Episodes

In this episode, Girl Camper founder Janine Pettit chats with Rayma Waters—Girl Camper Guide Emeritus and lifelong adventurer—about what it means to keep exploring through every season of life. From raising boys and teaching PE to towing a vintage trailer solo and eventually driving a Class C motorhome across the country, Rayma has done it all. Now in a new chapter, she’s camping in a ground tent, mixing in international travel, and reminding us all that there’s no wrong way to camp like a girl...

Traveling with pets? You're not alone—and you're not unprepared! In this episode, co-host Lesa McDermott talks with Dawn Polk, Girl Camper Magazine’s go-to pet expert and co-founder of RV Education 101, about what it really takes to camp successfully with pets. From choosing the right campground to knowing what to pack and how to handle emergencies, Dawn covers: Pet-friendly gear must-haves Safety tips for hiking, driving, and campground life Managing pet anxiety on the road Campground etiq...

In this essential episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott talks with Nancy Martinz, an advanced EMT and veteran law enforcement ranger, about real-life campground medical emergencies—and how to survive them. From burns and snake bites to getting lost off-grid, Nancy shares life-saving advice every camper should hear. You'll learn: How to prepare before heading to remote areas What to include in a proper first-aid kit How to call for help with limited or no cell service What ...

Ready to hit the road more often without breaking the bank? In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, founder Janine Pettit shares clever, creative ways to uncover extra money for your next camping adventure. From reducing food waste and prepping budget-friendly meals to turning clutter into cash and canceling sneaky subscriptions, Janine offers practical tips that can make a real impact on your travel fund. Whether you're dreaming of more weekend getaways or planning a big RV trip, this epis...

June 14 is National Go RVing Day, and we’re here to help you celebrate—whether you’re an RV newbie or a seasoned traveler!

This week on the Girl Camper Podcast, we’re taking you straight to a cozy corner of South Jersey, where we hosted an unforgettable Girl Camper weekend at Spacious Skies Country Oaks Campground. Janine Pettit, founder of Girl Camper, and RV Life podcast host Patti Hunt sit down with campers from across the country to talk about what it really means to camp like a girl—solo or not.

Thinking about hitting the road solo in a van—but wondering if it's too late to start? In this episode, Lesa McDermott chats with full-time traveler Charlie Grace about the realities of van life over 50. From downsizing and safety to boondocking, budgeting, and traveling with pets, Charlie shares her honest advice and inspiring journey. Whether you're van-curious or ready to roll, this episode will empower you to take the leap—at any age. What You'll Learn: How Charlie transitioned to van lif...

In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott is joined by Cameron Hahn and Hannah Woolery from Buzz Bikes to explore how e-bikes are transforming the RV and camping lifestyle. From riding scenic trails and hauling camp gear to zipping into town without breaking a sweat, e-bikes offer fun, freedom, and practical convenience for campers of all ages. Buzz Bikes shares what sets their models apart—like Huffy-backed reliability, foldable designs, removable batteries, and rugged ve...

Welcome back to the Girl Camper Podcast! Join co-host Lesa McDermott as she talks campfire cooking with Michael O'Russo from Rome Pie Irons. Discover the history behind these nostalgic campfire treats, learn delicious new recipes, and get essential cooking and care tips for pie irons. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to pie iron cooking, this episode is packed with valuable insights and fun stories. Thanks to Progressive Insurance and Lippert/Curt Manufacturing for sponsoring today's show...

Welcome back, Girl Campers! In this episode of the Girl Camper Podcast, host Lesa McDermott dives deep into the essential topic of caring for your RV's gray and black tanks. Joined by expert Matt Foxcroft, owner of Liquified, you'll learn crucial tips, tricks, and common mistakes to avoid to keep your tanks clean and odor-free. From proper tank valve management to effective cleaning practices and the best tank treatments, Matt covers it all. Check Out Girl Camper! Enter Liquified’s Sweepstakes ...

Welcome to the Girl Camper Podcast! In this episode, co-host Lesa McDermott talks to Susan Lanier Graham, the founder of 'Wander with Wonder' and a full-time RVer. Discover the challenges and joys of living on the road, get valuable tips on RV life, and find out how Susan manages her work and adventures. Whether you're dreaming of a full-time RV lifestyle or just love extended RV trips, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in to learn about reliable internet options, logistic handling, and ...

In this episode, Janine Pettit, the founder of Girl Camper, interviews Lisa Dempsey, the Girl Camper guide for Southeast Texas. They discuss Lisa's journey into camping, her transition from a non-camper to a guide, and the ways she helps other women become confident and empowered campers. Lisa shares stories about her background, her family's challenges, and the impact of her nonprofit work with The Forgotten Wishes Foundation. Janine and Lisa discuss the importance of community, empowerment, an...

In this episode of the Girl Camper podcast, we dive into the world of work camping, offering advice for anyone wanting to hit the road but still have an income. Co-Host Lesa McDermott and special guest Jody Anderson Duquette, Executive Director of Workamper News, explore work camping opportunities and how you can turn your travels into a working adventure. **What is Workamping?** Work camping involves doing any kind of work while living in an RV, although there are some jobs that providing hous...

Welcome to the world of outdoor culinary adventures! Recently on the Girl Camper podcast, hosts Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott welcomed Chef Steve Corso of Outdoor Eats—a trailblazer in outdoor cooking innovation. In this episode, Chef Corso shared his expertise on transforming simple outdoor meals into gourmet experiences and highlighted the mission of Outdoor Eats: encouraging people to eat well while enjoying the great outdoors. From Simple to Gourmet Chef Corso’s journey began with his p...

Hello, fellow adventurers! Janine Pettit, founder and Editor-in-Chief of Girl Camper Magazine, along with Lesa McDermott, VP of Girl Camper, have some news to share about the future of our beloved Girl Camper Magazine. **The Move to Digital** After five successful years and 20 issues, Girl Camper Magazine is taking a bold step forward. In a decision to embrace the future and enhance your reading experience, Girl Camper Magazine will shift exclusively to a digital format. This change promises no...

Welcome back, Girl Campers! In this podcast episode, Lesa and Janine dive into the world of portable power station essentials with Tony Barthel from Stressless Camping. Tony, affectionately known as the “king of nerds,” joins us for an educational discussion filled with expert advice and practical tips on choosing the best portable power for your adventures. Spring into Camping With spring in the air and daylight savings bringing longer days, we’re all eager to get back to camping. Janine and L...

Welcome to another installment of the Girl Camper podcast. Today, we’re thrilled to unveil some details on the much-anticipated Camporee 2025, the unforgettable annual event for girl campers nationwide, set in the picturesque Rockies of Granby, Colorado. Countdown to Camporee 2025 is on! **Introducing Camporee 2025** Join us from June 4th to 8th, 2025, for a unique blend of adventure, camaraderie, and fun. As Lesa McDermott and Deanne Kelly explain, this event encapsulates the spirit of Girl Ca...

Welcome to our latest episode of the Girl Camper Podcast! In this episode, Lesa and Janine give you a tour of two new mega destination campers and a new overlanding trailer. Exploring Destination Trailers In Florida, Lesa and Janine were particularly impressed with two standout destination trailers at the show. These mini homes on wheels featured spacious interiors, luxurious amenities, and multiple sleeping arrangements, including lofts and family suites. It’s everything you need for a comfort...

Hi friends! Janine Pettit from the Girl Camper podcast here to give you a sneak peek into some of our plans for 2025. If you’ve been dreaming of embarking on memorable trips, our Girl Camper event list is exactly what you need to fuel that wanderlust. Buffalo Roundup in South Dakota Join Anita Keeley in South Dakota for a once-in-a-lifetime Buffalo Roundup. This thrilling event at Custer State Park isn’t just about witnessing a grand spectacle; it’s also about forging new friendships. The Buffa...

Sometimes getting to the campground on Friday night takes all the energy I’ve got and the last thing I want to do is start cooking a big meal. I do want comfort food though,and quick meals are necessary. Hummus and carrot sticks aren’t going to do it. Rather than breaking out the charcoal and cast iron pan I make quick meals in my electric skillet. All of the carb comfort in just a few minutes. Keep some staples in your trailer. There are a few staples that I always keep in my trailer that com...

Hey Girl Campers! In today’s spotlight, we’re featuring Bear Den Campground, part of the Spacious Skies network, nestled in North Carolina’s stunning landscape. Our latest podcast episode with Ali Rasmussen from Spacious Skies dives into why Bear Den should be on your camping list this year. The Bear Den Experience Located near the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway near Spruce Pine, Bear Den Campground offers a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities. Ideal for caravans, tents, and car campers,...

Welcome back, Girl Campers and RV enthusiasts! This year, Janine Pettit and Lesa McDermott traveled to the Florida’s RV Super Show in Tampa to uncover the latest small camper innovations for 2025. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or just getting started, there’s something for everyone! Discovering the TAB 360 C.S. with NuCamp We kicked off our journey at NuCamp with Jill Nelson, introducing us to the impressive TAB 360 C.S. This model features an expansive galley kitchen, complete with a two-bu...

Welcome to the latest edition of the Girl Camper podcast! This time, we dive into the exciting world of solo travel with special guest Pamela Holt, executive producer and host of “Me, Myself, and the World.” Streaming on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and GoTraveler, Pamela’s show takes viewers on a journey of discovery, exploring the art of solo travel. **Inspiration to Embark** Pamela inspires us with her personal stories, from childhood travel experiences in Asia to a life-changing car accident leading...

RV enthusiasts, welcome back to the Girl Camper podcast! I’m Lesa McDermott, your co-host, and today we’re diving into the world of RV power systems, specifically focusing on lithium batteries. Joining us is Eva Mitic from Go Power Solar, who shares her extensive knowledge about lithium batteries in RVs. **Understanding the Battery Types** In RVs, there are mainly three types of batteries: Lead Acid, AGM, and Lithium. Lead Acid is the oldest, requiring maintenance and being the heaviest. AGM of...