We DITCHED Our Luxury Class A RV for a TRAVEL TRAILER! Here's Why...
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 ก.ค. 2024
- Thinking about downsizing YOUR RV? We downsized from a luxurious brand new Class A Diesel Pusher to a much smaller, and less expensive, cozy little Travel Trailer. We've owned a variety of RVs over the years, from fifth wheels to Class A's, and in this episode, we're spilling the beans on why the switch to a smaller rig just made sense for us in this stage of our lives.
Join us as we reminisce about our past RV adventures, from the spacious Class A motorhome to experience camping in a bit of a simpler way. We'll get into the practical reasons that influenced our decision to downsize, such as increased mobility, cost savings, and simplified maintenance. AND talk about the never-ending negotiations of "how much is too much, and how much do we really need".
Discover the benefits we've experienced since transitioning to our Travel Trailer, including, a closer connection to nature, and a simplified lifestyle that allows us to focus on what truly matters.
If you're an RV enthusiast, or if you're contemplating a change in your RV setup, this video is a must-watch!
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So fun to hear how many campers you guys have had over the years! Tell us below!
My husband and i owned a fifth wheel. When he retired we put a deposit on a class a. The next week he had a routine test and found he had stage 4 esophageal cancer. We, of course, did not get the class a. He passed away 2 months later. I sold our fifth wheel and Silverado diesel truck thinking i would never camp again. 9 months later i was sitting on the back porch drinking my morning coffee and it hit me that I could do one of two things with the rest of my life. I could sit on the porch and wait to die, or I could enjoy the rest of my life. I loved simple camping. So, I researched travel trailers and, most importantly, dealers. I finally found a little 20 foot Geo Pro 19fbs and a reputable home town dealer. I ordered my trailer, waited 9 months for the build and delivery. During the wait period I planned local trips to state parks and learned as much as possible about repairs that I might need to do, etc. It was the best decision I could have made. I love my trailer. It has everything I need and camping with my 2 schnauzers is great. I have a son who helps with the heavy lifting ( I'm in my 7th decade) and I thank God for him every day. Simple is best - relaxation and peace is the goal. I love your video because it is spot on.
Thank you so much for telling your story. We’re very sorry about your loss. It’s also very inspiring to hear about your journey to continue finding so much joy in your life through travel and serenity in the great outdoors. ☺️Thank you for sharing that.
Sorry for your loss... but, congratulations on your decision.
I'm sure your husband is watching over you with a huge smile, because he loves the fact that you did not quit, and you are doing what you both dreamed of doing.
Good luck on your journey.
Sorry for your loss. Shows how important life is in the grand scheme if things
I am glad to c and read your comment, it will give courage to lots of people . Thanks and also wish em good to this channel couple.
Retired, keeping our Florida home. We got lucky purchasing a 17ft Casita, It turned out to be perfect for our travels. Over 50k miles to date. Love the simplicity.
What really matters is that you found what works for you. We found a 35' Class A with less than 15k miles and an immaculate interior for less than 30k. We have no problem finding sites here in WA state as there are over 100 beautiful state parks and endless opportunities to boondock. We have a great "chase rig" and saved a fortune by not buying a diesel truck AND a RV!! We are so happy and excited that our RV is ready to go just as soon as the groceries are loaded and the dogs are in their kennel. Happy trails to you and everyone out there!
I've had two Class A's, one 5th wheel, one travel trailer, and now I'm just using a minivan. I've got my eyes on a teardrop though so I can store it in the garage. Downsizing and keeping it simple is why I'm using a minivan when I go camping. But I went through similar stages as you as my kids were growing up.
I believe you guys just did an excellent job of summarizing the RV buying process. At 70 we have been through 4 campers, from tents to pop-ups to travel trailers to diesel pushers. The phases of life was spot on, and a great summation. We fell into that trap “well in the future,” maybe, and only cost us money… Buy for now, enjoy the moment, live life to the fullest. Think you guys did an excellent job. Congrats.
Thank you so much for the kind words ☺️ it sure is a journey!
Well said. We started out tent camping then had a pickup truck with a topper, A/C and a queen mattress then a travel trailer then a tag axle diesel pusher. All of them fun at different times in our lives. Now at 62 years old I’m not ready to quit camping yet so thinking a small Class C or back into a travel trailer might be on our horizon. The diesel pusher was a Country Coach and was pure luxury but cost tons of money to fuel and maintain. With a travel trailer you don’t have to worry about it sitting other than tires. The reasons, pros and cons go on and on but you nailed it when you said, buy for the season of life you are in.
Similar to you, I have been simplifying my life. The travel trailer with independent suspension was perfect and simple to set up. Moved up to a 2018 5th wheel and carried with me a ton of things I never used. 3 slides and 13.4ft tall was big for one person traveling the country helping build homes for Habitat. Recently traded in for a travel trailer with one small slide and the diesel 3/4 ton pickup for a gas engine. Huge savings on everything. Not just the $1.00 difference(on average) diesel cost, but the maintenance of that diesel. Not cheap.
So, two TTs, one 5th wheel and now my 3rd TT that weighs under 6,000lbs. Would I like a diesel pusher? Yes. Do I want the cost and headaches? No thanks.
Great tips for those of us less experienced. Thanks much!
When we started our research for an RV for our retirement years, we dreamed of a big Class A with all the comforts of home. After years of research, we came to the conclusion that a Class A was not practical for the type of camping we do. We tent camped and liked being out in the woods. A class A would be too big and cumbersome to maneuver into the tight campsites we frequent. We also like to leave camp and explore the local sites and restaurants,which means we would need pull a toad. With that said we decided on a travel trailer right from the start. It has turned out to be the best choice for us and our type of camping.
We're on our 4th camper and we too have gone up in size and now we are back at a medium sized 28' Gulfstream Travel Trailer. It has really opened up many more campgrounds for us !!!
We are thinking of moving from a 36 foot Gas Class A, to a 25 foot class C. Just to be able to drive more easily. We dont need all the big room that we have now. Am thinking more and more of a 24 foot travel trailer though. Definitely want to simplify, so that may be the way to go
In the past we have had Small RV and then 25 ft travel trailers. Then we camped with a tent. We are in our 70's and tent camping is rough. We bought a used 17 ft. Casita in April. For us we love it. We had to get used to maneuvering in the trailer thou. But love our short 2 hr camping trips with our Casita and its doesn't cost us extra gas with our truck. Thanks for the info!
Agree! Depending on your season of life and goals what fits best for you can change. Good for you! We have had 6 from a pop up to a 30 foot travel trailer. We are empty nesters with grand baby 3 on the way. We have a T26 Torque travel trailer (bumper pull toy hauler). We love it. Can haul out electric golf cart and very versatile for the two of us and 2 golden retrievers. We can also sleep two extra with our happy Jack bed. We do use a Propride hitch which for us is a must. No sway at all. We considered a 5th wheel but the cost is not for this time in our time of life.
Our camper is on a seasonal site in Wisconsin so our camping season is now over. Best thing is we pull our camper when want to travel or stay stationary when we want to do short stays, hang with family or get on the pontoon boat. This summer I had open heart surgery so having it stationary gave me time to recover. We did get to pull it twice.
Happy travels!
We had one travel trailer and four 5wheels in our 22 years of traveling. Spent about 10 years traveling from Nixa, MO to Mission, Texas. Just sold our 5th Wheel this past winter. We miss being able to camp but we are in our twilight years now and just enjoying life at home. Enjoyed your video and was very impressed by your discussion. I was always a guy that thought less was better. I could get by with a small suitcase but my wife not so much. More was better for her. Enjoy your camping and be safe.
Thank you for the kind words ☺️
I love the idea that you can now sit back and enjoy the life you had camping, no regrets. I say that to people all the time. One day, you will get to that age where you cannot travel anymore, be it for physical reasons or financial or other. So, enjoy what you can while you can. So, you both have wonderful fun memories.
Totally agree. If you have unlimited money for repairs then get an A, but my husband can fix most of our 5th wheel issues and truck issues himself. We plan on traveling for many many years in our small 5th wheel. We can park almost anywhere, travel daily in all directions with the truck only, and use the truck at home too.
Our pusher we wouldn't change for the world.. she is an oldie but a goodie.. she is 23 yrs old.. built when they were built to last.. she was 1 owner when we got her 6 yrs ago.. she still hasn't hit 100,000 miles yet.. we are at 84,000.. we got her with 68,000.. with all the service records and all the books. She still has the original canvas awnings (5 of them) that were never used until we used them.. So she was well cared for and ppl think she is a newer rig because she was kept so nice. plus my hubby used to drive big rigs.. so doing so the maintenance he does.. we got her because of my medical.. so being in a truck sitting for any length of time isn't ideal for me.. We LOVE our pusher..
My husband and I were going back and forth between a fifth wheel or a class c… we went with the fifth wheel and couldn’t be happier! 🤗
We've owned 4 rvs. A bumper pull, holiday rambler presidential fifth wheel, a Montana high country fifth wheel, and currently we have a 42' drv mobile suite fifth wheel. We have no children and about 12 years before we retire. We do plan on traveling a good bit, so we were thinking of upgrading to the Ventana class a diesel pusher. We'll just have to see when the time comes. 🙂
I think all your points are valid. For us, we're not retired yet but close. Over the years we've had 6.5 RVs LoL!! Started in a '58 VW Bus which I call the .5 of our rigs, then moved on to a 38 ft 5'er, TC (truck camper), another TC, 31 ft Class A, CamperVan and now finally back to my favorite a TC again. Since I use my TC for EVERYTHING it just works best for 2 people (+2 pups). I'll take it to the park for an hour or the day, camping & traveling (I think there's a difference between the two), grocery store and geocaching. It's turn key ready. We'll be keeping this one for a long time. Cheers!
I like that we can easily detach and drive away. Explore, nimble, light. Doesn't hurt that we live in a rural area with forests everywhere. State and National, and BLM and ACE. 2023 E-Pro 20FBS. Love it. We chose a trailer not requiring a new truck. And one that has a low enough payment, with $10,000 down, that it won't prevent retirement. I have noticed an apparent decline in Class A on the road and more trailers..
We need more people like you two on this planet.
We also downsized from a 39 Ft 5th wheel to a 33 Ft Class A. We are retired & live in AZ and find we can get into so many more of the State Parks with a smaller rug. We decided every month to take a trip for a week. We just hop in and go now. ❤ it!
I bought a “big” to me 5th wheel when I first started in 2020 (used). I had opposing slides. Lots of room for my dachshund and me. But it was just him and me. Had issues with the slides, had to go under to put a drill to them after the 2nd year. The roof had random leaks. That wasn’t fun. Started shopping for something else… after looking at probably 50+ 5th wheels, I just couldn’t pull the trigger. I ended up hearing about an Oliver on an Airstream FB page and started doing my research. It is so much smaller, but it’s all fiberglass, even the underbelly… leaks less likely. No slides to break. Easier to get into small spaces… I ordered one. It has been the best decision! I have 2 dachshunds now but we still have enough room. Bigger isn’t always better.
Great video, we have had 4 campers, different sizes. (Depending on kids and grands) We just bought a 19 ft. In-Tech travel trailer. Love it to pieces. Small, cozy, fits in driveway, can be pulled with a mini van. Meets our needs completely. We will have this one the rest of our lives. The goal is to be outside, not all the time in the RV.
My travel trailer is easy to maneuver and the Ram 1500 makes a perfect vehicle to use on sightseeing and shopping. My motorhome took us everywhere but any mechanical issue marooned us trying to get towing or finding a mechanic that was prepared to work on it with restricted space.
Our progression…tent/polyp/23’TT/28’Fivr/25’ MH/16’Teardrop. Now searching for a Class B. I’m our 60’s and keep downsizing.😊
We did the same thing.....always had class A's and graduated up to an entry level diesel pusher....and eventually a high end 43ft pusher.....now in a travel trailer. Do lots of local camping now....actually use the travel trailer more than the DP..... Never been. Happier. But everyone's different....whatever works for you.
Upgraded from tent camping to a pop up in the early 90’s. Our son and family in CO now have the ‘89 Coleman pop up! Next was a 30” Palomino TT. Not great quality. We traded it in a few years laterfor a 25’ Lance. We love it and just returned from a 3 week stay in Bar Harbor Campground near Acadia NP. A huge class A across from our site barely fit it their space…no thank you.
Was your Palomino a Columbus River Ranch by chance? Wondered about those. Thought we liked them at one point.
Removed stock stabilizers and put the Lippert TT self leveling on our travel trailer. It's worth every penny .
I been RVing for 23 years. Our 1st rv was a 25ft TT that we really loved. Years later with upgraded to a 33ft 5th wheel that had 3 slides 2 of them were apposing slides so it was about 15ft between the walls. a few years later we upgraded to class A gas motorhome. We really loved this RV, full-size refrigerator with ice maker, king size bed, auto leveling system, it definitely made life easier when it came setup. All nice but was very expensive. During the pandemic the wife didn't want to go anywhere so we ended up selling not. We basically took a 2-3 leave of camping. We were not sure if we still would want or like camping again after all I'm 73 and the wife is 79 so it gets a little harder setting up things I guess that's why you see so many more older folks going with a motorhome. Well we decide to try camping again so the decided to just buy another TT and try it for a year. We got a 22ft TT and camped for a year and decided we still love it. We already had two new mountain cabins 10 or 15 years back but decide we wanted to see the country and not be stuck bored in one spot. After a year with the 25ft TT we sold it and bought a 28ft 5th wheel that we are very happy with. Not as expensive as a motorhome but once you added up the storage cost, insurance and payment and don't forget the maintenance cost and gas. I had to buy a bigger truck because my 1/2 ton would not pull the 5th wheel so we had to upgrade the ruck to a 3/4 ton diesel. We just camped last month in Texas. Round trip from Phoenix to Texas was around 1900 miles and about $800 in fuel. Add the $700 in rv sites for 17 days that was a $1500 trip. That blew our budget for the month. We go camping 1 week out of each month, mostly locally in our state so the fuel cost is low. Today we ask ourselves how much longer can we do this physically and financially. I think by next summer it might be our last year to go camping. 1/3 of my garage stores most of our camping gear and the truck bed is always full. We will see what happens next year. Love camping but is physically wear us down.
Loved to hear your story and the journey you’ve taken with all your RV’s. Thank you so much for sharing and we wish you safe and happy travels to the local spots or far away! What matters is you probably made some great memories over the years 🥰 Love to hear it!
We have a 30 ft travel trailer and like backing it into a campsite and leaving in the pickup to explore the area. There are many choices and you may change if you would like to.
Good friend sold his vintage Wanderlodge, went to trailer, I'll pray for him and keep mine. Trailers are most challenging to control in cross winds and semi-truck disturbance, majority of highway accidents I've seen in my 45 years of RV ownership have involved travel trailers.
Just saying, have no quarrel with those chose what works for them, takes all kinds to fill the freeway.
I looked in to going from our Tiffin to a 5er recently. I would have to get a bigger truck since my Tundra won’t do it. After pricing the truck and a 5er, just comparing purchase, I was better off keeping my DP. Granted I have an entry level Red 340 diesel pusher that I paid $170k for. Trucks are unbelievably expensive these days.
I laughed when you talked about setting all the stuff out. When we (having moved from a popup to a slide in truck camper) and 2 complete newbie couples with their new trailers went to Nova Scotia, every night we stopped, ALL the stuff came out... for the entire 3-1/2 weeks! Years down the line now, we laugh because we just spent 26 days on the road from Western NC to TX, NM, CO, NE and then 10 days in the Black Hills and then home and never put out our big rug and only put down chairs at the spot we stayed 5 nights in. We still had a great experience. When we camp locally with family and friends and stay in one spot for 2-4 nights, we tend to take all the stuff and do it up right because we're hanging out together at night and kids and grandkids are often involved. This is the first time I've seen ya'll and really liked you so I'll be catching up on your videos and looking for new ones. You live in a beautiful state like we do (NC) and your point about our camping season in the southeast being so extended because of reasonable weather made so much sense! We're part timers too because of family and church commitments, but go all we can.
Thanks so much for the comment and for watching! Too funny, we know the feeling of only putting out a couple chairs….it’s all ya need most of the time!
Well thought out reasons. Thanks for sharing.
Great discussion!!!!
you guys have such a rich history of beautiful trailers !! thank you for sharing !
We have had everything from a pop up to the 36 ft 5th wheel we have now. We love the 5th wheel but if we had it to do over we would have stayed with our last 28 ft. Fifth Wheel. It was just as comfortable and we could take it about anywhere. Good advice👍
Thanks for sharing
For us my wife and I, we are happy with a tt. We love in NC and go to Santee or the mountains of NC with our Toyota forerunner or Tacoma no trouble. We love it this way. Great video yall.
Great content! We tent camped with the kids til they were twen agers! Thwn we got an itty bitty pop up, thwn a hubrid, next a 27 tr, but quickly thought we needed a 5th wheel. We were WRONG! We realized qe missed rhe simplicity of small and are now enjoying the start of our retirement years in a 22', 1 slide Tt. We adore it and its ease. Another big thought is me (the wife) being able to do it all; hook up, set up, pulling and backing.....my hubby has heath challenges and aome times.ita too much for him. We still wnjoy camping, just enjoying it more qith LESS!❤
We now have three grown children and three grandchildren. When our children were small we started with a pop up. Then a 25’ travel trailer with triple bunks. After that a large luxury fifth wheel. But needed a dually to tow it. Was able to sell the fifth wheel and F-450 to the same buyer. Bought a beautiful 2005 Beaver 40’ with four slides. We love it! Now with diesel prices and other inflationary costs, I’m considering a smaller travel trailer. But my wife says she doesn’t want to give up the ability to go to the bathroom without stopping 😂
I’m with you we went from a class a to a promaster 3500 high top 159 ext . Traveling with our disabled adult son and a bloodhound, it was a great move for us.
Thank you for this video. Gives us a lot to think about and the realities of owning such a big RV when we should really be simplifying things as we get older.
Thank you for the comment, we’re glad you found it helpful ☺️
Nice breakdown and thank you for sharing your years of experience!
Thank you ☺️ Sure has been a ton of trial, error, and changes in seasons of life!
We have 30 years of camping under our belts. First a pop up, then a 21' fifth wheel, a hybrid, a progression of 3 different 5th wheels (each one slightly bigger than the last), 36' gasser. We sold the motorhome when our kid went off to college. After realizing how much we missed it, we purchased a 21' TT, then a 30' TT. We currently have a 34' 5er and are seriously searching for an Airstream. We always felt we had good reasons each time we changed. We also feel we have good reasons to get an Airstream. First time watching y'all. Great topic, great video, new subscriber.
It makes sense and practical.
The same with a sailboat and a powerboat. I lived on a sailboat and my bill was $ 30 a month to have the bottom cleaned. I bought a 34 feet sea ray two 7.4 engines, my monthly bills were between $ 1,500 and 2,000 a month. Never again. I bought a new 30 feet travel trailer and I've been happy ever since.
Very good a lot to think about for most people! I’m retired and at the end of a divorce. I miss my RV we had a beautiful Coach House Van 27’ basically. Large dry bathroom and kitchen twin beds and recliners. I lived in it for a short time. I always thought if I get something to live in on my property I’ll get a class A but now I’m thinking why? Less is more! ❤😂 I loved taking my home wherever I went!
I just downsized my living space recently and you would not believe how much stuff I packed up and donated!! I hadn't realized too much stuff is like a ball and chain! It takes up a lot of mental space as well as physical! I miss my stuff but watching your video made me realize I made the right decision and feel freer! ❤
That’s awesome! It really is freeing to let it go!!! I call it expendable consuming. You buy it and use it, and then when it’s no longer useful, you don’t store it…you let it go from your life and don’t worry about it. Let someone else use it and free up your space and therefore your mind!
Unlike you, I started with a class A diesel but the repairs and all the systems made me sell it and I’m looking into either a fifth wheel or nice travel trailer. You are so right when you say you don’t need as much, I feel the same way just want comfort and ease of travel.. Great informative video just subscribed looking forward to your adventures.
I went from a travel trailer to a fifth wheel. And the differences is day and night. The fifth wheel tows so much easier. I am 74 when I had my travel trailer, everything affected it, the wind, big rigs, passing by, also road conditions? with my fifth wheel, I don't get any of that. PS When you get old the future is now, lol so I say enjoy your life.While you have good health
We agree, had a Tiffin for 1 year too complex and so many more things to go wrong. In Michigan very expensive for insurance and registration. We went to an Airstream Globetrotter 27FB so much easier. Here when you license a trailer you pay a one time $175 fee for lifetime registration which is a huge bonus.
Thank you for this video. Was going the Class A route but, some many people have pointed me the revel trailer directions. The class A prices are over priced and my gosh it’s seems like all i see is seniors driving them. Thank you for your points.
Hey guys! We’ve just found your channel and we love your content! We went from a 40’ tour bus to a 28’ TT. We loved traveling in the bus and you definitely turn heads when you pull in a campground! We use to pack everything in the bays of the bus (bikes and all). We absolutely miss the bus but it’s just the two of us now. Safe travels guys!
Hey J and A! Thanks so much! Yes, the big buses sure do turn heads! Lol So neat to hear so many RVer’s have also downsized. Seasons of life change quickly don’t they?! And so we must adapt. Subbed to your channel as well! We always love touring all the rigs so we’ll be watching!
Thanks for sharing 👍🏿 we started in a pop-up for 3 years, 29 ft travel trailer 14 years, and now 5th. wheel. Great information😊
Love to hear it!! Isn’t it so fun all the memories you’ve made no matter what kind of camper it was?! It’s like just pick one that suits the need and go!
We went from class a gasser to a twenty four foot travel trailer and love it
We have had only one travel trailer. It fits us perfect for right now as it is just my husband and I (kids are all grown and out of the house) The next one we will get will be the Super C thanks to you guys!! I think they are awesome and that will be our forever one!
Yep!! Still got our eyes on ‘em too! Later of course…
We started (1993) with an OLD (20years old) class 23’ C!
It got me off the ground! Hubby wanted to get me out camping, and after SEVEN disaster tent camping events he knew he needed to get wheels under my sleeping butt😂
Then when #4 kid came along we went to a 36’ TT.
We have downsized as kids grew up & out….
We are on our second 26’ TT. (The 26’ TT before was totaled by a tree😞)
It is the perfect solution for us!
@@arbonneladyTN
Oh wow! 7 tent disasters huh?! Lol
Any night in a tent would be a disaster for me too haha! 😜 We can relate too because we joke that each time a kid leaves home, we get smaller and smaller!
Great information
We have had (3) 5th wheels, 1 popup and 1 truck camper. We have been looking at Class A's and I keep going back to a travel trailer would help me get to early retirement and actually enjoy life. I'm glad I found your channel.
Oh Amen!!! Negotiating the cost of managing these campers with ourselves against the financial goals we all have and want to meet ..is HUGE!!
My next door neighbor has a pusher that is at least 100,000, my comfy travel trailer trailer 11k used was in pristine condition and just as cozy 👍 plus my F250 super duty gas pulls it fine , with the price of diesel at 4.50 a gal here vs 2.97 a gal for gas no brainer
I like your comment “life seasons” we’ve had a Winnebago C, Airstream TT, Heartland 5th, Foretravel DP, (2) Truck Campers and on our 2nd Van in 7 years now….yikes all because of life changes, remote work, buying another home and getting older. The biggest things we answer about that is be Financially and Emotionally ready to make changes as needed, some buy their first rig, assuming this will be perfect, rarely does that happen unless your life does not change…Congrats! very good info in this topic.
We just bought our first Travel Trailer this year but due to medical problems, we were not able to get out this year. We also own two businesses band hope to sell the main business so we can enjoy life. I’m retired since 2010 but my wife has 2 years to go.
On my 4th camper. 37' travel trailer. I started in an 8' teardrop. My current trailer, once I unhitch its 1 button and it self levels. Love that. As far as not a ton of storage.... my truck has a camper shell on it. So the back of the truck is my basement. And the truck is only used for towing the camper. So that works out. I do all my maintenance and repairs, upgrades etc. It's simple and cheap. I've just my current rv for 5 years bought new
I'm probably going to keep it 5-10 more. Buying another new rv just isn't a goal for a while.
Lance has lots of storage, and quality construction
I am a solo female. I have owned two travel trailers. A 25 ft, then a 34 ft. I travel with 3 Labrador Retrievers. My next camper will be about 28 ft travel trailer, and I will travel with just one dog. LOL. I like being able to drop the camper and take off in the truck. It's not that hard once you get everything dialed in. I have knee problems that aren't too bad, but I noticed that 5th wheel steps didn't feel very good on my knees. Great video! I camped last fall in Kentucky...beautiful state!
Really enjoyed and related to the conversation! Looking forward to looking through other videos.
We are currently in a Gas Class A. Our sons are now 19, and we have had many of the same conversations. As of now, we opted for keeping it until the wheels fall off and hope that takes us through retirement travel. That said, we live just the other side of Appalacian Mountains from you guys and would appreciate a way to make fast weekend trips less stressful and...well, more like camping. Best wishes...The Ragusas
Yes, more like actual camping! Love to hear your story and can relate as well ☺️
We just bought our 5th TT (4th of July is going to be our first outing with it). We moved up from a 32' Bunkhouse to a 37' tt Toyhauler. We have 3 kids and 2 grandkids ( from our daughter) and she and the gkids go with us often so we wanted the happy jack system for a better sleeping arrangement but also the garage so we can take the kayaks, bikes, and/or the Harley. The one thing we lost was storage space compared to the BH which I think is going to be a blessing. When we unpacked the BH I found alot of things that we had been missing for quite some time. Lol Now we are going to need to adjust what we pack according to each outing so we should have better control of the "Stuff" so I felt your pain when you talked about unloading your basement, Lol. We are 54yrs old and have been camping all our lives (we have been together since we were 16) and when we got married we bought a popup from my cousin for $1000.00 and have some of our most wonderful memories in it as our children were born and grew up for many years while using that camper. That's the wonderful thing about camping is it doesn't matter how much money you have or don't have. You can make wonderful memories of a lifetime. If we ever get down towards Kentucky (From Pa) hopefully we could share a weekend together with you two. I enjoy your videos so keep them coming. Safe travels and happy camping!
Thank you so much for sharing that. And we appreciate the kind words ☺️ Safe travels and happy camping to you too!
1 year in a tent, 17 years in a pop up with 8 kids. loved it. 5 years with used class A pusher, (fix, fix, fix) but loved the ride. now barely used diesel super C. love it, (mostly my wife loves it. to me it rides like a gravel truck compared to a class A). but we love the Super C because we pull toys, ATV's, motorcycles, etc. retired, but sometimes i think i would just as soon have the 200 grand back and pull a pop up. lol.
Fix, fix, fix 😂…we get it!
Sounds like you’ve had a fun journey too!
Love to hear it!
We just retired in ‘21 and were looking at Class A’s and Super C’s. However living in Florida, we still enjoy our “Florida Lifestyle “ of fishing, diving, lobstering on our boat. So a 5th wheel made more sense already having a truck to tow it. We love our Grand Design Momentum and have made a few cross country trips in it.
Yes! We decided too we’d like to get some jet skis soon , so all the toys need a truck to go with ‘em!
Just found your channel...fellow Kentuckians here too!!!! Understand your downsizing to the fifth wheel but wow..that last class A was BEAUUUUUUTIFUL!!! We are in a travel trailer right now...dreaming of the Class A
Oh hey!! What’s up fellow Kentuckian! What area are ya in? Or should I say what County? Lol Kentuckians are from counties as you already know. We’re SOKY, Warren County but Jarrett’s from Meade. Thanks so much for following! And thanks for rubbing it in, 😜 we miss our Holiday Rambler. It’s just not what we needed to do financially for now. If Class A is what you’re dreaming of though, go for it! They don’t disappoint!! We vote diesel over gas. For sure! Smoothest ride you’ll get!
We are on our 5th RV. Class A Gas, Travel Trailer, Class A Diesel, 5th wheel toy hauler (wrecked) & latest is 5th wheel toy hauler.
Good discussion. Very accurate points. I’ve been in a DP full-time for 5 yr. I’m looking for a travel trailer.
Hello. First time viewing your channel and this an interesting video. Usually people do the opposite working up to a Class A. We are in a camping hiatus now as my husband is dealing with health issues. Hopefully he will be able to get on the road. He misses. We’ve had tents, pop ups, 17’ and 21’ Jaycos, and a 27’ Adirondack. Our goal is a Class C with a slide out and towing a car capability. But yes, we brought way too much stuff! Till next time.
I can totally relate. We live in Colorado- this week we got 8 inches of snow! Was only suppose to be a dusting. You just never know.
Aww man, well Colorado is beautiful and we sure do enjoy some snow because we rarely get much in KY. But it sure can interrupt a late Fall camping trip!
1st time watching. You guys are great very natural and soooo informative. Thanks for sharing
Thank you for the kind words ☺️
Great job capturing the various stages of Rv life! We too have had similar experiences starting with tents, travel trailer, three diesel pushers, then went 10 years without anything. After that we bought a fifth wheel pulled with F450, followed by our current Super C. That is over a 25 year period. We are loving the Super C in retirement which is now 2.5 years old.
Still able to do most of my own maintence with exception of chassis. Could do that probably to but don’t like the mess and having to deal with spent oil etc.
You mentioned Super C, your time will come! At our age of 67, you have a ways to catch up to us.😂
To your point, just enjoy the time out there!
Love your channel!❤
Thanks so much for the kind words of encouragement ☺️ That’s awesome! Love your story of all the years STILL camping! It sure is a lifestyle that becomes who you are.
Just curious, what Super C model do you have? We have our eyes on a couple.
@@OurNextAdventurejvh we have a 2021 Renegade Verona VRB (bath and 1/2), on the M2 106 chassis (Cummins L9 with 350 hsp, and 1150 ft lbs of torque. We have owned a couple class A pushers with 450-550 hsp but were also 45,000 lb coaches. The Verona is better torque to weight ratio capable of towing 20,000lbs. We pull a 2021 F150 which is only 5600 lbs dry weight. Other than having to replace several control thermostats on the Aqua Hot, which we learned how to do from your channel, the rest of the coach has been near flawless after 26,000 miles. 😊
@@wayneallen1048
Ahhhh yes, that’s right!! Forgive us, we remember now!! We did look at a couple Renegades because you said how much you loved yours!! Well, definitely one to keep in mind for the next season of life!! 😜😎 Those are so nice!!
We had a class c motor home, then we bought a travel trailer. Loved the travel trailer,
Since 2005 we own 2 Class C‘s and since 6 years a 38ft, Class A, gasser on the Ford chassis (Newmar). We love our Class A. An oil change is less than $100 bucks. I do a lot of maintenance myself. Since it’s a 2017 we don‘t have the firefly panels, simple light switches, gas/ electric water heater , nothing too complicated. But I agree, it’s the season of life. We travel with too large 130 lbs dogs, which take up space. If we would travel by ourselves we might a some point downsize to a Class C or B+ . So far, we are happy in our motorhome.
We had a class A pusher for 12 years. Like you we thought it was very convenient traveling when our daughter was young. We decided to sell it and go back to a truck and 5th wheel simply because of the cost of ownership. Everything you mentioned tires, oil changes, and service work all helped us make that decision. New subscribers. Looking forward to following your channel.
Thanks so much! And we get it! It’s a LOT to manage!
31’ Class C, 36’ Class A, 24’ B+ don’t miss MH at all. Expenses, inside noise & bouncing off bridge expansion joint’s. 36’ TT as a winter home in Fl, never towed it. Now, 30’ TT with F350 Ford that we really like & very recently a truck camper as a quick get away rig, she doesn’t like it to small. Looking at small 5th wheel now, who knows. 14 year RVing. In our high seventies & plan on going till we can’t. Thanks for your video.
I just found your channel you guys are so real ❤ love your style
Thank you so much for the kind words ☺️
I have a 2012 Keystone Vantage 32qbs we love it 4 bunks in the back and a Queen bed up-front It's a want-a-be Airstream same rounded shape but a gel coat shell. All our kids are leaving the nest and we have given it a lot of thought because I love baby class A, not vans I love the Axis 25.2 the new mar sportage if you want a class a gaser you must stay under 30' anything over Pusher. We have kids from 43 to 14. But what I will tell you is if I keep the vantage these upgrades are a must. 3" lift 16" tires and a big foot auto leaving set up. You know after 20 years you make changes to your home kitchen bath roof yard driveway an RV is no different this RV has had no problems in the 5 years I have owned it. We do 2 weeks at Lake George RV Park a must my oldest son takes it for 10 days Bear Hunting in the Alligash way up in northern Maine with his whole family. then a few weekend trips for the family that wants to do this look for a 5-year-old well-kept travel trailer you will be in that $20,000.00 range Snag a Ford or Chevy you don't have to buy a diesel a gaser 6.0-6.2-7.3 my 2500 6.2 gets 9.5 miles to the gallon pulling my 8300lbs trailer.
We might be the king and queen of moving down. We have had Class A motorhome, Big trailer, smaller Hi LO Now a 24 foot rockwood trailer. We also used to teach high school Band, then we both moved to Jr high then Elem. school...(music and Orchestra beginners) Less is more and better. and a lot less worry. sorry you have that marching band deal. It is a lot. Of course it does teach kids so many things about life. Enjoy you guys so much. I admire what you do. Charley and Laura from Ocala.
Thank you for the kind words! Yeah marching band is a lot but trying to enjoy the last years of high school best we can. We love the Rockwoods! Considered one before we bought the Sporttrek. We appreciate you following, feel free to connect with us over on our FB page too if you’d like.
Husband and wife with three kids. We started with a travel trailer with bunks (no slide) and honestly needed more room. Currently, we have a 35' fifth wheel with a bunk room but our two oldest kids rarely go with us (work, college, teenage life) and we see that we chose the wrong layout for only three of us. Either way, we love to camp and enjoy each trip we take. Our next camper will be a rear living fifth wheel or TT. Great video!
Yeah it’s an emotional roller coaster between enjoying the quiet time when the older ones don’t come, and wishing like heck they still would because we miss the good ol days when the bunks were full.
Thanks so much for watching, subscribed to your channel as well ☺️
@@OurNextAdventurejvh yes it is. Thankfully, we normally get at least one longer trip per year with all three kids together. Thank you guys for subscribing. Safe Travels and happy camping!
I have been shopping for our retirement/travelling RV. We have a 38' fifth wheel now and of course, I immediately thought bigger is better. Then I thought about the amount of TIME we spend in our RV and WHERE we want to camp. I also thought about the price of fuel and the fact that you don't get very good gas mileage pulling 10 tons of RV around. Our focus quickly went from bigger and heavier to shorter and lighter! We are now looking at under 32' toy hauler travel trailers and a nice large cap to go on the back of our truck! I want to be able to fit in state and national parks and be able to boondock and utilize Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome. We care nothing about luxury RV parks...the less people the better!! A brand new model has just come out and I am waiting for full details on the manufacturer's site and a detailed video on TH-cam before deciding on whether it is worth a trip to SEE one!
Thanks for sharing! It’s a journey, isn’t it?! Finding the right fit for all the needs…keep it simple and we think you can’t go wrong!
Wife and I are in our 60's, preparing for retirement. We currently have a 36' TT Rockwood with 3 slides that is pulled with a 2020 F250. We take a lot of long weekend outings (Thur-Monday) and at least once a year take a 3-4 week long trip.
The idea of a Class A is really appealing for retirement when we plan to travel more, but I there are just to many downside.
1) When we camp, we like to get in the truck and explore the area we are in. To do this with a Class A, it means we would need to purchase a vehicle that we can tow behind. Our current automobile is a Tesla, and I don't want trade it or the truck for something just to tow behind a Class A.
2) As noted, our Rockwood has 3 slides with plenty of space. I can't find an affordable Class A that has as much living space (but they do have more storage).
3) As you noted, maintence on a Class A is also a concern.
We also went from a class C to a travel trailer as the kids got older and stopped coming with us.
We decided smaller is better as well. Sold our 40' 5th wheel and will be purchasing a TT when we hit the road again!!!
I live in Montana..... no winter camping. Hopefully I will get out one more time before November.
We lived in a class A pusher with younger 2 kids . Now older and retired would choose an Airstream if able
We started with a class c then a big class A and now just downsized to a small travel trailer. We want simple and just enjoy being out with friends camping
That’s what we said! We feel like we’re actually “camping” in the travel trailer rather than pushing a second home down the road lol
Even though it’s really still “glamping”.
But they honestly are all so great and have so many different pros and cons.
Very interesting
We’ve had 9 still haven’t found what we like. Husband doesn’t drive so it’s all up to me currently in a trailer
I couldn’t agree any more “what’s your mission” and the camping experience is the same no matter how new or how much you paid for your rv. We have had 8 campers all travel trailers 5 of which were Grand Design. I got bored and we tried several different floor plans. It seemed we gravitated to the 2800BH as it offered the best over all layout/storage for us. However we bought one of the first GD 2022 23LDE and loved it until I was hit by an out of control car on the freeway and rolled the camper. No injuries but total loss of camper and contents. Be sure your properly insure. (We were) safe travels.
Oh goodness!! So glad you’re ok from that accident! Very scary! Very interesting to hear so many stories in the comments of all the RV’s owned and journeys people have been on through RVing. Thank you for sharing.
Our experience is the same . . . with boats. Camped and boated with our kids (6) as they grew up and the toys got bigger. Now that they're all gone: 16' Boston Whaler and a 1780 minnie winnie drop (trailer). Next item: downsize the house. We're just a bit south of you, so the only problem is . . . where's the next homestead going to be located!!!? :)
Great vid.
Lol so funny, we can all relate! Our houses have gotten smaller too. Seems after each kid graduates, we downsize a bedroom! Haha!
I totally agree with you I should drive semi's it is more dangerous in the mountains but worse I don't know why anybody that has a class a wood go out there in the winter time stew dangerous I had to because I was paid to do that but I had to put chains on my tires that's a pain in the butt. I live in my camper for me to October 1 in Minnesota then I have a house in Fort Myers Florida and there from October to May 1 and I love both worlds but I would never ever stay at expensive RV park I have the money to stay there but I would never do that because that's not camping it's just showing people that you can do it more than other people nope sorry that maybe I took it the wrong way but that's how I feel everybody has their own opinion but I would never stay in one of them set worth it not gonna pay $200 a night and I've never hardly there. I love your videos please keep it up thank you very much
Luxury has a price - a $500,000 plus vehicle will have maintenance , operation , and insurance costs that follow that price. When something breaks on an all in one unit and it has to be serviced , there goes the entire vacation. But for some people money is not an issue so they can motor on anyway they want. One advantage that wasn't mentioned in a travel trailer for storage , the bed in the pickup truck is empty and can be used for storage.
Yes luxury sure does have a price! And yes, the truck bed is pretty great for more space for sure!
Great perspective! Never owned, but have looked at diesel pusher (Newmar) for a few years now. Decided just a few months ago it wasn’t going to be cost effective. I’ve never even looked at a 5th wheel seriously. Y’all may have changed my mind!
Lol glad we could help! Well hopefully it’s helpful anyway!
3 campers. Went from a hybrid cub to a small travel trailer then finally to a toy hauler travel trailer. After seeing your video, reconsidering our move to a Class A.
Oh wow, well we hope that’s not a bad thing lol
They’re all fun! Toy Haulers can be used for so many different things too! Just gotta go with what works currently.
@OurNextAdventurejvh It's not a bad thing because our travel trailer is paid off, plus I would have to tow the golf cart. We just put on brand new tires and the MoRyde suspension. We were mostly looking for a king size bed is in the ease of setup.
I totally understand why you would go down to travel trailer!
We just came back from a three week trip to South Dakota. We never put out the chairs or outside matt. We had in the past, but didn't bother this time.
Lol yeah sometimes we don’t either! Just depends on the mood I guess