Editor’s Note: This post is written by a member of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

While I’ve actually been a Texan for longer than I lived in Oklahoma, I still consider Oklahoma as my home as I was born and raised there, and most of my family still resides in the Sooner State. With that said, I would love to share my “home state’s” beauty and opportunities for discovery that are best experienced traveling in an RV. While I have not visited many of these places since I was a kid (my family spent many summer vacations exploring our state), I hope to revisit these places again as an adult and many are on upcoming itineraries.

Let’s get started checking out my list of favorite unique attractions that span from historically significant sites to stunning natural landscapes. This story will take you on a virtual RV journey through some of the best places Oklahoma has to offer, along with a few RV park recommendations to hang your hat on while you are there.

We start our journey in the heart of Oklahoma City, at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. This poignant and reflective site commemorates the tragic bombing that took place here in 1995. The museum provides a detailed narrative of the event, allowing visitors to pay their respects and learn about this pivotal moment in American history.

The Reflecting Pool (Image from Oklahoma City National Museum)

I remember to this day watching the chaos on live TV. It really hit home as one of the most lasting photos is of a friend of my father’s being rescued from the third floor. I visited this site not long ago, and you do not want to miss this beautiful memorial.

There are several other must-see attractions in Oklahoma City, and the next on the list is The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, previously known as the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. This is an integral part of Oklahoma’s cultural and historical narrative, showcasing the rich and diverse traditions of the American West.

From fine art and artifacts to interactive exhibits and events, the museum dives into the history and lore of cowboys, Native American cultures, Western performers, and the rugged pioneers who explored and settled the American West. Its standout features include the iconic statue ‘The End of the Trail,’ the expansive Western art collection, and a fully replicated early 1900s cattle town. This is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the spirit of the West–I have so many fond memories of my grandparents taking us there often.

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is one of the nation’s top Zoos, located just northeast of downtown, the OKC Zoo encompasses over 119 acres and is home to more than 1,900 animals from 512 species around the globe. Visitors can marvel at elephants, tigers, giraffes, and exotic birds, all housed in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments. In addition to its impressive animal collection, the Oklahoma City Zoo also features a beautiful botanical garden, adding a lush, green landscape to the zoo’s ambiance. The garden includes a butterfly garden, a tropical rainforest, and the state’s largest walk-through outdoor flamingo exhibit. The zoo’s commitment to conservation, education, and family fun make it an essential stop for any Oklahoma City visitor.

Elephants are one of OKC Zoo’s residents. (Image from Oklahoma City Zoo)

There is also the Zoo Amphitheater, which holds concerts all year long. I’ve rocked out to many an eighties band there back in my teenage years!

Your RV home near the city could be the Twin Fountains RV Park, which is conveniently located near most of Oklahoma City’s attractions and offers full-service amenities, including a pool and a mini-golf course. We look forward to staying there soon.

Now let’s get out of the city and check out Oklahoma’s landscape and wildlife. A little over an hour down the highway from OKC, we travel to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. This expansive area near Lawton is home to a vast array of wildlife and offers outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching. If you are wanting to test your fitness level, try biking up Mt. Scott like I did when I was 18. It’s not for the faint of heart, as it’s 3 miles up on a steep paved road. The trip down is totally worth it!

The top of Mt. Scott has views for days! (Image from Only in Oklahoma Facebook Page)

While in Lawton, also enjoy a historical exploration at the Museum of the Great Plains. This site provides an in-depth look into the cultural and natural history of the Great Plains region of North America.

For a true outdoor experience, RVers can use the Doris Campground, though it’s worth noting that this is a primitive campground with no hookups and booked through Recreation.gov. Be sure you are set up to boondock if you choose this campsite. If you want a full service RV Park, I’d recommend Pinnacle Peak RV Park.

Let’s jump over to South Central Oklahoma and we arrive at my neck of the woods where I grew up in Davis, OK. There is so much to do in this area! Check out Turner Falls Park, home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall. This park offers natural swimming areas, hiking trails, and beautiful scenery.

I spent many summers swimming in these waters! (Image from travelawaits.com)

Just seven miles down the road is Sulphur, home to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Chickasaw Cultural Center & Lake Arbuckle. This spot is perfect for boating, fishing, or a tranquil picnic by the water. The Turner Falls Park RV Hookups Campsite is the ideal place to park your home on wheels as you explore this natural wonder and surrounding area.

Next, we head to the ruggedly beautiful Robbers Cave State Park. Legend has it that outlaws once used the park’s caves as a hideout, and today, visitors enjoy hiking, fishing, and even horseback riding here. The park offers several campgrounds equipped with RV hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay amid nature.

Robbers Cave State Park is draw-dropping (image from Wikipedia)

Our journey continues to Quartz Mountain State Park, an outdoor lover’s paradise. Located near Lone Wolf, this park is known for its golden quartz sand, offering activities such as boating, rock climbing, and bird watching. An RV park with full hookups ensures that you can take full advantage of everything the park offers.

Quartz Mountain State Park (Image from travelOK.com)

Heading back to city attractions, we visit Tulsa. Tulsa is a major cultural center in Oklahoma and some of the state’s best museums are there, including the Philbrook Museum of Art. The Italian-style villa is home to an extensive art collection ranging from European to Asian art.

The Gilcrease Museum is one of the country’s best facilities for the preservation and study of American art and history. The museum’s charm lies in its extensive collection of art from the American West, as well as artifacts from Central and South America. It houses the world’s largest, most comprehensive collection of art and artifacts of the American West, including an unparalleled collection of Native American art and material. The museum is also famous for its thematic gardens, which are inspired by various periods in American history.

Providing a unique trifecta of experiences: a historic home, a world-class art museum, and 25 acres of gardens. (Image from Philbrook.org)

For those interested in architecture, the Tulsa Art Deco District is a must-see. Tulsa experienced a significant economic boom in the early 20th century thanks to the oil industry, and a lot of the wealth was invested in grand architectural projects. Many of these beautiful buildings, inspired by Art Deco, are preserved in the downtown area.

Tulsa’s Art Deco district is a beautiful step back in time. (Image from Vie Magazine)

Highlights include the Philcade Building, the Tulsa Club Building, and the Boston Avenue Methodist Church, which is considered one of the finest examples of ecclesiastical Art Deco architecture in the United States. Walking tours are available to fully appreciate these architectural gems.

While in Tulsa, check out Mingo RV Park, a perfect base to explore these as well as Tulsa’s other attractions, like the Tulsa Zoo.

Each of these Oklahoma attractions offers a unique slice of what this beautiful state has to offer. So load up your RV, buckle up, and get ready to create unforgettable memories as you journey through the Sooner State.

Editor’s Note: This post is written by a member of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

Ready to hit the road in an RV? This short and hopefully useful beginner’s guide provides essential tips to ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable RVing experience. From choosing the right floorplan to mastering RV maintenance, preparing your packing list, understanding campground etiquette, and prioritizing safety, you’ll soon be confidently navigating your RV adventure.

Choosing the Right RV Floorplan

Your RV is your home on wheels, so choosing the right floorplan is crucial. Leisure Travel Vans come in a wide variety of options, and understanding your needs will help you decide which is best for you. Most LTV floorplans can only accommodate two people due to the number of seatbelts. If you are looking for a family-friendly floorplan with four seatbelts, check out the Unity Rear Lounge or Unity Corner Bed, or if you are leaning towards a Ford chassis, check out the Wonder Rear Twin Bed and Wonder Rear Lounge.

Need a lot of outdoor storage? Then the Rear Lounge floorplan of both the Unity and the Wonder offers good storage space. The Wonder Rear Twin Bed even has a bike garage! But keep in mind this class of RVs offers smaller storage than most, so a trade-off is needed when looking at small Class C (B+) RVs.

There are so many options for floor plans, so do your research to find the right fit for you.

Take your time exploring the different Unity and Wonder floorplans, designs, and features. Try to visit RV shows or dealerships to get a firsthand look and feel of various models.

When Janet and I were first looking at Leisure Travel Vans, we were leaning toward the Rear Twin Bed from watching the videos; however, once we walked in one and then the FX, we were sold on the FX. So seeing some in person is an excellent way to cement your floorplan decision.

Understanding RV Maintenance

An RV is a significant investment, and its longevity and performance largely depend on regular maintenance. Every part of your RV requires care and attention, from mechanical aspects to living areas. Under the hood, routine checks of the engine, tires, and brakes are crucial. Remember to regularly change your oil and other engine fluids according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Keep an eye on tire pressure to ensure safe and efficient driving. Be sure to check out my recent story on tire safety to keep you on the road rather than on the side of it.

Checking your tire’s air pressure and condition before every drive day is a valuable habit for safe travels.

Regarding your RV’s living quarters, ensure you sanitize your fresh tanks, change your in-house water filter and use a black tank additive like Happy Camper to keep your RV’s plumbing system at its finest. Another thing to do is regularly clean your air conditioning filters and look for loose drawer glides or hinges. You have a traveling earthquake, and making sure nothing is going to fall out makes it easier than repairing it.

For those not mechanically inclined, consider enrolling in an RV maintenance course (YouTube is an excellent source for information and for free!) or having your dealer check out your rig at various times. It’s better to prevent problems than to deal with expensive repairs down the line.

It’s also smart to read up on RV electricity, so you have some basic knowledge of how your rig operates. Educate yourself on where your fuse boxes are, understand how your RV gets power, and how to troubleshoot if needed.

Packing Essentials for Your RV

Packing for an RV trip requires thoughtful preparation. It’s not just about bringing clothes and food; it’s about ensuring you have the tools and items to make your journey comfortable and trouble-free. As I said earlier, an LTV is a small space with limited storage and weight limits, so bring only what your rig can handle weight-wise.

Consider dividing your packing list into categories like kitchen supplies, personal items, outdoor gear, and RV equipment. For the kitchen, besides food, you’ll need cookware, utensils, and cleaning supplies. Personal items should include clothing suitable for changing weather conditions, sunscreen, and a bag full of quarters for the laundromat.

Storage is at a premium with small Class C RVs, so packing strategically will pay dividends! (Unity Twin Bed pictured)

Depending on your activities, your outdoor gear could consist of camping chairs, a portable grill, hiking equipment, or fishing gear. For RV equipment, don’t forget the necessary tools for small repairs, spare parts like fuses, leveling blocks, and power adapters. Robertson screwdrivers are a must-carry if you own an LTV. LTV is a Canadian company, so you won’t find many Phillips or flathead screws. Check out our must-haves and essentials for a one-stop list of what we carry in our LTV.

To sum up, always remember that it’s easy to get something you may need on the road rather than pack your rig full of stuff you will never use. Remember, weight affects fuel efficiency and safety, so aim to bring only what you need. I suggest going on a trip with the bare minimum and seeing what you will truly use or wish you had.

Campground Etiquette

Campgrounds are shared spaces, and following campground etiquette is key to ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone. Keep noise levels low, especially during quiet hours, typically from 10:00 pm – 8:00 am, respect boundaries and don’t walk through others’ campsites, and always clean up after yourself and your pets if you have them along.

Remember the golden rule of camping: leave no trace. This means leaving your site as pristine as you found it, packing out all trash, and avoiding damage to natural features. It’s considerate to the next campers and helps preserve the environment. Also, if you don’t have to use your generator, don’t. If you are in close proximity to other campers, generator noise is one way to ensure you aren’t making any friends.

There are a lot of great people at campgrounds. You will find most of them love to talk about their rigs!

Safety Tips for a Smooth RVing Experience

Safety should always be a top priority in RV travel. Driving an RV requires constant alertness and making sure you have plenty of time and distance to make any sudden lane changes or exit ramps. If you’re not used to driving large vehicles, take an RV driving course to learn about maneuvering, parking, and dealing with different road conditions. Always be aware of the weather, and be ready to adjust your plans if necessary. Having a weather radio or app can be beneficial. We carry a WX battery-powered radio to be on the safe side.

Your RV should be equipped with a well-stocked first aid kit, and it’s wise to familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures. Always know the location of the nearest medical facility to your campsite. Wildlife interactions, bike accidents, or even a twisted ankle from a rogue rock on your hiking trail can make a medical visit necessary.

Fire safety is paramount. Ensure your RV has a fire extinguisher and smoke and CO detectors, and check their condition regularly. Never leave cooking unattended, and make sure your campfire is completely out before leaving it or going to bed.

Lastly, when leaving your RV unattended, ensure it’s secure. Lock all doors and windows, keep valuable items out of sight, or take them with you. We opted for the optional safe in our LTV, and we keep some extra cash and essentials in case our rig is ever broken into. Even in nice campgrounds, sticky fingers can find their way to your RV or electric bike.

The optional safe in a Leisure Travel Van is a great way to safely store valuables while on the road.

Understanding OCCC & GVWR

OCCC stands for Occupant and Cargo Carrying Capacity. It is the maximum weight of occupants, cargo, and water that can be safely carried in an RV. The GVWR, or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, is the maximum weight of the RV itself, including all passengers, cargo, and water. GCWR stands for Gross COMBINED Weight Rating, which dictates how much weight you can tow as well as carry. The OCCC is important because it helps ensure an RV is not overloaded. Overloading an RV can cause a number of problems, including:

• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Increased wear and tear on the vehicle
• Increased risk of accidents
• Inability to tow a trailer or tow car

The OCCC is different from the GVWR because it does not include the vehicle’s weight. For example, an RV with a GVWR of 11,030 pounds and an OCCC of 1,500 pounds can safely carry 11,030 pounds. The OCCC is the sum of GVWR minus factory curb weight. You can find this information on the door jamb of your RV. For example, our 2020 Unity FX has a GVWR of 11,030 pounds and an OCCC of 1,502 pounds. This means our LTV, without any cargo or people, weighs 9,528 pounds. It is important to note that the OCCC is only a maximum weight. It is not recommended to load an RV to its maximum capacity. Instead, it is best to leave some margin for error. This will help ensure the RV is safe to drive and operate. Here are some tips for staying within the OCCC:

• Weigh your RV after you’ve loaded it. Many truck stops have easy-to-use CAT scales. If you are over the GVWR, offload some cargo to stay in the safety zone.
• Pack light–only bring the essentials with you.
• Store cargo evenly throughout the RV. This will help to distribute the weight evenly.
• Fill your fresh water tanks only when necessary. (We travel with about 30% full fresh)

At the end of the day, stepping into the world of RVing might seem overwhelming, but with preparation and understanding, it becomes an enriching and liberating adventure. Remember to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Happy RVing!

Editor’s Note: The views, recommendations and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of Leisure Travel Vans.

Note: Some links may be from the Pagosa Adventures Amazon Influencer Page

Editor’s Note: This post is written by a member of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

When Janet and I set out in our Unity FX, our goal is to see something new and enjoy the outdoors. One of those ways of enjoying the outdoors is to sit around our portable fire pit in the evenings.

We have a propane fire pit; however, I know so many folks who love their wood-burning pits, which have come a long way lately in both design and size. So in this story, I will discuss the different types of fire pits that can be used for an RV and the differences between propane and wood-burning fire pits.

Propane Fire Pits

Propane fire pits are an excellent option for RVers who want a hassle-free fire pit experience. These fire pits are powered by propane, a clean-burning fuel that produces no smoke or ash. The most significant advantage of propane fire pits is their convenience. They are easy to start, require no maintenance, and can be turned off with the flick of a switch. And many RVs have an external propane port to attach your fire pit to your onboard propane easily.

The propane fire pit we carry is from BLUU, and it has been fantastic. The construction is durable, lights easily, and has a cast iron grate for cooking or heating up a kettle. We’ve been really happy with the BLUU, but if you are looking for something even smaller, check out the Ignik FireCan.

Ignik’s super compact fire can is a popular choice that makes high-quality propane fire solutions that will fit in most RV storage bays. Their fire pits come with a built-in regulator and an eight-foot hose that connects to standard propane bottles, making them easy to use and transport. Ignik’s fire pits also feature a stainless steel burner that produces up to 38,000 BTUs of heat, making them ideal for chilly nights.

One of the downsides of propane fire pits is that they can be a bit more expensive to operate. Propane fuel is generally more expensive than wood, and you’ll need to refill your propane bottles periodically. However, if convenience is your top priority, propane fire pits are an excellent choice.

Also, many RVs (including our Leisure Travel Van) have regulated propane outlets. You must have a non-regulated fire pit (or hose) to work with the portable fire pit. (Regulated means that the propane output is limited, so having two regulators between your propane source and fire pit won’t allow enough propane to fuel the fire).

When we use our BLUU fire pit, we use the Ignik 10-pound propane bottle that allows us to carry our fire pit away from the RV and use anywhere we like. Interested in what we carry with us in our LTV? Check out PagosaSupply.Co

Wood-Burning Fire Pits

Wood-burning fire pits are a classic option that many RVers prefer. These fire pits burn wood, which is abundant, inexpensive, and widely available. One of the most significant advantages of wood-burning fire pits is the natural ambiance they provide. The crackling sound of burning wood and the smell of wood smoke can create a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Solo Stove is a popular brand that makes high-quality wood-burning fire pits ideal for RV use. Their fire pits feature a unique design that maximizes airflow, resulting in a more efficient burn and less smoke. Solo Stove fire pits also feature a lightweight, portable design, making them easy to transport from one campsite to another. They even make a Solo Stove tabletop version for more storability.

One of the downsides of wood-burning fire pits is that they require more maintenance than propane fire pits. You’ll need to gather and store wood, start the fire, and regularly clean out the ashes. Wood-burning fire pits also produce smoke, which can be a nuisance for nearby campers or RVs. However, if you value the natural ambiance and low cost of wood fuel, a wood-burning fire pit may be the right choice.

Another downside of some wood-burning fire pits is the size can be too large for an outdoor storage bay of an RV, and the fire smell is not conducive for carrying inside your RV. That’s one of the reasons a Ford Maverick for a TOAD (tow vehicle) is an excellent choice for small RVs. The bed of the truck allows plenty of room for things like Solo Stoves.

Here are some other interesting wood-burning fire pits ready for RV travel:

• BioLite makes efficient wood-burning fire pits designed to reduce smoke and increase airflow. Their fire pits feature a lightweight, portable design and are ideal for eco-conscious RVers.
• Tiki makes stylish wood-burning fire pits that are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere while camping. Their fire pits feature durable construction and a patented airflow system that reduces smoke.

Which Type of Fire Pit Is Better for RV Use?

Ultimately, the decision between a propane or wood-burning fire pit for RV use will depend on your priorities. If convenience and ease of use are your top priorities, a propane fire pit is an excellent choice. The BLUU and the Ignik fire pits are easy to use and transport and require minimal maintenance. Propane fire pits also produce no smoke or ash.

The BioLite fire pit is a completely different design, perfect for RVs.

If you value the natural ambiance and low cost of wood fuel, a wood-burning fire pit may be the better choice. Wood-burning fire pits are efficient and provide a classic campfire experience, but can be more difficult to transport, produce smoke, and require more maintenance which may not be ideal for all camping situations.

Just keep in mind your storage capacity may limit the size of the fire pit, but many small choices should fit in just about any RV.

Editor’s Note: This post is written by a member of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

Keep Your RV Tires in Tip-Top Shape

Before you hit the open road in your RV, it’s important to ensure that your tires are prepared and safe. A few simple steps can save you from tire-related hassles (not to mention costly repairs) down the line. In this article, we’ll share some best practices for tire safety so that your RV is ready for any adventure.

Janet and I regularly drive our Leisure Travel Van from Dallas to Pagosa Springs, CO, and tire safety is always at the top of my checklist.

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Tire pressure is one of the most important things to check regarding RV tire safety. While some RVs have a TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system), many do not. So you should check your tire pressure daily before hitting the open road. In my Unity, I do not have a built-in TPMS, so I use a long stem pressure gauge equipped with a dual head chuck ideal for inner-style dual wheels and check pressures before every drive day.

Image source: https://www.amazon.com

Many people opt to add an aftermarket TPMS (which I use on my Airstream trailer) to add a convenient way to monitor your tire pressure and temperature. I use and recommend the TST brand.

While the Wonder’s Ford Transit chassis is equipped with a TPMS, the Unity’s Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis is not. If you opt to add an after-market TPMS, in most cases, you must equip your wheels with metal valves to keep your tires from leaking due to the added weight of the sensors. Seek a qualified tire shop to get this work done, as there is a potential for leakage if not installed properly.

Image source: https://www.amazon.com/

The correct PSI (pounds per square inch) will vary depending on the type of tire and manufacturer, so be sure to check your door sticker for specifics, not the on-tire PSI recommendation. Chassis manufacturers choose the correct pressure for each axle dependent upon the weight of the build and the tire manufacturer.

Always Come Prepared

Safety can’t be stressed enough with RV tires. Under-inflated tires are more likely to overheat, leading to blowouts or other dangerous situations. On the flip side, over-inflated tires put extra strain on suspension components and increase friction with the road surface, making them more prone to blowouts.

I never want to be unprepared, so I always carry a portable air compressor with us. With an RV, you can constantly change climates, thus changing your tire pressure, so it’s important to keep the correct PSI in all of your tires at all times.

Another reason to carry your own compressor is you never know when you will need to air up your tires. Even a short trip could spell disaster when your pressure isn’t what it should be. Also, I’ve been to many service stations where the tire inflation machine was not working, so don’t leave this to chance. The air compressor we use and highly recommend is the Viair 400P RV.

Inspect Tires Routinely

Inspecting your tires routinely is another key component of proper tire maintenance and safety. Check for visible signs of damage like cracks, bulges, punctures, or bald spots that could indicate wear and tear or air leaks. Before we leave on a drive day, I will check pressures and visually inspect every tire. It’s difficult to check the inner dually, so it is paramount to ensure the pressure is correct. If you find any issues while inspecting your tires, they should be taken care of immediately by a professional mechanic or tire shop.

I check the tire pressure each morning before we hit the road.

Safe Driving Habits

In addition to regularly checking and maintaining your RV’s tires, it’s also important to practice safe driving habits while on the open road. Avoid sudden stops or turns as much as possible (especially when carrying heavy loads), drive slowly around sharp corners or inclines/declines in elevation change, and avoid obstacles like potholes when possible, as these can cause significant damage even with properly maintained tires.

It’s also important not to overload! Exceeding weight limits puts undue strain on all components—including the tires—so stick within recommended guidelines whenever possible. I like to visit a CAT scale periodically to check our weight. Most truck stops have these scales, and I recommend checking your weight from time to time.

Replace Tires Every Five Years

When shopping for tires, remember that it’s important to invest in quality brands to ensure maximum performance, durability, and reliability. Many experts recommend replacing RV tires every five years regardless of mileage due to their heavy load capacity and frequent exposure to heat and UV rays. Set a regular maintenance schedule with your local dealership or mechanic to keep all components—including the tires—in peak condition!

Checking pressure levels regularly, inspecting for signs of wear, tear, and damage regularly, and replacing as needed/recommended by manufacturer guidelines; are all important elements in ensuring proper tire maintenance and safety while traveling in an RV.

Finally, ensure you use the right tires for your RV and driving conditions. Different RVs require different tire sizes and load/speed ratings to safely handle the vehicle’s weight, any cargo, and passengers’ weight. Be sure to do your due diligence before purchasing tires for your RV. Following these simple tips can help keep you and your passengers safe on the road while maximizing tire life expectancy at the same time. So, don’t forget—make sure those wheels are spinning safely before hitting the open road!

Note: Modifications may void certain aspects of your limited warranty, as well as affect resale values. Consult your warranty for details. Triple E Recreational Vehicles is not responsible or liable for any actions you take after viewing this page, or for any modifications you make to your vehicle. Please use a qualified professional to make any modifications to your vehicle, and ensure that any changes you make are safe, and in compliance with all applicable laws.

Editor’s Note: Brandon and Janet are members of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

About Us

For the past 26 years, Janet and I have made our home and business endeavors in Dallas, TX. We love Dallas for its down-home feel while still being a metropolis with amazing culture, food, and people. We also live within 15 minutes of DFW Airport, giving us an outlet to the rest of the world.

One of our main hobbies is keeping our bodies as fit as possible so that we can enjoy traveling, doing outdoor activities, and keeping up with our two dogs, Roxie and Gracie.

After getting into the RV world with my Leisure Travel Van, I quickly found a few products I had wished existed. While creating a new job for myself was not the goal, I started an RV accessory business – Pagosa Supply Co.

Land, Air, and Sea – Why We Chose Land Travels

Traveling has always been our passion and we are fortunate our business has come to a point where it doesn’t need us daily any longer, affording us the time to hit the road.

Pre-pandemic, we enjoyed going overseas, seeing our friends in the UK, and visiting all of the histories of Europe. However, while we love traveling via air, we made the realization that we were robbing ourselves of amazing adventures by flying over most of what the world has to offer.

One of our most memorable experiences was renting a cruising boat (basically a two-bedroom RV on water) and navigating the River Thames from Windsor to Oxford. (https://www.kriscruisers.co.uk/cruisers/lady-nicole/). Cruising along the Thames with magnificent views of the English Countryside and estates is absolutely magical. Operating the many lochs and tying off on a bank in a village to eat dinner in a pub is an experience never forgotten. It’s a must-do for anyone going to the UK and this really got our RV fever started.

No One Gets Left Behind, Not Even The Dogs

When it comes to our style of RVing, we love to mix it up. Boondocking at a Harvest Host or BLM land is one of our favorites, but we also love to be in a nice RV park that has things like a dog park and full hookups.

Having our Leisure Travel van has allowed us to travel with our dogs, who are ecstatic about their RV life. Traveling before the LTV encompassed having dog sitters at our home to take care of the pups. Now they get to go with us and give us even more reason to hike trails, walk the small town sidewalks, and enjoy the experience even more.

How Our LTV Has Impacted Our Lives

Being able to take off at a moment’s notice, not having to worry about booking flights, or hotels is very freeing. It’s really empowered s to travel more, whether just a day trip or multi-week trek across the country. I’ve also learned so much about the different systems of the RV, like electrical, plumbing, and even generator maintenance. But the best thing RV life has given us is seeing things we never would have seen and meeting people we would have never met.

Favorite Travel Destinations

Creede, Colorado

Creede is set in the San Juan National Forest and is surrounded by beauty. Fly fishing, hiking, and sightseeing are abundant.

Texas Hill Country

The Texas Hill Country is packed with things to do, places to see, and quaint German towns to visit. Our favorite is Fredericksburg where the charm and people will make you visit time and time again.

Editor’s Note: Brandon and Janet Hensley are members of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

LTV Traveler Clubs

Janet and I recently attended our first Leisure Travel Vans Travelers Club Rally, and I’m convinced every LTV owner should join their local club and attend a Rally at least once in their RV lives.

First off, let me explain what the LTV Travelers Clubs are. While not operated or sponsored directly by LTV, these are LTV-supported groups of people that create clubs according to their geographic location.

There is an LTV Travelers Club near you!

Each Travelers Club has a club leader that coordinates the events, rallies, and activities for their particular group. These are planned and coordinated very well and from our experience, these activities were so helpful as we had technical information to learn, food and fellowship to enjoy, and got to see all kinds of other LTVs.

The US has 12 regional clubs and Canada has four as well as an FMCA club, so plenty of LTV owners in your area to join!

Join & Attend a Rally for your Area

We live in Dallas and have property in Colorado, so we belong to the Travelers Clubs in those regions (Texoma and Rocky Mountain). We plan to attend one of our home area rallies soon but have already had the privilege of joining The Flamingles, Florida’s Travelers Club Spring Rally.

Let me tell you, it was a blast! From our time with these wonderful people, I’m convinced you are doing yourself, and your RV experience, a disservice if you don’t join a group and attend a rally.

Five Benefits of Joining a Club

Here are five takeaways we got from joining our fellow Leisure Travel Van enthusiasts for a weekend of fellowship and fun.

1. The Community

From the moment we arrived at Grand Oaks Resort in Weirsdale, FL, we were greeted by several friendly and welcoming Flamingles. The resort that hosted the event, Grand Oaks, is an amazing RV resort within a working horse farm and the perfect venue for a gathering.

Horses were abundant on this working horse farm

The first night was dinner and cocktails with the group where we met and mingled with the 80 or so attendees. Having enthusiasm and passion for the same thing amongst a group of people makes it so easy to strike up a conversation.

Fellowship with other Leisure Travel Van owners is priceless

From doctors and retired airline pilots to nuclear engineers, there are so many amazing people in the LTV community and it’s so enthralling to hear about their life journey and what led them to the Leisure Travel Van life.

2. The Education
The event planners arranged for several educational talks, including a panel about lithium batteries and the freedom they give you which I also had the privilege to speak on.

The first talk was interviewing a Leisure Travel Van dealer representative and Flamingle member who talked about how to fix various issues as well as taking questions from the group about issues they were experiencing.

I even got an answer for the small leak I had behind my city water inlet that I was able to fix myself. Before this talk, I would have hired a mobile tech or taken the LTV to my dealer for the fix. It was so simple, and I’m glad I could do this easy repair myself.

One of the education events held at the Flamingles Rally in central Florida

There was also a lesson on how to install a “smart shunt” in your battery setup and how to get all the pertinent information about your battery state of charge.

Flamingle member Gary Oster also weighed in on the benefits of education. He added that the time spent in these education discussions is extremely helpful because not only can you learn about the errors other owners have made while making repairs on the road but also about providers and products that don’t measure up to standards LTV owners require.

Getting all the info you can about how your LTV works and empowering you to do more DIY fixes is absolutely priceless.

3. The Inspiration
With just about every floor plan, year, and color combination of Leisure Travel Vans in one place, you get to see all of the upgrades, renovations, and modifications people have made to their LTVs.

With the coach tours, you get to walk in and tour all the other floorplans and see what people have added (or taken away) in their rigs.

Interested in changing floorplans in the future? Well, this gives you the opportunity to see just about every floorplan and see what floats your boat!

Just about every model and floorplan is represented at an LTV Club Rally.

Also, a bonus to Rallies is seeing the camp chairs, roll-up camp tables, and grills in action. It’s much better to see these things to avoid the trial and error of ordering and just hoping for the best.

4. Going Places You’ve Never Been
Our travels in the Leisure Travel Van always seem to take us West but, by joining the Flamingles in Florida we had the opportunity to go the opposite direction, which I doubt we would have ever done on our own time.

Janet and I never would have experienced this amazing RV park on a working horse ranch in Central Florida if not for the LTV Rally. (Photo courtesy of Brian Duffy)

We took our time and stayed in Louisiana and Alabama on our way East. Again, we would have never headed in this direction without joining a Travelers Club.

Be sure to give yourself time to get off the interstate and explore the small towns (or cities) along the way. We passed through some of the most charming little towns in Alabama that were teeming with Azaleas.

The Azaleas were blooming in Alabama!

The more the merrier seems to be the thought process with the Travelers Clubs, so join more than one and go somewhere outside your normal travel routine.

5. Forming New Friendships
Within the first 24 hours, we formed some incredible friendships. We met people with amazing backgrounds and awesome stories. Our new friends Gary and Melissa even invited us to mooch dock anytime at their Florida home which is just steps from a white sand beach!

Meeting people with the same interests isn’t always an easy thing to do, but by attending a rally you are guaranteed to meet Leisure Travel Van owners that share the same like-mindedness and passions that you have.

Meeting people from all walks of life who share your travel passions is amazing.

I think mingling with folks from different parts of the country, with different backgrounds and occupations, is probably one of the most enriching things that an LTV Rally brings you.

I can’t express enough how this is a fantastic way to enjoy your LTV in a whole new way.

Be sure to check out the travel club in your area.

US Travelers Clubs

•  The Evergreen Club serves WA, OR, ID, and Western MT
• The Southwest LTV Roadrunners serving AZ, CA, NV
• Rocky Mountain LTVers serving CO, NM, UT, WY
• Midwest LTVers serving KS, MN, MT, NE, ND, SD
• Texoma Travelers serving AR, LA, OK, TX
• Heartland LTV’ers serving IL, IA, MO, WI
• Leisurely Great Lakers serving IN, KY, MI, OH, TN, WV
• Southern Leisure Travelers serving AL, GA, MS, TN
• Flamingles serving FL
• Carolina LTV’ers serving NC, SC
• Blue Ridge Leisures serving DE, MD, NJ, PA, VA
• Great North East Travelers serving CT, ME, MA, NH, NY, RI, VT
• FMCA International Travel Club serves FMCA members in US & Canada

Canadian Travelers Clubs

• The Western Sunsetters serving AB, BC, MB, SK
• Ontario Sun Risers serving ON
• LTV Québec serving QC
• The Maritime Leisures serving NB, NS, PE

Please note: The recommendations and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of Leisure Travel Vans. Please refer to your motorhome and chassis owner’s manuals, as well as hitch ratings for further information regarding towing capacities and limitations.

A premier advantage of Leisure Travel Vans is their size. While roomy and spacious, it is also extremely mobile and maneuverable. These 25-foot coaches can fit in a majority of parking lots, downtowns, and other places a towable or large Class C or Class A wouldn’t even consider going. So why would you want to consider pulling a tow vehicle along?

Leisure Travel Vans are nimble enough to fit in any fueling station

Some folks may want to set up their camp, plugin, and still have the freedom to go explore. But they also want to be able to leave the pets “at home in the RV” or to just simply go out to eat and run a few errands without breaking down camp. Plus, if you find that premier boondocking spot, and take off for the day in your RV, you may come back to find your space taken.

This is where having a small tow vehicle (sometimes called a “TOAD” or “dinghy”) can be a huge luxury during your RV trip. I say small because there is a weight limit that you need to follow in order to tow behind a Leisure Travel Van. Keep in mind, that not every vehicle is “flat towable”, so be sure to do your due diligence, as you can ruin your transmission or void your warranty if you flat tow a vehicle that is not deemed towable by the manufacturer. The owner’s manual of the vehicle will tell you whether it is flat towable, as well as give you the steps to put it in Tow Mode.

Having a TOAD allows you to carry things you wouldn’t be able to fit otherwise in a 25-foot coach, such as a kayak. Image courtesy of Lori Rabey

Weight Management for Safety is a Must

Before we discuss what I consider to be great choices for tow vehicles, let me explain weight such as GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) and GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating). I am writing this as it concerns the Leisure Travel Van Unity on the Mercedes Benz chassis.

GVWR is the maximum your rig can weigh without anything hooked up to it. This takes into account the curb weight of the vehicle or what it weighs without any cargo or occupants combined with what you put in the RV including you, other people, pets, water in the tanks, and gear; plus whatever is on the hitch. Keep in mind that both axles must be within their weight ratings at all times as well.

The GCWR is the maximum your loaded rig, tow vehicle, tow bar, and everything and everyone you travel with can weigh.

Another specification to be aware of is the hitch ratings. The hitch ratings can be different between Leisure’s two chassis suppliers and some of their models. This rating could also limit your ability to tow a vehicle or certain kinds of vehicles behind your unit.

For our Unity on the Mercedes chassis, the GVWR is 11,030 pounds and the GCWR is 15,250 pounds. So let’s assume that our Unity is at its maximum allowable weight with all the people and things we travel with. The difference between the GCWR and GVWR would be the maximum weight of the TOAD, tow bar, and all the things we may put in or on the car during transport (15,250 – 11,030 = 4,220 pounds). If we travel lighter (fewer people, no water, and less stuff) the amount of weight that can be towed increases, but it is best to plan your TOAD purchase using your maximum GVWR in case you find some heavy antiques that you want to take home with you or have a friend or two that want to join you on your next trip.

It is extremely important to keep within your axel, GVWR, GCWR, and hitch tongue and pull weight ratings so that you can travel safely as well as eliminate any liability that may come if you were to have an accident with being overweight. Calculations can give you an estimate of the maximum weight of a towed vehicle, but the best way to know for sure is to weigh your unit and tow car axle by using certified axle scales.

Weigh Your RV for Peace of Mind

It’s always a good idea to weigh your RV twice for reference weights. First, full of fuel and LP but none of your camp gear or water in the tanks, as second with your typical camping trip load out. That way you have a good idea of what your rig weight is in those scenarios and make sure you are within safe limits.

You can weigh your RV at a CAT scale available at most truck stops. They even have an app to use that will allow you to pay and see your weights in the app without having to go inside the truck stop. It’s very convenient and a great way to make sure you are traveling at your safest. Another safety tip is to make sure your tires are properly inflated. We check our tire pressure before every drive and I carry the Viair RV compressor to air up when needed. (Want to see what all we carry in our LTV? Check it out here.)

As I stated earlier, in our case it was best to choose a tow vehicle that was under 4,220 pounds as that is the max weight we could have with our RV. You may say, “I will never be at max weight in my RV, so I can get something heavier.” Again, I would suggest weighing your rig when you are loaded with your typical camp gear, add the weights of full freshwater, black and grey tanks and you will see that your max weight is quickly eaten up.

A TOAD makes your setup much longer, so that needs to be taken into consideration for your comfort level. Image courtesy of Lori Rabey

So What TOAD is the Best?

The first vehicle generally recommended for towing behind an RV is a Jeep Wrangler. They are very easy to put into tow mode, a lot of fun out in the wild, and can be seen behind almost every Class A motor home. However, I don’t recommend this option.

The problem with a Wrangler for Leisure Travel Van owners is the lightest one you can get is around the 4,200-pound range. And that’s a base model, two-door with no fun aftermarket mods. The moment you put on big tires, a winch, or anything else, you will have such a narrow margin of error that it’s just not what I would choose.

The Lighter The Better

One of the benefits of a lighter TOAD is that it can carry more “stuff”. While you may max out your RV weight inside the rig, if you choose a lighter TOAD, you have some extra weight you can carry in the tow vehicle that won’t max out your combined weight rating. So it’s like having a trailer attached for extra camp gear, bikes, kayaks, etc.

Here, I’ve compiled a few examples that would be fantastic for a Leisure Travel Van that are both flat towable and well under 4,220 pounds. You can also check out my video explaining the benefits of these vehicles and more. Please double-check the owner’s manual to ensure the make, model, year and transmission type are flat towable.

• Chevrolet Equinox – At 3,274 pounds, this option is fantastic as it is an automatic transmission, with plenty of room for extra cargo weight as well.
• Ford Escape Hybrid – The Escape must be the hybrid model in order to flat tow. Like the Equinox, this is an automatic transmission, which is a bonus for some. With a curb weight of 3,491 to 3,668 (depending on options), this still allows for some extra cargo weight you can carry.
• Jeep Cherokee Latitude LUX – A caveat with a Jeep Cherokee is that it must have the “Active Drive II” transmission. Before 2021, the only option for Active Drive II was the Cherokee Trail Hawk, which weighed in at over 4,200 pounds. Now with the Latitude LUX trim level offering that transmission, you can get a Cherokee with automatic transmission weighing in at 3,960, giving you some wiggle room where weight is concerned.
• Ford Maverick Hybrid – In 2022, Ford introduced the Ford Maverick. Basically, a miniature truck that has set the truck world on fire. When you get a Maverick with the Hybrid engine (the same one as the Ford Escape), it is flat towable. I like this option for the fact you can store firewood, smelly camp stoves, and other things you wouldn’t want inside your car or RV. And it’s under 3,700 pounds, so extra gear is just calling out your name with this setup.

A few other options you may see out on the road include the manual transmission Subaru Cross Trek (as seen in Lori Rabey’s photos above). While many people do flat tow newer Cross Treks, Subaru stopped supporting flat towing these vehicles after the 2015 year model. So if you choose a 2016 or newer Cross Trek, know that you will not find the go-ahead in the owner’s manual. Do your own research to make sure you find the TOAD that is right for you. Or watch my video about the most perfect flat-towing vehicle for Leisure Travel Vans.

Supplemental Braking System is a Must

In order to flat-tow your vehicle, there are several components you will need including the proper base plates, tow bar, and an auxiliary braking system. A quick internet search will help you find the best system for the vehicle you end up choosing.

So, to tow or not to tow, that is the question. If you have yet to get your RV or just took delivery of it, make a few trips and see how you like to RV. You may quickly determine that you don’t need a tow vehicle or may see that it would be a benefit and you wouldn’t want to RV without one. Either way, you are RVing, and that’s what really matters.

Editor’s Note: Brandon and Janet Hensley are members of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

Editor’s Note: Brandon & Janet Hensley are members of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

The rich tradition of a favorite family vacation spot for generations is priceless. And Southwest Colorado is just that for me.

My family has been going to the Pagosa Springs, Colorado, area since my grandfather discovered the amazing beauty and wildlife the area boasts back in the 1940s. Since then, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren continue to fly fish, RV, ski, and camp there to this very day.

And now it’s my favorite destination to take my Leisure Travel Vans Unity FX.

Beauty is a LTV under the Colorado night sky.

An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream

Pagosa Springs and the surrounding area has just about every activity for anyone who loves the outdoors. This is an absolute must to put on your destination to-do list. Nestled in southwest Colorado, about 50 minutes east of Durango, this mountain town of 2,500 residents is a popular cabin rental, RV, and vacation spot for countless reasons.

The San Juan River, with its abundant trout, runs through town, which is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains and huge areas of national forest land.

Just up the mountain is Wolf Creek Ski Area, which boasts the most snow in Colorado year after year – it’s literally one of the best-kept secrets in all of Colorado.

Hiking is abundant, with all ranges of difficulty. Just jump on the All Trails app and, with over 240 different trails to choose from, you will find the perfect day trip to enjoy the mountains.

The Hot Springs

Pagosa Springs is actually named for the natural geothermal hot springs that lie beneath the town. Discovered by the Ute tribe of Native Americans, pagosa means “healing waters”. Once the European settlers discovered the bubbling ponds of hot water over 150 years ago, the town started to form.

The hot springs is a must-do while in Pagosa.

Today, several resorts and hotels surround the naturally occurring springs and offer access to the pools and grottos. It’s most certainly worth the money to spend a day enjoying the warm (or hot, depending on which pool you are in) waters. Winter is an amazing time to visit, as the surrounding snow is a stark contrast to the geothermal waters you are soaking in.

RV Park Options

Pagosa Springs has several RV parks, some situated along the San Juan River and some nestled against the mountains, offering stunning views and crisp, cool mountain air.

Janet setting camp set up while Gracie takes in the views.

One of our favorites is The Last Resort RV Park & Campground. While on the smaller side, with just 19 full hookup sites and 6 partial hookup sites, they have picturesque walking trails along the river and great amenities. Cell service is nil here, but they do have wifi, which we find to be perfectly adequate.

We also love Pagosa Springs RV Park, which is larger and has premium mountain-side sites. Their amenities include a coffee shop and a quaint gift shop, complete with a resident dog snoozing on the floor.

They also have a BBQ bar open to their patrons, where you and your family and friends can cookout on a huge grill under a pergola. This is absolutely an amazing feature that we haven’t seen in many places.

Both of these RV parks are well outside of town with no cell service, so if you want to be closer in, we also love Mountain Landing Suites & RV Park in town, with restaurants, shopping, and the hot springs resorts just minutes away.

There are several more that we have yet to try out, so check out your favorite app to browse all the RV options Pagosa Springs has to offer.

Food and More Food

One of our favorite things about Pagosa is the food. There are so many great places to eat – here are three of our favorites.

Kip’s Grill and Cantina is a popular, but really small, place. Get there early to enjoy their delicious Mexican menu that features green chilis, street tacos, and margaritas.

Our other go-to for lunch or dinner is Riff Raff Brewing Company. They actually have two locations about a mile from each other. One is set in an old Victorian house and features fantastic burgers and salads, and we really recommend their homemade chips and sour cream sauce. My mouth is watering as I write this!

Their other location is their own brewery along the San Juan River. Here, Riff Raff brew all of their flagship beers as well as five different seasonal taps, and also feature a unique twist on burgers, nachos, and salads, including goat, lamb, and yak burgers.

Riff Raff – one of our favorite lunch and dinner spots.

Crazily enough, they literally make their beer using the heat from the geothermal activity under their restaurant. To quote their website:

“Riff Raff Brewing Co has tapped into the local spring-fed geothermal heating coming from the deepest hot spring in the world! Seriously, Guinness World Book of record status. Look it up. We are the second brewery in the United States to do so, meaning we really supply Pagosa Springs with Earth Powered Beer. Pagosa Springs is roughly translated to mean “healing waters,” due to the nature of the Hot Springs, and as locals and visitors have come to learn, RRBC is home to Pagosa’s other healing water.”

That’s pretty amazing and definitely a unique experience. We love Riff Raff.

The best pastries and coffee in town.

As far as coffee and breakfast, Pagosa Baking Company is a must. Handcrafted pastries, bread, and other baked goods are lined up delectably, making it incredibly hard to choose. Just a few doors down from Riff Raff’s downtown location, Pagosa Baking Company sits in a building that was built in 1906 and has served as a private residence, a boot and saddle shop, a gun shop, an antique store, and now, since 2001, a bakery and coffee shop.

Downtown Pagosa Springs is lined with antique shops and restaurants, and is absolutely gorgeous at sunset with the mountains glowing as you look down the main thoroughfare of Pagosa Street.

Sunset in Pagosa is stunning.

Even though it’s a small mountain town, an hour away from Durango and four hours from Colorado Springs, you won’t be left without supplies, as there is a Walmart, a really nice City Market grocery store, and lots of outdoor and recreation shops to choose from.

Whether you go in summer, spring, or fall, RVing in a Leisure Travel Van is a beautiful and peaceful trip. And should you choose to ski in the winter, there are many cabins, homes, and chalets to rent from VRBO, Vacasa, or any of your favorite vacation rental apps.

Amazing Skiing

Wolf Creek Ski Area is just that – an area, and not a resort. There is no lodging on the mountain, as it’s actually national forest land. That keeps this pristine ski mountain from being overcrowded like its Colorodo siblings of Vail, Aspen, and Breckenridge.

On holidays and spring break, you will see crowds, but nothing overwhelming, with lift lines lasting just a few minutes. But on non-holidays, it’s mostly just locals and virtually zero lift lines.

While many beginner options are available, Wolf Creek is known for its amazing backcountry black diamonds.

The skiing is fantastic, and while there are plenty of beginner or intermediate slopes, it’s really known for some serious backcountry skiing. With 1,600 acres and a summit of 11,904 feet, you can see for miles at the top.

With a large café and lodge at the base, there is food available, but many choose to bring their own and eat on the patios in the Colorado sun.

It’s about a 30-minute drive from Pagosa Springs to Wolf Creek, but a beautiful one that falls along the Continental Divide. On the other side of the pass is Southfork and Creede Co, which deserve their own blog post, so I’ll preserve that until a later date.

Editor’s Note: Brandon & Janet Hensley are members of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

Driving any RV, whether motorcoach or towable is a completely different experience than driving a car or SUV. And with the high demand for LTVs combined with the COVID RV Boom and shortage of parts for manufacturing, it’s almost impossible to find a unit to test drive.

When I purchased my 2020 Unity FX, I was fortunate to get the new updated Sprinter chassis that has many upgrades from the previous model, such as adaptive cruise, electronic steering, LED headlights, and a brand new interior that resembles Mercedes’ luxury cars.

The Driving Experience is Part of the RV Experience

Let’s talk about the drivability of a Leisure Travel Van, as the driving experience is an important aspect of the RV experience. Many seasoned RV owners will tell you that driving an RV can be a stressful, tiring situation. Whereas I’d say, with the Leisure Travel Van on the well thought-out Sprinter chassis, it’s the complete opposite.

In fact, Janet and I just returned from an impromptu, four-day, 1,600-mile round trip to Pagosa Springs, Colorado, from Dallas, Texas. Even though we had limited time, we wanted to get the LTV out on the road and spend a few nights in the cool Colorado mountain air.

So this meant making a beeline to Colorado with as few stops as possible. I drove for 8 hours on the first day, and I can tell you I enjoyed every moment of it. With the electronic steering, adaptive cruise control, and comfortable Ultra Leather seats, I could have kept going even longer. It’s not always a good idea to drive that distance at one time, but totally doable in the LTV. (Fellow Leisure Explorers Mike and Jennifer Wendland have a fantastic suggestion of the “330 Rule” – stop after 330 miles or at 3:30pm, which ever comes first.)

Janet setting up camp in Pagosa Springs.

Deep Dive: What It’s Really Like to Drive a Leisure Travel Van

Power and Miles Per Gallon

The LTV Unity comes with the Mercedes-Benz 188-horse power 3.0 liter turbo-diesel V6 engine with direct injection, and a turbocharger intercooler that produces 325 pounds of torque. This may seem relatively small for a Class C (B+) motorhome, but it’s more than adequate power to confidently merge onto a highway and move the 11,000 pound motorhome with ease.

I’ve never felt it was underpowered, and with the unheard of motorhome highway miles per gallon (mpg) of 17 that I average, it’s not an enemy of your wallet. My only complaint is that I wish it had a bit larger of a fuel tank, as the 24.5 gallon tank gives you about 370 miles of real range when you factor in combined mpg.

For ultimate efficiency and safety, we travel at a max of 65 miles per hour (mph), that gives us that 17 mpg (sometimes up to 19 mpg on flat highways). Jumping up to 70 mph drops the milage to 15 – 16 mpg in my experience, as well as making the coach a bit more susceptible to feeling cross winds and such. We try to never be in a hurry and I definitely recommend the sweet spot of 65 mph for a comfortable drive.

Drivability

So what’s it like to drive an 11,000 pound, 10-foot-tall house? Actually, very unintimidating. While much larger than an SUV, such as a Suburban or Escalade, the electronic steering makes turning and highway control very much an SUV experience. Once you master not having a rear view mirror and really have an awareness of your blind spots and turning radius, it’s a breeze to drive, even in urban settings.

Adaptive Cruise: A Game Changer for RVs

You may have adaptive cruise in your vehicle, as the technology is being put into more automobiles, but having it in an RV makes driving virtually stress free.

My daily driver is a Tesla Model S, and I have become so spoiled with the autopilot feature that it was absolute serendipitous when I took my first trip in the LTV and turned on the adaptive cruise. It takes the white knuckle effect of driving in heavy traffic away, knowing the RV is actually helping you maintain a safe following distance. And driving on open highways is like a walk in the park, knowing the coach will self adjust the speed for the slower vehicle you are approaching ahead.

You should still always be completely aware and prepared to take over just in case, but the peace of mind it gives you is priceless. I will never own another vehicle without this amazing feature.

Visibility

The driving experience is part of the RV experience.

One of my favorite features of my LTV is the giant panoramic front windshield. Driving through the mountains or desert is like watching a movie screen with the landscape unfolding before you. It’s hard to explain, but the large windshield makes the viewing experience so different from a regular automobile.

Like I said earlier, it takes some getting used to not having the rear visibility you have in an automobile. The large side mirrors with the lower concave mirrors will be your best friend once you get familiar with what you are looking at and where cars are in your blindspots.

The Sprinter chassis does have a backup camera, but unfortunately it is not available for driving. There are several after-market solutions you can purchase, and I opted for a wireless camera that requires no difficult installation or running of wires.

Navigation and Entertainment

The team at Leisure Travel Vans doesn’t scrimp when it comes to ordering their chassis, giving you just about every feature Mercedes offers. The beautiful 10-inch screen with navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple Carplay/Android Auto, and “Hey Mercedes” voice assistant is spectacular.

There is no shortage of audio options as Sirius XM satellite radio gives you virtually every music, talk, and sports programming imaginable to keep you entertained as you enjoy your road trip (this is invaluable when you are in remote areas with no radio signal).

“Hey Mercedes” is a voice assistant much like “Alexa”, in that it can control your audio and navigation as well as answer questions such as time, date, temperature, etc.

We use our LTV to escape the Texas heat into the crisp Colorado mountain air.

Climate and Comfort

The downside to the big, picturesque window is how much heat it enhances during sunny days. The Sprinter AC is more than up to the task of keeping you cool, and you will most certainly want it doing its job during the summer. When in really hot conditions, we will run our diesel generator to power the coach rooftop air to keep the entire coach cool while driving, to help the dash AC.

The heated seats are a luxury my wife, Janet, refuses to live without. She will even turn it on in the summer! While I can’t fathom doing that, I also can’t imagine life without them in the winter. While the Ultra Leather does stay relatively ambient in the winter, the heated seats are a welcome feature.

Stability and Sway

I’ve read many posts on forums of the pre-2019 chassis having the absolute need to add a beefed-up sway bar and something like Sumo Springs to control the rocking and sway of the motor-coach.

In the 2019 upgrade, Mercedes includes a beefed-up sway bar from the factory, and I’ve found it to be adequate. With that being said, I do think Sumo Springs would help when turning out of steep driveways or turning into parking lots that have un-level pavement.

But I’ve found that normal driving conditions are fine with what the coach comes from the factory with.

A West Texas sunset is the perfect end to a long drive.

At the end of the day, I absolutely love driving my Leisure Travel Van. In fact, I look forward to travel days sitting behind the wheel of my Unity FX as much as I enjoy camping in the luxury of the LTV.

Editor’s Note: Brandon & Janet Hensley are members of LTV’s sponsored content team, The Leisure Explorers. Do you own a Leisure Travel Van and enjoy writing? Learn more about joining the team.

They say everything is bigger in Texas. When it comes to gas stations, that saying definitely holds up when you are talking about Buc-ee’s travel centers, with over 60,000 square feet and over 100 gas pumps.

Buc-ee’s gas stations (yes, they call themselves a gas station), are not just a place to get fuel and snacks for your travels, but an experience so overwhelmingly magnificent, you won’t soon forget it.

Buc-ee’s charm is everywhere you look.

Quick History

Founded in Lake Jackson, Texas, by Don Wasek and Arch “Beaver” Aplin in 1982, Buc-ee’s started with the idea of leveraging the “call of nature” by using billboards to advertise their super clean bathrooms, building a reputation that would have people pass multiple other gas stations and fast food places to get to their establishment. That marketing strategy is still in place today, and works like a charm.

Until 2016, Buc-cee’s only had locations in Texas, but now these gargantuan travel centers can also be found in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and soon Kentucky. So, if you’re traveling through Texas and the southeast part of the country, you should find yourself in close proximity to one. And if you are somewhat near, I would recommend experiencing it for yourself.

The massive stores have individual stations for everything from BBQ to fudge.

Big? They are HUGE.

So how big is Buc-ee’s? Well, they hold the world record for world’s largest convenience store at 66,335 square feet at their New Braunfels, Texas, location.

Not only are they a world record holder, but they also won the award for “cleanest bathrooms in America” (yes, Cintas held a contest for this). If you have ever been in a Buc-ee’s bathroom, you understand the men’s and women’s rooms are each the size of typical entire gas stations themselves, and very clean. The New Braunfels location actually has 83 toilets!

In addition to the enormous bathrooms, this mega travel center also has 120 fueling positions, 1,000 parking spots, 64 ice freezers selling 79-cent and 99-cent ice, 31 cash registers, 4 Icee machines, and 80 fountain dispensers.

With such amazing amenities and bathrooms, you might think that the place would be overrun with semi and commercial trucks, but Buc-ee’s is off-limits to over-the-road truckers, so don’t worry about battling the big rigs. The good news is Buc-ee’s is very RV-friendly. And Leisure Travel Vans fit like a glove in their large parking lots.

With over 100 gas pumps, you never have to wait to fuel up.

They have plenty of diesel and DEF pumps in their slew of filling stations, with big, wide-open parking lots. They even have designated dog-walking areas with bags and trash cans for your convenience.

Let’s Talk About the Food

There are countless fan sites (Such as @buceesenthusiast on Instagram) arguing over what the best Buc-ee’s treats, snacks, and meals are, and you may even have had this discussion with your own friends and family. While they offer national brands, their claim to fame are their own branded and in-house recipe delectables.

Beaver Nuggets are considered a Texas food delicacy.

Let’s start with their massive jerky selection. With fifteen kinds of jerky, ranging from beef to turkey to even Japanese Akashi beef, their jerky counters stretch over 20 feet long with every flavor you can imagine.

If jerky isn’t your thing, then let’s move over to the savory section. Here you can see them chopping brisket, carving turkey, and slicing sausage for their amazing hot BBQ sandwiches. They even specialize in breakfast tacos with brisket, egg, bacon, and potato. All of this in their circular BBQ station in the middle of the store, made fresh before your eyes.

Fresh BBQ at Buc-ee’s is definitely a traveller’s delight.

Then there are the roasted nuts. The moment you walk into the store, the aroma of roasted pecans, almonds, and peanuts blesses your nostrils with the smell of goodness. My personal favorite is the cinnamon pecans, wrapped up in a cone-like package and still warm. Absolutely addicting!

The aroma of roasted nuts tells you Buc-ee’s is like no other travel stop.

There are also the more interesting selections such as Pickled Quail Eggs, floating in a spicy brine spiked with peppers. You should also try their Mayhaw Jelly, made from the fruit pretty common in the south that is fantastic on crackers or toast.

Quirky foods like Pickled Quail Eggs are a Buc-ee’s signature.

And if you are feeling a bit on the spicy side, grab some Candied Jalapeños that you can eat straight from the jar. These are also delicious on burgers or with a cheese board.

And Now… The Fudge

With over 24 different varieties of fudge, your sweet tooth will be well satisfied. All made in-house, the fudge section will have you drooling over flavors as traditional as chocolate pecan, and all the way to seasonal flavors such as chocolate pumpkin. But you can’t go wrong with red velvet, orange cream, tiger butter, or cookies and creme.

The fudge selection is crazy good!

Every flavor of fudge you could hope for.

The Buc-ee’s candy selection is enormous. There is a wall with any kind of dried fruit you can think of as well as pretty much every gummy candy known to man. Stock up on gummy worms or peach rings and get your sugar high for the drive ahead.

And finally, the usual winner of the favorite Buc-ee’s treat is Beaver Nuggets, their signature snack. If you live in Texas, there’s a good chance that you know exactly what I’m talking about. This delight is like a puffy kettle corn with a sweet, caramel taste. Once you bite into one of these, you may be enticed to pour some in a bowl with some milk and eat it like cereal. Absolutely a must-get when you visit a Buc-ee’s.

More to Buc-ee’s than Food, Fuel, and Clean Bathrooms

Gift items are plentiful with the beaver logo.

While the middle and one side of the store is dominated by food and drink, the other side is like a Cracker Barrell gift store on steroids. With every imaginable gift item such as housewares and stuffed beavers, you will also find an awesome selection of hot sauces, Yeti coolers (they also have a Buc-ee’s branded tech cooler), BBQ seasonings and supplies, as well as smokers, deer feeders, camping supplies, and everything in between. My favorite thing to get is Meat Church seasonings and rubs.

Tons of camping equipment.

As far as Buc-ee’s merch goes, you can get basically anything you can wear, drink out of, or sit on with the Buc-ee’s Beaver on it. My personal favorite is the onesie pajamas complete with tail.

I can’t imagine ever passing up a Buc-ee’s if we are on a roadtrip, and we are fortunate enough to have one just a few miles from our home, so we get our Buc-ee’s fix even when we aren’t traveling.

They even have hunting and fishing supplies!

If you are out on the open road, and see a giant yellow sign with a Beaver on it, don’t pass up the opportunity, even if you have a full tank of fuel. But get excited, because Beaver Nuggets and Candied Pecans make every road trip even better.

Please note: The recommendations and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and are not necessarily those of Leisure Travel Vans. This post is not sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Buc-ee’s – just one Buc-ee’s fan sharing his genuine enthusiasm for The South’s favorite travel stop!