WEnRV travel news, products, and industry trends

After a day full of adventures at your new favorite destination, the last thing you want to do is cook. Get ahead of the game by throwing a few ingredients into the crockpot before you head out.

The advantages of using a crockpot are endless! The scalability alone is enough reason to explore crockpot camping recipes. You can easily scale them for the size of your group. A few extra people show up? No worries, bulk up the ingredients. A few people won’t be able to make it? Not a problem, cut the recipe in half. Or, keep it the same and store leftovers in the fridge. Crockpots range in size from 1.5 quarts, up to 8 quarts. Find a crockpot to feed your crowd.

Crockpots are known for their efficiency and time management, but an advantage that often gets overlooked is the lack of dishes it takes to make a single meal. With everything cooking inside the one pot, you gain back all the extra time you would normally spend collecting and washing dishes during the prepping and cooking phase. Time gained means more time spent in front of the campfire.

So, once you return from that hike you’ve been dreaming of, dinner will be ready and waiting. Take off your gloves, kick off your boots, and choose one of these easy camping crockpot meals perfect for cold days.

Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings

Image: Shutterstock

Is there anything better on a cold day than a hot bowl of chicken and dumplings? It smells like grandma’s house, tastes like childhood, and feels like a warm hug with every spoonful. This crockpot camping recipe requires only nine ingredients that include a sweet onion and garlic. Imagine stepping into your RV after a day out and being greeted by this one.

Discover how the Southwest does the holidays. You’ll find an accommodating RV park ready to help you make your winter dreams come true.

Southern Arizona

Hike and Bike in Mesa

Located east of Phoenix, Mesa has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and scenic grandeur from every vantage point. It’s no wonder that recreational opportunities abound in these parts. Mesa connects with hundreds of miles of superb hiking, biking and horseback riding trails ranging in length and level of difficulty. Usery Mountain Regional Park is woven with over 29 miles of trails, including the 1.6-mile Wind Cave Trail that delivers breathtaking mountain views without the need for challenging elevation spikes. The more strenuous 7.1-mile Pass Mountain Trail satisfies hikers looking to feel the burn and escape the (relative) crowds. The small nature center at the park’s entrance has a clutch of exhibits devoted to flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert.

Go Fish Around Yuma

Yuma’s proximity to the Colorado River and several lakes makes it a great destination for boaters and water-loving adventurers. On the Arizona side of Imperial Dam, Martinez Lake gives visitors a chance to go kayaking, canoeing or fishing by boat. On a hot day, you can relax and enjoy a lazy ride down the Colorado River on an inner tube for as little as an hour, or as long as three hours, depending on where you launch. Largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass make their homes in many of the hidden lakes and water channels created when the dam was constructed. Drop a line in Squaw Lake or Ferguson Lake, or in the Colorado River channel.  Board a paddleboat sternwheeler for a chance to see the landscape slide by as you travel down the river.

Stay here during your Arizona visit:

Arizonian RV Resort, Apache Junction	Towerpoint Resort, Mesa
Campground USA RV Resort, Apache Junction	Val Vista Village RV Resort, Mesa
Sunrise RV Resort, Apache Junction	Valle Del Oro RV Resort, Mesa
Superstition Sunrise RV Resort, Apache Junction	Western Acres, Mesa
Weaver’s Needle RV Resort, Apache Junction	Picacho Peak RV Resort, Picacho
Casa Grande RV Resort & Cottages, Casa Grande	Crazy Horse RV Campgrounds, Tucson
Canyon Vistas RV Resort, Gold Canyon	Far Horizons RV Resort, Tucson
Gold Canyon RV & Golf Resort, Gold Canyon	Rincon Country West RV Resort, Tucson
Apache Wells RV Resort, Mesa	Del Pueblo RV Resort, Yuma
Good Life RV Resort, Mesa	Fortuna de Oro RV Resort, Yuma
Mesa Regal RV Resort, Mesa	Sundance RV Resort, Yuma
Sun Life RV Resort, Mesa	Villa Alameda RV Resort, Yuma

Southern California

Golf in Palm Springs

Located about 100 miles east of Los Angeles, Palm Springs has grown to become one of Southern California’s favorite desert playgrounds. five-star restaurants, upscale shopping and hiking are favorite pastimes, but few local diversions match the area’s golf offerings. Enjoy a cool desert morning at one of Palm Springs’ verdant golf courses, where seasonal rates and public accessibility invite players to tee off amid desert splendor year-round. Choose from 18 or 27 holes on courses designed by masters like John Fought and Gary Player.

Every RVer loves Key West, the southernmost spot in the US with its own distinctive and laid-back party vibe. But so many RVers traveling that 113-mile Overseas Highway between Miami and Key West miss so much by not slowing down and spending time in the lesser-known Florida keys for RV camping.

The area is steeped in history and kissed by sunshine, bursting with tropical beauty and fabulous camping surrounded by crystal clear turquoise water. Other keys are much less developed than Key West because so many rush past to get down to mile marker 1.

Photo by Rainer Lesniewski via Shutterstock

“The Keys,” as they’re called, are linked together by the Overseas Highway (officially US-1), and divided into five regions: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West.

But those are regions. And each region has numerous other keys or small islands. In all, between Miami and Key West, are more than 800 keys. Some are super tiny. Many need a boat to reach. Others are great for sunbathing, snorkeling and shelling. Some are private.

But together, they form a vast network of natural beauty that quietly calls out to the passing RVer to stop and explore, decompress and take in the view before heading down to Key West and the party town known as the “Conch Republic.”

Northern California’s “Lost Coast,” is the most remote stretch of coastline in the Lower 48, with miles and miles of deserted beaches and coves. The enormous steep coastal mountains in the Lost Coast area plunge so sharply into the sea that the main roads had to be built around. Even today, with no major roads passing through, the region remains mostly wild and rugged and is only minimally inhabited. While visiting the Lost Coast in an RV, you’ll find yourself hours away from the rest of civilization, providing an unusual amount of seclusion–part of its key appeal.

The Ekko on the winding roads of the Lost Coast.

Why Visit the Lost Coast in an RV?

James and I have had the Lost Coast on our bucket list for a long time, and just this fall we finally were able to get there. We had done enough research that we knew the roads were going to be rugged, but with our all-wheel-drive Winnebago EKKO, we felt confident we’d be fine. We were fine, but calling those roads ‘rugged’ was an understatement!

The main route through the Lost Coast is a 70-mile adventure on Mattole Road, which starts when you turn off the 101 at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, continuing west to the coast and then north to the historic Victorian village of Ferndale. We quickly learned why very few people travel here. The roads are curvy, narrow, and steep, but also in severe disrepair, buckled and pot-holed by the constant upheavals of tectonic forces. The area is prone to earthquakes because of three tectonic plates that converge off Cape Mendocino, the westernmost point on the coast of California. So, thanks to the rough road, our top speed was only around 20mph, and most of the time we were hovering around 10mph. Visiting the Lost Coast takes fortitude.

James, of the FitRV, takes these California roads slow and steady.

Where to Stay in the Lost Coast in an RV

We made Arthur W Way County Park our basecamp for our visit, and that turned out to be an excellent campground choice. There are no hookups or dump stations, but that was fine with us. We prefer more natural settings, and this park had it in spades. The park is situated along the Mattole River, which you can hear flowing from the campsites. The peaceful sounds of the water set such a pleasant backdrop whenever we were outside. The sites are nicely spread out from each other, and while you cannot make reservations, the campground never fills, according to the friendly camp host. The river is popular for swimming, though while we were there, it was a little too chilly to test it out.

Other Campgrounds Nearby:

Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin DestinationAncient Redwoods RV ParkRiverwalk RV Park & CampgroundMattole River

Cycling the Lost Coast

RVing the Lost Coast wasn’t just about going there. For us, we had the Lost Coast on our bucket list because we wanted to bike it. Mattole Road is a popular route for cyclists, or at least the ones who like to suffer on a bike. Since we fall into that category, we couldn’t wait.

Before you just toss gear in at random, it’s vital to know how to properly load your travel trailer safely based on its weight ratings. You need a strategy that’ll reduce swaying, bouncing, tire blowouts, and a host of other problems. 

Fortunately for you, we’re going to help you understand trailer weight ratings and basic proper trailer loading. Your trailer’s weight ratings will dictate how much you can load into your trailer, but the principles of proper weight distribution apply to just about every travel trailer on the road.

Understanding Your Trailer’s Weight Ratings

Your trailer’s weight ratings are determined by the manufacturer and you’ll find them in your owner’s manual or on your VIN number tag. This includes abbreviations like GVWR, GAWR, GTW, and others. For a deep dive into this alphabet soup, consult our handy Guide to Weight Ratings. If you need a quick refresher, here’s one below. 

GVWR is short for gross vehicle weight rating. This is the maximum amount of weight your trailer can handle. It is the combined weight of the trailer itself and its maximum payload capacity. GAWR stands for gross axle weight rating. This is the maximum weight you can place on each trailer axle. GTW refers to gross trailer weight. This is the actual weight of your trailer plus all the stuff you load into it. The only way to determine this weight is to drive over a scale once it’s loaded. Tongue Weight is the amount of weight that is placed on the hitch ball when you connect your trailer to your tow vehicle. Maximum Payload Capacity tells you how much weight you are able to load into your trailer safely. You calculate it by subtracting your trailer’s dry weight from its GVWR. Towing Capacity actually refers to your tow vehicle, but it’s still vital to safe towing. It is the maximum amount of weight your vehicle can safely tow and it will be specified on your vehicle’s VIN label or in the owner’s manual. 

To guarantee safe towing and err on the side of caution, your trailer’s gross trailer weight (GTW) should remain below 90 percent of your vehicle’s towing capacity. 

How to Properly Load Your Travel Trailer

Once you understand your trailer’s weight ratings, use these recommendations to distribute weight evenly. 

Most people think about purchasing an RV in the spring, which isn’t that surprising of an idea. After all, that’s when the weather becomes nicer, the sun seems to shine brighter, and the thought of being outside starts to sound more appealing. Spring is the season when grass, trees, and other foliage turns green again, so it’s not hard to imagine getting on the road with the family to enjoy a weekend at a verdant campground.

However, the fact of the matter is spring shoppers will ultimately pay more for lack of foresight. It’s unfortunately true. In actuality, the best time to buy an RV is in the off-season, during the late fall and throughout the winter months. It might not be the time to camp, but it is the time to think about and prepare for the upcoming camping season.

Here’s a more detailed look at why you should strongly consider purchasing your RV in the off-season.

Special Winter Deals Mean Good Prices

Find exactly what you’re looking for during the off-season.

Just like with the auto industry, if you want a good deal you should shop during the winter months when the cold tries hard to deter you from doing so. That’s when dealers have the best incentives and when they’re trying to make room on the lot for the upcoming year’s models. Dealers are wanting to get rid of inventory they didn’t sell throughout the previous year. By shopping at this specific time, you could nab yourself a current model at a reduced price.

Start keeping an eye out in November for the holiday sales or end-of-year sales. RV lots have to work extra hard to get shoppers to come in and buy a rig when the weather is cold. People simply aren’t in the camping mood, which is understandable. However, that likely means you can get a better deal at one of the sales. Talk to an RV sales representative at your local Camping World or Gander RV and they will agree that they tend to have more wiggle room on price as the year draws to a close.

One of the most common questions we got asked as full-time RVers was, “how much does it cost?”. People often wonder if it’s more expensive than stationary living. In fact, they usually assume it is––because, let’s face it, travel can be quite expensive these days.

Our response to this question is simply that RVing can cost as much or as little as you’d like or need. You can find the style of RV travel that works for your monthly budget. Full-time RV life can look differently for everyone for a variety of reasons, and money is often a big factor in the decision-making that comes along with the adventure. But the important thing is that you are entirely in control of designing your RV lifestyle.

After five years of RVing, both full-time and now part-time, we have a pretty good idea of how to budget each month and plan our travels in a way that allows us to stick to our budget. In this post, I will share the costs associated with full-time RVing and I hope to show you how affordable it can be so that you can achieve the RV life dream, too.

Before I start, I want to remind you that this information is based solely on my own RV experience. Each RVers budget will vary greatly depending on family size and many of the following costs can fluctuate and change over time. A solo RVer’s budget is going to be very different from a family of six – you get the point.

The following is a list of items that are, what I would consider, the “bare necessities” for RV life. In other words, they are expenses that may be different from a stationary lifestyle that you will need to account for to determine if you can afford to full-time RV. Under each item, we’ll share our average costs so you have a complete and authentic budget breakdown from experienced full-time RVers.

A portable generator is a great alternative power source for your RV or for powering some of your household appliances in emergency situations. Because we’re dealing with gas and electricity here, you’ll need to follow these portable generator safety tips for safe operation.

Test Your Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector 

Photo by Ralf Geithe via Shutterstock

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can lead to full incapacitation and, in the worst case, death. You can be exposed to it even if you don’t smell exhaust fumes and the early warning signs are feelings of dizziness, weakness, and sickness. 

If you feel any of these signs, get outside and into fresh air IMMEDIATELY. 

To protect yourself from carbon monoxide exposure, make sure your CO detectors are plugged in and operating properly and have a battery backup or operate solely on batteries. Test the batteries frequently and replace them when needed. If your CO alarm goes off, move outside into fresh air or next to an open door or window. 

Install CO detectors in central locations in your home or RV to provide an early warning system in the event of a carbon monoxide accumulation. 

Can’t wait to hit the road? Not so fast. Whether you plan a winter trip in the Sun Belt or a springtime journey north, it’s important to cover all the bases when it comes to making reservations and checking in at an RV park.

Reservations

Researching your planned campground stay locations is a critical part of any RV trip. Once your destination is selected, you’ll need to take care as you go through the process of locking in your stay. While many RV parks offer online reservation systems, the direct telephone method gives you a chance to ask key questions. The correct information exchange can make this a perfect stay for all parties concerned.

Keep in mind that the rising popularity of the RV industry has created a high demand for campsites across North America. It’s more important than ever to act fast and take proper care to reserve the site that’s right for you.

Here are some of the steps that may help make your next camping reservation the best stay.

One of the beautiful things about America is that it’s so different from place to place. The west coast looks nothing like the east coast, and all parts in-between are entirely unique, giving adventurers the feeling they’ve experienced the whole world within 50 states. And as the old adage goes, ‘it’s not about the destination, but more about the journey.’ So, jump off the interstate for a while, and take one of these eight scenic routes. You won’t regret it.

Pacific Coast Highway

California’s legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) runs from San Francisco to San Diego, primarily (and aptly) right along the coast. The scenery is breathtaking, with cliffs and beaches—plus plenty of awesome taco places to stop at along the way. Started in the 1930s, the PCH is meant to be traversed slowly to take in the towering trees and endless skylines. Without stopping, the entire length of the PCH takes about 10 hours to drive, but plan for longer because stopping to soak in the sea views is encouraged. The PCH is busiest in July and August, but the weather is perfect from late spring through fall.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

Vineyard RV ParkTradewinds RV Park of VallejoPala Casino RV ResortMission Bay RV Resort

Overseas Highway

US Highway 1 (often called the “Highway that Goes to Sea”) starts in Miami and strings together the Florida Keys. That means the Overseas Highway is really a unique band of connecting bridges. The 113 miles of roadway features 42 bridges that play leapfrog from key to key in the form of concrete and steel arches. From beach bars to water sports and deep-sea fishing, this journey through the Florida Keys a beautiful way to escape the winter doldrums of the north. In 2009, the US Federal Highway Administration named the Overseas Highway Florida’s first All-American Road.

Campgrounds Along the Way:

When it comes to the RV lifestyle, some dip their toe into RVing with weekend trips, and others dive in headfirst. The latter is exactly what Lindsay and Derek from Lanes Less Traveled did.

After selling their 10 acres of land in Northeast Texas along with 95% of their belongings, they packed up their five kids and hit the road. They now spend their days with intention – the intention to craft family memories, foster and nurture familial relationships, and curate an education for their children where learning is a living, breathing thing.

Somehow amidst the chaos of life, working, traveling, and homeschooling, Lindsay and Derek also renovate their RVs and document the process on their blog.

If a full life while full-timing interests you, then let us introduce you to a family that does it all.

Traveling as a Family of Seven in a Travel Trailer

Making room for a large family in an RV is easier than you think.

Deciding to transition your family from a house on several acres to a travel trailer isn’t a decision made lightly. Lindsay and Derek wanted to see as much of America as possible and, like many of us, don’t want to look back with regret. So, they took the leap.

Is there anything cooler than an off-road adventure? Probably not, except maybe the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that gets you off the beaten path in the first place. They’re pretty cool in their own right. In fact, we’ve compiled a guide to awesome ATVs and where to take them for the adventure of a lifetime.

Coleman Powersports AT125-EX Youth ATV

Coleman Powersports AT125-EX Youth ATV

Designed for the young adventurer in mind, the Coleman Powersports AT125-EX Youth ATV is a youth ATV for ages 10 and up. With a max speed of 25 miles per hour, this ATV is committed to reliability because, when you’re a young rider on the trails, reliability is the top priority.

Specs

Engine: 120cc, Air-Cooled, OHV, Four-Stroke, Single-CylinderGround Clearance: 4”Overall Size: 59” L x 38.5” W x 38.1” HDry Weight: 285 poundsMax Load: 95 poundsStarting: Electric StartTransmission: Centrifugal Clutch

Coleman AT200 169cc Utility ATV

Coleman AT200 169cc Utility ATV

If you’re looking for excitement, you’ll find it in the seat of the Coleman AT200 169cc Utility ATV. Packed with features like fierce projector-beam headlights that have a strobe setting encased in a halo of LED lights, this ATV lights the way for all others to follow.

Specs

Backpacking is one of the best ways to stretch your legs and explore remote areas of the country and the world. Even if you use your RV as a basecamp, backpacking is a great way to unplug and tune into the natural world.

If you’re shopping for a friend or family member who loves backpacking, you’ll love the collection of gear in Camping World’s holiday gift guide for the backpacker in your life!

Triton Tactical G10 Folding Pocket Knife

Image from Camping World

The Triton Tactical Folding Pocket Knife has a rugged and tough construction with a stonewashed stainless steel blade, a milled G10 handle, and a lock-back design. The blade length measures 3.5 inches and it comes with its own protective sheath.

Check out Camping World’s Full Selection of Folding Knives and Axes!

Leatherman Wave Plus Multi-Tool

Image from Camping World

The Leatherman Wave Plus Miti-Tool gives you 18 useful tools at your instant disposal. All of the tools lock into place, which makes them easier and safer to use. From knives to pliers to a can opener, it has everything you’ll need in a backcountry setting, and then some.

It sounds intimidating at first, but updating your RV is much easier than you think. Whether you have an older travel trailer or outdated fifth wheel or an RV that’s still sporting that “classic” RV aesthetic, updating it can be as simple as switching out the color scheme.

You know what “classic” means – the wood paneling, the darker accents, those dated window valances, and the several shades of brown throughout. There’s technically nothing wrong with those choices, but we’re seeing today’s RVs leaning into lighter and brighter spaces.

If a full renovation isn’t in the budget at the moment, no worries! We’ve put together the perfect list of new products for updating an RV that won’t break the bank or your back.

Flooring and Floor Coverings

Adding a rug or carpeting can warm up the inside of your RV.

Deciding to update your RV can be a little overwhelming, so if you’re looking for a starting point, let’s start from the ground up… inside, at least.

Flooring can have a huge impact overall. If gutting your RV and re-flooring the entire thing isn’t a task you’re willing to tackle right now, rest assured you can still update the look and feel at a fraction of the cost.

Are you looking for a great way to start off your new year? Today, we’ll take a look at seven unforgettable 2022 travel trailers that you’ll want to order today! Check out the deals on travel trailers for sale near you when you shop at RVingPlanet.com.

East to West Alta 1900MMK

Just because you’re camping doesn’t mean you have to give up the creature comforts you love. Check out this East to West Alta 1900MMK travel trailer features that feature a spacious living room with a Murphy bed. The rear bathroom ensures you can enjoy a hot shower before climbing into bed every night of your stay. 

Additional Features:

Murphy BedRear Corner BathroomUSB Charging StationsPass-Through Storage

The holiday season is the perfect time to help the camp cooks in your life stock up on great accessories to make amazing meals outdoors. Whether they’re a fan of cooking over the open fire or prefer to keep their food on the grill, the right tools can make meal prep easy and cooking more fun. Plus, when a cook enjoys being in the kitchen, family and friends get to enjoy the fruits of their labor. We call that the definition of a win/win. We’ve pulled together some fantastic gift options for all those who love camping cooking.

Cast Iron Skillets

Cast Iron Skillet Set

Cast iron skillets are one of the most useful pieces of camp cooking equipment you can own. You can use them on the grill, over the campfire, in an oven, or on a stove. Once they’re properly seasoned they become nonstick and are easily cleaned. Tip: Never wash cast iron with soap or dish detergent as it will wash away the seasoning and potentially ruin the nonstick capability.

Shop Camping World’s selection of skillets.

Blackstone 22-inch Tabletop Griddle with Cover

Blackstone 22” Tabletop Griddle with Cover

One of the most popular items season after season is the Blackstone 22-inch Gas Tabletop Griddle. Equipped with two independently controlled heat zones, the chef in your life will have full control of the 330 square inch plate for simultaneous low and high heat cooking. Adjustable height rubber feet make quick work of providing stability on uneven surfaces It’s easy to clean and has the capability to feed the entire family. Throw on burgers, hot dogs, steaks, even eggs, and so much more! Uses a 1-pound propane bottle, sold separately.

Shop the Blackstone Tabletop Griddle and grills at Camping World.

Need to buy a holiday gift for the RVer in your life, but don’t know your fifth wheel from your Class A RV? Not to worry, Camping World’s holiday gift guide for the RVer in your life offers a variety of gift options that will make you look like a camping expert! Here are some perfect options for your RVing friends and family members.

Midland X-Talker XT T51VP3 Two-Way Radios

Image from Camping World

Give the gift of communication this holiday season with a pair of two-way radios. This set of Midland X-Talker XT T51VP3 Two-Way Radios is perfect for talking with a spotter when backing into a tight space or maneuvering rigs through difficult situations.

With a 28-mile range and 22 channels, this set is also great for caravanning through desolate regions, off-grid backcountry hiking, or any adventure where you need to stay in communication and there’s no cell coverage. It’s even equipped with weather alert technology so you’ll be warned if any severe weather is in the area.

Shop Two-Way Radios at Camping World!

Magnetic National Park Wall Art

Image from Camping World

Do you have full-time RVer friends with their sights set on exploring the National Parks? Help them proudly show their progress by giving them a magnetic National Park tracker. This piece of wall art lists all 58 National Parks and comes with magnetic pins to let people easily track how many parks they’ve been to and how many are still to go!

We’ve found an RV travel region for every season in the U.S. and Canada. Look at the travel calendar below and find a fun-filled destination during your favorite seasons.

Check out the attractions in each of our monthly regions, then choose an RV park for your stay.

January — Southeast States

Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Texas

Now that 2021 is coming to an end, it’s wise to take a look back over the past 12 months and think critically about how you can make your RVing life, whether it’s full-time or part-time, even better in the upcoming year.

One of the biggest things you can do is choose to focus on your budget. Let’s face it, adjusting your budget isn’t always fun, but living with a financial plan will reduce stress and make your life easier and your RV adventures more enjoyable. Here are some of the best tips for adjusting your budget in the new year so you can spend less time crunching numbers and more time exploring.

Get Ahead of Any Problems

An inspection of the RV should be completed before hitting the road.

One of the easiest and most impactful steps any RV owner can take is to have a full RV inspection prior to heading out for the season. In doing so, you will learn of things currently needing repair, and ensure there are no unexpected hardware issues.

Having a well-informed outlook on your RV and its current health can help you avoid costly repairs in the future, which in turn will keep you on the road longer–that’s always the goal, after all. Schedule an inspection today at any Camping World Service Center.

Evaluate Your Power

Solar panels on top of a motor home under bright overcast sky.

Another way to improve upon your RV experience, as well as save you some money and free up additional funds in the budget, is to evaluate your power sources and usage. Specifically, take a good look at where your power goes, and how much of it you’re actually using when on the road. Campgrounds that charge for electricity makes this all the more important. Propane-powered appliances and usage can quickly cut into your budget. Generators guzzling up gas are costly over time.

Choosing a gift for someone who has everything can be a real challenge. Choosing a gift for a fisherman who has everything is a nightmare. You want to get them something they’ll actually use and you want it to have an impact on their fishing in some way. Whether they’re looking for something to make fishing more enjoyable or for something to help them catch more fish; it needs to be useful, clever and affordable.

Based on personal experience and some consulting with my wife, I’ve put together 12 things I think most experienced anglers would love to have this year. Let’s do it!

1. Nightcrawler Bait Box

Every angler has their crutch and no matter what, some can’t let go of their love of worms. Personally, it’s been a while since I’ve fished with nightcrawlers, but if you have someone in your life who loves bait fishing, this could be a great gift. This nightcrawler bait box is breathable, lightweight, and comes with a door on the top to access everything. The box even comes with natural bedding to help keep the worms alive and well all season.

2. Fishing Line Spooler