RV Basics 101

RV Basics 101 is for people who have recently purchased their first RV and need to learn everything about how to RV with confidence.

Articles in this category focus on answering the hundreds of questions any new RVer will have when they are new to RV camping.

Readers will find articles about water, sewer, and electric hookups, how to clean and maintain an RV or camper, how to drive an RV or camper, how to operate an RV, motorhome, or camper, how to clean an RV, how to store an RV, how to organize an RV and so much more.

RV Basics 101 is an excellent resource for new RV owners who are looking to learn all the basic skills needed for RV camping.

Buyers guides, which provide reviews of RV gear, accessories and supplies, are included in this section to help guide newbie RVers toward making informed decisions about their purchases.

3 Best Small Class C RVs Under 25 Feet

👇👇👇 Click the video below to watch the full video 👇👇👇 Why Small Class C Motorhomes Under 25’ Are So Popular If you want the confidence of a motorhome … Read more

ChatGPT Picks the Best RV in Every Category

Newmar Dutch Star Class A Motorhome with black blue and white graphics at a Blue Compass Dealership

We’ve been reviewing RVs on YouTube and our websites for over seven years now. We’ve climbed through storage bays, opened every cabinet, laid on every bed, and talked with … Read more

Would You Let Guests Use Your RV Bathroom?

Would You Let Guests Use Your RV Bathroom? If you’ve spent much time RVing, you’ve probably faced this dilemma at least once. You’re having friends over to your campsite for cocktails, dinner, or a cozy campfire, and someone inevitably asks that awkward question: “Hey, can I use your bathroom?” It sounds simple, right? But among RVers, this is surprisingly controversial. Some people are totally fine with guests using their RV bathroom, while others would rather march them straight to the campground bathhouse. Susan and I have seen both sides—and after one near-flooding incident in our own rig, we understand exactly why opinions are so divided. Our RV Bathroom Experience We’ve owned both a Class A and a Class C motorhome, and we’ve used our RV bathrooms plenty over the years. But one evening, we invited a guest over for dinner and drinks at our campsite, and when she went to use our RV bathroom… well, let’s just say she didn’t understand the “push pedal halfway for water, all the way to flush” rule. She pressed and held the pedal until the bowl was nearly overflowing. We caught it just in time, but it could have turned into a disaster. After that, we learned the importance of explaining how an RV toilet works before letting anyone use it. So when we posed this question—Would you let guests use your RV bathroom?—to our Facebook group, RV Camping for Newbies, which now has more than 250,000 members, the responses were passionate and varied. What Our Community Had to Say We received hundreds of replies, and the results were nearly split down the middle. Some RVers said “Of course!” while others wouldn’t even consider it. Here’s a snapshot of how our community feels: Audra: “Well, if they are in my RV as guests, they’re obviously friends and I would do it in my regular house so yeah, why not?” Eric: “Yes, but I review the rules with every guest—especially on the disposal of toilet paper and other stuff.” Tammy: “Someone that we know and invited to our site, yes. Strangers, no.” Stacie Williams: “I’m on the fence with this one… it would depend on how well I know them.” Barbara: “Never.” Susan: “Yes, but with instructions.” Jennifer: “Only if they promise not to poop in it!” Matt: “My rule is kids, women, and anyone over 50. If you’re male and under 50, walk to the bathhouse.” Rick Beadles: “If I have guests at my sticks-and-bricks home they’re welcome, same for my RV. When nature calls, it calls—no difference.” It’s a perfect example of how personal and situational this question can be. Why Some RVers Say “Absolutely Not” Those who prefer to keep their RV bathroom off-limits have some valid reasons: Limited holding tank capacity. RV black tanks can fill up fast, especially when you’re dry camping or boondocking. Extra flushes mean more frequent—and messier—dumping. Guest “user error.” As we learned firsthand, most people don’t understand RV toilets. One wrong move can mean overflow or damage. Cleaning and odors. Even one guest using the toilet can affect smells and sanitation, especially if they don’t follow the rules. Privacy. For some RVers, their bathroom feels like personal space—especially in smaller rigs like travel trailers or pop-ups. That’s why some people, like our friend who always books a site near the bathhouse, simply steer visitors that way instead. Why Others Say “Sure, No Problem!” On the flip side, many RVers take a “mi casa es su casa” approach. They point out that hospitality doesn’t stop at the campground. If someone is a friend or family member, they see letting them use the RV bathroom as no different than letting them use it in a sticks-and-bricks home. Plus, some guests—especially kids or older adults—might not be comfortable walking to a bathhouse late at night or in bad weather. Several of our members said they simply give a quick tutorial before handing over the flush pedal. As Eric and Susan both said, clear instructions go a long way. The Middle-Ground Approach We’ve found that many RVers take a balanced stance. They’ll let trusted guests use the bathroom but draw the line at strangers or casual visitors. Some even have rules like Jennifer’s “no #2 policy” or Matt’s “age and gender rule.” In our case, if we’re hosting close friends or family, we don’t mind—as long as they get the bathroom briefing first. But if it’s a large gathering or we’re camping near a clean bathhouse, we’ll politely suggest guests use those facilities instead. Tips for Letting Guests Use Your RV Bathroom (Safely) If you do decide to open your bathroom to visitors, a little preparation can prevent problems: Give a quick demo. Explain how to flush and what not to put in the toilet. Post a reminder sign. A simple “To flush: press pedal halfway for water, all the way to flush” note helps avoid confusion. Use RV-safe toilet paper only. And keep it within easy reach so guests don’t grab paper towels by mistake. Crack a window or turn on the vent fan. It keeps moisture and odors under control. Empty your tanks beforehand. Always good practice before hosting guests. Final Thoughts: Courtesy Meets Common Sense Allowing guests to use your RV bathroom comes down to two things—trust and comfort. Some RVers treat their rig like a home and happily welcome guests to use it. Others see it as a delicate ecosystem that only the owner should operate. For Susan and me, we’ve learned to read the situation. If the guest is comfortable, responsible, and understands the rules, we’re happy to share. But we’ll never forget that one near-overflow moment that taught us an important lesson: a two-minute toilet tutorial can save a world of trouble. Whether you’re team “Sure, go ahead!” or team “No way!”—you’re in good company. Just like everything else in RV life, there’s no single right answer—only what works best for you, your rig, and your guests.

If you’ve spent much time RVing, you’ve probably faced this dilemma at least once. You’re having friends over to your campsite for cocktails, dinner, or a cozy campfire, and … Read more

How to Stop People from Cutting Through Your Campsite

halloween at Ramblin Pines campground where we had a ton of people cut through our campsite

If you’ve ever had strangers walk straight through your campsite like it’s a public sidewalk, you know exactly how frustrating that can be. Susan and I just spent a … Read more

Top 10 RVing Destinations in the U.S.

Top 10 RVing Destinations in the U.S. Picture of Branson MO

Cruising the open highways in an RV has evolved from a niche pastime into a full-blown movement. About 8.1 million U.S. households own an RV, and that number is … Read more

How to Silence a Barking Dog at the Campsite Next Door

How to Handle a Barking Dog at the Campsite Next Door

One of the great joys of RV life is camping in beautiful places and enjoying peace and quiet. But every now and then, Susan and I end up next … Read more

Is Mobile RV Wash & Detailing Worth It? My Experience & Tips

Is Mobile RV Washing and Detailing Worth the Cost?

Updated August 5, 2025 I’ve relied on mobile RV washing and detailing services for years, and I want to show you why they’re worth it. If you’re wondering “Is … Read more

EZ Mobile Data Giving Away 5G Routers with Data Plans

If you’re an RVer in search of fast, reliable internet while on the road, EZ Mobile Data has an offer worth checking out. For a limited time, the company … Read more

Best Disposable Gloves for Dumping RV Tanks

All experienced RVers know that disposable gloves are a necessity. Emptying the black and grey water tanks is no one’s favorite task, but it must be done. Full-hookup sites … Read more

Peace of Mind on Wheels: How Monimoto 9 Safeguards Your RV

Minimoto safeguards RV travel

There’s nothing like hopping in your RV and embarking on a new adventure. The US has an array of attractions, sights, and campgrounds, making it ideal for road trip … Read more

Camping Dysfunction: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Learn the symptoms, diagnosis, and cure for Camping Dysfunction.

Camping season is rapidly approaching! Many RVers are already outlining their itineraries, giddy about a magical summer being close by. But some RVers may feel apprehensive, or even reluctant, … Read more

7 Best Used RVs and Campers for Tall People

Mike from RVBlogger measuring the ceiling height of an RV camper with his tape measure

We have toured thousands of RVs and campers, and we found the best used (or late model) RVs and campers for tall people. These RVs and campers have ample … Read more

RV Tail Swing & Turning Radius Explained

One question we are often asked is – what is RV tail swing and turn radius? So, in this article, we will explain each of these in detail. And … Read more

7 Best Used Travel Trailers Under 4000 lbs

Used Travel Trailer Under 4000 lbs

Travel Trailers under 4000 lbs are becoming more and more popular, especially in recent years, and throughout the pandemic. The benefit of hauling a lightweight travel trailer without the … Read more

10 Best Travel Trailers Under 4,000 Lbs

Forest River R Pod RP196 Travel Trailers Under 4000 Lbs Ext

Updated January 9, 2024 Finding the best travel trailers on the market can be challenging, so we have compiled a list of the 10 best travel trailers under 4000 … Read more

10 Best Used Travel Trailers Under 3500lbs

Small travel trailer being towed by an SUV

Two things are happening at once in the travel trailers under 3500lbs category. The first is a steady increase in interest and sales of lightweight travel trailers. The second … Read more

15 Best Lightweight Travel Trailers Under 3500 lbs

2020 Airstream Nest Ext

Article Updated January 9, 2024 There is a broader range of travel trailers under 3500lbs on the market than ever before! We have toured many of them at RV … Read more

Can A 5th Wheel Trailer Disconnect While Driving?

5th wheel trailer connected to a truck

A 5th wheel trailer disconnect in the middle of a highway is a nightmare scenario. Fortunately, in the odd disconnect case, a 5th wheel will decouple long before anyone … Read more

Best RV Jack Pads To Level And Stabilize Your RV

Properly leveling and stabilizing your RV is essential for keeping your RV in good shape and ensuring you stay comfortable while inside it. The traditional way to do this … Read more

Should You Level RVs With Slides In Or Out?

Class A Motorhome parked with slides out at a campground

Should you level RVs with slides in or out? We see this question pop up every now and then in our private Facebook Group called RV Camping for newbies. … Read more