Girl Camper

Girl Camper
  • 4.6 (256)
  • 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. 3D AGO

    New Girl Camper Membership Platform: Go Places. Do Things. Together.

    Exciting news for women who love adventure and community—Girl Camper has launched a brand-new membership platform designed to bring more connection, perks, and exclusive access to its growing nationwide network of campers! In this episode of the Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit and Girl Camper events manager Theresa Leppert chat about why this new Girl Camper membership is a game-changer for women who love to camp, explore, and meet like-minded friends. Janine shares the vision behind the membership, which includes: 🌟 Access to Girl Camper events 🔒 Members-only content, resources, and guides 🎁 Exclusive giveaways and partner discounts 🧭 A private online community to connect with other Girl Campers Theresa dives into the behind-the-scenes work that went into building a platform that’s intuitive and welcoming, ensuring every member—from weekend warriors to full-time RVers—feels at home. “We’ve always said Girl Camper is more than a brand—it’s a movement. Now we’ve got a home base to support that movement,” says Janine. Whether you’re a solo camper, part of a camping crew, or just beginning your journey, this membership gives you tools, community, and inspiration to go further. 🎧 Listen to the full episode now to get the inside scoop on: Why now was the right time for a membership program What’s included (and what’s coming next!) How to sign up and start enjoying your perks today 💡 Want More on Building Camping Confidence? Check out our expert guide on How to Overcome Camping Fear—perfect for new campers looking to feel more confident hitting the road. A big thank you to our sponsor, Go RVing, for supporting this episode and helping us empower more women to go places and do things—together. https://youtu.be/O_fI1FLJfpA

  2. SEP 23

    The Best New RVs from the Hershey RV Show 2025

    The Hershey RV Show 2025 did not disappoint! Known as “America’s Largest RV Show,” it’s the place where manufacturers debut their newest models, campers dream about their next upgrade, and adventurers discover innovative features designed to make camping easier and more fun. Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit walked the show floor and shared her favorite finds for every style of camping. Why the Hershey RV Show Matters The Hershey RV Show is more than just a showcase of campers—it’s a chance to see what’s next in the RV industry. Whether you love tiny trailers, adventure vans, or truck campers, you’ll find something that sparks new ideas for your camping lifestyle. This year, Janine highlighted models that stand out for their versatility, smart design, and accessibility. Blue Compass Aurora One of the first RVs that caught Janine’s eye was the Aurora, a compact trailer available exclusively at Blue Compass RV. At just 13.5 feet long and a little over 2,600 pounds, it’s lightweight but packed with features: A rear kitchen with a dual-burner stove A full bathroom with shower and toilet Clever dinette-to-bed conversion Gas furnace and electric heating options Perfect for state park camping or light off-grid adventures, the Aurora proves that small campers can still offer big comfort. Storyteller Overland Beast Mode 2026 For those who crave serious adventure, the Beast Mode 2026 from Storyteller Overland was a showstopper. Built on a diesel chassis, it includes: A full enclosed bathroom 37 gallons of fresh water A convertible bed with smart storage below All-electric air conditioning and heating Off-road suspension and 360-degree lighting It’s a true overlander’s dream—ideal for girl campers who want to go farther and stay longer. nuCamp Cirrus 620 Truck Camper Not every camper wants to tow, and that’s where the Cirrus 620 Truck Camper shines. Weighing just over 1,500 pounds, it fits easily on an F-150 or similar half-ton truck. Inside, it offers: A queen bed A small dinette that converts into an extra bed A hidden swivel toilet A compact kitchen with microwave and fridge Best of all, it allows you to camp without worrying about parking or towing a trailer. Jayco Comet Class B Van For campers ready to transition from towing to driving, the Jayco Comet Touring Van offers an appealing option. With seating for two, a convertible RV queen bed, and a galley kitchen, it’s practical and road-trip ready. Features include: A cassette toilet and compact shower 18-gallon fresh water tank Swivel passenger seat and dining table Induction cooktop and refrigerator This van makes a great daily driver that doubles as a weekend escape vehicle. Final Thoughts The Hershey RV Show 2025 was full of inspiration. From lightweight trailers to rugged overland vans, the variety of options proves there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl. Whether you’re dreaming of your first RV or considering a switch to something new, these models offer ideas for every lifestyle. Ready to explore more? Don’t forget to subscribe to the Girl Camper Podcast, follow us on YouTube for RV tours, and check out our community events on our EVENTS PAGE. https://youtu.be/agnTJPXYrZE

  3. SEP 16

    Small Camper Essentials: Our Favorite Things for RV Life

    When it comes to camping in a small RV, every inch of space counts. The right gear can make your adventures easier, more comfortable, and a whole lot more fun. In this week’s Girl Camper Podcast and as part of our On the Road with Girl Camper YouTube series, Lesa teamed up with nuCamp Brand Ambassador and outdoor educator Jenn Grover to compare their favorite small camper essentials. Some of these items are practical, others feel like a little luxury, and a few might just surprise you! Why Small Camper Gear Matters If you’ve spent time in a teardrop trailer, T@B 360, or other small camper, you know that space is limited. Choosing the right gear is about more than just convenience — it’s about maximizing your comfort and making sure every item you pack truly earns its place. Jenn and Lesa each brought their list of 6–7 essentials, and together they came up with a lineup that covers everything from cooking to sleeping to powering your adventures. Favorite Small Camper Essentials Here are some of the products mentioned in the episode (with links so you can check them out for yourself): Kitchen & Cooking Countertop Ice Maker – Small but mighty, perfect for cocktails or cold drinks while boondocking. Instant Pot Vortex Mini Air Fryer – Expands your cooking options beyond a two-burner stove. Weber Cast Iron Griddle Plate – Fits right over your propane burners for pancakes, burgers, and more. Carbon Steel Skillets with Removable Handles – Durable, versatile, and great for propane, induction, or campfire cooking. Power & Tech Jackery Portable Power Station – Keep laptops, coffee makers, and small appliances running off-grid. Bose SoundMax Bluetooth Speaker – Big sound in a compact package, perfect for music or movies. Retractable String Lantern Lights – Light up your campsite (or mark your parking spot) with ease. Comfort & Organization Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Sleeping Pad – Transforms a small camper bed into a comfortable night’s sleep. Sea to Summit Microfiber Towels – Quick-drying, soft, and compact. Paper Towel Holder with Locking Spindle – Keeps rolls from unraveling on the road. Faraday Box for Key Fobs – Prevents accidental vehicle lights or security issues at camp. Conair Garment Steamer – Compact way to freshen up clothes without an iron. About Jenn Grover Jenn is a nuCamp Brand Ambassador, outdoor educator, and small camper enthusiast. She’s also a talented photographer whose adventures inspire campers everywhere. Learn more about her work at JennGrover.com. Learn More About nuCamp We’re proud to partner with nuCamp RV, makers of the T@B 360 and 360cs and other high-quality small campers designed for big adventures. Explore their full lineup at nuCampRV.com. Final Thoughts Whether you’re a new RVer or a seasoned Girl Camper, the right gear can make your small camper feel like home. Try out a few of these favorites and see how they transform your next trip. Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, Girl Camper may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps us continue creating content, podcasts, and resources for our community. Thank you for your support! 💛 https://youtu.be/vgUfaBdZgB4

  4. SEP 8

    Questions to Ask When Buying a New RV: Fees, Financing & Trade-Ins (Part 3 of 3)

    When making such a big purchase, it’s critical to know the right questions to ask when buying a new RV. In Part 3 of our Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott and Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center, explore the final steps of the buying process: fees, financing, and trade-in values. Understanding Dealer Fees Dealer fees can be confusing and sometimes overwhelming. Mike explains common charges such as prep fees, shipping fees, and starter kits. He also shares which fees are legitimate, which are negotiable, and which ones you should walk away from. Knowing the difference helps you avoid overpaying. Add-Ons and Extras Extended warranties, nitrogen tire fills, upholstery protection, and ceramic coatings are often offered at the dealership. Mike outlines which add-ons might be worth considering and which ones are usually overpriced. His advice helps buyers decide when to say yes—and when to save their money. Financing Your RV Should you finance through a dealer or shop around at banks and credit unions? Mike discusses how dealers make money on financing, why loan terms vary, and how to compare offers. He also explains how some contracts may change if you plan to pay cash. Trade-In Values If you plan to trade in your current RV, it’s important to know how dealers calculate value. Mike shares resources buyers can use to estimate trade-ins, why sentimental value doesn’t translate into higher offers, and how tax savings factor into the final number. Buying with Confidence By asking the right questions about fees, financing, and trade-ins, you’ll be prepared to make a fair deal and drive away confident in your purchase. 👉 If you missed them, be sure to go back and listen to Episode 1 (common mistakes, prep work, and tow vehicles) and Episode 2 (warranties, pricing, and dealer practices) in this series. Sponsored by Progressive Insurance – Protect your RV adventures with Progressive. https://youtu.be/72fiDeZl30k

  5. SEP 2

    Questions to Ask When Buying a New RV: Warranties & Dealer Practices (Part 2 of 3)

    When it comes to RV shopping, the questions to ask when buying a new RV go far beyond floorplans and tow ratings. In Part 2 of our three-part Girl Camper Podcast series, co-host Lesa McDermott continues her conversation with Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. This episode digs into the details of warranties, pricing, and the dealer practices every buyer should understand. Understanding RV Warranties One of the most confusing areas for new RV buyers is the warranty. Mike explains the difference between a manufacturer’s warranty and a dealer warranty. He also breaks down what “lifetime warranty” really means—and why you should read the fine print carefully. Not all coverage is the same, and sometimes what sounds too good to be true, is. MSRP vs. Sale Price Should you focus on MSRP or the final sale price? Mike shares why it’s important to understand both numbers, along with the best times of year to shop for deals. Knowing your manufacturer’s calendar and incentive periods can save you thousands. Avoid Dealer Tricks and Bait-and-Switch Many dealers advertise low monthly payments or showcase rock-bottom prices that disappear when you arrive. Mike offers practical advice on how to avoid these common traps, why you should always double-check paperwork, and the warning signs of a bait-and-switch tactic. Choosing the Right Dealer The dealer you buy from is just as important as the RV itself. Mike explains how to evaluate a dealership, from the cleanliness of the service department to the honesty of the sales team. Trust and transparency matter when you’re making such a big investment. Shop Smart and Ask Questions This episode will help you shop with confidence. By asking smart questions, you can spot red flags, avoid unnecessary costs, and find a dealer who puts your needs first. 👉 Don’t miss Part 3 of this series, where we’ll cover fees, financing, and trade-in values. Check out Part 1 where we talked about how to prepare before you shop, common mistakes, and so much more. Sponsored by Go RVing – Start your RV adventure today at gorving.com https://youtu.be/h36MYk0-zLw

  6. AUG 25

    Buying a New RV? Questions to Ask Before You Shop (Part 1 of 3)

    Are you shopping for your first RV? Before stepping onto a dealer lot, it’s important to know the questions to ask when buying a new RV. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, co-host Lesa McDermott talks with Mike Harlan, General Manager at North Trail RV Center in Fort Myers, Florida. Together, they explore how to prepare for RV shopping and avoid common pitfalls. Avoiding Common RV Buying Mistakes Mike shares the biggest mistakes first-time buyers make. Too often, people rush into a purchase without doing any homework. He explains why preparation is the key to making a smart investment. By asking the right questions before you buy, you can save money and avoid frustration later. Tow Vehicles and Tongue Weight Your tow vehicle plays a critical role in your RV choice. Mike explains that just because your vehicle can tow a certain weight doesn’t mean it will do it safely. Understanding tongue weight and tow ratings helps ensure you’ll enjoy your travels without stress. How to Compare RV Floorplans Flashy features can be tempting, but the floorplan determines how you’ll live in the RV. Mike encourages buyers to picture everyday use: What happens on a rainy day when everyone is stuck inside? Are the cabinets deep enough for real dishes? Does the space offer comfort and flexibility? Asking these simple but practical questions can prevent regret down the road. Start Your RV Buying Journey the Right Way This first episode sets the foundation for making a confident RV purchase. If you’re planning to buy soon, these insights will guide you toward the right rig. 👉 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into warranties, pricing, and dealer practices every buyer should know. Sponsored by Progressive Insurance – Protect your RV adventures with Progressive. https://youtu.be/f7kPFXS1ovQ

  7. AUG 5

    5 Signs You’re Looking at a Quality RV (and How to Spot Them)

    When it comes to buying a new RV, it’s easy to get distracted by floorplans, décor, and shiny features. But if you want a camper that lasts, the real magic is in the quality of the build. In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, Lesa McDermott breaks down the five key signs that show you’re looking at a well‑built RV — using the nuCamp TAB 360cs as a prime example. 1. Quality Cabinetry and Hardware Start inside. Are the cabinets made from solid plywood or cheap particle board? nuCamp uses furniture‑grade plywood with dovetail joints — the kind you’d expect in high‑end furniture. Check for soft‑close hinges, sturdy mounting, and locking mechanisms that keep everything secure on the road. 2. Strong Framing and Sidewalls The bones of your RV matter. Aluminum framing and fiberglass composite sidewalls — like those found in nuCamp campers — offer strength, water resistance, and weight savings. Bonus: nuCamp builds its own frame/sidewalls in‑house for tighter quality control. 3. Smart Roof and Insulation Design A one‑piece seamless roof reduces leak points, and proper insulation keeps you comfortable year‑round. nuCamp’s Boondock Black Canyon package even includes heated tanks for all‑season camping. 4. Solid Warranty and Service Access A great RV comes with a warranty that’s both comprehensive and transferable. nuCamp’s warranty is competitive, but what sets them apart is their on‑site service center in Sugarcreek, Ohio — open to all RV owners, not just their customers. 5. Manufacturer Values and Reputation The best RV builders lead with integrity. nuCamp’s core values — Care Genuinely, Service Over Self, Always Do the Right Thing, Work Hard — are backed by a company culture that puts quality and relationships first. Your RV Shopping Checklist Lesa wraps up with a simple checklist: quality materials, durable construction, solid warranty, easy service access, and a trustworthy manufacturer. Floorplans may change and colors will fade, but quality, integrity, and customer care will carry you through every mile. Looking for more helpful advice when buying an RV? Check out our article, First Time Buyer Questions. Thank you to Go RVing for sponsoring this episode.👉 Start your own RV adventure today at GoRVing.com https://youtu.be/1f96lcp1QUs

  8. JUL 28

    Can You Tow with a Jeep? What Every Girl Camper Should Know

    If you’ve ever wondered whether you can safely tow a camper with a Jeep, you’re not alone. In a recent Girl Camper Podcast episode, Lesa McDermott teamed up with Tony and Peggy Barthel from StressLess Camping to talk all things Jeep towing. As a former Jeep owner, Lesa brings real-life experience—and some hard-learned lessons—to the conversation. Know Before You Tow Many Jeep Wranglers have a maximum tow capacity of just 3,500 pounds. While that might sound like plenty, it’s important to factor in more than just the dry weight of your camper. Once you add propane, batteries, water, gear, and your passengers, your actual towing weight can be much higher than expected. Why Tongue Weight and Payload Matter Tony and Peggy break down key towing terms like tongue weight (typically 10–15% of your trailer’s weight) and payload capacity. They also explain why weight distribution hitches and sway control aren’t optional—they’re essential for safety, stability, and reducing stress on your vehicle. Both Tony and Peggy and Lesa recommend using a weight distribution hitch with built in sway control and they like Camco's Eaz-Lift ReCurve R3. The Truth About Dealership Advice Not all dealers fully understand towing specs. Lesa shares how even her Jeep dealership didn’t realize she needed to change her differential fluid more frequently when towing. Bottom line: always do your own research and verify what your specific vehicle can handle using a VIN-based towing guide. Yes, You Can Tow—With the Right Camper There are lightweight travel trailers, overland campers, and pop-ups designed for towing behind a Jeep. But knowing your numbers—and staying under them—is key. Need to look up your vehicle's tow weight? Here is a link to a site that you can do that for free. Special thanks to Go RVing for sponsoring this episode! Check them out for more towing advice and to find your next camper. https://youtu.be/bEFfj_chYb0 Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links or sponsored product mentions. Girl Camper may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

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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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    161
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2015-2024 Girl Camper, LLC
  • Show Website
    Girl Camper

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