My Camper Friend

Journal

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

Summer RV Trip Checklist: Everything Before You Hit the Road

May 25, 2026

Summer RV Trip Checklist: Everything Before You Hit the Road

A thorough pre-trip checklist turns a potentially stressful departure into a smooth, confident start. Here is everything we check before every summer RV trip, organized by system.

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RV Awning Care: Cleaning, Repair, and Storm-Proofing

May 22, 2026

RV Awning Care: Cleaning, Repair, and Storm-Proofing

Your RV awning takes a beating from sun, wind, and rain. Proper care keeps it looking good, prevents expensive replacements, and stops it from becoming a dangerous sail in unexpected weather.

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RV Slide-Out Maintenance: Keeping It Smooth and Leak-Free

May 20, 2026

RV Slide-Out Maintenance: Keeping It Smooth and Leak-Free

RV slide-outs add valuable living space, but they need regular maintenance to work reliably. Here is a complete guide to seals, lubrication, alignment, and preventing the water leaks that destroy RVs.

rvmaintenancehow-to
RV Generators: Portable vs Built-In, and When You Need One

May 18, 2026

RV Generators: Portable vs Built-In, and When You Need One

Not every RVer needs a generator, but when you do need one, having the right type and size makes the difference between comfortable camping and a frustrating, noisy experience.

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RV Towing for Beginners: Weight Ratings, Hitches, and Safety

May 15, 2026

RV Towing for Beginners: Weight Ratings, Hitches, and Safety

Towing a travel trailer or fifth wheel safely starts with understanding weight ratings, choosing the right hitch, and mastering a few critical driving techniques that keep you and everyone else on the road safe.

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RV Air Conditioning: Types, Maintenance, and Staying Cool

May 8, 2026

RV Air Conditioning: Types, Maintenance, and Staying Cool

Keeping your RV cool in summer heat means understanding rooftop vs portable units, proper maintenance schedules, and a handful of tricks that make a surprising difference.

rvmaintenancehow-to
RV Solar Panels: Complete Setup Guide for Beginners

May 6, 2026

RV Solar Panels: Complete Setup Guide for Beginners

Going solar on your RV is the single best upgrade for freedom and off-grid camping. Here is everything you need to know about sizing, mounting, wiring, and getting the most out of your panels.

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National Parks RV Camping: Tips for Getting Reservations

May 4, 2026

National Parks RV Camping: Tips for Getting Reservations

National park campgrounds are some of the hardest reservations to get. Here is our system for booking sites, plus tips for RV-specific logistics at the most popular parks.

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RV Internet: Best WiFi and Cellular Solutions for the Road

May 1, 2026

RV Internet: Best WiFi and Cellular Solutions for the Road

Staying connected on the road is essential for remote work, homeschooling, and staying in touch. Here are the best internet solutions for RV life in 2026.

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Boondocking for Beginners: Free Camping Off the Grid

Apr 29, 2026

Boondocking for Beginners: Free Camping Off the Grid

Boondocking means camping without hookups, often for free, on public land. Here is everything you need to know to try it safely and comfortably for the first time.

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