RV Small Talk Podcast

PJ and Lindsay sit down with Richie from MDC USA to talk about the Australian off-road trailer brand.

MDC has been building trailers for nearly 20 years and has put more than 40,000 units on the road.

Richie explains why MDC had to rethink its trailers for American campers.

He also answers the question many shoppers ask: where are MDCs actually built?

The answer covers design in Australia, a dedicated partner factory, and final fit-out in Los Angeles.

Along the way, we learn how off-grid camping differs between Australia and the US.

We also get a crash course in Aussie Rules football, the “16 Island” floor plan, and what a muster is.

Richie shares plans for MDC’s first US muster in 2027 and gives us an early look at the new MDC XT22.

Links:

MDC USA: mdcusa.com

Aussie Rules Grand Final highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDnwzmkHVjQ

XT22 teaser specs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lzn36cbtBMg

See MDC trailers in person at Princess Craft in Round Rock or Katy, Texas, or browse inventory at princesscraft.com.

What makes Safari Condo trailers so different from other RVs? From their iconic Alto retractable roof to their incredibly lightweight aluminum construction, Safari Condo has developed a reputation for building some of the most unique travel trailers on the market!

In this episode of RV Small Talk, PJ and Lindsay sit down with François from Safari Condo to explore the story behind the Canadian RV manufacturer, their approach to building long-lasting campers, and why customers are willing to wait for one of these incredible trailers.

We dive into what makes Safari Condo's Alto travel trailers special, including their lightweight construction, panoramic windows, customizable interiors, and commitment to building trailers designed to last for decades.

In This Episode:

•

Why Safari Condo designs trailers with a 30-year lifespan in mind

•

What makes their aluminum and poplar construction different

•

The iconic Alto R1723 retractable roof design

•

How Safari Condo builds incredibly lightweight travel trailers

•

Customization options, lithium batteries, solar power, and off-grid camping

•

Why Safari Condo customers are willing to wait for their dream RV

•

Unique features like the remote-controlled trailer mover

•

How customer feedback influences Safari Condo's designs

•

The future of Safari Condo in the United States

Plus, we get a few laughs about Canadian bagged milk, mosquito net doors, and why Safari Condo's snail logo means more than you might think!

Whether you're researching a Safari Condo Alto, shopping for a lightweight travel trailer, or just love innovative RV designs, this episode is packed with information you won't want to miss.

Learn more about Safari Condo travel trailers at Princess Craft RV!

Subscribe to RV Small Talk for more RV industry conversations, camper reviews, travel trailer insights, and camping adventures!

#SafariCondo #AltoTrailer #RVSmallTalk #LightweightTravelTrailers #RVPodcast #PrincessCraftRV

What does it take to turn a pre-owned Airstream Basecamp 20X into the perfect off-grid travel trailer?

In this episode of RV Small Talk, we sit down with Greg Sharpe to talk about his customized Airstream Basecamp, affectionately named Betty, and the unique reason he needed an RV capable of traveling thousands of miles, carrying valuable artwork, and camping comfortably without relying on traditional RV parks.

Greg’s story goes way beyond RVing. After serving in the military, working in technology, and building a company focused on two-factor authentication, he eventually transitioned into preserving the legacy of iconic American artist and designer Vera Neumann. With thousands of original pieces of artwork, vintage scarves, and historic designs to transport to art fairs around the country, Greg needed a better way to travel.
That eventually led him to an Airstream Basecamp 20X.

But buying the trailer was only the beginning.

Greg walks us through the extensive planning behind transforming his Basecamp into a highly capable off-grid RV setup, including upgrading from AGM to lithium batteries, adding a massive portable Jackery power station, designing a system capable of running the RV’s air conditioner and 110V appliances, and installing an automatic transfer switch that allows the trailer to switch between shore power and portable battery power.
We also talk about one of the biggest challenges of boondocking and dry camping: staying comfortable without hookups. Greg plans to test the Basecamp's solar, portable battery system, air conditioning, and water capabilities during extended trips while trying to stay away from shore power as much as possible.

Along the way, we get into:

Why Greg chose an Airstream Basecamp 20X
Buying a used Airstream versus a new travel trailer
Lithium RV battery upgrades
Jackery portable power stations for RV camping
Running RV air conditioning while boondocking
Solar power and off-grid RV electrical systems
Automatic transfer switches for RV power
Portable batteries vs permanently installed RV battery banks
Managing storage and tongue weight in a small travel trailer
Long-distance RV travel
Boondocking without shore power
Traveling with valuable cargo
Why Airstream's vintage design still stands out
Vera Neumann's art, fashion, and design legacy
Turning the journey itself into part of the adventure

Greg originally started traveling in a Mercedes Sprinter van to bring Vera artwork and vintage pieces to art fairs around the country. But after long days behind the wheel, hotel stops, parking challenges, and worrying about valuable cargo left inside the van, he started looking for a way to make the journey more comfortable—not just the destination.

The solution became a tow vehicle plus a small travel trailer: enough space to transport what he needed while giving him his own bed, air conditioning, power, and a comfortable place to stop whenever he wanted.

And because Greg isn't interested in doing anything halfway, Betty isn't exactly a stock Airstream anymore.

If you're researching an Airstream Basecamp 20X, planning an off-grid RV build, upgrading your camper with lithium batteries or portable power, or wondering how much solar and battery capacity you really need for boondocking, this conversation is packed with ideas.

Subscribe to Princess Craft RV for more conversations about small travel trailers, truck campers, teardrop trailers, off-grid RV camping, RV upgrades, boondocking, and the people who use their campers in some pretty incredible ways.

Airstream Basecamp, Airstream Basecamp 20X, Airstream Basecamp review, used Airstream Basecamp, off grid Airstream, Airstream upgrades, Airstream modifications, RV solar setup, RV lithium battery upgrade, Jackery RV power, Jackery power station, portable power station for RV, RV battery bank, off grid RV power, RV air conditioner battery, boondocking setup, dry camping, RV boondocking, solar powered RV, small travel trailer, off grid travel trailer, automatic transfer switch RV, RV electrical upgrades, Airstream camping, Airstream boondocking, RV solar power, Princess Craft RV, RV Small Talk

#Airstream #AirstreamBasecamp #Boondocking #OffGridRV #RVLife #RVSolar #Jackery #TravelTrailer #RVUpgrades #Camping

Making friends at a campground can feel awkward—especially if you’re new to RVing or you’re not naturally outgoing. But camping is actually one of the easiest ways to meet people, and RV rallies make connecting with other campers even easier.

In this episode of the Small Talk Podcast, PJ and Lindsay share how to meet people while camping, make friends at an RV campground, and feel more comfortable attending your first RV rally. From campfires and morning coffee to RV classes, volunteering, and simply asking someone about their camper, there are plenty of easy ways to start a conversation without forcing yourself to be the most social person at the campground.

They also talk about why RV rallies are great for beginner RVers, how experienced campers help newcomers learn, and why you don't have to attend every activity to feel like part of the group. Whether you're looking for RV camping friends, a camping community, or tips for meeting other RVers, rallies can be a great place to start.

Topics include: making friends while camping, meeting people at campgrounds, RV rallies, RV camping for beginners, campground etiquette, RV community, campfire conversations, rally activities, and tips for attending your first RV rally.

Can AI plan a realistic RV camping trip for a family? In this episode of RV Small Talk, PJ and Lindsay test AI as an RV trip planner using real travel requirements, including two RVs, young kids, full hookups, shaded campsites, a four-to-five-hour driving limit, and a nearby town with restaurants, shopping, and family activities.

AI recommends two Texas RV camping destinations: Garner State Park near Concan and Fredericksburg with Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. PJ and Lindsay compare the campgrounds, nearby attractions, river activities, museums, shopping, campsite types, pull-through sites, and family-friendly things to do.

They also discuss how to use AI for RV trip planning, what information you should include in your prompt, what details still need to be verified, and why AI may be better for destination ideas and flexible itineraries than booking a specific campsite.

Whether you are planning your first RV road trip, searching for Texas campgrounds, organizing a family camping vacation, or looking for RV travel tips, this episode shows what AI gets right, what it gets wrong, and whether it can actually help plan your next camping adventure.

That RV might look like the deal of a lifetime, but is it really? In this episode, PJ and Lindsay break down the biggest red flags to watch for when buying a new or used RV. From suspiciously low prices and rushed sales tactics to water damage, limited photos, and questionable DIY modifications, they explain when you should walk away and when you simply need to investigate further.

You’ll also learn the green flags of a trustworthy seller, what to inspect before handing over your money, and the differences between buying from a dealership and a private seller. Whether you’re shopping for your first camper or upgrading your current rig, this episode will help you slow down, ask better questions, and avoid an expensive mistake.

We’re sharing our hottest RV camping takes, and some of them might ruffle a few feathers. Do generators ruin the campground vibe? Are outdoor kitchens overrated? Do campers bring way too much gear? And should setting up your campsite really take longer than 30 minutes?

PJ and Lindsay debate RV resorts, oversized campers, solar upgrades, rainy camping trips, camping with kids, boondocking, hookups and more. These opinions may be controversial, but they could also help you simplify your setup and enjoy camping a little more.

Listen along, then share your own unpopular camping opinion with us!

What really goes on at a Texas state park campground? In this episode of RV Small Talk, we sit down with April and Katie from Texas Parks and Wildlife to uncover the programs, services and behind-the-scenes work that many campers never realize are available.

We talk about how to choose the best campsite, what to do when a campground appears fully booked, when canceled or no-show sites may become available and why weekend reservations should be made early. We also cover campsite hookups, waterfront camping, boat parking and the differences between quiet, shaded sites and sunny campsites that work better for RV solar.

You will also learn about free activities offered at many Texas state parks, including fishing lessons, kayaking, archery, air rifles, guided hikes and massive astronomy events featuring professional telescopes. Plus, April and Katie explain the conservation work happening behind the scenes to protect shorelines, wildlife and natural areas.

Whether you are planning your first camping trip, searching for the perfect RV campsite or wondering what Texas state parks have to offer beyond hiking and camping, this episode is packed with helpful campground tips.

Thinking about renting an RV before buying one? In this episode of RV Small Talk, PJ and Lindsay dive into the real pros and cons of RV rentals, what first time renters should know, and the red flags to watch for before you hit the road.

Renting an RV can be a great way to try before you buy, test different RV layouts, compare campers, travel trailers, teardrops, motorhomes, Class B vans, and truck campers, and figure out what actually fits your camping style. But it also comes with a learning curve. From walkthroughs and setup to towing, packing, cleaning, campsite hookups, and figuring out someone else’s camper, there are a few things every renter should know before their first RV trip.

PJ and Lindsay talk about why RV rentals can help you make a smarter RV purchase, how to avoid getting overwhelmed, why you should pay close attention during your rental walkthrough, and what signs might mean you should find a different rental. Whether you are brand new to RV camping, trying to decide what camper to buy, or just curious if renting an RV is worth it, this episode is full of honest advice, funny stories, and helpful tips for your next adventure.

We decided to mix things up for this one… PJ and Lindsay went in completely blindfolded with zero prep—and we brought in a surprise guest that longtime listeners are definitely going to recognize.

What starts as chaos (and a little screaming—fair warning 😅) turns into one of those conversations that just feels like home.

Our old friend Clint is back, and a lot has changed. He’s traded the RV world for life out on a Texas ranch, raising cattle, fixing fences, chasing kids, and figuring out what it really means to slow down and build something that lasts. It’s not polished, it’s not easy—but it’s real, and it fits him in a way that just makes sense.

We talk about everything from ranch life and community to overlanding, new RV brands, and what’s been happening back at the shop. Mostly though, it’s just us catching up like no time has passed.

If you’ve been listening for a while, this one’s going to hit you right in the feels.

What happens when a love for coffee meets a passion for community, and gets put on wheels? In this episode, we sit down with Steven and Leilani, the duo behind A MI MANERA Coffee Company, a one-of-a-kind coffee trailer blending culture, creativity, and craft.

From homemade syrups inspired by family traditions to a lowrider-style trailer turning heads across Central Texas, they’re not just serving coffee, they’re building a space where people can slow down, connect, and feel at home. We dive into how a Thanksgiving conversation turned into a full-fledged business, the challenges of launching a mobile coffee shop, and why they’re choosing experience over speed in a fast-paced coffee world.

If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own business, or just want to hear a story about doing things your way, this episode is for you.

In this episode of the RV Small Talk podcast, we’re diving into a surprisingly controversial topic: watching movies while camping. Is it ruining the experience… or making it even better?

We’re building a super casual, very real camping movie list—the kinds of movies you actually end up watching in an RV when it’s raining, too hot, or you just want to wind down at night.

Some of the movies we talk about:

Into the Spider-Verse / Across the Spider-Verse
Charlotte’s Web
Bolt (for some reason 😂)
The Blair Witch Project
The Shining
Cabin in the Woods
RV
We’re the Millers
Ernest Goes to Camp
The Parent Trap
50 First Dates
The Proposal
The Long, Long Trailer
Garden State
Cast Away
Into the Wild
Grizzly Man
FernGully

We also get into:

🌧️ What to do when camping plans go sideways (rain, heat, kids… all of it)
🍿 Why movies just hit different when you’re camping
🎬 Easy ways to set up outdoor movie nights (projector, DVDs, downloads, etc.)
🎉 Info about the Texas Tiny Trailer Rally & Truck Camper Rally

Whether you’re totally against screens while camping or secretly love a movie night in the camper… this one’s for you.

If you’ve ever stressed about what to cook while camping, this episode is for you. We’re talking all things campsite food—what actually works, what’s way overcomplicated, and how to make meals easier without sacrificing flavor. From hot dogs and simple breakfasts to foil packet dinners and campsite desserts, we share what we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) about keeping food simple and enjoyable when you’re outdoors. We get into the reality of overpacking vs. underpacking, why a little prep before your trip makes a huge difference, and how a few good spices or sauces can completely change a meal. There’s also plenty of real-life moments in here—like why you shouldn’t go grocery shopping hungry, how breakfast tacos somehow taste better at a campsite, and why cooking outside just hits different. At the end of the day, camping food doesn’t need to be fancy. It just needs to be easy, a little fun, and something you can enjoy with the people around you.

Ever opened your camper after winter and instantly regretted it? That stale smell hits fast. In this episode, we start with a simple idea that is getting popular lately: burping your camper. Just open everything up and let fresh air move through before you do anything else. It is the easiest way to make the rest of your cleaning way more manageable.

From there, we talk through the basics that actually matter. Check your seals, look over your tires, give everything a real clean, and make sure your camper is stocked so your first trip is not spent fixing problems or missing essentials. Nothing complicated, just the things that make camping feel good right away.

In this episode of RV Small Talk, Lindsay and PJ talk about what it’s really like to go boondocking, camping without hookups and a little outside your comfort zone. They get into the things people worry about most, like running out of power, using too much water, and figuring out where you’re going when there’s no cell service.

Along the way, they share stories from their own experiences and from customers who’ve tried it, including what can go wrong and how to avoid some of those mistakes. The conversation stays practical but easygoing, with tips on understanding your RV, planning ahead, and adjusting your habits when you’re off the grid.

They also touch on the mindset side of it, because things don’t always go as planned, and that’s kind of the point. If you’ve ever been curious about boondocking or just want to feel a little more confident trying it for the first time, this episode is a good place to start.

Thinking about upgrading your RV but not sure what to do with the one you already have? In this episode of RV Small Talk, Lindsey and PJ talk through the two main options RV owners face: trading it in or selling it yourself. After the excitement of RV show season, it’s a question that comes up all the time.

They share what really happens during a trade in, why dealerships offer the numbers they do, and what kind of work goes into getting a used RV ready to sell. They also talk about the other route, selling it yourself. That can mean more money in your pocket, but it also means cleaning the camper, listing it online, answering messages, meeting buyers, and handling the paperwork.

Along the way they discuss things like trade in tax credits, why custom upgrades don’t always increase resale value, and the small details people don’t think about until they’re actually trying to sell a camper. It’s a practical, honest conversation meant to help you figure out which option makes the most sense for you.

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes at an RV show? In this episode of RV Small Talk, PJ from Princess Craft RV and Lindsey Gabbard pull back the curtain and share the real story of what it takes to prepare for a big RV show. From the chaos of setting up dozens of trailers to the truth about “show prices,” promos, and last-minute changes, they reveal secrets most people never see. You’ll hear about the intense preparation, the constant layout changes when units sell before the show, and how dealerships try to guide visitors through every aisle so you don’t miss anything. They also break down how RV show deals really work, what to watch out for with pricing and fees, and why you should always ask for a drive-out price when comparing trailers. If you’ve ever attended an RV show or are thinking about buying a camper, this episode gives you insider knowledge that can help you make smarter decisions.

Why is it getting harder to find campsites? Are younger campers changing the industry? And what surprising trends are shaping the future of camping?

In this episode of RV Small Talk, we break down the latest camping data and uncover what it really means for RVers, tent campers, and outdoor adventurers alike. From record numbers of campers hitting the road to the growing challenges of reservations, free camping, AI trip planning, and shifting demographics, there’s a LOT happening in the camping world.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just getting started, these insights will help you understand where camping is headed and how to stay ahead of the curve.

👉 Check out The Dyrt’s full camping report:
🔗 https://thedyrt.com/magazine/press/camping-report/

👉 Listen to our previous episode with The Dyrt’s founder:
🔗 https://youtu.be/y19pFSbAUkQ

Planning an RV trip? Before you hit the road, make sure you’re not missing the small things that can turn into big problems. In this episode of the RV Small Talk podcast, the crew breaks down the must-have gear too many campers forget — like portable air compressors for low tires, simple tool kits for quick fixes, and tire pressure monitoring systems that can help you avoid serious damage. It’s all about being prepared so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the adventure.

They also get into the everyday essentials that make camping easier, from spare fuses and extra bulbs to surge protectors that safeguard your RV and clear sewer hose elbows that take the guesswork out of setup. Packed with real-world tips from RV service pros, this episode is perfect for anyone who wants smoother trips, fewer surprises, and a better overall camping experience — whether you’re brand new to RV life or already a road warrior.

What would Christmas look like if you spent it in an RV instead of at home? In this holiday episode of the RV Small Talk Podcast, Lindsay and PJ dive into the idea of camping for Christmas—without ever having done it themselves. They talk traditions, expectations, decorations, food (lots of food), weather worries, campground chaos, and whether taking Christmas on the road creates magic… or just a different kind of chaos.

From cinnamon roll traditions and Christmas puzzles to decorating campers, missing loved ones, and embracing imperfect holidays, this conversation explores why we cling to traditions—and why letting some of them go might lead to the best stories of all. Whether you camp for the holidays or stay cozy at home, this episode might just change how you think about Christmas.