often important times to work. And there’s the process of hitching and breaking down camp; having a little extra time to do these chores is quite helpful. Three hours may not sound like much, but sometimes it’s the difference between a pleasant enjoyable morning and a stressful one.

Yes, campground owners are free to set 11AM checkout times if they wish. But RV’ers are free to “camp” at Walmart or other such places where there are no early checkout hassles. Sure, we’d all rather stay in a REAL park, but it sucks away the fun when some “Campground Nazi” is barking orders for no good reason.

If I owned and operated a campground, I’d want my guests to have as enjoyable an experience as possible. I’d want repeat business. I’d have a 2PM (or later) checkout time.

That’s what I think. What do YOU think?

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

Quite frankly, when we bought our Airstream I had little knowledge of diesel engines. I just knew that we needed to buy a big honkin’ truck. So I started shopping, and quickly learned that this decision is one of the fundamental choices one must make when purchasing a tow vehicle.

Diesel engines operate a little differently than gasoline engines. Without delving too far into Engine Construction 101, let’s consult our old friend Wikipedia: “The defining feature of the diesel engine is the use of the heat of compression to initiate ignition to burn the fuel, which is injected into the combustion chamber during the final stage of compression. This is in contrast to a petrol (gasoline) engine or gas engine, which uses the Otto cycle, in which a fuel/air mixture is ignited by a spark plug.”

Ummmm, okay. While that’s good to know, it’s also not necessary to know.

I guess the main question is “Why buy a diesel?” After all, diesel engines are noisy, the fuel is sometimes a hassle to locate (usually when you are running on “E”), and they generate copious amounts of smelly exhaust.

For me, there were a couple of compelling reasons.

First, in addition to all that smelly exhaust, diesel engines also generate copious amounts of torque. Our beloved truck SEEMORE is a turbocharged diesel that kicks out 570 foot-pounds of torque on a bad day. You can yank redwood stumps with this thing (although I’m not sure why you’d want to do so). The factory claims that our truck can tow 20,000 pounds; for comparison, our fully loaded Airstream Classic (with water, clothes, and gear) is about 8000 pounds. So we’ve got more than enough towing power. In fact, I believe the excess power enhances our safety on the road.

Second, although they cost more up front, diesel engines get better fuel economy. We get about 12 MPG when towing our Airstream. In the days before low sulfur diesel, the fuel itself was cheaper than gasoline. (As soon as I bought our truck, diesel fuel began costing a little more than gasoline.) So there have been historical financial advantages to diesel. While you might pay more for the engine on day one, after a few years you would actually be saving money.

Finally, if you are into green technology, biodiesel is becoming all the rage. With some modifications, a petrodiesel engine can be converted to biodiesel. This allows your truck to be fueled by recycled vegetable oil. If you go this route, not only is the fuel cheap, but it smells like cooking french fries. Pretty cool, huh? While SEEMORE presently feasts on petrodiesel, maybe someday we’ll convert him to the veggie stuff.

So that’s why we chose diesel. But I suspect that we diesel drivers are in the minority. After all, the newer gasoline engines boast a robust towing capacity, and are less expensive. Plus, they don’t sound like a Bluebird school bus.

So what about you? If you chose gas (or diesel), tell me WHY…

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.