Can you tell me the dimensions of the battery pack for your fridge. Amazon does not have the bouge brand pack and I’d like to see if I can find an alternative brand that would also be the same size. Otherwise it’s senseless to buy the fridge if I can’t get the most important feature of the fridge which would be the battery pack. They should really just sell them together.
Make sure Dakota’s bed has enough support and cushioning. He may have started doing that because he is not comfortable during the night. My dog did the same when his foam was bottoming out in his bed after laying in it after awhile.
I bought a travel trailer almost a month ago and have had it in storage the whole time. I have watched every single RUclips video I could find on what I need to get started on using the RV. I finally just bit the bullet, bought a surge protector, a sewer hose with clear elbow, a water regulator and a water hose. I will figure out the rest later. I just finished setting up the RV for the first time, so very excited for the next stage of my life. It's so easy to get overloaded with all that you think you need first! I watched one of your videos that said to just do it, so I did! Thanks for all the great videos, I will be picking up some of the other cool items you have shown here for sure! Will be getting the AC silencer ASAP!
That's awesome! You definitely don't need to break the bank to get started. Just get out there with the few necessities that are important, like that surge protector!
I just want to comment on the idea of leaving things on counters while travelling. Though you think having your instant pot sitting on the counter on top of shelf liner will sit there.... if something happens, the last thing you want is having an appliance flying around the unit. ALWAYS put your unsecured items away, not sitting on the counter. I don't care how well you drive, you can't predict sudden stops or accidents.
We always take the time to put our things away before we travel. Its just peace of mind and we also try to travel with less stuff. Nothing worse than wading through things we rarely use.
…this also applies to passengers walking around the RV while moving. One cannot say “don’t place items on counters” and also approve of moving about inside a moving vehicle.
I just wanted to comment on the snap on connection to the water filter. Excellent tip! However I would recommend placing a 90° brass elbow to your water fill on the RV. That way your eliminating stress on the plastic connection point by creating a vertical connection. Thanks
Suggestion, I keep a spray bottle with 90% rubbing alcohol in the bay where I keep sewer accessories. When I start to put things away I spray connections and my rubber gloves as a precaution for the next time I use them.
I am moving from a 2500 sq. ft. home to a Forest River Cottage Creek 40CFK2 destination trailer (equivalent to a Park Model). I've already done my traveling, so this rig won't move at least while I'm still alive. I had to google "Moochdocking" only to discover that is what I'm going to be doing once we set this tiny home up on its own parking pad 5 feet away (once the slides are extended) from my son's house in South Carolina. I live in Washington State now. I will be hooked up to all of his utilities: septic, power, propane, and electric. I plan to give them $1K a month to help with their expenses on my behalf. I am paying for the concrete pad, the trailer, the deck, etc. but they are going to buy it because I want them to own it so there is no hassle about inheritance when I die. At some point discuss with us RV insurance and what you've learned about the various kinds, even for stationary units, and what to look out for. Also, what do you know about blocking and if you do that when you go back to your "permanent" home for any length of time. All of your tips are helpful, but I just love the idea of a tank top holder which will fit in my closet perfectly because one of the closets stores things cross-wise (with the rod going front to back). I also found a swivel shoe holder that will fit (that you don't mention.) My destination trailer will have a deck with a ramp and there will be an awing over both the deck and an additional awning over the patio that will be next to/below the "seating slide" with the dining table and two recliners. Your tip in another video about "Always closing the awnings" when you leave was also very spot on so I'm taking note. I chose my unit because of the front kitchen set up (I'll look out into a forest) as the layout is most like how I live in my big house now, and although I will have a "Murphy pantry" behind the TV, it's about 1/4 the space I have now. I will have to net out my spices, so wall-mounted spice racks will probably be the best solution installed on either side of the stovetop. What do you use and why did you choose that vs. something else? Would you use the same method again? I use an induction cooktop now and have an induction single burner I plan to take with me. Although I have a propane stove and oven in the RV, for cooking for myself and because I already have copper pans that work on an induction stove, I may, at times, just use the single burner on the island to cook. I recall you switched out your cooktop for induction. What made you do that? Also, I notice that you removed your oven and put storage in its place. Would you do that again in hindsight? Do you have a video on safety devices? I realize that isn't an issue for you, Ben, and your young kids, but if you hobnob with older travelers, you might realize that seniors do. How do they install grab bars, safety rails, and such in their RVs? I traveled with 4 kids in a 14 ft. travel trailer 50 years ago, but I am now almost 80, and try as I may, could not get Forest River to install grab bars in my shower in my Cottage Creek 40CFK2. I've seen suction cup grab bars and even read that adding glycerin to the cups makes them stick better (this tip would work on your leg-shaving footrest) but a video on recommendations for safety devices would make RVing for old people a better experience would be something I would watch with great interest. Anyway, to expand your request for tips for those of us who are living now or going to be living in a stationary RV, and especially some safety tips that would help seniors, I'm all eyes and ears.
Some of these things are good to have. Amongst the RV tools I carry I have added a rare earth magnet. It came in use for resetting the temperature relay on our fridge. When I was pressure washing the RV exterior while the fridge was running water got into the enclosure and tripped the relay not allowing it to run on A/C or propane. Only way to reset was running a magnet across the relay. Another use was last weekend for my brother's brand new RV. The solenoid failed on his propane valve to the fridge. Removed the solenoid and he used the magnet a few times a day to open the valve to cool the fridge (multiple dealers 30 minutes away and none had a solenoid in stock).
Pretty dog. We have four dogs which makes sleeping optional. Screens also keep out mice. TPMS a must.Collapsible ladder (not cheap but worth it). Stainless hose quick connects. We avoid RV or city-connect water for drinking, making ice, even brushing teeth, and pooches, because even the better filters can still be bacteria-breached. Instead got Wal-Mart Primo hot/cold water dispenser. Level mate: +. Gotta have: Electronic bidet (Toto). I also upgraded the suspension to minimize body roll. Gorilla bags and 1" diameter sway bar (big job: drill frame, order custom u-bolts). Big difference. Use a pre inspection border patrol-like undercarriage mirror with light. Upgraded battery bank to Lithium. Fashioned a slide out drawer. Onboard battery tender for coach battery. LED headlights/taillights. High decibel horn--defense, not offense. Keypad entry. Gas struts wherever possible. Hand/glove sanitizer dispenser at waste station. Dehumidifier. Oil circulating supplemental heater. Remote propane monitor. Onan generator resonator to reduce exhaust note (works). Wind detector automatic awning reel. Upgraded sound system. Security cameras. Exterior motion lighting or at least head band lights. Could not keep carpeting clean enough with dogs so I installed Pergo-like flooring over floor heat elements. Retractable shore station cable. Small bin mounted pressure washer with a retractable hose. Motion entry step lights. Dedicated tool array. Swore off fast food. Good job on video. One thing, you used "actually" 350 X's .😮 Basically, literally. What, no cornrows?
Microfiber Towels - I bought two sets of 3 piece (bath, hand and wash cloth) towels and love them! They dry fast, are not heavy. I hang my hand towel by the loop that’s included. I added a 3M hook over my sink, so the hand towel cannot slip onto the floor after use.
We're planning to change from 5th wheel to Class C. That means we'll buy gently used which will need updates. Loved seeing some products that we know we'll need to upgrade. Thank you.
I must say that we have been part-timing for many years (15+) and we use most of the items you have mentioned. I wish I had seen this years ago, as we would have saved the landfill from a lot of junk! 😁
Nano tape YES!!! Love this. I have a few things at the sink like a pottery sponge holder and its held strong for 2 years. Same with button tap lights stay put too. I love those rolling sink racks. They are also great to dry things on the counter. I bought one for my home as well.
added the collapsible ladder to my Unit. thanks for the heads up on these. hated carrying a ladder to clean off slides all the time. This should fit perfect in my storage compartment. Thanks again
I used to watch your videos occasionally, but now that we have a new TT (just a little 20 footer), I watch all of your videos, including the ones from past! So informative and quite entertaining!!! Also, it’s so nice to have a woman blogger that isn’t always fixing her hair, checking herself out, and making fish lips! 😂 Keep up the good work!
VERY valuable and worthwhile video, Charity, thank you! We have used a lot of the same products that you reviewed in this video, many I would say are RV essentials! It's amazing how LOUD RV air conditioners can be. Our current coach, a Class A diesel pusher, isn't too bad, but the previous coach was horrendous, when the AC units came on it was like a freight train was sitting on the roof, any conversations had to be at a pretty high decibel! Still, the current one could be quieter, we will have to look into the product you reviewed to quiet them down. I too use the same adjustable water pressure regulator. But I have a story about that. Once when we were camping in St. Augustine, and I hooked up the regulator I discovered that we had no water in the coach when all around us did. Thinking there was something wrong with the water supply to our campsite, we contacted the management. They came out and said "No the water is fine, your regulator is defective!". I didn't think that was the case, so when the nice gentleman left, I hooked it back up and - no water. Mmm. I played around with the adjustment and, voila, water! Somehow, someone (me?) had cranked it all the way down the last time it was used. So embarrassing! So, there you have it. My RV'ing lessons are either A) expensive or B) embarrassing. Sometimes both. Thank you so much!
When you are travelling in your car, leaving your RV at the campground, you can safely pack cold food in the portable fridge for lunches and snacks while you are out exploring. Keeps food at a safe temperature as the hours go by, and the food is nicer to eat when it's cold.
Watch which tpms kit you buy. I work at a dealership and literally today a customers rv kept loosing pressure on their tire. Ended up being the weight of the sensor on the rubber valve stem caused it to prematurely crack from natural dry rot of the valve stem.
I have just purchased my first travel trailer for RV life and this video was very helpful. I have watched several of your other videos with more to come and they too have been very helpful. You are doing a real service to many. Thank you.😅
The best solution for all of the black tank problems or maintenance issues is just using composting toilet. I'm picking up a new grand design trailer in a couple of days and the first thing. I'm going to do is pull out the toilet then put in a composting variety.
I saw in the beginning of your video the highway signs that said Wildwood, Inverness. I live in The Villages and we have a Super C RV. I love watching all your videos, they are so informative. Thank you for what you do.
We added the soft start for our A/C and like you said it works GREAT, I am getting ready to order the micro fiber towels, ours never dry and start to not be good to use ! Thanks for the tip! There were several in this video we are going to look into the products. Keep up the good work!!!!
I bought the tank top hanger when I watched a previous video of yours and I LOVE THEM! I bought 2 because I live in TX and it's so hot and sticky here and I have a lot of tanks. I thought the center bar in them was wasted space so I hang scarves and belts on a few of them... Some great new products! Thanks for always having awesome new goodies to share!!
Just watched this morning and have already used the rope baskets from one of your previous videos - Love it! Looking at several of the ideas on here as I'm really in to organization. Thanks for the great ideas!
We are now empty nesters and going to buy a trailer soon. I am making a binder of the trailers we want with all the accessories that dont come with the trailer. The binder will have everything we may need so we dont have to learn the hard way to buy them! THANK YOU FOR THESE TYPE OF VIDEOS❤❤❤
This is an outstandingly helpful video! I ordered everything on leveling, everything from Amazon (minus the thermostat). Well done and thank you for the referrals. Merci
Such a great video, thank you so much for doing this. The portable fridge is very compelling. Nano tape, never heard of that but looks very useful. The TPMS, I'm probably going to have to buy that. We have a 38' class A, 2003 Newmar that we just bought. Came with new tires, but I'm very nervous about blowouts or low pressure situations caused by tire damage (nail, road debris, etc.). Shelf liner for travel days looks like a great idea. Venture products look great (towels & travel bag). And this is just to name a few. Soft Start, GPS, Telescoping ladder and others look like great products and great ideas for RV'ing.
Love your channel. At the moment we are stuck at home as my van needs repairing, the exhaust burnt a hole in the underslung water tank. Good advice and content. Thanks from the U.K
We just the house beds of 6 people and the 5th wheel with all new mattress for everyone game changer for sure! And thank you i have been wondering about the bug screens and see more detailon the burke.
Thank you for a useful video. I love the way you use and test the products before recommending. I ordered the LevelMate from your link because you showed real examples of my it will be so much more convenient than hopping out with a large level stick.
Probably know this and is why you created this video but just in case you don't, you should be getting a small percentage of each sale. It would be nice if you had an Amazon store so we could just go to that store to get any of these great accessories, you will also make money for each product sold. You have invested time and money to bring these products to us you deserve to get a kick back for this.
As a retired truck driver, I used the garmin 700 OTR , it can be used for semi trucks,RV's, or a car, I swear by garmin, it has saved my butt many times.
Just wanted to say I love your vides. I like getting your tips and tricks and have purchases some items based on your video recommendations. We have a pull behind camper and found that having enough ice was a problem because our frig is not big and the freezer is not big either and a bag of ice takes up the entire freezer! One item we invested in was a portable icemaker. We always carried coolers with bags of ice and it takes up so much space and you have to continually go and buy ice. We have been asked by relatives to bring our ice maker to family gatherings so we have enough ice for everyone. This was a good investment. I've made a list off the items in this video so we can check them out. As always thank you for the great videos and product recommendations.
I full time and your videos are great gives me lots of ideas bc there is never enough space I need ideas on extra counter space mine has none I have a 2015 hideaway
We find that the water pressure where we are varies wildly, and often just fill our fresh water tank daily and use our onboard pump instead, so we get predictable water pressure every time ;)
The foot rest is great for those that need to use pumice on their heels and feet, or for those that are tall to effectively clean their legs and feet without falling out of the shower
Thank you very much for your video. I like the idea of the AC silencer and will look into whether they will work on my unit(s). While I've used small microfibre towels at home and a slightly larger one on canoe trips, I had not thought of using them for bath towels. While I like the large fluffy towels, the notion of how fast the microfibre dries works for me. Snap Pads: Given that you also use wood, I'm not sure what the point is here. I have 12pc of 12" x 12" x 1.5" and then 8pc of 12 x 12 x 3/4 plywood. These cost me half of the snap pads. For me the pads will keep your metal pad wet leading to corrosion. The wood pieces are larger and prevent sinking, do not harm driveways and are easy to replace. Dry Rack: I saw this, but I bought a $6 expandable cookie/baking rack that works great and is cheaper than the $20 for the rollup. Ladder: Perhaps your rig is older, but there is no way I would attach anything to a ladder in these newer rigs. There is comment about them ripping off etc. I'm 240 lbs and I close my eyes every time I climb on my roof. (I also have your collapsible ladder). Temp Monitor: We don't have pets so I'm not that concerned with the temps in the RV when we are not there. However I have BT monitor in the fridge that comes to a display on the dash when driving or on the table when camping. I realize many come to the phone, but I would often like to have a static display than to have to pull out my phone and load an app etc. and that does not work when driving. Water Filter: We never drink from our tanks. We travel with up to 90L of potable from home. I had this last nearly 3 weeks even when being active in warm weather. Soft Start: You buy mine. I installed one on my 2000 SeaBreeze and it worked great. However on our 2018 Georgetown, the new AC units seem to be all fixed and you no longer need these. I can easily run one AC on 15A and 2 on 30A. Before on the older units, it was 50/50 if the unit would trip the breaker when starting. Jacking: Now I realize you folks have been doing this, but ... I never jack the back wheels off the ground as this is where your emergency brake is active and by doing so you lose all braking. You can chock your wheels, but I would not trust it. Park with your nose down and jack as required and if anything has to come off the ground let it be the front wheels. Leveler: Now, of course you can use bubble levels etc. However, and perhaps your rig is a diesel and is stronger,. but the gas units will twist and what is level in one place is not in another. We use the 'door test' after it seems level, then we see of the bathroom door will swing. We also tip it very slightly backwards so that the AC units will drain properly. It can be surprising how much difference there can be in bubble levels in different parts of the RV. Your leveling unit is a single point of reference. I dunno. Thanks again for your video and safe travels. Henri
Great video. Take it for what its worth, some furnaces manufacturers don`t recommended or wont cover warranty on furnaces with vent covers because it can restric air flow to the furnace.
That’s what I found out too but I said the heck with it when we went from SC to Daytona Beach in November and needed the heat but stink bugs had gotten in the furnace and messed up the gas valve. They love propane.😅. Luckily I didn’t have to pay someone to fix it as I’m a DYI , besides any warranty wouldn’t have paid for the labor. And the valve was fine once I got the stink bugs all out.. 😊😅😂.. Now I have a screen on mine..
Totally enjoyed this video. We are new to RVing and having this content helps... a lot. The link to the Venture 4th towels is broken... you may want to change it 🙂 All the other links functioned as expected. I found it kind of funny that 66 degrees was cold... but then again, I live in Idaho - hahaha
Thank you for sharing! These real world examples are always appreciated - especially a more extensive list since there's likely to be fewer items that are "not bad" that might get dropped from a shorter list.
My biggest pet peeve is leveling the RV. I just look for the flatter spot I can and then go from there. But having the last hack using that leveler app, I’m gonna look into that it’s gonna be a game changer for me😮😊😊
Cool stuff. You are clearly the Gadget queen. I've been RVing (for vacations) about 2-3 weeks every year for decades and I honestly don't have any of these tools, gadgets, addons. (I also don't have room in my 34Ft Fifth wheel for most) I did see a few I'm going to buy and try though. Thanks!
Been watching your videos for a long time now. Your one of the reasons we want to travel. Is it alright if we list gratefulglamper in our featured channels?
love your channel new to rv life and intrigued w idea of macerater for 2 reasons especially 1. eliminating stinky slinky and use more compact and versatile hose 2. pump waste away vs gravity… it would seem that one could almost fertilize anywhere w a pump to disperse the fouls anywhere..( i would not expect you to condone this publicly).
While I'm a noob, only TT camping since latter 2020, I have a lot of the things you listed. I've tried the "cages" over the vents, no luck (springs didn't hold cage tight on opening); I actually threw them away, now I have to buy them again. I saw someone on utube used longer screws and spacers to screw the heater vent cage to the vent, so I'm going to try that. I'd love to get a TPMS system, but too pricey right now; it's on my list. We are lucky our A/C isn't real loud and use fan as "white noise" at night so A/C kicking on/off doesn't wake us. The inside filter is junk. Btw, was having issues with black tank "clogs"; found I had gotten lazy and stopped using the hose support and was letting hose just sit on the ground. Once I started using the hose support again, issue went away.
I love your videos and you make me feel really good when you recommend a product and I’m already using it.😊 Anyway we’re upgrading to a fifth wheel in two years and going full time and your videos are valuable to me for storage ideas and product hacks in general. My one issue is we aren’t going to have a home base or vacay house so we will need storage for the items we’re keeping (not a lot) for when we stop traveling and we start over in a little barn in the mountains somewhere. Plus I figure I’ll have to rotate seasonal clothes out of storage because of storage. Do you have storage? We don’t know where to locate our storage? Near our probable retirement spot? In the middle of the country so it’s easy to get to? Anyway I hope you read this and thank you for your tips, they’re fantastic.
Most people keep a storage unit somewhere near their “home town” where they know will want to come to from time to time. Thanks for watching our videos.
OMGoodness I just subscribed to your channel after watching you on RV Unplugged. Also after I saw this video I was thrilled to see someone replace their gas stove with an induction stove top. We want to do this too but have no idea where to do it. We are not handy and need someone to do it for us. Do you think a dish washer would fit in the oven space as well? We live close to Dallas, Texas. We sure appreciate any help you can give us. Blessings, Rebecca Rogers
On your next update of new items on your RV or even in between that, please talk to us about why you have your solar panels on top of your air conditioners. Does this have something to do with the soft start?
Love your channel. So much good information, but how did I first notice your channel? I saw Alaska, and shouted, “Is that a Great Pyrenees?” Came to see the pyr, stayed for the content. For us, it was “wait to see if they have any tips for traveling with a pyr”. The net this time…
Awe, we do love Mr. Alaska! We do have a couple of videos on traveling with pets. If you search RUclips for “grateful Glamper pets” you’ll see them! Thanks for watching
I used the flow jet into camco holding tank into my truck and took to nearby park for a dump fee when mooch docking with iffy leach field, please try the power watch dog super cool w Bluetooth you can monitor you usage and see what devices eat up amps
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Can you tell me the dimensions of the battery pack for your fridge. Amazon does not have the bouge brand pack and I’d like to see if I can find an alternative brand that would also be the same size. Otherwise it’s senseless to buy the fridge if I can’t get the most important feature of the fridge which would be the battery pack. They should really just sell them together.
Did she get a haircut midway through the video?😮
Thank you! I sat and took notes!❤
We do we love your videos!
Nice tips ❤😊
2 more things...
1. A refrigerator/freezer temperature monitor with alarm
2. Rechargeable fly zapper. Must have!
Make sure Dakota’s bed has enough support and cushioning. He may have started doing that because he is not comfortable during the night. My dog did the same when his foam was bottoming out in his bed after laying in it after awhile.
I believe Alaska is the dog. Dakota is the son... LOL
@@annfassetta6876 oops 🙊
I bought a travel trailer almost a month ago and have had it in storage the whole time. I have watched every single RUclips video I could find on what I need to get started on using the RV. I finally just bit the bullet, bought a surge protector, a sewer hose with clear elbow, a water regulator and a water hose. I will figure out the rest later. I just finished setting up the RV for the first time, so very excited for the next stage of my life. It's so easy to get overloaded with all that you think you need first! I watched one of your videos that said to just do it, so I did! Thanks for all the great videos, I will be picking up some of the other cool items you have shown here for sure! Will be getting the AC silencer ASAP!
We are picking our first this weekend. Newbies here. We can do it!!
That's awesome! You definitely don't need to break the bank to get started. Just get out there with the few necessities that are important, like that surge protector!
Aw! This makes me to happy! Keep going! I just bought mine about a month ago. Excited to get started! Kudos to you!
I just want to comment on the idea of leaving things on counters while travelling. Though you think having your instant pot sitting on the counter on top of shelf liner will sit there.... if something happens, the last thing you want is having an appliance flying around the unit. ALWAYS put your unsecured items away, not sitting on the counter. I don't care how well you drive, you can't predict sudden stops or accidents.
We always take the time to put our things away before we travel. Its just peace of mind and we also try to travel with less stuff. Nothing worse than wading through things we rarely use.
Right, anything loose is a potential weapon when flying through the air. Safe travels❣️
I've done this for a while now. Works great.
…this also applies to passengers walking around the RV while moving. One cannot say “don’t place items on counters” and also approve of moving about inside a moving vehicle.
@@niaralosusa its illegal too
I just wanted to comment on the snap on connection to the water filter. Excellent tip! However I would recommend placing a 90° brass elbow to your water fill on the RV. That way your eliminating stress on the plastic connection point by creating a vertical connection. Thanks
Suggestion, I keep a spray bottle with 90% rubbing alcohol in the bay where I keep sewer accessories. When I start to put things away I spray connections and my rubber gloves as a precaution for the next time I use them.
Good idea, thanks for sharing
I live in a mobile home/trailer, it’s stationary and some of these ideas are great for me ❤ thanks 😊
Thanks for watching
I am moving from a 2500 sq. ft. home to a Forest River Cottage Creek 40CFK2 destination trailer (equivalent to a Park Model). I've already done my traveling, so this rig won't move at least while I'm still alive.
I had to google "Moochdocking" only to discover that is what I'm going to be doing once we set this tiny home up on its own parking pad 5 feet away (once the slides are extended) from my son's house in South Carolina. I live in Washington State now. I will be hooked up to all of his utilities: septic, power, propane, and electric. I plan to give them $1K a month to help with their expenses on my behalf. I am paying for the concrete pad, the trailer, the deck, etc. but they are going to buy it because I want them to own it so there is no hassle about inheritance when I die.
At some point discuss with us RV insurance and what you've learned about the various kinds, even for stationary units, and what to look out for.
Also, what do you know about blocking and if you do that when you go back to your "permanent" home for any length of time.
All of your tips are helpful, but I just love the idea of a tank top holder which will fit in my closet perfectly because one of the closets stores things cross-wise (with the rod going front to back). I also found a swivel shoe holder that will fit (that you don't mention.)
My destination trailer will have a deck with a ramp and there will be an awing over both the deck and an additional awning over the patio that will be next to/below the "seating slide" with the dining table and two recliners. Your tip in another video about "Always closing the awnings" when you leave was also very spot on so I'm taking note.
I chose my unit because of the front kitchen set up (I'll look out into a forest) as the layout is most like how I live in my big house now, and although I will have a "Murphy pantry" behind the TV, it's about 1/4 the space I have now. I will have to net out my spices, so wall-mounted spice racks will probably be the best solution installed on either side of the stovetop. What do you use and why did you choose that vs. something else? Would you use the same method again?
I use an induction cooktop now and have an induction single burner I plan to take with me. Although I have a propane stove and oven in the RV, for cooking for myself and because I already have copper pans that work on an induction stove, I may, at times, just use the single burner on the island to cook. I recall you switched out your cooktop for induction. What made you do that? Also, I notice that you removed your oven and put storage in its place. Would you do that again in hindsight?
Do you have a video on safety devices? I realize that isn't an issue for you, Ben, and your young kids, but if you hobnob with older travelers, you might realize that seniors do. How do they install grab bars, safety rails, and such in their RVs? I traveled with 4 kids in a 14 ft. travel trailer 50 years ago, but I am now almost 80, and try as I may, could not get Forest River to install grab bars in my shower in my Cottage Creek 40CFK2. I've seen suction cup grab bars and even read that adding glycerin to the cups makes them stick better (this tip would work on your leg-shaving footrest) but a video on recommendations for safety devices would make RVing for old people a better experience would be something I would watch with great interest.
Anyway, to expand your request for tips for those of us who are living now or going to be living in a stationary RV, and especially some safety tips that would help seniors, I'm all eyes and ears.
Thank you I am a veteran. I love and respect every past,current, and future veteran that serves this United States for us all
Some of these things are good to have.
Amongst the RV tools I carry I have added a rare earth magnet.
It came in use for resetting the temperature relay on our fridge. When I was pressure washing the RV exterior while the fridge was running water got into the enclosure and tripped the relay not allowing it to run on A/C or propane. Only way to reset was running a magnet across the relay.
Another use was last weekend for my brother's brand new RV. The solenoid failed on his propane valve to the fridge. Removed the solenoid and he used the magnet a few times a day to open the valve to cool the fridge (multiple dealers 30 minutes away and none had a solenoid in stock).
Pretty dog. We have four dogs which makes sleeping optional. Screens also keep out mice. TPMS a must.Collapsible ladder (not cheap but worth it). Stainless hose quick connects. We avoid RV or city-connect water for drinking, making ice, even brushing teeth, and pooches, because even the better filters can still be bacteria-breached. Instead got Wal-Mart Primo hot/cold water dispenser. Level mate: +.
Gotta have: Electronic bidet (Toto). I also upgraded the suspension to minimize body roll. Gorilla bags and 1" diameter sway bar (big job: drill frame, order custom u-bolts). Big difference. Use a pre inspection border patrol-like undercarriage mirror with light. Upgraded battery bank to Lithium. Fashioned a slide out drawer. Onboard battery tender for coach battery. LED headlights/taillights. High decibel horn--defense, not offense. Keypad entry. Gas struts wherever possible. Hand/glove sanitizer dispenser at waste station. Dehumidifier. Oil circulating supplemental heater. Remote propane monitor. Onan generator resonator to reduce exhaust note (works). Wind detector automatic awning reel. Upgraded sound system. Security cameras. Exterior motion lighting or at least head band lights. Could not keep carpeting clean enough with dogs so I installed Pergo-like flooring over floor heat elements. Retractable shore station cable. Small bin mounted pressure washer with a retractable hose. Motion entry step lights. Dedicated tool array.
Swore off fast food.
Good job on video. One thing, you used "actually" 350 X's .😮 Basically, literally. What, no cornrows?
I don’t understand what cornrows have to do with it could you explain?
I think you are Ready to do a video!
Microfiber Towels - I bought two sets of 3 piece (bath, hand and wash cloth) towels and love them! They dry fast, are not heavy. I hang my hand towel by the loop that’s included. I added a 3M hook over my sink, so the hand towel cannot slip onto the floor after use.
yeah! We boondock a lot and use the bathhouses more than our own shower so we've put up command hooks and what not in our shower for that too!
We're planning to change from 5th wheel to Class C. That means we'll buy gently used which will need updates. Loved seeing some products that we know we'll need to upgrade. Thank you.
Thanks for watching
I must say that we have been part-timing for many years (15+) and we use most of the items you have mentioned. I wish I had seen this years ago, as we would have saved the landfill from a lot of junk! 😁
Nano tape YES!!! Love this. I have a few things at the sink like a pottery sponge holder and its held strong for 2 years. Same with button tap lights stay put too. I love those rolling sink racks. They are also great to dry things on the counter. I bought one for my home as well.
we're going to be getting work done to our 5th wheel camper, with your ideas, we will defiantly be using all except for any electrical to start
added the collapsible ladder to my Unit. thanks for the heads up on these. hated carrying a ladder to clean off slides all the time. This should fit perfect in my storage compartment. Thanks again
👍🏻
i did not put the collapisble ladder in a storage compartment but i just clamped it to the ladder of my RV
I used to watch your videos occasionally, but now that we have a new TT (just a little 20 footer), I watch all of your videos, including the ones from past! So informative and quite entertaining!!! Also, it’s so nice to have a woman blogger that isn’t always fixing her hair, checking herself out, and making fish lips! 😂 Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much!
A lot of great accessories. We have several of these. One we really need are the air conditioner silencers.
It makes such a difference!
VERY valuable and worthwhile video, Charity, thank you! We have used a lot of the same products that you reviewed in this video, many I would say are RV essentials! It's amazing how LOUD RV air conditioners can be. Our current coach, a Class A diesel pusher, isn't too bad, but the previous coach was horrendous, when the AC units came on it was like a freight train was sitting on the roof, any conversations had to be at a pretty high decibel! Still, the current one could be quieter, we will have to look into the product you reviewed to quiet them down. I too use the same adjustable water pressure regulator. But I have a story about that. Once when we were camping in St. Augustine, and I hooked up the regulator I discovered that we had no water in the coach when all around us did. Thinking there was something wrong with the water supply to our campsite, we contacted the management. They came out and said "No the water is fine, your regulator is defective!". I didn't think that was the case, so when the nice gentleman left, I hooked it back up and - no water. Mmm. I played around with the adjustment and, voila, water! Somehow, someone (me?) had cranked it all the way down the last time it was used. So embarrassing! So, there you have it. My RV'ing lessons are either A) expensive or B) embarrassing. Sometimes both. Thank you so much!
Soft starters have been a life saver in east carolina when we bring our TT to our house. Not to mention the longevity it gives the AC.
New RV owner here and I’m looking forward to trying a lot of these items out! Thank you for the amazing videos
Thanks for watching!
When you are travelling in your car, leaving your RV at the campground, you can safely pack cold food in the portable fridge for lunches and snacks while you are out exploring. Keeps food at a safe temperature as the hours go by, and the food is nicer to eat when it's cold.
Every time you say "The Amazon" it makes me smile. Love your videos! Starting our RV full time life soon and you're a big part of my researching.
Thank you!
Watch which tpms kit you buy. I work at a dealership and literally today a customers rv kept loosing pressure on their tire. Ended up being the weight of the sensor on the rubber valve stem caused it to prematurely crack from natural dry rot of the valve stem.
I have just purchased my first travel trailer for RV life and this video was very helpful. I have watched several of your other videos with more to come and they too have been very helpful. You are doing a real service to many. Thank you.😅
My daughter made a fridge bin for sandwichs.everything is in there. Bread, mayo,lunch meat. Cheeses whatever you us
Nice!
With towels in a moving vehicle, putting a buttonhole along the edge keeps them from falling off a hook.
Great idea
I've been looking at those telescoping ladders on Amazon, brilliant invention
The best solution for all of the black tank problems or maintenance issues is just using composting toilet.
I'm picking up a new grand design trailer in a couple of days and the first thing. I'm going to do is pull out the toilet then put in a composting variety.
I saw in the beginning of your video the highway signs that said Wildwood, Inverness. I live in The Villages and we have a Super C RV. I love watching all your videos, they are so informative. Thank you for what you do.
I used your link to buy the telescoping ladder for our 5th wheel! Looks like the perfect solution!
Ive seen tons of rv tours and the rvs have open cabinetry. Thank you for showing the nets!!!
Wow! You really put some time and effort in this one. VERY well done! Thank you!!!
Thanks for watching
Wow, thanks for sharing these awesome tips and storage ideas, much appreciated!😊❤
We added the soft start for our A/C and like you said it works GREAT, I am getting ready to order the micro fiber towels, ours never dry and start to not be good to use ! Thanks for the tip! There were several in this video we are going to look into the products. Keep up the good work!!!!
Thanks so much!
Thanks!
Thank you so much!!!
I bought the tank top hanger when I watched a previous video of yours and I LOVE THEM! I bought 2 because I live in TX and it's so hot and sticky here and I have a lot of tanks. I thought the center bar in them was wasted space so I hang scarves and belts on a few of them...
Some great new products! Thanks for always having awesome new goodies to share!!
Just watched this morning and have already used the rope baskets from one of your previous videos - Love it! Looking at several of the ideas on here as I'm really in to organization. Thanks for the great ideas!
Thanks for watching!
We are now empty nesters and going to buy a trailer soon.
I am making a binder of the trailers we want with all the accessories that dont come with the trailer. The binder will have everything we may need so we dont have to learn the hard way to buy them!
THANK YOU FOR THESE TYPE OF VIDEOS❤❤❤
This is an outstandingly helpful video! I ordered everything on leveling, everything from Amazon (minus the thermostat). Well done and thank you for the referrals. Merci
Such a great video, thank you so much for doing this. The portable fridge is very compelling. Nano tape, never heard of that but looks very useful. The TPMS, I'm probably going to have to buy that. We have a 38' class A, 2003 Newmar that we just bought. Came with new tires, but I'm very nervous about blowouts or low pressure situations caused by tire damage (nail, road debris, etc.). Shelf liner for travel days looks like a great idea. Venture products look great (towels & travel bag). And this is just to name a few. Soft Start, GPS, Telescoping ladder and others look like great products and great ideas for RV'ing.
Thanks for watching
Love your channel. At the moment we are stuck at home as my van needs repairing, the exhaust burnt a hole in the underslung water tank. Good advice and content. Thanks from the U.K
We just the house beds of 6 people and the 5th wheel with all new mattress for everyone game changer for sure! And thank you i have been wondering about the bug screens and see more detailon the burke.
Thank you for a useful video. I love the way you use and test the products before recommending. I ordered the LevelMate from your link because you showed real examples of my it will be so much more convenient than hopping out with a large level stick.
I always love your RV hacks! Very practical ideas! Thanks!
Probably know this and is why you created this video but just in case you don't, you should be getting a small percentage of each sale. It would be nice if you had an Amazon store so we could just go to that store to get any of these great accessories, you will also make money for each product sold. You have invested time and money to bring these products to us you deserve to get a kick back for this.
We do have an Amazon store: video.gratefulglamper.com/amazon/gratefulglamper
As a retired truck driver, I used the garmin 700 OTR , it can be used for semi trucks,RV's, or a car, I swear by garmin, it has saved my butt many times.
That is one of the BEST RV videos I’ve seen. Good ideas and info. Some I have but most I don’t ,but will soon . Thanks.
Thanks for watching
Thanks so much. This video is so helpful. We will be driving out of AK our 1st 3 month camping road trip 😊
Safe travels!
Just wanted to say I love your vides. I like getting your tips and tricks and have purchases some items based on your video recommendations. We have a pull behind camper and found that having enough ice was a problem because our frig is not big and the freezer is not big either and a bag of ice takes up the entire freezer! One item we invested in was a portable icemaker. We always carried coolers with bags of ice and it takes up so much space and you have to continually go and buy ice. We have been asked by relatives to bring our ice maker to family gatherings so we have enough ice for everyone. This was a good investment. I've made a list off the items in this video so we can check them out. As always thank you for the great videos and product recommendations.
I full time and your videos are great gives me lots of ideas bc there is never enough space I need ideas on extra counter space mine has none I have a 2015 hideaway
We find that the water pressure where we are varies wildly, and often just fill our fresh water tank daily and use our onboard pump instead, so we get predictable water pressure every time ;)
Thanks for all your great tips and ideas. Looking forward to trying them out soon!
We love our Berkey water filter. We have one at home and in the RV.
We love ours too, thanks for watching
The foot rest is great for those that need to use pumice on their heels and feet, or for those that are tall to effectively clean their legs and feet without falling out of the shower
Thank you very much for your video.
I like the idea of the AC silencer and will look into whether they will work on my unit(s).
While I've used small microfibre towels at home and a slightly larger one on canoe trips, I had not thought of using them for bath towels. While I like the large fluffy towels, the notion of how fast the microfibre dries works for me.
Snap Pads: Given that you also use wood, I'm not sure what the point is here. I have 12pc of 12" x 12" x 1.5" and then 8pc of 12 x 12 x 3/4 plywood. These cost me half of the snap pads. For me the pads will keep your metal pad wet leading to corrosion. The wood pieces are larger and prevent sinking, do not harm driveways and are easy to replace.
Dry Rack: I saw this, but I bought a $6 expandable cookie/baking rack that works great and is cheaper than the $20 for the rollup.
Ladder: Perhaps your rig is older, but there is no way I would attach anything to a ladder in these newer rigs. There is comment about them ripping off etc. I'm 240 lbs and I close my eyes every time I climb on my roof. (I also have your collapsible ladder).
Temp Monitor: We don't have pets so I'm not that concerned with the temps in the RV when we are not there. However I have BT monitor in the fridge that comes to a display on the dash when driving or on the table when camping. I realize many come to the phone, but I would often like to have a static display than to have to pull out my phone and load an app etc. and that does not work when driving.
Water Filter: We never drink from our tanks. We travel with up to 90L of potable from home. I had this last nearly 3 weeks even when being active in warm weather.
Soft Start: You buy mine. I installed one on my 2000 SeaBreeze and it worked great. However on our 2018 Georgetown, the new AC units seem to be all fixed and you no longer need these. I can easily run one AC on 15A and 2 on 30A. Before on the older units, it was 50/50 if the unit would trip the breaker when starting.
Jacking: Now I realize you folks have been doing this, but ... I never jack the back wheels off the ground as this is where your emergency brake is active and by doing so you lose all braking. You can chock your wheels, but I would not trust it. Park with your nose down and jack as required and if anything has to come off the ground let it be the front wheels.
Leveler: Now, of course you can use bubble levels etc. However, and perhaps your rig is a diesel and is stronger,. but the gas units will twist and what is level in one place is not in another. We use the 'door test' after it seems level, then we see of the bathroom door will swing. We also tip it very slightly backwards so that the AC units will drain properly. It can be surprising how much difference there can be in bubble levels in different parts of the RV. Your leveling unit is a single point of reference. I dunno.
Thanks again for your video and safe travels. Henri
Thanks for the very well thought out comment
I would love to see RV full timers and Van Life full timers just chatting about the pro's and cons of full timing either.
Thank you SO much for the accessory ideas! We just purchased a 5th wheel and can’t wait to add some of these to our camper!!
Thanks for watching
Great video. Thanks for sharing. A lot of the items you listed are things I have been looking for.
Glad it was helpful!
Great video. Take it for what its worth, some furnaces manufacturers don`t recommended or wont cover warranty on furnaces with vent covers because it can restric air flow to the furnace.
That’s what I found out too but I said the heck with it when we went from SC to Daytona Beach in November and needed the heat but stink bugs had gotten in the furnace and messed up the gas valve. They love propane.😅. Luckily I didn’t have to pay someone to fix it as I’m a DYI , besides any warranty wouldn’t have paid for the labor. And the valve was fine once I got the stink bugs all out.. 😊😅😂.. Now I have a screen on mine..
Lots of great ideas! We use 90% of them! Great video!
Totally enjoyed this video. We are new to RVing and having this content helps... a lot. The link to the Venture 4th towels is broken... you may want to change it 🙂 All the other links functioned as expected. I found it kind of funny that 66 degrees was cold... but then again, I live in Idaho - hahaha
Thanks for pointing that out! We've updated the link: amzn.to/4flv9HK
Loved your hack about the foot holder in the shower. I not only need one for my RV I need one for my home shower. Thank you
Of course- thanks for watching
Thank you for sharing! These real world examples are always appreciated - especially a more extensive list since there's likely to be fewer items that are "not bad" that might get dropped from a shorter list.
My biggest pet peeve is leveling the RV.
I just look for the flatter spot I can and then go from there.
But having the last hack using that leveler app, I’m gonna look into that it’s gonna be a game changer for me😮😊😊
The suction shower foot deal is ingenious thanks for all your work goos info
Thanks for watching!
Great information, I've used some of these for years. Some ideas make me go hmm?!?
Thanks for watching
these videos are going to make us go broke... just bought a few things off your suggestion and links. Thanks! :)
Lol, thanks for watching!
Turkish cotton towels work the same way and they compact well too.
Weekend camper typically off-grid. I’ll stick with my version 2 unless Starlink comes out with the ‘mini’ or DC lower power consumption option.
Hi, Great video, I thought I had figured things out, but I learned a lot. Thank you
Thanks for watching 💙
Thanks for your tips, great video happy glamping.
Thanks for watching
Cool stuff. You are clearly the Gadget queen. I've been RVing (for vacations) about 2-3 weeks every year for decades and I honestly don't have any of these tools, gadgets, addons. (I also don't have room in my 34Ft Fifth wheel for most)
I did see a few I'm going to buy and try though. Thanks!
Thanks for watching
Thank you, I'm just starting to RVing. Picking up my class C at the end of the month
Yay! 🎉
Been watching your videos for a long time now. Your one of the reasons we want to travel. Is it alright if we list gratefulglamper in our featured channels?
Of course!
Thank you so much for sharing! I got so many ideas and things in my Amazon cart now.
Awesome, thanks for watching
Great info. Just bought my 1st RV Trailer. 1996 Jayco 256SL for my land in Maine. Your hacks make sense. Keep them coming! RJ-
Thanks!
love your channel
new to rv life and intrigued w idea of macerater for 2 reasons especially
1. eliminating stinky slinky and use more compact and versatile hose
2. pump waste away vs gravity…
it would seem that one could almost fertilize anywhere w a pump to disperse the fouls anywhere..( i would not expect you to condone this publicly).
While I'm a noob, only TT camping since latter 2020, I have a lot of the things you listed. I've tried the "cages" over the vents, no luck (springs didn't hold cage tight on opening); I actually threw them away, now I have to buy them again. I saw someone on utube used longer screws and spacers to screw the heater vent cage to the vent, so I'm going to try that. I'd love to get a TPMS system, but too pricey right now; it's on my list. We are lucky our A/C isn't real loud and use fan as "white noise" at night so A/C kicking on/off doesn't wake us. The inside filter is junk. Btw, was having issues with black tank "clogs"; found I had gotten lazy and stopped using the hose support and was letting hose just sit on the ground. Once I started using the hose support again, issue went away.
I love your videos and you make me feel really good when you recommend a product and I’m already using it.😊 Anyway we’re upgrading to a fifth wheel in two years and going full time and your videos are valuable to me for storage ideas and product hacks in general. My one issue is we aren’t going to have a home base or vacay house so we will need storage for the items we’re keeping (not a lot) for when we stop traveling and we start over in a little barn in the mountains somewhere. Plus I figure I’ll have to rotate seasonal clothes out of storage because of storage. Do you have storage? We don’t know where to locate our storage? Near our probable retirement spot? In the middle of the country so it’s easy to get to? Anyway I hope you read this and thank you for your tips, they’re fantastic.
Most people keep a storage unit somewhere near their “home town” where they know will want to come to from time to time. Thanks for watching our videos.
One more must-have is to replace that missing smoke detector in the bathroom. That is far more important than anything else.
Love my level mate pro...i have a 5th wheel and it is awesome to be able to have it on and find the most level point before unhooking.
👍🏻
OMGoodness I just subscribed to your channel after watching you on RV Unplugged. Also after I saw this video I was thrilled to see someone replace their gas stove with an induction stove top. We want to do this too but have no idea where to do it. We are not handy and need someone to do it for us. Do you think a dish washer would fit in the oven space as well? We live close to Dallas, Texas. We sure appreciate any help you can give us. Blessings, Rebecca Rogers
Yes, we considered a dishwasher as it would totally fit. Check out the site from the NRVTA to find a tech rvtaa.org/locate/ to help with the install.
wait! is your hubby Avery? do you have a cat named Milo? were you a school teacher? I follow you! nntr!
On your next update of new items on your RV or even in between that, please talk to us about why you have your solar panels on top of your air conditioners. Does this have something to do with the soft start?
Thank you for sharing detailed info. So helpful!
my airfryer is amazing at the RV perfect ribeyes every time.
Love your channel. So much good information, but how did I first notice your channel? I saw Alaska, and shouted, “Is that a Great Pyrenees?” Came to see the pyr, stayed for the content. For us, it was “wait to see if they have any tips for traveling with a pyr”. The net this time…
Awe, we do love Mr. Alaska! We do have a couple of videos on traveling with pets. If you search RUclips for “grateful Glamper pets” you’ll see them! Thanks for watching
i want the hangers and shaving step for my house too.
Thank you so so much and God bless you for all jar ideas and I have a question what is good for Mod When is inside a house bless from miami❤❤❤❤
We have tons of ideas for your home mods! Let us know if you have specific questions and we’ll try to help.
Interesting video. I’m not an RV’er (currently researching before I rent first), but some of these products can be used in the home too.
👍🏻
I really dig your ice cube trays with lids! Do they crack/release easily? Where’d you purchase them?
Thanks for sharing! We just use a regular pillow top Q mattress that we love. And much less expensive. Love your ideas!
I use the toiletries bags for my travel watercolor paint kit.
Awesome use!
I liked the rope walls but didn't see them in the description.
Lots of clever ideas!
Curious about a pad to go under the mattress for airflow. With your experience is that an investment that should be made?
What a great video! Thank you soo much for sharing…..especially for us soo to be newbies.😃💜👏👏👏
Alaska looks like a Great Pyr. We've got 2 and will be living in our RV for the next few months... should be fun and full of dog fur
I used the flow jet into camco holding tank into my truck and took to nearby park for a dump fee when mooch docking with iffy leach field, please try the power watch dog super cool w Bluetooth you can monitor you usage and see what devices eat up amps