RV Home Yet?

Should homeless RVers get a break?

2009-11-11T10:48:00-08:00

Should homeless RVers be able to stay put even when they exceed the time period for camping in one spot? That's what Tuolumne County supervisors are wrestling with. Paolo Maffei is urging the county to change the rules since unemployment is so high and until the economy improves. He says it is better to have people living in a friend or relative's RV rather than on the streets.

This would not apply to residents of RV parks nor people camping in campgrounds on public lands. The federal and state governments have their own time limits. Maffei is talking about people camping in fields or forests or on private property.

One of the big concerns is where do you dump your sewage? Usually in these situations there is not a sewage outlet to connect to. It means either using a BlueBoy - a 10-40 gallon tank on wheels that can cart your sewage from RV to a dump - or moving your RV. Realistically, how many people who are not regular RVers will do that? Unless they do not use their facilities or water at all, that black or gray water has to go somewhere. Some RVs that people are living in haven't moved in years. I can see why some people would complain.

Public assistance for people who have lost their homes is totally overwhelmed in many localities. This puts officials between a rock and a hard place. As Maffei is doing, they could look at RVs as a temporary solution to the housing problem. It is better than being on the street or living in a tent in the forest. If a county RV or municipality paid to have tanks pumped, that would be much less than providing an apartment. More people could be taken care of. Perhaps FEMA could donate trailers to local areas for temporary housing rather than sell them.

This is a totally different RV lifestyle than most of us envision by the term or are living. If you ever have been in a situation where money is not coming in or is far below your needs, you can feel compassion for the many who are now in that situation. I hope Tuolumne County supervisors can be compassionate too while taking into account public health and safety - namely properly disposing of the sewage that a family generates- whether in a stick house or an RV. Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

Should RVers be required to have a CDL?

2009-11-10T20:03:10-08:00

Last Saturday, a 72-year-old man was driving a 2008 Allegro RV on I-65 in Indiana, pulling a horse trailer. He was driving in the fast lane. When traffic halted, he put on the gas instead of the brake, plowing into a van with a couple and their two young children. The van was pushed into a truck, which then hit three more vehicles. Traffic on I-65 was closed for several hours.

The driver of the RV was cited for driving in the fast lane illegally, driving a vehicle-trailer combination exceeding the maximum length and speeding when required to reduce speed. He also was given a warning for having an expired trailer registration plate.

It's accidents like these that make some people - and some states- believe that RVers should be required to have a CDL, or at least a special license, in order to drive an RV or combination over 26,000 pounds (see photo). While having a CDL doesn't mean that it will stop drivers from doing something stupid or being poor drivers, but it would mean that RV drivers of big rigs would need to know the law in order to be licensed and possibly pass a special driving test to make sure they can safely operate their RV.

Some states already require that drivers of large RVs have a special license. Changing Gears has a list of all states and notes which ones require a CDL or special license.Of the popular domiciles for RVers - South Dakota, Florida and Texas - only Texas requires a non-commercial A or B license for RVs over a certain size.

What do you think? Should RVers with large rigs be required to have a CDL or non-commercial driver's license? What it improve safety on the road? Would an accident like the one above possibly have been avoided had this man been required to have a special license? Leave a comment. Let us know what you think. Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

RV tip: Check out that RV mattress

2009-11-09T19:05:02-08:00

Is your RV mattress comfortable? The older and less expensive models have had mattresses you are more likely to find at a discount mattress warehouse for less than $100. In the Pace Arrow I originally started full-time RVing in, the mattresses were awful! They were pieces of foam with a thin covering. It wasn't long before my back started protesting. We ended up purchasing an air mattress at the RV show in Quartzsite. I don't remember the brand, but they could custom-size it for an RV. What a difference! Now air mattresses are offered as standard in the more upscale coaches and as options in others.

Not everyone is sold on air mattresses. Some RVers add a pillow top mattress pad or purchase a pillow top mattress. They swear by their comfort. Both pillow tops and air beds are an improvement over our foam mattresses.

Shopping for an RV

Since a mattress is so important to a good night's sleep, be sure you lie down on the RV mattress in any unit you are considering and stay there for a while. Get into your normal sleep positions. Do you feel the board supporting the bed? Is the mattress the proper firmness for you? Unless you plan to purchase a new mattress after you buy the RV, make sure it will work for you.

A tip if you purchase an RV with an air mattress: Let some air out of the mattress if you'll be climbing in elevation and adjust it again after you arrive at your destination. This will prevent damage. Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

Montana LLC- yea or nay?

2009-11-08T08:49:23-08:00

A recent exchange about Montana LLCs at an RV group I belong to has brought out some pros and cons of forming an LLC to register your RV.

First, what is it for? By forming a Limited Liability Corp in Montana, you avoid paying sales tax. Most people who form an LLC for this purpose are domiciled elsewhere. That could come back to bite you in some cases. Keep in mind, I am sharing what others have found and do not personally have an LLC nor have I personally talked to someone in the firms mentioned below. I am sharing this because it is a question I am often asked and these points could help you ask better questions and make a better decision based on your personal circumstances.

Pros

No sales tax. For a motorhome around $150,000, that saves literally thousands of dollars.
Montana has a one-time registration fee so you do not pay yearly licensing and registration fees.
Your personal liability is limited in the case of an accident.

Cons

Some states will impose severe penalties if you are domiciled in their state but have a Montana LLC. You may be forced to re-register your RV in their state. States are not happy about losing the revenue.
You may have to pay a yearly fee to the law firm that formed your LLC for required annual meetings.

Before acting

If you pursue this, talk to a lawyer who specializes in LLCs in Montana and find out if your domicile puts you at risk for penalties. RVers cautioned about being domiciled in Texas and Washington, though others found work-arounds. Be sure you know the law as it applies to your state before proceeding.

Check overall costs and make sure you will actually realize a savings. For a used or less expensive rig, you may not find a difference.

I am not personally familiar with these firms but you can use this information as a starting place.

Bennett Law Office, P.C. specializes in LLCs- advertises in several RV magazines.
Destination Financial Services works with Bennett and another firm and has financing packages

Yea or nay? Do your research, then decide for you. Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

Looking towards Quartzsite, January 2010

2009-11-07T12:33:29-08:00

Are you planning on coming to Quartzsite during January? Maybe thinking about it and wondering if it is worth going? Is this your year?

Quartzsite is one of those phenomena you should do at least once! You'll see nothing like it. You may love it or hate it, but it's worth going once. Each year sees changes in Quartzsite. The town realizes lots of revenues from the vendors, winter visitors and tourists passing through, particularly in January. They have added a number of buildings over the years. Last year we found more RV dealers taking space that had formerly been a flea market or show. Visitation was down last year compared to prior years, probably due to the economy, making it easier to get around.

Quartzsite RV show
Now there are two stoplights in town, which has improved traffic flow. It used to be that during the Quartzsite RV Show, we would hunker down and shop before traffic had built up, using various shortcuts to get around. We would park a distance from the show and then walk or bike in. Above all, we learned the hard way, avoid the first day! It's packed and much less crowded after that. he RV show is there for a whole week from January 16-24 so pick another day. Two shows follow the RV show in the big tent so check the Web site for more information.

Other shows
The Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce has a show schedule posted at their Web site. You can see when the various shows/vendor areas will be open.

BLM camping, RV parks and motels
Visitors have several options when visiting Quartzsite.

Motels: Actually, motels are in short supply in Quartzsite- a Super 8 plus two small local hotels that are usually booked is all it offers. More hotels are in Blythe, CA, about 22 miles away.
RV parks: A list of commercial RV parks can be found at the Quartzsite Business Chamber of Commerce. Many only operate during the high season and have zero amenities and often little space. Be sure there is room for slideouts and your tow vehicle or toad.
BLM: You have two choices: You can purchase a permit for La Posa Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) for $180 for seven months or $40 for two weeks. The LTVA has a location with water, trash receptacles and for sewage disposal. There are also several 14-day areas around Quartzsite. No fee is charged. Several locations in town sell water, propane, have dumps or offer showers and laundry facilities.

Mail: You can have your mail sent to Quartzsite in care of general delivery. Returning visitors often have their mail sent to Blythe or another nearby town where lines are shorter. We combine grocery shopping with picking up mail with much less hassle.

For more information on Quartzsite, see our article, “The Glory that is Q,” updated for 2010.

We are planning on being there the last two weeks of January. We have an event scheduled (more later) and need to work on our gold claim. See you there? Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

Get your motorhome soon!

2009-11-06T12:53:18-08:00

The motorhome tax credit under the stimulus bill will expire December 31, 2009. If you have been thinking about making a purchase, act soon and deduct a portion of the sales and excise taxes on your income tax form. This will reduce your tax obligation for 2009.

According to RVIA Today Express:

For the remainder of the calendar year, tax provisions under the stimulus package allow for sales and excise tax deductions for new purchases of qualified motor vehicles, including motorhomes. The deductions are attributable to taxes applying to the first $49,500 of the purchase price. Individuals with an adjusted gross income of up to $125,000 and joint filers with an adjusted gross income of up to $250,000 are eligible for the deduction, which will reduce the taxpayer’s taxable income.

Cash or credit?

Should you purchase your RV on credit? You can deduct the interest on your income tax if your RV will be your main or second home. Your accountant can best advise you whether or not this is an advantage to you overall. Having your RV paid off does give you more flexibility, particularly if your spending is close to or exceeds your income including the payment.

You could realize quite a savings by taking advantage of the tax credit. It's something to consider. If you'd like more details, see the "RVIA Fact Sheet on the Motor Vehicle Sales and Excise Tax Deduction Benefit for Consumers."

Shop wisely

Even though this deal is tempting, follow all the steps you would normally follow to make a major purchase. Do not make this an impulse buy.

Research RVs and find the right one for your planned RV lifestyle. The RV Consumer Group rates RVs for their intended use and lets you know about their quality. A membership is well worth the price when you consider you will be spending thousands of dollars.
Go to RV shows and dealers without your credit card or checkbook. Take a check list of the features you want and then photograph each RV so you can have pictures to jog your memory when making a comparison.
If you look at used units, hire your own inspector to check the unit out- both the engine and the body. Some weaknesses or problem areas are hard to see if you don't know what you are looking for.
Test drive the unit. When we were looking at RVs, my late husband, Bill, drove a Fleetwood Bounder. Forever after we called them Fleetwood Bouncers! A washer/dryer combo had been added and that rattled and rolled plus the overall drive was very bouncy. That was the end of that one. A beautiful RV may not have a smooth ride.
Have your financing lined up a head of time. That can save you big money in interest and give you more bargaining power.
Check out the dealer with the Better Business Bureau and with RVServiceReviews.com to see how other RVers have rated them on the service end of things. I guarantee you will have to go back to get things fixed after your purchase.

Comparison shop

I do advise comparison shopping. Dealers are still hungry for sales. When Bill and I were getting ready to full-time RV and looking for a rig, we initially were interested in a Travel Supreme 5th wheel. We saw them at a show and were impressed with how well made they were. Bill sent a letter with specifications to a dozen or so dealers east of the Mississippi. We were astonished to find about a $20,000 difference in prices! The dealer closest to us in Maryland was had the highest price. With dealers listed on the Internet, it is much easier to let your "fingers do the walking" - either by phone or keyboard.

Should you rush into purchasing an RV in the next two months? Yes, if you are ready to make a purchase and have done your research or are willing to do so. If not, you'll have to weigh the savings v possibly making a too hasty decision. In any case, this lifestyle is an adventure and the sooner you get your RV, the sooner you can get out and take advantage of it! Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

Veteran's Day free admissions

2009-11-05T18:07:50-08:00

Reading today’s RV Daily News, I noticed that the some public entities are offering free admission on Veteran’s day. RVers may want to take advantage of these deals if they are nearby. Here are some I found.

Federal lands: The federal government is offering free admission for everyone to national parks, forests and other public lands on Veteran's Day, Nov. 11. This will not apply to camping or to fees charged by concessionaires unless one individually waives fees.

Florida State Parks: Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will offer free day-use entry to all state park visitors on Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, 2008.

New Mexico: On Veterans' Day, all New Mexico veterans, active duty military personnel, their spouses and dependent children receive free admission to the State Parks, museums and monuments. See announcement.

Colorado: Colorado's 42 state parks are offering free admission to military veterans Wednesday for Veterans Day. Veterans who show a valid military service identification card at park gates can get in free, along with anyone else in their vehicles.

Check with other states to see if they, too, are offering free admissions to veterans or all citizens on Veteran’s Day.

Reminder: In the latest issue of RV Lifestyles ezine, we announced that Applebees will provide a free meal to any veteran showing proof of military service. Some restrictions apply, so check the Applebee's Web site s.

Warning

Oklahoma State Parks: Lake Eufaula State Park, located in McIntosh County, has been advised to inform guests and other consumers of the drinking water that it is unsafe for human consumption due to the presence of E. coli. This boil advisory affects Lake Eufaula State Park only. See press release.

Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

The many ways Workamping gives you a better retirement

2009-11-04T07:59:42-08:00

In a CNNMoney.com article, “Three Steps to a Better Retirement” the author says, “If you're behind on your retirement saving, it's not too late. These three options can help you live a better life in your golden years.” In the article, Walter Updegrave details his three steps. While following them won’t give you a fabulous retirement, if you have no savings to begin with, you can still accumulate a nest egg by saving $250 month.

“Don’t Quit Your Day Job” is the second step mentioned. This is recommended because, if nothing else, it will keep you from dipping into your retirement savings as much. It could also add to your social security benefits if you postpone taking social security and keep contributing plus add to your savings.

Ways to earn money
For RVers, Workamping at a paid or volunteer position allows both your RV travels and a chance to either add to your income or reduce your expenses. You can work at more than one location each year and see the country. Depending on your financial needs, you can earn a fair wage or you can simply get an RV site. Here are a just few ideas from more income to tradeouts:

Sales: Sales has the potential for high income, though most sales requires a few years to develop client relationships. Sales of ads for campgrounds can be lucrative, but some just starting out lose money so be cautious. Air Photo, a featured employer at Workamper.com, is one where you make a one-time sale. Couples working for them report $30,000-50,000 yearly income without working all year.

Contract work or consulting: If you have a background in computer programming or other skill in demand, you could get assignments or continue working in your field on your own terms, often from your RV. If you can get this going before you hit the road, you can avoid a lag time in income while you develop clients.

Government work: Working for the federal government pays higher than average wages. As a seasonal employee for the National Park Service, Bill, my late husband, and I made $12-18 per hour. A friend who works during fire season makes $25+ an hour plus per diem. Another RVer now works for FEMA during disasters, making an excellent hourly wage plus per diem. (Pictured: Ranger giving tours at Mesa Verde National Park)

Temporary work: Pay varies according to skill level and employer. There are temporary agencies that specialize in construction, Internet technology, medical, accounting and others. Tax season work can be lucrative for some.

RV parks and campgrounds: Many RVers workamp at RV parks and campgrounds because an RV site is usually included. Sometimes the work is in exchange for a site, and often it includes pay. Pay is generally around minimum wage, but some employers do pay more.

Exchanges: Trade your time and effort for a site. This saves on your camping fee and so has value plus allows you to stay in an area for a while, also saving on fuel costs. Or, volunteer at a national or state RV park in exchange for our site.

These are just a few of the ideas of the more than 350 from Support Your RV Lifestyle! An Insider’s Guide to Working on the Road, which also includes all the how-to’s and legal and financial ramifications.

Workamping can not only give you more money during retirement, it can be fun and provide meaning and structure in your life. It’s a way to make new friends and develop community on the road. Often perks like free admissions to area attractions are also included. And, what always makes me chuckle with delight - you are being paid to be in beautiful places! Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

What’s holding you back from living the RV lifestyle?

2009-11-03T09:17:25-08:00

Some people who dream of RVing let their fears of what might happen stop them. Is that you? Do you worry about what you would do if you had an accident? Had illness or a death in the family? Missed your family? Does that keep you from moving forward?

Ask yourself: What would I do if this happened in my life now? You could probably handle it in a similar way on the road.

RVers have run into these situations and dealt with them.

The wife of a younger couple had some serious health issues. She found a job with health benefits and got treatment. They were stayed in an RV park for a couple of years, then got back on the road.
Several friends have had parent issues to deal with. Since they have more flexibility they were actually able to provide more help because they could return to help. One friend hired a geriatric case manager to oversee her mother’s care. They now have peace of mind and can visit when more convenient for them.
A solo RVer had knee surgery and needed assistance for a couple of months while she recuperated. As an Escapees Club Member, she stayed at the CARE assisted-living unit in Livingston, Texas until she could get back on the road.
Couples who have lost their RVs have moved in with family temporarily, rented an apartment, or found work where housing was provided. We have friends who sold their RV and now housesit or volunteer where housing is provided. Someday, they may go back to RVing.
For shorter periods of time- if you are waiting for parts, or your outgo has exceeded your income, park for a while and reduce spending on fuel. You could boondock at no charge here and there, at Wal-Marts or on public lands. Or, find a weekly or monthly rate at an RV park at a savings.
RVers can arrange their schedules to visit family. In fact, staying in the RV is an ideal way to visit. You might be able to park in their driveway or on their property yet you have your own space. Or, if that’s too close, find an RV park or Workamping assignment close enough to visit but far enough away to reduce babysitting assignments. Buying a plane ticket is another option. Since Southwest Airlines has good airfare sales, periodically I fly to visit my sister and my grandkids if our travels won’t take us near there.

I’ll be exploring this further in the next RV Lifestyles Ezine, which comes out around the 10th and 25th of the month. If you are not yet signed up to receive it, go to RVLifestyleExperts.com home page and sign up now. You’ll receive a free report as our gift to you.

Don't let fear stop you from living your RV dreams! Jaimie Hall Bruzenak

Should your pet wear a seatbelt in your RV?

2009-11-02T08:09:37-08:00

I came across an article about the Toyota Venza, a car introduced last year, that offers several pet-friendly options. One is a leash tether for securing your pet in the vehicle. According to their press release:

A recent survey conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturing Association revealed that half of all dog owners consider their pet's comfort when buying a car. And with unrestrained pets causing more than 30,000 accidents annually, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA), more states are passing and considering legislation requiring pets to be secured for their own safety and to reduce driver distractions.

Do you secure your pet with a tether or crate when traveling in your RV or your tow or toad vehicle? What would happen to your pet if you were in an accident? Would it be safe? Could it hurt you by flying through the air?

Just like child restraints, most pets don’t love them, at least not at first. They do get used to them and might even feel more secure. The safety factor is worth it. In a Class A or Class C motorhome, you could put your pet in a crate near your seats or a leash tether or harness on the couch or captain's chair or possibly the dinette, depending on where regular seat belts are located. Or, you might have to make some sort of modification to have a secure place to fasten a restraint.

To give you some other ideas for making your pet more comfortable or safe when riding, other optional pet accessories for the Venta include: a rear hatch pet ramp for easy loading and unloading, a pet booster seat with harness, a first/second row or cargo area pet barrier, pet seatbelt buckles and rear seat zip line-style harnesses. These items can be purchased through other suppliers and adapted to your RV lifestyle. Toyota is hoping, though, that their features will appeal to pet owners so they purchase the vehicle.

The Toyota Venta is not listed in the Motorhome Magazine’s dinghies that can be towed four on the ground, however, two models are 4WD drive and should be able to be towed that way.

Resources
Here are two resources for pet-friendly travel for RVers.

2009 United States and Canada Dog-Friendly Campground and RV Park Guide
PetFriendlyTravel.com: Two sections for RVers are “Off-Leash Dog Beaches & Dog Friendly Beaches in the U.S.” and “Pet Friendly Restaurants & Bars.”

Let us know what you think. Should pets be restrained while traveling? Do you secure or restrain yours in either your RV or your tow or toad vehicle? Jaimie Hall Bruzenak