Ten Gift ideas for RVers – Your Gift Guide for 2019

November 20, 2019bankstonmotorhomes

It’s that time of year again! After the turkey comes the shopping, right? Well in an effort to help you shop for your friend that is an avid RVer, we have compiled this gift guide to help you shop for them.

You may have to do a bit of detective work to figure out if they already have some of these…but a few of these gift ideas fall into the “You can’t have too many” category. And the first one of our list certainly qualifies for that label.

1) RV-themed ornament – Whether you choose to go retro, or something more like a yearly edition, a RV-inspired ornament is often appreciated by those that take their RV out often!

2) Retro RV String Lights– Holiday season means holiday décor, right? These festive lights from Camco are sure to add some sparkle and fun to your RVer’s campsite no matter the season.

3) Zero-Gravity Chairs – Everyone knows the best part of RVing is spending time outdoors- and a comfy seat makes it even better! There are plenty of colors and styles to choose from, and if you want to check one out in person you can sit in one and test them in our parts store.

4) Collapsing measuring cups and spoons – Space in the kitchen is always at a premium, so for your foodie friends that also RV these will be a welcome and useful addition to their kitchen supplies!

5) Happy Camper Coloring Book – Have friends with kids that RV? You might want to check and see if they’ve discovered this little gem of a book…Winter weather can sometimes mean indoor fun by the fireplace and this could be a fantastic little gift!

6) RV Salt & Pepper Shaker Set – This little set is too cute not to mention- and might add a little bit of fun to the table setting!

7) 50 States- 5000 Ideas book – This richly illustrated book from the travel experts at National Geographic showcases the best travel experiences in every state, from the obvious to the unexpected. Sites include national parks, beaches, hotels, Civil War battlefields, dude ranches, out-of-the-way museums, and more.

8) Harvest Hosts Membership – As far as gifts for RV owners go, it doesn’t get much more unique and memorable than Harvest Hosts. This membership offers RV owners the chance to visit over 600+ unique locations around the continent for only $49 per year.

9) Instant Pot– If your RVer is cooking in their RV kitchen often, this can be a welcome addition. Designed to make easy meals with just one appliance- this little appliance gets lots of rave reviews from RVers for ease of use- plus there are several sizes to choose from!

10) Inflatable Boat– Weight is always a concern for RVers, and yet there is often an opportunity to get out on the water when at national parks and RV resorts. The solution is an inflatable boat! These are great because they collapse, and store easily & don’t weigh much- while providing some serious fun for all!

We hope this list of ten gift ideas for RVers helps you shop for your family and friends that are RV travelers this holiday season. As always, if you have questions or are looking for something specific, feel free to call the location nearest to you and we’ll do our best to help!

What to Look for When Choosing RV Resorts

October 21, 2019October 21, 2019bankstonmotorhomes

Forty million Americans take their RVs on vacation at least once a year. Some choose backyard campsites and others opt for luxury RV resorts.

The RV resorts you choose will affect how enjoyable your vacation is.

You need a space that accommodates everything you want to do on vacation, as well as your unique personality. Some resorts are better suited to young families with children, while others cater to retirees.

To find the perfect RV resort for your getaway, keep reading. Here are some things to consider when browsing resort listings.

Full Hookup Stations

For ultimate convenience, choose a resort that has all your hookups in one station.

Some resorts are set up so you can hook up your sewer, water, and electric at the same time. That is certainly important if you do not want to drive to empty your black and gray tanks before you leave the resort area.

Keep in mind that the amps in different hookup stations can vary. If your RV needs 50 amps, check that the resort can accommodate this requirement before you book.

Ample Space

Unfortunately, RV resort forums are littered with complaints about small lots.

Being squished between your neighbors isn’t exactly ideal — especially if you have slides.

Look for lots that allow you to have all slides open plus more space. This gives you some extra breathing room and perhaps even a yard to enjoy the outdoors at night.

If you like camping with lawn chairs, a hammock, or outdoor dining furniture, find a resort that can accommodate.

Your Style of Amenities

What kind of traveler are you?

Do you look forward to socializing with all the other campers? Or are you looking for a solitary, tranquil escape from everyday life?

Your style of RVing affects the type of resort you’ll most enjoy.

If you enjoy socializing, look for resorts with community events and public gathering spaces. They might have communal firepits, dining areas, a pool, and more.

But, if you prefer to feel alone in nature, you don’t need those amenities. Look for the local attractions and lookouts for you to check out.

Even/Level Pads

This last resort feature should not be overlooked.

When driving in and out of a lot, the pad level matters. Uneven or sloping ground is much more difficult to maneuver on, especially with a 40-foot rig.

Inquire about the pads in the lots. The last thing you want is a slanted lot and your water pooling in one corner of the shower.

You don’t necessarily need asphalt or concrete lots specifically. All that matters, even if it’s grass or gravel, is that it’s leveled.

Interested in Learning More About Choosing RV Resorts?

The RV resort you choose can make or break your experience. Luckily, there’s ample information online about all the different RV resorts.

Keep the tips above in mind when choosing an RV resort for your next vacation.

To help with your resort research, check out this post. It will give you a few good suggestions on where you might want to spend your next trip.

Top 3 RV Resorts You Need to Know About in 2019

September 30, 2019bankstonmotorhomes

Creating s’mores over an open campfire. Watching the leaves transform into deep reds and oranges while exploring new trails. Enjoying quality family time without interruptions from everyday technology.

The transition between summer and fall is the perfect time to embrace the outdoor camping lifestyle. But camping doesn’t have to involve pitching a tent and roughing it outdoors. You can keep all the charm of the outdoor life with all the luxury of a vacation by utilizing an RV resort.

Keep reading to discover the best RV resorts that you need to know about in 2019! End the Summer season in paradise by visiting one of these top-rated locations!

1. Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort

If you’re looking for one of the best RV resorts in the Boston area, check out Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort in Massachusetts.

This park is great because it has endless entertainment options for people of all ages. Some of the more popular attractions include a dog park, fishing pond, kids’ playgrounds, softball fields, and a bike park. There’s also a recreational center that includes an indoor pool, fitness center, arcade, and a group area.

Choose from a basic campsite with just water and electric or upgrade to one that also includes sewer and cable. Both options include complimentary wi-fi if someone in your family needs to get online for any reason.

2. Petoskey RV Resort

Petoskey RV Resort in Michigan is also one of the best luxury RV resorts around.

This resort has a plethora of amenities to entertain guests of all ages as well. Check out the temperature-controlled outdoor pool, home theatre, or nine-hole putting course. If you want to entertain a large group, take advantage of the full kitchen, fully-stocked bar, and large meeting room.

Located just feet away from Lake Michigan, upgrade to a water-view lot for a memorable experience. All lots include complimentary wi-fi and cable in case you want to connect for any reason!

3. Desert Shores RV Resort

Desert Shores redefines what a typical RV park resort looks like. This is a resort to keep your RV at year-round because they have plenty of long-term residents that choose to stay here for months at a time.

Lots at Desert Shores are available with their own private pools, covered patios, and attractive landscaping. The resort amenities include a clubhouse with a library, a stage with a dance floor, and a guard-gated entrance for increased security.

Since this RV park is so close to a traditional hotel resort, it’s a great choice for beginner RV travelers.

Make the Most of Your Vacation with RV Resorts

Any of these RV resorts will provide you and your family with a memorable outdoor vacation.

Visit one for an extended period of time or make a road trip out of your vacation and jump from resort to resort. Either way, you’re bound to create memories that will last a lifetime.

If you’re interested in renting an RV for your trip, visit the RV Rental section of this site. Renting can be a great way to try out an RV to see how you like the floorplan before you decide to purchase one.

7 Valuable RV Trip Planning Tips: 2019 Edition

September 23, 2019bankstonmotorhomes

According to the RV Industry Association, 10 million households own recreational vehicles (RVs).

While RVing used to be associated primarily with retired people, the ages for people owning RVs now range from 25 to 75.

That means many millennials are also now enjoying the RV lifestyle, too.

This comes as no surprise since RV trip planning lends itself to adapting to many different types of vacations from weekend stays to several months. RVs make it possible to stay just about anywhere in comfort and convenience.

Plan ahead for your RV trips to make the most of your vacation time. Here are some tips.

RV Trip Planning Tips

Traveling by RV has a lot of perks. You can take a lot more of your stuff with you on vacation. You can stop along your route anytime you like.

You can also venture off the beaten path, traveling through areas you wouldn’t see by taking a train or plane.

But any great trip requires good planning. By knowing where you plan to go and what you plan to do when you get there, you will know what you need to pack.

And, if you’ve made arrangements in advance, you’ll know you have a great spot to set up your RV each night and already be familiar with the accommodations and local area.

Below are some great tips to make your next RV trip even better.

1. Start Planning Early

Some campgrounds and RV parks book up many months in advance.

So if there are particular spots you know you may want to visit or stay at in the future, spend some time checking out their normal booking schedules now.

Put reminders on your calendar if necessary to remind you to follow up if the information you need isn’t available yet for a particular site. Some may say to check back at a particular month or date.

2. Plan Your Route

Many people may know where their destination for their trip while others may be traveling in a loop for sightseeing.

When planning your route, you’ll want to plan RV traveling based on how many hours a day you can comfortably drive. You will need time for breaks to get out and stretch your legs and to keep the driver alert.

Rather than just stopping when it feels right or necessary, take some time before you leave home to look at some online maps and investigate some of the places along your route for possible places for your breaks.

You can also note the truck stop gas stations for where to get gas, making it easier for you to get in and out with your RV. You’ll also want to make note of toll roads to avoid (if possible) and plan around narrow road conditions.

Depending on your RV road trip timeline, you may have time for extra sightseeing and checking out local attractions. Be sure to add these stops into your plans so you can add additional overnight stops to your itinerary if needed.

3. Make Reservations Before Leaving Home

As soon as you have your route planned, you can begin making reservations. This will include renting an RV if you don’t have your own.

Consider your budget and your preferences when determining where to stay. Different parks and campground offer various options in what amenities they offer.

Be sure to print out confirmations for all reservations to bring along with you on your trip. Don’t rely on being able to pull the information up on your phone or tablet to show the park ranger or campground manager. You may not have cell service at some locations.

4. RV Park Apps

There are many apps available to help RV travel planners. Everything from maps, weather, where to find gas and stations accessible for larger vehicles, to a vast array of places you can park your RV for the night.

Check out and download apps to help make both your trip planning and your trip itself easier. Some are free but you may find some are worth the money.

5. Make a Packing List

Once you know where you’re going and have a good idea of what you’ll be doing once you get there, it’s time to make a packing list.

You may find it easier to break things down by category to think about what you’ll need to take. Clothing, cooking, swimming (or other sporting activity), bathing are some of the categories requiring unique items to bring along.

Also, make notes to be sure to bring along any documentation related to the service and maintenance for your RV. Along with information for your RV insurance, AAA or other membership cards, and tools and other items to maintain your RV on the road. You’ll also need items like bungee cords to secure items during travel.

While on your trip, note down anything you needed to buy that you forgot to bring along. So you’ll remember to bring it next time.

Keep your updated list for future RV road trip planning.

6. Label Your Electronics (or Make a List)

Since your RV has its own electrical circuit, you will need to know how much of a load it can handle at one time. So do some homework before traveling to determine your RVs electrical load and how much the appliances you plan to take need in order to run.

Then label your electronics with the amount of power they need to run. Or make a list and post it somewhere it will be easily viewable inside your RV.

By knowing these amounts, you will be able to plan your activities to keep your power usage within safe limits. For instance, you may not be able to run your heating or air conditioning while preparing meals.

7. Make Sure to Secure Items Before Traveling

To keep you and your passengers safe while traveling, make sure to secure anything you have added to the RV each time you move from place to place.

It doesn’t take much of a turn or a huge break in speed to send things hurling into the air. Use bungee cords, cabinet and door locks, and any other items appropriate to your needs to keep items in place while your RV is moving.

Start Planning Your RV Trip Today

There are so many options for where you can go and see when you plan RV trips. Mountains, deserts, lakeside, national parks, and forests are just a few of the options available to you.

So start your RV trip planning today and turn your travel dreams into reality.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about traveling by RV or if you are looking to rent or buy an RV.

Keystone Montana Fifth Wheels Compared to Grand Design Solitude Fifth Wheels

August 23, 2019August 23, 2019bankstonmotorhomes

An Overview of Key Differences to Help You Choose Between the Keystone Montana & Grand Design Solitude

Over the past three years customers have purchased 27,349 Montana and Grand Design Solitude fifth wheels. Montana has been building fifth wheels for 21 years and is the most experienced luxury fifth wheel manufacturer in the industry with over 110,000 built. In fact, over half of the production workers in the Montana plant have been building Montanas for over a decade making the Montana plant the most experienced RV work force in the industry. This experience has resulted in Montana having the most repeat buyers, most full time RVers, and highest resell value of any fifth wheel on the market at this time. Grand Design’s Solitude is a newer product with one tenth of the production history and a growing group of dealers offering their product.

In order to compare these two different fifth wheels, this article will outline some of the key differences in chassis, construction, exterior features, and available options.

Chassis Differences between Solitude & Montana:

Montana features patented Max-Turn Technology which allows for the best turning radius in the industry- Solitude lacks this feature
Montana’s Hitch Vision mirror on front cap with led light allows for easy hookup to the trailer day or night- the Solitude lacks this feature
Montana uses a 12 inch I beam chassis on all floor plans that is heavier duty, reduces the stress on the sidewalls, and supports more weight. Solitude uses a 10 inch I beam chassis on some floor plans and a 12 inch I beam on other floor plans
Montana features a Road Armor suspension equalizer with 6 inches of axle travel, rubber shock absorbers on top and bottom, ½ inch shackle plates, and greaseable wet bolts. Solitude uses a suspension equalizer with 3 inch of axel travel, no rubber shock absorber at the top, ¼ inch shackle plates, and no wet bolts
Montana features the Road Armor hitch pin that reduces or eliminates chucking while towing and features a pivoting roto flex head. Solitude’s hitch pin does not have a pivoting head which does not keep it in contact with the hitch pin’s rubber shear shock absorbers when there are bumps in the road

Construction and Exterior Feature Differences between Solitude and Montana:

Montana uses one-piece roto cast holding tanks. Solitude has two piece holding tanks with a seam in the middle that can be more susceptible to leaks
Montana uses color coded and numbered electrical wiring. Solitude uses all white wires and does not use numbers. (This makes electrical repairs significantly more difficult to trace on the Solitude and more costly to complete.)
Montana runs its water lines on the lower deck in the floor on top of spun fiberglass insulation. Solitude runs their water lines in the underbelly which could make water lines more susceptible to freezing up.
Montana uses an In-Line-High-Capacity heating system which means a 3-inch X 14-inch aluminum heat duct runs in the floor from the back wall to the staircase. In contrast, the Solitude splices 4-inch dryer vent hoses off the furnace to heat the lower deck. (When heat ducts are spliced multiple times with bends and turns it is typical to have hot and cold spots, heat loss, and difficulty maintaining a consistent temperature.)
Montana comes standard with rain gutters over the slide boxes. The rain gutters on Montanas also have a track in them for slide awnings so if a customer decides to add slide awnings it is a simple addition (add less costly). Solitude does not use rain gutters.
Montana has prep for solar to the roof. Solitude does not.
Montana has a power channel on its exterior awnings. Solitude does not.
Montana uses solid metal locking handles on exterior baggage doors. Solitude has plastic handles.
Montana’s auto leveling touch pad is located on the outside of the units for easy access and does not require bending over into the pass-through to get to the touch pad. Solitude places the leveling pad in the pass-through.
Montana has slide selector valves that allow the user to choose whether to have all the slides in or out. On Solitude there is no Slide Selector available.
Montana has 2 attic vents to help manage moisture. Montana places one attic vent behind the main A/C and one attic vent in front of the second A/C to prevent mold and mildew. Solitude has only one attic vent at the center point of the unit, which places the only vent extremely far from the air conditioning units which are a large source of moisture in the RV attic space.
Montana comes standard with a 16,500 BTU heat pump. This electric heat source means that a Montana owner does not have to run the furnace and burn propane to heat their unit in temperatures a little above freezing. Solitude does not offer a heat pump.
Montana has a double laminated rear wall. In the event of an accident or a repair to the rear wall, the rear wall on the Montana can be removed without disrupting the side walls or electrical channels. Solitude on has a single laminated rear wall.
Montana features two doors and compartments in the front bulkhead area. One door for storage or a generator and another door to access the battery and hydraulic area. Solitude has one compartment and door for these areas.
Montana’s optional full body paint includes painted baggage door handles, fender skirting, and bulkhead. Solitude does not paint these items.

Power Options Available on Montana:

Montana offers an optional 265-watt solar panel with a 30-amp controller and a 2000-watt inverter. In addition, this option includes inverting the living room TV outlet, refrigerator outlet, a kitchen outlet, and a bedroom outlet. This allows a customer that pulls off into a rest stop to be able to run their lights, tv, make a pot of coffee, run the refrigerator, and use a CPAP or charge a cell phone the bedroom. This option is not available on Solitude

Legacy package option on Montana fifth wheels offer additional features such as:

Disc Brakes (not available on Solitude)
Rear Cap (not available on Solitude)
Hard wood framing (not available on Solitude)
Power Cord reel (not available on Solitude)
Side view and rear backup cameras (not available on Solitude)
Surge Protector (not available on Solitude)
IN – Command (not available on Solitude)
Generator ready (optional on Solitude)

In addition to the many differences in the physical construction and features of the two units, Montana does offer a warranty for full time RVing. For those considering full-time RVing this is important and some units (like the Solitude) do not have this type of warranty available.

The Best Nashville Parks for Your Next RV Vacation

July 19, 2019bankstonmotorhomes

Summer is a perfect time to load up your RV and start exploring the country. If you live in Tennessee or are curious about driving through there, you’ve come to the right place.

There are plenty of RV parks near Nashville, TN to choose from. How do you know where to stay? We’ve compiled a list of our three favorites that you must see if you’ll be near Nashville this summer.

So, pack the RV with the essential gear and set your sights on these five Nashville parks.

Choosing the Best Nashville Parks

While finding the perfect Nashville RV parks may seem daunting, it really shouldn’t be. Before setting your sights on the available options, you should consider what it is you want to do while you’re on vacation.

Do you prefer to spend the day in the forest or on the beach? Are you traveling alone, with your spouse or a family? Do you prefer to pack your day full of activities like sight-seeing and going on tours?

There is no shortage of things to do in Nashville. What might suit one individual may not suit you, however. It’s important to know what you want to get out of your vacation before you book your RV parks.

Below you’ll find three of our favorite resort options. Find one that resonates with you and your reason for traveling.

1. Natchez Trace RV Campground

What’s to Love

Imagine stepping outside your RV in the morning and being surrounded by nature. The birds are singing, and you’re surrounded by photo-worthy views everywhere you look. That’s precisely what you’ll get if you book the Natchez Trace RV Campground.

This park is situated on 830-acres of wooded bliss. Whether you want to spend the day near your RV enjoying the views or out angling or taking a pontoon tour, there’s something for everyone in this campground.

Amenities

shuffleboard
pet-friendly
games room
basketball, tennis, pickleball courts
swimming pool
fishing facilities
hiking trails

2. Nashville KOA Resort

What’s to Love

If you’re searching for a resort that’s right in the center of the action, then the Nashville KOA is calling your name. Located just three miles from the Grand Ole Opry, this resort is perfect for folks wanting a getaway that isn’t in the middle of nowhere.

If you’ve never been to Nashville before, you’ll love that the Nashville KOA campground has a concierge. They will be able to assist you in booking any sight-seeing tours or must-have tickets for local events. Talk about a relaxing vacation.

Amenities

pool and hot tub
nature playground facilities
off-leash dog park
WiFi
laundry room
gym facilities
group hammocks

3. Safe Harbor RV Resort

What’s to Love

Whether you’re looking for someplace to park short-term or for a more extended visit, this resort is a great choice. Situated on a peninsula overlooking Percy Priest Lake, this resort is perfect for retired couples or families looking for a lakefront vacation. Being that Safe Harbor is only a 20-minute drive from the heart of Nashville, you’re never too far away from the action.

Amenities

shuttle service to downtown Nashville (new for the 2019 season)
beautiful views of Percy Priest Lake
private swimming access on a sandy beach
WiFi included in the price for every site
shuffleboard and cornhole games available
brand new playground facilities
pool
picnic area

Get Out and Explore

Whether you’re new to the RVing world or a seasoned veteran, you’ll enjoy a visit to any of these Nashville parks on our list.

Of course, before you set your sights on any RV camping trip, you’re going to need to invest in the essential equipment. If buying a new motorhome isn’t an option for you, there are still plenty of options.

It’s not impossible to find a used RV for sale under $10,000. Contact us today to chat with one of our salesmen to talk about your buying options and used RV financing.