My Camper Friend

Journal

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

How We Budget for a Month-Long Summer Road Trip

Aug 21, 2026

How We Budget for a Month-Long Summer Road Trip

A month on the road sounds expensive, but with real numbers and honest planning, it is more affordable than you think. Here is exactly how we break it down.

budgetplanningroad-trips
Best Scenic Byways for an RV Road Trip

Aug 17, 2026

Best Scenic Byways for an RV Road Trip

Highways get you there fast. Scenic byways make the drive the destination. These are the routes we keep coming back to and the ones on our bucket list.

road-tripsdestinationsscenic
7 Campground Red Flags to Watch For Before Booking

Aug 5, 2026

7 Campground Red Flags to Watch For Before Booking

Not every campground with a 4-star rating deserves your money. These are the warning signs I have learned to spot before I hand over my credit card.

campgroundstipsplanning
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.

appsplanningboondocking
How to Choose the Right Campsite: Shade, Views, and Avoiding the Highway

Jul 13, 2026

How to Choose the Right Campsite: Shade, Views, and Avoiding the Highway

Not all campsites are created equal. Learn how to scout for shade, score the best views, dodge highway noise, and land a spot that makes your whole trip better.

campingcampsitetips
8 Fall Camping Destinations That Beat Summer Crowds

Jul 6, 2026

8 Fall Camping Destinations That Beat Summer Crowds

Skip the summer mob scene. These eight camping destinations are at their absolute best in September, October, and November — with fewer people, cooler temps, and stunning fall color.

destinationsfallplanning
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.

rvchecklistsummer
How to Budget Your First RV Trip Without Nasty Surprises

Mar 23, 2026

How to Budget Your First RV Trip Without Nasty Surprises

Fuel, campgrounds, groceries, and the hidden costs nobody warns you about. Here's how to estimate your real RV trip budget before you hit the road.

budgetplanningbeginner