Is it Better to Buy or Rent an RV for an Upcoming Trip?

An RV sounds like the perfect option for an upcoming trip, but then the big question appears. Is it better to rent an RV for the trip or purchase one? Consider both options carefully before making any decision as either one could be the right answer, depending on your travel plans, your financial situation, and more.

 

Buying Means More Vacations Later

 

Of course, the biggest pro to buying an RV now is that it’s available anytime you want to take a trip. Decide to just take off for the weekend? There’s no need to check with a rental agency to see if there’s an RV available. Visiting a Forest River RV dealer today means it’s possible to purchase an RV that can be used for just about any vacation you want to take.

 

Renting Can Help Save Money

 

Although it can be expensive to rent an RV for a week or longer, the fees are still less than the cost of an RV. If money is a concern, it might be better to rent an RV for this trip. If you don’t end up liking RV traveling, there’s no worry about trying to sell an RV in the future and there’s no money wasted from having to sell for less than the purchase price.

 

Buying Allows Customized Additions

 

Those who purchase an RV have the chance to customize it, so it meets their needs. New RVs come with plenty of potential upgrades as well as options for the interior and exterior. Look through all of the options carefully to choose the right ones when buying an RV and purchase it ahead of time just in case anything needs to be ordered.

 

Renting Means No Searching for Storage

 

A downside to buying an RV could be storing it between vacations. Renting an RV means there’s no need to worry about where it’s stored. Those who don’t have room at home or cannot park an RV at home because of an HOA might prefer renting the RV just to save on storage costs. Consider the space available for storage, the costs associated with storage, and how easy it will be to store between vacations.

 

Buying Can Enable an Extended Trip

 

Heading out on the open road can be exhilarating, especially when there’s no need for hard plans and no hotel rooms to worry about so the plans can change on a whim. If the RV is rented, however, there may be limitations to how long it can be gone. The rental agency may require it being returned on time to avoid late fees and because others may want to rent it. When you buy an RV, you don’t have this concern and can extend the trip if you want to.

Renting Gives the Chance to Test the Waters

 

A big advantage of renting over buying an RV is simply the chance to try it out. With a rental, it’s possible to use the RV for just a short time to see if living in an RV while traveling is fun, to get used to driving an RV, and to see if any downsides may mean you don’t want to purchase an RV for future trips.

 

If you’re planning a trip and you’d like to take an RV, you’re going to need to consider whether it’s better to purchase an RV or rent one. Use the pros and cons here to think about which option is right for your upcoming vacation.

Another Tick in the Box: 7 Essential Pieces of Gear No Camper Should Be Without

Having the right pieces of gear during a camping escapade is always important. However, as a camper and a backpacker, it’s imperative to know what items to take with you and what items to leave behind so you can be sure you are carrying the right weight. Here is a list of seven essential pieces of gear you should always have.

  1. Powerful Lantern

You will not realize how dark it can get until you go camping in the wilderness. For that reason, a good lantern is instrumental as it will help to light your camping area at night. You can look for lanterns with replaceable batteries so you don’t have to worry about staying in the dark when the batteries die. On the other hand, rechargeable batteries are ideal but you will have to carry spare ones since there is no electricity in the wilderness.

  1. Walkie Talkies

There are chances that your mobile phone may lack service while camping. That is why it is advisable to carry a walkie talkie with you so you can remain connected to family and friends without worrying about the dead zones. These are especially instrumental if you are planning to travel with your children as they are an inexpensive way to remain in communication.

  1. Flashlight

A flashlight, just like the lantern, is essential when it comes to camping. These are imperative for safety reason and good for your sanity when camping in the wilderness because sharing a flashlight can be cumbersome. Choose a small and lightweight flashlight with an easy-to-operate switch. Your flashlight should also fit comfortably in a backpack and palm.

  1. Sleeping Bag

A camping blanket or a sleeping bag will ensure you remain warm when spending your night in the wilderness. You may decide to use a sleeping pad along with a sleeping bag but isn’t absolutely necessary especially if you are a person who does not mind sleeping anywhere.

  1.    Firestarter

You may not consider matches as official camping gear, but these are pretty important. You can carry a lighter or a box of matches with other camping material for ease of access. You can consider getting one of the best firestarters if you are planning to make a fire whether for cooking, sterilizing water, or protecting yourself from other elements in the wildlife.

  1. First Aid Kit

A first aid kit that has been amazingly stocked is an essential piece of gear which you may easily forget, but you need to know that anything can happen outside. Burns, scratches, and other injuries can occur when camping and serious emergencies are not an exception. Therefore, a first aid kit, like any other camping gear, is quite important.

  1. Maps

As much as you would prefer a GPS, it is to be safe and get a plan B when you are out camping. Although a bit old school, print out a paper map for use when hiking or camping. A map can help you get to your destination, find your way back your campsite, and show you the exit route.

Final Word

When you go camping, make sure you have the right equipment with you. Consider your location and the duration of your camping and get the right pieces of gear. However, do not miss any of the seven equipment highlighted in this guide.

New interactive quiz helps travelers find city breaks with the world’s best nightlife

Travel experts have introduced a new free to use interactive quiz to help intrepid travellers find their next trip online, making it easier to book affordable holiday deals to experience world class nightlife on their next city break.

The company has pinpointed the city best suited to travellers’ interests, offering inspiration to those that want to satisfy their wanderlust with handpicked comprehensive trips in party destinations and cities across the globe. For example, you can find inspiration for a getaway to Marrakech with Opodo.co.uk

So, if you feel it’s time to get away and take a break from everyday life, then jetting off for a city break can be a chance to unwind and discover a new destination by using this handy new online tool.

But what with so many international places to choose from, knowing exactly where to travel and what to experience at night after a full day of sightseeing can be overwhelming – no matter what kind of traveller you are.

Warmer climates, accommodation style and rich cultural experiences are important considerations for travellers when considering their city break experience, but once the sun goes down, many places take on a different personality as the city’s night life comes into play.

Take the quiz and it could help you to find the best deals to experience the bustling Tokyo metropolis on your next city break. You might be able to bag a bargain whilst you’re at it.

5 Point Checklist for Mountain Adventures with Your Kids

Heading to the mountains with your kiddos in tow can provide a lot of fun adventures. Whether you’re looking to go during the winter months for some skiing excitement or you prefer to head out with nicer weather for a fun hike, there are plenty of options to choose from. However, no matter which option you decide to choose, it’s important that you take all necessary precautions. After all, mountainsides can provide additional challenges for those little ones, so be sure to follow this five point checklist for mountain adventures with your kids.

 

  1. Food and Drink

Your child requires sustenance and hydration, and whether you’re on the mountain in cold or warm weather conditions, it’s important you have plenty of food and drink on hand. You know your child best, so you should plan your schedule and food/drink supply accordingly. For instance, if you know your child needs snacks throughout the day, you should prepare to bring plenty of snacks along for the trip. In addition, you may also want to consider keeping your mountainside adventures shorter in duration so you have time to head back to the hotel/cabin for a rest. When you can plan food and drink ahead of time, you can help alleviate any instances where your child has a temper tantrum on the edge of a mountain because they’re hungry.

 

  1. Clothing

It’s very important to put your child in the right type of clothing when you are taking a mountain adventure. Before you pack for your child or get them dressed for the day, it’s very important you take into consideration the following:

  • Weather
  • Outdoor pests
  • Temperature changes based on incline

The outside temperature and weather at the time of your adventure will make a difference in how you dress your child. Be sure to have items on hand like wool socks to keep their feet warm (especially in colder conditions). If it’s raining, you’ll want to ensure they have waterproof clothing on, and if it’s hot, make sure they’re not overheating.

 

In addition to the weather, you also need to consider the outdoor pests. For instance, will you be hiking in an area that is prone to poison ivy, ticks, or other hazardous animals, plants, or pests? You need to know this information to ensure your child is dressed appropriately to keep them from coming into contact with something that’s potentially dangerous.

 

Finally, your child’s clothing should also accommodate changes in temperature based on incline. For instance, you may start out in an 80-degree location, but as you continue to climb, the temperature may drop significantly. If your child is dressed only for that 80-degree weather, you could put them at risk for hypothermia without the proper attire.

 

  1. First Aid Kit

Whenever you are doing anything adventurous with children, it’s very important for you to have a first aid kit on hand. While you hope to never need it, it’s always better to have this on hand just in case of a fall or scrape. Covering a small scrape with a bandage and some ointment could be the difference between your child continuing on the adventure or screaming to go home.

 

  1. Safety Gear

The type of safety gear you will need for your mountain adventure will depend on the age of your child, their behavior, and your actual adventure. For instance, you’ll likely need more safety gear for a young child who is prone to walking away while hiking on a steep mountainside. Consider having items where you can strap your child to your chest (if they’re young enough) or having a tether that connects you to your child. You’ll also want to make sure your child has the right footwear, as it’s important to have climbing boots or snow boots to handle the different weather and terrains. Before you take your adventure, it’s a good idea to head to a local outdoors retailer to ensure you’re getting all the right items.

 

  1. Education

Before you head out on your mountain adventure with a child, it’s important you get all the education you possibly can—for both you and your child. Be sure you have a solid understanding of the area you’re visiting and what exactly you’ll be doing while there. You should also have an understanding of any possible risks or threats to you and your family too. Once you have the basics, be sure to educate your child as best as you can. Make sure they understand how they need to wear certain clothes/gear or that they cannot walk away from you. The more you talk to your child about the adventure, the safer they will be.

 

When it comes to taking mountain adventures with your kids, be sure you have this checklist in place before you go.

 

Most Beautiful Places in Europe to Visit

I have traveled the world over, but I still reserve a special place for Europe. My affections draw deeply for the diverse cultural experiences, the breath-taking scenery and a mash-up of the new and old world. Europe is home to more than 500 ethnicities with different cuisine, culture, and design. For me, a trip through Europe is like a walk through the most exotic museum.

To share in this whirlwind of experiences, here are a few places you must visit while in Europe:

 

  • Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic

 

A significant section of the medieval ages resides in a small town outside Prague in the Czech Republic. The small town of Cesky is a short bus ride from the capital. It is positioned in a tranquil reserve with rivers running on the outer borders of the town. During the summer, tourists throng this destination in thousands to see the old architecture, teeming markets and the hospitable locals. However, Cesky is a ghost town during the winter. This is because of the heavy snowfall the town experiences every year. Regardless, snow enthusiasts will love this small town after seeing the thick coats of white over everything within vision.

Cesky boasts of exotic Czech cuisine, small and intimate resorts, and wonderful sights. At the center of the town is a repurposed lighthouse that now serves as a local observatory. From this viewpoint, tourists can catch a glimpse of the entire town.

 

  • Budapest

 

Songs have been sung and movies made in the glory of Budapest. But not one of these songs or movies comprehensively captures the true beauty of Budapest. The Hungarian capital bursts with color and pomp. When I first got to Budapest, I was taken aback by the friendliness of the locals and the sheer amount of horses in the city. What stole my heart even more was the rich history and variety within the city.

I believe that Budapest has yet to live its true potential as a holiday destination. My recommendation to anyone visiting the city is to try one of the fantastic five star hotels in the city for exemplary service and good food.

 

  • The Algarve in Portugal

 

If you are tired of the concrete jungles in cityscapes, take a moment to view countryside Portugal for a date with nature. I visited the Algarve in the south of Portugal, and I still get a whiff nostalgia every instance I think back. The coastal town is a breath of fresh air, especially for city dwellers. You can view the coral reefs, or visit the numerous marine parks in the area. Better still, you can bask in the warm rays of the coastal sun on the beach while sipping coconut wine and other coastal delicacies. Besides, a little sun is good for your skin.

As stated on Barcelona Exclusive Private Tours site, the Algarve is, however, a much better summer getaway than it is during the winter.

 

  • Paris

 

The headliner for any trip through Europe always has and will always be the city of Paris. On my first trip to Paris, everywhere I looked I could see a water fountain. Mind you, most of these fountains have drinkable water. I was also torn to shred at the number of activities one would take part in while in the city of love. You can visit museums, parks, and other attractions such as the Eiffel tower and still not complete your travel for the day.

Europe is a travel destination all year round. It is full of adventure, rare experiences and what some may term as bizarre. If you don’t believe me, take a trip to Amsterdam and get back to me.

Reasons to Travel and Stay in Palm Beach

South Florida’s Palm Beach is known nationwide for its long beaches and thriving downtown scene. Vacationing in Palm Beach will provide you with the opportunity to experience all the city has to offer while you relax and unwind. With that in mind, here are a few reasons why renting a home in Palm Beach is worth every penny.

 

Vacationing in Palm Beach

 

Northwood Village, West Palm Beach’s famous food and shopping district, offers a one-of-a-kind experience for tourists. You’ll be able to find unique, stylish items at boutiques and explore Palm Beach’s diverse restaurant scene. Northwood Village is also home to a multitude of galleries and opportunities to experience the city’s culture. From art galleries to workshops and museums, make sure to stop by Northwood Village during your vacation.

 

If you’re the adventurous type, you’ll find endless opportunities in Palm Beach. For one, kayaking is a great way to explore the surrounding waters as well as Peanut Island, a small island at the mouth of the Lake Worth Inlet. And don’t forget to dedicate a few days to snorkeling, picnicking, and camping.

 

Clematis by Night provides the perfect chance to meet and converse with Palm Beach locals. The event is held every Thursday night in downtown West Palm Beach and features a free outdoor concert on the waterfront. Clematis by Night is ideal for anyone looking to relax and hang out while enjoying local music and an award-winning happy hour.

 

In addition to all that Palm Beach has to offer, tourists also get to enjoy the great weather year-round. The temperature in West Palm Beach averages about 80 degrees, while summer days often enjoy highs in the 90s. During the winter, West Palm Beach temperatures typically remain above 50 degrees.

 

Renting a vacation home

 

The rental market in West Palm Beach is flourishing, making it the perfect time to rent a vacation home for your getaway needs. Florida’s housing market is projected to continue doing well through the 2019 financial year, with current prices and availabilities staying in check. Choosing to rent instead of staying in a hotel room will also save you money, because renting is often more affordable and preferable for larger groups.


For tenants looking to find their dream vacation home, make sure to start the search early. Starting your rental search in advance will allow you to find the best deals in terms of price, location, and amenities, helping you save money in the long run. Experts recommend searching for a rental 60 days in advance, because availability tends to decline later in the month.

 

To gain insight on rental averages and availability, check out listings on a few different websites. You’ll be able to enter how many bedrooms you need and what amenities you’re looking for, as well as narrow down your search to certain areas.

 

Don’t be afraid to enlist the services of a professional real estate broker. Professionals are available to help tenants find rentals with a free rental application and low fees. Because West Palm Beach faces competition for rental properties, consider meeting with a few different agents before committing to one. It’s important to keep in mind that different agents will have relationships with different property owners, so finding the right agent can help you score your dream property.

 

All in all, Palm Beach has more to offer than great weather and new adventures. Renting a vacation home in Florida is a great way to save on hotel room costs while relaxing and spending time with family.

Summertime Travel Checklist: Dos & Don’ts for the Road

 

Warm weather means traveling season has officially started! Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to enjoy long road trips with friends and family and bask in the sun when you reach your destination! Many people wait an entire year for their next vacation to arrive, so make the most out of it by traveling safely and efficiently. Create a checklist with dos and don’ts for the road before you head out. Check out these 5 things to keep in mind!

  1. Plan It Out in Advance

Do plenty of research before you head out to make the most of your time while you’re on vacation. Book hotels in advance, and know which activities you and your group definitely want to do while you’re there.

  1. Get Your Car Ready & Pack an Emergency Bag

Have your vehicle serviced before you leave so that the brakes, oil, and tire pressure and tread can all be checked before you go. Make sure you have a spare tire, car jack, and any tools you might need for a quick fix on the road.

If it gets cold at night, it’s also a good idea to bring extra blankets or warm clothes in case anything goes wrong.

  1. Scope Out Alternate Routes

Have your travel route all mapped out before you go, and leave with tons of extra time to avoid rushing through traffic. According to car accident attorneys in Indiana, one of the main causes of accidents is dangerous driving such as speeding or aggressive driving. Remain patient behind the wheel by leaving earlier than expected.

Plan for alternate routes as well, in case of traffic or accidents on the road. Know other options before you head out.

  1. Take Breaks While Driving

You’re likely traveling with other people, so it’s a great idea for the drivers to switch off so that no one gets sleepy behind the wheel. When you drive for long periods of time, fatigue tends to kick in, so it’s smart to take turns.

If everyone is feeling a little drowsy, pull off at a rest stop so that everyone can stretch their legs or grab some light snacks.

  1. Bring Plenty of Snacks

If you’re feeling hungry, it might not be the best idea to stop for a large meal as it easily leads to tiredness. Healthy snacks and tons of water are great for keeping you and your group energized. Bring along some fresh fruit or trail mix to help keep everyone well fed and awake!

Keep these 5 things in mind when getting ready for your vacation this spring or summer! Make the most of your time off by traveling safely and efficiently!

How To Travel Without Fear As A Business Owner

Leaving your business to go on a personal trip can be extremely scary for a business owner. If this is your first time leaving, I am sure you are constantly checking your phone and computer, ready for a disaster to strike at any moment. But, I want to assure you that if you follow a few steps to put your business in a good place, you can travel without fear as a business owner.

In fact, travel can even do you a lot of good and it can possibly make you a better business owner. Under 30 CEO says, “Taking time out to explore the world might seem like an indulgent escape from the real world for a while, but in fact traveling might give you some essential skills and experiences needed to become a successful business owner. The independent and risk taking personality that is natural for many entrepreneurs are also the same traits that are second-nature to backpackers.

 

An example of this can be found in the learning & adapting process that is necessary in travel. In order to respect local residents, cultures, landmarks and environments when traveling you’ve got to learn quickly about different cultures and languages. Sometimes what would be perfectly normal at home could be extremely offensive in the country you are visiting. As such, you need to become more aware of those around you, as well as having an increased awareness of how you project yourself to others. In addition to this, you have to learn to adapt to fit into the culture around you, if, for example, you are in a culturally conservative country, you have to become more modest in your clothes and behavior than you would probably be normally.

Again, these are vital skills needed to be a successful business owner. No matter how many business websites you read and entrepreneur help books you study, the only way to learn how to be a business owner is once you start actually being a business owner. What works for even the most successful CEO doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you or your company. Instead the ability to learn as you go and adapt to meet new requirements and technological and social trends are essential.” See – travel can be good for the business owner, so get out there and do it (after using these tips below to help prepare your business):

 

Find Your Right Hand Man

Find your right hand man that literally does it all while you are away. Train them to know the business in and out, just as you do, so that they are able to handle anything related to the business while you are away. Then, also have a knowledgeable team under that person so that hopefully, if anything does come up, the team can handle it and if not, your right hand man can. If you have a great team and a fantastic manager under you, everything should go according to plan and if you do ever get a call or email while you are away, it would hopefully be very minor.

 

Set Your Office Up For Success

Set your office up for success by leaving your computer support needs and office equipment needs to the professionals at Ameritechnology. Ameritechnology is a NJ-based business, providing the newest technology and services such as copier leasing, customized service contracts, printer fleet maintenance, office computer services, and subscriptions for ink, toner, and other consumables. Their goal is to give the clients they serve one-on-one service, to make sure their products and services help their business run efficiently and they have 60 years of combined experience doing so!

 

Ameritechnology says, “We sell technology-driven customized solutions. You can buy a copier or printer from a big-box store or your local office supply store. But are you buying more than you need? Less? Will that new technology integrate with your existing network?  The choice is not always clear. Ameritechnology wants to help.

 

Our process begins with a clear understanding of your office operations and network infrastructure. We ask questions, make workflow recommendations and create a customized plan that will both simplify and optimize your current and future printing and NJ computer support, or copier lease needs.

We then deliver and maintain networked solutions using the most innovative and economical technologies that improve your business’ operational efficiency and make your life easier with our printer maintenance plan.”

Ameritechnology makes it easy for business owners to travel the world, knowing that their office will run smoothly using their copier leases and printer fleet maintenance services, especially with their amazing customer service! They do not stop caring once your machines are plugged in. Instead, you will receive courtesy calls to check in and if you do ever have an issue, they respond quickly and efficiently. Stay calm while you travel with the help of the amazing services from Ameritechnology.

 

Make It Easy To Work Remotely

If you do need to work for any reason (maybe a minor issue came up), set yourself up for success by having the capability to work remotely. The remote world is extremely beneficial and I truly think that a lot of companies are incorporating it more and more. It not only makes fixing issues easier and less stressful, but it also allows your team to have the ability to work from home and be with their families, when needed.

 

Trust Your Team

The most important part of letting go of your fear while you travel is to trust your team. Remember – you taught them from the ground up and if you did it the right way, they should be capable of almost anything related to the company, so you have to trust that you did a good job and that they can handle it.