Dreaming of more camping adventures but feeling the financial pinch? In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, founder Janine Pettit shares practical, creative ways to uncover extra money for your next RV trip or weekend getaway. If you're wondering how to afford camping on a budget, these tips are for you! 🛒 Cut Costs with Smart Meal Planning Janine kicks off with one of the biggest money drains: food. Her go-to tip? Create a meal plan before shopping, stick to your grocery list, and avoid food waste. Prepping meals ahead and freezing leftovers also saves time and prevents overspending once you're on the road. Skipping just one restaurant meal could save you $60 or more—enough to cover a night at a campsite! 🧹 Turn Clutter into Camping Cash Have unused gear, clothes, or decor collecting dust? Sell it! Janine recommends using Facebook Marketplace or local community boards to turn those forgotten items into real travel funds. You’d be surprised how quickly the dollars add up when you start decluttering with purpose. 💼 Use Your Skills for Extra Income Whether you're a great organizer, a hobby photographer, or a green thumb, your skills can turn into extra cash. Janine shares how even part-time or seasonal work—like dog walking, ride sharing, or pizza delivery—can pad your camping budget with just a few hours a week. 📉 Slash Subscriptions & Review Insurance Hidden fees and auto-renewals can eat away at your budget. Janine suggests doing a "subscription detox" and reviewing your insurance policies. You may be overpaying without realizing it—and those savings could go straight to your next campsite. 💡 Small Changes, Big Adventures From renting out your RV to saving just $20 a week, Janine proves that a little effort goes a long way. Start applying these tips now, and your next camping trip could be fully funded by the money hiding in plain sight. You can find ways to afford camping on a budget. Thank you to this episode's sponsor: Progressive Insurance. Be sure to check them out for all your insurance needs. PROGRESSIVE INSURANCE New to camping and don't have a trailer yet? There is no wrong way to camp like a girl! Check out our article on other ways to camp: Face Those Fears: I don't have A Trailer. https://youtu.be/_rwsGlLKcwo

In the latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott chats with Monika Geraci, Senior Director of Public Relations and Communications at the RV Industry Association, to talk all about National Go RVing Day, happening this year on June 14, 2025. Created to encourage people to explore the RV lifestyle, Go RVing Day is the perfect excuse to hit the road, try something new, or finally take that weekend camping trip you've been dreaming about. RVing Is for Everyone—No Big Truck Required Monika debunks one of the biggest myths about RVing: that it’s only for retirees with giant trucks and big budgets. In fact, 85% of RVs on the road today are towables, many of which can be pulled by SUVs or smaller vehicles. With RV prices starting under $10,000 and rental platforms like Outdoorsy and RVshare, it’s easier than ever to try RVing—without a big investment. First-Time RVer Tips from the Pros Whether you're heading out for your first trip or planning to rent an RV for the weekend, Monika and Lesa share practical advice to make your adventure stress-free: Keep your first trip close to home Arrive at your campsite well before dark Practice towing ahead of time Plan, but don’t rush—take your time and enjoy the journey Girl Camper and Go RVing have tons of beginner towing tips and planning guides to help you feel confident on your first RV trip. Try Before You Buy Not ready to commit to RV ownership? No problem. Monika recommends visiting a dealership, attending an RV show, or renting a camper to explore different styles and layouts. Rental companies and peer-to-peer platforms offer a wide range of options—from teardrops to Class Cs—so you can find what fits your lifestyle. Join the Celebration & Giveaway! To celebrate National Go RVing Day, Girl Camper is giving away a fun Go RVing swag bag! 🎁👉 Enter at girlcamper.com – just click the giveaway button on our homepage. And follow the hashtag #NationalGoRVingDay on social media for inspiration, travel ideas, and local promotions. Whether you’re glamping, boondocking, or just dreaming of RV life—June 14 is your day to Go RVing. There’s no wrong way to camp like a girl! 💛 And if you need insurance for your RV...be sure to get a quote from this episode's sponsor....Progressive Insurance. https://youtu.be/Ua26cTzbNAo

Here at Girl Camper, we love sharing the stories of women who inspire us to try new things, embrace adventure, and build community. Lisa Dempsey, one of our amazing Texas Girl Camper Guides, is the perfect example. Her journey from non-camper to leader and advocate proves that it's never too late to start something new—and that sometimes the best adventures are the ones you never saw coming. She inspires women to camp. From City Life to Camp Life Lisa grew up in California and eventually made her way to Houston, Texas. Camping wasn’t on her radar—until a connection with Texas Parks and Wildlife lit a spark. Lisa began exploring the outdoors through cabin stays and quickly caught the camping bug. That spark turned into a full-blown passion, and before long, she had her own cozy teardrop trailer, tricked out with all the creature comforts. Finding Her Crew in Girl Camper When Lisa discovered Girl Camper, she jumped in with both feet. She loved the way it brought women together and encouraged even the most hesitant adventurers to step outside their comfort zones. Her very first Girl Camper event sealed the deal—she found her people and never looked back. Leading with Heart Lisa didn’t just find community—she became a leader. As a Girl Camper Guide, she now helps other women discover the joy of camping, connection, and confidence. Whether it’s a weekend retreat or a one-on-one chat, Lisa is all about lifting others up and showing them they belong in the outdoors. Giving Back Through Forgotten Wishes Lisa also runs the Forgotten Wishes Foundation, an initiative that brings joy to people with disabilities through simple, heartfelt gestures like handwritten cards. It’s another way she spreads light and love wherever she goes. Join the Adventure Lisa’s story reminds us that every camper starts somewhere—and that community can change everything. Ready to find your people? Come camp with us and see where the journey takes you. To Join Lisa's Southeast Texas Group, check out her page on our website: HERE Thank you to this episodes sponsors: Progressive Insurance and Curt Echo Wireless Brake Controller. https://youtu.be/Vuh57133UNo

On this weeks show I am walking you through the basics of matching your tow vehicle to your RV. I am breaking down and defining the terms associated with towing safety.  I'm also laying out the formula used to determine what size RV can be safely towed by what sized tow vehicle. Some terms we hear discussed at RV dealerships and on social media groups dedicated to RVing are below. It's a good idea for those new to towing to familiarize themselves with these terms. GVWR - Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. This number indicates the maximum amount of weight that can be carried in that RV. This would be fully loaded. It is what the industry has determined through federal guidelines that the frame, and axle, and wheels can accommodate. It is a federal law that each RV or travel trailer that leaves a factory must have this number in the left front corner of the outside of the trailer on a non removable plate.  UVW - Unloaded Vehicle Weight. This is sometimes referred to as the dry weight. When a travel trailer leaves the factory it is individually weighed. The weight for that trailer is connected to its vin number and is specific to that individual trailer. You can have two trailers made the same day at the same plant that will have two different UVW ratings. It depends on the options that are put on them. An awning on a trailer can weigh a lot. An added 30 # propane tank can add another 25 pounds empty -  54#’s when it’s full. Also keep in mind that if you bring that trailer home and do modifications to it before you put one thing in it, every modification you make adds to your UVW. CCC- Cargo Carrying Capacity. This number is also on the label in the left front corner of your RV. It can also sometimes be found on the inside of the door. This number tells you how much weight you can add to your RV when you’re packing it. The CCC on my Liberty Outdoors Max is 660 pounds. The axle and the tires are not rated to carry more than this amount of added weight.  GVWR - UVW = CCC The GVWR on my Max trailer is 3800 pounds. When I deduct the 3,140 pound UVW (or the dry weight as some people like to say), I arrive at the number 660 which is my Cargo Carrying Capacity. This simply means I cannot put more than 660 pounds of stuff in my trailer. Tongue weight - the downward force that the tongue of the trailer exerts on the hitch that is connected to the vehicle. ... Experts agree that an acceptable tongue weight for any trailer is somewhere between 9 to 15 percent of the gross trailer weight.  Your tow vehicle also has ratings that you need to be aware of.  There are three numbers to concern yourself with in your tow vehicle.  Your tow vehicle also has a GVWR which can be found on the door jam or the door itself on your tow vehicle. This number reflects the maximum amount of weight that vehicle can have in total. It’s made up of the weight of the vehicle itself, what’s in it and the tongue weight of anything it’s pulling.  The Cargo Carrying Capacity number is also listed on the door. That’s how much stuff you put in your tow vehicle.  The UVR or dry weight, is what it weighs empty but with a small amount added for gas. This number is a little trickier to find. You can find it in your owners manual. You can also get that number by taking your gross vehicle weight rating and deducting your cargo carrying capacity. That will give you a number close to what your vehicle weighs dry. There is one last number to concern yourself with and it’s called the GCWR. This number reflects the total of the GVWR for your tow vehicle and the RV together. It is the maximum allowable combination of your tow vehicle, its passengers and cargo combined with the weight of the RV and its cargo. This rating is set by the vehicle manufacturer. I got this number from my owners manual but you can also get it from a website. At this website you put in your Vin number and all the details about your vehicle will come up including the gross combined weight rating. 

On today's show I am sharing the results of my online survey asking Girl Campers for their favorite things they won't camp without. There were so many things that I decided to just start with their favorite kitchen things. Whether you Camp Like a Girl with all the comforts of home or go with a simpler style you will probably find something here that you want to take with you. Ice Maker - An indulgence for sure but one that I have learned to love. It's great having ice on demand and not worrying about whether the campground is out of it. I know I will always have it for a cool drink. I have the Igloo version but there are lots out there varying in price from $89 to $150. I set mine up as soon as I arrive and fill it with jug water. As the ice is made I put it in zip lock bags and store it in the freezer. I always have enough to share! Blackstone Grill - Everyone is talking about the Blackstone Grill and I have resisted this purchase so far but I see what the buzz is all about. These grills offer a lot of great options for outdoor enthusiasts and home BBQ enthusiasts. They come in many different sizes. You can adjust the temperature on different sides of the grill so you can have a lower temperature keeping food warm on one side while cooking something at a higher temperature on the other side. You can cook several different foods at one time so you can do pancakes, eggs and bacon all on one unit. Less pans to clean. You season them like a cast iron pan and like cast iron they get better with time. It has a grease collection system that makes cleaning up easy. I normally camp alone or in small groups but think this would be just the ticket for big Girl Camper events and parties at home. I like that it is available portable models and I could use it at home as well as the campground. French Press Coffee Maker - So many people brought up the French Press. It's great for boon docking and camping with hooks ups as well. A French Press allows you to make coffee to your taste and can be used to steep loose tea and herbs as well. They can be a bit of a pain to clean because you don't want those coffee grounds going down the RV plumbing system but when making coffee for one or two it's just the ticket. French Presses are always available at thrift shops too so you can give them a try without making a big investment. Coffee Carafe - Those Grandma things that our mothers always used for company or to put the leftover coffee in on a Sunday morning are making a comeback with Girl Campers. I used one when I had my vintage trailer that did not have a hot water heater. I would heat up water in the morning for my French Press and then put the extra in the Urn to save for later when I wanted to have a cup of tea or an instant oatmeal. It was also handy to have to wash my hands in warm water or wash a few dishes. They are also always at thrift stores for a few bucks so you can see if you'd like it without busting the bank. Our Girl Camper friend, Yvonne Artis from Texas bought one and customized it to match her trailer by coloring over the 1990's pattern with permanent Magic Markers!! Brilliant! Clever Dripper Coffee Maker - This is a great way to "brew" coffee in a drip system. This is a mug top funnel that you add a filter to and the amount of coffee grounds that you like to get the depth of flavor you like. The difference between this drip system and others is that the holes in the bottom of the funnel are small and that allows the water to steep the grounds longer. I have a Melita that the water runs through so quickly that I put it through twice to get a strong enough cup of coffee out of it. The clean up with these is a lot better than the French Press to because you just gather the ends of the filter and throw it and the grounds away and then just rinse the funnel. Costs about $25. Electric water kettle - A big favorite with Girl Campers is the electric water kettle. If you are camping in a vintage trailer without all of the...

On this week's show I am highlighting some of my favorite new gear. It's time to clean out the camper and find a spot for all the new gear, gizmos and gadgets. Out of the Box Camping is a quarterly subscription box delivered to your door for campers, glampers and RV enthusiasts. If you buy the annual subscription you can get your box with shipping included for $46.25. I think this is a great gift to give yourself or a camping buddy. I love surprises and with this box you not only get a great RV gear but you get treated to a surprise 4 times a year. Anything you don't love, you can regift to a friend. You can get a discount of $5 off your first order by using the coupon code: Girlcamper Haul Guage "measures tongue weight, pin weight, payload, and gross combined weight in real-time with an OBD-II connector that communicates wirelessly via Bluetooth with an app on your iPhone or Android device."  It's a great way to get the information you want about your tow vehicle and trailer each time you use it. Most people take a different amount of geat depending on where they are going, how long they will be there and what they plan to do there. Adding a canoe, mountain bike or generators to your rig can really add a lot of weight. It's also a great way to get a measurement if you don't live near a scale. It costs $99 on Amazon and can be swithched from vehicle to vehicle. Smart Bottle Inc. introduced the Wolverine Collapsible Water Carrier for camping and outdoors. These new containers are compact, collapsible, BPA free and durable. They are cost effective and come in several different sizes. The one gallon jug sells for $6.95!! Last year when I traveled to Colorado to boondock I had a lot of one gallon hard shelled water bottles in the back of my truck that I kept refilling. What I like about these jugs is that once they are empty they fold flat. They also have upped the design on them offering handles on both ends for easier pouring and grommets on the top and bottom to hang and connect them. I got the one gallon and 2.5 gallon jugs with the pour spouts. Oxx Box is a heavy duty coffee maker made for those who drink coffee in the rugged outdoors at camps or construction sites. It's a single serve pot that works will all K cups so each person can choose their own blend. The machine is designed for heavy duty use. It has a cruxh proof chassis with a 1500 pound load rating. It can accomodate 8, 10, and 12 oz cups as well as adjust to fill a thermos. It preheats in 30 seconds and brews a cup of coffee in 70 seconds. It's weather and dust reisitant and has an 85 oz capacity water tank as well as a handle on the top for carrying it around.  It also has an integrated carbon water filter and a three foot long retractable cord. When I consider that I just ditched my second Kurig I think this is a great value. I am usually the one serving breakfast at my site and I think this will really hold up! It sells for $229 and has an optional carrying bag for an additonal $69. Seed Geek Company is a Non GMO seed company started by a husband and wife duo that became interested in organic seeds when they started researching where their food came from. They started growing their own food and then began selling seeds to others. As they expanded their business they began offering organic non chemical solutions for health care products. Their Bug Off bar is not only beautiful but its made from mango butter, beeswax and sunflower oil with essential oils that repel insects. The bar is a nice size and comes in an easy to open tin container. They also sell other essential oil bars in little tins that are great for gifts, your pocketbook and your nightstand!!  It sells for $5.95 and smells fantastic. Spot X is a two way satellite messenger that allows you to get and receive messages while you are in remote places. This has a lot of great features. It allows you to send an SOS in the event of an emergency which is recieved by a 24/7 search and rescue c...

Are you ready to shake off winter and get that camper ready to roll? Mark Polk is here today to talk about projects you can do yourself to get the camper ready for this season's camping adventures. Mark is the founder of RV Education 101 and an industry expert on safety, maintenance and RV repairs. There are a lot of RV maintenance projects you can do and Mark provides great tutorials and videos to encourage and instruct us. I asked Mark about five things that I normally do myself and he gave me his tips on doing them correctly. Mark has more Spring Checks below so be sure to check them out. Five Spring Rv checks to do before your first trip. Battery - Assuming that you properly stored your battery at the end of the season these tips will help you make it ready for the coming season. If you left it over the winter without a trickle charge on it and it dropped below fifty percent, it may need to be replaced. Be sure to watch Marks whole video on battery maintenance in the at the bottom of the page. Check to make sure it's charged. Recharge it to capacity if you didn't do so over the winter. Add water if necessary. Mark has a video for that below. Check all of the connections to make sure they're secure and don't have corrosion. Clean up any corrosion or dirt on the battery. When working around batteries be sure to wear safety gloves and goggles. Tires - Your tires are arguably the most important part of your RV. They carry you and your possessions safely to where you are going. If they are over or under inflated, have excessive wear or are not rated to carry the weight of your trailer you could cause a serious accident and injure yourself and others. Beheck for loss of air over the storage period. They could lose 3-10 percent per month. Check the tire pressure with an accurate gauge. Tires can lose air at a rate of 3-10 percent per month. Add air to the manufacturers specifications. Check the tire tread. Don't forget the spare tire. Check the lug nuts. Vents - Be sure to check the appliance vents on the outside of your RV. Bugs are drawn to the odor of propane exhaust and sneak in the vent areas to build nests. Check the latches on your vents to make sure they are all working. Replace or repair as necessary. Remove any nesting or bugs you find inside by thoroughly vacuuming the area. Replace any broken panel covers. Some RVers suggest placing a pet flea and tick collar in the vent area to discourage bugs. RV Water System - After you have dewinterized your RV, there is a simple way to sanitize the tanks for the coming season. Check for leaks. Mark has some simple tips in his video for making sure your RV lines are not leaking. Sanitize the system with lots of fresh water and everyday bleach. Mark recommends a formula of 1/4 cup for every 15 gallons the tank holds. After the bleach is placed in the tanks, run the water until you smell bleach coming from each faucet including the shower, bathroom sink and outdoor faucet. Let the solution sit for at least 12 hours. Drain the bleach water and replace it with fresh water. Run all of the faucets again until you don't smell bleach. Replace all of the water filters. Trailer Hitch and Components  Start by familiarizing yourself with all of the components of the hitch again. Check all components for loose or rusted hardware or broken welds. Make sure all of the nuts, bolts and pins are in good condition. Inspect the hitch ball, the ball mount, the weight distribution bars and the sway control prior to towing the trailer. Inspect the hitch receiver on the tow vehicle for any loose hardware or broken welds. If you have a motor home and tow a touring vehicle, inspect the tow bar and all towing components. More great RV Tips from Mark https://rv101withmarkpolk.com/2019/03/22/diy-rv-spring-checks/ Check out and subscribe to Mark's YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cr07PuhvRdo

On this weeks show I am sharing all the details of our Fly and Drive vacation to parts warm! We left cold and snowy New Jersey with temps in the 30's and flew to warm and sunny LA. Once there we picked up a Class C Motorhome that we rented from El Monte RV in Van Nuys, California. We were in deep need of sun but also in need of a camping fix. Our trailer had been parked in the driveway for over four months and it would be at least another six weeks before it would be safe to de-winterize it. Our niece  was getting married in Palm Springs, California the first weekend in March and I had a big RV industry event in Salt Lake City, Utah the third week in March. I could fly home and go back 10 days later or, I could rent an RV, get a camping fix and get some sun. I’d never been in this part of the country before and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to explore it by RV without having to spend five days driving there. The 25’ Four Winds we rented had a great floor plan and was a 2018 with only 25k miles on it. I contacted El Monte in Van Nuys, California to ask if I could do a one way rental, picking it up in LA and dropping it off in Salt Lake City. Although it is not an option at all of their 20 locations across the country, it was available from Van Nuys to Salt Lake City for around $850 for ten days. I have never driven a Class C before so I decided I wanted the smallest and least complicated model available. I chose the 25' Thor Four Winds without any slide outs. It had a rear bed with a cab over bunk for extra sleeping and a booth that folded down to create an additional bed. The swivel chair was a favorite spot for my husband. He claimed it as his official chair! When we first pulled into the Van Nuys location there were several motor homes parked up front. We noticed a sign hanging from the rear view mirror on one of them that read, "Vacation Ready - Pettit!!" and boy, were they correct! We were vacation ready! The pick up went very smoothly and we were at the location less than 90 minutes. We watched a 20 minute video on the motor homes systems which I recorded on my phone just in case we needed reminding. All of the systems were very similar to my travel trailer and we never needed to revisit the video. The staff was great and had all the paperwork ready ahead of time. We opted to take out an insurance policy with our agent from home before we got there and we saved a lot of money by doing that. The El Monte policy was $30 per day. We were planning a ten day trip so that would have added up. Our agent wrote us a policy for the ten days for $35.00. After all of the paperwork was done the El Monte rep took us out to our unit and walked us through all of the systems showing us how to operate everything! We left with total confidence. I thought the greeting on the rear view mirror was such a nice touch! El Monte offers a convenience kit for a small additional fee but we opted to bring our own sheets, pillowcases, towels, table cloth, dish towels and blanket along with dinner service for two with cutlery and minimal cooking utensils. We purchased a coffee pot, frying pan, some tupperware, plastic cups that we rewashed and used over and over and four pillows from Target. We spent less than $50 on those items and the items we brought from home were all in a carry on that we didn't pay an additional airline fee for. I loved having my own sheets, blanket and pillow cases. It felt very homey and immediately made me feel like I was in "my" RV. Having our own linens really made us feel at home. I’ve had this checked table cloth at many camp outs. I was a little nervous about driving something so big but wasn't on the road for more than five miles when I realized that it's just a big truck. I drive an F150 as my daily ride and use it as my tow vehicle. It didn't feel much different than my own truck. We thought that it might be a hassle to have to use it for everything since we were not towing a touring car behind us but it a...

Most people think of the Ford Ranger as that old, small, white truck that service industries used for a fleet vehicle. The cable guys truck. The pest control guy. Your local plumber. The Ranger was everywhere you looked from it's debut in 1987 until production stopped in 2011. The truck was small, practical and inexpensive. Ford has brought back the Ranger and it is NOT your light duty, clean up the back yard, truck anymore. This mid size truck has a EPA estimated MPG of 21/26 city and highway, seating for 4-5 and offers and a starting price of $24,300. Ford has also created an off road adventure version of the new Ranger that Girl Campers and any outdoor adventurer that wants a smaller truck with great MPG will be sure to love. It offers a 2.3 liter turbo charged four cylinder engine that will provide horsepower of 270. The Ranger has a gas engine that in testing has shown the best MPG of all the mid sized gas powered rivals. With an added tow package the Ranger can tow 7,500 pounds and has a payload of 1,860 pounds. To hear more about the new Ford Ranger tune into today's podcast interview with Chad Collandar from Ford.

On this week's show I am chatting with friends and co founders of the Road Trip Mojo site about the music festival scene and Rving. These two things go hand in hand and Jeff Zbar and Barry Bluth have a love for both. They've combined that love to create a website that helps fellow music and Rving aficionados find the festivals, navigate the best ways to get there and introduce us to those in the know. I first met Barry and Jeff at the Florida RV Show two years ago. They are both from Florida and follow the RV scene as closely as the music scene. They were at the show exploring the many new RV's available and stopped by the Liberty Outdoors booth where I was showing off my Max trailer. I was hooked on their site the minute I logged on. First, I love their tag line, “camping with a better playlist,”  and I am giving them the completely worthless "Best in Show" award from Girl Camper for the “Best RV Influencer Tag Line.” The line to me reveals their low key attitude about enjoying life, camping, music, people, and the journey. Exactly the kind of people I like to travel with. Jeff and his wife Robbie getting in the festival spirit!! Jeff is a writer, entrepreneur, and pioneer for the work from home movement. He just celebrated 30 years of employment from his office off the kitchen. He and his wife are almost empty nesters looking forward to that light at the end of the parenting tunnel that so many of us Rvers longing to travel more have focused on. Barry (r) with musician Shaw Davis at the Bacon and Blues Fest. Barry by contrast is a dentist in a busy practice with a few more years to go before he can dig in for more RV travel. He lives in south Florida in a beautiful home on the water, enjoys cooking, and camps in a BIG and beautiful Fifth Wheel. He's come a long way from his and Jeff's first music festival in a borrowed tent. Jeff and Robbie Zbar’s Freedom Express RV that has a great outdoor kitchen perfect for festival life. To hear more of Barry and Jeff’s story on today’s podcast, click on the arrow below. An epic picture from Lockn Festival 2018. Photo: Road Trip Mojo Check out Road Trip Mojo for great festivals, interviews and tips for navigating the best camp sites.

Have you ever dreamed a really big dream? A dream that wouldn't make sense to most people? Have you ever thought of just chucking it?  Quitting your job, selling your house, retiring early and hitting the road for a year or two?  Leslie Abbott of southern California did and within one year of dreaming the dream, she made it happen. She retired early, sold her house and bought a Class C motor home and set out to see the country and connect with old friends. Leslie’s Minnie Winnie and her tow car at Yosemite. She's on today's podcast talking about what propelled the dream, the steps she took to make it happen, the obstacles along the way both and how she overcame them. Life is good for Leslie in her new home on wheels. Leslie has now been on the road for nine months. Long enough to have some wisdom about the full time RV lifestyle. She's learning about her rig along the way and herself as well. Leslie chose her model because she wanted to be able to have company. Two weeks after setting out Leslie had her first guests. Her parents  flew from North Carolina to the southwest to meet her and fulfill their dream of seeing the Grand Canyon. It gave Leslie great pleasure to host her parents at the Grand Canyon and see her Dad fulfill a lifelong dream of seeing it. She ventured north from there enjoying time with her sister and one of her nephews in the Ice Fields of Canada. Leslie is not traveling with a strict itinerary but rather a general idea of when she'd like to be by a certain time. When she left California she knew she wanted to spend the fall in New England and she did. The Bay of Fundy at low tide.   In Central Park with her nephew Will. To hear Leslie's interview you can click the arrow below.      

Are you stuck in analysis paralysis? Have you seen so many RV's that you can no longer remember which one had the Murphy bed and which was the bunkhouse? There comes a time when you have to take all the spreadsheets, pros and cons and checklists and just PICK ONE before  you miss out on another season of camping!! Here's one more checklist to help you choose the right RV for you. . Tips for Choosing an RV Determine if you are going with a towable or a motor home. They each have their pros and cons and the decision will be different for everyone. A travel trailer allows you to have a touring vehicle available once you have unhitched and set up. A motor home will require you to break camp or tow a vehicle behind you to get around in once you have arrived but the travel itself is so luxurious. There's also safety advantages to a motor home that are important to many solo women travelers. Being able to pull away without leaving your vehicle if you ever felt unsafe is a big plus to many women. The first step in pulling the trigger to your RV dream is to decide which type of RV best suits you. Decide which type of RVing you're most likely to be doing. Do you want to boondock for long periods of time in remote places with no hook ups or access to water? If so you are going to want to be looking at units with large holding tanks, battery and generator power and solar panels to boost your ability to stay off the grid longer. If your plan is to resort camp at full hook up campgrounds for a few weekends a year, you may be happy with an entry level RV that keeps you cool in the heat and warm in the cold. What are your kitchen, sleeping and bathroom needs? Do you love to cook? You are going to want to pay close attention to the available prep space, cabinet storage and refrigerator size in the kitchen of the RV you are considering. It's also important to think about how many you want your RV to sleep. Will you use it alone or as a couple? Do you want the ability to host guests? Do you want a walk around bed or are you okay with a bed against the wall? Lastly, think about the bathroom. Do you prefer a three piece unit with a separate shower or can you live with a wet bath? Pay attention to the ventilation and lighting in the bathroom too. Many units have skylights and ceiling fans that make the bathrooms easier to keep mold free. Pay attention to the kitchen, bathroom and sleeping area of the trailer and make sure it will meet your needs. Set a budget. Be sure to include the cost of annual maintenance, storage, insurance and purchase taxes in the price. Also include any upgrades you will need to make to your tow vehicle for weight distribution hitches, tow packages or lighting. Another budget component to add would be any after market products that you might want to purchase. Solar panels, tankless hot water heaters and keyless entries are a few common RV upgrades. Become an investigator. After you have narrowed down your choice, get online and start getting user feedback. Search the internet for user groups, chat rooms, and articles on the model that you are leaning toward. Check out the YouTube users for videos on the use and any problems the unit might have. It's also a great place to see what modifications the owners are making. Consider renting one first from Outdoorsy or from a rental company. It could cost several hundred dollars to do this but could save you thousands if the weekend rental reveals that the bathroom, kitchen or floor plan is something that in realty is not practical for the style of camping you plan on doing. Go to RV shows and rallies and look at the different models in person. Lay on the bed, spin around in the kitchen and pretend you're showering in the bathroom. Make sure you can use the unit comfortably. Choose a reputable dealer to buy from. Don't let price be the sole factor in deciding where you will buy. Check out the online reviews of different dealerships and see what customers are s...

On this weeks show we are talking about keeping those camping resolutions. I polled the Girl Campers on line to see if they had made any Camping Resolutions for the New Year. They sure did and here are the top six and a few tips for helping to keep them. So many people said that camping more often was a goal for 2019. Sitting around a campfire with friends, new and old, is always at the top of my list of favorite things to do. #6 - So many people want to attend more music festivals. That's a good thing for sure and I have just the right people to help you out here. Follow along with my friends at Road Trip Mojo. Barry and Jeff are buddies whose families indulge their love of music and RVing and sometimes even join them. They combined their love of camping and their love of music and created an outlet for those who want to "camp with a better playlist!" They've got a great blog full of festivals, tips and their favorite venues. Check them out if you were one of the Girl Campers making music festivals a resolution for 2019. #5 Camp with Dogs - So many camp with dogs and it is a topic we've covered before. In Episode 39 of the podcast I covered Camping Etiquette with Your Dog. You can listen to that here. Also always travel with your dogs records, any medicine you may need, extra towels and blankets, a way to secure the dog at your site and always have an ID tag on your pet. Even if you have treated your dog for ticks, always check for ticks after a hike. #4 Boondock More. I covered the big Boondocking Experiment last season in Episode 135. I tricked my husband into camping without hook ups and told all about it! You can listen here. Other great boondocking outlets to check out are Boondock.org. - a great site created by Andrew Koransky a self professed frugal camper who shares his tips for free camping and much more. Also check out We're the Russo's. Kait and Joe Russo made their way to the nomadic life in 2015 by purchasing a Class B motorhome. Along the way they learned a lot and created some great YouTube content along the way. There are tons of APPs for boondocking including the All Stays App, FreeRoam and US Public Lands full of free places to camp. You can also check out the Visitors Centers in any town and ask where you can park for free. #3 Outfit the Trailer for Quick Get Aways - I have always thought that if I had everything in the camper all the time I could take off whenever I wanted without a hassle. After I combined three camping lists and outfitted the trailer with everything I could ever need I still had trouble getting out of Dodge on Friday afternoons. I discovered that I had to rearrange the way I unload on a Sunday when I get home. I clean it on Sunday nights now and bring the dirty towels and linens in then. I throw those sheets right in the washer and put them back on during the week. When I have leftovers during the week, I create a camp meal or foil pack dinner and put it in the freezer to have ready on Friday night to toss in the fridge. No stops for food or meals on Friday night traffic and the meal is a good one. Here is a link to my episode on Simplifying Weekend Getaways.  One of the ways I make weekend getaways easier is by freezing weekday leftovers in servings for two. This allows me to enjoy good food and eliminates the necessity of a stop at the grocery store before I leave or along the route. It's great to arrive at the campground and just heat up a precooked good meal. #2 Go on First Trip - You;ve got to just do it. Find a group, sign up for a trip. No trailer is necessary, Get a rented cabin. Rent a motorhome. Bunk with a friend. Stay in a tent or car camp. You have just got to make it happen. All the information has been given here and on so many sites. The problem may be you. Don't let fear stop you. Join the Girl Campers at Setzers World of Camping for our Camper College or at our Wonderful Women in Waxahachie event April 25-28. Our annual Wonderful Women in Waxahachie trip is a...

In this episode of the Girl Camper podcast, we dive into the world of work camping, offering advice for anyone wanting to hit the road but still have an income. Co-Host Lesa McDermott and special guest Jody Anderson Duquette, Executive Director of Workamper News, explore work camping opportunities and how you can turn your travels into a working adventure. **What is Workamping?** Work camping involves doing any kind of work while living in an RV, although there are some jobs that providing housing or tent sites. It's not limited to campgrounds; opportunities range from retail shops, lodges, and tour companies to unique gigs like manning lighthouses or seasonal jobs such as the sugar beet harvest. **Tools and Tips for Getting Started** Start by joining Workamper.com, a resource for finding work camping jobs . Jody suggests identifying your skills and flexibility - from customer service to maintenance tasks. An open mindset is key since most positions are entry-level, requiring willingness over specific experience. **Opportunities Galore** Jody highlighted the variety of jobs available, from golf courses to historic sites. Although predominantly individuals 55 and over dominate the field, there's a growing number of younger families embracing this lifestyle. If you value community and flexibility, work camping might be your ideal match. **Financial and Practical Considerations** Many work camping positions provide compensation packages including pay, RV sites, and various amenities. It’s crucial to understand different pay structures and legal requirements before diving in. With the right approach, work camping can be both fun and financially rewarding. **Final Thoughts** Work camping is a gateway to seeing the country and meeting new people. Whether seeking adventure, community, or a traveling home, this lifestyle offers endless possibilities. For those intrigued, explore resources on Workamper.com to find what work camping opportunities are out there or connect with fellow enthusiasts to find your path. https://youtu.be/EgE9Wo38iT0 Special thank you to this episode's sponsors: Progressive Insurance and Curt Manufacturing Rockerball Trailer Ball Looking for ways to improve your fuel economy? Check out our article Simple Steps To Improve Fuel Efficiency.

 Making a New Year’s resolution can be a little like setting a date to have lunch with a friend that always cancels. Sometimes we don’t really believe we are going to have to make good on it. In our series ‘Transforming in 2019’  we are taking a serious look at the things that keep us from doing the things we want to do. In week one we talked about The Mind Game. How to get in the right frame of mind for success?  In week two   our conversation focused on Dealing With Stumbling Blocks. What are those things that always trip us up? How can we identify them ahead of time and increase our chances of success? In week three we talked about Creating an Action Plan.  They say if you want to succeed at anything you create a plan and work the plan. Bob gave us some of the elements every good action plan should include. On this weeks show we are talking about Dealing With Setbacks. They are going to happen. My dad used to look at all of the romantic endeavors of his children and say, “the course of true love never did run smooth.” That can be applied to just about anything we set our minds to do. It’s never Point A to Point B. When the setbacks happen, how can we deal with them so they do not derail our goals? Bob Thompson,  founder and CEO of Legion Transformation Center’s has led thousands of people to better health and fitness.  He specializes in helping those who want health and fitness but don’t particularly love exercise or eating right. Along the way he has learned a lot about human nature.  Here is Bob‘s advice on dealing with setbacks. Doing the Next Right thing when you fall off your program is part of dealing with setbacks. If you ate fast food for lunch three days in a row, make a great meal and get back on program without beating yourself up. Understand from the onset that there will be setbacks.  Enthusiasm will wain. You might become ill. You may be asked to work overtime at work and that will interfere with your action plan.  There will be situations you can’t control that will trigger you to fall back into old behaviors.  From the onset, identify ahead of time what things might be waiting in the wings to trip you up. Be ready for them when they happen and don’t let them become an excuse to quit. When the setback happens, focus on what you can control and let the rest go.  Put your energy towards the things that will bring you back to your starting point. The food you are eating. The money you are spending. The people you are hanging out with. These are all things that you have control over. Hit the reset button as soon as possible. Do the next right thing. Take action that will turn you back toward your goal.  Do not allow yourself to become comfortable in the “old self.“  Do not beat yourself up. Don’t allow yourself to become demoralized. Call a friend and ask for encouragement. Find a member of your tribe and share what you are dealing with. Try to think of the setback as a pause button. Press unpause and move forward. Go back to the action plan and work it.  Remind yourself of what your “why“ is. Take the bigger picture here. Do not hyperfocus on the thing that is making you pause but instead pull back and look at the big picture.  Focus on the finish line and not what it is taking to get there. Behave like a long-distance runner. Don’t think about how much your feet hurt. Think about how great it’s going to feel when you cross the finish line. Making lasting changes requires rethinking the systems we have in place. In our final installment we will be looking at staying in it for the long game.

According to Bob Thompson, transformation expert and founder of Legion Transformation Centers, in order to accomplish anything you need a strategic plan, You also have to do things that make you uncomfortable. You have to be willing to be radical. On today's show we continue our series on transforming.  In week one we talked about The Mind Game and how to create a belief in yourself. On week two's show it was all about the stumbling blocks and how we have to create an environment for success. This week we are talking about creating an action plan. They say to succeed you need to have a plan and work the plan but, how do we know what goes in a plan? What makes one plan better from another? Is a good plan all action steps or are there other emotional quantifiers at play? In order to get real about weight loss I had to get radical about what I was actually taking in each day. I spent one month weighing my food and counting my calories. I knew that I was not going to succeed by "cutting back." Radical behavior is what is required for radical change. Bob's action plan components. Set the goal. Sounds simple right? Not so fast though. Most of us have an innate self protecting gene that doesn't want to fail, be humiliated, look foolish or bite off more publicly than we are really willing to chew so we downsize our goals. I said my goal was to lose thirty pounds and Bob said, "What's the real number?" Yikes! How did he know? I really want to lose fifty pounds but that seems daunting, unlikely, too big and more than I am willing to commit to. Bob says in order to reach our true goal, the one we only tell ourselves in our heads, we have to set a goal and then super size it. We have to make it BIG! Why make it big? Because setting an audacious goal makes us work harder. Even if we don't reach 10K in savings, or fifty pounds or the whole marathon, the chances are higher that we will far surpass what our "play it safe" goal was. So... set a goal and blow it up! Put it Out There. Most of us keep our goals all tucked inside of us unwilling to risk ridicule, unsolicited advice and looking like a quitter if we drop the whole thing by month two. By putting it out there we make it real. We're not playing it safe. We've created a scary situation and fear drives us with adrenaline and a higher level of motivation. We don't want to look like a quitter and we are now more accountable to ourselves! Creating accountability increases our chances of succeeding. Say it out loud and show the world you are in it to win it. Be Willing to be Radical. I have to admit that I am the queen of Monday morning "cut backs." I am not even out there enough to say diet. I start each week with the idea that this week I am going low carb and high protein and I will get a walk in at least three times after dinner. That is not exactly radical behavior and it is also exactly the kind of behavior that you fall away from by Wednesday when you worked late and your husband made pasta for dinner. Because I don't put it out there, he doesn't know I am "cutting back." Bob says this is a recipe for disaster. If you want to do achieve a goal that has been alluding you, you are going to have to do things you have never done before. In the case of weight loss you may have to go old school and start weighing and measuring your food for a month. If you are getting out of credit card debt, it's not enough to keep the plastic in the hard to reach zipper section of your pocket book. You are going to have to not just cut up the cards but call up and close the accounts. You have to take a radical approach because change requires changing habits and there's no way to do that other than to rip the band aid off. Break down the Goal. You need to set the goal and then break down the steps needed (the actions) to make it happen. Ask yourself what has to take place to achieve the goal? Put a time frame on it. Once you set a goal and a time frame for doing it you can create a month by...

Change is hard! Eighty percent of those that make a New Years resolution have dropped it before February first. If we are going to get serious about change we need more than a desire to change or a frustration with our current state of affairs. We need a plan and that's what we are doing for our Mini Episodes in January. We're breaking down the trip hazards of change and this week we are chatting with transformation expert, Bob Thompson about how to deal with the stumbling blocks that are inevitable when we set out to change. Find a tribe that inspires you and get together with them often. Surround yourself with hopeful people. Bob is the founder and CEO of Legion Transformation Centers. He has helped thousands of clients overcome inertia, stinking thinking and bad habits to reach their health and fitness goals. The techniques Bob talks about can be applied to any area in which we want to make a life change. What's your goal? Traveling more? Getting a handle on your budget? Decluttering your house? Letting go of broken systems that create a cycle of failure, lost opportunities and low self esteem will require a change of mind first. We covered that in last week's show. This week we are talking about how to deal with the friend that wants to go on a shopping day. The mother that tells you that your thick ankles are genetic and you can't fight nature. The office buddy that keeps bringing you donuts from the employee lunch room even though she knows you're trying to make better food choices. Bob's tips for reducing stumbling blocks  Create an environment for success. You have to shape the environment for the outcome that you want. If you are a couch potato and want to be more active, cancel cable. If you are trying to pay off credit cards, don't just take them out of your wallet, close the accounts and start paying for things with cash. If you are serious about weight loss, empty the cupboards of all junk food and don't have anything in the house that will trip  you up in a weak moment. Surround yourself with five people that will inspire and support you. You are the sum of the five people you spend the most time with so make sure they are people who are building you up, not tearing you down. Make sure they are people who are living life fully and their attitude reflects that. Who you spend your time with is something that you can control. Get a mentor. Having someone to help you navigate uncharted waters is really valuable. You can find a mentor in a group related to your goal. Much like a 12 step sponsor a mentor can help you pull back and look at the big picture when you might be tempted to hyper focus on the tasks or daily grind losing sight of the goal. A mentor helps you to keep your eye on the prize. If you don't have a volunteer mentor you can hire a coach in the area you need help in. A nutritionist can help you meal plan and a business coach can analyze your business plan and help you set realistic goals. Be willing to pay for help. When you pay for advice you will take it more seriously and when someone is paid for their services, they will be more serious about what they are giving you. Find Your Tribe. Whatever you are trying to do, others are also trying to do. Find a group that can support you and that you can contribute to. Create a social media group for sharing tips, offering encouragement and venting frustrations. Having others who are traveling the same road will help you realize that "it's not you." Everyone feels like you do while change is happening. Eliminate people who bring you down. If you are going to seriously go after a goal you many need to eliminate people who don't respect and encourage that. You don't have to break up a family over it but you might just have to detach with kindness from people who are consciously or unconsciously sabotaging your efforts. If you have a girlfriend who is a shopping buddy and you are trying to cut back and she isn't,

On today’s show I’m starting a five part series on transforming. I know lots of us have made New Year’s resolutions and set goals for what we want to accomplish in the coming year.  It has been several years since I set a New Year’s resolution. I stopped doing it because I never finish them. Statistics show that 80% of people abandon their goal by February. Only 8% accomplish their resolution.  I decided to look into the psychology of why we don’t accomplish the goals we set and look for ways to tackle the obstacles to our success. I invited transformation expert Bob Thompson to join me in delving into this topic. Bob is the CEO of Legion Transformation Centers and has changed thousands of lives through fitness. Bob’s clients are not gym rats though. They’re me! The reluctant, the pessimistic. Those that want to be fit and healthy but really don’t like exercise. How he helps them transform was of great interest to me and it all starts with the mind. If we want to change the way we behave, we need to change the way we think. Our best (or worst) thinking got us where we are now. Bob says that changing our mind set starts with a belief in yourself. Whoa! This is my first stumbling block. I believe in myself when it comes to homemaking, podcasting, child rearing, trip planning, traveling afar etc... those are the things I know I’m good at. I have no belief in my ability to get a handle on my health! In fact I’m a proven failure in this area. I’m the direct opposite of what one needs to succeed in this arena. Bob's specialty is helping motivate the unmotivated. In other words, people like me who have a desire to change but lack the proper mind set for doing it. Here is Bob with two of the winners from one of his 6 week challenges. I asked Bob if you can suddenly get a belief in yourself. What if you grew up in a family where you were never encouraged? What if your whole life you have felt "less than?"  Bob says that yes, you can but you have to start by asking the "why?" question. Why do I want to lose weight, save more money, get rid of the clutter in my house, be more active? On the surface we may say we want to lose weight to look better but dig deeper. When your "why" is vanity based, it's easy to drop the goal. Over time we come to accept our shortcomings. That's how we end up thirty pounds overweight instead of ten pounds. We passed ten by accepting it and rationalizing it and got ourselves to thirty. When our "why" is to look good at our nephews upcoming wedding we may get 15 pounds off and feel better and make that good enough but when we dig deeper and find a better "why" our goals may find better staying power. If the goal is to be healthy for our grandchildren and be able to be active in their lives or to gain better health to be around for your spouse, it's loftier than vanity and more likely to have staying power. Everyone has different goals and different motivations. It's not your starting place that matters. It's not how much you want to lose or save or get rid of. It's about where you're going and having a plan and support team to get there. Team building!! Once we find a deeper "why" we can build a sense of belief in self in a few ways. Have the mind set that you will not be defined by the past. You are in charge of your own choices everyday. Be kind to yourself in your own mind. Speak highly of yourself to yourself. Treat yourself as you wish to be treated by others. Don't replay a loop of past failures in your head. Stinking thinking will not get you anywhere, You are the author of your life story. Write a feel good story!! It's your book! Remind yourself that your value comes from your own humanity. You're a human being created in the image and likeness of God who, as we know, doesn't make mistakes. He created you for a purpose and you are infinitely valuable. Remember that it is His opinion that matters most. Who cares if your boss doesn't appreciate you or if your kids don't call often?

On this weeks show we continue our exploration of the different types of RV’s and their pros and cons. The Class A motohome is the largest in the motorized family ranging in length from 21’ to 45’. This list of attributes and drawbacks is not meant to be a comprehensive study of the coaches but my observations from years of viewing them at RV shows, talking with owners and former owners and as an RV owner myself. Girl Camper Jo Lynn Black’s Class A all set up at the campground.   Pros Home Feel. The Class A really feels like a stick and brick home with full size appliances, marble counters, walk-in closets and master bedrooms. For many full timers and snow birders the interior finishes may be as nice if not nicer than their house. Storage The Class A offers incredible storage below the coach as well as inside. Many newer models have walk in kitchen pantries and bedroom closets. The basement storage offers plenty of space for chairs, grills and golf clubs or whatever hobby you want to do on the road. Comfortable Ride Most Class A owners report a smoother ride than their Class C cousins. The bus chasis doesn’t feel the bumps in the same way as the truck chasis Class C’s have. Amenities The Class A’s are loaded with amenities from multiple televisions, built in WiFi and Bluetooth speakers to faux fireplaces, ducted air conditioning and lighting packages. Pet Friendly The large open space in Class A’s make them a great choice for pet lovers. You can travel with multiple pets and have room for them to roam while you’re out for the day and while you’re driving.  Room With a View  The viewing window from the cab of a Class A is hard to beat. When you have traveled thousands of miles to see Yellowstone, it’s nice to see all of it. Auto Leveling   Most Class A’s have built in leveling as a standard feature. No messing with cranks and blocks. The push of a button does all the work. Larger Tanks.  With a larger coach comes larger everything, including the holding tanks. Gray water, freshwater, black tanks and gas tanks as well. This allows you to boondock longer without needing to refill or dump tanks. Full Season  Class A  coaches have all of their plumbing contained within the motorhome. Unlike a travel trailer and some other motorized vehicles, the waste pipes are not exposed allowing them to be heated in cold weather for year round use. Tow Ready You can tow behind a Class A motor home making  it possible to bring a day use car, boat, or trailer carrying motorcycles or a golf cart. Cons Big Size Limiting  The large size can be limiting in many ways. Not all campgrounds can accommodate the length. State and National Parks that were built in the 1930s often have limited availability for motorhomes of this size. HOA’s may have regulations against parking somethings this size in your driveway. Not all roads can accommodate Class A’s. Tunnels and bridges are sometimes too low and narrow for them to pass through. Tourist sites often have limited parking for vehicles this size and parking can become an issue. Maneuverability The size of Class A’s make getting around a little harder than smaller models. It’s not easy turning around on single lane or back roads. Getting gas requires some skill and maneuvering parking lots can be a challenge. Expensive Bigger also means costlier. More materials, more  components, more labor costs, and higher shipping rates equals bigger purchase price. Repair costs will ge higher.  The larger the trailer, the more working parts, the more things that can go wrong. Slides, pumps, multiple AC units are all subject to needing repair. The more complicated the coach, the higher level technician needed to work on it at a higher hourly rate. Maintenance and use will also cost more. The larger the coach the higher the cost of gas, insurance, maintenance and replacement parts. Need a Day Use Car  All motor homes are the ride as well as the sl...

On this weeks show I welcome Joel Holland, owner and COO of Harvest Hosts, a network of wineries, farms and unique locations that offer overnight parking for fully contained RV’s. Joel and his wife took an extended RV vacation crossing the country and enjoying the open road. The feeling of freedom often left them though when they pulled into a crowded campground and spent the night sandwiched between other trailers with obstructed views. They were members of Harvest Hosts and really enjoyed the opportunities that membership offered them to meet new people, stay in beautiful settings and experience what life is like "on the farm." Joel liked the experience so much that he tracked down the founders and owners of the company and got to know them. After many conversations and mutual agreement they sold the company to Joel. He is now honoring the founders original intent while taking the company in new directions. Harvest Hosts is membership based with an annual fee of $49. With that fee you gain access to over 600 sites that offer overnight parking on their property. There is no fee for this parking but you are encouraged to make a purchase at the location. Some owners allow multiple night stays but that is at their own discretion. With membership you will receive access to a site map with locations and contact information to make reservations. Drop ins are not allowed. There is also an App that allows you to search by RV size and preferred location type. Harvest Hosts is offering a 10% discount to Girl Camper Podcast listeners when you join. The coupon code is Girlcamper. Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula is the site of this farm with its award winning barn, guord art classes and monthly barn dance. The Navajo Museum in Window Rock, Arizona is one of many museums offering overnight stays. The Purple Haze Lavender Farm I’m Washington State offers fragrant breezes and beautiful vistas. I have had a membership to Harvest Hosts for a year now but still have not used it. I have bookmarked several properties though for my fall trip down south! SHOW NOTES We also have a give away this week in celebration of our Fall Season. We're kicking off Fall with a drawing for a Camco Big Red Campfire. . Some of the things I love about my Big Red Campfire!! quick set up - without the fuss of firewood and kindling I have an instant fire. it's usable at most state and national parks when there is a fire ban in place no smoke! I get to enjoy the fire and warmth without the stinging eyes and wheezing lungs it's cost effective - the fireplace pays for itself in the savings on firewood time saver - I love that I can use the campfire for fifteen minutes and turn it off To be in the running go to Instagram and Follow Camconet and tag a friend. You also have to go to www.girlcamper.com and subscribe to our email list. A winner will be chosen and announced on our October 16th show!    

On this week's show I am taking a fresh look at ways in which to find money for travel and possibly a trailer purchase. RV travel is the most budget friendly way to see the country. It offers a flexibility that resorts and hotels cannot. You can choose different levels of campgrounds and services, types of travel trailers and ways in which to eat - all of which impact the bottom line and increase the amount of travel you are able to do. Whether you are in a Class A coach at a high end RV resort or rented used trailer at a state park, when you are taking in the majestic beauty of our National Parks, the view is the same for all!! Today, I am taking a look at some new ways to find money in your budget for travel and trailers.   Facebook Marketplace - Sell stuff you're not using. Marketplace was started two years ago as a rival to Craigslist. Its' user friendly, has features that let you set a radius to promote to, has a payment feature and allows you to set the terms for pick up. I have used it several times to get rid of things that are too valuable for a Goodwill donation. I am still not recouping what I paid for antiques I've owned but aren't using now. but I am getting more than garage sale prices and I am putting it in my travel account. The trick is to not get caught up searching and buying instead of selling!! Food Delivery Services - There has always been local pizza delivery but now a wide range of restaurants offer food delivery through Apps such as Post Mates, Door Dash and now Uber Eats. It's a flexible job that allows you to work when you can and when you want to. You can work every other weekend and still have time for your normal weekend activities. With most of these services you need a valid drivers license, proof of insurance, and be at least 19 years of age. Weekends between 11 PM and 1 AM are peak in big urban areas. Automate your Savings - Like an old school Christmas club or vacation club but now automated. Ask your employer to automatically deduct a percentage of your paycheck that goes straight into an account designated for travel or trailer savings. If the funds never get into your checkbook they won't be there to use for other discretionary purchases. It's the old "pay yourself first" idea but not for retirement, for something fun! Freelance Your Skill Set - It's never really been easier to get a side hustle going. You don't have to post homemade paper ads for lawn  cutting or window washing  on the supermarket wall or laundromat anymore. Social media sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and Up Work allow you to market your professional services. Up Work can be used by consumers and providers to search for or provide services such as photography, accounting, party planning, IT help, legal work and web design. Both sides pay a fee on a sliding scale and the site provides the platform for users to chat, file share, track time and get paid. Consider what skill or hobby you have that is easy for you but torture for others and put your talent to work making money for you. Rent Your Trailer - If you already own a trailer and it's sitting in your driveway when not being used by you consider renting it locally through Outdoorsy, RV Share or Campanda. Rules vary within each company but you choose the price per night and whether you will provide linens and provisions or the renter will need to bring their own. The RV industry research shows that RV owners use their units 3-4 weeks a year. That's a lot of driveway time that could be used for passive income. Cancel Subscriptions you are not using. We all sign up for "introductory" offers at great prices with an auto renew button that automatically charges our credit cards at a higher price when that initial offer is up. The Wine of the Month Club, the Quarterly Box subscription or the health club membership that we don't really want anymore can add big bucks back into our accounts.

On this week's show I visit Arkansas and Petit Jean State Park with Arkansa native photojournalist Linda Henderson.  Linda was kind enough to give me a tour of  some of her favorite photography spots and she provided tips on taking better pictures with your IPhone as well as some tips on how to photograph the Milky away,  a specialty of hers.  You can follow Lunda Henderson on Instagram at @lindahenderson . I also chat about an article by Christina Nellemann for DoIt Yourself RV on State Towing Guidelines. A recent photo by Linda of the Super Moon of November 2016 One of Linda's favorite subjects is old churches. This is one of my favorite photos of Linda's. The view from the Lodge at Petit Jean State Park into the holler below is breathtaking. I took this one in my iPhone with some coaching from the expert!

On this weeks show my guest is Walter Canon, President of the RV Safety and Education Foundation. Walter's career spans forty years in the RV industry and he has helped countless people enjoy the RV lifestyle in a safer manner. On this episode he is answering some of the most frequently asked questions from the Girl Campers. Walter is a frequent speaker at RV shows and safety seminars. I am also sharing all that I learned at Camper College this week at Princess Craft RV in Round Rock, Texas. We were made so welcome by PJ Buerger and her knowledgeable staff. Princess Craft RV in Round Rock, Texas has a very large selection of trailers for Girl Campers and all RVers. PJ Buerger was recently awarded the prestigious "Blue Ribbon" by the RV Dealers Association which named Princess Craft one of the Top Five dealerships in the country! It's always great fun meeting podcast listeners and connecting with people we know through social media. The Camper College was another great night of learning and new friendships.  

On this weeks show my guest is a Mary Grace McKernan, photojournalist and girl camper extraordinaire. Mary has worked internationally photographing everything from rock stars to Orca whales. She lives in Seattle, Washington and works at REI's media office.  She has worked for CBS Network News and her photographs have appeared in REI social media outlets,  Fortune Magazine and TakePart.com.

Welcome to the world of outdoor culinary adventures! Recently on the Girl Camper podcast, hosts Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott welcomed Chef Steve Corso of Outdoor Eats—a trailblazer in outdoor cooking innovation. In this episode, Chef Corso shared his expertise on transforming simple outdoor meals into gourmet experiences and highlighted the mission of Outdoor Eats: encouraging people to eat well while enjoying the great outdoors. From Simple to Gourmet Chef Corso's journey began with his personal passion for hiking and a realization: typical outdoor meals lacked variety and excitement. Through Outdoor Eats, he has introduced over 300 trail-tested recipes fit for all types of adventurers, from novice campers to seasoned backpackers. Whether it's a quick Pad Thai or beef stroganoff made with jerky, Chef Corso's recipes promise flavor and ease. The Weasel Bag and Beyond One of Chef Corso's unique contributions is the "Weasel Bag," a collection of small, easily transportable packets of condiments, sauces, and seasonings that elevate any meal. He also discussed the versatility of ingredients like coconut milk powder, which can transform a simple dish into a tropical delight with minimal effort. Cooking Gear Tips The right tools can transform your outdoor cooking experience. Chef Corso shared his favorites, such as the MSR wind burner and foldable camp chef’s knife, emphasizing that the key to choosing gear lies in understanding your trip’s demands. He also recommended refillable butane lighters over traditional Bics. Outdoor Eats TV Chef Corso's adventures don't stop at recipes. He’s brought the Outdoor Eats concept to television, blending a food show with travel and adventure. From cooking alpine fondue in Switzerland to creating unique dishes across the U.S., each episode combines culinary art with exploration. For more information, tips, and recipes, visit OutdoorEats.com or check out Chef Corso on social media. As Janine and Lesa suggest, it’s time to explore the possibilities of gourmet trail dining. Happy trails! Want more cooking tips? Check out our Cooking 101 section of our website. https://youtu.be/am0VY0yA8Dg Learn More About Chef Corso:  https://outdooreats.com Get An Insurance Quote From Progressive Insurance:  https://www.progressive.com/GirlCamper Check Out Curt’s QuickPin Coupler:  https://www.curtmfg.com/quickpin Gear Mentioned On Today's Show Knife link:  https://amzn.to/4kLvGqD Anthony’s Coconut Milk Powder:  https://amzn.to/4hjY8gc MSR Windburner Stove:  https://amzn.to/4hjZpnu Flexible Cutting Board: https://amzn.to/4bQ0BxN Butane Lighter:  https://amzn.to/4icLLnr Opinel Trail Kit: https://amzn.to/4bQdAzG Mini Spatula Kit:  https://amzn.to/4iEF65i Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you! This helps support Girl Camper and allows us to continue creating content.  We only recommend products we personally use, trust, or believe will be helpful to you. Thank you for your support!

On this weeks show I interview Tim Dennig from Gulfstream Coach about their Woody version of the Vintage Cruiser.  All the details on what makes this vintage styled modern camper a top Girl Camper contender are discussed. If you grew up near the Wisconsin Dells or any lake you might really connect to the beauty of a birchwood interior! Our Camper College was a great success at Southland RV. Brett and Matt from Southland walked us through all the functions of a trailer and then we broke up into  small groups for hands on demonstrations. It was great meeting podcast listeners Zack and Leigh! Thanks for using your date night to come out!! A second Camper College of the weekend was hosted at the beautiful Stone Mountain Campground. Another great Country Living Fair took place in Stone Mountain, Georgia this weekend and the Go RVing team  was on hand to promote the RV lifestyle. Susan showed off her beautiful 1959 Fan trailer at the Country Living Fair. Girls just wanna have fun!' It's always fun to talk up girl camping on the Main Stage at the Country Living Fairs!

On this week's show I have a conversation with Girl Camper, Mari Parsons. Mari has a love for travel and is especially fond of the Great Smokey Mountains. She came to camping later in life and is making up for it. She shares her adventures and future travel plans. Mari on a trip to Yosemite this past summer. I will be talking about Girl Camping at the Texas Lifestyle Collective's Chautauqua event on October 6, 2016. Tickets are available at the door. It promises to be a great day of inspiration with guest speakers Eddie Ross, Caroline Harper, Michelle Nussbsumer and Mary Emmerling.  The party continues afterward on the town square with vendors, open shops and food trucks. Come and join the fun! Tickets will be available at the door for this event. We had a great farm stay weekend camping on the farm  of family friends last weekend. I used the St George this weekend with the daybed out and the table in. It came in handy when it rained on Friday night. We had a great hike through all the equestrian trails on Trilogy Farms. We circled our wagons at the farm of friends and enjoyed a soggy but fun weekend.

On on this week's show I interview Gary Perschel, the grandson of Serro Scotty founder, John Serro. Gary shares his family's story on the founding of the Scotty company and their excitement about the brands rebirth. The next generation Scotty's are out and the grandson of founder John Serro is sharing his family memories. The newest member of the Scotty family debuted at the Hershey RV show in September. I will be speaking on Girl Camping at the Texas Lifestyle Collective event in Waxahachie, Texas on October 6th! Also appearing are Eddie Ross, East Coast style director for Better Homes and Gardens Magazine; Caroline Harper from House of Harper; Mary Emmerling, author of 25 books and editor of Country Homes Magazine.

On this week show I speak with Erica Bohm  of healthydiningfinder.com. Erica shares the many ways in which her site helps us become healthier and stay healthier at home and on the road.  I also talk about Little Guy Worldwide's Wave One roll out of their new Scotty line of trailers. While some were disappointed that they did not see the reproduced classic Highlander in the first wave, their new "every man's" trailer has something to offer the entry level buyer that is sure to please. Hershey RV show news and our fourth Camper College at Haydocy Airstream in our Campfire Chat!   

[fruitful_ibox_row] On this week's show I talk about coping with the unexpected car (or trailer) breakdown on the road. Who to call? What to do? Roadside assistance benefits and who to trust are some of the issues discussed. I review what happened when my well loved F150 broke down on the Pa Tpk on my way to Ohio alone. 250 miles from home my truck broke down and I needed to have it towed to The nearby Ford dealership. The truck was placed on a flatbed and the trailer was towed behind.! I got an unexpected little retreat when I landed at a campground alone while I waited for my truck to be evaluated. My wonderful next door campers treated me to pizza pies for dinner. The truck was declared unfixable but the weekend was still made up of all the things I love about camping - Making friends of strangers, camp fires, walks and fun food! The Base Camp by Airstream is out and debuting at the Hershey RV Show this weekend. Airstream of South Florida will have them on site by October 1st. The Hershey RV Show begins September 14 and runs through the 18th. Stop by and see the new Serro Scotty at the Go Little Guy booth.

My guest today is Lisa Patterson from Classy Chassis Vintage Trailers. Lisa and her husband Gregg started their vintage trailer restoration business in Mattoon, Illinois four years ago. This year they designed and built their own vintage inspired 10' travel trailer complete with bathroom which they named Grace. The little 10' trailer also has a bathroom. The booth folds down to a bed of 52x80. The front kitchen of the Grace trailer.

On this week's show I talk about my first summer as an RVer with a new RV. The things I love about my new Riverside Retro and the things that I'm not so crazy about. There are also a few Love/Hate things in the list. One of the things I dislike about the modern trailers are the Windows. They open by sliding to the left which really restricts airflow. The awning was something I was on the fence about but am now so glad I went with it. One of my regrets is having taken the booth out and opted for a daybed. I am missing the table for morning coffee and am going to have the table and chairs put in.

On  this week's show I am answering Girl Camper's FAQ's. From solo towing to RV show help I go over the questions most asked by listeners. I also talk about some upcoming events. The beautiful Caroline Harper Knapp will be there with her fashion inspiration. Tickets are available at $50 for the day or $100 if you would like to join the headliners for dinner at the Dove's Nest on the square in Waxahachie. The $100 ticket price includes an autographed copy of Modern Mix. Eddie Ross, East Coast Style Editor for Better Homes and Gardens will be headlining the event and signing his new book, Modern Mix. Princess Craft RV will be on site with the Girl Camper favorite Tab trailer by Go Little Guy Worldwide. I'm excited to be speaking at the Texas Lifestyle Collective event in Waxahachie, Texas on October 6, 2016. Tastemakers and trendsetters will be talking about Home Decor, Fashion and Food at this full day lifestyle event.! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/texas-lifestyle-collective-tickets-27158552963 http://www.houseofharper.com

On this week's show my guest is Todd Henson, director of sales and marketing at RV Inspections.  Todd discusses the RV Inspection industry and all the benefits to consumers who have an RV inspection done before purchasing a pre- owned motor home or travel trailer. I also chat about all I learned at the latest Camper College at Beckley's Camping Center in Thurmont, Md. Todd Henson giving a presentation in Texas on the RV Inspection industry. Paul (the Air Force guy) was a wealth of information for even the seasoned travel trailer owners at Beckley's Camping Center's Camper College event. Camper College events are a great way for women to get their questions answered as well as meet like minded women to travel with. The Ohio Country Living Fair is coming up September 16-18 and Go RVing will be there with the Girl Campers. Stop by and see their booth!

On this week's show I am chatting with Karen Redfern,  the Senior director of marketing and communications at RVIA, the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. Karen discusses the changing RV industry and how RVIA is adapting to bring their message to a new generation and to those who have never considered an RV vacation. We also talk about our visit to Blog Her, the annual gathering of the top female bloggers in the country. I share stories of a few of the wonderful women I met at the event and what their blogs have for  all women! The GoRVing team posing with Jennie Garth in front of the Riverside Retro on display at the Go RVing VIP dinner. It was my absolute pleasure to meet Lifestyle blogger Jennifer Hunter. Her blog, Lita's World,i is going to be a favorite! Her daughter Libby is an avid Girl Camper podcast listener and was so excited that we got to meet! http://litasworld.com I had a great time with actress Nia Peeples who in addition to having a beauty and lifestyle blog, is a motorcycle mamma and a girl camper! She's also a down to earth beauty free of pretense and full of joy! I can't wait to camp with her! Theae two accomplished women's inspired me in so many ways. Lisa Nivers is the founder of We Said Go Travel and a media host. Her site hosts travel writers from around the world. Hannah Schwartz ( right) is a San Diego native with a wicked Boston hangover. She's a journalist with a Masters degree in Writing and Publishing and her blog "it's a seahorse" is sure to please. Hannah Schwatrz' blog. https://itsaseahorse.com Lisa Niver's travel site; https://wesaidgotravel.com

Hello, fellow adventurers! Janine Pettit, founder and Editor-in-Chief of Girl Camper Magazine, along with Lesa McDermott, VP of Girl Camper, have some news to share about the future of our beloved Girl Camper Magazine. **The Move to Digital** After five successful years and 20 issues, Girl Camper Magazine is taking a bold step forward. In a decision to embrace the future and enhance your reading experience, Girl Camper Magazine will shift exclusively to a digital format. This change promises not just greater accessibility but a richer, more interactive content experience. From video demonstrations to interactive links, the digital magazine will offer more comprehensive stories and vibrant visuals than ever before. **Why Digital?** Switching to digital allows Girl Camper to be more eco-friendly, align with its green initiatives, and provides a seamless reading experience wherever you are. No more waiting for deliveries; the latest issue will be available in your inbox as soon as it’s out. Plus, digital subscribers will have access to all past issues – that’s five years of camping goodness at your fingertips! **A Grateful Nod to Our Subscribers** We extend heartfelt gratitude to all our subscribers, especially those with us from the beginning. To show our appreciation, current print subscribers will enjoy an extended six-month digital subscription. This transition ensures you continue receiving the vibrant content Girl Camper is known for. **Opportunities Ahead** Adventure awaits! Join us on international trips to destinations like Machu Picchu and Bali in 2026, and for those closer to home, discover new camping experiences with our vetted members. Don't miss out—stay tuned for more adventures and updates! **Join Us on This Journey** With the magazine now digital, we’re excited to offer more content at the lower digital rate. We hope you'll continue to support Girl Camper Magazine as we bring you the same great camping inspiration with even more interactive possibilities. Thank you for being part of our community. Happy trails, and see you around the campfire! Interested in subscribing to the Girl Camper Magazine? CLICK HERE Special thank you to this podcast episodes sponsor: Progressive Insurance and Curt Echo Mobile Brake Controller. https://youtu.be/t6x5Zu77f3s

On this week's show Beaver Creek State Park Camp host Gail Bable shares what is happening at this East Liverpool, Ohio state park. Gail is a naturalist,  a reenactor at the Pioneer Village there and a fiber artist who spins her own wool.  She will be talking about hat a camp host does as well as what upcoming events visitors can lol forward to. The Grist Mill at Beaver Creek State Park in East Liverpool, Ohio. On the "set" of our fun GoRVing photo shoot about Girl Campers. The whole crew being good sports! Our set visitor who managed to get in the crews van and swipe a bag of potato chips! Photo by guest Gail Bable of our Girl Camper dining room!

My guest this week is photographer Mandy Lea who made headlines when her trailer, a Little Guy Tag named Birdsong, was stolen just a week before she was about to venture out in it as a full time photographer. Her Facebook plea for help finding it went viral with 80K shares. Mandy is here to share the second half of that story and tell us how living life full time in her new Tag is working out. I also share what I learned at Camper College at Setzer's World of Camping in Huntington, West Virginia. We had a great time at  gathering to learn hands on, ask questions of the experts and share tips and tricks. On a photography vacation to the Tetons Mandy realized she wanted to leave her job of ten years and pursue photography full time. She says, "The Mountains Made Me Do It!" I can see why. After purchasing her Tag Mandy had this tattoo done in her trailers color. Before her adventures got off the ground, her beloved Aqua Tag was stolen. Although it was recovered, her insurance company totaled it. The wait for a new one was months but Little Guy Worldwide, the makers of Tabs and Tags stepped in and custom made this one for her. She named her new trailer Phoenix. Tune in to hear where Mandy has been since hitting the road in June. Here's a hint! Life brought sadness and joy and Mandy is only remembering the "incredible kindness" of total strangers who shared her post and sent her notes of sympathy and encouragement. She had her tattoo updated with her new trailers color. https://mandyleaphoto.wordpress.com/ http://www.mandyleaphoto.com/ https://www.instagram.com/mandyleaphoto/ https://www.facebook.com/themandylea Camper College at Setzer's World of Camping was a great success. We really enjoyed the burgers and salads the Setzer's crew made us! Lynn Butler, owner of Setzer's, introducing her team and showing us a Riverside Retro model sold there. The Setzer's team gave "Towing 101" lessons and Michelle did great!' The great staff didn't let a little heat and humidity dampen spirits! The icing on the cake was that we all stayed the weekend at a nearby campground! Thanks Lynn!

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. A pin lock installed on your coupler is another deterrent for would be thieves. A inexpensive wheel lock on all four wheels can be time consuming to remove for thieves. A wheel chock that covers the lug nuts is the hardest to remove. It's also the costliest but not nearly as costly as losing your trailer. I am also sharing five tips for grilling the perfect steak at your camp out. I've tried and tried to grill the perfect steaks and these tips are based on delicious experience. Kingsford coals started in a coal chimney with no lighter fluid is the way to go when grilling. No lighter fluid! The steak should be almost room temperature and patted dry so it sears to the grill. Once it's on the grill, DO NOT TOUCH IT until the first side is done. Physically restrain spouse if necessary! No flipping over and over! Steak! It's what's for dinner! The rest of the tips are in the podcast!

On this week's show I am talking about camping with your dog and how to be a conscientious dog owner at a campground. Many a camping trip has been ruined for the non dog lovers by dog owners unwilling to make adjustments to their normal "house rules" regarding dogs. I outline a few things to consider so that all the campers, dog owners and not, enjoy the campground. I also am chatting this week about "trailer lingo!" So many listeners are new to camping and listening and learning so I thought I would define a few terms we banter around at Girl Camper headquarters without realizing that not everyone knows a tongue jack from a wheel chock. Now she knows a wheel chock from a slide out from a tongue Jack. She made me promise there would be no pop quizzes! I'm also spreading the news about upcoming Camper College events. Setzer's World of Camping in Huntington, West Virginia is my next Camper College event on Friday, July 15 at 5pm. Dinner is on the house. Camper College at Setzer's World of Camping is open to all on Friday, July 15 at 5 PM. Come join us! Beckley's  Camping Center in Thurmont, Maryland is hosting a Camper College event on Friday, August 12 at 5 PM.  I will be on hand for both and look forward to meeting all the Girl Campers. Pssst... Spouses are welcome too. Beckley's Camping Center in Thurmont, Md is home base for Camper College on August 12, 2016 at 5PM. Something tells me that this is going to be even more fun than normal! " Krazy Kelly" was on board to host the Girl Campers. Lastly, I am off to Tearstock 2016! Go Little Guy Worldwide is hosting their fourth annual gathering of Teardrop, Tab and Tag owners in Mineral City, Ohio. I'm dropping in for some old fashioned camping fun and the factory tour as well as some great upcoming interviews. This looks like so much fun! I can't wait to get there and join the party! Tab owners are fiercely loyal and I am so looking forward to infiltrating the group!

On this week's show I interview Chris Holland from Girard Systems about their third generation tankless hot water system. I had  this system installed in my new Riverside Retro and it is by far my favorite upgrade. While most RV hot water tanks hold six gallons and continually use propane keeping it hot, the Girard system provides endless hot water on demand. Chris discusses the features and benefits of this cost effective  upgrade. Having the Girard Systems tankless hot water heater installed as an after market product in your trailer will provide you with unlimited hot water. No more military showers.   http://www.girardrv.com The only real necessity for Girl Camping is a "can do" spirit. On this week's show I also talk about how much I enjoyed using my new Lynx Levelers and chocks. We have a set of levelers, chocks, caps and a solar powdered LED light to give away for signing up for the blog alerts or tagging an Instagram follower.

On this week's show I am turning the tables on  RV Family Travel Atlas Podcast hosts Stephanie and Jeremy Puglisi and interviewing them on their recently published book, The Idiot's Guides, RV Vacations. The co-hosts of the highly rated podcast tell how the book came about, how they managed the writing schedule on such short notice and what we can look forward to in the future from them. My producer, Stephanie Puglusi, enjoying a quiet moment by the fire at a Girl Camper event. I also chat about the St George, my new Riverside Retro by Whitewater and the work he required after accidentally rocking him off his stabilizing jacks. After 40 minutes in the pouring rain we finally got lights and hit the road! I'm also sharing a sister on the fly's stolen trailer to be on the look out for. It was stolen this week from Missouri, City, Texas. Please be on the look out for sister on the fly Debra Ochoa's Fun Finder trailer which was stolen last week. She had removed all of the stickers from the trailer. She was getting ready to paint it and there are some tan and blue paint swatches on the rear.

On this week's episode Jeremy Puglisi from RV Family Travel Atlas Podcast talks about his top picks for the RVing Dad or Mister Sister. If you are unsure of what to get the special man in your life for the RV these products have been used and reviewed by Jeremy and Stephanie and the recommendations are personal. I also welcome my new sponsor, Little Guy Worldwide whose full line of lightweight camping trailers are Girl Camper favorites and I am delighted to partner with them in bringing more Camper College events to RV dealerships across the country. I got some help from Flo getting my new trailer insured. All the details are in this week's Campfire Chat! It was great meeting podcast listener Danielle Thompson who won four early bird tickets to the Country Living Fair. Danielle drives a Class A! I'm so impressed! That's a a Girl Camper! Katie and friends stopped by and immediately joined the Girl Camper Meetup (Camp Like a Girl) and signed up for a big trip! You don't have to tell these girls twice! The St George made his debut and was a big hit! I can't even begin to count how many people went inside but the approval was unanimous! Jeremy's 9 Picks for your Mister Sister: Truma LevelCheck  TastePure 25' heated drinking water hose RV Lock 4.0 Weber Q1000 Bristle Free Grill Brush Andersen Camper Levelers Igloo Freestanding Ice Machine Camelback Forge 16 oz Travel Mug Estwing 4 lb Special Edition Fireside Friend wood splitting axe

On this weeks show my guest is Girl Camper and Sister on the Fly with the funniest bone of all, Elaine Smith. Elaine's journey to Girl Camperhood started way before she became a sister on the fly and unlike most Girl Campers, Elaine started with a huge travel trailer and zero experience and set off towing on her own. Her life on the road as a construction inspector was not easy but she made it cozy with the travel trailer and truck she bought and towed from job to job. She missed those days when she retired and she joined the sisters on the fly where the travel pals are way more fun and her rig is a little easier to lug around. Listen in on Elaine's funny tales. I also recap our first weekend out in the new Riverside Retro and the rookie mistake we made that's going to be expensive to repair! In the news round up I talk about the latest Camper College event in Huntington, West Virginia at Setzer's World of Camping. Mark your calendars for this July 15th event. Elaine's lovely trailer "Hootie" which had to be broken into in a hilarious series of attempts to retrieve the keys which were inside. Elaine hosting at the Girl Camper site at the Country Living Fair in Nashville last April. She is chatting with her good friend Michelle Eash and Michelle's friend Tommy Beard who completely restored her vintage Scotty trailer. Elaine's trailer, "Hootie" loaded and ready for fun! Note to self - stash extra door keys! Setzer's World of Camping in Huntington, West Virginia is the site of our July 15 Camper College. You can call Setzer's to RSVP or RSVP through the Camp Like a Girl Meetup site at Www.Meetup.com . Setzer's World of Camping - 5319 Cherry Lawn Rd, Huntington, West Virginia 25705 . To reserve a space for Camper College,  call 304-736-5287. It was a lovely evening in the trailerhood at my first campout in my new "St. George." I think my coffee actually tasted better in my new daybed in the trailer! This is what happens when you raise your stabilizing jacks and not your tongue jack to match! Expensive rookie mistake. They all need replacement!

On in this week's episode my guest is a special, special guest! My husband Rick joins me to chat about his "destination" mindset about travel versus my "journey" mindset. How do couples merge their travel styles so they can be happy campers? Tune in and find out! I also talk about why we decided on the Riverside Retro as our new couple/family/girl camper. We said good bye to our beloved Frolic and set our sights on a little more comfort in our new Riverside Retro 176S. The new owners traveled all the way from Florida to pick her up! After a delay to have an awning installed and another to fix a problem in our truck with the 7 way plug for trailer lights and brakes, we finally hit the road.

On this week's show I interview Lynn Butler, wife, mother, grandmother, Girl Camper and RV entrepreneur. Lynn is the owner of Setzers World of Camping in Huntington, West Virginia. Listen as Lynn shares her love of camping, how she bought the dealership from her mother and her plans to host "Camper College" for the Girl Campers. The RPod and the Riverside a Retro are two favorite brands among Girl Campers. Girl Campers Dawn and Deborah with their prizes for towing alone for the first time. Even Flo "camped like a girl" and had lots of fun at our "Do You Like My Hat? Party! The Girl Campers raised $427 for the Holdyou Foundation.

Welcome back, Girl Campers! In this podcast episode, Lesa and Janine dive into the world of portable power station essentials with Tony Barthel from Stressless Camping. Tony, affectionately known as the "king of nerds," joins us for an educational discussion filled with expert advice and practical tips on choosing the best portable power for your adventures. Spring into Camping With spring in the air and daylight savings bringing longer days, we're all eager to get back to camping. Janine and Lesa share their plans for the upcoming events with fellow Girl Campers, involving trailer preparations and Facebook chatter. All About Portable Power Stations In this episode, Tony educates us on the essentials of portable power stations, often miscalled "solar generators." He simplifies complex concepts, explaining the importance of wattage, battery chemistry, and connector types. Tony emphasizes considering your power needs, recharge options, and the device's weight before purchasing. He even shares personal anecdotes about using different power sources, both in camping setups and during home power outages. Practical Tips for Your Power Needs Tony dives into practical tips like checking the outputs available on power stations for optimal utility. From USB-A and USB-C ports to induction chargers, he covers the myriad of options. The trio then discuss the convenience of using portable power for everyday needs, like keeping coolers running during long shopping trips. Join the Girl Camper Community At the Girl Camper, it's not just about gear but community. With announcements about upcoming camping events and the idea of hosting local gatherings, Lesa and Janine invite listeners to get involved and share their favorite camping stories and spots. For more insights and adventures, follow Stressless Camping and Girl Camper across social media platforms. And, if you’ve got a favorite campsite, consider hosting an event with us!  Email events@girlcamper.com. Stay powered and happy camping! Special thank you to this episode’s sponsors!  Reach out to Progressive Insurance today for a quote on all your insurance needs.  Be sure to check out Curt Manufacturing. Need more camping how to advise?  Be sure to check out our Camping 101 articles. https://youtu.be/QSp8MlkO2w4

On this weeks episode I interview Singer/Songwriter Ruthie Collins of Curb Records about life in Nashville; women artists; her vintage Argosy and Girl Camping! I also share my favorite Glampers to follow on Facebook! Glitzy Glamper, Angela Boone Leachman and Tabatha Marie at Extreme Glamping. Glitzy Glamper Angela Leachman putting the finishing touches on the Chevron Cowgirl. The beautiful trailers of Angela Leachman aka Glitzy Glamper, can be rented like a hotel room at the Lone Star Gallery in Round Top Texas. It's the countries first indoor campground and Antiques Shop. Make plans for a great girls weekend in around Top, Texas! The renovated popup trailer of Extreme Glamping Club founder Tabatha Marie.! Tabatha's beautiful trailer can be seen on her Facebook group, Extreme Glampers Club where Glampers share their ideas and renovations and go for inspiration!

On this weeks podcast I interview sister on the fly Kathy Doty about how she first heard about girl camping and her bucket list trip with several hundred "sisters" across the entire length of historic Route 66. Kathy shares the story behind her vintage camper, Little Elvis and the what it has meant to her to be part of the Sisters on the Fly. I also review the obstacles that many would be girl campers feel keeps them from joining the movement and how they can be overcome. Kathy made the quilt over the winter. It has printed images of Elvis from the 50's. When your 7000 "sisters" are shopping they see things they know "belong" with you. This Elvis doll was a gift from the husband of a sister on the fly. Now he's a "mister sister!" The poster at the foot of Kathy's bed is a sweet serenade for bedtime. Kathy wanted to keep her trailer in the most original condition that she could. She added new piping for running water to the kitchen sink and had to replace the countertop and resurface the kitchen table with period correct boomerang laminate.

On  this weeks episode we're talking about all you can do in Wichita for a weekend. My recent trip to Wichita included a visit to WAM, the Wichita Art Museum where we enjoyed the Dale Chihuly installation, Confetti chandelier; the Gordon Parks exhibit,  Back to Fort Scott; and the many beautiful paintings that are part of the museums permanent collection. A walk along the river to see the Keeper of the Plains sculpture; a great lunch at The Old Tasty Mill soda fountain; a visit to the Aviation Museum all made for a great weekend destination . In the Campfire Chat I talk about tire safety and things to look for when evaluating your tires lifespan. I've included a link to Mark Polk's excellent article on tires.   http://www.rvuniversity.com/staticpages/index.php/tires_101 https://www.wichitaartmuseum.org