Uncover Mississippi’s gems on a road trip brimming with historic riverside communities, easy-going beach towns, delectable seafood joints, and lively music. This 220-mile itinerary starts in on the banks of the Mississippi River in Vicksburg — site of a famous Civil War clash — and travels to rollicking Biloxi on the Gulf Coast. Along the way you can hear the blues in Jackson and taste succulent seafood straight off the boat in Gulfport.
Click on the numbered icons below to get a glimpse of Magnolia State magic.
Thanks to the holidays, there hasn’t been much news to share from the RV industry over the past couple of weeks. But now that the New Year is upon us, things are starting to ramp back up. In fact, there is quite a bit to share ahead of the Florida RV SuperShow next week. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
Thor to Introduce New Class A Motorhomes in Tampa: The Florida RV SuperShow Thor is always a great place for RV manufacturers to show off new models, and this year Thor is getting in on the action. The company will have the new Windsport models on display with four new floorplans. Highlights include a king-size bed, a drop-down overhead bunk, Thor’s famous Dream Dinette, and more. Some models will come with a sofa bed and optional theater seating, while residential kitchen appliances will provide an upscale feel. Attendees can tour the 29L, 35G, 35J, and 35R floor plans at the show for a better idea of how they differ and what each offers.
Photo Credit: KZ RV
KZ Durango Gold Gets ‘Black Pearl’ Body Paint: KZ is kicking off the new year by announcing a splashy new paint option for its outstanding Durango Gold fifth-wheel. Moving forward, buyers of that luxury towable will now have the option to add a “Black Pearl” full-body paint scheme to their rig. This will give the trailer a distinct look that stands out on the road and at the campsite. The new paint is backed by a two-year warranty and is available now. Those attending the Ultimate RV Show in Denver this weekend can see it firsthand, as will attendees at the Florida RV SuperShow next week.
Forest River has a Lot on Tap For Tampa: Ahead of the big RV show in Tampa next week, Forest River has released a media kit that shows off everything new that it will have on display. The online document gives us a glimpse of what to expect across a wide range of vehicles in the company’s line-up. Each entry also includes specific details for what’s “New for Tampa,” with insights into the latest from the brand. There is a lot to sort through, but you can check it out here.
Photo Credit: Off-Road Travel TV
Forest River’s NoBo Travel Trailers Embark on an Epic Road Trip: The No Boundaries travel trailers from Forest River are known for their rugged build and off-road prowess. Now, those capabilities will be put to the test on an epic journey that will play out in front of a television audience. The towables are set to appear on Off-Road Travel TV—a show that airs on MAVTV—which will follow intrepid adventurers as they make their way along the Pacific Coast from Southern California to the Last Frontier in Alaska. The show will consist of 13 episodes and will showcase a NoBo 16.6 travel trailer towed behind a custom-built Ford Bronco. Over the course of the road trip, the team will visit multiple state and national parks in the US and Canada.
Jackery Launches RV-Specific Solar Panel at CES: The Consumer Electronics Show took place in Las Vegas this week, with hundreds of tech companies on hand to reveal their newest products. Among them was Jackery, which is best known for making portable and home power solutions. At the event, the company revealed an all-new solar panel designed specifically with RVs in mind. The new SolarSaga 100 Prime which promises to deliver up to 20% more power yield over similar offerings from the competition. The panel is also IP68 waterproof certified and designed to perform in temperatures ranging from -40°F to 185°F.
Photo Credit: Airstream
Airstream Partners with Klipsch and Announces New RV Package at CES: One of the more unlikely attendees at CES this year was Airstream. The iconic RV manufacturer was on hand to announce a new partnership with Klipsch, a brand that is equally iconic in the audio space. The two companies struck a deal that will put high-end speakers in the 2025 Classic travel trailer. But, Airstream also took advantage of the show to announce the new “Midnight Flamingo” package for its Flying Cloud 25FB, 27FB, and 33FB floorplans. The optional add-on gives those towables four ceiling-mounted premium Klipsch speakers and a Flexus Core 200 sound bar. It also offers a 3″ lift kit and a solar power package, complete with lithium house batteries.
Updated Pebble Flow All-Electric Travel Trailer Video: Earlier in the week, we shared news about the production-intent version of the all-electric Pebble Flow travel trailer, which also made its debut at CES. The new version differs slightly from the one we told you about last year, offering a refined design and some subtle but nice changes. This version is set to go into production in the next few weeks, with customers taking delivery in the spring. If you’re eager to get a look at this exciting new towable yourself, check out the video above.
RV Trader Reveals It’s Most Popular RVs of 2024: RV Trader—a Top online platform for buying and selling RVs—has revealed its most popular models for the year that has just passed. The outlet posted its top five most popular models to a blog post right before the holidays. The list contains some excellent models—like the Winnebago View—but the top spot is a bit of a strange one. Spoiler alert, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter claims number 1, but as we all know, that isn’t an RV. It is a popular RV platform, but not an RV per se. Strange choice, but interesting.
Photo Credit: Garmin
Garmin Drops New Handheld GPS Devices: While we’re on the topic of CES, in somewhat of a surprise move, Garmin announced a trio of new handheld GPS devices this week. Thanks to smartphone navigation integration, these types of gadgets seemed to have gone out of favor with many consumers in recent years, but the new Montana 710, Montana 710i and Montana 760i have some compelling features that make them interesting. For starters, they’re sleek and lightweight, have bright screens, and come with rechargeable batteries that offer up to 24 hours of use. They also have built-in cameras, have access to high-resolution satellite imagery, and can send an SOS alert via satellite. They even have satellite texting capabilities like the company’s inReach Messenger. Prices start at $650.
Demco’s Hitch Works with the RamBox Truck: Ram trucks have been a source of innovation in recent years, with the RamBox cargo management system especially standing out. Unfortunately, this clever feature—which provides more onboard storage for owners—results in a narrower bed, which means it isn’t compatiable with all fifth-wheel hitches. But fear not Ram truck owners, as the Demco Recon Series, which can be paired with an aftermarket rotating pin box, works well with RamBox models. Check them out here.
That’s a wrap on this week’s RV industry news. Join us next Friday, when there is sure to be even more to share.
The post RV News: Friday, January 10, 2025 appeared first on RV.com.
The world of RVs can be sprawling, especially when you consider the field’s full spectrum, somehow embracing both landship Class As and nimble, tiny, camp-ready trailers. Looking forward into 2025, we tried to take it all in. We roamed big shows and scoured remote corners of the internet, searching and sifting to pick some all-stars from the crop of new vehicles hitting the road. We found a dynamic world of high design and sometimes whimsical ambition—an industry that’s exploring every cultural niche and lifestyle pursuit it can think of. We noticed a growing cohort of “destination” trailers, speaking to folks who see their rig as something more than a means from Point A to B. We saw many clever remixes of nostalgic looks and high-tech amenities. Some of the most interesting vehicles take age-old RV categories and blur their boundaries. Read on—you’ll see the rides that caught our eye. And maybe yours?
Photo Credit: Bowlus
The Best High-Tech Tin Can
Bowlus Rivet
MSRP: $150,000
GVWR: 3,500 LBS.
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Length: 25’ 3”
Lightweight and built to last, the Bowlus Rivet impresses with its retro styling and high-tech features. The travel trailer’s self-powered electric drive system makes it easy to tow behind just about any vehicle, including an EV. At the campsite, the Rivet’s 8kWh battery pack and 660-watt solar array allow owners to camp off-grid for up to two weeks at a time. It’s no less impressive inside, with yacht-inspired styling and amenities, including a gorgeous galley kitchen.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
The Best Starter Kit RV
The Winnebago Access delivers excellent build quality, plenty of amenities and great customer service in an affordable package, ideal for families and couples. MSRP: $23,000
Photo Credit: Forest River
The Best for Campground Movie Night
The Forest River Rogue Armored 26L140’s primary bedroom comes with a built-in 4K video projector and a window blind that converts to a screen. Popcorn seasoning is up to you. MSRP: $70,000
Photo Credit: Brinkley RV
The Best Mobile Office Space
The Brinkley Model Z 3515’s rear office includes an adjustable-height desk for road warriors looking to clock in from the great outdoors. MSRP: $120,916
Photo Credit: Keystone
Note From the Field: “My favorite couple’s travel trailer is the Keystone Cougar 22MLS. It’s only 27 feet, meaning many half-ton trucks can tow it. You don’t need a monster truck. It also has a redesigned basement for storage, more headroom and a bigger sleeping space.” —Josh Winters (@JOSHTHERVNERD)
Best Game-Changing Camper
Lance 1172 Truck Camper
MSRP: $84,266
Dry Weight: 4,063 LBS.
Sleeping Capacity: 5-6
Length: 20’ 4”
This one redefines what we thought possible with a truck camper. Two slide-outs create a surprisingly spacious interior and modern amenities stack up: a large dinette, a dry bath, a well-appointed interior kitchen, a plush couch. With room for up to six adults, the 1172 makes the perfect basecamp for anglers, hunters, hikers and other outdoorsy wanderers. A residential queen-size bed will be a welcome luxury after a long day on the trail.
Photo Credit: Coachmen
The Best for Continental Flair
Compact and nimble, the Coachmen Euro 25EU offers the space and comfort of a Class A motorcoach while driving like a camper van. The RV’s European styling helps it stand out on the road and at the campsite, too. MSRP: $218,878
Photo Credit: Newmar
The Best for Retired Major Leaguers
The Newmar King Aire is the kingpin among luxury RVs, with high-end features like Italian leather furniture, quartz countertops and heated tile floors. All floorplans include a primary bedroom suite with a massive bathroom, a second half-bath and a kitchen with upscale residential appliances. MSRP: $1,637,440
Photo Credit: SylvanSport
The Best Off-Road Explorer
The SylvanSport GOAT gets high marks for its versatility and rugged design. Built for off-road travel, this pop-up camper quickly transforms into a toy hauler or utility trailer, extending its use well beyond the campground. MSRP: $19,495
Photo Credit: Westfalia
Best for Nostalgia Surfers
Westfalia Wave Pop-Top
MSRP: $179,849
GVWR: 9,350 LBS.
Sleeping Capacity: 6
Length: 20’ 9”
The storied Westfalia brand returns to North America in groovy form with the Wave Class B camper van. Available in two models—the Wave Skylight and Wave Pop-Top—this neo-throwback delivers a lot of features in a form factor that is somehow both modern and retro at the same time. The Pop-Top model comfortably sleeps six, practically unheard of in a vehicle of this size. That’s enough space for your whole crew to roll on down the road.
Photo Credit: Airstream
The Best Very Limited Edition
The Airstream Interstate 19X LE Outland Edition’s premium Sony sound system and colorful LED lights turn any campsite into a dance party. But with only 30 units produced, most of us will be lucky even to see one. Still, pretty cool stuff. Consider the standard Interstate 19X as a more accessible alternative. MSRP: $344,000
Photo Credit: Outside Van
The Best for #VANLIFE
Built with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, the Outside Van Parks is made for exploration. This Class B model rides on an AWD Sprinter chassis, comfortably sleeps two and has the best dry bath we’ve seen in a camp van. MSRP: $236,000
Photo Credit: Keystone
The Best for Free-Range Families
With two bathrooms, a spacious primary bedroom and a second bedroom with bunk beds, the Keystone Montana High Country 397FB is the perfect family fifth-wheel. It even comes with built-in desks for schooling on the road. MSRP: TBD at press time
Photo Credit: Alliance RV
Note From the Field: “If I’m picking a towable, I’d have to say the Alliance RV Benchmark 44LFT. You have big windows and tall ceilings. It feels like a tiny house rather than a large RV. They knocked it out of the park with this destination trailer.” —Matt Foxcroft (@MATTSRVREVIEWS)
Photo Credit: Gulf Stream
Best for Retro Cute
Gulfstream Vintage Cruiser
MSRP: $38,684
GVWR: 4,384-5,060 LBS.
Sleeping Capacity: 4-6
Length: 23’ 1”- 26′ 1″
Stepping inside a Gulfstream Vintage Cruiser is a bit like traveling back in time. These lightweight towables embrace the wood-grain paneling and color schemes of a bygone era to crank the nostalgia vibes. Modern appliances—like a 12V fridge and a microwave—do little to break the illusion that you’re somehow camping in the 1950s. Charming and fun.
Photo Credit: Crossroads RV
The Best for Camp Cocktails
Destination trailers have grown in popularity recently, but the Crossroads Hampton HP374BAR still manages to stand out amid the trend. Its dedicated wet bar just might make it the ultimate party RV. We’ll have ours shaken, not stirred, thank you. MSRP: $100,588
Photo Credit: Leisure Travel Vans
Best for Small Scale Living
Looking for an RV that drives like a camper van but offers plenty of luxury? The Leisure Travel Vans Unity has you covered. We especially like the Corner Bed model, which includes a spacious sleeping area, a comfy lounge space and a gorgeous galley kitchen. MSRP: $195,470
The Best for Spoiling Yourself
Luxury Super Cs don’t come any plusher than the Renegade RV XL X45BDM. This model features porcelain tiled floors, maple hardwood cabinets and 1.5 baths. An outdoor entertainment center can combine big-game watching with fresh-air lounging. MSRP: $762,559
Photo Credit: Jayco
Best Escape Pod
Jayco Pinnacle 38SSWS
MSRP: $120,243
GVWR: 17,650 LBS.
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Length: 40′
What’s not to love about this action-packed travel trailer? Built for couples—plus occasional overnight guests—this roomy towable feels like home in all the right ways. You’ve got your theater seating, multiple smart TVs, a modern island kitchen—and not one fireplace, but two. We especially love the massive primary bedroom suite, complete with king-size bed, a bathroom with a walk-in shower and its own couch. Washer/dryer prep, ample storage, and large holding tanks make this model ready for full-time living.
Photo Credit: Living Vehicle
The Best for Off-Grid Glamping
With its 100-gallon freshwater tank, 600W solar panel and 4,800Wh lithium house battery, the Living Vehicle HD30 is an invitation to get far, far gone. The travel trailer’s foldout side patio, spa-like bathroom and luxurious bedroom don’t hurt either. MSRP: $399,995
Photo Credit: Mammoth Overland
The Best for “True” Extremes
Outstanding build quality, off-road tires and a beefy suspension give the Mammoth Overland ELE (Extinction Level Event) legitimate off-road cred. But let’s be real: The standout attributes are the sealed interior cabin, air purification system and on-board bear spray defense system. What’s out there, anyway? MSRP: $67,000
Photo Credit: Ember RV
The Best for a Freestyle Lifestyle
There is a lot to love with the Ember Overland Edition 221MSL, which comes equipped with 1,200W of solar, off-road tires and a burly suspension. Of note: the versatile EmberTrack space, which can be used for bunks, gear storage or an office. MSRP: $66,023
Photo Credit: Thor
The Best for Serious Rough-Housing
THOR Outlaw
MSRP: $295,350
GVWR: 26,000 LBS.
Sleeping Capacity: 6
Length: 39′ 10″
The THOR Outlaw stands out as one of the few Class A toy haulers on the market. The design combines these two distinct styles by adding a 10’ 2” garage to the rear of a luxurious motorcoach. The result is a distinctive blend of comfort and functionality, with room to haul a UTV or a golf cart. As you would expect, the rear cargo ramp converts into a patio, extending the living space to the outdoors.
Photo Credit: KZ RV
The Best Trail Buddy
Available in both travel trailer and fifth-wheel models, the KZ Sportster X is a toy hauler ready to pack out everything from kayaks and e-bikes to large UTVs. Copious amounts of storage, elevated interior design, LED accent lighting and integrated JBL Bluetooth sound system help accentuate the fun. MSRP: TBD at press time
Photo Credit: Tiffin
The Best Classy Class A
A king-size bed, 1.5 baths, a gigantic closet and a drop-down front bunk all elevate the Tiffin Phaeton 44 OH. Optional upgrades can run to a washer/dryer combo, a dishwasher and an outdoor gas grill. MSRP: $550,559
Photo Credit: Forest River
Note From the Field: “We don’t often get a truly new thing, but electric fold-down decks are trending. The Forest River Sabre 33RLP is by far one of my favorites. The deck is only four feet wide, so it doesn’t take up all your campsite space, and it’s like a big window when it’s closed.” —Jason Epperson (@RVMILES)
Photo Credit: Storyteller Overland
The Best Backcountry Beast
Storyteller Overland GXV HILT
MSRP: $446,322
GVWR: 19,500 LBS.
Sleeping Capacity: 4
Length: 27′
This animal’s heavy-duty off-road chassis allows it to roam just about anywhere. But it’s the 16.8kWh house batteries and 120-gallon freshwater tank that allow you to stay out in the hinterlands about as long as you want. Inside, this burly number is surprisingly refined and luxurious. We love the HILT’s massive U-shaped dinette with seating for five and its comfortable queen-size cab-over bed. An upscale wet bath and galley kitchen add a touch of class and convenience.
Photo Credit: Grand Design
You Need It? They Have It:
A Super-High-quality Class C:Grand Design Lineage Series M
Trailer powerhouse Grand Design’s first motorized foray doesn’t disappoint.
Photo Credit: Pleasure Way
A Go-Anywhere In-Style Class B:Pleasure-Way Plateau XLTS
Camp off -grid with 500W solar panel and 600Ah lithium batteries.
Photo Credit: Northwood
A Foolproof Year-Round Camping Solution: Northwood AFox Edge
A well-equipped travel trailer built to take on the elements.
Photo Credit: Entegra Coach
A Class A with a Buttery-Smooth Ride: Entegra Coach Cornerstone
Comfortable and refined, both inside and out.
Nate Kantor keeps his first Airstream parked outside the Nomadicana warehouse on the western outskirts of Salt Lake City. When days of installing air foam, polishing aluminum and carving cabinetry in the workshop grow long, Kantor sneaks off to this 1974-built beauty, which served as his full-time home when he was a photographer roaming the West. There, he finds inspiration.
In particular, a seafoam green guest book, a keepsake from when he rented out his trailer at a different moment in life, reminds him that, even while his designs for one-of-a-kind travel trailers grow more varied and bold over time, his motivation for running his shop remains the same.
Photo Credit: Spenser Heaps
“So many people were able to enjoy this space and have life-changing experiences,” he says, “because it’s a real person’s space, with character and stories behind it.”
That marriage of modern mobile living and nostalgia led Kantor to open Nomadicana in 2023. He now salvages and retrofits Airstream trailers with a small team united by the conviction that these silver, spaceship-esque spaces are a traveler’s most sustainable shot at a secure home on wheels. They can withstand alpine conditions, desert heat and the test of time. Best of all, in Kantor’s view, they have stories pre-baked into their shells, with room for plenty more.
Q: What inspired your first build?A: I got into all this in 2018 with my partner at the time. Work had us moving back and forth. I think I’ve always romanticized van life for the self-reliance aspect behind it—the idea of being able to park anywhere and get electricity from the sun. But I more or less fell in love with the process because of my Dad. He was always fixing stuff and making it better than it was before. Anytime he’d see a vacuum by a dumpster in our neighborhood, he’d take it. It’d usually be a simple fix, and then he’d give it to someone else. He’s definitely an inspiration. He helped with our first build. We just like to understand something in order to appreciate it. I often take something apart to see how it works. I don’t think he intended to pass that skill down or teach it, it just happened.
Photo Credit: Spenser Heaps
Q: Why salvage vintage Airstreams instead of working with newer trailers?A: They’re made to last—kind of a rare thing in a disposable world. You can find vintage campers of different types, but a lot of them are built with wood and materials that are more likely to have rotted out or deteriorated over time. Airstreams are essentially built like something that could take people across the sky. They’re one of the few structures that holds up over time. The name brand and nostalgic factor also make them desirable. I really like the vintage look. The way things used to be made, it has a different softness to it. I just love learning about materials, trying to improve something that’s already really good and solving any design problems.
Q: What’s your build philosophy?A: There’s a common architectural saying that form follows function. I think form is a function. These Airstreams are utilitarian spaces. I think the goal is to be able to live comfortably in nature in spite of any external conditions. I call it designing with decay in mind. We try to avoid things that are glued on, like edge banding on cabinets, because it takes one road trip through Nevada in the summer to delaminate all that. Even the patina of the aluminum has its own beauty to it. It’s a sign of age, but it doesn’t look bad, whereas most materials that builders use now have a lot of plastics that tend to yellow—they don’t age gracefully. My goal is for our work to last another 50 years or longer, and hopefully be enjoyed by a lot of people and passed down. I don’t want it to be just another disposable item.
Photo Credit: Spenser Heaps
Q: What are some standout projects so far?A: It’s been really fun to teach other people how I approach things and get their feedback. In a lot of ways, I see this as a design collective where we get to build really cool stuff. Our first client build took like six months, because everything was so intricate and custom and specific—we really went all out. That’s what got me to realize we needed to figure out ways to do this a little faster, but without sacrificing quality. We were able to do the next one in less than half that time. Now, we’re actually doing a project for a hotel in Colorado where they want eight trailers. Those won’t necessarily be traveling on the road, but will still get a lot of foot traffic. I get excited about that—about creating inspiring spaces for a lot of people to stay in.
Learn more about this vintage travel trailer renovation company at nomadicana.co
Photo Credit: Spenser Heaps
Nomadic Notions
1. For a project dubbed “Anza,” the Nomadicana team channeled a Cali desert vibe via white oak, unlacquered brass, Marmoleum flooring, terracotta tile and a light, airy color palette. The 26-foot trailer is also wired for solar, with an expandable 1200wh Battle Born LiFePO4 Deep Cycle battery.
2. When Nate Kantor talks of Airstreams being built “like something that could take people across the sky,” he’s referring to the brand’s vaunted “semi-monocoque” construction style. Semi what now? “Monocoque” construction is used in airplane design: frame and body are one, with aluminum skin riveted directly to structural ribs. Airstream’s technique is called “semi-monocoque” because those ribs are fastened to the flat trailer frame, rather than the full-circle ribs of jet construction.
Metal Band
Nomadicana strikes up a communal vibe, offering to help would-be owners find the right rig if needed. Rebuild estimates range from $50,000 to $175,000.
From beaches to mountains and deserts to theme parks, this six-stop road trip lets you experience all the highlights of SoCal. Begin in San Diego, a haven of surf and sun, then journey to Julian for gold mining history and delicious apple pie. Continue to Borrego Springs for desert hikes and metal sculptures, to Palm Springs to explore its mid-century architecture and to Anaheim for Disney magic. Cap off your trip with a coastal retreat at Newport’s beautiful harbors and shores.
Click on the numbered icons to explore the Golden State most treasured destinations on this 299-mile adventure.
Our resident RV maintenance expert provides advice on a wide variety of topics.
Image Courtesy of MAD.vertise/Shutterstock
More Questions on Winter RVing in New Jersey
Thank you for being so helpful with my questions about our 22-foot Keystone Cougar and wintering full-time in New Jersey. A few more queries for you here!
— Shelly Sterling-Williams, Bogota, NJ
Q: Staying warm while keeping the humidity level under control has been a big challenge. Thoughts?
A: I suggest using a hygrometer (relative humidity meter) to monitor humidity inside the coach. They’re not expensive.
Q: Should we stuff the storage compartment with storage bins to keep that area warm?
A: Depending on the size of the storage area(s), you could store seasonal clothes there— blankets, towels, bed linens, etc. If that’s not enough, try some foam boards. Empty plastic storage containers don’t insulate well.
Q: Should we try to put something over the outside door before the snow comes?
A: The outside door is fully weatherproof and should be fine in snow. However, if cold intrusion is a problem, rig up an insulating curtain on the inside. (However, make sure it won’t slow egress in case of a fire.)
Q: I was told to change the filter in my 10-cubic-foot Furrion refrigerator every six months. Do I really need to?
A: The filter you refer to is only used for food odor control. It’s not necessary for safe operation—many RV refrigerators don’t even have this feature. Replacement frequency really depends on what kinds of food you have stored in the fridge, and if they are well sealed. Many folks use a package of baking soda, at significantly lower cost. That said, the filter is easy to replace—it basically snaps in. Look at the mounting points on the new one before removing the old one.
Photo Credit: Dometic
Replacing a Faulty Thermostat
Q: We have owned our 2019 Forest River Impression 20RB since new. The Dometic Single Zone LCD Thermostat has always been very sensitive to the touch—hard to select the mode or temperature you’re aiming for. We suspect we need to replace it. What do you think?
— Jim and Pat Thompson, Seaford, DE
A: I haven’t heard of those exact symptoms, but it sure sounds like the circuit board is going bad. Replacements are not very expensive. I suggest changing it for a model that has the features you want. A DIYer can change one quite easily—just keep track of which wire goes to which terminal. I always take a picture of the wiring before taking it apart.
Photo Credit:
Slo-Flo Resolved
Q: We have a new 2024 Grand Design Imagine 2500RL. We have very low water pressure in the shower— worse on city water, marginally better on the internal tank. The flow is not enough to keep the tankless water heater engaged. Water pressure and flow at both bath and kitchen sinks are good. To keep hot water in the shower we have to turn on hot in the bathroom sink. The tankless water heater is factory installed. What’s going on here?
— David Reece, Fort Wroth, TX
A: In my initial response to David, I noted that I strongly suspected the shower head had a flow restrictor installed. It could have been partly clogged with debris—or maybe something was just wrong with it. In a second note, he related that the original dealership had investigated and asked about a brass fitting on the water intake: a pressure regulator he’d used for years. The dealership advised removing it, but that didn’t resolve the problem. A new multi-position head did the trick, working fine with the old pressure regulator.
Photo Credit: Anetlanda/Getty
Tune In
Q: My wife and I are part-time campers, thinking of full-timing it. Currently we have DirecTV in the house as well as in our 2020 Winnebago Adventurer. At some point, we lost local channels in the rig. DirecTV told us to switch the control box, but as it turns out, the local stations are SD vs. HD, so only available with an antenna. Any suggestions? My wife likes to tape her soaps, and (in fairness) I like the golf channels.
— Lance Arnold, Elyria, OH
A: Dish and your current DirecTV are the two options for mobile RV satellite reception. You can get their services anywhere in the country. And yes, you can use an external antenna for over-the-air TV—this can be iffy, depending on where you go. IPTV, or TV over Internet (TCP/IP connections), can get you to services like Netflix, Hulu, Roku, etc. Most charge a moderate monthly fee. However, campground Wi-Fi likely can’t give you the needed bandwidth for streaming. If you don’t want to be a bandwidth bandit, you can get TV applications on your computer. There are a number of TV applications like LinuxTV, in addition to streaming via a web browser. Some, such as Miro on Linux using Bittorrent, can be throttled so you don’t hog bandwidth.
When the first International Harvester Scout rolled off the assembly line 64 years ago, the term “sport utility vehicle” was not yet part of America’s automotive lexicon. Equipped with four-wheel drive, beefy suspension and only two doors, the original Scouts were rugged—designed for hard work on the farm and harder miles off-road.
Available with a truck bed or a full-length hardtop, the often-two-toned Scouts had few peers outside of military-inspired Jeeps of the era. In some ways, International Harvester—which mostly built commercial agricultural and trucking equipment—created the template every SUV has copied since. And before Scout was discontinued in 1980, they also spawned a cult following.
A bright orange car parked above a blue lake on a fall day. Leaves are turning in the background.
By the time Ryan Duvall moved to Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1999, the newspaper columnist was nostalgic for the 1974 Scout II he’d driven in high school. At that point, he wasn’t aware he’d landed in the city where the original Scouts were built. But when he saw an uncanny number of them around town, he tracked down a 1976 Scout Traveler for himself and began researching the origins.
He connected with other Scout owners and former employees, and in 2019 organized a meetup for International Harvester drivers. Today, he runs Harvester Homecoming and is creating a museum to honor Fort Wayne’s truck-building history. The nonprofit also hosts an annual festival that attracts upwards of 20,000 people and 500 vehicles. “I thought, the things that happened here, we should be honoring,” Duvall says. “Honoring these amazing Scouts.”
Today, the community he brought together has reason to celebrate. In 2021, Volkswagen Group acquired Navistar (which had bought International Harvester in the ’80s), and launched Scout Motors—an independent American company promising a resurrection of the iconic brand.
Photo Credit: Scout Motors
The Scout Motors team sought out enthusiasts like Duvall as they prepared to launch two new vehicles, which they officially unveiled in October 2024. “We wanted to create something that felt like the original vehicle,” says Chris Benjamin, chief design officer for Scout Motors. “Something original owners would look at and say: ‘That’s a Scout.’”
The new Scout will be available to consumers in 2027 in two models: an SUV (the “Traveler”) and pickup (the “Terra”), both modern electric vehicles that honor their predecessors. With 35-inch tires, low front overhang and slanted rear windows, the new Scouts are unmistakably nodding to the past. The Scout Motors team even invited Duvall and other owners to the reveal event in Franklin, Tennessee.
“I had tempered my expectations. I was buckled up for something way newer than it was old,” Duvall says. “But I was wrong. I was emotional when they pulled them out. They hit a home run.”
Just in time for Spring daydreaming! As the days get colder and grayer, and the sun sets before we even get home, we’ve brought on the spring! With the Keystone Arcadia line, you can start your Spring planning now!
The Arcadia Fifth Wheel line is our newest Keystone, including the Super Lite and the ultra-affordable Arcadia Select.
Arcadia’s philosophy is simple: no matter the floorplan, the fundamentals remain the same. These stunning Super Lite models offer Arcadia’s signature, but in lighter, easy-to-tow lengths. It’s a new approach for RVs in this weight class, and we think you’re going to love it.
Let’s start with their Keystone weathertight build. Keystone tests *ALL* its RVs in their cold chamber, certifying them down to 0° F. So you can start the RVing season early, and end it late. It’s all part of their Peak Weather Protection Package, which includes:
· 35,000 BTUs high output furnace
· Fully enclosed, insulated holding tanks with 12V heat pads
· Reflective insulation in floor, roof, and front wall
· Electric fireplace with 5,100BTU of heat
· BladePure™ High Performance ducting with Merv-9 filter
· Heated Pass-Thru storage
· Nautilus Water Management System
Then there’s the floor — the high-performance, water resistant floor.
Stronger, lighter and more resilient than traditional wood laminated flooring, Keystone’s exclusive HyperDeck™ is an excellent example of how the Keystone Innovation Lab challenges industry norms to build better RV’s. By its nature, traditional wood floor construction presents the possibility of taking on water, key for RV owners who need to remain vigilant to keep moisture out of their coaches. Hyperdeck replaces wood with 100% inorganic materials, designed to resist water and water damage.
The presence of a Girard Tankless Water Heater is a luxury for some, but it’s the sort that quickly turns into a necessity. The advantages include:
42,000 BTUs provides the optimum performance for an RV’s plumbing
No special LP gas lines or special plumbing required
Quiet, brushless motor
12V power operates at less than 3 AMPs
Freeze protection enables reliable winter use
Designed specifically for recreational vehicles
Compact design – fits in any tank water heater cut-out opening
Add in the impossibly versatile, exceptionally designed, SolarFlex Solar Energy and you have a system that’s shattering customers’ expectations of factory solar power. SolarFlex™ eliminates the guesswork, delivering affordable, high-quality RV solar energy systems.
The Avalanche Edition of the Keystone Alpine has the same bones as its sibling: the same Wide Body construction and spacious interior, the same SolarFlex™ system, the same Polar Pack for four-season living, and the same Residential kitchen and Theater-system living room with the plushest of seating and a 4K 65” television. Even the bathrooms in all Alpines are Residential and equipped with tankless hot water heaters!
As for the Interior, take a look for yourself. Whether it’s the Arcadia Super-Lite or the Arcadia Select, you’ll find beautiful, well-built interiors with plenty of high-end amenities. Easy to tow, easy to enjoy, this might be the perfect Fifth Wheel for you. Come in and take a look for yourself.
Then start dreaming of Spring.
At last year’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, we had the chance to go inside the Pebble Flow—an all-electric travel trailer with plenty of high-tech features and amenities. And while that model was an early prototype of the futuristic towable, we came away very impressed by what we saw. Now, one year later, the RV has just hit a major milestone, as the company has revealed a production-intent version, signaling that the Pebble Flow is ready to hit the road.
Photo Credit: Pebble
The latest version of the travel trailer will make its official debut tomorrow (January 7) on the CES show floor at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This version has undergone a number of revisions and refinements based on in-house development and testing, along with consumer feedback. As a result, the Pebble Flow is now ready to go into production with the first models delivering to customers later this spring.
“The production-intent Pebble Flow marks a significant milestone in our journey to redefine RV travel,” says Pebble CEO Bingrui Yang in a press release. “From the initial concept to our first prototype and now the fully realized product, we have poured our passion and expertise into every stage of its creation. This process has been about addressing the real challenges RVers face while incorporating thoughtful design and cutting-edge features. This product embodies the creativity of the Pebble team and we can’t wait to see it on the road soon.”
Photo Credit: Pebble
The Pebble Flow’s signature features include a 45kWh lithium battery pack and a 1.1kW solar array, which provide enough energy to camp off-grid for up to seven days. The interior is spacious, modern, and airy, with large windows that provide plenty of natural light and open to let the breeze flow in. The production-ready version has a more aerodynamic design compared to the prototype and comes with a factory-installed motorized awning and four exterior cameras to assist with maneuvering and parking.
The standard version of the Pebble Flow offers a refined and comfortable camping experience, but customers can elect to upgrade their rigs by adding the optional Magic Pack. This adds dual electric motors to the travel trailer that brings Active Tow Assist functionality to help propel it down the road, easing the demand put on the tow vehicles. Other Magic Pack features include Magic Hitch for faster and easier hitching and Instacamp, which automatically deploys or retracts the stairs, stabilizers, and levelers when arriving or departing the campsite. You can even move the Pebble in and out of tight spots using a remote control feature.
Photo Credit: Pebble
Other notable features include a flexible interior space that quickly transforms from a mobile workstation to a relaxing environment as needed. A queen-size Murphy bed serves as the primary sleep area, while the multi-functional dinette converts into a second bed for guests. The kitchen comes equipped with a removable induction cooktop, a four-in-one convection microwave, and a full-size refrigerator. A spa-inspired bathroom is both beautiful and functional, providing a residential feel even when boondocking.
“Our team has worked incredibly hard to make these improvements to the design of our Pebble Flow, and this won’t be all,” says Chief Technology Officer Stefan Solyom. “We’ve intentionally made the Pebble Flow a software-defined vehicle. This allows us to implement new features and updates seamlessly through over-the-air (OTA) updates. We’ll be able to surprise and delight users for years to come.”
Photo Credit: Pebble
The Pebble Flow is set to go into production early this year, with the first models shipping to customers in the spring. Pricing starts at $109,500 for the base model and $135,500 with the Magic Pack. A Founders Edition model featuring all upgrades and features, plus the option to select a limited-edition paint color, will be available for $175,000. All prices are before federal and state tax credits, which could potentially bring the price down further.
Happy New Year from everyone at RV.com. We hope 2025 is off to a great start for all of our readers. The holidays continue to make it a slow time for news from the RV and camping industries, but there were a few interesting stories from the past week that are worth sharing. Here are a few things you might want to know:
See the New Newmar Grand Star Super C in Tampa: The 2026 Grand Star Super C from Newmar will be on display at the upcoming Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa in just a few weeks time. Described as “the most approachable Super C on the market,” this 34-foot model rides on a Freightliner S2RV chassis, giving it a smooth ride and plenty of maneuverability. Of course, this being Newmar, you can also expect a full luxury experience, with upscale furnishings, appliances, and other amenities. If you’ll be in attendance at the show, plan on dropping by the RV manufacturer’s booth to check it out for yourself.
Photo Credit: Hunter RMV
Hunter RMV Sherpa XLE Overland Vehicle is an Off-Road Beast: For a completely different type of RV, check out the new Sherpa XLE from Hunter RMV. This massive off-road vehicle rides on a 6×6 chassis designed to go practically anywhere. The rig’s Cummins B 6.7 turbo-diesel engine provides plenty of power, while front and rear air springs, coupled with a four-point articulating sub-frame, ensure a smooth ride. Inside, the Sherpa XLE comes equipped with a Victron smart power system, a Dometic 15,000 BTU A/C unit, an electric lift bed, a flat-screen TV, a full dry bath, a microwave, and a Traeger BBQ. All of this for a starting price of $375,000. Preorders are open now.
Ohio RV Supershow Kicks Off Next Week: Can’t make it to Florida to attend the big RV show in Tampa? Perhaps the Ohio RV Supershow is more accessible. This event runs Wednesday, January 8 through Sunday, January 12 in Cleveland, where it officially kicks off a long string of regional RV events for 2025. Tickets are available online with general admission priced at $15.
A Blacked-Out Version of the Feedwood Discovery LXE is a Sight to Behold: The Fleetwood Discovery LXE is a refined Class A model that nicely combines comfort and capability. Inside, the motorhome is spacious, well-appointed, and thoughtfully designed. Enough so that it is easy to recommend to anyone in the market for an upscale coach for full-time living or extended cross-country adventures. So what could make this outstanding RV even better? How about an eye-catching blackout package that only adds to its appeal? Check it out in the video above.
Dometic Debuts Efficient New Refrigerator Line: Dometic has announced a new line of refrigerators that promise to deliver more efficiency to the marine and RV space. The company says that its new NRX Series are 25% more efficient than other models and come with a beveled rear side designed to better utilize the available space. The units also have a reversible door hinge and a dual-function locks for both security and better ventilation. Our friends at RV Business have more info here.
Nevada is truly a land of contradictions. On one hand, it shimmers and shines with the neon nightlife of Las Vegas. On the other, it’s an ode to the quiet serenity of the desert landscape. Thankfully, you can experience the best of both worlds on this 167-mile route across the Silver State’s southern tip.
Click on the numbered icons and follow the state highways and interstates through compelling landscapes. From the riverside romp that is Laughlin to the bright lights of the Strip and the wholesome outdoors adventures in Boulder City and Pahrump, there’s no shortage of nature to go with all that human-made glitz.
The votes are in, and the results have been tabulated. Once again, the readers of Wildsam (and RV.com) have spoken. Over the past few months, you’ve shared your picks for the best RV brands, accessory manufacturers, campgrounds, national parks, and a variety of other categories. Who took home the prestigious gold, silver, and bronze awards? Find out below.
Gold: Relaxing
Silver: Sightseeing
Bronze: Hiking
Congratulations to all the winners and thanks to our readers who shared their thoughts and opinions.
The post The 2024 Wildsam Readers’ Choice Award Winners appeared first on RV.com.
