January, 2008

Are you in the process of planning an extended RV trip?  If you are, is this your first time looking to do so?  If it is, you may have a number of questions.  One question commonly asked by first time RV travelers is that of where to stay.  When planning an extended RV trip, you may take comfort in knowing that you have a number of different overnight accommodation options.

One of the most common places for RV travelers to stay overnight is that of an RV park.  RV parks are similar to standard campgrounds; however, they are designed with motor homes in mind.  One of the biggest differences between traditional campgrounds and RV parks is the number of camping spaces available, as well as the size of those spaces, which is often much larger.

Should you decide to stay overnight at an RV park, you may want to plan doing so in advance.  This is particularly important in late spring, summer, and early fall.  These times are known as being popular RV travel dates.  Although RV parks are increasing in popularity, many still quickly fill up with reservations.  To help ensure that you have a place to stay each night of your trip, reservations are advised.

As previously stated, traditional campgrounds, also commonly referred to as public campgrounds, are similar to RV parks.  For that reason, you will want to give them a close look.  Many public campgrounds accommodate to RV owners.  When doing so, they have larger spaces set aside that are able to fit most standard motor homes.

As with staying at an RV park, it is important to plan ahead, when looking to stay at a public campground.  This is particularly important, as many public campgrounds are limited on the number of motor home accommodations they have.  To help ensure that you have a spot you will want to make reservations, even if they are not technically required.

Another option that you have, when looking to stay in your RV overnight, is by speaking to those that you know.  Is the purpose of your RV trip to visit long distance friends and relatives?  If it is, ask if you can park your RV and stay on their property.  Many will not have a problem allowing you to do so if they have a large yard or driveway.  Although you may not want to ask, you should take money into consideration.  You may be able to save yourself a considerable amount of money, especially on extend trips, when staying somewhere for free.

As previously stated, RV parks and public campgrounds with motor home accommodations are popular ways for RV owners and renters to spend their nights on extended trips.  The best way to go about researching all of your options is by using the internet.  A standard internet search, with your intended destination is advised.  For example, if you will be traveling to Idaho, search with a phrase, such as “Boise Idaho RV parks,” or “Boise Idaho RV campgrounds.”

If you do choose to stay at a public campground with RV accommodations or an RV park, don’t pick the first one that you come cross.  This is a great way to make sure that you find the overnight accommodation that is best for you and your needs.  Many areas have multiple RV parks and campgrounds to choose from.  If you start your planning early enough, you should be able to thoroughly examine the cost of each of your options, as well as park or campground features, like swimming pools, hiking trails, and so forth.

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If you or someone in your family suffers from motion sickness then you have an extra element to prepare for when you think about traveling for the holidays. Not everyone experiences motion sickness the same and it may not happen every time. For example some people get motion sick on a cruise ship but not while they are in a car. Others may get queasy when they are on a train but not on an airplane.

Common symptoms of motion sickness include sweating, nausea, dizziness, saliva in the mouth that is more than usual, and vomiting. Most people know when it is coming on and do all they can to minimize the effects. Many women many suffer from motion sickness when they are pregnant due to the changes taken place in their body. Children are also quite susceptible to it as well.

There are plenty of things you can do on your own to help prevent the effects of motion sickness from occurring. Many adults find they don’t suffer from motion sickness if they drive the car. This is because the sensors in their brain view the scenery flashing by differently when they are in the driver’s seat. This is why so many get sick when they travel by train. If you are susceptible to motion sickness as a passenger in a car avoid a window seat on a train. You also want to avoid those seats that face backwards.

Children should avoid trying to play games or read books in a moving vehicle if they suffer from motion sickness. They should also ride in the middle seat in order to offer them a view out the front of the vehicle instead of from their peripheral vision on the side windows. Offer them light snacks before travel such as crackers and water. Avoid having them travel on an empty stomach or after eating a large meal.

For those that still suffer from motion sickness, an over the counter or a prescription medication may be required for successful holiday travel to take place. Make sure you carefully follow the instructions of such medications. Don’t exceed the recommended dose. If it says to take it with food or water then make sure you do so. Some of them require consumption during a specific period of time prior to your departure so pay attention to this important detail.

Even so, no method or medication is 100% foolproof when it comes to motion sickness. Some people experience it only once in a while and others deal with it all the time. Try to get to some fresh air if possible. If you are on an airplane turn on the air above you and take slow, deep breaths. You will find bags offered in case you do end up having to vomit. You can also try to make your way to the bathroom where you will have more privacy.

While it may be embarrassing you need to understand you aren’t the only one that has problems with motion sickness. The fact that the mode of transportation you are taking may be full during the holiday season can be stressful but you will never have to see most of them ever again. You may want to carry extra clothing with you for those in your part that do suffer from motion sickness, especially children who may end up vomiting on their clothing.

Don’t let your holiday travel plans be stopped due to your fear of suffering from motion sickness. Do all you can to subside the symptoms on your own. If that isn’t effective then try various over the counter products. As a last resort as your doctor for a prescription medication to help ensure you can get through the travel process so you can enjoy your holidays. If you find certain types of transportation are more difficult for you than others you should avoid them if possible.

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