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For a comfy and enjoyable home-away-from-home, your RV needs every ounce of your creativity to keep things organized. This is especially true if you’re traveling with kids and pets.

Experienced RVers have figured out many small and imaginative ways of keeping everything in order, even inside the smallest of RV models. Here are some of the best hacks we’ve come across. 

Toiletry Storage

Everyone has their own set of toiletries they on a daily basis and considered quite personal. You need to try to keep these organized so your bathroom isn’t a mess. A simple and effective solution to staying tidy and clean is to have a labeled plastic zippered bag for every family member’s personal toiletries.

Ziplock bags work well because they’ll fit easily under the sink or in a small bathroom storage area. You can do small rectangular totes, too, but you may find they’re tougher to fit into storage areas in your RV. Toiletries also fit well in caddies that can hang over the door to the bathroom or even over the top of your shower curtain. Assess your storage needs and then look for a storage option that works well for your particular RV. 

Adhesive Hooks and Hangers

Little adhesive hooks and hangers are the perfect solution to many RV storage problems. The beauty of adhesive hooks and hangers is that you can easily attach them anywhere without drilling holes, and they can be removed and replaced anytime, without leaving damage or marks.

People have use command hooks on the wall to hold iPads and Kindles, clothes, cables, privacy curtains, and so much more. Look around your RV for some open wall space and then see what you can hang up and out of the way. 

Cabinetry Organizing Trays and Racks

Most RVs have usable kitchen cabinetry storage for everything from pots and pans to food and snacks. While those big open storage spaces can be great, they’re even better when divided up and organized with a rack or tray. 

Drawers can use a divider tray to separate items and keep them orderly and easy to access. You’ll make the most of large cabinet spaces with shelves and racks that not only properly divide up items, but help you use all of the vertical and horizontal space so none of it’s wasted.

Refrigerator Bars

Keeping everything safely stored in the refrigerator is a challenge. During a trip, these items can often be tossed around, broken, or waiting to tumble out when you open the door. A refrigerator bar will help keep items in place inside the fridge while you’re traveling. That way there are no accidents. 

Refrigerator bars are easily installed. They exert pressure at either end, like a self-supporting curtain rod, and stop items from falling from their shelves. It’s little more than a specialized tension rod, and they’re well worth the modest price. Once you arrive at your destination, you can remove them.

Expand Your Counter Space

The stove top is one area that very few people make changes to. However, when not being used for cooking, this is wasted space. Many RVs have a glass top that you can fold down over the burners so you have more prep space, but not all.

Instead, you can get a separate stovetop cover that matches the size of your stove. The solid cover can be removed at any time without anyone ever noticing. Just be sure the burners aren’t hot when you first set the cover down.

Velcro Is Your Best Friend

A million little things seem to get in the way or get lost when you’re RVing. Velcro is a very cheap investment but one of the smartest, simplest ways to keep track of all of your items. From remotes to iPads, Velcro is easy to put on and holds like a champ.

With a few simple velcro strips, you can pick up those items that seem to always be floating around your RV and put them in their place.

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Do you have an RV organization hack that isn’t listed? Leave a comment below.

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There is a lot of jargon in the RV world. We have an article on that to get you acquainted if you’re not initiated. One term that you’ve likely come across but might not have totally understood what it means is “fifth-wheel” of “5th-wheel.” This is a type of towable RV that requires a large pickup truck to tow because of the type of hitch it uses.

The Fifth-Wheel Hitch

The fifth-wheel hitch also called a gooseneck hitch, is a U shaped hitch coupling that fits in the back of the tow vehicle—usually, a pickup truck—and connects with the trailer. The spot where the trailer connects to the tow vehicle, in essence, acts as another point for the trailer to connect and rest its weight.

It’s a similar design to the type of hitch that a semi-truck uses. This means it’s a very safe and sturdy hitch. It is one that can be used for large and heavy loads. The trailer has a “king pin,” which locks into the U-shaped hitch allowing you to safely pull the trailer.

Why Is a Fifth-Wheel a Good Idea?

The fifth-wheel design comes with quite a few upsides. A trailer with a fifth-wheel hitch design will tow easier and smoother than one without. It will likely not experience as much trailer sway if any at all. This is due to its lower center of gravity and stronger connection than with a typical ball hitch.

This stronger connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer allows the trailer to weigh more. That means most fifth-wheel trailers can be built with strong, sturdy, heavier, and often more luxurious materials and features.

If you want a towable RV and you want a true luxury model, you want to buy a fifth-wheel. Many fifth-wheel models come with solid wood cabinetry, king-size beds, and full-size appliances. These amenities are not included in travel trailers often partly because of weight.

What are the Downsides?

The first stems from the sheer size of most fifth-wheel trailers. Fifth-wheels are large and heavy, and someone who’s not used to towing could feel overwhelmed. That said, because fifth-wheels are designed for stability and maneuverability, they’re still usually easier to handle on the road than a trailer of the same size with a typical ball hitch.

The other big downside is that you need a full-size or heavy-duty pickup truck to tow the fifth-wheel trailer. Because fifth-wheels RVs are often larger and heavier than a typical travel trailer, they require a more powerful truck. This also translates to a higher-priced truck, which can put fifth-wheel trailers out of reach for many RVers.

It’s important to match the trailer to the truck you own. If you’re shopping for both an RV and a tow vehicle, check out our article on the subject for more information.

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What are your thoughts on fifth-wheels? Would you want one? Leave a comment below. 

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If there’s one thing you can’t go without doing its taxes, even though they’re probably the least enjoyable thing to do. With that being said, RV owners can enjoy a few tax benefits that people who don’t own RVs can’t. While doing your taxes certainly isn’t fun, it’s nice to know that your getaway vehicle can help you save a little money.

Here’s a look at some ways your RV could help you come tax season.

You May be Able to Count Your RV as Your Second Home

Depending on the size and features of your RV you may be able to count it as a second home and write the interest off on your taxes. This deduction can be a major boon for part-time RVers come tax season.

According to Turbo Tax, the IRS publication 936 states, “A home includes a house, condominium, cooperative,  mobile  home,  house trailer, boat, or similar property that has sleeping, cooking, and toilet facilities.” That means your RV would likely qualify as a second home and you could claim the interest on the loan for your RV.

If Full-Timing, Your RV Can be Your First Home

If you’re a full-timer, don’t despair. You can also take advantage of a home loan interest deduction without it being your second home. Because you’re living in your RV, it qualifies as long as it fits the criteria listed in IRS publication 936.

Basically, if you’re living in your RV and it has a sleeping area, cooking area, and toilet facilities, then you should be able to write off the interest on your taxes. There may be some exceptions for unique or homebuilt RVs, so you should consult with your tax professional before making any assumptions that your RV fits the criteria. A qualified tax professional will be able to tell you if your RV fits in with the requirements.

RVs Used for Business Also Get Tax Deductions

Do you use your RV solely for business purposes? If so, you can write off a lot of the expenses associated with it on your taxes. In fact, the whole RV may qualify as a business deduction.

The trick here is to never use your RV for personal use. Even using it a few times a year for personal trips can disqualify it from being a full business deduction.

If you live in your RV full-time and work inside it, too, then you may be able to deduct certain business-related expenses, depending on what they are and if they are used solely for business purposes. Talk with your tax professional to find out what qualifies.

Note: Never make assumptions when dealing with taxes. When preparing your taxes, we highly suggest working with a certified public accountant or tax professional to ensure that you understand the laws both federally and locally. Recent changes to tax laws may impact whether or not you qualify for certain deductions, which is why it’s smart to work with a professional that knows and understands tax law.

 

 

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Follow Crazy Family Adventure in the family’s final episode of Life on the Road as they explore Columbia River Gorge in Oregon. They visit Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, among other areas and hiking trails in the area. Although Crazy Family Adventure’s Life on the Road video series has come to an end, you can still keep up to date with the family through their blog.

Also, you can watch previous episodes of Crazy Family Adventure’s Life on the Road series by clicking here.

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Many RVers dream of traveling to Alaska, considering it the ultimate destination on their bucket lists. So we’ve created a series of articles to help you navigate the Last Frontier in a motorhome or travel trailer, in hopes that you can enjoy exploring the 49^th state, as well!

Today, let’s visit:

Homer

You know that pot of gold that is reputed to be “at the end of the rainbow?” Well, I’m pretty sure I found it in Homer, Alaska.

Located at the end of the road on the Kenai Peninsula, Homer experiences a subarctic maritime climate, so yes, you’ll probably see a few rainbows there (but no leprechauns, to my knowledge!). A town of about 5,700 people, this little fishing village swells with tourists during summer months but still manages to make visitors feel like they are locals.

To get to Homer driving from Anchorage, take Seward Highway (Alaska 1) south around Turnagain Arm and onto the Kenai Peninsula. Follow it south to the Sterling Highway Cutoff and turn off toward Soldotna and Homer. The drive is about 4 ½ hours from Anchorage and absolutely stunning.

History

Believe it or not, Homer was not founded as a fishing village. In 1895, the US Geological Survey arrived to study coal and gold resources. A large seam of coal was discovered—large enough to warrant the Cook Inlet Coal Fields Company to create a town, dock, railroad, and coal mine. The fuel was voraciously mined until World War I and used to heat the businesses springing up.

In 1896, Homer Pennock arrived with 50 crew members to mine the beach sands along Cook Inlet, looking for gold. They weren’t successful, but Mr. Pennock’s first name stuck with the new settlement, and Homer had its first official post office by 1899.

Soon the fishing business took hold and more people moved to town for jobs in the canneries that were built to process the fish. Coal mining was pushed aside for the new industry, and tourism grew with the town. Today, fishing and tourism are the main economic drivers of the area, but there remains at least 400 million tons of coal deposits around Homer just waiting to be excavated.

Homer Spit

Most people are familiar with the Homer Spit, a 4.5-mile sliver of land that pokes out into Kachemak Bay. It is a stretch filled with gift shops, restaurants, bars (including the infamous Salty Dawg Saloon) and even campgrounds.

The surf pounds ferociously on the Cook Inlet side of The Spit, where waves crash with wild abandon on rocky beaches, but the bay side is relatively quiet. Gulls follow a ferry boat as it leaves port, headed across the bay, and bald eagles guard their moorings while eyeballing their prey in the water.

The Nick Dudiak Fishing Lagoon on The Spit is a man-made fishing pond stocked with king and silver salmon for those who want to keep their feet steady underneath them as they cast, bypassing commercial fishing boats. The Seafarers Memorial offers solace to those who have lost loved ones at sea, and an old boatyard provides a scenic backdrop for pictures as retired vessels list one way or the other in their final resting places.

Downtown

Vacationing on The Spit could be a full-time affair, but Homer has so much more to offer visitors. Follow Pioneer Avenue to downtown Homer for an eclectic collection of shops, businesses and restaurants including the quirky Café Cups, which congers up amazing food in a quasi Alice-in-Wonderland environment. That same creativity can be found throughout town, with a variety of art galleries and murals.

Old Town

Old Town has several remaining buildings from its founding days, each housing successful modern businesses. Take, for instance, the Bunnell Street Arts Center. Artist in Residence, Jarod Charzewski created a community art project entitled “Buoys and Barrels.” A day spa promises pampering and a delicious steakhouse offers “dead red” along with the fresh catch-of-the-day.

Walk to the end of Beluga Place to enjoy Bishop’s Beach, where picnics, beachcombing, and sunset gazing are commonplace.  You can follow the Beluga Slough trail for some hiking or just enjoy the tide rolling in.

Outdoor Activities

It is pretty evident that the residents of this Alaskan settlement know how to make the most of their outdoor surroundings, and visitors have come to enjoy those same activities. Known as “The Halibut Fishing Capital of the World,” the waters around Homer team with the large white fish, as well as five distinct species of salmon. There are numerous commercial fishing excursions, and you don’t even have to clean and pack your catch. Fish processors will take care of that for you, shipping your catch-of-the-day home to be waiting for you when you arrive!

Bear Camp

Homer is the jumping off point for bear viewing, as well.  Nowhere else in the world will you find the opportunity to scout Ursus arctos or brown bears as prevalent as here. Bear camps, flightseeing tours and even webcams of Brooks Falls bears catching salmon as they move upriver to spawn are very popular. Homer is where most bear trips begin.

Sign up for Bear Camp and you’ll be hopping a plane to Katmai or Lake Clark National Parks across Cook Inlet to stay in a beach tent and live among the bears or view them scouting salmon on the river. It’s an amazing opportunity to see one of the world’s largest land carnivores in action.

Play in the Water

Sea kayaking and paddleboarding provide a great day’s exercise with a stunning background. Put your own vessel in the water at Grewingk Glacier Lake and Kachemak Bay, or let a guide service take care of all the planning. Try your hand at kite surfing from The Spit, but be sure to wear a wetsuit.

Wildlife Abounds

Can you imagine the amount of diverse wildlife to be viewed in and around Homer? Just picture marine life like sea lions, otters, whales, and seals in the waters off the coast. You can also see birds like bald eagles, sandhill cranes, cormorants, puffins, and loons hanging out along The Spit. Moose and brown bears should complete the list of animals that call this area home. Many can be found as you hike the 80 miles of trails at Kachemak Bay State Park or walk The Spit from one end to the other.

Don’t miss the Alaska Islands & Ocean Visitors Center for interactive exhibits and interpretive presentations on marine life in the area right outside its doors. Guided nature tours and wildlife viewing tips are available to anyone interested, and entry is free. Trails from the center lead through wetlands where many species of seabirds can be seen, then on to Bishop’s Beach.

RVs Welcome Here

Homer is very welcoming to RVers, with several campgrounds available in town, on The Spit and even high in the hills overlooking Kachemak Bay. The town also offers all amenities that tourists have come to expect, from budget motels to luxurious lodging, drive through restaurants to fine dining, and plenty of shops to meet every need, including groceries, fuel, and souvenirs.

As you wind up your visit to Homer, I think you’ll find as I did, that a little piece of your heart is left there. The town offers exciting adventures not found in the lower 48, but it also provides a place for quiet reflection and rest. It has managed to encapsulate the best of Alaska and made that accessible to us all. I don’t know about you, but I’m already planning my next trip back.

Be sure to catch the other destinations to visit within the Last Frontier. Look for other Alaskan getaways in weeks to come!

Author’s Note: If you will be driving through Alaska and/or Canada please consider purchasing a current copy of “The Milepost.”  It is a travel guide that will list necessities (like gas stations) and amenities (like lodging) throughout Alaska and the western Canadian provinces by milepost marker.  This is a prerequisite for traveling in the area, as distances between service stations and grocery stores can be hundreds of miles in many cases.  Another piece of knowledge gleaned from “The Milepost” are the hours (and seasons) of operation of businesses along the route, as many close down during fall and winter.

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What are your thoughts of Homer, Alaska? Leave a comment below!

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Camping and RVing is very much tied to alternative lifestyles. This is true even if you don’t full-time. It’s these interesting alternative lifestyles and his fondness of traveling and happy memories of taking trips with family in a van that first drew Forrest Stevens into the world of Van Life.

The #VanLife movement is one that’s really taken off in the last few years. Through Instagram pictures with heavy filters, it looks like a life of luxury and leisure, filled with beautiful landscapes and people.

The reality of the experience is a little different. Forrest saw the merits of the #VanLife, but he also wanted to give people an honest vision for what living in a van or camper is really like.

An Honest Depiction

Forrest Stevens is a full-time YouTuber and filmmaker with a strong following. In order to show the reality of living the #VanLife, he shot a documentary called The Reality of #VanLife to show the world what it was really like.

He interviewed several people living the lifestyle and tried it out himself while shooting, editing, and directing the documentary. The honest depiction of the lifestyle peels back the Instagram-filtered veneer and shows viewers what its really like to live in a camper van or a converted van. It was released in August of 2018 and can be viewed on his YouTube channel.

This project led to his current YouTube channel videos, which are tours of people living in vans, tiny homes, sailboats, and campers. Basically, anyone who’s living an alternative lifestyle in a mobile or unique dwelling.

Forrest uploads a new video weekly, providing unique insight into the lives of people living differently than the majority of Americans.

“For me meeting these people and finding the different elements they use to live minimally and sustainably is a way for me to learn.” He said. “I’ll be able to use these things I’ve learned in the future.”

Forrest said that he really enjoys the work, too. He enjoys meeting with people and bringing their lifestyles to people through video content.

He did tell me that he isn’t just doing it because he likes it, though. Forrest did a video tour of his own van once and it garnered many views online. He said that he felt the need to double down on that type of content to get more views.

An Alternative Lifestyle Lover Himself

Forrest isn’t just an observer of alternative lifestyles. He’s lived it, too. As mentioned above, he tried out the Van Life while shooting his documentary, and before that he and his girlfriend spent time camping in a minivan in Canada while visiting family.

Forrest has upcoming plans to buy a van and convert it into a living space designed specifically for himself. With that, he will be better suited to hit the road and visit people so he can shoot their unique living spaces for his YouTube channel.

“In a way, it will be a weekend warrior van, but I plan on using it for extended trips,” he said.

He said his affinity for these alternative lifestyles come from a desire to live a more sustainable life with a smaller footprint. He hopes to one day buy a property and live a fully sustainable life on it.

Forrest said he noticed many people living alternative lifestyles feel the same way.

“When you’re living in a small space like a van you have to be conscious of your electricity use, water use, etc,” he said. “Whether you’re environmentally conscious or not, you end up being so because of the small space.”

Alternative Lifestyles Are Worth It

Forrest spoke to the fact that living the lifestyle you want to can have a serious impact on your mental well-being.

“I find myself happier and more enthused about life when I’m outside and in what people would consider wilderness,” he said. “That feels like home to me, so creating my own space that facilitates that is worth it, and that’s going to be different for everyone.”

He wants to have a sustainable and environmentally friendly home base and have the ability to travel and live on the road as necessary

Forrest said his YouTube channel is all about educating people about different lifestyles. His content is there to provide a true and honest look at what those are. While some of it may hit on the negatives of these lifestyles he said that everyone he talks to says it’s worth it.

“There’s one section in my documentary about Van Life where everyone is talking about the challenges, but then they all say ‘what’s most important to me and why I’m living this way and why I like living this way is the freedom.,’” he said. “Every single one of them said that.”

Forrest said freedom always comes up for people wanting to live this an alternative lifestyle: financial freedom, freedom of mobility, freedom from renting a space to live, and so on.

Throughout our conversation, it became clear that Forrest’s lifestyle and the lifestyle of all the people he interviews is about finding a way to live that’s right for them. Not subscribing to an accepted way of life.

It’s something that all of the people I’ve interviewed in the Why We RV series thus far have said. Camping and living in an RV or a van is all about having the bravery to pursue your own personal freedom, and today it’s more possible than ever before.

So, whether you want to live the #VanLife or you want to travel the country in a Class C or Class A motorhome, you should do it if that’s the kind of freedom you truly want in your life. Just be aware that it’s not all sandy beaches, beautiful sunsets, and Instagram-able moments.

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