What memberships do you have
-Currently we belong to Escapees, RV Trip Wizard, Harvest Host, RVillage, Good Sam, KOA
Why did you pick Grand Design
-After more than 5 years of research we went with a Grand Design. We also vacillated from a 5th wheel to a Class A back to a 5th wheel. On that turn we found out about Grand Design. We ready only positive things and the most important for us was maintenance and customer service.
How do you pick your sites/campgrounds
-We look for full hook up with a reasonable rates. We look for campgrounds after we decide the route.
How do you decide where to go
-For the first year, we wanted to see the fall foliage and go to a state we have not been. Settled that Vermont was it. We also wanted to go to the Shenandoah Valley. We then designed a route to get there. Some of this route included visiting family. Our rule is not to drive more than 280 miles or 4 hours in one day. We see more and more accidents. By having plenty of time, you can pull in to a campsite with ample daylight left to set up.
How long do you stay at one place
-Unless we are traveling to a destination, we like to stay for a month. This allows us to experience the fabric of the community. It allows you to relax and enjoy. I mean what is the rush?? If it rains, no big deal, sleep in a sight see another day.
How do you find things to do where you travel
-Once we decide on a location, we search two apps for outdoor activities: All Trails and The Outbound. We look at other sites as well, but these two have rating and directions for trailheads.
What safety measures have you added
-After researching and watching lots of fellow full time RVers, we have added: TST Flow through valves. This monitors our tire temperature and pressure of the RV. The Rand McNally OverDryve 7 RV GPS. You can customize with your individual size such as length, height, propane, how you like to travel (i.e. avoiding tolls and interstates). Rear facing camera. We like to see who is behind us, also we can see the bike rack. Gas Stop Valve. This will immediately shut off the LP tanks should a leak happen. We have upgraded the RV with hydraulic brakes; so now the RV can stop the truck.
How do you wash the RV
-Most RV parks do not allow washing. Some do for a charge. We use Aero Cosmetics Waterless RV Aircraft Boat Wax Mop Kit. Does a great job. And before we picked up the RV, we went ahead and had the Eco RV Pro application which has a 7 year guarantee for the outside wax, and they treated every indoor interior as well.
What do you do about your mail
- Escapees service. We are from Florida so this allows us to keep our FL domicile. The main mail service is out of Texas.
How did you learn to tow such a big RV
-We were going to pay someone for the all day course. We were fortunate to meet a former truck driver and experienced 5th wheel owner at the first campground. He took us out for a lesson.
What is a typical day in the life of full time RV living
-Just like your house. Some days are full of laundry and cleaning. We perform routine maintenance on the RV. We plan many outdoor activities in this beautiful country of ours. The day before we move, we start a series of check lists to prepare.
How much water do you hold?
-To best answer, will cover all 3 types of tanks
-fresh water capacity: 93 gallons
-gray water capacity: 100 gallons
-black water capacity: 50 gallons