*WESTERN EDITION WINDSHIELD UPDATE!: _Right_ after I recorded this Cougar started using windshields on their Western-built models. I had no idea the update was coming. This info supersedes what I describe in the video. Hope that helps! :)
One thing I noticed is NO overhead storage cabs in almost any of RV trailers out there, to bad. Hope manufacturers bring em back then we’ll buy our 3rd ..🤷🏽♂️
I see the cable slide out and I punt every time Josh. I hear what you're saying about the unit and the floorpan, but that has got to be one of the WORST slide out mechanisms going. Throw a rack/pinion on that and I'd consider it next to a Rockwood. Maybe.
This is the travel trailer I want. Agree about drawers for the little bedside tables. Would look classier, too. Or a tray that slides out, maybe, like pantries ideally have? At least some netting across the opening. Without any of that, I would personally be looking for a little bin or basket that fit in there. Love that this rig has so many windows, robust solar packages, and the larger refrigerator. Oh, and the storage! Anyway. This unit is fabulous. Solo RVers would love this model too, I think. 😊
Only real criticism is the inverter/fuse block is blocked by the slide. Not a big deal until the slide fuse blows and you need to manually deploy the slide to access it. I really like all the kitchen storage, too often manufacturers leave out the pantry. Glad to see they did not! A solid short stay rig!
Good point. RV manufacturers need to start realizing that a lot of older women are solo traveling, and often full time. Gotta keep that in mind. Ask yourselves: Could a 68 year old 5’6 140 pound woman do this? Would I want my mom dealing with this aspect?
I think I have commented on this before, but I love this for a bigger camper (yes to me this is a big camper). The bathroom placement does not bother me at all. Like I said, to me this is a bigger camper, so if you were in a smaller camper the bathroom is always right there. I think the bathroom in general is great too. And I LOVE the road mode. The fact that you can use and access everything and eat at the dinette. I love dinettes, so I am love how this one has the seating area, a regular bed, and a dinette. Awesome camper!!! AND THE WINDOWS ARE THE BEST!!!
Hey Josh, although I'm perfectly content with my 273 Hemisphere, I continue to enjoy watching your vids for the latest and greatest. I still cringe every time I see a cable slide system on any full size slide. I've seen too many issues from friends that have had failures from a handful of screws tasked for the slide. I realize there's budgets and constraints at times, I just wish the industry would invest more to figure out a better way. Thanks for keeping the masses up to date Josh!!
So close! Yes, please have tables and chairs option with (as you suggest) room to turn the table sideways, perhaps a bit wider and easily attach it to the wall to convert to a counter or work area. And we really want the hardware to lower the TV. And lastly to repeat ad nauseum, please have a cuddle compliant theater seat. It's just a no-sale without that.
I've been told by rv repair guys to stay away from the cable slide they malfunction too much and are difficult to repair. They should have used a rack and pinion that's a big slide to be moving with cables. Do that and add Dexter axles and you have the total package....
I toured the 2022 version of this model before I decided on the Imagine 23LDE. Once I set foot into the 23LDE, I was sold. Even though the 23LDE is two feet longer and slightly heavier, it was about the same price as this Cougar which pretty much made the decision for me. Having the bigger bathroom and separate bedroom is an amazing advantage so my wife can sleep in while I am in the kitchen.
Yeah cougars bring a little more equipment to the table but cost and weigh more as a result Imagine is good dude. That LDE is a monster Others built that layout first But imagine perfected it
LOVE LOVE LOVE this unit!! Have to have KING bed and separate sitting areas. LOVE my personal space! LOVE all the windows! Have I said LOVE too much? Just a little nervous with the super-slide. Now to convince the boyfriend to start rving.
Im new to camper life/research and really enjoying your reviews Josh. Slides containing all of the kitchen appliances make me nervous regarding all the connections/hoses as potentially failure points being more susceptible to injury being on a slide. Maybe I can find a factory review video and see what’s underneath the slide and how those details are managed. Thanks for the great videos. 🍻
I use the Lance 2075 as a yardstick for this kind of camper and this, time and time again is the closest. Checks almost all the boxes and has more room. Can't wait to see one because I'll probably buy it on the spot. It's not as expensive and like I said more room. Just have to see it because if it is what's advertised then SOLD!
I'll never claim any RV to be perfect but three years running this is the couple's camping model I'd go with if I were personally getting one right now
It's a cute little unit for sure. Love the "brick" backsplash and all the windows. The ladder should be more to the right so it doesn't obstruct the window, but the true dealbreaker on this trailer is the floor vents. Thanks for the video, Uncle Josh!
Josh, gotta agree with you, this is a well made and well thought out trailer. Anything over 30 feet is too big, and anything under 23 foot is too small. 26 seems perfect. Best of all, the price is fair considering that this seems to be made better than its competitors. Thank You for another excellent assessment. Oh, and as far as the bathroom being near the kitchen, if you spend more than 30 minutes a day in the bathroom, stay home!
TY Joe! There are some a little less costly. They will lack some of the features you find on the Cougar Not everybody needs ALL OF THE THINGS of course so it's nice to have options out there
Your right ... turn the table with two chairs could be used as a dinner table for two and with all the computer rv people it would be a perfect office! Could put a dog bed under it!
Not having a floor flush slide is one of the reasons we passed on this one back in 2021/2022. Northwood (Nash) recently did the same with the floor flush slide. Great improvement for sure.
Heritage Glen/Hemisphere's 22RKHL has floor flush slide with a similar layout. I have updated footage coming soon and 2023 aged footage on the channel now for you
Hey Uncle Josh, I hope you're having a great day! I really love the Keystone Cougar 22MLS travel trailer. I do like that they update an upgraded the solar panels. I know you can full time in the Cougar 22MLS but you only have 3 heat ducts in the floor will that be enough if you're in below freezing weather? I do wish the breaker an fuse box wouldn't be blocked by the slide-out! I think I would change out the curtain for the bed so I could have a thicker privacy curtain. I'm glad that they are using the on demand water heater. I was wondering can you get a heat-pump in the AC unit? I like that the bathroom looks an feels a.little bit bigger. I like that Keystone makes their RV'S easy to work on with less down time! Thank you Uncle Josh for showing us this Cougar 22MLS an giving us all the information good an bad. Your number one fan an friend Leonard from North Carolina. #NERDHERD!!!!!!!!!😎💪🤘🐕🐒💪😎
Initially I agreed with you regarding the table/chairs option-but for us, a couple with a Great Dane, I’m thinking the dinette would make a nice dog bed for our 125 pound baby lol. I’m sure she’s be more comfortable on that than the floor under a table that’s likely shorter than she is lol
This one is so high on our list but waiting to see the 2024 Wildwood/Salem 22rhkl with the same floorplan but outside fridge. This is the one that got us into this floorplan though
Josh, a couple of ideas my wife came up with in regards to tv’s and their mobility. Like in this unit, instead of having something swing down, why not create a reverse televator and have it retract up & down in the upper cabinet behind some storage? This would make the tv not the main focal point but obviously be very useful. Along with this option, it would allow it to come down closer to the wall so you can sit at the dinette and still watch the tv! The other idea is in bedrooms with barn doors that prevent mounting the tv on that wall at the foot of the bed, mount it on a flip up/down bracket above the foot of the bed mounted to the ceiling. They’ve done this in vans for years! If it’s just around or at the foot of the bed, you can clear it to go to the squaty potty with out bonking your noggin yet it’s in front of your head where you can watch it! The first one to implement these ideas, we’ll be glad to test camp the camper for a year….😉 Last question, is their a best way to contact a salesperson at your Coldwater store. Thanks, Ted
Josh this is the Best Cougar 22MLS I've seen to date👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😊😊 I like most everything on this Cougar 22MLS including Floor heat vents👍👍👍👍👍😊😊 now it this one only had an outdoor mini kitchen 😊😊 I'd be inclined to getting this model with that style booth Dinette 😊
always did like this model, i could live in it.... the bedroom not being private is really not that big a deal in something this size and most likely uses, any couple camping together probably is going to bed and getting up around the same time, curtain is fine if one gets up a bit early to start coffee and such, or goes to bed a little early, and if you are a couple who have jobs and need to sleep at different times, chances are you will be getting bigger unit that you will plant for longer times in one spot for weeks at a time anyway, such as traveling nurses. ... agree a table that can become a bar at window would be perfect.
i have always liked this layout. i would use the table dinette option, then make the back portion of that pantry as a closet accessed from the side(think broom closet). i like this layout better when the bedroom has an actual wall. with center access to maintain rode mode access.
Would love to see this floorplan in person but hasn't happened, yet. Need one sent to Nebraska! This plan is light, bright, and overall amazing! Would LOVE to be able to turn a dinette toward the campsite window as you mentioned. That would also open up some floor space for our pup.
Josh, I wish you guys sold Outdoors RV. I think you would consistently sell out if you did. They are real good quality and great customer service. The rest of these brands seem to have a lot of issues for the money they are asking.
I’m over dinettes. I’d like to have a fireplace with storage around it and a shallow counter top to put keys, walkie-talkies etc. Make sure to add charging ports. Just give me the lagoon table attachment on my couch.
Great looking rig! I picked up a 2024 Minilite 2205s with the power package. I am not seeing anyone talking about the power package. Either way this layout is extremely interesting! For me, the 2205s has a better layout, it is a touch lighter. And has the power package with serious boondocking potential. Additionally, the only people talking about the power package are small time RUclipsrs. Sadly, RUclipsrs have a much better sense of the power package than any dealer I have seen. Cool rig!
I do love Cougar models and this is close but I still prefer the Jayco 23rlsw as a couples camper. I might opt for the queen for the walk around space and also to not make it feel cramped in any area. love the solar prep and windows.
I think one of the biggest problems some people have with the smaller campers is the small bathrooms. A lot of people like to get dressed in the bath and there is little or no room for that. Don't know about others, but I don't have a problem with the bath being where it is. Not sure about it being the "best" but it comes pretty close!
Awesome RV with a ladder, solar, a huge awning and bed, a porcelain toilet, shower door and a great residential looking floorplan when equipped with theater seating and the optional table and chairs in place of the “1960’s diner” booth dinette👍but that 4” fart fan😩
WOW! This is really impressive. We would seriously consider this for our next camper. We currently have a 2015 Rockwood 2109s that we love, but this is checking a lot of boxes. We are always looking for road-mode as a necessity, and this one delivers. My personl preference is steps that fold up under the trailer as opposed to the solid steps that fold inside the door. When we make a quick stop along the road, I don't want to have to fold down the stairs to enter the camper. I just step on the framework and I'm in. Are fold up steps an option?
Just call me "Mikey" because I like it! Give me some upgraded solar (probably the additional portable panel) and an upgraded mattress and let's go. Thankfully they have gone with a "normal" bed size for this one, not a "princess" in sight. I think I'd prefer the table and chairs option over the booth. All I need now is $40K lol. Thanks for yet another outstanding video Uncle Josh!
The potential issue I have with the “Bluetooth Command” panels is just like a phone/tablet, it will fail sooner or later. That was the main reason we went with the Freedom Express 252 rbs. Switches wear out? You replace them. Not the whole panel. Other than that, we loved this rig! It checked all the boxes for us. I hate that we had to give up the cooler weather package the Cougar has but as you often say… “ there’s no such thing as a perfect rv”
this is less perfect for me as it has in floor vents where the Grand Design 22MLE is the exact same without floor vents... Also, no heated massage theater seats, and I am not sure but are the entry doors at least 28" wide? I know Jayco is 24"...
All I can see changing is I would replace the King with a Residential Queen and cut open the panel under the bed so there is no need to try and lift the mattress. Might opt for chairs over the dinette.
Hey Uncle Josh!! I have a (possibly silly) question about a slide layout like this. As you have completely and deeply ingrained in my sub-conscious, do NOT occupy the slides in road mode (my assumption it has to do with weight). So when you have a full kitchen IN the slide, should ALL items (stored in the cupboards, storage and fridge, etc...) be removed from the slide when traveling or in road mode, as it could add up to a couple of hundred pounds of weight to the slide? Is this something the manufacturers take into account or compensate for? Or am I completely Bass Ackwards here? Absolutely love your work! If it would be much easier for Canadians to purchase from Bish's and bring back home, you would be our #1 choice to buy from because they way you present ALL the facts (and entertain the hell out of us) have earned our trust!!
We have a 2020 Forest River FLAGSTAFF MICRO LITE 25FBLS. For us that is the gold bar standard which could only be beat by an RV that has more storage than ours, more counter space, more walk around bed space and still be under 30 ft. Haven’t found one yet. But we will keep watching just in case. 😅
For my personal preferences I do give the nod to this cougar over the imagine But I wouldn’t turn my nose up to the imagine either. I just like a few things on this cougar more myself
This one might make the list of 37 for consideration, but I’m not sure this is my second camper that I wish to buy the first time around. Definitely a first time camper. Where can I rent one? 😁. You say that the ladder is 250# rated. What about is bigger fellas? Could a higher rated one be installed at the factory? What is the roof rated for? I’m sure that there are ppl heavier than 250 that camp.
I always likd the Cougars, but I wish more brands would upgrade the suspension for at least light off road use. That was one big thing I missed until I saw the Embers. If I was park camping this would be great.
Yeah there are upfits that can be done. Mor/Ryde or Road Armor shackles could be put on aftermarket and they do a heck of a job smoothing the ride. @@danielmonighetti3891
Won't the fuses be inaccessible when the slide is closed? I thought I saw the fuses under the sink which would be covered by the slide? I'd love to see a combo dinette/chairs. Put in a bench against the pantry and go with two chairs near the door.
For a smaller TT this is great! Love the road mode and floor plan BUT would love it even more if the floors were ventless and if it were a bit longer so the bedroom could be more private. And yeah, why are those eyesore screws so visible over the kitchen cabinets? I'm OCD and AR That would drive me nuts lol.
Josh, thanks for your informative videos…. Love this model, but have a question…. Didn’t see a black tank flush, does this unit have one, or if not is it an option?? Thanks again
Question can I put a 60x80 queen mattress in here? Also can you get thicker curtain for the bed room? I would like to see at least one drawer under the dinette. We prefer booth seating. Wish the tv tilted down a little bit. How about a power tower in the back counter area. Ok you answered my first question.
My wifes one complaint on allot of these units, this one included is no drawers in the bedroom area. Where do you put your socks and underwear? They could have easily done that with the trailer. Not a huge fan of the open bedroom either. Wet muddy dogs usually end up on the bed if you don't have a door to close. Other than that it looks like a nice unit.
Just need something short light and on double axle. There is a lot of focus on family and large sleeping. If any of the models come shorter lengths it would be great to report that.
Wow! This one checks SO MANY boxes!! One question: you said the Eastern edition comes with the windshield, not the Western. My wife and I live in California. A windshield is a non-negotiable for her. Does this mean we have to wait for one to show up on the used market, or can a Californian purchase the Eastern edition? THANKS!
I cannot stress enough how razor thin that line is. The GD 22MLE deserves huge credit for pioneering this layout. There is VERY little on that 22MLE I do not like. I give the nod to the 22MLS Cougar only for a few small details. • Better Solar Package • Tank Heaters • Barreled Ceiling offering a more open feel/shower headroom • Larger oven (which is ironic because we don't cook in our campers with an over) • Wider Bed It's not to say the 22MLE doesn't have it's high points like better storage around the bed. It's a GREAT model and I blame nobody for choosing it But for _my personal preferences_ i lean to the 22MLS
Really like this camper. Bathroom location will need "she who must be obeyed" approval. Living near the Big Horn Mountains, would like to get off pavement for some untethered camping. Would this hold up? We do enjoy your videos and appreciate the good with the bad and the road mode view.
@@JoshtheRVNerdOK, perhaps on future reviews where the unit has a cable slide you could mention when it has the Exact-Slide since it has a better reputation than the original Accu-Slide design.
I'd like it better if we could do away with the table and add a fireplace in its location..... For me, I'd rather eat sitting in the theater seats with one of those tricked out trays that slide into the cup holders.... Is this an option Josh???
Neither of those ideas (which are great btw) are available from cougar right now Jayco has some kind of patent or something on those swivel cup holders So we can get them for you
@@JoshtheRVNerd poop! Thanks for the reply. Your videos and reviews have become our number one resource in our decision making process of what seems to be important to us. Thanks, kind of like your nerdy approach on your reviews.
Overall I like this floorplan! I am not a fan of the counter height/stove height in the slide out though....................it is lower then a standard counter height and I could see myself wanting to bend over all the time to access the stove while cooking. Like you said, I guess taller people have a habit of bashing their heads on that slide as it is too low. Being they have made that slide countertop deeper............and moved the stove forward with the front edge of the countertop..................then would this not move the stove away from the range vent that is installed against the back wall? I have found those 12V range vents too not be very effective anyway, particularly if you are using the front stove burner and most of the bacon smoke ends up in the trailer finding its way to the smoke detector. There is no Fantastic fan in the kitchen to deal with this either. One question of clarification...........When the Propane gas quick disconnect is mounted on the side of the RV it is called the "RV Cooker Hooker". When it is mounted on the back it is called the "propanus". I recently have seen some Airstream videos where the quick connect is mounted on the front facing forward. What is it called under these circumstances? Just curious.😄
I've never had someone ask me about an LP connect off the front. I mean.. it feels like being called a "Belcher" as the gas come out of its face makes sense, right?
I suppose.......but then my first thought was a probably a little x-rated for an open forum. I have seen videos of a couple of Airstreams that had the propane quick connection on the front, which seems like a horrible placement, as I prefer it on the door side under the awning. Good thing I can't afford an Airstream so I will never have to deal with this. 😆😆😄
"Floor Flush" is a general industry term. Floor flush slides aren't truly floor flush. Really never have been. What you're seeing is the carpetless flap hanging off the slide. You never used to see that with carpeted slides because they masked it with the strip of carpet in front of the slide.. which is now gone.. which makes it look wonky
all of the trailers with this layout need to put the toilet where the sink is, facing the door, and the sink where the toilet is. give us bigger dudes some room!
In this video you said this Cougar has a "warranty allowance for full time RVing." That sounds promising. Can you elaborate on that or send a link to something in writing? This is Keystones' warranty statement on this subject: "WHAT IS NOT COVERED?: RV’s used for business, rental, residential, commercial, or disaster relief purposes, or any purposes other than recreational travel and family camping." If I am retired and using this Cougar for FULL TIME "recreational travel", will that avoid the "residential" purposes phrase from being used to exclude my coverage (technically it would be used for "residential purposes" would it not? Weird. The above language, I guess, is purposely vague so they can exclude anyone at will. But what protections would I have short of gambling? Yes, I viewed your video on this topic. I enjoy your videos. Thanks.
What does "warranty allowance for full time RVing" mean as stated in your video? Can you elaborate on that or send a link to something in writing? That is not addressed in the video you linked.
Josh: All I want to know is given your statement concerning this unit having "a warranty allowance for full time RVing", does this unit provide an exception from the typical "no residential/full timing exclusion" industry warranty practice you described in your warranty video? The implication of your statement is that this unit or product line may be more forgiving or suitable for full timers than most others. Otherwise those anticipating a period of full time use might be better served by buying a 2 or 3 year old used unit without paying for a new unit warranty that they can't reliably use if needed.
When people start paying 1K per battery.....ridiculous as it is. I bought a 200ah lithium recommended by Will Prowse for 500 bucks and it's a gamechanger.
*WESTERN EDITION WINDSHIELD UPDATE!: _Right_ after I recorded this Cougar started using windshields on their Western-built models. I had no idea the update was coming. This info supersedes what I describe in the video. Hope that helps! :)
One thing I noticed is NO overhead storage cabs in almost any of RV trailers out there, to bad.
Hope manufacturers bring em back then we’ll buy our 3rd ..🤷🏽♂️
I see the cable slide out and I punt every time Josh. I hear what you're saying about the unit and the floorpan, but that has got to be one of the WORST slide out mechanisms going. Throw a rack/pinion on that and I'd consider it next to a Rockwood. Maybe.
I am shocked Rockwood hasn’t done this one
Me too!
This is the travel trailer I want. Agree about drawers for the little bedside tables. Would look classier, too. Or a tray that slides out, maybe, like pantries ideally have? At least some netting across the opening. Without any of that, I would personally be looking for a little bin or basket that fit in there. Love that this rig has so many windows, robust solar packages, and the larger refrigerator. Oh, and the storage! Anyway. This unit is fabulous. Solo RVers would love this model too, I think. 😊
Four years running it’s my personal favorite
Like this coach, a tad small, but willing to sacrifice the small bath and bedroom privacy for the kitchen space. Also LOVE the 360 window situation.
Yeah the viewing is great
Only real criticism is the inverter/fuse block is blocked by the slide. Not a big deal until the slide fuse blows and you need to manually deploy the slide to access it. I really like all the kitchen storage, too often manufacturers leave out the pantry. Glad to see they did not! A solid short stay rig!
Good point. RV manufacturers need to start realizing that a lot of older women are solo traveling, and often full time. Gotta keep that in mind. Ask yourselves: Could a 68 year old 5’6 140 pound woman do this? Would I want my mom dealing with this aspect?
I think I have commented on this before, but I love this for a bigger camper (yes to me this is a big camper). The bathroom placement does not bother me at all. Like I said, to me this is a bigger camper, so if you were in a smaller camper the bathroom is always right there. I think the bathroom in general is great too. And I LOVE the road mode. The fact that you can use and access everything and eat at the dinette. I love dinettes, so I am love how this one has the seating area, a regular bed, and a dinette. Awesome camper!!! AND THE WINDOWS ARE THE BEST!!!
It’s still one of my favorites for sure
Hey Josh, although I'm perfectly content with my 273 Hemisphere, I continue to enjoy watching your vids for the latest and greatest. I still cringe every time I see a cable slide system on any full size slide. I've seen too many issues from friends that have had failures from a handful of screws tasked for the slide. I realize there's budgets and constraints at times, I just wish the industry would invest more to figure out a better way. Thanks for keeping the masses up to date Josh!!
273-yeah-you-know-me! :)
TY for watching and sharing!
So close! Yes, please have tables and chairs option with (as you suggest) room to turn the table sideways, perhaps a bit wider and easily attach it to the wall to convert to a counter or work area. And we really want the hardware to lower the TV. And lastly to repeat ad nauseum, please have a cuddle compliant theater seat. It's just a no-sale without that.
That arm rest can be removed btw
I've been told by rv repair guys to stay away from the cable slide they malfunction too much and are difficult to repair. They should have used a rack and pinion that's a big slide to be moving with cables. Do that and add Dexter axles and you have the total package....
I toured the 2022 version of this model before I decided on the Imagine 23LDE. Once I set foot into the 23LDE, I was sold. Even though the 23LDE is two feet longer and slightly heavier, it was about the same price as this Cougar which pretty much made the decision for me. Having the bigger bathroom and separate bedroom is an amazing advantage so my wife can sleep in while I am in the kitchen.
Yeah cougars bring a little more equipment to the table but cost and weigh more as a result
Imagine is good dude. That LDE is a monster
Others built that layout first
But imagine perfected it
LOVE LOVE LOVE this unit!! Have to have KING bed and separate sitting areas. LOVE my personal space! LOVE all the windows! Have I said LOVE too much? Just a little nervous with the super-slide. Now to convince the boyfriend to start rving.
No you said it about the right number of times lol
Im new to camper life/research and really enjoying your reviews Josh.
Slides containing all of the kitchen appliances make me nervous regarding all the connections/hoses as potentially failure points being more susceptible to injury being on a slide.
Maybe I can find a factory review video and see what’s underneath the slide and how those details are managed.
Thanks for the great videos. 🍻
Welcome!
I use the Lance 2075 as a yardstick for this kind of camper and this, time and time again is the closest. Checks almost all the boxes and has more room. Can't wait to see one because I'll probably buy it on the spot. It's not as expensive and like I said more room. Just have to see it because if it is what's advertised then SOLD!
I'll never claim any RV to be perfect but three years running this is the couple's camping model I'd go with if I were personally getting one right now
Goodness gracious great balls of fire! This is hands down the best couples half ton towable camper there is!😎
Pound for pound I tend to agree
Personal favorite
The water heater placement is a deal breaker for me. Need a fully walk around bed if this is our retirement trailer 😊
I like that they lightened up the ceiling.
Love the road mode feature!!! Love your videos!💖
Glad you like them!
It's a cute little unit for sure. Love the "brick" backsplash and all the windows. The ladder should be more to the right so it doesn't obstruct the window, but the true dealbreaker on this trailer is the floor vents. Thanks for the video, Uncle Josh!
Josh, gotta agree with you, this is a well made and well thought out trailer. Anything over 30 feet is too big, and anything under 23 foot is too small. 26 seems perfect. Best of all, the price is fair considering that this seems to be made better than its competitors. Thank You for another excellent assessment. Oh, and as far as the bathroom being near the kitchen, if you spend more than 30 minutes a day in the bathroom, stay home!
TY Joe! There are some a little less costly. They will lack some of the features you find on the Cougar
Not everybody needs ALL OF THE THINGS of course so it's nice to have options out there
Good 👍 🎉
Your right ... turn the table with two chairs could be used as a dinner table for two and with all the computer rv people it would be a perfect office! Could put a dog bed under it!
Man I’d love that table mod
Not having a floor flush slide is one of the reasons we passed on this one back in 2021/2022. Northwood (Nash) recently did the same with the floor flush slide. Great improvement for sure.
That unit is also my #1! Thanks Josh!
Heritage Glen/Hemisphere's 22RKHL has floor flush slide with a similar layout. I have updated footage coming soon and 2023 aged footage on the channel now for you
Not sure this can be compared to Northwoods. Northwoods is quality.
Hey Uncle Josh, I hope you're having a great day! I really love the Keystone Cougar 22MLS travel trailer. I do like that they update an upgraded the solar panels. I know you can full time in the Cougar 22MLS but you only have 3 heat ducts in the floor will that be enough if you're in below freezing weather? I do wish the breaker an fuse box wouldn't be blocked by the slide-out! I think I would change out the curtain for the bed so I could have a thicker privacy curtain. I'm glad that they are using the on demand water heater. I was wondering can you get a heat-pump in the AC unit? I like that the bathroom looks an feels a.little bit bigger. I like that Keystone makes their RV'S easy to work on with less down time! Thank you Uncle Josh for showing us this Cougar 22MLS an giving us all the information good an bad. Your number one fan an friend Leonard from North Carolina. #NERDHERD!!!!!!!!!😎💪🤘🐕🐒💪😎
Initially I agreed with you regarding the table/chairs option-but for us, a couple with a Great Dane, I’m thinking the dinette would make a nice dog bed for our 125 pound baby lol. I’m sure she’s be more comfortable on that than the floor under a table that’s likely shorter than she is lol
This one is so high on our list but waiting to see the 2024 Wildwood/Salem 22rhkl with the same floorplan but outside fridge. This is the one that got us into this floorplan though
I have updated 2024 footage of it coming. Stay tuned. They really stepped that one up a notch
Josh, a couple of ideas my wife came up with in regards to tv’s and their mobility. Like in this unit, instead of having something swing down, why not create a reverse televator and have it retract up & down in the upper cabinet behind some storage? This would make the tv not the main focal point but obviously be very useful. Along with this option, it would allow it to come down closer to the wall so you can sit at the dinette and still watch the tv!
The other idea is in bedrooms with barn doors that prevent mounting the tv on that wall at the foot of the bed, mount it on a flip up/down bracket above the foot of the bed mounted to the ceiling. They’ve done this in vans for years! If it’s just around or at the foot of the bed, you can clear it to go to the squaty potty with out bonking your noggin yet it’s in front of your head where you can watch it! The first one to implement these ideas, we’ll be glad to test camp the camper for a year….😉
Last question, is their a best way to contact a salesperson at your Coldwater store.
Thanks,
Ted
I've seen the reverse televator thing done. It's neat but sadly I don't trust a lot of mechanisms used in the industry to hold up to the use like that
Josh, Hit a home run with me..We have a queen bed..fine!! Rest Great, Size..😮can't think of anything. Don't die on any hill!! ❤❤
Cougar definitely has it goin' on. Can't find anything to nitpick on this model. I'm really drawn to the hot-cold package of the Cougar.
😊 it’s such winner
Josh this is the Best Cougar 22MLS I've seen to date👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😊😊 I like most everything on this Cougar 22MLS including
Floor heat vents👍👍👍👍👍😊😊 now it this one only had an outdoor mini kitchen 😊😊
I'd be inclined to getting this model with that style booth Dinette 😊
So close!
@JoshtheRVNerd indeed
My Good friend 😊 👍🏻 but
As far as I'm concerned ,Cougar
Nailed it this time with the 22MLS
Great review, thanks nerd! I can see why you like this one. The super slide really opens up the living area and kitchen.
always did like this model, i could live in it.... the bedroom not being private is really not that big a deal in something this size and most likely uses, any couple camping together probably is going to bed and getting up around the same time, curtain is fine if one gets up a bit early to start coffee and such, or goes to bed a little early, and if you are a couple who have jobs and need to sleep at different times, chances are you will be getting bigger unit that you will plant for longer times in one spot for weeks at a time anyway, such as traveling nurses. ... agree a table that can become a bar at window would be perfect.
Ty!!
i have always liked this layout. i would use the table dinette option, then make the back portion of that pantry as a closet accessed from the side(think broom closet). i like this layout better when the bedroom has an actual wall. with center access to maintain rode mode access.
Thanks for sharing!
Would love to see this floorplan in person but hasn't happened, yet. Need one sent to Nebraska! This plan is light, bright, and overall amazing! Would LOVE to be able to turn a dinette toward the campsite window as you mentioned. That would also open up some floor space for our pup.
I’d be curious to see what you think
Josh, I wish you guys sold Outdoors RV. I think you would consistently sell out if you did. They are real good quality and great customer service. The rest of these brands seem to have a lot of issues for the money they are asking.
We do at some of our stores further west
I’m over dinettes. I’d like to have a fireplace with storage around it and a shallow counter top to put keys, walkie-talkies etc. Make sure to add charging ports. Just give me the lagoon table attachment on my couch.
I value floor space and storage.
Sounds great!
Great looking rig! I picked up a 2024 Minilite 2205s with the power package. I am not seeing anyone talking about the power package. Either way this layout is extremely interesting! For me, the 2205s has a better layout, it is a touch lighter. And has the power package with serious boondocking potential. Additionally, the only people talking about the power package are small time RUclipsrs. Sadly, RUclipsrs have a much better sense of the power package than any dealer I have seen. Cool rig!
I do love Cougar models and this is close but I still prefer the Jayco 23rlsw as a couples camper. I might opt for the queen for the walk around space and also to not make it feel cramped in any area. love the solar prep and windows.
I think one of the biggest problems some people have with the smaller campers is the small bathrooms. A lot of people like to get dressed in the bath and there is little or no room for that. Don't know about others, but I don't have a problem with the bath being where it is. Not sure about it being the "best" but it comes pretty close!
I get it. I'm not sure if I'd get dressed in the bathroom or just pull the shades
Awesome RV with a ladder, solar, a huge awning and bed, a porcelain toilet, shower door and a great residential looking floorplan when equipped with theater seating and the optional table and chairs in place of the “1960’s diner” booth dinette👍but that 4” fart fan😩
WOW! This is really impressive. We would seriously consider this for our next camper. We currently have a 2015 Rockwood 2109s that we love, but this is checking a lot of boxes. We are always looking for road-mode as a necessity, and this one delivers. My personl preference is steps that fold up under the trailer as opposed to the solid steps that fold inside the door. When we make a quick stop along the road, I don't want to have to fold down the stairs to enter the camper. I just step on the framework and I'm in. Are fold up steps an option?
No step swaptions available on these as it turns out
Just call me "Mikey" because I like it! Give me some upgraded solar (probably the additional portable panel) and an upgraded mattress and let's go. Thankfully they have gone with a "normal" bed size for this one, not a "princess" in sight. I think I'd prefer the table and chairs option over the booth. All I need now is $40K lol. Thanks for yet another outstanding video Uncle Josh!
My pleasure!
I like the "member berries" reference lol.
😉
I see you member
Have liked this floorplan with table and chairs across from theater seating. But wife says no bedroom wall, no go.
A bar dinette would be extra sweet in this floorplan.
yesssssssssssssss
The potential issue I have with the “Bluetooth Command” panels is just like a phone/tablet, it will fail sooner or later. That was the main reason we went with the Freedom Express 252 rbs. Switches wear out? You replace them. Not the whole panel. Other than that, we loved this rig! It checked all the boxes for us. I hate that we had to give up the cooler weather package the Cougar has but as you often say… “ there’s no such thing as a perfect rv”
I have really come to agree with you completely. I like the concept of all the smart stuff but I like things that just work or can be easily repaired.
this is less perfect for me as it has in floor vents where the Grand Design 22MLE is the exact same without floor vents...
Also, no heated massage theater seats, and I am not sure but are the entry doors at least 28" wide? I know Jayco is 24"...
I don't know the door size offhand but our local team members could verify for you
There are other differences between imagines and cougars beyond just floor vents. The layouts are certainly similar of course
Pretty nice 👍 only minor nitpick is the cargo capacity seems a bit low given the alleged build quality, but 1300ish should be enough for most.
That’s a hiccup of having the extra equipment cougars carry. Eats into the CCC
All I can see changing is I would replace the King with a Residential Queen and cut open the panel under the bed so there is no need to try and lift the mattress. Might opt for chairs over the dinette.
Both of those would be VERY simple mods you could do here!
Hey Uncle Josh!! I have a (possibly silly) question about a slide layout like this. As you have completely and deeply ingrained in my sub-conscious, do NOT occupy the slides in road mode (my assumption it has to do with weight). So when you have a full kitchen IN the slide, should ALL items (stored in the cupboards, storage and fridge, etc...) be removed from the slide when traveling or in road mode, as it could add up to a couple of hundred pounds of weight to the slide? Is this something the manufacturers take into account or compensate for? Or am I completely Bass Ackwards here?
Absolutely love your work! If it would be much easier for Canadians to purchase from Bish's and bring back home, you would be our #1 choice to buy from because they way you present ALL the facts (and entertain the hell out of us) have earned our trust!!
Mfgs account for stuff they put there
They don’t test for a human on an unsupported interior edge of a slide
@@JoshtheRVNerd and queue the “Ah-Ha” moment! Ok that makes more sense now!! Thank you once again for all you do!
I prefer the open style cubbies next to the bed. My shotgun fits perfect there
Would prefer the free standing table for the Dinette that is becoming more common
I really like it in these as well
We have a 2020 Forest River FLAGSTAFF MICRO LITE 25FBLS. For us that is the gold bar standard which could only be beat by an RV that has more storage than ours, more counter space, more walk around bed space and still be under 30 ft. Haven’t found one yet. But we will keep watching just in case. 😅
Rockstaff is always hard to beat. I hold them in very high regard
Like the shoe garage !
😊 it’s the simple touches
Would you pick this one over the Grand Design 22mle? So many have similar floorplans. What should we look for to determine which brand?
For my personal preferences I do give the nod to this cougar over the imagine
But I wouldn’t turn my nose up to the imagine either. I just like a few things on this cougar more myself
And it would make it perfect for renting too . 🤔🤗
I could see that
I like this floorplan! Two questions: I will never be using the floor heating vents... are they flush with the floor? And are the walls composite?
Floor vents aren’t perfectly flush but in 15 years I’ve never stubbed my toe on one
This one might make the list of 37 for consideration, but I’m not sure this is my second camper that I wish to buy the first time around. Definitely a first time camper. Where can I rent one? 😁. You say that the ladder is 250# rated. What about is bigger fellas? Could a higher rated one be installed at the factory? What is the roof rated for? I’m sure that there are ppl heavier than 250 that camp.
No factory ladder swaps offered as it turns out
I don’t have a specific roof rating for models I’m afraid
I always likd the Cougars, but I wish more brands would upgrade the suspension for at least light off road use. That was one big thing I missed until I saw the Embers. If I was park camping this would be great.
Better suspension helps keep even highway use rvs out of the shops
Is it something where you can add aftermarket suspension to soften the ride?
Yeah there are upfits that can be done. Mor/Ryde or Road Armor shackles could be put on aftermarket and they do a heck of a job smoothing the ride. @@danielmonighetti3891
Won't the fuses be inaccessible when the slide is closed? I thought I saw the fuses under the sink which would be covered by the slide? I'd love to see a combo dinette/chairs. Put in a bench against the pantry and go with two chairs near the door.
For a smaller TT this is great! Love the road mode and floor plan BUT would love it even more if the floors were ventless and if it were a bit longer so the bedroom could be more private. And yeah, why are those eyesore screws so visible over the kitchen cabinets? I'm OCD and AR That would drive me nuts lol.
Try this one: ruclips.net/video/zZGp-EpcJ8w/видео.html
Josh, thanks for your informative videos…. Love this model, but have a question…. Didn’t see a black tank flush, does this unit have one, or if not is it an option?? Thanks again
It does yes
Question can I put a 60x80 queen mattress in here? Also can you get thicker curtain for the bed room? I would like to see at least one drawer under the dinette. We prefer booth seating. Wish the tv tilted down a little bit. How about a power tower in the back counter area. Ok you answered my first question.
Normal queen can fit. Just have to trim the decking under that mattress a bit
No curtain swaps from the factory but an owner could source something
My wifes one complaint on allot of these units, this one included is no drawers in the bedroom area. Where do you put your socks and underwear? They could have easily done that with the trailer. Not a huge fan of the open bedroom either. Wet muddy dogs usually end up on the bed if you don't have a door to close. Other than that it looks like a nice unit.
Drawers are coming to the bedroom! Their lead cougar designer texted me this very morning!
I love it too❤😊
Really nice trailer. Does switching to the jack knife sofa (from the theater seats) affect the cargo carrying capacity or pin weight much?
Jack knife is not something they offer in these
But If they did it would save only a smidge of weight. Not enough to make a difference
Good video Josh
Well thank you!
I love the lay out but not the fact it’s not a walk around bed
Check the links to similar models in the description. There's a few that may be easier to get around
Just need something short light and on double axle. There is a lot of focus on family and large sleeping. If any of the models come shorter lengths it would be great to report that.
I have over 7200 videos on the channel for you covering all varieties of weights and sizes. I am sure there’s something here for you
I live in Colorado, so it will be a western one 😊
After this was recorded western models also started having windshields so... 🤦🏻♂️
Love camper. ❤️
Wow! This one checks SO MANY boxes!!
One question: you said the Eastern edition comes with the windshield, not the Western. My wife and I live in California. A windshield is a non-negotiable for her. Does this mean we have to wait for one to show up on the used market, or can a Californian purchase the Eastern edition?
THANKS!
That changed RIGHT after I made this video and I had no idea the update was coming. Western models also now feature a windshield.
Does the front windshield shade actually blackout the room or does light come in all around it?
There’s always a bit of bleed unless a blind is fully boxed in
Hi Josh, we need to see in person the GD 22MLE and this trailer before making our choice. Why do you like this Cougar over the GD MLE?
Thanks,
Mack
I cannot stress enough how razor thin that line is. The GD 22MLE deserves huge credit for pioneering this layout. There is VERY little on that 22MLE I do not like.
I give the nod to the 22MLS Cougar only for a few small details.
• Better Solar Package
• Tank Heaters
• Barreled Ceiling offering a more open feel/shower headroom
• Larger oven (which is ironic because we don't cook in our campers with an over)
• Wider Bed
It's not to say the 22MLE doesn't have it's high points like better storage around the bed. It's a GREAT model and I blame nobody for choosing it
But for _my personal preferences_ i lean to the 22MLS
There should be an option to replace the oven with a micro/convection oven. They can bake as well, and it would offer more storage space.
How do you travel under freezing temps? What energy source keeps it from freezing
Tank heaters are 12v so the on board battery and vehicle 7-way plug can run them
Josh how important is it to be able to get to the fuses when the slide is closed...it looks like you can't.
It can sure be handy
Really like this camper. Bathroom location will need "she who must be obeyed" approval. Living near the Big Horn Mountains, would like to get off pavement for some untethered camping. Would this hold up? We do enjoy your videos and appreciate the good with the bad and the road mode view.
Being unfamiliar with the terrain I am really unqualified and unable to offer the input you’re seeking I’m afraid
Wasnt the electrical box behind the slide when the slide is in?
Can be reached thankfully
They improved access there for 2025 as well
Josh, is Cougar using the BAL Accu-slide or the BAL Exact-slide system on their RVs?
Apologies I cannot remember which is used on this model. I see too many rvs to recall them all by memory at times
@@JoshtheRVNerdOK, perhaps on future reviews where the unit has a cable slide you could mention when it has the Exact-Slide since it has a better reputation than the original Accu-Slide design.
Really like
I am purchasing this camper. It is the late 2024 model and they have done away with the In-command system. Just FYI
Yep yep. Ty
Which brand of cable slide system are they using?
Apologies I cannot remember which version of the Norco system is on this. Our folks at www.bishs.com/contact-us could assist
Tanks are to small and hot water heater is to far away from shower. Ful timer. Love it tho
Thx for watching and sharing your insights and experience
Was that the fuse box blocked by the closed slide??? Ugh....
“Elephant enema pocket” 😳🤣🤣🤣😝😂
I mean.. change my mind LOL
I've heard they may be adopting drawers for bedside in 2025
are there any reading lights by the bed??
Overhead
When will you be reviewing the 2025 22MLS?
as soon as I get my hands on one. that's always a priority model for me
I'd like it better if we could do away with the table and add a fireplace in its location..... For me, I'd rather eat sitting in the theater seats with one of those tricked out trays that slide into the cup holders.... Is this an option Josh???
Neither of those ideas (which are great btw) are available from cougar right now
Jayco has some kind of patent or something on those swivel cup holders
So we can get them for you
@@JoshtheRVNerd poop! Thanks for the reply. Your videos and reviews have become our number one resource in our decision making process of what seems to be important to us. Thanks, kind of like your nerdy approach on your reviews.
Is cougar half ton rvs getting rid of the iN command system for 2025? And going back to switches?
I believe that's correct. Just simplifying their systems and eliminating opportunities for failure
Thank you for the reply. Computers are nice but when they act up they are not fun!
Nice RV but a super is a problem. Our RV mechanic said super slides are the ones he repairs the most. So this is not for us
What type of slide mechanism do they encounter the most? That may be worth investigating. They're not all made the same
Overall I like this floorplan! I am not a fan of the counter height/stove height in the slide out though....................it is lower then a standard counter height and I could see myself wanting to bend over all the time to access the stove while cooking. Like you said, I guess taller people have a habit of bashing their heads on that slide as it is too low. Being they have made that slide countertop deeper............and moved the stove forward with the front edge of the countertop..................then would this not move the stove away from the range vent that is installed against the back wall? I have found those 12V range vents too not be very effective anyway, particularly if you are using the front stove burner and most of the bacon smoke ends up in the trailer finding its way to the smoke detector. There is no Fantastic fan in the kitchen to deal with this either.
One question of clarification...........When the Propane gas quick disconnect is mounted on the side of the RV it is called the "RV Cooker Hooker". When it is mounted on the back it is called the "propanus". I recently have seen some Airstream videos where the quick connect is mounted on the front facing forward. What is it called under these circumstances? Just curious.😄
I've never had someone ask me about an LP connect off the front. I mean.. it feels like being called a "Belcher" as the gas come out of its face makes sense, right?
I suppose.......but then my first thought was a probably a little x-rated for an open forum. I have seen videos of a couple of Airstreams that had the propane quick connection on the front, which seems like a horrible placement, as I prefer it on the door side under the awning. Good thing I can't afford an Airstream so I will never have to deal with this. 😆😆😄
Cool 😎
Does this have a cable slide?
Yes
You can't call it "floor-flush" when it's all warped at the corners. That is so janky and not acceptable for a brand new product
"Floor Flush" is a general industry term. Floor flush slides aren't truly floor flush. Really never have been.
What you're seeing is the carpetless flap hanging off the slide. You never used to see that with carpeted slides because they masked it with the strip of carpet in front of the slide.. which is now gone.. which makes it look wonky
@@JoshtheRVNerd yes, it does look wonky. Appreciate your response, hope you have an amazing day Mr. nerd
all of the trailers with this layout need to put the toilet where the sink is, facing the door, and the sink where the toilet is. give us bigger dudes some room!
In this video you said this Cougar has a "warranty allowance for full time RVing." That sounds promising. Can you elaborate on that or send a link to something in writing?
This is Keystones' warranty statement on this subject:
"WHAT IS NOT COVERED?: RV’s used for business, rental, residential, commercial, or disaster relief purposes, or any purposes other than recreational travel and family camping."
If I am retired and using this Cougar for FULL TIME "recreational travel", will that avoid the "residential" purposes phrase from being used to exclude my coverage (technically it would be used for "residential purposes" would it not? Weird.
The above language, I guess, is purposely vague so they can exclude anyone at will. But what protections would I have short of gambling?
Yes, I viewed your video on this topic.
I enjoy your videos. Thanks.
I have a video helping dispel myths on that here m.ruclips.net/video/rCwg6QfTy-E/видео.html
What does "warranty allowance for full time RVing" mean as stated in your video? Can you elaborate on that or send a link to something in writing?
That is not addressed in the video you linked.
Josh: All I want to know is given your statement concerning this unit having "a warranty allowance for full time RVing", does this unit provide an exception from the typical "no residential/full timing exclusion" industry warranty practice you described in your warranty video? The implication of your statement is that this unit or product line may be more forgiving or suitable for full timers than most others. Otherwise those anticipating a period of full time use might be better served by buying a 2 or 3 year old used unit without paying for a new unit warranty that they can't reliably use if needed.
Where did you film this. ?
My home store in southern Michigan
#NerdHerd 🎉 😊 🎉
I want a separate bedroom. We bought a 2020 Cougar 30rkd
Great model!
when are they going to start using LiPO4 batteries?
When people start paying 1K per battery.....ridiculous as it is. I bought a 200ah lithium recommended by Will Prowse for 500 bucks and it's a gamechanger.
dzaino hit it. When people are willing to pay for them.
nah you can get a 100 ah redodo battery for $219 right now
whats the real deal on the furrion fridge… I hear they fail often….
I lack actual service stats so I don't have a good answer here. It's something I'm trying to dive into
Still no trifold sofa available?
I think it is now that they’ve changed the slide