Travel RVing - GPS Systems - Practical and Fun While You're on the Road

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Travel RVing finds the Global Positioning System (GPS) to be a technological marvel. When on a long trips in unknown territory, RVers know that having a good GPS system on board makes driving time more simple, efficient, and enjoyable.

Taking the correct route is, in all likelihood, more important to the RVer than to any other group of travelers. Turning around a 40 foot motorhome while pulling a towable car can be a challenge to even the most seasoned RVer.

The GPS system is a satellite-based navigation system made up of a network of 24 satellites. GPS works in all kinds of weather conditions, 24 hours a day, all over the world. The system has to be defined by three coordinates--the latitude and longitude, as well as the elevation above sea level. This is called trilateration -- that thing they do in all the TV shows to catch crooks using a cell phones or tracking devices. I know you appreciate this technical information that I am imparting to you and I'm sure you know that I have no idea how the darn thing works-- I just know it works...most of the time.

For the RV traveler, GPS devices can provide a whole array of useful functions in addition to getting from point A to point B. Depending on how sophisticated the device is (that means how expensive) it can find gas stations, campgrounds, emergency locations, landmarks, restaurants and Joe the Plumber.

GPS devices come in a multitude of shapes and sizes. Some are mountable, some hand- held, and some are in-dash units. Which one is best depends entirely upon what you are looking for your GPS to do. Gosh, some of them will play cds, dvds, and mp-3s. The portable models have some advantages over the in-dash units since they can be taken out of the RV and used for excursions away from the RV like hiking or bicycling. They can also, of course, be used in the tow vehicle for all those fun things you want to go see and do while in a given area.

Since GPS devices have become so prominent, lots of folks these days are into geocaching. Geocaching is an outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Isn't that great? Guess playing hide and seek never gets old. This is really great family fun.

Travel RVing is a real fan of the GPS. But, unfortunately, GPS does not always work. Remember that a GPS device receives signals from satellites which are in a galaxy far, far away. It has to receive signals from at least 3 satellites in order to calculate its position. If these signals are too weak or obstructed by tall buildings or heavy foliage, GPS tracking can be "iffy". These are the times that try men's souls.

Recalculating... Recalculating... Recalculating...

Sandy St. Germaine has a website devoted to the RV lifestyle. Please contact me at Travel RVing

Top Ten Tips For Camping While Pregnant

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It is possible for you to be pregnant and still participate in many of the outdoor activities that you love. Camping is a great opportunity for you to get that much-needed exercise and relaxation that is required during pregnancy. As your pregnancy progresses, you should avoid any activity that puts you at risk for falling or increases the chance of trauma to your abdomen. As long as you stay safe and stay comfortable there is no reason why you cannot enjoy a camping trip. It just takes a little extra planning and preparation. Be sure to consult with your doctor before planning your trip. Your doctor will help you discern the amount of adventure your spirit will be safe to engage in. So get out your camping checklist and your camping preparation to-do list and be prepared to add some additions to both lists.

Tip #1: Be absolutely certain to visit a doctor before-hand.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor. Take along a list of activities you plan to do. Get a physical to ensure that you are in good health and so is your unborn baby. Ask if there are any other safety tips that the doctor can recommend.

Tip #2: Determine the closest medical facility to your camp.

Locate the nearest medical facility. Take a trip to the facility and determine a plan in case you do have an emergency.

Tip #3: Camp as close to the restrooms as possible.

It is a good idea to set up camp as close to the restrooms as possible. Taking frequent trips to empty your bladder is actually a common early sign of pregnancy, starting about six weeks into your first trimester. During pregnancy hormonal changes cause blood to flow more quickly through your kidneys, filling your bladder more often. A lot of extra fluid getting processed through the kidneys and pressure on your bladder from the growing fetus also contributes to urinary frequency. Morning sickness could also send you headed quickly toward the restrooms. Be sure to pack a robe and slippers or slips-ons for nighttime emergencies.

Tip #4: Bring an air mattress and lots of pillows.

Sleeping can be very difficult while pregnant no matter where you are. Be sure to invest in a nice air mattress. Bring body pillows and lots of other comfortable pillows. Bring sheets, extra blankets and a comforter. When pregnant avoid sleeping on your back. You want your sleeping experience to be as close to home as possible. If possible keep your normal sleeping schedule.

Tip #5: Stay cool mama.

Overheating is very dangerous for both mother and baby. Dealing with the heat can be one of the reasons that camping can get a little too uncomfortable for a pregnant woman. Stay cool by being prepared. Always bring ice. You can put it in your water, on your body or just eat it to cool down. It also helps to make ice bags wrapped in a piece of cotton. Put this on your head in case of a headache or to keep your body temperature down. Bring extra wash cloths or a small towel to get wet and drape over your neck if it gets too hot. Drink lots of ice water. Bring a battery operated hand-held fan. Fill a spray bottle with water or a mixture of two parts rosewater and one part plain water. Keep it in the cooler or next to an ice pack to keep in cold. Spray your face regularly to refresh and cool you down during the day and night.

Tip #6: Take it easy.

During pregnancy a woman becomes exhausted easily. Take lots of breaks. Do not hike more than one mile away from your car or camp. Be sure not to over exert yourself in any activity. You might need to take frequent naps. Relax and unwind. Bring a good book and some activities you can do while sitting at camp; such as crocheting, drawing or knitting.

Tip #7: Do not carry anything heavy.

Give gear to someone else to carry. If you have to strain at all it is too heavy. You need to be very careful about lifting too much weight, especially as pregnancy progresses. During pregnancy your joints become less stable and ligaments become looser. There is also risk of becoming dizzy or losing your balance easier, making the chances of a fall increase.

Tip #8: Bring supportive, comfortable shoes.

It is likely that you will be on your feet at some time while camping. Invest in a good, comfortable pair of shoes. Be sure to try them out before you leave to be sure that they keep you and your feet feeling like happy campers.

Tip #9: Stay hydrated.

Be sure to bring plenty of bottled water with you. Drink it through-out the day and often, especially while engaging in activity and during extreme heat. Dehydration is very dangerous for a fetus. Drink water anytime you feel dizzy, flushed or overheated.

Tip #10: Enjoy yourself.

Have fun! When you are happy and having fun so is baby. Go sight-seeing. Take up photography and take lots and lots of pictures. Enjoy writing in a journal or planning a scrapbook of your entire trip. Many women find that pregnancy makes them feel more creative, even poetic. Learn to make a baby blanket, booties or a hat while connecting your baby to nature in utero. Fishing can be very relaxing and fun too, especially if someone will cook and clean the fish for you. Short walks are a great way to get that much-needed exercise during pregnancy. Swimming is also an excellent way to get exercise and also help beat the heat. Remember to wear sunblock. Be sure to check with your doctor first before-hand to get the clear on your camping activities.

Closing Notes:

CONGRATULATIONS MOTHER-TO-BE! Wishing you and baby a life of laughter, love and miracles!