The Seattle RV Show Blog

Now What?

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Wednesday, May 15th, 2013

So you took the plunge and bought a RV at the RV show. Now what? First thing is to equip it for your first camping trip. The following is a list of essential items to equip your RV before you head out on your initial RV excursion.

• Water Pressure Regulator — Some campgrounds have excessive water pressure which could end up blowing out the water lines in your RV.

Non Toxic Water Hose

• Non Toxic Fresh Water Hose — The “white” hose. Don’t use a regular garden hose for your fresh water connection; they are rated for potable water and will leave your water with a “rubbery” taste. A 25-footer will do in most situations, but it might be a good idea to carry an extra 25-footer for those times when you’re further away from the water connection.

Smooth Bor Sewer Hose

• Sewer Hose — If your designated sewer hose carrier will accept it, buy a smooth -bor brand sewer hose. The inside is smooth and much easier to flush out than the collapsible type and they won’t crush like wire ones when run over.
• Sewer Hose Fittings — You might want a couple of different types for the sewer-end of the hose. Many states require an airtight fitting between the end of the hose and the campground sewer receptacle.
• Electrical Extension Cord — A 25-foot extension cord to match your RVs electrical rating (20-amp, 30-amp or 50-amp extension cord) for the times when you can’t get close enough to the electrical outlet.
• Electrical Adapters — A range of adapters to be able to plug your RV into whatever electrical service is available. If your RV is set up for 50-amp service, you’ll need adapters to plug into either 30-amp service or 20-amp service. If your rig is 50-amp, there are also adapters that allow plugging in to both the 30-amp service and the 20-amp service to provide the 50-amps you need (depending on how the campground electrical service is wired).
• Wheel Chocks — Or some form of locking the wheels of your RV. There are many options available on the market, but good old ordinary wheel chocks work best.
• Leveling Blocks — You can buy leveling blocks from your dealer, but any piece of wood cut into squares will do just fine. Don’t depend on your stabilizer jacks to level your RV. They are meant for stabilizing, not leveling.
• Level or Stick-On Levelers — How else can you make sure your RV is level?
• Spare Fuses — Check your RV manual for the types and sizes of fuses in your RV and carry extras of each.
• Fire Extinguisher — If you buy your RV new, it will already come equipped with a fire extinguisher. But if you buy used, it may or may not have one.

Toilet Chemical

• Holding Tank Chemicals — If you want your first RV trip to be a pleasant one, don’t forget the holding tank chemical.
• Non-Slip Cabinet Linings — While not an essential, everything will be where you placed it when you arrive at your destination.
• Matches — Or one of those butane lighters for barbeques for lighting the stove, oven, grill or starting your campfire in the evening.
• Tire Gauge — It’s a good idea to check your tire pressure before each trip. Check both the tow and the towed vehicle.
In the next installment we will look at stocking your RV with household items for quick and easy weekend getaways.

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Categories : RV Trips

Attend the Puyallup RV Show

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Wednesday, May 1st, 2013

In the market for a new RV or just want to see what RVing has to offer? Then make a RV show like The Puyallup RV Show at the Puyallup Fair & Events Center your first destination. By attending a RV show, you get the opportunity to walk through various vehicles, compare different layouts and shop various dealers.

RVs indoors and out!

It’s one stop shopping that makes looking at the numerous styles, brands, models and prices easy. Not sure if you want a towable or a motorized RV? Attending the Puyallup Show can help with the decision by allowing you to compare both types without leaving the show. Maybe you’ll determine that a travel trailer or a folding trailer meets your RV needs, for others, a class A motorhome may be their best choice. For those who are thinking of becoming a RVer, The Puyallup RV Show allows you to see many of the elements that compose the RVing lifestyle. Those just beginning to investigate the RV lifestyle will want to stop by the “Try it, You’ll Like it”exhibit to learn more. The exhibit offers show attendees the opportunity to see all the benefits of RVing from the freedom and flexibility of creating your own schedule to traveling with all the comforts of home. Plus, the show is a great opportunity to talk with fellow camping enthusiasts who share your interests. Seasoned RVers enjoy attending The Puyallup RV Show just to see the latest and greatest RVs. Even if you are not an RVer or even thinking about becoming one, attending a show can be worth the trip. You may discover a hidden passion or just enjoy an afternoon of dreaming about your perfect getaway. Either way, you’ll be amazed at the available features and technology that RVs provide. Speaking of getaways, be sure to enter to win a 4 day / 3 night RV getaway complete with campground accommodations. There will be one winner each day of the show!

Stroll among hundred of RVs at your leisure

Not only is attending The Puyallup RV Show convenient, it’s also a great value. At the show you can visit 15 dealerships offering everything from a tent trailer to a vacation home suitable for your lakefront property. The exhibiting dealers come from as far away as Marysville to the north and Olympia to the south. The time and effort required to visit each of these dealers at their sales centers would greatly exceed the cost of admission to the show, not to mention the frustration of the traffic coming to and fro. For two RV dealers, this will be your only chance to see them (and the unique products they carry) at a RV Show this year as they opt only to exhibit at The Puyallup RV Show. An added bonus of attending a RV show is the presence of factory representatives to answer detailed questions about their product or the possibility of customizing a unit to fit your needs. By attending The Puyallup RV Show you will also be supporting Washington State Parks, with one dollar of every $10 adult ticket and $9 senior ticket being donated to the state parks system.

The Puyallup RV Show, May 2nd – 5th, is the last big show of the season. Don’t miss it or your chance to join the RV lifestyle.

Find your dream RV at the Puyallup RV Show!

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Categories : Regional RV Info, Show Info

Manufactured Home Day

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Monday, April 15th, 2013

A bonus feature you will find at the 2013 Puyallup RV Show are several landscaped and fully decorated manufactured homes on display. To highlight manufacturing housing and the leisure lifestyle they offer, opening day Thursday May 1st has been designated Manufactured Housing Day at the show. By attending Manufactured Housing Day, you will not only learn about all the benefits of manufactured housing, but you can save too! Purchase your tickets ONLINE and Receive $3 off opening day admission compliments of DeTray’s Custom Housing, Lakeview Meadows and Skyline Homes, sponsors of Manufactured Home Day.

Today’s Manufactured Housing

Why manufactured housing at a RV Show? Many attending the Puyallup Show are searching for something to place on their vacation property. While a RV or park model makes sense some of the time, a manufactured home may be a better solution. A typical RV is built for weekend getaways and a week or two long family vacation, not for long periods of occupancy like manufactured homes can withstand. Manufactured homes offer better value than other housing solutions. Since manufactured homes are built to a different set of standards than recreational park models, the cost per square foot is often considerably less. For what you would pay for a nice 400 sq ft park model, you are likely able to buy nearly 800 sq ft worth of a residential styled manufactured home. Maybe you have been considering a site built home for your vacation property. Once again, manufactured homes are a better solution. Consider the following: Finding a builder to construct your vacation home can be a difficult task. Most onsite builders subcontract the majority of the work to other businesses such as plumbers, electricians and roofers making scheduling difficult and in many cases driving the cost of the total project through the roof. If your vacation property is in a rural area the cost rises even more as all these subcontrators add for their travel time. With a manufactured home these costs are controlled in a factory setting. Building in a factory maximizes efficiency, eliminates mistakes and there is never a construction delay due to the weather. Manufactured homes are fast too! Once your site is prepared for a manufactured home, the home can be delivered, set up and ready for you to occupy in a matter of weeks, not months. The quick installations that manufactured homes offer make them a great option for areas with short building seasons like the mountains too.
Manufactured homes also make the perfect retirement home for RVers on the go. Since manufactured homes are built indoors to a national building code (unlike conventional site built homes) they are better built requiring less care and maintenance than their site built equivalent allowing RVers to spend more time on the road and less time on home repairs. For even a more carefree retirement experience consider placing your manufactured home in a 55 plus park like Lakeview Meadows where RVs can be parked right along your home.

Quite often manufactured homes are also suitable as auxiliary dwelling units. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) also referred to as accessory apartments, second units, or granny flats, are additional living quarters on single-family lots that are independent of the primary dwelling unit. The separate living spaces are equipped with kitchen and bathroom facilities and can either be attached or detached from the main residence. These are a great choice for an aging relative, college student/young adult who needs a place to call their own, or as a guest suite. As you can see manufactured homes are very versatile and can serve for a variety of housing needs including a vacation home on the lake.
Be sure to attend Manufactured Housing Day and take a look at what today’s manufactured home offers. While you are there be sure to thank our sponsors DeTray’s Custom Housing, Lakeview Meadows and Skyline Homes for the discount on admission.

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Categories : Show Info

Every Leisure Need

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Monday, April 1st, 2013

When we say the Puyallup RV Show fulfills, “every leisure need from a tent trailer to a vacation home on the lake” we are talking about more than just RVs, park models and manufactured housing. While you will find hundreds of new and used RVs, park models and manufactured housing for your vacation property, you will also find scores of booth vendors offering products and services to make your life easier. Following are just a few examples of what will be offered at the 2013 Puyallup RV Show.

Vendors to Meet Every Leisure Need

If you are like me, you feel guilty leaving home for a RV getaway while unfinished home improvement projects languish in your absence. Wouldn’t it be nice if your home required less maintenance allowing you more time to enjoy the leisure lifestyle both on the road and at home?

Wouldn’t it be nice if your home was wrapped in vinyl siding, never requiring scraping and painting again? That alone would free up a week of your time to go play. Multiple vendors will be at the show presenting the latest in trouble free exterior siding.

Maybe the need for a new bath or installing new windows have been on your “to do” list. Talk to the experts at the show and let them handle these projects for you. Not only will the jobs be done quickly and professionally, but your “to do” list will have one more item checked off, allowing you a free weekend (or two) to enjoy.

Tired of your RV sitting out in the elements collecting moss and getting dirty? Adding a RV garage is a great way to keep the RV pristine and ready for weekend outings. Maybe you already have a garage, but the garage door isn’t tall enough for the RV. At the show you will find vendors that can handle building a custom RV garage or one that specializes in garage doors of any size and shape. Just think of the hours you will save each year not having to wash the exterior of the RV so often.
Of course none of us like to take the time to stay home and clean the gutters when we could be spending a weekend at the lake. Several companies will be at the show exhibiting trouble free no clutter gutter systems.

Nearing retirement and wondering how you will ever be able to afford the leisurely golden years you have dreamed about? Not to worry as there will be financial planners exhibiting ready to show you how to make your retirement dreams come true.

Speaking of financial institutions, Washington State Employees Credit Union (WSECU) the presenting sponsor of the Puyallup Show will be on hand with options to finance that new RV, vacation home or home improvement project. Let them show you how easy it is.

The Crew From WSECU

Last but not least are the vendors at the show waiting to take care of your RVing needs which run the gamut from RV resorts, roadside services, satellite TV, personal safety, RV repair and more.

As you can see the Puyallup RV Show stands ready to make your life easier allowing you to enjoy a more leisurely lifestyle. Enjoy the show and everything life has to offer.

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Categories : Local RV Happenings, Show Info

Try it, You’ll Like it!

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Friday, March 15th, 2013

In the last blog installment we took a brief look at the “Try it, You’ll Like it” exhibit at the upcoming Puyallup RV Show May 2nd – 5th. Not only can you enter to win a 4 day / 3 night RV getaway, but you can gain more insight into the RV lifestyle and why it is the popular choice for millions of people. Following are just a few of the things you will learn about RVing at the “Try it, You’ll Like it” exhibit.
Why go RVing? The reasons you go RVing are the same reasons you take any vacation. To get a break from the grind of the daily routine. To be with family and friends. To rest. To relax. To see new places. To try new things. But the difference between RVing and other types of vacations is that RVing allows you to truly achieve all those goals – and more. RV owners surveyed by Harris Interactive cited escaping the routine of the everyday world, enjoying nature and resting, and relaxing and recharging their batteries as the main reasons for taking RV trips.

Enjoying the RV lifestyle

Hassle-Free Travel. With RVing, there are no flights to catch. No security hassles. No long lines or lost luggage. No hauling heavy bags in or out of costly hotel rooms. No extra bag fees. No expensive, unhealthy food. No strange bedrooms, bathrooms or kitchens.
It’s Affordable - Owning an RV makes economic sense. You are able to travel while spending significantly less. You have unlimited flexibility, even on a limited budget. Depending on the type of RV they own, a family of four can save up to 59% on vacation costs over other forms of travel and a couple can save up to 47%. That’s after factoring in RV ownership costs, including payments, insurance, maintenance, tires, tax breaks, registration and depreciation. . “Regardless of gas prices, RV owners still get a bigger bang for their buck when compared to other types of vacations,” says Richard Coon, president, Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). “Affordability is a key reason why RV travel appeals so much to families.”
Family Fun – RVing is a uniquely enjoyable way to travel as a family. In fact, families that frequently vacation by RV say it fosters an increased sense of togetherness and helps improve family communication. RV owners say that strengthening family relationships is important for their pleasure trips. Which appeals more to you, sitting on a bed in a hotel room with the family watching the TV or lounging outside the RV enjoying the peacefulness of the outdoors while the children ride their bikes around the campground making new friends?
Outdoor Enjoyment – RVers can enjoy the mountains, beaches, parks, popular tourist attractions and small towns whenever they want, without giving up the comforts of home. With a RV your outdoor gear is easily transported along with you; bicycles, fishing rods, scuba gear, etc. and can easily be stowed onboard. Have bigger equipment to bring along? With the new sport utility RVs, RV travelers can easily haul their ATVs, snowmobiles, motorcycles or other outdoor vehicles right on board.

RVs are dog friendly

No Pet Left Behind. Unlike most family vacations where the four-legged members get left behind, RVers can take everyone with them for a true family vacation while saving pets and owners from the stress and expense of boarding. It’s estimated that 48% of the nation’s eight million RV owners travel with their pets, with dogs topping the list. Family pets are widely welcomed at campgrounds, but confirm prior to check-in to see if any specific rules exist.

Be sure to stop by the “Try it, You’ll Like it” at the Puyallup RV Show taking a few minutes to watch an informational video or pick up a fact sheet or two. You will soon discover that RVing is the lifestyle for you too!

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Categories : Local RV Happenings, Show Info

Have You Joined The Lifestyle Yet?

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Friday, March 1st, 2013

Did you attend the golden anniversary of The Seattle RV Show? If you did thank you for helping us celebrate 50 years of success! Chad Alabe of Seattle was the winner of the 23ft travel trailer that was given away at the Seattle Show. Be sure to look for it on the highways and byways this summer. You can easily identify it by The Seattle RV Show decal on the back. If you didn’t win the giveaway trailer, hopefully you were able to purchase a RV and are ready to join the RV lifestyle along with Chad.
If you did not end up with a RV via The Seattle RV Show, your next chance at savings and winning is the Puyallup RV Show with featured manufactured housing May 2nd – 5th at the Puyallup Fair & Events Center. At the Puyallup Show you will find something to satisfy every leisure need, from a tent trailer to a vacation home on the lake.

RVs Provide Lifetime Memories

Still not sure RVing is right for you and your family? Then enter to win a 4 day / 3 night RV getaway at the “Try it, You’ll Like it” exhibit at the Puyallup Show. One daily winner will have their choice of either enjoying a motorhome or travel trailer for a four day RV vacation complete with complimentary camping space provided by KM Resorts. While entering to win the RV vacation be sure to check out the RV lifestyle brochures and informational videos playing at the information booth. There you will learn all the benefits of joining the RV lifestyle. Following are just a few benefits of you will discover at the exhibit: Go where you want when you want in a RV. When you travel by RV you are your own captain. You decide when to depart, which route to travel, what to see, when and where to stay for the night. You may decide to stay along a mountain stream far removed from civilization or at a deluxe RV resort featuring swimming pools, hot tubs, tennis courts, golf and other luxuries. Either way, you will be sleeping in your own bed. Those are just the travel benefits. What better way to reconnect with the family than around the campfire after a day of hiking or sightseeing.

Camping in the Woods Via a Park Model

Maybe being on the open road isn’t for you but you still like to camp at a favorite semi-local destination? Maybe you are looking for something a little larger and more permanent than a traditional RV? Consider a cabin, park model or a manufactured home. Economic conditions make it difficult for most Americans to afford a weekend retreat or vacation home. However, growing numbers of consumers are discovering that site built homes and condos aren’t the only options when it comes to having a vacation cottage. Many, in fact, are finding that the fastest and most affordable way to get into a vacation home is to purchase a recreational park trailer also known as a “park model” or manufactured home. Both park models and vacation homes will be available for your inspection at the Puyallup Show.
The Puyallup Show is the last show of the season, so if the summer 2013 is your time to join the RV lifestyle be sure to attend! Everything you need to join in the fun will be there from a tent trailer to a vacation home on the lake! See you then.

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Categories : RV Trips, Show Info

2013 “Ask The Technician” Exhibit with Hourly Presentations

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Friday, February 1st, 2013

Do it yourselfers, gadget lovers or anybody looking to upgrade their RV won’t want to miss this year’s “Ask The Technician” exhibit at The Seattle RV Show. At the exhibit you will find a fully accessorized travel trailer and tow vehicle equipped with the latest toys and upgrades. A seasoned RV service professional will be on hand to answer any and all your questions concerning general RV service, jacks, awnings, antennas and other installed accessories. Daily information talks from factory suppliers too! Let’s take a look at some of the featured products.

1) Back Up Camera

Using WiSight™ technology, this digital wireless observation system far exceeds the performance of any analog wireless observation system on the market by digitally locking the Voyager camera to its monitor, eliminating interference from outside signals. Delivering a sharp, vivid picture, WiSight™ technology is strong enough to travel through and around objects and works on vehicles 60+ feet in length.

2) Heavy Duty Shackle Kit by MOR/ryde

The constant wear and tear from rough roads and heavy loads can cause a standard shackle bracket kit on a leaf spring suspension system to simply wear out. The heavy duty shackle kit is an excellent upgrade for your running gear and the answer for wear and tear. The heavy duty kit includes 1/2” shackle brackets, bronze bushings, greaseable or “wet bolts” and nuts. The 1/2” shackle bracket is a stronger, more durable bracket that is much less subject to having the bracket elongate. The bronze bushings and wet bolts provide an opportunity for periodic lubrication that will greatly extend the product life. The heavy duty shackle kit is available for both tandem and triple axle trailers and will fit units with upgraded suspension systems.

SRE/4000 Suspension by MOR/ryde

It’s all about the travel! When it comes to suspension performance, it’s all about suspension travel. Increased travel means smoother towing, improved towability and better protection from damaging road shock. The MOR/ryde SRE 4000 provides over 4″ of suspension travel. Be sure check it out at the Ask The Technician exhibit at the Seattle RV Show.

3) Doran Tire Pressure Monitor System

A flat tire can ruin a nice, relaxing trip and is potentially expensive and dangerous. The Doran 360RVTM tire pressure monitoring system continuously analyzes and communicates the tire pressure on your motor home, fifth wheel or tow car ensuring the safe and comfortable ride that you expect. The Doran system includes the following important features:

- Reliable performance and simple programming of the desired baseline tire pressure for all of the tires that you want to monitor

- Multiple visual and audible warnings, including a patent pending FastLeak™ warning that is triggered when the pressure drops by 2.8psi in less than 12 seconds

- Extremely durable spin-welded sensors include a potting material which encapsulates and stabilizes the internal components and is built with a unique three-piece seal design to maximize valve core depression and minimize leaks

4) HWH Hydraulic Jacks says it’s as “EASY AS 1, 2, 3″ Seminar Presenter

EASY AS 1, 2, 3

1. Decide you deserve HWH®, the industry leader. Choose HWH® exclusive BI-AXIS® Control System with Front Jack Equalization designed specifically for leveling systems on towable RVs. Superior leveling at a great price.

2. Contact your favorite RV Dealer or Service Center for pricing information. Aftermarket installers can usually complete the install in one day.

3. Level your RV safely and confidently for years to come. HWH’s leveling systems are the most reliable and efficient way to level any RV. HWH® has an excellent one-year limited warranty and comes with superior customer support.

5) Atwood all new On-Demand Water Heater Seminar Presenter

Atwood On-Demand Water Heaters are designed specifically for use in RVs and provide a continuous hot water experience. Available in your choice of 45,000 or 50,000 BTU models, the high output burners are powerful enough to instantly heat and deliver a full flow of continuous hot water. Best of all, it works just like home… simply turn on the water and mix cold to reach your desired temperature. Features:
- Continuous Hot Water: High output burners let you enjoy a full flow of continuous hot water.
- Energy Efficient: Only uses power when hot water is demanded.
- Designed to Fit: Fits existing opening for most brands and sizes for RV water heaters.

6) Fastway Hitch

Automatic Jack Foot

Tired of hauling around and stacking up old 2x4s, just so you can get a little more height from your jack? The new Fastway^® Flip™ takes care of those hassles for good. The Flip jack foot attaches permanently to the bottom of your jack’s inner tube. As you extend your jack, the Flip jack foot extends down and locks into place. When you raise your jack, the Flip jack foot automatically tucks up under the frame and out of the way!

Zip Breakaway Cable

The Fastway^® Zip™ breakaway cable system is designed not to drag. It keeps the cable up off the ground and out of harm’s way while you’re towing. And when you’re not towing, the cable easily clips to itself and stays out of the way, instead of dangling all over the front of the trailer. There is a Zip breakaway cable to fit every trailer owner’s needs. We have two different lengths of cables in 3 different styles. The 4′ cables are recommended for bumper pull trailers, and the 6′ cables are recommended for gooseneck or 5th wheel applications.

7) Power Cord RV Conversion Kits

ParkPower® makes hooking up your RV’s electrical service much easier. The ParkPower® detachable power system uses the same rugged components developed for marine use. At the core is the ParkPower® inlet and connector with weatherproof cover. After installing the inlet on the side of the RV, the original power cord that came with the RV can be modified by installing the connector and cover on the severed end. Detachable power allows you to use a variety of power cords and adapters to make hook-up easier. All components are of the highest quality construction and are built to give years of service. ParkPower® stands behind their electrical products with a 5 year warranty. Easy to follow installation instructions make conversion to detachable power a snap.

8) LED Interior Lighting Seminar Presenter

We all know that LED’s draw significantly less power and last thousands of hours longer than an incandescent bulb. The problem has been that most LED light bulbs on the market give off very little (and poor) light and are rather expensive. Until now, Starlights, Inc. has just completed development of a low cost, high quality LED line of light bulbs for inside and outside use, dubbed “The Revolution” series. Learn more about “The Revolution” by sitting in on one of their seminar presentations on Saturday or Sunday of the show.

9) Zamp Solar Power Seminar Presenter

Zamp Solar! Where mobile solar is our only business. Theirr products are sold nationwide through authorized dealers. They offer the most versatile, highest quality and affordable 12 volt solar charging systems on the market today! All Zamp Solar kits come with top rated monocrystalline solar panels and digital charge controllers. Looking for an entry level kit or a large stay off the grid kit, they have your solution. All of their kits come complete with everything needed to install directly to your battery bank. Never get caught with dead batteries again. Zamp Solar kits are perfect for keeping 12 volt battery systems fully charged.

10) Wifi Ranger

With the range and capability needed to reach otherwise weak WiFi signals, the WiFiRanger Mobile is well suited for RVs and Motorhomes. One of the challenges for receiving a strong WiFi signal in RV Parks and Campgrounds is the construction of your RV itself. However, with the outdoor-rated WiFiRanger Mobile, which can be mounted on the roof, this problem is alleviated, while also getting the powerful WiFi router above the rooftops of other nearby RVs. This provides reliable WiFi from RV Parks and Hotspots. Enjoy having all of your devices online through the WiFiRanger Mobile as the secure and powerful go-between.

11) Blue Ox Trailer Hitch

Blue Ox is known internationally for its quality towing products, from tow bars and baseplates, to steering control systems, supplementary brakes, carriers, weight distributing and gooseneck hitches and everything in between. With a product and accessory line as diverse as their customer base, Blue Ox has everything to meet your recreational or commercial needs. Be sure to check out their SwayPro equalizing hitch Geometrically optimized and computer designed to provide superior weight distribution and sway control without the need of friction or adjustment.

12) Mobile Outfitters: Supplier of aftermarket RV door locks and mattresses

A complete listing of the “Ask The Technician” presenters is below:

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Categories : Show Info

Plan To Spend The Day!

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Sunday, January 27th, 2013

Wow, there is so much to see and do at the 2013 Seattle RV Show February 7th – 10th that you better plan on spending the whole day. Not only are there hundreds of RVs of every size and shape awaiting your inspection, but six different seminar / presentation areas with information for beginners and seasoned RVers alike.

Let’s take a look at what is available at this year’s Seattle RV Show:

> Nationally recognized speaker Gary Bunzer “The RV Doctor” will be presenting two seminars daily at the show. Gary is the “go to guy” for technical and how to information on RV repairs and maintenance. Read more about Gary and the topics he will be presenting at the show here.

> RV Walk Through Are you intimidated by the thought of owning and learning to use a RV? Will you be able to understand how the systems work? Will I be able to operate the systems myself? And that eternal question, “how does a propane flame make the refrigerator get cold”? These and many other questions you may have can be answered in the “RV Walk Through – What You Need To Know” exhibit. In the RV Walk Through you will spend the better part of an hour with a RV Technician in and around a RV learning how to operate it, just like you were taking delivery of your very own. In the walk through you will be shown the operation of the appliance systems, LP gas, electrical systems, fresh water and waste water systems. There is no charge to participate and it is open to 10 people every hour.

> Once you have learned that you can safely operate the house portion of a RV, what about driving it down the road? Not to worry, as the “Drive Your RV Like a Pro” seminar will guide you through the do’s and don’ts of safely traveling down the road in your new house on wheels.

> After you learn the ins and outs of safe RV operation, join speaker Gretchen Bruener and “Learn the #1 Reason Why You Should Take An RV Trip”. Read more about Gretchen and what she will be presenting at the show here.

Kids Love Looking For Gold

>Everyone has dreams of finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. While you may not find a pot full, gold is awaiting your discovery in all 11 Western States and neighboring British Columbia. During the daily seminar entitled “Finding Gold on the Road” you will learn how easy it is to get started, how well prospecting compliments the RV lifestyle and the great family memories it can create.

> Speaking of dreams and finding gold, be sure to sit in on the seminar entitled “Snapshots From Ramblings Up North” where you will learn about RVing in Alaska and the adjacent Northern Territories of Canada. Every RVer dreams of making this trip to this golden land.

> Surveys indicate the vast majority of RV owners carry a firearm on their travels. If this is you or you plan on becoming a gun owner do you know the laws? Are you carrying it legally? What about in other states? How does the Castle Law apply to those traveling via a motorhome? Northwest Safety First will be presenting two seminars daily to help answer these and other important elements of owning a firearm.

> Returning to the 2013 Seattle RV Show is the “Ask the Technician” exhibit where you will find a fully equipped RV and truck with the latest accessories installed. A seasoned RV service professional from a local RV dealership will be on hand to answer all your service related questions along with inquiries concerning accessories like hydraulic jacks, awnings, antennas and other fun toys. An added bonus this year are hourly presentations from national RV appliance and accessory suppliers like Dometic, Atwood, Thetford and many others. See the seminar schedule for a complete listing.

> Washington State Parks will be on hand to present two daily seminars. One on becoming a campground host and the other on “Safe Winter Fun”. Few people know that Washington State Parks maintains sno-parks across the state where winter adventure awaits.

> Are you a motorhome owner looking to pull a second vehicle? Are you bewildered by the various methods available to you? Then attend the “Proper Dinghy Towing” seminar where you will learn what equipment you will need to safely tow your dinghy.

> Does being a RV owner in rainy Western Washington always leave you wondering if your RV is watertight? If so, then check out the Seal Tech demonstration held three times daily on the Concourse at 11:30am, 3:00pm and 6:00pm

> Are you a free spirit looking for the total freedom that a RV offers? Then be sure to attend the “Boondocking 101″ seminar where you will learn how to break free of schedules, reservations, leash laws, campground fees and other modern inconveniences? In this seminar you will learn how to find your own secret hideaway and how to comfortably stay there without hookups. More details can be found here.

For a complete listing of seminars and presentations at The 2013 Seattle RV Show click here.

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Categories : Regional RV Info, RV Trips, Show Info

Vacation Homes – An Added Bonus at the Show

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Sunday, January 13th, 2013

A bonus feature you will find at the 2013 Seattle RV Show are two manufactured homes on display through a joint effort with the Northwest Housing Association. Why manufactured homes at a RV show you ask?

Fleetwood Bainbridge

1) Many attending the Seattle RV Show are looking for something to place on their vacation property. While a RV or park model makes sense some of the time, a manufactured home may be a better solution. A typical RV is built for weekend getaways and a week or two long family vacation, not for long periods of occupancy like manufactured homes can withstand.
Manufactured homes offer more bang for your buck. Since manufactured homes are built to a different set of standards than recreational park models, the cost per square foot is often considerably less. For what you would pay for a nice 400 sq ft park model, you are likely able to buy nearly 800 sq ft worth of a residential styled manufactured home.
Maybe you have been thinking about a site built home for your vacation property. Once again, manufactured homes are a better solution. Consider the following: Finding a builder to construct your vacation home can be a difficult task. Most onsite builders subcontract the majority of the work to other businesses such as plumbers, electricians and roofers making scheduling difficult and in many cases driving the cost of the total project through the roof. If your vacation property is in a rural area the cost rises even more as all these subcontrators add for their travel time. With a manufactured home these costs are controlled in a factory setting. Building in a factory maximizes efficiency, eliminates mistakes and there is never a construction delay due to the weather. Manufactured homes are fast too! Once your site is prepped for a manufactured home, the home can be delivered, set up and ready for you to occupy in a matter of weeks, not months. The quick installations that manufactured homes offer make them a great option for areas with short building seasons like the mountains too.

Kit Cottage

2) Manufactured homes make the perfect retirement home for RVers on the go. Since manufactured homes are built indoors to a national building code (unlike conventional site built homes) they are better built requiring less care and maintenance than their site built equivalent allowing RVers to spend more time on the road and less time on home repairs. For even a more carefree retirement experience consider placing your manufactured home in a 55 plus park. Many offer storage for your RV, gated security and someone to care for the landscaping while you are on the road enjoying the RV lifestyle. Knowing your home is quality built, not in need of maintenance, secure and taken care of in your absence is an invaluable feeling only manufactured homes and a 55 plus park can provide.
Even if you are not currently in the market for a vacation or retirement home, we encourage you to stroll through these eye-catching homes at The Seattle RV Show. You will be surprised at what today’s manufactured housing offers!

Following are some frequently asked questions (and answers) supplied by our friends at the Northwest Housing Association via their VacationHomeToday.com website

Q: Are manufactured homes a good investment?
A: Manufactured homes appreciate in value just like site-built houses. Start building equity instead of pouring rent money down the drain. You’ll get the investment and tax advantages that only come with owning your own home.

Q: Aren’t site built homes better than manufactured homes?
A: No! Manufactured homes are the only housing in America built to a national building code. The biggest difference is that Manufactured Homes are constructed, painted and inspected under the protective roof of a Building Center – safe from wet Northwest weather.

Q: Where can I put a manufactured home?
A: It doesn’t matter whether you want to live in the city in a neighborhood, out on rural acreage or in a leasehold community. Visit any manufactured home sales center and the housing professionals there will gladly provide information and guidance to help you build your custom home on the land of your choice.

Q: Does a manufactured home require special financing?
A: Purchasing a manufactured home is a lot like purchasing any other kind of home. But the kind of loan you get may depend on whether you already own property; plan to lease property or to purchase property. Most manufactured home retailers can help you contact financers and provide support and guidance throughout the process.

Q: I already own property. Now what?
A: When you have found the property you want, have a manufactured home retailer inspect the site. He or she can provide step-by-step information on-site preparation, help select the right home for your property size and shape and suggest different ways of placing your home on the property.

Q: My property is pretty far off the beaten path. Can I still get a manufactured home?
A: Manufactured homes are a great solution for rural acreage. Compare the cost of installing a manufactured home to transporting construction crews to a remote site for months on end – the savings will astound you.
Q: Are manufactured homes a good investment?
A: Manufactured homes appreciate in value just like site-built houses. Start building equity instead of pouring rent money down the drain. You’ll get the investment and tax advantages that only come with owning your own home.

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Categories : Show Info

Seattle RV Show History

By Dave Helgeson, MHRV Show Director · Comments (0)

Monday, December 31st, 2012

In the last installment we looked at a brief history of the RV industry and how my family became involved within it.

In this installment we will take a look at the history of The Seattle RV Show as we prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this event.

Early TCMA Advertisement

The origins of The Seattle RV Show and many other “trailer shows” owe their beginnings to the TCMA (Trailer Coach Manufacturers Association). The TCMA was formed March 5th, 1936 with offices in Detroit and Los Angeles, holding its first show the same year. The mission of the TMCA was to promote the “trailer” (the term RV was not yet coined) industry and set recommended construction standards for its members. At this point in time there was little, if any, differentiation between trailers for recreational purposes (i.e. travel trailers) and trailers to serve as housing (i.e. mobile homes). One of the earliest shows produced by the TCMA was held in August 1939, at Manistee, Michigan where twenty-eight manufacturers showed 95 models. Sometime in the late 1950′s the organization was opened to trailer dealers as well as trailer manufacturers. With the change of membership qualifications the “M” for “manufacturers” was dropped from TCMA and the organization became known as TCA (Trailer Coach Association). Soon a Seattle chapter of the TCA was formed by local trailer dealers and manufacturers. In 1963 the TCA held their first trailer show in the Seattle Center Coliseum with the Seattle chapter doing all the leg work. Proceeds from the show were sent to the western TCA headquarters in Los Angeles with a small portion being returned to the Seattle chapter. After a few years of this arrangement the Seattle TCA chapter realized that they were getting the short end of the deal as they were doing all the work and getting little in return. In 1966 six “trailer businesses” each contributed $1,100 to capitalize the MHRV (Manufactured Home Recreational Vehicle) Show Association, Inc. taking over control of the annual trailer show in Seattle. At that time a typical trailer show in the Seattle Coliseum consisted of mobile homes parked on the arena floor with travel trailers and those new fangled motorhomes displayed around the outer rim of the building. In an attempt to get more people to come to the show (and the fear that nobody would pay to come to a trailer show) an entertainment troupe would be hired to perform twice daily at the show. Two entertainers that I recall were Mickey Finn and a Western Variety Show featuring Michael Landon. One of the monikers given the show, to promote the leisure lifestyle trailers offered, was “the way of life show”.

1969 Coliseum Show

More mature readers may recall that the arena floor of the Coliseum was about 5ft below grade requiring a ramp to get vehicles onto the floor. As mobile homes became wider and longer the ramp became more of an issue during move in and move out of the show. The concrete on both ends of the ramp, along with the ramp itself, bore the scars of the annual trailer show. More than one trailer became temporarily stuck while moving in or out of the show. In the late 60′s the demand for exhibit space exceeded what was available in the Coliseum, the temporary solution (not a great one) was to display some mobile homes outside on the Seattle Center grounds. The long term solution to this problem was creating a second show at the Puyallup Fairgrounds in 1972 where there was plenty of room for mobile homes and RVs. This left future Coliseum trailer shows as a mostly RV show.

The early 1970′s also was an exciting time for pro-sports in Seattle as an expansion NFL football team was awarded to the city. Needing a place to play pro football the King County Domed Stadium was proposed. Even with mobile homes being moved to the Puyallup Show, the Coliseum was still too small to meet the growing needs of the Seattle RV Show. MHRV quickly lent their support to the proposed stadium, stating to the county council, “if you build it, we will come”. In fact, the first consumer show scheduled for the new domed stadium was the Seattle RV Show, however we surrendered our dates to a higher power when the Billy Graham crusade came to town May 14th, 1976.

Flying Motorhome

Still the RV Show moved to the new stadium in that year featuring Winnebago’s “Flying Motorhome“. The show layout consisted of RVs on main floor with booth exhibitors on the perimeter “100 level”. It wasn’t long after the opening of the new domed stadium that it was dubbed the “Kingdome” with the RV Show being referred to as the Kingdome RV Show.

Modern Day Flagpole Sit

In the early 80′s the Kingdome became the temporary home to the Seattle Sonics (remember, they were Seattle’s NBA team once upon a time) when the “obsolete” leaky Coliseum was to be renovated to Key Arena. For one year the RV Show returned to the Coliseum while the Sonics became accustom to playing in the Kingdome. To draw attention to the show KIRO’s Larry at Large (Larry Sturholm) performed a flagpole sit to raise money for Leukemia research. It is worth noting that Larry’s roost during the “sit” was a bit more luxurious (see photo) than his predecessors! The following year, during renovation, the RV Show was literally left out in the cold utilizing the playing field of Memorial Stadium as its temporary home. To protect the astro turf playing surface, a two foot square of plywood was placed under each tire of every RV displayed at the show. Needless to say after the RV show moved back to the Kingdome there were many patch work projects built in Western Washington with those left over plywood squares!

1992 Kingdome Show

With the show returning to the Kingdome, MHRV was once again faced with the problem of insufficient space as were other consumer shows. To alleviate the problem, the Pavilion (aka Hot Dog) was added to the south side of the Kingdome. The Pavilion was a soft sided sprung structure which added about 60,000 sq ft of exhibit space. By the mid 1990′s the Kingdome was deemed obsolete by many and a new open air stadium to be built on the same site was planned. Thankfully the county and others recognized the value of the consumer shows and an exhibition center was incorporated into the new stadium project. The last Kingdome RV Show was held in early 1999 with the Pavilion being demolished the day after the conclusion of the RV Show to make way for the new exhibition center. In March 2000 the Seattle RV & Outdoor Recreation Show was held in the new Washington State Stadium Exhibition Center utilizing the West and East halls.

Nisqually Quake Destroyed This RV Dealers Van

In 2001 the Nisqually earthquake agitated the move-in process of the show quite a bit causing damage to the Exhibition Center and some RVs, along with an exhibitors van being crushed by a nearby collapsing building. Opening day of the show was cancelled while repairs were made to the Exhibition Center. With completion of the adjoining stadium in 2003 the show was able to expand into the West Field Plaza (aka North Hall) accommodating nearly 400 RVs at the 2005 show. Since then the RV show has contracted and expanded with the economy while being the best attended RV show in the region. The 2013 Seattle RV Show will feature 18 dealers displaying hundreds of RVs in the West and North Halls of the now named CenturyLink Event Center.

A lot of changes and memories have occurred over the past 50 years of The Seattle RV Show, I can only imagine what the next 50 will hold. Be sure to join us as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Seattle RV Show February 7th – 10th, 2013 where one lucky person will win a new 23ft travel trailer courtesy of Keystone RV.

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Categories : Local RV Happenings, Show Info