In this video I talk about why people choose to buy Airstreams even though they are smaller and less spacious than a large trailer which is half the price.
My parents purchased there irstream new in 1969 when they got married. It is now 2023 and they are still pulling the same 1969 irstream all over the country. It has a total of 2.7 million miles on it.
Why? Well, they tow better than any other trailer. Better gas mileage while towing due to less drag. They last for decades even when towed hundreds of thousands of miles. No slides (they did make larger models with a single slide years ago. No longer although the slide models out there are in high demand meaning big $$$). They are hand made meaning every rivet on the shell requires two workers to install every buck rivet. Currently own a 2019 Flying Cloud 25' Rear Bed Twin. Love it. It is our second Airstream.
Airstreams are definitely worth it. We bought a new one in 2020. After looking over various brands, models, trailers, fifth wheels, etc., we found the Airstream was the best fit for us. Mainly because we fit in them! With a family of 6’+ we didn’t fit in most other brands. We’re not into the status, prestige or club aspect. We just love the quality, fit and tow ability. It’s also one we can pass on down to the family! Love it!
My grandfather had an Airstream 30’ Classic at a campground on Lake Erie. After a couple decades of him, friends, other family and all of his grandchildren enjoying it for walleye & perch fishing trips, it was retired due to a tornado. Out of the 60+ campers/rv’s in the campground, only 2 were even discernible as a camper/rv. They were both Airstreams! His got rolled and stopped a few spots down but it was still intact! It could’ve been sent back to Airstream for repairs but he decided to just let it go. The build quality is insane compared to other campers/rv’s.
I just bought my first Airstream, a 25’ International with forward twin bunks. It was a difficult decision as I live in a cold climate and when I compared it to an Arctic Fox, the AF won in almost every category at about half the cost. That being said, I watched my last trailer practically disintegrate while parked next to my house in 5 short years. The Airstream at 9’9” tall fits in my outbuilding and is out of the weather when not in use. It also pulls easily with my Toyota Tundra 5.7L pickup. I disagree with the comment about holding their value as I’ve seen several lightly used ones for $30K less than I paid for mine (I paid $108K if anyone is wondering). I could care less about “status.” That’s actually a detractor for me. I love it so far. There’s plenty of room for my wife and me plus a couple of dogs. Everything is well thought out and very comfortable. No complaints or regrets.
I hear about delicate exterior-easily to scratch, rust-is it true and how do you handle care especially for the skin of the Airstream? Thanks -safe and fun travels!👍
G8 Video. We had a 1996 Airstream Excella which we purchased in 2020. Took some time to update it and give it a little TLC. We polished it last year (it was starting to show its age) and then we spent the winter in Florida. Everywhere we went, people asked us how old our Airstream was. And they could not believe it when we told them it was a 1996. It was a fantastic trailer for us and we loved it. This year we came home from Florida in April and put the Excella in storage. Our Airstream dealer asked us if we wanted to see a 2018 Flying Cloud U that they just got in on a trade. Long story short...we traded up our 96 Excella for a 2018 Flying Cloud. Dealer gave us the same $ on trade in 3 years later....So your point about holding value is so true. We love our Airstream and looking forward to many happy trips in our 2018 Flying Cloud. Keep the great videos coming. CHeers
Thanks for the positive feedback. It’s great hearing your story and it’s a story I see and hear a lot in the business. Enjoy all the great memories you’re creating!
We're on our second Airstream, the first one we bought used, then upgraded to a larger size after 7 years. We are Airstream Club members and enjoy all that comes with owning an Airstream, including all of the things you mentioned and more! Thanks for sharing this great video!
I have always loved Airstreams. Getting one was, and still is, a dream come true. The quality and community that comes with it are amazing. We got our first one and kept it for 4 years then decided we wanted a little more room. We never considered getting anything other than another Airstream the second time around. The resale value is an additional bonus.
There is a prestige of owning one. Yes, one could get a trailer for half the price, but those have a tendency to leak at the roofs because how its build. Resale value is huge. An Airstream that has been taken care of will sell pretty much what you originally paid for it. Love my 16 RB.
the Airstream tracking perfect is not bullshit - truck slammed its brakes and I did a sharp swerve at 70 MPH on the 5 freeway in Southern California and I thought I was gong to flip the Airstream but that baby swerved with my car like nothing --- it saved my life
We have a 2005 28' International and we live in it full time! It's simple, it's easy to tow, and there are very few problems. It's an all season RV and can withstand the elements better than most. See ya on the road!
In answer to your question, would you buy one? The answer is yes, we did just that this past June. That was after owning a typical "box" camper for 3 years. We had just attended a rally with 50 or so other people who owned our make and model travel trailer, which by the way we really did enjoy. But during the rally we listening to all the (same or similar) upgrades almost everyone had done or planned to do in order to make it more comfortable and usable. And we listening to the maintenance issues almost everyone has had and how to fix or avoid them, so when we saw an Airstream for sale by owner just a few weeks later, we purchased it. Compared to the typical box camper, this thing is rock solid. Is it worth the money? That's a question everyone has to answer on their own, but to us, the decision took less than 30 minutes to make after seeing the "for sale by owner" sign on it. We love our 2021 Flying Cloud 25FB!
It’s called quality. What’s expensive is the money people waste on the garbage they are paying almost $100,000. We have the 2019 Flying Cloud 27FBT. Bought it new from Colonial Airstream. Love it. It’s just my myself, wife, 2 Frenchie bulldogs and 1 cat. And NO MORE SLIDE OUTS! Tows better than the the 5th wheel we had.
I had another trailer for 7 years and it was falling apart. I went to buy a new trailer and wasn't impressed with the quality. I baught a basecamp and couldn't believe the quality. I love it.
Soooo, I looked at these...and I felt they were made well..but..we felt like we were in a soup can...no warmth'' inside..and no room. Bought a Rockwood [it too had torsion axles, quality has been good, lots of room...and no issues that were build related. Best reason to not buy the Airstream..Take that 150k difference and invest it....and in 10 years..Heck, buy anything you want!!!
We have a 2019 30ft signature rear twins. LOVE! Thanks for doing such a positive video. We meet Airstream owners all the time who are on their 3rd or 4th Airstream, not because anything was wrong with the others, but because once you get an Airstream…YOU GET IT! ❤
I have a 2019 Bambi Sport 16RB. Thank God I got it prior to the huge price increases through the 2020 pandemic. I like taking it down to the Outer Banks, Frisco Woods Camp Ground.
I recently purchased a 2 year old Carousel 20FB and I've never been an Airstream guy. My parents owned a 1976 Aristocrat (16'). I was going to purchase an Oliver which I still consider a very good TT, however there were a few differences that swayed me to the AS. I've seen too many horror stories about slide outs which neither AS or Oliver have. The initial investment is very high, but I'll get a nice check when it's time for me to sell it!
I love my Super C and would never trade it, but when I’m next to an Airstream I always admire them. If was a pull behind trailer guy, I’d own an Airstream.
I can totally support this video regarding Airstreams. So easy to tow. Take care of them and they last. Well built and the resale value is there ongoing. Cannot say that for other brands. And yes, I own an Airstream. Thanks for the factual video on Airstream. Take care.
Six years ago I bought a 1981 Airstream Excella II 25FK. I paid what I would have paid for a brand new 25ft regular trailer. As the Airstream is 42 years old, the original interior is in very good condition. I find that if something goes wrong it tends to be the equipment not made by Airstream: fridge, WH, furnace, etc. I pull it, very easily, with a 2007 Chevy Impala SS. The receiver is custom built by the best in the business (CanAmRV). Towing, compared to when I towed a 23ft Travelaire, is a breeze. I forget it's back there thanks to the low centre of gravity and the superior suspension. I plan to keep this Airstream forever; I'll hand it down to a niece or nephew. BTW, my Airstream is one of only 7 ever made. Cheers, Paul
Ha! Another guy using a car to tow his AS. I have a 20FB and tow it with my 1968 Mercury Monterey. I do get alot of looks at the campground and i'm sure you do as well!
Try going to the AIRFORUM! The heated discussions between those who believe that a big square box of a Pickup truck is the only way to tow a trailer. Talk about defeating the purpose of the low centre of gravity and the aerodynamics of an Airstream You're pulling with a vehicle that was pulling trailers back in 1968. Cheers, Paul@@dachshunddadbob6765
I always wonder how the seems and rivets would handle ice over time but I guess if you have $200k for trailer you can pay or have built a covered place to store it in off seasons. Interiors are really nice. Rivets say I can’t afford to pay welders. Built Like the Titanic.
The new Airstreams, have too many windows! They are scrimping on the Aluminum. You feel like you are in a fish bowl. Or in an observation car on the train. So many windows let in heat, cold and noise. Privacy lost also. Windows are nice but too many are on the new trailers. They wrap around the front and back and more windows in the middle. We have a 2006 19 Bambi and love it. Yes we could sell it for what we paid for it. But we are keeping it we love it so much. And the Airstream club is so....fun!
I have a 21 globetrotter 27fbq towing with my wife’s 21 bmw x7 m50i. I cannot tell you how many people come up and ask about the trailer combo. Including several police officers. It tows great with the bmw and an equalizer hitch. Mid 1990s rv tech was my first job.
I had a Forest River and a Grand Design travel trailer. After about three years they started to disintegrate. So I bought my first Airstream in 2022, night and day difference in quality. Airstream will still look the same years down the road. Built with quality components that last.
Yes, they are worth it. My first one was a 2021 Caravel 20FB.. Easy to drive and tow. I sold it and am looking at a 23' with a bit more room with twin beds. I love traveling with my own bed in tow. The quality is great. Quiet inside.
The outside is wonderful. The inside is cold, sterile, uninviting, and not in any way comfy looking (in a home-like feeling). Its like being in a hotel room where you are not really home but get to use the amenities.
I’m getting my hands on an Australian caravan or European one…now those are made solid. The outer shell of an airstream is just too fragile for our crappy roads ..let alone a hailstorm 😬
They are very sterile inside like the Oliver and the beds are small. Not much storage outside. The quality is appealing. I went looking years ago without a budget and preferred other products. I just repeated this process looking for my next (4th) trailer with the same conclusion. In the end, it’s what appeals to you the most and if it’s the Airstream that appeals to you AND you have the resources get the Airstream.
I have a airstream 2004 classic ltd 34 foot triple axel. The only leak i ever had was the skylight leaked due to the screws to tight and cracked the plastic. I bought replacement high end hail resistant with metal frame skylights from Texas. Never had a leak since. That guy is right about quality. I still own this airstream and made the big mistake of buying a 5th wheel brand new 2023 42 foot forrest river Cedarcreek toy hauler 385th. Its in the shop right now getting the slide motors replaced. Its brand new ! Owning it less than a year this is what has gone wrong in addition to the slide motors going out. GAS line was kinked going into the tankless water heater never would get hot, one shade don't work, slam baggage door never worked right even after takin it in to get repaired, Hydraulic leveling control panel went out $450 if i had to pay for it, Another slam latch door was locked and the guy had to pry it open. Made me sick watching that, Floor moves and squeaks, Self closing kitchen draw broke, The gasket on the slides when they go out pull off and I have to keep putting them back on what a pain. This all in less than a year and there is more, central vac hose keeps popping off etc. You would think after putting down 30k that i could sell it with no problem come to find out you can buy a brand new one for lees than what i paid because forrest river dropped there prices twice in 2023 because they were not selling units. The only reason i bought this money pit is my airstream didn't have enough storage space outside but i wish i would have bought a camper shell and store some stuff back there instead of making that i believe a huge mistake. My airstream is 20 years old now and the only thing i replaced was the ac unit and the fridge witch is understandable and that was three years ago. Oh and i put brakes on it for the first time last year before i bought the other pos. Yes they are expensive but i rather pay for quality than thrown together junk like the one i own right now. Sorry it just makes me sick the money i paid for the Cedarcreek knowing after the warranty is up its going to be a endless money pit but not my airstream.
I’m so sorry to hear about your bad experience with that fifth wheel. I do appreciate the positive feedback on the airstream. I love hearing from owner stories. If you do need a fifth wheel, though I would highly recommend looking into Brinkley. I had one customer come in to trade in his globetrotter for a new model. And he switched to Brinkley because of the extra space. And as far as fifth wheel goes. I would put them in number one right now.
I saved and purchased my new Airstream 100% cash in 2019 from Airstream of Columbus, Ohio. I do not do consumer debt, ever. But, given their high pricing, how many of you folks finance to a monthly payment like a mortgage, and for how long? Do you put any money down?
In my experience selling many buyers pay cash but some finance as well. Anywhere from 0 Down and up and it’s best to spread payments over 20 years and overpay if you can. Low payment makes overpaying easier. There are no penalties like you see in a mortgage payment.
If you have the money, any kind of luxury goods are "worth it", in general. I'd rather have an S-Class Mercedes than a Chevy Malibu. You'd really have to do a lot of RVing or be quite rich to make the investment though. If you only go out a few weekends a year, an Airstream is probably not the best value.
For the price of Air Stream travel trailer, you can get similarly equipped class B motorhome that you don't have to worry about constantly hooking and unhooking which is a huge hassle.
Plus you get the advantage in a class b to unhook all utilities when you leave the campsite, with your grill, chairs, etc. sitting at the site whenever you decide to go to the store, out to eat, or for entertainment. Lots to consider with all RV’s.
Too vague. Need model, floorplan. Also you can search for similar units online. Just type “2014 airstream Bambi for sale” you should find something close.
Until you pull one and compare it to other TTs, you will never understand. When you buy it, it's an instant heirloom to be bequeathed to your children. It's an investment.
My wife and i have been looking at airstrams for years and can't find one that doesn't have medal on the inside. In the cold winters that meadal on the inside is cold and hot in ge summer. They need to go back to the carpet inside walls.
They actually have really good insulation. They’re not a four seasons camper, but they are good and hot weather with the whisper, quiet air conditioning. When I’m working around them on the lot in the summer, they don’t seem to be any hotter than any other trailer on the inside.
As a 38 year master rv technician these RVs are well built, however, they are incredibly expensive to repair. Just dent a 1/4 panel or gawd forbid a side panel. Our company has refused to work on them because of the mentality of just a few of the owners and the cost of repair.
The only problem I have with Airstream is the location of the microwave. It's so low I need to get on my hands and knees to look inside to see how my pot pies are doing.
After rving with my wife for the last 8 years l, mostly week long trips to 4 week trips … I learned the main things that add to the enjoyment of the trip are redundancy and limited about of things that can go wrong. The new design with two ac units that also double as heat pumps and the fact that they have no slides is a major stress relief … I want simple, quality and something that doesn’t require the insane insurance or maintenance of a drivable unit or deal with the weight and overall size of the newer fifth wheels … at the age of 33 when I see those giant solitudes on the road with slides and auto leveling and all the bells and whistles I just see a million things to go wrong and piss me off after spending all that money …plus their resale is non-existent
Why not? Far too many newbies do not have the do-it-yourself skills for maintenance, and even fewer have the driving skills to safely navigate our roads and highways.
will it leak. ABSOLUTELY. Upon delivery in December! after a 14 month wait the door leaked. Then the first summer it leaked in the bedroom. So yes they leak. .
THOR has owned Airstream since 1980 and was literally formed to save Airstream from going out of business. You are probably thinking of THOR Motorcoach which is a separate company.
2 Reasons 1. Looks - all other modern trailers look the same and are mostly hideous. Airstream is a classic, timeless design. 2. Quality - as talked about, they last a couple of lifetimes if taken care of.
I used to make fun of them...then I did my research...not only the points yu make...but they are easy to fix...no recalls...we put solar power plant in it...after a year...one small leak and two popped rivets...that's it...and we took it on the grays river road...wally byum would have been proud
The only reason an Airstream is expensive is due to dealer markup. If you bought, say, a Bambi 22', it consists of marked up materials totaling about $15K. Double that for labor. Now at the dealer, the price will be around $35K - $40K. Sounds nice? The dealership adds on a bunch of crap that will not benefit you at all, and the out the door price becomes $81K. After they get their money, they don't care one ioda about you or your AS. Get lost. Need parts? Spend 1000 hours online searching forums, come up empty, and be dissatisfied. Enjoy! 🤨🤔😡😤
Other brands have caught up. Lance, Ember, and Alliance. Airstreams are very nice, but just on suspension Airstream has been passed up with coil over suspension. Even Grand Design has added ABS to their 5th wheels and is starting to roll that on their trailers. I guess if you’ve got the money, go nuts, but a lot of us are just trying to make memories with family and our kids before they leave the house. The trailer really is just the mechanism to accomplish that. I’ll take my poor Keystone or Jayco and is the rest of the money to take more time off or go somewhere that we couldn’t otherwise. But, enjoy your Airstream clubs I guess…
I feel all RV’s are overpriced except Airstream and the fiberglass models like Oliver. Look at how long the RV will last and it’s resale value…if you have the money it’s really a no brainer which RV to purchase.
@@outdoorjayeI bought a T@B 320-S and love it! My kids & grandkids still tent camp but one of my daughters said if she ever buys a trailer, she wants an Airstream because of all the memories of camping in one with her grandparents.
Quality you pay ; what is sad I don't see a lot of them here in Europe you should work on that one Airstream they are welcome here you, lets eat the Tabbert Fendt Knaus Adria brands😆
We love our Flying Cloud, but the idea that Airstreams don't depreciate is bunk. It's been true for the pandemic years, but things are turning back to normal. Hold value better than a box trailer, sure. Get what you paid for it, no way.
Airstream is not a travel trailer company. Airstream is a boutique MARKETING company. They are pitching a cleverly crafted tale of history, heritage and Americana. You’re paying 10 times more for the emotional response this product creates in you. Are Airstreams built better than most other trailer brands? Yes. Generally. Are they worth the eye-watering MSRP? After spending an entire afternoon at an Airstream dealer *dissecting* them, I would argue no. I left there feeling like it was a clever marketing hoodwink.
Not going to say I would not buy one (ANY ONE CAN HAVE A WEAK MOMENT), BUT they are so so overrated and over priced. I owned a manufacturing company that fabricated high end units that operated with PLCs in very extreme conditions. So I have a little experience. Not saying they are junk, because they are not. But I see the frames, overall fabrication, materials used and the actual (NOT PRECEIVED) value the customer is getting. So I stand by what I said. VERY OVERRATED AND OVERPRICED!!!!! But that is IMHO.
There are people dropping $100k+ on fancy F-150’s that last maybe 5-6 years before the next fancy model comes out and is a “must have”. An Airstream for $100K that will last 75+ years is a steal.
![[Full Episode] MasterChef Junior Thailand มาสเตอร์เชฟ จูเนียร์ ประเทศไทย Season 3 Episode 2](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YpQnHoQvZt4/mqdefault.jpg)
My parents purchased there irstream new in 1969 when they got married. It is now 2023 and they are still pulling the same 1969 irstream all over the country. It has a total of 2.7 million miles on it.
That’s amazing. I love hearing these stories. Keep them coming.
Wow. That's amazing
That is absolutely badass
Why? Well, they tow better than any other trailer. Better gas mileage while towing due to less drag. They last for decades even when towed hundreds of thousands of miles. No slides (they did make larger models with a single slide years ago. No longer although the slide models out there are in high demand meaning big $$$). They are hand made meaning every rivet on the shell requires two workers to install every buck rivet. Currently own a 2019 Flying Cloud 25' Rear Bed Twin. Love it. It is our second Airstream.
Love it John, thanks for the reply!
Airstreams are definitely worth it. We bought a new one in 2020. After looking over various brands, models, trailers, fifth wheels, etc., we found the Airstream was the best fit for us. Mainly because we fit in them! With a family of 6’+ we didn’t fit in most other brands. We’re not into the status, prestige or club aspect. We just love the quality, fit and tow ability. It’s also one we can pass on down to the family! Love it!
Congratulations, which model did you get? With a family of 6 I'm guessing its the 30FB Bunk?
@@outdoorjaye I’m sorry. I meant it to read we are a family of 4 but all over 6 feet tall. We got the Flying Cloud 25 FBT.
Nice. That’s a great size trailer. Everything you need!
My grandfather had an Airstream 30’ Classic at a campground on Lake Erie. After a couple decades of him, friends, other family and all of his grandchildren enjoying it for walleye & perch fishing trips, it was retired due to a tornado. Out of the 60+ campers/rv’s in the campground, only 2 were even discernible as a camper/rv. They were both Airstreams! His got rolled and stopped a few spots down but it was still intact! It could’ve been sent back to Airstream for repairs but he decided to just let it go. The build quality is insane compared to other campers/rv’s.
That’s a great story thanks for sharing!
I just bought my first Airstream, a 25’ International with forward twin bunks. It was a difficult decision as I live in a cold climate and when I compared it to an Arctic Fox, the AF won in almost every category at about half the cost. That being said, I watched my last trailer practically disintegrate while parked next to my house in 5 short years. The Airstream at 9’9” tall fits in my outbuilding and is out of the weather when not in use. It also pulls easily with my Toyota Tundra 5.7L pickup. I disagree with the comment about holding their value as I’ve seen several lightly used ones for $30K less than I paid for mine (I paid $108K if anyone is wondering). I could care less about “status.” That’s actually a detractor for me. I love it so far. There’s plenty of room for my wife and me plus a couple of dogs. Everything is well thought out and very comfortable. No complaints or regrets.
I hear about delicate exterior-easily to scratch, rust-is it true and how do you handle care especially for the skin of the Airstream?
Thanks -safe and fun travels!👍
G8 Video. We had a 1996 Airstream Excella which we purchased in 2020. Took some time to update it and give it a little TLC. We polished it last year (it was starting to show its age) and then we spent the winter in Florida. Everywhere we went, people asked us how old our Airstream was. And they could not believe it when we told them it was a 1996. It was a fantastic trailer for us and we loved it. This year we came home from Florida in April and put the Excella in storage. Our Airstream dealer asked us if we wanted to see a 2018 Flying Cloud U that they just got in on a trade.
Long story short...we traded up our 96 Excella for a 2018 Flying Cloud. Dealer gave us the same $ on trade in 3 years later....So your point about holding value is so true.
We love our Airstream and looking forward to many happy trips in our 2018 Flying Cloud.
Keep the great videos coming.
CHeers
Thanks for the positive feedback. It’s great hearing your story and it’s a story I see and hear a lot in the business. Enjoy all the great memories you’re creating!
We're on our second Airstream, the first one we bought used, then upgraded to a larger size after 7 years. We are Airstream Club members and enjoy all that comes with owning an Airstream, including all of the things you mentioned and more! Thanks for sharing this great video!
My pleasure!
We lived and traveled throughout the U.S. IN A 34 foot Airstream. Best ten years of our lives. We sold it for more than we paid for it!
I have always loved Airstreams. Getting one was, and still is, a dream come true. The quality and community that comes with it are amazing. We got our first one and kept it for 4 years then decided we wanted a little more room. We never considered getting anything other than another Airstream the second time around. The resale value is an additional bonus.
I have that exact model Flying Coud 25FB. Definitely worth every penny. I just love everything about that trailer.
It’s a great size and beautiful. Congrats!🎉
I have a ‘73 Argosy 26’ and love it. Although I have a 3” lift so I kind of messed up the low profile but it still tows great.
At least you go can a few more tough places.
There is a prestige of owning one. Yes, one could get a trailer for half the price, but those have a tendency to leak at the roofs because how its build. Resale value is huge. An Airstream that has been taken care of will sell pretty much what you originally paid for it. Love my 16 RB.
the Airstream tracking perfect is not bullshit - truck slammed its brakes and I did a sharp swerve at 70 MPH on the 5 freeway in Southern California and I thought I was gong to flip the Airstream but that baby swerved with my car like nothing --- it saved my life
Great video! They definitely hold their value.
We have a 2005 28' International and we live in it full time! It's simple, it's easy to tow, and there are very few problems. It's an all season RV and can withstand the elements better than most. See ya on the road!
In answer to your question, would you buy one? The answer is yes, we did just that this past June. That was after owning a typical "box" camper for 3 years. We had just attended a rally with 50 or so other people who owned our make and model travel trailer, which by the way we really did enjoy. But during the rally we listening to all the (same or similar) upgrades almost everyone had done or planned to do in order to make it more comfortable and usable. And we listening to the maintenance issues almost everyone has had and how to fix or avoid them, so when we saw an Airstream for sale by owner just a few weeks later, we purchased it. Compared to the typical box camper, this thing is rock solid. Is it worth the money? That's a question everyone has to answer on their own, but to us, the decision took less than 30 minutes to make after seeing the "for sale by owner" sign on it. We love our 2021 Flying Cloud 25FB!
That’s a great model. I hope you and your family have lots of great memories in it.
It’s called quality. What’s expensive is the money people waste on the garbage they are paying almost $100,000. We have the 2019 Flying Cloud 27FBT. Bought it new from Colonial Airstream. Love it. It’s just my myself, wife, 2 Frenchie bulldogs and 1 cat. And NO MORE SLIDE OUTS! Tows better than the the 5th wheel we had.
How was your experience with Colonial?
Quality is certainly worth considering.
If I had the money to buy what I wanted my selection criteria would be:
1. Quality of Build /
Longevity
2. Towability
3. Resale value
Good choices. Sounds like an Airstream. 😁
I had another trailer for 7 years and it was falling apart. I went to buy a new trailer and wasn't impressed with the quality. I baught a basecamp and couldn't believe the quality. I love it.
350 hours to build vs maybe 8-10. You can really see the difference.
Soooo, I looked at these...and I felt they were made well..but..we felt like we were in a soup can...no warmth'' inside..and no room. Bought a Rockwood [it too had torsion axles, quality has been good, lots of room...and no issues that were build related. Best reason to not buy the Airstream..Take that 150k difference and invest it....and in 10 years..Heck, buy anything you want!!!
That’s fair. They aren’t for everyone and surely not a financial investment.
We have a 2019 30ft signature rear twins. LOVE! Thanks for doing such a positive video. We meet Airstream owners all the time who are on their 3rd or 4th Airstream, not because anything was wrong with the others, but because once you get an Airstream…YOU GET IT! ❤
Congrats on your Signature! Hopefully it will be a part of many great memories for you and your family!
I have a 2019 Bambi Sport 16RB. Thank God I got it prior to the huge price increases through the 2020 pandemic. I like taking it down to the Outer Banks, Frisco Woods Camp Ground.
I recently purchased a 2 year old Carousel 20FB and I've never been an Airstream guy. My parents owned a 1976 Aristocrat (16'). I was going to purchase an Oliver which I still consider a very good TT, however there were a few differences that swayed me to the AS. I've seen too many horror stories about slide outs which neither AS or Oliver have. The initial investment is very high, but I'll get a nice check when it's time for me to sell it!
I agree you pay for what you get! To me it’s about quality and comfort and enjoyment! Something that will last and be trouble free for the most part!
Spot on. You want you travels to be about happy memories. Not dealing with problems. 😁
I love my Super C and would never trade it, but when I’m next to an Airstream I always admire them. If was a pull behind trailer guy, I’d own an Airstream.
Love Super Cs as well. You could tow one as a guest house 😂
I can totally support this video regarding Airstreams. So easy to tow. Take care of them and they last. Well built and the resale value is there ongoing. Cannot say that for other brands. And yes, I own an Airstream. Thanks for the factual video on Airstream. Take care.
You’re welcome! Thanks for the feedback ❤️
You are welcome! Thanks again for the video!
Six years ago I bought a 1981 Airstream Excella II 25FK. I paid what I would have paid for a brand new 25ft regular trailer. As the Airstream is 42 years old, the original interior is in very good condition. I find that if something goes wrong it tends to be the equipment not made by Airstream: fridge, WH, furnace, etc.
I pull it, very easily, with a 2007 Chevy Impala SS. The receiver is custom built by the best in the business (CanAmRV). Towing, compared to when I towed a 23ft Travelaire, is a breeze. I forget it's back there thanks to the low centre of gravity and the superior suspension.
I plan to keep this Airstream forever; I'll hand it down to a niece or nephew.
BTW, my Airstream is one of only 7 ever made.
Cheers, Paul
Ha! Another guy using a car to tow his AS. I have a 20FB and tow it with my 1968 Mercury Monterey. I do get alot of looks at the campground and i'm sure you do as well!
Try going to the AIRFORUM! The heated discussions between those who believe that a big square box of a Pickup truck is the only way to tow a trailer. Talk about defeating the purpose of the low centre of gravity and the aerodynamics of an Airstream
You're pulling with a vehicle that was pulling trailers back in 1968.
Cheers, Paul@@dachshunddadbob6765
Excellent video, you hit all the high points. We've owned 3, wouldn't have anything else.
Thanks 👍
Thanks, brother. I've always wondered what the deal was with Airstreams. Now I know, cool.
Glad to help
I always wonder how the seems and rivets would handle ice over time but I guess if you have $200k for trailer you can pay or have built a covered place to store it in off seasons. Interiors are really nice. Rivets say I can’t afford to pay welders. Built Like the Titanic.
Love our 20fb Bambi. Fits nicely in driveway and best kitchen workspace of smaller models.
That 20FB has a huge kitchen work space!
Yes I would and I am on the fence about it - love everything about them 👍👍
There’s so much to love!
Excellent video 👍
The new Airstreams, have too many windows! They are scrimping on the Aluminum. You feel like you are in a fish bowl. Or in an observation car on the train. So many windows let in heat, cold and noise. Privacy lost also. Windows are nice but too many are on the new trailers. They wrap around the front and back and more windows in the middle. We have a 2006 19 Bambi and love it. Yes we could sell it for what we paid for it. But we are keeping it we love it so much. And the Airstream club is so....fun!
Great video! Airstreams are worth every penny!,
If you have a lot of pennie’s it’s a great buy! 😁
I have a 21 globetrotter 27fbq towing with my wife’s 21 bmw x7 m50i. I cannot tell you how many people come up and ask about the trailer combo. Including several police officers. It tows great with the bmw and an equalizer hitch. Mid 1990s rv tech was my first job.
I had a Forest River and a Grand Design travel trailer. After about three years they started to disintegrate. So I bought my first Airstream in 2022, night and day difference in quality. Airstream will still look the same years down the road. Built with quality components that last.
Love to hear it!
Yes, they are worth it. My first one was a 2021 Caravel 20FB.. Easy to drive and tow. I sold it and am looking at a 23' with a bit more room with twin beds. I love traveling with my own bed in tow. The quality is great. Quiet inside.
The 23 is a great size, dual axel and not too heavy!
The outside is wonderful. The inside is cold, sterile, uninviting, and not in any way comfy looking (in a home-like feeling). Its like being in a hotel room where you are not really home but get to use the amenities.
They have many different decor options available. Even one designed by Pottery Barn.
I have a 1962 globetrotter . I absolutley love it!! I LIVE, EAT,SLEEP EVERyTHING AIRSTREAM :)
I love to hear it. I’m pretty lucky to sell them for a living!
I’m getting my hands on an Australian caravan or European one…now those are made solid. The outer shell of an airstream is just too fragile for our crappy roads ..let alone a hailstorm 😬
Love our Airstream! So cute and easy to travel with
It really is!
They are very sterile inside like the Oliver and the beds are small. Not much storage outside. The quality is appealing. I went looking years ago without a budget and preferred other products. I just repeated this process looking for my next (4th) trailer with the same conclusion. In the end, it’s what appeals to you the most and if it’s the Airstream that appeals to you AND you have the resources get the Airstream.
I have a airstream 2004 classic ltd 34 foot triple axel. The only leak i ever had was the skylight leaked due to the screws to tight and cracked the plastic. I bought replacement high end hail resistant with metal frame skylights from Texas. Never had a leak since. That guy is right about quality. I still own this airstream and made the big mistake of buying a 5th wheel brand new 2023 42 foot forrest river Cedarcreek toy hauler 385th. Its in the shop right now getting the slide motors replaced. Its brand new ! Owning it less than a year this is what has gone wrong in addition to the slide motors going out. GAS line was kinked going into the tankless water heater never would get hot, one shade don't work, slam baggage door never worked right even after takin it in to get repaired, Hydraulic leveling control panel went out $450 if i had to pay for it, Another slam latch door was locked and the guy had to pry it open. Made me sick watching that, Floor moves and squeaks, Self closing kitchen draw broke, The gasket on the slides when they go out pull off and I have to keep putting them back on what a pain. This all in less than a year and there is more, central vac hose keeps popping off etc. You would think after putting down 30k that i could sell it with no problem come to find out you can buy a brand new one for lees than what i paid because forrest river dropped there prices twice in 2023 because they were not selling units. The only reason i bought this money pit is my airstream didn't have enough storage space outside but i wish i would have bought a camper shell and store some stuff back there instead of making that i believe a huge mistake. My airstream is 20 years old now and the only thing i replaced was the ac unit and the fridge witch is understandable and that was three years ago. Oh and i put brakes on it for the first time last year before i bought the other pos. Yes they are expensive but i rather pay for quality than thrown together junk like the one i own right now. Sorry it just makes me sick the money i paid for the Cedarcreek knowing after the warranty is up its going to be a endless money pit but not my airstream.
I’m so sorry to hear about your bad experience with that fifth wheel. I do appreciate the positive feedback on the airstream. I love hearing from owner stories. If you do need a fifth wheel, though I would highly recommend looking into Brinkley. I had one customer come in to trade in his globetrotter for a new model. And he switched to Brinkley because of the extra space. And as far as fifth wheel goes. I would put them in number one right now.
I saved and purchased my new Airstream 100% cash in 2019 from Airstream of Columbus, Ohio. I do not do consumer debt, ever. But, given their high pricing, how many of you folks finance to a monthly payment like a mortgage, and for how long? Do you put any money down?
In my experience selling many buyers pay cash but some finance as well. Anywhere from 0 Down and up and it’s best to spread payments over 20 years and overpay if you can. Low payment makes overpaying easier. There are no penalties like you see in a mortgage payment.
If you have the money, any kind of luxury goods are "worth it", in general. I'd rather have an S-Class Mercedes than a Chevy Malibu. You'd really have to do a lot of RVing or be quite rich to make the investment though. If you only go out a few weekends a year, an Airstream is probably not the best value.
0:08 Like the sunglasses, who makes them?
Maui Jim. My favourite pair.
For the price of Air Stream travel trailer, you can get similarly equipped class B motorhome that you don't have to worry about constantly hooking and unhooking which is a huge hassle.
Lots of different options out there
Plus you get the advantage in a class b to unhook all utilities when you leave the campsite, with your grill, chairs, etc. sitting at the site whenever you decide to go to the store, out to eat, or for entertainment. Lots to consider with all RV’s.
My Airstream is 20 years old and running like a champ
Yes
Does Airstream sell trailers overseas and would they be practical enough for European roads?
They do but they are built slightly differently.
Do you or anybody knows approximate % resale value of 10y old airstream? Thanks!
Too vague. Need model, floorplan. Also you can search for similar units online. Just type “2014 airstream Bambi for sale” you should find something close.
Easy to tow, excellent resale value and a timeless design.
Couldn't agree more!
Yup!
Yup yup
Yes they are worth it, my folks went on many caravans in the 80,s I wish I had that trailer today
Totally. They are something your kids and grandkids can inherit. An heirloom.
I love airstream rvs. There is nothing cooler looking, aside from the quality.
2023 23 foot live it it’s awesome
Did you add a washer / dryer somehow? If so what aftermarket add works best..
Until you pull one and compare it to other TTs, you will never understand. When you buy it, it's an instant heirloom to be bequeathed to your children. It's an investment.
A properly built unit. If you can afford it’s a no brained
My wife and i have been looking at airstrams for years and can't find one that doesn't have medal on the inside. In the cold winters that meadal on the inside is cold and hot in ge summer. They need to go back to the carpet inside walls.
They actually have really good insulation. They’re not a four seasons camper, but they are good and hot weather with the whisper, quiet air conditioning. When I’m working around them on the lot in the summer, they don’t seem to be any hotter than any other trailer on the inside.
Looks like a rolling commercial kitchen and costs more than the towing device. No thanks. Typical it’s expensive for “this” reason video
As a 38 year master rv technician these RVs are well built, however, they are incredibly expensive to repair. Just dent a 1/4 panel or gawd forbid a side panel. Our company has refused to work on them because of the mentality of just a few of the owners and the cost of repair.
As a dealer we have airstream certified techs. If possible I would recommend having them repaired at an airstream dealer for sure.
My guess is at 6'6" I still can't stand up in one😢
The only problem I have with Airstream is the location of the microwave. It's so low I need to get on my hands and knees to look inside to see how my pot pies are doing.
Yeah. If you get into 25-27 footers it’s in a slide out above the waist.
After rving with my wife for the last 8 years l, mostly week long trips to 4 week trips … I learned the main things that add to the enjoyment of the trip are redundancy and limited about of things that can go wrong.
The new design with two ac units that also double as heat pumps and the fact that they have no slides is a major stress relief …
I want simple, quality and something that doesn’t require the insane insurance or maintenance of a drivable unit or deal with the weight and overall size of the newer fifth wheels … at the age of 33 when I see those giant solitudes on the road with slides and auto leveling and all the bells and whistles I just see a million things to go wrong and piss me off after spending all that money …plus their resale is non-existent
Good points. Sounds like Airstream is perfect for you!
I would buy one!
Me too!
Why not? Far too many newbies do not have the do-it-yourself skills for maintenance, and even fewer have the driving skills to safely navigate our roads and highways.
The "newbies" will learn. We were all newbies once.
Airstream owners have told me two things, they are not well insulated and if caught in a major Hail Storm the thing could be totaled.
Correct
Yes they are expensive, that is until you sell it. You get all or most of your money back. No other RV can say that.
I did, and I never looked back😎
Airstreams make everyone smile when they're spotted on the road or campground.
:)
The shell and axles are good, but the inside quality is garbage.
Compared to what?
If anyone is looking for a greaqt 1976 31 ft Airstream Soverign fixer upper let me know. Western PA
I went to an RV show and decided to look at them, not for me... If you like them, fine, but I just don't think the style of these are for the masses.
There is something for everyone out there. :)
will it leak. ABSOLUTELY. Upon delivery in December! after a 14 month wait the door leaked. Then the first summer it leaked in the bedroom. So yes they leak. .
I never said they don’t leak. Sounds like yours did. Sorry about your luck.
Most people only go camping a couple times a year. For a couple of camping trips a year it certainly isn't worth the money.
not for everyone.
I am skeptical that Thor took it over quality issues
THOR was formed to buy Airstream. Their first purchase in 1980. They don’t control the building of them. Just financial relationship.
@@outdoorjaye thanks Amillion
Now that airstream sold out to Thor I would very careful of the new units.
THOR has owned Airstream since 1980 and was literally formed to save Airstream from going out of business. You are probably thinking of THOR Motorcoach which is a separate company.
To me the brand is like Harley. American, known, holds value, well built.
That’s a good comparison. History, quality, loyalty, longevity.
2 Reasons
1. Looks - all other modern trailers look the same and are mostly hideous. Airstream is a classic, timeless design.
2. Quality - as talked about, they last a couple of lifetimes if taken care of.
I used to make fun of them...then I did my research...not only the points yu make...but they are easy to fix...no recalls...we put solar power plant in it...after a year...one small leak and two popped rivets...that's it...and we took it on the grays river road...wally byum would have been proud
Hmmmmmmmm areodynamic, you mean like an Airstream?
Moves like a stream of air!
that kind of money with a small shower not 4 me
They are way cool ! Thats what i like aboat them. And very well built.
These are wonderful Rv’s until you hit a hail storm. Then they are totaled.
The only reason an Airstream is expensive is due to dealer markup. If you bought, say, a Bambi 22', it consists of marked up materials totaling about $15K. Double that for labor. Now at the dealer, the price will be around $35K - $40K. Sounds nice? The dealership adds on a bunch of crap that will not benefit you at all, and the out the door price becomes $81K. After they get their money, they don't care one ioda about you or your AS. Get lost. Need parts? Spend 1000 hours online searching forums, come up empty, and be dissatisfied. Enjoy! 🤨🤔😡😤
Sorry you had a bad experience. Not all dealers are alike.
my question is why would anybody finance a toy?
In some circumstances investment income is greater than the interest payment.
@@outdoorjaye borrowing money is a liability. Wealthy people do not borrow. Only people who want to appear wealthy borrowing.
Okay 👍🏻
Other brands have caught up. Lance, Ember, and Alliance. Airstreams are very nice, but just on suspension Airstream has been passed up with coil over suspension. Even Grand Design has added ABS to their 5th wheels and is starting to roll that on their trailers.
I guess if you’ve got the money, go nuts, but a lot of us are just trying to make memories with family and our kids before they leave the house. The trailer really is just the mechanism to accomplish that. I’ll take my poor Keystone or Jayco and is the rest of the money to take more time off or go somewhere that we couldn’t otherwise. But, enjoy your Airstream clubs I guess…
I didn’t know Grand Design had ABS. That’s impressive! Thanks for sharing.
I feel all RV’s are overpriced except Airstream and the fiberglass models like Oliver.
Look at how long the RV will last and it’s resale value…if you have the money it’s really a no brainer which RV to purchase.
I would have to agree. I would add NuCamp to that list as well. Very good quality.
@@outdoorjayeI bought a T@B 320-S and love it! My kids & grandkids still tent camp but one of my daughters said if she ever buys a trailer, she wants an Airstream because of all the memories of camping in one with her grandparents.
Nice.
I would buy one and keep it parked as a extra room
Wyndmoor PA
Not a bad idea. Elon musk bought a ton of these for SpaceX for his staff.
@@outdoorjaye NASA ordered a custom one for quarantined aplo astronauts
my airstream is 17 years old never had an issue never had any thing replaced. when i am thinking of re sealing others are thinking of re-financing
Quality you pay ; what is sad I don't see a lot of them here in Europe you should work on that one Airstream they are welcome here you, lets eat the Tabbert Fendt Knaus Adria brands😆
They actually have a European build. It’s different than the American one. I wish I could get one to review!
We love our Flying Cloud, but the idea that Airstreams don't depreciate is bunk. It's been true for the pandemic years, but things are turning back to normal. Hold value better than a box trailer, sure. Get what you paid for it, no way.
Took 2 trades this week. Will sell for original MSRP. One already sold.
We have owned 3, the first two sold for exactly what we paid, one after 3 years, one after 12 years. We still own the 3rd.
Airstream is not a travel trailer company. Airstream is a boutique MARKETING company. They are pitching a cleverly crafted tale of history, heritage and Americana. You’re paying 10 times more for the emotional response this product creates in you.
Are Airstreams built better than most other trailer brands? Yes. Generally. Are they worth the eye-watering MSRP? After spending an entire afternoon at an Airstream dealer *dissecting* them, I would argue no. I left there feeling like it was a clever marketing hoodwink.
You should go for a factory tour. Then any other manufacturer. You would see big differences.
No!
There's airstream and everyone else in terms of construction.
true
They aren’t leaky crap like the rest of the RVs out there lol
Less likely for sure.
The sterile Airstream interiors may have all the charm of a hospital cancer ward, but at least they cost as much as one.
There are many different interior designs.
6,000 rivets but no leaks ever. Sure.
I literally said. Can it leak. Yes. Is it likely. Not really.
Not going to say I would not buy one (ANY ONE CAN HAVE A WEAK MOMENT), BUT they are so so overrated and over priced. I owned a manufacturing company that fabricated high end units that operated with PLCs in very extreme conditions. So I have a little experience.
Not saying they are junk, because they are not. But I see the frames, overall fabrication, materials used and the actual (NOT PRECEIVED) value the customer is getting. So I stand by what I said. VERY OVERRATED AND OVERPRICED!!!!!
But that is IMHO.
OMG... I saw the price on it, $162,000, and started laughing. It's a camper... a camper, not a vacation home.
I agree with you. It’s expensive. Boats, and trucks would blow your mind too. Depending how n what you’re looking at.
There are people dropping $100k+ on fancy F-150’s that last maybe 5-6 years before the next fancy model comes out and is a “must have”.
An Airstream for $100K that will last 75+ years is a steal.
No
Fair enough
Toasters
They're that expensive because people will pay it. End of story