*Hey Everybody! Thanks so much for watching and for all the awesome feedback you've offered so far! I swear I learn more from my audience than you ever learn from me -- and I love it!* *If videos like this are useful, then I'd love it if you dropped me a quick review at **g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review** ► It'll cost you nothing and I'd sure appreciate it!* _Uncle Josh, the RV Nerd_
Small tip on X-Chocks. Your tires are usually warm from traveling meaning they are expanded so when you put these on tighten them an after a cool down period go back and tighten again because they most likely will be loose. Love your videos entertaining and helpful.
Thank You both so very much Josh, we are first timers leaving for our “Maiden Voyage” this Weekend! Thank you so very much for all of your honesty, and very valuable information! We’ll let you know how we do! We just purchased a 2021 Winnebago Voyage! We are only going to a local RV Park just to work out a few kinks close to home as others have suggested!! We are listening and taking notes!
I know this is an older video, but I am a just retired ole lady who lost her husband and decided to purchase an RV that we had planned to get before he passed. So just bought one and will be doing long term camping for awhile. And your video has helped me a lot…. Thank you for all the information and I definitely subscribed. 👍💕
I am truly sorry for your loss but I likewise am impressed with your courage to forge ahead with life. May you get answers for things you need and the commitment to brighten your days. Prayers for you!
Bwa ha. Just bought those wine glasses recently when saw on clearance at Wal-Mart. And I don't even have the trailer yet, still tenting and vanning it. Although looking hard at a small 15 Coleman right now.
For the black tank ( and gray tank ) - Happy Camper and plenty of water is the way to go. One tub will last the average camping family at least two seasons, much better value than the drop ins! Also - Add a Valtera valve to the end of your dump pipe(s) to act as a backup in the event of a valve failure, use a clear section of pipe on the valve and then hook your hose to it, with a clear elbow going into the sewer hookup. This makes sure you can see if a clog occurs within the RV, and within the hose!
Was going to comment the same thing. We have been RV’ing for 10 years and only found happy camper 2 years ago. Been a game changer in the black tank world.
being a new camper, class c, we started with happy camper. When that jar was empty we tried Unique. We will finish the Unique, but feel we have better results with happy camper. Nothing against unique, just feel happy camper was better
I would recommend exactly the same things……but you beat me to it. 😁 Agree 100%. Also Rhino flex sewer hose…..it collapses nicely when you're done, making it much easier to stow back inside the bumper, or carrier.
Leveling pads. I see people setting up trying to put these thing together like a jengo game. A simple milk crate with assorted pieces of 1x4, 2x4, 4x4 is far easier & most definitely cheaper than all the fancy plastic lego blocks or curved ramp thingys.
We have been camping for 20 years and have used all different kinds of black tank treatment and this year we switched to “Happy Camper” and it’s the best! We also use Rhino Extreme for our sewer hoses. Josh you Rock!!! Thanks for doing these videos! We still enjoy your videos even after we got our new camper last year!😊
We're new to camping again, after being away from it for quite a while. I appreciate these videos and the recommendations. Going to look into that tank treatment. I also think I got a Rhino hose with my used 5th wheel. 😁👍
One item rarely discussed but I find most helpful- garden hose quick connects. Not expensive and really saves time & aggravation when connecting your water hose to the filter, pressure regulator, and hose bib. Just snap together and continue with setting up camp.
It also allows for different connections in the line for the pressure regulator, filter and hose. Some hose bibs are set so low you cannot make the same connections as you are used to. I use the quick connects for the water fill, sewer clean out tool(different hose) and hot water tank clean out tool.
Black tank: 1C dawn, 1C borax, 1 scoop happy camper and 5G water. Gray tank: 1C dawn, 1C Zep, 1 scoop happy camper and 5G water. So far I've had zero issues and since I bought a used camper the tanks are cleaner and the level sensors work better.
Dixie, we've been using Happy Camper and Angel Soft toilet paper for a number of years. You're adding Dawn and Borax, does this help with keeping the sensors clean and operating properly? We have a new camper so it's not an issue, but we know it's on the horizon.
@@rtaylor8322 My sensors were completely useless when I bought my camper, This method cleaned them right up and has kept them working for the last 2 years.
One thing to point out about the X-Chocks. They are not meant to chock the trailer from moving, they are meant to stabilize it from side to side movement by locking the tires to each other, but if no ground chocks are used, they can twist apart from the force and the trailer will roll. Always use ground chocks even with X-chocks. Also, wait for the tires to cool before putting them on, OR go back after they cool to tighten them. For the black tank I use Geo mix for the tank instead of the chemicals. I use a cup or two of dish soap, green apple if I can find it, liquid water softener, one cup of that, and bleach tablets, one of those after every flush. I then add a few gallons of water to the mix. The soap breaks apart the fats and keeps them from sticking to the tank walls, the bleach helps kill germs and bacteria, lets face it, it is a holding tank, not a septic tank, you don't need bacteria and enzymes, and the water softener helps break up the toilet paper. Been using it since 2016 and never had tank odors.
63 & planning to tour the country in an RV in 2 years so I’ve been doing research & watching a huge amount of videos. Josh, you’re the best RV nerd out there!!! Thank you.
So many choices, every time we narrow it down we see something else. Our plans are similar, looking for a couples trailer. Not too long not too heavy . Josh is a great source. Cheers.
I tried a 33 foot trailer, by renting, for the first time in April. I bought a 32 footer I love in July... but promptly injured a knee and have yet to pick it up as it you need to walk around a lot to set up and take it down. I thought I would have spent a lot of time by now on a fall folliage tour. Next year. OK, THE POINT BEING, Erin suggested renting. Absolutely, rent, rent, rent and I am shocked at myself that I only rented once. But At least I knew what my truck could tow and I followed suit in my purchase, I can visualize what I have and how to use it, and I bought on the higher end of the scale for storage, dealing with my height and spacious living. Josh has reviewed the GD Imagine MK2670; while nothing is perfect, it is darn near perfect for most of my top 5 priorities... SO PRIORITIZE AND KEEP A JOURNAL AS YOU RENT!!!!
@@alantittle299 wow thanks for taking the time to share all that info! As for me, I want a smaller RV to get me to less people crowded places. I long for peace & quiet…
Totally agree with you Josh: the Rhino Flex sewer hose system is top notch. We've added or upgraded many things in our travel trailer over the years. Each of these helped to improve our camping experience but two upgrades stand out. Replacing the mattress (and the foam in the seat cushions) had the biggest impact on our comfort and replacing the manual tongue jack for an electric one made setting up and leaving camp so much easier. In retrospect, I should add that replacing our weight distribution bar system with the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch (coupled with the electric tongue jack) makes hitching and unhitching a breeze.
The main problems I have found with the Rhino Flex sewer hose system is that neither end will fit through the floor of the Compartment in the motorhome where the valves are located for the black and grey ranks. The fittings on the end of the hose are too big for the hole. My solution is I use a less expensive RV sewage hose up through the hole in the floor of the cabinet, connect that end to the valve connector and the other end of this hose to the Rhino Flex Hose. It takes two hoses, buts it is a little longer which usually turns out to be good and every thing fits together well. Just a tip. May no apply on your RV device.
I personally find the portable apartment sized washing machines work the best. They are smaller, but could still wash sheets and thin blankets, a fraction of the price, and worked great! It spun the clothes nearly dry and I could shake them out, and hang them on the shower rod to finish drying. Missed it even more when I moved back into a house and found it cleaned clothes better than the full sized whirlpool.
Thank you Josh! I love your reviews of various rigs, but once we purchase ours I’m happy we can continue to rely on your advice and education on all those things down the road that will help to improve our RV experience. Keep’m coming! They’re very helpful.
I would recommend anyone with an RV installing a Valterra valve at the end of their sewer connection on your RV. They are less than $20.00 and really help you from getting a poop surprise when you go to empty your tanks. They also work in great just in case you have a problem or failure with the valve in your black or grey tank.
I've found the manufacturing quality to be poor on the Valterra valve. First, the locking clips to do not lock on tightly and so it is easy to accidently twist off the valve when attaching the hose. That is not a good thing if there is liquid behind the valve. Second, the valve becomes very stiff to open after just a little use. It is easy to again accidently twist it off when having a difficult time trying to slide the valve open.
For black tank treatment we have moved to happy camper treatment. we prefer this one after trying a few. It has worked very well for us to date. Also +1 on the Rhino hoses. That is what we have settled on also. I do have a spare set that are camco but are for the time I miscalculated and needed an extension section.
I have watched several videos from sewer flush/repair companies and have switched to calgon bath beads or borax powder to make the tanks more slippery. I add some pine-sol if there is odor in the trailer - that is not really happening though. Also - we try to leave our tanks shut and then empty them all at once so they can drain out properly.
I'm new to RVing and camping on a whole. I really appreciate these videos, Josh. Also, I really appreciate all the experienced campers sharing their wisdom in the comments! This is such good content I've literally started a notebook of tips and pointers! I'm loving this community!
As a full time RVer, here are my suggestions: For laundry you could get a washer/spin dryer and then hang your clothes up to finish drying. For butt napkins, you could use septic safe toilet paper but you can also just throw out your favorite toilet paper in a garbage can with a lid. For breakable dishes, I have Corelle dishes, glass glasses and dishware. The only time I have ever broken anything is when I dropped it. I use rubber mats from the dollar store to stop the dishes from sliding in the cabinets when in movement. For the stinky slinky, I have used the cheap ones for YEARS full time as I got them with the RV. They have worked just fine with zero issues. I don't use camp sites or RV parks so I just use them to dump once a week so it doesn't stay out in the sun. For tank treatments, I personally get the regular packets but I have heard people really like the geo method as it works great and is a lot cheaper.
I agree with everything definitely using my Corelle dishes and using the geo method. I am trying to get away from all the disposable plastics. Switched everything to bar or sheets from shampoo to laundry detergent. Takes up less room, travels easier, and less waste.
Happy Camper has never let me down. When we bought our first camper (used), and started using the toilet with "Geo method", and it really stunk. 1 scoop of Happy Camper the smell was gone.
I am thinking you didn't put enough in, because I use the geo method, and have never had an odor problem and that is even during hot summers. I also live in mine full time.
Great video Josh, totally agree!! One thing I would add is don't buy toliet bowl cleaners for your RV. They will kill the enzymes in your tank treatment. I recently switched over to Dometic 3 in 1 bowl cleaner and tank treatment. You put some water in the bowl, drop it in and it fizzes up like an Alka Seltzer tablet. You take your brush, clean the bowl and flush it to treat you black tank, works great. Just my 2 cents.
100% true. All of the bayonet/twist on couplers eventually tear their gasket and start leaking. I took the plunge, replaced all of the stupid twist on couplers with the Waste Master cam lock fittings and have been so glad I did. When I disconnect the hose, the Waste Master coupler surface is dry! Try that with any twist on coupler regardless of brand.
Josh, fantastic video. Been trailer camping for over 20 years, learned a lot. So here are my thoughts 1. Rhino sewer hose, the only way to go. 2. I only use wheel chocks in my driveway, we dry camp every where we go and I much prefer to dig a hole to pull into to level the trailer and that provides better than wheel chock support. Only on one side though. 3. The porta-pak or the camco brand seem to work the best in the black tank. 4. We do laundry in the kitchen sink, put a tide pod in there and wash your stuff. Except for jeans. 5. Never had a problem using regular toilet paper, but I would bet if your out for a month you would need the other stuff. 6. The number 1 thing I would recommend for anybody that camps in an rv is SOLAR, best thing ever. Our Shockwave came with solar installed, 190 watt panel, 2000 watt inverter and a wall controller. You always have power, batteries are always charged, although we have never used the inverter its great to have if you do not want to start the generator. A few hours of sun everyday and your good to go. We still have the original batteries in it, and our trailer is a 2018, we bought it new.
Great Information. Josh is simply the best. I hope Bish's appreciates just how valuable Josh is not just to their team, but the RV community at large! I found everything Josh touched on in this video spot on.
I used Unique for the two and a half months that I was out this summer and I was astonished how well it broke down my poop and toilet paper and it never smelled. Even my stinky slinky didn't leave a smell in my storage compartment!!! I got a new hose this year and I agree with you on that, the Rhino Flex was soooooooo much better than the 5.99$ Crappy Tire cheapo brand.
I use Happy Camper with lots of water during the stay before we open up and drain the tank. Then before travel and after washing out the black tank with grey water and the flush hose, I add five gallons of water, a squirt of dawn dish soap and a small amount of downy fabric softener. Those will swish around the tank as we are taking her home. Then when we get home, I add one scoop of Happy Camper. Never had a problem.
1) having done a TP test, all inexpensive brands of TP ALL broke apart with minimal agitation. If you’re driving between dumps they work fine. Test the one you want in a jar of water. Tank cleaning company says any paper and no tank additive needed or use pinesol and cascade for much less.
I actually just asked this question. I have one for the house and it's amazing. I prefer a washlet because you can just switch the button but I wasn't sure if it was an option in an RV. Have you used them before or is this just a theoretical thing?
I have a friend who put in a bidet. Something fell off the hook above the toilet (she has dogs and cats) and turned on the bidet while she was at work. She came back to a flooded camper. I also flooded out my bathroom when a bottle of lotion fell out of my medicine cabinet onto my faucet handle while towing (forgot to turn off the water pump). Needless to say, that was a tough lesson. I would install an extra in-line shutoff valve for the bidet and limit the chance of something bad happening. They're all cheaply made in China and who knows when the internal check valves will fail.
Another good video. I second the recommendation for 2 sewer hoses. And I’m team Rinoflex hoses. Also everyone needs 2 25’ water hoses along with a Y fitting at the water connection. Makes cleaning a lot easier.
Two 25 footers is a bit extreme. I carry a 10 and 15 footer and have never needed to use the 10 footer. I dry camp mostly, so I normally dump at a dump station. The few times I've had full hookups the 15 footer was more than long enough.
@@dalefrisbie6372 I agree. I have 3 hoses. 2 10 foot and a 15 foot. Had to buy them for a campsite in Virginia where I needed all 3 to reach the sewer. Very bad site. I can laugh about it now. 🤣 Extra are great to have. I have never had to use the third one since but if one fails I have a great backup.
You always take the real person approach to things.. You connect with viewers cause you are honest and sincere. That is a good deal. As always. Thank you Josh. Keep up the good work!
I did 20 years active duty, with 4 deployments. I'm in the process of selling my house and going full time RV, skydiving across the country. Agree with the washer /dryer thing. As another user mentioned, a bucket with a toilet plunger work just fine. Just use fabric softner (I cannot stress this enough) before taking your laundry or off the bucket to hang up to dry. Having some DIY skills is definitely a good thing. DO. NOT. SKIMP. ON. BUTT. NAPKINS!!!!!!!!! Putting a towel bar under the slide awning will help with water and debris collection. You may have to fabricate one with dowels,but it's worthwhile to do. Plastic dinner ware is a great thing for saving weight. Get a good sewer hose, period. Buy once, cry once. I have not purchased my first RV yet, but this code has helped me with the logistics of seeing myself up for a good time!
Lol Fuzzy Bugs ❤. You are a very well spoken man, you obviously care more about the safety, the savings, and the simplicity of people’s best interest at heart. Anyone who tells you that RV toilet paper is not truly needed is a honest man. Thanks for all you do to help us RV enthusiasts .
@@JoshtheRVNerd I was wondering if you have ever made a video of how to adjust a slide out . I Just bought my first motorhome and one slide is not closing tight at the one end on the BOTTOM of the slide. The top is fine ?
Thank you so much for putting together these kinds of videos Josh! I'm not yet an RVer but have been following several channels now for a year or so and I'm trying to educate myself regarding not only the types of RVs out there and what might work for my situation but also to understand the basic day-to-day operations that have to occur as an RVer. Videos like this are so valuable to beginners like me and the input from both you and your community are very much appreciated. Thank you so much for taking the time to put these together and for everyone who takes the time to share their experiences and recommendations.
Great information! Personally, I would rather not have slide awnings because I detest wind and the noise alone from those awnings can be horrible. Get a cheap blower and blow off the leaves before pulling in slides. It would be really nice if there were a barrier on the roof of slides to protect against the sun and heat.
A barrier for the sun's heat, rain and tree debris is a slide topper. Definitely worth the noise, which I've never heard. The A/C is loud too but I'm sure you use it.
@@aguyandhiscomputer nope. I know what a slide topper/awning is. I have plenty of friends and family who have them and I choose not to have them. It's personal preference. I don't habitually camp in extreme heat with the slide in direct sun. No need to push your opinion on me. I also have silencers on our a/c units and never even notice them running. Anything else I need to debate with you over? No? Ok, have a good day.
been rving/camping for 45 years, had everything from camper to 5th wheel, used almost everything, most dealers, not all, just want to get rid of old stock,(and you as fast as possible) never seen a sales man like you, explaining why you need or don't need something, you my man deserve some kind of award for your salesmanship. If i ever need something i'll be a happy customer, no matter the price if i had you, the honest salesman helping me, you rock bud
I'm super happy to be part of Bish's RV. They not only let me do this kind of work but flat encourage me to do it. We're literally working out a concept for a video literally about reason why maybe you shouldn't but an RV and how it's not right for everyone
@@JoshtheRVNerd one thing I've notice on these sites is everyone forgets to mention 1 safety tip, you be first ok, here it is.......buy a key lock for your hitches, (pull, 5th, gooseneck)5th being the worst i hear.....this prevents nasty kids and people from disconnecting while you at mall or something and trailer disconnect costing mega bucks....you get the picture, i know it doesn't happen often, but........
Best way to transfer DEF from 2.5 gallon container into your engines DEF container which often has a relatively small hole - buy Harbor Freights battery operated (with on / off switch )- liquid transfer pump for just $12 - a fast no spill no mess solution
Happy Camper for the holding tanks!! Sooo good! Best thing I've found for hot days! For the washer and dryer and toilet paper... I recommend getting one of those compact washer and spin dryers!! You can get a decent one for like $200 maybe even less. Wash socks and underwear, T-shirts, shorts - stuff like that. Then wash the bigger stuff at a laundromat. The bigger stuff can usually last a week or two anyways. The smaller stuff is more often. Set the thing in your shower and you're set! Uses way less water as well!! For the toilet paper, Walmart's value brand is the best! You can watch comparison videos on UA-cam and the Walmart value brand beats out camco toilet paper! And it's way way cheaper! Plus, you get a lot more of it! Watch the comparison video done by wandering weekend!
I absolutely love your content!!!! so nice to find a channel that isn't about just making sales but rather making sure we are educated so we can make more informed choices. As i am just now considering getting an Travel Trailer. thank you for making these and to your ownership for allowing you to just make content thats not based on them just emptying consumers wallets.
Our 2017 Prime Time Tracer did not have slide awnings or a ladder. I bought an extendable ladder from Amazon and a small leaf blower to get the debris off our slides. We park ours under trees so it was a must to be able to clean the slides off.
Thanks for the mention, my friend! Can't disagree with any of these items! I think one mistake people make with the x-chocks is that they put them in before leveling or take them out after hooking up, and that's when they may cause tire damage. I also prefer Rhino hoses, but I HATE the pre-attached swivel elbow they have on some of the kits. It's far better to have the removable elbow, otherwise, they don't fit in bumpers or storage tubes. It also means that once you've attached a hose and realize it's too short, you can't just add a second one. You have to detach the hose, put the extension on, and then add the main hose back on. That's a real pain when your sewer connection is under a slide. -J
@@hotladyleoI like the powder (Happy Camper) over the pods, because sometimes, with other brands, the pods don’t dissolve. Same think with laundry pods.
We use & swear by the Rhino hoses. We started with a cheap one & it popped a hole in it the 1st trip out. Bought the Rhino before the next trip & never looked back. Worth every penny. We use Unique RV treatment & their toilet cleaner so we don't have any chemical reactions or seal issues.
The awning over the slide and the negative reasons for the slide supports were an eye-opener to me. Never owned a slide before, and after you explained it, it makes perfect sense. Thanks
As always josh, great unbiased truth. It was one of your reviews that Made our decision on what unit to buy as you walk through it and pointed things out. We are in Florida a little bit far to travel up there. You are doing a great service to this industry keep up the good work.
@@JoshtheRVNerd enjoy your time here. We are in Wilbur by the Sea. South of Daytona. Had our butts kicked by the Hurricanes and made national news. Ugh.
We use Happy Camper and love it. And yes, you must spend money on the best sewer hose. Always test it out by dumping a little gray first before the black in case the hose has developed pin holes. Josh, this is the best description I’ve heard about why slide supports are bad. We bought some several years ago because my spouse has bad knees so he tends to plop on the couch. I thought we were saving the slide. Thanks for all you do.
To go along with the good quality sewer hose, you may consider the sewer hose lifter-upper. You may need it, you may not. Depends on the where the sewer drain is, slope of the site, etc. I didn’t care much for the accordion style version of this thing, but the Titan platform set works great. It’s 5 platforms of gradually decreasing height. Seems a little more user friendly than the other type.
Never really had great luck with the drop in pods controlling odor. Not bad, but not great either. To me, good flushing after dumping the tanks, then before using, ideally before traveling to provide some agitation, I’ve found that using 5 gallons of water mixed with some Dawn dish soap and Borax, maybe even some concentrated degreaser, helped the most. I’ve had the Rhino and Camco hoses, I like the rhino for the stability, but I feel like the Camco is easier to deal with and put back into the stinky slinky holder. I’d avoid the white, RV specific water hoses for fresh water, not worth it. I really like the ZeroG hoses, lightweight, flexible, easy to unwind and then roll up. Speaking of stinky slinky holders, the factory ones are kind of “just OK”. I’ve found that the square vinyl fence post covers are easier to use. Just come up with a mounting solution that works for your rig and use the already include caps that come with the post cover. The other things to think about, rear observation camera, tire pressure monitoring, propane level monitoring. All very cool technology that when it works - it’s wonderful, just chose wisely. Furrion cameras are Ok, but the wireless can lose signal in really long (44’) rigs and the small monitor can be hard to see with polarized sunglasses on. Tire Minder TPMS works well, but once again can lose signal in longer rigs! I like the through the phone option as it is one less thing in the tow vehicle. Mopeka propane tank monitors seem to work pretty well, I’ve never been short on propane since installing those.
I’m new into the camper world and keep watching random videos vicariously until the season starts. Watching this video was extremely entertaining and it was informative. Despite being from a sales centre, it did not have any sales gimmick, just honest (and humorous) truth. Thanks for that.
Well done. I would also add to the list (especially these days) a high quality surge suppressor and water pressure regulator. If you are going to drink the water I might also add an additional water filter. Thanks for the information.
As the one typically leveling, I love the Anderson leveling system. For cleaning the inside of our RV, i love my Enviro Cloth by Norwex, no cleaners needed, just water and the cloth. Space saver for all the bottled cleaners.
As newbies to RVing I really appreciate your channel for the advice from you and the experienced RV community. There is alot to learn and having a trusted resource is invaluable! Thank you!
So much appreciation and respect for this guy! He knows his stuff, provides great information. It’s quite the education, especially for a newbie like myself. I hope your employer realizes what a gem they have in you! Thanks for all your videos!
Absolutely agree on purchasing a little more expensive but better camping gear, especially sewer hoses. We have had great success with Happy Camper and Unique RV Digest It in the black tank. Dawn and Borax work great for a road flush to keep the tank clean in between trips. Thanks Josh
Thanks, Josh, for what I consider to be just awesome integrity. You and your company prove time and again that you are about your customers first above absolute profit. And I'm happy you guys are in Texas now!
I find myself watching your vids more and more. Good stuff. I find that going number 2 outside or at an rv park bathroom is much better than filling my black tank with hazardous materials! And my stick and tin budget trailer doesn't have slide outs so bonus!!
Family of 7 here. A washer and dryer is critical for us. Having had a few bad experiences with on-site laundry rooms, and not always towing a vehicle to go to a Laundromat, I can handle a day or two of doing laundry in my RV
Hi...we bought our first trailer (Wildwood 27rk) that has a slide out and I always wondered about slide out stabilizing jacks / holders. I am so glad I watched this video as not only did you save me money but potential problems. Thanks and keep up the great work / videos!
I really like the rhino flex hoses. Also the RV digest-it by Unique. It's great for hot weather and cold weather as well. Alot of dropins have specific temperatures they work in or dont work in! Thanks for the great video!
The wind concern is the main reason I 100% agree with skipping a slideout cover. We also plan on retracting our main awnings whenever we leave the campsite and overnight, just on general principle. I just don't feel like replacing the canvas too early because it got ripped apart. I also agree with your advice regarding the washer/dryer. My wife and I are retiring into an RV in a couple of years, and we have been going back and forth on this, and I believe we are going to ensure that the RV we buy is washer/dryer ready, but we'll put off buying one. We will be in places where laundry facilities are available. I saw an RV vlogger that did a one-year test where they recorded every penny they spent. Fuel for the tow vehicle, propane, fees in RV parks, and laundry. It turned out they spent only $170 for cleaning their clothes. This was a young couple, no children, jeans and t-shirt people. So with laundry costs that low, I just can't see spending $1000s on the machines. Plus, look at all the extra space you have in your closet without them. You've really sold me on spending more on a quality sewer hose. Your passion on this topic was palpable!
THANK YOU!!! We were looking at RVs a few weeks back and asked about the slide awnings and wind and the sales guy assured us that it was a better choice. I had the exact concern you mentioned, that it would tear (ask me how I know on front awnings) and thus cause other damage. Now I know better.
I was a firm believer in Happy Camper tank treatment until I tried Unique’s RV Digest-It. Works so much better and you don’t have to premix the powder with water. Just fill the toilet with water, dump a scoop full of Digest-it, let it dissolve for a minute and flush away! Clean tank every time!
Your comments on the slide toppers are spot on. We experienced the benefits and problems you related. Loved them on the smaller slides on our new trailer, so-so on the 20' slide out. The water collecting and wind "parachuting" on the big cover was a constant problem. We got another trailer with an in between slide size and we are going with the "no cover" for now.
Josh, I love my Lippert Wastemaster sewer hose. It costs a lot more than others, but I feel it’s worth it. I love the coupling system on it. It’s more like what chemical hoses use. I’ve had my hose for 4 years now, with no issues. Thank you also for making these videos
Shout out Bush’s RV in Coldwater Michigan. Last year, we drove 5 hours to Pokagon SP without the 30amp adapter for our Coachman. Bish’s RV were super nice and had this and a lot more! Thanks!
For sewer hose I HIGHLY reccomend Camco Rhino Flex. Just the regular one, not the Extreme… I was going to upgrade to the Extreme because the hose has like an exoskeleton that you can run over with a truck and it pops back into shape. But it doesn’t stay accordion-ed down for storage like the regular RhinoFlex. So I didn’t spend the extra money.
I think in general I would do the same. If I were in a stationary site, that I would get the one that’s a little more crushproof to help with those times where people want to cut through your site in the middle of the night and stuff on your stuff
Great info Josh. One of the best pieces of advice that we were given was to get one of those clear elbows with the water attach. It allows you to see what you are draining (to know when you are clean) and the jet spray from that elbow often dislodges what the black tank flush won't. Bought a quality hose decades ago and it's still working great. I always just leave the one from the factory in the bumper as a backup and have never needed them.
Now this was a refreshing video Josh. TY. Not every RV dealer is going to do a do not buy list, Especially when they are selling products of the do not buy list. Love the little names that you apply to things, ie butt napkins. You always keep it interesting. Thanks again for a great video.
Wow! Really appreciate this information. Especially about the slide toppers and supports. Also, now thinking we don't need a washer and dryer as much as we thought. Camco TST Max orange works well for us odor control wise. We should probably upgrade our chocks. Thanks a bunch Uncle Josh!
My pleasure. I would also say that if you have something currently working for you, then I wouldn't worry about changing it out. "If it aint broke don't fix it" kind of thing
I love glass dishes. So I purchased 2 sets of white wash cloths. Old trick for moving, place a wash cloth in between each item. Maybe silly but works for the two of us. Been camping in this 5th wheel for 8 years and went across country twice. Nothing broken.
This year we didn’t use a commercial treatment for our black tank. I dissolve 1/2 cup of borax in a pail of water and pour it in the bowl and flush. I fill the bowl with water and add 1/4 cup of Dawn and flush. No problems with odour or stuff not dissolving and my sensor has started working for the first time since the trailer was new.
*Hey Everybody! Thanks so much for watching and for all the awesome feedback you've offered so far! I swear I learn more from my audience than you ever learn from me -- and I love it!*
*If videos like this are useful, then I'd love it if you dropped me a quick review at **g.page/r/CdPcitNVx2nDEAg/review** ► It'll cost you nothing and I'd sure appreciate it!*
_Uncle Josh, the RV Nerd_
Well we love you Uncle Josh!!!
Done
It's content like this that helps me way more than travel vlogs of this rv park or that. Keep up the great reviews.
Uncle Josh for President!!!👍
Happy Camper has not failed us in the poop dept! and good info on slide supports
I bought a 5-gallon bucket and cut a small hole in the lid for a toilet plunger. Washing clothes is as easy as churning butter.
This is the ticket. Works as good as a small washer but uses less water.
✌️
This is the type of salesperson that all others should strive to be like!! Honest and still wants peoples opinions! 💯 GREAT JOB JOSH!
Wow ty
No doubt!! If I lived near you I wouldn’t buy from anyone else!! ❤
Small tip on X-Chocks. Your tires are usually warm from traveling meaning they are expanded so when you put these on tighten them an after a cool down period go back and tighten again because they most likely will be loose. Love your videos entertaining and helpful.
good call! Let them cool down
That's why I mentioned putting them on last but failed to mention WHY I suggest that. Appreciate the assist :)
Thank You both so very much Josh, we are first timers leaving for our “Maiden Voyage” this Weekend!
Thank you so very much for all of your honesty, and very valuable information! We’ll let you know how we do! We just purchased a 2021 Winnebago Voyage! We are only going to a local RV Park just to work out a few kinks close to home as others have suggested!! We are listening and taking notes!
Also, most people don't have the physical ability to damage tires by cranking down on the x chock
RV Digest is by far the best tank treatment. Borax with dawn and degreaser is a good option also. Rhino hoses are the best!
I made my own adjustable chocks using 4x4s, threaded rod and nuts. You can find instructions on line.
Was a newbie who hasn’t left his driveway yet, these videos are SO appreciated!
How big is you pile of new amazon boxes? lol :)
I know this is an older video, but I am a just retired ole lady who lost her husband and decided to purchase an RV that we had planned to get before he passed. So just bought one and will be doing long term camping for awhile. And your video has helped me a lot…. Thank you for all the information and I definitely subscribed. 👍💕
Welcome Alberta. I hope we have more helpful videos for you!
I am truly sorry for your loss but I likewise am impressed with your courage to forge ahead with life. May you get answers for things you need and the commitment to brighten your days. Prayers for you!
I’ve said it before but it’s worth saying again, the information you provide Josh is invaluable. Thanks man.
Glad you think so!
Bwa ha. Just bought those wine glasses recently when saw on clearance at Wal-Mart. And I don't even have the trailer yet, still tenting and vanning it. Although looking hard at a small 15 Coleman right now.
For the black tank ( and gray tank ) - Happy Camper and plenty of water is the way to go. One tub will last the average camping family at least two seasons, much better value than the drop ins! Also - Add a Valtera valve to the end of your dump pipe(s) to act as a backup in the event of a valve failure, use a clear section of pipe on the valve and then hook your hose to it, with a clear elbow going into the sewer hookup. This makes sure you can see if a clog occurs within the RV, and within the hose!
Happy Camper is the way to go. Your camping neighbors will appreciate that you use it, too!
Was going to comment the same thing. We have been RV’ing for 10 years and only found happy camper 2 years ago. Been a game changer in the black tank world.
being a new camper, class c, we started with happy camper. When that jar was empty we tried Unique. We will finish the Unique, but feel we have better results with happy camper. Nothing against unique, just feel happy camper was better
I would recommend exactly the same things……but you beat me to it. 😁 Agree 100%. Also Rhino flex sewer hose…..it collapses nicely when you're done, making it much easier to stow back inside the bumper, or carrier.
Aqua Kem was absolutely the best but pulled off the market for some reason.
I’m picturing Uncle Josh “aggressively folding laundry”. I can’t unsee this. Help me.
😂
Ahhhhhh, it burns my 👀! Kill it with 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 😂😂😂
Jk Josh! You should start an OF's account buddy
@@jtec99 Noooooo!
😂😂😂🤣😵
Rhino Flex and Happy Camper and Happy Camper, oh yeh, Happy Camper - best septic treatment we have ever used.
👍🏻
Yes Happy Camper is the best we’ve used.
Leveling pads. I see people setting up trying to put these thing together like a jengo game. A simple milk crate with assorted pieces of 1x4, 2x4, 4x4 is far easier & most definitely cheaper than all the fancy plastic lego blocks or curved ramp thingys.
Some of you never played with Legos and it shows
@@JoshtheRVNerd 🤣🤣🤣 my dad hated stepping on em so yea I didn’t
Beach balls under the slide topper helps with keeping water from pooling in heavy rain.
Thanks !!🙏
We have been camping for 20 years and have used all different kinds of black tank treatment and this year we switched to “Happy Camper” and it’s the best! We also use Rhino Extreme for our sewer hoses.
Josh you Rock!!! Thanks for doing these videos! We still enjoy your videos even after we got our new camper last year!😊
Ty so much!
I agree with your choice of tank treatment and sewer hose.
@@JoshtheRVNerd I also agree with happy Camper treatment and sewer hose
We're new to camping again, after being away from it for quite a while. I appreciate these videos and the recommendations. Going to look into that tank treatment. I also think I got a Rhino hose with my used 5th wheel. 😁👍
Ditto on Happy Camper
One item rarely discussed but I find most helpful- garden hose quick connects. Not expensive and really saves time & aggravation when connecting your water hose to the filter, pressure regulator, and hose bib. Just snap together and continue with setting up camp.
I love my QD for my water hoses. Definitely helps with set up and break downs
It also allows for different connections in the line for the pressure regulator, filter and hose. Some hose bibs are set so low you cannot make the same connections as you are used to. I use the quick connects for the water fill, sewer clean out tool(different hose) and hot water tank clean out tool.
Make sure your quick connects are lead free though!
Yep!
Something to buy: Order quality disposable gloves for sewer-ops that FIT you! I buy XLs and they go on/off easily wo ripping.
good call
Also good for checking fluid levels and pumping fuel
Black tank: 1C dawn, 1C borax, 1 scoop happy camper and 5G water.
Gray tank: 1C dawn, 1C Zep, 1 scoop happy camper and 5G water.
So far I've had zero issues and since I bought a used camper the tanks are cleaner and the level sensors work better.
Thanks for this tip, we are newbies still in search of our first travel trailer so making a list of the best ideas
Dixie, we've been using Happy Camper and Angel Soft toilet paper for a number of years. You're adding Dawn and Borax, does this help with keeping the sensors clean and operating properly? We have a new camper so it's not an issue, but we know it's on the horizon.
@@rtaylor8322 My sensors were completely useless when I bought my camper, This method cleaned them right up and has kept them working for the last 2 years.
One thing to point out about the X-Chocks. They are not meant to chock the trailer from moving, they are meant to stabilize it from side to side movement by locking the tires to each other, but if no ground chocks are used, they can twist apart from the force and the trailer will roll. Always use ground chocks even with X-chocks. Also, wait for the tires to cool before putting them on, OR go back after they cool to tighten them.
For the black tank I use Geo mix for the tank instead of the chemicals. I use a cup or two of dish soap, green apple if I can find it, liquid water softener, one cup of that, and bleach tablets, one of those after every flush. I then add a few gallons of water to the mix. The soap breaks apart the fats and keeps them from sticking to the tank walls, the bleach helps kill germs and bacteria, lets face it, it is a holding tank, not a septic tank, you don't need bacteria and enzymes, and the water softener helps break up the toilet paper. Been using it since 2016 and never had tank odors.
Where do I find liquid water softener??
Great information and suggestions. I really enjoyed the video. I like the Camco Rhino flex hoses.
@@michelejonston-himes2449 I use Borax. It works great
@@michelejonston-himes2449 Calgon is a liquid watersoftener.
Can you explain how the X-chocks are supposed to reduce side to side movement?
63 & planning to tour the country in an RV in 2 years so I’ve been doing research & watching a huge amount of videos. Josh, you’re the best RV nerd out there!!! Thank you.
So many choices, every time we narrow it down we see something else. Our plans are similar, looking for a couples trailer. Not too long not too heavy . Josh is a great source. Cheers.
I tried a 33 foot trailer, by renting, for the first time in April. I bought a 32 footer I love in July... but promptly injured a knee and have yet to pick it up as it you need to walk around a lot to set up and take it down. I thought I would have spent a lot of time by now on a fall folliage tour. Next year. OK, THE POINT BEING, Erin suggested renting. Absolutely, rent, rent, rent and I am shocked at myself that I only rented once. But At least I knew what my truck could tow and I followed suit in my purchase, I can visualize what I have and how to use it, and I bought on the higher end of the scale for storage, dealing with my height and spacious living. Josh has reviewed the GD Imagine MK2670; while nothing is perfect, it is darn near perfect for most of my top 5 priorities... SO PRIORITIZE AND KEEP A JOURNAL AS YOU RENT!!!!
@@Erin-Thor Thanks Erin!
@@benclaase8181 All the choices make my brain hurt 😫
@@alantittle299 wow thanks for taking the time to share all that info! As for me, I want a smaller RV to get me to less people crowded places. I long for peace & quiet…
Totally agree with you Josh: the Rhino Flex sewer hose system is top notch. We've added or upgraded many things in our travel trailer over the years. Each of these helped to improve our camping experience but two upgrades stand out. Replacing the mattress (and the foam in the seat cushions) had the biggest impact on our comfort and replacing the manual tongue jack for an electric one made setting up and leaving camp so much easier. In retrospect, I should add that replacing our weight distribution bar system with the Andersen Weight Distribution Hitch (coupled with the electric tongue jack) makes hitching and unhitching a breeze.
I've been thinking about upgrading our tongue jack from manual to electric. Sounds like it's something I need to do for next season.
The main problems I have found with the Rhino Flex sewer hose system is that neither end will fit through the floor of the Compartment in the motorhome where the valves are located for the black and grey ranks. The fittings on the end of the hose are too big for the hole. My solution is I use a less expensive RV sewage hose up through the hole in the floor of the cabinet, connect that end to the valve connector and the other end of this hose to the Rhino Flex Hose. It takes two hoses, buts it is a little longer which usually turns out to be good and every thing fits together well. Just a tip. May no apply on your RV device.
Agree on the Andersen hitch - it is great!
Funny - those are the exact 2 things we replaced in our camper (foam in the seat cushions and a regular full-size queen mattress!)
What type of mattress do you recommend? We have to go with an Rv type because a full won’t fit the compartment. 😊
I personally find the portable apartment sized washing machines work the best. They are smaller, but could still wash sheets and thin blankets, a fraction of the price, and worked great! It spun the clothes nearly dry and I could shake them out, and hang them on the shower rod to finish drying. Missed it even more when I moved back into a house and found it cleaned clothes better than the full sized whirlpool.
I'm not experienced with them but I love this feedback. TY for taking the time to share
We are planning to take delivery of a new 5th wheel in 2 days. I love the advise about accessories. Thanks for all the info. Well done!
Can you share make n model of the apartment size washer you use? Word of mouth from someone with experience is helpful n appreciated.
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Thank you Josh! I love your reviews of various rigs, but once we purchase ours I’m happy we can continue to rely on your advice and education on all those things down the road that will help to improve our RV experience. Keep’m coming! They’re very helpful.
TY! I sure try
I would recommend anyone with an RV installing a Valterra valve at the end of their sewer connection on your RV. They are less than $20.00 and really help you from getting a poop surprise when you go to empty your tanks. They also work in great just in case you have a problem or failure with the valve in your black or grey tank.
YES! I talked about that here bit.ly/3Up1LXl
^^^ 100% Don't wait for it this to happen before buying one!
First thing I did with our new RV. Worth every penny!
I installed this valve after getting a poop bath. They are a must.
I've found the manufacturing quality to be poor on the Valterra valve. First, the locking clips to do not lock on tightly and so it is easy to accidently twist off the valve when attaching the hose. That is not a good thing if there is liquid behind the valve. Second, the valve becomes very stiff to open after just a little use. It is easy to again accidently twist it off when having a difficult time trying to slide the valve open.
For black tank treatment we have moved to happy camper treatment. we prefer this one after trying a few. It has worked very well for us to date. Also +1 on the Rhino hoses. That is what we have settled on also. I do have a spare set that are camco but are for the time I miscalculated and needed an extension section.
I also use happy camper, it works great and has the added benefit of also working great to treat the grey water if you need.
Happy Camper for us too!
Same for us!
I have watched several videos from sewer flush/repair companies and have switched to calgon bath beads or borax powder to make the tanks more slippery. I add some pine-sol if there is odor in the trailer - that is not really happening though. Also - we try to leave our tanks shut and then empty them all at once so they can drain out properly.
@@jeremiiah1797 I've found borax powder works really good
LOL!!!!! "Aggressively folding laundry" I'm DED!
I laughed so hard 😂
@@peppergrinder8947 he was on fire today for sure! lol I was laughing through the whole thing while I was learning a lot!
I'm new to RVing and camping on a whole. I really appreciate these videos, Josh. Also, I really appreciate all the experienced campers sharing their wisdom in the comments! This is such good content I've literally started a notebook of tips and pointers! I'm loving this community!
Welcome aboard! Here's another important one you may want to tune into: ua-cam.com/video/NiB6-4FLryU/v-deo.html&lc=UgxNXpO02OLgLv8Jcll4AaABAg
As a full time RVer, here are my suggestions:
For laundry you could get a washer/spin dryer and then hang your clothes up to finish drying.
For butt napkins, you could use septic safe toilet paper but you can also just throw out your favorite toilet paper in a garbage can with a lid.
For breakable dishes, I have Corelle dishes, glass glasses and dishware. The only time I have ever broken anything is when I dropped it. I use rubber mats from the dollar store to stop the dishes from sliding in the cabinets when in movement.
For the stinky slinky, I have used the cheap ones for YEARS full time as I got them with the RV. They have worked just fine with zero issues. I don't use camp sites or RV parks so I just use them to dump once a week so it doesn't stay out in the sun.
For tank treatments, I personally get the regular packets but I have heard people really like the geo method as it works great and is a lot cheaper.
LOVE stuff like this from real owners and users. TY so much!!
I agree with everything definitely using my Corelle dishes and using the geo method. I am trying to get away from all the disposable plastics. Switched everything to bar or sheets from shampoo to laundry detergent. Takes up less room, travels easier, and less waste.
I have so much respect and appreciation for Uncle Josh's opinion and advice on all RV-related items. 😻 Britt
Happy Camper has never let me down. When we bought our first camper (used), and started using the toilet with "Geo method", and it really stunk. 1 scoop of Happy Camper the smell was gone.
I love Happy Camper. Sadly, it’s now banned in California.
I am thinking you didn't put enough in, because I use the geo method, and have never had an odor problem and that is even during hot summers. I also live in mine full time.
Great video Josh, totally agree!! One thing I would add is don't buy toliet bowl cleaners for your RV. They will kill the enzymes in your tank treatment. I recently switched over to Dometic 3 in 1 bowl cleaner and tank treatment. You put some water in the bowl, drop it in and it fizzes up like an Alka Seltzer tablet. You take your brush, clean the bowl and flush it to treat you black tank, works great. Just my 2 cents.
Ah, ty!
Best sewer hose is Lippert Waste Master!
100% true. All of the bayonet/twist on couplers eventually tear their gasket and start leaking. I took the plunge, replaced all of the stupid twist on couplers with the Waste Master cam lock fittings and have been so glad I did.
When I disconnect the hose, the Waste Master coupler surface is dry! Try that with any twist on coupler regardless of brand.
Josh, fantastic video. Been trailer camping for over 20 years, learned a lot. So here are my thoughts
1. Rhino sewer hose, the only way to go.
2. I only use wheel chocks in my driveway, we dry camp every where we go and I much prefer to dig a hole to pull into to level the trailer and that provides better than wheel chock support. Only on one side though.
3. The porta-pak or the camco brand seem to work the best in the black tank.
4. We do laundry in the kitchen sink, put a tide pod in there and wash your stuff. Except for jeans.
5. Never had a problem using regular toilet paper, but I would bet if your out for a month you would need the other stuff.
6. The number 1 thing I would recommend for anybody that camps in an rv is SOLAR, best thing ever. Our Shockwave came with solar installed, 190 watt panel, 2000 watt inverter and a wall controller. You always have power, batteries are always charged, although we have never used the inverter its great to have if you do not want to start the generator. A few hours of sun everyday and your good to go. We still have the original batteries in it, and our trailer is a 2018, we bought it new.
Love this Ty
Great Information. Josh is simply the best. I hope Bish's appreciates just how valuable Josh is not just to their team, but the RV community at large! I found everything Josh touched on in this video spot on.
I used Unique for the two and a half months that I was out this summer and I was astonished how well it broke down my poop and toilet paper and it never smelled. Even my stinky slinky didn't leave a smell in my storage compartment!!! I got a new hose this year and I agree with you on that, the Rhino Flex was soooooooo much better than the 5.99$ Crappy Tire cheapo brand.
I've been using Unique RV Digest It since day 1 in my RV, bought new, and it works great. Best product I've tried so far.
@@rsmartin68 Love Unique - it works the best !
We just switched from Happy Camper to Unique as and love it.
I use Happy Camper with lots of water during the stay before we open up and drain the tank. Then before travel and after washing out the black tank with grey water and the flush hose, I add five gallons of water, a squirt of dawn dish soap and a small amount of downy fabric softener. Those will swish around the tank as we are taking her home. Then when we get home, I add one scoop of Happy Camper. Never had a problem.
1) having done a TP test, all inexpensive brands of TP ALL broke apart with minimal agitation. If you’re driving between dumps they work fine. Test the one you want in a jar of water.
Tank cleaning company says any paper and no tank additive needed or use pinesol and cascade for much less.
TY!
In regards to the TP, just get a RV bidet, and if you have to use paper, just put it in a trash can instead of into your tank.
I actually just asked this question. I have one for the house and it's amazing. I prefer a washlet because you can just switch the button but I wasn't sure if it was an option in an RV. Have you used them before or is this just a theoretical thing?
I have a friend who put in a bidet. Something fell off the hook above the toilet (she has dogs and cats) and turned on the bidet while she was at work. She came back to a flooded camper. I also flooded out my bathroom when a bottle of lotion fell out of my medicine cabinet onto my faucet handle while towing (forgot to turn off the water pump). Needless to say, that was a tough lesson. I would install an extra in-line shutoff valve for the bidet and limit the chance of something bad happening. They're all cheaply made in China and who knows when the internal check valves will fail.
Another good video. I second the recommendation for 2 sewer hoses. And I’m team Rinoflex hoses. Also everyone needs 2 25’ water hoses along with a Y fitting at the water connection. Makes cleaning a lot easier.
+1 team Rhinoflex (full time RV'r for 4 years)
Two 25 footers is a bit extreme. I carry a 10 and 15 footer and have never needed to use the 10 footer. I dry camp mostly, so I normally dump at a dump station. The few times I've had full hookups the 15 footer was more than long enough.
we carry 3 10footers and yes I have had all 3 out at a resort.
@@dalefrisbie6372 I agree. I have 3 hoses. 2 10 foot and a 15 foot. Had to buy them for a campsite in Virginia where I needed all 3 to reach the sewer. Very bad site. I can laugh about it now. 🤣 Extra are great to have. I have never had to use the third one since but if one fails I have a great backup.
@@AlaskaErikactually was talking about Water hoses not sewer hoses😊
You always take the real person approach to things..
You connect with viewers cause you are honest and sincere.
That is a good deal.
As always.
Thank you Josh.
Keep up the good work!
I did 20 years active duty, with 4 deployments. I'm in the process of selling my house and going full time RV, skydiving across the country. Agree with the washer /dryer thing. As another user mentioned, a bucket with a toilet plunger work just fine. Just use fabric softner (I cannot stress this enough) before taking your laundry or off the bucket to hang up to dry.
Having some DIY skills is definitely a good thing.
DO. NOT. SKIMP. ON. BUTT. NAPKINS!!!!!!!!!
Putting a towel bar under the slide awning will help with water and debris collection. You may have to fabricate one with dowels,but it's worthwhile to do.
Plastic dinner ware is a great thing for saving weight.
Get a good sewer hose, period. Buy once, cry once.
I have not purchased my first RV yet, but this code has helped me with the logistics of seeing myself up for a good time!
TY for your service!
@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you fir making it worth it!
Lol Fuzzy Bugs ❤. You are a very well spoken man, you obviously care more about the safety, the savings, and the simplicity of people’s best interest at heart. Anyone who tells you that RV toilet paper is not truly needed is a honest man. Thanks for all you do to help us RV enthusiasts .
I won’t claim to get it all right but I try to do my best
@@JoshtheRVNerd I was wondering if you have ever made a video of how to adjust a slide out . I Just bought my first motorhome and one slide is not closing tight at the one end on the BOTTOM of the slide. The top is fine ?
@@watcherdude1330 i have not. I lack the tech knowledge to do that
@@JoshtheRVNerd ok no worries.
Corelle is a good choice for mobile dishes, but put some shelf liner between them to keep the noise down.
Ty
Thank you so much for putting together these kinds of videos Josh! I'm not yet an RVer but have been following several channels now for a year or so and I'm trying to educate myself regarding not only the types of RVs out there and what might work for my situation but also to understand the basic day-to-day operations that have to occur as an RVer. Videos like this are so valuable to beginners like me and the input from both you and your community are very much appreciated. Thank you so much for taking the time to put these together and for everyone who takes the time to share their experiences and recommendations.
Great information!
Personally, I would rather not have slide awnings because I detest wind and the noise alone from those awnings can be horrible. Get a cheap blower and blow off the leaves before pulling in slides.
It would be really nice if there were a barrier on the roof of slides to protect against the sun and heat.
A barrier for the sun's heat, rain and tree debris is a slide topper. Definitely worth the noise, which I've never heard.
The A/C is loud too but I'm sure you use it.
@@aguyandhiscomputer nope. I know what a slide topper/awning is. I have plenty of friends and family who have them and I choose not to have them. It's personal preference. I don't habitually camp in extreme heat with the slide in direct sun.
No need to push your opinion on me.
I also have silencers on our a/c units and never even notice them running.
Anything else I need to debate with you over? No? Ok, have a good day.
@@Roadtripmischief uh ok 🤷
been rving/camping for 45 years, had everything from camper to 5th wheel, used almost everything, most dealers, not all, just want to get rid of old stock,(and you as fast as possible) never seen a sales man like you, explaining why you need or don't need something, you my man deserve some kind of award for your salesmanship. If i ever need something i'll be a happy customer, no matter the price if i had you, the honest salesman helping me, you rock bud
I'm super happy to be part of Bish's RV. They not only let me do this kind of work but flat encourage me to do it.
We're literally working out a concept for a video literally about reason why maybe you shouldn't but an RV and how it's not right for everyone
@@JoshtheRVNerd like size, and type of camping, maybe about trading up later, off grid versus full time, that kind of stuff would be great
@@JoshtheRVNerd one thing I've notice on these sites is everyone forgets to mention 1 safety tip, you be first ok, here it is.......buy a key lock for your hitches, (pull, 5th, gooseneck)5th being the worst i hear.....this prevents nasty kids and people from disconnecting while you at mall or something and trailer disconnect costing mega bucks....you get the picture, i know it doesn't happen often, but........
Best way to transfer DEF from 2.5 gallon container into your engines DEF container which often has a relatively small hole - buy Harbor Freights battery operated (with on / off switch )- liquid transfer pump for just $12 - a fast no spill no mess solution
I absolutely LOVE these educational videos! Mad respect for Josh and the channel. Thanks for everything you do!
Happy Camper for the holding tanks!! Sooo good! Best thing I've found for hot days!
For the washer and dryer and toilet paper... I recommend getting one of those compact washer and spin dryers!! You can get a decent one for like $200 maybe even less. Wash socks and underwear, T-shirts, shorts - stuff like that. Then wash the bigger stuff at a laundromat. The bigger stuff can usually last a week or two anyways. The smaller stuff is more often. Set the thing in your shower and you're set! Uses way less water as well!!
For the toilet paper, Walmart's value brand is the best! You can watch comparison videos on UA-cam and the Walmart value brand beats out camco toilet paper! And it's way way cheaper! Plus, you get a lot more of it! Watch the comparison video done by wandering weekend!
TY Brenden! I think I've seen that but I'll look it up
I agree! I love Happy camper.
I absolutely love your content!!!! so nice to find a channel that isn't about just making sales but rather making sure we are educated so we can make more informed choices. As i am just now considering getting an Travel Trailer. thank you for making these and to your ownership for allowing you to just make content thats not based on them just emptying consumers wallets.
You are so welcome! I sure try :)
Our 2017 Prime Time Tracer did not have slide awnings or a ladder. I bought an extendable ladder from Amazon and a small leaf blower to get the debris off our slides. We park ours under trees so it was a must to be able to clean the slides off.
Good idea!
I used wipes and dump them in small scented trash bags
I wish I folded laundry more often. 😩
Thanks for the mention, my friend! Can't disagree with any of these items! I think one mistake people make with the x-chocks is that they put them in before leveling or take them out after hooking up, and that's when they may cause tire damage. I also prefer Rhino hoses, but I HATE the pre-attached swivel elbow they have on some of the kits. It's far better to have the removable elbow, otherwise, they don't fit in bumpers or storage tubes. It also means that once you've attached a hose and realize it's too short, you can't just add a second one. You have to detach the hose, put the extension on, and then add the main hose back on. That's a real pain when your sewer connection is under a slide. -J
As always I defer to your wisdom! Thank you two!
So is the powder better to use then pods? We r newbies just gettn educated 😍
@@hotladyleoI like the powder (Happy Camper) over the pods, because sometimes, with other brands, the pods don’t dissolve. Same think with laundry pods.
As always, I appreciate you Uncle Josh! You are the best resource I have found for reliable RV info!
☺
We use & swear by the Rhino hoses. We started with a cheap one & it popped a hole in it the 1st trip out. Bought the Rhino before the next trip & never looked back. Worth every penny. We use Unique RV treatment & their toilet cleaner so we don't have any chemical reactions or seal issues.
TY Alicia. LOT of folks swearing by Unique as well
The awning over the slide and the negative reasons for the slide supports were an eye-opener to me. Never owned a slide before, and after you explained it, it makes perfect sense.
Thanks
Glad to be of service!
As always josh, great unbiased truth. It was one of your reviews that Made our decision on what unit to buy as you walk through it and pointed things out. We are in Florida a little bit far to travel up there. You are doing a great service to this industry keep up the good work.
Ironically I just landed in Sanford/Orlando!!
@@JoshtheRVNerd enjoy your time here. We are in Wilbur by the Sea. South of Daytona. Had our butts kicked by the Hurricanes and made national news. Ugh.
We use Happy Camper and love it. And yes, you must spend money on the best sewer hose. Always test it out by dumping a little gray first before the black in case the hose has developed pin holes. Josh, this is the best description I’ve heard about why slide supports are bad. We bought some several years ago because my spouse has bad knees so he tends to plop on the couch. I thought we were saving the slide. Thanks for all you do.
👆 I never knew I was this popular 😂
To go along with the good quality sewer hose, you may consider the sewer hose lifter-upper. You may need it, you may not. Depends on the where the sewer drain is, slope of the site, etc. I didn’t care much for the accordion style version of this thing, but the Titan platform set works great. It’s 5 platforms of gradually decreasing height. Seems a little more user friendly than the other type.
Those are super handy for sure
Rhinoflex rocks! And because it is a system, it keeps the crud and smell inside, not on the ground by the camper
If you get disposable "breeders gloves" or veterinary gloves, they come way above the wrist and potect your sleeves, too.
Good tip!
Never really had great luck with the drop in pods controlling odor. Not bad, but not great either. To me, good flushing after dumping the tanks, then before using, ideally before traveling to provide some agitation, I’ve found that using 5 gallons of water mixed with some Dawn dish soap and Borax, maybe even some concentrated degreaser, helped the most. I’ve had the Rhino and Camco hoses, I like the rhino for the stability, but I feel like the Camco is easier to deal with and put back into the stinky slinky holder. I’d avoid the white, RV specific water hoses for fresh water, not worth it. I really like the ZeroG hoses, lightweight, flexible, easy to unwind and then roll up. Speaking of stinky slinky holders, the factory ones are kind of “just OK”. I’ve found that the square vinyl fence post covers are easier to use. Just come up with a mounting solution that works for your rig and use the already include caps that come with the post cover. The other things to think about, rear observation camera, tire pressure monitoring, propane level monitoring. All very cool technology that when it works - it’s wonderful, just chose wisely. Furrion cameras are Ok, but the wireless can lose signal in really long (44’) rigs and the small monitor can be hard to see with polarized sunglasses on. Tire Minder TPMS works well, but once again can lose signal in longer rigs! I like the through the phone option as it is one less thing in the tow vehicle. Mopeka propane tank monitors seem to work pretty well, I’ve never been short on propane since installing those.
I'll have to check those LP tank monitors out sometime. I'm not well versed in them currently
I’m new into the camper world and keep watching random videos vicariously until the season starts. Watching this video was extremely entertaining and it was informative. Despite being from a sales centre, it did not have any sales gimmick, just honest (and humorous) truth. Thanks for that.
I've always tried to make this channel focus on the info I'd want to know were I the one in the buyer's seat. TY for watching, Les :)
Well done. I would also add to the list (especially these days) a high quality surge suppressor and water pressure regulator. If you are going to drink the water I might also add an additional water filter. Thanks for the information.
Oh for sure. That would’ve made an excellent entry into this list
We use the Rhino for the sewer hose, Happy Camper for the black tank and Angel Soft tp.
As the one typically leveling, I love the Anderson leveling system.
For cleaning the inside of our RV, i love my Enviro Cloth by Norwex, no cleaners needed, just water and the cloth. Space saver for all the bottled cleaners.
Oh that's an awesome tip on those cleaner cloths. Going to look into that
Your videos have been great at helping this Canadian & his cat
My pleasure!
As newbies to RVing I really appreciate your channel for the advice from you and the experienced RV community. There is alot to learn and having a trusted resource is invaluable! Thank you!
So much appreciation and respect for this guy! He knows his stuff, provides great information. It’s quite the education, especially for a newbie like myself. I hope your employer realizes what a gem they have in you! Thanks for all your videos!
I love the slide awning tip! TY!
Ty for watching!
I use One scoop happy camper, about 1/2 cup dawn and 1/2 cup borax with 3 gallons of water. I have ZERO smell!!! Works absolutely amazing!!!
Absolutely agree on purchasing a little more expensive but better camping gear, especially sewer hoses. We have had great success with Happy Camper and Unique RV Digest It in the black tank. Dawn and Borax work great for a road flush to keep the tank clean in between trips. Thanks Josh
Thanks, Josh, for what I consider to be just awesome integrity. You and your company prove time and again that you are about your customers first above absolute profit. And I'm happy you guys are in Texas now!
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE THE ABSOLUTE HONESTY!!!!! ❤️
I try! Ty
I find myself watching your vids more and more. Good stuff. I find that going number 2 outside or at an rv park bathroom is much better than filling my black tank with hazardous materials! And my stick and tin budget trailer doesn't have slide outs so bonus!!
Family of 7 here. A washer and dryer is critical for us. Having had a few bad experiences with on-site laundry rooms, and not always towing a vehicle to go to a Laundromat, I can handle a day or two of doing laundry in my RV
Respect. Different folks have different situations. TY for sharing
We use Rhino hose and X chocks and both were selected based on your reviews and both work great. Keep up the great videos!!
LOVE hearing the advice is working well for you!
Hi...we bought our first trailer (Wildwood 27rk) that has a slide out and I always wondered about slide out stabilizing jacks / holders. I am so glad I watched this video as not only did you save me money but potential problems. Thanks and keep up the great work / videos!
Yeah.. DON'T use those things
Love the rhino products for sewer and grey tanks
Appreciate the advice! Rarely will anyone be satisfied with the cheapest solution, but pushing the cheap stuff can lose you a few customers.
I really like this guy. He's my kind of people. I sold insurance the very same way.
Good on ya, Bob
I really like the rhino flex hoses. Also the RV digest-it by Unique. It's great for hot weather and cold weather as well. Alot of dropins have specific temperatures they work in or dont work in! Thanks for the great video!
The wind concern is the main reason I 100% agree with skipping a slideout cover. We also plan on retracting our main awnings whenever we leave the campsite and overnight, just on general principle. I just don't feel like replacing the canvas too early because it got ripped apart. I also agree with your advice regarding the washer/dryer. My wife and I are retiring into an RV in a couple of years, and we have been going back and forth on this, and I believe we are going to ensure that the RV we buy is washer/dryer ready, but we'll put off buying one. We will be in places where laundry facilities are available. I saw an RV vlogger that did a one-year test where they recorded every penny they spent. Fuel for the tow vehicle, propane, fees in RV parks, and laundry. It turned out they spent only $170 for cleaning their clothes. This was a young couple, no children, jeans and t-shirt people. So with laundry costs that low, I just can't see spending $1000s on the machines. Plus, look at all the extra space you have in your closet without them.
You've really sold me on spending more on a quality sewer hose. Your passion on this topic was palpable!
Thank you for watching. I really enjoy that. I get to benefit people with videos like this sometimes.
as a prior full timer i completely agree on spending on a good hose, but be careful where you buy, price can fluctuate a LOT
THANK YOU!!! We were looking at RVs a few weeks back and asked about the slide awnings and wind and the sales guy assured us that it was a better choice. I had the exact concern you mentioned, that it would tear (ask me how I know on front awnings) and thus cause other damage. Now I know better.
Slide toopers are awesome. Less heat, rain and tree debris. Huge difference in size of the 2 awnings.
I was a firm believer in Happy Camper tank treatment until I tried Unique’s RV Digest-It. Works so much better and you don’t have to premix the powder with water. Just fill the toilet with water, dump a scoop full of Digest-it, let it dissolve for a minute and flush away! Clean tank every time!
I keep hearing great stuff about Unique
I live full time in my RV and don't add any chems to the tank. I have Rhino hose, and it works great and the hose is ten years old.
We've been RVers for a while and I still learn new tips from Josh and the rest of the Bish RV community. Many thanks y'all!
Your comments on the slide toppers are spot on. We experienced the benefits and problems you related. Loved them on the smaller slides on our new trailer, so-so on the 20' slide out. The water collecting and wind "parachuting" on the big cover was a constant problem. We got another trailer with an in between slide size and we are going with the "no cover" for now.
Thx for the supporting comments, Craig
Josh, I love my Lippert Wastemaster sewer hose. It costs a lot more than others, but I feel it’s worth it. I love the coupling system on it. It’s more like what chemical hoses use. I’ve had my hose for 4 years now, with no issues. Thank you also for making these videos
Shout out Bush’s RV in Coldwater Michigan. Last year, we drove 5 hours to Pokagon SP without the 30amp adapter for our Coachman. Bish’s RV were super nice and had this and a lot more! Thanks!
Thanks for sharing!!
My new class A has separate washer and dryer with 200 gallon fresh water. But I also have a dishwasher.
Josh, I appreciate you making these videos! Thank you ..
My pleasure!
For sewer hose I HIGHLY reccomend Camco Rhino Flex. Just the regular one, not the Extreme… I was going to upgrade to the Extreme because the hose has like an exoskeleton that you can run over with a truck and it pops back into shape. But it doesn’t stay accordion-ed down for storage like the regular RhinoFlex. So I didn’t spend the extra money.
I think in general I would do the same. If I were in a stationary site, that I would get the one that’s a little more crushproof to help with those times where people want to cut through your site in the middle of the night and stuff on your stuff
Great info Josh. One of the best pieces of advice that we were given was to get one of those clear elbows with the water attach. It allows you to see what you are draining (to know when you are clean) and the jet spray from that elbow often dislodges what the black tank flush won't. Bought a quality hose decades ago and it's still working great. I always just leave the one from the factory in the bumper as a backup and have never needed them.
Yes absolutely
For those wondering, he’s referring to the “Rhino Blaster”
Holding tank treatment: I use laundry soap, whatever kind i bought for my laundry. It seems to work fine and is relativly cheap.
Upgrading to a power jack and golf cart batteries are the best things I’ve done to my camper. Worth every penny.
👍🏻 Thank you for sharing
Now this was a refreshing video Josh. TY. Not every RV dealer is going to do a do not buy list, Especially when they are selling products of the do not buy list. Love the little names that you apply to things, ie butt napkins. You always keep it interesting. Thanks again for a great video.
Those are technical terms..
Wow! Really appreciate this information. Especially about the slide toppers and supports. Also, now thinking we don't need a washer and dryer as much as we thought.
Camco TST Max orange works well for us odor control wise.
We should probably upgrade our chocks.
Thanks a bunch Uncle Josh!
My pleasure. I would also say that if you have something currently working for you, then I wouldn't worry about changing it out.
"If it aint broke don't fix it" kind of thing
Yes we use that too. Very effective
Well done Josh you nailed it I agree with everything you said. I use Rhino Flex hoses & Unique for the black tank it's awesome stuff.
I love glass dishes. So I purchased 2 sets of white wash cloths. Old trick for moving, place a wash cloth in between each item. Maybe silly but works for the two of us. Been camping in this 5th wheel for 8 years and went across country twice. Nothing broken.
This year we didn’t use a commercial treatment for our black tank. I dissolve 1/2 cup of borax in a pail of water and pour it in the bowl and flush. I fill the bowl with water and add 1/4 cup of Dawn and flush. No problems with odour or stuff not dissolving and my sensor has started working for the first time since the trailer was new.