Category: RV accessories

RV News: 2026 RV Upgrades From Thor and Airstream, Sprinter vs. Transit Debate, and Much More
Friday is finally here, which means the weekend is just around the corner. Before heading off on your next adventure, we have a rundown of the latest news from the RV and camping industry. Here are the biggest stories that you may have missed this week:
Photo Credit: Thor Motors
- Thor Motors Reveals 2026 RV Upgrades: We’ve entered that time of the year when the major RV manufacturers start to reveal the big updates and upgrades coming to their vehicles in the coming months. This past week, Thor Motors has been doling out that information over the course of several days, focusing on Class A, B, and C models, along with diesel coaches. We’ve compiled all of those updates into a single article, which you can read here.
- Airstream Shares 2026 Updates, Too: Airstream also got on the new model-year upgrades bandwagon this week, announcing new features coming to its travel trailers in 2026. Every towable in the current line-up is getting a refresh of some degree this year, with many models getting improved air ducts for better airflow and higher-quality backup cameras. The Basecamp gets a substantial update with the X-Package—which includes all-terrain tires, better ground clearance, and more—is now standard across the line. The Globetrotter and Classic get a security camera, while the latter also receives a much-improved couch. Check out the full story here.
Photo Credit: Grand Design
- Grand Design Debuts New Lineage Series M Floor Plan: Grand Design’s foray into the motorized space has been an impressive one, with the Lineage Series M line being especially noteworthy. This week, the company revealed an all-new floor plan that continues the Class C model’s already established legacy for luxury and performance. Highlights of the 25TK layout include an upscale bathroom with a patent-pending AquaHaven rain shower, a bed that converts between two twins and a king, and a full-width rear passthrough cargo bay. Check it out here.
Photo Credit: Aliner
- Aliner Adds Truck Camper to Its Line-Up: Best known for its innovative and affordable pop-up A-frame towables, Aliner has announced that it is expanding into the truck camper space. This week, the brand announced the arrival of the Switchback, a lightweight (just 375 lbs) slide-in model that utilizes the brand’s A-frame architecture. Features include a full-size bed, lockable storage, and a garage-friendly design. Learn more here.
- Sprinter, Transit, or ProMaster—Which is Best?: If you know anything about camper vans, you probably already know that most are built on either the Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit platforms, with a few—but growing—number riding on a Ram ProMaster chassis. So which one is the best option for Class B owners? That’s the age-old question that GearJunkie looked to answer this week. I won’t spoil the results, but will say the final choice came down to which one was easiest to get serviced. Find out which model won out by clicking here.
Photo Credit: Wes Walker
- Camper Vans Continue to Be Popular Options: While we’re on the topic of Class B campers, it seems these models continue to be a hot topic. According to RV Trader, these motorized rigs remain at the top of the most-searched list, with Winnebago holding the number one spot. The Flying W is followed by Thor Motors, Roadtrek, Airstream, and Pleasure-Way. Winnebago has three models in the top five searches as well, with the Travato, Solis, and Revel all making the cut.
- New Go RVing Travel Campaign Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday: America’s 250th birthday may not be until next year, but Go RVing is kicking off the celebration early. The organization dedicated to promoting the RV lifestyle has launched a new travel campaign dubbed “RV 2 50” that offers a coast-to-coast adventure with a set of destinations hand-selected to provide an inspirational, historical, and educational look at the US. The campaign includes travel guides for the entire journey, which could take up to six months to complete. Find out more here.
Photo Credit: welcomia/Getty
- Gain Boondocking Skills at Hershey RV Show: Planning on attending the Hershey RV Show? Want to gain new skills and knowledge for boondocking in your RV? You’re in luck because industry veteran and camping expert Dave Helgeson will be on hand conducting seminars. Helgeson will conduct several educational talks focusing on boondocking basics, where to find places to camp, safety, and more. He’ll also give a chat on RV basics, including essential system maintenance, use of individual appliances, and prepping for your first camping trip. Find out more here.
- AEONrv Hits the Road to Showcase New Flagship Model: RV start-up AEONrv is going on a road trip to show off its latest model. The company announced that it will be appearing at a number of events in the coming weeks, allowing interested customers to check out the new rig in person. The brand’s latest camper will be on display at Overland Expo Mountain West in Loveland, Colorado, Aug. 22-24, and wraps up at Overland Expo East in Arrington, Virginia, Oct. 3-5, with several other stops along the way. Check out all of the locations here.
Photo Credit: Storyteller Overland
- RVs in the News: RVing, and the vehicles that make it possible, have gone mainstream. This week, a pair of stories related to the RV space made headlines in non-traditional RV media. Those include a story in Alabama’s Springfield News Leader about Storyteller Overland and its rugged GXV rig. Meanwhile, legendary design magazine House Beautiful shared some impressive RV interiors, noting the amazing use of space to provide comfort and amenities. Check that story out here.
- Trump Administration’s Sweeping Tariffs Go Into Effect: After talking about—and teasing—tariffs on most other countries for months, the Trump Administration finally followed up on that promise yesterday. As of August 7, 2025, import taxes as high as 50% are now in effect for the majority of US trading partners. Currently, the average tariff rate for US consumers is 17%, which is the highest it has been since the Great Depression. How this will impact the RV industry remains to be seen, but automakers have already felt the pressure with brands like Stellantis and Ford taking billion-dollar hits to their profits. Hopefully, most manufacturers can weather the storm and continue delivering top-notch products at reasonable prices. Stay tuned as this story will likely continue to unfold for weeks and months to come.
That’s all for this week. See you next Friday for another edition of our weekly RV news roundup.
The post RV News: 2026 RV Upgrades From Thor and Airstream, Sprinter vs. Transit Debate, and Much More appeared first on RV.com.
2025-08-08
The Power Watchdog Power Center is an RV Owner’s Best Friend
Campground infrastructure can be a bit dicey at times, especially when it comes to providing safe, clean power. It’s not uncommon for the power pole at your campsite to suffer from voltage fluctuations, poor wiring, and potentially damaging electrical surges. But thanks to a groundbreaking new product from Power Watchdog—formerly Hughes Autoformers—you can now safely connect your RV without ever having to worry about those issues again.
Photo Credit: Power Watchdog
The new Watchdog Power Center combines all of the company’s best products and technologies into one innovative new device. That includes industry-leading surge protection, excellent voltage-boosting capabilities, and emergency power off to protect your vehicle. Additionally, the Power Center continually monitors the circuit for potentially harmful conditions and will alert owners when those conditions occur.
Set-up is quick and simple. Just plug the Watchdog Power Center into the power pole at the campsite and connect your RV’s electrical cable directly to the device. The Power Center then serves as an intermediary, boosting voltage to ensure your vehicle’s appliances and HVAC system run properly, while also keeping electrical surges and spikes at bay. A built-in digital display offers insight into how much voltage is flowing in and out, while a smartphone app gives users complete control over monitoring and adjusting the system remotely via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Photo Credit: Power Watchdog
As if all of that wasn’t enough, the Watchdog Power Center is also weatherproof and comes with a patented user-replaceable surge module that provides further protection. If a significant surge does occur, the module prevents it from damaging delicate appliances and electronics in your RV and ensures the Power Center itself continues to function. Just replace the surge module with a new one, and the device will continue to function.
The video above provides even more information about this innovative and essential new device. Check it out to see the Watchdog Power Station in action and learn more about all of the outstanding features it provides. The device is available in 30-amp and 50-amp models that sell for $819.99 and $1,199.99, respectively. Visit powerwatchdog.com for more information.
The post The Power Watchdog Power Center is an RV Owner’s Best Friend appeared first on RV.com.
2025-08-01
RV News: A New Option to Lease an RV, the EcoFlow Trail Series Power Stations, and More
Believe it or not, another week has come and gone. That means it’s time for another quick round-up of the latest news from the RV and camping industries. It has been a relatively slow week, but here are a few stories worth having on your radar.
Photo Credit: Advanced RV
- Advanced RV Introduces Short-Term Lease Program: Leasing a vehicle is a common practice in the automotive space, but is practically nonexistent in the RV world. But Ohio-based Advanced RV is looking to change that with the introduction of a new short-term lease program. The company specializes in custom Class B models, usually built on the Mercedes Sprinter platform. To help new RVers take an ownership test drive, the brand is now offering leases of one to 12 months, at the end of which the lessee can decide if they want to purchase the camper van or return it to the company. Currently, there are 15 models to choose from, all of which are pre-owned. Find out more here.
Photo Credit: EcoFlow
- EcoFlow Launches Ultra-Light Trail Series Power Stations: For our money, EcoFlow is the most innovative company working in the portable power space today. The brand is constantly pushing the boundaries for what it can do with the batteries and tech available, while focusing on developing next-generation technology for the future. This week, the company announced the Trail Series of power stations, which are lightweight, highly portable, and very affordable. These new models come in two versions—the Trail 300 and Trail Plus 300. Both versions weigh just 5.69 lbs. and deliver up to 300W of DC power. They come with five charging ports, including two standard USB-A ports, a 100W USB-C port, a 140W bidirectional USB-C port, and a 12V car outlet. The “Plus” model also has a detachable handle that doubles as a 140W USB-C cable, a built-in multi-functional camping light, and compatibility with the EcoFlow app. Click here to learn more.
Image Courtesy of Voyagerix/Getty
- Escapees RV Club Announces First-Ever “Resort Getaway”: The Escapees RV Club has been around for nearly 50 years, and yet it is still finding ways to surprise and delight RV owners. This week, the membership-based organization announced its first-ever “Resort Getaway,” which is a five-day event set to take place at the Resort at Canopy Oaks in Florida. The goal is to create a fun and relaxing gathering point for members at an upscale campground that boasts oversized RV sites with full hookups, a massive clubhouse, heated pool and spa, pickleball courts, daily continental breakfasts, catered dinners, evening socials, and curated activities for everyone. The event is scheduled to take place November 3-7, 2020. Find out more here.
Photo Credit: Spacious Skies
- Spacious Skies Campgrounds Invites You to Follow the Fall Color Trail: Spacious Skies Campgrounds, which has 15 deluxe campsites across the eastern US, always comes up with creative ways to get RVers traveling. Case in point, recently the brand shared its Fall Color Trail, which serves as a route for travelers to take to observe the peak colors of autumn as they’re taking place, with stays at Spacious Skies locations. The route starts in Abbott, Maine, and meanders south all the way to Savannah, Georgia, with more than a dozen stops in between. The trail rundown shares not only when to go, but also which trees will be changing colors when you’re there. It also provides estimated driving time and distance, and more. Check it out here.
Photo Credit: Getty
- Hankook Tires Says Americans Increasingly Likely to Go Off-Road: A new survey from Hankook Tires shows Americans are feeling more confident and eager for off-road travel and adventures. This week, the company revealed its Hankook Gauge index, which is purportedly the longest-running survey of consumer behavior in the tire industry. Among the revelations was that 7 out of 10 drivers were interested in trying adventurous driving experiences, with off-roading receiving the most attention. This is especially true with younger drivers, 85% of whom said they are looking for all-terrain driving options. And thanks to better vehicles and tires, these drivers feel ready to tackle technical driving, even in challenging weather conditions. Find out more here.
That’s a wrap for this week. See you next week for another RV news round-up.
The post RV News: A New Option to Lease an RV, the EcoFlow Trail Series Power Stations, and More appeared first on RV.com.
2025-07-25
RV News: Thor’s Hybrid RV Wins Another Award, Outside Van is Moving, and the Best Places to Camp in the Country
The calendar says it’s Friday, which means it’s time for another edition of our weekly round-up of the latest news from the RV and camping space. Here are the biggest stories from the past seven days that you might want to know about:
Photo Credit: THOR/Harbinger
- Thor Wins Major Award for Hybrid Class A Model: We’ve shared news on Thor’s exciting Test Vehicle, which rides on a hybrid gas-electric chassis co-developed with Harbinger Motors. This week, the RV manufacturer earned further recognition when it took home a “World Changing Ideas” award from Fast Company. The annual awards are given out to businesses and other organizations that are tackling the biggest issues of our day. In this case, Thor’s prototype—soon to be a commercial product—promises a 500-mile range using an onboard gas generator to charge its hybrid battery packs. Read more here.
Photo Credit: Storyteller Overland
- Storyteller Overland Wins an Award, Too: Thor wasn’t the only RV manufacturer taking home prestigious honors this week. Alabama-based Storyteller Overland also gained some much-deserved recognition in the form of a 2025 Red Dot Award. The brand’s excellent GXV Hilt off-road vehicle was spotlighted, with the awards jury saying: “The GXV HILT convincingly combines robust construction with functional features and contemporary comfort.” We agree with that statement wholeheartedly.
- Outside Van is Moving: For 18 years, Outside Van has been building unique Class B camper vans in Portland, OR, but later this year it will relocate to Gainesville, GA. The company was purchased by Fox Factory Holding Corp. in 2021, and the move will streamline operations and manufacturing. Our friends at RV News have more information here.
Image Courtesy of Hillary Bird
- GearJunkie Shares “10 Van Life Truths Everyone Should Know”: While we’re on the subject of camper vans, GearJunkie posted an interesting story this week about what it’s actually like to live in a Class B model for extended periods of time. The article is called “10 Van Life Truths Everyone Should Know,” and it includes tips on how to find good campsites, the best ways to maintain relationships, and why you should make sure the toilet is depressurized before opening it at altitude. There is a ton of wisdom to be found here, especially for those who dream about #vanlife and are aspiring to join that crowd. Read it for yourself here.
- Hipcamp Announces Best Places to Camp in America for 2025: If you need to find a great place to camp in the US, Hipcamp has always been a great option. But this week, the online discovery and booking service announced the 2025 Hipcamp Awards, revealing the best places to camp in the country. The awards are broken down into several categories—including tent camping, RV camping, glamping, and more—with some truly outstanding locations getting the nod. We won’t spoil the winners here, so you’ll have to head over to the Hipcamp website to discover them all for yourself.
- Keystone Puts New Furrion A/C to the Test in Death Valley: The advances in RV air conditioning technology have been incredibly impressive over the past few years, with A/C units getting more powerful and energy-efficient at a steady pace. Case in point, Keystone RV recently traveled to Death Valley to put the new Furrion Chill Cube through its paces. The new unit produces 18,000 BTUs and comes with a variable-speed compressor, soft start capability, and is reportedly very quiet, too. So, how well did it perform in the notoriously harsh conditions of Death Valley? Check out the video above to find out.
- Dometic Reveals Unrestricted Cooler Collection: Dometic is well known in the RV industry for its excellent line of powered coolers. But the company makes a wide range of other products for use at the campsite and in the outdoors. This week, that catalog expanded even further with the introduction of the Unrestricted Collection of soft coolers. The new product line-up includes two totes (regular and XL), two backpacks (regular and small), and a duffel. The bags are all made from durable 100% recycled Cordura and use PrimaLoft Gold insulation. Each is available now starting at $140.
Image Courtesy of Manu Reyes/Getty
- New Report Spotlights Trends for Modern RVers: Newbook, a company that creates property management software for campgrounds, has released its RV & Camping Consumer Insights Report for 2025, revealing some interesting trends in the process. The report was compiled from a survey of over 1,000 American RVers, with some surprising trends coming to the forefront. On a higher level, the results show that RVers are most interested in quick getaways closer to home, and value clean facilities and good internet connectivity as much as they do beautiful landscapes and traditional camping experiences. Dig a little deeper into the stats, and you’ll find that 78% of campground guests expect high-speed wireless internet. Other interesting notes include Gen Z and Millennials are four times as likely to book a tent camping trip compared to Baby Boomers, while 64% of travelers now book their trips online, with younger age groups leading the way in that category, too. Read more here.
That’s it for this week. Join us again next Friday for another rundown of the biggest news from the RV industry.
The post RV News: Thor’s Hybrid RV Wins Another Award, Outside Van is Moving, and the Best Places to Camp in the Country appeared first on RV.com.
2025-07-18
Tech Spotlight: Steering Stabilizers for RVs and Tow Vehicles
If you drive a big rig, chances are you’re familiar with steering wheel feedback, rut tracking and sway from crosswinds or passing semis. Everything from large, Class A motorhomes to Class Cs and B vans can experience these issues, and while products like aftermarket antisway bars, trac bars, or suspension upgrades help, what you really need might be a steering stabilizer.
Kathy Doran, Executive Operations Manager at Safe-T-Plus, one of the leading steering stabilizer manufacturers on the market, says this remedy will help your RV feel less like it has a mind of its own. “You can go from driving two-handed, white knuckled, to having your cup of coffee in your hand and occasionally looking up at the pretty scenery you’re supposed to be enjoying,” Doran says.
A steering stabilizer is essentially an additional control system that combines a horizontal shock absorber and spring specifically for your steering. They typically have a vehicle-specific fit and are easy to install, and can work wonders at reducing wheel feedback, creating a firmer, more confident feel on the road. These three products are among the industry’s most popular.
Photo Credit: Safe-T-Plus
Safe-T-Plus
Safe-T-Plus was founded by a trucker in 1980 who developed a steering stabilizer for semi trucks experiencing accidents from front tire blow-outs. Now, they make stabilizers for Class A, B and C motorhomes, camper vans, tow rigs and more. Their stabilizers are vehicle-specific, and feature simple, bolt-on installation. These stabilizers are also known for their positive centering ability, which helps with oversteering by automatically guiding your rig’s steering wheel back to center after a turn. MSRP: $456
Photo Credit: Roadmaster
Roadmaster Reflex
Roadmaster makes steering stabilizers for everything from heavy Class A’s to Class B vans or Class C motorhomes. The Reflex series has a vehicle-specific fitment and is designed to correct oversteer, keep the steering wheel from jerking over bumps, and generally improve the feel of the vehicle. They attach to your rig’s steering mechanism on one end and chassis, and feature a heavy duty, tempered-steel spring that works to maintain its neutral position, returning your vehicle to center after unexpected events. $570
Photo Credit: Bilstein
Bilstein B6 Steering Damper
The term “steering damper” is often used interchangeably with “steering stabilizer,” and while they are similar products, a steering damper like Bilstein’s B6 acts more like a traditional shock absorber. Its primary function is to dampen the effects of bumps and rough roads, while also helping the vehicle return back to center and control steering. Some RVs already have steering dampers from the factory, and the B6 can be a direct replacement. If your rig doesn’t have one, Bilstein also sells bracket kits for specific vehicles. $169
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2025-07-16
Tech Q&A: A/C Blows Warm Air on the Highway, a Solar/Battery Upgrade, and More
Our RV expert shares his insights and advice on a variety of topics. Got a question of your own? Send them to us at knowhow@wildsam.com.
Photo Credit: THOR
Hot Hot Highway Heat
Q: We have a 2023 Thor ACE 32B on a Ford F-53 chassis. The dash air conditioner blows warmer air when we’re on the highway. At idle, 40-degree air comes out of the dash vents. At highway speeds, the air hits 60 degrees—no difference when the A/C is switched to recirculate. Neither RV dealer nor Ford dealer can solve the issue so far. Any insight?
—William Taylor, Findlay, Ohio
A: This is a fairly common problem. The heater and A/C controls in the dash are operated by vacuum servos, which rely on engine intake manifold vacuum. When the engine is idling, it produces peak vacuum, and therefore the system works fine. Then, as the engine’s load increases, vacuum drops off. If there is any leakage in the hoses or other components in the HVAC system, there won’t be enough vacuum. The system will then default to Defrost mode and divert airflow causing symptoms like you describe.
The system needs to be diagnosed for vacuum leaks. It could be something as simple as a cracked or loose hose. Many well-equipped shops have smoke injection machines, designed to push smoke into the vacuum hoses and system. Smoke comes out, revealing the leaks. To ensure better operation, add a vacuum storage tank: Crown Automotive produces one. Also add a one-way check valve that when the engine is under heavy load it, doesn’t reduce the vacuum in the tank.
Photo Credit: Eco-dynamic
Towable Twofer
Q: I’m a longtime camper and never missed an issue of Trailer Life with your articles and columns back in the day. I am looking at adding to my solar array and changing to AGM batteries because of conventional battery maintenance issues. My favorite supplier has closed. Can you recommend another source?
—Ralph Spear
A: Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries don’t require refilling and do generally last somewhat longer than conventional lead-acid batteries. However, if you are a heavy user of solar power, you might want to consider switching to lithium. They last much longer, are much lighter and maintenance free and have more usable capacity for a given size. You can discharge them more deeply without damaging them. Prices have been coming down, and there are good used ones available at a substantial savings. Suppliers include RV Solar Concepts and Precision RV Service, We’d love to hear from readers about their favorite solar supplier.
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Airbag Advice
Q: Is there a consensus on the use of air bags for trailer towing?
—Kathy and Cliff Andrews, Keizer, OR
A: I doubt there is any consensus—folks argue about everything. But air bags are a great addition to many tow vehicles. Without knowing the specific year, make and model and the make and model of trailer, or its approximate tongue weight, I can only provide generalities. It’s important for the tow vehicle to be fairly level when hitched up and towing. Stiffer rear springs could keep the rig level, but when you are not towing the vehicle might ride very stiffly. Air bags allow you to add pressure when the trailer is attached and reduce pressure when not towing. Some kits even have onboard compressors with remote filling capabilities, so you can adjust pressure from the cab.
One important thing to remember: air bags should not be used to enable a vehicle to be overloaded. Never exceed the maximum gross rear axle weight rating or the tire ratings. Several companies manufacture air bags for pickup trucks. Kelderman Manufacturing, Firestone Airide and Air Lift are all well-known producers of air suspension systems, including those for light trucks. AccurAir Suspension also offers air suspension kits for various vehicles, including pickups.
Ask Us Anything!
Share your tech tales and send us your questions: knowhow@wildsam.com.
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-07-15
RV News: Fund Raising for Flooded Texas Campgrounds, the 10 Best Locations to Camp in the US, and More
We are deep in the dog days of summer, but the news continues to the RV and camping industry news continues to flow at a rapid pace. It was another interesting and busy week on that front. Here are a few stories you may have missed:
- Texas Association of Campground Owners Raises Funds for Food-Damage Relief:As we all know by now, this past week has been a very difficult one for everyone living in Texas, where strong and sudden floods caused millions of dollars in damage to homes and personal property, while also claiming the lives of at least 120 people. Some of the damage impacted several central Texas campgrounds, completely wiping several locations away. Now, the Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO) is raising funds to assist those owners with getting back on their feet. The goal is a modest $30,000, with $25k already being raised as of press time. If you’d like to lend a hand, you can donate here.
Photo Credit: Barish Baur/Getty
- The Dyrt Shares the Top 10 Best Locations to Camp in the US for 2025: Looking for some new suggestions on where to go camping over the final months of 2025? Online campsite discovery platform The Dyrt is here to help, offering up its picks for the ten best places to camp across the US this year. The locations were selected based on ratings and reviews from Dyrt members, who have a database of tens of thousands of campgrounds across the country. Needless to say, it wasn’t easy distilling it down to just ten entries, but the locations honored are among the very best places to camp. Not all of the sites are RV-friendly, but they earned a spot thanks to stunning wilderness views, excellent amenities, outstanding features, or a combination of all of the above. Check out the full list here.
Photo Credit: iKamper
- GearJunkie Has Everything You Need to Know About Camping in an EV: Just like a regular car, truck, or SUV, an electric vehicle can make an outstanding option for camping. EVs usually offer plenty of onboard power, near-silent running, and are better for the environment. But there are a few challenges to overcome, most notably how to keep it charged while staying at a remote campsite. This week, our friends over at GearJunkie took a look at the pros and cons of camping in an EV, providing excellent inside info on what to expect. The article is surprisingly comprehensive and shares a lot of great tips for towing, charging, and chilling. You can read it here.
Photo Credit: Ceri Breeze/Getty
- Can You Use Cruise Control While Towing?: Have you ever wondered if it is safe to use your cruise control while towing a travel trailer or fifth-wheel? Turns out the crew over at Jalopnik wondered the same thing, and recently shared an article exploring that very topic. What did they find? Essentially, most basic cruise control systems won’t account for the added weight of a towable, but will still maintain whatever speed is set for it. Newer, more sophisticated adaptive cruise control options are much smarter, however, and can adjust their settings to accommodate the additional weight. That’s due in part because those systems will also slow down and speed up the vehicle based on the traffic around them. These “smart” cruise control systems are safer and better equipped for the job. That said, it’s entirely up to the driver as to whether or not they trust a computer with such a heavy and complicated job.
- Tariff Turmoil Continues: The uncertainty and unease surrounding President Trump’s tariff policies continued apace this week, in part due to moving deadlines and shifting numbers. As you may recall, the administration announced sweeping tariffs on nearly every country back in April, but delayed implementation of most of those taxes in order to negotiate new trade agreements. The deadline for the resumption of the new tariffs came and went this week, with most now delayed until August 1. Those include a new 50% levy on all copper imports, which will likely impact the price of appliances, electric vehicles, and other electronics. Also, the President threatened Brazil with a 50% tariff due to ongoing legal actions against former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The country—which the US enjoys a trade surplus with—has promised to match those tariffs in response. All of this continues to have a ripple effect on the economy and manufacturing, which could take months to play out. For up-to-date info on all tariff news, click here.
Photo Credit: Posnov/Getty
- Foreign Visitors May Have to Pay Higher National Park Entry Fees: While we’re delving into politics, a new executive order issued by the White House this week calls for higher entry fees for visitors who are not from the US. The EO doesn’t institute the increased fees itself, but instead calls on Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to develop a plan to start charging more for foreign travelers looking to enter and explore America’s national parks. According to some estimates, the proposal could raise an additional $90 million per year for the National Park Service. Click here to learn more.
- Canada Eliminates Surtax on Motorhomes: In other import tax news, Canada has removed a 25% surtax on American-made motorhomes shipped north of the border. This applies to both new and used models and paves the way for US companies to see improved sales there. The move is largely seen as a way to bolster flagging sales at Canadian RV dealers, many of which have had a difficult time sourcing inventory. The reduced pricing should help all around. Read more here.
That’s it for this week. See you next Friday for another round-up of the latest RV-related news.
The post RV News: Fund Raising for Flooded Texas Campgrounds, the 10 Best Locations to Camp in the US, and More appeared first on RV.com.
2025-07-11
Wildsam Road Ready July 2025: Vehicles and Gear to Take You Way Out There
Special thanks to some of our trusted partners from within the RV industry.
Photo Credit: LiquidSpring
LiquidSpring
Upgrade your Class A Gas motorhome with LiquidSpring® – the premium hydraulic suspension solution that elevates your driving experience. Our Smart Suspension system delivers unmatched stability and control, eliminating the sway, bounce, and fatigue of traditional suspensions.
Experience the revolutionary Tru-Earth Leveling technology – simply press a button and watch your motorhome level automatically on uneven terrain. No more crawling underneath with blocks, no more frustrating jack adjustments. Park anywhere with confidence, knowing you’re always perfectly level for cooking, sleeping, and living comfortably.
Whether you’re navigating mountain passes or settling in for an extended stay, LiquidSpring’s hydraulic system responds in real-time to road conditions, giving Class A drivers the smooth, controlled ride typically reserved for high-end diesel pushers. Your passengers will notice the difference immediately – less motion sickness, less noise, and more enjoyment of the journey.
Invest in the comfort and stability your Class A deserves. Experience the hydraulic advantage with LiquidSpring. liquidspring.com
Photo Credit: GaragePros
GaragePro Tire Savers
Preventing flat spots during RV storage doesn’t have to be hard.
Long-term RV storage is part of the deal, which can result in flat spots on your tires when they sit on flat surfaces where the rubber meets the ground without moving. According to Edmunds, “…if conditions are right, a month of being stationary might be enough to cause problems.”
Park Smart Tire Savers cradle your tires to help prevent flat spots during storage. Made of solid heavy-duty vinyl, these ramps won’t crush, crack or slip, unlike those made of hollow plastic. These Tire Savers have no weight limit, come in multiple sizes and have a lifetime warranty. Uniquely designed with the driver in mind, you can drive up and over the ramps, which is particularly useful for RVs with multiple axles, making it easy to come and go as needed.
Protect your investment and save 20% now with code Wild0725 at YourGaragePro.com. 800-992-2018
This article originally appeared in Wildsam magazine. For more Wildsam content, sign up for our newsletter.
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2025-07-08
Voting Ends Soon for the 2025 Wildsam Readers’ Choice Awards
Listen up, Wildsam and RV.com readers. Time is running out to have your voice heard. Voting in the annual Wildsam Readers’ Choice Awards will soon close, and we still want to hear from you! There is still time to cast your votes online for your favorite RV and RV accessories manufacturers, letting us know which brands deserve recognition for their outstanding products.
Simply click here to fill out our online form before July 25. Your responses let us know who you think are deserving of recognition. It also tells us which brands you want to read more about in upcoming issues and online articles.
As always, thanks for sharing your opinions.
The post Voting Ends Soon for the 2025 Wildsam Readers’ Choice Awards appeared first on RV.com.
2025-07-07
RV News: Airstream and Ember Updates for 2026, Grounded’s New E-RV, and Much More
Despite it being a shortened week due to the July 4th holiday, there is plenty of RV news to share from the past seven days and beyond. So as we head off for a long weekend, here are a few things to have on your radar.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
- Airstream Announces 2026 Motorhome Upgrades: Airstream has announced a slew of new updates coming to its 2026 Atlas and Interstate motorhomes. Those upgrades include the inclusion of the company’s Advanced Power System—which comes with 10,300Wh self-heating lithium batteries—as standard equipment. The new models will come with a 1,000W single-burner induction cooktop, a 3,000W inverter, a 40-amp in-vehicle battery charger, a Victron SmartShunt for solar monitoring, a Victron BlueSolar charge controller, and a marine-grade alternator and regulator. All in all, some substantial improvements over previous models, making the Atlas and Interstate more off-grid ready.
Photo Credit: Ember RV
- Ember RV Shares 2026 Updates, Too: Airstream isn’t the only RV brand sharing updates for its 2026 models. Ember RV has also announced new features for its excellent Overland Series models, with highlights including 1,200W of solar standard, a 3,000W Victron inverter and Cerbo GX communication center, 270Ah deep-cycle Battle Born batteries, and no less than three Victron Bluetooth MPPT controllers. The new rigs will also offer side and rooftop solar ports for easy upgrades, and include a REDARC DC-to-DC trailer battery charger. The inside gets some nice bumps, too, including solid surface countertops in the kitchen and bathroom, a square stainless steel kitchen sink with a cutting board, a new shower with built-in shelf, and an upgraded 10.6-cubic-foot 12v refrigerator. This is just the tip of the iceberg, however, so visit the Ember website to find out more.
Photo Credit: Pebble
- Pebble Ships First Flow Electric Travel Trailers: RV start-up Pebble reached a major milestone this week by shipping the first full-production models of its all-electric travel trailer to buyers. The company announced that it had delivered several Pebble Flow Founder Edition towables to early backers, with a promise to ramp up production throughout the rest of the year. And as a bonus, a new feature called “Auto Dump” that takes the drudgery out of emptying your black tank. Read more here.
Photo Credit: Grounded
- Grounded Launches G3 Electric Camper Van: It was a big week for electric RVs, as Detroit-based Grounded revealed its G3 e-camper van. The company has been manufacturing e-RVs for a couple of years now, with its G1 and G2 models debuting in 2023. Its latest vehicle is built on the Chevy BrightDrop platform and has a range of 286 miles. It also comes with all-wheel drive, fast-charging capabilities, and a modular interior that can be configured to suit your needs. GearJunkie has the skinny on this promising new EV here.
Photo Credit: Rossmönster
- Rossmönster Reveals Havn Off-Road Camper Model: Rossmönster is a specialty RV manufacturer with a focus on off-road, off-grid adventures. That’s why it is so appropriate that the brand announced a new model at last week’s Overland Expo PNW. The new Havn rig rides on a 24-foot Mercedes 3500 chassis with all-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and other rugged features. It also sports a queen-size bed, hydronic heated flooring, 800W solar panels, and a 1,000Ah lithium battery. Check it out here.
Image Courtesy of Chase and Lindsay Garrett
- Hughes Autoformers Changes Name to Power Watchdog: Big news from the RV accessories space this week, as Hughes Autoformers announced a name change to match its signature product. Moving forward, the company will be known as Power Watchdog, a nod to its line of outstanding surge protectors and voltage boosters for use at RV campsites. The identity change comes with the introduction of the new Watchdog Power Center, a device that promises to be the “end-all-be-all of RV power protection.”
Photo Credit: Lance Camper
- REV Group Sells Lance Camper: Late last week, REV Group—the manufacturer behind such brands as Renegade, Fleetwood, and Holiday Rambler—announced the sale of Lance Camper to Vision Kore, Inc. The move signals REV’s exit from the non-motorized RV space, allowing it to focus more tightly on Class A, B, and C models. Lance will also continue producing towables and truck campers, now under the management of Vision Kore.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
- Winnebago Says More Women are Participating in Outdoor Activities: A new survey conducted by Winnebago Industries reveals that 52% of women plan to increase their outdoor activity levels in 2025. That’s up 6% compared to last year, with 55% of respondents saying they spent more than six hours a week outside. Spending time in nature is both physically and mentally good for us, and it seems more women are embracing those positive benefits. To read more about this survey, and the other things it revealed, click here.
Photo Credit: Blaupunkt
- General RV Now Sells E-Bikes: In yet another sign that e-bikes have become incredibly popular with RVers, General RV announced this week that it will begin selling Blaupunkt models in its 23 stores. The bikes feature a folding frame for easy storage and weigh just 47 pounds, which is fairly svelte for an e-bike. Check them out here.
- Overland Expo PNW Welcomes 16,000 Attendees: 2025 continues to be a good year for the Overland Expo events. Last week, the Pacific Northwest Edition (PNW) took place in Redmond, OR, where more than 16,000 people were in attendance. And in a further nod to how popular overlanding has become, those attendees hailed from 48 states and nine countries. Those are pretty impressive numbers for one of the regional Overland Expo shows.
That’s a wrap for this week. See you next Friday for another rundown of the top stories from the RV and camping industries.
The post RV News: Airstream and Ember Updates for 2026, Grounded’s New E-RV, and Much More appeared first on RV.com.
2025-07-04
DJI Power 2000 Review: Rugged, Reliable, and Powerful
A little over a year ago, we reviewed the DJI Power 1000 portable power station, calling it an excellent first entry into this very competitive market space from a company best known for making camera drones. Now, the brand is back with a larger model that delivers more storage capacity and an impressive array of ports. In fact, in terms of number and type, the new DJI Power 2000 may have the best line-up of ports of any power station on the market today, making it easy to recommend for anyone who needs a reliable charging solution on the go.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Battery and Charging Specs
As you would expect, the larger Power 2000 device comes with a bigger battery compared to its predecessor. This unit features a 2,048Wh power cell, which is double the size of last year’s model. It can also output up to 3,000W, allowing it to power more devices, including some that require a higher capacity, like a microwave, air conditioner, or a hair dryer.
One of the few drawbacks of having a larger battery is that it usually takes longer to recharge. But thanks to some impressive technical wizardry, DJI managed to include truly impressive fast-charging capabilities in the power station. According to the company, the device can fully recharge from an AC wall outlet in under 90 minutes, which proved true in our testing. The Power 2000 shipped to us with a 20% charge, but when plugged in for initial charging, it was fully topped off in less than an hour.
Those same fast-charging capabilities apply to other methods of recharging the Power 2000’s battery, too. For instance, DJI sells a 1kW fast-charger for use in a vehicle that can replenish the battery in 145 minutes. That’s perfect for when you’re driving from one campsite to the next or en route to a worksite. Additionally, owners can connect two solar panels for recharging in the field. The new power station even sees a boost in that department, with a 12% faster charge time compared to the Power 1000.
To add some context to all of these specs, the 2,048Wh battery is enough to recharge most smartphones more than 100 times or a laptop as many as 18 times. It’ll run a mini-fridge for up to 38 hours or a coffee machine for nearly two hours. In other words, depending on your usage, it is enough capacity for use at the campsite for several days without recharging the power station itself. It also works well for content creators working in the field and can serve as a home back-up solution. DJI is even prepping expansion batteries for the Power 2000 that can expand the capacity by a factor of ten. While that won’t be practical for portable use, it does provide interesting possibilities for use at home or potentially even an RV.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
All the Ports You Need
If you’ve ever read any of our other power station reviews, you’ve probably seen us lament the fact that most units are almost always missing a port or two. In recent years, that’s usually because a device is lacking in USB-C ports, which have quickly become the industry standard for charging just about everything. That isn’t the case with the DJI Power 2000, which offers the best selection of charging ports we’ve seen in a device of this size.
The Power 2000 includes four 120V AC outlets, including one high-capacity 30A port for demanding appliances like a portable air conditioner. It also comes with four standard USB-A ports and four additional USB-C ports—two that offer 160W output and two rated for 65W. This being DJI, the power station also has two dedicated SDC ports for charging drones, something that definitely appeals to the company’s core audience.
All of these ports add versatility to the device, making it easy to keep a wide variety of gadgets and appliances running wherever you need them. So much so, that for once we’re not asking for additional ports of any kind. Sure, this model lacks the 12V “vehicle” port that many other models offer, but for us, that has always been the least useful charging option anyway. During our testing, it wasn’t missed at all.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
Other Stand Out Features
In addition to adding ports, battery capacity, and increased power output, the DJI Power 2000 includes several other noteworthy features. For instance, the unit can be used as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to keep important devices and appliances running in the event of an unexpected electrical outage. Should such an outage occur, the power station can automatically start providing electricity in as little as .01 seconds, ensuring mission-critical items—like computers or internet networking equipment—continue operating without missing a beat.
DJI also went to great lengths to ensure the Power 2000 is durable and safe. In addition to its rugged outer shell, which provides plenty of protection while outdoors, the unit has a battery management system circuit board built to resist environmental elements like dust and moisture. The power station is also made from flame-retardant materials to prevent fires and has 21 fuses to detect and protect against other anomalies.
Additionally, the power station is one of the quietest we’ve ever tested, even when recharging multiple devices. It comes with a bright, easy-to-understand LCD screen for monitoring power in and out and current battery levels, something that can also be done remotely using the DJI app. Furthermore, the device’s lithium batteries are good for approximately 4,000 charge cycles, giving the Power 2000 a lifespan of ten years with daily use.
Photo Credit: Kraig Becker
A Serious Contender
With everything that DJI has brought to the table, the Power 2000 is the complete package when it comes to portable power stations. The combination of capacity, power output, and charging ports makes it easy to recommend to anyone currently in the market for this kind of device. Add in impressive fast-charging capabilities, remote monitoring and control via smartphone, the ability to use it as a UPS, and the option to dramatically expand storage with add-on batteries, and you get a complete power solution for any need.
If we had to dock this power station any points, it might be due to its weight and a lack of charging cables. The unit weighs in at a shade over 48 pounds, which isn’t particularly heavy for this category, but is worth noting. We also would have liked to have seen a 12V vehicle charging cable included in the box to go along with the 120V AC cable that is included. We understand that DJI wants to upsell us on its high-capacity vehicle charging solution, but most competitors do include the 12V cable in the box. But other than those very minor nitpicks, there isn’t much to complain about here.
As already noted, if you’re in the market for a portable power station at the moment, this model should be at the top of your shopping list. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anything else that offers similar specs along with so many truly useful charging ports. And priced at $1,299, it is safe to say the DJI Power 2000 delivers a lot of bang for the buck for outdoor enthusiasts, content creators, and use around the home. We’re excited to see where the DJI ecosystem goes next.
For more information, visit the DJI website.
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2025-07-02
Voting is Now Open for the 2025 Wildsam Readers’ Choice Awards
It’s that time again. Time for Wildsam and RV.com readers to let their voices be heard. In what has become an annual tradition, we’re asking our audience to share their opinions, letting us know what vehicles, products, and services are the best that the RV industry has to offer. This is your chance to sound off and give your favorite brands some well-earned recognition.
To participate, just fill out our online survey, sharing your thoughts on such topics as the best fifth-wheel or motorhome manufacturer. We want to know who makes your favorite RV batteries and trailer hitches, along with a host of other products that improve your life on the road and at the campground. Basically, if it’s an RV, or an RV-related accessory, we want to know which ones you think are best.
We’ll continue collecting surveys through September 15, at which time the polls will close, and we’ll start tabulating the votes. Later this year, we’ll announce the winners in each category, handing out Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards to those who earn top honors.
To get started with our survey, click here. And as always, by completing the online form you’re not only showing support for your favorite RV brands, you’re helping us to get to know you a little better, too.
The post Voting is Now Open for the 2025 Wildsam Readers’ Choice Awards appeared first on RV.com.
2025-06-23