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Snowbirding RV Lifestyle

RV Tips and Info

Snowbirding in the past was more about retirees from the North East migrating south to Florida for the winter months. Today snowbirding has expanded with the flexibility of RV Living and Extended Stay RV Parks. From the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest and the North East retirees as well as those taking advantage of work from home careers are joining the snowbirding trend and moving south for the winter months. Arizona, Florida and Texas are three of the most popular states for snowbirds.

RV ownership is no longer just about family vacations and traveling the country experiencing points of interest all across the United States. As Americans have accepted flexible living arrangements like RV Living, opportunities have expanded to live in other locations either permanently or seasonally. Add to that the work from home movement has also encouraged people to take advantage of relocating just about anywhere.

Benefits of Snowbirding in Texas

North Texas can still experience a good bit of frigid temperatures and precipitation for several weeks out of the winter. The further you move south the warmer and less likely for hazardous winter weather will occur. Below we will take a little closer look at the benefits of snowbirding in Texas.

Health and Wellness Benefits

When the frigid temperatures and snow envelope the North Snowbirds in Texas typically experience much milder weather which allows them to get outside for fresh air. Being cooped up in your home during the weather can have a negative impact on the air quality inside your home. The more time you can spend outside the better. Plus opening and closing the doors more frequently allows for the air inside to be exchanged with fresher air from outside.

With the milder temperatures there are also more opportunities to get outside for walks, bike rides and other physical activities. No one really wants to get outside for a bike ride in freezing temperatures. The warmer weather during the winter helps encourage people to get outside, hang out with friends, shop, go sightseeing and other activities they might enjoy.

Escaping Winter Weather Hazards

Extreme winter weather can be dangerous and difficult to deal with. Besides the frigid temperatures, snow and ice can cause accidents to you and your property. From hazards while traveling icy roads to something simple like checking your mailbox an accident can happen quickly. We can take precautions for our vehicles and our persons but removing yourself from the winter weather might be your best option. 

The first snow of the winter or a White Christmas often brings fond memories and good fun. But, a prolonged snow event can be life threatening in  a number of ways. That is one of the reasons that some people prefer to move south for the winter in their Recreational Vehicles. These snowbirds chase warmer climates to avoid the pitfalls of blizzards and ice storms. An extended stay RV park is often the choice for these migrating RV enthusiasts. 

Enjoying Outdoor Activities

Another of the benefits of flexible living in warmer climates is enjoying outdoor activities during the winter. When the temperatures are milder there are more opportunities for outdoor activities like walking, fishing, hiking, jogging, tennis, pickle ball and bike riding. Arizona, Texas and Florida offer abundant outdoor activities for all ages. Snowbirds that enjoy getting outside and being active are taking full advantage of moving south for the winter. 

Lower Cost of Living

Depending upon where you live you may be experiencing a higher cost of living. For people that live in the North East for example they often have higher costs for fuel, food, entertainment and living expenses. By researching opportunities in the warmer climates you can often reduce your cost of living by moving south for the winter or maybe even year round. 

With flexible living and flexible employment arrangements moving to a lower cost area is really doable. Living in an RV really opens up your options for where you want to live for good or seasonally. A little research on areas you are interested in living in can help you make a solid choice for your winter or seasonal home. 

dog playing in the snow

Here in Lufkin, Texas we have mild winters and a lower cost of living. There are plenty of activities for snowbirds to enjoy and being located in Deep East Texas we are not that far from the Gulf Coast and Houston. We are just minutes from several museums, shopping, golf, fantastic dining and beautiful lakes. 

Our RV Park in Lufkin is located in a quiet community with tall trees, walking trails and two fishing ponds. The Farm RV Park is a great choice for Snowbirds moving South for the Winter. When you are ready to explore moving to warmer locations in Texas we would invite you to consider us for your seasonal home. We have a friendly community and a staff that is always happy to help you get the most from your RV Lifestyle. 

Easy One-Pot Meals for RV Cooking: Recipes and Tips

RV Tips and Info

RV Cooking can be challenging. Discover easy one-pot meals perfect for RV cooking. Get recipes and tips for effortless and flavorful cuisine on the road

As RV sales have skyrocketed since the pandemic, especially for those who love camping and road trips, more and more people are discovering the joys of mobile living. However, cooking in an RV can be a challenge due to the limited space and supplies. One solution to this problem is one-pot meals, which are perfect for RV cooking. One-pot meals are dishes that require only one pot or pan to cook a complete meal, with minimal cleanup. They are not only easy and practical, but also delicious and healthy. In this article, we will share some fantastic one-pot meal recipes and useful tips to make your camping and road trip life easier and enjoyable. Whether you are a seasoned RV traveler or a newbie, this article will be your ultimate guide to effortless and flavorful cuisine while on the road.

Benefits of One-Pot meals for RV Cooking

One-pot meals are the perfect solution for RV cooking since they offer several advantages. Here are some reasons why one-pot meals are a great choice for RV cooking:

1. Less Dishwashing: One-pot meals require only one pot or one pan, which cuts down on the number of dishes, and ultimately, the time spent on cleaning up. This greatly benefits RV travelers who do not have access to unlimited water resources for cleaning purposes.

2. Minimal Space Needed: Cooking with limited space can be a challenge in an RV. With one-pot meals, you don’t need to worry about cluttering your kitchen with numerous pots and pans. Plus, you can use a smaller size of the pan or pot for cooking, leaving more space for storing other necessities.

3. Quick and Easy: One-pot meals are incredibly easy to make, with most recipes requiring only a few simple steps. They are perfect for busy travelers because it saves time and energy, allowing you to enjoy more activities on your trip.

4. Versatile: One-pot meals can be very versatile in terms of the ingredients used, allowing for experimentation with flavors and diverse food items. With just one pot, you can create soups, stews, casseroles, pasta dishes, and more.

5. Nutritious: Many one-pot meals are made with healthy ingredients, making it an excellent option for travelers who want to eat healthy while on the go. You can find several healthy and balanced one-pot meal options that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For instance, a one-pot chili recipe is a fantastic RV meal option since it can be easily customized according to individual preference. Similarly, one-pot pasta dishes like spaghetti and meatballs can be cooked to perfection even when you don’t have access to a large and fancy kitchen. Additionally, one-pot dishes like chicken and rice or beef stroganoff can be filling and comforting while also being easy to make.

Preparation for One-Pot RV Meals

Preparation is key to making delicious and effortless one-pot meals while RV cooking. Here are some useful tips to follow when preparing for one-pot RV meals:

1. Plan ahead

2. Invest in quality cookware

3. Prepare ingredients in advance

4. Focus on essential ingredients

5. Consider food storage

6. Optimize your RV kitchen

By following these preparation tips, you can make RV cooking a hassle-free and enjoyable experience while creating delicious and healthy one-pot meals.

One-Pot Meals Recipes for RV Cooking

Camping Breakfast Skillet is a combination of ham and eggs. Then spice things up by adding potatoes, cheese and onions to make a breakfast that’s unforgettable.

Combine bacon, hash browns, green bell pepper, onion, eggs, cheddar cheese, and salsa, you get a satisfying Hungry Man Breakfast. That can be cooked on a camp stove or over campfire coals.

One-pot Lasagna at Damn Delicious is absolutely delicious.

Just assemble your favorite taco fillings, then put them all in an individual-sized Fritos bag and you have a Walking Taco.

You can also assemble Nachos in a cast iron pan or on a sheet pan, then serve directly from that.

Allrecipes has a Campfire Chicken Pot Pie recipe that uses biscuits and is easy but good.

Easy Chili by The Spicy Apron is one you should really try.

Other tips for One-Pot Meals for RV Cooking

One-pot meals are a great way to make delicious and easy meals while RV traveling. They are ideal for minimizing dishwashing and maximizing limited kitchen space. However, there are several other tips to keep in mind to make your one-pot meals for RV cooking as effortless and practical as possible. Here are some additional tips to make your RV cooking experience super convenient and enjoyable:

1. Use parchment paper: If you are cooking a meal that tends to stick to the pot, lining the pot with parchment paper can help prevent burning and sticking. This can also make clean-up easier and quicker.

2. Seasoning and Spices: A great way to make one-pot meals flavorful and aromatic is by adding herbs and spices. You can experiment with different combinations of seasoning or use pre-mixed seasoning blends to add variety to the dishes.

3. Incorporate Slow Cookers: Slow cookers or crockpots are another great tool to make one-pot meals in an RV. These allow for hands-off cooking and can be used to make dishes like chili, soup, or other stews. Simply toss the ingredients, set the timer, and your meal is ready to eat when you are.

4. Use Oven: One-pot meals can also be cooked in an oven, which is perfect for baking or roasting dishes like casseroles, meat dishes or even baked goods. Sheet-pan meals are another great example of one-pot meals that can be easily done in the oven.

5. Plan based on weather: Consider the weather when planning meals. For instance, if it’s hot outside and you don’t want to heat up the RV by using the stove, opt for no-cook one-pot meals such as salads, sandwiches, or smoothie bowls.

6. Breakfast Options: One-pot meals are not only for lunch or dinner – there are many great options for breakfast as well, like a breakfast skillet that includes potatoes, eggs, and bacon, or breakfast sandwiches with bread, cheese, and vegetables.

7. Leftover Meals: Leftovers from one-pot meals can be used to make other meals. For instance, leftover chili can be used to make chili cheese fries or chili mac, adding more variety to your meals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, one-pot meals are an excellent solution for RV cooking. One-pot meals are also versatile and can be customized to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

We have shared some fantastic one-pot meals recipes that are perfect for RV cooking. We encourage readers to try out these recipes and see how easy and delicious one-pot meals can be.

If you’re an avid RV traveler, then you already know that travel and meals go hand in hand. With one-pot meals, RV cooking is less of a chore and more of a pleasant experience. By exploring different recipes and approaches, you can elevate your RV cooking game to the next level.

So, whether you’re a solo traveler or with your loved ones, one-pot RV meals are easy and practical solutions to make sure that you don’t miss out on flavors while traveling. We hope you enjoy using these tips and tricks and create many memorable one-pot RV meals on your next trip.

Lastly, we encourage readers to share their favorite one-pot RV meals and tips in the comments section. Engage with others in the RV community and create a platform to exchange new ideas and experiences in RV cooking. Happy RV cooking!

RV Kitchen: 10 Essential Tips for Delicious RV Cooking

RV Tips and Info

Explore our top 10 tips for RV cooking delicious meals with small-space appliances, meal planning, versatile cookware & easy cleaning hacks!

Traveling in an RV offers so much freedom and fun, but cooking in a small and limited RV kitchen space can be a challenge. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can have delicious, satisfying meals that fuel your adventures. Here are the top 10 essential tips for cooking delicious meals in your RV kitchen.

1. Plan Ahead

One of the key aspects of successful RV cooking is planning ahead. Planning ahead will help you save time, money and make cooking a lot easier. It is recommended to plan your meals for an entire trip beforehand. Plan your breakfast, lunch, snacks and dinner for every day. Make a list of all the ingredients that you will need to carry. Stick to the schedule and meal plan so that you can make the most of your RV trip.

2. Invest in Space-Saving Cookware and Storage

Invest in space-saving cookware for your RV kitchen. Space saving cookware will reduce the amount of storage space you need and allow you to store more essential items in the same space.  When buying cookware for your RV kitchen, look for collapsible or nested pans, pots, and utensils. This will free up your counter space and make storage easy.

3. Get Creative with One-Pot Meals

One-pot meals are perfect for RV cooking since they require minimal ingredients and use only one pan, reducing cleanup time. One-pot meals are dishes that are cooked in a single pan. One-pot meals require only one burner, which is perfect for RV cooking where stove space is limited.

4. Optimize Your RV Kitchen Appliances

Optimize your RV kitchen appliances by selecting the right appliances and using them properly. Always be mindful of the power and water usage of your appliances, especially if you’re traveling to remote areas. RV appliances come in different sizes and power levels. Choose appliances that match your RV’s power values and are easy to clean and store.

5. Grill and Barbecue

Grilling and barbecuing can add a lot of variety to your RV meals. You can cook meat, vegetables, or even fruit on a grill or barbecue, which gives them a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate otherwise. Gas and charcoal grills are the two most common types of grills for RVs. A propane-rich grill is best for those who don’t want to deal with charcoal or other fuels.

6. Campfire Cooking

Campfire cooking can be an exciting activity for RVer’s. It’s an opportunity to cook food on an open flame and expose it to smoky flavors.  Some campfire cooking options include cooking over an open flame without a grill or a tripod grill. These options are easy to use and perfect RV cooking for a fun camping trip.

7. Organization and Cleaning

Organization and cleaning are crucial in RV cooking since you have limited space to work with. Staying organized during meal preparation and cleaning up periodically will help save time and effort.  Cleaning up while cooking and after the meal ensures that the RV remains clean and odor-free.

8. Delicious RV Desserts

No RV trip would be complete without sweet treats. With a bit of creativity and some basic ingredients, sweet treats can add a lot of excitement to your RV cooking experience. Having sweet treats on an RV trip is important for enjoying snacks and desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth.

9. Take Advantage of Local Markets and Produce

Take advantage of local markets and produce to enhance your RV cooking experience by experimenting with local produce and ingredients. Look for local farmers’ markets that sell fresh produce and unique ingredients to incorporate into your meals.

10. Don’t be Afraid to Experiment

Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking techniques, flavors, and cuisines. Cooking in an RV is a great time to try out new things and have fun with your meals.  Look for new RV recipes to try out or explore different cuisines to bring some variety into your menu.

Conclusion

In summary, cooking in your RV can be fun and delicious with the right tools and techniques. Plan ahead, invest in space-saving cookware, get creative with one-pot meals, optimize your RV appliances, grill and barbecue, campfire cook, stay organized, enjoy sweet treats, take advantage of local markets and produce, and don’t be afraid to experiment. By following these top 10 essential tips, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying meals that will fuel your RV adventures for years to come. Happy cooking!

Pros and Cons of Successful RV Living in Texas

RV Tips and Info

Discover the advantages and disadvantages of RV living in Texas. Find tips for successful RV living and make informed decisions. Visit The Farm RV Park now!

In recent years, Texas has become a popular destination for RV living. With its diverse landscapes, mild weather, and low cost of living, it’s no wonder many people are choosing this lifestyle. However, RV life in Texas also comes with challenges that must be considered before making the switch. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the RV life in Texas, as well as tips for successful RV living.

Pros of RV Living in Texas

1. Cost Savings – With no mortgage, property tax, or utility bills, RV living is generally less expensive than living in a traditional home. In Texas, the cost of RV living is also lower than many other states, which can further reduce expenses.

2. Mobility and Flexibility – RV living allows for travel and exploration throughout Texas and beyond. With many RV parks and campgrounds throughout the state, RVers can immerse themselves in nature and experience new places.

3. Access to Nature and Outdoor Recreation – Texas is known for its diverse landscapes, from the Gulf Coast to the hill country to the West Texas desert. RVers can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities year-round.

4. Community and Social Connections – RV parks and campgrounds often host social events and activities, providing opportunities to meet other RVers and make lasting connections.

5. Off-Grid Living and Self-Sufficiency – RV living allows for more self-sufficient living, with options for solar power, rainwater collection, and composting toilets. This can reduce environmental impact and provide a sense of independence.

Cons of RV Living in Texas

1. Finding Suitable and Affordable RV Parking – While Texas has many RV parks and campgrounds, finding available and affordable spots can be a challenge. Popular areas, such as the Gulf Coast and hill country, may have limited availability during peak season.

2. Living Space and Amenities – Living in an RV means sacrificing some of the comforts and amenities of a traditional home. Limited storage space, smaller appliances, and less living space can be a challenge for some.

3. Weather Extremes and Natural Disasters – Texas can experience extreme weather, from tornadoes to hurricanes to floods. RVers must be prepared for these events and have plans in place for evacuations if necessary.

4. Legal and Regulatory Restrictions – Some cities and towns have restrictions on RV parking and living, which can limit options for RVers. Additionally, zoning laws may prevent permanent residency in an RV in some areas.

5. Lack of a Permanent Address for Mail and Voting Purposes – While some RVers may use a mail forwarding service, having a permanent address for voting and other legal purposes can be a challenge.

Tips for Successful RV Living in Texas

1. Research and Plan Ahead for Parking and Camping – Before hitting the road, research RV parks and campgrounds in the areas you plan to visit. Make reservations as far in advance as possible, especially during peak season.

2. Invest in a Well-Maintained and Energy-Efficient RV – A well-maintained RV will be more reliable and efficient, which can help offset the costs of repairs and maintenance. An energy-efficient RV can also reduce expenses and environmental impact.

3. Prepare for Extreme Weather Conditions and Emergencies – Have plans in place for evacuations and be prepared for extreme weather events, such as hurricanes or floods. Keep emergency supplies on hand and stay informed about weather alerts.

4. Stay Informed About Local Regulations and Laws – Research zoning and parking laws in the areas you plan to visit. Stay up-to-date on changes to these laws and regulations and plan accordingly.

5. Stay Connected with Other RVers and Seek Out Resources and Support – Join RVing groups and online communities to connect with other RVers and share tips and advice. Utilize resources and support services, such as RV repair and maintenance professionals and mail forwarding services.


Conclusion

As we’ve explored, there are many pros and cons to RV living in Texas. With careful planning and preparation, however, the freedom and flexibility of RV living can provide an exciting and fulfilling lifestyle. By considering the challenges and opportunities of RV living in Texas, you can make informed decisions and maximize your enjoyment of the state’s natural beauty and diverse communities.

RV Park Living in the Winter

RV Tips and Info

Living Full-Time in your RV during the winter can present a challenge without proper preparation. Depending on what part of the country you are living in, the winter weather can bring about a few challenges. Keeping the water flowing and keeping yourself warm during the winter just requires a little up front planning. 

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make the most of full time RV living during the winter.

  1. Winterize your rv plumbing. This one tactic should be the foundation for keeping the water flowing during the winter. You need to make sure your pipes, hoses and tanks are protected from the elements in freezing temperatures. Make sure your pipes and hoses are insulated especially if they are exposed to the outside. If your RV offers heated tanks or pipes make sure they are in proper working order.
  2. Install exterior skirting. You have a lot of options when shopping for insulated RV skirting. You may even find some specially designed for your particular model. Properly installed skirting helps keep not only your undercarriage warmer but helps the interior retain warmth as well.
  3. Insulate windows and floors? If you have felt a draft make sure your windows are properly sealed. Use thermal rated curtains during the winter to help keep the cold out and the heat in. On sunny days open them up to let the sun radiate warmth inside. For your floors add heavy thick rugs to tile or linoleum flooring. This will help provide some insulation as well as help keep your feet warm.
  4. Check your exterior doors for proper sealing. Make sure the weatherstripping around your doors are in good shape and properly installed. 
  5. Keep an eye on the weather. Being weather aware will give you the opportunity to be prepared when temperatures plummet, the wind howls and frozen precipitation falls. Don’t just check the weather forecast for the day, also pay attention to the 7 and 10-day forecasts. 

We would be remiss if we didn’t remind you to make sure your carbon monoxide alarms are in proper working order. Especially if your RV uses gas appliances. During the winter you may use your stove or oven to help heat the space which can add to the carbon monoxide danger. Also, if you have gone to the effort to seal those windows and doors the living space of your rig won’t be getting a lot of fresh air. It is also important to make sure carbon monoxide alarms are working properly all year round.

Full time living in your RV during the winter doesn’t have to be a frigid experience. Proper preparation and planning will help you stay warm and safe during the winter.

Choosing the Right RV Sleeping Arrangements

RV Tips and Info

One of the factors that can have a big impact on full time stationary RV living is choosing the right RV sleeping arrangements. After all, a good night’s sleep goes a long way to making every day a good day. When shopping for your RV spend some extra time in the bedroom and laying on the bed. Can you picture yourself sleeping in that bed every day?

5 Factors to Help You Choose the Best RV Sleeping Arrangements

  1. Choose the floor plan that meets your needs. Do you want a little more privacy for your bedroom? If you are living with someone else that might have a different schedule than yours, having your bedroom somewhat separated from the living area will be helpful. 
  2. Test the mattress. Lay down on the mattress in the position that you normally sleep in. Are you comfy? Are your feet hanging off the end? Can you replace the mattress with a better mattress? 
  3. Check the quietness of the bedroom. Turn on the TV, open and close some doors in the kitchen, turn on the A/C or Heat. Have someone stand outside and make some noise. Is the bedroom quiet enough for you to sleep or do you hear everything that is going on?
  4. Where will your bedroom be in relation to where you will be living? In other words, think about how your RV will be positioned at the RV Park. Will the bedroom be up front susceptible to vehicle noise going by? Are there other factors of the park that might affect outside noise closer to your bedroom?
  5. Where is the main entry door? Take note of where the entry door and the main traffic flow is. These tend to be the noisest areas of your RV when you are trying to relax in the bedroom. Especially if you will be living with someone else or have children.
rv master bedroom with comfy bed

Choosing the right bedroom for your RV will go a long way to your overall happiness with your new full time RV Park living lifestyle. Spending a little more time and really thinking about your needs will be worth the extra effort in the end. A little planning can help you wake up rested and on the right side of the bed. No one wants to wake up every day on the wrong side of the bed and in a bad mood.