When traveling in an RV, you may find it helpful to have a vehicle available for a run to the store or a short excursion without having to pack up all your gear and maneuver your rig through crowded city streets. Many experienced RV owners tow a car or truck for the convenience of having a more compact vehicle on hand. Here are the different options for towing and tips on how to do so safely.


Four Wheels Down (Toading, Dinghy Towing or Flat Towing)

This is the most popular method for towing a vehicle behind an RV, which involves attaching a tow bar and letting your vehicle roll behind the RV on its own four tires. Benefits of this method include minimal, if any, impact on the gas mileage, handling, and wear and tear of your RV; the equipment needed to attach a car by a tow bar is cheaper than purchasing a dolly or flatbed trailer; and you don’t need a separate trailer license. However, there are a few drawbacks. Not all vehicles are equipped to be towed on four wheels so check the owner’s manual, manufacturer’s guidelines and mechanical capabilities of your vehicle before investing in this option. In addition, though this shouldn’t add miles to your car’s odometer, it will cause wear on the car tires.

Two Wheels Down (Dolly Towing)

For this method of towing, a dolly attaches to the back of your RV and the vehicle rides with two tires up on the dolly and the other two tires down on the road. Any front-wheel-drive vehicle can be towed this way. Plus, you won’t damage your car’s transmission or increase mileage while it’s in motion. The downsides of this method is that a quality dolly trailer is expensive; you may need a separate license for the dolly; it could be difficult to store at a campsite; it puts wear on the two car tires that are down; and it adds weight to the capacity of your RV. If you’re thinking about choosing this option, calculate what the overall weight will be (before purchasing the dolly) to ensure your RV will be able to handle it.

Four Wheels Up (Flatbed Trailer)

The third option for towing a vehicle is with all wheels up on a flatbed trailer that’s attached to the RV. Any vehicle can go on a flatbed trailer as long as it can be secured and as long as the trailer is built to handle the weight of your specific vehicle. Before purchasing a trailer, decide what vehicle you’re going to bring with when traveling and then compare trailer options based on the amount of weight they can haul. Similar to dolly towing, the drive shaft is off the ground so you won’t rack up mileage. Also, with this method, your tires won’t endure any wear and tear. Disadvantages of four wheels up is you’ll have the extra cost of the trailer; you may run into storage issues at campgrounds; and the weight of a flatbed trailer will use up a lot of the weight your RV can carry.

Whichever method you choose, it’s important to take extra precautions when you tow a car behind an RV. Here are some basic safety guidelines to follow:

• Practice driving while towing the vehicle before you go on a long drive for the first time.
• Inspect all wire, cable and chain connections every time you make a stop.
• Obey the speed limits for towing in each state.
• Check for road construction and plan your route in advance.
• Avoid towing in deep sand and gravel, or in icy or snowy conditions.
• Keep a minimum five-second interval between you and the vehicle in front of you.
• Check your tire pressure often.
• Avoid tight turns as it puts pressure on the tow bar.

If you’re new to towing, hopefully this gives you a better idea of what method to choose for your next adventure. Have a safe and happy trip!

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/options-for-towing-a-vehicle-behind-your-rv.asp

Owning an RV is a wonderful experience – whether you’re a full-timer, a summer traveler or just prefer a weekend getaway, the opportunities for adventure are endless. After all, that’s part of the allure with owning an RV. But, after being in your RV for multiple years, it may need an update! This has drawn many people to renovate their RV DIY style, and if you’re up for the challenge, you can too!

Adding some upgrades or changing the interior of your Recreational Vehicle doesn’t mean you need to gut it and start from scratch. There’s many projects you can do that are simple; such as switching out some of the furniture, or adding some décor to make it feel more homey. To help you get started, we put together six customization ideas for your RV if you’re ready for a new and fresh look.

1. Replace the flooring. If you have a carpet that covers most of your floors, rip it all out for something new. There are a lot of inexpensive options that you can go with, such as laminate or vinyl. Plus, it will give your RV a whole new updated look.
2. Paint the walls. Ready for your walls to shine again? Then paint is your answer. Choosing the right color could even make your space feel larger. We recommend using a latex-based paint, and to put down a coat of primer beforehand. While this isn’t an easy project, it will definitely be worth it in the end!
3. Add new furnishings. When’s the last time you redecorated your RV? Styles change every year, so it doesn’t hurt to freshen up your look every now and then. Some ideas to consider: add new details on the walls, switch out your comforter and sheets, add houseplants throughout, install new curtains or even swap out your faucets in the kitchen and bathroom. It will give it that personal touch you’re looking for! To make it feel cozier at night, hang up LED lights throughout your RV or add them under your awning for extra lighting.
4. Replace the windows. If you can’t see clearly outside the windows while you’re traveling around the country, what’s the point? If you have plastic windows, or they’re just old – it may be time to invest in new ones. If you have glass, see how clean you can get your windows before deciding to replace them. You’ll be able to see the country in a whole new light in no time!
5. Upgrade the shelves in your kitchen cabinets (or do a full remodel). Have an issue with storage in your kitchen? Adding custom shelves will give you more room to utilize within the space. You can work with the cabinets you have now – just remove the shelving it currently has and replace it with new. You can fit a few extra shelves in there, giving you more storage to work with. Another fun idea is to add a spice rack or two on the wall. Adding that extra storage will also free up some space in the cabinets for you. If you decide you want an entirely new look (and if it’s in your budget), then doing a full remodel on your kitchen is the route to go … so many possibilities!
6. Sew some new covers for your couches – or replace them! With the specific sizing for RV couches, it can be hard to find a cover that will fit. That’s why it’s sometimes better to just sew yourself a new couch cover. Plus, you’ll have more options to work with since you can decide what fabric and design. If it’s time for a completely new sofa, don’t hesitate to replace it. Investing in your comfort while you’re on the road is the key to happiness (or pretty close to it).

Any upgrade you decide to go with will certainly add that special “touch” you’re looking for. Just make sure you have a clear vision of what you want, a budget and a lot of patience for the project. As always – good luck and safe travels!

Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/custom-upgrades-to-your-rv.asp
​

Are solar panels worth it?
This depends solely on your lifestyle. If you enjoy spending a majority of time “off-the-grid” or frequent dry camps without power hookups (this is known as “boondocking”), then solar energy may be the way to go. Having solar could open up a lot more possibilities and allow you to explore different spots, rather than just hunting down the next camp with a hookup. Plus - you will certainly see some long-term savings if you compare solar panels to a gas generator. According to experts, you can expect your solar “payback period” to be around five years.1

However, if you are someone that spends a majority of your time at campsites with hookups or you only take big RV trips a few times a year, installing solar panels wouldn’t be practical. You are better off using the camp’s local power system and paying the associated fee.

How do solar panels work on an RV?
Most people think that solar panels are meant to power an RV – and that’s not entirely true. The purpose for solar power is to recharge your battery bank. Solar panels work the same as a gas generator except it requires no gas, makes no noise and can charge your batteries for a long period of time (as long as the sun is out and shining).

According to EnergySage, if you have an 800 W system that’s in direct sunlight for five hours a day, it will produce 4,000 watt-hours (Wh) of energy each day. To put that into perspective, you’ll be able to power small electronic devices like a TV or a microwave, but you won’t be able to run your refrigerator for an entire day.

If there isn’t any sunlight for a few days, however, that can pose a problem. It’s a good idea to have a plan B – like a back-up generator.

How much do solar panels cost & how many do I need?
The price varies with what wattage you would need for your RV, but it’s certainly not cheap! A good list of solar panels specifically designed for RVs, their prices and how many you would need can be found in this article from EnergySage.

Can I install solar panels myself?
Yes! With the proper tools and parts, you can install them yourself, but it’s not an easy process. If you decide to do it yourself, make sure you do extensive research on the installation equipment you’ll need to run an RV solar setup. If you’re not the handy type, call a professional solar panel installer to do this for you.

Overall, if you decide to take this next step in your RV lifestyle, you won’t regret it. Not only will it enhance your camping experience, it’s also great for the environment and will save you big bucks long-term. Happy camping from Foremost Insurance!

1https://news.energysage.com/rv-solar-panels/
Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/solar-panels-for-your-rv.asp

I apologize if you're holding on to your last days of warmth, but winter will be here before you know it! If you travel year-round in an RV and are looking forward to camping in snowy weather, be prepared for poor road conditions. Here are three tips to keep you, your family, and your RV safe during wintertime travel:

1. Get Acquainted With Rear-Wheel Drive
   You might have to change your driving habits as most motor homes are rear-wheel drive. With snowfall and ice, it's not uncommon to start sliding. If this happens, slightly pump the brakes to regain control of the vehicle. Most importantly, gently slow down and leave at least three times the amount of space you normally would between you and the vehicle ahead.
2. Be Prepared to Pull Over
   Motor homes and travel trailers can be difficult to handle in good weather. Add winter driving conditions to the mix and it becomes even more challenging. Give yourself ample time to get to your destination and be prepared to spend a couple of nights off the road in case there is a snow or ice storm. You may lose time on the road, but safety is key for you, your travelers and your vehicle.
3. Pulling a Trailer
   Travel trailers have challenges of their own once the weather gets cold and the snow starts to fall. It's important to stay calm if you lose control of the wheel. Try to avoid making sharp turns and abrupt stops. If you see your trailer fishtailing behind you, gently apply only the trailer brakes to reduce the sway. Ideally, you should stay off the road if any snow or ice is present.

We want you to experience traveling through the winter safely.

Transitioning from a home where you have roots in one place to a full-time life on the road is a drastic change, but there are many things that draw people to this “nomad” lifestyle. It could be the flexibility, the love of traveling, or maybe you just want to get out of your comfort zone and try something new! Whatever the reason may be, if you’re preparing to be an RV full-timer, kudos for having the courage to embrace this exciting lifestyle change.

We know it can be overwhelming to think about the details involved with living full-time in an RV, and your choice to welcome the open road may seem impulsive to others, but that’s okay. Life is short, and who knows … you may end up regretting not doing this sooner!

Here are some tips to help you prepare for living in an RV full-time.

Become a Minimalist.​
Adapting a minimalist lifestyle often requires major changes. You’re probably going from a normal-sized home to a roughly 270 square foot space, which forces you to ask: “What do I really need?” To determine this, start by writing down everything you want to bring, then write another list of everything you actually need. This will help you visualize and prioritize your possessions.
Bring all the necessities, of course – clothes, toiletries, shoes, cookware, etc. However, you won’t nee
d 10 pairs of boots, or the many t-shirts that have been sitting in your drawers for 2+ years, or 20 drinking glasses that you currently have in your kitchen.

You may need to make some tough decisions, but take this opportunity to de-clutter your belongings. Make a “take” pile and a “donation” pile. It’s always a good idea, even if you aren’t planning to RV full-time!

Go Paperless.
Life on the road means you won’t be home to pick up your mail and see if you received any bills. Move all of your bills (cell phone, medical, credit cards, auto insurance, etc.) to automated billing so you don’t need to worry about it. Once you make the switch, you should get all notifications for your bills via email moving forward. Plus, this helps save the environment!

Sell or Keep Your Home?
This brings us to our next question – will you make the commitment to sell your home and have your RV be your only residence? This depends on how much you plan to travel throughout the year. Also, can you afford to keep your home while traveling? You will still have your mortgage payments, maintenance on the home and other obligations. If you decide to keep your home, there’s always the option of renting it out so you won’t have to worry about any mortgage payments. If you don’t start renting, make sure you have someone regularly stopping by your home to get the mail and take care of any maintenance needed as the seasons go by.

If you do decide to sell your home or cancel a lease, you will need to choose a domicile state and receive mail. Getting a domicile means you are choosing a state for your legal residence. This state will be listed on your driver’s license, where you purchase your health insurance, where you can vote and where you will accept mail. (There are lots of mail-forwarding services that will set you up with a street address so you can officially establish residency. This is helpful because a P.O. Box address will not be accepted as your legal residence). The best states for full-time RVer domiciles are Texas, Florida or South Dakota.* People usually choose these states because they are income tax-free!

Selling your home will also allow more financial freedom for your RV travels! Get that estate sale ready, or find a storage unit to put all of your furniture in, just in case you ever want a break from the RV life.

Determine a Monthly Budget.
You may think you’ll be saving a lot of money when you live on the road – but you will be surprised. Since your expenses will be drastically different from when you lived in a home, you need to budget and keep track of everything you spend. Things like campsite fees, eating out frequently, gas and unexpected RV repairs can add up. Once you get a good idea of how much you’re spending each month, you can adjust your budget accordingly.

Purchase Full-Time RV Insurance.
Since your RV will be your permanent residence, you need a specific type of insurance coverage called “Full-Time RV Insurance.” You will be covered against liabilities, Additional Living Expenses, medical expenses in the case of an accident and more! Contact one of our local agents today to get more information on how you can get covered, so you can enjoy your travels across the U.S., or start an RV quote now!

Stay Connected with Family and Friends.
Communicate with your friends and family on a regular basis. (They will miss you!) It’s also a good idea to let a few people know your current location and where you’re headed next on a regular basis, just in case of an emergency. To make your loved ones feel like they’re part of your adventure, post pictures frequently on social media or send them via text or email. It will let everyone know you and your companions are safe, and also allows you to stay connected with everyone even when you’re not physically with them.

Enjoy Every Minute.
Living life on the road is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will see amazing things, meet one-of-a-kind people and make the best memories. Don’t take it for granted! With traveling, you will always run into some bumps in the road – but that’s part of the journey. Don’t let it discourage your long-term goals. You’re not tied down to a routine now, so enjoy the freedom and independence that comes with RVing full-time. Stay safe and happy travels from Foremost!

Helpful steps to storing your RV during the cold months
As you get ready to park your RV for the winter after an enjoyable season on the road keep in mind these important storage steps:

• Wash and wax your vehicle to prevent dust or dirt buildup.
• Disconnect the battery. If the RV is stored in a harsh climate take the battery out and store it in a more moderate, climate-controlled area.
• Use pads to park your rig with the tires off the ground to prevent soft spots.
• Turn off pilot lights and turn off the propane at the source.
• Drain all water from your rig including hot and fresh water tanks, and all hot and cold lines.
• Turn the refrigerator off, defrost and wipe it dry. Leave the door propped open a little bit so air can circulate.
• Seal all outside openings to prevent critters from taking up residence inside.
• Use a breathable cover to avoid condensation forming between the cover and RV, or park it inside a garage or facility. Consult an RV dealer on where to purchase a cover.

A few hours of preparation can save you a huge amount of hassle in the long run – and get you back on the road when the season changes and pleasant weather returns.

Need RV Insurance?
Make sure you have insurance coverage specialized for your RV. Check out our RV Insurance coverage options or get a quote.

Summer is officially here, and if you're like me, you can't wait to get on the road and go on some adventures! There's nothing more enjoyable than good company, good food and an open road with endless possibilities.

If you're traveling in an RV, you have the benefit of more convenience! You now have a kitchen, shower, bathrooms and bedrooms. It definitely saves money on hotels, and may save you time on stops along the way too. But, just like any trip, your RV vacation can go sour very quickly if you ignore certain safety precautions and regular maintenance. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), an estimated 20,000 RV fires happen every year.⚹ That's a scary number to consider. The good news is, most RV fires are preventable!

Before you hit the road, read these fire prevention safety tips so you can have a worry-free trip with your family and friends!

• Make sure you carry fire extinguishers in your RV. It is a good idea to keep one in the kitchen and one outside in an unlocked compartment or tow vehicle. Learn how to properly use one, and train others who will be traveling with you.
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detector. There's nothing worse than having a smoke detector that doesn't work when you need it to the most! Be sure to test these safety systems at least once a month to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Inspect your electrical system regularly. Make sure you have solid connections and wires that are in good shape. If you find some that need some work, be sure to call a professional in to handle the job!
• Have an emergency plan. Always be prepared for the worst! Make sure you and your fellow travelers have an escape plan, and practice it before you leave.
• Have your RV brakes inspected. Experts say a dragging brake can potentially create enough friction to ignite a tire or brake fluid.
• Check all hoses for any leaks or signs of damage. Any leaking fluids in your RV's engine compartment can ignite, so they need to be repaired immediately.
• Shut off your propane at the tank and turn off all propane-powered appliances while driving. Many people leave the refrigerator on while driving to keep their food cold, but this can be very dangerous if you happen to get into an accident. The fridge can stay cold for up to eight hours if you leave it closed. Don't risk it - shut it off!
• Never leave cooking unattended. It is also a good idea to properly ventilate your RV when you are cooking with the stove.
• Pay attention to where you park your vehicle. When you park, try to avoid parking close to grass or shrubs. A hot exhaust pipe and dry grass is a recipe for disaster!
• Purchase RV Insurance. Make sure your RV has insurance, and make sure you know every detail about your policy! If you haven't purchased any yet, ask your insurance agent as many questions as possible, and—in the end–get a policy that fits your needs. You will be more at ease knowing your RV is fully covered in the case of an accident or fire.

After reading this, I hope you feel more prepared and confident to take on the road in your RV. From everyone here at Foremost, save travels and good luck!
​
⚹ https://www.nps.gov/articles/p52-rv-fire-safety-101.htm





Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/fire-safety-for-your-rv.asp

​Traveling on the road in your Recreational Vehicle can get pricey if you eat out for every meal, but cooking your own meals may require some creativity. While many RVs do have full, functional kitchens, some may not have that option. However, there are other ways to cook your meals in and around your RV safely, even if you don’t have a source of heat.

Here are five unique ways you can enjoy delicious home-cooked meals while you’re on the road!

1. Propane Stove If you already have a stove in your RV, use it to your advantage! The burners are most likely smaller than your regular stove at home, so be sure to buy the appropriate-sized cookware for it. Keep in mind that if you have a refrigerator in your RV, it most likely runs on propane too. Be sure to bring enough propane tanks on your trip if you plan on using both!
2. Portable Grill No stove? No problem! There are plenty of electric grills you can bring on the road to cook all of your favorite foods. Please remember, do not use any of these grills inside of your RV due to flames and the poisonous gases these grills can give off. They are for outside use only!
3. Cook With Fire Who doesn’t love a good cookout? Many RV parks offer fire pits and grills for guests, so you may not even need to bring your own. This is also a perfect opportunity to grill a bunch of foods at once so you have leftovers for the next couple of days. With this option, you also need to make sure you are not around your RV while grilling to avoid a serious fire or any kind of explosion.
4. Home Kitchen Appliances You don’t need to say goodbye to your favorite appliances just because you’re away from home. You can bring along your toaster oven, microwave, pressure cooker, blender, etc. as long as they are all safe for RV usage. If you are unsure if your appliance is safe to use, call the manufacturer to get more information.
5. Prepare No-Cook Meals If you have no stove, no grill, or you’re just not in the mood to cook – go cold! There are plenty of recipes you can prepare without heat such as salads, sandwiches, wraps, pastas and, of course, any kind of fruit.

Before you begin cooking food of any kind in your RV, you should have basic fire safety materials available at all times. Putting together an easy-to-access fire safety kit and having a fire extinguisher on hand will make all the difference during your cooking ventures. Visit the Learning Center for more information on RV fire safety. Have fun and happy cooking!


Source: https://www.foremost.com/learning-center/five-ways-to-cook-while-on-the-road.asp

​Ah, the RV awning. It's a wonderful feature to have - for looks, for shade - but also one that needs regular maintenance. How many times have you heard your awning creaking in the howling wind when you forgot to lower it? How many times have you heard of somebody else's awning blowing off completely or seen one sagging to the point of no return after a storm?

The key to avoiding damage to your awning is being prepared. Knowing how to handle your awning can save it - and you - from loss in case of a “rainy day.”

When to hold it, when to fold it
Awnings are a standard part of most motor home and travel trailer equipment today and they can handle the typical everyday wear if they're cared for. Generally, your awning should be secured at its feet, pegged down so it will not flip in the wind. Awning straps are also available to help keep it secured.

In terms of weather conditions, a light drizzle or breeze should not be cause for alarm. At the first sign of menacing dark clouds or a whipping wind, however, roll up the awning. The best thing to do is practice rolling your awning on a nice day, so you'll be prepared to do it quickly when a storm really is about to hit. Nobody wants to be caught in the rain, struggling to roll up their awning while lighting abounds.

Keeping clean
An awning that is rolled up a while will need to be aired out and cleaned as soon as weather clears. This type of maintenance is simple compared to fixing a broken awning or having to replace one altogether. Unroll the awning, rinse with warm water and a mild cleansing solution (you can gently scrub it with a brush or sponge) and then let it dry.

This is a good general practice for your awning regardless of whether it's been wet or rolled. Regular accumulation of dirt and other pollutants on a fabric surface can shorten the life of the structure, and quicken the deterioration of the fabric. Periodic cleanings are best in the long run to keep your awning in good condition.

Though some losses on the road may be out of your control, your awning shouldn't be one of them. Taking good care of it will help keep you "in the shade."
​
Need RV insurance?
In addition to RV awning care, make sure you have insurance coverage specialized for your RV. Check out our RV Insurance coverage options or start a quote.

It's important to keep in mind that the life of an RV tire cannot be measured by miles alone, nor can you always rely on tires that "look good."

Given the stop-and-go nature of many RVers, RVs often sit for extended periods of time in-between use. When they are in use, they are often subjected to heavy loads during extreme weather conditions such as high heat. Both situations can lead to tire damage and failure, which can quickly put a damper on any trip — or turn into a dangerous situation. The primary reasons for RV tire deterioration include the following:

Ozone and UV Exposure
Over time, RV tires are exposed to a great deal of UV rays and ozone poisoning. This can lead to cracks in the rubber, especially in a tire's sidewall. Though a tire's exterior may look just fine at first glance, further inspection may reveal small cracks on and within aging sidewalls that worsen with time.

Improper Tire Inflation
Under- and over-inflation can both lead to blowouts. To help prevent this, check the inflation pressure or your tires at least once a month, and always before starting a trip. Do this when tires are cold, as heat generated during driving temporarily increases air pressure. Never remove air from a hot tire, which may result in under-inflation when the tire cools.

Excessive Load Weight and Uneven Weight Distribution
Tires frequently subjected to maximum loads will wear faster, while tires that carry loads below their rated capacity can be expected to last longer. Be sure to load your RV evenly. Uneven load distribution leads to uneven tire wear.

Tire Construction
Tires of different constructions, such as radial and bias ply, as well as different sizes and stages of wear, can harm vehicle handling and stability.

Use the same size and type of tire on all wheel positions. All RVs built since 1972 have a certification label that contains the following important information:

• Gross axle weight ratings (GAWR) for each axle on the RV
• Tire size
• Recommended cold tire inflation pressure

​Tire Care Tips
The most important thing you can do to extend the life of your tires is to inspect them regularly. The following tips will also help:

• Regularly wash tires with a mild soap, water and a soft brush. This will help to remove accumulated ozone damage. Also, dirt on tire sidewalls may act as an abrasive that can inhibit the tire's natural wax protection.
• Rotate your RV tires (including your spare) regularly to maintain even wear.
• Keep the tires (including spare) covered when your RV is not in use to prevent ozone and UV damage.
• Block and level your RV each time you plan to keep it in one place for a couple of days or longer. This will help avoid unnecessary stresses that lead to excessive tire wear.
• Avoid tire products that contain petroleum-based substances. Products containing alcohol or petrochemicals may create and accelerate deterioration and cracking, in addition to stripping the tire of its ozone protection. Some silicone oils found in such products may cause similar damage.

​Need RV Insurance?
In addition to RV tire care, make sure you have insurance coverage specialized for your RV. Check out our RV Insurance coverage options or get a quote.