• RVing With Kids Can be Fun for Everyone

    Kids can often be challenging to travel with. Are we almost there? This is boring! Tell him to stop touching me! Most anyone with children can relate to these common statements heard while traveling.

    Kids…it’s all about them!

    If you can put yourself in their frame of mind to plan out your travel, it’ll make the trips more fun for everyone.

    First, what are their ages?

    Depending on how old each child is, you’ll want to be sure to tailor basic things around this factor.

    Packing.

    Teens are going to bring more clothing. Teens and tweens want to look cool and so you can count on needing more suitcase space for the. Younger siblings will bring more “stuff,” so make sure they have a bit more space in the vehicle.

    Activities

    Your teens will expect to have alone time, even when they’re with the rest of the family. Ear buds, smart phones and pillows are must-haves.

    Tweens and younger kids may be more open to watching movies and playing games while on the road from one destination to another. Having a portable DVD player or individual ones for the kids can be a real life-saver when you’re traveling long distance.

    Playing games with the whole family while on the road still seems to be the most popular way to make the time fly by! Let’s take a look at some of the most popular games to play while traveling.

    1. Name a food with every letter of the alphabet – everyone takes a turn at naming a food that starts with an A, then B….you get the rhythm.
    2. Find all the state license plates – this is a team game that can be spread out over the course of the entire trip. Designate your “teen” (if you have one) to be responsible for logging each state. There are even FREE apps to make this game fun for everyone. You can even add some trivia about each state as you add it to your list!
    3. What Am I? – Start with one person who thinks of an animal. Others rotate, taking turns asking one question at a time. Pay attention to narrowing down what the animal may be. If you ask a question, you can’t guess what you think the animal is. You have to use your turn for a single question or a guess.
    4. The Sign Game – Each person has to shout out a word they see on signs that begin with each letter of the alphabet, in order. This game goes by fast and can get loud, but it’s FUN!
    5. Word Association – One person begins with a word, and the next person has to name a word that’s associated. This continues from person to person until someone messes up. Then the game starts again.

    With all these ideas the trip with kids is sure to be enjoyable for everyone! If these ideas aren’t enough, check out these other games on BuzzFeed.

    When you get to your destination, ask in the RV office what activities they offer for kids. Stonebridge RV Park in Sweeny, Texas, offers corn hole, catch-and-release fishing, swimming and many more fun things.

     

  • Gadgets to Add to Your RV Wish List

    Fun research and face-time with several groups of full-time RVers helped us develop this list of cool gadgets. We’ve also included links to where you can find these items. Please add your favorite items to our list by commenting below.

    Here’s our got-to-have list:

    1. Electrical Management System (EMS) Hard-wired or Portable – Surge protectors offer complete protection for any RV that uses 30 or 50 amp electrical service. Our faves are from Progressive Industries (hard-wired: EMS-HW30C / EMS-HW50C and portable: EMS-PT30X / EMS-PT50X).
    2. Freestanding stainless ice-maker by Igloo – No drain required for this plug-in model that can make up to 26 lbs of ice in 24 hours, perfect for an RV.
    3. Boil Kettle – Stop using propane to boil water when you have an electric kettle! We love Chef’s Star Borosilicate Glass Electric Kettle, 1.7 liter; it boils a quart of cold water in about 7 minutes.
    4. Portable Satellite Dish – We found the King VQ4500 Tailgater to be the most popular with the fewest negative remarks. Made specifically for RVers, you’ll love this luxury item.
    5. Instant Pot – Once you begin using this 6 quart, 7-in-1 multi-use pot, you’ll find it hard to do without it. This cooker will help you create some yummy meals on the road.
    6. Awning Shade – Whether you’re looking for a little extra privacy or a little more shade, you’ll love these new shades by Tentproinc. You’ll attach this to the front or sides of your awning.
    7. Trailer Hitch Stand and Hammaka Chair Combo – You’ll love lounging in these chairs that can be easily installed to a pick-up or RV.
    8. Wifi Connections – Really. All the time. All your devices. Check out WiFi Ranger.
    9. Water Pressure Regulator Valve – Renator makes the best  and you’ll be glad you took the time to pack one of these devices.  Hence, don’t start running the shower and kitchen sink faucets without it.
    10. Quick-Zip Sheets – It’s tough to put regular sheets on most RV beds, so we guarantee you’ll love Quick-Zip Sheets because they make bed-making hassle free!

    As you meet other travelers at Stonebridge RV Park or on your road trips, you’re bound to be introduced to other awesome gadgets that make rving a little more comfortable, so be sure and check back in with us and let us know if you’ve found something you think others will want to hear about.

  • Renting Your Travel Trailer While You’re Not Using It

    The most under-used assets owned by Americans are recreational vehicles (motorhomes, travel trailers, 5th wheels, pop-up campers, toy haulers). If you’re one of the millions who own one of these you can make money renting it to others. Hence, don’t let it just sit around gathering dust and growing cobwebs. You can make extra cash with only a little effort.

    The phenomenon of sharing assets or the “peer-to-peer marketplace” is best reviewed in a 2013 article in The Economist, The Rise of the Sharing Economy. One of the stunning opening stats is “Last night there were 40,000 people renting rooms from private individuals,” and this was in 2013! Millions of people are enjoying renting space from private individuals instead of going through the hassles that come with booking hotel rooms and being slammed with the never-ending fees. You’ve experienced this frustration, right? Self-parking fee. Valet parking fee + tip. Wifi fee. Resort Fee. Hotel service fee. Per person fee. Booking fee. Athletic club fee. Facility fee. It’s time to say no to the fees.

    That’s why the so many people are looking and booking other types of travel and vacation rentals, because the market is HOT!

    If you have a travel trailer that you don’t use 100% of the time, now is the time to rent it to others. Stonebridge RV Park is proud to partner with Easy RV, the hottest, newest RV and trailer rental platform on the web.

    Included here are steps that will help you you get your RV listed online and viewed by potential renters.

    First of all, you’ll want to click on sign-up and create a profile, because renters are going to want to know a little about you. Next you’ll click on List Your RV and follow the prompts. Keep in mind the more information you provide, the more interest you will see in your rental. Come up with a catchy name that will draw attention. Similarly, create a description that forms a nice visual in the mind of the anyone who reads your listing.

    Most important, is the last step of  adding photos of your RV or trailer. Both interior and exterior photos will need to be taken & uploaded, therefore, you’ll want to put some thought & effort into creating just the right ambiance. Staging your photos will make your rental look inviting, and likewise, proper lighting is key to good pictures. Park it somewhere that has nice surroundings.

    For exterior pictures, set up chairs, a table, maybe a BBQ grill or hammock. Extend the awning. Bring out a plant or two and other items that you think look natural and inviting so you’re setting a scene that will attract renters. If you have family or friends that will serve as models include them in some of the pictures. Staging the interior is just as important, therefore, you’ll want to use nice bedspreads or blankets on the beds and pretty throw pillows. Set the scene with a board game on the table and colorful items on the counters. By creating a romantic table with pretty plates, flowers and a bottle of wine, you’ll show renters how versatile the space is.

    Once you have your photos uploaded, the last step is to add an account for your rental income deposits. Then your listing will be live and visible to renters. Need assistance with your listing? Do you have questions about renting your RV or trailer? Our support team can help, click on the chat button in the lower right corner of the site. Good luck!

  • Kids and Camping – Take This List Along and Create Some Fun!

    After a full day of traveling, your kids are bound to be in search for some fun when you finally stop for the night. You’re not alone when you start thinking about what to do after you get hooked up. You can bet the kids are thinking the same thing.

    Rather than listening to all the complaining, pack up these ideas and take them along on your next road trip

    1. Corn Hole Contest – You can buy these game sets out of a variety of materials, but some of you handyman types may want to make your own. This Old House provides easy DIY instructions for building your own corn hole set & fun ways to personalize it. All ages can play.
    2. Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest – If your kids like watermelon, they’ll love gathering the seeds and spitting them as far as they can. You get the watermelon, you set the rules, and get ready for some laughs!
    3. Rock Painting – Let the kids take a walk in search of smooth rocks (big enough to paint or write on) while you get out the markers and/or paints. Have the kids wash the rocks in a bucket outside and dry them. Everyone can enjoy this activity, they make clever gifts for friends or family!
    4. Balloon Challenge – All you’ll need is a blown-up balloon (bring a bag of extras for when they pop). The challenge is to keep the balloon from hitting the ground. It can be played with two or more people. Hit the balloon from person to person, counting the number of hits until it touches the ground.
    5. Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt – A little competition and just plain fun, there are many ways to play this game. One of our favorites is from The Joys of Boys site, called Eye Spy Nature. Click HERE to link to their free printable list, or better yet, make your own. The items on your list should vary depending on the ages of your kids.
    6. Glow-in-the-Dark Ring Toss – For less than $10 you can find this night-time game at most Walmarts and it will provide hours of fun for the whole family.
    7. Build a Campfire – Everyone should learn to build a campfire, and all the safety tips too. Be sure to check first if campfires are allowed at your campsite. You’ll need tinder, kindling and firewood which you should be able to find in your surroundings. Don’t forget to brush up on your campfire songs.
    8. Make S’mores – Once you have a nice fire burning, get the kids to find a few 2-3′ sticks. One of the older kids or an adult can whittle one end of each into a point for the marshmallows. Your camping s’mores kit should include graham crackers, chocolate & marshmallows in one gallon baggy. Mmmm good!
    9. Flashlight Tag – This is the classic game of hide and seek, but played with flashlights.
    10. Fun Campfire Recipes – Your family will never tire of the kid friendly camping recipes that we found on the Dating Divas website. The meals are nutritious and super fun to put together. Let your kids pick the meal and do the cooking.
    11. Tin Can Lanterns – Don’t throw away all those tin soup cans, wash them out, file down any sharp edges and put them in a craft bin/bag with a couple permanent markers, a small hammer, a couple of nails, and some tea lights or votive candles. The kids can make a design with dots on the outside of their can and then take the nail and place it on the dots and lightly hammer the nail until it makes a hole in the tin. Once it’s dark, light a candle inside and they’ll be delighted with their handiwork. The lanterns will add ambiance to any campsite.
    12. Wiffle Ball – The game has been around for decades and is the perfect outlet for pent-up energy. The bat is light enough for kids of all ages and the perforated plastic ball keeps players safe. Play in a field, shallow water or on pavement. Remember to yell WIFF whenever someone swings and misses.
    13. Round Robbin Storytelling – A round robin story is one that each person adds to. It’s most common to create a story sentence-by-sentence, going around in a circle. This is a fun way to end a day while sitting around the campfire.
    14. Map Making – Understanding what a map is, and how to read one is a great skill for kids of all ages. The area surrounding your campsite is a perfect spot for your kids to try and make their own map. You can talk about landmarks and teach them about directions. All they’ll need is some some paper, pencils and crayons.
    15. Arts & Crafts – Just like at home, it’s a good idea to pack a bin of arts & crafts when you travel. Some of the items that can be used to make a variety of crafts include string, beads, popsicle sticks, markers, glue, scissors, pipe cleaners, feathers, colored paper, pom poms, ribbon, sequins, shells and whatever else you want to include. Add to these items things the kids can pick up around your camp site like leaves and twigs and let their creativity run wild.

    Plan your next family vacation at Stonebridge RV Park and use this list to help pack and your kids will undoubtedly make lots of memories!

    Photo by Alaric Sim on Unsplash

  • Try It Before You Buy It – Renting is the Way To Go!

     Try it before you buy it…there is no better way! Have you ever bought something and realized soon after that you wish you would have bought a different model? A different size? A different color? When it’s something small it’s not that big of a deal, but when you’re spending big bucks, it’s a huge deal. Buying an RV or trailer is one of those big things that you absolutely want to try it out before committing to the purchase. Being able to really check it out takes some time, and that’s why we LOVE the idea of renting out RVs and trailers. There are so many choices when it comes to RVs and all the models, amenities and options. Unless you’re an RV guru, it’s literally impossible to make an informed decision. Which RV or trailer to buy requires some serious consumer research.

    NADA Guides lists over 2,000 RV manufacturers. Each manufacturer typically makes multiple models and within each model there are multiple sizes, all with varying options and amenities. The decisions and choices are endless. Type A Motorhomes, Sport Utility Trailers, Travel Trailers, Type B Motorhomes, Folding Camper Trailers, Type C Motorhomes and Fifth Wheel Travel Trailers are all sold by recreational vehicle dealers. Prices range from $10,000 to well into the millions, and everything in between. No matter your budget, you can find an RV that fits your wants and needs.

    If you’ve decided to try RVing, chances are you’ve seen RV parks where you live, where you’ve traveled, or where you want to travel. If you’ve gotten a little more serious about getting an RV, maybe you’ve stopped by Camping World , RV Station , or one of the hundreds of other crazy-big RV dealerships throughout the US and already started shopping. So many people get to this point and begin to get overwhelmed by all the choices and end up taking a step back. But there is a better way! Login to Easy RV and scroll through the listings near you and rent an RV or trailer first. Try it before you buy it!

    One of the many reasons Easy RV was established is to assist consumers in the try it before you buy it strategy. Renting an RV let’s you experience all aspects of the RV over a period of time. Spend the night in the great outdoors with your family. Tow it to the beach and enjoy sitting under the awning. Whip up some lunch while you listen to the waves roll in. Head to the mountains and leave all your worries behind.

    Renting gives you time to check out all the gadgets and how everything operates.

    Is the space to big? Too small? Can you fit in the bathroom? Is it easy to drive? Is there enough storage space? Can your vehicle tow it safely? Do you want more features and options or do you prefer just the basics? Renting allows you the freedom to try before you buy without diving right into a major, long-term financial commitment.

    There are many obvious reasons why renting is a good first step before buying.  Stonebridge RV Park partners with Easy RV allows you to scroll through hundreds of listings & photos, communicate with RV owners, and check out how much money YOU can make on the side by renting your RV once you’ve settled in and made that purchase!

    Image by Gorving

  • RV Rental – The Ultimate Beginner’s Lifestyle

     You’ve made the exciting decision to rent an RV, so now what?!! You’re about to join millions of others who are stepping away from the traditional hotel and houses to embark on accommodations that are way more fun and more adventurous. There are many reasons for renting an RV, the most popular…a family vacation. These tips will get you off to a great start for creating memories that will last a lifetime.

    1. Have a destination in mind. Explore any restrictions that may be in place. Reserve a rental site with full hook-ups (fresh water, electricity, and sewer). Without hook-ups, you’ll be operating off the grid , and unless you’re an experienced RVer, it’s not advised.
    2. Plan your route, including stops for fuel.
    3. Book your rental well in advance so you can find the perfect RV that fits your wants and needs.
    4. Create a checklist and get answers directly from the owner (What are the cancellation & refund policies when renting? What is required to tow a trailer? Can the awning be used? Can our pet come along? What are the pick-up and return times? Are kitchen items and bedding included? Is there a generator? Is there A/C and/or heating? What happens if something breaks down?)
    5. Ensure you, or the owner, has reliable RV rental insurance.
    6. Take time with the owner to learn all features, systems and operations of the RV, internal and external.
    7. Know all the fees involved (mileage fee, generator fee, dumping fee, cleaning fee, pet fee, etc.) and don’t hesitate to bargain for unlimited mileage or free generator use. Do keep in mind, owners have many expenses to upkeep their RVs.
    8. Last, and most important, take your time, vow to laugh, relax, and enjoy your adventure!

    Here are a couple other of our fave sites for helpful tips:

    https://www.tripsavvy.com/tips-for-first-time-rv-rentals-2912598

    http://familyrambling.com/rv-tips-fun-family-vacations/travel/camping-rving/

    Do you have an RV rental story to tell? Share it here!

  • RV Vacations Will Create Memories That Will Last a Lifetime

    As a parent, one of the funnest things you can do with your kids is to take them on vacations. RV parks, such as Stonebridge RV Park in Sweeny, Texas, offer beautiful scenery and great opportunities for family bonding time.

    When you watch this video, you will learn all about the benefits road trip vacations offer to young families. One of the most appealing things about traveling in an recreational vehicle is that you don’t have the added high costs of staying at hotels, and having to eat out for all your meals. You can pack food that you know your kids like and have them help you make some really fun campfire meals.

    Most families rent an RV close to where they live. Owners list them on sites like Easy RV, where the payment is handled safely, and all the details is worked out between the owner and renter directly. Once you have an RV or trailer reserved, you’ll plan your trip using tools such as RV Trip Wizard. Planning your trip route, stops and fueling are all important when traveling in an RV.

    Be sure to pick stopovers and a final destination that offers things your entire family will enjoy. You’ll want full hook-ups for water, electricity, and sewer. Room to run, play and swim is important for kids. What other activities do you want to enjoy? Hiking? Crafts? Bonfires? If you’re bringing along a pet, you’ll want to be sure you reserve spots at parks that are pet-friendly.

    When you hit the road, you will have the opportunity to bond with your kids like never before. So start planning your vacation now!

  • How to Make the Road Your Home in an RV

    If you have always dreamed of seeing the country, you may want to consider investing in an RV. While some RV owners spend their vacation time on the road, others choose to live in their vehicles full time. A park offering long term RV lodging in Sweeny, TX can provide you with the amenities that you need to feel right at home in your RV. Whether you are headed out for an extended RV vacation, or you are planning on living in your RV throughout the year, finding quality long term RV lodging will ensure your comfort when you are taking breaks from the open road. Here are some tips for making the open road your home when you live in your RV. RV - home

    Decorate Your Space

    To make your RV feel like home, it is a terrific idea to decorate your space. Your favorite photographs, paintings, and other items of décor can spruce up your space and provide you with the comforts of home. While your RV’s kitchen will be smaller than that of a regular sized house, you can also create a homey feel by bringing along your favorite dishware and utensils.

    Stay in Touch With Family

    As you are traveling the country in your RV, it is important to remain connected to your friends and family back home. Social media and the internet have made it easier than ever to communicate with people around the world. To keep your loved ones up to date on your travels, you may also want to consider making your own blog.

    Find a Comfortable RV Park

    When it’s time to take a break, you’ll want to make sure that you park your vehicle at a comfortable site. RV parks offer a range of amenities and services, including electricity, water, and other hookups. Staying at an RV park will give you a chance to make new friends and share stories from the road.

  • Forget Hotels-Stay in an RV Park During Your Vacation

    Are you ready for a vacation? If you’re like most people, chances are your answer is a resounding yes. With all of the stresses of modern life, it is important to take a step back, relax, and get out of your normal settings. It’s easy to do just that when you take a vacation to Sweeny, Texas, and visit Stonebridge RV Park & Resort. You could spend your time arranging for airline tickets, rental cars, and hotels, but when you travel in an RV, your life will be much simpler. Read on to learn why you should stay in an RV park instead of a hotel during your next vacation. rv - park

    Home Away from Home

    Even if you stay in a relatively nice hotel, it can be hard to shake the feeling that you’re just passing through. Hotels can make you feel out of touch with your surroundings, especially if you’re in a new area. When you travel in an RV, however, you’ll have all of your belongings with you—even your own bed and pillows. At an RV park, you can hook up your RV so that you have amenities such as internet access, electricity, and water. You won’t have to lug a suitcase in and out of a hotel every night. Instead, everything you need is right there in your RV.

    Community Interaction

    Traveling can be tiring, but sometimes it’s a good idea to interact with others around you to get a feel for local color and attractions. RV parks have a sense of community that hotels don’t. As you step outside your RV, you’ll find other travelers just like you who are friendly and welcoming. This is a stark contrast to hotels, where many guests simply go to their rooms and shut the door. Fellow RV travelers can give you insider tips for what to do in the area so you can make the most of your vacation.

    An RV park gives you the best of both worlds: socialization and community when you want it, and the ability to retreat to your RV for sleep and privacy when you don’t. One of the newest social tools for RV life is RVillage, and app that will connect you with others who share your interests!

  • The Many Benefits of Living in an RV

    Whether you’re retired, about to become retired, or embracing the location-independent working lifestyle afforded by the Internet, taking the leap from living in a home or apartment and moving into an RV full time might be just what the doctor ordered—so to speak. Living in an RV affords many benefits to those brave enough, adventurous enough, and even smart enough to embrace this radically different lifestyle. Talk to any “full-timer” at any long-term RV campground and you’ll hear mention of the same benefits over and over again, including:

    RV-campground

    More Time Outdoors

    Do you wish you could spend more time in the great outdoors? When you live in an RV, you can. It’s true that you’ll want to spend more time outside because of the relatively small interior space, but for the most part the RV campgrounds you’ll stay at will afford you the opportunity to go for a hike, soak in the views, or enjoy nature however you see fit.

    No Yard Work

    Ever wish you could spend your time doing anything else but mowing, weeding, and raking? Fortunately, you never need to worry about yard work when you move to an RV full time. RV parks take care of all grounds maintenance, and if you camp in national parks the overgrowth is a part of the natural beauty. In any case, when you say hello to the full-time RV lifestyle you can say goodbye to yard work.

    Great Weather Year Round

    Another awesome benefit of living in an RV is the ability to go where you want, when you want, to take advantage of great weather all year long. Spend your winters out west, spend your summers up north, or pack up and leave whenever you find a specific place too hot, cold, humid, rainy, or dry. It’s that easy when you live in an RV full time.

    The Critical Cactus sums up the benefits of RV life in this frank, easy-to-read blog.