Update

With less than three weeks before the big trip, we thought we'd bring you up to date on current status and planning. Last week, we completed our pre-trip check out by a professional service center. We took our RV to Corbin's RV in Fredericksburg and asked Brian to do a thorough check of all systems including the chassis and to do an oil change. We also asked for some accommodation on time to complete the work given that we would not have any transportation while the rig was in his shop. Corbin's did both and kept to their promise and their estimate of cost (after an initial assessment) and time. While it ended up costing more than originally planned, we felt the service was well worth the expense. They had our rig for a day and a half. Wonderful neighbors (thanks D and K) provided transportation to home and back to the shop.

All systems checked out and functioned correctly except for one minor problem Every one of our propane-powered appliances had mud-dabber (wasps) in them and that needed to be cleaned out. That explained the sooty performance of our the hot water heater and probably caused poor performance of our other appliances. It's a common problem with RVs. Corbin's cleaned them all up for us. That would have taken me hours to do myself.

Our planning continues as we plot a course from Utah east to include Kansas, Missouri, and then south to Texas. I mentioned use of the Good Sam Trip Planner tool before. This tool not only maps out the best route, taking into account roadway restrictions for RVs, it also shows campgrounds and attractions along the way. You have to be a member of Good Sam to use it, but the membership cost is very nominal and opens up other savings opportunities in the form of discounts at campgrounds, gas stations (Pilot Flying J) and Camping World. [As an aside, Camping World just announced they are joining forces with Gander Mountain to expand their outlets across the country.] Good Sam also offers a variety of insurance products at competitive prices.

One of the hardest decisions is which campground to use when there are several options. The trip planner provides links to ratings; but nothing beats visiting the campground's web site to check out their amenities and rates as well as to view photos of the facility. Reading reviews provided by the Trip Planner as well as those on the facility's web site provides a lot of insight as well.

Another great tool is the satellite view in Google Maps. This provides a great overhead perspective of the actual campground and gives you the ability to visualize tree density and proximity to neighbors and facilities.

We have one more trial run planned before departing for points west. We'll be at Lake Anna State Park next week making lists and doing a final systems check. We'll keep you posted.