When it comes to buying a new or used RV at your local Nichols, NY RV dealer, there are many choices that you will have to make. Probably two of the biggest choices include your budget and the type of RV that you are going to buy. There are several choices when it comes to buying an RV. You can choose from a travel trailer, fifth wheel, motorhome or pop-up. For the purposes of this blog we are only going to discuss the first three. Each type of RV has their pros and cons and the pros for each are as follows.

Travel Trailers and Fifth Wheels: Both of these types of RV’s are towable, however the difference is how you tow them. A travel trailer is hitched to the rear bumper of your truck or towing vehicle, and uses a ball and coupler hitch. A fifth wheel is hitched to the towing vehicle with a pin and jaw hitch mounted in the bed of a truck. Travel trailers and fifth wheels are generally less expensive than motor homes and may hold their value longer. They tend to have more living space than a motor home and since they are towed instead of driven, you can park your travel trailer or fifth wheel and still utilize your vehicle. Since your travel trailer and fifth wheel does not have an engine, you would still have access to your living space even if your towing vehicle is in need of repair.

Motorhome: Motorhomes have their own set of benefits aside from travel trailers and fifth wheels. While traveling, passengers not driving have access to the living quarters and activities. Since the living quarters and driving quarters are all one, it is ideal when traveling in bad weather. You don’t have to get out when you stop. Motorhomes generally come with a self-leveling jack and are typically easier to set up and move. Although you drive a motorhome, there is still the ability to tow an extra vehicle along with you.

When deciding whether to purchase a travel trailer, fifth wheel or motorhome, review the pros and cons of each to determine which is the best fit for you and your family. And when you are ready to make your purchase, come visit us at Jim’s RV!

As a full-time RVer traveling in your new or used RV, there is one more way you can fill your days on the road. As you travel across the country, why not get involved with charity work? There is one well know charity that you can help while traveling, Habitat for Humanity.

Habitat for humanity has a special volunteer program for anyone who travels in an RV. It is called RV Care-A-Vanners. The purpose of this program is to help build Habitat Houses and have fun. The program is open to individual volunteers and organized groups including the following:

• Family Motor Coach Association Chapter: Habitat for Humanity
• Escapees RV Club Birds of a Feather: Habitat for Humanity
• RV manufacturer groups
• Travel clubs
There is no previous building experience necessary to join. Some of the projects that you might be involved in as an RV-Care-A-Vanner are house construction, roofing, interior construction, renovations and disaster relief. If you do not wish to work on the construction aspect of the projects, but still want to help you can volunteer in the office or help around the job site.

Should you decide to volunteer, you can expect about a two-week work period with a group of 8 to 20 volunteers. Each day volunteers will build for about six to seven hours and lunches are provided. You should come prepared with good work shoes, gloves, tool belt, hammer, pencil and measuring tape.

There are several projects across the country and throughout the year that you can volunteer to work on. Wherever your RV is headed there is a Habitat project nearby. If you are interested in becoming an RV-Care-A-Vanner go to www.habitat.org/rv. Here you will find all the information you need to register and join a build site. Stop by Jim’s RV in Nichols, NY and let us know about your Habitat for Humanity experience and becoming an RV-Care-A-Vanner.

One of my favorite parts of camping is sitting outside the RV in the evening, after the sun has gone down. A large fire is roaring, giving off just the right amount of heat and light. I’ve got the graham crackers and chocolate in one hand and the marshmallow on a stick in the other. The enchanting fire and delicious s’mores would not be possible without the help of some fire starters. There are many ways to start a campfire, and the following are just some of those ideas.

1. Save an empty egg carton and fill each cup 2/3 full with shredded paper, charcoal, pencil shavings or dryer lint. Pour melted paraffin wax or candle wax over the top until dry. Cut up the carton to have twelve individual fire starters.

2. There are two types of fire starters you can make with cotton balls. One is to roll them in petroleum jelly until they are completely covered. Place them in a plastic container and use two to three at a time for your fire. You can also drop some cotton balls into melted wax until they are completely covered. Remove them, allow them to dry and store them in a plastic container.

3. Line a cupcake pan with paper cups and fill each one about half full with melted wax. Place a wick in each one and press a pinecone onto the top.

4. Save used candles such as birthday and taper candles. Roll these in wax paper and twist to close them.

5. Save your removed dryer lint and stuff it into toilet paper, paper towel or gift wrap rolls. Roll these in wax paper and twist close. You can also then wrap them in newspaper or magazine rolls.

The next time you go camping in your new or used RV from Jim’s RV, try some of these fire starters and see how quickly your fire starts!

Whenever we purchase something new, such as an RV from your local New York dealer, we would like it to stay looking that way forever. Unfortunately, this is not possible. One of the things that can plague your RV and keep it from having that nice and new sheen is a black streak. Usually, they appear out of nowhere. Whether you notice them over time or suddenly, they are still an annoyance. There are ways to rid your RV of those pesky black streaks though.

The cause of black streaks is generally from dirt, bird droppings and other outdoor elements that run down from your roof after rains and heavy dew. There is a general pattern of black streak formation. A mixture of dirt and other debris collects on the top of your RV roof during the day and as the sun goes down in the evening, the dew begins to form. As the sun comes out again in the morning, the now dirty water runs down the sides of your RV.

Washing your RV before the rainy season can go a long way to deterring those streaks. It helps to eliminate some of the dust and dirt that has accumulated and therefor won’t be running down the sided of your RV. Also, wash and wax your RV regularly. The wax will help to create a barrier and minimize the black streaks from sticking.

To rid your RV of black streaks that have accumulated, there are some products you can try. WD-40, bug and tar remover and the Turtle Wax brand are some you can test. Remember to test a small area first in case it damages your finish. If you need some recommendations or professional help cleaning the black streaks on your RV, stop by Jim’s RV today and we can help!

By now most people know that their home satellite can be used on their RV. Those people also know that it can be rather time consuming to get it all set up. With the amount of time it takes to set up a satellite dish and mount it, many people get frustrated or just don’t want to take the time. Now there is an answer to this problem, and one that makes set up easy and fast.

The VuQube 1000 Portable Satellite is the new solution to problems with older satellites. It can be placed anywhere that has a clear view of the southern sky. Simply set the unit in place and use the wireless remote from inside the comfort of your own RV. One of the great features of the VuQube is that it only takes one person can set it up. This is something that is almost impossible with traditional satellites.

We all know that our time in the outdoors is priceless, but sometimes a break from Mother Nature helps us to appreciate it even more. When hunting or fishing, the peak times of activity are typically in the early morning and late afternoon. This leaves a lot of time in the rest of the day to catch up on sports games and other programs. This is especially beneficial if children are involved. It seems that the VuQube could be the answer to all our entertainment needs when we are traveling.

The VuQube is very versatile and effortlessly portable. It is easy to carry anywhere and with the quick set up, it would be popular with anyone who wants to have TV. It only takes a single coaxial cable to hook up the unit and requires no assembly or installation. It’s that simple!

Prices on the VuQube 1000 are very affordable. Visit Jim’s RV in Nichols, New York today! We have them for sale at $599.99. These units will move fast at this price and spring is the perfect time to get out RVing. So get in soon and pick one up for your stay in the great outdoors!

It’s always exciting buying a new RV at your local New York RV dealer. You think of all the fun you will have vacationing and what you will stock it with. However, there are some other things you will need for your new RV; namely insurance. Just as you need insurance for your car and home, your recreational vehicle is no exception.

Whether you choose a motor home, trailer or camper, insurance coverage is a must. Not only will it keep you protected, it can ease your mind so you can do what’s most important while on vacation; relax! Since your RV takes the place of your home while away, you will want to find some insurance coverage that is two-fold. You will need a policy that will protect you and your guests while traveling, and your RV while it is parked or stored.

With all the other costs we have as homeowners, car owners, and more, it would benefit many to try and keep the cost of your RV insurance down. There are a few ways that you can keep your coverage costs down.

Safety:
By having a clean and safe driving record, you can lower your rate. Also, some safety measures will help too; anti-theft devices and off-street parking.

Policy Bundling:
Many companies will give you a discount if you bundle all of your insurance policies with them. Generally, the more policies you have with a company (car, home, personal property) the more you will save.

Cost of RV:
Before you purchase your RV, check with your insurance agent to see what the insurance policy on that particular model will cost. Generally, the more expensive the RV, the more expensive your policy will be.

Raise your deductible:
If you choose to pay more out of pocket, you can save more money on your policy. Decide how much you are comfortable paying for should you have any claims.

For more information about your RV insurance, visit www.safeco.com. And the next time you come by Jim’s RV for your next purchase, consider your insurance coverage.

We all get anxiety when we set out on any type of trip. Did I forget something? What if the RV breaks down? And the list goes on from there. To avoid getting the symptoms of travel anxiety, shortness of breath, irritability, nervousness and unexplained dread, remember these tips for your next RV vacation.

1. Plan your route and look for coupons and deals

Get ahead of your travel anxiety by mapping and planning out your route. There are many websites and mobile apps that will help map out your RV route. And if your route changes it’s no problem to adjust.

Prior to your departure, check for coupons and deals to save money on activities and attractions that may be happening along your route. You can find discounts on everything from horseback riding to wine touring. And one discount currently being offered is free admission to all National Parks from April 21-29, 2012 in conjunction with National Park Week. For more information visit www.nps.gov/npweek.

2. Look out for any potential mechanical problems

Many severe mechanical problems will offer warning signs before things go completely wrong. Before departing and whenever you stop along the way, inspect your RV and anything you may be towing. During your drive pay close attention to any noises, sounds or vibrations you may hear. By taking care of the problem early on you may avoid a larger problem later on.

3. Prepare for rush hour, even in the country

As you travel throughout the day, try to avoid traveling through cities during rush hour. Not only will it wreak havoc on your fuel efficiency, it will throw your schedule off. If traveling with a GPS, many can alert you to upcoming slow downs and re-route you to avoid them. If there is no way out of the back-up, pull of to the side of the road or into a restaurant, and wait it out.

4. Utilize free overnight parking

Although you would probably prefer the comfort of an RV park most nights, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the free parking opportunities. Many Wal-Marts, Pilot and Flying J travel centers offer free overnight parking for RV’s. Check out www.pilotflyingj.com for more information along your route.

5. Go with the flow

There is a saying, “Life is what happens when your making plans.” As much as we prepare for something, there is always going to be something unexpected that pops up. Try to take advantage of these changes and find something different to do. Remember that the most important thing on your vacation is to have fun.

Once you return from your trip, visit your local New York RV dealer, Jim’s RV and let us know how you avoided travel anxiety. Happy RVing!

Towing your RV to a campsite or vacation spot is always a nice getaway. However, sometimes coming from the privacy of your own home to the great wide outdoors with no privacy, can take some adjustment. If you would enjoy a bit more privacy on your next RV or camping trip, check out The Wallup.

The Wallup is your own personal, portable privacy maker. The Wallup is a 6-foot by 12-foot portable wall that you can take and use anywhere. All you need is a flat surface, which gives you the ability to drive stakes in and voila! Added outdoor privacy and protection from wind up to 15 miles per hour and other weather elements.

The Wallup weighs less than 11 pounds, so almost anyone in your family can help to bring it along. The design of The Wallup uses no strings but rather heavy-duty fiberglass poles and solid steel stakes. The flexible wall of The Wallup is also UV and tear resistant.

The Wallup has multiple uses for RVing. Perhaps, the weather has turned windy and is threatening your picnic. Or maybe you have just parked your RV in the most ideal spot. And now, some other RVers are encroaching on your spot. Just pop up The Wallup for some protection. The Wallup also has many other uses for the outdoors and beyond. It can be used for hunting, ice fishing, protection from the sun, and as a changing room.

So for you next RV vacation, bring along your Wallup. And check your local New York RV dealer accessories department for their selction of The Wallup or they can order one for you today. Stop by Jim’s RV and give us some more ideas for all the uses you have for The Wallup!

As work life evolves, many people have begun to choose to work from home. And, many people choose to be full-time RVers in NY. Contrary to what you may be thinking this can work! A “home” office inside your RV can be a reality with a few simple steps. The following are some office necessities you will need to get your RV office up and running.

Cell Phone
When choosing your cell phone service, go with one that will provide you with unlimited long-distance and roaming. Many plans will offer these two features at one set price. Since a cell phone can be a big expense, this will ensure that you can talk to anyone, anywhere, for as long as you need. You will also be able to connect your cell phone to your computer to access Internet service.

Computer
Invest in a good laptop computer, and you will be able to do everything you would normally do from a home or work office. Park your RV near Wi-Fi hot spots such as libraries, hotels and café’s to have full access to the Internet. Many campgrounds will also offer free Wi-Fi to RVers.

Digital Camera
If your home business requires you to use photos, a nice digital camera will be very useful. Instead of having to send film in for development, you will be able to upload, download, edit, crop and print all from the comfort of your own RV.

Wireless Printer
A wireless printer that can print, scan, copy and fax would be the best choice for your RV office. Your computer can become your file cabinet as you will be able to scan with your printer and store everything electronically on your computer. Be sure to also purchase an external hard drive to back up all those important documents. In case anything happens to your computer, you would still have all your files.

Faxing
Should your home business still require you to send and receive faxes, there are a couple of options that will allow you to do this from your RV. One option is to sign up for a 2-way contract, which will allow you to send and receive faxes for a small fee through a single service. Your second option would be to fax through two different websites; one to receive and one to send. This can be done free of charge.

By investing in the above devices, your RV office will be running smoothly in no time! This will allow you to enjoy your life on the road, instead of being cooped up in an office all day. If you need any tips or help setting up your RV office on the road, visit your local New York RV dealer, Jim’s RV today!

Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior, we all like to have the comforts of home with us when on the road. When something goes wrong or breaks though, it must be fixed. So, what do you do when you’re out in the middle of nowhere and the toilet seals start to fail and the toilet stinks and or leaks water? Well, here’s how to fix it New York! Sounds complicated to reseal? Just follow these steps to get your RV toilet back to new again.

First, determine whether or not your RV toilet seals are worn out or damaged by filling the bowl with water and making sure it doesn’t leak into the holding tank. Second, notice the smell of the bathroom when the toilet is closed. If there is a strong sewer smell, chances are there is a problem with the toilet seals.

Kits to fix your toilet can be purchased for around $40. It’s not complicated; just follow the directions that come with the kit you purchase. The process usually takes less than an hour and requires only simple hand tools. This is not something you should tackle however, if you are not comfortable working on toilets.

Tools you will need include a half-inch wrench, towels to absorb the water that may spill in the process and a flat blade screwdriver. It’s also never a bad idea to find someone to lend an extra hand if necessary. A do it yourself background and some mechanical experience is preferred but not required for a project like this.

Repairing your RV can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Remember to take your time and consult a professional during a first time fix. If you need any help, visit Jim’s RV for tips and suggestions. The more you fix the more you know New York!