About
Changing Gears, founded in 2005 by Charlie and Landra Kerekes, is one of the longest-running online resources dedicated to RV ownership and the RV lifestyle. The site serves as a one-stop hub for anyone considering or already living the RV life — from first-time buyers to seasoned full-timers. It features an extensive library of beginner guides covering RV types, weights and ratings, and a detailed RV glossary. A standout feature is its suite of interactive calculators, including towing weight calculators for travel trailers and 5th wheels, RV loan and budget calculators, propane life estimators, battery life calculators, and cargo and truck selectors. Beyond calculators, the site provides practical resources such as PDI inspection checklists, setup and departure checklists available as Etsy printables, an RV manufacturers directory, and a curated list of RV salvage yards and parts stores. Community resources include guides to RV clubs, memberships, passes, social groups, forums, and helpful apps. The blog section features contributions from multiple RV enthusiasts sharing real-world experiences, product reviews, and travel tips. Changing Gears is ideal for prospective RV buyers, new RV owners, full-time nomads, and families seeking to simplify and enhance their RV adventures.
Key Features
- Interactive RV Calculators: Includes towing weight calculators for travel trailers and 5th wheels, RV loan and budget calculators, propane life estimator, battery life calculator, and cargo/truck selectors.
- Beginner Guides & Glossaries: Comprehensive guides covering RV model types, weights and ratings, towing basics, and a full RV terms glossary for newcomers.
- Checklists & Printables: Downloadable PDI inspection checklists, setup and departure checklists available as Etsy printables to keep RV trips organized and safe.
- RV Manufacturers & Parts Directory: Curated list of RV manufacturers, salvage yards, and local parts stores to help owners find vehicles and replacement parts efficiently.
- Clubs, Memberships & Community Resources: Guides to RV clubs, memberships, passes, social groups, forums, blogs, and helpful apps for building community on the road.
Use Cases
- A first-time RV buyer uses the beginner guides and RV model type breakdowns to choose the right type of RV for their family's needs.
- An RV owner planning a long road trip uses the towing weight and propane life calculators to ensure their setup is safe and properly equipped.
- A couple transitioning to full-time van or RV life uses the budget calculator and membership guides to plan their finances and find community.
- A new RV owner preparing for their first pickup uses the PDI inspection checklist to thoroughly inspect their vehicle before leaving the dealership.
- An RV enthusiast researching replacement parts or a new vehicle uses the manufacturer directory and salvage yard listings to find what they need.
Pros
- Established & Trusted Resource: Operating since 2005, Changing Gears has over two decades of RV knowledge, making it one of the most reliable independent RV information sites.
- Practical Interactive Tools: The suite of free calculators helps users make informed decisions about towing capacity, budgeting, and fuel planning before and during trips.
- Completely Free: All guides, calculators, directories, and checklists are available at no cost, making it accessible to any RV enthusiast.
Cons
- Not an AI-Powered Tool: The site relies on static content and manual calculators rather than AI or machine learning, so recommendations are not personalized or dynamic.
- Blog Content May Vary in Frequency: Post frequency depends on contributor availability, and some sections may not be updated as regularly as dedicated news outlets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Changing Gears free to use?
Yes, Changing Gears is completely free. All guides, calculators, checklists, and directory resources are available without any subscription or payment.
What kind of calculators does Changing Gears offer?
The site offers a variety of interactive calculators including travel trailer and 5th wheel towing weight calculators, an RV loan calculator, RV budget calculator, propane life calculator, battery life calculator, liquid weight calculator, and a cargo and truck selector.
Who is Changing Gears designed for?
It's designed for anyone interested in the RV lifestyle — from first-time buyers researching their options, to new RV owners learning the basics, to experienced full-time nomads looking for community resources and tools.
Does Changing Gears have checklists I can download?
Yes, the site provides RV checklists including PDI inspection checklists and setup/departure checklists, some of which are available as printable downloads via Etsy.
How long has Changing Gears been around?
Changing Gears was founded in 2005 by Charlie and Landra Kerekes, giving it over 20 years of experience as an RV lifestyle and ownership resource.
