Before campers strike out on their adventures, they should make sure they have the proper equipment. Vacationers can find all the best gadgets for camping from online retailers like Newegg so they’re prepared for every challenge Mother Nature has to offer.

LED lantern

Building a fire is a traditional outdoor activity, but many campsites require people to extinguish their flames before they go to sleep. The requirements are meant to ensure that the park and its campers are safe at night. Unfortunately, vacationers stills require light sources. Flashlights don’t provide adequate illumination and the batteries likely won’t last the length of a trip.

LED lanterns are the perfect tools for navigating through the dark wilderness. The devices illuminate a wider area and are more durable than standard flashlights. Additionally, LED bulbs last five times longer than their incandescent counterparts. Some models come bundled with batteries so campers don’t have to worry about packing additional power sources for their trips.

Digital camera

Many vacationers hike while camping. People take their time and slowly climb steep hills to look down at a beautiful landscape. The scenes are usually breathtaking, and are often once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Hikers should always have digital camera so that the memories can last forever.

Campers aren’t going to use the standard consumer devices to take pictures. Most cameras are fragile and ill-suited for a dangerous trip like a long hike. Fortunately, manufacturers build rugged models specifically for outdoor use. The cameras are usually composed of durable rubber and plastic so they’re safe from the elements. Additionally, some models have network connectivity so that photos can instantly save to a cloud service.

Satellite phone

Vacationers can easily get lost in the woods, even if they’re in relatively controlled environments like national parks. Satellite phones can help people contact their groups or search parties so they can be rescued and return to safety. The devices always connect to dedicated networks so that campers can always call for assistance.

Smartphones aren’t always useful when it comes to the great outdoors. Most major networks don’t extend to unpopulated areas like national parks, so users can’t find a signal and call for help. Satellite phones allow campers to rest assured that they can always find assistance in the event of an emergency.

GPS

A satellite phone should be a last resort. Campers should be prepared to get themselves out of any situation and avoid potential danger. A map and a compass may be sufficient tools for seasoned survivalists, but average vacationers might have difficulty using the analog tools.

A GPS should be packed in every camper’s bag before heading out on their trips. The devices can lead users to safety even if they’re off the beaten trail. Many web stores sell various models so shoppers can find the perfect gadget for their trip. For instance, there are handheld versions for short expeditions that hikers can keep in their pockets. Alternatively, rugged models are better suited to every element the great outdoors has to offer.

This is a guest post from Courtney Lee who writes for Newegg.com. A digital nomad who enjoys exploring new places, Courtney advises fellow travelers to check out Newegg’s wide selection of digital cameras so that during trips, no special moments will be left un-captured.

Images courtesy of Clip Art [http://www.office.com]

What is Specialty RV Insurance? Specialty RV insurance includes coverage options that are generally not available on a standard auto policy. The following are descriptions of Specialty RV coverages offered by Most Specialty Insurance Agency:

Emergency Vacation Expense coverage is an option that reimburses out-of-pocket expenses that occur when an RV is out of use due to a covered loss. This coverage is available on every specialty RV policy with a $750 coverage limit for recreational users, and a $1,500 limit for full-timers. Hotels, meals, and car rentals are all examples of expenses that may be reimbursed for RVers who are stranded while waiting for their RV to be repaired.

Vacation Liability provides general liability coverage while the RV is used as a vacation residence. This liability protection follows the insured from campsite to campsite, or RV lot to RV lot. It extends to the boundaries of the site to protect the insured from any incident for which an insured may be legally responsible. When an RVer becomes a full-timer, full-time personal liability replaces this coverage.

Diminishing deductibles is a coverage option that is hard to decline. When selected, this option decreases the amount of the comprehensive and collision deductibles by 25% for every claim-free year until the deductible hits zero. For example, if the insured selects a $1,000 deductible for both comprehensive and collision coverage, it will decrease by $250 each year the insured stays claim free, and the insured will enjoy the premium savings of paying for a $1,000 deductible!

Replacement Cost for Personal Effects coverage is an option that replaces belongings inside the RV that are destroyed during a covered loss. Clothes, pots and pans, silverware, plates, bowls, DVDs, clock/radios, and lawn furniture are all examples of belongings that are covered under this option. More expensive items, such as televisions that are not part of the RV, jewelry, stereos, and computers should be listed under Scheduled Valuable Personal Property coverage.

Extended Utility Trailer coverage is an option that covers utility trailers pulled behind a motor home. Every RV policy automatically covers physical damage to a utility trailer up to $2,500; however, Explorer can increase that coverage up to $99,000. As RVers take more of their belongings with them on trips, utility trailers are becoming the norm, so it makes sense for the insured to include their trailer on the same policy as their RV.

Golf cart/moped coverage is another option that simplifies RV insurance coverage. With Explorer, you can add physical damage coverage to your RV policy to protect a golf cart or moped that is not licensed for street use, but rather used in campsites and parks.

Mexico physical damage is a great option available to any RVer. This option extends comprehensive and collision coverage into Mexico as long as the insured separately purchases Mexico liability coverage. For more in-depth information on this option, contact your agent.

Awning replacement is available as an option to insureds that qualify for Total Loss Replacement coverage. Awning replacement covers the awning for the full replacement cost of the awning during the RVs first two model years.

Windshield replacement coverage, (offered in most states) protects your RV from damaged windshields. This is a tremendous value considering the current cost of replacing motor home windshields.

Whether you hit the road permanently or just for a vacation, you need to feel assured that everything is going to be okay when the unexpected happens. A Specialty RV policy provides coverage to fill some of the gaps that can exist with a standard auto policy. These gaps can be filled economically, as most of these coverage options are inexpensive and go a long way when needed.

Explorer Specialize in RV insurance nationally; (LLC, Trust, and Business coverage) (Class A, B, C, Motor homes, Bus Conversion, Med-duty). Finding a insurance solution for our clients is what we do, and Explorer can help your clients. Please contact with any questions.

Tod Carney
Agency Manager

So how can we accomplish that?  Well, simply put again, in one of two ways:

1) Attract campers that are more interested in golfing

2) Get campers who wouldn’t normally golf to golf (or golf more)

If you can design a package with good options, you can likely accomplish both at once.  Generally speaking, you’ll have to offer a pretty good deal to get infrequent or non-golfers on the course.  That deal will eventually get to the golfers (or you can market directly to them), and your campground or resort can become known as one with great golf packages, thus giving you more campers interested in golfing.  Yeah, simple, I know.

What isn’t always simple, is creating the actual packages.  Consider this about infrequent and non-golfers:

1) They won’t pay as much to golf. (and special discounting could upset your regulars)
2) They’ll play slower. (costing the golf course money in busy times, not to mention frustrating golfers who won’t return)
3) Many don’t know etiquette rules. (you’ll need to budget more for maintenance and Ranger fees)
4) They won’t spend a lot in your pro shop. (stock some less expensive items and you’ll still do fine)

That makes keeping everyone happy a challenge.  Especially if you have members.  Either way, you’ve got to find a way to build an incentive program to get people golfing, keep your stellar reputation, and not lose your current business.  With all that in mind, let’s go over the possibilities.

Camper Discount Taken at Register
What you’ll need: Some way for campers to identify themselves.
How it works: Campers flash their card and get a discount on purchases at the register
Pros: It’s easy. It’s straightforward for everyone. Minimizes confusion
Cons: People frequently forget their cards. Regular customers aren’t happy about seeing the camper discounts.  No urgency to play.

The main benefit of this one is how easy it is for everyone.  However, I wouldn’t recommend it.  It’s a great way to get your regulars/members upset, especially if some of your players aren’t exactly scratch golfers.

Prepaid Package
What you’ll need: Either great communication between your billing department and the pro shop, or some kind of ticket/coupon for campers to use at the golf course.
How it works: Campers can prepay at the RV park for one of many packages you offer.  Some packages I would suggestion: 2-person w/cart packages, 4-person w/cart packages (you can do walking packages too, or discount them), 2/4-person lunch packages, prepaid pro shop discount packages, etc.  Another option is a golfing punch-card, where campers can purchase “10 rounds of golf” and get their card punched whenever they use one.  This is great for longer stays.
Pros: The discounts aren’t in the face of your regulars.  It allows pricing flexibility for specific parties.  It’s easy if you keep it simple.
Cons: Several different packages can be difficult to keep track of for employees.  What happens if they don’t use them all? Refunds?  It also means they only get specific discounts, so now they don’t have an incentive to make purchases they otherwise may have.

If you want to keep it simple, this is a good way to go.  Just offer your basic packages and they’ll be easy for everyone to keep track of.  But, you are missing out a little by going with this program.  Since people don’t get discounts on everything, only what they’ve signed up for, they’re less likely to buy range balls, make pro shop purchases, eat lunch, etc, once they get there (especially if they had an option to buy a package which included it).  It also makes things a little confusing, as far as where campers are supposed to purchase these packages, etc.

End-of-Stay or Periodic Billing
What you’ll need: “Credit Cards” associated with each camp site.
How it works: Whenever a camper wants to make a purchase on with your company, he/she can just charge it on the RV Site card.  At the end of the stay (or monthly for seasonal campers), campers are given a discount based on how much as spent.  If they spent less than $100, maybe they’ll get 5% off.  Over $1000? 20% off.  Whatever amounts you go with, be sure to create an incentive to spend more.
Pros: No money exchange in front of your regulars/members.  You’re charging “full price.”  It’s good for anything (unless you specifically exclude it).  People spend more on credit.
Cons: You need to make sure people can pay.  You need a system/communication in place to process the cards and do the billing.  Without the right system, things can get a little messy.

You’re basically becoming a little Disney World.  You can stay at any of their resorts and charge things to your room bill.  If they’re doing it, it’s got to be a good idea right?  Well, it is.  Once you get the system down, ensure your margins are correct, and your staff knows what they are doing, this is the best way to keep everyone happy.

Other package tips:

Non-Prime time Incentives
If your campers are slowing down play, create package incentives for non-prime golf times.  We let our regular weekend golfers play Saturday and Sunday mornings like they want to, and created incentives for campers to play in the afternoons and evenings when it wasn’t as busy.

RV’er League
Have enough RV’ers interested in a league.  They’ll probably enjoy playing with other RV’ers.  Set aside time and run a weekly league where they can have a good time.

Give’em a Freebie
Don’t want to worry about math and changing how you charge people because it gets confusing?  Give them some freebies.  Play 3 rounds of golf your 4th is free.  Buy a golf package and stay an extra night free.  You know how your numbers work better than I do.  But, we all know people like free.

Got questions or comments?  Leave them below and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can! Oh, and happy new year!

Mike LaLonde

Mike is a marketing consultant specializing in Internet marketing.  He managed a Golf RV Resort, and now is helping small businesses (including campgrounds and golf courses) develop effective web presences at Londes Internet Marketing.  He specializes in SEO, online marketing, a/b testing and conversion analysis.

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8 Reasons to RV:

1 – Air travel is getting so complex and time consuming that you might as well drive if your destination is under 4 hours. Not to mention, you’ll probably be more comfortable in your own space!

2 – It’s not always easy to bring your pet if you’re flying or staying in a hotel – RVC properties are pet friendly as well as many others.

3 – New friends! People who RV are usually really social; it’s a truly fun lifestyle!

4 – The overall cost of an RV vacation is much less than flying, stretching your vacation dollar much further. Also, while hotel and motel stay is usually $80-$100 (or more) per night, typical RV costs can be as low as $30 per night.

5 – You’ll get to enjoy the ‘great outdoors,’ something most of us want to do more of but don’t get the chance to. And, you have the comforts of your own home.

6 – You can make the traveling aspect of your trip fun; many people I talk to purposely take routes that are scenic so they can stop and take photos, explore new places on the way, etc.

7 – Family time. Quality time is so much more enjoyable when you aren’t cramped in a car or spread out on an airplane next to people you don’t know. Many people agree that this is the best way to travel if you have younger children, too.

8 – Amenities and activities. Research your destination; you will probably be surprised by how nice and accommodating some RV resorts are (especially ours!)

Yale Spina is the Vice President of Operations at RVC Outdoor Destinations, a company that owns and operates five resorts in the Southeast U.S. He also owns an Airstream that he refurbished and loves to travel with.

Guest Post by Yale Spina

Signing up is easy!  Head over to the GolfandRV.com course sign-up page to get started.  It only takes 2 minutes!

A lot of people are into different hobbies and interests these days. Their lifestyles changes constantly with time. One of the most in vogue today is RVing. Many individuals are into RVing resulting to their increased in popularity. When you have an RV, travelling for vacations is not far behind and most likely you might have experienced your own RV vacation or have thought of having one. Why do you think you should go for an RV vacation?

Nature Lovers

For nature lovers an RV getaway is a great vacation for them. Travelling around on their travel trailer visiting parks and renowned landmarks and simply savoring the nature around them breathing in fresh air, watching river flows, hearing the sounds of birds, feasting their eyes with green trees and colorful flowers is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.

Vacations in the Comfort of Your Own Home

An RV has all the comforts like what you have in your home and much greater than having to spend your time camping in a tent. You can cook, eat and store your food, watch TV and CDs, lie in the comfort of your bedroom, dine in your dining table and have your shower in your bathroom. It’s like you never left your home at all.

Have Fun with Your Family

Having an RV vacation with your family promotes closeness among the family members. Getting away from your normal lifestyle and living an easier life away from work stress, pressure from school and meeting new friends along the way makes a travel trailer vacation worthwhile. Vacations are always fun for families.

Kids Finds it Cool

Going for a vacation is just cool for kids much more if they will be having their vacation in travel trailer. You can feel the excitement among them and never stops talking about the things they want to do in campgrounds or parks, the other children whom they will meet adds to the thrill. They can go have campfires with other kids as well as stay out under the night sky gazing at the stars.

Flexible

RV travel trailer vacations are more flexible compared to going for packaged trips. You can change locations any time you want depending on your desires. They give you freedom and liveliness inspiring you to be wild and reckless creating your own escapades as you travel around the country.

Travel Trailer Vacations are Reasonable

RV travel trailer vacations are more reasonable. It cuts down on hotel and restaurant bills, car rentals and airfares. You can save a lot on a travel trailer vacations. Either you are renting one or having your own RV. All you need to have is to have a sound plan on how you want to spend your vacation.

The benefits of an RV vacations provides you more comfort and convenience during your travel. It is a great of way of spending more time with your family and cool for the kids as well. It is flexible, you can change your location or cut your trips any time, and most importantly, it is inexpensive.

By Greg Mitchell, Guest Writer