Girl Camper

Girl Camper
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Whether you’re just getting started or are a seasoned camping expert, Girl Camper’s practical tips, inspirational interviews and their own experiences from the road will inspire you to ‘go places and do things’!

  1. 3D AGO · VIDEO

    From Tent Camping to RV Confidence: Christine Swartz’s Journey

    Many women dream about RV travel but wonder if they have the skills or confidence to make it happen. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Christine Swartz proves that women RV travel is not only possible but empowering. From tent camping as a child to towing a 35-foot RV across the country with four kids, Christine’s story shows how confidence grows with every mile. Christine Swartz, known online as RV Mama of Four, is proof that you don’t have to know everything to get started. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Janine Pettit talks with Christine about her journey from childhood tent camping to traveling across the country in a 35-foot RV. Christine’s story is full of adventure, learning experiences, and the kind of determination that inspires other women to get out and explore. Camping Beginnings Christine’s love of camping started early. Growing up, her family regularly went tent camping, creating memories that stayed with her into adulthood. Later, when her own kids were young, she and her sister decided to start RVing so they could travel to their children’s sports events and explore new places. What started as simple weekend trips quickly turned into something much bigger. Learning RV Life the Hard Way Like many new RVers, Christine learned through experience. Her first RV was a 32-foot trailer that she initially tried towing with a vehicle that wasn’t powerful enough. During one early trip through Utah, she realized just how important towing capacity and preparation can be. Instead of giving up, Christine adapted, upgraded her truck, and kept traveling. Over time she learned everything from: Towing and hitching Dumping tanks Boondocking Generator troubleshooting RV maintenance Today, those early challenges have become lessons she shares with other women who want to learn RV life. RVing With Kids For Christine, RV travel was never just about the destinations. It was about the time spent with her four children. For years she traveled with them across the country, visiting campgrounds, attending events, and creating unforgettable experiences together. They’ve now visited nearly every state, and those trips became a central part of their family memories. RV Life in a New Season As Christine’s kids have grown older and started college, her RV adventures have evolved. Sometimes she travels with one child. Sometimes she travels alone. And sometimes she turns trips into creative road adventures, like RVing across the country to visit family or attend RV shows. She’s even started working remotely from the road as a freelance attorney. Thanks to modern technology like mobile internet and Starlink, remote work and RV travel can go hand in hand. Helping Other Women Learn RV Skills Christine now shares her experience through her RV Mama membership community, where she teaches women the practical skills needed to RV confidently. Her mission is simple: help women realize they are capable of doing more than they think. Many RV tasks may seem intimidating at first, but with practice they become second nature. Community Makes RVing Better One theme throughout Christine’s story is community. Whether it’s meeting other campers at events, gathering around campfires, or connecting through Girl Camper, the friendships formed on the road often become just as meaningful as the travel itself. Camping isn’t just about places. It’s about people. Listen to the Full Episode on Women RV Travel In this episode you’ll hear: Christine’s early RV mistakes and what they taught her Tips for women learning RV skills How RV life changes as families grow Why community matters in camping A special thank you to Progressive Insurance, sponsor of this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast. Join the Girl Camper Community If you’ve ever dreamed about camping, road trips, or meeting amazing women who share your love of adventure, Girl Camper is the place to start. 👉 Join Girl Camper today at GirlCamper.com Because adventure is always better with friends. https://youtu.be/cFQtAUxQCww

  2. FEB 23 · VIDEO

    Finding Community Through Camping: One Girl Camper’s Story

    Camping can change your weekends. Community can change your life. For many women, the real challenge of camping isn’t learning how to tow, back up, or set up camp. It’s stepping into something new without knowing anyone. That’s why finding community through camping is often the moment everything clicks. In this Girl Camper Podcast episode, Janine interviews Girl Camper Roseanne Palmer, whose journey perfectly captures what happens when courage meets connection. Her story is a reminder that you don’t have to be fearless. You just have to be willing. When the Desire Is There, Even If the Confidence Isn’t Roseanne didn’t grow up camping. She didn’t start out with a lifetime of outdoor experience or a long list of camping friends. What she did have was a quiet pull toward the outdoors—and a belief that someday she’d figure it out. That “someday” started small. Before she ever towed a camper, Roseanne camped in her own backyard, sleeping outside under the stars. It wasn’t glamorous. It wasn’t Instagram-worthy. But it was a first step—and first steps matter. Finding community through camping often starts long before the campsite. Why Community Matters When You’re New to Camping Learning to camp is easier than learning to believe you belong. For new campers, especially women starting later in life or starting solo, the unknown can feel overwhelming: What if I don’t know enough? What if I make mistakes? What if I don’t fit in? Community answers those questions before you even ask them. Through the Girl Camper community and podcast, Roseanne began learning the practical skills—towing basics, RV terminology, confidence behind the wheel. But more importantly, she learned that other women were figuring it out too. That shared experience is powerful. From Learning to Doing: Taking the First Real Trip Roseanne eventually bought a small camper and faced the fear many first-time campers know well: towing. Her solution wasn’t perfection. It was practice. Two blocks turned into a few miles. A short drive turned into a local camping trip. A local trip turned into something much bigger. When she decided to attend her first Girl Camper Camporee, Roseanne drove thousands of miles from California to Colorado—despite never having traveled that far with a camper before. She didn’t go because she felt ready. She went because she felt supported. That’s what finding community through camping makes possible. How Camping Friendships Turn Into Real-Life Support One of the most meaningful parts of Roseanne’s story isn’t the distance she traveled—it’s the friendships she formed along the way. Camping community doesn’t end when the trip is over. It turns into lunches, shared holidays, spontaneous adventures, and people who show up when life shifts. Roseanne didn’t just find camping buddies. She found her people. And that’s something many women don’t realize they’re missing until they experience it. You Don’t Need an RV to Find Your Camping Community One of the biggest misconceptions about camping groups is that you need the “right” gear to belong. You don’t. You can: Attend an event and rent a cabin Car camp or tent camp Borrow gear Camp close to home Start with one overnight trip Community isn’t about what you bring. It’s about showing up. If the desire is there, the rest can be learned. Finding Community Through Camping Starts With One Yes Roseanne’s journey is proof that you don’t need to wait until everything is perfect. You don’t need: Years of experience A brand-new RV A travel partner A big plan You just need one yes. Yes to curiosity. Yes to connection. Yes to yourself. And sometimes, yes to showing up scared—and doing it anyway. Listen or Watch the Podcast Episode Hear Roseanne’s full story on the Girl Camper Podcast, where she and Janine talk about courage, grief, friendship, and how community changes everything. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to take your first step—this might be it. Because there is no wrong way to camp like a girl. And there’s always room for one more chair around the campfire. 🔥 Big Thank You to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this podcast episode! Be sure to check out our other article on why community is so important. https://youtu.be/R0xcvKh3vxA

  3. FEB 10

    Grandma Gatewood Podcast: Lessons from Our Interview with Ben Montgomery

    Grandma Gatewood didn’t just hike the Appalachian Trail. She changed how the world saw it. In a recent episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Janine Pettit sat down with author Ben Montgomery to talk about his bestselling book Grandma Gatewood’s Walk and the extraordinary woman behind it. Emma “Grandma” Gatewood became the first woman to solo thru-hike the Appalachian Trail in 1955 at age 67, carrying minimal gear and an enormous amount of determination. Our conversation explored her legacy, the early history of the Appalachian Trail, and why her story continues to inspire women to step outside and claim their own adventures. Who Was Grandma Gatewood? Emma Gatewood was born in 1898 and lived a life shaped by hardship, resilience, and independence. After surviving years of domestic abuse and raising 11 children, she found freedom in walking. When she read about the Appalachian Trail in a magazine, she decided to hike it. What makes her journey so remarkable is not just the distance. It is how she did it. Grandma Gatewood carried a simple canvas sack, slept under a plastic shower curtain, and relied on kindness from strangers along the way. At a time when long-distance hiking was almost unheard of, especially for women, she set out alone and succeeded. Her hike brought national attention to the Appalachian Trail. Newspapers across the country followed her progress, and her story helped spark renewed interest in maintaining and preserving the trail. The Power of Trail Magic One of the most memorable parts of our conversation with Ben Montgomery was the discussion of “trail magic.” Trail magic refers to the unexpected kindness hikers receive from strangers. Grandma Gatewood often knocked on doors, introduced herself, and was welcomed with meals, shelter, and encouragement. Ben shared how her presence inspired families along the trail to continue helping hikers for generations. He also told a personal story about receiving trail magic during his own thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail. A stranger offered him rides, meals, and friendship at a moment when he needed it most. These stories highlight something beautiful about outdoor culture. Hiking is not just about miles walked. It is about connection, generosity, and shared humanity. Courage at Any Age One theme that stood out in the interview was Grandma Gatewood’s refusal to let age define her. Starting a 2,000-mile hike at 67 challenges modern assumptions about what is possible later in life. For the Girl Camper community, her story is a powerful reminder that adventure has no expiration date. Many women hesitate to try camping or traveling outdoors because they worry they are too old, too inexperienced, or too late to start. Grandma Gatewood’s life argues the opposite. Her journey shows that curiosity and courage matter more than perfect timing. A Legacy That Lives On Today, Grandma Gatewood’s influence can still be felt along the Appalachian Trail. Hikers share her story in shelters. Trails and memorials honor her name. Many people begin their outdoor journeys after learning about her determination. Ben Montgomery described meeting hikers who set out specifically because of Grandma Gatewood’s example. Her legacy is not frozen in history. It is alive in every woman who decides to step outside her comfort zone and explore. Why Her Story Matters to Girl Campers At Girl Camper, we believe there is no wrong way to camp like a girl. Grandma Gatewood embodies that spirit. She did not wait for perfect gear or perfect conditions. She started with what she had and figured it out along the way. Her story encourages women to trust themselves, seek adventure, and build community. Whether you are pitching your first tent, traveling in an RV, or planning a weekend getaway, her example reminds us that the outdoors belongs to everyone. If you have ever dreamed of exploring more, this podcast episode is a wonderful place to start. Watch or Listen to the Full Episode You can watch the full video podcast or listen to the episode wherever you stream podcasts. Ben Montgomery’s storytelling brings Grandma Gatewood’s journey to life and offers deeper insight into her courage and impact. If Grandma Gatewood’s story inspires you, consider joining the Girl Camper community. We are a group of women who support each other in getting outside, building friendships, and creating unforgettable adventures together. Adventure is waiting. And as Grandma Gatewood proved, it is never too late to begin. Be sure to check out Janine’s article on the lessons she learned from reading Grandma Gatewood’s Walk. Special thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this podcast episode! A link to the video podcast version is coming soon!

  4. JAN 27

    Beyond the Florida RV SuperShow: Favorite Finds, Industry Changes & the Future of Girl Camper

    The Florida RV SuperShow is one of the largest RV shows in the country, and every year it offers a snapshot of where RVing is headed. This year, Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott attended the show with a very intentional lens: What actually works for women who camp? In the latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, they go beyond the shiny RV displays to talk about standout campers, meaningful industry changes, and why Girl Camper is doubling down on camping, connection, and community in 2026. Favorite RV Finds from the Florida RV Supershow Rather than focusing on massive fifth wheels and luxury motorhomes, Janine and Lesa gravitated toward small, smart, and flexible RVs. These are campers designed for solo women, friends camping together, and people who want freedom without excess. Some of the biggest standouts included: Compact toy haulers that make it easy to bring kayaks, e-bikes, or outdoor gear without heavy lifting Lightweight travel trailers with thoughtful layouts and real storage Off-road and boondocking-friendly campers built for getting off the pavement Twin-bed and convertible sleeping options that adapt to how women actually camp One clear trend at the show was versatility. RVs that can serve multiple purposes, adjust to different travel styles, and feel manageable rather than overwhelming stood out the most. 👉 You can watch full walk-through videos of the campers discussed in this episode on our YouTube playlist: RV Tours RV Industry Changes We’re Seeing Right Now This year’s Florida RV Supershow felt different, and not just because of the weather. Janine and Lesa noticed signs of a broader shift in the RV industry, including: Increased focus on warranties and build quality, especially post-COVID Manufacturers reassessing brand ambassador and influencer programs Tighter marketing budgets and more selective partnerships A growing awareness that buyers want durability and usability, not just aesthetics During the pandemic, RV sales surged and production expanded quickly. Now, the industry is recalibrating. That shift is impacting not just manufacturers and dealers, but content creators, educators, and community-driven brands like Girl Camper. Why Girl Camper Is Shifting Its Focus For over a decade, Girl Camper has inspired women to get outside, try camping in their own way, and build friendships along the way. But as the industry changes, so is Girl Camper’s strategy. In this episode, Janine and Lesa share why Girl Camper is intentionally moving toward: More camping content, less product hype More real stories from real women More local, low-pressure events More opportunities for connection and confidence-building The Girl Camper Podcast will now release episodes twice a month, allowing more time for camping, community engagement, and deeper storytelling. Interviews may be longer, but they’ll be richer and more meaningful. Community Over Comparison One of the core messages of this episode is simple but powerful: There is no wrong way to camp like a girl. Girl Camper members include women who tent camp, car camp, RV full-time, camp solo, camp with friends, or camp once a year. Many are married or partnered. Many are navigating career changes, caregiving, grief, or new chapters of life. Camping, for many women, isn’t about escaping life. It’s about resetting, reconnecting, and remembering who you are outside of daily responsibilities. That’s why Girl Camper is expanding its Hostess program, making it easier for members to host simple, local camping meetups at their favorite parks. No fees. No pressure. Just book your site, bring your food, and show up. What Comes Next for Girl Camper Looking ahead to 2026, Girl Camper’s commitment is clear: Expand camping opportunities nationwide Grow the membership community Support Guides and Hostesses Create content that reflects real life, not perfection Whether you’re actively shopping for a small RV, curious about RV trends, or simply looking for a supportive outdoor community, Girl Camper is here to walk alongside you. Watch, Listen & Join Us 🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode: Beyond the RV Show: Favorite Finds, Industry Changes & the Future of Girl Camper 🏕️ Want to camp with us or host an event? Email contact@girlcamper.com to get started. There is no wrong way to camp like a girl. Just go places. Do things. Interested in finding great places to camp in 2026? Check our our America The Beautiful Section of our Website. https://youtu.be/yFMKjYCVO0c

  5. JAN 19

    Questions to Ask When Buying a Used RV: Dealers, Fees & Financing (Part 3 of 3)

    When making a major purchase, knowing the right questions to ask when buying a used RV can protect both your budget and your peace of mind. In Part 3 of this Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott wraps up her conversation with Mike Harlan, General Manager of North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. This final episode focuses on the decisions buyers often rush through but should never skip. Choosing the Right RV Dealer Matters Not all RV dealers operate the same way. Mike explains why choosing the right dealer is just as important as choosing the right RV. Service capacity, technician availability, and long-term support all play a role after the sale. A dealer who cannot properly service what they sell may create frustration down the road. Understanding Dealer Fees Dealer fees can be confusing for used RV buyers. In this episode, Mike explains what common fees often include and which charges should raise questions. Knowing what is normal helps buyers avoid unpleasant surprises at closing. Why Financing Should Always Be Shopped One of the most overlooked questions to ask when buying a used RV is about financing. Mike discusses why buyers should always compare credit unions, banks, and dealer financing. Even small differences in interest rates can have a big impact over time. Independent Inspections Are Critical Inspections play a key role in protecting used RV buyers. Mike explains why inspections should never be skipped and why a dealer refusing one should be considered a red flag. He also highlights a commonly forgotten area buyers should always ask about: the roof. Know When to Walk Away Perhaps the most important takeaway from this episode is knowing when to walk away. A used RV purchase should never feel rushed or pressured. By slowing the process down and asking the right questions, buyers can avoid costly mistakes. Finish the Series Strong This episode completes the three-part series on questions to ask when buying a used RV. Be sure to also listen to Part 1 for early red flags and preparation tips, and Part 2 for inspections, pricing, and “as-is” sales. Together, these episodes give buyers the confidence to shop smart and protect their investment. Big thank you to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance. https://youtu.be/_wVdXwMg4JQ

  6. JAN 13

    Questions to Ask When Buying a Used RV: Inspections, Pricing & “As-Is” Sales (Part 2 of 3)

    Buying a used RV can be a great way to get on the road for less. But once you move past first impressions, it becomes critical to know the questions to ask when buying a used RV. In Part 2 of this Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott continues her candid conversation with Mike Harlan from North Trail RV Center, focusing on inspections, pricing, and what “as-is” really means for buyers. This episode helps buyers understand what they should confirm before signing any paperwork. What an “As-Is” Used RV Sale Really Means Many used RVs are sold “as-is,” but buyers often misunderstand that term. An as-is sale means the RV is being sold in its current condition, with no warranty unless an extended warranty is purchased separately. Because of this, buyers should never assume that everything works properly. Asking to see systems operate before purchase is essential. Why Inspections Are Not Optional One of the most important questions to ask when buying a used RV is whether you can have it inspected. Mike strongly recommends inspections before signing any contract. Buyers should ask to see: Air conditioning and heating systems running Appliances functioning properly Hot water heaters working Safety equipment like smoke and CO₂ detectors These items are often overlooked, but they are critical for safety and peace of mind. Do Lemon Laws Protect Used RV Buyers? Many buyers assume lemon laws apply to all RVs. That is not the case. Mike explains that most travel trailers are not covered under lemon laws, and protections vary widely by state. This makes it especially important to research your state laws before purchasing a used RV. How to Determine Fair Market Value Pricing a used RV is based on market value, not emotion. Mike explains how JD Power pricing guides work and why trade-in values are often lower than owners expect. Upgrades and personal improvements rarely increase resale value. Buyers should focus on condition, demand, and realistic pricing. Ask the Right Questions Before You Sign This episode reinforces why knowing the questions to ask when buying a used RV can save buyers thousands of dollars and prevent costly surprises. Be sure to also check out Part 1 of this series for early red flags and preparation tips, and Part 3 for guidance on dealers, fees, and financing. Listen to the Episode 🎧 Catch Part 2 of Questions to Ask When Buying a Used RV on the Girl Camper Podcast, available on your favorite podcast platform and on our YouTube channel. Special thanks to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. For all your insurance needs, check out Progressive Insurance. https://youtu.be/Ciw5_HrUykI

  7. JAN 6

    Don’t Get Screwed When Buying a Used RV (Part 1 of 3)

    Buying a used RV can be a smart and affordable way to get on the road. But before you step onto a dealer lot, it’s important to know the questions to ask when buying a used RV. Asking the right questions early can help you avoid costly mistakes and buyer’s remorse. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott kicks off a three-part series with Mike Harlan from North Trail RV Center. The goal of this series is simple: help buyers feel informed, confident, and prepared. Common Mistakes Used RV Buyers Make One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is shopping before doing any research. Many people fall in love with how an RV looks and forget to ask practical questions. Mike explains why slowing down and gathering information first can save thousands of dollars later. Another common mistake is assuming a used RV will be problem-free. Every used RV has a history. Understanding that history matters. What to Do Before Visiting a DealerPreparation is key when buying a used RV. Before visiting a dealer, buyers should: Research RV types and floorplans Understand their tow vehicle limits Set a realistic budget Know how they plan to camp These steps help narrow choices and prevent impulse decisions. Why Tow Vehicles and Floorplans Still Matter Even with a used RV, tow ratings and weight limits are critical. Mike explains why exceeding limits can create safety issues and damage vehicles. Floorplans also deserve careful thought. Buyers should consider daily use, storage needs, and bad-weather days. Red Flags to Watch For Mike shares early warning signs buyers should never ignore. These include strong odors, visible water damage, worn tires, and missing maintenance records. Asking direct questions about these issues is essential when buying a used RV. Start With the Right Questions This episode lays the foundation for the entire series. If you’re considering a used RV, learning the questions to ask when buying a used RV will help you shop smarter and with more confidence. 👉 Be sure to also listen to Part 2 and Part 3 of this series to get the full picture before you buy. For tips on buying a New RV, check out Episode 1 of that 3 part series we also did. Special thanks to Progressive Insurance for sponsoring this episode. Check Progressive out for all your insurance needs. https://youtu.be/T7ygkH6SDaA

  8. 12/29/2025

    Chef Secrets for Cooking in a Small Camper

    What a Professional Chef Actually Uses Cooking in a small camper kitchen doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, creativity, or enjoyment. With the right gear, pantry staples, and mindset, it’s possible to make satisfying meals in even the smallest of spaces. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast and our On the Road with Girl Camper series with nuCamp RV, Lesa sits down with Allana Bykes, a professionally trained chef and nuCamp T@B 320 owner, to talk about how she cooks real meals while camping in a small camper. Instead of focusing on trendy gadgets, Allana shared what truly earns a place in her camper kitchen—and why. Cooking in a Small Camper Kitchen Like a Chef Allana approaches camper cooking with intention. Every piece of gear and every pantry item has a purpose. Her philosophy is simple: Choose multi-use kitchen tools Stock pantry staples that work across multiple meals Use technique over recipes whenever possible This approach allows her to cook confidently without overcrowding her limited space. Must-Have Kitchen Gear for a Small Camper Rather than filling cabinets with single-use tools, Allana focuses on a streamlined setup. Her small camper kitchen essentials include: A stable cutting board that doesn’t slide One high-quality knife instead of multiple blades A spoonula (part spoon, part spatula) to replace several utensils Nesting or stackable cookware Collapsible containers that store flat when empty Each item earns its place by being versatile and easy to store. Pantry Staples That Make Camper Cooking Easier A well-planned pantry makes all the difference when cooking in a small camper. Allana relies on ingredients that are shelf-stable, compact, and flexible. Her go-to camper pantry staples include: Rice and pasta Bouillon or broth concentrates Squeeze-tube herbs, garlic, and tomato paste A small but thoughtful spice selection With these basics on hand, she can create a wide variety of meals without overpacking. 🍳 Recipe Call-Out: Easy Dirty Rice for Camp Cooking One of Allana’s favorite camper meals is dirty rice—a one-pan dish that’s simple, filling, and easy to adapt. Easy Camper Dirty Rice (Chef-Style) Why it works at camp: ✔ One pan ✔ Minimal cleanup ✔ Flexible ingredients ✔ Great for small camper kitchens Ingredients (ratio-based): 1 part cooked sausage (or protein of choice) 1 part sautéed vegetables (onion, pepper, celery) 1 part rice 2 parts liquid (water or broth) Garlic, herbs, and seasoning to taste How to Make It: Warm cooked sausage and vegetables in a pan with a little oil. Add garlic, herbs, and tomato paste if desired. Stir in rice and toast briefly. Add liquid gradually, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked. Adjust seasoning and serve. This technique-based recipe makes it easy to swap ingredients depending on what you have on hand—perfect for camping. Why Small Camper Kitchen Planning Matters Whether you’re new to RVing or downsizing your setup, a small camper kitchen can feel limiting. This episode proves that thoughtful planning makes all the difference. You don’t need: A large kitchen Lots of gear Complicated recipes You do need: Smart tools Flexible ingredients A simple approach Listen, Watch, and Camp Along With Us You can listen to the full conversation on the Girl Camper Podcast or watch the video as part of our On the Road with Girl Camper series. Be sure to check out nuCamp RV and their thoughtfully designed campers, including the T@B 320 featured in this episode. And if you’re looking for connection, confidence, and community on the road, we’d love for you to join Girl Camper and come along on one of our many adventures. Because there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl. https://youtu.be/hAqUYMRmI2g

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4.6
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About

Whether you’re just getting started or are a seasoned camping expert, Girl Camper’s practical tips, inspirational interviews and their own experiences from the road will inspire you to ‘go places and do things’!

Information

  • Creator
    Girl Camper
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    181
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2015-2024 Girl Camper, LLC
  • Show Website
    Girl Camper

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