OUR FAMILY CAMPING

This episode is all about the future of camping, RVing and road trips. The world has changed and the green movement is finding its way into the outdoor industry in many ways. Van life will certainly be a more affordable option for many, so today we talk to a listener of the show, Nick. As he and his wife approach retirement, they're making the change from a popup camper to a full-sized van. Let's let Nick explain the vehicle and the plan.

Scott is co-host of a fantastic backpacking podcast, Trust The Trail. He agreed to come on the show and share his years of experience and training with us. As a new backpacker, my goal was to suck up as much information as I could. But Scott is also quite an entertaining guest. We had a lot of fun in this episode. You can learn all about Scott and his co-host/partner Ariane at TrustTheTrailPodcast.com. Scott and Ariane also spent 3 years rebuilding a classic 70s Airstream Argosy. Hopefully, they will be willing to talk about that experience in a future episode. For now, I just want to give a GREAT BIG THANKS to Scott for taking time out of a busy day to share with all of us.

This episode is all about gifts and gadgets for 20 bucks or less. Great ideas for stocking stuffers and other Christmas gtifts.

We found a few great apps to help you find walking, riding, even 4 wheeling trails around you. We are mostly interested in hiking trails, so we chose a favorite app to help. I had a great conversation with Glen Mutchler, an experienced backpacker, and owner of Equalized Bookkeeping. You can contact Glen at EqualizedBookkeeping.com.

This episode is all about how to perform damage control with your RV's depreciation. From buying to selling, and everything in between. We also have a couple of interesting stories from Yellowstone National Park.

This episode starts with some Airstream Items. First, a classic Airstream funeral coach, then a trailer they've discontinued due to quality issues. We also talk about rainy day camping activities and our final decision on a seasonal spot.

In this episode we asked you and other experienced campers and RVrs for that one piece of advice for newbies. Topics include everything from working with RV dealers to backing into a camp site. Budgeting, packing and a whole bunch more, all in one episode.

Kris and I are back from a great road trip. With Don's help, we'll share where we went, what we learned and what we will do differently.

Kris and I recorded this episode right after we purchased our new camp trailer, a 21' Springdale Mini RD. We think you'll enjoy the show.

In this episode I try to make a compelling case for always keeping a tent with your RV. I'm not sure Kris is buying it. We will be back with a new show next week.

August is in the rear view mirror, and September is full of travel plans, but we have you covered.

This week we poke some fun at our top 10 dumbest camping products. Also, RV insurance and boondocking at Disney.

This episode is about renting RVs and gear, and why it may be the right thing for you. And we've found a few things that have changed. Did you know you could rent an RV and book a campsite at the same time? We'll tell you how. Planning a backpacking trip but don't have any of the gear? You can rent that too. They'll ship it to you with a return label. Just add your meals, go on your adventure and ship it all back when you return. Check out MountainsideGearRental.com for details. Costco is recalling bear spray. Follow this link to see if it's the one you have.

Bears, bison, gators and cows are all discussed in this episode. We even discuss the skunk. We also discuss what to do in case you're actually charged or attacked by one of these animals. ourfamilycamping.com

This episode was inspired by a podcast listener, looking for ideas for camping. There's reading, going for walks and playing games, but camping is your gateway to the world of outdoor activities. Winter or summer, the outdoors are alive with activities.

Here we are with another episode dedicated to questions many people ask. Some questions are from you, the listener, Others are commonly asked questions in Facebook groups and forums. Is it okay to travel with full RV water tanks? What is the best way to wash dishes when camping? Why is there condensation in our refrigerator? Why is the fan always running in that box under our refrigerator? What should we look for before we wright a check and sign papers on a new RV? And a few more...

Let's face it. Cars and crossovers are becoming more and more downsized, and pickup truck prices are going crazy. Along with all this, we're seeing the more and more push towards electric cars, car share services and people just deciding not to own a car. Big 5th wheels and motor homes may always be round, but the smaller, lighter options will definitely grow in popularity. Here are a few we mentioned Airstream Basecamp WeRoll Camp365 We also talk about teardrop camp trailers, egg campers and a few popup camper options.

This episode is all about value and safety. With both in mind, we'll give you are 5 reasons why a a travel trailer, be it a pull behind or a 5th wheel, is the all around best choice for families.

Getting there is half the fun. Can you tell a kitty cat from a kitty bobcat? The three types of fiberglass RV construction, and why we decided on aluminum siding on wood frame for our camper.

Buck, Kris and Don take on some of the most frequently asked camping and RVing questions.

This week we talk about setting up camp. From leveling your RV to getting that campfire started, we're on it. Also, the pros and cons of storing your RV at home or in a storage facility.

Why does your tent smell bad, and how to clean it properly. The difference between green firewood and wet firewood, and how to tell.

The ups and downs of moving from tent to pop-up camper. Kris, Don and I discuss the pros and cons of tent camping vs stepping up and buying a pop up camper.

We want to use this episode to introduce our selves. We are Buck and Kris Ballard. We have 3 grown children and 8 grandchildren. In this episode, as in most future shows, we are joined by our son Don Ballard. Don will fill you in on how he camps with his family, and how his sisters do the same with their families. Most of all, we're here to entertain and help you with your next camping experience.