2gypsies

Nice to see boondockers in these beautiful places!

Nothing works on the microwave if the RV isn't plugged into electric. The clock doesn't run.

Maybe he doesn't realize how the back end bounces but he should. Ugh! This is so sad. Those poor dogs. He probably hits them if they don't go willingly in the cage. They know what's in store for them. 😢

The Auburn/Alabama games are a VERY BIG thing in Alabama. You wouldn't believe the rigs you see. They have someone drive them there for partying and they stay in a nearby hotel!!!

Hope you had a great trip and a good learning experience!!!

Yes, taking his license plate and reporting him would have been the thing to do.

You'd have Monarch Pass to cross at 11,300' elevation. October might be o.k. because snow would probably melt fast but iffy beyond that.

What a difference a little effort and cash can make! https://www.bhg.com/decorating/makeovers/before-and-after/revamped-camper-dream-home/

I think you'll do just fine. Your plans are exactly what we did for 16 years. We stayed in the most popular national parks and along the coasts... minimally. Your pass will get you a site in national forest campgrounds and they can be found everywhere. Best of luck to you!

I doubt most full-timers are paying those prices. There are many ways to save money. There are many web sites of full-timers who give their budgets usually starting at $30,000/year; some less; some more. You control it. There are options instead of expensive RV parks: discount camping such as Passport America, Escapees has discounts on many parks as do other organizations, there are very nice city and county parks in pretty settings. If you're 62+ and get the Senior national pass you can stay in public parks for 1/2 price, including national parks. National forest campgrounds are great and would also be 1/2 price. You can also learn to boondock on public lands which is free - gorgeous spots on lakes and rivers, forests or desert. If you want to stay in more rural areas you'll pay less. If you want to stay in big cities or near major attractions such as Disney then you'll pay a lot more. If you just want a basic, clean park they are out there - even outside of Yellowstone. If you want all the frills you'll pay for them.

Our 1996 Travel Supreme 5th wheel had electric/propane water heater.

Can you tell from advertising if these are big shows? Some RV shows are not worth going to as they may only have a few manufacturers and a few models. Sometimes they're geared for motorhomes with a few trailers mixed in. Since you have to drive so far it would be a shame to attend a 'dud'. Where are these shows? I agree with Linda. Go to the Raleigh one and see if you've seen enough to satisfy your questions.

Can you tell from advertising if these are big shows? Some RV shows are not worth going to as they may only have a few manufacturers and a few models. Sometimes they're geared for motorhomes with a few trailers mixed in. Since you have to drive so far it would be a shame to attend a 'dud'. Where are these shows?

You'll have fun with it ! Try this site for finding a place. Pick a state then a town and options will appear along with suggestions for places nearby. http://www.campgroundreviews.com/

By the time you get off the highway and roll up to the check in, the diesel has cooled down enough. Same goes for warming it up in the early morning. By the time you get to the highway, it's warmed up enough. Did it for 8 years with no issues.

I'd recommend staying right at Escapees and get to know everyone.

I would guess they'll be boondocking; not setting up in a RV park. 😉

That's a popular campground right outside of Grand Canyon South Rim. It will always be full.

Kirk... with your link to Consumer Reports you have to be a member to see the article.

We carried a 1'x2' heavy canvas tool bag. Never needed any more in 16 years. Didn't carry a gun so can't help there.

If you're going to finance then keep your present domicile. Banks will, most likely, finance easier with an established address.

Not only ice on the roof but snow can fly off in big amounts onto the driver behind you. Best to clear the roof before leaving or wait until it melts. It's also fun when disconnecting utilities and someone inside pushes the button for the slide to come in with a topper on it. A change of clothes may be necessary. 😯

Here's the 2019 Towing Guide. You can also get guides from previous years in case you want to buy used. https://webcontent.goodsam.com/motorhomemagazine.com/2019DinghyGuide.pdf If you want an off-roading vehicle but one with a lot more room then you should look at the Jeep Cherokee (different from the Grand Cherokee). It's a gorgeous car inside and out.

We never had to sweep stuff off our toppers. On one RV that didn't have toppers we did have to sweep the stuff off the slideout roofs. That's why toppers are good to have. We did, however, get on the roof occasionally to check for maintenance issues and to clean the roof.

Here are reviews on the places mentioned above: http://www.campgroundreviews.com/regions/texas/san-angelo To me, any would be suitable. Good luck!