Tag Archives: Recreation

2013 Hershey RV Show

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America’s Largest RV Show ~ Hershey, Pennsylvania

Hershey RV Show - America's Largest RV Show

Hershey RV Show – America’s Largest RV Show

The Hershey Show, officially known as America’s Largest RV Show by the sponsoring Pennsylvania RV & Camping Association (PRVCA), has become the kickoff venue for the RV industry to unveil its new model year lines on a national scale to both a trade and consumer audience. And this year’s event – set for Sept 9-15 at the Giant Center in Hershey, Pa. – should go a long way toward reinforcing that reputation.

“The show is doing as good as it’s ever done in the sense of we’re virtually sold out for vendor space inside and we created more area outside,” reports Show Chairman Dan Saltzgiver, general manager for Camping World of Hanover (Pa.). “And then there’s the manufacturers’ space, which was all but sold out at the show drawing going back to the first week of May. Since then, what little space we had, Becky (Lenington, PRVCA executive director) pretty much has it all sold. She actually converted one area that we haven’t used in the manufacturers’ space to try to accommodate some more manufacturers.”

The good news, in a nutshell, from PRVCA:

• Through the end of July, the Hershey Show’s sold space totaled 817,120 net square feet versus 745,127 net square feet in 2012.

• The show’s total square footage as of mid-July: 1.54 million gross square feet.

• Outdoor manufacturer space is up 18% for this year’s show and the number of displays has increased by about 50 booths.

• The sold-out Giant Center is scheduled to house 238 booths. “Inside the Giant Center, the arena downstairs is sold out and then there is the upstairs mezzanine, Saltzgiver told Woodall’s Campground Management. “We are sold out all around there for retail days for sure. And we’re working to get it sold for wholesale days as well. We sell some of that space twice. If someone is only coming for retail, then we resell it for wholesale.”

Attendance Goal

PRVCA, in turn, wants to top 2012’s record-breaking, public day attendance of 43,131, a 29% uptick from 2011. And it wants to surpass the 2,022 attendees registered on last year’s trade days, a 12.77% from 2011. “Even though it doesn’t appear that way, we’ve been increasing the wholesale number of dealers each year,” said Saltzgiver. “So, while that’s not the size yet that we’d like to see it, we’re being told by the manufacturers that it’s still important to them.”

That said, PRVCA won’t be attempting to return the show’s square footage to its all-time, pre-recessionary high because the association has decided not to try to expand beyond the eastside foot bridge to the adjacent Giant Center parking lots, a configuration that just didn’t seem to work for everybody. “I don’t know if we’ll ever get over that (modern high point) as long as the show committee agrees with me that we shouldn’t go across the road again,” said Saltzgiver.

“That just created a lot of problems for the manufacturers on that side, as well as customers going over to that side,” added Saltzgiver. “It’s one of the things on which we made a decision as a group. Things could change. But now we’re deciding not to use that side so that it’s better for our retail customer coming in as well as the manufacturers and suppliers that exhibit at that show.”

by RV Business

 

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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…

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!

RV Lifestyle: Tips for beginners and vets

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There’s never been a better time to take up the RV lifestyle.

Whether you’re a weekend wanderer, a snow bird or an RV full-timer, there’s an RV to suit any travel budget and taste.

With baby boomers reaching retirement age, more and more people are taking to the road with their motor homes, RVs or travel trailers. The Recreation Vehicle Industry Association recently reported that nearly 8 million American households have an RV, motor home or travel trailer and that there are as many as 30 million RV enthusiasts in the U.S.

Seeing the country in an RV offers many benefits for travelers seeking an affordable and exciting way to spend quality family time. According to one study, a family of four can save up to 74% traveling by RV over more conventional travel. And with more than 16,000 public and privately owned campgrounds in the US, there’s a site to fulfill everyone’s vacation fantasy, whether it’s an oceanfront view, hiking trails, casino gambling or tennis.

6 Tips for Successful RV Travel
RV travel is easy to learn, and once you’ve got the hang of it there’ll be no going back! Here are six helpful tips that will come in handy for both beginning and seasoned RV enthusiasts:

    1. Map Your RV Travel Destinations
      A large part of the RV appeal is the exhilarating freedom of the open road — to go wherever you want, whenever you want. But it helps to have a solid travel plan in place. If you know where you’re heading, you can determine the route that will offer the most interesting sights.Look in RV and other travel guides, contact tourism boards in states you’ll be passing through, and search the Internet.Make sure to bring the correct road maps, and a GPS system is a good idea as well, especially if you’re new to RV travel.

      Carefully designing the route you’ll be taking will make it easier to do spur-of-the moment things like checking out that oddball museum you just spotted on a roadside billboard!

    2. Have A Checklist? Just Checking
      During your pre-trip prep, in addition to working out what needs to be in the RV, put together a thorough checklist of things to do when setting up at an RV campground.There are the basics:

      • Locate all campground connections
      • Make sure your RV is level
      • Properly hook up your water, gas and electric systems

      Don’t forget comfort concerns, like making sure you packed your favorite CDs and DVDs, and those new lawn chairs.

      Equally important, you should have a second checklist of things that have to be done to break camp and set up your RV for departure (Quick hint: when you think the job is done and everything is ready, check again).

    3. Be Prepared with a “Just-For-The-RV” First-Aid Kit
      Always make sure you have a fully stocked RV first-aid kit, and keep it in an outside storage compartment.Your RV first-aid kit should include basic medical supplies:

      • Bandages
      • Ointment
      • Over-the-counter pain reliever
      • Insect repellant
      • Scissors
      • An emergency supply of must-have medications

      Plus the following extras for your RV:

      • Flashlight and extra batteries
      • Paper and pens
      • A disposable camera in case you have to take photos of an accident site.
      • Cell phone and charger

      If you don’t feel up to the task of putting together an RV first-aid kit yourself, an extensive range of ready-made first-aid kits is available for purchase.

      Don’t forget to include a list of important contact information, including family members, doctors, insurance agents, etc. [Editor’s note: Leave a copy of your itinerary and your contact information with a family member or friend, in case you need to be located in an emergency.]

       

    4. RV Camping with Kids and Pets
      If your RV travel includes children, make sure to set aside time during the day for outdoor activities, as even the roomiest RV can be confining for kids.And give each child his or her own space in the RV (no matter how small) for toys, games and personal stuff.RV travel is a unique opportunity for your children to see new and different places and faces. There are often plenty of other kids at campgrounds – but be sure to walk around a new campground with your children when you first get settled there. They need to know how to find your campsite and navigate the RV grounds. If you plan to bring the family pet, check beforehand to confirm that pets are allowed at the RV campground.
  1. A Little Help From Your Friends
    When in doubt, ask your fellow RVer. However well-traveled you might be, odds are there is someone you’ll meet along the way who has been somewhere you haven’t, solved a problem you haven’t yet encountered, or spotted an out-of-the-way delight you’ve never heard of.No matter how much research you’ve done, there’s bound to be an RV campsite you haven’t read about, a storage system that has escaped your notice, or a funny anecdote that you’ll laugh about for years to come.The new folks you meet may or may not become close friends for life, but they are an important part of your RV journey.
article written by John Noble from about.com

Pink is our favorite color…RV Winterizing

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RV winterizing with RV antifreeze

Got to think pink!

It is that time of year once more. Time to prepare to winterize your beloved camper.

As much as we don’t like having to think about putting our RV away for the winter, it’s inevitable if you live in colder climates. That’s why we’re here with ways to properly prepare your RV for colder weather or storage, which is very important in most states and Canada. If an RV is not properly prepared for the winter months, it may cause water supply lines and the water heater to freeze. This article will give you some great tips on how to best winterize your RV.

First off, your RV should be winterized at the end of the camping season or when the RV will be exposed to temperatures that will fall at or below 32°F (0°C).

 Depending on the type of RV you own, there are two methods of winterizing. Also, as always, we ask that you read, understand the instructions before beginning and follow the instructions as you go. If you are not sure if you should be winterizing your coach yourself, please visit your local RV dealership for help.  Many dealerships, such as Lerch RV, will provide you with assistance or show you how to properly and safely winterize your camper yourself.  Here are the two ways to winterize your RV depending on the type you have.

Air pressure

This method will utilize an air hose to blow excess water from the water lines.

1. Make sure all holding tanks are empty and drain valves OPEN.

2. Run the water pump until it is dry, this will take approximately 15-20 seconds.

3. OPEN all faucets and drains, and the toilet.

4. Using an air hose and adapter (customer supplied), blow air through the city water connection. Any remaining water will blow out in five to ten minutes.

5. Pour one cup of non-toxic RV antifreeze into all drain P-traps.

Demand or power plumbing system (the most popular way to winterize your RV)

It may be easier to winterize the RV with another person to assist you.

1. Level the RV and drain the fresh water plumbing system.

2. Replace the water filter cartridge with the clear plastic bypass hose (if so equipped).

3. Make sure the water heater 12-volt and 120-volt interior control switches are OFF.

4. Turn the water heater bypass valves to the BYPASS position. Your RV valves may also be labeled  “Sanitize/Winterize Lines” position.

5. Make sure the “fresh tank drain” and “low point drains” are closed.  For most RVs, the low point drains must be closed for the antifreeze to siphon through the lines.

6. Insert the garden hose into a container of RV antifreeze solution (this quantity should be enough to winterize the RV); attach the other end to the City Water Fill.

7. Turn the water pump ON.

8. Open the hot water line on all the faucets (kitchen, lavatory, shower and outside shower) until RV antifreeze begins to flow continuously.

9. Close the faucet hot water lines and repeat with the cold water lines on all the faucets. Do not forget to run RV antifreeze through the toilet.

When you are done adding RV antifreeze

10. Remove the garden hose from the container of RV antifreeze.

11. To prevent staining, wipe the RV antifreeze out of the sinks, shower (or tub) and toilet using a soft, dry cloth.

As always, if you need assistance, please contact your local RV dealer.

WARNING…Please note that repairs due to freezing are not always covered under the terms of your manufacturer warranty.  When in doubt, please consult your warranty and/or the dealership that you purchased your RV. Also,automotive antifreeze (ethylene glycol) and windshield washer antifreeze (methanol) are poisonous. Never use these products in your fresh water system. These products are harmful and may be fatal if swallowed. Please use approved non toxic RV anti-freeze in your camper.

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

 

Fall into Pennsylvania camping

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Autumn camping, is camping at the best time of year.

Autumn camping, is camping at the best time of year.

With the arrival of autumn, comes fall foliage and football. Cooler weather and shorter days are on their way, but that doesn’t mean that your camping and RVing fun has to end. Fall is a great time plan a camping trip to destination hot spots that may have been too busy during the summer. In the fall campgrounds and parks are less congested and rates are usually reduced. Many campgrounds offer kids of all ages fun, autumn inspired activities.

Consider a fall color tour while camping — from mid-September to late October the autumn foliage colors can be spectacular. To help you plan your fall color drive or nature hike near your destination, check online for tour dates and maps that list the best locations to view the changing fall colors.

Fall is the perfect time to visit orchards, farms and  markets throughout the country. Cider mills and apple orchards are usually busiest during the fall months, offering fresh apples, cider and doughnuts. Check for farms near your campground that offer corn mazes, wagon rides and pumpkin picking during the fall months. Or find an enjoyable scenic railroad that offers a nice leisure fall inspired scenic trip.

With autumn’s arrival comes the tailgating season. Besides the excitement watching your favorite college or NFL team play, the tailgating tradition allows you to enjoy some leisure time with family, friends or complete strangers, before you enter the stadium. Tailgating in an RV is an experience that just may spoil you and your guests for life.

Besides having a roof over your head in case of bad weather while tailgating, most RVs have a bathroom allowing you to skip the porta potty lines and a refrigerator to keep your food and beverages cold. After the game, forget about sitting in traffic, fire up the grill for some hot dogs or hamburgers, watch game highlights on your TV or play some games until it’s time to leave.

Sooner or later, the cold weather will approach and many of us will be winterizing our RVs. So get out there and enjoy the fall camping season before it is too late.

Safe Travels and Happy RVing!

Plan that next RV Vacation wisely Pennyslvania

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“Vacation, all I ever wanted, Vacation, had to get away..”

Vacation, not just lyrics to a popular eighties song by the all girl band, The Go-Go’s.  Vacation is a state of mind for some, while other use it for a time to get away from the everyday hustle and bustle. However you choose to spend your vacation, RVing is a very cost-effective way to do so.

With any tow behind trailer or Motor-home there is always the consideration of gas to get where you want to go! Surprisingly RV travel can save on family vacations!

Depending on the type of trip and RV used, a family of four can save 23% – 59% on vacation costs according to the PKF Vacation Cost Comparison Study.  For a couple of two or all those empty-nesters out there, it is possible to save 11%-46%. In fact, 80% of RVers say that vacationing in their RV even when gas prices rise, the trip still costs less than other types of vacations. In all reality, there is no need to worry even with gas prices going up, if used appropriately.

Pennsylvania Vacations at Lerch RV

Ways to plan Smart Vacations with your RV:

1. Choose destinations that are closer to home. This allows you to drive fewer miles and staying longer in one location.

2. Enjoy the campground! By spending more time by the campfire, socializing with family, and taking day hikes you will be able to spend less time on the road

3. Pack lighter to reduce weight. Leave those un-necessaries at home.

4. Consume less fuel by driving 55 mph instead of 65 mph. Many RV owners say that this truly helps with traveling costs. Why be in hurry to get somewhere, the trip is as much as the destination.

5. Keep home utilities turned off to save energy while traveling. Turn down or turn off that hot water heater. Unplug the microwave or other energy-consuming items that are always on stand-by.

By using these ways to save, your vacation with friends and family will still be just as fun! If gas prices go up you can count on plane fares and other traveling modes to increase in price as well. So you can count on RVing to be a cheaper option. At this point in time, for RVing to become more expensive than other forms of travel for a family of four, the prices of fuel would have to more than double.

So if gas prices are making you worry when it comes to family vacations, there is no need. Like with any money spending decision, if planned appropriately, can be worked out. By using these ways to be smart about RVing then you don’t have to compromise your getaway from the everyday hustle and bustle and the good memories spent with those you love.

“Vacation, All I ever wanted. Vacation had to get away”…

Cleaning Your RV: The Exterior

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Lerch RV, Pennsylvania's largest Sprinter RV DealerLast week I posted some tips on how to best clean the interior of your RV, now we’re here to give you some tips on the best way to clean and care for the exterior of your camper. Taking the time to clean the exterior of your RV on a regular basis will allow you to notice any potential issues, such as leaks or siding damage.  Use the time while making your unit shine to perform some preventative maintenance.  Which will allow you to extend the life of your camper, while possibly easing the burden on your family budget.  RV problems can be expensive to fix, if left go too long.

First, we recommend that you clean it often and thoroughly to keep it looking shiny and new.  The longer dirt and residue sits on the exterior of your RV, the more potential damage it can cause. Some elements that can be highly damaging to your RV’s exterior if not washed off are road salt, road tar, bugs, bird droppings, tree sap, acid rain and UV exposure. These can cause corrosion, staining and chemical spotting. Be sure to always wash your RV soon after it is exposed to any of these elements. An added bonus is if you regularly wax your RV which will help protect the exterior. We don’t recommend taking your RV through automatic car washes, doing it by hand, while time-consuming, is the best way to clean the exterior of your RV. Even if you allow your camper to be parked on a permanent site, regular cleaning will allow you to enjoy your RV for years to come.

To clean the exterior of your RV, we suggest parking it in a place not in direct sunlight. First, spray it with water to remove dust. Next, using an abundant amount of clean water and a car-washing mitt/sponge and an RV washing brush, wash your RV from top to bottom. You can also use a mild car-washing soap. Be sure to rinse thoroughly and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Using extremely hot water and pressure can cause damage to the RV. Be sure to use caution and keep a pressure sprayer nozzle about 16 inches or more away from the RV. Also, use caution if you use a pressure sprayer around all attachments of the RV (doors, windows, appliance vents, etc.) When washing around glass with a pressure sprayer, hold the nozzle at right angles to the glass surface.  A pressure sprayer used in properly can damage  your RV, as well as force water into places where water should not be.

We recommend that you wax your RV at the very least once a year, two times a year would be great. To wax, apply a small amount of wax to a soft cloth and rub gently onto the exterior of your RV. Do not wax your RV in direct sunlight and do it after surfaces have cooled. This will avoid the wax drying out quickly. Do not use waxes that contain high-abrasive compounds. These waxes will remove rust and stains but they are also harmful to the luster of the surface since they may scrape off the coating. Do not use gasoline or paint thinners to remove road tar or other contamination to the painted surface. Use only approved cleaners to remove stubborn stains or marks.

In order to make your job easier when it comes to cleaning your new RV, consider having an exterior protection package, such as the Trident Exterior Protection System, applied to your RV before it even leaves the dealership.  This will prolong the life of that ‘new’ look as well as protect your exterior from many of the items listed above. Best of all most applications, such as Trident, are warranted for several years.  So why not help yourself protect your investment.

There you have it, some tips on keeping the exterior of your RV nice and clean. If you have questions about cleaning the exterior of your RV, be sure to contact your local central Pennsylvania dealer or your manufacturer’s customer service department.

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