I noticed that your white hose ends were not connected. A great way to keep them clean inside is to screw the ends of the hose together. That way you know you will not get insects or dirt inside your hoses. Thank you for the great videos. I am learning a lot from you.
Time 1:40 her 6th place, rv campgrounds 2:30 at gas stations, not at pump. 3:20 forest camp grounds at the bath house 5:29 state parks 7:01 at uhaul 8:50 at truck stops
@@queenb9668 Nothing special. Just a good soapy solution rubbed in and around the nozzle and handle. I carry a bottle brush that's just the right size.
One point on gassing up and topping off your freshwater at the truck stop. When you prepay for your diesel most usually estimate on the HIGH side and then return to the cashier to receive an "accurate" receipt (and you'll see a credit back on your card for the difference). BEFORE you go back in, pull up to the painted line that is usually approximately 40+ yards or more in front of you so that the trucker in line behind you can pull up and begin filling. They are on a schedule due to Federal regulations so any amount of time that you can save them helps them greatly and it reflects well on the community. When you go in to prepay look for an area by the cashier where the receipts for each of the pumps may be stored for pickup. A lot of the time the cashiers print off the receipt for each pump AS SOON as they see it has cut off, indicating you are finished pumping, and they'll place that receipt in the designated spot for that pump. Travel safely! /Michael
Robin - if you're not pressed for time, try using a metal hose clamp for your water bandit. You can get them online or at any hardware store. (Search Amazon "60PCS 8-38mm Range Adjustable Stainless Steel Worm Gear Hose Clamps Screw Assortment Kit")
Note that spigots that don’t have threads are used for water companies testing for bacterial. The rule of thumb is that the water companies don’t want cross contamination. This comes from my spouse who works for muni water company in CA. You stuff is great
Great information. Before I put any water in my tank, I let the water run for a minute and then fill a glass with the water. It should be clear with nothing visible in it. Next, smell the water and finally taste it. I have skipped lots of water supplies because they did not pass my test.
As a retired Trucker I appreciate you reminding folks about not holding us up. Also keep in mind that when the weather gets colder mmany places, including the major truck stop chains turn OFF the water at the fuel islands to protect against freezing. It con sometimes be few and far between finding something that is turned on. Soooo......I suggest during the colder months NEVER pass up the oportunity if you see something is working. I have also run into local, state, and federal campgrounds which also turn off their water during cold months. Here in the Trias area of NC we have a stae park which is open all year but they shut the water off during possible freeze months.
Churches - not chicken. Larger ones usually have staff you can ask. Large maneuverable, nearly empty parking lots during the week. Usually very nice people. Offer a donation of some kind.
Perhaps you already are in the process, but.....I WOULD LOVE TO READ A BOOK BY YOU ON THE RV LIFE. You are as practical, level-headed, and INSPIRING AS They COME!...Thank you for what you bring to the Table for a wanna-be RVer like me!❤
Aw, thanks! I think someday I'll write one. As a side note, I am working on a series of essays and another series of interviews on my blog that will each someday be completed into books! I appreciate the encouragement. Thank you so much!
If you are on mountainous or hilly highways and roads, may want to consider topping off water as close to your destination as you feel comfortable with to help reduce the RV weight for gas mileage. 20-40 gallons of water adds a lot of weight to your coach.
Thank you very much I retired early from truck driving. But I miss being on the road I’m just now thinking about maybe spending three months a year on the road. I’ve been watching a lot of TH-cam videos with people like you. Most TH-camrs complain about truck drivers. Thank you so much for not doing that. Being on the road many times I would help People that will live in an RV’s and they treated me with such disrespect. So thank you
You are not only remarkable and fun to watch, but you're so resourceful and doing a fabulous public service for those of us who are new to the community and even those who have RV'd a while. Thank you for the effort, research and support you place into all your videos. Hope you decide to setup a meet and greet someday, because I think it would help a lot of new RVers and many I'm certain would love to meet you. Safe travels.
I live in my van and I work part-time in a small town whose city park has a dumpstation and showers and water.. there's a campground, but it's okay to fill up and shower
you all probably dont give a shit but does someone know of a tool to log back into an instagram account?? I somehow forgot my password. I appreciate any help you can offer me.
@Wells Leland I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site thru google and I'm trying it out now. Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
When I was a kid my dad taught me how to wrap a hose around your arm by making and L shape and grabbing the threaded end of the hose with your hand and wrapping the hose around your arm. A 50' hose will roll up into a nice bundel.
I do a lot of winter camping in ski country and most outdoor spigots are turned off, so I sometimes buy bulk water at Walmart. $.39 cents per gallon at Walmart in Montana. I don't use the water system in winter anyways so jugs of bulk water works fine. The Water Bandit at highway rest stop washrooms also works for filling jugs.
I haveonly started watching you tonight, i was a traveller until i became disabled and loved it.in Australia the least known free place for water is a cemetary, you may need your own handle for the tap but 8f you ask and get an answer then be scared.they always have a tap for the flowers.
I am a newbie, just prepping for my maiden voyage. I am LOVING your videos and advice!!! I'm always respectful of others and expect to pay for my share, but appreciate the encouragement to ask for a little something that really costs them nothing. Thank you SO much!!!
Love, love, love your videos, especially your presentation and editing skills and the swiftly delivered, no nonsense, jammed packed and practical information. And, I'm not even a part of the rv tribe YET.
Here is a slightly unusual one I've use several times and posted on other vids. I have gotten water from a bunch of CEMETERIES. Some smaller ones have a spicket on the front access road just off the main road, also on the back road of the area. Again ask first it's courteous. Some cemeteries aren't always manned so if you're going by a larger one (your best bet) usually has someone for a grounds keeper on site. Now I will say in a smaller of the beaten path I have topped off my tank without asking, no one was around and I only needed a half a tank. Bigger ones on main drags are easier.
That one I have not thought of! But I do love to visit very old cemeteries to read the grave markers, which often is a history lesson. I guess those oldest ones wouldn't have running water. . .but I'll check your suggestion for the future.
As a wife of a truck driver that actually lived in a truck for a few months. I thank you very much for the comment about be good to the truckers. Their day to day life is hard enough and they get heavy monetary penalties if late to their destinations. So, give them their priorities, it is a truck stop exactly meant for them, so if your RV can stay there, be thankful and respect the people that keep these places running all year round ( truck drivers). Always remember they do not have many options for sleeping places, way less than any other car un fact
Hi Robin, Thank you for yet another educational and interesting video. I have a suggestion, I noticed your hoses were kind of kinked, my husband always took two of the smallest bungee cords , the ones with the great big balls on the ends of them and used two on each hose, it helped keep the hoses curled and not kinked, he also screwed the one end of the hose into the other end to keep critters out, just a suggestion we do it all the time and we never have a kink in the hose and also helps with them not getting tangled up. Hope it helps Thanks again for sharing Safe travels and BE FREE!!
Gloria, I was thinking the same thing. Always connect the ends together before storing the hoses. Keeps dust n critters out. And things get dusty in the bins!
I wonder if you could use one of those collapsible hoses that shrink up to nothing when done. I have seen them for 50' or even longer. Would they be safe?
Yeah, asking if it's OK to top off my tank sure sound better than asking if I can fill up my giant 95 gallon RV tank with free water that they have to pay for. ;)
Hi Robyn, just wanted to tell you that you have been a great help for me and my husband. We are just starting out in our home on wheels. Working our way to the grand canyon. We are traveling west on hwy 54 and stopped at a Walmart to get water. They said no because all the water was turned off for the winter. Hubby wanted to drive back by the auto center and low and behold, there was a hose laying outside the garage! We asked the mechanic and he said he had to ask. Well, the answer was no. Bummer. But ended up finding a really cute rv park with full hookups and reasonable rates. So we are staying a couple nights and will top off and empty everything before we leave. Thanks so much for all the great tips. You've got a sub for life! Robyn & Earl Schleben
It’s hard to believe just “how new” you are to rv-ing , camping, etc.. Thank God you are a very high common sense, respectful and smart lady. It doesn’t take a whole lot of effort to be polite and courteous and it will get you a very long way... Im praying for you and many travel blessings along your way. 👍🔑💕🙏🇺🇸💖
Best thing I’ve found to fill - a short, 20’ collapsible hose (the one that shrinks down) and add a fill nozzle that will go down into the tank a bit and has a shut off valve. Wow has this made a difference! It’s safe for drinking as well but I don’t drink my tank water. It takes up so little room and is very light. I roll it up and put it in a cord bag along with my water bandit, a regular spray nozzle and other smaller fresh water accessories. My outside storage bay was an absolute disaster before I found cord bags. I think they’re made specifically for electrical cords but they work for small hoses as well. I found them at Menard’s (it’s like a Home Depot or Lowe’s), it’s just a small round cloth bag that you wind up your cords in and zip it shut, they’re about a foot or so wide and a few inches thick. I got 3 - one for for my 30 amp cord, one for my 110 outdoor extension cord and dogbone, and one for the collapsible hose & fresh water fill accessories. It has made it SO easy to organize the small amount of external storage I have (I only have a single outside bin that locks). I’ve never heard of cord bags nor have I seen any RVers use them before. Might be worth looking into if your cords and small hoses drive you nuts!!
i travel as a trucker. I fill a 6 gallon water jug at the water vending machines found all over for drinking and cooking. I don't have built in tanks for water in my truck. many friends have showers , bathrooms, kitchens, similar to an RV and I see them fill the water tank when they gas up.. beautiful view in the background of your video.
You can ditch the white hose for a Zero-G hose they take up a lot less space and they make ones specifically for RV fresh water they also have a couple different lengths.
Hi there, great video advice and tips Robin. I am a full time trucker / Going to be a full time RV'er someday. I envy all of you RV'ers going down the road and would like you to know the basic unwritten rule at the truckers side of the pumps is 15 minutes fueling and 15 minutes stopped after pulling forward to the space ahead when done fueling. It's a public establishment for EVERYONE and you should not feel uncomfortable using that side of any truck stop / travel center. Happy safe travels ya'll
Great video, Robin. I'm about to take off on my "maiden voyage" and want to boon dock along my way. What has worried me most is getting water. This video has now alleviated my anxiety. Thank you so much.
#5. When I was first living in my RV I was just going into winter and so I didn't have use of the RV's native water systems (they were winterized). So I had to improvise and use a van-dwelling inspired setup. I had 3 or 4 5-gallon jugs that I would fill up and then use those to fill a water dispenser I had over my sink. It worked but wasn't the greatest. Well, I would go down to a gas station not far from my gym (where I would work out and shower) and do the same thing you suggest, go in, buy a drink or something and then say, hey, would you mind if I filled some 5 gallon jugs with water at your spigot outside? It was great.
For the water bandit - you could consider getting a hose clamp with a key type design for the screw, ie something you can hand tighten. Slip the hose clamp over the water bandit, push the water bandit onto the spigot, and quickly clamp it with the hose clamp, no tools required. They have them on Amazon for like $8 for a pack of four. Instead of sitting there holding it in place. Also, for people who really want to have clean water, you can set up a whole-vehicle water filtration system for not a lot of money, which will filter out contaminants and use active charcoal to remove any tastes or odors. Optionally, a UV cannon as the final stage to really kill any microorganisms that somehow made it past the first filtration steps. This also helps keep your tanks clean for longer, as minimal sediment gets through - this is not the case if you just pour unfiltered water into your fresh water tank, you'll have to arrange to have it rinsed more often in that case. You almost pretty much need to get a filter to put between your fresh tank and your sink, instead. There are companies that just do RV water filtration stuff, like rvfilterstore.com (not a recommendation, never used them, but they have systems ready to go, so worth a look.) Their "essential" system is just over a hundred bucks, so sounds like pretty cheap to improve your water quality across the board.
Thank you Robin!! I think I just asked you where to get water and propane. Uhaul worked out great for me! They acted like I was the first too! I love your videos. I watch for you everyday! I'm in an old class A....but your information has helped me sooo much
Many REST STOPS on the west coast states have spigots (I douse my dogs when it's really hot). You'd need the water bandit spigot adapter. Very informative, tanks!
Don't know about other folks but, thus far, your site has been the most informative to me. I have always thought I'd like to nomad my life with an RV. I'm still thinking on it. Been talking about selling my farm and getting an RV. Always fancied a huge RV. Lately not so much. But I like to dream along on utube sites. I like yours the most.
One other place you can ask to top off at is anywhere you have your RV serviced. With repair bills almost always over $100 some water isn't going to cut into a repair shop's overhead. Having a inline filter for your fill up hose is a good idea. Even "potable" water may not be of the highest quality. I don't expect you'll be traveling to Flint Michigan, but most of southern California tap water tastes like mud. Keeping both ends of your hose closed off for storage is a good idea. Having some valves whether it's a Y splitter or just a basic ball valve can help keep the mess at a minimum. There are vending machine outside of a lot of supermarkets that dispense drinking water 4 gallons for a dollar. Yes it cost a bit but it's not much and the toughest part is having to carry that water and I imagine you don't have a set up to pour water into your fresh tank. I camp in a situation where I have several "jerry can" like water containers. At 8 lbs. a gallon it's not light. There a lot of people out there with silcock keys, the handle that will turn on controlled spigots in commercial industrial sites. It's not a bad idea to have one emergency use only, but theft of water is a crime so don't do anything stupid.
Just added the water bandit to my amazon wish list... I occasionally use river (fast flowing) water, but ALWAYS filter it into my RV, and BOIL it before consumption... Not sure about the USA, but water pressure here in Canada varies from town to town, campground to campground, so might I suggest using a pressure regulator whenever topping off or filling up? peace.
I love your vlogs because your tips and tricks are just as convenient for campers (non-nomads) who just want to be efficient or environmentally friendly as they are for nomads. Thanks!
There are other TH-camr channels (not going to dox anyone) that make it seem like a real mission to find water. In this video you are proving what I was thinking myself. Thanks for the honest take. I think some channels have ulterior motives. Love your channel....
Dandy Dan If you travel a lot, it would be easier to run across water. However, if you are boondocking for days in the same place, then you would have to pull up everything and give to a water source. Not as hard as it could be made it, but still an inconvenience. And, let's face it, there are tons of inconveniences being a nomad. 😊
For us, it's been a problem. I've asked several gas stations for water while filling up with fad songs only one had ever says sure. The dump stations around where we've been lately don't have fresh water, the state park with water was closed and there were no propane stations, but if there were, we potentially wouldn't be allowed to have their water since we don't use propane lol we ended up having to drive, round trip, 34 miles out of the way to another state park which cost me about 10 bucks in gas. To me it seems the area really depends on how easy water is to obtain
Great traveling information even if you're not in an RV Finding a free water source with the ability to fill up a tank or multiple vessels during a trip or camping excursion is essential. THANKS for the tips. 👍🏻
thank you Robin. While on a trek through California, Oregon and Washington, I pulled into an AutoZone (Susanville, CA) to buy a new battery for my truck. I was also in search of water to refill my trailer. I thought about this video and after replacing the battery, i scouted the side of the building for a hose spigot. Found one, went back into the store and asked if they'd mind if I topped off my holding tank. I told them I had a hose. "sure, no problem" he said. My guess is most businesses would be OK with letting us fill up if it doesn't impact them whether you've made a large or small purchase. Thanks for the tip! FYI-The staff was very helpful replacing my battery. Sorry, I didn'tget the young man's name that helped me.
Nice job! Thanks for some useful tips. Might also be useful to talk a bit about pressure regulation, as well as filtration. It's a good idea, too, to run some water first, before hooking up, to see what you are getting and to run out any contaminants which may be lurking in the spigot.
Your videos are very informative, Robin! And this one was no exception! Thanks! "Potable" is probably on lots of most-commonly-mispronounced-words lists; the primary pronunciation is with a long "o", as though it were spelled "pohtable" not "pahtable". And before all sorts of your viewers dump all over me, I agree it is just as wet no matter how pronounced! ;-) Thanks again for your great series of videos! Keep them coming!
Something that occured to me when you were talking about your white hoses is a spool for an extension cord would work nicely to wind and unwind your hoses, but use the wheel type and not the flat type.
Sweetheart, you read my mind. Getting ready to hit the road for a year and this was my main concern. You are an angel sent from heaven! There are even more good suggestions in the other comments.
Some good ideas there. I like the idea of looking for a water spigot at a gas station, or truck stop. I don't plan on going into too many paid places, but if I'm in one state for awhile, getting that state's park pass sounds like a good idea. But for me it would be for day trips. I may have to end up purchasing water (for van) at the walmarts (rural? I don't see any) that have the larger water dispensing machines that don't charge too much... for a van. When I am making such stops, I also plan on drinking water at the water fountains when shopping, maybe fill up a small personal water bottle. BobRVBig Guy had mentioned cemeteries. But, one I visited in mig city had all their spigots turned off... thought I'd test those! They probably only turn them on when needed. I prefer not to use the tool one can get to siphon water off at various stores... I don't want to encounter an angry store manager.
I head from someone, not too long ago, that mentioned that he carried a couple 5 gallon water cans that he used to top off his water tank for his camper. His camper only has a 60 gallon fresh water tank, so it is not hard to top off using that method. He said that he might be visiting a friends apartment and the access would be the person’s indoor faucets. That might involve some extra lifting, but seemed doable.
The Apex Zero-G RV/Marine Hybrid Hose changed my life. Those white hoses are so awful! I think the reason some spigots don't have threads is because you're not supposed to use them to fill more than a water bottle, but that Water Bandit is such a simple and genius product. Thanks for another great video! I never would have thought there was potable water at truck stops. Too cool.
I found it at Camping World, and it's currently on sale (www.campingworld.com/apex-zero-g-rv-marine-hybrid-hose-50-x-1-2). It says not to keep it under constant pressure but I've been leaving it hooked up for weeks at a time without any issues. I have it in a storage box when I'm not using it, and I usually just loosely pile it up in the box. It does take up a little more room when under pressure compared to the white hose, but nothing you can't work with (the hose wants to straighten out when under pressure while the white hose stays curled up if you want it that way). As soon as you let off the water pressure it collapses. It's very light. I also have a collapsible garden hose (a.co/cq8WC5F) for washing things when I don't need potable water, and I use a splitter (a.co/7kFA3m9) to have both hoses hooked up at the same time. I've been using this set up for about 15 nights of camping so far and it's been great. It's a lot easier to work with the hose, especially if you have to quickly run it under the RV to fill up the fresh water tank on the other side. Enjoy!
I forgot to mention one minor drawback -- it's like a 50-foot spaghetti noodle when it's collapsed. So, it's a bit challenging to coil it up or carry it anywhere without putting it in a box first. It comes in a cardboard box that wouldn't last long, so you'll need an additional storage box.
I was starting to worry about finding water. Your tips are super helpful! Love how you are empathetic and think of others, including truckers. Well done!
As a wannabe a nomad. Again I am inspired by you. Thank you. I am in the very beginning stage of hunting for a vehicle. I carry for my mother so I'm going for a wheelchair accessible one.
SO SO SO SO Helpful to know about when one is in the learning basics phase. Your channel and vids are genuinely good content about real stuff. Thank. YOU.
I've been traveling for 5 years as a solo female in my Class B and it is rare that I learn anything new from nomad videos. And finding fresh water can be such a challenge - more than I ever thought. But I did NOT know about the diesel island water source at truck stops. (I have a gas engine). I buy a lot of gas at truck stops and will try your tip. (Probably in the next 2 days according to my water gauge). Thanks!!!
I just finished my van build and I’m about to head, I was nervous about having to figure out how to find Blm land, water and many other things. But your videos helped me out so much! I just wanted to say thanks
Once again you provided us with an informative video. You are very resourceful. Thanks for the information. I'm sure it will at some point be useful when I begin traveling.
And don't forget cemetaries! I have a camper van so it's easy for me to drive on the one lane cemetary roads. I find spigots all over the cenetary for visiters to water the plants. Tip: Let the water run firca couple of minutes in case rust had built up in the pipes from non-use.
I am getting serious about trying this fulltime RVing. I am researching some things I need to learn. Filling up on water is one of them. I found out the average person uses about 6 gallons a day. So if I have a 50 gallon tank I should be able to go at least 8 days, or maybe more. I was thinking to get a gym membership at one of those nationwide places like Planet Fitness, or such to augment. Problems might be locations and needing to go to the gym a lot! My 2nd thought was go to a campground about every 2 weeks for a day or two and fill up. Most likely you can find a campsite for about $20-$30 a night. Be like a vaca from the vaca! lol Also, give you the opportunity to stock up on supplies, free wifi, do laundry, go nutz on electric usage, take a 12 hour shower, etc.. So about 1-2 times a month I would use a campground (cost about $40-$50 a month). My 3rd thought was to carry 4-5, 5 gallon jerry tanks and fill them up where ever I could and siphon them into my water tanks. Your ideas are practical and will incorporate them into my plan. My next concern is propane and power! I need to find out how long 2-3 propane tanks last, and how long a generator can last on a tank. Don't even know if I can run a gen off of propane, or only can use gas. I also, need to know how long a couple of batteries last and if solar power is worth the investment. I'm soooo confused! lol
Robin, now you have me wondering if I've seen a spigot close to the auto bay area at a Sam's Club. Good point about a threadless spigot and the adapter you showed could be super handy. They weren't cheap but I finally invested in some white hoses that don't kink. Was able to get them in lengths of my choosing. For me, it was a good investment. Have enjoyed several of your videos. There's nothing like freedom!
Quick suggestions: 1. I agree with David - The male hose ends are REALLY easy to damage, which can be eliminated by connected the ends.. 2. put the hoses in a hose basket or 3. carry them with a carry strap.
Go with a backpack and a 2-gallon-canister in the backpack in any public restroom. It is just a gallon or two but free water!
I noticed that your white hose ends were not connected. A great way to keep them clean inside is to screw the ends of the hose together. That way you know you will not get insects or dirt inside your hoses. Thank you for the great videos. I am learning a lot from you.
Yep, I always did that when RV'ing. Glad you caught that (I didn't).
Also sanitize hose like you do with fresh water tank.
What a great idea! We plan n doing this with our RV and our home hoses.
Won't that trap any moisture inside for mold to grow?
@@jimbofires3720 no. You constantly use your hose. When you get back to stick n bricks, unscrew and hang you hose.😎
Time 1:40 her 6th place, rv campgrounds
2:30 at gas stations, not at pump.
3:20 forest camp grounds at the bath house
5:29 state parks
7:01 at uhaul
8:50 at truck stops
Thank you!!!!
My husband, a long-time truck driver, strongly recommends you disinfect that spigot nozzle before hooking your hose to it! I know I will!
How would I disinfect it? What chemical/product would you recommend? :)
@@queenb9668 Nothing special. Just a good soapy solution rubbed in and around the nozzle and handle. I carry a bottle brush that's just the right size.
@@laurab9247 maybe lysol wipes or alcohol wipes? i'm newbie to all this info
The BEST TIP of them all is : BE Nice to the Truckers ! Thank You Darlin' !
One point on gassing up and topping off your freshwater at the truck stop. When you prepay for your diesel most usually estimate on the HIGH side and then return to the cashier to receive an "accurate" receipt (and you'll see a credit back on your card for the difference). BEFORE you go back in, pull up to the painted line that is usually approximately 40+ yards or more in front of you so that the trucker in line behind you can pull up and begin filling. They are on a schedule due to Federal regulations so any amount of time that you can save them helps them greatly and it reflects well on the community.
When you go in to prepay look for an area by the cashier where the receipts for each of the pumps may be stored for pickup. A lot of the time the cashiers print off the receipt for each pump AS SOON as they see it has cut off, indicating you are finished pumping, and they'll place that receipt in the designated spot for that pump.
Travel safely!
/Michael
Thanks for the great info! Being courteous should be a standard... especially keeping the truckers safely on the road!
Robin - if you're not pressed for time, try using a metal hose clamp for your water bandit. You can get them online or at any hardware store. (Search Amazon "60PCS 8-38mm Range Adjustable Stainless Steel Worm Gear Hose Clamps Screw Assortment Kit")
Note that spigots that don’t have threads are used for water companies testing for bacterial. The rule of thumb is that the water companies don’t want cross contamination. This comes from my spouse who works for muni water company in CA. You stuff is great
Great information. Before I put any water in my tank, I let the water run for a minute and then fill a glass with the water. It should be clear with nothing visible in it. Next, smell the water and finally taste it. I have skipped lots of water supplies because they did not pass my test.
Ooh, good one!
Marty that is a really good idea that I had not thought of. 👍🏼
Great info. Watch for lead pipes and running the water a few minutes will clear out the lead that concentrated in the line.
And always hook water filter to RV, not hose bib.
@@americanrvtraveler2446 why?
Thanks for another great video, Robin. I appreciate how you always remind people to respect the hard-working truckers on the road.
As a retired Trucker I appreciate you reminding folks about not holding us up. Also keep in mind that when the weather gets colder mmany places, including the major truck stop chains turn OFF the water at the fuel islands to protect against freezing. It con sometimes be few and far between finding something that is turned on. Soooo......I suggest during the colder months NEVER pass up the oportunity if you see something is working. I have also run into local, state, and federal campgrounds which also turn off their water during cold months. Here in the Trias area of NC we have a stae park which is open all year but they shut the water off during possible freeze months.
Great info, I like the way you respect truckers I sure hope people hear that advice.
Churches - not chicken. Larger ones usually have staff you can ask. Large maneuverable, nearly empty parking lots during the week. Usually very nice people. Offer a donation of some kind.
Perhaps you already are in the process, but.....I WOULD LOVE TO READ A BOOK BY YOU ON THE RV LIFE. You are as practical, level-headed, and INSPIRING AS They COME!...Thank you for what you bring to the Table for a wanna-be RVer like me!❤
Aw, thanks! I think someday I'll write one. As a side note, I am working on a series of essays and another series of interviews on my blog that will each someday be completed into books! I appreciate the encouragement. Thank you so much!
Ask and you shall receive! Awesome job Robin :)
Seconding this
If you are on mountainous or hilly highways and roads, may want to consider topping off water as close to your destination as you feel comfortable with to help reduce the RV weight for gas mileage. 20-40 gallons of water adds a lot of weight to your coach.
Always appreciate a trucker, they bring you your stuff. Truckers keeps us safe too. Be nice to everyone! Learning so much through this channel. TY!
Thank you very much I retired early from truck driving. But I miss being on the road I’m just now thinking about maybe spending three months a year on the road. I’ve been watching a lot of TH-cam videos with people like you. Most TH-camrs complain about truck drivers. Thank you so much for not doing that. Being on the road many times I would help People that will live in an RV’s and they treated me with such disrespect. So thank you
You are not only remarkable and fun to watch, but you're so resourceful and doing a fabulous public service for those of us who are new to the community and even those who have RV'd a while.
Thank you for the effort, research and support you place into all your videos.
Hope you decide to setup a meet and greet someday, because I think it would help a lot of new RVers and many I'm certain would love to meet you. Safe travels.
Thank you! Yes, I think I'll do a meet and greet at this year's RTR, if you get a chance to go I'd love to meet you:)
Will the RTR again be in January 2019 in the Arizona area?
I live in my van and I work part-time in a small town whose city park has a dumpstation and showers and water.. there's a campground, but it's okay to fill up and shower
Goodness gracious the wealth of knowledge here is fantastic. I am going to be so much more prepared for my first long trip! I am pumped, thanks!
you all probably dont give a shit but does someone know of a tool to log back into an instagram account??
I somehow forgot my password. I appreciate any help you can offer me.
@Brayan Diego instablaster ;)
@Wells Leland I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site thru google and I'm trying it out now.
Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.
@Wells Leland It did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. Im so happy!
Thanks so much, you saved my account!
@Brayan Diego happy to help :D
When I was a kid my dad taught me how to wrap a hose around your arm by making and L shape and grabbing the threaded end of the hose with your hand and wrapping the hose around your arm. A 50' hose will roll up into a nice bundel.
I do a lot of winter camping in ski country and most outdoor spigots are turned off, so I sometimes buy bulk water at Walmart. $.39 cents per gallon at Walmart in Montana. I don't use the water system in winter anyways so jugs of bulk water works fine. The Water Bandit at highway rest stop washrooms also works for filling jugs.
I'm so glad I found you. Lots of practical information and given in a clear, precise, and entertaining way.
Thanks for watching! Have a great weekend:)
I haveonly started watching you tonight, i was a traveller until i became disabled and loved it.in Australia the least known free place for water is a cemetary, you may need your own handle for the tap but 8f you ask and get an answer then be scared.they always have a tap for the flowers.
I am a newbie, just prepping for my maiden voyage. I am LOVING your videos and advice!!! I'm always respectful of others and expect to pay for my share, but appreciate the encouragement to ask for a little something that really costs them nothing. Thank you SO much!!!
Thanks for this video. :)
I snowbird in AZ and finding water is always an issue. I've found Shell station often have water and propane.
Those trees behind you are so gorgeous, so picturesque!
I know, I love it. So peaceful
Love, love, love your videos, especially your presentation and editing skills and the swiftly delivered, no nonsense, jammed packed and practical information. And, I'm not even a part of the rv tribe YET.
You are such a brave woman Robin and I love your go-get-'em attitude. Thank you for sharing your great adventures.
Here is a slightly unusual one I've use several times and posted on other vids. I have gotten water from a bunch of CEMETERIES. Some smaller ones have a spicket on the front access road just off the main road, also on the back road of the area. Again ask first it's courteous. Some cemeteries aren't always manned so if you're going by a larger one (your best bet) usually has someone for a grounds keeper on site. Now I will say in a smaller of the beaten path I have topped off my tank without asking, no one was around and I only needed a half a tank. Bigger ones on main drags are easier.
That one I have not thought of! But I do love to visit very old cemeteries to read the grave markers, which often is a history lesson. I guess those oldest ones wouldn't have running water. . .but I'll check your suggestion for the future.
I'm dying to try that one.
I would be very cautious about cemetery water. Most non potable it's there to water flowers.
@@timpaulus4922 you must camp in the city. Where we go cemeteries have drilled wells. I don't camp in Dallas, Chicago, LA. That ain't camping
Anthony I said be cautious of cemetery water. Nothing about camping in city!!
OMG I love you. I don't even have an RV (yet) and these are great tips. Thank you!
As a wife of a truck driver that actually lived in a truck for a few months. I thank you very much for the comment about be good to the truckers. Their day to day life is hard enough and they get heavy monetary penalties if late to their destinations. So, give them their priorities, it is a truck stop exactly meant for them, so if your RV can stay there, be thankful and respect the people that keep these places running all year round ( truck drivers). Always remember they do not have many options for sleeping places, way less than any other car un fact
Hi Robin, Thank you for yet another educational and interesting video. I have a suggestion, I noticed your hoses were kind of kinked, my husband always took two of the smallest bungee cords , the ones with the great big balls on the ends of them and used two on each hose, it helped keep the hoses curled and not kinked, he also screwed the one end of the hose into the other end to keep critters out, just a suggestion we do it all the time and we never have a kink in the hose and also helps with them not getting tangled up. Hope it helps Thanks again for sharing Safe travels and BE FREE!!
Great advice! thanks:)))
Yes connecting the hose ends together keeps out dirt & other debris. Very insightful.
Gloria, I was thinking the same thing. Always connect the ends together before storing the hoses. Keeps dust n critters out. And things get dusty in the bins!
I wonder if you could use one of those collapsible hoses that shrink up to nothing when done. I have seen them for 50' or even longer. Would they be safe?
I really like the way you phrased the question at the gas station. Good job.
Yeah, asking if it's OK to top off my tank sure sound better than asking if I can fill up my giant 95 gallon RV tank with free water that they have to pay for. ;)
Rest areas generally have potable water available...sometimes at the dump stations and sometimes elsewhere...but they do have it.
Yes!
LM Lowe Rest areas have dump stations?
@@projet2907 I’ve seen them at a bunch of rest areas
@@josephcagiano3055 Ok great! I will check it out more,,
Hi Robyn, just wanted to tell you that you have been a great help for me and my husband. We are just starting out in our home on wheels. Working our way to the grand canyon. We are traveling west on hwy 54 and stopped at a Walmart to get water. They said no because all the water was turned off for the winter. Hubby wanted to drive back by the auto center and low and behold, there was a hose laying outside the garage! We asked the mechanic and he said he had to ask. Well, the answer was no. Bummer. But ended up finding a really cute rv park with full hookups and reasonable rates. So we are staying a couple nights and will top off and empty everything before we leave. Thanks so much for all the great tips. You've got a sub for life! Robyn & Earl Schleben
Sometimes visitor centers offer free water as well.
Often you'll find roadside rest areas on interstates have both free dump stations and water.
It’s hard to believe just “how new” you are to rv-ing , camping, etc.. Thank God you are a very high common sense, respectful and smart lady. It doesn’t take a whole lot of effort to be polite and courteous and it will get you a very long way... Im praying for you and many travel blessings along your way. 👍🔑💕🙏🇺🇸💖
Best thing I’ve found to fill - a short, 20’ collapsible hose (the one that shrinks down) and add a fill nozzle that will go down into the tank a bit and has a shut off valve. Wow has this made a difference! It’s safe for drinking as well but I don’t drink my tank water. It takes up so little room and is very light. I roll it up and put it in a cord bag along with my water bandit, a regular spray nozzle and other smaller fresh water accessories.
My outside storage bay was an absolute disaster before I found cord bags. I think they’re made specifically for electrical cords but they work for small hoses as well. I found them at Menard’s (it’s like a Home Depot or Lowe’s), it’s just a small round cloth bag that you wind up your cords in and zip it shut, they’re about a foot or so wide and a few inches thick. I got 3 - one for for my 30 amp cord, one for my 110 outdoor extension cord and dogbone, and one for the collapsible hose & fresh water fill accessories. It has made it SO easy to organize the small amount of external storage I have (I only have a single outside bin that locks). I’ve never heard of cord bags nor have I seen any RVers use them before. Might be worth looking into if your cords and small hoses drive you nuts!!
Those bandits are a must. Just by a hose clamp big enough to go around and make a small wingnut to tighten by hand..
i travel as a trucker. I fill a 6 gallon water jug at the water vending machines found all over for drinking and cooking. I don't have built in tanks for water in my truck. many friends have showers , bathrooms, kitchens, similar to an RV and I see them fill the water tank when they gas up..
beautiful view in the background of your video.
I am loving these Sunday videos, and am so glad you're doing them. THANK YOU!!!
You can ditch the white hose for a Zero-G hose they take up a lot less space and they make ones specifically for RV fresh water they also have a couple different lengths.
Hi there, great video advice and tips Robin.
I am a full time trucker / Going to be a full time RV'er someday. I envy all of you RV'ers going down the road and would like you to know the basic unwritten rule at the truckers side of the pumps is 15 minutes fueling and 15 minutes stopped after pulling forward to the space ahead when done fueling. It's a public establishment for EVERYONE and you should not feel uncomfortable using that side of any truck stop / travel center. Happy safe travels ya'll
Great video, Robin. I'm about to take off on my "maiden voyage" and want to boon dock along my way. What has worried me most is getting water. This video has now alleviated my anxiety. Thank you so much.
#5. When I was first living in my RV I was just going into winter and so I didn't have use of the RV's native water systems (they were winterized). So I had to improvise and use a van-dwelling inspired setup. I had 3 or 4 5-gallon jugs that I would fill up and then use those to fill a water dispenser I had over my sink. It worked but wasn't the greatest. Well, I would go down to a gas station not far from my gym (where I would work out and shower) and do the same thing you suggest, go in, buy a drink or something and then say, hey, would you mind if I filled some 5 gallon jugs with water at your spigot outside? It was great.
Ooh, good one!
Great info! Plus being nice when asking goes a long way 😊
For the water bandit - you could consider getting a hose clamp with a key type design for the screw, ie something you can hand tighten. Slip the hose clamp over the water bandit, push the water bandit onto the spigot, and quickly clamp it with the hose clamp, no tools required. They have them on Amazon for like $8 for a pack of four. Instead of sitting there holding it in place.
Also, for people who really want to have clean water, you can set up a whole-vehicle water filtration system for not a lot of money, which will filter out contaminants and use active charcoal to remove any tastes or odors. Optionally, a UV cannon as the final stage to really kill any microorganisms that somehow made it past the first filtration steps. This also helps keep your tanks clean for longer, as minimal sediment gets through - this is not the case if you just pour unfiltered water into your fresh water tank, you'll have to arrange to have it rinsed more often in that case. You almost pretty much need to get a filter to put between your fresh tank and your sink, instead. There are companies that just do RV water filtration stuff, like rvfilterstore.com (not a recommendation, never used them, but they have systems ready to go, so worth a look.) Their "essential" system is just over a hundred bucks, so sounds like pretty cheap to improve your water quality across the board.
Your videos are just the best. I am hitting the road this winter and I am filling my notebook with all of your great hints. Thanks Robin.
Great information. I like you you make your videos short and informative -- you don't waste the viewer's time.
You do a awesome job providing information its hard to believe how new your channel is stay safe and god bless
Thank you Robin!! I think I just asked you where to get water and propane. Uhaul worked out great for me! They acted like I was the first too!
I love your videos. I watch for you everyday! I'm in an old class A....but your information has helped me sooo much
Oh yay!!! So glad to hear that
Many REST STOPS on the west coast states have spigots (I douse my dogs when it's really hot). You'd need the water bandit spigot adapter.
Very informative, tanks!
Yes! Love rest stops too
Don't know about other folks but, thus far, your site has been the most informative to me. I have always thought I'd like to nomad my life with an RV. I'm still thinking on it. Been talking about selling my farm and getting an RV. Always fancied a huge RV. Lately not so much. But I like to dream along on utube sites. I like yours the most.
Great Info Robin. Ive learned to turn the water on before i hook up the hose to make sure clean water comes out!!!
Thank you for doing all the hard work for us. We are just about ready to go on our first trip. I'm so excited. You are by far my favorite 😇 ✌
Aw, thanks so much! Have a great weekend
One other place you can ask to top off at is anywhere you have your RV serviced. With repair bills almost always over $100 some water isn't going to cut into a repair shop's overhead.
Having a inline filter for your fill up hose is a good idea. Even "potable" water may not be of the highest quality. I don't expect you'll be traveling to Flint Michigan, but most of southern California tap water tastes like mud. Keeping both ends of your hose closed off for storage is a good idea. Having some valves whether it's a Y splitter or just a basic ball valve can help keep the mess at a minimum. There are vending machine outside of a lot of supermarkets that dispense drinking water 4 gallons for a dollar. Yes it cost a bit but it's not much and the toughest part is having to carry that water and I imagine you don't have a set up to pour water into your fresh tank. I camp in a situation where I have several "jerry can" like water containers. At 8 lbs. a gallon it's not light.
There a lot of people out there with silcock keys, the handle that will turn on controlled spigots in commercial industrial sites. It's not a bad idea to have one emergency use only, but theft of water is a crime so don't do anything stupid.
I've found most people like to be helpful if you talk to them and politely ask first.
So true!
Just added the water bandit to my amazon wish list... I occasionally use river (fast flowing) water, but ALWAYS filter it into my RV, and BOIL it before consumption... Not sure about the USA, but water pressure here in Canada varies from town to town, campground to campground, so might I suggest using a pressure regulator whenever topping off or filling up? peace.
I love your vlogs because your tips and tricks are just as convenient for campers (non-nomads) who just want to be efficient or environmentally friendly as they are for nomads. Thanks!
Oh good, thanks!!
There are other TH-camr channels (not going to dox anyone) that make it seem like a real mission to find water. In this video you are proving what I was thinking myself. Thanks for the honest take. I think some channels have ulterior motives. Love your channel....
Dandy Dan If you travel a lot, it would be easier to run across water. However, if you are boondocking for days in the same place, then you would have to pull up everything and give to a water source. Not as hard as it could be made it, but still an inconvenience. And, let's face it, there are tons of inconveniences being a nomad. 😊
Truthfully I hadn't thought of it in that context. Thank you...
👍🏽
For us, it's been a problem. I've asked several gas stations for water while filling up with fad songs only one had ever says sure. The dump stations around where we've been lately don't have fresh water, the state park with water was closed and there were no propane stations, but if there were, we potentially wouldn't be allowed to have their water since we don't use propane lol we ended up having to drive, round trip, 34 miles out of the way to another state park which cost me about 10 bucks in gas. To me it seems the area really depends on how easy water is to obtain
Oh auto correct. "while filling up with gas"*
Great traveling
information even if you're not in an RV
Finding a free water source with the ability to fill up a tank or multiple vessels during a trip or camping excursion is essential. THANKS for the tips. 👍🏻
thank you Robin. While on a trek through California, Oregon and Washington, I pulled into an AutoZone (Susanville, CA) to buy a new battery for my truck. I was also in search of water to refill my trailer. I thought about this video and after replacing the battery, i scouted the side of the building for a hose spigot. Found one, went back into the store and asked if they'd mind if I topped off my holding tank. I told them I had a hose. "sure, no problem" he said.
My guess is most businesses would be OK with letting us fill up if it doesn't impact them whether you've made a large or small purchase.
Thanks for the tip!
FYI-The staff was very helpful replacing my battery. Sorry, I didn'tget the young man's name that helped me.
Nice job! Thanks for some useful tips. Might also be useful to talk a bit about pressure regulation, as well as filtration. It's a good idea, too, to run some water first, before hooking up, to see what you are getting and to run out any contaminants which may be lurking in the spigot.
I love the short hose for getting it on the fly.....Great tip!
Your videos are very informative, Robin! And this one was no exception! Thanks!
"Potable" is probably on lots of most-commonly-mispronounced-words lists; the primary pronunciation is with a long "o", as though it were spelled "pohtable" not "pahtable". And before all sorts of your viewers dump all over me, I agree it is just as wet no matter how pronounced! ;-)
Thanks again for your great series of videos! Keep them coming!
Something that occured to me when you were talking about your white hoses is a spool for an extension cord would work nicely to wind and unwind your hoses, but use the wheel type and not the flat type.
Sweetheart, you read my mind. Getting ready to hit the road for a year and this was my main concern. You are an angel sent from heaven! There are even more good suggestions in the other comments.
Some good ideas there. I like the idea of looking for a water spigot at a gas station, or truck stop. I don't plan on going into too many paid places, but if I'm in one state for awhile, getting that state's park pass sounds like a good idea. But for me it would be for day trips. I may have to end up purchasing water (for van) at the walmarts (rural? I don't see any) that have the larger water dispensing machines that don't charge too much... for a van. When I am making such stops, I also plan on drinking water at the water fountains when shopping, maybe fill up a small personal water bottle. BobRVBig Guy had mentioned cemeteries. But, one I visited in mig city had all their spigots turned off... thought I'd test those! They probably only turn them on when needed. I prefer not to use the tool one can get to siphon water off at various stores... I don't want to encounter an angry store manager.
I've never been turned down when I've asked to fill up water at a CHURCH.
@@dr.jerrygustafson7680 LOL! I think that "holy water" would make my RV explode. I'm such a devil!
You are wonderful to share all this helpful information. Thank you! 🙏❤️😃👍 Deb
I saw a few videos where some of the rv folks set up a gutter system and collected rainwater to fill tanks for washing stuff...
The power of leverage. I love it.
I head from someone, not too long ago, that mentioned that he carried a couple 5 gallon water cans that he used to top off his water tank for his camper. His camper only has a 60 gallon fresh water tank, so it is not hard to top off using that method. He said that he might be visiting a friends apartment and the access would be the person’s indoor faucets. That might involve some extra lifting, but seemed doable.
free and friendly: water... thanks!
Wow! So thorough and helpful, THANK YOU!! Appreciate you even showing pictures ♡
The Apex Zero-G RV/Marine Hybrid Hose changed my life. Those white hoses are so awful! I think the reason some spigots don't have threads is because you're not supposed to use them to fill more than a water bottle, but that Water Bandit is such a simple and genius product. Thanks for another great video! I never would have thought there was potable water at truck stops. Too cool.
Thanks! Tell me more about that hose please
I'm curious too, where did you find it?
I found it at Camping World, and it's currently on sale (www.campingworld.com/apex-zero-g-rv-marine-hybrid-hose-50-x-1-2). It says not to keep it under constant pressure but I've been leaving it hooked up for weeks at a time without any issues. I have it in a storage box when I'm not using it, and I usually just loosely pile it up in the box. It does take up a little more room when under pressure compared to the white hose, but nothing you can't work with (the hose wants to straighten out when under pressure while the white hose stays curled up if you want it that way). As soon as you let off the water pressure it collapses. It's very light. I also have a collapsible garden hose (a.co/cq8WC5F) for washing things when I don't need potable water, and I use a splitter (a.co/7kFA3m9) to have both hoses hooked up at the same time.
I've been using this set up for about 15 nights of camping so far and it's been great. It's a lot easier to work with the hose, especially if you have to quickly run it under the RV to fill up the fresh water tank on the other side. Enjoy!
I forgot to mention one minor drawback -- it's like a 50-foot spaghetti noodle when it's collapsed. So, it's a bit challenging to coil it up or carry it anywhere without putting it in a box first. It comes in a cardboard box that wouldn't last long, so you'll need an additional storage box.
As of today 7/29/18 camping world says this item is not available.
You have learned a lot in a short time. Thanks for sharing
I was starting to worry about finding water. Your tips are super helpful! Love how you are empathetic and think of others, including truckers. Well done!
As a wannabe a nomad. Again I am inspired by you. Thank you. I am in the very beginning stage of hunting for a vehicle. I carry for my mother so I'm going for a wheelchair accessible one.
SO SO SO SO Helpful to know about when one is in the learning basics phase. Your channel and vids are genuinely good content about real stuff. Thank. YOU.
I've been traveling for 5 years as a solo female in my Class B and it is rare that I learn anything new from nomad videos. And finding fresh water can be such a challenge - more than I ever thought. But I did NOT know about the diesel island water source at truck stops. (I have a gas engine). I buy a lot of gas at truck stops and will try your tip. (Probably in the next 2 days according to my water gauge). Thanks!!!
Good info. I recommend screwing the two ends of your hose together to keep dirt and critters out and prevent water spills in your compartments.
I live in Colorado.... a great place to camp!!! Thanks for sharing!!!
Cool, clear water...water! The singing cowboys🤠 great tips. And, thank you for asking for water first. Some places have a water bill. 👍
Having a positive and friendly attitude as you do, when you ask, I'm sure plays a factor. Thanks for the info.
Thanks young lady for doing an awesome and inspirational job!
I usually have to dump my grey water before I re-fill with Fresh water 💦 Thank you for your Videos, I love to listen to you!
I just finished my van build and I’m about to head, I was nervous about having to figure out how to find Blm land, water and many other things. But your videos helped me out so much! I just wanted to say thanks
Once again you provided us with an informative video. You are very resourceful. Thanks for the information. I'm sure it will at some point be useful when I begin traveling.
Excellent information Robin! Thank you!
This is brilliant! I did not know about the commercial truck portion of the truck stops having water either!
And don't forget cemetaries! I have a camper van so it's easy for me to drive on the one lane cemetary roads. I find spigots all over the cenetary for visiters to water the plants. Tip: Let the water run firca couple of minutes in case rust had built up in the pipes from non-use.
Great video! Thanks for making! Love your hair- beautiful lady.
I am getting serious about trying this fulltime RVing. I am researching some things I need to learn. Filling up on water is one of them. I found out the average person uses about 6 gallons a day. So if I have a 50 gallon tank I should be able to go at least 8 days, or maybe more.
I was thinking to get a gym membership at one of those nationwide places like Planet Fitness, or such to augment. Problems might be locations and needing to go to the gym a lot!
My 2nd thought was go to a campground about every 2 weeks for a day or two and fill up. Most likely you can find a campsite for about $20-$30 a night. Be like a vaca from the vaca! lol Also, give you the opportunity to stock up on supplies, free wifi, do laundry, go nutz on electric usage, take a 12 hour shower, etc.. So about 1-2 times a month I would use a campground (cost about $40-$50 a month).
My 3rd thought was to carry 4-5, 5 gallon jerry tanks and fill them up where ever I could and siphon them into my water tanks. Your ideas are practical and will incorporate them into my plan.
My next concern is propane and power! I need to find out how long 2-3 propane tanks last, and how long a generator can last on a tank. Don't even know if I can run a gen off of propane, or only can use gas. I also, need to know how long a couple of batteries last and if solar power is worth the investment.
I'm soooo confused! lol
This has been a concern of mine. Thank you, Robin - you ROCK! 🧡🌟 👍🏼
Great tips! We'll have to remember this video when we start boondocking :)
~Stacy~
Robin, now you have me wondering if I've seen a spigot close to the auto bay area at a Sam's Club. Good point about a threadless spigot and the adapter you showed could be super handy. They weren't cheap but I finally invested in some white hoses that don't kink. Was able to get them in lengths of my choosing. For me, it was a good investment. Have enjoyed several of your videos. There's nothing like freedom!
Thanks so much for the tips, Robin! We just stopped to fill our fresh tank at a truck stop while we fueled up and got snacks! 😎👍💧
TH-cam served your video up. Good information. Real world nomad.
Quick suggestions: 1. I agree with David - The male hose ends are REALLY easy to damage, which can be eliminated by connected the ends.. 2. put the hoses in a hose basket or 3. carry them with a carry strap.