Honda EU2200i Portable Generator

“When the power goes out or we’re boondocking, this little red box is the difference between comfort and misery.”

RV life means learning to be self-reliant. Whether it’s a campground power outage or a week off-grid, we rely on our Honda EU2200i generator to keep the lights (and the A/C for the dogs) running.

Our Experience

The first time we really needed it was during a storm in Central Texas. The campground lost power, and within minutes, the Sierra went dark. I pulled the Honda out of the truck bed, pulled the cord, and it fired up on the first try. We had lights, the fridge stayed cold, and the dogs barely noticed anything had changed.

What I Like

• Quiet: You can stand next to it and still have a conversation.

• Reliable: Starts every time, even after months of sitting.

• Fuel Efficient: Runs for hours on just a gallon of gas.

• Portable: Easy to move around at 47 lbs.

Downsides

• Pricey: You pay more compared to other brands.

• Limited Power: Great for essentials, but won’t run everything at once.

Verdict

If you full-time or even camp regularly, don’t skimp on your generator. The Honda EU2200i has earned its reputation as the gold standard — and for us, it’s peace of mind in a box.

👉 See it on Amazon

How We Stay Connected on the Road (Internet for RV Life)

“Between work, streaming, and keeping up with family, internet isn’t optional for us — it’s survival.”

When we first hit the road, I thought cell service would be enough. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t. After one too many dead zones, dropped work calls, and frustrated Netflix nights, we pieced together a system that actually works.

Here’s how we stay connected in the Sierra 3800RK:

1. Primary Connection: T-Mobile Home Internet
   Affordable, unlimited, and surprisingly strong in most places.

2. Backup Hotspot: AT&T prepaid hotspot for when T-Mobile drops out.

3. Signal Booster: Our WeBoost Drive Reach has turned “no bars” into “usable service” more times than I can count.

4. Starlink (Occasional): Pricey, but worth it when we know we’ll be off-grid for a while.

5. Campground WiFi? Forget it. It’s usually slower than dial-up.

Staying online isn’t cheap, but for us it’s non-negotiable. My girlfriend can stream her shows, I can work from the road, and we can video chat with family no matter where the dogs drag us next.

Chasing Sunsets at Lake Livingston State Park

“Some campsites give you a nice view. Others give you a front-row seat to a Texas sunset you’ll never forget.”

After weeks of being on the go, we wanted a trip that felt easy — something close, but still beautiful. So we packed up the Sierra, piled the dogs into the F-250, and headed east to Lake Livingston State Park.

The park sits right on one of the biggest lakes in Texas, and as soon as we pulled in, I knew we’d made the right choice. Our site backed right up to the water, with enough space for the dogs to stretch out and explore.

The days were simple: fishing off the bank, grilling burgers under the awning, and walking the shaded trails with the dogs leading the way. But the magic came at sunset. Every night, the sky exploded in oranges, pinks, and purples, reflecting off the still water. We sat in camp chairs, dogs sprawled at our feet, my girlfriend sipping a glass of wine, and I thought, “This is exactly why we chose this life.”

Not every trip has to be a cross-country haul. Sometimes the best memories come from a quiet lake, good company, and a sky that refuses to quit.

Victron SmartShunt Battery Monitor

“Before I installed this, my battery management strategy was basically: ‘hope it lasts.’ Now, I actually know what’s going on.”

Living in an RV means relying on batteries, especially when boondocking. For months, I guessed — were the batteries half-full, almost dead, or fine? It was a constant guessing game until I added the Victron SmartShunt Battery Monitor.

Our Experience

Setup was simple: connect it to the battery bank, download the app, and suddenly I had real-time info on voltage, amps, and state of charge. The first weekend we used it, we discovered just how much power the dogs’ fans and our laptops were actually pulling.

What I Like

• Bluetooth App: Check battery status from my phone, even inside the truck.

• Accuracy: Way better than the old 4-light “guess meter” our trailer came with.

• Peace of Mind: No more surprises when the batteries suddenly die.

What Could Be Better

• Price: Not the cheapest gadget, but still reasonable compared to replacing dead batteries.

• Install: Easy if you’re handy, but intimidating if you’re new to wiring.

Verdict

If you camp off-grid, this is a must-have. It turns battery management from a guessing game into something you can actually control. For us, it’s right up there with solar panels and a good inverter.

👉 See the Victron SmartShunt on Amazon

How We Make RV Cooking Easy (Even in a Tiny Kitchen)

“Cooking in an RV kitchen feels impossible at first — but with a few tricks, it becomes part of the adventure.”

Our Sierra 3800RK has a rear kitchen, which is bigger than most, but cooking in an RV still takes creativity. Three dogs underfoot and limited counter space can make dinner feel like a circus act. Over time, though, we’ve learned some hacks that make cooking on the road easier — and honestly, more fun.

1. One-Pot Meals Are Your Best Friend
   Fewer dishes, less cleanup. Chili, stir-fry, tacos — one pan, done.

2. Portable Grill = Freedom
   We use a small propane grill outside. It keeps heat out of the RV and doubles cooking space.

3. Batch Prep
   Pre-chop veggies and store them in Ziplocs. It saves time and avoids clutter.

4. Multi-Use Gear
   An Instant Pot doubles as a slow cooker, rice maker, and pressure cooker. Total space-saver.

5. Keep Staples Stocked
   Pasta, canned beans, tortillas, and spices — the building blocks for dozens of meals without needing a grocery run.

Cooking in the RV isn’t about five-star meals — it’s about making food that keeps everyone fed, happy, and ready for the next hike. With a little planning, even the tiniest RV kitchen can feel like home.

A Weekend Among the Pines at Sam Houston National Forest

“Not every adventure needs to be a cross-country haul — sometimes the best trips are just a couple hours from home.”

After a busy month of work and errands, we craved a quiet escape without the long drive. So we loaded up the Sierra, packed the dogs, and pointed the F-250 north toward Sam Houston National Forest.

The drive was an easy two hours, but as soon as we pulled into the forest, it felt like another world. Towering pine trees replaced the concrete jungle, and the air smelled fresher, cooler. We found a shady site tucked back off the main loop — big enough for the Sierra and a little fenced-in dog run we brought along.

Days were spent hiking trails where the dogs led the way, noses down, tails wagging. My girlfriend and I laughed at their stubbornness — each one convinced they knew the best path. Afternoons meant campfires, books in hammocks, and cooking simple meals in the Sierra’s rear kitchen.

At night, we listened to owls hooting in the distance and watched the glow of the firelight flicker off the trees. No WiFi, no distractions — just us, the dogs, and the pines. Trips like this remind me that we don’t always need to chase the big bucket-list destinations. Sometimes the magic is closer than we think.

Andersen Camper Leveler System

“Leveling an RV shouldn’t take twenty minutes of guesswork — and with Andersen Levelers, it doesn’t.”

When we first started RVing, leveling was my least favorite chore. Pull forward, check the bubble, back up, stack blocks, pull forward again… it was a sweaty, frustrating mess. Then I found the Andersen Camper Leveler System, and it changed everything.

Our Experience

The first time I used them was at a sloped site near Austin. I slid the curved leveler under the low side wheels, pulled the truck forward, and boom — perfectly level in under a minute. My girlfriend literally said, “That’s it?” and I just grinned.

What I Like

• Simplicity: Drive on until you’re level, chock the wheel, done.

• Durability: We’ve used ours on gravel, grass, even soft sand. They haven’t cracked once.

• Space-Saving: They take up way less room than traditional leveling blocks.

Downsides

• Weight Limit: Works best with rigs under 30,000 lbs (we’re fine, but heavier RVers should check).

• Learning Curve: First couple tries took some practice to stop at the right height.

Verdict

After months of use, I won’t go back to stacking blocks. These make setup faster, easier, and less stressful — especially when the dogs are barking and you just want to relax.

👉 See Andersen Camper Levelers on Amazon

6 Lessons We Learned the Hard Way About RV Maintenance

“If you don’t keep up with maintenance, your RV will teach you the hard way — usually at the worst possible time.”

When we bought the Sierra 3800RK, I thought, “It’s brand new, what could go wrong?” Turns out, even new rigs need constant care. Here are six lessons we’ve learned — mostly from mistakes:

1. Check Your Roof Seals Regularly
   Water is your RV’s biggest enemy. After a big Texas storm, we found a drip coming from a skylight. Now, I climb up once a month to check and reseal if needed.

2. Don’t Ignore Tire Pressure
   We blew a tire outside of Waco because I hadn’t checked PSI in weeks. Lesson learned: a TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system) is worth every penny.

3. Flush Your Water Heater
   Sediment builds up fast in Texas water. After the hot water started smelling like rotten eggs, I learned the importance of flushing the tank and replacing the anode rod.

4. Keep Spare Fuses and Bulbs
   One burnt-out fuse took down half our lights during a trip. Now I keep a box of spares in the truck.

5. Grease the Slides
   A squeaky slide-out is annoying, but a stuck one can ruin a trip. A little spray lube every few months keeps things moving.

6. Don’t Wait on Small Fixes
   The little problems always get bigger. That loose cabinet latch? Tighten it before it rips out entirely.

RV life isn’t just traveling — it’s maintaining a rolling house. Do the work upfront, and you’ll spend more time enjoying the adventure and less time at the repair shop.

Finding Quiet on the Gulf at Padre Island National Seashore

“Sometimes the best campsites don’t have hookups, WiFi, or even neighbors — just the sound of waves and the stars overhead.”

We’d been craving some solitude. After weeks of crowded RV parks, tight back-in sites, and neighbors who ran their generators all night, we pointed the F-250 south and headed for Padre Island National Seashore.

The drive down felt endless, the landscape turning flatter and flatter until all that was left was sand, water, and sky. By the time we pulled the Sierra onto the hard-packed sand, the dogs were whining at the door, eager to sprint into their new playground.

There’s something magical about parking your home right on the beach. No fences, no busy roads — just miles of shoreline. The dogs chased seagulls, my girlfriend walked barefoot along the water, and I sat in my camp chair, watching the tide creep closer to the wheels of the rig.

Nights were my favorite. With no light pollution, the stars felt so close you could touch them. The sound of the waves became our lullaby. Sure, we didn’t have hookups or showers, but we had peace, freedom, and the kind of quiet you can’t buy.

Trips like this remind me why we put up with the challenges of RV life. The breakdowns, the heat, the endless maintenance — it’s all worth it for a moment when your dogs are sleeping peacefully in the sand, your girlfriend is laughing with a beer in her hand, and the ocean is your backyard.

WeBoost Drive Reach RV Cell Signal Booster

“If you work on the road, no cell service means no paycheck — here’s how we fixed it.”

One of the scariest moments of full-time RV life wasn’t a storm, a breakdown, or even the black tank. It was sitting in the Sierra 3800RK in the middle of nowhere, staring at my phone… with zero bars. We had work deadlines, family to check in with, and three restless dogs wondering why their humans were pacing around holding cell phones up to the ceiling.

That’s when we finally invested in the WeBoost Drive Reach RV Signal Booster.

Real-Life Results

The first big test came in a state park outside Laredo. Without the booster, we had one flickering bar of service — calls dropped every 30 seconds. With the booster turned on, we suddenly had three strong bars, enough to upload photos, video call family, and even stream a little Netflix.

What We Like

• Reliable Boost: Works for multiple devices at once, so my girlfriend can scroll while I’m on a Zoom call.

• Simple Setup: An antenna outside the rig, booster box inside. No complicated wiring needed.

• Durable: We’ve driven through storms, high winds, and bumpy backroads — it’s still working like day one.

What Could Be Better

• Price: It’s an investment, no doubt. But for us, it’s worth it.

• Placement: You need to be reasonably close to the booster inside the rig for the best signal.

The Verdict

If you’re a weekend camper who only visits big RV resorts, you might not need this. But if you’re a full-timer like us — working, traveling, and sometimes parking way out in the middle of nowhere — it’s not just a convenience. It’s peace of mind.

👉 Check it out on Amazon

The Ultimate Checklist Before Towing Your Fifth Wheel

“One missed step can turn towing day into a nightmare — here’s the checklist we follow every single time.”

When we first started towing the Sierra, I thought I had it all under control. Hitch it up, crank the truck, and hit the road, right? Wrong. Our first big mistake happened outside San Antonio — I forgot to latch one of the basement doors. Let’s just say nothing humbles you faster than watching your own gear skid across the highway.

That’s why we built this pre-tow checklist. It lives on the fridge, and we go through it every single time we move the rig. It doesn’t just save us from embarrassment — it saves our safety, sanity, and wallet.

Interior

• Lock the fridge and cabinets (we once had salsa explode on the carpet… never again).

• Retract all slides and make sure nothing’s caught in the seals.

• Secure loose items — the dogs’ water bowl has to be emptied, or it sloshes everywhere.

Exterior

• Raise stabilizers and landing gear fully.

• Check tire pressure and lug nuts (a blowout in West Texas was enough to teach us this one).

• Hitch up and double-check the kingpin connection.

• Safety chains and breakaway cable connected properly.

• Connect and test brake lights and turn signals.

Final Walkaround

We call this the “two sets of eyes rule.” One of us walks around the rig while the other waits, then we switch. You’d be surprised how many times a second look catches something — an unlocked storage bay, an awning arm not fully stowed, or the sewer cap not screwed on tight.

It might take five minutes, but skipping this step can cost you hours of frustration on the side of the road. RV life already has enough surprises — don’t let preventable ones ruin your day.

Beating the Heat at Garner State Park

“When Texas summer feels like an oven, there’s only one solution: find a river and stay in it.”

Texas summers are no joke. By July, the inside of the truck feels like a toaster, and even the dogs look at us like, “Really? You expect us to go outside in this?” That’s when we knew we had to make a run to Garner State Park, home of the Frio River.

We left early in the morning, Sierra hitched up to the F-250, dogs piled in the backseat. Even with the A/C blasting, we could feel the heat creeping in. By the time we rolled into the park, we were more than ready for what the name promised: a “cold” river.

Setting up the 3800RK under the big oaks was easy, and within minutes we had bathing suits on and tubes in hand. The dogs couldn’t wait either — one leapt in like she’d been swimming her whole life. The Frio River lived up to its name. That first plunge was almost a shock, but within seconds it felt like the heat melted away.

We spent the days floating lazily downstream, holding hands while the current carried us, and laughing every time one of the dogs decided to jump in after us. Afternoons were for hammock naps under the awning, cicadas buzzing in the background, cold drinks within reach.

The real surprise came at night. Garner is famous for its summer dances, and it didn’t disappoint. Families gathered near the pavilion, music drifting through the air, kids running barefoot while older couples two-stepped like they’d been dancing together for 50 years. We sat back with the dogs at our feet, soaking it all in.

That weekend reminded us that RV life is about more than just the places you go — it’s about the moments in between. The splash of cold water on a hot day, the sound of laughter under the stars, the way a simple dance can feel like a trip back in time.

Zero Breeze Mark 2 Portable AC for RV Boondocking

“Texas heat doesn’t care if you’re boondocking — but this little AC unit makes sure we do.”

One of the hardest lessons we learned when we started boondocking is that the Texas summer doesn’t forgive anyone — especially not three panting dogs and two humans crammed into a fifth wheel. Our Sierra’s A/C is amazing when we’re plugged in, but when you’re miles from a hookup, you need something else. That’s when we invested in the Zero Breeze Mark 2 Portable AC.

The Experience

I’ll be honest: I was skeptical. Could a portable unit really cool down even a part of our 3800RK? But the first night we tried it, the difference was immediate. We set it up in the bedroom, and within 10 minutes, the dogs had claimed their spots on the bed, snoring peacefully instead of pacing from the heat. My girlfriend looked at me and said, “Worth every penny.”

What We Love

• Battery Power: Runs off its own battery pack, which means we don’t drain the trailer’s system.

• Compact Size: Easy to move from the bedroom to the living room.

• Spot Cooling: It won’t cool the whole rig, but it makes sleeping possible in triple-digit temps.

What Could Be Better

• Price: It’s not cheap. But we look at it as an investment in sanity.

• Limited Reach: Works best for one room at a time.

The Verdict

For us, the Zero Breeze turned miserable, sweaty nights into restful ones. It’s not a full A/C replacement, but if you plan on boondocking in hot weather with pets, it’s a lifesaver.

👉 See the Zero Breeze Mark 2 on Amazon

10 Things Every New RVer Forgets (But Shouldn’t)

“It’s not the big stuff that gets you in RV life — it’s the little things you didn’t think of until it’s too late.”

When we first started full-timing, we thought we had everything covered. The Sierra 3800RK was loaded, the F-250 was fueled, and the dogs were buckled in. But by the end of that first week, we learned a painful truth: there are always little things you forget, and they usually show up at the worst possible time.

Like the time we pulled into a campground late at night, dead tired, only to realize we didn’t have a water pressure regulator. Hooking up directly meant we risked blowing out the rig’s plumbing. Lesson learned. Or the time one of our water hoses started leaking, and we had no backup. That night involved a frantic trip to Walmart 30 minutes away.

So here’s my personal list of 10 items you should never forget — built from real mistakes:

1. Extra Water Hoses — Because one will eventually spring a leak.

2. Sewer Hose Support — Some campgrounds won’t even let you hook up without it.

3. Wheel Chocks — Don’t rely on just the parking brake.

4. Surge Protector — Sketchy campground power is real. Ours saved us in East Texas when voltage dropped so low it could’ve fried the A/C.

5. Water Pressure Regulator — $20 now saves you hundreds in repairs later.

6. Leveling Blocks — Unless you enjoy sleeping on a slant.

7. Headlamp — For those late-night setups when you’re juggling hoses and leashes.

8. First Aid Kit — One for you, one for the dogs.

9. Fuses & Bulbs — Always fail when you’re farthest from town.

10. Tool Kit — Because something will always break, usually when you least expect it.

RV life teaches you through trial and error, but maybe my errors can save you some headaches. Pack these items, and you’ll thank yourself the next time something goes sideways at 9pm in a strange campground.

Chasing Bluebonnets in the Texas Hill Country

“Every spring, the Texas Hill Country turns into a sea of blue — and we had front-row seats with our Sierra 3800RK.”

There’s something about Texas in the springtime that feels like magic. For weeks, my girlfriend had been hinting that we needed to make a Hill Country run to see the bluebonnets. With three restless dogs underfoot and our Sierra itching to roll, we finally hitched up the F-250 and made the drive toward Fredericksburg.

The trip itself was a mix of peaceful stretches of highway and the occasional roadside stop so the dogs could stretch their legs. One of them insists on sitting with her paws on the console, as if she’s helping me drive, while the other two compete for window space. My girlfriend kept pointing out every patch of wildflowers, and by the time we got into the Hill Country, the fields looked like oceans of blue and purple.

We set up camp at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, which offered big, shaded sites with full hookups. As soon as we leveled out and put the slides out, the dogs immediately sprawled out on the cool floor, happy to be “home” again. That’s the beauty of RV life — no matter where you park, you’re already comfortable.

Our days were spent exploring Main Street in Fredericksburg — from antique shops to bakeries selling peach cobbler that might be the best I’ve ever tasted. We even stopped at a local winery where the dogs were welcome to lounge under the table while we sampled Texas reds.

Evenings were simple but perfect: camp chairs under the awning, cold drinks in hand, and bluebonnet fields stretching beyond the horizon. My girlfriend joked that she took more photos in one weekend than she had in the past three months combined.

This trip reminded me that sometimes the best adventures don’t require crossing state lines or planning for weeks. Sometimes all you need is a tank of diesel, a willing co-pilot, three happy dogs, and the open road.

Review: Camco RhinoFLEX 20ft RV Sewer Hose Kit

“It’s not glamorous, but dealing with the black tank is part of RV life — and the wrong hose can turn it into a nightmare.”

After trying cheaper hoses that kinked and leaked, I upgraded to the Camco RhinoFLEX 20ft RV Sewer Hose Kit, and it’s been a game-changer.

What I Like

• Durable Build: The tough, crush-resistant design holds up even when run over.

• Flexibility: Stretches when you need it, compresses for easy storage.

• Tight Fittings: No leaks, no worries — locks on securely every time.

• Clear Elbow: Lets you know when the tank’s flushed clean.

Why It’s Essential

Black tank duty is never fun, but a solid hose makes it fast, clean, and (almost) painless. This kit takes the stress out of one of RV life’s least glamorous chores.

The Verdict

If you’re full-timing or traveling often, skip the cheap hoses and buy this once. It’ll last for years and save you a ton of frustration.

👉 See the Camco RhinoFLEX Kit on Amazon

7 Must-Know Hacks for Saving Money at RV Parks

“RV park fees add up fast — but a few simple tricks can stretch your budget without sacrificing comfort.”

After months of full-timing, here are seven hacks we use to save cash while staying at campgrounds:

1. Join Membership Clubs — Thousand Trails, Passport America, and KOA memberships pay for themselves in a few stays.

2. Stay Longer — Weekly and monthly rates are often half the nightly rate.

3. Look for County & State Parks — Cheaper, more scenic, and usually less crowded.

4. Ask About Discounts — Good Sam, AAA, military, and senior discounts can knock 10–20% off.

5. Boondock Between Stays — Even 2–3 nights off-grid each month saves big.

6. Use Campground Apps — Apps like Campendium and RV Life Trip Wizard help find hidden gems with fair rates.

7. Share Utilities Smartly — If you’ve got solar, you won’t always need full hookups. Book water/electric only sites and skip the pricey sewer connections.

Small changes like these can free up hundreds of dollars for fuel, food, and adventures.

Getting Lost (on Purpose) in Big Bend National Park

"Sometimes the best plan is no plan at all — especially when Big Bend is your backyard for the week.”

We decided to head west, chasing desert sunsets and wide-open skies. The drive into Big Bend National Park feels like entering another world: rugged mountains, twisting canyons, and silence so deep you can hear your own heartbeat.

The Sierra 3800RK felt massive against the desert backdrop, but once leveled, it turned into a cozy outpost. The dogs loved the wide-open space — tails wagging as they sniffed every cactus and rabbit track in sight.

Days were spent hiking Santa Elena Canyon and dipping our toes in the Rio Grande. Nights? Stargazing under skies so clear you could see the Milky Way stretch from horizon to horizon.

Big Bend reminded us why we chose RV life: freedom, wild beauty, and the comfort of home on wheels no matter how far out we roam.

Why the Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X is the Best RV Surge Protector

One bad RV park pedestal can fry your air conditioner, microwave, and half your rig in seconds. I learned the hard way—until I found the Progressive Industries EMS-PT50X.

👉 Check the current price on Amazon

What I Like

• Real Protection: It doesn’t just guard against surges — it checks for open grounds, reverse polarity, and low/high voltage.

• Easy to Use: Plug it into the pedestal, plug in your cord, and the digital display tells you exactly what’s going on.

• Built to Last: Heavy-duty casing, weather-resistant, and backed by a lifetime warranty.

Why It’s Essential

RV park power can be sketchy. I’ve personally seen low voltage dip into the danger zone on a hot Texas day when everyone’s A/Cs were running. The EMS cut power before my air conditioner fried itself.

The Verdict

If you own a travel trailer or fifth wheel, this is a non-negotiable piece of gear. Peace of mind is worth every penny.

5 Essential Tips for Full-Timing with Dogs in a Travel Trailer

Ever tried living in 300 square feet with three dogs and a partner? Spoiler: it’s chaos… unless you’ve got a system. After months on the road, these five tips saved our sanity (and our furniture).

1. Invest in Good Climate Control
   Dogs don’t handle heat well. Keep your A/C serviced, carry a backup fan, and consider a temperature monitor you can check remotely.

2. Create a “Dog Zone”
   Whether it’s a rug in the living room or a kennel tucked in a slide-out, giving the dogs their own space reduces stress (theirs and yours).

3. Stick to a Routine
   Dogs thrive on structure. Regular walks and feeding times help them adjust no matter where the trailer is parked.

4. Be Campground Smart
   Always leash up, clean up, and check park rules ahead of time. Some RV parks limit the number of dogs — state parks tend to be more relaxed.

5. Have a Hair Plan
   Dog hair adds up fast in a small space. A compact cordless vacuum or a shop vac is worth its weight in gold.

Full-timing with dogs isn’t just possible — it’s better. They force us to get outside, explore more trails, and meet fellow dog lovers along the way.

A Weekend Escape to Palo Duro Canyon with the Sierra 3800RK

Nothing tests your truck, your trailer, and your patience quite like hauling three dogs across Texas in the middle of summer. But when the road ends at Palo Duro Canyon, every mile is worth it The drive from Dallas to Canyon, TX took us about six hours in the old 6.0L Ford. The dogs alternated between snoozing on the backseat and sticking their noses out the cracked windows. My girlfriend navigated, while I kept a close eye on EGTs and transmission temps — a ritual anyone towing with a 6.0 Powerstroke knows well. Arriving at the park, we snagged a spacious pull-through site with hookups. Setting up was easy thanks to the Sierra’s auto-leveling system. Once the slides were out, it felt like home again — full kitchen in the back, dogs sprawled on the living room rug, girlfriend whipping up fajitas on the gas stove. The highlight? Hiking the Lighthouse Trail at sunset. The pups trotted along, tails wagging, as the sky turned every shade of orange and red. That night, we sat outside under the awning with a couple cold drinks, listening to coyotes in the distance. Trips like this remind me why we chose the full-time RV life: freedom, family, and the road under our wheels.