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RV Floor Plan Basics

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Considering purchasing a new or used RV? Do you want a motorhome, travel trailer, fifth wheel, or toy hauler? There’s a lot to consider when choosing the right RV for you. Here’s a quick guide to RV floor plans, and how to choose between them. 

Motorized or towable?

The very first choice you will need to make, do you want to drive your RV or tow it? There are advantages and disadvantages to both. If you’re leaning toward towing, check out our towing capacity guide to make sure your vehicle can tow your next RV.

What kind of motorhome?

Just like with towables, size matters in motorhomes. There are three main types of driveable RVs: Class A, Class B, and Class C, motorhomes, all of which differ in size and shape. 

The Jayco Alante 29F is one of our most popular Class A motorhomes, and as you can see, it resembles a bus that comfortably fits a family inside. Many Class A RVs use diesel instead of standard gasoline, and come with many luxurious features that make them a higher priced option than most Class C’s.

The Jayco Swift 20T is an example of a Class B RV, which runs significantly smaller than Class A or Class C motorhomes, and resembles a typical passenger van on the outside. On the inside, there’s enough room for a couple to vacation out of, while keeping the vehicle small for driveability. Many campers even boondock in more rugged editions of Class B’s, such as the Jayco Terrain, an adventure Class B. 

The popular Jayco Redhawk 31F is a well known example of a Class C RV. Known for their cab over bunks hanging over the driver’s seat area, Class C’s are the original motorhome, and their high quality for families or couples has stood the test of time. They come in gasoline or diesel, depending on the model, and drive more like a large truck than the more bus shaped Class A’s. 

What kind of travel trailer?

There are even more options for travel trailers than motorhomes, not including fifth wheels, which are towed differently than travel trailers and run considerably larger. 

The Forest River Grey Wolf 22RR is considered a toy hauler, which is a travel trailer designed to fit other vehicles inside, such as motorcycles or four wheelers. The ramp door for vehicle entrance is on the rear of all Forest River toy haulers, so that ramp door also doubles as a party deck! Many toy haulers come with no slides, to keep the weight of the RV down to account for the heavy vehicles inside. These are great for couples or a small family who values outdoor adventures. 

Single axle trailers have just one pair of wheels holding them up, such as this on Jayco Jay Feather Micro 199MBS. Only very lightweight travel trailers are constructed this way, and most single axles are for couples. They’re the easiest trailers to tow and park, as well as the lightest. 

The 2022 Jayco Jay Flight SLX 8 267BHS is a double axle travel trailer due to its four wheels. It’s also an example of a bunkhouse floor plan, due to the bunk beds in the rear that serve as an additional sleeping area to the queen bed up front. Bunkhouses are great for families, particularly Jayco’s double bunk bed setup which creates spacious sleeping areas for all family members. However, RVers who travel solo or as a couple tend to prefer floor plans without bunkhouses, to have more room in their kitchen or living areas. 

The Jayco Eagle 332CBOK is a large couple’s travel trailer, which lacks bunks and has space for a larger living area. 

Now that you know the basic floor plan styles of motorhomes and travel trailers, you are ready to browse more detailed varieties of RV floor plans. For more RV tips, tricks, and news, follow our Pete’s RV Info Blog today!

RV Refrigerator Guide

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Cooling down your food and drinks in the summer is no joke, be informed about RV refrigeration! 

The three most common types of refrigerators you will see in a RV are 12 volt, gas electric style, and residential. Here’s a quick guide on each:

The popular gas electric style of refrigerators are the best kind to use for boondocking. They can cool and freeze food running off of just propane or electricity, without any enhancers necessary. They do take 3 – 6 hours to efficiently cool down, and your RV must be perfectly level in order to ensure that the refrigerator technology can cool at the campsite. 

gas electric fridge

12 volt refrigerators operate from the 12 volt battery on your RV. They are efficient with power usage, but they are smaller in size in order to keep up this efficiency. If you don’t have an enhanced battery system or solar setup on your RV, you may want to avoid using a 12 volt fridge on a boondocking trip, since this fridge pulls right from your RV battery. 

12 volt fridge

Full residential refrigerators are increasing in popularity in many fifth wheels and large travel trailers. They’re often as large as refrigerators in a standard home, they cool reliably, they don’t use a lot of power, and are far less expensive than gas electric refrigerators. Being a larger refrigerator, it is more difficult to remove them from RVs, and a converter is required to power them. 

Residential Fridge

Each type of refrigerator is very reliable, many RV fridges last for decades at the same quality as the day of purchase. The refrigerator you choose is based on your own boondocking habits and power needs of your RV. 

For more RV tips, tricks, news and info, follow our Pete’s RV Info Blog today!

Tips for RV Camping at the Beach

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It’s that time of year again: the season of hot weekends where you want to enjoy both the campground, and the shores of your favorite beach or lake. Why not both? Here’s some tips for beach camping. 

The first thing a beach skeptic might point out is, there will be sand everywhere! To help tame this within your RV, put an outdoor rug in front of the door for feet to be wiped on. Next to the rug, you can make a little foot wash station with a simple bucket of water and a towel so people can wash feet and legs before dirtying up the RV. 

The most important part of sand prevention in the RV world is keeping sand out of your gray water tank. You’ll want to hose off outside as much as possible before showering and filling that tank with sticky sand waste. 

Once your sand situation is secure, make use of the shade! Your RV awning is large and shady, roll it all the way out and bring your own beach umbrella and sunscreen. You’ll appreciate the lack of sunburn after the trip is over. 

If you’re camping super close to the ocean, congratulations! But you don’t want to get washed out by high tide. Check in with the app Tides Near Me so you and your RV don’t get submerged. Make sure to also put all belongings into the RV at night so no beach toys wash away. 

Finally, make sure you pick a great beach to camp on! Here’s a handy guide of a few great ones.

15 Best RV Parks In The U.S. For Beach Camping

For more RV tips, tricks, and news, be sure to follow our Pete’s RV Info Blog today! 

Best State Parks for RV Camping

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We’ve heard all about America’s most beautiful National Parks, for RV camping and all sorts of infamous adventures. But what about the often overlooked state parks? There are many of these hidden camping gems throughout the United States, and some provide the camping trip of a lifetime. Here are a few of Pete’s RV Center’s favorites.

Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Return Visit to Valley of Fire State Park Nevada

Less than an hour outside of Las Vegas, this picturesque park boasts 40,000 acres of red Aztec sandstone, along with petroglyphs from over 2,000 years ago. 

According to the website, “There are two campgrounds with a combined total of 72 units. Campsites are equipped with shaded tables, grills, water and restrooms. A dump station and showers are available. All campsites are first-come, first-served. A camping limit of 14 days in a 30-day period is enforced.RV Camping: RV sites with power and water hookups are available.”

Gooseberry Falls State Park, Minnesota

Minnesota's most popular state parks for camping

Close to the north shore of the Great Lakes, this gorgeous state park features stunning waterfalls and views, along with a splendid fishing scene. There are hiking, biking, and snowmobiling trails for many seasons of fun, and 60 RV friendly campsites. 

Letchworth State Park, New York

Astonishing: A Fantastic Day Trip to Letchworth State Park – Dang Travelers

New York has the most State Parks of any state, highlighted by this one, known as “The Grand Canyon of the East”. With 340 campsites and over 60 miles of trails and gorgeous views, this is the true highlight of western New York. 

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Florida

RV Camping at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo - Florida Family Nature

For a more tropical camping experience, check out what’s known as the first undersea park in the United States. With 47 campsites with RV hookups, it’s one of the only parks in this region without hurricane damage, and provides a great setting for a beach camping vacation. 

For more featured RV camping spots, maintenance tips, and more, follow our Pete’s RV Center Info Blog today!

Checklist for Opening Your RV In the Spring

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It’s that happy time of year again! Time to pull the cover off of your RV and get it ready for a spring and summer of happy camping. Here’s some key steps for the process known as dewinterizing your RV. 

Washington State Evergreen Spring RV Show | Monroe, Washington | Westlake Promotion

Check all tires

Just like cars and bicycles, inactive RV tires lose significant psi of air pressure each month of inactivity, especially if stored in the cold. Driving an RV with underinflated tires is one of the most unsafe actions an RVer can do, so be sure to give your tires an air pressure and wear and tear check up. 

Give it the once over

How Much Weight Can An RV Roof Hold? - (Answered & Explained)

Do a walk through of all potential water damage spots on your RV’s exterior, especially the roof and hitch. Check the sealant around windows and doors, and look for any cracked seams in the roof caused by snow pile up. 

Check your batteries

Using a voltmeter while your RV is disconnected from electricity, check the charge and water level in your battery, then adjust it accordingly. 

Flush out the antifreeze

Even if the antifreeze you use is non-toxic, you still don’t want it in your drinking water. Drain your fresh water holding tank entirely, add potable water back in, then turn the water pump and all faucets on, and let the system drain for several minutes. Flush the toilet a few times during this process. When the water comes out clear, close the faucets and the pump. Then, take the water heater off bypass mode, and replace all water filter cartridges that were removed for storing the RV. Make sure to dump your gray and black water tanks at an official dump site, as they are still full of antifreeze. 

You will also want to sanitize your water system to remove any mold that built up in storage. After doing so, check for any leaky pipes or plumbing issues. 

Check your propane

RV Dual Propane Tank Rack Installation *Wolf Pup* - YouTube

 Reinstall all propane tanks and make sure the hose is tightly fitted. Check for potential propane leaks by putting soapy water on all hose connections. If bubbles form, it could indicate a leak. Retighten after the process is complete. Check if your state requires propane tank recertification. Then make sure all of your propane-run appliances are working by giving them a quick test, especially on each stove burner. If you have a generator, check its oil levels. 

Freshen your filters

Air and water filters collect lots of dust and mold, so change them out at the beginning of each camping season. Make sure that your air vents are also functional with a good flow of air. 

Be safe

Don’t forget to update the smoke alarm batteries, fire extinguisher, carbon monoxide detector, and LP detector. Restock your RV first aid and emergency supplies, get rid of all expired dry food. 

After all those important updates, you’re all ready to camp! For more RV tips, tricks, and news, follow our Pete’s RV Center Info Blog today. 

Pete’s RV Center to Carry nuCamp Cirrus Truck Campers

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For the first time, Pete’s RV Center will be carrying the nuCamp Cirrus Truck Campers in our extensive catalog of RV inventory. The Cirrus 620 and Cirrus 820 are both available now.

Coming in at less than 1,500 lbs, the Cirrus 620 is designed exclusively for half-ton trucks. It has four season functionality, with a converted second sleeping area and hide-a-way cassette toilet. Check out the floor plan:

It also features a 210 watt solar kit and queen sized bed with stargazer window. 

The Cirrus 820 is a bit larger, designed for a ¾ ton truck or 1 ton short bed truck. It features a Lagun table option, spacious sleeping area, wet bath with a fold down sink, and a backup camera. Here’s the floor plan: 

For more details, check out this tour of the Cirrus from nuCamp’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIJJ4EXeq3s

How to RV Responsibly

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With the enormous rise of new RVers since 2020, here’s how to avoid being the troublesome neighbor at the campground.

  1. Plan your campsite ahead of time. There are numerous apps for finding RV campsites, from traditional spots at KOA’s to boondocking recommendations in the desert, there are campsites for every taste out there. The most important part about choosing one is  researching beforehand. Some good apps for this are iOverlander, the Dyrt, Free Roam, and Outly. 
  2. Leave No Trace. Just like you wouldn’t want to leave parts of your RV behind after the trip, the great outdoors doesn’t want to permanently change because of your RV. Practice leaving no trace by picking campsites that have already been used by vehicles in the past, carrying out all of your trash, only dumping at approved waste stations, and most importantly, never dump black water on the land.
  1. Be campfire conscious. Much of the United States is at near constant risk of wildfires, and many campgrounds have little wood left in the area from ambitious firestarters. Many campgrounds recommend only lighting a fire if you need it for warmth or cooking. If you must make one, never leave it unattended, and extinguish it with lots of water. 
  1. Be mindful of quiet hours, and the location of your pets and children. 

There’s nothing better than friends and food at the campground. Follow the Pete’s RV Info Blog for more information about how to be the best RVer you can be!

Cross Country RV Road Trip Tips

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There’s nothing more exciting about RV travel than the famous cross country road trip. But how do you plan such a large endeavor through so many states? Here are some helpful tips.

The Ultimate Cross Country Motor Home Trip Guide | Road trip planner, Rv road trip planner, Travel planner
  1. Decide what you want to see. There are awe inspiring tourist destinations all over North America, but it can be overwhelming to choose from the surplus of cities, National Parks, and so much more. A good place to start is pinning the destinations you want to see the most, no matter how far apart they might be. Even if they don’t all make it into your next trip, it’s good to keep your options in mind for down the road. 
Which Entrance to Yosemite Should I Take?
  1. Calculate expenses and days. Once you have your destinations in mind, you’ll need to figure out how many you can get to based on how many days your road trip will be, and how much you have to spend on it. A good app for calculating gas prices all around the country ahead of your trip is GasBuddy, which also locates the cheapest gas stations in your area as the trip goes on. Too many destinations, not enough days? Time to get clever with routes and timelines. 

  1. Plan that route. Roadtrippers.com has an excellent road trip planning tool to add in multiple stops and stays along your journey. It can show you which destinations are going to add a lot more time to your route and which are easy stops along the way, making a helpful visual calendar of where you’re going and when.

  1. Check up on your vehicles. Your RV and your towing vehicle, if you use one, for any wear and tear or neglected issues. A good tune up at the mechanic will certainly help, as you will especially want a fresh oil change before putting in hundreds or thousands of miles on your RV or truck. 
Ridetech Archives - The Engine Block
  1. Pack intelligently. Before you go, make sure you have the essentials, such as a good First-Aid kit, clothing appropriate for the weather wherever you’re going, sunglasses for driving, reusable water bottles, and your AAA membership and car insurance and registration information. Extra snacks and books are also great choices. 

The most important step of any road trip is to have fun and enjoy the destinations, and especially enjoy the ride. For more RV tips and news, follow our Pete’s RV InfoBlog today!

Jayco Announces Terrain 4×4 Class B

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Jayco is continuing to drive headfirst into the Class B RV landscape with the new Terrain 4×4. Built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, it’s built for offroading, with “on-demand four-wheel-drive that allows for the freedom of off-road adventures. The interior offers luxurious appointments to provide all the comforts of home, the company said, and its 48-volt lithium power system offers true off-grid performance,” said RV-Pro.com

The Terrain is 19’7” in length, just over a foot shorter than Jayco’s other recent Class B offering, the Swift. The Terrain also differs in its tires, visibly designed for off-road action, while the Swift has more typical street tires. A large roof rack, rear mounted ladder, and Koni-sourced shock absorbers complete the rugged look for an off-road adventure. 

For more details on the Jayco Terrain, check out Jayco’s product page. 

And be sure to follow the Pete’s RV Infoblog for all of your RV news, tips, and updates!

How to do Laundry on a RV Road Trip

nickiemorris RV Owner Tips , , , ,

One of the big mysteries of full time RVing to those who don’t live on the road is how do full time RVers do laundry?

The easiest way is the laundry machines often placed in RV parks. One RV blogger said that “I can count on one hand the number of RV parks that didn’t have laundry machines.” Despite this frequency, not all RV parks have enough laundry machines for the number of RVers within the parks, and not all RVers stay in RV parks! Additionally, hunting down all the quarters required to use a park laundry machine can be a struggle in an increasingly cash-less world, especially with the sometimes high cost of laundry machines. 

Mountain View Campground in Morrisville, Vermont boasts many amenities along with laundry machines

Another solution is using a local laundromat, typically easy to find on Google, but not always found in remote areas. Most laundromats do have a machine for getting quarters though, making it easier to stock up for more washes down the road. Some even have laundry machines that can be activated with a credit card swipe. 

Not every roadtrip situation offers the flexibility to wait around on laundry machines, though. That’s why many RVers have gotten creative with portable laundry devices. 

This portable washer-dryer has two neighboring tubs, one for washing and the other for spin drying. It takes up to 10lbs washing capacity and has a drainage tube for emptying the dirty water, and runs off the 120v power similar to most RV refrigerators. Most reviewers do say that after the spin dry clothes are still damp though, so an additional investment of a drying rack is also recommended. Keep in mind that many RV parks do not allow outside clothes lines to dry your own clothes. 

A smaller personal laundry option without needing to use your RV’s precious electricity is the Scrubba, which is popular with backpackers. It works by filling the bag with laundry, water, and detergent, rolling the bag down and clipping it, twisting the valve to deflate, then rub the clothes on the Scrubba’s internal washboard for anywhere between 30 seconds and five minutes. You then unclip, pour out the water, and rinse clothes with fresh water in the Scrubba, and they are now clean and ready for the drying rack. 

Perhaps the most luxurious RV laundry option is having washer and dryer hookups within your RV, which is becoming increasingly popular in luxury fifth wheels. The laundry cycle can take a few hours this way, and you won’t be able to do this while boondocking, as it requires a lot of power and water, but is temptingly easy if your RV is plugged in one place. 

No matter how you keep your clothes clean on the road, Pete’s RV Center has all of your RV camping needs in mind. Follow our infoblog today for more RVing tips, tricks, and news!