RV Things

Looking for an easy way to keep that RV clean when you’re on the road? We suggest one of the portable vacuums that are designed to clean small areas such as RVs, cars, stairs, and furniture.

There are many different kinds of portable vacuums to thoroughly clean recreational vehicles.  Below we’ll give you some tips on what to look for in one of these and share some of our recommendations on what to buy.

What to Look For in Portable RV Vacuums

When using portable vacuums, the number one thing a person should notice is how well the vacuum cleans surfaces.  A portable vacuum should be able to clean both hard floors and carpets with ease and keep up with everyday use to sustain a clean environment.  Some things to make sure the vacuum can handle is spills, pet hair, and the size of particles.

Electric vacuums are measured by Air Watts.  The more Air Watts available, the cleaner the floors and surfaces will be.  If the vacuum has a battery pack, then make sure the battery is charged enough to clean without having to recharge in the middle of cleaning.

The weight is another factor to look into because if it is handheld, then a heavy vacuum will put a strain on the wrist and make the job more difficult.  Another important feature to look at is the size of the bag.  How much dirt can the bag hold before emptying?

The final thing to check out is the price.  Make sure the price is worth the product and the features.  Also, make sure it is within the budget.

Editor Top Picks: RV Vacuum Reviews

Below we’ll share our editor’s thoughts on some of the best rv vacuums on the market right now. There is the Shark Rocket Corded Ultra-Light Hand Vacuum, the Oreck Commercial Pro 5 Super Compact Canister Vacuum, the HP Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System, and the Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner. If you’re looking for the best RV vacuums, then let us help you.

1. Shark Rocket Corded Ultra-Light Hand Vacuum

This vacuum is made mostly for carpets but can be used anywhere and has an attachment with a TruePet mini motorized brush.

It runs on electricity and comes with a fifteen-foot chord for cleaning rooms with ease.  There is no recharging any batteries with this handheld machine.  Many of our editors find it gets in those tight spots very well such as steps and corners.

This is a lightweight vacuum and weighing 3.7 pounds.  It runs off of 400 watts of power and cleans any surface.

The filters are easy to clean and are washable, so there is no purchasing more filters.  This vacuum will never lose its suction power, and it has a dust cup for easy to dump out the trash that is picked up.

Loose debris, pet hair, and dirt are no problem for this portable vacuum as it is capable of cleaning deep in surfaces.  The dimensions are 9.7 x 4.9 x 13.6 inches, and it comes with a 12″ crevice tool, dusting brush, TruePet Motorized Brush, and an extending hose for those hard to reach places.

2. Oreck Commercial XL Pro 5 Super Compact Canister Vacuum

This portable vacuum cleaner is lightweight and has a shoulder strap to make it easier to carry the five-pound vacuum where ever it is needed.  Please note that the weight is only the vacuum without the attachments and hoses.

The attachments that come with the vacuum are a 30-foot power cord which makes it easier to go from room to room without changing outlets.  There is a complete 11 piece detailing set that comes with the attachments.

It has a four-foot hose with an adjustable extension for cleaning vents, ceiling fans, and any place out of reach.  This vacuum is made for hard surfaces, high areas, upholstery, carpets, stairs, small spaces. and along edges.

The dimensions are 8 x 6 x 15 inches, and it holds up to 1 quart of dirt and debris.  One thing that makes this portable vacuum so great is the old fashion saying “Made in the USA.”  Oreck takes pride in this saying, and all the components and parts come from and are put together here in America.

It is listed as a commercial vacuum and is great for cleaning RVs, but it can also be used for cleaning hotels and restaurants.  The vacuum has a one-year commercial warranty.  There is a bag that is disposable and needs to be changed along with the filter, so this needs to be purchased separately.

Most are satisfied and impressed with the weight and how easy it is to use the vacuum.   The shoulder strap they said is a lifesaver along with the many attachments.

3. HP Products Dirt Devil Central Vacuum System

This vacuum is built into a certain area of a building and is designed for saving space.  Though it is meant for portable buildings and RVs, it is not easy for moving around, but it does bring the value up in price for an RV.

It comes with a 7′ to 35′ hose that expands for large areas and can easily be stored away.  The bag holds up to one gallon of dirt and debris.

There are several attachments that come with the vacuum along with a mesh bag to keep all the attachments together.  There is a 10″ floor tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and crevice tools for those hard to reach places.

It is capable of picking up dirt and debris at a flow rate of 100 cubic feet per minute.

The dimensions are 14.5 x 7 x 6.2 inches, and the vacuum weighs 21pounds and 14 pounds without the attachments.  The product has a 5-year guaranteed warranty and the Air Watts is 501 with 120 volts AC Amperes.

4. Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

This vacuum is the most powerful of the cordless vacuums and runs off of one Lithium-ion battery.  It takes about three and a half hours to charge fully and has a running time of sixty minutes when using the non-motorized tool.

It runs off of 21.6 volts.  The length can be extended fully to use as a regular vacuum for floors, or it can be shortened for a handheld vacuum for furniture.

The bin for the dirt and debris is 0.2 gallons, and there is a filtration system that is fully sealed and blocks up to 99.97% of particles and puts out cleaner air as it is working.

There is a two-year warranty on parts and labor.  Most people enjoy the three-speed power modes for any size job or floor type.  They also appreciate the drop in docking feature which saves on space.  It allows the vacuum to charge while mounting on a wall or an easy to grab spot for grab and go.

The vacuum weighs 5.86 pounds, and the dimensions are 9.8 x 10.1 x 49.2 inches.  It comes with a mini soft dusting brush, a combination tool, a mini motorized tool, and a crevice tool for those hard to reach places.

All Vacuums for RVs Used Anywhere

Along with RVs, these portable vacuums can be used anywhere it can fit.  These are some of the best vacuums on the market but there are many others.

For RVs, there is nothing better in the opinions of the public through the five star ratings and reviews.  Research is the key factor to finding the perfect portable vacuum and sometimes trial and error off of others who have used the products before hand can also be beneficial to saving money and valuable time.

Traveling is always amazing. You get the opportunity to meet new people, visit new places, and experience new cultures. Spending quality time on the road is an adventure that is full of joy, but there are also several challenges that you have to deal with. One of the most effective ways of traveling and enjoying life on the road is by living in a recreational vehicle (RV) that offers you the possibility to move around wherever you want. You are also free to take your spouse and kids with you and bring your belongings as well.

However, things might be so tough when you are just getting started with RV travel. There is so much information that you will need to make good decisions that will make your RVing experience memorable. If you are a starter, then you are in the right place. We are here to offer you the best tips that will prepare you to hit the road and enjoy your RV camping. Read on to discover some of the top RV camping tips for beginners.

Renting vs. Buying

We can’t deny the fact that there are lots of different types of RVs out there and choosing the best can be a daunting task to accomplish. You also have to decide whether you want to buy or rent your RV. For beginners, this isn’t an easy decision to make with advantages and drawbacks for both of them. However, the moment you settle down and consider a few factors, it becomes easy to make a final decision.

If you are a starter, the best option is to rent until you decide the type of RV that suits your unique needs. Consider taking major road trips with different types of RVs and evaluate them critically to determine the best type that can satisfy your long-term camping goals and suit your style. Once you have taken several road trips and established what works for you, consider purchasing your own RV since it will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Take Time to Know Your RV

With little road experience, it is critical for RV beginners to take some time to learn how the motorhome works even if you are renting it. If something breaks unexpectedly, you should be in a good position to fix the mess and go on with your traveling and camping. This will save you a lot of money and time that you would have spent calling the mechanic.

Furthermore, when you get t know your RV well, you are less likely to make costly operational errors. For instance, if you don’t understand how many amps your primary breaker can handle, there is a high possibility that you will blow it off. This is a costly error that can easily be avoided by taking some time to understand your motorhome.

Learn to Take Advantage of the Available Resources

Ask any experienced RVer out there, and he/she will tell you that the happiest RVers are those that have perfected the skill of managing their systems well. The prospect of your first time behind the RV wheel or your first time setting up a campsite and enjoying nature can be quite intimidating. However, going in with some advanced knowledge can easily turn the many firsts into successful events.

There is a plethora of blogs and videos that share the aspect of RV camping life are incredible sources of information that will guide you through your first steps of RV camping. There is a lot that you can learn which will help you to feel much comfortable and confident. Therefore, make sure that you watch the videos and read the blogs before you get started, and you will end up making a lot fewer mistakes as a newbie.

Remember to Take a Practice RV Drive

Although driving a big vehicle for the first time might be intimidating, you need to do everything possible to get comfortable as a driver or a passenger. The best way to get rid of that fear before your camping day is by taking a practice RV drive. Keep in mind that you might appear ‘taller” and “wider” when driving an RV but that shouldn’t bother you so much. Practice driving in wide and open spaces and watch for bridges, height clearances at underpasses, low-hanging tree branches and anything else that might block your way.

You should also consider taking some driving courses that will help you drive your recreational vehicle like a pro when you finally hit the road. As mentioned earlier, you should also take some time to know your RV and understand basic things about it. It will be awkward when you realize that it’s too dark inside and you don’t know where the light switch is located. You should also remember to secure all your personal belongings so that they don’t shift while you are driving.

Bring Along All the Essential Tools and Spare Parts

Take care not to turn your RV into a moving auto parts store but don’t forget to bring along some essential tools and spare parts that will come in handy when your vehicle breaks down unexpectedly.In most cases, the RVers are getting away from the busy city life and setting camps in quieter places. However, it is good to note that the further you get away from the city services, the more self-reliant you need to be.

It’s a balance, and you need to remember the fact that each trip will always have its unique challenges, so it is critical to plan wisely before you hit the road. Some of the basic RV tools that you shouldn’t miss to pack include; the digital tire gauges, heavy gauge jumper cables, and the T-handle style lug wrenches.

We all love our recreational vehicles, the fun and memories they provide us during the warm summer camping season, but what should you do with that RV during the winter? I suppose if you are a member of the “rich and famous club” you can rent some type of building, workshop, shed or other large enclosed space to store your baby for the winter, but if you are like the rest of us you will probably have to just get by with what you have, which usually means storing the RV outside of your home or at some type of rental storage facility. And while this might sound like a tragedy waiting to happen, there are actually some things you can do right now to ensure that your RV stays in tip-top shape during the cold winter months—and ready to once again serve you when the summer rolls around.

In this article we have provided a brief guide for storing your RV outside during the winter, with tips and tricks that have proven very successful for others just like.

Winter Storage Tips for Your RV

If you are forced to store your RV outside for the winter months, either at your home or at some type of rented storage yard, there are several strategies you can employ to ensure your recreational vehicle survives the bitter cold, rain and snow that is often associated with this season. Here we have listed just a few of these strategies:

Wash and Wax Your RV

When it’s time to put your RV out of commission for the winter, the first thing you should do is give it a good wash and a wax job. This may sound like an odd time to do this, but a coating of high-quality wax will actually help protect the paint of the RV from sun damage, and will also keep the dirt buildup to a minimum. Waxing your car for storage will also make it much easier to clean when it comes time to take it out of storage.

Check and Clean All Seals

With your car nice and clean, it will be much easier to inspect and clean all of your silicone seams, caulking and rubber seals. These seals and seams are located throughout the RV, both inside and outside, so be very thorough with your inspection. Dirty seals and seams can be cleaned with water and a mild detergent to keep them in proper working order. However, if you have any seams or seals that are cracked or in disrepair, NOW is the time to get them fixed, and failing to do so can ultimately cost you a ton of money. According to experts, water damage is the number one problem people face during winter storage, and once the damage has been done it can cost thousands of dollars to remedy.

Keep Your RV Ventilated

When moisture finds its way into the interior of an RV the end result can be a musty smell, mildew and dangerous mold, some of which is impossible to clean and get rid of. That being said, one of the best ways to keep moisture from accumulating in the interior of your vehicle is to allow for ventilation. Most recreational vehicles have rooftop vents, and leaving these vents open during the winter can prevent the buildup of moisture. But how do you go about preventing rain and other forms of moisture from entering the vehicle through these vents? The answer is specialized vent covers.

Vent covers are specially designed to allow lots of air flow while also preventing rain and snow from getting inside the vehicle. With air vents, you can equalize the temperature both outside and inside the vehicle, which prevents condensation and other forms of moisture.

Other ways to vent your RV when in storage is to leave the cabinet doors open, slide open closets, and even prop open the refrigerator door.

Let There Be Light

Mildew and mold spores can proliferate in dark, damp and dank spaces. To combat this, you will want to allow at least some sunlight to come into the RV when it is in storage. While it may “feel” more secure to pull down all the nighttime or blackout shades when your RV is outside in the winter, studies have shown that the darkness inside can actually lead to mold. Instead, just use the simple daylight curtains (to hide the contents within) and leave the windshield uncovered to allow for lots of light.

Secure Slide Outs and Treat Seals

This is perhaps a no brainer, but when storing your RV in the winter you will want to pull in all of the slide outs and securely fasten them. This way, the mechanical parts that help retract and extend these slide outs will not be exposed to the winter elements and there are fewer chances of leaks. Before you pull in the slide outs for the winter, take some time to clean and inspect all the seals. You can even apply some seal conditioner on the seals to keep them flexible all winter, and some anti-corrosion protectant on the slide rail. Some RV owners will also rub baby powder on the inner seals before closing the slide outs, which will help keep the parts dry and make the slide outs easier to open up when the storage period is over.

Screen Potential Entry Points to Keep Insects and Rodents Out

There are many potential entry points on an RV where bugs and rodents can set up shop for the winter. Some of these bugs, depending on the part of the country in which you reside, can cause some major havoc to recreational vehicles once inside the rig. To prevent this, we suggest you thoroughly inspect your RV and screen off any exterior spots that may allow bug and critter entry. Popular places include rooftop plumbing vents, exterior fridge panels, air intake piping and furnace exhaust openings.

Also, make sure you clean the interior of your RV thoroughly, and remove any traces of food from the vehicle. The last thing you want is for a family of mice or rats to move into your prized vehicle during the winter, doing untold harm to your electrical wiring and leaving little “presents” throughout your cabinets and drawers.

Shut Down All Electrical Power

If you want to be sure your RV starts when you come back to retrieve it after a long cold winter, there are a couple of things you can do. None of these tactics are completely foolproof, but they will reduce the chances of a drained RV battery. First, make sure to cut all electrical power by turning off your battery disconnect switch, which is usually located very near the battery. This will ensure zero drain on the battery bank while in storage. You should also charge your battery before storing the RV, as a fully charged battery has less chance of freezing up than one that is very weakly charged.

Taking Care of Plumbing and Tanks

In terms of plumbing, the steps you will want to take will actually depend on temperature—whether or not there is a chance of freezing. In warm temperatures, you can usually get away with just flushing the waste tanks real well before going into storage, and then filling them back up about one-quarter to one-half tank to prevent drying out. For the fresh water tanks, try filling them up all the way, adding about a half cup of bleach and running them into all the pipes as a way to disinfect your system while it’s in storage.

If there is a chance of freezing, we recommend removing all water from your tanks, including the water heater tank. You can then put antifreeze into the piping, valves, drain traps and a little in each water tank to prevent the pipes from freezing. If you plan to store your RV in severely cold temperature, we recommend you check with the manufacturer about the proper way to winterize your car.

Securing Your RV

To protect against theft, we first recommend you store your RV in a reputable RV storage lot with plenty of their own security measures. If you are storing your vehicle at home—or away from home—you can put a hitch lock on the king pin to prevent anyone from hooking up to your RV while you are away. You can also lock the wheels using a wheel lock; and be sure to ask a trusted neighbor to watch your RV if you plan to be away on vacation.

Protecting the Tires

To keep your tires looking great and prevent having them blowout or deflate while in storage, there are several things you can do to reduce that chance. Try to park it in a cool, dry area, and remove as much unnecessary weight as possible from inside of the vehicle. Fill the tires to the recommended PSI—and then add an extra 25 percent, making sure you do not surpass the manufacturer’s rim capacity. Clean the tires with soap to remove any excess dirt and oil; and move the RV to a different spot every three months to prevent cracking and flat-spotting from the cold, dry weather.

Renting an RV offers an unparalleled mode of travel and the opportunity for adventure. With the freedom of the road, you can have an unforgettable road trip while taking your home away from home right along with you.

However, if you’ve never rented an RV before, there’s a lot to think about. And that can be a little intimidating. But don’t let that stop your trip before it begins. With this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about renting an RV.

Plan the Trip

Before you even think about the RV, focus on the trip you want to take. Where do you plan to go? How long will the trip be? Who’s coming along?

All of these factors will influence every decision you make. The number, age, and interests of people traveling will influence the stops you make, your activities, and the size of RV you rent.

Budget for Your Trip

As you research your RV, you should have a budget in mind for the trip. Start with the cost involved for renting the vehicle. Then there’s a lot more to think about.

• Gas: Gas, alone, is a big cost. And RVs use a lot of it. Not to mention the fact that they get terrible gas mileage. So begin estimating how much you’re going to have to spend on gas.
• Campground Fees: The place you park your RV will come with a cost. These campgrounds and RV parks offer water and dumping station access. Plan ahead for the fees involved so you won’t have any surprises.
• It’s also worth a little effort to check with your local library for passes to State and National Parks. Sometimes you can check these out as you would a library book. This can help guide your trip and provide you with a camping spot without worrying about a fee. Plus, you get to enjoy some amazing attractions for free.
• Food: Depending on the duration of your trip, you may need to stop for groceries along the way. Plus, you’ll want to be prepared for those can’t miss restaurants. Budgeting for food will help you get your fill without stressing your wallet.
• Activities: Of course, no trip is complete without those fun outings. Whether you plan them in advance or they come spur of the moment, you need to factor in the cost of activities in your budget.

Research RV Parks and Campgrounds

You have a variety of choices when staying at an RV park or campground. The number of offerings vary. Kamgrounds of America (KOA) and ReserveAmerica have a dump station, full hookups, and on-site staff. Some state parks have these, as well as playgrounds and other attractions. They’re also less expensive than privately-owned RV communities.

The best thing to do is plan ahead to find a park or campground that provides the kind of RV experience you’re looking for.

Research Your RV Options

Committing to renting an RV is a big deal. The choice you make can significantly impact your trip, making it the best ever or memorable for all the wrong reasons. That’s why it’s a good idea to find one or more retailers near you and research their inventory in person.

By conducting on-site research, you get a feel for model sizes, amenities, and gas mileage. The dealership staff can answer questions you have and provide you with a wealth of information. And most likely, they’re RV enthusiasts who can give you the benefits of their own experiences.

Once you’ve gotten an in-person crash course in RV availability, you can supplement your research by going online. That way, you can delve deeper and begin to narrow down what’s a good fit for your group and your trip.

RV Types (Your Options)

• Class A: Ranging up to 45 feet long, Class A RVs are the largest models. They look and drive like buses. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to take a test drive to make sure you can safely handle this type of RV on the road. They often come with slide-outs that can open for additional space when parked.
• Class C: Class C RVs normally range 25-30 feet long. However, diesel models can be up to 45 feet. They rest on truck chassis and contain beds that jut out over the driver’s seat. These models are the easiest RV to drive and the most common available for rent.
• Class B: Class B RVs are vans converted into RVs, or camper vans. With a maximum length of 25 feet, these compact RVs are ideal for one or two people. It’s not very common for them to be self-contained with a bed, kitchen, and bathroom. So you may have to use your campground’s bathroom and shower facilities.
• Travel Trailers: With travel trailers, you need a truck to tow them. The advantage of these RVs is that since there’s no driving area, you get more space inside. Plus, you can select from any number of lengths ranging from 9-43 feet. The downside is that since they’re pulled behind a vehicle with a tow hitch, towing these RVs isn’t an easy task.
• Fifth Wheels: Just like travel trailers, you can tow fifth wheels. But these are easier to tow because they attached over the axle and into your truck bed. This makes for a sturdier drive. Their lengths range from 25-40 feet.

The Rental Procedure

Once you’re ready to rent the RV that works for you, there’s a procedure.

• Regardless of what service you use, the inventory that’s available will vary, depending on the dates of your trip. So look when you’re choosing from the inventory and find your travel dates first. Then select your RV.
• If your travel dates are flexible, look for those with discounts. Sometimes you get reduced rates for one-way rentals, relocations, longer, or off-season rentals.
• Check for restrictions, such as how many miles you can drive per day and how long the generator can run. Exceeding these limits will cost you extra.
• Check for how many people are allowed to fit in the RV.
• Check for what you’re responsible for before returning the RV, such as dumping the holding tanks.
• The service you choose will most likely allow you to reserve the RV online.
• Expect to pay a security deposit. Getting it back when you return the RV is determined by the rental terms.
• Be mindful of additional fees. RV rental services often offer additional amenities. But you have to pay for them. That includes, propane, generators, linens, kitchenware. That may sound like quite an add-on, but it’s often less expensive than those provided at campgrounds and RV parks.
• Understand that you need insurance with the RV. While rental services generally provide liability insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance, you should also have auto insurance. A temporary binder may be available from your insurance carrier. If not, your RV rental service can sell the needed coverage to you.
• If you’ve ever rented a car or moving van, you’re already familiar with what to expect from renting an RV. When you arrive to pick it up, the service associate walks you through the vehicle, checking for damage and showing you how to use the systems. After signing paperwork and receiving the keys, you’re on your way. When you return the RV, the service associate will inspect the vehicle again to check for damage and overages.

Prepare to Use RV Hookups

Before you head out on the road, make sure you’re comfortable using the RV Hookups. Study the instruction manual that’s included in your RV rental. Also make sure the service associate walks you through the procedure of hooking up to water, sewer, and electricity. If you still need help when you get to your campsite, ask your fellow RVers or the staff. Being uncertain about what you’re doing could damage the RV electrical system or cause water and sewer issues.

Keep in mind that dumping your RV wastewater will be the least fun part of your trip. And it’s a dirty job. You might want to consider paying extra for dump services if your RV park or rental company offers it. You might also prefer using public restrooms and showers available at your campground or RV park and foregoing the water and sewer hookups, altogether. This could save you the possibility of making a hookup error and free up some of your trip budget for other things.

With some research and planning, you’ll find that renting an RV is one of the best ways to have a memorable vacation, enjoy the countryside, and take in local flavor – all while enjoying the freedom of the road.