Girl Camper

Girl Camper
  • 4.6 (257)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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. 19H AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 12/22/2025

    Master Your Outdoor Photography: Pro Tips For Beginners from Mandy Lea

    Do you ever find yourself standing in front of a breathtaking sunset or a majestic mountain range, only to have your photo look like a flat, blurry version of the real thing? You aren’t alone! Many campers struggle to capture the magic of their adventures, especially when relying on a smartphone. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott sits down with professional landscape photographer Mandy Lea from Mandy Lea Photo. Mandy shares her “photographer mindset” and practical secrets to help you level up your photography game without needing a heavy DSLR camera. The Secret to Great Photos: The Photographer Mindset Mandy explains that the biggest difference between a “tourist” and a “photographer” is intentionality. A tourist hops out of the car, snaps a photo, and leaves. A photographer slows down. Pro Tip: Before you click the shutter, do an “edge check.” Look at the corners of your frame. Is there a stray branch or a trash can distracting from your subject? Reposition yourself to keep your composition clean and focused. 3 Essential Smartphone Photography Tips for Campers Most of us carry a powerful camera right in our pockets. Here is how to use it like a pro: Turn on the Grid Lines: Go into your phone settings and enable the “Grid.” Use the Rule of Thirds by placing your subject where the lines intersect rather than dead-center. Use Portrait Mode for People (and More!): Portrait mode isn’t just for headshots. It creates a beautiful “bokeh” (blurred background) that makes your subject pop. Master the Exposure Slider: When taking a photo of a sunset or the moon, tap the brightest part of the screen and slide the little “sun” icon down. This prevents the sky from looking “blown out” and preserves those vibrant colors. How to Photograph the Moon with Your Phone One of the most common questions Mandy gets is: “How do I stop the moon from looking like a white blob?” The secret is exposure. Because the moon is a bright light source in a dark sky, your phone tries to brighten the whole image, which overexposes the moon. To fix this, tap the moon on your screen and drag the exposure slider all the way down until you see the craters and detail. For the best results, use a tripod to keep the phone steady! Editing Like a Pro (For Free!) You don’t need expensive software to make your photos shine. Mandy recommends Snapseed, a free app by Google. It allows you to selectively brighten areas, fix colors, and add professional touches in seconds. Connect with Mandy Lea Want to dive deeper into photography or join an outdoor workshop? Mandy and her partner Kendrick offer incredible backpacking and photography trips, including excursions to the Grand Canyon and Rocky Mountain National Park. Visit her website: MandyLeaPhoto.com Follow her on Social Media: @MandyLeaPhoto Ready to hit the road? Check out our upcoming Girl Camper Events and put these new photography skills to the test! https://youtu.be/HfNsg4aoCFM

  7. 12/15/2025

    What’s the Big Deal About Quartzsite, Arizona?

    Your First-Timer’s Guide to the Ultimate RV Gathering Every winter, something incredible happens in the Arizona desert. A tiny town of just a few thousand people transforms into one of the largest gatherings of RVers in the world. If you’ve ever wondered what the big deal is about Quartzsite, Arizona, you’re not alone — and this Girl Camper Podcast episode dives into all the reasons this destination has become a bucket-list experience for RV travelers. Lesa sat down with longtime Quartzsite regulars Tony & Peggy Barthel of StressLess Camping to get their insider tips, best advice for first-timers, and a real sense of what makes this place unlike anywhere else. 🌵 What Is Quartzsite, Arizona? Quartzsite is a small desert town just off I-10 near the California border. For most of the year, it’s quiet and hot… but from late fall through early spring, it becomes a full-blown RV metropolis. Hundreds of thousands of campers — snowbirds, boondockers, full-timers, vanlifers, and everyone in between — gather to enjoy sunshine, community, and one enormous RV show. If you’re imagining wall-to-wall RVs across open desert, quirky vendors, campfire meetups, and a vibe that feels part festival, part flea market, part family reunion — you’re right. 🎪 The Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show (“The Big Tent”) The Quartzsite Arizona RV show is the centerpiece of the season. This giant white tent (we’re talking up to 70,000 square feet) is packed with: RV products and upgrades Solar and lithium specialists Seminars and demonstrations Repair and installation bays Gear for RV life & home Food vendors and carnival-style treats It runs for nine days every January and — here’s the best part — admission is completely free. If you’re shopping for RV gear, curious about solar, or just love exploring new gadgets, set aside a whole day to wander the Big Tent. 🚐 Is Quartzsite Really a Boondocking Paradise? Absolutely. Quartzsite is surrounded by miles of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, giving RVers endless space to spread out and camp. Options include: BLM / Dispersed Camping (Free) Stay up to 14 days with no cost. Great for short visits or first-timers who want to try boondocking. LTVA (Long-Term Visitor Areas) For those wanting to stay weeks or months. These areas offer: Dump stations Potable water Trash facilities Vault toilets If you’re new to boondocking, Tony and Peggy recommend scouting during daylight and observing how far other rigs space themselves — it’s a great way to learn the etiquette. ☀️ What to Expect From the Weather Quartzsite is warm by winter standards — often in the 60s or low 70s — but don’t be fooled: Nights get cold once the sun drops Wind and dust can kick up quickly Rain is rare but intense — stay out of washes Pack layers, tie down awnings, and be prepared for conditions to change quickly. 📶 What About Cell Service or Wi-Fi? Short answer: don’t count on it. Long answer: bring Starlink if you absolutely need reliable connectivity. Quartzsite’s population explosion overwhelms local towers, and while temporary towers are sometimes brought in, they don’t reach everyone. Many attendees rely on Starlink or simply unplug for the week. 🛒 Is There Food and Supplies in Town? Contrary to rumors, Quartzsite is not a food desert. You’ll find: Two small but well-rounded grocery stores Pop-up produce tents Food trucks (BBQ, Philly cheesesteaks, and more) A few fun restaurants like Silly Al’s Pizza For a bigger grocery run, Blythe, CA and Parker, AZ are each about an hour away. 🎉 The Quartzsite Community Vibe One of the biggest reasons RVers return year after year? The people. Quartzsite forms countless temporary communities including: RV brand meetups Escapees and Xscapers gatherings Music camps Stargazing groups Schoolie converters Women’s gatherings like the WRTR (Women’s Rubber Tramp Rendezvous) If you’re going alone, don’t worry — Quartzsite is one of the easiest places to meet fellow campers. There’s truly a “camp for everyone.” 👍 Pros of Going to Quartzsite Warm winter weather Huge RV show with tons of vendors Amazing desert sunsets Endless boondocking space Friendly, welcoming community Affordable camping options 👎 Cons to Keep in Mind Limited cell service Dust (everywhere!) Cold desert nights No big-box stores Can be overwhelming for first-timers Still, most visitors agree the experience is worth it — you simply have to go once to understand the magic. 🎧 Listen to the Full Episode Tony and Peggy share even more tips — including how to save your campsite when dumping tanks, favorite food spots, and what first-timers always get wrong. Listen or watch now on the Girl Camper Podcast! And for more from our guests, visit StressLess Camping: https://www.stresslesscamping.com Learn more about the Quartzsite Sports, Vacation & RV Show: https://www.quartzsitervshow.com 🙌 Thank You to Our Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Progressive Insurance, supporting RVers nationwide. https://www.progressive.com/GirlCamper/ Looking for more great places to camp? Check out our America The Beautiful page. https://youtu.be/fPmIpgF1KDQ

  8. 12/09/2025

    Homemade Holiday Gifts for Campers

    Looking for meaningful, budget-friendly homemade holiday gifts for campers this year? On the latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Janine shares five handmade gift ideas that are easy to create, fun to personalize, and perfect for your favorite camping friends. These gifts are thoughtful, practical, and infused with that Girl Camper spirit of creativity and community. Whether you’re looking for something cozy for the campsite or a heartfelt gift that doesn’t break the bank, these projects are simple, beautiful, and totally doable. 🎁 Homemade Holiday Gift Ideas Featured in This Episode 1. Paper-Bag Fire Starter Roses A gorgeous (and useful!) fire starter made from a simple lunch bag, twine, and a bit of petroleum jelly. Perfect for campfires and backyard firepits. 2. Vintage Thermos Lamp (Battery Powered) Turn a thrift store thermos into a charming bedside lamp using a battery-operated LED puck light and a clip-on shade. Stunning on a camper nightstand! 3. Simmering Potpourri Jar Layer dehydrated oranges, apples, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon for a fragrant stovetop simmer that smells like the holidays. 4. Shelf-Stable Soup Mix in a Jar Combine freeze-dried vegetables, quick-cook pasta, and bouillon to create an easy soup mix your friends can take on the road. Perfect for a chilly camping night. 5. Origami String Light Boxes Hand-folded origami cubes placed over a strand of LED lights—simple, soothing, and beautiful in any RV or tiny space. 🛒 Amazon Shopping List for These DIY Gifts All items are from the supply list used in the episode: Extra Large Double Sided Tape Origami Paper Freeze-Dried Mixed Vegetables Battery Operated Wireless LED Light Bulb Lamp Shade Light Bulb Clip Adapter Dried Blood Orange Slices Whole Cloves Star Anise Looking for more DIY projects? Check out our article on more ideas on how to make nature inspired fire starters. Affiliate Disclaimer Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, Girl Camper may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work and helping us keep the Girl Camper community thriving! https://youtu.be/4LfHgNin3Hs

See All (178)

4.6
out of 5
257 Ratings

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
    178
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2015-2024 Girl Camper, LLC
  • Show Website
    Girl Camper

You Might Also Like