It's National Bike Month and this week we are celebrating it at Girl Camper! On this week's podcast episode we visit with Cameron Hahn of Buzz Bikes about e-bikes. Things you should know before you buy one, what to look for in one, what to avoid. AND Girl Camper has partnered with Buzz Bikes to give away their Cerana II e-bike! To enter to win, post a picture of you with a bike you want to replace on Instagram and tag @BuzzBicycles and @Girl_Camper in the photo. Contest ends May 23rd, 2024 at 1:00PM EDT. https://youtu.be/l9-i6OixJaY

Girl Camper's Camper in Chief, Janine Pettit, V.P. of Operations, Lesa McDermott and Michigan Girl Camper Guide, Tracey Stieb, are revving up for an epic adventure down the Green River in Utah from July 8th to 14th, complete with thrilling rafting and starry camping nights. In this podcast, Lesa chats with Molly Mickel, the owner of Mild 2 Wild Rafting Company, about what to expect on this wild ride. Molly spills the beans on the Gates of Lodore trip, a gem in Dinosaur National Monument known for its breathtaking scenery and challenging rapids. From splashy class IIs to heart-pounding class IV, there's no shortage of excitement. Adventurers can paddle in rafts or hop into kayaks for a more personal thrill. Each day promises a mix of rafting, hiking, and scenic breaks, with delicious meals cooked riverside. Lesa's excitement for kayaking echoes with Molly, who shares insider tips on how to make the most of the trip. The duo discusses camp life, from setting up tents to enjoying the starlit skies sans shelter. With campfires, stories, and cozy sleeping arrangements, it's a recipe for unforgettable nights. Concerns about facilities and bugs are swiftly addressed by Molly, who assures a hassle-free and bug-light experience. Molly shares her journey from corporate life to rafting entrepreneur, emphasizing the transformative power of nature and the joy of disconnecting from the hustle and bustle. Molly highlights the trip's ultimate allure: a digital detox in nature's embrace. With no cell service and a stunning backdrop, it's the perfect prescription for rejuvenation and re-connection with oneself and the great outdoors. So, for anyone craving adventure, camaraderie, and a break from the daily grind, the Green River awaits, promising memories that'll last a lifetime. It's not too late to sign up for this awesome trip and grab one of the few spots left. Just head over to the Girl Camper website's event page and search for events in Utah. https://youtu.be/BMfHtu_7nmo

Looking for a different way to cook good food at the campground? From steamed vegetables, to lasagna to fresh baked bread, in this episode of the podcast you can learn how as Lesa McDermott introduces Gustaf Lunden from Omnia Stovetop Ovens. Gustaf shares his background and the inception of Omnia, tracing its roots back to a marketing agency collaboration nearly two decades ago. He explains the concept of the Omnia stovetop oven, a versatile three-part design ideal for outdoor cooking and baking. Gustaf discusses his camping experiences, emphasizing the allure of fresh, outdoor-baked food like lasagna and bread. He highlights the Omnia oven's adaptability to various heat sources and its popularity among overlanders and RV enthusiasts. We also touch on accessories like silicone liners and baking racks, enhancing convenience and cooking options. Gustaf underscores the supportive community around Omnia products, with users sharing recipes and tips online. Lesa encourages listeners to explore Omnia's website, offering a special discount code for a free oven for a limited time. To get your own Omnia Stovetop Oven, please visit Omnia's website. To watch the video of this podcast, check it out on the Girl Camper YouTube Channel. https://youtu.be/K7OsKohwJVA

If creating memories, giving siblings, cousins and in-laws opportunities to bond, spending time outdoors with those you love the most all seem like worthy goals, this week’s show is for you. I am taking a look at three things you are going to want to get right in order to make multi generational camping a success.  The right rv  The right campground  The right attitude.  Stay tuned for episode 220 of the girl camper podcast  Welcome I’m Janine Pettit, Girl Camper ambassador, Editor in Chief of the Girl Camper magazine, adventurist and podcaster and this is episode 220 of Girl Camper THE PODCAST The right RV for multi-generational outings – Ask yourself a few questions before you begin your search - Are you just wanting space to sleep. Will you be camping no matter the weather. How important is privacy to you. Travel trailer –  1.   pros - more affordable, open floor plan, can tow it easily 2.   cons - bunk space without doors, one bathroom, primary bedroom is not private Fifth wheel –  1.   pros - private primary bedroom, bath and a half or two full depending on model, bunkroom with door, loads of outdoor storage, more space  2.  cons – cost is higher, need larger tow vehicle to get where you are going   Toy hauler –  1.   pros - flexible floor plans, use garage multiple ways, drop down bed hides away when not in use, second bathroom, side decks, kids off the ground when muddy 2.  cost, tow vehicle needed, depending on size, can’t be accommodated by all campgrounds  Park models –  1.   pros - home feel, can make improvements,  2.  cons - can’t change locations, must sell on site when you’re done, locked in at one location  The Right campground – Going to depend on what your family likes to do but should be something everyone decides on together  ·      Seasonal – ready to go, make friends at the campground, familiarity, know you have a spot, don’t have to haul big toys around like kayaks  ·      Change it up – fun trying out new campgrounds, access to new tourist destinations, must plan far ahead  ·      Membership clubs – save money overall, harvest host, thousand trails,  The right attitude -  ·      Don’t be precious about the RV – kids make a mess, there’s a lot of stuff with multi generation, not a magazine or Instagram feed  ·      Give everyone freedom to do as they please – if you want your kids and grand-kids to feel welcome, let them do as they please ·      Be food flexible – set up a drink station outside so the fridge inside can stay cold. Get the Camco fridge for under the awning. Take turns planning family meals, involve everyone in food choices, clean together https://youtu.be/wuyYPqt51uU

In Episode 219 of the Girl Camper podcast, co-host Janine Pettit delves into her personal journey and decision to embrace seasonal camping. Despite her initial reservations, Janine reflects on her extensive solo travels and the joy of discovering newfound independence in the great outdoors. However, life transitions, including becoming a grandmother and downsizing her living space, prompted her to reassess her camping routine. With a desire to spend more time with her grandchildren and simplify her weekend getaways, Janine found herself drawn to the idea of seasonal camping. Through heartfelt anecdotes and candid reflections, Janine shares the various reasons why seasonal camping resonated with her. From the convenience of having a vacation home without the hefty price tag to the opportunity for quality time with loved ones, Janine explores the multifaceted benefits of this lifestyle shift. She emphasizes the ease of use and flexibility that seasonal camping offers, particularly for individuals with busy schedules or teenagers with conflicting commitments. Moreover, Janine discusses the practical aspects of seasonal camping, such as camper storage and the potential for creating a versatile bonus space for guests or remote work. As she navigates the process of selecting a new RV for her seasonal adventures, Janine invites listeners to join her on this exciting journey of exploration and transition. https://youtu.be/2WTh3QspBxg

We're BACK! It's the Girl Camper Podcast! With a new look, format, topics and so much more. Tune in to Camper in Chief Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott to hear what Girl Camper has been up to these last few years and how you can be a Girl Camper too. Also available on YouTube! Please like our video and subscribe to the Girl Camper channel so you won't miss any episode. https://youtu.be/U3qiXRkxwXM?si=QQK17f7NTYz1NN6f Be sure to tune in each Tuesday for the next episode.

When I see a vintage camper I am transported back to the camp outs of my youth! They hold so much in the way of charm and nostalgia for me. We did some tent camping and had a home made pop up that we rented from a neighbor each year. When we would walk around the campground I would always want to look inside the little trailers. When I returned to camping in 2006 I bought a 1959 Field and Stream with the birchwood interior. I also joined the group Tin Can Tourists to learn as much as I could about vintage trailer ownership. Membership in that Facebook group was the first place I ever saw any questions raised about the damage that exists in many (most) vintage trailers. Of course that damage varies depending on how well they were cared for, what part of the country they were in and what manufacturing methods were used. Canned hams that were stick and tin built did not fare as well over time as the riveted aluminum trailers. One thing seemed certain though, any unit that was at least forty years old would have at least some issues that needed addressing. Enter Tim Heintz, founder of Heintz Designs Vintage Trailer Restorations. Tim has a love for and extensive knowledge of vintage trailers with a specialty in trailers manufactured from the 1930's through 1960's. He is one of the country's leading restorers and does custom rebuilds for customers at his Panama City, Florida location. I invited Tim on the show to share his wisdom on vintage trailer restorations and help those enamored with these nostalgic beauties know when to buy and when to walk away and when to leave the revitalization to a pro. Tim has done many, many trailer restorations over the years and has a big personal collection of vintage trailers. One of my favorite restorations was this 1951 Vagabond. Follow Tim! Tim's website, click here! Tim's Facebook page here! Listen to Tim's interview on the podcast.

On this weeks show our topic is “reducing the chances of trailer theft.” All too often I see on social media a request to share a picture from a heart broken trailer owner who’s beloved trailer has been stolen . Frequently a trailer owner will come out to their driveway in the morning and find their trailer has been taken. I’m going to discuss some ways which you can help deter these thieves.

Girl Camper Guide Catherine Goggia is pinch hitting for me for the next two weeks while I am on a little sabbatical. She is taking us through her purchase of new trailer tires and explaining trailer tires (ST) versus regular tires (LT). Catherine is our Northern California Girl Camper Guide. She is an R Pod owner who grew up camping and encourages others to get out there and do things. She is the editor of her own Girl Camper site. You can follow her here. Some of the topics Catherine discusses include: ST tires are built differently than LT tires Why the tread is more shallow on ST tires Why side walls on ST tires differ from LT tires C and D rated tires Tire maintenance Things that impact load capacity Open range tires Made in USA tire manufacturers Click the link below to hear the podcast and the full scoop on buying trailer tires.

Have you been wondering how an outdoor enthusiast with a top rated TV show became the host of the number one RV Show in the country? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to own a campground? On this week's podcast, I turn the tables and interview my friend Alan Warren from the RV Show USA. Alan began his career in broadcasting by creating a TV show specializing in hunting and fishing. Three reincarnations later the respected expert was ready for a new challenge. He sold the ranch he lived and filmed on and pivoted to an old love - RVing. Although The RV Show USA is only three years old, it is the #1 RV Show in the country. Alan has a reputation for calling out bad practices in the industry but, also gives industry leaders a chance to be on the show and answer consumer questions. Alan jumped even deeper into the RV lifestyle by buying a campground on beautiful Lake Buchanan in Burnet, Texas. The Big Chief RV Resort is an ideal spot for the sportsman who wants to launch a boat straight from the campground as well as those who just want to enjoy stunning lake sunsets. The campground offers many amenities including a pool and spa that feel like a resort hotel. The sunsets at Big Chief are beautiful on Lake Buchanan. .

If you are one of those who dream the full time RVing dream, - in technicolor, black and white, on the job and off, you will enjoy meeting Sandy Ellingson, Executive Director of RVWA, the Recreation Vehicle Women's Alliance. Sandy Ellingson is the Executive Director of the RV Women's Alliance After achieving empty nest status, Sandy, still working full time, and her retired husband, began researching the possibility of full time RVing. There was so much to consider and to do. What type of RV? Travel trailer or motorhome? What travel style? RV Parks or boondocking? Keep a condo or sell it all and pack all of your worldly possessions in an RV? On today's show Sandy shares the process of going from dreamer to doer and what she would do differently if she knew then, what she knows now. At Girl Camper we receive so many letters from full time wannabes and stories like Sandys help to shine some light in the dark places of those dreams and, let us see the realities we may be overlooking. I always enjoy an interview with someone who has gone from home on turf to home on wheels because each story is different and will speak to each of us in a different way. Sandy and Mark Ellingson, enjoying road life!

Mary Kirlin, Girl Camper Contributing Editor has posted her new spring Gear Guide with her favorite hiking essentials! Mary lives in Northern California and frequently travels the Pacific Northwest where she hikes and captures beautiful photos. I invited Mary to contribute gear guides to Girl Camper because she is a dedicated researcher, loves finding companies with a conscience, and is aware of the impact that a product leaves on the environment. Head on over to Mary's "More Camper Than Glamper" page under Girl Camper Wisdom and read about the best hiking gear for the season ahead! https://girlcamper.com/wisdom/hiking-and-hydration-spring-gear-guide/

If you want to travel with all the comforts of home but not need a big tow vehicle to do it, this is the podcast for you. In Episode 190 I shared five RV's under 3K pounds that you can stand in. I had to leave quite a few off the list though and this week I am filling in that list with the box trailers that fit that bill. My criteria was that it had to be under 3 K pounds, have a bathroom and be tall enough to stand up in. I decided to concentrate on the box style trailers with a length of 19" to 21"10". These RV's have many similarities but each has a defining characteristic that sets it apart from its competitors. Working heaviest to to lightest the first is the Winnebago, Micro Minnie 1706FB. This RV weighs in at 2,980 pounds and is the only one with a dual axel. It also has the largest fresh water tank at 43 gallons. Another great feature setting it apart is the standard tankless hot water heater. It's got a built in ladder and good outside storage. The negatives to me are not front window and limited kitchen counter space. The Micro Minnie has a MSRP of $21,464. The interior of the Micro Minnie 1706. The Jayco Hummingbird 16MRB weighs in at 2,890 pounds. It has a flexible floor plan with a Murphy bed that folds away to reveal a love seat for daytime leisure. It has a portable table that can be set up inside in front of the love seat or outside under the 10' awning. Without a dedicated dining booth there is room for a bigger kitchen and more storage across from it. The rear bathroom on the Hummingbird is really spacious and has a lot of storage. The negatives in my mind are that it has no front window and some people may not like having a dedicated dining space. The MSRP for the Hummingbird is $25,440. The murphy bed hidden away with the love seat showing. The Forest River Wolf Pup has several models including one that is a toy hauler. The 14CC weighs in at 2,884 pounds and is 19' long. It's defining feature is the rear entry. The window over the dining booth is really large and the booth folds down to become a small sleep space or day bed. There is a lot of kitchen counter space and good storage underneath. The negative is the east/west bed and the separate toilet and shower which are on opposite sides of the rear entry. The MSRP on this unit is $14,380. The KZ Sportsmen Classic 160 QB is a great entry level model that weighs 2,860 pounds. It is 21' 10". The added two feet allows for this model to have a walk around Queen bed. It has a small dinette across from the kitchen. There is a three piece bath and a large wardrobe in the rear of the trailer. Outside there is pass through storage under the Queen bed. The MSRP for this model is $16,995. The Sportsmen Classic 160QB. Lastly, the Lance 1475 is the lightest of the five models I chose weighing in at just 2,600 pounds. They have another model with a small slide out but I am focusing on the non slide out model. It is 19' 8" long with an east/west facing Queen bed. It has many outstanding features but the main thing that separates it from other units in this field is the chairs and swivel table that replace the dining booth. Lance Manufacturing offers many standard features that are upgrades with other manufacturers. Aluminum framed ceilings, floors and sidewalls are standard features as is the Azdel exterior. The 1475 is a four season RV with wrapped and heated tanks. The windows are European style Radius Acrylic Tinted Thermopane. The MSRP is $39,000.

Have you wanted to have a truck but not something quite as big as a half ton? Are you wondering what light duty trucks out there will deliver on tow capacity, mileage and comfort? Mike Caudill is an auto expert, owner of Driven360, experienced RVer and my guest today as we go over the top four light duty trucks. You can check out Mike's product reviews at Our Auto Expert! We have already covered the Ford Ranger in its own segment so, today we will be focusing on the Nissan Frontier, Chevy Colorado and the Jeep Gladiator. To listen to our show on the Ford Ranger, click here. 2020 Nissan Frontier The Nissan Frontier began production in Smyrna, Tennessee in 1997. When it first came out if offered a few cabin options but not many trim packages. Today the Frontier has five different trim packages to choose from - S, SV, Desert Runner, Pro04X and the SL. It is a great option for those that want a light duty truck with some substantial towing capacity but don't want to pay the hefty price tag often accompanying these trucks. You can purchase a Frontier with a tow package of 3,500 #'s for a starting base price of $19,290. It's a great vehicle for those who don't need an off road vehicle and who will be driving on pavement. 2020 Nissan Frontier MPG: Up to 19 city / 23 highway Towing capacity: 3,500 to 6,500 lbs Max towing 6,720 lbs Payload is 1,460 lbs MSRP: From $19,290 Fuel tank capacity: 21.1 gal Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder, 4.0 L V6 The Chevy Colorado Chevy Colorado is another lightweight duty truck that makes a great alternative for those who don't want a half ton. The Colorado came out in 2004 replacing the Chevy S-10. In many ways it was an improvement over the S-10 offering more space and power than it's predecessor. The price of the Colorado, depending on trim packages, ranges from a starting point of just $21,300 to $43,000. MSRP: From $21,300 to $43,000 MPG: Up to 20 city / 30 highway Towing capacity: 3,500 to 7,000 lbs max towing is 7,700 lbs Payload: 1,578 Dimensions: 212-225″ L x 74-77″ W x 70-72″ H Engine: 2.5 L 4-cylinder, 2.8 L 4-cylinder diesel, 3.6 L V6 2020 Jeep Gladiator Photo Credit: Jeep The Jeep Gladiator is for the off road enthusiast. It will tow a recreation vehicle but once you get where you are going, the Jeep Gladiator is for those who love life off the beaten path. It is built for fun and has taken Best in Class for Towing - 7.650 pounds, and Best in Class for Payload at 1,700 pounds. There are several configurations available. The Sport starting at $33,500. The Overland from $40,395 and the MSRP: From $33,545 Towing capacity: 4,000 to 4,500 lbs Best in class towing at 7,650 lbs Best in class payload at 1,700 MPG: Up to 17 city / 22 highway Curb weight: 4,650 to 5,050 lbs Horsepower: 285 hp Check out Mike's business partner Nik Miles comparing the Ford Ranger and the Jeep Gladiator. Click here to see!! Here's Mike's YouTube Channel - chock full of great auto reviews! Check it out here!! Our partners at Bankston Motor Homes is taking your calls and open for business. Do a little online shopping and dreaming while we are all waiting for camping season to get started!! The Girl Campers enjoying a Camper College at Bankston Motor Homes in Huntsville, Alabama.

Have you harbored a dream of buying an RV and taking off for parts unknown? Do you dream of a life where you can make money on the road and live your best life but don’t know how to get started? My guest today is Jody Duquette, Executive Director of Workamper News. She’s sharing their newest program for those wanting to learn about the RV lifestyle. Jody Duquette The Dreamers Journey is a new program offered on line for a monthly fee by Workamper News. It is a way to look realistically at the pros and cons of the Nomadic life. How would you get mail? Insure yourself? What would the actual costs be? What if I got sick on the road? What are people who are already doing it saying about what the down sides are? Can I get work easily? Should I sell my house, rent it or use it as an Air B and B? A lot of thought went in to developing this program that not only covers the practical side of RVing but the emotional side as well. The program is designed so that those considering the lifestyle can take a practical look at it and build confidence before making a decision. The classes are taught by experts in the field and available on line for study at your convenience. As long as you are a member, the classes are available. The monthly cost is $99 for the comprehensive classes. Classes are taught in a Live webinar on Tuesday afternoons and a bonus webinar on Thursdays. If you can't participate in the Live, the webinars are saved for you to watch at your convenience. After looking at the whole program I feel it is money well spent. So many of the questions I receive at Girl Camper have to do with "How to get started full timing and workamping." I am so pleased to see this program offered. You can check out the Dreamers Journey here and also Workamper News which is a great resource for those hitting the road and hoping to stay employed along the way.

We all have concerns when we head out and the best way to deal with fear is to acknowledge the possibilities and have a plan for if and when they happen. That is what we do here at Girl Camper, we educate new RVers and help them understand the principles of what may be happening and ways to counterbalance them. We have done many podcasts on safety from towing to tires to weight distribution hitches to weather tactics. It's never fun having a breakdown on the road but having good insurance and roadside assistance takes a little bit of the sting away!! Some of my worst trips have resulted in my best lessons and made me a stronger and smarter RVer. I am sharing them today because I know that fear sometimes stops us from doing things we want to do. Sometimes fear is an alarm that common sense sets off in us and warns us to use caution. It's a good thing that we should pay close attention to and not dismiss. There's also a fear that is placed in us by other people who are worried about us. It's really their fear being projected onto us. It's a "What If?" and may be something that could happen but never will. What If's can paralyze us and keep us from getting out there. You have to look at the situation and decide if there is real danger or if the FEAR is False Evidence Appearing Real. Some of the issues I cover in today's podcast include: Driving in high winds Driving in dense fog Getting stuck for the night without a campsite Truck breakdowns Sway problems Middle of the night tornado warnings There's a fun new thing from Camco that everyone will want to have. I think most of us can relate to the problem of needing a weight to secure the elbow of the sewer hose to the dump spot. If that thing is not weighted down and you pull the lever for the blank tank to dump, it can and will pop off and spew the contents of your blank tank all over the place!! The Camco Retro RV sewer hose fits on top of your hose and is weighted down by water or sand poured into the top. It keeps the sewer hose from popping off when the rush of fluids hits it!! Check it out here! Thank you to Bankston Motor Homes of Alabama and Tennessee for sponsoring Girl Camper. To visit one of their six locations, click here!

I can honestly say that I like every kind of camping. Resort RV Parks, State and National Parks, backyard camping and now I can add, dispersed camping to that list. On today's show I am sharing my first experience camping on BLM land with no amenities at all, including roads! Last January I headed to Arizona to see what all the fuss was about. Hint -it's the weather. Mid 70's and sunny everyday and lows in the 40's at night. In my mind, this is PERFECT camping weather. I muddle through the heat and humidity in New Jersey all summer long for a few weeks of this weather each fall, often accompanied by rain. In southern Arizona you can set your watch by this weather for weeks on end and RVers across the nation know it. They flock to Arizona each year after the Christmas holidays and camp for free on BLM land. For those new to all of this BLM stands for Bureau of Land Management. It is land managed by the US Department of the Interior and comprises over 245 million acres. Some of these lands have actual campgrounds with bathrooms and water and electric all on them. Most do not though and are just come and get it spots. No hook ups, water, bathhouses or for the most part, even roads. You locate these cost free campsites through word of mouth and by using the App, Campendium. Campendium is the most recommended source for off road camping by those actually doing it. I asked lots of people when I was out there how they find spots and Campendium was the answer 9 out of 10 times. With Campendium you will get a set of reviews and tips that are really useful when dispersed camping because Google Maps is often not available in the middle of nowhere and these old fashioned directions are a lifesaver. Once you find your spot, be prepared for everything. You must bring everything you need in and everything you use, out. Leave no trace. I was ready for my first stop, Craggy Wash outside of Lake Havasu with full water tanks and empty holding tanks. I had a 100 watt solar panel and an AGM battery along with a full propane tank. I was hardly roughing it since I could take hot showers and have heat whenever I wanted. The perk of these sites is the stillness. Although others were there, they are not on top of you. There is a solitude that is hard to find when camping any other way. I completely enjoyed opening my shade at dawn and watching the sunrise with unobstructed views. I loved the long walks and just waving at fellow travelers. I loved the dark night skies without the lights from other RVs ruining the sky views. I mostly loved feeling truly 'checked out.' After I left Lake Havasu I headed to Quartzsite Arizona to see what the Big RV Show there is all about. Each years thousands and thousands of RVers meet in groups to do this show. I don't know how many go to the show as just gather for the community and camaraderie. There are miles of roads with signs indicating the groups - Airstream Owners, Class A groups, Escapees and even Vegan RVers. The RV Show itself was hot, dusty and nothing I haven't seen a million times but the gatherings were incredible. So many people enjoying the lifestyle, each others company and the fantastic weather and incredible sunsets Arizona offers each night. There are a few rules, spoken and unspoken about this type of camping that everyone should know before they go. There are a few rules spoken and unspoken among the community of modern day homesteaders that I’d like to share. Don’t crowd each other. There are 245 million acres available and  people want their space! I was in an area with my friend and another friend texted that she was in my neck of the woods. I mentioned that someone was coming to join us and I was advised to ask my neighbors if it was okay for her to park in our little colony. There seemed like plenty of room to me but people want privacy, space and the feeling of being alone. When you are looking for a spot, it’s an

It was my pleasure to head out into the Arizona desert in January to road test the Lance 650 truck camper. I have been fascinated with the idea of truck camping since I was a kid and my grandfather put a cap on his truck, two cots with a cooler between them in the bed and took off for Colorado. The whole idea of traveling around with your home on your back really appeals to a nester like me. A little known secret about me is that I hate being uncomfortable in any way. It seems like a contradictory trait for one who loves to camp but, camping today is not what it was in the 1970's. There is no need to be too cold or too hot or too anything when the RV industry is making so many products to get us out there and protect us from the elements at the same time. The truck camper seemed like a great way to see the country with minimum hassle and still have all the comforts of home available any time I needed them. One of the things that made this adventure so enjoyable was the ability to pull in and out of parking spaces easily. I picked up the Lance 650 at their factory in Lancaster, California and had two weeks to roam around in it. Shout out to Lance for sponsoring my adventure. Some Girl Camper friends were staying on BLM land around Lake Havasu so I planned on visiting with them before I headed down to Quartzsite, Arizona to see what all the fuss was about there. I had no plans to camp in campgrounds so I would not only be checking out truck camping but, off the grid camping as well. A great sunrise my first morning in tbe 650! The Lance 650 is the smallest truck camper that Lance manufactures and can be placed on the bed of of a 1/2 ton truck. Caveat Emptor - not just any 1/2 ton truck. You will need to make sure that your particular 1/2 ton truck has the suspension system, axel ratio and beefed up build to hold the 1700 pound 650. Air bags can help increase the trucks ability to carry the load. A good way to see what your truck can carry is to do a VIN number analysis. That analysis will give you lots of information like what your actual axel ratio is because, the same truck can have different axel ratios. Check out your vehicles actual ratings at this VIN number analysis site here. The truck the 650 was set on was a Ford F-150 diesel with heavy duty leaf springs and bed air bags to cushion the RV. My first impression upon stepping into the Lance 650 was how small it was. This was a plus for me because it was my goal to be nimble and get in and out of sites without worrying about hitting things and jumping curbs. I have a Ford F150 as my daily ride and the 650 I was borrowing from Lance was placed on the bed of an F150 diesel truck. The good part for me was that I was accustomed to the size of this truck. It didn't feel large to me. My first outing in it was to the grocery store to load up the fridge. I was thrilled to not have to look for a special space. I pulled right in as I would in my own F150. The 650 has the same footprint as the truck. It is designed to not hang over any part of the truck. It has no slide either. It did come equipped with a rear camera which is essential for backing out of spaces! My first stop was a BLM site called Craggy Wash outside of Lake Havasu. My goal was boondocking on BLM land in Arizona. I met up with a few Girl Campers already settled in on a quiet strip of land outside of Lake Havasu. I was operating solely on the 650's solar panels, AGM battery and the available propane in the 3 gallon horizontally installed on board tank. The unit has a 22 gallon fresh water tank and a tankless hot water system. The grey tank holds 15 gallons and the black tank 16 gallons. It can sleep three, two on the overhead Queen sized bed and one on the booth that folds down into a twin. It's got a 3 cubic foot three way refrigerator which was plenty for a solo traveler and an 18 BTU furnace which really did the job quickly. I was able to turn it on and get the chill off a...

I have just returned from a visit with the good folks at Lance Manufacturing Company in Lancaster, California. I went out there to road test the Lance 650 truck camper. More on that in the coming weeks but, hint, hint... great way to enjoy road life and not tow. My full review of the 650 is coming out in the next two weeks. Lance started in California in 1965. They began as a manufacturer of truck campers producing the number one selling truck camper in the industry. For sixteen years running they have won the National RV Dealers Association's Quality Circle Award. I had a great time testing the Lance 650 but they have many great options for those who want the freedom to roam and the possibility to tow a boat or toys behind them too. Lance spread to light weight towables after establishing a reputation for innovation and quality. This year they have unveiled the 2445 and 2075, two European inspired RV's. We had the chance to show them off in a Live walk through on Go RVing's Facebook page. You can check that out here. The 2445 has a great bunk bed system that is open and airy while also offering the flexibility to raise the lower bunk to store gear. It also offers a Master Bedroom with a walk around Queen bed, large windows and a ceiling window as well. The dining booth is in the slide out and offers the feature that I love in Lance units - the pull out drawer under the bench seats. The 2445 is a great option for families as well as those with gear. The bunks fold up to store kayaks or bikes and it has a large three piece bathroom. The 2075 has many great features but my favorite is the outdoor kitchen that would make any tailgater the envy of the trailerhood. It has a two burner stove, plumbed sink, refrigerated Dometic drawer and lots of prep space. It is all covered by an automatic awning to keep you shaded in the sunshine and dry in the rain. This outdoor kitchen was a favorite feature of mine because it gives you the option of making meals a family activity. I had the opportunity to tour the Lance factory in Lancaster, California and see the innovation they are well known for. In today's interview Marketing Director, Bob Rogers and Marketing Manager, Jim Waters explain some of the unique practices that sets Lance apart from other manufacturers and justifies the higher price tag that Lance products command. Lance is known for their custom cabinetry all built on site, large European windows, ducted heat and U Shaped table with telescoping 360 degree adjustability. It was a pleasure to see the production from, what I call the "Geek Squad" office of engineers, hard at work on designs on their computers. From there a mock up happens just to see if it all fits as they had imagined. A full prototype is then built and everyone gets to weigh in on what is working and what needs to be tweaked. A second and third rendition happens and they actually get taken out on the road. When everyone is satisfied, the big production begins. I know you will enjoy this interview with the Marketing team at Lance. I learned so much there about the company and their commitment to their customers. Drop us a comment and let us know what you like better - the 2445 or the 2075!

We're on sabbatical this week and highlighting some of the top rated podcast episodes with a quick review. You can check out the full episode from this highly rated show right here!! This weeks show is a quick refresher on reducing the possibility of RV theft. While I am on sabbatical from the podcast I will be out in the Southwest checking out the happenings at Quartzsite while road testing the Lance 650 truck camper. Our friends at Lance are known for their high quality truck trailers and I have always been intrigued by the possibility of having all of the bells and whistles, without towing anything. I am so excited to experience this form of camping and add truck campers to our list of RV's that I have personally tried. The 650 is the smallest truck camper in the line up and can be placed on an F150 It's hard to believe they fit all of this in this space with a bathroom! We will be bringing everyone a LIVE look at what Lance has in the shop at their factory in Lancaster, California on the Go RVing Facebook page at 2 PM EST on Friday, the 10th of January. Be sure to mark your calendar to get a peek at Lance's new 2075 travel trailer. It has already garnered praise within the industry and took home the enviable Best of Show in RV Pro. This unit is a tailgaters dream! Oh, the windows in this unit!! We will also be touring the Lance Ultralight 2445, the family trailer with a master suite, double sized bunk beds and a kepad operated app that allows you to control the HVAC, awning, lights and holding tanks from your phone!! The Lance 2445 is a great family unit with tons of light and space. This kitchen is nicer than many home kitchens I have seen. It is compact but open to the dining table for extra counter space. I'm a huge fan of these bunks not just because they are big, but because they are so open.