As pandemic restrictions continue to affect our travel plans, we’re sharing some helpful planning tips and precautions to take on your next RV trip.

Precautions to take

Stay informed 

The biggest unknown when planning anything this year, is what the current state of travel will be in your area by the time you reach your vacation dates. Stay informed about current restrictions or advisories and be prepared to modify plans.

Pack ahead 

Rather than stopping in local grocery stores when you reach your destination, limit your contact outside your community by shopping for and packing all the supplies you’ll need before you leave home.

Be self-contained 

A big benefit of RV travel during a pandemic is the ability to be self-contained. Using your own bathroom and kitchen on the road and once you reach your destination eliminates unnecessary contact.

Ask about current health policies at the campground 

When choosing a campground, check that you’re comfortable with the health and safety protocols in place, such as social distancing, contactless check in, or limited guests in common areas.

Planning Suggestions

Consider the community 

Not all communities welcome travelers, regardless of current provincial travel advisories, so be sure to check whether or not your destination is welcoming tourists.

Check cancellation policies 

With the ever changing guidelines and regional travel policies, look for campgrounds offering reasonable or free cancelations.  

Know what amenities are open 

You may find that the campground you plan to visit will not be offering their usual amenities during the pandemic. Bathrooms, showers, and other services may to be open, so call ahead to find out what will be available. 

Find local gems 

Many of us are lucky enough to have great camping spots within our own region, so to avoid being stopped by travel restrictions, consider planning a local getaway.

Have backup plans & be flexible

Having a number of options, from local gems, to destinations within your province and neighbouring provinces, gives you the ability to choose a trip plan based on current public health guidelines.

Safe travels!

When shopping online for an RV, the endless options can be overwhelming. To help you focus your search and make the best choice, we’re sharing our tips for virtual RV shopping.  

Find a reputable dealership   

First of all, be sure you are dealing with a reputable dealership. RV Care dealers all meet a rigorous set of standards, which include operating a full-service maintenance and repair shop, maintaining a fully stocked parts and accessories department and employing certified service technicians. Buying from an RV Care dealership also means that you’re connected with an entire network of friendly, customer-focused RV dealerships across the country.

Narrow down the options 

Narrow down your search fields by sticking within your budget, selecting how many people it needs to sleep, and the type of RV you are looking for (travel trailer, fifth wheel, class A, etc., take our quiz if you’re unsure). 

Know your tow rating 

If you’re purchasing a travel trailer, don’t start browsing until you’ve narrowed down your options to ones that fit within your tow vehicle’s tow rating. 

Brainstorm a list of your needs 

Before you get swept away with all of the options out there, make a list of both your needs and ‘nice-to-haves,’ so you can find a unit that checks the most boxes on your wish list.   

Have a conversation

Once you’ve had a good browse, whether by online chat or over the phone, reach out to the dealership to discuss what your needs are, and which units have caught your eye so far. They’ll be able to give additional insight, confirm what may or may not work for you, and help you focus in on the best options.  

Request a video walk-through 

Detailed listing photos are great, but requesting a video walk-through of the unit with give an even better sense of the flow and space.  

Ready to start online RV shopping? Find the website of your local RV Care Dealership.

With pandemic restrictions cancelling most RV shows across the country, there are still ways to check out what’s new for 2021, find great deals, and gear up for the coming season. From virtual events to private shopping, RV Care dealerships have got you covered.  

Going Virtual 

All the deals, seminars, and tours of a show, minus the crowds. Some major shows and individual dealerships are hosting virtual events.

For example, Canada’s largest RV Show, the Toronto Spring Camping & RV Show is going virtual this year.From February 25th-28th, 2021, you can experience the show experience from the comfort of home. Ontario’s Mega RV Show will be online February 5th to 7th, 2021.

Personal Shopping 

Trade the crowds for a one-on-one appointment at your local RV Care dealership. Many dealerships are offering their own specials in lieu of RV shows this year, visit their websites for details.

Business (almost) as usual 

The 21st annual Halifax RV Show is so far a go, as is the Moncton RV Show & Sale, with new safety measures in place that will allow the shows to run.

Happy shopping!

A new year means new goals and plans for the upcoming RV season. As pandemic restrictions and realities continue to affect our travel plans, it can be hard to make decisions, so we’re sharing some advice for making a 2021 RVing bucket list.

Check cancellation policies 

The ability to cancel plans without a big penalty gives you peace of mind, so check for cancelation windows and fees before booking. 

Double check reservation opening times

It’s not business-as-usual for many parks and campgrounds, so double check when reservations open in you province. To give campers more time to consider the latest COVID-19 measures and reduce the need for cancelations, Parks Canada has delayed their usual January reservation launch until April.  

Explore locally 

Many of us are lucky enough to have great camping spots within our own region, so to avoid being stopped by travel restrictions, consider planning a local getaway.

Have backup plans & be flexible

Plan A, B, C or D? Having a number of options, from local gems, to destinations within your province and neighbouring provinces, gives you the ability to choose a trip plan based on current public health guidelines. 

Are you making plans for the upcoming season? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.

You can RV on any budget! Check out our tips for planning a frugal RV trip.

Double check your gear before you go 

It’s never a nice surprise to set up camp only to find an important piece of gear has been left behind. Save yourself the expense of buying a double of something you’ve left at home, and do a thorough inventory before leaving.

Have a budget

Planning for expenses ahead of time gives you the flexibility to choose more affordable options and control your costs before you hit the road. To get started with your budget, check out the expenses we suggest you consider.  

Meal plan

Planning and prepping your meals before you go is a great way to keep your camping trip on budget. A meal plan will eliminate waste, the need for extra grocery runs, and dining out.   

Pack road snacks

The cost of drive-through foods and gas station snacks add up quickly. Snack cheaply on the go by packing your own snacks or meals for travel days. 

Find the best deals on fuel 

When travelling long distances, fuel can be a large expense on your trip. Use an app like GasBuddy to find the lowest prices wherever you are.

Fewer services, fewer dollars 

The more services and amenities you have, the more your site will cost. If you’re looking to camp with the smallest expense possible, skip the RV resorts and look for municipal campgrounds, provincial parks, or undeveloped recreation areas.  

Avoid peak season

Most campgrounds drop their rates after the peak season ends, making it the most affordable time to book a site. And personally, we love the quieter sites that come with off-season camping.

Boondocking

Cut out your site fee entirely with a boondocking trip. Loved by frugal RVers everywhere, finding free spots to camp is a huge cost savings. Check out our tips for a successful boondocking experience.

Take advantage of free activities 

There are so many free activities to enjoy while camping. From outdoor pursuits to hanging out around the campfire and playing games, you don’t have to spend a dime for quality family time. 

Wherever you travel, remember that we travel with you. Download our app before you hit the road to easily find the nearest RV Care Dealership. Safe travels!

From great gear to good food, we’re sharing a roundup of all the advice we’ve shared over the past years for RVing year-round. 

Gearing up

Camping in the cooler weather requires some extra gear. We shared both our essential picks for fall RVing, and when the snow starts to fall, the gear you need for winter.

Preparing for the cold weather

Cooler temperatures and fewer services also mean you have to prepare differently than when you’re heading out for a summer RV trip. For comfortable fall camping, read through our 10 tips, and when the temperatures start to dip near or below freezing, refer to this great winter RVing advice from knowledgeable RV Care customers, and our tips for short-term winter camping.

If you’re camping without services for the first time, check out our tips for successful dry camping.

Cozy meals

Cold-weather RV trips mean chilly days and cozy evenings by the campfire. Warm up at the end of your day with one of these delicious hot drinks, and be sure to add some warm winter comfort foods to your menu.

Holiday fun

Considering a spending Christmas on the road? We’ve got you covered with our tips on celebrating the holidays in your RV.

Reach out to your local RV Care dealer for expert advice and all the gear you need for comfortable year-round RVing.

As we head into off-season camping in Canada, it’s time to stock your RV with warm bedding, comfort foods and a hint of fall décor. Check out our suggestions for a quick and cozy fall refresh. 

Bring in a touch of fall décor 

As the bugs stop bugging, swap out your go-to citronella candles for something seasonal like a pumpkin spice or warm vanilla. Now is also the perfect time to change up your usual accents by layering on some cozy cushions, throw blankets, and maybe even swapping out your doormat for one with a fun seasonal pattern.

Light up the dark evenings 

With a later sunrise and an earlier sunset, those long summer nights are fading fast. Now is the time to string awning lights for a nice, cozy glow, and set a few flameless LED candles around your RV.

Stock your pantry with comfort foods

You’re going to want all the delicious, warm comfort foods when you’re camping in the fall. Take a minute to go through your pantry and give it a post-summer refresh, swapping out the iced tea for hot chocolate and restocking essentials. Try out some of our favourite fall recipes, and great hot drinks.

Add some extra warmth 

It’s not always cold enough to get the furnace going in the early fall, depending on where you’re camping, but it is nice to have something extra to keep the chill away at night. That’s where an electric blanket comes in handy, providing just the right amount of warmth.

Dress your bed in cozy layers 

Swap out your summer bedding for warm sheets (we love the luxury microfibre sheet set from RV Traveler’s Choice), a heavier quilt, and extra throw blankets. The key to staying warm in the fall is layers! 

Head in to your local RV Care dealership to find everything you need to get your RV ready for trip this fall. Check out our website to locate your nearest dealership.

Get the rest you need on the road and at the campsite with these tips for a better night’s sleep in your RV.

Layouts matter

When buying an RV, consider how the layout will work at bedtime and in the morning. If you’re not the first one up in your family and don’t want to be woken early, you’ll want a bedroom with a door rather than a completely open plan. A separate bunkroom for the kids or bunks with curtained openings are also great for providing a quiet and comfortable sleeping area for family members with earlier bedtimes.

Keep seasonal bedding 

Have options on hand for both warm and cold nights. Use cool cotton sheets and lightweight comforters in the summer, and cozy flannel sheets with heavy throw blankets when the weather turns chilly.

Upgrade your mattress

If you’re waking up stiff and sore, or have just purchased a used RV, treat yourself to an RV Traveler’s Choice mattress. Made from durable, high density posturized foam, it provides long lasting comfort to help you get a good night’s sleep. Visit our website to see the benefits of each model and shop online, or stop by your local RV Care dealer to try one out.

Bring the comforts of home 

When travelling with kids, a familiar pillow, blanket and stuffed animal will make bedtime look and feel more familiar. 

Keep things level and stable

It’s hard to have a comfortable sleep when your RV isn’t level or if it’s rocking whenever someone gets up or rolls over. Follow our helpful guide for leveling and stabilizing your rig. 

Choose a quiet site

Consider nighttime noises when picking your campsite. Although you can’t predict noisy neighbours, you can choose a site further from a main road or communal facilities.

Mattress Size 

RV mattresses come in many shapes and sizes, varying based on the length and width of the unit. If you’re tall, you may want to avoid the short queen size. While it is similar to a standard queen in width, it is usually 5 inches shorter, which may cause your feet to hang off the end.

Keep your RV dark 

Add blackout blinds or window coverings to your RV if the early morning sunlight has everyone waking up at dawn. 

Need RV sleep solutions? Visit the pros at your local RV Care dealer. Happy Camping!

Home or campground electrical connections don’t always match your RV’s electrical system, and that’s when a power cord adapter comes in handy.

When to use a power cord adapter 

If you find yourself with a power connection that is lower or greater than your RV’s electrical system, a power cord adapter will enable you to connect and draw power. For example, when you’re at home and prepping your RV for a trip, using an adapter will allow you to connect to a standard household outlet, so you can cool the fridge and charge batteries before you go.

How to use a power cord adapter 

Power cord adapters are easy to use, they simply plug in between your RV’s power cord and the available electrical outlet.  

Power cord adapter limitations 

Although power cord adapters enable you to connect to a connection of a different voltage, if you’re reducing the amps, you won’t be able to run things as usual. Appliances such as air conditioners and microwaves pull a lot of power, so only use them if you have enough voltage, and be careful not to overload. 

Check out the RV Traveler’s Choice power cord adapter 

The RV Traveler’s Choice power cord adapter allows a larger 30-amp power plug to be connected to a standard household 15-amp outlet. It’s CSA approved, and built to last with  heavy duty construction.

Find the power adapters you need at your local RV Care Dealership! 

Limited mobility doesn’t have to mean limited camping fun, but there are some additional preparations and research you can do to make it an even more comfortable experience.  

Choose the right site 

Look for sites reserved for campers with limited mobility. Parks often have a few sites available that are spacious, have wheelchair accessible picnic tables, and are generally near the park facilities.   

If you don’t snag one of those sites, think next about what facilities or features you will use the most, whether that’s the shower building, the beach, or a spot with a great view to enjoy, and pick a site that offers easy access to that.

Also do some research into the campground layout. Is the beach only accessible by stairs? Can you drive and park at it? Are there paved walking trails? Get a feel for how easy it will be for you to get around the campground before you commit to booking.

Look into modifications 

From extra handrails to a wheelchair lift, visit your local RV Care Dealer’s parts and service departments to discuss how you can better equip your RV to suit your specific needs. If getting up and down your RV steps is a concern, consider upgrading to a sturdier, wider step.  

Make your RV’s layout work for you 

Sometimes a simple furniture swap can make all the difference. If your RV has freestanding furniture, consider whether removing extra chairs or getting a smaller table would give you a better flow to get around in your RV. If your built-in banquet isn’t working for you, see if you can swap it out for freestanding. If you need to accommodate a wheelchair, modifying or removing furniture may also help provide the width needed to move through the RV easier. 

Take in the sights on your own terms

Ask for recommendations from the campground hosts for viewpoints, scenery, waterfalls, and such, that are accessible by car or by short walks that feel comfortable for you. Places that are easily accessible are not always marked as such, so it’s always helpful to get inside information from people that know the area well.

As always, the RV experts at your local RV Care dealership are available to help you make camping as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Happy Camping! 

While we stay home and wait out this pandemic, for those of us who have our RVs stored at home (and weather that is warming up), it’s the perfect time to give it a good spring clean.

Many RV Care dealerships are offering delivery or curbside pickup of needed supplies, and you can also shop a wide range of RV Care Approved cleaning products on our website. Read on for some of our favourite cleaning products, what they offer, and tips for getting the job done.  

Wash and Wax

A gentle, but powerful shampoo with dual-action, deep cleaning capabilities, give your RV an all-over scrub with MAGIC-BOSS Wash & Wax. It will leave a satisfyingly smooth, glossy finish, and is ideal for regular maintenance. 

Black Streak Remover

Those dreaded black streaks! Caused by oxidation of the window and door sealants and rubber roof membrane, MAGIC-BOSS Black Streak Remover is specially formulated to easily remove the stubborn black marks.

Rubber Roof Cleaner 

Specially formulated for the tough job, MAGIC-BOSS Rubber Roof Cleaner will thoroughly clean EPDM rubber roof membranes, removing dirt, stains, contaminants and residue without damaging the membrane. If you want to take it one step further, follow with the rubber roof treatment. It will provide protection against UV rays and reduces oxidation of the rubber membrane that is responsible for causing black streaks to begin with.

Rubber Seal Conditioner 

The rubber seals on your slide-outs can break down over time, so be sure to apply a rubber seal conditioneronce washed. This will create a water repellant film, providing UV protection and prevent the seals from drying out.

You can purchase these products individually, or get these and more with a Deluxe or Supreme RV Care Kit, online at Shop RV Care, or from your local RV Care Dealership. 

SPRING CLEANING TIPS 

Armed with these powerful cleaning products, follow our step-by-step guide for giving your RV a thorough clean. While you’re at it, check out our advice for De-Winterizing your RV and our guide to Spring RV Maintenance. Your RV will be sparkling clean and ready to hit the road when travel restrictions end.

Questions? Be sure to contact your local RV Care Dealership for all the supplies and know-how you need.  

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We’ve been dreaming about spring camping trips all winter, but with the current pandemic, many travel plans have been cancelled or postponed for the foreseeable future. While we stay home right now, there are still some things you can do to create a flexible plan that will be ready to put into action when it’s safe to travel again.