Tag Archives: Camps

Camping is for the dogs too!

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Camping is for the dogs too!

Camping is for the dogs too!

Pennsylvania camping is for the dogs (and other pets too.)

No one understands family like Lerch RV. That’s why when we say “family”, our four-legged, furry friends are always included.  Camping is a great way to bring families closer and often that includes pets. That is why your central Pennsylvania RV dealership is pet friendly. You can always find a few four-legged friends inside our dealership.  Customer are always welcome to bring their pets inside with them. We are dog friendly as long as your dog is friendly as well.

Pet Friendly Campgrounds:

No need to leave any family members behind when you head out for a family camping trip.  We’ve found a great resource for finding pet friendly campgrounds! There are many internet sites out there that will help you find a campground that both you and Fido will enjoy. Many more campgrounds, private and state funded are becoming pet friendly.

Camping Etiquette:

Pet friendly camping is the perfect way to include all family members in your vacation, but don’t forget, that does mean a little more work for you and your family.  Here are a 4 rules to remember when you RV with Spot:

  1. Pick it up: Always clean up after your dog (or other pets) after they’ve finished going to the bathroom.  No one wants to be out for a hike and step in Fido’s leave behinds.  Bring plenty of environmentally friendly pick up bags with you and dispose of them in dedicated receptacles.
  2. Know your limits: Your dog might be the friendliest dog you’ve ever met, but that doesn’t mean everyone’s dog is on the same page.  When leaving your campsite to roam the grounds, bring along a leash for those less than friendly encounters.
  3. No man (or pet) left behind: Remember the tent or RV you’re staying in might not feel like home to your family pet.  Try to minimize leaving your pet alone to reduce the amount of stress your pet experiences.  No one wants to be left out of all the fun!
  4. Watch the weather: Just like us humans, pets are sensitive to extreme hot and cold. On hot days, bring water and find rivers/lakes to help pets cool down. On cold days, think about leaving Fido in the RV or bringing along an adorable puppy jacket.
  5. Be courteous:Just be courteous of your neighbors and surroundings. Not everyone is a pet lover. So use a common sense approach when camping with your pets.

Have any other pet tips to share? We’d love to add them to our list. We love to hear from you…

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Are you enjoying your RV?

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Family Camping Fun with RV

Enjoy RVing.

Regardless of which make, model, brand or style of RV that you own. One thing every RV has in common is that RVs take camping to the next level, they’re loaded with amenities that make camping an incredible experience. Here are three easy ways to make sure you’re getting the most out of your RV when you’re on the road. And I hope that you are getting all that you can out of your current RV.

1.  You have a kitchen so cook a feast!

Go gourmet in your RV. When you have tons of cabinetry for storing ingredients, a spacious refrigerator, and 3-burner stove, you’re set to cook like a chef. Have hotdogs and burgers one night, but plan a night where you break out the spices, the premier cuts of meat, the vino, and a homemade dessert. There are tons of RV cooking resources that can help you find RV-friendly gourmet recipes. There is always something for everyone out there.

2.  There’s tons of sleeping space, so bring your friends.

In an RV, there’s way more sleeping space than you might ever use.  Why waste the space, the more the merrier. Grab your friends (or your kids’ friends) and bring them along. Memories are made when you get big groups together.

3.  Make the most of entertainment systems.

Whether your RV has flat screen TVs inside, outdoor TVs, or both, you get the best of both worlds. Roughing it, while being able to laugh along with your favorite movie or TV show. Don’t feel guilty using (and loving) your TVs. Invite the neighbors (campers in the spots nearby) over for movie night or put the game on the outside TV. Camping is about making and sharing time with family and friends!

Let us know if you have any other ideas about how to get more out of your RV!
Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

#camping,#rving,#happycamper

An RV checklist for everyone…

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If you’re like us, you can’t wait to get your camper opened up for the camping season! (If you have not already done so.) In fact, we’re so eager we’ve compiled a checklist of items for you that will help you have a smooth, hassle-free camping season this year. Everyone who RVs should utilize a check list, like the one below. An RV checklist will help you open up the camper for the coming camping season, as well as when you put the camper away for the year.  The list below should be done while you are at home, doing so will allow you to enjoy a trouble-free camping trip.

 

RV START-UP CHECKLIST

  • Inspect and work all interior and exterior latches and locks (lube if necessary).
  • Make sure the batteries are fully charged and installed correctly. A bad battery can make for a bad camping trip.
  • Inspect the power cord and carefully clean the contacts if necessary. Plug in the power cord to an appropriate power source.
  • Turn on the interior lights and check outlets for polarity. If needed, replace any blown fuses. Check the circuit breakers and test the GFCI.
  • Inspect and test all safety detectors. If needed, replace any drained or discharged batteries. If you have a defective or damaged safety detector, replace it immediately.
  • Inspect and turn on the propane system. If you have any questions, contact your dealer or a qualified propane service representative for assistance.
  • If the propane system is functioning properly, test the pilot lights on range, refrigerator, furnace and water heater (if so equipped).
  • Inspect the leveling jacks (if so equipped) for operation. If needed, perform maintenance as specified by the leveling jack manufacturer.
  • Test all exterior and interior lights. Replace any bulbs if they are burnt out.
  • Inspect the tires for wear, cracks and inflation pressure.
  • Wash the exterior of the RV.
  • Do a sealant inspection and repair as necessary.
  • De-winterize and sanitize the fresh water system.
  • Connect your tow vehicle to the RV and test all connections and lights. This should be done every time you hook up to tow.

Some of the above items should be looked over a couple of times a year. We recommend having your RV thoroughly checked when you have your required state inspection completed.  Preventative RV maintenance will allow you to enjoy a trouble-free camper for many years to come.

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

Take advantage of your RV Pennsylvania!

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Recreational Vehicles take camping to the next level, they’re loaded with amenities that make camping an incredible experience. Although some have more features than others.  Here are three easy ways to make sure you’re getting the most out of your Lerch RV when you’re on the road.

1.  You have a kitchen so cook a feast!

Go gourmet in your RV. When you have tons of cabinetry for storing ingredients, a spacious refrigerator, and 3-burner stove, you’re set to cook like a chef. Have hotdogs and burgers one night, but plan a night where you break out the spices, the premier cuts of meat, the vino, and a homemade dessert. There are tons of RV cooking resources that can help you find RV-friendly gourmet recipes.

2.  There’s tons of sleeping space, so bring your friends. You have room!

In an RV, there’s way more sleeping space than you might ever use. Some of our current inventory floor plans sleep up to twelve campers. Why waste the space, the more the merrier. Grab your friends (or your kids’ friends) and bring them along. Memories are made when you get big groups together. Why do you think so many families try to go camping together?

3.  Make the most of entertainment systems.

Whether your RV has flat screen TVs inside, outdoor TVs, or both, you get the best of both worlds. Roughing it, while being able to laugh along with your favorite movie or TV show. Don’t feel guilty using (and loving) your TVs. Invite the neighbors (campers in the spots nearby) over for movie night or put the game on the outside TV.

Have any gourmet RV recipes, stories of packed RVs, and favorite RV movies? Share with us in the comments. Especially if you love RVing as much as we do!

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

A Few Good Tips for the Pennsylvania RV Newbie

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New to RVing? We can help. Everybody has to learn the ins and outs of RVing at some time. Hopefully, your mistakes and accidents will be minimal in the beginning.

I thought I would put together some things to think about as you prepare your new RV and yourself, to experience the RVing lifestyle like a pro!

  1. Take care of your black water tank. This is one of the most important things to learn about. If your RV doesn’t have a black water tank sprayer, dump plenty of water down the toilet to clean it out. Add recommended chemicals regularly to ensure that tank material biodegrades properly. Packets are the fastest and easiest to use and require the least storage space; just toss one down the toilet with a gallon of water. Use RV toilet paper; it biodegrades faster.
  2. Make a maintenance checklist. Make a checklist of things to do before and after each RV trip to ensure that you don’t forget any maintenance procedures while you’re learning. Make notes of anything that you need to keep an eye on so that you can check it consistently. You don’t want any surprises while you’re on the road.
  3. Keep fridge and pantry stocked. Keep non-perishable staples on-board all season so you’re ready for spur-of-the-moment getaways.  Make sure they are foods that will work together to make a meal.  Remember to use food before their expiration date.
  4. Keep clothing, gear on board. Keep a set of toiletries, toothbrushes, clothing, games, leisure gear, pet supplies, etc. on board so that you have minimal packing to do at vacation time.

This is just a very small list to get you started in your quest to become an experienced camper.  Did I miss anything you experienced RVers? Please share more tips in the comments below….

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

What Every New Pennsylvania RVer Eventually Discovers

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New RV owners usually have a lot of information to digest. There is so much to learn about owning, operating and maintaining a RV. Unless they know someone who can teach them all there is to know, these new RV owners are on their own to figure it all out.

Consider your first RV your training RV. This is where you will learn the ins and outs of how to operate propane, holding tanks, plumbing, electrical and backing up.

It helps you discover whether you prefer the convenience of full-service RV parks or dry-camping in primitive campgrounds, more commonly known as boon-docking.

Your ‘training camper’ teaches you how to equip, furnish and pack an RV. You learn just how much interior storage space (closets, cabinets, drawers) you really need (is there ever enough?). It reveals how critical the size and accessibility of the outside storage bays can be and the importance of cargo-carrying capacity and towing capabilities. Not to mention sleeping capacity as well. Did you really need the bunk beds?

It helps you determine what floor-plan, features and accessories would best suit your RVing lifestyle and needs. And if you really enjoy all that you learn about the world of RVing, there will be another new RV!

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

The top 10 Five-Minute RV Maintenance Tips.

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Of course, Lerch RV has an RV service department with the latest in diagnostic and repair tools and parts that can handle just about any problem your RV faces. I say, why not just avoid RV problems all together. Here are a few quick and easy RV maintenance tips you can follow on your own to keep your camper in great shape from year to year.

RV Service, RV Maintenance, camper service, Lerch RV Service Department, PA RV DealerQuick & Easy Maintenance Tips for the DYI-er RVer

Check sealants twice each month – check the rubber sealants around your windows to make sure they’re tight and not cracking. Cracked or loose sealant can let air in which causes drafts and leaks.

Check tire pressure before every trip –this one should be a no brainer. Make sure your tires are fully pressurized before you set off on your next road trip – it’s an easy RV maintenance tip that will prevent blowouts and it also  improves your gas mileage!

Run generator 2 hours per month under 50% load –letting your RV sit unused for months is not good for the generator. Run it under a light load for a few minutes each month to keep it primed so that it is ready the next time you decide to hit the road.

Check battery water level–making sure your batteries have enough water in them is crucial to ensuring that they will hold their charge. Check your battery water level frequently and add distilled water when necessary. Disconnect your battery from your camper when not in use, to prolong your battery’s life, use a battery maintainer (trickle charger) to keep it up to charge.

Clean holding tanks regularly –clean out your gray and black water tanks frequently to prevent bacteria and odors from leaking into the rest of your RV. Black and gray water tanks can get really gross, really fast – this is one RV maintenance tip you don’t want to forget! If you have to spend a vast amount of time on the road, cleanliness is a must.

Lube slide rails and gaskets twice each year –make sure all your slide-out rails and all gaskets on your RV are properly lubricated to avoid friction. This will help make sure your slide rails stay in working condition all season long.

 Torque lug nuts before each trip – it is very important that you always make sure your lug nuts are fastened tightly before you head out. This RV maintenance tip is crucially important – if you’re not careful, your whole wheel assembly could fly off! Accidents slow down trips and can drain your pocket-book, this type can be easily avoided.

 Sanitize fresh water system each spring – this is an RV maintenance tip that you should follow at the beginning of the RV season. Before your spring RV season starts, make a point to thoroughly sanitize your fresh water systems to keep your drinking water fresh and clean.

 Properly winterize each fall –this is one of the most crucial RV maintenance tips that you can follow. Before the winter hits it’s absolutely necessary to follow all of the steps to winterize your unit to protect it from the winter cold and lack of use (if you need help, check out our previous posts about how to winterize your RV!).

 Retract awning during heavy wind and rain – this RV maintenance tip is extremely important. On at least one of your camping trips you’re going to have to weather a storm. Make sure your awning is pulled back – otherwise, it’ll collapse like an umbrella and bend like crazy. Not to mention could invert and go over your roof!

If you follow the above RV maintenance tips throughout the season, you may end up saving thousands of dollars in service costs! And remember, for all your RV maintenance and service needs, visit Lerch RV in central Pennsylvania.

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

Save $$$ in 2012…Go RVing!

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Travelers save when they go RVing!

A study prepared for RVIA by PKF Consulting USA found a family of four that owns an RV can take an RV trip for 23 percent to 59 percent less than other types of vacations. For a couple traveling by RV, savings were 11 percent to 46 percent. Even after accounting for factors such as RV ownership costs and fuel prices, the study confirms that RV vacations offer greater savings than vacations taken by car or airline and requiring hotel/rental stays and restaurant meals.

PKF analyzed vacation costs to nine popular destinations for a family of four and a party of two adults and included different types of RVs and varying vacation durations. It also analyzed how theoretical increases in fuel prices could affect vacation travel costs.

RV vacations proved more economical than the other vacations, regardless of trip duration,  distance, or vacation region,  said PKF vice president Kannan Sankaran. “While fuel costs are a component of the overall vacation cost, they are not significant enough to materially affect the outcome of our analysis.” So fuel costs are not really a factor to most family vacations.

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

The perfect gifts for the RVer/Camper in your family.

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RV Christmas Tree Lot @ Lerch RV, Keystone RV, Open Range RV

Tis' the Season...

Christmas seems to come faster every year. If you are like me, then you probably wait until the last minute to find gifts for your friends and loved ones. It can be hard trying to pick out that special present for those who mean so much to you. If you are looking for the perfect gift for the RV enthusiast that you know, you may not know what to get. There are many great gift ideas to make RVing easier and more fun for RV owners and passengers alike.

One of the things that you have to take into consideration when buying gifts for an RVer is space. RVs may have more room than other vehicles, but in terms of living space, being economical is key. One great gift for the avid reader would be an e-book such as a Kindle, Nook or maybe a new Kindle Fire. These devices will free up a lot of storage space currently being used up by books, many of which are read once and then never touched again. Less flashy things, like portable meal trays, are a great way to open up more room for someone who is living in an RV. One of the best gifts that you could give an RVer is the gift of more living space, so you may want to look for items that will take up little space or allow more space to be used.

Another great part of RVing is being outdoors. Making life better while at a campsite is a great way to make an RVer happy on Christmas morning. Outdoor furniture such as chairs, tables, and even outdoor recliners will make living outdoors a lot easier. Outdoor carpets/area rugs for under the awning are always a hot seller too.  If you are looking to get a gift for the chef in the family, kitchen utensils and appliances are always a hit. Just look for items that will take up minimal space and open up possibilities in the kitchen.

There are many great products and possibilities out there for RV owners, so be sure to start your shopping now, because Christmas is just around the corner. Be sure to visit your Pennsylvania RV dealer for all your RV Christmas needs.

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

Winter RVing can be warm and cozy. Here is how…

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Winter RVing can be fun.

Skirting can help keep cold air at bay.

The air is starting to get colder, the temperature is dropping and you may find yourself shivering in your RV or trailer. Even if you have chosen to go to a warmer area for the season, there may still be nights that are a bit nippy. It seems the climate has been unsettling with temperature variations all over the nation. However the most effective way to keep the heat inside of your rig is to have high grade insulation installed throughout it. Unfortunately, that can be a costly solution that could also keep your RV in the shop for a long period of time. There are other great tricks and products you can use to keep the cold outside this winter.

One of the most important things that you can do is checking your RV seals for leaks. If you have cold air coming into your RV then it will always be cold and you could be running your furnace too hard for little effect. Check your roof, windows, and doors to make sure that there is no cold air getting into your RV. If you do find little leaks or holes, then be sure to use a silicone sealant of caulk to stop the problem. It is common for air to come in from under the door. There are products out there that are designed to slip onto your door and seal off the interior.

If you have a hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors, then you may want to purchase an area rug or loose carpeting. This will help keep cold air coming through the floor and it will also hold heat better. Be sure that you keep your blinds closed, and use your curtains if you have them. The cold temperature of the glass can start to take out the heat in your rig, leaving you feeling like an ice cube. Another great product to purchase is a roof vent pillow. This item is inserted to the RV roof vent and is usually made of foam or some other type of insulator. This keeps cool air from being conveyed through your closed roof vent.

If you plan on living in your RV this winter, then you should be sure that your RV is ready to handle the cold. No one wants to go camping with Jack Frost, so make sure you keep him at bay. For great winterizing service and solutions be sure to visit Lerch RV.

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