AAA sees Gas Prices Falling for Summer 2015

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Lower gas prices may be on the way for U.S. consumers by this summer if refinery maintenance ends smoothly and crude oil remains relatively cheap, AAA said in a news release.Gas pump with money  As reported by the St. Augustine Record, the travel company’s release said it is even possible that gas prices will return to near $2 per gallon in some areas, as long as there are no unexpected problems in the meantime.

 

AAA does not expect the national average to rise above $3 per gallon this year. “There is a real hope that gas prices could drop significantly in time for the busy summer driving season,” said Mark Jenkins, AAA spokesman. “The overall outlook looks good for drivers, and with any luck we will avoid the types of problems that often lead to higher gas prices at this time of year.”  Many refineries have completed seasonal maintenance, though unexpected problems could still occur. Many refineries and wholesalers will switch to more expensive summer-blend gasoline by May 1 to meet EPA clean air regulations.

 

The cost of crude oil is likely to be the most important factor influencing gas prices over the next few months. At the close of Friday’s formal trading, WTI settled at $49.55 per barrel — 68 cents higher than the week before. Many experts believe that crude oil prices may drop further due to abundant supplies, but international conflict, declining production or other issues could result in higher prices.
This article originally appeared on RVBusiness.com

RVs: Stick and Tin vs. Fiberglass

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Why traditional walls are better.

A simple search of RV de-lamination in any online search engine will return a list of images that show both ugly and expensive damage to campers everywhere.  These campers all have one thing in common; they are constructed with fiberglass walls.  De-lamination is real and not an urban legend or wives’ tale.  De-lamination is caused by water intrusion that has occurred to the sidewall, causing the plywood/luan backer and adhesive(s) to let go of the exterior fiberglass panel.  Resulting in the blistering of the outside skin.  This is referred to as a de-lam in the RV industry.  There are no easy repairs to this type of problem.  And the resulting depreciation to the value of the camper can cause lasting financial issues.  So what should an avid RV do?

One thing is to look at the tried and true, time-tested stick and tin built trailers.   RVs built with traditional walls that do not de-laminate.  Below are some benefits of RVs built with traditional walls.

  • Wood framing offers insulation, hollow aluminum is cold and does not offer any insulation value.
  • Metal siding is painted much like an automobile and does not fade.  Fiberglass fades with age and looks dull.
  • Metal has “ridges” (just like Ruffles Chips) which provide lateral lines that improves the look of the trailer.  Fiberglass is smooth often showing panel seams and the occasional ill fitted panel.
  • Metal allows for blocking to be added to the wall for aftermarket accessories should you wish to add items at a later date.  Fiberglass walls cannot be altered.
  • Wood frame, metal sided trailers allow for flex.  Fiberglass units can stress and can crack at weak or poorly designed locations.
  • Metal allows for DIY fixes of any damage done to the metal itself.  Damage done to a fiberglass exterior will cause you to take a trip to a fiberglass repair shop and a lot of out-of-pocket money.
  • Metal sided – wood framing side walls allow for decreased interior wall sweating.

Some great tried and true metal sided trailers that come to mind at the Keystone Springdale,  Keystone Summerland and the Palomino Puma.  Save your family and yourself some hard-earned money and enjoy camping in a great trailer.

A cheaper way to see the USA.

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Volunteering in our Nation’s parks.

Rob Nurre playing the role of Frank Davey, a turn-of-the-century storekeeper in Garnet, waits for a young customer to choose her candy. Photo by David Abrams, BLM, Western Montana Zone

You could camp this Summer at Yellowstone National Park for a mere $22.50 a night, if you can get the reservations, or you could park your RV free by volunteering as a campground host.  This is just one of the hundreds of volunteer opportunities that come with some sort of lodging via the National Park Service this year.

To learn more about volunteering benefits, read this great article by Money Talk News…… READ MORE

2015 York RV & Camping Show – March 20-22

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It’s RV Showtime again in York, Pennsylvania!

2015 York RV campers world RV Show, March 20-22,2015Whatever your family camping budget is, the York RV Show will have your dream RV.  Join Pennsylvania’s largest tow-able RV dealer, Lerch RV, at the upcoming show for great sale prices.  Whatever your interest or budget, we will have plenty of tow-able travel trailers and fifth wheels on display.  From entry-level Summerland travel trailers, family value minded Springdales, to the full luxury of camping the Open Range 3X with three-inch thick side walls.

2015 York Campers World RV Show Map

Find us in Memorial Hall East Building B.

The 2015 York RV Campers World Show is at a later time this year.  This means you have less of a time to wait till Spring camping season to begin after your purchase.  Resorts, campgrounds, and RV lifestyle accessories surround the RV displays with vacation destination ideas plus fun. During the show you will find bingo games for free weekends of camping, camper games, instant door prizes, camping package prizes and strolling clowns to entertain children of all ages.

Lerch RV will have the it’s annual large display of over 20+ travel trailer and 5th wheel RVs for your browsing enjoyment.  Offering show only deals and pricing.  Do no miss the chance to take advantage of pre-season pricing on great brands like Summerland, Springdale, Sprinter, Open Range 3X, Light, Roamer, Journeyer, Fuzion, Impact, and much more.

Great RV deals, the newest floor plan offerings, great campgrounds, and great food make the York RV Show a must to attend.  I can not wait to have some famous Bricker’s French Fries.

2015 York RV Show Coupon

Save a few buck$ with this coupon.

 

Keystone Passport Ultra Lite Expandable Travel Trailers

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Passport Ultra Lite Travel Trailers

Once again, Passport by Keystone RV is building a line of expandable, tent end travel trailer RVs.  These new hybrid campers are extremely lightweight.  And easily towed by a properly equipped half ton truck, SUV or Cross-over style vehicle.   The new Passport EXP models are in stock and ready to go camping.

With Passport, we make it easy to stamp the mind with memories, help the kids fill their pockets with precious knickknacks, create a one-of-a-kind album of snap shots. Because Passport is lighter and fully equipped, it is easier to grab and go, giving you plenty of opportunity to hit the road on a moment’s notice. Whether you are looking for a small, couples coach that can be towed with a crossover vehicle, or a lager family bunk house model that doesn’t require a big truck, Passport has more choices for you. Go ahead and fill the blank pages and enjoy the story as it unfolds.

Check out all the models that Passport offers at Pennsylvania RV dealer, Lerch RV.  At our dealership, Passport has become our top-selling ultra lite RV brand.  Visit our Milroy, PA dealer location and see why you never want to travel without your Passport.

Keystone Passport ultra lite expandable travel trailer RV camper

Springdale 38’s – Travel Trailers with Residential Feel

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2015 Springdale 38FL by Keystone RV

‘L’ Shaped Lounge – Fireplace – Central Vac – Ample Storage
Large Master Suite – Residential Refrigerator – Plenty of Room

2015 Springdale 38FL travel trailer RV camper-Pennsylvania RV dealer-Lerch RVThis new, 2015 Springdale 38FL is ideally suited for the camping family looking for value. With Springdale we understand that your hard-earned money should go as far as your adventure can take you. Once on the road to adventure, you’ll see how camping in your Springdale is just plain better. Springdale offers numerous features you can’t find on other brands as well as more standard options and amenities than any other brand in this class. From Springdale’s vaulted ceiling and 14-foot super slide room to the Do More dinette, Springdale is focused on delivering great value and convenience that will always make camping in your Springdale a Better Way To Camp. Schedule an appointment today to see this exciting RV.

Equipped with Springdale’s Value Package – Adventure Package – Central Vac System – Enclosed Underbelly – Radial Tires – 50 Amp Service – Correct Track – 10 gallon Gas/Electric Water Heater with DSI – Spare Tire Kit – Exterior Shower – Sliding Glass Patio Door – Tri Fold Sleeper Sofa – Residential Electric Refrigerator2015 Springdale 38FL residential electric refrigerator

At a low price of $24,800, this 2015 Springdale 38FL is priced to sell. Yes, you get a great instant savings. As well as a full one year Keystone RV manufacturer warranty.

Call 800-722-1236 today or fill out the contact form below for more information on this exciting RV. Or if you have a current trailer that you enjoy camping in, fill out our RV trade in form, and we will provide you with an honest trade-in value. So click or call today. Financing is available for qualified buyers. And additional extended warranties are available for sale

2015 Springdale 38FL Keystone RV dealer - Lerch RV

 

 

Every Sale at Lerch RV Includes: Full Dealer Prep/PDI, Full LP Tanks, Auxiliary Battery with Mounting Box, Gift Card, Detailed – Clean RV, Current PA State Trailer Inspection, Profession Hitch Set Up Advice, and a Full Customer Orientation/Walk Through. All with no hidden or extra fees. See for yourself how Lerch RV makes buying EASY!

Harrisburg Pennsylvania RV Show 2015

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Harrisburg Pennsylvania RV Show:

February 26 – March 1, 2015

This is the must go to show for every RV enthusiast.  Lerch RV will have many RVS on display at the Harrisburg RV Show. We will also have  large parts and RV accessory area for picking up those great buys.  All at show special prices!  This show is the “go to place” to begin planning your upcoming camping vacations.  Or maybe you are trading up to your dream RV.  We are looking for quality pre-owned travel trailers and fifth wheels.

Harrisburg Pennsylvania RV ShowVisit our display for low pre-season sale pricing.  We will be offering show only pricing, you cannot even get these low prices on our lot.  So come visit our RV display at the Harrisburg Pennsylvania RV Show.  New RVers or those old hands at traveling the RV road will discover this the ideal show to learn about new RV products, campgrounds, and parts.

We will have national top-selling RVs by Passport, Open Range Light, and Outback.  Just to name a few.  So come visit us at the Harrisburg Pennsylvania RV Show at the Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, PA.

Show Info

February 26 – March 1
PA Farm Show Complex & Expo Center
2300 N. Cameron Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110

Show Hours

Thursday: 10 am – 8 pm
Friday: 10 am – 8 pm
Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm
Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm

Ticket Prices

Adults: $10
Kids 12 and under: FREE

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks double down.

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grand-teton-national-park-mooseA proposal set to double the cost to enter Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks in northwest Wyoming is drawing resistance.  The town of Jackson, WY, located along the southern entry path to both parks, has been vocal about the proposed fee hikes.  Jackson’s fishing guides and wildlife safari companies are among those speaking out against a plan that calls for increasing entrance fees for the two neighboring parks.

Under the National Park Service plan, a 7-day pass good for both Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks would increase from $25 to $50. An annual $50 pass good for both parks would be discontinued in favor of each park having its own $60 annual pass.  National parks across the U.S. are considering various fee raises in order to make up for budget shortfalls.

So are you in favor of paying more of your next National Park visit in your RV?

RV Water Heater. Do you maintain it?

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It is no secret that RVs require constant maintenance; especially when they are utilized year round. Now that the winter months are right around the corner, it is a good idea to have the hot water heater in your RV maintained properly. That way, you will be able to turn up the heat in the dead of winter!

The hot water heater in your RV should be drained once every six months to keep it in good working order. First, turn off the heater. Then, run the water to ensure that only cold water is coming out. Next, remove the drain plug and drain all of the water out of the unit. Be sure to flush the tank with fresh water. You can purchase a small nozzle that helps with flushing the water out.

At RV America, we understand that accidents happen. If something goes awry while maintaining your hot water heater, we are here to help. Just contact our service department at 800-722-1236 for your maintenance needs. We’ll make sure your beloved camper is running in tip top shape before you take it out for a spin.

Remember we have 18 service bays to make sure your RV is ready to go camping.  Give Pennsylvania’s largest tow-able RV dealer a call today!

RV & Camping News

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News from around the campfire.

~ Virginia – A tornado at Cherrystone RV Resort in Virginia killed 2 and injured dozens Thursday morning. A family from Berks County, Pa were among the injured. A married couple from New Jersey were killed when a tree fell on their tent.

~ Florida – Shopping for an RV at Lazydays is the focus of a reality show premiering Sunday on the Travel Channel, Columbus CEO explained.  Big Time RV takes viewers behind the scenes of the one of the country’s RV dealerships as customers tour and test different makes and models, from $18,000 travel trailers to $1 million tour buses, according to Columbus CEO.  The half-hour premiere, which airs at 8 p.m., follows a single father looking for a camper to wow his daughter in time for her birthday and two friends on the hunt for a million dollar party pad on wheels. A second episode will air at 8:30, Columbus CEO noted.

~ SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — Across California, Airstream parks or traditional RV parks with permanent Airstreams available for nightly rental have popped up with regularity, The Sacramento Bee reported.  Santa Barbara’s Auto Camp, which has five non-ambulatory, custom-designed Airstreams parked in front of a trailer park with permanent residents, has been featured in magazines like Sunset Magazine, Travel + Leisure and National Geographic Traveler. The Sacramento Bee explained the Auto Camp is so popular, its owners are planning to open similar sites soon in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Ventura.

~ KANE, PA. – Charges have been filed against two Kane men who allegedly broke into a building at the Kiasutha Campground in Hamilton Township while camping.
The Bradford Era reported on the morning of July 3, police responded to a report that someone had broken into the Kiasutha Campground gate house. Among the offenses discovered at the site where a window had been broken so someone could enter and $130 in cash was missing.

~ ALGONQUIN PROVINCIAL PARK, ON — A man and woman have been charged under the Ontario SPCA Act, after their dog was left alone in a hot car at their campsite in Algonquin National Park, ON, according to Market Wired.   On July 5, 2014, a park warden observed a Golden Retriever-type dog locked inside a car on a campsite. Market Wired reported the park warden noted that the car was located in direct sunlight, the four windows were down about two inches, and the animal did not have water and was panting heavily. After 15 minutes passed without the return of the dog’s owners, the Ontario SPCA was contacted.  Following an investigation, the Ontario SPCA has charged the animal’s owners with causing distress to an animal and failing to provide the care necessary for an animal’s general welfare, Market Wired noted.

~ National – Pilot Flying J is off the hook for prosecution after the company admitted its employees ripped off truckers and trucking companies by not paying them promised rebates on fuel purchases. The truck stop outfit will cough up a $92 million fine. Evidently RVers were not caught up in the rebate cheat.

~ California – A rare bit of RV and aviation history will be up for sale on August 15 at Bonhams’ Quail Lodge Auction in Carmel, California. The 1939 travel trailer owned by Charles and Anne Lindbergh is expected to fetch at least $150,000. The trailer sits on twin axles with a lightweight aluminum skin. The inside is furnished with well-preserved oak paneling.
~ News From The Weird ~

~ Calgary Police are trying to figure out the series of events leading up to a camper being abandoned in the middle of an intersection in the northeast.
A pickup-camper had become disconnected from the back of a truck at some point in the night and was spotted laying in the intersection of 36 Street and Memorial Drive N.E.  A short time later, police say a truck was spotted driving erratically, striking several parked cars.  Police are investigating after a driver abandoned a trailer in an intersection in northeast Calgary.  The driver then got out and tried to run, but was later caught and arrested.  Police say charges are pending and suspect alcohol may have been involved.

~ Skipping out on a $25 campground site fee may cost a Georgia man much more. John M. Turner of Rome, Ga., didn’t pay his site fee at the Rocky Mountain Campground in early July. Floyd County officials caught up with him and booked him. Charged with criminal trespass and theft of services, Turner couldn’t get out of jail for free — he posted bond.

 

Special thanks to CampingPA.com for supplying these great tidbits of RVing news…

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!