Travel, Trails, and Tall Tales: RV Life, Cruise Careers, Gator Boots & Airport Rules

What to know about purchasing a used RV. Learn about cruise ship life, or eyeing alligator boots—how about a hunting adventure plus TSA ID rules. Join radio hosts Rebecca Wanner aka 'BEC' and Jeff ‘Tigger’ Erhardt (Tigger & BEC) with The Bend Radio Show & Podcast, your news outlet for the latest in Outdoors & Western Lifestyle News!

 

Season 5, Episode 241

What to Know Before Hitting the Road in a 20-Year-Old Class C Motorhome 

Buying a used motorhome can be the start of a grand adventure—or a roadside disaster. Here’s what to inspect and prepare before taking off.

Inspect the Core Systems

• Engine & Transmission: Hire a mechanic to inspect the drivetrain. Leaks, odd noises, or sluggish shifting can spell big trouble.
• Roof & Seals: Check for soft spots or water damage. Even a pinhole can turn into a pricey repair.
• Electrical & Plumbing: Test every outlet, light, and water system. A short or leak on the road is no fun.

Don’t Skip These Pre-Trip Checks

• Replace tires older than 5-7 years, regardless of tread.
• Flush and sanitize the freshwater system.
• Test brakes and lights, including turn signals and trailer hookups.
• Stock your toolkit: duct tape, fuses, jumper cables, sealant, and extra fluids.

Lastly the biggest step before leaving on a long trip, try out the RV or camper close to home on a couple of small trips. This is so important in order to fully understand how all of the equipment works, handles on the road to even parking or leveling. Too often we are overly excited and just want "TO GO"... But that's when disaster or unwanted extra stresses or costs can come into play. So try out that "New To You" RV or Camper and hit the road!

Cruise Crew Confidential: Life Aboard

Ever wondered what it’s really like to live and work on a cruise ship? We caught up with Alina Baleanu, a crew member aboard Holland America's Noordam ship, for a behind-the-scenes peek.

The Day-to-Day of Ship Life

For crew members aboard cruise ships, every day is different. You meet people from around the world—guests and crew alike! From guest services, training and occasional downtime for exploring port cities.

Challenges Below Deck & Perks of the Job

Living quarters are tight, and internet access is limited. But crew members form strong bonds—everyone becomes like a second family.

• Free travel to dozens of destinations
• All meals and lodging provided
• Cultural exchange and lifelong friendships

If you’re flexible, hardworking, and adventurous, cruise life might just be your calling. Go here to apply for a job with Holland America, https://www.hollandamerica.com/en/us/about/our-company/careers

No, Your Costco Card Won’t Get You on a Plane

We love Costco as much as the next person — the free samples, the gas prices, the 48-pack of muffins — it’s all great. But there’s one thing your Costco card can’t do... and that’s get you on a plane.

Yep, the TSA has officially shut down the rumor that your warehouse club membership counts as a REAL ID. Despite the shiny star on the card or even a photo on your app, it’s not a valid ID for flying. Period. The TSA put it perfectly: “We love hot dogs and rotisserie chickens too… but please stop telling people your Costco card is a REAL ID. It absolutely is not.”

Since May 7, you now need a REAL ID, passport, or other federally approved photo ID to fly domestically. Show up with your shopping card? You might miss your flight — and no one wants that.

So, pack smart, fly smart… and save the Costco card for the snack aisle, not the security line.

Reference: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

Boots, Bayous, and Big Gators: A Wild Texas Adventure

Wanna walk a mile in your own boots? In Texas, that now includes hunting the leather yourself.

Houston-based Republic Boot Company is offering a $5,000 package that comes with a guided East Texas gator hunt — and a pair of custom cowboy boots made from your very own alligator.

That price tag also covers your hunting guide, firearms, tags from Texas Parks and Wildlife, and even a head mount of your gator. But you’ll need a group of four or more to book the trip — and a little patience. The custom boots take about eight months to make, since tanning gator hide doesn’t happen overnight.

The hunts are going down this fall near Anahuac — also known as the Alligator Capital of Texas — during the short but wild gator season, September 11th through the 30th.

Owner Chris Conrad says while most people associate gator hunting with the “big, gnarly” beasts seen on TV, those larger alligators typically have bigger and rougher scales that aren’t ideal for leather working. Eight-foot gators are just right — tough enough for the hunt, but perfect for premium leather.

So if you're ready for the full Texas experience — boots, bayou, and big reptiles — this one’s for you.

Reference: https://republicboothouston.com/

https://www.republicbootcompany.com/gator-hunts

OUTDOORS FIELD REPORTS & COMMENTS

We want to hear from you! If you have any questions, comments, or stories to share about bighorn sheep, outdoor adventures, or wildlife conservation, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call or text us at 305-900-BEND (305-900-2363), or send an email to BendRadioShow@gmail.com. Stay connected by following us on social media at Facebook/Instagram @thebendshow or by subscribing to The Bend Show on YouTube. Visit our website at TheBendShow.com for more exciting content and updates!

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WESTERN LIFESTYLE & THE OUTDOORS

Jeff 'Tigger' Erhardt & Rebecca 'BEC' Wanner are passionate news broadcasters who represent the working ranch world, rodeo, and the Western way of life. They are also staunch advocates for the outdoors and wildlife conservation. As outdoorsmen themselves, Tigger and BEC provide valuable insight and education to hunters, adventurers, ranchers, and anyone interested in agriculture and conservation.

With a shared love for the outdoors, Tigger & BEC are committed to bringing high-quality beef and wild game from the field to your table. They understand the importance of sharing meals with family, cooking the fruits of your labor, and making memories in the great outdoors. Through their work, they aim to educate and inspire those who appreciate God’s Country and life on the land.

United by a common mission, Tigger & BEC offer a glimpse into the life beyond the beaten path and down dirt roads. They’re here to share knowledge, answer your questions, and join you in your own success story. Adventure awaits around the bend. With The Outdoors, the Western Heritage, Rural America, and Wildlife Conservation at the forefront, Tigger and BEC live this lifestyle every day.

To learn more about Tigger & BEC’s journey and their passion for the outdoors, visit TiggerandBEC.com.

https://tiggerandbec.com/