My Camper Friend

Journal

Practical guides, honest gear reviews, and road-tested tips for camping and RV adventures.

RV Refrigerator Types: Absorption vs Compressor

Oct 2, 2026

RV Refrigerator Types: Absorption vs Compressor

Your RV fridge works nothing like the one at home. Understanding the difference between absorption and compressor models helps you use yours better and know when it is time to upgrade.

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Best Portable Power Stations for Camping in 2026

Sep 11, 2026

Best Portable Power Stations for Camping in 2026

A good portable power station keeps your phone charged, your fan running, and your CPAP working off-grid. Here is what actually matters when choosing one.

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Off-Grid Camping Checklist: Everything You Need to Pack

Sep 4, 2026

Off-Grid Camping Checklist: Everything You Need to Pack

Boondocking means no hookups, no services, and no running to the store. This is the complete checklist we use to make sure we have everything before heading off-grid.

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RV Composting Toilet: Is It Worth the Switch?

Jul 31, 2026

RV Composting Toilet: Is It Worth the Switch?

The black tank is the part of RV life nobody loves. Composting toilets promise freedom from dump stations and sewer hoses. But are they actually better? Here is my honest take.

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How to Stay Cool in Your RV Without Running the AC All Day

Jul 24, 2026

How to Stay Cool in Your RV Without Running the AC All Day

Running the AC nonstop burns through power, generator fuel, and campground goodwill. Here are the tricks that actually keep our camper comfortable on hot days.

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Best Free Camping Apps That Actually Work in 2026

Jul 20, 2026

Best Free Camping Apps That Actually Work in 2026

There are dozens of camping apps out there, but most are bloated with ads or hidden paywalls. These are the ones I actually keep on my phone and use on every trip.

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Dispersed Camping Explained: Rules, Gear, and Safety Tips

Jul 1, 2026

Dispersed Camping Explained: Rules, Gear, and Safety Tips

Dispersed camping lets you camp for free on public land with no reservations needed. Here is everything you need to know about rules, gear, safety, and Leave No Trace.

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How to Find Free Camping on BLM Land: Apps, Maps, and Etiquette

Jun 12, 2026

How to Find Free Camping on BLM Land: Apps, Maps, and Etiquette

BLM land offers millions of acres of free camping across the western US. Here is how to find the best spots, what the rules are, and how to be a responsible camper.

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RV Gray Water: Managing the Tank Nobody Talks About

Jun 1, 2026

RV Gray Water: Managing the Tank Nobody Talks About

Your gray water tank collects sink and shower water. Learn how to manage it properly, prevent odors, and dump responsibly whether you are at a campground or boondocking.

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RV Inverters: What They Do and What to Actually Buy

May 29, 2026

RV Inverters: What They Do and What to Actually Buy

An inverter converts your battery power into household electricity. Here is how to choose the right size, type, and brand without overspending or underpowering your setup.

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