10 Things I’ve Learned About RVs on the Job!

I started working at Keystone RV in June of 2025. Before working here I had almost no knowledge of RV life or how the units functioned. Since working here I have been able to increase my knowledge of the RV world and have been able to learn a lot.

1. RVs have thousands of different layouts fit for anyone’s needs.

As I started to navigate through several different units from different brands, I found lots of layouts that had uniquely different pieces for each company. There are so many units that the floorpan stood out to me, specifically the idea of a rear kitchen. whether you’re looking for a family or for yourself. There are a lot of manufacturing options. Even now I am still impressed by the new additions each year. 

2. Battery Disconnects.

While I have always known how a battery itself works to get power, I was able to learn about the many different ways an RV is transferring that power. Almost every brand has a different way of turning on a battery disconnect, or in some cases like the Jayco pinnacles, you will occasionally need power from both the battery box and the power cord. To this day I still am learning about the different places or ways a company integrates battery power into their units.

3. Outdoor Showers!

Almost every RV comes equipped with an outdoor shower, which I found interesting and very handy if you were outside and needed to wash yourself off before going in. It’s like your own built-in hose!

4. RV shows happen more often than you think.

I did not know the RV world was so large and popular. I never grew up around these things, so watching my boss go to shows often was interesting to note. I also did not realize how many units get brought to these shows from the lots, or get brought back here.

5. The creativity you can have when owning an RV.

Since working here I have been able to immerse myself on RV tik tok, and I am always fascinated with the different ways the owners of RVs personalize their units. I have seen things from different couches to indoor swings. I work with bare units so to see the creativity some people put in is always awesome!

6. RVs can be Luxury.

Motor homes specifically have high tech features like phones or large built-in electronic control panels that controls virtually everything in the unit and the best of the best appliances. Everything is thought of in the manufacturing process and makes it feel like a luxury apartment on wheels.

7. Appliances

I’ve noticed in the newer model of units that some come with an air fryer/stove combo. I did not know that existed but now I do! It definitely helps to save space.

8. Applications we use!

I have been able to increase my knowledge on websites I have never heard of. Learning how VIN numbers work, and how they play into the process of selling RVs has expanded my view of the business world.

9. The Reps!

Every weekend during the summer we have Representatives from each of our Manufacturers! They join us for the weekend, show us around their new units, tell us about the new innovative features the company has added and hangout for the weekend!

10. How the Industry has changed throughout the years.

We have trade units that are older than me! When you take a step back you notice companies have changed with the trends over the years, and how things like, light fixtures, and slide operations have been able to advance. It is always cool to see new innovative ways companies look to improve.

A woman standing at the door of a camper van giving a thumbs up and holding a camera.

10 Things I’ve Learned About RVs on the Job!

Before starting my internship at Pete’s RV Center, I had little to no RV knowledge. Although my family members own RVs, I was still very unfamiliar with them. However, through my experience as a marketing intern at Pete’s, I have learned a ton.

  1. There are many different RV types
    Before working with RVs, I used to think that there were only standard fifth wheel trailers or motor homes. Well, I was wrong. There are fifth wheels, motor homes (Class A/B/C), expandable trailers, teardrop campers, toy haulers, and even truck campers!
  2. RVs can feel like a small home
    RVs may vary by shape, size, and style; however, most of them feel like a small apartment. Many RVs include fireplaces, cozy sofas and recliners, and some even have bunkhouses.
  3. How to jump-start an RV battery
    Learning how to jump-start an RV battery was a life skill I didn’t know I needed. It turns out, it is very similar to jump-starting a car— which I had to learn this winter. Thankfully, Pete’s RV Center had me prepared!
  4. There is a lot of storage space
    While it may seem like there is little space in an RV, there are many compartments and hidden storage areas. RVs are strategically designed to make the most out of every space. 
  5. RV shows are very popular
    During the RV season, there is a show almost every weekend. Since January, Pete’s RV Center has attended 9 RV shows! Typically held at convention centers, hundreds of RVs are brought out and displayed.
  6. You can accessorize your RV
    In the parts and service department at Pete’s RV Center, there are a variety of add-ons available to enhance your RV experience.
  7. RV manufacturers have several different makes and models
    Learning RV brands and their makes and models was definitely a learning curve at first, but I would now consider myself knowledgeable. Cherokee Wolf Den, Grey Wolf, Alpha Wolf, and Wolf Pup are just a few of Forest River’s models.
  8. RV winterization
    While working at the dealership during the peak of winter, I learned that all RVs should be winterized. It is important to use RV antifreeze to prevent freezing and damage to the plumbing. 
  9. RVs can have built-in outdoor kitchens and entertainment
    Typically found in fifth wheels and travel trailers, RVs can have miniature refrigerators, sinks, and even TVs in exterior compartments. This setup is perfect for outdoor entertainment!
  10. There is an RV for everyone
    New or used, there is an RV out there for everyone. Whether it has modern features, a family-friendly layout, or space for solo travel, you are almost guaranteed to find one that suits your lifestyle best.

Pete’s RV Achieves Success During New England Winter RV Show Season

Burlington, Vermont – Pete’s RV Center is pleased to announce the success of the 2026 winter RV promoter show season in New England. Despite facing periods of poor weather, the company reported experiencing a marked increase in attendance this year, accompanied by strong buying intent from customers.

Aerial view of the 2026 Boston RV Show showcasing numerous RVs for sale, with a group of staff in yellow shirts posing in front of a promotional booth for Pete's RV Center.

Co-owner Chad Shepard commented, “Despite the weather challenges, we saw a significant uptick in attendance and a positive increase in sales this year during the winter New England RV show season.”

Chad Shepard further expressed appreciation for the team’s efforts, stating, “A huge thank you goes out to our dedicated staff for their hard work and commitment to customer service. Their expertise and enthusiasm played a crucial role in creating an inviting atmosphere that made show season a success.”

About Pete’s RV Center
Pete’s RV Center is a premier provider of recreational vehicles in New England, committed to delivering exceptional service and a diverse selection of high-quality RVs.

Pete’s RV Center Highly-Anticipated Opening in Maine Happening this Spring

Pete’s RV Center is planning to open in Saco, Maine this spring. The Maine dealership will be the dealership group’s ninth location, and is going to offer sales, a parts and accessories store, and service center with multiple bays.

Pete’s RV Center – Maine is set to carry a wide variety of travel trailer, fifth wheel, and motorhome brands, including Jayco’s full lineup, Brinkley, nuCamp, and Modern Buggy.

Surrounded by hundreds of iconic destinations for Maine RVers, Saco is just four miles from Old Orchard Beach, minutes from the popular Bayley’s Camping Resort, and only twenty minutes from historic downtown Portland.

“Maine is called ‘Vacationland’ for a reason.  We’re thrilled to get the opportunity to become a community fixture in the Saco and greater Portland area, plus be surrounded by amazing campgrounds, beaches, and national parks,” remarked Pete’s RV co-owner Chad Shepard.

Along with the flagship store in Vermont, Pete’s RV Center has dealerships in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Virginia.

For upcoming Pete’s RV Center – Maine news, events, and inventory, check out our website today!

Check out our 2026 RV shows and events!

Graphic promoting Pete's RV Center 2026 Tour with bold red and blue text on a yellow background.

RV and Camping shows:

January 8-11: South Bend RV Show, South Bend IN

January 9-11: Chicago RV Show, Schaumburg, IL

January 9-11, 16-18: Pittsburgh RV Show, Pittsburgh PA

January 16-19: Tidewater RV Show, Virginia Beach VA

January 16-19: Boston RV Show, Boston MA

January 30- Feb 1: Northeast RV & Camping Show, Hartford CT

February 13-16: Springfield RV Show, Springfield MA

February 20-22: Manchester RV Show, Bedford NH

February 20-22: Providence RV Show, Providence RI

February 25- March 1: Vermont RV Show, Essex Junction VT

February 26- March 1:Harrisburg RV Show, Harrisburg PA

February 26- March 1:Harrisburg RV Show KRV, Harrisburg PA

Febuary 27th – March 1 : Richmond RV Show, Richmond VA

March 13-15: Hampton RV Show, Hampton VA

March 13-15: Mohegan Sun RV Show, Uncasvile CT

March 13-15: New Hampshire Domes RV Show, Milford NH

March 20-22: York RV Show, York PA

April 11-12: Vacationland RV & Camping Show, Auburn ME

September 16-20: Hershey RV Show, Hershey PA


10 Things I’ve learned about RV’s on the job!

Before starting at Pete’s, my RV knowledge was limited to towable and drivable, big ones and small ones. It took a little bit to feel confident and comfortable naming, identifying, and knowing what each RV was, but me 6 months ago would be shocked to know all that I know now!

1. There are more types of RV’s than I thought

I used to think of RV’s as trailers or drivable, but now I know it is so much more than that! There are: Fifth wheels, Travel Trailers, Toy Haulers, Motorhomes ( Class A, B, C ), Teardrop, Pop-ups, Expandable, Truck Camper

    2. You can boondocks your RV

    I always thought your RV was limited to the campsite, but with proper preparations and planning, you can go virtually anywhere you can park the camper!

    3. There is the perfect RV for everyone

    Whether you’re looking for something for the whole extended family to fit in, or something for your solo adventure, there is an RV type for you.

    4. RV’s can be luxurious 

    Some of the new, and older RV’s are like luxury apartments! They have the newest and best looking features and tech, you can take the feeling of home wherever you go!

    5. RV’s have as many makes and models as cars

    Every day when we have a trade in come in, I discover a new brand of RV and model! It’s hard to keep up with it all, but it keeps it interesting!

    6. RV culture is very popular

    All it took was seeing Hershey 2025 in person to realize just how big the RV community really is! 

    7. How to jumpstart a battery

    While I’ve been very lucky to never have to jumpstart a car battery, I now feel confident after getting all the practice in with RV’s!

    8. You have to winterize your RV

    If you don’t travel south for the winter, it’s very important to your RV’s health and function that you get it winterized every year! 

    9. RV’ing has been around for over a hundred years

    The first RV dates back to the late 1800’s! That’s several generations of camping and family exploration and adventure.

    10. My favorite kind of RV

    With all of my newfound knowledge of RV’s, I can confidently say I am a big fan of the truck camper- its perfect for camping and optimal space, while providing the luxury of a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom! 

    Pete’s RV Achieves Record Sales at the 2025 America’s Largest RV Show

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Pete’s RV Center Achieves Record Sales at the 2025 America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA

    The Pete's RV and Keystone RV Center winning team at America's Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA

    Hershey, PA – November 1, 2025 – Despite slightly lower attendance at this year’s America’s Largest RV Show, Pete’s RV Center emerged triumphant with record sales of No Boundaries, nuCamp, Seismic, and Jay Flight SLX recreational vehicles.

    As one of the leading dealerships in the region, Pete’s RV Center (Keystone RV Center is part of the dealer group and also represented at Hershey) reported a remarkable increase in sales figures compared to previous years. The dealership showcased its extensive inventory and innovative models, attracting discerning customers eager to explore new horizons in RV travel.

    “Our success underscores our commitment to providing high-quality recreational vehicles and exceptional customer service,” said Chad Shepard, co-owner of Pete’s RV Center. “While attendance may have been lower than previous years, our dedicated team engaged effectively with potential buyers, fostering meaningful connections and understanding their needs.”

    The 2025 RV Show served as a significant opportunity for Pete’s RV Center to reinforce its position as a preferred destination for RV enthusiasts. The dealership looks forward to continuing this momentum as it embarks on 2026.

    Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to their community of RVers all across North America.

    Pete’s RV Racks Up Jayco Top Dealer Awards

    Announced during the awards dinner at Jayco, Inc’s annual Dealer Homecoming (this year in Grapevine, TX), Pete’s RV Center retained their top ten retailer status for the model year 2025.

    Group of individuals posing on stage during an awards ceremony, celebrating Pete's RV Center's achievements in the RV industry, with an award trophy displayed in the foreground.

    Pete’s RV Center was recognized as the number two and number seven volume retailer in the category of Top Ten Towables (Single Locations: South Windsor, CT and Mountville, PA). They also placed number two and number nine in the category of Top Ten Motorized (Single Locations: Also Mountville and South Windsor).

    “I am so proud of these accomplishments, and the hard work put forth by every employee under the Pete’s RV dealer group…We’re up on that stage because of them”, reflected co-owner Chad Shepard.  “We are also grateful for our partnership with Jayco, and embrace their ‘better, not different’ philosophy for achieving excellence. See you at Hershey!”

    Established in 1968, Jayco, Inc., manufactures and markets towable and motorized RVs. Jayco, Entegra Coach, Open Range RV, Starcraft RV and Heartland RV make up a historically influential and iconic group of companies.

    Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to their community of RVers all across North America.

    10 Things I’ve Learned About RVs On The Job

    Most of my experience with RVs was from when I was a little girl in our family camper, which I can now confidently tell you was a truck-style camper. Before beginning my new job, my knowledge of RVs started and ended with the fact that they are a great investment for lots of fun and are also a backbone for childhood memories.

    A family standing infront of a truck style camper

    10 Things I have learned:   

    1. They are not as intimidating as you think they are  

    By the end of my first week, I am able to confidently open slides, pull down ladders, and navigate the biggest of motorhomes. Most importantly they are shockingly mobile while being maneuvered around the lot.  

    2. How to jump an RV Battery  

    I have officially jump-started an RV battery before a car. If I can do it, anyone can. Despite my fears about the electric cables, RVs come with many safety features to ease any worries you may have.   

    3. RVs are very nice  

    RVs are fancier and more comfortable than a lot of apartments. Nowadays some RVs come with private bedrooms, fireplaces, and Kitchen Islands.   

    4. They are not fragile  

    At first, you may be worried about hurting a brand-new RV, but they are tougher than they look. Lots of things can move around while traveling and sometimes a little extra force to open the door is needed.  

    5. The space utilization is impressive  

    There is no wasted space in an RV. There is likely a special compartment under every bench, bed, or any large surface. It is amazing how efficient the use of space is.  

    6. They are timeless  

    My childhood camper may have had shaggy carpets and a “striking” red interior but many models these days have a cozy and sleek design that won’t date your unit. 

    7. There is a layout for everyone   

    There is 100% a layout out there for everyone. There are many different models to accommodate everyone’s needs. I have seen larger kitchens, extra bedrooms, and multiple bathrooms. Even doors that go straight to the bathroom in case you need to wash off after a muddy hike.  

    8. Outside amenities  

    RVs utilize both interior and exterior space- I was shocked to see how many RVs come with outside TVs, mini-fridges, and kitchenettes built in.  

    9. There are many types of RVs  

    There are multiple styles to accommodate any lifestyle. 

    • Fifth wheels  
    • Motor homes A/B/C  
    • Expandable trailers 
    • Teardrop campers  
    • Toy haulers 
    • Truck campers  

    10. My ideal RV  

    After touring many RVs, it is hard not to imagine which one you would pick given the chance. I personally have been eyeing the teardrop trailers since they seem ideal with their fun retro style that can easily accommodate my household of two for a quick trip.  

    Thinking about hitting the road? Head over to https://www.petesrv.com/

    Careers

     Ready to start your career with us?
    👉 Find a position and location below that interests you and click on it. This will provide you with a job description and instructions on how to apply. For further questions, feel free to email us at: jobs@petesrv.com.

    Current Available Opportunities:

    • N/A
    • None at this time

    For more Pete’s RV Center news and to view our RV inventory, visit PetesRVCenter.com.