RV Lifestyle RV Podcast

It doesn't matter where you go, what you do, or how you enjoy your RV - just as long as you're out there making memories and living the RVing dream. And that's what this episode of the Roadtreking RV Lifestyle podcast is all about - from Jennifer's Tip of the Week about finding fun festivals around North America and equipping your RV with the right gear to a great group of friends we met RVing in Florida (that's them in the above photo), including someone who comes to the U.S. from England every year just to RV. Also in this episode, we help you pick the right inverter for your rig along with more RV tips, an off the beaten path suggestion near Yellowstone National Park, the Thingamajig of the Week, an RV Calendar filling up with RV shows, and more. [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #55 Sept. 30, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Greetings from...the Wendlands! Mike and Jennifer Wendland kick off the show from home this week talking about how their grandson is collecting postcards postmarked from all 50 states. They also discuss the Roadtreking Facebook group. [spp-timestamp time="3:05"] Jennifer's Tip of the Week: How to Find the Best Festivals While RVing Jennifer's Tip of the Week for episode 55 is all about serendipity travel - the Wendlands' tactic of stopping and exploring whenever they find something that appears interesting or fun. For example, when they visited the Popcorn Capital of the U.S. in Nebraska. You can read about it here: https://rvlifestyle.com/roadtreking-across-america-popcorn-days-in-nebraska [spp-timestamp time="6:15"] And last weekend it was the Peanut Festival in Plains, Georgia: https://rvlifestyle.com/a-peanut-festival-and-a-president-in-plains-ga/ How do they find such fun things? Several resources, including: Music Festivals Junkies: This website lists all the music festivals around the country - http://www.musicfestivaljunkies.com/festival-guide/us-festivals/ Do an Internet search on the area you are visiting, looking for events or festivals in whatever town you are near. "Amazing Festivals - Hundreds of Hometown Festivals," by Donald Vaughan and Eric Peterson. This books lists hundreds of hometown festivals across North America (http://amzn.to/1PLk1CQ) We just ordered a copy for our RV. It costs only $7 on Amazon Listener Question: How Big of an Inverter Do I Need for My RV? A listener named Liz asks about how big of an inverter she needs on her 28-foot RV to run her microwave, TV, and coffee pot. An inverter converts the battery power (12 Volt DC) into power that works with our electronics (110 Volt AC power). Mike offers some suggestions and a link to a helpful do it yourself RV resource on how to choose the one best her needs - http://www.doityourselfrv.com/rv-inverter-how-to-best-option/ [spp-timestamp time="11:37"] Listener Question: How Do I Prep My RV Wheels for Winter? Roadtreking Listener Mike asks about whether he needs four-wheel drive on his RV or chains on his tires for winter RVing in the snow. Mike and Jennifer share their experience in driving in snow. Here’s a report and video on winter RVing in the snow, including shots of driving in a white out https://rvlifestyle.com/rving-in-the-wintertime/ [spp-timestamp time="17:30"] Listener Question: Should We Use Asphalt or Concrete Under Our RV? And by email, reader Lauren wants to know if she should use asphalt or concrete to extend her driveway and on which she intends to park her new Roadtrek. Mike and Jennifer share their experience of adding an asphalt extension to their driveway three years ago. [spp-timestamp time="21:12"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Missouri and their Partner Dealerships Creston RV in Kalispell, Montana, and Wagon Trail RV in Las Vegas. Bringing you the largest inventory of Class B’s from three locations - all three have a great fly and drive program. That means they'll pick you up from the airport and will reimburse you ...

The RVing experience is like snowflakes - no two are the same for any of us because the freedom of the RV lifestyle affords us more than enough opportunities to make it our own. Sure, there a similarities, which is why the tips, tricks, and gadgets we talk about often are so popular among Roadtreking fans. But at America's Largest RV Show in Hershey, Pennsylvania last week, we wanted to really connect with everyone who took a minute to spend some time with us - really get at where people go, what they do,  and why the small motorhome lifestyle is so satisfying. So that's who we talk to for the interview section of this episode of the Roadtreking podcast - YOU. Among others, you will hear us talk with: A New Yorker who wants to get away from the city to boondock A couple with some great tips about overnighting at some businesses A 51-year-old Texas man who attended the show and is planning to get a new RV A Pennsylvania couple that is hitting as many festivals around the country as possible How a Pittsburgh couple RVs in a minivan and is looking to upgrade A New Jersey couple looking to get an RV as soon as they're empty nesters A woman from Rochester, N.Y. who travels solo - and has some great tips about it We also have RV news of the week - including a report about RVers who have been busted trying to avoid paying sales tax - a great off the beaten path report, some traveling tech tips and much more! [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #54 Sept. 23, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Home From Hershey Mike and Jennifer Wendland kick off the show talking about their trip to America's Largest RV Show in Hershey, Pennsylvania, last week after Jennifer was excused from doing jury duty. [spp-timestamp time="3:09"] Jennifer's Tip of the Week: Keep Track of Spending While Travelling Jennifer's Tip of the Week for episode 54 is about a great way to keep track of expenses on the road - an app called Smart Receipts. As Jennifer reports, spending must be kept in check and a budget must be adhered to or you could wind up with a huge financial headache. The Smart Receipts app that the Wendlands use ensures they know precisely how and where they are spending money while on the road.  There's a version for Android and a version for iPhone. [spp-timestamp time="4:48"] Listener Question: I Want to Convert My RV's Front Seat Into A Bed. Advice? A listener named Carol has a question about converting the front seat of her 2003 Roadtrek 190 into a sleeping bed. Mike refers her to the manual for her model. He mentions a link for Roadtrek manuals that can be found at: http://www.roadtrek.com/support-contact#section-manuals [spp-timestamp time="6:59"] Listener Question: How Do You Decide Where to Overnight? Roadtreking Listener Rachel emails to ask us how we decide where to overnight. She also wonders if such stays are planned out and asks for advice in finding a place. Mike and Jennifer tell listeners how they approach RV overnights. [spp-timestamp time="9:50"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. They've been in the RV business for 45 years and nobody knows more about small motorhomes that the Van City  crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel, complete with full tanks of fuel and propane. After a complete orientation with their staff on your new RV, you can take delivery and set out for home. Dan the Van Man gives the week's specials on the podcast. [spp-player] RV News of the Week: Too Many Bear Selfies, Tax Dodgers, and E-Smokers! Too Many Bear Selfies Shutter Colorado Park: So many people are taking selfies with bears that it's become a really serious problem. So much so, in fact,

With the peak summer travel season behind us, thoughts for many begin to turn toward snowbird season. But RVing for an extended period so far from home during the long winter months isn't all sun and sand, especially if you don't prepare properly. Take it from Tim and Carol Mallon, the couple from Canada behind the Snowbird Tails from the Trail blog at  http://snowbirdtailsfromthetrails.blogspot.com/ Tim and Carol Mallon The duo knows how to snowbird right and join Roadtreking's Mike Wendland for episode 53 of the Roadtreking podcast to give you everything you need to know about being an RVing snowbird. Among other things, they discuss: How to mark out a route for snowbirding How to set a snowbirding budget How boondocking can save money Stretching your food budget by eating local and fresh food Why preparing your own food is not only financially sound but is good for you You should treat yourselves to night out and a movie Take advantage of local museums and parks Spend your first season finding the region of the country you like the best Also in this episode, we have all the regular features including listener feedback and questions, Jennifer's Tip of the Week, an amazing RV bucket destination, and a lot more. [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #53 Sept. 16, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Checking in from Florida's Emerald Coast Mike and Jennifer Wendland kick off the show talking about their busy week that COULD include a trip to America's Largest RV Show - or Jennifer sitting in a courthouse. They also talk about how a pothole slowed them down during their most recent trip. [spp-timestamp time="2:42"] Jennifer's Tip of the Week: Go Gear Pop-up Trash Can Jennifer's Tip of the Week this week centers on one of the least expensive, yet most handy accessories an RV can have: a pop-up trash bag. For just $9 on Amazon (http://amzn.to/1M6YovE) you will get the perfect trash bag made of nylon and easily washable. We put it behind the driver's seat and find it's a perfect spot for it. [spp-timestamp time="10:09"] Listener Question: What Can You Tell Me About Alternative RV Power Systems? A listener named Julian from Iowa asks about alternative RV power systems, specifically, the Tesla Powerwall, a residential home system that charges using power generated from energy collected and stored by solar panels or taken from the old-fashioned electricity grid during off-peak hours (when rates are lower). Mike offers that RV technology is more complicated and has already moved far beyond the Tesla system. He further refers to a Roadtreking podcast from earlier this year on the subject of unplugged RVing at: roadtreking.com/41 [spp-timestamp time="11:59"] Listener Feedback: Geocaching and RVing is Great! Julian also shares his enthusiasm for geocaching, which was the subject of a recent Roadtreking blog post that can be found at https://rvlifestyle.com/great-hobby-for-rvers-geocaching/ Listener Question: Vandals Broke My Roadtrek Window. How Can I Fix It? A listener named Carol shares that someone vandalized her Roadtrek Popular 210 RV and broke out a window. She needs help repairing it and Mike offers some suggestions, including possibly heading to her local dealers, Intermountain RV Sales in Colorado Springs, Colorado at http://www.intermountaincoach.com/ [spp-timestamp time="17:54"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. They've been in the RV business for 45 years and nobody knows more about small motorhomes that the Van City  crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel, complete with full tanks of fuel and propane. After a complete orientation with their staff on your new RV,

In business, having more demand than supply is usually a good thing - and that just happens to be the current state of the super hot RV rental market. So says Joel Clark, co-founder, RVshare.com. Clark says the RV rental market is so hot, in fact, that owners who want to rent out their RVs could make as much as $40,000 annually from doing so (depending on numerous factors, of course). That also opens the door for those who want to be renters, allowing for more opportunity to enjoy the RVing lifestyle without a major investment. Clark joins the Roadtreking RV Lifestyle podcast this week to bring you up to speed on the RV rental market. Among other things, Clark and Roadtreking Host Mike Wendland discuss: How to find an RV if you want to rent one The kind of RVs that can be rented Who actually rents out RVs How far in advance should you rent an RV What should renters do ahead of time How much it costs to rent an RV How much can an owner make renting out an RV How big is the market for renting out an RV How insuring a RV rental works How companies like RVshare make money Also, in this episode of the Roadtreking podcast we have RV news, travel tech, tips, and a great place that needs to be on your RV destination bucket list. [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #52 Sept. 10, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Checking in from Florida's Emerald Coast This week's show comes to you once again from Florida's Emerald Coast, where Mike and Jennifer Wendland have extended what was to be a one-week stay into three. [spp-timestamp time="2:58"] Mike refers two two recent posts on the Roadtreking blog about their visit: One of Our Favorite 'Go-To' Places - The Emerald Coast (Part 1): https://rvlifestyle.com/one-of-our-favorite-go-to-places-the-emerald-coast-part-1/ Beach Camping On the Emerald Coast at Camp Gulf (Part 2): https://rvlifestyle.com/beach-camping/ Jennifer's Tip of the Week: A Handful of Tips Store fruit in this produce hammock Jennifer's Tip of the Week this week is actually a handful of tips. [spp-timestamp time="5:48"] During her segment, she covers: Making scrambled eggs the easy and clean way Lining shelves and drawers with non-slip liners How restaurant condiments can be very useful How velcro can help keep track of remote controls How to use a mini-hammock to hold fruit and veggies and keep them from brusing. You can get them on Amazon for $11: http://amzn.to/1IW2ySs Listener Feedback: Is Buying an RV at Auction Worth the Risk? A listener named Carl calls in to talk about how he picked up an RV at auction. He says it was a good deal - so far - and wonders if Mike can comment on some of the pros and cons about buying an RV or any vehicle at auction. Mike shares what he learned in researching the topic, including information from this link: https://www.trustedchoice.com/insurance-articles/wheels-wings-motors/buying-a-car-at-auction/ [spp-timestamp time="9:25"] Listener Feedback: Can You Help Me Open My Awning? Opening the awning A listener named Kathy calls in with a question about opening the awning in her Class B RV. Mike offers suggestions for how to possibly open it. He also refers her to the Roadtrek manuals available at: http://www.roadtrek.com/support-contact#section-manuals [spp-timestamp time="15:01"] Listener Feedback: Following the Loss of Your Dog, Tai, Any Plans for a New Pet? A listener named Sharon emails to ask if the Wendlands have any plans to get a new dog after the recent death of their dog, Tai. You can read a post about Mike's initial reaction here:  https://rvlifestyle.com/farewell-to-a-friend/ Jennifer comments on the question about a new pet. [spp-timestamp time="18:22"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. Owner Ray Dwyer has been in the RV business for 44 years and is considered the dean of Class B RVs. Nobody knows more about small motorhomes that Ray and his cre...

Big changes are sweeping the campground industry. From fiber optic cable for more streaming video and high speed Internet to themed parks that cater to your own favorite camping activities, the parks and campground industry is making lots of changes. Our guest today is Paul Bambei, of the National Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds , who shares with Mike how a busy camping industry is meeting consumer demand and expectations. But we have lots of other RV news, audience questions, a tip about keeping the sun from heating up your RV, tech tips, news of the week and a great off the beaten path destination that football fans will particularly appreciate. [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #50 Aug. 26, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Checking in From Florida's Emerald Coast Mike and Jennifer recording this week's episode on the beach at Camp Gulf on South Walton Beach in Florida This week's show comes to you from the Emerald Coast of Florida's Panhandle, where Mike and Jennifer Wendland check in to talk about their current RVing adventure. Wait till you hear how much a beachfront spot costs! [spp-timestamp time="2:18"] Jennifer's Tip of the Week: Use Sunshades to Keep RV Temps Down Jennifer's Tip of the Week this week will help listeners beat the heat, especially when sun is a significant factor. Studies show that in minutes a vehicle can heat up to 125 degrees - and that's on a so-called typical summer day. That's where sun shields - for the windshield and side windows - come into play. Jennifer talks about the $35 ones she and Mike use - found here: http://amzn.to/1Eg1s93 - and the benefits. [spp-timestamp time="6:03"] Listener Feedback: Any Tips for Dealing with a Sticky Roller Door? A listener has a question about a sticky roller door for the entertainment center on her older RV. Mike offers up some suggestions. He also mentions a link that may be useful here: http://homeguides.sfgate.com/adjust-rolltop-appliance-garage-20762.html Mike also suggests calling Maureen at Leisure Time RV in Florida. You can get the number at leisuretimerv.com [spp-timestamp time="8:56"] Listener Question: Where Did You Get Your Gravity Chairs and How Do They Fit in Your RV? Judy, a reader of Roadtreking.com, says she saw a picture of Mike and Jennifer sitting in gravity chairs. She wonders where they were purchased and how they fit in an RV? Mike talks about how how the chairs fit and how they decided to get the Caravan Sports Zero Gravity Chairs at Walmart. Here's a link, though the Walmart site says its sold out: http://www.walmart.com/ip/19861520?productRedirect=true He also mentions there is a wide selection available at Camping World and that they can be found on Amazon here: http://amzn.to/1h9Mp5L [spp-timestamp time="12:41"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. Owner Ray Dwyer has been in the RV business for 44 years and is considered the dean of Class B RVs. Nobody knows more about small motorhomes that Ray and his crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel, complete with full tanks of fuel and propane. After a complete orientation with their staff on your new RV, you can take delivery and set out for home. Dan the Van Man gives the week's specials on the podcast. [spp-player] RV News of the Week: New RV Rental Website, Vintage RVs are Hot, Pacific NW is Dry New RV Rental Site Launches: A new RV rental website called Outdoorsy has launched and been featured in several mainstream media outlets. Here's a link to the story from TechCrunch.  (Read more) [spp-timestamp time="18:11"] Vintage RVs are HOT: The Wall Street Journal reports refurbished, vintage RVs are making a comeback.

Next to our homes, an RV is probably the most expensive purchase we will ever make. Even used RVs come with a steep pricetag. This week, we offer some very practical advice about shopping for a used RV. Our guest is Terry Cooper, President of the National RV Inspectors Association. Just as we hire a home inspector before purchasing a house, we can hire RV inspectors to make sure we don't get ripped off or stuck with a used unit with major problems. [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #49 Aug. 19, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: This week's show kicks off with Jennifer joining Mike to talk about their recent Motorsports and Music NASCAR gathering with a bunch of other RVers at the Michigan International Speedway.[spp-timestamp time="2:20"] Jennifer's Tip of the Week: In this edition of Jennifer's Tip of the Week, she brings you her list of five things NOT to take on an RV trip. Listen up, she can make your travel much easier, efficient and less cluttered. [spp-timestamp time="4:30"] Listener Feedback: More Tips A listener named Jeanette asks about driving an RV off pavement, down gravel and dirt roads.[spp-timestamp time="8:56"] Don asks about how long batteries can operate air conditioning in hot ans steamy south florida[spp-timestamp time="12:10"] And by email, Kathi asks us to share the so-called Tape measure illustration that she can use to convince her husband that now is the time to buy an RV [spp-timestamp time="14:38"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. Owner Ray Dwyer has been in the RV business for 44 years and is considered the dean of Class B RVs. Nobody knows more about small motorhomes that Ray and his crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel, complete with full tanks of fuel and propane. After a complete orientation with their staff on your new RV, you can take delivery and set out for home. Dan the Van Man gives the week's specials on the podcast. [spp-player] RV News of the Week: Man killed when Kansas storm flips his RV : It was caused by 100 mph straight line winds [spp-timestamp time="18:45"] There’s a shortage of Michelin RV tires : It will most likely last for several weeks [spp-timestamp time="20:25"] Why it’s important to keep a clean campsite: Bears can smell food up at your campsite to three miles away [spp-timestamp time="21:45"] This portion of the podcast is brought to you by Alde, the only name in heat that you need to know for your RV. The Alde hydronic system brings many features and benefits not found with any other product. Silent Radiant Heat - providing a warm even natural heated interior. Great for pets. (And Humans) Increased Interior Space by combining two systems in one. Efficiency. The whole system draws less than 1 amp on 12V DC and will extend the life of your propane roughly 40% over forced air. Heating on Electric or Gas. Multiple Options and Amenities: Towel Warmers, Floor Heat, Tank Heating, 4 Season Camping, Engine Heat, Driver Comfort, Modern Programable Color Touch Screen Thermostat and Interface Minimal Side-Wall Penetration. Small combined intake and exhaust eliminate big cut outs and sidewall congestion. Traveling Tech with Paul Ulreich, Verizon's Uber User Paul Ulreich, Verizon's Uber User, talks about new smartphones from Samnsung.[spp-timestamp time="27:26"] This podcast is brought to you by Verizon Wireless, the nation’s largest and most reliable 4G LTE network.  Shopping for a data plan shouldn’t be complicated. Thanks to Verizon, choosing a wireless plan is now easier than ever. Simply choose the size that fits your needs—small, medium, large or extra large. It’s just that easy. That’s right,

Everyone knows that researching and buying an RV is a big job - that's why when events come along like next month's America's Largest RV Show, you have to be prepared. After all, the 47th annual RV show - set for Sept. 16-20 in Hershey, Pennsylvania - will feature 47 different manufacturers showcasing more than 1,300 RVs. That's a lot of RVs. Thirty-three football fields worth of RVs, as a matter of fact. For this episode of the Roadtreking podcast, we talk to Heather Leach, marketing and education director for America’s Largest RV Show, about how attendees of just about any RV show should prepare for an RV show ahead of time. In fact, the discussion is part of a new feature for the Roadtreking podcast - the RV Calendar. Among other things, Heather and Mike talk about: How big the show is How many manufacturers will be on hand How many RVs will be at the show If attendees can buy at the show What other RV-related activities will be going on during the event What kind of accommodations are available near the show How much time it will take to see everything How attendees should pace themselves to not wear out too fast How to find discounts on tickets Also in this show we have a tip from Jennifer on staying cool on hot nights, take questions and comments from listeners, report on RV news (including the hiker killed by a bear at Yellowstone last week), offer you some great traveling tech, and an RV Bucket Destination in Colorado. That, and more, on this edition of the Roadtreking podcast.   [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #48 Aug. 12, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Roadtreking Motorsports and Music Weekend This week's show kicks off with Jennifer joining Mike to talk about their upcoming weekend adventure at the Roadtreking Motorsports and Music Weekend happening at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan [spp-timestamp time="2:59"] Jennifer's Tip of the Week: Stay Cool When It's Hot In this edition of Jennifer's Tip of the Week, she brings you tips to help stay cool during the hot summer nights. It’s the Hopkins 12-volt oscillating fan. It costs about $13 at Amazon: http://amzn.to/1f5jtL0 Among the reasons Jennifer recommends the fan is that it plugs into a 12-volt outlet and doesn't require use of the AC power inverter, which makes it especially handy for boondocking. Also, it oscillates 90 degrees, helps keep the entire vehicle cool and it can be permanently mounted, and stores easily in one of our cabinets. [spp-timestamp time="3:49"] Listener Feedback: More Tips on Managing Health Care While RVing A listener named Beth comments on episode 45 of the Roadtreking podcast that featured the topic of managing healthcare while RVing. As a health care professional, she offers a couple of additional tips. [spp-timestamp time="5:24"] Listener Question: How do Mesh Net Storage Organizers Hold Up? Next, listener Linda asks about how the  self-adhering mesh net storage organizer http://amzn.to/1KvbPri we talked about two episodes ago are holding up. [spp-timestamp time="9:38"] Listener Question: Can You Help Me Rent a Roadtrek Popular? Listeners Doug and Mary Bowers are considering purchasing a Roadtrek, but would like to rent one first. They ask Mike and Jennifer for any tips on renting a Roadtrek Popular specifically. Mike and Jennifer offer some tips. [spp-timestamp time="11:26"] Listener Question: Can You Offer Any Bedding Storage Tips? Roadtreking listener George Moran asks for any tips on storing bedding. Jennifer talks about where she and Mike store their bedding. [spp-timestamp time="14:24"] Listener Question: How Do You Avoid Taking Too Many Clothes on RV Trips? And listener Charlene asks Mike and Jennifer about how they manage to pack light and not take too many clothes on RV trips. Hint: Laundromats CAN be your friends - if you use Jennifer's tips. [spp-timestamp time="16:35"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo.

We've all heard the term "workamping" during our RV travels and - if you're anything like us - probably wondered what it really is like to be a workamper. Sure, we could refer you to some general description from the Internet, but why do that when we can bring you someone who actually has worked as part of the so-called Amazon Camperforce? And that's why for this episode of the Roadtreking podcast, we talk to Will Triplet, a seasoned workamper who fills us in on what it's like to earn your keep (and then some) as a workamper. Among other things, Will and Mike discuss: What is Amazon's Camperforce? What happens when you're part of Amazon's Camperforce? What campground fees Amazon covers through the program Where Amazon distribution centers using workampers are located? Why Amazon likes older workampers How long shifts can be How much workampers make per hour The duties performed by workampers in Amazon distribution centers Also in this episode, Jennifer's Tip of the Week about food storage in an RV, answer listener questions about dash cams and boondocking, RV and travel news of the week, and a lot more! [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #47 Aug. 5, 2015 of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Checking In from Georgia Jennifer and Mike open the show by talking about their current trip to Georgia, including one aspect of the south that really "bugs" them.  [spp-timestamp time="2:53"] Jennifer's Tip of the Week: RV Food Storage In this edition of Jennifer's Tip of the Week, she brings you some tips about storing food she and Mike bring along, which they prefer to dining out. Jennifer offers tips for storing bananas, berries, celery, and other produce. Jennifer mentions a link to some ideas she's collected and found online over the years (http://faithtap.com/3050/25-food-storage-tips ) [spp-timestamp time="5:00"] Listener Question: How Can I Play Dash Cam Videos on My Computer? A listener named Tommy ordered the same Windshield Witness dash cam that Mike has and wants to know how the videos recorded on the camera’s SD card can be played in a computer. Mike explains. [spp-timestamp time="6:59"] Listener Question: I Want to Know More About Boondocking. Can You Help? Another Roadtreking listener named Sue asks about boondocking and camping off the grid, specifically how to find spots and be safe. Mike and Jen describe their experiences (never a problem) and offer lots of resources. Here’s a review they did some years back of apps that help them - https://rvlifestyle.com/apps-websites-help-find-perfect-boondocking-spot/ Here’s Campskunk’s 10 most beautiful boondocking sites - https://rvlifestyle.com/ten-most-breathtaking-boondock-spots/ And here’s a link to Boondocking 101 in which we devoted an episode of this podcast to discussing the ins and outs of boondocking – https://rvlifestyle.com/39 Then there’s Boondocker’s Welcome, an awesome membership site that maintains an always updated list of great spots to boondock - https://www.boondockerswelcome.com/affiliate/3774 [spp-timestamp time="10:25"] Listener Question: Can You Help Me Find Answers to RVing Questions? And listener Lil is a new RVer and wants to know where to find answers to the many questions she has about RVing. Mike and Jennifer say one of the best resources is the Roadtreking Facebook Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtreking/ [spp-timestamp time="15:16"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. Owner Ray Dwyer has been in the RV business for 44 years and is considered the dean of Class B RVs. Nobody knows more about small motorhomes that Ray and his crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel,

Sometimes we can get so wrapped up in making sure our RVs are in tip-top shape before hitting the road that thinking about our own health care once we're actually on the road falls by the wayside. That is, until it's too late. That's why for this episode of the Roadtreking podcast, we talk with expert Margo Armstrong, blogger at MovingOnWithMargo.com and author of "Healthcare and the RV Lifestyle." Margo and Mike talk tips for on-the-road health care in a discussion that aims to at the very least get you thinking about healthcare before you get on the road - and at the very most could help avoid a serious health disaster. Among other things, they talk about: What kind of medical records you should keep and be carrying while RVing? How to find good health care on the road What kind of research you can do online to find the right health care Why it really matters what, where, and when you eat How keeping an up-to-date calendar can help keep you healthy A test that all RVers should have have How to handle medications on the road Also in this episode of Roadtreking, we talk about a beer-drinking bear (an old story), an expansion of a beautiful campground in Florida, a new feature from Jennifer, listener questions about solar power, a traveling tech tip to make managing streaming media easier, an off the beaten path report from Colorado, and more! [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #45 July 22, 2015, of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: Jennifer's Tip of the Week: Camco Adjustable Broom and Dustpan This new feature for the Roadtreking podcast will feature a weekly tip from Mike Wendland's wife (and lifelong travelling companion), Jennifer. Sometimes Jennifer will just pass along something she’s learned or seen that makes the RV lifestyle a little more fun or easy. Sometimes it might be a recipe. Or sometimes, like in this episode, Jennifer will talk about a product or accessory that other RVers may benefit from. Today’s product is the Camco Adjustable Broom and Dustpan - http://amzn.to/1OuXKca [spp-timestamp time="2:58"] Listener Question: Should We Believe the Hype Over Solar Power for RVing? Listener Johnna asks about about growing use of solar power in RVing. Mike and Jennifer respond by talking about solar power for RVing, including how big the market is now and what is driving its growth. [spp-timestamp time="5:28"] Listener Question: How Long can You Run Your Air Conditioning and Refrigerator? Another Roadtreking listener asks about running the air conditioner and the refrigerator, specifically how long both can run together. [spp-timestamp time="13:38"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. Owner Ray Dwyer has been in the RV business for 44 years and is considered the dean of Class B RVs. Nobody knows more about small motorhomes that Ray and his crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel, complete with full tanks of fuel and propane. After a complete orientation with their staff on your new RV, you can take delivery and set out for home. Dan the Van Man gives the week's specials on the podcast. [spp-player] RV News of the Week: Beer Bear, Florida RV Park Expands, Forest River Hit with $35M Fine Beer-Guzzling Black Bear: Another story about bears that is funny, but also illustrates the need to keep food (and beer) locked away when camping in bear country - and also that taste and beer brand loyalty isn't just a human trait. (Read more) [spp-timestamp time="20:09"] Please note, NBC and the Associated Press ran this story this week. Turns out, it is an old story, first published in 2004. It wasn't corrected until after we had recorded the podcast. Still... it's pretty funny.

For many, RVing, camping, and campfires go together like graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate, but there is growing concern that the fires may be getting out of control - even when safely confined to a fire pit. Most recently, for example, Chuck Woodbury, founder and publisher, RV Travel, opined that it's time for some campgrounds to establish so-called "No Campfire Zones." He wrote his editorial, of course, after spending a few nights at a packed KOA where his neighbor's fire pit was less than 10 feet from his RV. Chuck joins the Roadtreking podcast this week to discuss the subject of campfires with Mike, where they talk about the idea of having campfire bans in certain situations. [spp-timestamp time="41:14"] Also in this episode, we talk finding travel companions, how to screen campgrounds, and what happens when you become ill on the road along with RV news this week, tech tips, a destination of the week and more. [spp-player] Show Notes for Episode #44 July 15, 2015, of Roadtreking - The RV Lifestyle Podcast: First Things First: Back from Maine, Checking In From Home The show begins with Jennifer and Mike Wendland bringing you up to speed on their recent travels and where they are headed next. [spp-timestamp time="3:01"] Listener Question: How Can I Find an RV Travel Companion? Listener Bobbi asks about finding someone travel with in an RV. Mike suggests it is, in fact, better to travel with someone. Jennifer and Mike offer several links for connecting with others looking for RV travel companions, including: TripTogether.com is a site for those looking to travel with others in general. Women on the Road is another site for women travelers who are looking for and prefer female traveling companions. Sisters on the Fly - an organization featured in episode 37 of the Roadtreking podcast - is a group of women who RV together and live by three rules while RVing: no men, no kids, no dogs. Roadtreking International Chapter of the Family Motorcoach Association has a group of Roadtrek Solo Trekkers that also may be worth checking out. [spp-timestamp time="4:16"] Listener Question: Can You Help Me Find More Campground Reviews? A listener asks about finding good campgrounds to find out what others have to say about them, though cautions against visiting someplace based strictly on reviews. Mike shares some resources like: AllStays: This is Mike's favorite with more than 29,0000 campgrounds - from independent and KOA to local county and city parks. RV Park Reviews: A great website that includes a clickable map and allows for searching by state Yelp: Just search for campgrounds near a specific location and a lot of great info and reviews will pop up Roadtreking.com: Go to the Roadtreking homepage and simply do a search for "campgrounds" [spp-timestamp time="8:11"] Listener Question: What If I Get Sick While RVing Far From Home? A listener asks about getting sick on the road and what happens when far from home. Jennifer shares some insight based on her recent experiences, noting that good care is easy to find. [spp-timestamp time="15:16"] Sponsoring this part of the podcast is Van City RV in St. Louis, Mo. Van City RV only sells Class B. RVs. Owner Ray Dwyer has been in the RV business for 44 years and is considered the dean of Class B RVs. Nobody knows more about small motorhomes that Ray and his crew. They have new and used Class B motorhomes in stock from the major manufacturers. When you fly in to buy your RV from Van City, they'll arrange to have you picked up from the airport and will reimburse you $500 toward your airfare. Then, your RV will be fully prepared for travel, complete with full tanks of fuel and propane. After a complete orientation with their staff on your new RV, you can take delivery and set out for home. Dan the Van Man gives the week's specials on the podcast. [spp-player] RV News of the Week: Campsite Hoarder, Minnesota Storms, Roadtrek's New Power System