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Why You Need to Join the Texas Recreational Vehicle Association

The Texas Recreational Vehicle Association in Austin, TX, was founded in 1974 by Texas dealers who saw a bright future for the industry.

One of the most important functions of TRVA is our government relations work. TRVA works successfully with the Texas Legislature and the many state agencies which regulate its members to promote and protect the interests of the RV industry. TRVA also works in cooperation with the Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association, RVDA, and the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, RVIA, to monitor and influence issues of importance to the RV industry in the U.S. Congress, U.S. Senate and the various federal agencies which regulate the RV industry. That means TRVA can keep members informed of both proposed and new regulatory or statutory changes that will affect the RV industry.

The TRVA is an important part of the community of RV dealers in Texas.  They help the consumer by controlling licensing on dealerships and that helps the consumer to know they are dealing with a licensed dealer when making their purchases.  They are constantly endorsing and providing training for the dealers and have been a huge supporter of Terry Cooper’s school.   Although they are a dealer group formed to support the dealers, they are also supporting the consumer in many ways. For example, TRVA employs two full-time lobbyists to work on behalf of its members and has an attorney with more than 35 years of motor vehicle industry experience as a resource. A recent legislative effort pushed by TRVA on behalf of both RV dealers and owners alike, was a new 5 year license for towables.  So now when you purchase a towable you can now pay for a 5 year license so you do not have to worry about the annual renewal.  In addition, we have worked closely with TADA, local and state tax collectors and TXDMV to make licensing simpler for all in Texas. 

As a past President of TRVA, I understand the work that goes on behind the scenes.  We all work very hard to support the RV lifestyle.  From dealers to banks, insurance companies, parts suppliers, RV manufacturers and advertising companies to campgrounds, we want to help the RV enthusiast live the RV lifestyle.  It takes all of us working together to promote and support this great lifestyle and the members I have met during my 35+ years at PPL Motorhomes and the relationships we have built are priceless. 

On a very personal note, I have experienced the wonder of these relationships first hand when I lost my late husband.  The word traveled fast and so did the TRVA members.  When my kids and I turned around to leave the chapel after the service, we were amazed by the large number of TRVA members, friends, who were there for us.  My late husband, Mike, was never in the industry, but they knew him through my work and dedication. 

So why should you join the Texas Recreational Vehicle Association? Because TRVA is more than just an association, for me and many others, the members and leadership are more like family…and I don’t say that lightly. That speaks volumes! 

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TACO – Texas Association of Campground Owners Annual Shout Out

I just want to write a quick, “Howdy” to all of the great Campground owners I met in Conroe at the Lake Conroe KOA during the Texas Campground Owners Spring Event.  This event was fantastic! We shared three fun-filled, educational days with vendors, park owners, suppliers and guests, all making plans to improve the camping adventures for all RVers. One of the things I got out of this year’s event was that there is something for everyone in Texas.  From small parks specializing in primitive camping to huge resorts with more amenities than I ever even imagined. 

I can say without reserving any enthusiasm, that all of us here at PPL Motorhomes are so proud to be a part of this great group, as well as the Travel and RV Industry in Texas. 

Now of course, being the true Texan that I am, there’s a certain amount of acceptable braggin’ that is in order. I am happy to announce that PPL Motorhomes was honored at this event as the Supplier of the Year by the Texas Campground Owners Association. For which, we truly are honored. Of course, a very special thanks to my wonderful team for making that possible. We can’t be PPL with out our people.

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Happy Father’s Day From PPL Motorhomes

Happy Father’s Day from your RV consignment center, PPL Motorhomes!

Now, certainly I don’t want to take anything away from all of the Moms out there, our gratitude for you is undying. However, since Father’s Day is Sunday, I though I throw a little gratitude Dad’s way. When I was growing up, I have very distinct memories of my Dad. I remember him picking me up on numerous occasions when I fell and doctoring skinned knees and bruised egos. It was Dad who taught all of us how to ride a bike and bait a hook. It was Dad who taught us how swim in the deep end, paddle a canoe and shoot a bow and arrow and rifle. He taught me Life through Nature. My Dad is the same guy that would take you either to a ball game, or a dance recital, it didn’t matter to him, as long as he could see you succeed at the stuff you liked to do. When you didn’t, it didn’t matter, he was always quick with a “Good Job”, or “You’ll get ’em next time, sport”.

We’ve all had our ups and downs with Dad, but I couldn’t imagine a world growing up in which I existed and he didn’t. He is half of the influence of who I became today.

I found a great little video that I wanted to share. I think it captures the essence of  Father’s Day pretty well.

Remember how much Dad used to like to go camping? Well not much has changed, he may be a little older, but I’m sure his love for the outdoors hasn’t changed. If you are here, reading this now, was it Dad who got you into your first tent? Was it Dad who took you on your first RV trip? Probably. Return the favor, plan a RV trip with dear old Dad, I’m sure he’d love it. Be sure to bring him by PPL Motorhomes first and take a look at some great RVs…just like you did when you were a kid.

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My First RV Trip

This was sent to me by a reader and fan of this blog. Apparently he’s been around the RV lifestyle for a while with friends, some family and even as an element of his job; however, he never had the opportunity to actually take a trip for himself. Here is his open letter to me.

Dear RV Nana,

Let me first say, I LOVE YOUR BLOG! You might find my story interesting, or at the very least moderately entertaining. I’m 40 years old and have worked on the marketing side of the RV Industry for 14 years. That’s not the interesting part, up until now I have never taken a single trip in an RV of any kind. It’s hard to believe, and I know what some of your readers may be thinking; “How could you sell an RV if you’ve never spent time in one? Well, the only thing I can say to that is, through my clients direction, manufacturer education and RVer’s stories, I consider myself as knowledgeable as the next RVer, at least in theory, but not in practicum.

However, I’m excited to report that I have now joined the ranks of the RVing public. My family and myself decided to take the opportunity, on a recent trip to Colorado, to rent a consignment RV and have our hand at RVing. I can say with utmost certainty that I THOUGHT I knew what RVing was like, but it wasn’t until we spent just a little time in our rented unit did we realize how an RVing was such an incredible way of traveling. I’ve written about the basics of RVing for years, such as actual savings when compared to other forms of travel and lodging. The comfort level was extraordinary and it truly felt like a “home away from home”.

One of the main reasons we decided to rent a RV as opposed to a large SUV or van really was because of your blogs. You make RVing sound like such a great adventure and suitable for everyone! So far, you’ve been right. That just reinforced everything I already knew, but never thought to put into practice. There is no doubt that we will be looking into getting our own RV very, very soon.

Thanks for all of your effort and championing the RV lifestyle! If you see fit, feel free to share my story with others so they know that there are different options out there when it comes to travel. RV rental really is one of them.

Sincerely,

Dave

Well, there you have it, a long time reader, but first time RVer…or something like that. You are certainly welcome, Dave! I’m glad to have played a minor role in your decision to try out RV travel. I’m even more happy that you are now considering an RV of your own!

If you are like, Dave and think it’s time for an RV, don’t hesitate to call PPL Motorhomes. I’m sure we have the right RV for you and your budget.

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RV Parks Are Great For Family Reunions

Every year, all across America families plan reunions in hopes of staying in touch with those who can sometimes be on the other side of the US. Summer is prime season for reunions too. The weather is generally nice, kids are out of school and people have been saving up their vacation time. I know all of us here at PPL Motorhomes look forward to reuniting with our family members ever summer.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xG_iWldgook

What better place to hold a family reunion that at an RV Park? Generally the amenities that are provided will more than suffice for even larger reunions. Many parks across the United States have pools, activities, eating halls, picnic areas, covered pavilions and more. Not only do you have all of this at your disposal, but many RV Parks also offer packages to help you organize your family reunion. Even if you have family members who don’t own an RV, some RV Parks also have permanent lodging facilities for rent.

However, PPL Motorhomes recommends looking into renting an RV and experiencing how comfortable the lifestyle can be first hand. Who knows, maybe one of your family member will love it so much they will want to get an RV for themselves! Not to do any shameless self-promotion here, but I know a great little consignment RV center in Houston that you can recommend.

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Texas Travel For The Holidays And After

I’m constantly amazed at how much the great state of Texas has to offer travelers of all types. You can literally find nearly every type of land formation and climate from the Gulf Coast the the tip of the Panhandle. That’s why I’m shocked when I hear people sometimes saying things like, “I wish Texas wasn’t soooo big”, or “There’s not much to do in Texas”. Are you kidding me? There are thousands of miles of things to do in Texas. If you are having trouble making a trip plan for this holiday season, or after, one of the best sites you can visit is http://www.traveltex.com/.

This site literally has every event that is happening across the state. If you are thinking about planning a statewide trip, take a look at Traveltex first. It is chock full of things to do and to see. In fact, if you plan right, you can tour Texas in it’s entirety and see everything from mountains to coastal plains. You can take part in small town events and big city activities.

If you plan on traveling during the holidays, there are drive though forest Christmas light displays in East Texas that will know your socks off. There are flea markets, antique showcases and craft shows galore. Here are a few videos to show you what you are missing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=eV9PGia-QHE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=Q8FbAGghNoE

A trip across Texas this holiday season might be exactly what you need to decompress after a long year of hard work. It’s time to take a look around you, around your city and around your state, jump into your Houston RV and see what you’ve been missing. There is so much to see and do, I don’t expect to ever hear, “What is there really to do in Texas, anyway”?

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PPL Motorhomes: Time To Put Your RV On A Diet

Your Consignment RV center, PPL Motorhomes wants to remind you that driving or towing an overloaded rig is a leading cause of RV accidents? Even a slight overload or unequal weight distribution can seriously restrict braking and steering, dramatically increase fuel consumption, and cause sudden blowouts or breakdowns. An overweight RV also creates the danger of early failure in your rig’s tires, brakes, wheels, drive train and other components.This might be something you may not think about all of the time. Really, for many new and some seasoned RVer’s out there the “Gas and Go” approach to RVing can cause some problems down the road (pun intended).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CylfR2bMaUU

So, how do you know if your RV need to go on a diet? That’s actually an easy question. Your RV is overloaded if it exceeds any of the manufacturer’s established limitations for total load, axle load, or tire loading. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is the maximum amount your RV can safely carry. It includes both the wet weight and the cargo weight. You can find the appropriate weight limits by checking your owner’s manual for weight limitations.

So how do you lighten the load? Well, that’s another easy question to answer. If your RV turns out to be a heavyweight, look it over from top to bottom and consider what’s necessary and what’s not. Just because your rig has a lot of shelves, drawers and other storage space doesn’t mean you have to fill them all up. If possible, remove all your belongings, then put back only the items you really need.

Also, remember to check your tire pressure before each trip. Poorly maintained tires can become a very real and dangerous issue, especially when combined with an overweight rig.

The bottom line is a properly balanced RV, well maintained equipment, properly inflated tires and good driving can tame almost any road. If you have any questions, or tips for PPL Motorhomes, leave us a comment or two below.

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PPL Motorhomes: Do You Have All Of Your RV Travel Medications In Order

I was recently chatting with a PPL Motorhomes consignment RV customer who has been enjoying the RV lifestyle for a while as well. We started thinking about all the “stuff” we store in our RVs.  From canned goods to paper products to first aid supplies and everything in between, we have our RVs loaded for our adventures.   Later that evening it dawned on me that we leave many items in the medicine cabinet of our RV all the time, even when the unit is being stored.  This encouraged me to talk to my friend at the pharmacy who informed me that many of the basic over the counter medications should not be exposed to prolonged heat or cold and that lead me to creating this little check list.

I recommend you make a “carry out” bag that should include the following items:

  • Basic liquid medications (antacids, cough syrup, decongestants, vitamins)
  • Over the counter medications in pill form (check the expiration dates)
  • All prescription medications

Simply make this carry out bag a part of your checklist when you get ready to leave for your trip and then take it out of the vehicle when you get home.  This gives you an opportunity to check the expiration dates, keep the items fresh and update all prescriptions you may be currently taking.

It is also very important to keep a list of all your prescription medications, including the name, address and phone number of your doctor and pharmacy with you in this “carry out” bag.  Keeping it all in this one bag may help a spouse or emergency medical technician in the event of an emergency.  (A friend of mine read this and also suggested a spare pair of reading or prescription glasses, too). Before you go on your RV trip, PPL Motorhomes wants to remind you that the easiest thing to do before you leave is to really think about your lifestyle and needs and make a detailed RV checklist. It will come in very handy.

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The Electric Skillet PPL Motorhomes’ Favorite Small RV Appliance

At PPL Motorhomes, we carry hundreds, if not thousands of items that are invaluable to RVers. From lights, to generators, to grills, to parts, PPL Motorhomes has pretty much everything you’d need to make your RVing adventure more enjoyable. That being said, every RVer has 1 item that is totally indispensable. It would be something that you never hit the road without taking it with you. So, what’s RV Nana’s favorite item to bring on every camping trip?

The Electric Skillet! With an electric skillet, there is no guess work involved with getting the cooking surface to the right temperature. Plus, using an electric skillet will free up your stove top burners for other items for your wonderful meal.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0teN1x__YA

There are literally hundreds of recipes you can make using your electric skillet. It is, in fact, one of the most versatile pieces of cooking equipment your RV can have. It will take the place of a number of pots and pans, which will free up some valuable space in your RV. Here is a link to a bunch of great meals you can cook with your electric skillet.

Have any favorite recipes? Share them with your consignment RV center, PPL Motorhomes.