The photo of the campers right next to each other was the perfect illustration of why my wife and I ONLY boondock. It reminds me of Japanese hotels or apartments. Our whole reason for camping is to get away from people.
Yep...that campground was tight. We should have mentioned it was directly on the beach! We find the campsites are close together when we are in high dollar property areas. I would not recommend there if you only camp a few times a year. But as fulltimers we don't mind. Good for you that you can boondock! Would love some tips. We stay in gated resorts for the most part. How do you leave your camper without worries about breaking in? If we take our bikes and go for a ride, we worry someone will take the generator out of the truck. If we take the truck we worry someone will break in or take the bikes. We are considering cameras but some setups require internet for them to work.
I love that you addressed not walking through someone’s site. We have been tenting for almost ever. Not only do adults walk through an occupied site, their children do as well. (of course) Being a mom and an elementary school teacher, I can usually talk to kids about how we each have an area yada yada yada. Kids get it but the parents sometimes come over, angry and usually having had a drink or two. They usually bring the kids so we have to watch parents embarrass their kids. Makes me nuts. (Thanks, I feel better for getting that out there.)
Thanks for commenting. I know it happens. Hopefully less often now that we have this video out there. Wishing you much happy camping in the future and better neighbors!
Parents ! They just let their kids rip with the neighbours on the campsite…parents and alcohol dont mix on site..or anywhere….the kids aren’t supervised if the parents are de stressing..
Great point. I should have mentioned this campground is right on the beach. It's an excellent part of the beach with bald eagles and a very unspoiled vibe. The sites are close because the property is not cheap.
There was a park in El Paso we stayed for one night. Your neighbors had to bring in rooms so you could get in. then rooms came back out and were almost touching each other.
I try to research a campground before booking. One good tool is Google Earth. It can give you a nice perspective of how close campers are to one another.
Yeah, it's not for everyone. And some are better than others. We prefer Thousand Trails as they seem to be well-kept and well-run. Also unless we are in an urban area, most of the sites are roomy. Here's our video about Thousand Trails: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
@@marioe6884 I'm guessing it is like campgrounds, trailheads, neighborhoods, or any other "outdoor" thing where there is parking etc.....you'll have days when it is awesome and the people and weather are great, and then you'll have all the typical problems that comes with those scenes and some days that are really bad.
@@stephendouglas4545 yes true! It’s all the rules from the old timers that puts me off. It doesn’t seem to be a very inviting environment for people with a young family who want to start “rv-ing”
at first dogs are nice when rv'ing but people have to realize they can hold back the all the time on the go plans. Just remember that having dogs are similar to having children along on the trip too.
True! We just spent 28 days like that, so wonderful. We are finding we like a mix, though. Right now we are at a very social campground and since we are fulltimers I am enjoying the chance to meet and greet others. Happy travels to you!
@Just Moi No, but I do go every year sometimes twice to Montana or Wyoming to hunt. I prefer sept to late nov. Nice and cool , some times we get small blizzards.
@Just Moi I live in Northern Nevada, I like steam trains and i can go see them often. Southern 4501 First Steam to Summerville is shown on Jonny Cash song HURT, it's on u tube
One I may add is to make sure your pets are always leashed / restrained. And also if you are walking by other peoples sites that you don’t let your dogs encroach. The leashes that allow a dog to wander and reel out can let them get well into other peoples areas. Enjoyed the video, thank you. I liked and subscribed.
WE were campers for 35 years. As for the smell when emptying you balck water tank - you won't have that if you use the black tank chemicals that you can buy in any camp store.They also help to keep things free flowing by breaking down solids & paper in the tank. Not expensive - a really good idea.
That's a great idea. We do use our cell phones but we sometimes don't have service. We will have to look into walkie talkies. Thanks again for your tip.
My father and I face time each other so he can see if he has clearance pulling in and out of our backyard (our gate is a little narrow and we’ve been doing this ever since he clipped the back part of the awning..)
Back in 2000 I was traveling with our 4 kids (hubby was home at work) We had a great system with the 2 teens on either side with walkie talkies as I backed in our 36’ TT and had the window closed to hear them clearly. No yelling ! Smooth guidance. One evening we were smoothly backing in. Then the eldest teen says on the talkie “What is that guy doing?” I was confused, stopped just in time to have this guy start knocking on my window, startled me to no end! Turns out he had started RUNNING over to us jumping & waving his arms etc🤦♀️ Oh HE was going to get us in the spot😂 I said kindly “we have it thank you” he backed off a bit...but was clearly trying to still wave me in and I just about lost it! I was so proud of our teens, they kept their cool and we were done! I looked over and the guy was STORMING back into his rig😂 The next morning his wife cane over and apologized for her husband😂 She said that she tried to stop him, and he nearly came out naked cuz she was pulling on his clothes even to stop him! She kept telling him that it was clear we were just fine. She told me & kids how proud she was of us.... and that... SHE now had a great story to hang over his head!😂
Oh no. That’s what we really like about RV life. You can design the life that works best for you. Some people buy a plot of land for their camper and others go deep in the woods.
Thank you, Mason. And it's totally understandable to do many of these things. As a newbie, you often just don't know. And welcome to RV Life! We hope to see you at a campground someday!
@@masonjohns208 No I just can’t stand people who complain about stupid stuff instead of complaining about stuff that’s important I would say that complaining about somebody walking on the grass is the stupidest thing to complain about
Be aware of where you are and use a campground voice. We had a group that sat out their lawn chairs in their KOA campsite but it was only about 8 feet from our trailer and open windows. A river was running behind us but, all we could hear was their loud voices. One lady kept saying super loud, “We’re living the dream”! I was perfectly fine with her living the dream. I just didn’t want to be drawn into it.
Good one. Yes, people need to know about that tip. Trailers with open windows are the same as being in a tent or standing outside. Thanks for writing and contributing to the list! Wishing you happy (and quieter) camping!
Hear you on that one. We had to close our windows for quiet for similar reasons and then open the bedroom one to let them know that Quiet Time started almost an hour ago (10:30) and gee, we’d appreciate a little consideration. We would otherwise have our windows open as fresh air in the summertime is what we like.
Just like not being noisy at night is not blasting six trillion lumens of lighting across the campground. If I can read a book, by YOUR lights, 500 feet away, you've tossing out too much light.
charlie cheeseface , yes, I heard this happen to someone else. I suppose there are a lot more newbes out there this year and they don’t think of others. It’s sad that they have to be told but even worse when they don’t accept the education.
Great video!! The only thing I’d add is that if you DO get interrupted hitching or unhitching (it will happen) start your procedure all over again, from the beginning. It’s a pain but I had that happen once and if I didn’t start over I would’ve missed removing my chocks.
A nice, undisturbed pre-trip is definitely in order. My husband drives a tractor-trailer for a living and no one, I mean NO ONE is allowed to talk to him during his pre-trip inspection each day. Thats just a rule we dont break!!
These is a great video for those of us who are new to camping. My wife and I recently bought a small airstream and we're really happy about getting a chance to spend some weekends camping. But we know there are a lot of things we don't know. So this was helpful. We always try to be good neighbors at home, but some of these etiquette pointers for campgrounds are really good to know in advance. Thank you! We look forward to watching more of your videos.
Hi Sean! Thanks so much for your comment and welcome to the channel. Congrats on your upcoming RV life and on your Airstream. Looking forward to seeing you out here!
After being in the campground business for 30 years, if everyone would use common sense and be respectful of others you wouldn't need written or unwritten rules. Since that's never going to happen we do have written rules and have to verbally tell people the unwritten rules. After all these years I'm still amazed at some of the things I see. Never a dull moment.
I bet you could write a book. Our experiences in campgrounds have been overwhelmingly positive. Wishing you all the best in these times. We know many campgrounds are half empty so we hope you are doing ok.
I wonder why it's not called "uncommon sense," these days? It's those who lack "sense" that has resulted in so many restrictions and rules against overnight parking. Even many Walmarts are now banning the practice. Rule 0, look for signs that say "no overnight" and obey! Rule 1, pretend what you are doing someone else is doing in your yard at home. Would you want strangers with lawn chairs, trash, and beer bottles in your yard? Rule 2, go inside everyday and buy something. If you are an RVer there is always plenty to buy at Walmart eg RV supplies, food, misc items. Put a receipt tape to your door. Rule 3, put your cell phone number and when you will be back so if someone who has issue with RV can call you. In fact, just *knowing* you are responsible enough to leave your number means you are "a okay." Rule 4, do not park in a dark, poorly lit area. This does not mean park at the front where you will be nuisance for other shoppers. Park as far away as possible, but under a bright light source. This is for your safety and it tells cops and security you are not "hiding" out. Rule 5, limit parking to 24 to 48 hours, max. Need more time, move your RV to another parking lot!!!
Yep. It's almost always by newbies who are perhaps bee-lining to the showers and not realizing they need to go around, not through! Maybe our video will help spread the word. Happy camping to you!
Liz Amazing I’ve never asked those rude kids/adults their camping history. If you wouldn’t cut between your non-neighbour’s houses, don’t do it camping! The worse was a group of about 6 adults & kids cutting between our campfire & picnic table! To boot, I was sitting at the table facing the fire pit! It was a sardine type campground so the table-pit distance was about 6’. I did say something passive-aggressive but fell on deaf ears. Dumber than a bag of hammers and less useful.
At one of our favorite campgrounds the pool is surrounded by sites and it is literally impossible to get to the pool without invading someone’s “yard”. We stick to the very edge. Fortunately, the sites are HUGE, as it was formerly a mobile home community. It’s set up like a little town, and the sites are between 1/8th and 1/2 acre!!!! Of course the sites nearest the pool are the smallest, but on two sides they have cabin rentals, so often times they aren’t full. I agree it’s rude to just tromp through someone’s outdoor living space. We consider our site to be no different than a hotel room. You wouldn’t walk into someone’s hotel room, so don’t do it while camping.
Rachael Davis we were just at a campground where the path to the beach was vaguely between two sites that had indeterminate boundaries. If you get to offer feedback there suggest a definite marked path or two. It makes me uneasy to take poorly marked paths to any facilities.
If I pulled into a site and they were as close as you had pictured, I think I'd just keep going. I would not enjoy being that close and it would stress me out the whole time!
I totally get it- especially if this is your summer vacation. I should have mentioned this campground is directly on the beach. That's why the sites are so close- expensive real estate!
@@LizAmazing - we just got back from a month vacation with our Class A motorhome, and our last location, we where packed in like sardines, which I don't like at all. As mentioned Liz, I made sure I was up at 6:00 Am to dump my tanks, and have all the hoses and such put away. One thing different with us that have motorhomes though, is we have to wait for air pressure to rise, 'and' have the engine running for our hydraulic slides to come in, so one thing folks should think about, is to hopefully have enough time where they can stay until at least 9:00 Am before doing this, so as not to wake people up! That's how I do it at least, as being thoughtful of others is part of the 'etiquette' you mention I believe. Good video, as I find hooking up our 'towed' behind, that if you get distracted, it's easy to miss one of the many connections needed.
Dale, thanks so much for your comment. I had wondered why people with Class A's sometimes leave them running for a while. Now I know- thanks for the education! Thank YOU for being thoughtful! And thanks for your kind words. We hope to meet up with you at a campground someday!
That is the way they camp in Europe... Guess why I never camp at camp grounds (it also has something to do with not trusting anybody with their propane systems.)
Wow! You guys are spot on in this video. I pulled a travel trailer for over 20 years until my kids grew older and it was no longer fun to "go camping with dad." Your do's and dont's hit the head on every nail. Thank you very much for sharing and safe travels to you!
At night, keep light from spilling beyond your site. Don't light up the neighborhood at night. Don't decorate your RV / site with Xmas lights like your in a Disney light parade. Darkness at night is part of camping.
Yes! That's a good one. Thank you! I stayed at a campground earlier this year that had a dark curfew. All exterior lights had to be shut off by 9pm. This made for excellent star gazing. Wishing you dark skies!
We were camping with my mother and her new trailer. She was complaining about people leaving their lights on and then... left her front cap light on. At 3 am I woke up and saw the light thinking it was morning until I went outside.
Absolutely right--"don't jump in and start helping." This should also apply to personnel from commercial campgrounds who want to lead new arrivals to their designated site and then stay to give directions about backing in. Leave us alone unless we ask for help!
YES! Couldn't agree more. We try to ignore them when that happens but they don't seem to get the message. But I do remember when I was a solo RVer appreciating having someone watching the back end and sides for me while I was backing. Thanks for watching and happy trails to you!
The campsite owners will try to guide you to where they _think_ you want to be parked, not where you want to be. I have a good idea how long my power cord, sewer hose and fresh water hoses are, and I line up to the hookups accordingly. If I'm on a site that's not quite level, I'll stop a few feet short to put my "Legos" out and back or pull up onto them.
Thank you this video was very helpful. I am just getting into the RV life and this enforces the reason why 90% of my camping will be boondocking miles from others.
Yep! That's good to know from the start. Something to note: the longer we fulltime the less we are bothered by things such as this. For example, on Friday the campsites around us filled up with families. Instead of being concerned about noise and unruliness, we just shrugged. We knew they'd be gone by Sunday. (And honestly, I am pleased to see children playing outside and enjoying nature, rather than tethered to their devices) We meet many travelers who bounce back and forth between boondocking and campgrounds. That way you get showers, internet, laundry and social time to balance the peace and solitude you get from boondocking. Enjoy your new chapter of Rv life!
Yes me too. I just got my 1st rv and have been watching loads of videos. I have been really turned off of the rv parks. I would rather be out there alone.
Great information, I'm so glad you both talked about this. There's something we all can learn about in the RV community. This is important. My motto is don't do something you yourself would not like. Love the videos.😊
Our pleasure! So glad you are enjoying our channel. I do wish these rules were written down somewhere because not all are obvious- that's for sure. Thanks for your comment!
That's a smart rule. We love it and will remember it next time. And we know there will be a next time!! Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy travels and be safe.
Avoiding distractions during arrival / departure is number one on my list. I have made almost all of my mistakes when I got interrupted in my routine by people who want to help. That is just as true for boating, btw, especially if one has guests who never RVed or boated before. Another unwritten rule is to turn off your external lights, when going to bed and also switch your headlights to just parking lights when you back in or leave at night, if it is safe to do so obviously. The same applies when backing down the boat ramp at night, where the headlights are blinding anyone else who is trying to back up to the ramp.
Good one. I am also NOT a fan of wind chimes. Thank you for helping add to the list. Paul and I wish you a peaceful camping experience next time. See you on the road.
We were very close together on a oceanfront windy resort. The new neighbor put up 3 wind chimes outside my bedroom window. Even with earplugs in I heard it. The "wind" wound the center around all the chimes that night. Be considerate of others.
I love wind chimes but can see (hear?) how they would be annoying. Wouldn’t pack them to take with me. Don’t love them that much. I think I’ve camped somewhere where someone had chimes up, I like them in a gentle breeze, & they need to be the small glass ones. Big ones = noise.
Keep your tow (or towed) vehicle completely off your neighbor's site. I recently had a guy park so over my line that he was actually blocking the front of my RV.
@@TheWestlandgirl I have a photo. Lol to be clear, he wasn't blocking the entire front of my RV but I would have had to hook up at an angle and try to go out the opposite way I was wanting to go
Nice job guys! Yes that unspoken RV etiquette is something important to consider when living in an RV! Its so nice to watch how relaxed you guys are, feels like we are sitting there in the same room having a chit chat 😊Keep it up! Love watching your videos ❤️
Keep an eye on your dogs. I've lost track of the number of times I was walking my dog on a leash and someone's loose dog or worse....dogs....came bolting out of no where......barking aggressively. Pet peeve.
Agreed. I should add that to the list. That does happen when I walk Mango. I'm always on high alert and ready to pick him up if a dog comes charging at us. I think what causes it is weekenders with a backyard dog. They are not used to securing their dog and so it gets loose. Thanks for your comment.
@@jimwolf264 what do you do with said walking stick when a dog charges? I had yelled at the two charging dogs with no reaction from dogs or owner, then I kicked because they were biting at my senior dog.
I’m a semi driver. I know people like to be helpful, but unless I ask for your help backing, I don’t want it. All you are is a distraction and another thing I need to avoid. Please at least ask first before you get out there and start directing someone.
Thanks for your comment. Paul was working on the truck later that day and got diesel fuel on his shirt and thought it was ruined. I suggested vinegar and it looks like that shirt will live on!
Right on about the black tank. I learned the hard way after I left the tank open on our travel trailer and our teenage nieces used the toilet multiple times. My tank got blocked, couldn't drain it. I ended up pulling the trailer home and backing it up on my front lawn. Used a coat hanger and other implements to unblock--a dirty job! Leave the tank closed until time to drain! :)
Oh my gosh, Samuel! I feel for you-- that must have been the absolute WORST! Oh my goodness. Thanks for sharing. A lot of people would not know that. Thank you.
Absolutely! Now just need the right words said in the right tone when friendly people come over and chat while we are trying to park and unhitch. Thanks for your comment and happy travels to you!
I actually stayed in a site that my sewer connection was under my neighbors picnic table, thank god I was empty and didn’t need to use it till they were getting ready to leave.
Hi, I purchased my T@B 320 trailer in October of 2019. I am a solo act, and just wanted to try the whole camper experience with a teardrop camper. Aside from the fact that I still cannot back up my camper, I love it, and may at some point want to go bigger, but for now, I have all I need. Oh, I am not living it my T@B, but will be gone a couple weeks at a time. I learned the unwritten rules before I went camping by bingeing on TH-cam videos, and was so glad I did. I really enjoy your videos, so please keep them coming! So, one of my pet peeves, and so far it only happened on one camping trip, but off and on for several days! The people across the road from me had a big screened area where they placed their picnic table and they shared the space with friends that were camping next to them. They were reasonably quiet except for their dice shaking during their hundreds of endless games of Yahtzee!!! It didn’t bother me at the beginning, but after it had been going on for hours on the first day that they arrived, it became annoying and then to the point of just all out infuriating. It was just grinding on my nerves for long periods off and on for three days and evenings. I never said anything to them, but my neighbors on my side of the road were equally irritated. I had to go into my camper and turn my Fantastic fan on high to drown it out so I could read! Has anyone else had the game of Yahtzee drive you to the point of insanity? I love playing Yahtzee, and the noise does not bother me when I am a part of the game. My suggestion is for Yahtzee players to find a quiet way to shake your dice when playing outside, because that plastic cup that comes with the game, magnifies the sound. Any suggestions?
Hi Deborah! That is so funny that you mention Yahtzee. Paul and I play a couple times a week. That cup was too loud for us so we just hold the die in our hand and roll that way. MUCH quieter! I can only imagine how irritating that must be to have to hear that noise hours on end. If it were me, I would stop by during a game and say hi and how much I love Yahtzee. Then I would say I never realized how loud that cup was! And nicely ask if they can put padding such as cork in the cup or just roll out of their hand. I truly doubt you'll run into this unique situation ever again though. But...you never know! I have a friend with a T@B and she loves it. Another friend thinking of getting a T@B 400. Happy travels to you, yes, perfect for solo traveling. Safe travels to you!
Great video... please allow me to be truthful. I thought at first, oh no, here we go with all the little gripes so many have put on YT. But yours was spot on! These are definitely the RVer’s etiquettes. I started out driving a Class A when I was 16, my dad put me behind the wheel when we weren’t in traffic and we were on the open roads, I am now 66. Have loved RV life ever since. And by the way, it is still tense when backing a motorhome, fifth wheel or a travel trailer into a small lot. So, I totally agree with all your points in staying alert. Thank you both for a great video. Am definitely subscribing. Looking forward to watching the next one. Happy trails and 🙏🏻❤️
Hi Cally Rose! Welcome to the A-Team and thanks for joining our community! That's awesome that you've had 50+ years experience in the RV life. Paul and I hope to meet you in person at a campground someday! And thanks so much for your kind words about this video!
Wow, I must've been living off grid too long! Thanks for talking about those inside tips which people don't ever really mention. Great job on backing up your rig with such a short bed on your TV! Can't tell you how many trucks I've seen with the corners smashed up from turning too tight with their 5th wheel! One that really gets me going is people burning their trash in the fire ring (as if that will get them off the hook for environmental degradation), or dumping their black tank w/o a proper hose connection! Then they blithely go on and use the potable water hose to flush out their black tank (so glad we are into compostable toilets!) and leave a lovely deposit for everyone else to find. I could go on, but I need to give my spleen a rest now and then!
Hi Michel! Thanks so much for your comment. Yes, living off grid is a WAY different thing than being in a campground. Yes, burning trash is a no-no in my book as well. And sewer hose mistakes....Whew! Thanks so much for commenting!
I just have to tell you that I love seeing your fireplace smoldering away in the background! I'm a designer and I would say a fireplace is traditionally/historically/originally a masonry affair. Yours is rad because it's on wheels it slides too it's an illusion (electric) Legend has it Elton John had a working fireplace on his private jet. Join the jet set! I love your rig
We have an Andriod Tv in our van .. So sometimes i youtube fish tank vids or fire pit vid and just leave the vids play.. Somany options to chooss from... .. some have a 12 hour + run time lol..
Wow - forgetting the ball is sooo scary. So glad that nothing happened, geeesh. We have probably broken some etiquette by being forced to change our brakes and master/slave cylinder for our clutch in our spot!! We checked with the campground, and those around us and all parties were understanding, but it sure made for an... interesting experience?? Ha. Great video guys!
Oh no. Sometimes you just gotta do it. Paul changed the differential cover in our campground last week AND he changes the oil, too. He tries to be discreet! Thanks again for your kind words!
Hi Marcia! Yes, that happens. Paul and I have been on the road for nearly two years now and we find the longer we fulltime, the less things bother us. I know if we were here for only a weekend we would want things to be perfect because our camping time is so short. Yesterday a bunch of families arrived at the campground and set up all around us. We just shrugged. Hey, it's Friday- they'll be gone by Sunday. So far all have been well-behaved. Wishing you happy camping and safe travels!
In reality didn't you run around as a kid,? I get it if people use your small rented space as a short cut. However caution is necessary when someone is there to mean you and yours harm.
Another great video! You two do such a good job and this was great information. When I shared with Dave he had a good one for boondocking. It happened to us in a National Forest. Don't park and set up camp on a road or trail in a dispersed camping area. We were in an off-road site near Grand Canyon and when we came back to our trailer someone had parked and set up camp on the road up to our trailer! Fortunately we could go around (the long way) and get back to our site. Dave walked down and talked to them and told them that was our only access out with the trailer and told them when we would be leaving. They were brand new at camping and were so nice. They were from overseas with a rented RV and we had a nice visit. They were able to move a few feet off the road area for the rest of their stay and we were all happy neighbors. It was so good to see you two again after meeting you on the Washington Coast. Thanks for all the work you put into your videos - we've learned a lot!
Hi Adrienne & Dave! That's a good story and a great lesson. Some people just don't know. Still it is surprising they would actually block a road. So glad you took the "high road" with them! ;-) It was great to see you two, too! Happy travels to you and be safe. Looking forward to meeting you on the road again.
Gone is the good old days and trailer camping at a yearly event I went to. If a strom or high wind came up and you got back to your trailer to put your awning down, it was very common you did it on a neighboring trailer to save their awning. Many on battery power only so if someone had a generator you helped charge their battery for a longer stay. Mount Pleasant Iowa Old Threshers Reunion was a friendly group of campers on acreas on ground. Even had people who might help you park since it was on a terraced land and close parking.
We are finding more and more that campgrounds truly are friendly places. If you ever need anything, any help or to borrow something, one of your camping neighbors will likely be only too happy to help. Thanks for your comment and wishing you much happy camping this season!
Have had neighbors from their whole slide out in your site to running their honey bucket thru the middle of your site everyday to leaving their water on and flooding your site. used to try and ask nicely but that seldom ended well now I just call the camp host to enforce their rules with much better results.
That sounds like a good plan. Avoid being involved directly. Hope your next camping trip is much much better than that one! Thanks for your comment and happy travels.
Honey bucket refers to an RV sewer portable tote. Sounds like the neighbors were filling their tote and walking through Bob Fish's site with it on the way to the dump station.
Thank you. This info was very helpful. I'm watching this video here in NC. Im not RV living but it's been on my mind for years. I look at RVs they are beautiful. I love the idea of (folding my house up in a suitcase and going about the day(like the cartoon). I think of it as a home on wheels. Unknowing the pros and cons but learning now thanks to many of you all that RV and choose to share important content. Thank you for sharing dos and don'ts based on your experiences.
I can tell you that I (Paul) really never considered this lifestyle much more than a passing thought before embarking on it, now I can't imagine living any other way.
great job guys we have one for people just on vacation not living in there rv for long periods of time and who are headed home.leave your canned goods and dry goods in the rec area or laundry for seniors in the park.preferably an area secure by coded doors.this has proven to fill the belly of a senior or vet..happy roads
When I’m backing my trailer in I cannot stand it when “the guy” from nextdoor runs over to help. 1.I don’t need or want help 2. Most of the time their help is terrible. 3. After they help you run your RV over the picnic table they finally mossy quietly back to their own campsite! 😡 Grrrrr NOTE: If you’re my father-n-law just stay the hell away from me!
We love your comment. That guy in our video and on our thumbnail was exactly that- a guy next door who thought he was being helpful. Paul and I have a system and we trust each other that we each look out for certain areas of the rig to be sure we have full visual coverage of all areas of the rig and truck. Not good at all but hopefully our video helps a few people. I can understand that people who are new to camping would not know these rules. Wishing you happy camping!
Pet peeves! Where do I start! 1. Deal frequently (after every meal clean up) with your garbage & food waste. Leaving a garbage can outside your rig with a weeks worth of refuse in it smells terrible & its RUDE! 2. Keep your site clean & organized! I'm retired & I don't want your kids bikes, wild snake collection, toys, discarded clothing, candy wrappers etc in the roadway or coming into my site. Children don't understand boundaries, courtesy & respect of other ppls areas, & need to be taught. 3. Control your children (esp. teenagers) & animals or don't come into the campground. I'm finished raising my family & I don't want to deal with yours cuz of your poor parenting skills!!! 4. Bright lights at night, Christmas lights strung all over the place, flashing disco lights, etc. Turn them off, esp at night. Just cuz you got drunk & forgot is no excuse. 5. Turn your music & TV down inside your rig, & get some ear buds to listen to them. I don't want to hear your TV shows until 3am cuz you're hard at hearing or fell asleep. 6. I don't drink alcohol. Do not come over, pop a beer & hand it to me, trying to be friendly. It creates a very awkward situation. Ppl then ask why I don't drink. Its really none of their business, & I have my personal reasons for it. A friendly "hi" is fine. 7. Guys getting ready to leave & who start their trucks (esp Diesel) to let them "warm up" for ½ an hour at 5am & blowing exhaust into my rig is rude & a health risk for me. Please don't do that. 8. Ppl talking loudly all the time. Some ppl can't talk in a normal voice. They're shouting at their kids, at each other, at other campers & friends etc. If you want to know where the steak sauce is, go ask your wife, don't yell it out. 9. I don't tell ppl what I did for a living cuz they exploit it. I was a mechanic & electronics technician. They ask me to do repairs for them. I'm retired. If I still wanted to do that work I'd still be working. If I wanted to overhaul your truck motor or rewire your trailer, I'd offer to do it. Now I tell them I used to sweep garbage up in the streets. 10. NO! I won't give you a ride into town that's 60 miles away! NO I won't lend you my tools, fishing gear, jacket, my vehicle, my bike, my BBQ, my propane tank, my frying pan, extra bedding, etc etc etc. If you can't buy your own stuff, you shouldn't be RV'ing. 11. I like to sleep in mornings & I stay up late reading or watching TV (with headphones). Just cuz my light is on at 2am doesn't mean I want your drunken company or to settle an argument. 12. NO I won't let your kids or friends sleep in my rig cuz its raining out & their tent is wet! 13. I'm Canadian. Yes I may have a few habits & funny ways of talking that seem odd to you. I find the same oddities about you. BUT I don't mention it, I don't judge you, I don't make fun of you. I respect ppl until they give me a reason not to. I don't want to be the butt of your jokes or hear how much you hate Canada. I don't want to get into politics, cultural customs, etc. I'm on vacation to relax, not to get into international disputes. 14. If I politely mention or ask something of you, there's a good reason behind it. I'm not looking for a fight. If you find it funny to pile your empty beer bottles on my car cuz I'm "Canadian", well, I don't share your sense of humour, & I'll tell you so. Don't get offend cuz you're acting like an a55. I'm not a grumpy old man. I'm very friendly & laid back. I'm independent & look after my own situations. I do not like being used or taken advantage of. I don't do it to others. Common sense seems to be scarce & seldom practiced by some ppls adult children! Respect others & have great RV experiences.
Goodness. That's a good list. We like Thousand Trails because they do keep things neat, clean and quiet. Have not had problems with garbage or people wanting to shelter in our rig! Wow. You could write a book! Sounds like you have the right attitude and have been out here longer than us. As far as idling in the morning- that annoys us, too! I learned that Class A motorhomes are the worst offenders because that's the way they are set up. They have to warm them up a long time to recharge their airbags. The most considerate Class A neighbors leave later in the day! If you want to learn more about Thousand Trails and how you can stay in them 365 days a year for an average of less than $2 a night ($700 a year), check out our video about that: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Great list and well stated. And yes you could write a book! Everything you said is why I am distantly friendly with. I will smile or nod but keep on walking.
When boondocking in an area with other campers near, please be courteous with your generator use. Try to shield it away from other campers. Also, be aware of the noise difference between hardsides, popups and tents. You may be blissfully unaware of noise that your stuff is making in your large camper, while a generator could be very noisy to the tent site 100 ft. away.
Good luck to all of you. After watching this video and reading way TOO MANY hateful comments it's obviously NO wonder why I'll never buy into this lifestyle. I love to camp. I still do. But I'm fortunate enough to still be able to go to off-the-beaten places. ✌
Yes, I think the mean comments are a vocal minority and have scared off the regular folks. Let me assure you we are still here enjoying camping life SO much! Campgrounds truly are friendly places.But what's so cool about RV life is there are endless ways to do it. Wishing you happy camping!
Lot of good tips, particularly the one at the end about not parking right next to the only other rig in the area. As an OTR trucker, that used to drive me crazy when I'd find a nice, secluded spot in an uncrowded or empty lot, and have some guy pulling a running reefer back right in next to me.
Exactly! We've had that happen to us: we were the only ones in a campground section- easily 50 sites open around us. They chose right smack dab next to us, literally blocked out the sun with their big rig! Oh well, what can you do? Thanks for watching and commenting. Be careful out there on the road!
I liked this video thank you! I cannot STAND when people offer "help" backing up our fifth wheel, especially when I'm clearly right there helping my fiancé and haven't asked anyone for help. It's happened at more than half of the campgrounds my fiancé and I have stayed at. I understand that people may mean well and want to help but more often than not its just distracting and they are stressing me out more. Also, we have a pretty large rig its a little over 44 foot. I have noticed that we always become a spectacle whilst backing up the camper. Why do people do this?
Agreed! When I traveled solo for a year, it seemed everyone wanted to pull up a chair and watch me back in. I'm slow and need a lot of time and DON'T need any distractions. Yes, it just adds stress to have an audience! I think the reason people do it is for entertainment, as in: watch that solo gal back into a site, or watch you two to see how you can get that 44' rig into the space. Just gotta go with the flow. Thanks for your comment and wishing you happy camping!
We do a lot of Walmart stays overnight if we are eenroute...lots of extra unwritten there as well. Be quiet, don't put slides out, do go in and shop if you need something, park as far away as practical, generators are OK if it's Tx or Az and it's 100 degrees out or the two semis parked beside you have theirs on but if you don't have to don't.
I have one of those high-performance mufflers on my truck and it sounds great! I love leaving my truck running so everyone can enjoy the beautiful rumble.
Listen, I HATED this about my tow rig. I have a heavily-modded half-ton, looked stock, and was plenty adequate for what I tow, but I wish I’d changed out the muffler set-up. I actually wait as long as I can to fire it up. It’s crazy loud. The new (to us) rig is a one ton, diesel - bone stock mufflers, thank goodness. I’m guessing the guy who buys my 1/2 truck won’t be towing, anyway.
Oh no! That's a tough one. The sound of some of those can travel quite far. I am noise-sensitive so I bet I wouldn't like them. That said, Paul and I are noticing that after nearly two years on the road, stuff bothers us less and less. We had two big families move in next to us today making lots of noise. We just shrugged and said they'd be gone by Sunday. We love the RV life and see no end in sight!
That group of families you are talking about needs to watch this video (I was across from you guys this weekend in the Transcend)! I’d have much rather had wind chimes next to us. Though I’m no better, I hang lights on my awning and people hate that, and occasionally I forget to turn them off.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! We are having fun making these and are glad they are helpful. If you haven't already, please join the A-Team- they are the best nicest people ever! Join by subscribing. Thanks again.
What we've learned is that urban campgrounds tend to look like this. AND ones where the property values are high. We should have mentioned that this tight campground was directly on a secluded beach-- it was heavenly! Our video about the campgrounds we typically stay in will show you what our camping is typically like: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
You are spot on. I really appreciate people would like to offer help but sometime “help” isn’t really helpful. There was once we arrived a state park pitch dark. After our initial backup attempt, we failed to cut at the correct angle and we pulled forward to re-do it. There was a lady at our neighboring site run to us and started to taking over my wife’s job for guiding me and yelled to her husband come over to help me drive my truck. It’s not helpful at all, and it’s hard to tell them “no thanks”.
Number one on my list is you should always walk through someone else’s campsite it’s a great way to meet new people! Number two if they have a trashcan outside you are totally welcome to put your trash in it I mean it’s the economical green thing to do people will very much appreciate this! Number three if alcohol is present on your neighbor’s picnic table help yourself I mean we’re all family right! Number four if you notice your neighbors trailer is plugged into the power outlet do them a favor and unplug it they will be very appreciative of of this! And remember don’t be selfish always play your death metal as loud as you possibly can so the entire park can hear it! And my most important advice to you is to always hook your trailer up before you pack up your campsite and put your slide out in I mean you paid for the space on the road and besides you wouldn’t want all those cars and campers driving by while you’re packing up I mean it’s all about you right! Happy camping everyone out there I’m sure my advice has been a huge help don’t thank me now just leave me a beer outside and as always my disco ball will be glowing at 2 o’clock in the morning!……..Ps: tip of the day a great place to clean and dry your sewer hose before you put it away is right there on the picnic table!………….sorry! I couldn’t help myself!
I appreciate your honesty and information, but truthfully, after listening to ALL the “unspoken” laws in RV Camps, I don’t believe I’ll ever stay in one.
No worries about that. With RV life you can do it any way you like it: stay in a state or national park, boondock or even buy a plot of land. I will say that campground resorts are a good way to camp, too!
Fortunate for me, backing up a trailer is the easiest and least stressful thing when RV-ing. I find the actual drive itself stressful especially in heavy traffic. Love your videos and I love my Cross Current X.
Oh my gosh, we don't like that either. Recently we stayed at campground with an 11pm quiet time and they allow campers to arrive up to that time. That's just too late for people to arrive and be setting up - for sure!!
Well that's going to happen, no matter what campground you are at. People are traveling all at different times, and can't always show up when it's convenient for everyone else. That's all part of camping, it is a campground, not home.
Totally agree, very annoying when the neighbours arrive at midnight and keep you up, then they can't see so they burn their bright lights in all directions while they get set up 🙄
Seems to me when someone arrives late the people checking them in should tell them that they're welcome to come in and park it, but they have to wait till in the morning to set up outside camp. Even if there's nobody at the front gate ALL campers should be told this when they make their reservation. Of course there's always going to be the exception to the rule and that would be if the "new arrival" had road trouble or something. But even then they should have enough sense and courtesy to wait until the morning to set up camp outside.
What are we suppose to do if we get in some place late do to no fault of our own; we set up as quickly and quietly as possible and put off what we can until the next day how about a little neighborly love and quit bitching 😎
Those are great tips/rules. While they seem like common sense, it is worth reviewing them. In commercial aviation pilots adhere to a rule called "sterile Cockpit" when landing or taking off. Part of that is to limit all non-essential conversations to the essential tasks at hand. This applies to backing-in and setting up or packing up and leaving with RV's/Campers. I've heard the same comment on other RV channels. Thanks!
Yes. Safety first. Always. I've heard if you get interrupted during hitching or unhitching to start the list over from the top. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Nice of you to cover this. I had my share of ignorant RVers in a park I stayed in for 5 years. I finally got a quiet neighbor. It's amazing how some people are sooooo rude.
Yes. I am not sure that holds true for everyone or everywhere. There are some very social campgrounds and some not so much. We've seen Class A RVs with doorbells also. Wishing you happy camping and safe travels!
Last thing you do before pulling out is a walk around safety check. You each have things you are responsible for, ie, checking hitch, checking stairs, locked storage doors, tires etc. Truck drivers learned this when they were learning to drive. It will save lots of headaches.
Agreed. We use a checklist. And after we pull out of the site one of us goes back and walks the area to make sure nothing is left behind or fell off! Thanks for your comment!
The photo of the campers right next to each other was the perfect illustration of why my wife and I ONLY boondock. It reminds me of Japanese hotels or apartments. Our whole reason for camping is to get away from people.
Yep...that campground was tight. We should have mentioned it was directly on the beach! We find the campsites are close together when we are in high dollar property areas. I would not recommend there if you only camp a few times a year. But as fulltimers we don't mind. Good for you that you can boondock! Would love some tips. We stay in gated resorts for the most part. How do you leave your camper without worries about breaking in? If we take our bikes and go for a ride, we worry someone will take the generator out of the truck. If we take the truck we worry someone will break in or take the bikes. We are considering cameras but some setups require internet for them to work.
If your late-night party is loud enough to hear inside, then I take that as a de-facto invitation to come drink your beer
Now there you go! Good one. Thanks for your comment and will add it to the list! Be safe out there.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
And PLEASE watch your kids during your party! We recently had a case, their little kids were THROWING pebbles & rocks at OUR rig!!!
@@LizAmazing We have averaged $1.23s far this year and our fees are already paid for Nov&Dec.
I like the way you think!
I love that you addressed not walking through someone’s site. We have been tenting for almost ever. Not only do adults walk through an occupied site, their children do as well. (of course) Being a mom and an elementary school teacher, I can usually talk to kids about how we each have an area yada yada yada. Kids get it but the parents sometimes come over, angry and usually having had a drink or two. They usually bring the kids so we have to watch parents embarrass their kids. Makes me nuts. (Thanks, I feel better for getting that out there.)
Thanks for commenting. I know it happens. Hopefully less often now that we have this video out there. Wishing you much happy camping in the future and better neighbors!
😅
Parents ! They just let their kids rip with the neighbours on the campsite…parents and alcohol dont mix on site..or anywhere….the kids aren’t supervised if the parents are de stressing..
Only in the sweet USA…
If my awning is going to touch my neighbors rig, I'm not staying. Why anyone would pay money to be packed in like sardines
Great point. I should have mentioned this campground is right on the beach. It's an excellent part of the beach with bald eagles and a very unspoiled vibe. The sites are close because the property is not cheap.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
There was a park in El Paso we stayed for one night. Your neighbors had to bring in rooms so you could get in. then rooms came back out and were almost touching each other.
I try to research a campground before booking. One good tool is Google Earth. It can give you a nice perspective of how close campers are to one another.
@@Rockhound6165 That works if there aren't massive forest cover. MN looks like a green screen.
After watching many of these RV videos I think my number one peeve is staying at an RV park.
Yeah, it's not for everyone. And some are better than others. We prefer Thousand Trails as they seem to be well-kept and well-run. Also unless we are in an urban area, most of the sites are roomy. Here's our video about Thousand Trails: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
@@LizAmazing She doesn't even get your comment. She is so wrapped up in herself.
Qqq
@@marioe6884 I'm guessing it is like campgrounds, trailheads, neighborhoods, or any other "outdoor" thing where there is parking etc.....you'll have days when it is awesome and the people and weather are great, and then you'll have all the typical problems that comes with those scenes and some days that are really bad.
@@stephendouglas4545 yes true! It’s all the rules from the old timers that puts me off. It doesn’t seem to be a very inviting environment for people with a young family who want to start “rv-ing”
I've got one: Don't leave your dogs barking in a camper all day while you leave. This happens nearly everywhere we camp.
Oh my gosh! Good one. Will add it to the list, thank you. Wishing you peaceful camping next time- safe travels!
at first dogs are nice when rv'ing but people have to realize they can hold back the all the time on the go plans. Just remember that having dogs are similar to having children along on the trip too.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
A barking dog is a useless dog. Anywhere.
@@warrenrayledbetter9957 not if a barking dog wakes you up to someone outside your trailer .
The best kind of camping is when you can't see or hear your closest neighbor.
True! We just spent 28 days like that, so wonderful. We are finding we like a mix, though. Right now we are at a very social campground and since we are fulltimers I am enjoying the chance to meet and greet others. Happy travels to you!
@@LizAmazing I don't like people that much since I retired.
@Just Moi No, but I do go every year sometimes twice to Montana or Wyoming to hunt. I prefer sept to late nov. Nice and cool , some times we get small blizzards.
@Just Moi I live in Northern Nevada, I like steam trains and i can go see them often. Southern 4501 First Steam to Summerville is shown on Jonny Cash song HURT, it's on u tube
@Just Moi go up to enter ,,Women driving steam trains
One I may add is to make sure your pets are always leashed / restrained. And also if you are walking by other peoples sites that you don’t let your dogs encroach. The leashes that allow a dog to wander and reel out can let them get well into other peoples areas. Enjoyed the video, thank you. I liked and subscribed.
Yes, that's a great tip. Thank you!
WE were campers for 35 years. As for the smell when emptying you balck water tank - you won't have that if you use the black tank chemicals that you can buy in any camp store.They also help to keep things free flowing by breaking down solids & paper in the tank. Not expensive - a really good idea.
We use some organic stuff that is really awesome. Thanks for the tip!
The Mrs. and I have found that a pair of walkie talkies has helped backing into sites immensely. Eliminates the back and forth shouting.
That's a great idea. We do use our cell phones but we sometimes don't have service. We will have to look into walkie talkies. Thanks again for your tip.
My father and I face time each other so he can see if he has clearance pulling in and out of our backyard (our gate is a little narrow and we’ve been doing this ever since he clipped the back part of the awning..)
Back in 2000 I was traveling with our 4 kids (hubby was home at work)
We had a great system with the 2 teens on either side with walkie talkies as I backed in our 36’ TT and had the window closed to hear them clearly. No yelling ! Smooth guidance.
One evening we were smoothly backing in. Then the eldest teen says on the talkie “What is that guy doing?”
I was confused, stopped just in time to have this guy start knocking on my window, startled me to no end!
Turns out he had started RUNNING over to us jumping & waving his arms etc🤦♀️
Oh HE was going to get us in the spot😂
I said kindly “we have it thank you” he backed off a bit...but was clearly trying to still wave me in and I just about lost it!
I was so proud of our teens, they kept their cool and we were done! I looked over and the guy was STORMING back into his rig😂
The next morning his wife cane over and apologized for her husband😂
She said that she tried to stop him, and he nearly came out naked cuz she was pulling on his clothes even to stop him! She kept telling him that it was clear we were just fine.
She told me & kids how proud she was of us.... and that... SHE now had a great story to hang over his head!😂
cell phones too, back up camera.
@@collinsfriend1 Yeah, but a lot of the places that we camp at have limited cell reception. I will be installing a back up camera soon; great idea.
1) Spend $150K on an RV to "get away" 2) end up spending all your time right next to annoying strangers 3) sell your RV for $70K
Oh no. That’s what we really like about RV life. You can design the life that works best for you. Some people buy a plot of land for their camper and others go deep in the woods.
It's a RV🤔 just hook it up and move😁🤗🤔
@@LizAmazing your name fits 😁
@@gellotion Awww, thanks!
@@gellotion 😆
I'm new to RV's and I'm guilty of walking through other people's sites as a shortcut to the laundry room and showers. This video helps a lot 👍
Thank you, Mason. And it's totally understandable to do many of these things. As a newbie, you often just don't know. And welcome to RV Life! We hope to see you at a campground someday!
you would think that would be common sense,........common sense isn't very common......not meant to be mean, but COME ON MAN
@@d1user I’m sorry I only did it once but the people weren’t even at there site.
Live and learn. :)
@@masonjohns208 No I just can’t stand people who complain about stupid stuff instead of complaining about stuff that’s important I would say that complaining about somebody walking on the grass is the stupidest thing to complain about
Be aware of where you are and use a campground voice. We had a group that sat out their lawn chairs in their KOA campsite but it was only about 8 feet from our trailer and open windows. A river was running behind us but, all we could hear was their loud voices. One lady kept saying super loud, “We’re living the dream”! I was perfectly fine with her living the dream. I just didn’t want to be drawn into it.
Good one. Yes, people need to know about that tip. Trailers with open windows are the same as being in a tent or standing outside. Thanks for writing and contributing to the list! Wishing you happy (and quieter) camping!
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Hear you on that one. We had to close our windows for quiet for similar reasons and then open the bedroom one to let them know that Quiet Time started almost an hour ago (10:30) and gee, we’d appreciate a little consideration. We would otherwise have our windows open as fresh air in the summertime is what we like.
I always say, you may stay up late but I get up early and if it's noisy at night, it will be noisy in the morning!
Good one!
Just like not being noisy at night is not blasting six trillion lumens of lighting across the campground. If I can read a book, by YOUR lights, 500 feet away, you've tossing out too much light.
Well, yeah! Agreed. We've stayed at some parks where they require you to turn off your outside lights after 9pm. Makes for good stargazing!
Absolutely true. No blasting lights
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
charlie cheeseface , yes, I heard this happen to someone else. I suppose there are a lot more newbes out there this year and they don’t think of others. It’s sad that they have to be told but even worse when they don’t accept the education.
@charlie cheeseface She dumped her black tank during breakfast. lol :-)
Great video!! The only thing I’d add is that if you DO get interrupted hitching or unhitching (it will happen) start your procedure all over again, from the beginning. It’s a pain but I had that happen once and if I didn’t start over I would’ve missed removing my chocks.
Great tip! Thank you so much! Happy travels to you and thanks again for your comment.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
A nice, undisturbed pre-trip is definitely in order. My husband drives a tractor-trailer for a living and no one, I mean NO ONE is allowed to talk to him during his pre-trip inspection each day. Thats just a rule we dont break!!
I told a lady please come back when we are done setting up.
@@CiaofCleburne I'm a trucker too and I agree 100%.
These is a great video for those of us who are new to camping. My wife and I recently bought a small airstream and we're really happy about getting a chance to spend some weekends camping. But we know there are a lot of things we don't know. So this was helpful. We always try to be good neighbors at home, but some of these etiquette pointers for campgrounds are really good to know in advance. Thank you! We look forward to watching more of your videos.
Hi Sean! Thanks so much for your comment and welcome to the channel. Congrats on your upcoming RV life and on your Airstream. Looking forward to seeing you out here!
After being in the campground business for 30 years, if everyone would use common sense and be respectful of others you wouldn't need written or unwritten rules. Since that's never going to happen we do have written rules and have to verbally tell people the unwritten rules. After all these years I'm still amazed at some of the things I see. Never a dull moment.
I bet you could write a book. Our experiences in campgrounds have been overwhelmingly positive. Wishing you all the best in these times. We know many campgrounds are half empty so we hope you are doing ok.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Common sense isn’t so common. Write these rules down.
I wonder why it's not called "uncommon sense," these days? It's those who lack "sense" that has resulted in so many restrictions and rules against overnight parking. Even many Walmarts are now banning the practice.
Rule 0, look for signs that say "no overnight" and obey!
Rule 1, pretend what you are doing someone else is doing in your yard at home. Would you want strangers with lawn chairs, trash, and beer bottles in your yard?
Rule 2, go inside everyday and buy something. If you are an RVer there is always plenty to buy at Walmart eg RV supplies, food, misc items. Put a receipt tape to your door.
Rule 3, put your cell phone number and when you will be back so if someone who has issue with RV can call you. In fact, just *knowing* you are responsible enough to leave your number means you are "a okay."
Rule 4, do not park in a dark, poorly lit area. This does not mean park at the front where you will be nuisance for other shoppers. Park as far away as possible, but under a bright light source. This is for your safety and it tells cops and security you are not "hiding" out.
Rule 5, limit parking to 24 to 48 hours, max. Need more time, move your RV to another parking lot!!!
BE NICE! "Respectfulness!" It's a long lost trait.
Yep. Hope it comes back around in popularity.
I try to always be kind, respectful, and friendly. Kindness goes a long way, 😎
We are getting ready to full time rv in the next 6-8 months you folks are so helpful, thank you.
Yay! Happy planning and see you out here one day!
My #1 pet peeve is anyone walking through my site.
Yep. It's almost always by newbies who are perhaps bee-lining to the showers and not realizing they need to go around, not through! Maybe our video will help spread the word. Happy camping to you!
Liz Amazing I’ve never asked those rude kids/adults their camping history. If you wouldn’t cut between your non-neighbour’s houses, don’t do it camping! The worse was a group of about 6 adults & kids cutting between our campfire & picnic table! To boot, I was sitting at the table facing the fire pit! It was a sardine type campground so the table-pit distance was about 6’. I did say something passive-aggressive but fell on deaf ears. Dumber than a bag of hammers and less useful.
Same here. I can deal with any of the rest of the issues, but don't voilate my space! LOL
At one of our favorite campgrounds the pool is surrounded by sites and it is literally impossible to get to the pool without invading someone’s “yard”. We stick to the very edge. Fortunately, the sites are HUGE, as it was formerly a mobile home community. It’s set up like a little town, and the sites are between 1/8th and 1/2 acre!!!! Of course the sites nearest the pool are the smallest, but on two sides they have cabin rentals, so often times they aren’t full. I agree it’s rude to just tromp through someone’s outdoor living space. We consider our site to be no different than a hotel room. You wouldn’t walk into someone’s hotel room, so don’t do it while camping.
Rachael Davis we were just at a campground where the path to the beach was vaguely between two sites that had indeterminate boundaries. If you get to offer feedback there suggest a definite marked path or two. It makes me uneasy to take poorly marked paths to any facilities.
If I pulled into a site and they were as close as you had pictured, I think I'd just keep going. I would not enjoy being that close and it would stress me out the whole time!
I totally get it- especially if this is your summer vacation. I should have mentioned this campground is directly on the beach. That's why the sites are so close- expensive real estate!
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@@LizAmazing - we just got back from a month vacation with our Class A motorhome, and our last location, we where packed in like sardines, which I don't like at all. As mentioned Liz, I made sure I was up at 6:00 Am to dump my tanks, and have all the hoses and such put away. One thing different with us that have motorhomes though, is we have to wait for air pressure to rise, 'and' have the engine running for our hydraulic slides to come in, so one thing folks should think about, is to hopefully have enough time where they can stay until at least 9:00 Am before doing this, so as not to wake people up! That's how I do it at least, as being thoughtful of others is part of the 'etiquette' you mention I believe. Good video, as I find hooking up our 'towed' behind, that if you get distracted, it's easy to miss one of the many connections needed.
Dale, thanks so much for your comment. I had wondered why people with Class A's sometimes leave them running for a while. Now I know- thanks for the education! Thank YOU for being thoughtful! And thanks for your kind words. We hope to meet up with you at a campground someday!
That is the way they camp in Europe... Guess why I never camp at camp grounds (it also has something to do with not trusting anybody with their propane systems.)
Wow! You guys are spot on in this video. I pulled a travel trailer for over 20 years until my kids grew older and it was no longer fun to "go camping with dad." Your do's and dont's hit the head on every nail. Thank you very much for sharing and safe travels to you!
Awww, thanks so much for the kind words. We are glad to have you with us!
At night, keep light from spilling beyond your site. Don't light up the neighborhood at night. Don't decorate your RV / site with Xmas lights like your in a Disney light parade. Darkness at night is part of camping.
Yes! That's a good one. Thank you! I stayed at a campground earlier this year that had a dark curfew. All exterior lights had to be shut off by 9pm. This made for excellent star gazing. Wishing you dark skies!
We were camping with my mother and her new trailer. She was complaining about people leaving their lights on and then... left her front cap light on. At 3 am I woke up and saw the light thinking it was morning until I went outside.
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I just posted about the same thing. I hate the light pollution.
“Camping” isn’t staying in a rv park ... camping is out in the sticks off the grid ... if you have hookups you’re not camping
Absolutely right--"don't jump in and start helping." This should also apply to personnel from commercial campgrounds who want to lead new arrivals to their designated site and then stay to give directions about backing in. Leave us alone unless we ask for help!
YES! Couldn't agree more. We try to ignore them when that happens but they don't seem to get the message. But I do remember when I was a solo RVer appreciating having someone watching the back end and sides for me while I was backing. Thanks for watching and happy trails to you!
The campsite owners will try to guide you to where they _think_ you want to be parked, not where you want to be. I have a good idea how long my power cord, sewer hose and fresh water hoses are, and I line up to the hookups accordingly. If I'm on a site that's not quite level, I'll stop a few feet short to put my "Legos" out and back or pull up onto them.
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@@joedonbaker1673 call me next time you get to a new park. I will help you back in no worries😀
Backing in is not hard or stressfull i have been a truck driver for yrs it dependa on who i will never talk to any one who was driving though
Fantastic rules for new RVers. I think the basic rule is not to disturb others unless they ask for. Thank you guys.
Thank you! Hope to see you out there!
Thank you this video was very helpful. I am just getting into the RV life and this enforces the reason why 90% of my camping will be boondocking miles from others.
Yep! That's good to know from the start. Something to note: the longer we fulltime the less we are bothered by things such as this. For example, on Friday the campsites around us filled up with families. Instead of being concerned about noise and unruliness, we just shrugged. We knew they'd be gone by Sunday. (And honestly, I am pleased to see children playing outside and enjoying nature, rather than tethered to their devices)
We meet many travelers who bounce back and forth between boondocking and campgrounds. That way you get showers, internet, laundry and social time to balance the peace and solitude you get from boondocking.
Enjoy your new chapter of Rv life!
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Yes me too. I just got my 1st rv and have been watching loads of videos. I have been really turned off of the rv parks. I would rather be out there alone.
Great information, I'm so glad you both talked about this. There's something we all can learn about in the RV community. This is important. My motto is don't do something you yourself would not like. Love the videos.😊
Our pleasure! So glad you are enjoying our channel. I do wish these rules were written down somewhere because not all are obvious- that's for sure. Thanks for your comment!
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Great info for this newbie
General rule: If your travel day checklist gets interrupted, you restart the checklist from the beginning.
That's a smart rule. We love it and will remember it next time. And we know there will be a next time!! Thanks for watching and commenting. Happy travels and be safe.
That's standard operating procedure in the airlines. If you're interrupted anywhere in your checklist, you start over.
@@NoelBarlau Marine Aviation Ordinance. 😁
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checklists are not there to impress or come across organised...They are there to be followed to the absolute letter... Army discipline style !
Been RV camping since the 70s and my first rule is don’t camp in campgrounds 🤗Boondocking is the only way😎🇺🇸
Yep! That's what we love about RV life: there truly are so many ways to do it! Happy camping to you!
Avoiding distractions during arrival / departure is number one on my list. I have made almost all of my mistakes when I got interrupted in my routine by people who want to help. That is just as true for boating, btw, especially if one has guests who never RVed or boated before.
Another unwritten rule is to turn off your external lights, when going to bed and also switch your headlights to just parking lights when you back in or leave at night, if it is safe to do so obviously. The same applies when backing down the boat ramp at night, where the headlights are blinding anyone else who is trying to back up to the ramp.
OMG I barely realized what shirt he was wearing. That shirt is really cool. Its from a great TV show, Firefly.
Yep! Thanks for noticing. He loves that shirt.
Stay Shiny!
Serenity was a pretty great movie too!
You can't take the sky from me
My favorite!!
take down your dam wind chimes at night. You may love the sound but I am trying to sleep here!!!!
Good one. I am also NOT a fan of wind chimes. Thank you for helping add to the list. Paul and I wish you a peaceful camping experience next time. See you on the road.
We were very close together on a oceanfront windy resort. The new neighbor put up 3 wind chimes outside my bedroom window. Even with earplugs in I heard it. The "wind" wound the center around all the chimes that night. Be considerate of others.
Every now and than open your door and scream get off my grass, just so we can know your age.
Don't put up wind chimes.
I love wind chimes but can see (hear?) how they would be annoying. Wouldn’t pack them to take with me. Don’t love them that much. I think I’ve camped somewhere where someone had chimes up, I like them in a gentle breeze, & they need to be the small glass ones. Big ones = noise.
Never argue and fight loud enough for other campers to hear. Ugghhh. Or the other thing too...lol
OMG! That is SO true!!! Thank you!
A little action isn’t bad for 30 minutes or so.
@DL Haye
AMEN!!!!
I don't want to hear your Rap Music or you personal information!
Lol
@@chrisjenkins8572 so true. Didn't have netflix but got lots of drama regardless
Love those guys that come in at night and are setting up and leave their trucks running and headlights on!
Oh my gosh. We can relate as that has happened to us, too! Hope your next camping trip is a good one.
What a nice people. Thank you! Consider others, not just yourself.
Great content. Thank you, folks. It's also lovely to see the warmth you share as a couple.
Thanks so much for watching! If you haven't already, be sure to subscribe and ring the bell...and we'll see you in the next video.
Keep your tow (or towed) vehicle completely off your neighbor's site. I recently had a guy park so over my line that he was actually blocking the front of my RV.
Oh my gosh. That's not good at all.
I cant even fathom that!
@@TheWestlandgirl I have a photo. Lol to be clear, he wasn't blocking the entire front of my RV but I would have had to hook up at an angle and try to go out the opposite way I was wanting to go
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Couldn't you just ask him to move his car?
I love how he says push past the fear. I made a sign for my yard that says stop the fear.
Your yard sign- I love it. I think all growth occurs on the other side of fear. Thanks for watching!
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I'm 76 from georgia and will never R V ing but I love listening to you two.
Aww, thanks so much Dean, we are glad to have you with us!
Nice job guys! Yes that unspoken RV etiquette is something important to consider when living in an RV! Its so nice to watch how relaxed you guys are, feels like we are sitting there in the same room having a chit chat 😊Keep it up! Love watching your videos ❤️
Awww, you are so nice! Thanks so much. Safe travels to you both.
Liz Amazing safe travels to you guys as well! 😊
Keep an eye on your dogs. I've lost track of the number of times I was walking my dog on a leash and someone's loose dog or worse....dogs....came bolting out of no where......barking aggressively. Pet peeve.
Agreed. I should add that to the list. That does happen when I walk Mango. I'm always on high alert and ready to pick him up if a dog comes charging at us. I think what causes it is weekenders with a backyard dog. They are not used to securing their dog and so it gets loose. Thanks for your comment.
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We always have a walking stick. Our dog is old, small, loves to walk, has few teeth.
I had a dog charge us and a baby in a stroller. The only thing I think saved us was shouting NO. NO NO. The dog stopped.
@@jimwolf264 what do you do with said walking stick when a dog charges? I had yelled at the two charging dogs with no reaction from dogs or owner, then I kicked because they were biting at my senior dog.
I’m a semi driver. I know people like to be helpful, but unless I ask for your help backing, I don’t want it. All you are is a distraction and another thing I need to avoid. Please at least ask first before you get out there and start directing someone.
Exactly! We feel the same way and just do not want any distractions during what can be a very stressful time. Thanks so much for your input!
I'm always blown away at semi driver's backing up. Pure art to me.
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@Susan Vigue You’re lucky that man was kind enough to help. I would’ve let you figure it out for yourself.
@Susan Vigue At least I’m not helpless.
Love the shirt, Paul!! "Take me out to the black. Tell them I ain't comin' back."
Thanks for your comment. Paul was working on the truck later that day and got diesel fuel on his shirt and thought it was ruined. I suggested vinegar and it looks like that shirt will live on!
@@LizAmazing oh no! Maybe now he looks like he fought with the Browncoats! :)
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Hi
THANK YOU BOTH for your sincere and thoughtful way of explaining the unwritten rules...stay safe and ENJOY!!!
Awww, thank you so much Matthew! We are very much enjoying RV life. We hope to meet you on the road some day!
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You guys are spot on with those rules. A lot of people disregard or not know those major rules.
They do indeed! Thanks for watching Kathy.
He’s got a firefly shirt on! I love the series and the movie. It ended way too soon!
It sure did. Thanks for your comment.
The door knocking goes for houses too. I was always told to not be up against the door, that it is rude and aggressive.
That's so true! As you know, there's a friendly way to knock. And then there's the way to knock that makes the occupants hide under the table!
especially true in COVID time.
True...I was raised to call first...and raised to never answer the door for anyone that doesnt.
Wish I could give this video two thumbs up! I'm new to camping and these make sense, I just didn't know about them until now, thank you!
So glad this was helpful! We look forward to meeting you in a campground someday. Happy trails!
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Right on about the black tank. I learned the hard way after I left the tank open on our travel trailer and our teenage nieces used the toilet multiple times. My tank got blocked, couldn't drain it. I ended up pulling the trailer home and backing it up on my front lawn. Used a coat hanger and other implements to unblock--a dirty job! Leave the tank closed until time to drain! :)
Oh my gosh, Samuel! I feel for you-- that must have been the absolute WORST! Oh my goodness. Thanks for sharing. A lot of people would not know that. Thank you.
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Nice vid! gosh, I never really realized how nice watching old-ER and more experienced people talk. Good stuff :D
Glad you liked it. Thanks for watching and commenting!
We are just about to purchase our first RV and this video was SUPER helpful! And the Serenity shirt is perfection 👏👏👏
Glad to hear! Congrats on your new RV and we hope to see you on the road someday!
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the good tips ... especially when your setting up or tearing down .... no distractions are the best practice.
Absolutely! Now just need the right words said in the right tone when friendly people come over and chat while we are trying to park and unhitch. Thanks for your comment and happy travels to you!
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I actually stayed in a site that my sewer connection was under my neighbors picnic table, thank god I was empty and didn’t need to use it till they were getting ready to leave.
Oh my goodness. So glad that worked out for you...and the neighbors! Thanks for your comment.
Your all like ohh f******ck
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Hi, I purchased my T@B 320 trailer in October of 2019. I am a solo act, and just wanted to try the whole camper experience with a teardrop camper. Aside from the fact that I still cannot back up my camper, I love it, and may at some point want to go bigger, but for now, I have all I need. Oh, I am not living it my T@B, but will be gone a couple weeks at a time. I learned the unwritten rules before I went camping by bingeing on TH-cam videos, and was so glad I did. I really enjoy your videos, so please keep them coming!
So, one of my pet peeves, and so far it only happened on one camping trip, but off and on for several days! The people across the road from me had a big screened area where they placed their picnic table and they shared the space with friends that were camping next to them. They were reasonably quiet except for their dice shaking during their hundreds of endless games of Yahtzee!!! It didn’t bother me at the beginning, but after it had been going on for hours on the first day that they arrived, it became annoying and then to the point of just all out infuriating. It was just grinding on my nerves for long periods off and on for three days and evenings. I never said anything to them, but my neighbors on my side of the road were equally irritated. I had to go into my camper and turn my Fantastic fan on high to drown it out so I could read! Has anyone else had the game of Yahtzee drive you to the point of insanity? I love playing Yahtzee, and the noise does not bother me when I am a part of the game. My suggestion is for Yahtzee players to find a quiet way to shake your dice when playing outside, because that plastic cup that comes with the game, magnifies the sound. Any suggestions?
Hi Deborah! That is so funny that you mention Yahtzee. Paul and I play a couple times a week. That cup was too loud for us so we just hold the die in our hand and roll that way. MUCH quieter! I can only imagine how irritating that must be to have to hear that noise hours on end.
If it were me, I would stop by during a game and say hi and how much I love Yahtzee. Then I would say I never realized how loud that cup was! And nicely ask if they can put padding such as cork in the cup or just roll out of their hand.
I truly doubt you'll run into this unique situation ever again though. But...you never know!
I have a friend with a T@B and she loves it. Another friend thinking of getting a T@B 400. Happy travels to you, yes, perfect for solo traveling.
Safe travels to you!
Great video... please allow me to be truthful. I thought at first, oh no, here we go with all the little gripes so many have put on YT. But yours was spot on! These are definitely the RVer’s etiquettes. I started out driving a Class A when I was 16, my dad put me behind the wheel when we weren’t in traffic and we were on the open roads, I am now 66. Have loved RV life ever since. And by the way, it is still tense when backing a motorhome, fifth wheel or a travel trailer into a small lot. So, I totally agree with all your points in staying alert.
Thank you both for a great video. Am definitely subscribing. Looking forward to watching the next one. Happy trails and 🙏🏻❤️
Hi Cally Rose! Welcome to the A-Team and thanks for joining our community! That's awesome that you've had 50+ years experience in the RV life. Paul and I hope to meet you in person at a campground someday! And thanks so much for your kind words about this video!
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Wow, I must've been living off grid too long! Thanks for talking about those inside tips which people don't ever really mention. Great job on backing up your rig with such a short bed on your TV! Can't tell you how many trucks I've seen with the corners smashed up from turning too tight with their 5th wheel! One that really gets me going is people burning their trash in the fire ring (as if that will get them off the hook for environmental degradation), or dumping their black tank w/o a proper hose connection! Then they blithely go on and use the potable water hose to flush out their black tank (so glad we are into compostable toilets!) and leave a lovely deposit for everyone else to find. I could go on, but I need to give my spleen a rest now and then!
Hi Michel! Thanks so much for your comment. Yes, living off grid is a WAY different thing than being in a campground. Yes, burning trash is a no-no in my book as well. And sewer hose mistakes....Whew! Thanks so much for commenting!
@@LizAmazing Thank you for your kind words! Hope you have a Merry Christmas, and a Hoppy New Year!
I just have to tell you that I love seeing your fireplace smoldering away in the background! I'm a designer and I would say a fireplace is traditionally/historically/originally a masonry affair. Yours is rad because
it's on wheels
it slides too
it's an illusion (electric)
Legend has it Elton John had a working fireplace on his private jet. Join the jet set!
I love your rig
Thank you! We love it and we can change the colors and height of the flame. We have a 310GK, here's a tour: th-cam.com/video/aJBzbsDXRII/w-d-xo.html
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We have an Andriod Tv in our van ..
So sometimes i youtube fish tank vids or fire pit vid and just leave the vids play..
Somany options to chooss from...
.. some have a 12 hour + run time lol..
All great points.. and awesome Firefly T-Shirt!
Thank you! He's wearing it again in our next video!!! If you haven't already, ring the bell so you'll get a notification when it posts.
Wow - forgetting the ball is sooo scary. So glad that nothing happened, geeesh. We have probably broken some etiquette by being forced to change our brakes and master/slave cylinder for our clutch in our spot!! We checked with the campground, and those around us and all parties were understanding, but it sure made for an... interesting experience?? Ha. Great video guys!
Oh no. Sometimes you just gotta do it. Paul changed the differential cover in our campground last week AND he changes the oil, too. He tries to be discreet! Thanks again for your kind words!
So awesome 😎 ... yeah, sometimes you just have to get things done 😂
Haha, I love the enactment of walking through the neighbor's campsite! Hopefully they were in on the roleplaying...😁
Yep! They were in on it! Thanks for watching!!
And PLEASE keep your kids at bay!!! Screaming kids, bikes through your site, balls flying into you. Terribly rude. Thanks for all your videos 😷🥰
Hi Marcia! Yes, that happens. Paul and I have been on the road for nearly two years now and we find the longer we fulltime, the less things bother us. I know if we were here for only a weekend we would want things to be perfect because our camping time is so short.
Yesterday a bunch of families arrived at the campground and set up all around us. We just shrugged. Hey, it's Friday- they'll be gone by Sunday. So far all have been well-behaved.
Wishing you happy camping and safe travels!
In reality didn't you run around as a kid,?
I get it if people use your small rented space as a short cut. However caution is necessary when someone is there to mean you and yours harm.
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@@hopeandgracetompkins3707 I was raised to respect others space.
I posted above where there was a party and they didn’t watch their kids who were THROWING pebbles & rocks at OUR rig!!!
Another great video! You two do such a good job and this was great information. When I shared with Dave he had a good one for boondocking. It happened to us in a National Forest. Don't park and set up camp on a road or trail in a dispersed camping area. We were in an off-road site near Grand Canyon and when we came back to our trailer someone had parked and set up camp on the road up to our trailer! Fortunately we could go around (the long way) and get back to our site. Dave walked down and talked to them and told them that was our only access out with the trailer and told them when we would be leaving. They were brand new at camping and were so nice. They were from overseas with a rented RV and we had a nice visit. They were able to move a few feet off the road area for the rest of their stay and we were all happy neighbors. It was so good to see you two again after meeting you on the Washington Coast. Thanks for all the work you put into your videos - we've learned a lot!
Hi Adrienne & Dave! That's a good story and a great lesson. Some people just don't know. Still it is surprising they would actually block a road. So glad you took the "high road" with them! ;-)
It was great to see you two, too! Happy travels to you and be safe. Looking forward to meeting you on the road again.
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Fantastic video, informative, and I LOVE the Firefly t-shirt.
Thanks so much!!!
I’ve never camped and these makes Sense most of these are just being respectful
That's so true. Most of these are just common courtesy. Hoping our video helps make that even more common! Thanks for watching!
Gone is the good old days and trailer camping at a yearly event I went to. If a strom or high wind came up and you got back to your trailer to put your awning down, it was very common you did it on a neighboring trailer to save their awning. Many on battery power only so if someone had a generator you helped charge their battery for a longer stay. Mount Pleasant Iowa Old Threshers Reunion was a friendly group of campers on acreas on ground. Even had people who might help you park since it was on a terraced land and close parking.
We are finding more and more that campgrounds truly are friendly places. If you ever need anything, any help or to borrow something, one of your camping neighbors will likely be only too happy to help. Thanks for your comment and wishing you much happy camping this season!
Have had neighbors from their whole slide out in your site to running their honey bucket thru the middle of your site everyday to leaving their water on and flooding your site. used to try and ask nicely but that seldom ended well now I just call the camp host to enforce their rules with much better results.
That sounds like a good plan. Avoid being involved directly. Hope your next camping trip is much much better than that one! Thanks for your comment and happy travels.
Well, now I need to know what a "honey bucket" is...?
Thx Bob,
(atho I can't find your reply back to me... My notification link brought me to this thread/post)
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Honey bucket refers to an RV sewer portable tote. Sounds like the neighbors were filling their tote and walking through Bob Fish's site with it on the way to the dump station.
I'm digging the Firefly tee! Thank you for this list, this is useful!
You are so welcome. Nice hearing from you and wishing you much happy camping!
I feel like when people walk across our campsite it’s an invasion of privacy..
Agreed. Hope you get some good camping in before the season ends!
Thank you. This info was very helpful. I'm watching this video here in NC. Im not RV living but it's been on my mind for years. I look at RVs they are beautiful. I love the idea of (folding my house up in a suitcase and going about the day(like the cartoon). I think of it as a home on wheels. Unknowing the pros and cons but learning now thanks to many of you all that RV and choose to share important content. Thank you for sharing dos and don'ts based on your experiences.
I can tell you that I (Paul) really never considered this lifestyle much more than a passing thought before embarking on it, now I can't imagine living any other way.
great job guys we have one for people just on vacation not living in there rv for long periods of time and who are headed home.leave your canned goods and dry goods in the rec area or laundry for seniors in the park.preferably an area secure by coded doors.this has proven to fill the belly of a senior or vet..happy roads
Oh that's such a nice tip. Thanks Randy!
When I’m backing my trailer in I cannot stand it when “the guy” from nextdoor runs over to help.
1.I don’t need or want help
2. Most of the time their help is terrible.
3. After they help you run your RV over the picnic table they finally mossy quietly back to their own campsite! 😡 Grrrrr
NOTE: If you’re my father-n-law just stay the hell away from me!
We love your comment. That guy in our video and on our thumbnail was exactly that- a guy next door who thought he was being helpful. Paul and I have a system and we trust each other that we each look out for certain areas of the rig to be sure we have full visual coverage of all areas of the rig and truck. Not good at all but hopefully our video helps a few people. I can understand that people who are new to camping would not know these rules. Wishing you happy camping!
So nice of you!
I feel sorry for your wife!
Duane Predhome haha. Sounds like a blast to camp with.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Pet peeves! Where do I start!
1. Deal frequently (after every meal clean up) with your garbage & food waste. Leaving a garbage can outside your rig with a weeks worth of refuse in it smells terrible & its RUDE!
2. Keep your site clean & organized! I'm retired & I don't want your kids bikes, wild snake collection, toys, discarded clothing, candy wrappers etc in the roadway or coming into my site. Children don't understand boundaries, courtesy & respect of other ppls areas, & need to be taught.
3. Control your children (esp. teenagers) & animals or don't come into the campground. I'm finished raising my family & I don't want to deal with yours cuz of your poor parenting skills!!!
4. Bright lights at night, Christmas lights strung all over the place, flashing disco lights, etc. Turn them off, esp at night. Just cuz you got drunk & forgot is no excuse.
5. Turn your music & TV down inside your rig, & get some ear buds to listen to them. I don't want to hear your TV shows until 3am cuz you're hard at hearing or fell asleep.
6. I don't drink alcohol. Do not come over, pop a beer & hand it to me, trying to be friendly. It creates a very awkward situation. Ppl then ask why I don't drink. Its really none of their business, & I have my personal reasons for it. A friendly "hi" is fine.
7. Guys getting ready to leave & who start their trucks (esp Diesel) to let them "warm up" for ½ an hour at 5am & blowing exhaust into my rig is rude & a health risk for me. Please don't do that.
8. Ppl talking loudly all the time. Some ppl can't talk in a normal voice. They're shouting at their kids, at each other, at other campers & friends etc. If you want to know where the steak sauce is, go ask your wife, don't yell it out.
9. I don't tell ppl what I did for a living cuz they exploit it. I was a mechanic & electronics technician. They ask me to do repairs for them. I'm retired. If I still wanted to do that work I'd still be working. If I wanted to overhaul your truck motor or rewire your trailer, I'd offer to do it. Now I tell them I used to sweep garbage up in the streets.
10. NO! I won't give you a ride into town that's 60 miles away! NO I won't lend you my tools, fishing gear, jacket, my vehicle, my bike, my BBQ, my propane tank, my frying pan, extra bedding, etc etc etc. If you can't buy your own stuff, you shouldn't be RV'ing.
11. I like to sleep in mornings & I stay up late reading or watching TV (with headphones). Just cuz my light is on at 2am doesn't mean I want your drunken company or to settle an argument.
12. NO I won't let your kids or friends sleep in my rig cuz its raining out & their tent is wet!
13. I'm Canadian. Yes I may have a few habits & funny ways of talking that seem odd to you. I find the same oddities about you. BUT I don't mention it, I don't judge you, I don't make fun of you. I respect ppl until they give me a reason not to. I don't want to be the butt of your jokes or hear how much you hate Canada. I don't want to get into politics, cultural customs, etc. I'm on vacation to relax, not to get into international disputes.
14. If I politely mention or ask something of you, there's a good reason behind it. I'm not looking for a fight. If you find it funny to pile your empty beer bottles on my car cuz I'm "Canadian", well, I don't share your sense of humour, & I'll tell you so. Don't get offend cuz you're acting like an a55.
I'm not a grumpy old man. I'm very friendly & laid back. I'm independent & look after my own situations. I do not like being used or taken advantage of. I don't do it to others. Common sense seems to be scarce & seldom practiced by some ppls adult children! Respect others & have great RV experiences.
Goodness. That's a good list. We like Thousand Trails because they do keep things neat, clean and quiet. Have not had problems with garbage or people wanting to shelter in our rig! Wow. You could write a book! Sounds like you have the right attitude and have been out here longer than us.
As far as idling in the morning- that annoys us, too! I learned that Class A motorhomes are the worst offenders because that's the way they are set up. They have to warm them up a long time to recharge their airbags. The most considerate Class A neighbors leave later in the day!
If you want to learn more about Thousand Trails and how you can stay in them 365 days a year for an average of less than $2 a night ($700 a year), check out our video about that: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Gosh.....I am not an RVer, yet but list is awesome!
Great list and well stated. And yes you could write a book! Everything you said is why I am distantly friendly with. I will smile or nod but keep on walking.
So funny and so true.
When boondocking in an area with other campers near, please be courteous with your generator use. Try to shield it away from other campers.
Also, be aware of the noise difference between hardsides, popups and tents. You may be blissfully unaware of noise that your stuff is making in your large camper, while a generator could be very noisy to the tent site 100 ft. away.
Very good points. Will add this to the list! Thanks for your comment. This is a real concern out there!
Good luck to all of you.
After watching this video and reading way TOO MANY hateful comments it's obviously NO wonder why I'll never buy into this lifestyle.
I love to camp. I still do. But I'm fortunate enough to still be able to go to off-the-beaten places. ✌
Yes, I think the mean comments are a vocal minority and have scared off the regular folks. Let me assure you we are still here enjoying camping life SO much! Campgrounds truly are friendly places.But what's so cool about RV life is there are endless ways to do it. Wishing you happy camping!
Lot of good tips, particularly the one at the end about not parking right next to the only other rig in the area. As an OTR trucker, that used to drive me crazy when I'd find a nice, secluded spot in an uncrowded or empty lot, and have some guy pulling a running reefer back right in next to me.
Exactly! We've had that happen to us: we were the only ones in a campground section- easily 50 sites open around us. They chose right smack dab next to us, literally blocked out the sun with their big rig! Oh well, what can you do? Thanks for watching and commenting. Be careful out there on the road!
Thank you for the information, I'm very new at camping I need all the help I can get
You are so very welcome. We look forward to meeting you at a campground someday. Safe travels.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
I liked this video thank you! I cannot STAND when people offer "help" backing up our fifth wheel, especially when I'm clearly right there helping my fiancé and haven't asked anyone for help. It's happened at more than half of the campgrounds my fiancé and I have stayed at. I understand that people may mean well and want to help but more often than not its just distracting and they are stressing me out more.
Also, we have a pretty large rig its a little over 44 foot. I have noticed that we always become a spectacle whilst backing up the camper. Why do people do this?
Agreed! When I traveled solo for a year, it seemed everyone wanted to pull up a chair and watch me back in. I'm slow and need a lot of time and DON'T need any distractions. Yes, it just adds stress to have an audience! I think the reason people do it is for entertainment, as in: watch that solo gal back into a site, or watch you two to see how you can get that 44' rig into the space. Just gotta go with the flow. Thanks for your comment and wishing you happy camping!
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Barking dogs at a camp site! Especially up window of motorcoach barking at everything that moved!! Great tips about black tank!I thanks! Peachy B 🍑👍
Agreed. That can be a challenging one. Glad you enjoyed our videos- happy travels.
@@LizAmazing leave the dogs at home ! No one wants to step in dog shit or hear them barking all the time.
Yeah and if your dogs bark at everyone who walks by, maybe the spot closest to the bathrooms isn't the right spot for you.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Woof
We do a lot of Walmart stays overnight if we are eenroute...lots of extra unwritten there as well. Be quiet, don't put slides out, do go in and shop if you need something, park as far away as practical, generators are OK if it's Tx or Az and it's 100 degrees out or the two semis parked beside you have theirs on but if you don't have to don't.
I have one of those high-performance mufflers on my truck and it sounds great! I love leaving my truck running so everyone can enjoy the beautiful rumble.
Listen, I HATED this about my tow rig. I have a heavily-modded half-ton, looked stock, and was plenty adequate for what I tow, but I wish I’d changed out the muffler set-up. I actually wait as long as I can to fire it up. It’s crazy loud. The new (to us) rig is a one ton, diesel - bone stock mufflers, thank goodness. I’m guessing the guy who buys my 1/2 truck won’t be towing, anyway.
Boy did I tick off A neighbor who hated my windchimes.👀 I won’t make that same mistake again 🥴
Oh no! That's a tough one. The sound of some of those can travel quite far. I am noise-sensitive so I bet I wouldn't like them. That said, Paul and I are noticing that after nearly two years on the road, stuff bothers us less and less. We had two big families move in next to us today making lots of noise. We just shrugged and said they'd be gone by Sunday. We love the RV life and see no end in sight!
No no on windchimes
oh those are the kiss of death eh
That group of families you are talking about needs to watch this video (I was across from you guys this weekend in the Transcend)! I’d have much rather had wind chimes next to us. Though I’m no better, I hang lights on my awning and people hate that, and occasionally I forget to turn them off.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Thank you for sharing. You produce great videos, keep them coming. :)
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! We are having fun making these and are glad they are helpful. If you haven't already, please join the A-Team- they are the best nicest people ever! Join by subscribing. Thanks again.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
I like seeing actual camp situations. It helps me to not get an RV.
What we've learned is that urban campgrounds tend to look like this. AND ones where the property values are high. We should have mentioned that this tight campground was directly on a secluded beach-- it was heavenly! Our video about the campgrounds we typically stay in will show you what our camping is typically like: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
You are spot on. I really appreciate people would like to offer help but sometime “help” isn’t really helpful. There was once we arrived a state park pitch dark. After our initial backup attempt, we failed to cut at the correct angle and we pulled forward to re-do it. There was a lady at our neighboring site run to us and started to taking over my wife’s job for guiding me and yelled to her husband come over to help me drive my truck. It’s not helpful at all, and it’s hard to tell them “no thanks”.
Agreed. They can cause more harm with their well-intentioned "help." Whew! Glad you and your wife got through that, had to have been stressful.
Number one on my list is you should always walk through someone else’s campsite it’s a great way to meet new people! Number two if they have a trashcan outside you are totally welcome to put your trash in it I mean it’s the economical green thing to do people will very much appreciate this! Number three if alcohol is present on your neighbor’s picnic table help yourself I mean we’re all family right! Number four if you notice your neighbors trailer is plugged into the power outlet do them a favor and unplug it they will be very appreciative of of this! And remember don’t be selfish always play your death metal as loud as you possibly can so the entire park can hear it! And my most important advice to you is to always hook your trailer up before you pack up your campsite and put your slide out in I mean you paid for the space on the road and besides you wouldn’t want all those cars and campers driving by while you’re packing up I mean it’s all about you right! Happy camping everyone out there I’m sure my advice has been a huge help don’t thank me now just leave me a beer outside and as always my disco ball will be glowing at 2 o’clock in the morning!……..Ps: tip of the day a great place to clean and dry your sewer hose before you put it away is right there on the picnic table!………….sorry! I couldn’t help myself!
Buetifully chaotic
That's one way to do it. Thank you!
"What happens in Vegas campgrounds STAYS in Vegas campgrounds!"
Yep! And don't come a knockin if the trailer is rockin!
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas is NOT TRUE... 😳 you take the STDs with you 😅!!
Great video, Liz & Paul!
Thanks so much Dean! We appreciate you taking the time to watch our videos. Be safe.
We may not have the same taste in music. So please make sure only those on your campsite can hear it. And I promise to keep mine down too.
Oh that's an excellent tip, thank you! Hope to see you in a campground someday!
I appreciate your honesty and information, but truthfully, after listening to ALL the “unspoken” laws in RV Camps, I don’t believe I’ll ever stay in one.
No worries about that. With RV life you can do it any way you like it: stay in a state or national park, boondock or even buy a plot of land. I will say that campground resorts are a good way to camp, too!
Fortunate for me, backing up a trailer is the easiest and least stressful thing when RV-ing. I find the actual drive itself stressful especially in heavy traffic. Love your videos and I love my Cross Current X.
Yes, that can be a challenge, especially in urban areas. Wow that's so awesome you have a CCX! We hope to see you on the bike trail!
Great video! Love the "Serenity" shirt too!
Thank you! Happy trails to you and be safe.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
What about arriving to a campground late at night? That makes me angry if I’m trying to sleep and someone is just arriving next to us and setting up.
Oh my gosh, we don't like that either. Recently we stayed at campground with an 11pm quiet time and they allow campers to arrive up to that time. That's just too late for people to arrive and be setting up - for sure!!
Well that's going to happen, no matter what campground you are at. People are traveling all at different times, and can't always show up when it's convenient for everyone else. That's all part of camping, it is a campground, not home.
Totally agree, very annoying when the neighbours arrive at midnight and keep you up, then they can't see so they burn their bright lights in all directions while they get set up 🙄
Seems to me when someone arrives late the people checking them in should tell them that they're welcome to come in and park it, but they have to wait till in the morning to set up outside camp. Even if there's nobody at the front gate ALL campers should be told this when they make their reservation. Of course there's always going to be the exception to the rule and that would be if the "new arrival" had road trouble or something. But even then they should have enough sense and courtesy to wait until the morning to set up camp outside.
What are we suppose to do if we get in some place late do to no fault of our own; we set up as quickly and quietly as possible and put off what we can until the next day how about a little neighborly love and quit bitching 😎
Please be mindful of which way your campfire smoke is going to travel.
That's something to consider before lighting a match, right? I attract smoke no matter where I sit around the fire! Thanks for your comment.
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
We've had to purchase a "very large" type of floor drying blower to divert nasty smoke from those "upwind" don't give a shit types.
Oh my. Hope that helps!
Those are great tips/rules. While they seem like common sense, it is worth reviewing them. In commercial aviation pilots adhere to a rule called "sterile Cockpit" when landing or taking off. Part of that is to limit all non-essential conversations to the essential tasks at hand. This applies to backing-in and setting up or packing up and leaving with RV's/Campers. I've heard the same comment on other RV channels. Thanks!
Yes. Safety first. Always. I've heard if you get interrupted during hitching or unhitching to start the list over from the top. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Nice of you to cover this. I had my share of ignorant RVers in a park I stayed in for 5 years. I finally got a quiet neighbor. It's amazing how some people are sooooo rude.
Yep! We are grateful that the huge majority of campgrounds are full of friendly helpful people. Wishing you a great camping season this year!
The first Rule of camping. Mind your own business.
Yep. It's all about common courtesy. Wishing you happy camping!
Interesting about knocking on the door. I was surprised to see that airstreams have doorbells on them
Yes. I am not sure that holds true for everyone or everywhere. There are some very social campgrounds and some not so much. We've seen Class A RVs with doorbells also. Wishing you happy camping and safe travels!
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
My God, imagine an RV caught on fire....I can see old chickens run every where...
Yep. A camper fire would not be good!
Old chickens? Where did the chickens come from?
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html
Confirmed my thoughts on rv parks, thanks. Tented in a koa once and never again.
Yeah, if you are tenting you will love being in a forest, some place quiet where you can look at the stars. Enjoy!
Last thing you do before pulling out is a walk around safety check. You each have things you are responsible for, ie, checking hitch, checking stairs, locked storage doors, tires etc. Truck drivers learned this when they were learning to drive. It will save lots of headaches.
Agreed. We use a checklist. And after we pull out of the site one of us goes back and walks the area to make sure nothing is left behind or fell off! Thanks for your comment!
Guess what? We stay at campgrounds for an average of just $5 a night! Watch now: th-cam.com/video/cbZC97DWFe8/w-d-xo.html