Make The Most Of Your 2022 RV Show Experience

Shawn Verbruggen

When the COVID-19 pandemic brought much of the U.S. economy to a screeching halt, the RV and outdoor recreation sector quickly rebounded. A rapid recovery continues for the outdoor recreation industry with first-time RVers leading the charge. RV shows, a growing part of the fabric of the lifestyle, are returning in full-force in 2022, bringing with them excitement and much needed dollars back to the industry.

With exciting activities and fascinating seminars for both beginners and experts alike, it’s no surprise that RV shows are exploding in popularity across the US. Whether or not you are in the market for an RV, there are plenty of reasons why you should consider attending one of the best RV shows in 2022. We’ve assembled this information-packed guide with recommendations on getting the most out of your experience at RV shows this year.

Reasons Why You Must Attend An RV Show in 2022

Introduction To The RV Lifestyle

Shows are a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the RV lifestyle. Spending a day perusing a show will help you to learn the technical jargon and allow you to browse the latest products and gadgets in a pressure-free environment. Best of all, you will find vendors will go out of their way to help answer any questions you may have.

Comparison Shop For Your Dream RV

With hundreds of motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels and pop-up campers under one roof, RV shows are the best place to comparison shop without feeling the pressure to buy. If you decide to purchase, dealers are incentivized to make sales – especially on the last day of the RV show. For savvy buyers, this can make for some incredible deals.

Take Advantage Of Information-Packed Seminars

RV shows offer a host of free seminars for all experience level RVers. In fact, many seminars are tailored directly to the beginner. Whether it’s sustainable living, the latest in RV technology or the strangest tourist attractions in each state, seminars are a fun and interactive way to learn about life on the road.

A Fun (And Affordable) Day Out With The Family

The best reason to attend an RV show is that it’s a fun and affordable way to spend a day out. From treasure hunts to food trucks to live music, RV shows have something for all ages. Admission is cheap and often FREE for children.

Before You Attend An RV Show

Before you pick your 2022 RV shows to attend, here are a few pointers on how to plan your experience:

Check Details Online The Night Before The RV Show

It’s important to check details online the night before the event as details may change up to the last minute. Here is what to look for:

  • Tickets: What is the cost for admission? Are there any RV show discounts available for your event? Ticket prices will typically be cheaper if you pre-order online. In the current environment, many venues are not selling tickets at the gate so you need to check event details closely.
  • Children’s Activities: Check online to see if activities will be offered for children. Mascots? Face-painting? Bouncy-houses? This will help make it more enjoyable (and less stressful) if you plan on taking the little ones.
  • Health and Safety: In the pandemic era, it’s important to check safety measures. Limits on attendees? Social distancing? As RV shows can get crowded, this is especially important for those with compromised immune systems who are more susceptible to illness.

Strategize Your RV Show

It’s important to decide your intent before heading out. If you are simply planning on a fun day out, then it’s no sweat. However, if you are heading to a show with the intention of purchasing you need to come prepared. If you plan on buying, it’s a good idea to bring a notepad, iPad or tablet with you to take notes. You will want to record prices, features and other details as you walk about.

With more options to choose from than ever, 2022 will be an epic rebound year for RV shows.  Whether you are a life-long RVer or you are just looking to learn more about the lifestyle, we encourage you to check out a show. Not only will you be surprised at how much fun you can have, but you will be helping event organizers, vendors and hard-working staff keep the shows running for years to come! Be sure to check out General RV Center while you’re there, with a full RV show schedule slated for 2022. You can find more ways to make the most of your experience by heading to the General RV Blog.

6 Luxury RV Accessories To Upgrade Your Outdoor Adventures

Shawn Verbruggen
Luxury RVing in style

If an RV doesn’t sound like luxury accommodations, you haven’t seen RVs lately. With some simple additions and modifications, you can easily make your RV feel like your home away from home.  Space can be at a premium in most RVs, with basic essentials taking up most of the room. However, a few luxury RV accessories can improve your camping experience in an instant. From cooking tools to relaxation gadgets, General RV Center has compiled some of the top luxury RV accessories.

Add A Back-up Camera For Worry-Free Parking

Over the last century, there have been countless advancements in automotive safety, and one of the most critical has been the rear-facing backup camera. Becoming popular in new vehicles in the 2010s, the U.S. government made it mandatory in 2018 for all new vehicles sold in the country to come with a backup camera installed. Many newer motorized RVs come with backup cameras installed, but travel trailers, fifth wheels and older RVs can certainly benefit from the added safety the cameras provide.

Furrion Vision S Wireless Backup Camera System
Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Backup Camera System

The Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Backup Camera System features a waterproof camera with infrared night vision. A reliable digital wireless connection allows the camera and monitor to remain lag-free for up to 492 feet when parked, and 50 feet at high speeds. The 7-inch touchscreen, anti-glare monitor comes with park assist marker lines and displays a clear image for up to 4 cameras simultaneously. The Furrion Vision S Wireless RV Backup Camera System also provides security features, turning observation cameras into motion-detecting security cameras when your RV is stationary.

Upgrade Your RV Mattress For A Better Night’s Sleep

Hitting the road in an RV can be a great adventure. However, if you’re sleeping on an uncomfortable mattress, you could also be in for some great pain. Whether you’re traveling in your RV for a few days or a few months, finding an RV mattress that is comfortable and supportive is a must.  While the number of RV mattress options is limited, there are still plenty of great choices out there to consider.

Denver Mattress RV Luxe 2
RV Luxe 2 by Denver Mattresses

The RV Luxe 2 from Denver Mattresses features individually wrapped coils to give you the best support possible while keeping motion to a minimum. A layer of high quality latex foam provides cushioning support, while a layer of breathable serene foam ensures cooler comfort. The mattress is wrapped with a soft, luxurious fabric boasting antimicrobial properties. It’s topped with a luxurious quilted knit cover featuring advanced cooling technology for a comfortable night’s sleep. The RV Luxe 2 gives you all of the comfort of a luxury mattress while still being able to fit in your RV.

Boost Your RV’s Cellphone Signal

For those folks who live the RV lifestyle, there are some things that you come to expect. One of those things is spotty cellphone reception, or maybe no reception at all. To get to those beautiful, picturesque spots, you probably have to head on out to the boondocks. A quality cellphone signal booster can help counter the poor reception you will likely experience.

KING Extend cellphone booster
KING Extend LTE/Cell signal booster

The KING Extend boosts and extends personal LTE/Cell signal up to 32 times, providing greater coverage and speeds while supporting multiple users. This signal booster is ideal for RVers and all mobile adventurers looking for improved cellular connectivity. The KING Extend boosts voice and data range, works with all U.S. carriers, and does not require an extra monthly service. The LTE/Cell booster also comes with a versatile offering of mounting features with roof, pole, and ladder mount options all included. Powered by WeBoost, the KING Extend has been independently tested, delivers proven quality, and is trusted by first responders on the job.

Upgrade Your RV’s Shower Head

One of the first things replaced in many new RVs is the shower head. In some RV’s, the standard shower head you receive tends to lack in water conservation. This means more water out of the fresh tank and into the gray. It also means the hot water is gone in no time. Another common complaint about the typical RV shower head is that it’s flimsy. Standard RV shower heads rarely give the user the best experience possible.

Oxygenics BodySpa RV shower head
BodySpa RV Shower Head by Oxygenics

The BodySpa RV shower head from Oxygenics was designed with RV showers in mind. It uses cutting-edge pressure boosting technology that turns even the weakest water pressure into a strong and luxurious spray. At the same time, it uses less water than traditional showers so tanks last longer. A convenient SmartPause valve helps preserve water by quickly limiting water flow. It also includes a limited lifetime warranty against clogging or performance failures of any kind.

Stay Hydrated With An RV Water Filter

RVers can experience unknowns in their water supplies while on the road. An RV water filter serves many purposes, mainly giving RVers peace of mind when they drink water from their RV’s taps. There are two ways to get water in your RV: hook up to the local city or well water, or fill your fresh water tank at home. While you might think these are both safe options, some areas in the U.S. have dangerous water. You also need to consider your fresh water tank’s quality and cleanliness. If the tanks are not clean and sanitized properly, your water may present health hazards.

Camco TastePURE XL Water Filter
Camco’s 40019 TastePURE XL RV water filter

Camco’s 40019 TastePURE XL RV water filter provides two times the filtration and capacity as compared to standard water filters. It reduces bad taste, odor, chlorine and sediment in drinking water with a 20-micron sediment filter. The TastePURE XL water filter also features GAC (Granular Activated Carbon) filtration in combination with KDF to prevent undesirable bacteria growth when the filter is not is use.

Portable Grills Are Your Best Friend

When it comes to grills, bigger isn’t necessarily better. Small grills may have more limited cooking capacity but what they lack in grate space they make up for in portability. The best portable grills let you take your home cooking on the road. Knowing where you want to cook and what you want to cook is definitely a recipe for success. However, more goes into finding the best portable grill than just that.

Weber portable grill
Weber Q 2200 Gas Grill

There are few grills available today that have the same stellar reputation as the Weber Q 2200 Gas Grill. The 2-piece porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate covering 280 square inches that will easily sear several hot dogs and hamburger patties at once. The revolutionary Q-shaped stainless steel burner supplies consistent heat to every corner of the grill.

Ready to take your RV adventures to the next level? Let General RV help you discover the RV lifestyle. We offer a huge selection of new motorhomes, travel trailers and fifth wheels, as well as used RVs for sale. Need RV parts? We’ve got those, too. And our highly trained technicians can help with all your RV service needs. Visit our RV Virtual Showroom to start browsing now. Or find a General RV dealer near you. Whether you shop online or in store, our experts will help you camp with confidence.

Check out new RVs, parts and more at the 2022 Florida SuperShow

Aubrey
General RV's display at the 2021 Florida Super Show. There is multiple RVs parked for people to learn more about the manufacturer and floorplans.
General RV at the Florida RV SuperShow in 2021.

The Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA) is hosting its 37th Florida RV SuperShow and General RV will be there! The show will take place January 19-23, 2022, at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. Whether you’re a new or seasoned camper, this RV show is one you’ll want to attend and experience for yourself!

What is the Florida RV SuperShow?

The Florida RV SuperShow is one of the largest RV shows the United States has to offer. The 2022 show exhibition will feature 275 companies and over 450 exhibitors displaying all in one place. From browsing the vast selection of RVs to learning about parts and accessories, this show has plenty of things for the whole family to do.

Why should you attend the Florida RV SuperShow?

Participate in learning opportunities! The RV SuperShow is one of the best sources of information about the RV lifestyle for new and experienced campers alike. From educational seminars that cover camping basics to advanced RVing, plus hands on demonstrations of RV parts and accessories, the SuperShow has it all.

Explore acres of RVs! The Florida RV SuperShow is also a great place to explore many different brands and RV floorplans. Manufacturers will have representatives available to help you learn more about each vehicle’s features and benefits. RV dealerships will also have staff members there to answer your questions while you browse. This is a great way to learn about your local dealerships if you’re shopping for a new RV.

Shop for RV parts and accessories! Many vendors will sell RV parts and accessories and general camping equipment at the show. Try things out for yourself and feel free to ask them questions. You might also find samples of snacks and seasonings at the food vendor booths, too.

Discover campgrounds and new destinations! In addition to browsing thousands of RVs and accessories, another great reason to go to the Florida RV SuperShow is to discover campgrounds and RVer-friendly destinations. Hundreds of campgrounds and resorts also come from all over to connect and talk about camping with you. It’s the perfect time to start planning your future adventures!

If you’ve never attended an RV show before, it may seem a bit overwhelming. Don’t worry! The RV community is very friendly and welcoming. And this blog can teach you more tips and tricks for attending any RV show with confidence.

What is General RV bringing to the 2022 Florida SuperShow?

Three Heartland Sundance travel trailers sit in a row at the 2021 Florida SuperShow.
Heartland Sundance travel trailers from the 2021 Florida SuperShow.

300+ New RVs

We are bringing over 300 RVs to the show this year! From family friendly travel trailers and spacious fifth wheels to luxury motorhomes, we are bringing all the must-see RVs right to you. Our friendly RV experts will be on hand for demonstrations and questions. Many of our manufacturing partners are also attending with us including Thor, Forest River, Coachmen, Keystone, Nexus, and more. All the top RV manufacturers will be represented so you can learn more about each brand. We are also rolling out a bunch of new 2022 floorplans and models for those looking to upgrade.

A banner reading "General RV Center. Your trusted parts partners" at a parts booth.
General RV’s parts booth from the 2021 Florida SuperShow

A Bigger RV Parts Store

This year, we are debuting the General RV Parts Store right next to the Teco Arena near Gate 3. Be sure to stop by our parts store at the show! We are holding raffles and giveaways every day! Come see products that our supercenters carry and talk with our RV experts. More than 60 of our top vendors will be on hand to assist you with all your parts questions and needs. Our guest list includes experts from: Blue Ox, Curt, Furrion, Thetford, Lippert, and more!

If you’re ready to shop, we are offering over 1,500 parts and accessories for you to take home. Towing accessories, camping gear, RV furniture, sanitation accessories, and much more will be available for all your RV needs. One of our featured manufacturers Blu Technology is even unveiling two new products that will be available for purchase at our parts store during the show!

Have an RV question that you’ve been stumped by? Within the parts store, we have created a special “Stump a Tech” area for RV owners to talk with certified technicians. Come say “Hi”! Our techs are here specifically for you and your questions. From “what’s that weird sound in my RV?” to “what type of antifreeze should I use in my RV?”, this is the opportunity to get answers to all your hard questions and learn useful tips and tricks. We are also scheduling service appointments for added convenience.

Can’t attend the Florida SuperShow? Check out other RV Shows near you!

Even though the Florida SuperShow only lasts a couple of days, General RV team members will be touring around the United States with a full schedule of shows in 2022. View our list of upcoming shows here and sign up for our emails to see where we will be next!

Ready to begin your own RV adventure? Let General RV help you discover the RV lifestyle. We offer a huge selection of new travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes as well as used RVs for sale.

How To Travel Full-time While Working Remote From Your RV

Shawn Verbruggen

Over the last decade, RV sales have skyrocketed as more and more Americans choose to live and work wherever the road takes them. The prospect of buying an RV and living in it full-time is pretty enticing. So is working remotely. But is there any way to combine the two? Of course. With remote work opportunities becoming more common, working remotely from your RV is more possible now than in the past.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live and work. As companies adjusted to stay-at-home orders, it became clear that work isn’t always location-dependent. In fact, companies across the U.S. now embrace the idea of remote work. It has resulted in more and more people seeking answers on how to work remotely and travel at the same time.

Why RVs Are Becoming the New Office

Working from an RV isn’t a new concept, but it is becoming increasingly popular. RV technology and accessories make it possible for digital nomads to hunker down in remote locations and still stay connected. Full time and even part-time RVers have found ways to have jobs that allow the flexibility to work and travel simultaneously. With a stable internet connection, it’s possible to work from the road or even your own backyard.

How To Work On the Road In An RV Remote

Working from the road may not always be as glamorous as social media makes it seem, but once you establish a work-travel balance, you will discover that life as a digital nomad gets easier. Not every work situation is the same, but learning the secrets on how to work remotely and travel in your RV before beginning your journey will help make the transition from office to RV a little less bumpy.

Create Comfy Office Space Inside Your RV

Fantasies of Zoom meetings from the beach or working while nestled in the pine trees facing a mountain lake are not always realistic. Sun glare, bugs, and ever-changing weather conditions make it challenging to work outside for long periods. Here’s some helpful hints to creating a comfy workspace inside of your RV.

  • Set up your workspace somewhere other than the bed. Your body will thank you later.
  • Utilize a wireless Bluetooth keyboard and mouse.
  • Elevate your laptop or buy an external monitor to avoid long hours hunching over a small screen.
  • Think about light sources in your RV, and adjust your workspace to avoid glare.
  • Face the outdoors. If you can’t be outside, at least you can see it.
  • Decorate your RV with items and colors that make you happy. You want the inside space to feel as relaxing as your outside space.

Keep Your RV Workspace Organized

Organizing your RV office will help your workday run a little more smoothly. Your RV might be your working and living space, and organization is the key to finding harmony between the two worlds.

Are you easily distracted, or will you work alongside someone else in your RV? Consider noise-canceling headphones to help block out distractions.

Clean your space each time you sit down to work. Removing the clutter around you will also help to declutter your mind. You might need to organize your work area a few times a day.

Have a place to store your laptop, computer accessories, and other materials if you don’t have a dedicated desk. It’s easier to stay organized and keep your workday more structured when you can put work away once you’ve finished for the day.

Set Realistic Work and Travel Expectations

It can be hard to balance work, play, and travel time, especially for new RVers. Working long hours without structure directly conflicts with why you probably set out in the first place. Setting realistic work and travel expectations is the key to figuring out how to work remotely and travel.

Set aside dedicated travel days. Whether your travel days are long or short, most RVers will tell you travel days are exhausting.

Plan to stop driving before three in the afternoon. Arriving at a new place after dark is very difficult for RVers. Parking and setting up in unfamiliar areas at night can often be a recipe for frustration.

Do not expect to have a productive workday after driving more than a few hours. Planning to work after a long drive doesn’t work for most people.

Plan for dedicated workdays, even if those days fall on a weekend.

Allow time in your travel days for setting up or taking down your RV. Account for gas stops as well as time to dump or fill your tanks.

Stay in one place longer. If you work from the road, it’s easier to enjoy new areas when you stay put. Take time to explore and enjoy the places you go. You’ll make great memories along the way.

Add time in your schedule for sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Some RVers find if they don’t schedule their free time, it doesn’t always happen.

Schedule some flex time in your work or travel days to allow for unexpected events such as mechanical emergencies or illnesses.

Use apps, club memberships, and other online tools to scout for safe or scenic places to stay.

Subscribe to the General RV Blog and check out more helpful advice to make RVing the relaxing, enjoyable experience it should be.