RV Podcast - Stories From The Road

Hey everybody, welcome to the RV Podcast News Edition for Monday, January 19, 2026. I’m Mike Wendland.This is where we cut through the noise and bring you what’s really happening right now in the RV lifestyle and the RV industry. Five stories this week, and taken together they paint a clear picture.The RV world is not just changing. It is restructuring.Let’s get started.STORY 1. TAMPA SUPERSHOW AND THE MEGA-DEALERS GET EVEN BIGGERThe Florida RV SuperShow wrapped up this weekend in Tampa, and once again it was the Super Bowl of RVing. Huge crowds, massive inventory, and a lot of signals about where the industry thinks things are headed.One number really stood out.Lazydays RV, now operating as Lazydays RV powered by Campers Inn, announced it brought more than 450 RVs to the show. Four hundred and fifty units on the grounds. There were over 1,300 new models here. That means Lazydays, if it really bought that many uits - I didnt count them - accounted for a third of the total new units on display.That is more than confidence. That is making a statement and claiming market power.It highlights how the biggest RV chains keep getting bigger. Camping World, General RV, Blue Compass, and Campers Inn have all been aggressively buying up smaller dealerships across the country.In many markets, those big names now sit next to each other, or even across the street from one another.That kind of saturation creates brutal competition and raises a serious question. How many stores can a market really support?What we kept hearing in Tampa is that 2026 may be the year underperforming locations start quietly closing.We already saw a preview late in 2025 when Camping World abruptly shut down its store in Escanaba, Michigan.For shoppers, this environment cuts both ways. There is more inventory and more choice, but dealers are under pressure to move aging stock. That pressure can work in your favor, if you negotiate wisely.STORY 2. INFLUENCER FATIGUE. THE MARKETING MODEL IS BREAKING DOWNAnother major theme at the Tampa show had nothing to do with floorplans.Influencer fatigue.By our count, there are now at least 500 so-called RV influencers. Probably more. Anyone with a cellphone camera can claim the title, and many have.For years, manufacturers poured money, free gear, and perks into this system.But saturation has changed everything.Behind the scenes, RV manufacturers and marketing teams are saying the influencer model no longer delivers like it once did. They report being flooded with demands for free RVs, guaranteed commissions, and paid travel just to show up.There are clear signs of a pullback.Winnebago has ended relationships with some influencers. Keystone RV has done the same.The issue is trust. When every product is “the best ever,” audiences stop believing any of it.I overheard it firsthand in Tampa. Outside the influencer building, one man said, “I’d be an influencer too if they gave me free stuff. But since that hasn’t happened, I don’t trust what any of them say. Free stuff and money can buy anything.”That comment captures the problem perfectly.STORY 3. TARIFFS ARE HAMMERING MANUFACTURERS, AND ROADTREK MAY BE THE HARDEST HITAnother major topic of quiet but intense conversation at the SuperShow was tariffs and the damage they are doing to certain RV manufacturers.Start with Europe.The Italian manufacturer Wingamm has been trying to bring compact Class B style motorhomes into the U.S. market for at least the last four years. At one point, the tariff hit on a Wingamm imported from Italy was estimated at roughly $70,000.That nearly killed the effort.The tariff has since been restructured into a fixed import fee announced in mid-2025, about $9,500 on the Oasi 540.1 and roughly $11,100 on other models. Even so, Wingamm has now turned to crowdfunding to help finance its U.S. market entry.Canada is being hit even harder.Many popular Class B vans sold in the U.S. are built in Canada. Tariffs stack up at every step.A prime example is Leisure Travel Vans.Their Unity models use Mercedes Sprinter chassis and major components built in Germany, shipped to Canada, assembled there, and then exported to the United States. Tariffs apply to the chassis, the imported parts, and the finished vehicle.Industry sources say tariffs alone are adding at least $20,000 to the price of a Leisure Travel Vans motorhome. The new Mercedes Benz model that introduced at the show last week was sticker shock on steroids. It’s show price was $272,000. For a B + van. Over a quarter of a million dollars! Yikes. And then there’s Class B campervan maker Roadtrek, made in Ontario.Roadtrek’s situation may be the most severe.The company has struggled since 2019, following a massive financial scandal involving its previous owners that ended in bankruptcy. Roadtrek is currently owned by a French RV company that took control as part of that restructuring.Since then, Roadtrek has faced repeated Mercedes Sprinter chassis shortages, production disruptions, a weak market, and the loss of key personnel.Most recently, Roadtrek lost its longtime National Sales Manager, Mike Williams, widely known across the industry and to customers as “Canada Mike.” He has now joined Sunshine State RVs in Gainesville, Florida, where some are already calling him “Florida Mike.”That is a significant loss of leadership and visibility for the brand.At Tampa, the buzz was everywhere. Roadtrek is struggling badly, and many insiders believe the company may be for sale again. Nothing official, but the talk was constant and came from dealers, current employees,  and industry veterans.Tariffs are a huge reason for all of this pressure.STORY 4. MORE CONSOLIDATION, MIDWEST AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN LIKELY TO BE SOLDAnd speaking of major brands being in play, we’re hearing strong indications of another significant acquisition.Multiple sources tell us that Midwest Automotive Design, a high-end builder of luxury Class B motorhomes on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter platform, is about to be sold.The buyer, according to what we’re hearing, is Alliance RV.Alliance RV was founded in 2019 by industry veterans Ryan and Coley Brady and is best known for its Paradigm line of luxury fifth wheels. The company has built a reputation for high-quality construction and strong customer loyalty.Midwest Automotive Design is a powerhouse in the luxury van segment. It is known for models like the Passage and Luxe Cruiser and has also built private-label vans for Ultimate Toys, Chinook, Holiday Rambler, Fleetwood, and American Coach under the REV Group umbrella.This is not a small boutique operation.If confirmed, this move would signal Alliance’s expansion beyond towables into the premium motorized market.It reinforces the larger pattern. The RV industry is entering a major consolidation phase, with strong operators positioning themselves to acquire respected niche brands as costs rise and margins tighten.STORY 5. ZION NATIONAL PARK WILL RESTRICT LARGE RVS ON A KEY ROUTENow an important heads-up for anyone planning a Southwest RV trip.Zion National Park has announced a major change taking effect June 7, 2026.Large vehicles will no longer be allowed to travel through the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, including the famous tunnel.Vehicles longer than about thirty-five feet, wider than seven feet ten inches, taller than eleven feet four inches, or weighing more than fifty thousand pounds will be prohibited. The long-standing escort system for oversized vehicles is being eliminated.The Park Service says the road was never designed for modern RVs and that safety concerns drove the decision.You can still visit Zion, but many large motorhomes and fifth wheels will need alternate routes or off-site parking.This is a major planning issue for RVers heading west.BONUS STORY. HONDA OFFICIALLY ENTERS THE RV SPACE WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT TRAILERAnd here’s one of those moments when we get to say, we told you so. This is a BONUS STORY THIS WEEK.Two episodes ago, we reported that Honda was quietly working on something big in the RV space. Now it’s official.Honda has unveiled the Base Station Prototype, an all-new lightweight travel trailer designed by Honda engineers at the company’s U.S. research and development centers in Los Angeles and Ohio.This is not a rebadged camper. Honda says the Base Station Prototype brings segment-first innovations that only Honda can deliver.The stated goal is to “democratize outdoor adventures.” In plain English, make RVing accessible to more people.Honda designed the Base Station to be towed by many of the most popular vehicles in America, including crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, as well as electric vehicles such as the Honda Prologue and Honda’s upcoming 0-Series SUV.That is a major shift.Most lightweight trailers still require full-size trucks or large SUVs. Honda is aiming directly at the millions of households that already own smaller vehicles and have been priced out of RV ownership.Honda also says the Base Station will remain competitively priced in the lightweight travel trailer segment, signaling this is not just a concept vehicle but a serious market entry.If Honda follows through, this could reshape the entry-level RV market in a very big way.And as soon as we can see one in person, you know we’ll bring you a full report.CLOSINGAlright. That’s this week’s RV News Edition of the RV Podcast. For links, documents, and deeper background on every story we covered today, be sure to check the show notes on our website at RVPodcast.com. That’s our central hub for everything we do, podcasts, blogs, videos, and our community.You can also leave us a voice message, comment, question, or tip right there on the site. We read them all, and many of them help shape future episodes.And a quick reminder that on February 5, I’ll be hosting a live, interactive RV Travel Planning Workshop designed to help you plan smarter trips, avoid costly mistakes, and travel with confidence. You’ll find all the details and registration info

Most RVers are doing it wrong. They're tripping breakers, wasting propane, and turning out mediocre meals because nobody ever taught them how to actually use their RV kitchen.In this week's conversation, RV Kitchen Expert Evada Cooper cuts through the confusion and delivers the insider knowledge you need. Discover which appliances are actually worth upgrading (and which ones are just marketing hype), learn the proven techniques for cooking restaurant-quality meals in your rig, and finally understand how to manage your electrical system so you can cook without constantly resetting breakers.The game-changer? Evada breaks down exactly why your convection oven is the secret weapon you've been ignoring, and shows you step-by-step how to master it. This isn't theory: it's practical knowledge from someone who's cooked thousands of meals on the road and knows what actually works.Whether you're tired of eating out, frustrated with your current setup, or just want to expand your mobile cooking skills, this episode delivers real solutions. Stop settling for campground cuisine and start enjoying the meals you deserve.Key Topics:The appliance upgrades that actually matterElectrical management strategies for serious cookingConvection oven mastery: techniques and timingCommon RV kitchen mistakes and how to avoid themGourmet meal planning for limited spacePerfect for both new RVers setting up their first kitchen and veterans ready to level up their cooking game.

The RV world always has back-channel stories and simmering controversies, and in this News Edition of the RV Podcast, we break down a couple of those stories and why they matter to RVers.In Episode 582, we dig into the growing backlash over the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees RV Club, where longtime members say a once-beloved community is being hollowed out in the name of profit. We examine what private equity ownership really means for RV clubs and why this story has struck such a nerve across the RV community.We also take a close look at major shake-ups in RV technician training. The sudden and unexplained departure of the president of the RV Technical Institute has raised serious questions at a time when the industry desperately needs qualified RV service techs. On top of that, we report on the reported sale of the National RV Training Academy in Texas and what it could mean for future RV tech education.There is more confusion at America’s national parks as new entrance fees for international visitors are causing delays and long lines at park gates. With staffing shortages already stretching the National Park Service thin, we explain what RV travelers should expect and how to plan ahead.And finally, Marcus Lemonis may be gone from Camping World, but he is still very much in the headlines. An arbitrator has ordered Lemonis to pay more than $14 million in damages tied to his role on the TV show The Profit. We look at what this ruling means and how Camping World may navigate an increasingly competitive RV dealership landscape without him at the helm.This is the RV Podcast News Edition, released every Monday morning with insider news, industry developments, and issues that directly impact RV owners and travelers. Our main podcast, Stories from the Road, drops every Wednesday with interviews, destinations, and listener questions.Now let's dive into this week's news.Harvest Hosts vs. Escapees: A Membership Meltdown StoryIf you want to see what happens when private equity gets its hands on a beloved RV community, look no further than the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees RV Club. The internet is on fire with member complaints, and the details are jaw-dropping.Here's what's got everyone fired up: In July 2024, Harvest Hosts acquired the management and operations of Escapees RV Club, including the popular Xscapers subgroup for working-age RVers. What happened next has become a textbook case of how private equity-backed companies can effect beloved community organizations.Full disclosure: we've been an affiliate of Harvest Hosts for many years, and the company used to be, but no longer is, an advertiser on this podcast. We're also an affiliate of RV Overnights, a Harvest Hosts competitor that sponsors our Wednesday podcast.Jen and I really like Harvest Hosts and have used it many times. But this story still needs reporting. Because it illustrates what happens when big money gets involved in startups and independent businesses.First, you need to understand that Harvest Hosts is no longer a small, founder-funded RV startup. It is a private equity-backed platform designed to grow, consolidate, and eventually deliver a strong return to investors. In 2021, it reportedly received about $37 million in growth capital and it has been growing and expanding ever since.One of the most biggest acquisitions wasin 2024, when it bought the Escapees Club, which was a family run club started in 1978 by Joe and Kay Peterson, two full-time RVers who were traveling with their family and wanted a way to stay connected with others living the nomadic lifestyle. It grew and grew, was later turned over to Peterson family relatives who eventually sold Harvest Hosts. There was worry and grumbling from members simmering for a long time but most recently, just before Thanksgiving, it turned in to a dumpster fire. According to reports from members and a detailed timeline compiled by concerned community members, Harvest Hosts terminated the Xscapers convergence director and other Escapees staff just two days before the scheduled Thanksgiving convergence. That’s what they called their gatherings - convergences. They told attendees they'd still have a place to park but the event would no longer have a host or the Xscapers brand attached to it. Imagine planning your entire holiday around an event, traveling to the location, and then being told the people running it were just fired.But it gets worse. Harvest Hosts then cancelled several future Xscapers convergences and meetups, seemingly everything except the one annual Bash event, often with little or no notice, according to Facebook group posts. For context, these convergences and gatherings were the main draw to the club for many members. The community-focused events, where working-age RVers could connect with others living the nomadic lifestyle, were what made Xscapers special. Members had planned their entire travel schedules around these gatherings.The pricing controversy adds insult to injury. An email from Harvest Hosts CEO Joel Holland promised "we're not changing the price of an Escapees membership, it's still just $49.95" while simultaneously announcing that Escapees would be folded into a $179 All Access membership bundle. Angry members called this classic bait-and-switch language designed to confuse them about what they're actually getting.When members started speaking out about what was happening, things took an even darker turn. Members report that Harvest Hosts began actively censoring and deleting complaints in the online groups they now control. Long-time community members said they were being banned. According to member accounts, they're even banned members from the public Facebook page simply for voicing their concerns about how the company is handling criticism.The complaints on Trustpilot paint an even darker picture. One review states that Harvest Hosts has "decimated" the community and fired loyal Escapees employees, calling it a "classic Manhattan Private Equity gut job" backed by Stripes, LLC. The review notes that "the only thing harvested here was the goodwill of a 40-year-old club." Stripes was the equity group that handled that private equity investment into Harvest Hosts.Adding fuel to the fire, Harvest Hosts hired Chris Smith as Senior Director of Community & Events, someone who members point out oversaw the worst membership decline in FMCA history during his eight years as Executive Director & CEO there. Members are questioning why leadership with that track record is now running their organization, especially given the mass cancellations and firings that followed his arrival.Long-time Escapees members feel completely betrayed. This wasn't just any RV club. Escapees was founded in 1978 by the Petersons and for over 40 years, it built a reputation as a member-first club where volunteers ran regional chapters and gatherings felt like family reunions. In their acquisition announcement, Harvest Hosts explicitly promised to retain Escapees employees, continue community events including "Xscapers Convergences," support Facebook groups, and be "good and earnest stewards of the Escapees and Xscapers brand." The controversy highlights a growing and troubling trend in the RV industry: venture-capital-backed companies buying beloved community organizations and strip-mining them for profit. Members on online forums say Harvest Hosts has essentially gutted Xscapers and taken away the big thing that made it worth joining. The pattern is clear: cancel the expensive community events that members loved, fire the staff who built relationships with those members, silence anyone who complains about it, and then act surprised when the core community revolts. As members point out, the people Harvest Hosts has made the angriest are precisely the community leaders and engaged members who made Xscapers worth joining in the first place.As one community member put it: "What kind of company cancels a paid Thanksgiving event that has been planned for months, that many people built their holiday plans around and traveled to, with just days' notice? A company that is making poor business decisions for profit and doesn't realize they are destroying the asset they've purchased with their own hands."The situation is being discussed across Reddit, RV forums, and has even found its way into Google's AI overviews. Despite Harvest Hosts' apparent attempts to censor and ban critics, other members are making it clear: they will not be silenced or ignored. The controversy highlights a growing and troubling trend in the RV industry: venture-capital-backed companies buying up everything in sight. Over the past 20 years, private equity firms like Bain Capital, Alliance Holdings, American Industrial Partners, and others have acquired some of the biggest names in RV manufacturing, dealerships, and services - including Heartland, REV Group, Fleetwood, Monaco, Roadtrek, Grand Design, Lazydays RV Center, and yes, Camping World. Investment banking firm Jackim Woods & Co. has tracked more than 65 private equity transactions in the RV sector over the last two decades. The goal is always the same: buy a mid-size company as a "platform investment," then triple or quadruple its size over 5-6 years through acquisitions and cost-cutting. While some of these deals have created jobs and improved operations, the Harvest Hosts takeover of Escapees shows the bumpy road this consolidation wave can create- when community and culture become subservient to profit margins and "operational efficiency."Sources:Community member timeline and documentation: Facebook groups and posts tracking the controversy - https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=excapers%20escapees Member reports of event cancellations and censorship: Facebook group discussions - https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=excapers%20escapeesRVForums.com discussion: https://rvforums.com/threads/harvest-hosts-buys-escapees-rv-club.18663/Trustpilot reviews: https://www.trus

In this episode’s conversation, we’ll hear from a fulltime RV couple who happen to also be fitness and healthy living experts. They’ll share some startling information for us… How the RV Lifestyle Can Wreck Your Health. But how a few simple tweaks in your daily habits can do an amazing Before and After transformation for you.We had some fun using AI to do a before and after exaggeration image for us. But… what we learn this week is pretty eye-opening.We were very interested in what they said about how we can actually do some things that counteract the effects of agingAnd we were struck by what happens after you sit behind the wheel of an RV for a few hours.Plus, we’ll share a Destination of the Week suggestion for you - the Kofa Wildlife Refuge in Arizona. And we answer a question about camping availability oin Florida in February.

We're excited to launch a brand new podcast to keep you informed faster. The RV Podcast News Edition drops every Monday morning at 6 AM with the latest developments in the RV industry, camping world, National Parks, and everything affecting the RV lifestyle. This edition, Episode 580, covers What;'s Changing for RVers in 2026:From the controversial new "America First" pricing at National Parks that triples annual pass costs for international visitors, to Ford's game-changing 700-mile range extender concept for the F-150 Lightning, to the reality that lithium power systems are becoming baseline equipment rather than luxury upgrades as new alternatives to lithium are about to head to market, this episode gives you everything you need to know about what's happening right now. Our main show, the RV Podcast: Stories from the Road, continues every Wednesday morning with the deep dives, interviews, and travel stories you've come to expect. Complete show notes with links to all sources are available at RVPodcast.com, your hub for everything we do: blogs, community access, videos, and all our podcast episodes going back almost 12 years.Hetre are links to the main topics we discuss:National Parks 2026 Changes:Department of Interior Announces Modernized National Park Access: https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/department-interior-announces-modernized-more-affordable-national-park-accessHigher Fees for Nonresidents: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/us/snplus/news/2026/01/02/changes-to-access-to-the-country-s-national-parks-kicked-off-in-the-new-year--including-higher-fees-for-nonresidentsThree Big Changes for National Parks: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/3-big-changes-americas-national-080141812.htmlWhat Visitors Should Know: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Travel/visitors-national-parks-2026-free-days-digital-passes/story?id=128845389RV Industry Forecast:RVIA Market Expected to Trend Upward in 2026: https://www.rvia.org/news-insights/rv-market-expected-trend-upward-2026RVIA Forecasts Modest Growth: https://camperreport.com/rvia-forecasts-modest-growth-heading-into-2026/Current RV Industry News and Trends: https://crowsurvival.com/current-rv-industry-news-and-trends/RV Technology and Innovations:RV Industry 2026: Used RV Values Reset + New Tech: https://www.bishs.com/blog/rv-industry-2026-used-rv-values-reset-new-tech-new-brands-and-big-buyer-shifts/Current RV Industry News and Trends January 2026: https://crowsurvival.com/current-rv-industry-news-and-trends/New Products and Brand Expansion:The Hottest RVs and RV Shows of 2026: https://blog.campingworld.com/news/the-hottest-rvs-and-shows-of-2026/Camping Trends:Camping Trend Predictions 2026: https://www.campingandcaravanningclub.co.uk/media-centre/press-releases/2025/camping-trend-predictions-2026/Top 12 Camping and Hiking Trends: https://meetglimpse.com/trends/camping-hiking-trends/Australia's Camping Boom Expected to Skyrocket: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/australias-camping-boom-expected-to-skyrocket-in-2026-revolutionizing-domestic-travel/KOA Annual North American Camping Report: https://koa.com/north-american-camping-report/RV Shows and Events:RV Show Calendar 2026: https://www.rvlifemag.com/rv-show-calendar-2026-usa-events/Florida RV SuperShow 2026: https://www.frvta.org/show/florida-rv-supershow/Quartzsite Sports, Vacation and RV Show 2026: https://www.stresslesscamping.com/rv-shows-and-rallies/quartzsite-2026

In this episode, we speak with an RVer who took more than 5,000 travel photos on her smartphone in just one year. She shares a surprisingly simple and creative way to turn those forgotten images into organized, meaningful memories you will actually enjoy, share, and keep for years to come.Plus, we will dive into the RV News of the week, including a look at a major and costly change to national park admission fees for visitors from outside the U.S.And in our Question of the Week, we’ll talk about tow/haul mode and why it's such a great feature for Rvers towing travel trailers and fifth wheels.

This week on the RV Podcast, we learn about the RV Lemon Law Myth and how the legal system is stacked against new RV buyers. Plus, we have the RV News of the Week and, in our RV Question and Answer time, we dig into the growing controversy over Battleborn Batteries.

In our conversation of the week, we have the story of an RV accident during a dream trip that took a sudden, life-changing turn, and the lessons one couple learned on the road could help every RVer travel safer and wiser. You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below. If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below. Podcasts on Christmas Eve next week and New Year’s Eve.. so you can listen or watch as you work through your Holiday preparations. If you want to make 2026 your best RV year ever, this is the moment to do something different. Make 2026 Your Best RV Year Ever We want to invite you to join us inside the RV Lifestyle Community at RVCommunity.com. Now, yes, it is a subscription. And that is exactly why it works. No ads.No spam.No algorithms deciding what you see.No influencers pushing the latest gadget you do not need. Instead, you get authentic resources, exclusive content you will not find anywhere else, and genuine friendships with people who actually understand why someone would happily spend December in an RV in Indiana, bundled up, watching Christmas lights. And 2026 is shaping up to be a big year. We have a brand new app, more free resources for members, expanded meetups across the country, new tools, new courses, new workshops ( our first one is Jan 1 on how to attend and shop at an RV Show) and new ways to connect that we are really excited about. The community keeps growing, but the culture stays the same. Friendly, helpful, drama free, and full of real RVers who get it. Most importantly, it is about connection. Because the RV lifestyle is not just about the rig you drive or the places you go. It is about the people you meet along the way, even if that way happens to include an Arctic blast rolling through Amish country. If you are ready to make 2026 your most confident, connected, and enjoyable RV year yet, we would love to welcome you. Join us at RVCommunity.com. We will save you a seat by the campfire. RV CONVERSATION OF THE WEEK - The RV Accident That Changed Everything Andy and Joanne Larrimore are longtime RVers who, earlier this year, set out on what was supposed to be their biggest adventure yet. They packed up their Class A, hooked up their toad, and rolled out of southeast Massachusetts bound for Florida. The trip started exactly the way RV dreams are supposed to start, sunshine, family time, and a memorable stop at Disney with loved ones in Orlando. But a couple of weeks in, everything changed. Andy came down with a serious upper respiratory infection. Then word came that Joanne’s mom, who was in a nursing home, was not doing well. They made the tough decision to cut the trip short and head back north. Somewhere in South Carolina, the unthinkable happened. Andy blacked out behind the wheel, and their rig crashed. Both Andy and Joanne were med-lifted separately to the hospital. They suffered serious injuries, and the road to recovery has not been easy. Thankfully, they are both doing much better today. And here is the part of their story that really matters, they are not done with the RV lifestyle. The Larrimores have chosen to share what they went through, what they learned, and the lessons that could help every one of us travel safer and smarter. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, preparedness, and why even life-changing setbacks do not have to mean the end of the road. Listen or watch their interview in the podcast players above. This part of the podcast is sponsored by RVOvernights, where you can stay free at farms, wineries, and attractions across the country. Go to RVLifestyle.com/rvovernights and use the promo code “RVLDEAL” to save 40% of the already low $49 annual fee. RV NEWS OF THE WEEK ​Forget Candy Bars—This Iowa Mall Vending Machine Dispenses Starlink​ So we've heard of getting a can of soda or maybe a Snickers bar from a vending machine, but a Starlink system?? Yet that is exactly what happened in Iowa! A self-serve vending machine quietly appeared at a shopping mall's food court in Des Moines. It is designed to dispense a standard Starlink dish and accessories, including mounts and the Wi-Fi router. Word is that more are coming. ​No More Reservations: Glacier National Park Rethinks Summer Access​ This is a big story for fans of Glacier National Park… Reservations will NOT be needed at Glacier for the summer of 2026. Why, because the National Parks Service says the system did not work as planned. The reservation system, started four years ago, was supposed to cut down on long afternoon lines by requiring people to register to enter between 7 am and 4 pm. What happened is mid-day traffic was much better, but the early morning crowds trying to beat the registration time became problematic, causing new issues. So now the popular park is doing away with reservations altogether. ​Trump on the 2026 Park Pass? Lawsuit Says Not So Fast​ Okay… we try to steer away from politics but this is a story we couldn’t ignore. An environmental group is suing to remove President Donald Trump's picture from the 2026 National Park Service's Annual Pass. The 2026 Annual Pass features a picture of President George Washington and President Trump and the number 250 for the country's 250th birthday. The Center for Biological Diversity's lawsuit claims the design violates a law that requires the America the Beautiful pass to feature a photo taken on public lands that won an annual photo contest. The Secretary of the Interior says the photo winner will be on the pass for foreign visitors, while Trump's picture will be on the one for U.S. residents. Stay tuned.  ​Only in Gatlinburg: Black Bear Steals the Show at Christmas Parade​ Did you hear about what happened as crowds gathered to watch the Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights 50th Annual Christmas Parade last week?  A lone black bear meandered in. The black bear casually cut through the crowds and walked down the parade route for a bit, as stunned onlookers sat along the curb watching in disbelief. Some visitors captured video - after all, this is not something you see every day!  ​Buc-ee’s Goes Big Again: 17 New Mega Stops on the Way​ The ultimate road-trip stop, Buc-ee's, is planning to open 17 new locations across the country over the next few years. In 2026, the gigantic convenience store and fuel stop plans to open locations in Huber Heights, Ohio, San Marcos, Texas, and Goodyear, Arizona. Eight more stops are planned for 2027, five for 2028, and one for 2031. The Texas-based (and Texas-sized!) company is a popular destination for many RVers, and soon there will be even more locations along your route This part of the podcast is sponsored by Wholesale Warranties, where you can get the best deal on extended warranty coverage for your RVs. Starting January 1st, all RVs are considered one model year older, which means pricing and eligibility for warranty protection will change. Save money and protect your rig by signing up now. Get a free, personalized quote at wholesalewarranties.com/rvlifestyle RV QUESTION OF THE WEEK QUESTION: from Despina… In my 2023 Unity Leisure Travel Van the TV power won’t turn on and the recliner controls do not work. Is this a fuse or breaker issue? Open to suggestions to fix the problem. RV connected to shore power. ANSWER: This happens a lot with RVs. It's almost always a tripped GFI plug. On the Unity, I believe it's on the side of the passenger pass-through storage area or in the bathroom. Just push in the little recessed switch between the plugs and you'll be good. QUESTION: From Larry: Why are Class B campervans so expensive? The one we want is almost $250,000. I can get a Class A for that, or a luxury fifth wheel and a brand new heavy-duty truck. I don't get it. Campervans are small. ANSWER: You're absolutely right to be scratching your head at those price tags. When you see a campervan that's basically built on a cargo van chassis hitting a quarter million dollars, it feels ridiculous, especially when you could roll into a dealership and drive out with a gorgeous 40-foot Class A motorhome for the same money. Or like you said, snag a top-of-the-line fifth wheel and a fully loaded F-350 and still have cash left over. Here's the deal: you're paying a massive premium for engineering magic in a tiny space. Think about it: those Class B builders are cramming a full bathroom with a real shower, a kitchen with actual counter space, sleeping accommodations, storage, and all your systems (electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling) into what's essentially a walk-in closet on wheels. That level of space efficiency doesn't come cheap. The other factor? Volume. The big RV manufacturers are pumping out hundreds or thousands of Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels every year. They've got economies of scale working for them. Meanwhile, Class B builders are producing these things in much smaller numbers, often with semi-custom features and higher-end components. You're not getting the mass-production discount. Plus, that Mercedes, Ford Transit or RAM ProMaster base chassis aren't exactly cheap to begin with, and then you're adding premium materials because everything has to be lightweight and compact. Those fancy European-style cabinets, that space-saving toilet, that innovative bed system: it all costs more than the standard RV stuff. And let's be honest, there's a lifestyle tax baked in too. Class B campervans became the hot ticket for a certain “van life” demographic who wants to look like they're just driving a cool van while secretly having all the amenities. That "stealth camping" capability and the ability to fit in a regular parking spot? The market will bear a premium price for those benefits. Does it make financial sense?

In this episode, we talk with a seasoned RV technician about how to avoid an RV breakdown before it happens. You will learn the most common failure points, the simple checks that catch problems early, and the habits that keep your rig running smoothly and safely. If you want fewer surprises and more confidence on the road, this breakdown prevention conversation is a must-listen. PLUS the News of the Week, Social Media Buzz, and Question of the Week.

Traveling Robert: From a Lounge Singer to an RV YouTube Star -- ​This week on the RV Podcast, you’ll meet a longtime friend who went from being a lounge singer in South Florida to an RVing YouTube star who roams the country. Our guest in the Conversation of the week is Robert Morales, aka Traveling Robert, and you’ll hear the backstory to his RV Lifestyle. Also, the RV News of the Week, Audience Questions, and More.

This week on the RV Podcast you are about to get one of those classic RV retirement stories you stumble across on the road. We are introducing you to a man who, after retiring, hit the road in his RV to chase a passion that had long been just a hobby, learning about and appreciating fine wines.

This week on the RV Podcast: What Truckers Wish Every RVer Knew... Driving advice to RVers How to stay warm in your RV - We have smart RV heating tips, plus a few cold-weather mistakes you definitely want to avoid. A longtime RV parts supplier has filed for bankruptcy: RVers are worried about parts availability. All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode #573 of the RV Podcast

How Brinkley RV Is Rewriting the Rules of RV Manufacturing -- If you have ever wondered whether anyone inside the RV industry is actually trying to fix the system from the inside, this week's RV Podcast episode is for you. Our Conversation of the Week is a candid, behind-the-scenes talk with one of the owners of Brinkley RV, a company that has been shaking up the industry with bold ideas, modern manufacturing, and an obsession with quality. We dig into what is broken, what Brinkley is doing differently, and why it matters to every RVer out there. Trust me, this is one conversation you will not want to miss. We’ll also have RV and camping news, the social media buzz, and your questions.

RV Hot Skin Explained: It’s a real danger you can’t see! Hidden electrical faults and bad power connections at campgrounds. What the industry is doing to protect you! In a stunning reversal, General Motors abruptly canceled a highly anticipated technological advancement, leaving a top RV manufacturer and dealers reeling.  Colder temps mean mice are looking for a new zip code—and your RV is on the map! Protect your investment (and your sanity) before they move in. We’ll tell you how. All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode #571 of the RV Podcast

This week on the RV Podcast: Liz Amazing on RV Defects and the Fight for Consumer Rights We interview Liz Amazing, who has one mission, protect RV owners and hold the industry accountable, no excuses, no hiding, she exposes it all. While the government has closed, the National Parks have mostly stayed open…but at a growing cost Why you do NOT want to cancel your RV insurance while the rig is in storage for the winter All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode #570 of the RV Podcast You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below. If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below. [power press] RV CONVERSATION OF THE WEEK - with Liz Amazing on RV Defects Liz Amazing is a consumer advocate with a YouTube Channel dedicated to helping people who face significant problems with their new RV. Liz regularly features heartbreaking stories of individuals and couples who poured their savings into a new rig only to face one major repair after another, and run into brick walls when trying to get the problems fixed.  Liz lets RV owners tell their stories, sometimes through tears, then approaches the RV dealers and manufacturers seeking solutions, which she often receives. Through her work, Liz has discovered industry trends, advocates for quality improvement, and offers help to those with nowhere to go. In the crowded world of RV YouTube Influencers, Liz has carved out an important niche as a consumer advocate, and we're delighted to have her on the RV Lifestyle today as our guest.  In this conversation, we discuss the challenges faced by consumers in the RV industry involving quality issues, unregulated practices, and heartbreaking stories of buyers left with defective RVs. The discussion highlights the importance of consumer rights, the role of social media in advocacy, and tips for avoiding common pitfalls when purchasing RVs. Liz emphasizes the need for manufacturers to prioritize quality over profit and offers insights into choosing the right RV and dealer. Liz Amazing on RV Defects Takeaways: Liz Amazing transitioned from a novice camper to a leading RV advocate. She emphasizes the importance of using her platform for good. Many RV buyers face heartbreaking quality issues with their purchases. The RV industry is largely unregulated, leading to poor consumer experiences. Liz highlights the shift in manufacturing practices, prioritizing profit over quality. Social media serves as a powerful tool for consumer advocacy. Buyers often face challenges with buybacks and NDAs from manufacturers. Avoiding mass-produced RVs can reduce the chances of quality issues. Independent RV makers often provide better quality products. Liz encourages consumers to do thorough research before purchasing an RV. RV NEWS OF THE WEEK When Washington Closes, the National Parks (Mostly) Stay Open — But at What Cost? More and more stories are emerging each week of the difficulties the nation's national parks are facing during the continued federal government shutdown. Utah is spending $8,000 a day to keep the visitor centers open at its five national parks, and groups like the Zion Forever Project are collecting donations and paying to print maps, feed rangers, and keep things open for the tourists showing up. At Joshua Tree, a wildfire started in the camping area during the shutdown, but it is now contained. Pinnacles National Park had brownish water coming out of the campsites because a maintenance worker wasn't there to flush the system. The state of Colorado is paying to keep the visitor centers open at the Rocky Mountain National Park. And since none are collecting visitor entrance fees, all anticipate significant budget gaps next year.  Six Months, No Camper — So He Brought His Work to Camping World We LOVE this story: A man who dropped his camper off at a North Carolina Camping World last April for repairs is STILL waiting for his unit to be fixed, so he decided last week to set up his office at the dealer and call a local news station about it. (And WITN-TV did do a story!). Alex Naoum told the reporter he would have taken his travel trailer somewhere else by now, but in July, when he came to inspect it, he discovered Camping World had damaged his awning, adding another item to fix. Naoum said he decided to set up office at Camping World so they won't forget him; a Camping World official told the station the delay is because they are waiting for parts. Come on now... since July???? DNA Tests Reveal Arkansas Officials Killed the Wrong Bear After Fatal Attack Remember our recent story about a black bear killing a solo camper at the Arkansas Ozark National Forest? Well, it turns out the black bear that the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission put down for killing the 60-year-old camper was the wrong bear! And the real killer bear is still on the loose, according to DNA test results. If you are visiting the Ozark National Forest anytime soon, stay vigilant. Michigan Considering Ban on Overnight Campers at Rest Stops Michigan is considering banning all overnight camping at the state's highway rest areas and carpool lots. The Michigan Department of Transportation is holding online pubic hearings this Wednesday on the proposed rule that would define camping as setting up tents, canopies, or shelters, or parking and occupying enclosed, self-contained camping units. That's because they've been having problems with homeless people setting up encampments in rest areas and ride-share lots. This is an issue shared by many other states.  Y’all Come Out Now — Texas State Parks Are Free This Sunday If you are going to be in Texas this Sunday (Nov. 2), entrance to all the state parks is free! The free entrance to the state's more than 90 parks is in honor of Texas State Park Day. We were at Texas' Enchanted Rock State Natural Area earlier this month - and Texas has some beautiful spots! SOCIAL MEDIA BUZZ - Wendy Bowyer Wendy Bowyer reports on the hot issues most talked about this past week on social media and our RV Lifestyle Community group. Last week, many in our private RV Lifestyle Community returned from our third and final rally of the year in the Texas Hill Country. We stayed at the Oakwood RV Resort just outside of  Fredericksburg, which is truly one of the friendliest places we have ever stayed. Our group had a great time in Texas and did a lot of things. Some of my favorite activities included a scavenger hunt, a pancake and sausage breakfast, exploring the city, visiting wineries, checking out a local museum, eating some Texas BBQ, and having the most amazing campfires with what I would call a cowboy sing-along. We even went to Luckenbach together for a little Texas Two-Stepping—so much fun! Then, in our RV Lifestyle Facebook Group, we had a question from Reg that caught my eye. Reg asked: Is it a bad idea to lapse insurance while in storage?  Sounds like Reg was trying to save a little money and since his rig is not on the road, wondered if letting his insurance lapse would be a way to do so. Some of the more than 100 people who commented said they did this very thing and had no issues. But most cautioned him not to do it. Some pointed out that if his RV is stolen, or a tree falls on it, hail damages it or someone crashes into it, without insurance, he would be out of luck.  And there are other concerns. Savannah said she once canceled her RV insurance for the winter, but then her insurance company reported this to the state, and the state suspended her registration. So what was supposed to save her a little money ended up costing her $700 to get the plates reinstated. Others said the insurance company also reported them to the state, and then when they tried to get their insurance going again, they had trouble finding a company that would insure them. Rick was one of many who suggested that Reg work with his insurance company instead of dropping it. Rick said some folks in Ohio, where he is based, have classic cars they store in the winter, and their insurance company reduces coverage during that time since the cars aren't on the road. Rob said this is exactly what he does with his RV. When it is in storage he works with his insurance company to reduce the payment. Sounds like that might be the best option for Reg. And hopefully, this post can also help one of you.  RV QUESTION OF THE WEEK QUESTION: From Claude: Can you tell me what the RV CB channel is? I've heard 16 more than any other. ANSWER: There really is no universally used CB radio channels for RVers. Some say still use the old trucker standard of Channel 19, some advocate for 16 but the fact of the matter is that CB radio is just not a very practical tool these days for RVers.  A couple of decades ago, CB radio used to be the lifeline for RVers. Today, it is mostly static. There are a few reasons why: The trucker crowd moved onLong-haul truckers were the backbone of CB chatter. Most of them now use phone-based apps like Trucker Path, Waze, WhatsApp groups, or private radio systems. With fewer truckers talking, the CB channels feel empty. Cell coverage is everywhere nowIn most of North America you can get a phone signal or at least text messaging. That means drivers can call, text, or use online communities for help instead of relying on CB broadcasts. Better navigation and traffic apps replaced real-time chatterApps like Google Maps and Waze show crashes, construction, speed traps, and slowdowns much faster and more accurately than waiting to hear someone mention it on channel 19. Most RVers never learned CB cultureCB talk had its own slang, etiquette, and rhythm. Modern RVers usually skip all that.

This week on the RV Podcast: Are Canadian RVers in the U.S. being harassed by American citizens? Are US RVers in Canada being harassed by Canadians? There have been incidents on both sides of the border. How to plan a truly epic RV stay - wherever you decide to stop. Expert advice from Wendy Bowyer, who plans all our RV Community gatherings. What’s happening at our National Parks during this prolonged government shutdown? It’s not a pretty picture. All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode #569 of the RV Podcast You can watch the video version from our RV Lifestyle YouTube Channel by clicking the player below. If you prefer an audio-only podcast, you can hear us through your favorite podcast app or listen now through the player below. Free Winterizing Guide We have a free winterizing guide available for instant download. Yours for the asking at https://rvlifestyle.com/winterize-guide Harassment reported by both Canadian and U.S. RVers Today, we're diving into the frosty chill that's settled over the border for RVers like us—Canadian and American alike. The current tensions between Canada are boiling over into the RV Community.  They stem from escalating U.S.-Canada trade and political frictions, amplified by U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that he wants Canada as the 51st state. Then, this summer, new U.S. immigration rules—such as stricter visa requirements and enhanced border scrutiny—have shocked Canadian RVers, leading to a sharp drop in northbound travel, with reservations canceled en masse. Surveys show nearly half of Canadians are now less inclined to visit the U.S. this year, citing not just financial woes but also a growing sense of political alienation from inflammatory rhetoric that paints Canada as an adversary.  Meanwhile, some American RVers who have headed northward with fewer hesitations have been reporting a definite chill that strains the once-seamless camaraderie of the RV community.  We’ve been hearing about this all summer. But this week, we received two emails that bring this home in the most powerful way, telling us these tensions are being felt by RVers on both sides of the border - by Canadian RVers visiting in the U.S., and American RVers visiting Canada.  These sincere and sad emails are an example that words have consequences and that behind every policy tweet may be a family in a Winnebago wondering if the next campsite will feel like home or a battlefield.  First, this email from Canadian Rvers named Pat, who has been a regular snowbird visitor to the U.S. I would really like it if you started covering how Canadian snowbirds are navigating going south this year. My husband and I have gone South for years but quite truthfully are a little anxious about doing it this year. There are new rules for Canadians who are staying more than 30 days. We are also concerned about the border and going down there. We have heard some horrendous stories and don't know what to think. For example, one woman spoke of a gun being pointed at her as she drove on the road. There was also the case of the border patrol man who followed someone with an Ontario license plate and screamed at them not to come back to the USA. I think about it everyday because we love going south and we love American friends. It will be a long cold winter without them. I would love some input. Then, a day later, we received this email, from a Tracy - U.S. RVer who spent time in Canada: We are on the final weeks of a four month journey from Texas that included travel to the Canadian maritime provinces and Newfoundland. While we met many nice people along the way, we also encountered some angry Canadians who felt that it was their job to make sure we knew how angry they are at the U.S. and those of us live there and they were quick to offer unsolicited opinions. We certainly feel the need for a welcoming community more than ever and your words remind us all that we all share that need to be “ seen, known and valued”.  God’s blessings to you. Mike and Jennifer's Response: There are always a few bad apples on both sides of the border. Every country has people with short tempers or poor judgment, and both Canada and the U.S. are no exception. But those isolated incidents don’t reflect the vast majority of folks you’ll meet on the road. Most Canadians and Americans alike are friendly, helpful, and genuinely welcoming to RVers, often going out of their way to offer directions, share travel tips, or strike up a friendly chat at the campground. Unfortunately, social media can make it seem worse than it is. It’s full of rumor-filled posts, secondhand stories, and exaggerated accounts that are hard to verify. The truth is that these online “he-said, she-said” tales often spread far beyond their reality. RV travel remains one of the best ways to explore both nations, meet wonderful people, and experience local hospitality firsthand. Don’t let a few bad actors or misleading online chatter keep you from hitting the road and enjoying the journey. RV LIFESTYLE NEWS OF THE WEEK No Pay, No Rangers, No Rules: National Parks Continue to be Caught in Shutdown Fallout As the federal government shutdown continues yet another week, we're now seeing reports of non-profits fundraising to provide food and other basics for employees at Zion National Park. And at the Grand Canyon, community groups have started a food pantry for their park employees. At Rocky Mountains National Park, volunteers are organizing to pick up trash. At Yellowstone, reports say the bear jams are becoming more of an issue without rangers to keep folks safely moving. And with no one to collect entrance fees at any of the parks, some reports show the National Parks Service is losing as much as $1 million per day. If you're heading out know visitor centers are generally closed, some parks are closed and confusion still reigns. Ford Issues Major Recall for Nearly 292,000 Pickups Over Rearview Camera Glitch Attention Ford pickup owners: There is another recall. Nearly 292,000 pickup trucks from the 2020-2022 model years are being recalled because of discrepancies with a rearview camera image that will not display properly causing a reduced view for the driver in certain conditions. The F-250 SD, F-350 SD, and F450 SD models are affected. Letters should be mailed out Oct. 20. Popular South Padre RV Park Shutting Down for Year-Long Renovation A popular 577-site RV park on South Padre Island, Texas, will close for the next year as it undergoes $12 million in improvements. Isla Blanca Park will modernize the RV sites' electrical, water, and wastewater infrastructure, and will realign two streets to improve traffic flow and create another row of RV spots for the popular destination. Less Red, More Meh: Fall Foliage Takes a Hit This Year Drought and unusual weather is causing muted fall colors in much of the country. The best fall colors require rain in August, then sunshine with warm days and cool nights in September. But September provided hot days and warm nights in much of the country, and reports show as much as 40 percent of the country is in a drought. RV Pulled Over, But It’s the Cargo That Shocked Police—44 Small Dogs An RV was stopped in Pennsylvania as it drove through Berks County after someone reported seeing a large number of dogs inside. When police stopped the driver and opened the doors, 44 small terrier-type dogs were discovered, many dirty, matted and shaking. They were turned over to the local Animal Rescue League for care and placement. RV CONVERSATION OF THE WEEK This week we’re doubling up with our Conversation of the Week and Social Media Buzz. That’s because the Wendy Bowyer - the person who usually brings us the Buzz - is also our chief event planner for all our RV Community gatherings. She’s a pro at spotting the perfect campground, finding local gems, and turning any RV stay into a truly memorable adventure. So when we were together last week in Texas for one of our rallies, we couldn’t resist asking her to share some of her best-kept secrets. Listen or watch the interview in the players above. RV QUESTION OF THE WEEK: QUESTION: My daughter flushed my husband's glasses into the RV black tank. Any recommendations to get them out? - From Haley ANSWER: Oh no, Haley, that’s a tough one! Unfortunately, once something like glasses goes into the black tank, there’s really no easy way to fish them out. The tank contents, design, and narrow valve system make retrieval nearly impossible without a full tank removal—which usually isn’t worth it. Your best bet is to let it go - literally. Empty the tank as usual, and if the glasses don’t come out at the dump station, they’ll probably stay lodged at the bottom. If you really want them back, an RV service center could drop the tank and clean it out—but that’s a messy, labor-intensive job that’ll cost a whole lot more than replacing the glasses. So, in short, write this one off as a funny RV-life story to tell around the next campfire!

This week on the RV Podcast, we’ll meet two couples who have made the RV Lifestyle a huge part of their retirement and hear how they are now living the Best Chapter Yet. Plus the RV Industry News, the Social Media Buzz, and a great question from one of our readers on where to get his rig washed. You can read, listen to, or WATCH the podcast right here...

This week on the RV Podcast: We have a great interview for you that we’re calling Empty Nest, Open Road: How One Couple Found Freedom in RV Life. You’ll meet our delightful friends Don and Karen, who share their RV retirement adventures and challenge us all to make every mile count, making friends and memories all across North America. Plus we have the pros and cons of an on-demand water heater.. The RV News of the Week, and much more coming up in Episode #567 of the RV Podcast

This week on the RV Podcast: How RVers Handle Medicare and Insurance Issues on the road - with an expert AND RVer. There is a massive recall of the heavy-duty Ford trucks used by many RVers to haul their trailers and fifth wheels The fun story about some RVers who adopted a stray cat they found at a campground. Apparently, it happens all the time! All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode 566 of the RV Podcast

This week on the RV Podcast... Between the Truck and Trailer: Why RV Hitching Is so Dangerous. If you drink beer on your camping trip, you’re going to make the mosquitoes very happy. The great debate about light pollution and campers who light up their RVs like the Vegas Strip, All this plus the RV News of the Week and your questions coming up in Episode 565 of the RV Podcast