The most valuable lesson from this video is from the comment from your wife. " I'm too old and out of shape to do this." Hopefully some "young" person is listening to this. When I was in my late 20's I worked with a lot of guys in their 50's. Totally out of shape. Ate like crap, drank, and never exercised. I made a decision I would never go out like that. I started my exercise routine daily as opposed to 3 times a week. I read every book on healthy eating, exercise, and good health I could find. I am 63 and planning to hike the Appalachian Trail. For young folks, don't let your body go. Weights, yoga, sprints, joint mobility drills. Tons of free information on You Tube that did not exist when I was young. Never give up your health!!!! Great video!
I was thinking the same thing. The first thing you should do when you retire is, get in shape! Or better yet, don’t ever let yourself get out of shape in the first place. It’s a whole lot easier to stay in shape all your life, than to try to get in shape, when you have been out of shape all your life!
Yes. Never let yourself go. No excuses. Surround yourself with health minded people. Pay for a trainer if necessary. Money is important but it means nothing if you are unfit.
Thanks for this comment. In fact I was just thinking the other day of going over to Planet Fitness and getting in shape. I work a physical job so I am not that far out of shape. I could afford to loose 20-30 lbs.....
@@TheRetirementGrooveI’ll give you my 2 cents worth , ask some younger folks for a reference of a local coach , someone older who has a good grasp on fitness and nutrition , yes, there is a lot of information out there , but it’s easy to get lost in the weeds . You would get more out of having someone walk you through the process and someone to check in with on a regular basis , it’s a process … good luck
I agree with you 100%. I am 65 and am in some of the best shape of my life. So many people live by their feelings and if they don't feel like working out, being active, or eating healthy, they don't do it. That's a shame as life has so much to offer to those willing to put in the effort.
My wife and I are in our eighties. We still canoe camp with a tent. Come On People - If we can do it - you can too. When you retire - don't sit down - get moving and keep busy. We still ride our bikes and mow the lawn with a push mower.
I’m 70. My wife is 75. From that perspective I will say you are a very lucky man, and I believe she is a lucky woman. You are both lucky to be so well suited for each other.
My retired camping self waited my whole life for this, and I’ve been living in my 25 ft camper with my dog for two years now. I love this so much. I don’t do camp grounds, instead bought a couple small pieces of wilderness. It’s cheaper. I just bought a tog camper for traveling. It’s tiny but easy to haul around. You’re either a camper or you’re not.
I am a camper. In fact I just posted a new video where I remodeled my camper to suit me. Go check it out. th-cam.com/video/b8cYTGnj9xM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=fJHy5GpDWRvhXEKX
@@TheRetirementGroove I bought a suburban to haul my camper and turned that into a camper to for questionable locations I was traveling to where I wasn’t going to get a camper in the wilderness . I like your truck being a camper
My wife and I rented an RV three times last summer before we bought one to make sure we both liked it. We both loved it. We have now camped over 8 times this year and still love it.
Well Ron, it's not for everyone. I retired in 2010, bought a 19' camper trailer, and in the years since, I've pulled it almost 80,000 miles, all over the USA. Just now got back home from a local weekend camp with it, where my daughter and her family came up for a visit. The way I see it, you did well. You tried it. If you never would have tried it then you'd always wonder if you missed out on something. Different for me though, I've been on my own since I was 35 years old, am 72 now. It's easy to set up a small camper like these for solo use. Me and my dog !
Lucky me - my wife and I were sleeping on the ground/backpacking before we were married. At the age of 50 (25-plus years of marriage) my wife said she thought she was getting a “bit old” to be sleeping on the ground. We bought a small trailer, used it for about 8 years and upsized to a new 25-foot towable, which we’ve pulled about 18,000 miles from the Midwest to the Grand Canyon to Smoky Mountains. BUT - as you noted - we made some very informed decisions, based on a camping lifestyle we have enjoyed since we were kids. Cordell Lake is terrific! Nice spot, nice people.
Thank you for the comment. I plan on visiting more of the Corp of Engineer Campgrounds. They are a great value with you have the Senior Discount Card. Which I do.
It looks like you got the best spot in the entire campground! No neighbors to block your view the whole corner of the lake. Good job getting that spot! 👏
We own an Airstream and travel in it 6 months a year. Just returned from.an epic trip to Alaska from Florida. Keeps you active!! You have to have a comfortable bed and useful kitchen and bath. But you are right. If you dont love it, it is work. Doesn't feel like work to us though. We also own a used boat. Don't use it often but our 26 year old son does and it's good to keep it running. Retirement is the best.
Purchasing a quality trailer is a great idea and has worked very well for us. Do not let this cautionary tail sway you. You get what you pay for and do some solid research. I purchased an Airstream and have loved every trip. Stay positive.
Thank you. I am back paddling now. I thought about it all day and I have decided that I own this no payments why not keep it and try to make it work. That is what I think I will do right now.
Our first trailer was a 16' T@b 400. My wife and I are both retired. It was a well built and beautiful tlr, but we found it to be just too small after 2 years. Moved up to a 26' more conventional travel tlr and it made all the difference. Camping isn't for everyone but a better floor plan might work better for you and your wife. Just my opinion. Good luck and thanks for the videos
@@JamesDolan-s1o totally agree. I started with a 16ft Airstream Cravel and in 90 days sold it and purchased a 23ft International with a full bath and twin beds. Camping now is a great experience and fun.
@@TheRetirementGroove Good for you! There are lots of things you can do to make it more comfortable. My wife and I have been looking at little terardrop campers for when we retire. Can't wait for the day to arrive.
My wife and rented a camper before we purchased one. We then bought one and have been all over the country with it. Having a blast with it, but you're right it takes effort to do anything that is fun.
Thanks for the comment. It is an effort I agree and after much thought I am going to make some changes inside and see how it goes. I am not sure if my wife will go to many times but I know I will start using it more after I retire on December 31.
We’re not retired yet, but with the youngest kid out of the house, decided to get a camper and start traveling in the summers (wife is a teacher). We used to tent camp, so going to a 20’ camper has made camping a dream. We’ve been all up and down the east coast and the northern Rockies so far, need to get into the southwest and the western coast still. With the storm that hit a couple of weeks ago, without power for a week, the camper came in handy for recharging phones, having a fridge and freezer, taking hot showers… We’re still ~10 years out from retiring, but intend it keep traveling from now until we have to stop, hopefully many years after retirement…
I wish I had started younger doing the camping thing. But that's okay, I am doing it now. Good luck on your adventures so far it sounds like you are having fun.
Hey buddy, first thing on a camper is new American made tires and good roadside. I use Coachnet and they perform. I blew three tires on one trip but had responsive services and one was in Rabbit Ass USA late on a Friday night. No way in heck I expected that tech to show up but he did. I also bought 4 brand new Goodyears when I got home. I’ve owned campers for 30 years. They are fun, take you neat places and getting the right truck is a journey. My truck is 20 years old but is a hoss that I won’t part with and I can sell it for more than I gave for it but buy good roadside. I just took my 86 year old Dad to Colorado Trout fishing with mine and watched him give me a schooling on fishing. Campers create priceless memories and even the bad stuff is fondly remembered.
Thanks for the advice. I did buy some quality tires. Being they are 13" it was not easy finding them. I settle onthe Carlise and they are 8ply. I have a friend that works at one of the Carlisle Plants. He said they were manufactured in China but they were good tires. The 8 ply will help along with proper tire inflation. I am nearly over the phobia of getting another flat on the Interstate. In fact I thinking of getting a second Spare that way I will have two spares when I travel.
@@TheRetirementGroove I went through my spare plus two roadside hand me downs on that trip. A performing service plan is a life saver. You also need to grease wheel bearings and have good brakes. A good truck is essential. As said, mine is 20 yrs old but I went through two others before I found it. I pull heavier stuff. Im 63 and been doing it nearly that long. It’s fun as well as a journey and an education. With a camper, you always get continuing Ed.
I grew up on an island in south FL which suited me as I was and still am something of a "water rat". When I was 50 I bought a houseboat to live on...by then I was and still am...living in Arkansas...which I docked at a marina on the Arkansas River. Lived on it for 5 years before moving back on land. Still miss it and if the chance came up to be able to it again, I'd jump at it in a heartbeat, and I am 80 now. I now paddle board now on the beautiful Buffalo National River in Arkansas. Love the outdoors and anything to do with water.
Wife and I are on our 4th travel trailer in 40 years of marriage started out with a small pop up with the kids then 35 ft toy holler after the kids left we dropped down to a 25 ft trailer. We have been spending 2 1/2 months a year on the road visiting grandkids and running from summer heat in AZ since retiring. This past year we bought a new 30ft trailer when visiting family in IND. My advice to anyone starting out in RVING get good bed mattress make sure your heating air conditioning and all the plumbing works happy and comfortable WIFE HAPPY LIFE Get a data-internet plan for the road and enjoy the great outdoors. we feel blessed and fortunate to have worked hard and had the money to played hard in the great outdoors. 👍👊😎
You & I have a few things in common with respect to photography and camping for the sake of photography. However, my wife, who is terribly out of shape, has been camping all her life. We have a 27’ trailer that we do most of our camping in. We will spend upwards of 2 weeks camping in that trailer. But we also have a very minimalist tent trailer and we use that to camp in rougher places where we don’t want to take the big trailer. Myself, I backpack, truck camp, tent camp on the ground, camp in the tent trailer, whatever. I’m 67 and my wife is 65. At this point in life, you need to do everything you can to enjoy whatever is left.
Thanks for the comment. We do have a few things in common. I just got back from a two night quick Truck Camping trip to the Smokies to do some photography.
So sad that it didn’t work out. I’m 2 years from retirement. 2 years ago we bought a gray wolf 23mk. My wife and I put a LOT of thought into it before we bought our camper. I spent about 5 years researching floor plans and types of trailers. We checked out everything from class As to pop ups. The 23mk was just right for us. It has a walk around camp queen bed it’s 29ft long. We took out the jackknife sofa and put in a set of recliners it has a 3 burner stove an oven, microwave Ect. It’s just what we wanted and my wife loves it as much as I do and maybe more. We have used it on vacations since we purchased it and love every minute except the trip home. I don’t think your wife is too old I just think you needed a camper that was set up for a retired couple. Good luck my friend and happy camping.
I totally agree with what you said that we needed a camper setup for older people. This is my first camper purchase. When we were researching and we did look at a few brand new ones we decided that we would buy something used. When you buy used then your options are more limited based on budget. We felt like we didn't want to sink a bunch of money into a new one to find out we didn't want to do this. Thus where we are now. Trying to sell the used camper. I am not totally sure that I will actually sell it since I paid for it up front a literally owe nothing on it. It is a small camper, easy to tow and I have already been thru it and fixed the things that needed fixed. I might change my mind and keep it for myself to use. Thanks for the comment.
Ohh!! 🤔 I’m 3 years from retirement! So went and bought a new camper!! nothing to fancy but nice!! and YES!! there is some up keep!! but it’s not that hard!! It keeps my body moving!!👍 and Yes my wife chose a comfy 32 footer and it’s been great!!❤
This is a GREAT video. It's a good message to younger folks to DO IT NOW before they lose their health. I experienced a similar lesson with my Aliner camper. Just too much work to set up and take down. Towing is not easy either. You are 100% correct about a camping trip plus Walmart! Thanks for the video!!
Well before I retired I got back into tent camping from my motorcycle. I used Campmore and REI catalogs to make a list then shopped all over the internet. I camped several weeekends fro Shreveport to Taos, Mountain Home, Petit Jean, Vicksburg and had some great fun. Then, just to get off the ground, I bought a used motorcycle towable tent camper. I was about two months from retirement. I used that to road trip to the Canadian border. Super. I was a real hit at campgrounds. It’s a great little camper made in Canada called a Leesurlite. Well used and recommended. I had a Honda ST1300 that I towed it with at first.
I’m a few years out and will do the same thing with a twist. I’ll be on my 2015 R1200GSA. My three man tent and low to the ground cot. Going to geezer glider the United States and visit friends. Cheers! May sell it all in 2028 and sail the world. 😊
That is pretty amazing. Cheap on gas. Dang you are pretty brave, I am terrified to drive a car in traffic, much a motorcycle, but what an inexpensive way to travel and see the country. Petit Jean is pretty sweet !!! We have been there, but not the west..... Yet anyways. Thanks for sharing.
We have a 17' camper that we love. It's just enough for the both of us. We use it to go visit our kids. Lets us go to bed and get up when we feel like it, plus we don't disturb our kids. I like working on our camper when we're not camping to make it our own. For us it was a good investment.
Thank you for the comment. I have decided today that I would keep it and as you say make it my own. I am going to start by removing that top bunk that I will never use. Fortunately I bought this trailer used and paid cash for it. So there is no payment to recoup. So I thought to my self today why even sell it. Keep it and make it work. Thanks for the words.
I suggest renting a camper and trying it out for a few days before buying something. That's what I did and glad I did. I enjoy it, but learned what features I needed before buying something I would have not been happy with. This will save you a lot of money possibly. There are a couple websites where you can rent something similar to what you want to try out.
I can retire anytime but continue to work for now. I once owned a 16 ft casita travel trailer until a neighbor's tree fell onto it. I have planned to purchase another trailer but will not go too small or too big because you are right there is maintainance to keep up with. I think deciding what size and features you want in a travel trailer makes all the difference on whether you will enjoy using it. Perhaps your wife would have enjoyed one a bit more space and comfort features inside.
Those Casita Trailers are nice. If I was on my own that would be the size I would get. Plus I believe the maintenance on those Casita's would be a little less headache.
We purchased a tandem axle 25' Jayco 25FK for our retirement camper. It's a couples RV and perfect for 2. Long time tent campers then moved to a high wall popup which we loved then up to an RV. Hubby's retired and I will be in Jan. Adding a bike rack and bikes hopefully soon
Enjoyed watching! My husband and I both have the Nikon D500 and enjoy bird photography. We love camping. Right now we have a tent camping set up, but have considered getting a camper. Your video was helpful. You made some really good points.
Just came across your video. Similar situation, althigh just me and two dogs. Retiring in about 8 weeks. Just bought a 19ft Gulfstream single axle, used 2022. I've always LOVED camping, any type. Gave this a lot of thought though too. Planning some fall trips to start. I'll be headed to Northern WI first though. Really like TN though. Maybe head that way when it gets cold in Rockford IL Thanks for your honesty, it's not for everybody. Be safe and good health to you both!
Thank you Dave. Appreciate the kind words. Right now I am having second thoughts and I think I need to give it a fair shot and use it more before I make my decision. Most likely it will be solo camping for now. She probably won't go.
Hi from Adelaide, South Australia. We’ve got a caravan (that’s what we call them) about that size. My wife and I are both 71 and I can tell that she misses the home comforts when we go away. (Me too a little bit.😊). We had a small A frame camper before this one and we did a fair bit of travelling in it. Small but great to tow! We’ll probably persist for a few more years. Thanks for the video!
At 60 we bought a new camper, 20k, nice bed, 5 trips this year, 3 planed for next year, we didn't want someone's else's problems that's why we went new, if all goes well a class c is in the future. Everything this gentleman has said is true. Plan ahead and know the pros and cons
While in Canada, we stayed at 4 hotels. All 4 were close to what I was going to photograph the next morning and they were comfortable for Heather which is the most important thing. I just noticed as I watched the camping part how many views this video is getting! Congrats!
Ah yes, the age-old question, "what is the right rig for me?" My wife won't camp either, so I'm in a similar situation. I ended up going with a Class B van after trying several different setups. I love it. Very nimble. Pretty good fuel economy. Enough room inside for riding out a stormy day. The only downside is they are kind of expensive. But I find it is perfect for my solo travel.
My dream has always been to sell everything, the farm, the cars everything and buy a Sprinter Camper Van and hit the road forever. If I was a single man that is exactly what I would do. I would visit all those places in the US that I have dreamed have and just camped wherever I stopped for that night.
I think that's some good advice. Before I retired I went to some workshops and what they said there was that if you're not doing it before you retire you're probably not going to do it when you're retired either. So if you buy a camper buy it a few years before he retire and see how it's going to work out. In most cases it doesn't work out to buy a camper or an RV. It's a fantasy but it's really expensive to maintain them and a lot of them are very poorly made.
Thanks for the comment. I don't feel that I made a huge financial mistake. I did buy a used camper make back in 2013 and didn't pay alot of money or financed it. I paid cash. So I might just keep ahold of it and use myself a few times a year.
My husband and i purchased a very small Runaway Rouser Camper, very little maintenance we have been on 4 camping trips so far this year and we are loving it. We will be traveling to Florida in 2025 from NY State to do some winter camping. We used to have a larger vintage camper we used for 8 years and decided a smaller one was less maintenance and easier to tow when he retired last May. We have forgotten many things on camping trips using both campers.😁 We will enjoy the camping thing until we don't anymore 😁
In small to medium towns, ck out the livestock sale barn for a café. It's potluck, but sometimes they have really good food (to satisfy farmers). Just saying...
Im 81 and have all that. My favoriate was a old astro cargo van. Made bed in back and sleep hundreds nights in it. Still miss it. My old class a was pain to keep up
I am actually making some changes to the camper inside to make it more suitable for an adult. Removed the top bunk bed which made the bottom more usable.
We have a 27’ travel trailer that we lived in for a year it was fun but the older you get the less you want the hassle of hauling these things around and the less you want to stay in another parking lot. We still use it once a year but it’s a lot to keep up with.
Your point is try, the older we get the less hassle we want. Fortunate this is small purchase for me. I knew that if things didn't work out that I could always get rid of it. Right now, I am not sure I do want to get rid of it. Even if she doesn't want to go out camping I still do.
I watch my neighbor leave for Arizona each winter and I have my 70’s truck camper and Highboy that I really cannot utilize anymore. I’d like to travel to see family /friends and enjoy music with others . Need to make changes and I feel a small camper would allow more adventure .
My wife and I bought an RV after years of wanting one only to turn around and unload it after COVID hit. It became very difficult to get a site reserved for it and the cost went up not to mention the gas to tow it. Fortunately we were able to get more for it than we paid. We decided to stick to car camping with a tent 😊
I still truck camp. I have a camper topper and have made a platform in the back. So right now I have both worlds. Camping Trailer and Truck Camper. I am not sure I will see the camper. I don't owe anything on it and I might decide to use it on my own from time to time.
My dad bought a big, old, used boat near the end of the marriage. Forced family time. First time he launched it, the water was really low & the prop kept hitting rocks. The panicked shouting between them made it very clear that the first time out was also going to be the last time..
This camping thing sounds like something you haven't done much of in your life. So your video speaks volumes in that regard. Seriously, who in their right mind sleeps in children bunks. Wow.. Looks like the mechanic got a great deal. Good luck with your retirement. Possibly on a reset, getting yourself a bigger trailer would be a great start.. (Even renting for 2-3 nights) Hiking is a given when you are outdoors camping, nature, and God. I am a Happy Camper. Peace
I was thinking along the same lines. Forgot the cooler. ??? No breakfast stuff - eggs, bacon, sausage. The easiest 20:12 to cook on a camp stove. No creamer? I’m wondering what else they forgot?
Thanks for the video on purchasing a camper. I've been on the fence about investing in one and you have helped answer some of the questions I had. Keep up the good work.
Too bad it didn't work out. Thru our lives we did the whole gambit from a pop-up tent, two room tent, borrowed the in laws airstream (that was the cat's meow) then bought our first camper to a winter camper and now we have a fifth wheel that we hardly use now that we are older. One thing that worked for us while we were working was to pay to park the airstream at a RV park and we could just drive there, unload some food and everything was already set up so we could enjoy the full weekend.
This was our first camper. We decided to buy use so we could afford to pay cash. Plus all the new ones we looked at where so cheap inside. The old saying they don't build them like they use to is true. If I don't get it sold I will just use it myself.
I've read thru the comments now, and I see that Ron is considering keeping the camper for a while. Good deal ! One thing I like to do is go camping in the winter. State parks in the middle of the week are empty, the insects are gone for the year, and I can hike the trails with my dog in peace. An evening campfire if it's nice enough outside. I leave my camper "winterized" for the entire winter, and just use the campground facilities, bottled water, etc. An electric site is awesome because I can use a small electric heater.
Could not agree more, a boat or camper is a lot of work. You better both enjoy it and the prep and cleanup when you return. There is also winter storage, winterization. I miss having a boat, but I love not having that additional work.
I'm 53. My wife and I just finished a month long trip camping in our fiberglass rv and hiking all over Utah, Arizona and Colorado. We were amazed at all of the older folks we saw being so adventurous and active. Such a contrast from what we see here in the midwest.
A single axle trailer is hard to pull. The bunks in those bunkhouses are useless unless you're a 12 year old and weigh 100 pounds. My wife and I have been full timers in a park model tow behind for 6 years. Recently we lost our trailer to a flood. We're thinking about a motorhome when I retire. I'd love to get a smaller class A diesel pusher for those rocky mountain trips.
Sorry to hear about your loss in the flood. You are correct those Bunks are useless. I have already watched a bunch of video's on how to remove them or at least the top one. I have decided today to keep the trailer and make it work out for me. I doubt the wife will go much but occasionally she might. The top bunk is coming out tho.
I'm a solo camper, camping in a van. I like the experience I have with nature, but I like reading and writing on my novel. It's a good adventure for me. Yes, camping is not for everyone.
Thanks for the comment. Wonderful that you are able to spend time in nature doing the things you love. I live being outdoors and camping. I will probably be a solo camper myself.
.. Maybe for a quick overnight or two , a pickup camper would fit the bill .. As an obsessed fisherman , especially in my younger years I did the back of the pickup sleeping also ,, but that gets old pretty fast .. An overhead camper or even a pop up type would certainly give a little more comfort and also room to hang out if the rains come ... Doesn't have to be a palace but being able to stand up and move about is nice .. And a truck mounted camper doesn't require additional licensing and insurance costs .. just maybe beef up the rear suspension a little .. Stay Safe ..
Thanks for the suggestions. I do pickup camp in the bed under a Leer Topper. But that is usually only 1 or 2 nights so not so bad. Longer trips tho is why I got the camper.
Just a note, make a grocery list of what to bring from home when packing. Check each item off as you go. Avolds having to buy unnecessary stuff. Happy travels and enjoyed this video. 😊
I retired 10 yrs ago, have both a boat and two trailers. If I didnt have them , for weekly fishing trips, summer camping trips it would have been better to stay working.. My small trailer let's me travel and camp cheap. My large 5th wheel I keep in a RV resort and spend most the winter, hunting fishing, and enjoying the activities of the park. It's a park with golf and tons of things for everyone, photo club, rock hounds, Krafts you name it. Snowbirds from everywhere come for the winter, And guess what is costs me 2500.00 year rent, included trash water, and basic cable . Retirement is what you make it, as you camp in your trailer more things get much easier. Not sit home a watch TV , it's a sure death sentence. Take care, Stick with it. It's new to you, I've done this my whole life on weekends. And small is better for traveling, it's about layout.
Thank you for the words of encouragement. I think you are right on all points. I need to use it more and things will get better and I am sure I will grow to love it. You are right, small is better.
@@TheRetirementGroove I think a ready made bed is the way to go, if you've been on the road many hours. You can just pull over and stay the night, or nap in a rest stop. Your right about bunks, there for kids, maybe you could remove them and build a queen. You bought used, so your not going to lose much. Now you know more what you like and dont. Tandem axle is much safer as well. If you have a flat , your not disabled on a highway. Find something your wife is comfortable in, I like a 20ft. You can get into most state and federal parks no problem.
Sorry the camper did not work out. We love camping. Used to travel in our van. We set it up with a bed in it. We stayed at Defeated Creek before. It is a gorgeous campground. Gorgeous area as well. Great if you kayak. You could have launched right from your site. If you like photography, you may consider a kayak to go out and take photos. We have now upgraded to a travel trailer. We looked a long time for a layout that would work for us. We will be traveling and working still. Good luck figuring out your style of camping. If nothing else, get you a van and make you a place to sleep. You can even do this in like a Toyota Sienna and still get good gas mileage. Another friend of ours is retired, and he has a transit for a little more height. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for the comment. I do have a Kayak which I don;t get to use as much as I would like. I will next year when I get retired. I was even thinking of taking the Kayak to Defeated Creek this time. But I didn;t.
@@TheRetirementGroove I am not big into photography, but my boyfriend is. He gets lost out there kayaking around and taking photos. I just paddle around for the fun ot it !!! Geez there are so many beautiful places in TN. We are from Western KY. So kinda "neighbors" in a sense. I feel your wife's concerns tho. We were very active, and a couple of years ago decided to get out of debt, and then COV hit (I am a nurse). I was working all of the time, but that helped the debt snowball. But got out of shape. I am feeling it now. However there is no better way to get back into shape than the outdoors. Little by little.....I will get back out there. I hope your wife does too. Stuff is so much better when it is shared. I was single for 14 years before I met Dean. I was very active, kayaked, hiked....but I cannot imagine doing it now without him.
Couldn't afford a camper or traiiler. However, I did buy a used Dodge Caravan and converted it over for camping. It's easy to drive . gets good gas mileage, and is cheap to operate.
Idea - before making a big purchase of a camper (caravan in UK), motor home etc why not hire one and test it out. We borrowed my brother in laws, he loves it. We did not. The bed space in the roof was like a coffin.
It’s worth it! I love it! Gets me out to nature and on the water. Getting me a roadtrek and a run about boat Fish and ski. Will tow the boat with the roadtrek.
RV’ing is a lot cheaper than boat life especially upkeep. But now RV life is not so cheap anymore, in most cases it now more expensive that traditional house living.
If you can manage to get out west and camp on BLM land for a month or so moving around every couple of weeks , it's not that expensive if you can manage to keep supplied and not go back and forth into town 40 miles away ever few days. But if you are using paid campgrounds instead then yup it gets expensive fast.
We hired camper before buying our first one used, just recently upgrade in size and age but still well used and not lot money tied up in it. They can take up a bit of time especially customizing but as DIYer is fun to work on so not big deal for me. We enjoy ours, 60 nights over 15mths in first one. Friends bought new RV and discovered it needed a few mods and $ as configuration wasn't ideal.
Thanks for the comment. I did exactly that, decided to remodel it. Check out my video and see what you think th-cam.com/video/b8cYTGnj9xM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=fJHy5GpDWRvhXEKX
Never rv before. I decided that I won’t stay idle. Have a 30 footer Winnebago tt bought new 1 year before retirement. Been up and down the east coast and love it. When not in the rv, the tundra does great for road trips which will do one tomorrow. Happy travels.
My wife and I thought about a camper. We want to travel and see the country, but we have decided that we don't actually travel that often. If we take 3-4 big trips a year, that is a lot for us. A nice hotel room or condo is worth the price. Then you can stay closer to the things we want to do. I think we would have enjoyed a camper in our younger years now. I see a lot of campers parked next to peoples homes that never get used. But we know people that love it too.
My wife and I have done motorcycle camping trips, about 3,000 miles and we both enjoyed that, about ten years ago. My wife just retired from another career and in the past ten years we have been debating and contemplating future motorcycle camping, RV travel with either a trailer or van, or travelling to a location and renting a place for weeks or months. We are still undecided. Of course, what fails us, we live in a beautiful West Coast town on five beautiful acres, and though we have set up the tent on hot days, we can also camp inside the house, with all the amenities and surrounded by our accumulated 'world'. We love bargain hunting at thrift stores, exploring old towns, and stumbling across unique events, but we also have these and more 'attractions' within a 100 mile radius, AND people travel from all over the world to visit our area. hmmmmmmm I turn 70 next year, and so far we are both healthy and fit, so the future is an open opportunity. PS We still have the bike and trailer too. 🙂
Go look at a Geo Pro g19fbs. You will be impressed. I own one and sleep in it better than my bed at home. You have all the conveniences of home in a small package.
Getting an RV after you retire is a great idea. You go where you want, when you want and prepare the food that you're used to eating; and, in our case we get to bring our 2 dogs with us and care for them ourselves. There are 2 ways to do this: 1) the smart way... by buying a new high quality RV, getting an extended warranty and the best roadside assistance insurance OR 2) Your way.
I am still weighing in on what exactly I am going to do. I think we a few changes to my current TT that it might be more useful for me. When and If I do make modifications you can be assured I will do a video on that. Thanks for the Comment. Buying used affordable was the right move for me. If it doesn't work out I feel confident I can sell it and recoup my money I have in it.
I bought a boat. Used it a few times. Decided it was too much trouble to haul, launch, store. Sold it. Now if I feel the itch to boat, camp etc… I rent it. Use it, return it. Done. No hassle.
Wonderful story and very relatable. I assume your wife bought in initially on the idea of the RV which is why you purchased it but later found out she didn't like the experience so now you are compelled to get rid of it. As I am married as well find myself thinking along these lines also; what if the wife don't like it? Causes a problem for sure but if the signals were there before you bought it that she didn't like it and you did it anyway, things to think about. I've been considering the RV thing as well but what gives me pause besides the wife maybe not liking it is apparently they are all built like junk but are not priced like junk so I will stay to hotels, etc. Great video.
Thanks. Yes she was for it in the beginning. Circumstances change. I am just glad that I bought an older Pre-Covid used one and don't have a terrible amount invested in it.
It's true the RV industry has a long reputation of low quality build and control. A person needs to look at an RV as a hobby. If you like tinkering, fixing, maintenance and modifications, they can be lots of fun. I have enjoyed every single night I have spent in my RV. I bought it in 2011. Was just out tinkering with it ( cleaning it after weekend trip ). All part of the fun.
@@929cbr_rr On a certain level I agree with you. I am a tinkerer and have a DIY attitude about many things. At the same time I see a multitude of videos commenting and showing RV construction practices that leave me skeptical about the quality of these units. I want quality and feel it should be competitively priced against the other offerings. That doesn't seem to be the case with this industry. Getting it worked on, etc., time delays, proficiency of technicians, insurance, reservations, fee's, where do I keep it, on and on and on...That said I have been a tent camper for some years and will continue with that. Thanks for the comment.
My wife is about the same age as your wife, I’m guessing. She’s setting here while I’m watch this video. My wife said you purchased the wrong trailer. She said you should have purchased one for your wife LOL. At our age comfort is first and foremost. I wanted to purchase a small teardrop. My wife said no way. So we purchased a much bigger and more comfortable trailer. I would have been ok with the teardrop, like you are with truck camping. But, I wanted her to enjoy it also. So we got the bigger trailer. Is it a lot of work, yes. Is it worth it for all the work and expense. I think so. We don’t know how much time we have in retirement. We don’t want to spend it setting in our recliners. Plus we want to do it together. Thus the travel trailer.
Your wife is correct. I don't want to sit in my recliner during retirement years either. My long term dream is this: If I was single I would sell it all. The House, the Cars, everything, buy one of those Sprinter Van Campers and go out west and boondock camp. Seriously.
@@TheRetirementGroove we looked at camper vans also. I would love to have one. But, the prices. I would have to sell everything too and live in it full time. But, we’re happy with our travel trailer too. It’s comfortable for a couple. A private bedroom with a queen size bed, full kitchen, recliner seating and a huge bathroom. That’s what sold my wife. We are planning our first trip out west next year. But, some people just don’t like camping.
We had a Sprinter Van (Roadtrek Adventerous). Took it to FLA for 3 yrs in February and March. It was great. We had a 2008 , but it got expensive when it needed any repairs. Some places wouldn’t even work on it. So we sold and were out of camping for 11/2 yrs. We’ve since bought a teardrop and just spent 6 nights in it up in NH. We really liked it. We’re retired and won’t go camping in bad weather because we’ve got all the time in the world. Taking to FLA this winter. (Coming right thru beautiful Tennessee ) We’ve also bought a small condo in FLA and will be keeping it down there in a storage facility. But we plan on going around FLA checking out the sites. Sorry it didn’t work out for you. Greeting from Cape Cod, MA
After rving for a few years i got sick of the reservation shuffle, the dirt campsites, dumpin tanks, expensive gas, etc. Had a great time but glad im out.
We bought a 30 footer in 2011 when the kids were small and we used it a lot. As they reached high school the kids liked it less and less. It sat in storage for a few years, mice got in it so I put it up for sale. It was just after COVID and prices were high. It sold within a few days for $3k less than we paid for it 11 years prior. It went to a young family with small kids and they will enjoy as we did. We made a ton of memories with our children. We retire in two years but decided we would much rather do hotels and airbnbs instead when we travel. I just don’t see myself changing flats and dealing with upkeep and the setup and take downs in the coming years. Enjoyed the video and it’s good advice for folks who have never camped.
Bought a camper then four days later had a stroke that took out my right side. Sold the camper as soon as I could. Be prepared life happens and comes at you hard and fast.
We are retiring we sold our camper sold are Country home and are moving to town. No space to store a camper.We plan to travel and we’re considering a Class B however I think just travel in a nice SUV or Mini Van for Space and comfort and stay in motels hotels and cabin rentals.
We bought a 25 foot class c Motorhome that we tow our truck with as well. Since Texas summers are so hot we went north for the summer 70 days and 6 states. It was great. If you join a camping club you can save a lot of money. I started a side business selling landscape, wildlife, and pictures of Americana. It did quite well next year I plan on selling directly out of the RV at rallies and such. I have sold RVs the last three years before my wife retired as I did not want to just sit around. So going into it I know what I wanted, and which were good units and which ones to stay away from. I have a 2012 Jeep grand Cherokee that has 128,000 on it. The exterior and interior are mint. I was faced with the dilemma of do I do the necessary repairs and maintenance or do I just buy another since we like the current one so much And they no longer are producing the hemi engine I bet the bullet and had them redo the suspension, engine and transmission. It cost me around 12,000. I suspect I should be able to get 3 to 5 years out of it for that investment. I agree as we retire and get older. Our purchasing decisions have to be prudent.
I am retiring soon and just purchased a camper. One must do their homework when buying a camper to ensure the one you buy is comfortable. Camping is not for everyone, but using the excuse that I am too old and out of shape likely is just an excuse. I think the more accurate statement would be your wife just doesn't like camping from the sound of it Then again the camper you picked was clearly not setup properly for a retired couple, which was your first mistake. Used trailers the first thing you do is have the tires checked and replaced. Camping isn't work to me it's an enjoyable experience, but you have to buy the right one, Planning a trip is part of it. Being able to stay out away from home and just be out in the open wilderness enjoying life. I think age is a mindset and there are many people that are a lot younger than I am and they are indeed old because that is their mindset. I am 65, soon 66 and I can say I like to walk walking trails and visiting unique places. I worked to hard to be cramped in a truck bed or car. I hate hotels and AirBnB's are hit and miss. I want to lay in my own bed that I know is clean. Someone mentioned these things are money pits, So giving your money to hotels and AirBnB's you are just giving your money away and have nothing to show for it. Camping life can be fun, you meet a lot of nice people that are living their dream lives. My new 13 foot scamp lite is absolutely fantastic. Very reasonable priced, easy to tow, no significant maintenance because it's a lite version. Overall everyone has to do what works best for them.
Thank you for this comment. After reading many comments from folks I have decided to keep this camper. It's paid for and I didn't break the bank when I bought it. I already have new tires, new lights, resealed the roof, new solar battery system so I am ready to go and I don't retire until Dec 2024. I have started with some remodel improvements inside. Already removed that top bunk so it is better for sleeping in the bottom bed for one adult. I think if I start going camping more often after I retire that my wife will probably go, sometimes........I don't consider my purchase a money pit. I like those smaller Scamp type campers and for one person camping they are perfect. Have a nice day.
I know that is right. Staying active after I retire is something I have been thinking about seriously. I am pretty active at work so I will be looking at my options for exercise.
Camper or boat. Great question. So 6 years ago, I got both. Both now paid off in full, and the reason was because, if one plan failed, I would go with the other. Now, that I’m 5 months from retirement, I’ve started to favor the boat, but will keep both for now. I’ve lived in houses and apartments most of my life, (5 of those years in boats and campers) and prefer not to be bound by four walls of a house in retirement, no sir
The most valuable lesson from this video is from the comment from your wife. " I'm too old and out of shape to do this." Hopefully some "young" person is listening to this. When I was in my late 20's I worked with a lot of guys in their 50's. Totally out of shape. Ate like crap, drank, and never exercised. I made a decision I would never go out like that. I started my exercise routine daily as opposed to 3 times a week. I read every book on healthy eating, exercise, and good health I could find. I am 63 and planning to hike the Appalachian Trail. For young folks, don't let your body go. Weights, yoga, sprints, joint mobility drills. Tons of free information on You Tube that did not exist when I was young. Never give up your health!!!! Great video!
I was thinking the same thing. The first thing you should do when you retire is, get in shape! Or better yet, don’t ever let yourself get out of shape in the first place. It’s a whole lot easier to stay in shape all your life, than to try to get in shape, when you have been out of shape all your life!
Yes. Never let yourself go. No excuses. Surround yourself with health minded people. Pay for a trainer if necessary. Money is important but it means nothing if you are unfit.
Thanks for this comment. In fact I was just thinking the other day of going over to Planet Fitness and getting in shape. I work a physical job so I am not that far out of shape. I could afford to loose 20-30 lbs.....
@@TheRetirementGrooveI’ll give you my 2 cents worth , ask some younger folks for a reference of a local coach , someone older who has a good grasp on fitness and nutrition , yes, there is a lot of information out there , but it’s easy to get lost in the weeds . You would get more out of having someone walk you through the process and someone to check in with on a regular basis , it’s a process … good luck
I agree with you 100%. I am 65 and am in some of the best shape of my life. So many people live by their feelings and if they don't feel like working out, being active, or eating healthy, they don't do it. That's a shame as life has so much to offer to those willing to put in the effort.
My wife and I are in our eighties. We still canoe camp with a tent. Come On People - If we can do it - you can too. When you retire - don't sit down - get moving and keep busy. We still ride our bikes and mow the lawn with a push mower.
EXACTLY!! I 100% agree with you my friend keep moving and grooving 😉🙌🙌👌
Cool. Glad you are still able to do all that in your 80's. I hope when I get to be in my 80's I can do that also.
I’m 70. My wife is 75. From that perspective I will say you are a very lucky man, and I believe she is a lucky woman. You are both lucky to be so well suited for each other.
I met an Australian couple on a transatlantic cruise.he was 91 and she was 90...still traveling enjoying life...
When you get somewhere in the canoe how do you get back to where your vehicle is?.
My retired camping self waited my whole life for this, and I’ve been living in my 25 ft camper with my dog for two years now. I love this so much. I don’t do camp grounds, instead bought a couple small pieces of wilderness. It’s cheaper. I just bought a tog camper for traveling. It’s tiny but easy to haul around. You’re either a camper or you’re not.
I am a camper. In fact I just posted a new video where I remodeled my camper to suit me. Go check it out. th-cam.com/video/b8cYTGnj9xM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=fJHy5GpDWRvhXEKX
@@TheRetirementGroove I saw it and I so like your choice, to keep it
@@TheRetirementGroove I bought a suburban to haul my camper and turned that into a camper to for questionable locations I was traveling to where I wasn’t going to get a camper in the wilderness . I like your truck being a camper
My wife and I rented an RV three times last summer before we bought one to make sure we both liked it. We both loved it. We have now camped over 8 times this year and still love it.
That is awesome!
renting - that's what i plan on doing before buying one. and even if i buy one it will be used so when i sell it, i won't take a big depreciation hit
Well Ron, it's not for everyone. I retired in 2010, bought a 19' camper trailer, and in the years since, I've pulled it almost 80,000 miles, all over the USA. Just now got back home from a local weekend camp with it, where my daughter and her family came up for a visit. The way I see it, you did well. You tried it. If you never would have tried it then you'd always wonder if you missed out on something.
Different for me though, I've been on my own since I was 35 years old, am 72 now. It's easy to set up a small camper like these for solo use. Me and my dog !
And I have not sold it yet. I might just keep it for myself. And do those little weekend trips after I retire. Thanks for the comment.
Lucky me - my wife and I were sleeping on the ground/backpacking before we were married. At the age of 50 (25-plus years of marriage) my wife said she thought she was getting a “bit old” to be sleeping on the ground. We bought a small trailer, used it for about 8 years and upsized to a new 25-foot towable, which we’ve pulled about 18,000 miles from the Midwest to the Grand Canyon to Smoky Mountains. BUT - as you noted - we made some very informed decisions, based on a camping lifestyle we have enjoyed since we were kids. Cordell Lake is terrific! Nice spot, nice people.
Thank you for the comment. I plan on visiting more of the Corp of Engineer Campgrounds. They are a great value with you have the Senior Discount Card. Which I do.
It looks like you got the best spot in the entire campground! No neighbors to block your view the whole corner of the lake. Good job getting that spot! 👏
Yes, thanks
We own an Airstream and travel in it 6 months a year. Just returned from.an epic trip to Alaska from Florida. Keeps you active!! You have to have a comfortable bed and useful kitchen and bath. But you are right. If you dont love it, it is work. Doesn't feel like work to us though. We also own a used boat. Don't use it often but our 26 year old son does and it's good to keep it running. Retirement is the best.
That is cool you did the Alaska to Florida trip. Sounds like that would be a lot of fun
Purchasing a quality trailer is a great idea and has worked very well for us. Do not let this cautionary tail sway you. You get what you pay for and do some solid research. I purchased an Airstream and have loved every trip. Stay positive.
Thank you. I am back paddling now. I thought about it all day and I have decided that I own this no payments why not keep it and try to make it work. That is what I think I will do right now.
Our first trailer was a 16' T@b 400. My wife and I are both retired. It was a well built and beautiful tlr, but we found it to be just too small after 2 years. Moved up to a 26' more conventional travel tlr and it made all the difference. Camping isn't for everyone but a better floor plan might work better for you and your wife. Just my opinion. Good luck and thanks for the videos
@@JamesDolan-s1o totally agree. I started with a 16ft Airstream Cravel and in 90 days sold it and purchased a 23ft International with a full bath and twin beds. Camping now is a great experience and fun.
@@TheRetirementGroove Good for you! There are lots of things you can do to make it more comfortable. My wife and I have been looking at little terardrop campers for when we retire. Can't wait for the day to arrive.
@@Michaelmontana08
My wife and rented a camper before we purchased one. We then bought one and have been all over the country with it. Having a blast with it, but you're right it takes effort to do anything that is fun.
Thanks for the comment. It is an effort I agree and after much thought I am going to make some changes inside and see how it goes. I am not sure if my wife will go to many times but I know I will start using it more after I retire on December 31.
We’re not retired yet, but with the youngest kid out of the house, decided to get a camper and start traveling in the summers (wife is a teacher). We used to tent camp, so going to a 20’ camper has made camping a dream. We’ve been all up and down the east coast and the northern Rockies so far, need to get into the southwest and the western coast still. With the storm that hit a couple of weeks ago, without power for a week, the camper came in handy for recharging phones, having a fridge and freezer, taking hot showers… We’re still ~10 years out from retiring, but intend it keep traveling from now until we have to stop, hopefully many years after retirement…
I wish I had started younger doing the camping thing. But that's okay, I am doing it now. Good luck on your adventures so far it sounds like you are having fun.
Hey buddy, first thing on a camper is new American made tires and good roadside. I use Coachnet and they perform. I blew three tires on one trip but had responsive services and one was in Rabbit Ass USA late on a Friday night. No way in heck I expected that tech to show up but he did. I also bought 4 brand new Goodyears when I got home. I’ve owned campers for 30 years. They are fun, take you neat places and getting the right truck is a journey. My truck is 20 years old but is a hoss that I won’t part with and I can sell it for more than I gave for it but buy good roadside. I just took my 86 year old Dad to Colorado Trout fishing with mine and watched him give me a schooling on fishing. Campers create priceless memories and even the bad stuff is fondly remembered.
Thanks for the advice. I did buy some quality tires. Being they are 13" it was not easy finding them. I settle onthe Carlise and they are 8ply. I have a friend that works at one of the Carlisle Plants. He said they were manufactured in China but they were good tires. The 8 ply will help along with proper tire inflation. I am nearly over the phobia of getting another flat on the Interstate. In fact I thinking of getting a second Spare that way I will have two spares when I travel.
@@TheRetirementGroove I went through my spare plus two roadside hand me downs on that trip. A performing service plan is a life saver. You also need to grease wheel bearings and have good brakes. A good truck is essential. As said, mine is 20 yrs old but I went through two others before I found it. I pull heavier stuff. Im 63 and been doing it nearly that long. It’s fun as well as a journey and an education. With a camper, you always get continuing Ed.
We spend 8 months on our boat and 4 in our teardrop trailer, love the life.
Sounds fun.
I grew up on an island in south FL which suited me as I was and still am something of a "water rat". When I was 50 I bought a houseboat to live on...by then I was and still am...living in Arkansas...which I docked at a marina on the Arkansas River. Lived on it for 5 years before moving back on land. Still miss it and if the chance came up to be able to it again, I'd jump at it in a heartbeat, and I am 80 now. I now paddle board now on the beautiful Buffalo National River in Arkansas. Love the outdoors and anything to do with water.
Wife and I are on our 4th travel trailer in 40 years of marriage started out with a small pop up with the kids then 35 ft toy holler after the kids left we dropped down to a 25 ft trailer. We have been spending 2 1/2 months a year on the road visiting grandkids and running from summer heat in AZ since retiring. This past year we bought a new 30ft trailer when visiting family in IND. My advice to anyone starting out in RVING get good bed mattress make sure your heating air conditioning and all the plumbing works happy and comfortable WIFE HAPPY LIFE Get a data-internet plan for the road and enjoy the great outdoors. we feel blessed and fortunate to have worked hard and had the money to played hard in the great outdoors. 👍👊😎
SkyLink mini is the way to go!
You & I have a few things in common with respect to photography and camping for the sake of photography. However, my wife, who is terribly out of shape, has been camping all her life. We have a 27’ trailer that we do most of our camping in. We will spend upwards of 2 weeks camping in that trailer. But we also have a very minimalist tent trailer and we use that to camp in rougher places where we don’t want to take the big trailer. Myself, I backpack, truck camp, tent camp on the ground, camp in the tent trailer, whatever. I’m 67 and my wife is 65. At this point in life, you need to do everything you can to enjoy whatever is left.
Thanks for the comment. We do have a few things in common. I just got back from a two night quick Truck Camping trip to the Smokies to do some photography.
So sad that it didn’t work out. I’m 2 years from retirement. 2 years ago we bought a gray wolf 23mk. My wife and I put a LOT of thought into it before we bought our camper. I spent about 5 years researching floor plans and types of trailers. We checked out everything from class As to pop ups. The 23mk was just right for us. It has a walk around camp queen bed it’s 29ft long. We took out the jackknife sofa and put in a set of recliners it has a 3 burner stove an oven, microwave Ect. It’s just what we wanted and my wife loves it as much as I do and maybe more. We have used it on vacations since we purchased it and love every minute except the trip home. I don’t think your wife is too old I just think you needed a camper that was set up for a retired couple. Good luck my friend and happy camping.
I totally agree with what you said that we needed a camper setup for older people. This is my first camper purchase. When we were researching and we did look at a few brand new ones we decided that we would buy something used. When you buy used then your options are more limited based on budget. We felt like we didn't want to sink a bunch of money into a new one to find out we didn't want to do this. Thus where we are now. Trying to sell the used camper.
I am not totally sure that I will actually sell it since I paid for it up front a literally owe nothing on it. It is a small camper, easy to tow and I have already been thru it and fixed the things that needed fixed. I might change my mind and keep it for myself to use.
Thanks for the comment.
I wish I had a husband on the same page. I would loooove to spend my retirement years camping and enjoying nature.
It's funny how our spouses can be just the complete opposite especially as we get older.
Ohh!! 🤔 I’m 3 years from retirement! So went and bought a new camper!! nothing to fancy but nice!! and YES!! there is some up keep!! but it’s not that hard!! It keeps my body moving!!👍 and Yes my wife chose a comfy 32 footer and it’s been great!!❤
That is awesome!
This is a GREAT video. It's a good message to younger folks to DO IT NOW before they lose their health. I experienced a similar lesson with my Aliner camper. Just too much work to set up and take down. Towing is not easy either. You are 100% correct about a camping trip plus Walmart! Thanks for the video!!
Thanks for the comment and glad you enjoyed the video.
Well before I retired I got back into tent camping from my motorcycle. I used Campmore and REI catalogs to make a list then shopped all over the internet. I camped several weeekends fro Shreveport to Taos, Mountain Home, Petit Jean, Vicksburg and had some great fun. Then, just to get off the ground, I bought a used motorcycle towable tent camper. I was about two months from retirement. I used that to road trip to the Canadian border. Super. I was a real hit at campgrounds. It’s a great little camper made in Canada called a Leesurlite. Well used and recommended. I had a Honda ST1300 that I towed it with at first.
What those are some great memories...
I’m a few years out and will do the same thing with a twist. I’ll be on my 2015 R1200GSA. My three man tent and low to the ground cot. Going to geezer glider the United States and visit friends. Cheers! May sell it all in 2028 and sail the world. 😊
That is pretty amazing. Cheap on gas. Dang you are pretty brave, I am terrified to drive a car in traffic, much a motorcycle, but what an inexpensive way to travel and see the country. Petit Jean is pretty sweet !!! We have been there, but not the west..... Yet anyways. Thanks for sharing.
We have a 17' camper that we love. It's just enough for the both of us. We use it to go visit our kids. Lets us go to bed and get up when we feel like it, plus we don't disturb our kids. I like working on our camper when we're not camping to make it our own. For us it was a good investment.
Thank you for the comment. I have decided today that I would keep it and as you say make it my own. I am going to start by removing that top bunk that I will never use. Fortunately I bought this trailer used and paid cash for it. So there is no payment to recoup. So I thought to my self today why even sell it. Keep it and make it work. Thanks for the words.
I suggest renting a camper and trying it out for a few days before buying something. That's what I did and glad I did. I enjoy it, but learned what features I needed before buying something I would have not been happy with. This will save you a lot of money possibly. There are a couple websites where you can rent something similar to what you want to try out.
That's a great idea!
I can retire anytime but continue to work for now. I once owned a 16 ft casita travel trailer until a neighbor's tree fell onto it. I have planned to purchase another trailer but will not go too small or too big because you are right there is maintainance to keep up with. I think deciding what size and features you want in a travel trailer makes all the difference on whether you will enjoy using it. Perhaps your wife would have enjoyed one a bit more space and comfort features inside.
Those Casita Trailers are nice. If I was on my own that would be the size I would get. Plus I believe the maintenance on those Casita's would be a little less headache.
We purchased a tandem axle 25' Jayco 25FK for our retirement camper. It's a couples RV and perfect for 2. Long time tent campers then moved to a high wall popup which we loved then up to an RV. Hubby's retired and I will be in Jan. Adding a bike rack and bikes hopefully soon
That sounds really good. Are you looking at eBikes?
Enjoyed watching! My husband and I both have the Nikon D500 and enjoy bird photography. We love camping. Right now we have a tent camping set up, but have considered getting a camper. Your video was helpful. You made some really good points.
Thank you. I love the Nikon D500 and paired with the Nikon 500pf it is a great birding rig. Thanks for the comment.
I think you should get a truck camper so you can do what you love and be able to go anywhere and have sleeping arrangements covered!
Just came across your video. Similar situation, althigh just me and two dogs. Retiring in about 8 weeks. Just bought a 19ft Gulfstream single axle, used 2022. I've always LOVED camping, any type. Gave this a lot of thought though too. Planning some fall trips to start. I'll be headed to Northern WI first though. Really like TN though. Maybe head that way when it gets cold in Rockford IL Thanks for your honesty, it's not for everybody. Be safe and good health to you both!
Thank you Dave. Appreciate the kind words. Right now I am having second thoughts and I think I need to give it a fair shot and use it more before I make my decision. Most likely it will be solo camping for now. She probably won't go.
Hi from Adelaide, South Australia. We’ve got a caravan (that’s what we call them) about that size. My wife and I are both 71 and I can tell that she misses the home comforts when we go away. (Me too a little bit.😊). We had a small A frame camper before this one and we did a fair bit of travelling in it. Small but great to tow! We’ll probably persist for a few more years. Thanks for the video!
Thanks so much for the comment. If the camper had been a little larger, then she might have felt different.
Thanks Ron for the great advice. When you retire you want your life to be easier not harder. Just my 2 cents! 😀👍
Yes I want simple......Thanks for the comment.
At 60 we bought a new camper, 20k, nice bed, 5 trips this year, 3 planed for next year, we didn't want someone's else's problems that's why we went new, if all goes well a class c is in the future. Everything this gentleman has said is true. Plan ahead and know the pros and cons
Thanks for sharing!
While in Canada, we stayed at 4 hotels. All 4 were close to what I was going to photograph the next morning and they were comfortable for Heather which is the most important thing. I just noticed as I watched the camping part how many views this video is getting! Congrats!
Thanks Phil. It was unexpected to see it go like that.
Ah yes, the age-old question, "what is the right rig for me?" My wife won't camp either, so I'm in a similar situation. I ended up going with a Class B van after trying several different setups. I love it. Very nimble. Pretty good fuel economy. Enough room inside for riding out a stormy day. The only downside is they are kind of expensive. But I find it is perfect for my solo travel.
My dream has always been to sell everything, the farm, the cars everything and buy a Sprinter Camper Van and hit the road forever. If I was a single man that is exactly what I would do. I would visit all those places in the US that I have dreamed have and just camped wherever I stopped for that night.
I think that's some good advice. Before I retired I went to some workshops and what they said there was that if you're not doing it before you retire you're probably not going to do it when you're retired either. So if you buy a camper buy it a few years before he retire and see how it's going to work out. In most cases it doesn't work out to buy a camper or an RV. It's a fantasy but it's really expensive to maintain them and a lot of them are very poorly made.
Thanks for the comment. I don't feel that I made a huge financial mistake. I did buy a used camper make back in 2013 and didn't pay alot of money or financed it. I paid cash. So I might just keep ahold of it and use myself a few times a year.
It depends on your like we bought a thirty foot camper we use when ever we can .we love camping
I like camping too. I am working on some mods to make it more friendly for me to use.
My husband and i purchased a very small Runaway Rouser Camper, very little maintenance we have been on 4 camping trips so far this year and we are loving it. We will be traveling to Florida in 2025 from NY State to do some winter camping.
We used to have a larger vintage camper we used for 8 years and decided a smaller one was less maintenance and easier to tow when he retired last May.
We have forgotten many things on camping trips using both campers.😁
We will enjoy the camping thing until we don't anymore 😁
That is wonderful that you get to spend some time in Florida especially during the cold months.
Love your camp sight. I love water also. Nice camper.
Thanks. The COE Campgrounds are really nice a cheaper to stay at than Commercial CG's. If you have the Lifetime Senior Pass you get 1/2 off.
In small to medium towns, ck out the livestock sale barn for a café. It's potluck, but sometimes they have really good food (to satisfy farmers). Just saying...
Im 81 and have all that. My favoriate was a old astro cargo van. Made bed in back and sleep hundreds nights in it. Still miss it. My old class a was pain to keep up
I am actually making some changes to the camper inside to make it more suitable for an adult. Removed the top bunk bed which made the bottom more usable.
We have a 27’ travel trailer that we lived in for a year it was fun but the older you get the less you want the hassle of hauling these things around and the less you want to stay in another parking lot. We still use it once a year but it’s a lot to keep up with.
Your point is try, the older we get the less hassle we want. Fortunate this is small purchase for me. I knew that if things didn't work out that I could always get rid of it. Right now, I am not sure I do want to get rid of it. Even if she doesn't want to go out camping I still do.
I watch my neighbor leave for Arizona each winter and I have my 70’s truck camper and Highboy that I really cannot utilize anymore. I’d like to travel to see family /friends and enjoy music with others . Need to make changes and I feel a small camper would allow more adventure .
A small camper like I got is easy to handle. It pulls really well behind my Nissan Frontier. I think it would pull well behind an SUV also.
My wife and I bought an RV after years of wanting one only to turn around and unload it after COVID hit. It became very difficult to get a site reserved for it and the cost went up not to mention the gas to tow it. Fortunately we were able to get more for it than we paid. We decided to stick to car camping with a tent 😊
I still truck camp. I have a camper topper and have made a platform in the back. So right now I have both worlds. Camping Trailer and Truck Camper. I am not sure I will see the camper. I don't owe anything on it and I might decide to use it on my own from time to time.
I bought a canoe, trolling motor, battery and fish finder. Easy to maintain and cheap to operate. The fish taste good too.
Nice 👍
My dad bought a big, old, used boat near the end of the marriage. Forced family time. First time he launched it, the water was really low & the prop kept hitting rocks. The panicked shouting between them made it very clear that the first time out was also going to be the last time..
That is some story.
This camping thing sounds like something you haven't done much of in your life. So your video speaks volumes in that regard. Seriously, who in their right mind sleeps in children bunks. Wow.. Looks like the mechanic got a great deal. Good luck with your retirement. Possibly on a reset, getting yourself a bigger trailer would be a great start.. (Even renting for 2-3 nights) Hiking is a given when you are outdoors camping, nature, and God. I am a Happy Camper. Peace
I was thinking along the same lines. Forgot the cooler. ??? No breakfast stuff - eggs, bacon, sausage. The easiest 20:12 to cook on a camp stove. No creamer? I’m wondering what else they forgot?
Thanks for the video on purchasing a camper. I've been on the fence about investing in one and you have helped answer some of the questions I had. Keep up the good work.
Glad it was helpful!
Too bad it didn't work out. Thru our lives we did the whole gambit from a pop-up tent, two room tent, borrowed the in laws airstream (that was the cat's meow) then bought our first camper to a winter camper and now we have a fifth wheel that we hardly use now that we are older. One thing that worked for us while we were working was to pay to park the airstream at a RV park and we could just drive there, unload some food and everything was already set up so we could enjoy the full weekend.
This was our first camper. We decided to buy use so we could afford to pay cash. Plus all the new ones we looked at where so cheap inside. The old saying they don't build them like they use to is true. If I don't get it sold I will just use it myself.
I've read thru the comments now, and I see that Ron is considering keeping the camper for a while. Good deal ! One thing I like to do is go camping in the winter. State parks in the middle of the week are empty, the insects are gone for the year, and I can hike the trails with my dog in peace. An evening campfire if it's nice enough outside. I leave my camper "winterized" for the entire winter, and just use the campground facilities, bottled water, etc. An electric site is awesome because I can use a small electric heater.
Thank you for the good ideas. I might just try some winter camping myself. And yes you are correct. I am thinking strongly of keeping it for myself.
Could not agree more, a boat or camper is a lot of work. You better both enjoy it and the prep and cleanup when you return. There is also winter storage, winterization. I miss having a boat, but I love not having that additional work.
Absolutely agree with you
I'm 53. My wife and I just finished a month long trip camping in our fiberglass rv and hiking all over Utah, Arizona and Colorado. We were amazed at all of the older folks we saw being so adventurous and active. Such a contrast from what we see here in the midwest.
I myself am looking forward to some out West trips next year myself.
A single axle trailer is hard to pull. The bunks in those bunkhouses are useless unless you're a 12 year old and weigh 100 pounds. My wife and I have been full timers in a park model tow behind for 6 years. Recently we lost our trailer to a flood. We're thinking about a motorhome when I retire. I'd love to get a smaller class A diesel pusher for those rocky mountain trips.
Sorry to hear about your loss in the flood. You are correct those Bunks are useless. I have already watched a bunch of video's on how to remove them or at least the top one. I have decided today to keep the trailer and make it work out for me. I doubt the wife will go much but occasionally she might. The top bunk is coming out tho.
Ours had a bunch of windows. That helps. It doesn't feel like you're in a cave.
I'm a solo camper, camping in a van. I like the experience I have with nature, but I like reading and writing on my novel. It's a good adventure for me. Yes, camping is not for everyone.
Thanks for the comment. Wonderful that you are able to spend time in nature doing the things you love. I live being outdoors and camping. I will probably be a solo camper myself.
.. Maybe for a quick overnight or two , a pickup camper would fit the bill .. As an obsessed fisherman , especially in my younger years I did the back of the pickup sleeping also ,, but that gets old pretty fast .. An overhead camper or even a pop up type would certainly give a little more comfort and also room to hang out if the rains come ... Doesn't have to be a palace but being able to stand up and move about is nice .. And a truck mounted camper doesn't require additional licensing and insurance costs .. just maybe beef up the rear suspension a little .. Stay Safe ..
Thanks for the suggestions. I do pickup camp in the bed under a Leer Topper. But that is usually only 1 or 2 nights so not so bad. Longer trips tho is why I got the camper.
Good video. Very nice camp site.
It really is!
Enjoying your vids , keep them coming …
Thanks, will do! and appreciate the kind comment
Just a note, make a grocery list of what to bring from home when packing. Check each item off as you go. Avolds having to buy unnecessary stuff. Happy travels and enjoyed this video. 😊
Thanks appreciate that advice.
I retired 10 yrs ago, have both a boat and two trailers.
If I didnt have them , for weekly fishing trips, summer camping trips it would have been better to stay working..
My small trailer let's me travel and camp cheap. My large 5th wheel I keep in a RV resort and spend most the winter, hunting fishing, and enjoying the activities of the park. It's a park with golf and tons of things for everyone, photo club, rock hounds, Krafts you name it. Snowbirds from everywhere come for the winter,
And guess what is costs me 2500.00 year rent, included trash water, and basic cable .
Retirement is what you make it, as you camp in your trailer more things get much easier.
Not sit home a watch TV , it's a sure death sentence.
Take care,
Stick with it. It's new to you, I've done this my whole life on weekends.
And small is better for traveling, it's about layout.
Thank you for the words of encouragement. I think you are right on all points. I need to use it more and things will get better and I am sure I will grow to love it. You are right, small is better.
@@TheRetirementGroove
I think a ready made bed is the way to go, if you've been on the road many hours. You can just pull over and stay the night, or nap in a rest stop. Your right about bunks, there for kids, maybe you could remove them and build a queen.
You bought used, so your not going to lose much. Now you know more what you like and dont.
Tandem axle is much safer as well.
If you have a flat , your not disabled on a highway.
Find something your wife is comfortable in, I like a 20ft.
You can get into most state and federal parks no problem.
Sorry the camper did not work out. We love camping. Used to travel in our van. We set it up with a bed in it. We stayed at Defeated Creek before. It is a gorgeous campground. Gorgeous area as well. Great if you kayak. You could have launched right from your site. If you like photography, you may consider a kayak to go out and take photos. We have now upgraded to a travel trailer. We looked a long time for a layout that would work for us. We will be traveling and working still. Good luck figuring out your style of camping. If nothing else, get you a van and make you a place to sleep. You can even do this in like a Toyota Sienna and still get good gas mileage. Another friend of ours is retired, and he has a transit for a little more height. Thanks for the video.
Thanks for the comment. I do have a Kayak which I don;t get to use as much as I would like. I will next year when I get retired. I was even thinking of taking the Kayak to Defeated Creek this time. But I didn;t.
@@TheRetirementGroove I am not big into photography, but my boyfriend is. He gets lost out there kayaking around and taking photos. I just paddle around for the fun ot it !!! Geez there are so many beautiful places in TN. We are from Western KY. So kinda "neighbors" in a sense. I feel your wife's concerns tho. We were very active, and a couple of years ago decided to get out of debt, and then COV hit (I am a nurse). I was working all of the time, but that helped the debt snowball. But got out of shape. I am feeling it now. However there is no better way to get back into shape than the outdoors. Little by little.....I will get back out there. I hope your wife does too. Stuff is so much better when it is shared. I was single for 14 years before I met Dean. I was very active, kayaked, hiked....but I cannot imagine doing it now without him.
Couldn't afford a camper or traiiler. However, I did buy a used Dodge Caravan and converted it over for camping. It's easy to drive . gets good gas mileage, and is cheap to operate.
I started out camping in my 2006 Honda CR-V. I graduated up to the bed of my pickup and even tho I have the camper I still truck camp.
Nice photography Ron! Enjoy your retirement!
Thank you, I hope I do enjoy my retirenment.
Idea - before making a big purchase of a camper (caravan in UK), motor home etc why not hire one and test it out. We borrowed my brother in laws, he loves it. We did not. The bed space in the roof was like a coffin.
Great idea
Great video and good advice. Love that accent too. Jonathan 🇬🇧
Thanks! 😃
It’s worth it! I love it! Gets me out to nature and on the water. Getting me a roadtrek and a run about boat Fish and ski. Will tow the boat with the roadtrek.
Yes I think it is worth it also I have a Kayak that I like to use when I can. Thanks for the comment.
Many times you just have to make the purchase to figure out if it’s really gonna work or not
This is very true
Should’ve bought a comfortable camper. Comfort makes all the difference when camping. Doesn’t have to be a huge camper to be comfortable.
Agreed........But then I would have to get a bigger truck. It snowballs.
IT WOULD TAKE TIME TO ADJUST TO THE NEW TRAVEL. KEEP DOING TRIPS. PS YES I HATE HAVING TO SPEND ALL DAY DRIVING BACK HOME IN ONE DAY
Just helping your algorithm. Great remainder for me.
Thanks for that!
RV’ing is a lot cheaper than boat life especially upkeep. But now RV life is not so cheap anymore, in most cases it now more expensive that traditional house living.
If you can manage to get out west and camp on BLM land for a month or so moving around every couple of weeks , it's not that expensive if you can manage to keep supplied and not go back and forth into town 40 miles away ever few days. But if you are using paid campgrounds instead then yup it gets expensive fast.
I have checked into BLM Camping out west.
Always check DOT yr, we stamp on tires when buying used.
Yr, WK not yr we!
Yes I found this out the hard way. I learned my lesson
Awesome video! just a tip - when you sell a vehicle keep the plates!
Good tip!
@@TheRetirementGroove thank you sir!
We hired camper before buying our first one used, just recently upgrade in size and age but still well used and not lot money tied up in it. They can take up a bit of time especially customizing but as DIYer is fun to work on so not big deal for me. We enjoy ours, 60 nights over 15mths in first one.
Friends bought new RV and discovered it needed a few mods and $ as configuration wasn't ideal.
Thanks for the comment. I did exactly that, decided to remodel it. Check out my video and see what you think th-cam.com/video/b8cYTGnj9xM/w-d-xo.htmlsi=fJHy5GpDWRvhXEKX
Never rv before. I decided that I won’t stay idle. Have a 30 footer Winnebago tt bought new 1 year before retirement. Been up and down the east coast and love it. When not in the rv, the tundra does great for road trips which will do one tomorrow. Happy travels.
Thank you
My wife and I thought about a camper. We want to travel and see the country, but we have decided that we don't actually travel that often. If we take 3-4 big trips a year, that is a lot for us. A nice hotel room or condo is worth the price. Then you can stay closer to the things we want to do. I think we would have enjoyed a camper in our younger years now. I see a lot of campers parked next to peoples homes that never get used. But we know people that love it too.
I am to figure things out and be able to use this camper at least for myself.
My wife and I have done motorcycle camping trips, about 3,000 miles and we both enjoyed that, about ten years ago. My wife just retired from another career and in the past ten years we have been debating and contemplating future motorcycle camping, RV travel with either a trailer or van, or travelling to a location and renting a place for weeks or months. We are still undecided. Of course, what fails us, we live in a beautiful West Coast town on five beautiful acres, and though we have set up the tent on hot days, we can also camp inside the house, with all the amenities and surrounded by our accumulated 'world'. We love bargain hunting at thrift stores, exploring old towns, and stumbling across unique events, but we also have these and more 'attractions' within a 100 mile radius, AND people travel from all over the world to visit our area. hmmmmmmm I turn 70 next year, and so far we are both healthy and fit, so the future is an open opportunity. PS We still have the bike and trailer too. 🙂
I hope to stay healthy thru my retirement years to enjoy those same things. Thankf for the comment
Go look at a Geo Pro g19fbs. You will be impressed. I own one and sleep in it better than my bed at home. You have all the conveniences of home in a small package.
I will do that
Moral of story...don't wait to do this life experience enjoyment until you retire.
You are right
Getting an RV after you retire is a great idea. You go where you want, when you want and prepare the food that you're used to eating; and, in our case we get to bring our 2 dogs with us and care for them ourselves. There are 2 ways to do this: 1) the smart way... by buying a new high quality RV, getting an extended warranty and the best roadside assistance insurance OR 2) Your way.
I am still weighing in on what exactly I am going to do. I think we a few changes to my current TT that it might be more useful for me. When and If I do make modifications you can be assured I will do a video on that. Thanks for the Comment. Buying used affordable was the right move for me. If it doesn't work out I feel confident I can sell it and recoup my money I have in it.
I bought a boat. Used it a few times. Decided it was too much trouble to haul, launch, store. Sold it. Now if I feel the itch to boat, camp etc… I rent it. Use it, return it. Done. No hassle.
Renting is always an option. I owned a boat once. I owned a home with a pool once.
Wonderful story and very relatable. I assume your wife bought in initially on the idea of the RV which is why you purchased it but later found out she didn't like the experience so now you are compelled to get rid of it. As I am married as well find myself thinking along these lines also; what if the wife don't like it? Causes a problem for sure but if the signals were there before you bought it that she didn't like it and you did it anyway, things to think about. I've been considering the RV thing as well but what gives me pause besides the wife maybe not liking it is apparently they are all built like junk but are not priced like junk so I will stay to hotels, etc. Great video.
Thanks. Yes she was for it in the beginning. Circumstances change. I am just glad that I bought an older Pre-Covid used one and don't have a terrible amount invested in it.
It's true the RV industry has a long reputation of low quality build and control. A person needs to look at an RV as a hobby. If you like tinkering, fixing, maintenance and modifications, they can be lots of fun. I have enjoyed every single night I have spent in my RV. I bought it in 2011. Was just out tinkering with it ( cleaning it after weekend trip ). All part of the fun.
@@929cbr_rr On a certain level I agree with you. I am a tinkerer and have a DIY attitude about many things. At the same time I see a multitude of videos commenting and showing RV construction practices that leave me skeptical about the quality of these units. I want quality and feel it should be competitively priced against the other offerings. That doesn't seem to be the case with this industry. Getting it worked on, etc., time delays, proficiency of technicians, insurance, reservations, fee's, where do I keep it, on and on and on...That said I have been a tent camper for some years and will continue with that. Thanks for the comment.
My wife is about the same age as your wife, I’m guessing. She’s setting here while I’m watch this video. My wife said you purchased the wrong trailer. She said you should have purchased one for your wife LOL. At our age comfort is first and foremost. I wanted to purchase a small teardrop. My wife said no way. So we purchased a much bigger and more comfortable trailer. I would have been ok with the teardrop, like you are with truck camping. But, I wanted her to enjoy it also. So we got the bigger trailer. Is it a lot of work, yes. Is it worth it for all the work and expense. I think so. We don’t know how much time we have in retirement. We don’t want to spend it setting in our recliners. Plus we want to do it together. Thus the travel trailer.
Your wife is correct. I don't want to sit in my recliner during retirement years either. My long term dream is this:
If I was single I would sell it all. The House, the Cars, everything, buy one of those Sprinter Van Campers and go out west and boondock camp. Seriously.
@@TheRetirementGroove we looked at camper vans also. I would love to have one. But, the prices. I would have to sell everything too and live in it full time. But, we’re happy with our travel trailer too. It’s comfortable for a couple. A private bedroom with a queen size bed, full kitchen, recliner seating and a huge bathroom. That’s what sold my wife. We are planning our first trip out west next year. But, some people just don’t like camping.
We had a Sprinter Van (Roadtrek Adventerous). Took it to FLA for 3 yrs in February and March. It was great. We had a 2008 , but it got expensive when it needed any repairs. Some places wouldn’t even work on it. So we sold and were out of camping for 11/2 yrs. We’ve since bought a teardrop and just spent 6 nights in it up in NH. We really liked it. We’re retired and won’t go camping in bad weather because we’ve got all the time in the world. Taking to FLA this winter. (Coming right thru beautiful Tennessee ) We’ve also bought a small condo in FLA and will be keeping it down there in a storage facility. But we plan on going around FLA checking out the sites. Sorry it didn’t work out for you. Greeting from Cape Cod, MA
Unfortunately some people just don’t like camping, I truly can’t understand it but that’s just how it is
Exactly right. I like the peace and quiet it affords you to be out away from everyday life
Converting a enclosed trailer to ur liking is alot more beneficial and cheaper
You know, I actually thought about doing that. A friend of mine did that. He has a nice setup and it is the way he wanted.
Yep, got boat and camper😊.
Very good advise. I enjoyed your video
Glad it was helpful!
After rving for a few years i got sick of the reservation shuffle, the dirt campsites, dumpin tanks, expensive gas, etc. Had a great time but glad im out.
The best thing to do is rent a camper trailer for a week or two and see if you like it.
We bought a 30 footer in 2011 when the kids were small and we used it a lot. As they reached high school the kids liked it less and less. It sat in storage for a few years, mice got in it so I put it up for sale. It was just after COVID and prices were high. It sold within a few days for $3k less than we paid for it 11 years prior. It went to a young family with small kids and they will enjoy as we did. We made a ton of memories with our children. We retire in two years but decided we would much rather do hotels and airbnbs instead when we travel. I just don’t see myself changing flats and dealing with upkeep and the setup and take downs in the coming years. Enjoyed the video and it’s good advice for folks who have never camped.
Thank you for that comment. I do think about all the upkeep and like you said dealing with flat tires, etc.......
Air b and bs are the way to go. Most have a laundry room. Not much $$ compared to a camper.
Good video Ron enjoy camping 👍
Thanks 👍
“Hoping my wife would join me”. A problem very familiar to me…😢
Familiar with alot of us.
@@TheRetirementGroove indeed it is.
Bought a camper then four days later had a stroke that took out my right side. Sold the camper as soon as I could. Be prepared life happens and comes at you hard and fast.
Just remember, both deteriorate quickly if not stored correctly. Money pits, and a lot of work.
Yes I realize that. I will look after it carefully. I had no idea until I bought the camper how many thing you need to look after.
We are retiring we sold our camper sold are
Country home and are moving to town. No space to store a camper.We plan to travel and we’re considering a Class B however I think just travel in a nice SUV or Mini Van for
Space and comfort and stay in motels hotels and cabin rentals.
That is wonderful. I suppose someday I might think the same way that Hotels would be a more restful nights sleep
I’m retired and bought a new camper, big mistake. Between the insurance and payments, I can’t afford to travel anywhere.
The one I bought I didn't pay a great deal for. And it was used. So I feel like I got a good bargain
We bought a 25 foot class c Motorhome that we tow our truck with as well.
Since Texas summers are so hot we went north for the summer 70 days and 6 states. It was great.
If you join a camping club you can save a lot of money.
I started a side business selling landscape, wildlife, and pictures of Americana. It did quite well next year I plan on selling directly out of the RV at rallies and such.
I have sold RVs the last three years before my wife retired as I did not want to just sit around. So going into it I know what I wanted, and which were good units and which ones to stay away from.
I have a 2012 Jeep grand Cherokee that has 128,000 on it. The exterior and interior are mint. I was faced with the dilemma of do I do the necessary repairs and maintenance or do I just buy another since we like the current one so much And they no longer are producing the hemi engine I bet the bullet and had them redo the suspension, engine and transmission. It cost me around 12,000. I suspect I should be able to get 3 to 5 years out of it for that investment. I agree as we retire and get older. Our purchasing decisions have to be prudent.
Thank you for your insight to this and appreciate the comment.
I am retiring soon and just purchased a camper. One must do their homework when buying a camper to ensure the one you buy is comfortable. Camping is not for everyone, but using the excuse that I am too old and out of shape likely is just an excuse. I think the more accurate statement would be your wife just doesn't like camping from the sound of it Then again the camper you picked was clearly not setup properly for a retired couple, which was your first mistake. Used trailers the first thing you do is have the tires checked and replaced. Camping isn't work to me it's an enjoyable experience, but you have to buy the right one, Planning a trip is part of it. Being able to stay out away from home and just be out in the open wilderness enjoying life. I think age is a mindset and there are many people that are a lot younger than I am and they are indeed old because that is their mindset. I am 65, soon 66 and I can say I like to walk walking trails and visiting unique places. I worked to hard to be cramped in a truck bed or car. I hate hotels and AirBnB's are hit and miss. I want to lay in my own bed that I know is clean. Someone mentioned these things are money pits, So giving your money to hotels and AirBnB's you are just giving your money away and have nothing to show for it. Camping life can be fun, you meet a lot of nice people that are living their dream lives. My new 13 foot scamp lite is absolutely fantastic. Very reasonable priced, easy to tow, no significant maintenance because it's a lite version. Overall everyone has to do what works best for them.
Thank you for this comment. After reading many comments from folks I have decided to keep this camper. It's paid for and I didn't break the bank when I bought it. I already have new tires, new lights, resealed the roof, new solar battery system so I am ready to go and I don't retire until Dec 2024. I have started with some remodel improvements inside. Already removed that top bunk so it is better for sleeping in the bottom bed for one adult. I think if I start going camping more often after I retire that my wife will probably go, sometimes........I don't consider my purchase a money pit. I like those smaller Scamp type campers and for one person camping they are perfect. Have a nice day.
That’s true about being out of shape…camping isn’t for everyone….which is true about another you do in life
I know that is right. Staying active after I retire is something I have been thinking about seriously. I am pretty active at work so I will be looking at my options for exercise.
Where are you located? I’m in southern Missouri.
East Tennessee
Health is wealth! Without good health, your life options are restricted.
Good Advice
Camper or boat. Great question. So 6 years ago, I got both. Both now paid off in full, and the reason was because, if one plan failed, I would go with the other. Now, that I’m 5 months from retirement, I’ve started to favor the boat, but will keep both for now. I’ve lived in houses and apartments most of my life, (5 of those years in boats and campers) and prefer not to be bound by four walls of a house in retirement, no sir
We would only glamp. 😂 We enjoy beds and toilets.
So does my wife. She thinks camping at the Holiday Inn Express is the great.
@@TheRetirementGroove Exactly! 😂