Category: RV Trip Planning

The Ultimate Guide to TPMS for RVers: Why I Trust TST for Bertie Bea and Rosie

March 29, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When you’re rolling down the highway in a 24,000-pound motorhome with your tow car trailing behind, there’s one thing you don’t want to leave to chance: your tires. A blowout at 60 mph can be catastrophic, not just for your vehicle but for your safety and everyone on the road. That’s why I never hit the road in Bertie Bea, my 2016 Tiffin Allegro Open Road 34PA, without a reliable Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) watching over all ten of my tires, including those on Rosie, my tow car.

Why a TPMS is Essential for RVers

Tires are the foundation of your RV journey. Properly inflated tires help with fuel efficiency, ride comfort, and, most importantly, safety. An underinflated tire builds up excess heat, which can lead to a blowout. An overinflated tire, on the other hand, can wear out unevenly and reduce traction. A TPMS continuously monitors each tire’s pressure and temperature, alerting you to any issues before they become dangerous.

NHTSA Guidelines for RV Tire Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that RV owners regularly check their tire pressure using a reliable gauge and always inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended cold tire pressure, which you can find on the yellow DOT sticker inside your RV’s driver-side door. However, since tire pressures fluctuate due to temperature changes, a TPMS is the best way to ensure real-time monitoring while you drive.

Getting the Right Tire Pressure for Bertie Bea

Every motorhome is different, so weighing your RV is crucial. I had Bertie Bea weighed at an FRVA International Convention in Gillette, Wyoming which helped me determine the ideal cold tire pressure for my six RV tires—no less than 95 PSI. Before every trip, I turn on my TPMS and let it calibrate, ensuring every tire is at its proper pressure before we roll out.

Where to Weigh Your RV

Accurately weighing your RV ensures you’re inflating your tires to the correct pressure based on your actual load. Some great options for weighing your rig include:

Escapees SmartWeigh – Available at select RV parks and rallies.
FRVA International Conventions – Offers four-corner weighing for a precise balance.
CAT Scales – These are found at truck stops nationwide, though they only provide axle weights.

Why I Chose TST TPMS for Bertie Bea and Rosie

After researching multiple brands, I went with the TST Truck TPMS system, which monitors all ten tires between Bertie Bea and Rosie. Here’s why TST stands out:

✅ Real-Time Monitoring – Alerts me to slow leaks, high temperatures, and sudden pressure drops.

✅ User-Friendly Display – Easy-to-read screen that shows pressure and temperature for each tire.

✅ Long Battery Life – Sensors last up to five years before needing a replacement.

✅ Reliable Signal Range – Works seamlessly between my motorhome and tow car.

MIchelin Tire with tire hole markings — **Monitoring your tires is CRITICAL!** I had been monitoring Rosie’s right rear tire for a 1/2 PSI per week leak, which turned into a five-PSI leak in one week. I ended up having to replace the tire due to three holes in it. Being aware of my tire pressures helped me prevent a catastrophic blowout that could have injured me or others.

Other Top TPMS Brands for RVs

While I swear by TST, there are other great TPMS options for RVers:

TireMinder TPMS – A popular choice for its Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone integration.
EEZ RV Products TPMS – Offers a wide range of sensors and an easy-to-use display.
TireTraker TPMS – Known for its compact monitor and long-lasting sensors.

Monitoring Tire Pressure in Changing Weather

Tire pressure naturally fluctuates with temperature changes. A tire filled to 95 PSI at 35°F may reach 105 PSI at 70°F. That’s why never letting air out of your tires when heated is crucial. Always set pressures based on cold tire readings before you start driving for the day.

My Pre-Trip Routine for Tire Safety

Before every journey, I follow a simple routine to make sure Bertie Bea and Rosie are road-ready:

Turn on my TST TPMS and allow it to calibrate.
Inspect all tires for any visible damage, bulges, or cracks.
Check tread depth and feel for uneven wear by running my hand across the inside and outside dual tires.
Use an air compressor to top off tires that fall below the recommended PSI.
Confirm that my tow setup, including safety cables and the braking system, is secure.

Stay Safe & Keep Rolling

A TPMS isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for anyone serious about safe RV travel. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or embarking on a cross-country road trip, make tire pressure safety a priority.

And remember, not all who wander are lost. Safe travels!

Navigating a Tight Turn Into an RV Park: Avoiding the Curb-Jump Mistake

March 6, 2025 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

The entrance to the Boomtown Casino RV Park in beautiful Biloxi, Mississippi

Pulling into an RV park should be smooth, but making a tight turn with a large motorhome and tow car can quickly become challenging. In a recent experience with Bertie Bea and Rosie, I learned firsthand how easy it is to misjudge a turn.

After waiting for oncoming traffic to pass, I started my turn—but I turned too early. As a result, Bertie Bea’s rear wheels jumped the curb, and we came dangerously close to clipping a sign. It was a reminder that even experienced RVers must stay mindful of turn timing and surroundings.

Avoiding the Early Turn Trap

Large motorhomes don’t turn like standard vehicles. Their long wheelbase means that if you turn too soon, your rear wheels and tow vehicle may cut the corner too sharply. To avoid this:

• Pull forward more than you think before turning – It’s better to take the turn wide than to risk hopping the curb.

• Use your mirrors – Keep an eye on both your motorhome’s rear and your tow car to ensure they clear obstacles.

• Adjust as you go – Slow turns give you more control and allow for quick corrections.

Always Check Your Surroundings

Before committing to a turn, take a quick scan of the entrance:

• Are there curbs, poles, or signs nearby? As I learned, even a slight miscalculation can bring you too close to an obstacle.

• What’s the traffic situation? Vehicles behind you may not expect a wide swing, so be aware of your surroundings.

• How wide is the entrance? Some RV parks have tight clearances that require extra precision.

Lessons Learned

This experience with Bertie Bea and Rosie was a great reminder that even seasoned RVers can make simple mistakes. The key is to stay patient, take it slow, and double-check your turn radius before committing. Next time you’re pulling into a park, remember: wider is better than tighter, and patience beats curb damage every time.

Safe travels, and may your turns always be smooth!

RV Tales: Embracing Nature’s Symphony in Yellowstone

November 23, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

As an avid nature enthusiast and a firm believer in the therapeutic power of the open road, embarking on an RV adventure through Yellowstone National Park has been a dream come true. The journey began with the selection of two remarkable campgrounds, Bridge Bay and Madison, both promising a perfect blend of tranquility and accessibility to the wonders of America’s first national park.

Stan, Rowdy, and Mike – 2021 Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Bridge Bay Campground: Lakeside Bliss

Our RV found its temporary home at Bridge Bay Campground, perched along the serene shores of Yellowstone Lake. The view from our campsite was nothing short of mesmerizing, with the sparkling waters of the lake stretching out before us along with the elk that routinely traverse the campground. The RV, with all its amenities, became our comfortable oasis amidst the wilderness.

Old Faithful – Yellowstone National Park

Guided by the call of exploration, we hopped into my trusty Chevrolet Equinox, ready to unravel the mysteries of Yellowstone. The first stop on our adventure was the legendary Old Faithful. The Equinox effortlessly navigated the winding roads, delivering us to the iconic geyser just in time for its majestic eruption. Watching Old Faithful shoot a column of steam and water into the sky was a humbling reminder of the untamed forces at play beneath the Earth’s surface.

Madison Campground: Forest Retreat

2021 with Bertha in the Madison Campground

Transitioning to Madison Campground felt like entering a secluded forest retreat. Our RV nestled amidst towering lodgepole pines, creating an intimate connection with nature. After a day filled with exploration, the RV became a haven of comfort, providing a perfect setting for sharing stories and savoring the moments.

Driving my Equinox from Madison, Mike, Rowdy, and I set our sights on the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The car allowed us to effortlessly traverse the park, reaching the canyon’s edge to witness the majestic Yellowstone River carving its way through the rugged landscape. The Equinox became the ticket to the diverse landscapes and wildlife that make Yellowstone an ever-unfolding masterpiece.

Paint Pots and Beyond: RV Adventures Unveiled

The Paint Pots and Grand Prismatic Springs of Yellowstone National Park

Returning to the RV, we eagerly set out for the Paint Pots, a geothermal wonderland that painted the ground with vibrant hues. The RV served as our command center, allowing us to plan our exploration and immerse ourselves in the surreal landscapes that surrounded us.

To cap off our Yellowstone odyssey, we booked a guided fishing trip for cutthroats and lake trout in the pristine waters of Lake Yellowstone. Loading up the Equinox with fishing gear, we set out for a day of angling against the backdrop of the lake’s tranquil beauty—a perfect finale to our RV adventure.

In the end, camping in an RV at Bridge Bay and Madison Campgrounds was not just a vacation; it was a personal journey of discovery and connection with the wild. Yellowstone, with its geysers, canyons, paint pots, and serene lakes, became a canvas where memories were painted with each mile traveled and every site explored. As the RV rolled out of the park, the echoes of nature’s symphony lingered, leaving us with a profound appreciation for the beauty that our great outdoors hold.

Planning the Summer RV Tour 2023

October 4, 2023 / Stan.Cromlish / 0 Comments

When I started planning the Summer RV Tour 2023 trip, there were several places I wanted to visit, and my goal was to not have to drive more than 600 miles on weekends between work weeks. I knew I had to be in Alcova, Wyoming for a fishing trip on Saturday, May 13, and I didn’t close on Birdie Bea until March 31. That meant I had to make sure the RV had all its maintenance completed and I had to leave Belmont no later than April 22. With my personal requirement to be anchored no later than 4:00pm every day, I would have to take into account two very hard weekends of driving in excess of 800 miles.

What planning application do I use for my RV Trips?

For my trips, I use a number of sources to determine sights and other places of interest that I want to enjoy during my trips. As far as planning my trip, I use RV Life’s RV Trip Wizard which is a subscription based application to plan all my trips. It has all the right tools and it sets safe routes based on the size of Birdie Bea at 13′ 6″ tall and about 55′ long with Rosie in tow. RV Trip Wizard gives me everything I need to plan my trips.

Setting up a trip with RV Trip Wizard – Summer RV Tour 2023

Once you have logged into RV Trip Wizard, you will see a screen that looks similar to this:

You will click Create Trip and set up your trip information by inputting the trip name and when you plan to leave.

Knowing that I had to be in Alcova, Wyoming by 5/13/2023, I found a campground that would work in that area first. So, that I knew how much distance I had to cover by the arrival date. In looking at the Alcova area, there were four campgrounds to choose from.

Once you pull up the region, you can start looking at the campground details by clicking on one of the four campgrounds in the RV Life Trip Wizard GUI.

By clicking on Park Details, you can then see if this location will suit your needs and you will also be able to read reviews.

Once you determine if that campground is the choice, you will need to click Add to your trip and set the dates.

After you add your first stop, then you can start filling in the other stops along your way based on your preferences. At the end, your trip will look much like this one with distances, driving times, and other pertinent information related to your trip.

As you can see, the first three weeks of the trip had very long legs, but once I made Alcova, the trip distances started shortening to spend more time exploring areas of interest.

In conclusion, RV Trip Wizard is my go to tool for planning my RV tours because it has all the information I need in one convenient location. Check it out here.