If you want to pedal or paddle at your next RV destination, all you have to do is find a kayak or bike rack that will safely transport your bikes or kayaks. Finding the right kayak or bike rack for your RV isn’t hard or complicated. You just have to consider a few simple things before you decide which rack will be most compatible with your RV and your bikes or kayaks.

When choosing a kayak or bike rack, you’ll need to consider these questions:

1. What is your RV’s compatibility? In other words, where on your RV will you be able to mount a kayak or bike rack?
2. What type of bike or kayak do you have or what kind do you plan to buy?
3. How many bikes or kayaks do you intend to transport?
4. How often do you intend to access your bike or kayak?
5. What is your user compatibility? Who will mount and remove the bikes or kayaks?

Kayak or bike racks will typically mount to your RV in one of the three following ways:

1. A rack that bolts around a square bumper on your RV. In order to In order to accommodate a bumper-mount bike or kayak rack the bumper needs to be a square, 4″ to 4-1/4″ bumper that is continuously welded to the frame, and not made from aluminum. Although, there are companies that make custom racks for kayaks and bikes. Bumper racks tend to provide quick and convenient access.
2. A rack that mounts to the ladder or roof of your RV. Ladder bike racks are designed to fit either flat/elliptical steps or square/round steps. Keep in mind that ladder and roof mounts are higher and a bit more challenging to access. This may be fine if you don’t intend to use your bikes or kayaks often, but if your plan is to use them on a daily basis, you will want to take this factor into account.
3. A rack that slides into your RV’s trailer hitch. Double check hitch-mounted bike or kayak racks to make sure that they are compatible with your motorhome or RV. Like bumper racks, hitch racks offer fairly quick and convenient access.

The key is to make sure that your bike or kayak not only fits your rack, but that the rack also safely and securely fits onto your RV. Call Easy Escapes RV at (239) 302-3789 to find out more about pre-owned RVs that would fit your outdoor lifestyle.

If you’ve had thoughts about leaving it all behind for a simpler lifestyle, or want to spend the winter months in a warmer climate, there are travel trailer models that can turn your thoughts into a reality. Besides the fact that travel trailers are more affordable due to the lack of built-in engine and drivetrain, several manufacturers have designed floorplans that offer plenty of space for extended trips.

Spacious Travel Trailer Models

Want to know which roomy travel trailer models are suitable for spoiling the most demanding and claustrophobic of snowbirds? Check out these three travel trailers from Forest River, Keystone, and Prime Time RV. Each of these models boasts high-end features while giving you the maximum amount of space.

• Forest River Flagstaff Classic Super Lite: Two of Forest River’s Flagstaff travel trailer models (the 832BHDS and the 832BHIKWS) have four slides, giving you extra living and dining space. Additional features in these two models include bunkhouses for the grandkids, outdoor kitchens, and two entry/exit doors. Luxurious options on these two models can include Corian counter tops with a decorative tile backsplash in the kitchen, fireplaces for cool evenings, and solid maple glaze finished cabinet doors.

• Keystone Outback: With upgraded furniture (including stain resistant fabrics), vaulted ceilings and hand-glazed maple cabinets, many snowbirds appreciate the sophisticated interior features on Keystone Outback. The 322BH, 325BH, and the 328RL floorplans also have slides that provide more open space. Amateur chefs will love the outdoor kitchen — it’s a big perk for who want to take advantage of Florida’s coastal breezes and temperate winter weather.

• Prime Time RV LaCrosse: The interiors of Prime Time RV’s LaCrosse travel trailer models offer claustrophobic campers additional living and storage space. The 324RST, 326BFW, and the 329BHT models have options for up to three slides and 82″ceiling height. The LaCrosse has great features for traveling with your grandkids or extended family, including bunkhouses, U-shaped dinettes and bathrooms with shower/tub combos. If you experience a day of rainy skies, the LaCrosse has a premium entertainment system, including large screen TV.

You might be surprised by the comfort and amount of living space these travel trailer models can offer you. What’s even better is that you can save thousands of dollars by buying a pre-owned model. Call Easy Escapes RV (239) 302-3789 to see some of these travel trailer models first-hand or fill out our online general inquiry form.

If you’re heading off on a Florida RV camping adventure that involves fishing, you should know how to cook your catch. Some might say that fish can be challenging to cook properly on a grill, but that’s not necessarily the case. If you just do a few simple things to prep your grill, your fillets will turn out just as tasty (and healthy) as can be. There’s nothing quite like the experience of catching your own dinner.

Grilled Fish Tips

First, preheat your grill using high heat. The reason for preheating the grill is that it will prevent your fillets from sticking. Second, make sure your grill grates are clean. Third, keep the grill temperature at a consistent medium to high heat that’s right around 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Easy Grilled Fish Fillets Recipe

Serving size: 4

This recipe for grilled fish fillets requires just a few simple, easy to find, ingredients. In Florida, a few of the best fish for the grill are mahi mahi, snapper, and blackfin tuna. To make this grilled fish fillets recipe, you only need 10 ingredients.

4 fish fillets (4 to 5 ounces each)

2 teaspoons chopped garlic

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 teaspoons lemon juice

½ teaspoon sugar

½ teaspoon cumin

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

2 teaspoons vegetable oil or canola oil

Pinch of salt to taste

Combine garlic, chili powder, black pepper, lemon juice, sugar, cumin, balsamic vinegar, oil and salt in a mixing bowl. Place fillets in bowl and mix well. Marinate for 20 minutes. Place fillets on medium-hot grill and put the lid down.

As far as cooking time, just stick with the general rule of thumb that allows for eight to ten minutes of grill time per inch of your fillets. If your fish is an inch in thickness, grill each side for about three to four minutes. Also, remember to only flip your fillets once. If you repeatedly flip or turn your fillets, they are much more likely to break apart on the grate. Now that you know how easy it can be to cook your catch, go cast out a line for your dinner!

Do you live for fishing on the weekends or leisurely cruising down to the Keys? If so, there are pre-owned travel trailers that can make it easy for you to stay close to your favorite fishing holes while offering you the experience of cooking up your own catch. The exterior stoves, refrigerators, and sinks on certain models can come in quite handy when gathering around the grill to tell tales of the ones that got away.

• Grand Design Imagine 2800BH: When you want a waterfront view while you cook, the Grand Design Imagine 2800BH travel trailer with outdoor kitchen is your answer. With a two-burner stove and a refrigerator, you can easily cook your dinner outside while watching the grill… or the waves. On the inside, there is an open area with bungee net underneath the two bunks that offers extra space for storing tackle trays or fishing gear.

• Forest River Vibe 287QBS: The Vibe has an outdoor kitchen with all of the appliances you need to prepare your tasty filets. You can use the bumper mounted grill, fridge, sink with drain, and metal countertop so that you don’t miss any of the fish stories being told outside because you’re stuck inside cooking. With a U-shaped dinette inside and sleeping space for up to 10 anglers, it’s clear that Forest River put plenty of thought into this practical travel trailer floor plan.

• Prime Time Tracer Air 305: The outdoor sink, fridge, and two-burner range are features of the Prime Time Tracer Air that you’re likely to put to frequent use after a day on the water. In addition to the fact that this floor plan can sleep up to 8 people, it has been conveniently designed to be towed by many of today’s crossover and mid-sized SUVs — something you’re likely to appreciate if you’re taking a trip toward the Southernmost point. This model makes our top travel trailers list because it’s lightweight without lacking features.

Since you know about three of the top travel trailers for your fishing lifestyle, call Easy Escapes RV at (239) 302-3789 to see one a pre-owned model first-hand. You could be casting out a line in Islamorada or catching crappie on the St. John’s River next week, so what are you waiting for? The big ones just might be biting.

Are you looking for ways to celebrate Easter with the family in Central Florida? If so, you won’t have to look very hard. There are plenty of hippity hoppity holiday events to take advantage of in the Orlando-Kissimmee area.

1. Easter Sunrise Service at Bok Tower Gardens — Early Easter morning worshippers can take advantage of free admission to the beautiful Bok Tower Gardens from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Sunday, April 16th to experience sunrise service with a choir, inspirational service, and live carillon performances.

2. Winter Park Easter Egg Hunt — On Saturday, April 15th at 9:30 a.m., more than 10,000 eggs will be hidden throughout Central Park in downtown Winter Park for the 63^rd Annual Egg Hunt. Kids up to 10 years of age are welcome to attend.

3. City of Kissimmee Easter Eggstravaganza — Join the city of Kissimmee for a day of face painting, bounce houses, interactive games, Easter candy, raffles and plenty of food at the Denn John Softball Complex from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday the 15th. There will be a continuous Easter egg hunt going on throughout the course of the event, along with an appearance by the Easter Bunny himself.

4. Easter Bunny Photos at the Florida Mall — Kids can get a photo taken with the Easter Bunny at the Florida Mall (Center Court near the Dining Pavilion) if you reserve a day and time online in advance.

5. Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival — You can usher in the spring season by visiting the elaborate gardens and topiaries at Epcot Center through May 29th. Admission to the park is required, and some experiences may have a separate admission charge. From blossoming exhibits to educational gardening seminars, there is something offered for all ages at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival.

Once you’ve decided which Central Florida Easter holiday events you’d like to attend, don’t forget to call the venue to confirm event dates and times. Are you tired of trying to cram the whole family into a small hotel room or car to check out Florida’s holiday events? Call Easy Escapes RV at 239-302-3789 and ask us about pre-owned RVs that can make your family trips easier.

Bunkhouse travel trailers are a great way for budget-conscious families to experience Florida’s theme parks, attractions, and outdoor events. Due to the open floor design of most bunkhouse models, your family will have plenty of extra sleeping room and relaxation space. Bunkhouses make an ideal place to wind-down after a day of snapping photos with Mickey or strolling through the Florida Strawberry Festival. Check out three of the best value bunkhouse travel trailers for sleeping the whole family.

• Jay Flight 267BHSW — This spacious travel trailer bunkhouse has over-sized beds that are designed to maximize sleeping space for a family of up to 10. The sofa and dinette slide-out for maximum living space. Another perk of the Jay Flight 267BHSW floor plan is that is has been designed with a large pantry, which offers plenty of room for storing snacks and meal provisions while on longer trips. Since the total weight is less than 6,000 pounds when unloaded, it can even be towed by some SUVs (always check your vehicle’s specific towing capacity).

• Forest River 284RJ — An oversized, u-shaped dinette is an added plus in this larger size bunkhouse travel trailer that sleeps a family of 8. With a rear bunk house, large slide that opens up extra floor space, and the convenience of two entry doors, the 284RJ is another great floor plan for families on the go. The vinyl floor makes for easy cleaning after hiking, biking, a beach visit, or other outdoor activities.

• Keystone 272LHS — This is another one of the bunkhouse travel trailers that is perfect for a large family of up to 8 people. The Keystone 272LHS has a rear bath, front bedroom, and double bunk bed. One of features that many current owners love is the front pass-through compartment that offers convenient stowing of camping, hiking, or fishing equipment. There are also several options that are available such as a central vacuum, spare tire kit, electric awning, stabilizer jacks, and power tongue jack.

Since you know about these three bunkhouse travel trailers that are ideal for large families and groups, give Easy Escapes RV a call today at 239-302-3789. Find out if one of our pre-owned bunkhouse travel trailers would be the perfect way to save a bundle on hotel stays while experiencing new Florida attractions with your family.

Ever notice that some people just seem to have a blast no matter what they’re doing? You know the type, the people who enjoy living the RV life to the fullest, those who just soak up life’s simple pleasures anywhere they happen to go. Sure, different people like to have fun in different ways, but it might worthwhile to think about the lessons you can learn from these types of people.

1. Keep it simple. Whether you plan to take a road trip in your motorhome or take a family vacation to Disney World, try not to pack too much into one day. You (and everyone else around you) will end up feeling stressed if you do. Always leave room for downtime. Besides, you may hear about a unique event or hidden gem that you didn’t know about before you started all of your planning.

2. Learn to be a kid again. Remember what it was like to be playful and spontaneous? Let loose. Play tennis even if you always smack the ball over the fence. Sing along to a song on the radio. Who cares if you can’t carry a tune? Don’t feel guilty about having fun or enjoying yourself.

3. Take fun breaks. Turn on your favorite song and dance while you clean. Take five minutes to call a friend and share a goofy joke.

4. Soak up life’s little pleasures. Most of life’s little pleasures are easy and cheap, they just take a little extra thought. Check area convention and visitor’s bureau websites for fun, low-cost activity ideas.

5. Expand your definition of fun. You can have more fun doing some of the routine things in your schedule every week. Have breakfast for dinner or watch an episode of “I Love Lucy” instead of watching the news one night each week.

6. Decide what’s truly important to you. Imagine yourself 10 or 20 years from now. Is there a list of things on your bucket list that are really important to you? Do you want to drive your RV across the country on Route 66? There’s no better time than the present to plan for

7. Be optimistic. View the glass as half full, make a list of the things you love to do, and then go do them.

Take a break from your routine and remember these seven ways to have more fun living the RV life. The team at Easy Escapes RV has been having fun in the RV industry for over 40 years, so call us at 239-302-3789 to learn more about RVs we have on consignment, or if you are thinking about consigning our current RV so that you can upgrade soon.

Do you love hiking through the state parks of Central Florida? If so, lightweight bunkhouse travel trailers are a good choice for a state park stay over an extended weekend. These three travel trailers are each less than 5,000 pounds — making them easy to tow to all your favorite Florida hiking spots.

• Keystone Summerland Mini — The Summerland Mini has everything you need for a hiking getaway in Central Florida. You’ll have the convenience of a small kitchen, a bathroom, a 13,500 BTU air conditioner, and plenty of storage space in the overhead cabinets. There is even additional storage for backpacks and hiking gear in the exterior storage compartment. Since there are models with queen-size beds and bunkhouses, this is a great RV choice for families or a small group of hiking buddies.

• Keystone Bullet 247BHSWE — The Keystone Bullet is easy to tow with a fuel-efficient SUV crossover or truck. Sure, it’s lighter in weight, but that doesn’t mean you miss out on any of the features that make Florida camping fun. Everything, including an entertainment center and beautiful glazed hardwood cabinets, will keep you feeling right at home. Don’t forget to inquire about the interior camping package that includes air conditioning.

• Coachmen Apex 258RKS — This line of Apex Ultra-Lite travel trailers use Azdel composite sidewalls instead of traditional wood sidewalls for superior lightweight quality. Each floor plan is individually constructed to fit a hiking road tripper’s needs. With room to sleep up to nine adults, the Coachmen Apex is another good travel trailer option for family hiking vacations. Some floorplans even have slide outs that give you extra space for kicking up your feet after a long day on the trails.

Now that you know about three great travel trailer options that will fit your hiking lifestyle, give Easy Escapes RV a call at 239-302-3789 to find out which pre-owned travel trailer models you can take home today. With decades of experience in the industry, we put our RV knowledge and expertise to work for your benefit.

Whether you have a class A RV, class B RV or fifth wheel, spring RV organization can be a challenge. No worries though, there are plenty of ways to maximize your RV storage space. From simple hardware store items like adhesive hooks to hanging racks, you can use these ideas to help keep your RV clutter-free.

1. Use Velcro strips to organize and hold hoses or utility cords. There’s nothing worse than having a big knot of cords or hoses on the floor. Cut Velcro strips into long, thin pieces and fasten the ends together to keep those hoses and cords coiled up.

2. Use nesting bowls, pans, and measuring spoons to save on space. This is such a simple concept, but really does save a lot more space than you might realize.

3. Use a hanging shoe organizer to keep flashlights, bug spray, WD-40 and other household items handy. You can even label the outside pockets of the shoe organizer with the name of the item that should be slipped into each pocket.

4. Buy adhesive hooks in a variety of sizes to use on the walls and insides of cabinets. Mount a set of hooks on the wall by the front door for your keys and sunglasses, or use them on the insides of your cabinets to organize and store cooking utensils.

5. Divide up your existing closet space for maximum organization and use. Consider a rod doubler or hanging bag. Consider using a portable laundry hamper that folds down when not in use.

6. Use hanging baskets in the kitchen to keep fruits and vegetables off the counter. When you only have a small amount of counter space, you need all of it when prepping food. Hanging baskets can make spring RV organization much easier!

7. Use plastic under-the-bed storage containers. Fill plastic totes or storage containers with your sweaters, socks, shoes or extra towels.

8. Keep books, magazines, and remote controls in vertical magazine storage racks. To avoid a cluttered look, you can even mount the magazine storage racks inside of a deep closet.

9. Use a PVC or metal shoe rack that will allow you to store you shoes upright so that you can save space while allowing your shoes to air out after a day of hiking.

10. Buy an inexpensive pop-up laundry basket to use as an outdoor trash can. All you have to do is line the pop-up basket with a plastic bag and fold it down once you’ve disposed of your trash. No more lugging a heavy plastic garbage can around or worrying about where to store it.

Spring RV organization projects can be quick and easy if you use tips like these. If organization tips won’t help you because you’ve just plain outgrown your RV, call Easy Escapes RV at 239-302-3789. Easy Escapes RV can sell your RV on consignment or help you find a larger pre-owned RV.