The Camping Club

Tips to Use on Your Next RV Trip

Next time you plan a cross-country RV trip, try these helpful tips from experienced RVers.

Use a Timer for Your Lights
We have heard complaints about people who leave their awning lights on all night and how it disrupts those around them. We realized that if we use an outdoor timer, we can set it and forget it. Now no one is disturbed by our lights at night. Submitted By: Roger & Brenda Hagan

Solar Lights
Purchase a couple of solar lights and place them by your RV steps. They will give off enough light for you to see, but they aren't so bright that they disturb your neighbors or other RVers nearby. Submitted By: Warren Brelsford

Calculate Your RV Solar Power Needs

It requires only a little math and a realistic assessment of how much power you actually use. The formula for computing amp hours is the number of hours multiplied by the number of amps used per hour. For example, one light uses 1.5 amps x 6 hours which equals 9 amps per hour. Your television uses 1.4 amps x 3 hours which equals 4.2 amps per hour. Submitted By: Robert Flasken

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10 Tips for Being a Good Campground Neighbor

 Most campers drive for hours and plan far in advance for their trips to our beautiful parks and campgrounds. Some of the reasons for going camping are to get away from it all, and spend time with our families breathing the fresh air and taking in the natural surroundings. That is why it can be very disappointing to finally arrive at the campground only to have people at other campsites making your trip hard to enjoy. If we all follow these simple guidelines, everyone at the park should be able to have a great camping trip.

Tip #1: Do not walk through other campsites, even if it makes it easier to get to washrooms or other park locations. Walking through another person's campsite is very intrusive and many people will find this offensive.

Tip #2: Keep your pet on a leash at all times. It can be a nuisance to have other pets on your campsite when you are trying to relax. Even though you may not feel it is a big deal, not everyone wants your dog running through their campsite.

Tip #3: Pick up after your dog. Nothing spoils a walk more than stepping in dog doo--especially with bare feet. Bring a scoop or plastic bag to pick up and dispose of it properly. Special bags can be found at pet supply stores. Some camp stores carry them as well.

Seven More Tips

10 Dog-Friendly Campgrounds

Take your furry friend and pitch your tent at one of these pet-friendly parks out West.

San Francisco, North Petaluma:

Nestled near the Napa and Sonoma wineries, this spot is rated one of the top campgrounds in California. Only thirty miles from the Golden Gate Bridge, you and your dog are welcome in most of the Bay Area parks and trails.

Nine more places to camp with your dog.