Are you new to the RV lifestyle? Not sure what the difference is between a fifth wheel and a conventional trailer? Start here! In this article, we explain the different types of RVs available.
Before starting your RV search, it’s time to brush up on your RV vocabulary! Learn the meanings of common RV terms frequently used on forums and blogs.
Solar power has been a popular topic among RVers for years. Solar panels atop an RV allows you the opportunity to disconnect from RV electric hookups and enjoy the autonomy to go wherever you want while still getting power.
Getting power from the Sun is clean, quiet and more affordable. Adding RV solar or solar power to any mobile living space not only increases your quality of life but also puts money back in your wallet. In an effort to encourage Americans to use solar power, the U.S. government offers tax credits for solar systems. This tax credit can be claimed by owners who are looking to install solar soon or installed it within the past five years.
What is the federal solar tax credit?
A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the amount of income tax you would otherwise owe. The Residential Clean Energy Credit can be claimed on federal income taxes. Once claimed, it can cover a percentage of the cost of a solar system that was installed during the tax year. It started in 2017 and lasts until 2034.
There are no income limits on the solar tax credit, so all individual taxpayers are eligible to claim the credit on qualifying solar energy equipment investments made to their homes within the United States.
What is covered under the federal solar tax credit?
The equipment covered by the Residential Clean Energy Credit includes:
Solar-powered equipment that generates electricity or heats water
Solar power storage equipment that has a capacity of at least 3 kilowatt hours
Qualifying installation and labor costs
The tax credit does not apply for systems that are leased; you must own the system.
How do I qualify for the solar tax credit?
Any “dwelling unit” qualifies for the tax credit. Meaning things like RVs, boats, vacation homes and more qualify. A qualifying residence is any U.S. residence that is lived in at least 14 days a year. Additionally, RV owners will need to meet the following criteria:
Your solar equipment needs to be installed between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2034.
The solar equipment is new or being used for the first time. It should be installed for the first time on your RV to claim the credit.
The solar system must be purchased with cash or through some form of financing that isn’t a lease or an agreement to pay a solar company for electricity generated by the system.
The solar equipment must be located at a residence within the United States.
Filing requirements for the solar tax credit
To claim the credit, you will need to file IRS Form 5695 as part of your tax return. Calculate the credit on Part I of the form, and then enter the result on your 1040.
If in 2022 you end up with a bigger credit than you have income tax due — a $3,000 credit on a $2,500 tax bill, for instance—you cannot use the credit to get money back from the IRS. Instead, you can carry the unused portion of the credit over to the following tax year. In this example, the $500 of credit that is greater than your tax bill ($3,000 – $2,500) can be carried over to the following year.
If you failed to claim the credit in a previous year, you can file an amended return to claim the credit now.
The residential solar tax credit has been extended through 2034 and expanded in value, so now might be a great time to add solar energy to your home.
What are the residential solar tax credit amounts?
The Residential Clean Energy Credit will cover up to 30% of the total qualifying cost, depending on the year the equipment is installed and placed in service:
30% for equipment placed in service in tax years 2017 through 2019
26% for equipment placed in service in tax years 2020 through 2021
30% for equipment placed in service in tax years 2022 through 2032
26% for equipment placed in service in 2033
22% for equipment placed in service in 2034
Take advantage of the solar system savings today!
The tax credit is a win-win for RV owners because it helps lower out-of-pocket costs and an RV owner’s overall carbon emissions. A solar panel setup is a cost-effective, environmentally friendly and convenient way to use electricity on the goal. Most systems generally require little to no maintenance and provides a dependable source of electricity.
With RV show season still in full swing, thousands of consumers are doing their research to find the perfect RV. Right now may be the perfect time to buy. Manufacturers are offering limited-time savings on a handful of RVs this spring that could save buyers thousands on their RV. General RV is working with three top RV manufacturers to save on a variety of makes and models. It isn’t just for 2023 models – there are options for RVs from 2021-2024. Take a look at all the models you could save on in this rebate round up!
American Coach is offering the largest rebate of the season. Right now, the manufacturer is offering $25,000 off qualifying 2022 and 2023 models. On top of those savings, military and first responders can get an extra $5,000. American Coach RVs are manufactured following rigid construction standards. They also include top-of-the-line components and the latest technology, securing American Coach as a premier luxury motor coach manufacturer. All vehicles delivered before April 30, 2023 can take advantage of this rebate. The American Tradition, American Dream and American Eagle are all eligible for instant savings. Look at everything these American Coach models have to offer.
American Tradition
The American Tradition gives you the power to tackle every road worry-free no matter the conditions. Owners can enjoy a little extra oomph in this Class A diesel thanks to the 450 horsepower Cummins ISX Turbocharged engine. This line has a 15,000-pound towing capacity. While on the road, the supplemental BrakeSync braking system allows for smoother stops and slow-downs. You can also enjoy stress-free travel with the RoadWatch Safety System that includes collision mitigation, adaptive cruise and stability controls.
Inside is like stepping into a five-star hotel room. Campers can get ready for their next adventure in a stunning bathroom. Enjoy the spacious side-by-side sinks or wash up underneath the shower skylight. Stretch out on the sofa sleeper that turns into a full-sized mattress or enjoy a luxurious nap on the Encore Series King memory foam mattress. Small additions like hardwood doors and drawers, porcelain tile flooring and solid-wood valances elevate the living space making you feel at home.
American Dream
Like the American Tradition, the American Dream features similar safety and automotive grade features. Drivers can rule the road with a Cummins ISX Turbocharged engine that has between 450-605 Horsepower and has 15,000 to 20,000-pound towing capacity, depending on the make. The enhanced safety features also ensure you make it to your destination with the help of adaptive cruise. The American Dream also houses one of the best driver-assistance systems on the market – the integrated Mobileye.
This Class A diesel line is decked out with everything you need to travel in style. With a variety of floor plans and décor options, there is something for everyone. Models include many residential luxuries including a 80-inch loveseat and 90-inch queen mattress. Stay stocked with a residential refrigerator with an included icemaker and those over 21 can enjoy a wine chiller built into the kitchen island. The king-sized primary suite provides ample storage with an overhead cab and a massive wardrobe.
American Eagle
The American Eagle series is called the “blueprint for all other coach models.” The third Class A diesel from American Coach raises the bar for luxury motorhomes. This RV will turn heads at the campground. It packs a punch with a Cummins ISX15 605 horsepower engine and an Allison 4000 Series six-speed transmission. This line also continues to push the limits of what a Class A can do with 20,000-pound towing capacity. The driver and passenger can enjoy their journey in comfort with seats that are both heat and air-cooled.
The American Eagle soars above the competition to create a truly premium travel experience. Small upgrades like quartz countertops, high-end appliances and elegant flooring make this RV feel like a resort on wheels. It is also incredibly easy to monitor everything inside your RV thanks to a multiplex electric control system that you can control from your smartphone.
Newmar is another manufacturer making a savings splash this spring. The luxury RV maker is offering rebates on five different models ranging from 2021-2023 makes. Buyers can save anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 as long as they buy before March 15, 2023. Newmar is known for its well-made, thoughtfully designed RVs created with owners and families in mind. Included in this limited-time offer is the Bay Star, Bay Star Sport, Kountry Star, Ventana and New Aire.
Newmar Bay Star & Bay Star Sport
The Bay Star & Bay Star Sport are two of Newmar’s most popular coaches. Both sit at different price points but they share a number of exterior amenities. The Bay Star series are built on a Ford F-Series Class A motorhome chassis that houses a 350 horsepower engine. The exterior shines thanks to a full-paint masterpiece finish with clear coat finish. The front cap is incredibly durable thanks to diamond shield protection. Once parked, set up camp with ease thanks to smart hydraulic leveling jacks that come with a Bluetooth compatible touch pad.
Inside features slightly differ between the Bay Star and the more affordable Bay Star Sport. Both models feature a luxurious interior with calypso glazed maple designer cabinet doors, drawers with full extensions and solid surface countertops throughout. The bedroom and living area include LED TVs, a 180-watt JBL sound system and many top-of-the-line appliances. The Bay Star Sport includes the same top tier appliances but in a smaller price point to save you some cash. Whether you pick the Bay Star classic or the more affordable version, you will instantly get $5,000 off with the Newmar rebate.
Newmar Kountry Star
Cross-country road trips are made easier when you are riding in the Kountry Star. This Class A diesel coach is built on a Freightliner XCR Chassis with 360Hp Cummins ISB engine. Never worry about where the gas pump is because the recessed fuel fills allow you to fill up from either side of the vehicle. You will always be able to enjoy the perfect temperature with two 15M Penguine Heat Pump air conditioners and a propane furnace with ducted heat.
You might wonder if you are on a cloud when you take a seat in the Kountry Star. The cockpit uses Ultralux front seats with six-way power. In addition, the driver can enjoy a massage while on the road with a vibrating seat. When you’re parked, you can sprawl on the Ultralux sofa or enjoy a snack at the dinette with a power adjustable table and bench seat. The kitchen is perfect for chefs with a three-burner cooktop, 30-inch stainless steel microwave, and a 10 cubic foot stainless steel refrigerator. Save even more on this model with a $7,500 instant rebate when you buy.
Newmar Ventana
The Ventana is one of the most adaptable coaches Newmar offers. It is easy to make this vehicle yours. This line has 11 different floor plans, four different lengths and two different chassis. Gel-coated fiberglass sidewalls, front and end caps, aluminum-frame sidewalls and roof construction are standard on all makes. Enjoy a smooth ride with Comfort Drive steering, back-up alarms and the Mobileye Tracking system.
Every version of this Class A diesel includes Villa Comfort Fit Furniture. You will be able to enjoy maximum comfort whether you choose a model with a jack-knife sofa or theater seats. Every floorplan includes plush pillow top mattresses in the primary suite. Ventana has top of the line appliances in every unit. You’ll be able to entertain for hours with the Samsung LED 4K TV and two sound systems. If you secure your purchase before March 15, you can save an additional $12,500.
Newmar New Aire
The last Newmar vehicle eligible for rebates is the New Aire. The compact Class A diesel may be small in stature, but it is large in luxury amenities. The New Aire is packed with features and options to make the most of the outdoors. The latest models come standard with Nav-N-Go navigation that makes the best route according to your coach’s dimensions. Loading and unloading is made easy thanks to power baggage door locks and a keyless entry door.
The interior is perfect for both hot, sunny days and cold, rainy nights thanks to the two 15M Penguin Heat Pump air conditioners and the Chinook dual loop heat with continuous hot water. Both driver and passenger can ride in comfort with the six-way power-lumbar, reclining, heated front seats. The interior feels massive thanks to designer feature ceiling, and the bedroom feels even bigger with a cathedral ceiling. But there is more than what meets the eye in the New Aire. Look closely and you can find a hidden wastebasket, hidden shoe storage, and a safe kept out of sight in the bedroom wardrobe. Newmar is offering $15,000 off when you purchase before March 15, 2023.
Thor is the another manufacturer offering massive savings. The industry-leading manufacturer is offering a $5,000 to $10,000 rebate on a Class A and select B vans. Thor is known for cutting-edge innovations. The manufacturer offers a wide range of styles, sizes, floor plans and features. Thor delivers coaches that fit every lifestyle and budget. Offers on the Outlaw Class A, the Sanctuary B Van, and the Tranquility B Van last until March 31, 2023
Thor Outlaw
All 2023 and 2024 Thor Outlaws are eligible for the $5,000 rebate. The Class A gas toy hauler is perfect for fun and adventure. The Outlaw is built on top of a Ford F-53 Chassis. It boosts 335 horsepower engine and has a 8,000-pound towing capacity. Never worry about power thanks to a 100-watt solar charging system with power controller that connects to four auxiliary house batteries. You have plenty of space for all your toys in the massive 8-foot by 10-foot-two-inch garage. Loading and unloading your toys is quick and easy with the help of the Drop-Down Zero-G ramp door. Once the toys have been unloaded, the space can be transformed into a relaxing patio deck.
There is plenty of space in the Outlaw. The Class A toy hauler can sleep eight. It has a drop-down overhead bunk above the cockpit, a dream dinette, a tilt-a-view inclining king bed, and more. The chef will have everything they need in this Outlaw kitchen. Prepare your meal on the two-burner gas range or the single induction cooktop. You’ll have plenty of space to store leftovers in the residential refrigerator. Inside the Outlaw toy hauler, immediately notice the easy-to-clean residential vinyl flooring. Feel relieved, knowing that clean up won’t take away from your outdoor adventures.
Thor Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is built on the Mercedes Sprinter 4×2 (RWD) chassis. You can depend on your Class B to get you there safely, regardless of the weather conditions. The keyless entry feature is not only convenient but also keeps you and your fellow travel companions safe. The Re(Li)able Power Pack Electrical system ensures you have power no matter where you are. This single battery setup offers 5,500 watts or 400 amp-hours of power. Sanctuary also comes with a 3,000-watt pure sine inverter with a 160 amp, 12-volt battery charger as well as a 170 amp high output alternator. On the roof, you’ll find the 190-watt solar panel, which will keep the batteries charged.
Full-time RVers and weekend warriors alike will appreciate the versatile floor plans available. Living in a van feels luxurious with the modern look of the TecnoForm Euro-style cabinetry. Easy-to-clean linoleum flooring is perfect for those who wish to spend time outdoors without bringing the dirt indoors. Entertainment is ready to go with Winegard ConnecT. Stream without ease on your Sanctuary’s 24-inch TV in the living room, which is cable TV-ready and satellite-ready.
Thor Tranquility
The Tranquility also rides on the Mercedes Sprinter 4×2 (RWD) chassis. For your safety, Tranquility comes with hands-free control of the audio right on the tilt and telescoping steering wheel. You can keep a close eye on your towable connected to the hitch because your multimedia dash doubles as a backup monitor. With multiple full-body paint options, you will find a modern exterior color that fits your tastes.
You’ll enjoy the money-saving benefits of having your own kitchen while on the road. Tranquility comes with a fully equipped kitchen. Take advantage of the dual-burner gas cooktop, the solid surface countertops and the stainless steel sink. When you are ready to unwind you can turn the rear bench into your bed. Enjoy the evening breeze with a rear magnetic screen that keeps out the bugs.
Take advantage of these RV rebates today!
General RV is dedicated to bringing the best price to our customers. These exclusive rebates won’t be here for long! Take advantage of these massive spring savings now before they end. Visit your local General RV dealer to find your perfect RV! RV experts can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on your unique needs.
Step inside the 2023 Bounder 35K, and it’s easy to see why this Class A motorhome has been Fleetwood RV’s greatest-selling RV for 36 years and counting. The Bounder 35K offers the ideal combination of features, value and family fun in a design that has been perfected over time. Whether hitting the road for an intimate getaway or loading up the entire family for a weekend retreat, the Bounder 35K is one of the most versatile Class A RVs on the market.
Spring Break is the unofficial start to the 2023 camping season. RV owners will ready their rigs and pack their bags for their next adventure. After spending weeks under gray winter skies, spring offers the first chance to see nature move out of hibernation and come back to life. The weather is warming up, and summertime crowds are nowhere to be found – leaving you plenty of room to explore your destination.
Whether you have a motorhome, fifth wheel or travel trailer, it is time to bring your RV out of storage and gear up for an adventure. From coastal coves to desert destinations, here are some of our top camping destinations for Spring Break 2023.
If you’re looking to make out-of-this-world memories, then Jetty Park may be your dream destination. The park is uniquely located outside Cape Canaveral, Florida, so you can watch cruise ships and submarines arrive and depart. If you get lucky, you might catch a rocket or a space shuttle launch from nearby Kennedy Space Center or the Space Force Station. You can even visit the Exploration Tower. The captivating architectural landmark provides visitors with seven floors of exhibits and interactive activities.
Galleries highlight the wonders of the Space Coast, from the man-made inventions that allow for space travel to the protected environment located around the Cape. The coast is a perfect place to dip your toes in nature and spot wildlife. The beach is a local hotspot for fishing, especially in the early mornings. Anglers will be able to catch a wide variety of fish while enjoying the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Spring Breakers will have plenty of sunrise photos to look back at for years to come.
Photo Credit: Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Are you looking to learn more this Spring Break? The First Landing State Park may be your next destination. This park is home to the site where English colonists first landed in 1607. Native American canoes, Colonial settlers, 20th-century schooners and modern cargo ships have all navigated the waterways. Legend has it that Blackbeard used the park as a hideout. The park was built in part by an all-African-American Civilian Conservation Corps from 1933-1940. First Landing is a National Natural Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
As Virginia’s most-visited state park, it’s an oasis within urban Virginia Beach. The park has 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay beach frontage. First Landing offers many recreational and educational activities and has many unusual habitats including bald cypress swamps, lagoons and maritime forests, as well as rare plants and wildlife.
Perhaps one of the most photographed national parks, Arches is beautiful year-round. The landscape of contrasting colors, landforms and textures is unlike any other. North of Moab and bordered by the Colorado River in the southeast, it is known for more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches including the massive, red-hued Delicate Arch in the east. This red-rock wonderland includes hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks.
Spring Break travelers will have near-perfect weather for their vacation. In March and April, daytime temperatures sit between 60 to 80 degrees making it the perfect temperature to hike. After a day in the park, you can still enjoy the sunset before the temperature drops too much. And no need to worry about the water systems on your RV, temperatures typically stay above freezing throughout the night.
Photo Credit: Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites
Encircled by rivers and creeks, Skidaway Island is often called Savannah’s best-kept secret. Located just outside the historic coastal city, Spring Break campers will find themselves in a charming Southern escape. Nature lovers can hike through the maritime forest, underneath the canopy of Live Oaks and Spanish Moss, before walking through the salt marsh to the boardwalk and observation tower. Along the way, you may also catch a glimpse of the local wildlife including deer, fiddler crabs, and much more.
If you want to get a taste of Southern hospitality, take a ride north to downtown Savannah. Consistently named one of the “world’s friendliest cities” by travel magazines, this coastal town has an excellent reputation for hospitality and grace. Enjoy coastal cuisine and cocktails while walking through historic neighborhoods and learning about art and haunted stories.
Around this time of year, park rangers at Carlsbad Caverns National Park dust off their caving gear and get reacquainted with the complex cave system located underground. The park’s namesake cave, Carlsbad Cavern, is one of over 300 limestone caves in a fossil reef that was carved by an inland sea about 265 million years ago. Even though these caves have been explored for thousands of years, modern scientists continue to dive deeper and learn more about the vast system.
Underground people can get a glimpse of the past million years, above ground you can see new life take root. Spring Break gives travelers a chance to witness the season of rebirth and new beginnings. The yuccas begin to bloom along with other native plant species and the park prepares to welcome back the Brazilian free-tailed bats. Spring is early enough that you won’t get caught in the flock of people who come to see this national park every year.
Catalina State Park sits at the base of the majestic Santa Catalina Mountains. The park is a haven for desert plants and wildlife and nearly 5,000 saguaro cacti. You can enjoy camping and picnicking throughout the 5,500 acres of foothills, canyons and streams. Catalina is a haven for bird watchers because more than 150 avian species call this region home. The park also boasts miles of trails and have trails dedicated to birding, hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. Along those trails you can gaze at the beautiful mountain backdrop, desert wildflowers and a plethora of cacti.
The park is located a short drive from Tucson, but make sure you come hungry. Tucson is a “city of gastronomy.” The city earned this title from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) because the food tells a story that dates back 4,000 years. Spend your Spring Break enjoying the city’s rich culinary heritage, enjoying Mexican and Native American cuisine. Eating local means honoring history, and each bite is an experience.
Photo Credit: Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, & Parks
Sitting on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, a trip to Buccaneer State Park is like taking a step back in time. The French buccaneer, Jean Lafitte, used this strip of coastline. Lafitte is one of the most famous people in New Orleans history known as a pirate, smuggler and war hero. Historians say his crew used the old Pirate House along the Mississippi Gulf Coast as a hideout. Alongside the history, you can explore the vast variety of indigenous plants including many species of oak trees, Sweet Bay Magnolias and native plants. The greenery can also be enjoyed from the Jackson’s Ridge Disc Golf course, which has courses for everyone from amateurs to pros.
Campers who find themselves missing the city can take a day trip to Louisiana and enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of New Orleans. A visit to the “Big Easy” isn’t complete until you visit the Crown Jewel of the city, the French Quarter. The historic neighborhood is home to a vibrant nightlife scene where you can enjoy live music pouring from local clubs and potent drinks served alongside Cajun delicacies. After all the fun, make sure you pick up a beignet before you continue your stroll along Bourbon Street. The location is perfect for Spring Break travelers who want to relax and party.
Mammoth Cave National Park is home to thousands of years of human history. Known for rolling hills, deep river valleys, and the world’s largest cave system this park is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life. UNESCO has named this park a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. Spring at Mammoth Caves is a sight to behold. Nature wakes up from its long winter slumber. Young deer fawns can be spotted taking their first steps through the forest while the forest floor comes alive with a colorful show of wildflowers in all shapes and designs.
The warmer spring temperatures are a welcome relief from the crisp winter air. As the days grow longer, temperatures stay in the mid-60s and can even reach up to the 70s during the day and seldom drop below freezing at night. Spring Break is the perfect time to explore. The crowds have yet to arrive, but the park is active as plants and animals get ready for the warmth of summer.
Photo Credit: California Department of Parks and Recreation
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is a place where the land, sea and forests meet in a rugged landscape jigsaw puzzle. Nestled on the western slope of the Santa Lucia Mountains, hikers can enjoy many trails. Walk along the lush riverbanks and stroll through the vibrant redwood forests. Hikers may even catch a glimpse of some of the forest’s residents including bobcats, black-tail deer and a handful of bird species.
Head south to dip your toes into the Pacific. Along with Bixby Creek Bridge and McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach is one of the top spots in Big Sur. It has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in Monterey County. The coast is famous for the “purple sand beach” and the beautiful Keyhole Arch, which is one of the most photographed spots in the region. Spring Break is also the perfect time to enjoy because wildflowers begin to pop up, adding even more color to the picturesque landscape.
Olympic National Park is an adventurer’s paradise. It sprawls across several different ecosystems, from the dramatic peaks of the Olympic Mountains to old-growth forests. The summit of glacier-clad Mt. Olympus is popular with climbers and hiking and backpacking trails cut through the park’s rainforests and along its Pacific coastline.
Spring Break is the perfect time to visit. The incredible range of precipitation and elevation make the park home to diverse wildlife. After a long, wet winter, spring welcomes travelers with an abundance of waterfalls, wildlife and wildflowers. The park teems with life – see baby whales begin their migration and watch as the lush, green landscape transforms the region into an extraordinary sight. Olympic National Park is the seventh busiest park in the U.S. but most people visit the park from July through September. Enjoy traversing the trails without having to share it with hundreds of other visitors.
Plan Your Spring Break Trip Today
There is plenty of fun to be had this spring! Make sure you pull your RV out of storage, and get a jumpstart on your camping season!
With RV show season still in full swing, thousands of consumers are doing their research to find the perfect RV. Right now may be the perfect time to buy. Manufacturers are offering limited-time savings on a handful of RVs this spring that could save buyers thousands on their RV. General RV is working with three top RV manufacturers to save on a variety of makes and models. It isn’t just for 2023 models – there are options for RVs from 2021-2024. Take a look at all the models you could save on in this rebate round up!
