RV Freebies

RV NY City? 10 free attractions

2011-07-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

OK, our best advice: Leave your RV outside the city, then take the toad to town. We've done New York, and we left our rig in upstate New York in a state park, and thanks, it was much nicer. But once you get to the Big Apple, here are ten interesting FREE attractions:

1. The Federal Reserve Bank: It takes a reservation to visit the Reserve, but where else do they have so much gold squirreled away? If you're a coin collector, there are some great exhibits, and if money is funny, check out the displays of counterfeits. On Manhattan Island, 33 Liberty Street.

2. Take a free ferry trip to St aten Island. Hey, you can't bring that motorhome on board, but you can bring the wife, kids, and grandbabies. You can visit the island, or just jump back aboard and say, "We bin!"

3. Paddle the East River. Rather provide the propulsion yourself? Can you say, "Long-uh Eyeland?" The Long Island Community Boathouse will set you up with a loaner kayak to paddle your own canoe.

4, Was it Homer Simpson who said, "Beeeerr"? Maybe he'd been taking a free tour of the Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg. Tours are free on Saturday.

5. Where else but in New York's Garment District could you get a tour of--well--garments? It's a gallery of fashion at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). With a collection of over 50,000 different garments dating back to the 1800's, there are rotating exhibits. Seems the acronym for this outfit is perfect! If it doesn't fit, I know a woman who throws a FIT!

6. Now you really can find out who was buried in Grant's Tomb! Best visited in Spring or Fall, Grant probably died of a cold if he visited there any other time--the place is drafty! Operated by the N ational Park Service the tomb is near Riverside Drive and West 122nd Street in the Morningside Heights area.

7. Ah, bookworms! The New York Public Library, home of those adorable stone lions Patience and Fortitude, awaits you. The third largest public library in the country, and rated among the top five. While there are several branches, the one with the lions is at 5th Avenue and 42nd Street. Didja know the NYPL has over 20 million books, and a collection of over 50 million items?

8. If your worms don't turn to books, maybe they like plants? Then head over to the New York Botanical Garden. Spanning some 250 acres of Bronx Park, the Garden is home to some of the world's leading plant laboratories. It offers major exhibitions and flower shows throughout the year, drawing over 800,000 visitors annually. Free all day Wednesday, and Saturday 10 to noon.

9. Call her MoMA, the Museum of Modern Art is dedicated simply to that. No moldering Impressionists, no cobweb covered Renaissance stuff. Just modern art. Manhattan again, 53rd Street between 5th and 6th, free admission 4 to 8 pm on Friday, but be warned, everybody likes a freebie!

10. The strangest for last. The New York Earth Room. To quote the web site: "An interior earth sculpture. 250 cubic yards of earth (197 cubic meters). 3,600 square feet of floor space (335 square meters). 22 inch depth of material (56 centimeters). Total weight of sculpture: 280,000 lbs. (127,300 kilos). What more can we say?

ferry: mgendleman library lion: thenails both on flickr.com

"Almost" free breakfast at Flying J

2011-07-11T19:53:00.000-07:00

Out on the road and looking for a cup of Java and a breakfast sandwich? Flying J has a print-it-and-bring-it coupon right here . The catch? OK, it's not absolutely free, it'll cost you a buck. The offer works ONLY at participating Flying J locations, NOT at Pilot.

Books on RV wheels? Free audio book with a catch

2011-07-05T11:09:00.000-07:00

If you're like our family, RVing through some stretches of the country is just better with someone reading a good book. We've been fans of audio books and frequently rent and return them at truck stops along our roadways.

Now comes audible.com, an Amazon subsidiary, that offers a download service of audio books for iPods, iPhones, Androids, and a host of mp3 players. The regular membership is $14.95 a month, but to try and encourage folks to try the service out, audible.com is offering a free "credit." What's that worth? Nearly all of the 85,000+ audiobooks, magazines, and downloads are just a single credit. Check in and you can get a credit good for 14 days.

The catch? The company requires a major credit card, and of course, if you don't log back in before your 14 days are up, they'll "automatically enroll" you on their program to the tune of $14.95 a month (worth a credit a month). Users say they haven't had trouble cancelling, so it may be worth taking the time and checking out the service. Check out audible.com's site here.

But here's another trick: Many public libraries are subscribers to audio book services where patrons can log onto the library website and download audio books compatible with just these kinds of devices. Don't have such advanced technology? Our library has many titles that we can download and burn to CD, playing them on our tow vehicle's audio system. Check with your library for this REALLY FREE service.

stock photo: playfullibrarian on flickr.com

Keep RV tires safe: Free depth gauge

2011-06-02T12:09:00.000-07:00

A major line of defense against serious RV accidents is properly maintaining tires. Our bloggers have repeatedly warned about the necessity of keeping proper air pressure in tires, and many RVers have at least one tire pressure gauge in their tool box. But a tire worn too far can also raise danger on the road. To know your tread depth, you need a depth gauge.

A Canadian automotive collision repair firm, Collision Plus, is coupling its "community partnership" attitude with a move to open branches in the US by offering US residents a free tire depth gauge, simply by logging into their web site and requesting one. We don't know how many of these gauges are available, so hurry on over to request yours today.

AAA TourBooks now available on mobile devices

2011-04-18T08:47:00.000-07:00

Members of AAA and CAA can now access the club's useful TourBook guides on their mobile devices. The guides that until now were only available at local AAA offices can be accessed on popular e-reader devices. Members with an Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, Sony Reader, Apple iPad or a smartphone with an e-reader application can download AAA eTourBook guides for on-the-go detailed trip-planning information for top North American travel destinations. To learn more visit AAA.com or CCC.ca. CampBooks for mobile devices are not available yet .

Free smart phone app handles all your road trip calculations

2011-04-15T09:29:00.000-07:00

If you're one of those RVers who likes to keep a record of every penny you spend on vehicle maintenance, gas, oil, plus mileage, miles-per-gallon and every other aspect of your travels here's a smart phone application you should try.

It's called Road Trip Lite and it's free from a company called Darrensoft. The company claims it's "the fastest and easiest way to keep track of your car’s fuel economy and maintenance expenses on your iPhone or iPod touch. (Also available for Android phones)" and that claim is echoed by reviewers from CNet, ZDNet and Mashable.

This is just one of the many screens of information you get from Road Trip. For more, visit the website: darrensoft.ca/roadtrip/ and click on "Screenshots".

Get a Free Tourist Guide to New Mexico

2011-03-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment.

It is, perhaps, a perfect description.

There are few places in the world that can match its variety of geography, climate and cultures. Replete with thriving arts and crafts colonies, enduring American Indian and Mexican lifestyles and influences; filled with sports activities for all seasons, New Mexico simply is a Southwestern wonderland.

Here's your free guide to vacationing in New Mexico. Keep it handy in your motorhome or travel trailer. It will call to you.

Try your luck with free internet services

2011-03-21T09:51:00.000-07:00

We all know you get what you pay for and if you get something for free you should expect some sort of trade-off. Free internet services, more readily available before the dot-com bust of the nineties, are still available and they still require one big quid pro quo: you get ads in exchange for online connection.

Not that ads are a bad thing! We heartily endorse free enterprise, especially when the end result is free to the consumer.

But here's the thing: you can't expect lightning-fast, smooth online connections at all times. In fact, you'll probably have to settle for old-fashioned, slow-as-cold-molasses 56k bps dial-up connection. You remember how that worked, right? You can fix dinner while waiting for a picture to download.

But if you don't need or want daily, constant, high-speed internet service while you're on the road in your RV you might want to check out the offerings by NetZero and Juno, which both offer ten hours of free dial-up service per month in addition to paid subscriptions. There are other, more local and regional companies with similar offerings.

Some customers complain that the service is slow, the ads annoying and the ability to connect and disconnect can be spotty. But hey, you get what you pay for, right?

Free 2011 Guide to Georgia State Parks Now Available

2011-03-16T22:47:00.000-07:00

It's time to start planing summer vacations and weekend escapes. The newly published “2011 Guide to Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites” is the perfect resource for planning quick getaways, spring breaks and summer staycations. The free, 64-page booklet is filled with the best hiking and biking trails, top fishing spots, affordable accommodations, family reunion ideas and much more.

Produced by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the guide features colorful photos that make for a scenic armchair tour of the Peach State. For a free copy, call 1-800-864-7275 or stop by any Georgia state park. An online edition is also available for instant reading.

Get your free Idaho camping guide. . . and more

2011-03-16T17:27:00.000-07:00

It's free and it can be yours -- the 2011 Idaho RV Park and Campground Directory, a 48-page, comprehensive map-size directory listing all private and public RV parks and campgrounds with a foldout Idaho map and dump station locations. Keep a copy of this helpful, easy-to-use camping guide at your fingertips for quick reference while traveling in Idaho. If you're already on the road, free copies are available at all visitor centers, most Chamber of Commerce and CVB offices, RV dealerships, area RV parks and campgrounds, as well as most local attraction and event sites.

If you order online, you can also request the official Idaho state travel planner, a state map and information about following the Lewis and Clark Trail. Place your order here. It's free.

National Park Week Celebrates Healthy Parks, Healthy People with free admission

2011-03-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

The growing connection between public lands and public health is the focus of National Park Week, April 16-24 when entrance to all national parks will be free.

Need some fresh air to clear your mind? How about a stroll through a garden to mellow out the stress of a busy day? Or maybe winter has packed on a few extra pounds and it’s time to hit the bike trails again.

America’s 394 national parks offer many close-to-home opportunities for health-enhancing outdoor recreation.

In addition to waiving entrance fees throughout the week, national parks and their partners are offering programs as part of National Park Week festivities. On Saturday, April 16, many parks will be looking for volunteers to help with projects and on Saturday April 23, kids will be the special guests for the 5^thannual Junior Ranger Day. More details are available at www.nps.gov/npweek.

Get your free 2011 California Travel Guides

2011-03-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

A California vacation offers unparalleled diversity. Whether traveling to Southern California or Northern California, and all points between, the diversity of culture, scenic beauty and things to do makes travel in California unlike any other place in the world.

The new 204-page edition of the 2011 Official California State Visitor's Guide and Road Trips magazine includes 36 all-new trip ideas with detailed planning maps and stunning photography. Readers also get a free pull-out Official State Map with all-new roundups of California destinations and activities.

Sign up for the maps and the 2011 Official California State Visitor's Guide and Road Trips magazine, available free online or by mail, at www.visitcalifornia.com/Visitors-Guide/

National Parks Announce Fee-Free Days for 2011

2011-03-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

More than 100 U.S. national parks that usually charge admission will be open free of charge to all visitors on the following days in 2011:

January 15-17
(Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday weekend)
April 16-24
(National Park Week)
June 21
(First day of summer)
September 24
(Public Lands Day)
November 11-13
(Veterans Day weekend)

Making the fun even more affordable, many national park concessionaires are joining the National Park Service in welcoming visitors with their own special offers.

Here’s another tip – many of our 394 national parks NEVER charge an entrance fee. To learn more visit: www.nps.gov

*Fee waiver includes: entrance fees, commercial tour fees, and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservation, camping, tours, concession and fees collected by third parties are not included unless stated otherwise.

Free to See Nebraska!

2011-03-01T17:29:00.000-08:00

by Dave Williams

My grandfather was born in Nebraska but as a young man he emigrated to the coal mines of southwestern Wyoming. When I was a kid with him in Rock Springs he talked fondly of Nebraska, as much as he was able and willing to remember it. He said he liked the Oglalla people and the rivers and corn fields.

He said the snow that fell horizontally and stung my face in the fierce plains winds of a Wyoming winter would land hundreds of miles away in Nebraska and eventually water the corn I loved to eat off the stalk late in the summer.

My grandpa was a fanciful story teller, a hard-pan coal miner who took his evening drink as seriously as the life he risked daily in the mines. But he did teach me to love Nebraska, among other important places.

If you're heading that way, get this free Nebraska Travel Guide, just for the asking.

There's more to see and do there than Grandpa let on.

The IRS wants to give you money!

2011-03-01T15:51:00.000-08:00

WASHINGTON, Feb. 28, 2011 — Refunds totaling more than $1.1 billion may be waiting for nearly 1.1 million people who did not file a federal income tax return for 2007 according to the IRS. However, to collect the money, a return for 2007 must be filed with the IRS no later than Monday, April 18, 2011.

The IRS estimates that half of these potential 2007 refunds are $640 or more.

Some people may not have filed because they had too little income to require filing a tax return even though they had taxes withheld from their wages or made quarterly estimated payments. In cases where a return was not filed, the law provides most taxpayers with a three-year window of opportunity for claiming a refund. If no return is filed to claim a refund within three years, the money becomes property of the U.S. Treasury.

For 2007 returns, the window closes on April 18, 2011. The law requires that the return be properly addressed, mailed and postmarked by that date. There is no penalty for filing a late return qualifying for a refund.

The IRS reminds taxpayers seeking a 2007 refund that their checks will be held if they have not filed tax returns for 2008 and 2009. In addition, the refund will be applied to any amounts still owed to the IRS, and may be used to offset unpaid child support or past due federal debts such as student loans.

By failing to file a return, people stand to lose more than a refund of taxes withheld or paid during 2007. In addition, many low-and-moderate income workers may not have claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The EITC helps individuals and families whose incomes are below certain thresholds, which in 2007 were $39,783 for those with two or more children, $35,241 for people with one child, and $14,590 for those with no children.

Current and prior year tax forms and instructions are available on the Forms and Publications page of IRS.gov or by calling toll-free 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676). Taxpayers who are missing Forms W-2, 1098, 1099 or 5498 for 2007, 2008 or 2009 should request copies from their employer, bank or other payer. If these efforts are unsuccessful, taxpayers can get a free transcript showing information from these year-end documents by ordering on-line, calling 1-800-908-9946, or by filing Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, with the IRS.

Free museum admissions for Bank of America card holders

2010-02-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

Crossing the country and hitting museums are a big hit with friends of ours, Dick and Pat. They must know every out-of-the-way home for dusty history and picture from Washington out to Florida. If you've got a yen for mucking about in museums, and you have a Bank of America credit card in your pocket, you've got the key to over 100 museums on hand.

You may not like how much these guys soak you for interest, but here's an interesting fact: One weekend per month, those participating museums in 27 states will give you free admission, just by flashing your B of A card. You can even sign up to get free e-mail or text alerts of upcoming available weekends. To check out more details visit www.museums.bankofamerica.com.

The Portland (Oregon) Art Museum is just one of the over 100 participating museums in this program.

Dennys fan? Some freebies coming your way

2010-02-01T08:49:00.001-08:00

Denny's is apparently trying to keep up with the fast foodies for your dining out dollar. To lasso a bit more business, the big sit-down chain is offering some "free stuff" that may appeal to the traveling RV public:

It's more than just a Free Original Grand Slam® on February 9th. Anyone can register February 1st through February 14th, 2010 online at www.dennys.com or in store to win one FR EE Original Grand Slam® every week for one year. There will be 52 winners announced, one each week. Winners will be posted each week on dennys.com.

From February 1st through 14th, the first 500,000 people who sign up for the new Denny's
Rewards program online will receive a FR EE burger and fries available March 1st through March 7th, 2010.

Denny's will provide free refills to any order of French fries or pancakes at participating
locations nationwide. In addition to the Free Original Grand Slam® giveaway and the sweepstakes, Denny's is distinguishing itself from its competitors with a limited time generous offer starting February 10th that takes refills beyond beverages and gives more everyday value to customers.

The Party's back at Denny's. Consumers are invited to celebrate birthdays with a Free Original Grand Slam® meal at participating restaurants. The Original Grand Slam® offer is free for the birthday guy or gal dining in and who shows proof that it's their birthday. The Denny's birthday offer continues Original Grand Slam® kindness. There are more than 300-million Americans who celebrate birthdays.

Mount Rainier Free Entry July 18 & 19

2009-07-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

RVing out in the Northwest? Here's your opportunity to check out Mount Rainier National Park, smack in the middle of Washington State. OK, almost in the middle, but Rainier sticks its head up so high that on those rare clear days you'd say it must be in the middle. Haul your motorhome, your fifth wheel, or miscellaneous RV up here!

Rainier hasn't always been Rainier. Natives called the 14,200 mountain "Tacoma," for which a nearby town (lying in the path of mudflows should the mountain belch) takes its name. The actual park is a popular destination for hikers and campers, and intrepid mountain climbers. The free pass doesn't cut any slack for camping fees, but does make entry through the gate cost-free. Plan your trip quick, the days are coming up fast. Meantime, visit the park web site.

If Mount Rainier is too far for a freebie, then check out ANY nearby National Park--this weekend all of them are waiving the gate fees. What a bargain!

Freebies for RVers With Big Mouths

2009-07-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: We are obviously not working for the Center for Science in the Public Interest. If you have concerns about your waistline, cholesterol level, or any other problem related to eating, please exit this site immediately!

FREE EATS

Fish Fans: Long John Silver's Restaurants will be giving away free Baja Fish Tacos (no strings attached) on July 14 from opening until 2:30 PM.

Arby's Fans: Lots of offers in the next two months:

July 8th - Free Orange Cream Swirl shake with any sandwich purchase
July 15th - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
July 22nd - Free Roastburger with any soft drink purchase
July 29th - Free FruiTea with any sandwich purchase

August 5th - Free Regular Roast Beef with any soft drink purchase
August 12th - Free Roast Chicken Club with any soft drink purchase
August 19th - Free FruiTea with any sandwich purchase
August 26th - Free Regular Beef 'n Cheddar with any soft drink purchase

Another leetle disclaimer: Check with your local Arby's to ensure they're participating!

Free Antacids! Woops! We're still looking for them!

photo: SuperFantastic on flickr.com

Free Movie at LBJ Ranch

2009-06-01T12:11:00.000-07:00

RVers should bring their folding chairs and soda pop come June 13. If you're in the neighborhood of the L.B. Johnson National Historic Park in Johnson, Texas, you can catch a free western--right along with free popcorn--courtesy of the National Park Service.

The movie, Will Penny, a 1968 western stars Charlton Heston and Joan Hackett. Heston's character is an aging, nomadic cowboy caught up in the threads of a lonely woman and her son. In true Sam Peckinpah fashion (the movie is based on an episode from one of Sam's TV westerns) Heston meets danger and bloodshed in the form of an antagonistic man, Preacher Quint. We won't spoil the plot, and if you miss the film, there are other free movies at the ranch this summer. Catch them on July 18, and August 29.

Check out the Park Service web site for more info on other activities on the Johnson homestead.

Protect Against Influenza While RVing--Free Sample

2009-05-06T17:50:00.000-07:00

We've mentioned in our other blogs that RV travelers need to beware the N1H1 virus--the so-called swine flu--but there are other bugs out there that can sideline you easily. Viruses are generally spread by physical contact--and our hands are the "prime suspects." Here's a new product that promises to kill off 99.9% of germs causing illness--just like hand sanitizers. But what the company that makes SkinWear better is that it lasts not just 15 seconds, but up to 8 hours. It also doubles as a skin moisturizer.

With such a deal as this, and you can get a free sample bottle the company says can protect you for up to a week. What's the catch? You'll need to log on to the company website at skinwearusa.com and click on the free sample tab. Fill out the e-form and in a few days, your sample bottle will wing its way to your mailbox and waiting hands.

Texas RV Parks Want You: Give Guide, Discounts

2007-12-14T08:20:00.001-08:00

A group of Texas campground owners wants you'all to come and visit. To make it easier, they've published a slick paper magazine, dividing that big countryside up into regions, and cleverly showing you where to find each one of their parks--and oh yeah, they've even thrown in a couple of New Mexico RV parks to sweeten the deal.

This is not the first year group has made this offer, and apparently it's a bit popular. The book hasn't hit the streets yet and the group is crowing that 2,000 folks have already asked for the latest edition. Of course, if you're into RV campgrounding in the Lone Star State, it may be because the outfit includes a "Texas Saver Card" which grants the holder 10 to 15 per cent off at participating parks.

To latch on to your copy, call (682) 518-1989, or visit the current on-line edition (the 2008 will be available in January).

On-Line Scenic Drives Great for Trip Planning

2007-10-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

No matter what state you visit in the US, there's a scenic drive nearby. The trick is finding them, and knowing whether there's something on the drive you want to go for. Enter firestonelegendarydrives.com. Herein lie the most scenic drives in the country, along with tips and information about places to drop into for a good feed.

Since the sponsor is a tire manufacturing firm, you can also figure that a good focus on the site are automotive museums. Great detail is given to these. Although other attractions are listed, the coverage is not nearly as thorough but it's not a bad start.

Here's an example entry of the kind of information you can pick up on the site:

"The town of Florence, halfway between Phoenix and Tucson, is the last place to offer hometown amenities before venturing onto the desolate highway. Be sure to check your gas gauge before leaving the city limits – there won't be a gas station or convenience store for the next 45 miles. Although Florence is a quiet burg, its main thoroughfare exposes some of life's reality more harsh than its desert surroundings.

"At the intersection of Rte. 79 and Butte Avenue is the Arizona State Prison Complex, a sprawling mass of buildings that house five correctional facilities. Hardened types from as far away as Alaska are brought here. Across from the prison, on Butte Avenue, is the Prisoner Outlet Store – a retail shop for those travelers seeking that "one of a kind" gift. Traveling down Rte. 79, you pass the Arizona National Guard Training Range and the River Bottom Saloon, a local watering hole at the edge of the now dry Gila River. With the glitzy sparkle of the prison's sunlit barbed wire still visible in your rearview mirror, head south out of town into the Sonoran where the arms of the saguaro cactus embrace you for 45 miles on your driving journey toward Tucson.

"Plenty of wayside areas are along the road, including one dedicated to the early cowboy film star Tom Mix. These sites make for an adventuresome picnic stop, but like the desert itself, lack water and the usual creature comforts. Picnic tables and cabanas are provided; tree shade is not. Driving the old two-lane to where it splits at Oracle for Tucson takes you into the desert, not past it. The beauty of Rte. 79 is its slow pace, where one can absorb the grandeur of Sonoran Desert."

Photo: firestonelegendarydrives.com

Looking to Visit Arizona?

2007-10-17T14:42:00.003-07:00

If you're looking to visit Arizona this fall or winter, you won't be alone. If statistics hold, tourism will up again this year. In 2006 the Grand Canyon State estimated that about 3.3% more out of visitors showed up than in previous years. Not surprisingly, "Baby Boomers" made up the largest share of those who came--36% of non-resident visitors. But following on their heels, "Gen-Xers" made up 30% who came from out of state for leisure.

What did they come for? Camping ranked high on the "West Coast" of Arizona. And plenty of sight seeing: 2 1/2 million folks visited the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City--but if that's big, consider those who visited the Grand Canyon, nearly 4 1/2 million in 2006.

What about you? Want a free trip planner for your visit to this winter wonderland? Arizona tourism folks would love to send you one. Sign up for an e- or print version here.

Free answers to questions for Walleye anglers

2007-10-02T10:44:00.001-07:00

RVers who enjoy fishing for Walleye can now get free answers to their questions about the freshwater sport by fishing researcher Dan Eggertsen at his new website Ask Walleye Fishing. Eggertsen and his panel of Walleye fishing experts field questions from Walleye fishermen throughout North America in hopes of bringing more exposure to the hobby, and also to satisfy the knowledge gap that exists between beginners and experts. There is no cost to ask a question on the site askwalleyefishing.com.

Free Access to US Public Lands September 29

2007-09-26T12:20:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, September 29th, RVers (and others) can get free access into any area managed by the US Department of Interior. And with a little bit of your sweat, you can get a free pass for a day's visit later. See the full story on RVs in the News.

RVers Get A Free DVD Rental from Redbox

2007-07-14T12:23:00.000-07:00

RVers love DVD players because they are light and compact. They also have them installed in their RV entertainment systems. Here is an offer to take advantage of a free DVD rental from Redbox DVD kiosks. This a great idea for RVers because you can return the DVDs at any Redbox kiosk at over 3,500 locations nation-wide. This means you can pick up DVDs while you’re traveling and not have to worry about returning them back to the same place you got them. Get your free DVD here: Redbox Keeping you up-to-speed on the latest RV issues - Jim Twamley

Free Fishin' for Texas State Park Goers

2007-05-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

In addition to a license-free day of fishing in Texas on June 2, you can take in free fishing in Texas state parks at other times. Visit our sister web site, RVs in the News for details.

Photo copyright Texas State Parks & Wildlife Department

Montana Vacation Planner free for the asking

2007-04-27T16:14:00.000-07:00

The state of Montana will send you its beautiful 2007-2008 Vacation Planner. The colorful, magazine-sized publication is chock full of ideas of where to go and what to see in the state. And there is a lot to see — the state is the nation’s fourth largest — it could accommodate Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New York within its boundaries, and still have room to spare. Yet, in all this space, the population is smaller than that of Phoenix, Arizona. To request a free copy of the Vacation Planner as well as a state road map and other publications, click here.

Get Free Stuff And Save The Planet At The Same Time

2007-04-23T21:41:00.000-07:00

Here is a place where you can find what you need for free. It will probably be slightly used, but you can’t argue with the price FREE! One man’s junk is another man’s treasure drives this website of redistribution. It’s a free service and a GREAT concept! You sign up with a group in your area and they will post things that people are giving away FREE. You email them and tell them you want it and then make arrangements for delivery. In the same way if you need to find a home for grandma’s rocker, post it at your group site and away it goes. If you need something, all you have to do is post an email asking for it, and if someone has the item you’re looking for, bingo, you win. Freecycle

So, Don’t Throw It Away Freecycle It!

Free guide takes mystery out of vehicle care

2007-04-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

(NewsUSA) - A new guide for motorists turns technical automotive jargon into everyday language, taking the mystery out of vehicle maintenance and repair.

The free guide, published by the Car Care Council, can be ordered online at www.carcare.org.

The guide, which fits easily in a glove box, explains the nine most common preventative maintenance procedures and repairs that need to be performed to keep cars operating safely and reliably, while maintaining their long-term value. It also includes a list of questions to ask when these procedures are being done on a car.

To further familiarize motorists with their vehicles, the guide has clear, concise descriptions of 12 major vehicle systems and parts. A "Car Care Checklist" reminds motorists what vehicle systems need to be maintained and when service or repair should be performed.

"The first step toward a safe and dependable vehicle is to be car care aware — to understand your vehicle, what kind of care it needs, when it needs it and why," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "The easy-to-follow guide provides this information, cutting through the technical language and terms that often confuse or prevent motorists from really taking good care of their vehicles."

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair. For more information, log on to www.carcare.org.

Uncle Wants You to Tow Safely--Get the Book

2007-04-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while we come across a nasty accident involving a towable rig. That's a good reminder that "things can happen." Sadly, some things happen to RVers that might not have needed to happen.

The federal government's Highway Traffic Safety Administration has put together a free downloadable booklet on trailer safety tips, including some excellent advice on how to tow a trailer, good for all of us, but particularly those new to the game. Get your free downloadable booklet.

Washington State Patrol photo from KGW.COM

How about some free food?

2007-04-14T23:25:00.000-07:00

If you go to http://www.kashi.com/trialevent3/freesample/, you can request a free sample of their GoLean Crunch cereal. It promises to keep you going until lunch.

For those unfamiliar with Kashi, the company makes a 7-grain cereal that is good for you, priced right and doesn't taste like cardboard. Their motto is "7 whole grains on a mission." Enjoy!

Free online Sudoku with a click

2007-04-14T22:48:00.000-07:00

If you're a Sudoku fan and have Internet connectivity, go to http://www.aarp.org/fun/puzzles. You'll not only find a daily Sudoku game, you'll also be able to time yourself solving a four-letter, four-line word completion puzzle; Jumble© ; a jigsaw puzzle and a Word Search© game, along with several others. Have fun!

Tennessee Vacation Guide available by mail or download

2007-04-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

Send for a free Tennessee Vacation Guide, compliments of the state's tourism office. You can request either a printed guide to be mailed to you, or you can read it right online through the magic of "instant download." Whichever way you choose, you'll find some excellent reading, good travel tips and lots of pretty photos. Get your guide here (scroll down and click on the "Request A Free Vacation Guide" graphic.

Buy an RV or advertise for free to sell one

2007-04-08T12:07:00.000-07:00

It seems like everywhere you look there's a place to buy or sell an RV. There are always traditional sources -- newspaper classified ads, local Nifty Nickel tabloids. . . and you can always park your RV on the street with a "For Sale" sign. And nowadays you can choose from dozens of websites that are devoted exclusively to the sale of RVs. You'll pay for these services, of course. But here's a good place to either buy or sell an RV (or a tow vehicle) where the service is free. It's Craiglist.com at www.craigslist.com. Once you get to the website, click on the city near or where you live, then go to the "For Sale" section and within that click on RVs.

Get a free pedometer

2007-04-06T22:17:00.000-07:00

If you go to the My Heart Now website http://www.myheartnow.com/content/index.jsp and fill out a brief survey, Pfizer will send you a free pedometer. It takes just a few minutes and you'll be on your way to a simple, effective exercise program.

Send for free catalog of government publications

2007-04-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

The Federal Government offers hundreds (if not thousands) of free and inexpensive books, brochures and reports on just about any subject of interest to consumers, whether related to health, travel, retirement, computers, employment, education, small business, food, money. . . and more. They even provide publications on camping, campgrounds, federal parks and. . . well, the list is endless. You can send for a free printed catalog or read it online by visiting the website of the Federal Citizen Information Center of Pueblo, Colorado.

This free video could save your life

2007-04-05T22:14:00.000-07:00

How would you react to a blown front tire? Would you slow down? Speed up? No matter how you answer, please watch the informative online video "The Critical Factor" from Michelin. If you can't view it on the Web, email for a free copy. Truly, seeing this video could save your life. And by the way, according to the video, slowing down is the WORST thing you could do!

Find Yourself With This Free GPS Data Goldmine

2007-04-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

Among the best FREE stuff I've ever found for the RV lifestyle was this GPS data goldmine. If you use Delorme, Co Pilot or Microsoft Streets & Trips then you are in luck! You have immediate and free access to just about every kind of locator information you will ever need for your GPS software. I cannot stress enough how many times this data has saved me time and money. Their site is chock full of GPS data for campground clubs like Passport America and Coast to Coast, regular WalMarts, Super WalMarts, casinos, low bridges all over the U.S., Flying J and TA truck stops, Corps of Engineers campgrounds, dump stations, and a host of other very useful information. I take this date and import it into my GPS program and assign it visual "tags" that tell me while I'm driving that I'm coming up on a Flying J truck stop in the next few miles. Does this help me while I'm RVing all over the country? You Bet! Does it save me money? YES! Do I still use the books that tell me this same information? YES! I use both because sometimes the GPS data is incorrect and I always like to use hard-copy books to back up my trip planning. You and I would normally pay big bucks for this kind of data and be happy to do so, but thanks to the Discovery Owners Association it's free for the taking, so have at it!

Find it FREE here: GPS Data Download

If you need information on how to convert this data to your GPS program go here:GPS Data Help

Get a California camping guide

2007-04-05T16:54:00.000-07:00

Looking for a park in Southern California, Northern California or Nevada? Do you want to camp on the beach or near San Francisco? You can find it here. Whether you travel in a motor home, fifth wheel, travel trailer, pop-up camper or stay in a cabin or tent; we welcome everyone! Visit for a few days, several weeks or a whole season. Full time RVers will find a wide selection of parks that offer the features they need for the mobile lifestyle.

You can search by location, recreation facilities and amenities ... access more than 400 RV parks and campgrounds! The parks included here are generally privately owned and offer a wide array of features and services for their guests. Each park listing includes an amenity list so you can easily determine whether a park has the features you need!

Check out http://www.camp-california.com/

Hi-Low trailer DVD is free, or watch video online

2007-04-05T10:43:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen a Hi-Lo trailer? Unless you just landed on the planet, you probably have. They’re the famous telescoping trailers -- a trailer in two parts, a top and bottom. When the trailer is being towed, the top drops over the bottom making it very aerodynamically efficient and safer to tow than a traditional trailer. Hi-Lo trailers are now in their 50th year and are more popular than ever. Send for a free DVD or simply watch a streamed video at the company’s website.

Directory of free campgrounds will save you money

2007-04-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

How about spending nothing for tonight's campsite instead of $20, $30 or more? If that sounds good, then be sure to visit and bookmark FreeCampgrounds.com where you will find more than 1,400 free or inexpensive places to stay in the USA (and more are being added every day!). Some are simply parking lots where you can stay without paying (most Wal-Marts allow free stays). But there are many scenic places where you can hole up a night or two for free, and some even furnish hookups! Many times, these are in small town city parks, where the townfolk appreciate RVers stopping by and maybe spending a few dollars in town to boost the local economy. Check out FreeCampgrounds.com before your next trip. You'll save money if you do!

Guide to Oregon chock full of ideas

2007-04-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

Oregon is one of the great states to travel by RV. The western side, influenced by the Pacific, is green, mild in climate, and populated with beautiful public campgrounds, many in stunnning state parks that hug the coast. To the east of the magnificent Cascades is the vast Great Basin area -- wide open desert lands, often with no humans for miles -- but studded here and there with small, friendly towns with plenty of cowboys and cowgals to offer you a friendly "howdy!" For RVers, Oregon is a land of great opportunity. This free and colorful guide to the state is a wonderful resource and great reading whether you're headed to the state soon or are just dreaming of visiting someday. Order this beautiful travel guide.

Terrific DVD about Roadtrek motorhomes

2007-04-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

Roadtrek makes beautiful Class B motorhomes. The company will send you a wonderful DVD that shows all the company's models inside and out. Many people wonder if Class B motorhomes can pack much into their small spaces. You will be amazed at how much Roadtrek packs into its motorhomes and how creatively the company does it. Click here to order the DVD or to see many videos right online.

Free DVD or CD Rom for aspiring RVers

2007-04-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

This is one of the very best freebies you'll find. It's aimed at new RVers but even veterans will enjoy it. The mission of the product: to make RVing look so darn appealing that you'll rush right down to your nearest dealer and buy one! It does so by profiling different RVers who enjoy the RV lifestyle, but for different reasons. You'll also learn about the various types of RVing, which will help a new RVers narrow down their choice of the RV that's right for them. This is really a fun video, even if it is designed to sell you something. If you don't want it for youself, give it to that friend of yours that says "I'd rather die than camp!" Show 'em how cool it is! Request your DVD or CD Rom here.

North Carolina's Outer Banks guide free for the asking

2007-04-05T07:53:00.000-07:00

North Carolina's chain of barrier islands, known as the Outer Banks, is a popular vacation destination, nature-lover's paradise and popular RVer hangout. With more than 100 miles of unspoiled coastline, the area is perfect for shelling, water activities, bird-watching, and fishing -- boasting some of the best angling along the East Coast. If you plan to visit or would simply enjoy an armchair visit to this unique piece of America, send for the official 2007 Outer Banks Travel Guide. It’s packed with more than 150 pages of attraction information -- such as the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the Wright Brothers National Memorial. And, very important, you’ll learn about RV parks and campgrounds, and outdoor recreation. It also includes a Getaway Card offering discounts at participating businesses. Order it free here.