RV Out West

Brooks Smothers
  • 4.9 (41)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

RV Out West is a Pacific Northwest travel podcast that explores the RV lifestyle, camping adventures, and road trips across Washington, Oregon, Idaho and beyond. Hosted by Brooks Smothers, this show shares insider tips, destination guides and authentic stories from the open road. RV Out West inspires you to explore new destinations, connect with nature, and enjoy the adventure that comes with hitting the open road; one campsite, one story and one unforgettable journey at a time.  🎧 Tune in for travel inspiration, RV tips and stories that celebrate the spirit of adventure in the Pacific Northwest.

  1. 17H AGO

    Destination: Sun Valley, Idaho

    Experience four-season RV travel in Sun Valley, Idaho, where mountain adventure meets small-town rhythm beneath the towering Sawtooth Mountains. In this episode, we roll into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic basecamps for RVers and explore why Sun Valley is a year-round destination worth returning to again and again. From sunrise over Bald Mountain to golden evenings under wide Idaho skies, you’ll discover what makes this valley feel cinematic in every season. Winter brings world-class skiing and snowboarding on Bald Mountain, quiet campgrounds, and crisp alpine air. Spring opens rushing rivers and uncrowded trails. Summer stretches long with biking the Wood River Trail, fly fishing on Silver Creek, hiking high ridgelines, and outdoor concerts. Fall delivers glowing aspens, cool mornings, and fewer crowds for a slower, more intentional RV experience. We also cover practical insights for RV travelers, including campground access, scenic drives, seasonal planning tips, and how to balance outdoor adventure with time exploring nearby Ketchum. If you’re searching for the best RV destinations in Idaho, four-season camping inspiration, or a true mountain basecamp for your home on wheels, this episode will help you plan your next unforgettable stop in Sun Valley. Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    22 min

  2. FEB 16

    Winter RVing Tips for Cold-Weather Adventures

    If you’ve ever RVed in the Pacific Northwest, you know how the cold can sneak in during late-season hookups, foggy morning coffee walks, or packing up camp after sunset. In this episode of RV Out West, we dive into winter RV camping, sharing practical tips to stay warm, extend your camping season, and truly enjoy your time on the road. We explore the perks of winter RVing from fewer crowds, snow-covered scenery, and peaceful campgrounds to what you should consider before venturing out. I talk about propane management, condensation control, extra layers, and planning for mountain passes in icy conditions. I also share my personal experiences towing over the Cascade Mountains in winter, including preparation, traction strategies, and how to stay safe and confident in challenging weather. As part of this episode, I review a piece of gear that has been a game-changer this season: the Ororo Sure Warm 7-Zone Heated Vest, paired with their Merino Wool Hoodie. I share real-world testing in late fall camping, snowboarding trips, and even extreme cold conditions in Kansas City. Winter RVing isn’t just about enduring the cold—it’s about experiencing the road in a slower, quieter, and more magical way. From serene state parks to snow-dusted mountains, this episode will inspire you to rethink your RV season and enjoy the beauty of winter adventures in the Pacific Northwest. For gear links, winter RVing tips, and more, check the show notes at RV Out West. Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    25 min

  3. FEB 9

    RVing with Joe in British Columbia

    RVing with Joe is a familiar name for anyone who enjoys RV travel, road life stories, and practical insight from someone who actually lives it. Through his popular YouTube channel, RVing with Joe invites viewers along for real world RV adventures, covering everything from campground experiences and RV setups to travel routes and day to day life on the road. His content speaks to both seasoned RVers and those just starting to dream about life behind the wheel. What makes RVing with Joe resonate is his honest, approachable storytelling. Each video feels like a relaxed conversation, blending helpful tips with personal experiences from miles spent traveling highways, backroads, and scenic byways. Joe shares what works, what doesn’t, and what he has learned along the way, giving viewers realistic expectations about RV travel without the sales pitch or hype. In this episode, Joe joins us to talk all about RVing in British Columbia, Canada, sharing some of his favorite places to camp, explore, and slow down along the way. From scenic routes to memorable stops, he offers insight that’s valuable for anyone planning a trip north or dreaming about it from home. For listeners who enjoy armchair travel, RVing with Joe offers an easy escape. His stories transport you to campgrounds, open roads, and quiet mornings with coffee outside the rig, while delivering practical information you can apply to your own adventures. Over time, RVing with Joe has become a trusted voice in the RV community, making his content a great listen for anyone curious about RV life or planning their next trip. Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    37 min

  4. FEB 2

    Oregon RV Trips With Girl Camper

    We sit down with Joanna from the Oregon chapter of Girl Camper to talk all about RVing in Oregon and what makes traveling throughout the state such a great experience. Joanna shares how she first got started as an RVer, what sparked her love for life on the road, and how RV travel has created opportunities for adventure, community, and lasting memories. We explore some of her favorite RV destinations across Oregon, including coastal campgrounds, mountain locations, and peaceful forest settings that are perfect for slowing down and enjoying the outdoors. If you are planning an RV trip through Oregon or looking for fresh travel ideas, this conversation is full of helpful tips and inspiration for RVers at any stage of their journey. Joanna also introduces listeners to the Girl Camper organization, a nationwide community designed to support women who love camping and RV travel. We talk about how Girl Camper builds friendships, encourages confidence in the outdoors, and connects women through shared adventures. This episode offers real travel stories, practical insight, and a closer look at RV life in Oregon. Tune in to hear Joanna’s journey, discover great places to explore by RV, and learn more about how the Girl Camper community is helping people experience the joy of the open road. Be sure to subscribe to RV Out West for more RV travel conversations, destination guides, and stories from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    36 min

  5. JAN 26

    7 Reasons RVing in the PNW Feels Different

    There’s a moment that happens in the Pacific Northwest. You step outside, take a breath, and you’ll notice it. A mix of salt in the air and cool mountain freshness that feels grounding and familiar all at once. I was born and raised here, spent a decade away exploring the country and the world, and yet that feeling always pulled me back. Some places you visit. Others stay with you. This episode explores RVing in the Pacific Northwest through the seven things that make it so special. From weather that shapes the land instead of disrupting it, to seasons that reward patience and flexibility, the PNW teaches a different way to travel. Forests, rivers, and coastlines create a rhythm you learn to follow, not fight. Mountains reveal themselves on their own terms, long summer daylight stretches travel days, and quieter moments invite you to slow down and stay awhile. Along the way, we dig into the state parks, public lands, and waterways that make RV travel here so accessible and rewarding. This is a region where boondocking feels endless, campgrounds sit inside living landscapes, and outdoor recreation is always close by. If you’ve ever wondered why RVers fall hard for the Pacific Northwest, or why once you travel here it becomes the benchmark for everywhere else, this episode tells that story. Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    22 min

  6. JAN 19

    RV Tech Secrets Every RVer Needs to Know

    Living full time in an RV gives you a firsthand look at what works and what breaks on the road. In this episode you will hear from the couple behind Fair Winds RV, full-time RVers who share practical RV maintenance tips, advice for full-time RV living, and stories from their travels across the United States and the Pacific Northwest. From routine checks to preventing common breakdowns, they provide real-world guidance every RVer can use to keep their rig running safely and smoothly. Their experience as certified RV technicians makes these tips actionable, helping you avoid costly repairs and enjoy life on the road with confidence. Beyond maintenance, they share favorite destinations, travel lessons, and insights from exploring the Pacific Northwest by RV. Whether you’re planning your first adventure or looking for inspiration for your next trip, their stories highlight what makes full-time RVing rewarding and practical. If you’re an RVer looking for RV travel tips, maintenance advice, and full-time RV stories, this episode is packed with valuable guidance. Tune in to hear the experiences, advice, and adventures of the couple behind Fair Winds RV, and learn how to make the most of your journey on the road. Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    33 min
  7. Discover America Through The RV-2-50 Project

    JAN 12

    Discover America Through The RV-2-50 Project

    The freedom of RV travel is more than open roads and scenic overlooks; it’s a way to explore the United States with curiosity, adventure, and a sense of discovery. As the country prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, there’s no better time to hit the highway, experience the beauty of national parks, campgrounds, and Americana while creating memories along the way. From breathtaking landscapes to quiet campfires and sunrises over the horizon, RVing offers a way to slow down, connect with the land, and celebrate our shared heritage. In this episode, we’re joined by Monika from Go RVing, an expert in RV travel and outreach, who shares insights for both new and experienced RVers. Monika talks about the RV-2-50 Project, her own journey with RVing, and how Go RVing is helping people across the country discover the possibilities of life on the road. She also shares tips, inspiration, and perspective on where the future of the RV community is heading, making this episode a must-listen for anyone curious about RV life. If you’re planning your first RV trip, dreaming of exploring scenic highways, or looking for stories and guidance to enrich your RV adventures, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and motivation to get out and explore. Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    33 min

  8. 12/09/2025

    A Look Ahead to 2026

    The end of the year is in sight, and 2026 is already peeking over the horizon. In this week’s final episode of 2025, we’re taking a moment to look ahead, dream a little bigger, and talk about what’s coming next for this show and for the adventures waiting out on the open road. As we shift gears toward a brand-new year, we’re talking goals, fresh possibilities, and the excitement that comes with a clean slate. For RVers and road-trippers, the future is always just one highway away — and 2026 promises even more stories, more Pacific Northwest exploration, and more conversations that celebrate life lived outdoors. Think of this moment like a GPS recalculating: not because we’re lost, but because a better, more scenic route has just appeared. If you love RV travel, if you dream of new destinations, this episode is a chance to pause, reflect, and look forward with anticipation and optimism. Buckle up because 2026 is rolling in fast, and the upcoming season of RV Out West is already shaping up to be our best yet. Tune in and let’s get excited for what’s beyond the horizon.  Send a text Sign up for our Newsletter Please follow the show so you never miss an episode. We ask that you also kindly give the show a rating and a review as well. Learn more about RV Out West over on our website at www.rvoutwest.com Join in on the conversation via social media: Instagram Facebook

    14 min
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Trailer

4.9
out of 5
41 Ratings

About

RV Out West is a Pacific Northwest travel podcast that explores the RV lifestyle, camping adventures, and road trips across Washington, Oregon, Idaho and beyond. Hosted by Brooks Smothers, this show shares insider tips, destination guides and authentic stories from the open road. RV Out West inspires you to explore new destinations, connect with nature, and enjoy the adventure that comes with hitting the open road; one campsite, one story and one unforgettable journey at a time.  🎧 Tune in for travel inspiration, RV tips and stories that celebrate the spirit of adventure in the Pacific Northwest.

Information

  • Creator
    Brooks Smothers
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    187
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 RV Out West
  • Show Website
    RV Out West

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