Tag: technology

The Untimely Passing of NAVI, Our Garmin RV GPS

It is with a broken heart—and a slightly raised eyebrow—that I must announce that on March 6th, 2026, NAVI, our beloved Garmin RV GPS, passed away unexpectedly. This was the newest GPS I’ve ever purchased, which somehow makes the loss sting even more. I have ten‑year‑old units still operating like crusty old Marines, but the young one? Gone too soon.

I’m saddened, yes. But if I’m being honest, I’m also annoyed. And disappointed. And maybe just a little betrayed.

I’ve owned Garmin units since the days when the screen looked like a tiny cathode‑ray tube television—the old StreetPilot series with a display roughly the size of a postage stamp. From there I graduated through the nüvi era, collecting them like Pokémon, each one promising to be “the one” that would finally get me from Point A to Point B without drama.

Anyone who ever owned an early Garmin will still twitch involuntarily at the memory of the dreaded voice intoning, “Recalculating…”
And then there were the loops. Oh, the loops. The endless, hopeless, maddening loops where it would try to recalculate, fail, try again, fail again, and eventually give up entirely—usually at the worst possible moment. The only solution was the classic Garmin reboot ritual: pull over, shut it off, turn it back on, and hope the satellites were feeling generous that day.

And yet, despite all the cursing, I kept buying the next one. New features. New promises. New hope. Garmin was the toxic relationship I just couldn’t quit.

Then, about eight years ago, when we started our RV lifestyle, Garmin introduced the RV‑specific units. Finally—something designed to keep us from wedging our home under a 12‑foot bridge or being routed down a goat path masquerading as a county road. We’ve had our share of “adventures,” but I can only imagine the chaos we would’ve endured without that extra layer of protection.

So yes, it has always been a love/hate relationship. But watching RVers on YouTube navigate the country using Apple Maps or Google Maps on their phones made our Garmin feel like the best thing since sliced bread. Our RV Garmin let me enter our height, length, and weight so it could steer us clear of low clearances and questionable bridges—things Google Maps doesn’t even pretend to care about.

Which brings us back to NAVI.

NAVI was supposed to be the chosen one. The upgrade. The reliable partner. The fresh‑out‑of‑the‑box prodigy destined to guide us safely across America.

Instead, NAVI has left us far too soon, leaving behind only a blank screen, a faint smell of disappointment, and a long list of routes that will now forever remain uncalculated.

A Mock Eulogy for NAVI

Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to mourn the loss of NAVI, who served bravely, if not always accurately, in the line of duty.

NAVI was born in a factory somewhere far away, shipped lovingly in a cardboard box, and adopted into our RV with high hopes and unrealistic expectations. NAVI promised to guide us, protect us, and keep us from becoming a YouTube cautionary tale titled “RVers Attempt Low Bridge—Instant Regret.”

NAVI tried. Truly.
But like a gifted child who peaked in kindergarten, NAVI struggled under the weight of its own potential.

It leaves behind:

  • A power cable that still works
  • A suction cup mount that never really did
  • And two RVers who now must face the terrifying prospect of choosing a replacement

May NAVI’s circuits rest cool and its firmware finally find peace.

Amen.

The Moral of the Story: Technology Is a Frenemy

If there’s a lesson in all this, it’s that technology is both our greatest helper and our most unpredictable saboteur. It promises convenience, safety, and simplicity—right up until the moment it decides to give up, glitch out, or die quietly in the middle of a perfectly good travel day.

We rely on it. We curse at it. We replace it.
And then, inevitably, we trust the next shiny device all over again.

Because in the end, technology is like a mischievous travel companion:
You can’t live without it, but you probably shouldn’t trust it with your life.

Rest in peace, NAVI.
Your successor has big shoes to fill—and hopefully a longer lifespan.

Day 3079

Canadian Travelers: How to Cross into the U.S. in Your Motorhome (First Quarter 2026 Update)

Introduction

Planning a road trip from Canada to the United States in your motorhome? Whether you’re heading south for a winter escape or a long adventure, crossing the border requires preparation. In 2026, new rules and compliance measures have changed the experience for Canadian travelers. Here’s your complete guide to ensure a smooth journey.

1. Required Documents for Travelers

Every person in your motorhome must have proper identification. Missing paperwork can lead to delays or denied entry.

• Canadian Passport: Valid for the entire duration of your stay.

• NEXUS Card: Speeds up processing at designated lanes but does not exempt you from new biometric rules.

• Driver’s License: For driving in the U.S.

• Consent Letter for Minors: If traveling with children and one parent is absent.

• Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for medical coverage.

2. Vehicle Documentation

• Registration and Proof of Ownership: For your motorhome and any towed vehicles.

• Insurance: U.S.-valid coverage. Mexican insurance ends at the U.S. border.

• Rental Agreement: If renting an RV, include written permission to cross into the U.S.

3. Pet Requirements

Bringing your cat? Here’s what you need:

• Health Certificate: Not federally required but recommended.

• Rabies Vaccination Proof: Some states require it.

• Secure Carrier: For inspection at the border.

4. Recent Changes for 2026

• Biometric Photo Collection: All non-U.S. citizens, including Canadians, are photographed at entry and exit. No age exemptions—children and seniors included.

• Device Screening: Expect possible inspections of phones and laptops.

• Extended Stay Registration: If staying over 30 days, you may need to register electronically with USCIS (Form G-325R). Some travelers are asked to obtain Form I-94 at the border (fee: $30 USD, fingerprinting, photo).

Some clarification: if not issued an I-94 at the time of crossing the border and this can be checked on line at U.S. customs and border protection if not on file one week after crossing a G-325R should be completed if you will exceed 30 days in the States here is where your register for that USCIS for information and registration. I hope that helps clear some of the mud. So cross the border as normal then check for an I-94 if none there then complete the G-325R.

5. Food Restrictions at the Border

Declare all food items. Failure to declare can result in fines up to $1,000. Here’s what you need to know:

Prohibited Items

• Meat and Meat Products: Fresh, frozen, dried, smoked, or canned (including pork, beef, poultry).

• Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: Most are banned due to pest risks (e.g., avocados, mangoes, citrus, tomatoes).

• Raw Dairy Products: Milk, yogurt, soft cheeses.

• Eggs and Raw Egg Products.

Allowed Items

• Commercially Packaged & Processed Foods: Canned goods, sealed jars, baked goods, candies, condiments.

• Dried Goods: Beans, nuts, dried fruits (like raisins).

• Powdered Milk and Hard Cheeses: Shelf-stable only.

6. Quick Tips for a Smooth Crossing

• Cross at an official port of entry during daylight hours.

• Keep passports, NEXUS cards, and vehicle documents handy.

• Remove prohibited items before approaching the border.

• Be ready for biometric photo and possible device screening.

• Declare everything—especially food and pets.

Conclusion

Crossing into the U.S. in your motorhome as a Canadian traveler is straightforward if you prepare. With new biometric rules and compliance requirements, planning ahead is essential. Follow this guide, and your adventure will start stress-free.

This was the process when I prepared to cross from Mexico to the United States of America the last week of January 2026, please check at your time of crossing as the present administration has made numerous changes.

Day 3037