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So do you guys have a "toad"? Because you talked about the ease of setup and breakdown when you're in a motorhome as opposed to a travel trailer or 5th wheel, but as a practical matter, you need to have a separate vehicle to get around in. You know, if you want to go into town, do some sightseeing, etc. So what do you guys do?
My late husband and I started with an old Ford van that he built out. Moved up to a vintage Roadtrek, class B, on a Chevy chassis. For the two of us, retirees who liked to move a lot, it was great. After he passed away, while I loved our B, I soon discovered how expensive and time consuming it was for me to have to pay for the maintenance on the engine and systems my husband had taken care of. Also, I wanted to make a base camp and then go site seeing, which meant breaking camp every time. Sold the Roadtrek, found a lovely little vintage camper trailer that had been upgraded and restored. Bought a midsize SUV with more than enough towing capacity. She's easy for me, age 69 to set up and break down. Minimal systems to deal with.
I recently bought my 1st RV an 86 Winnebago 22' w/ a 350 Chevy and 50K original miles. It belonged to my daughters boyfriends parents I got a pretty good deal @ 1500$ US I bought it because of the rapidly rising rental costs, btw I'm divorced. It had been sitting for 5 yrs.I put a battery in it and it fired right up. Currently im parked on a friends lot in the country its so peaceful out here, best 1500$ I ever spent.Not much of a story but I thought Id throw it out there in case anybody was interested, Thanks
You're my Polish Hero! Basically, nobody has gotten into a camper/RV cheaper & more efficient than you Brother! What view I bet as well...Freedom! Peace
Here's my $0.02, and I usually get change back. As a licensed bus driver of 26,001+ bus, I wish people driving a class A, B or C had to take and get certified to drive an A, B or C motorhome. I've seen way too many drivers of motor homes who should not be driving one. Driving an A, B or C is not like jumping into a Prius, you are driving a wind sail. Just be safe out there and watch for other drivers. I honestly believe a person who is new to camping should start out with a bumper pull travel trailer (TT). Find a nice used TT and use it for a couple of years. You will not know what you want until you have one. You don't want a rig with tons of storage because then you have to be cautious with what you are storing. A travel trailer will cost significantly less than a 5th wheel and 3 to 4 times less than a class A. With a TT, you will be able to pull that with, potentially, a slightly smaller pickup. Getting into a 5th wheel is going to set you back $80,000 to $140,000 for a dully pickup and another $80,000 to $300,000+ for your 5th wheel. Start small and see if you even like it in the first place. A LOT of people started rig camping during covid and there were a lot of damaged rigs during that time. Do research on a floor plan you would like, or even settle with. Do research for supplies you will need. Do research on places you want to visit. Do research on setup and teardown lists. Once you have your rig, Practice, Practice, PRACTICE! If you have a TT, Practice backing up a trailer, there are videos on YT to help you understand backing up a trailer, but practice as much as you can. Research campground edicits. Do you have children? Do you have pets? Do you have both? Quiet hours. Neighbors campsites. Handling your sewer hoses. NEVER put a sewer hose on a picnic table - DISCUSTING. Learn Everything about your rig. How to set it up, how to tear it down, how the holding tanks work, what treatments to use. Save yourself a LOT of money on RV treatment and toilet paper - Kleentank.com. How to, and when to, winterize your rig. Are you going to do it, or take it somewhere to have a shop do it for you? You can do it yourself, there are Many helpful videos on YT. How to De-winterize your rig. Water heater care. Window and slide care. If you want to go "rig camping," get to know your rig before you take it out. Another suggestion, Don't go far on your first trip. If you have a place that is less than 50 miles from your house, make sure to stay there your first trip. You don't want to be 3 to 400 miles from your home and something go wrong with your rig. Don't be discouraged about your camping neighbor who has a $300,000 rig beside you, the point is getting out and enjoying nature. You don't go camping to sit in your camper to watch t.v. and "play" on your laptop, like you do at home, this is the time to go on walks and visit places you have not been before. Get the rig and the truck you can afford and get out there and enjoy some tech-free time! Enjoy family time. Enjoy exploring. Enjoy your time off. When it comes time for another rig, and possible truck, that will come in time, but the first step is getting out there.
Very sage advice and I think you hit the nail on the head on all of it. While we no longer own our pop up camper the experience I gained from using it was invaluable. Heck learning to back it up was a master driving class in itself 😂. I think half the fun in camping is the learning process and discovery.
Agree. Not to mention, unlike these people in the video most cannot afford anything BUT a travel trailer. I honestly don't know how people are so rich these days! haha
I bought a super low mileage, 2000, 24 c class. No slides, super simple. I've had it 14 years, and everything still works. I maintain it, but not obsessive. I have many friends that have gone the newest, greatest route, and have lost thier asses on them. Greatest quote I ever heard was.."Don't spend money, you don't have, to buy shit you don't need, to try to impress people you don't like, and don't like you". Campgrounds are horrible!!! Go where people, ain't.....that's the point....isnt it??
We had a travel trailer for nearly 3 years. Two weeks ago, we purchased a class c, that has 50-amp service. We can now tow the small car we have owned for years. Trailor 32', class C 32'.
Pretty good for a quick overview - you did miss truck campers though. We went from a series of class As - from small up to a 40’ pusher over the years to a truck camper. We love the maneuverability, the safety and the heavy duty construction that allows you to go places no other rv can access. They certainly have their cons like every other, but it’s another type of rv that deserves consideration.
As a a lifelong camper, I prefer my 16ft canvas bell tent for cold weather and and the new pop up tents for warmer weather. I dont need to bring all the amentities from home to go out in the outdoors! I dont have to insure my camping gear, I dont have to store it in off seasons. Cooking on a stove in a camper doesnt compare to cooking over an open fire. I have a $250 Clam shelter to store gear and shelter against rain and bugs. I go camping to get away from a TV, microwave, toilet, heater, stereo, etc. Don't need to tow a thing. I just load everything up in my F-150 with a cap on it.
When I was first looking between motorized and towable I finally decided on towable. I had a truck and if truck needed work while on the road there are service places everywhere (live in a rural area and most places I go to are very rural with nowhere to have motorized to work on it) and I still have camper to live in while truck being worked on.
We did bumper pulls and own a Mercedes sprinter passenger. We are retirement age and decided to buy a Mercedes class C. The Mercedes can get between 12 miles per gallon and up to 18 depending on many factors. Or sprinter with a 4 cylinder turbo diesel averages 16 and has gotten 20 gallons/mile.
You didn't mention truck campers. We have a Lance 650. The 650 is the smallest camper Lance makes. We love it because it has everything you need. It has a full queen-size bed, a bathroom with a shower, a stove, a refrigerator,and a dinette. It sets in the truck and requires no off-site storage. The truck is lifted with oversized tires, making it overland capable. It can go anywhere and park anywhere.
We are on our 4th RV. Love the look and space of fifth wheels but like to be able to get up and move while travelling and hated the set up upon arrival wherever you’re staying. Our First RV was a small Class C and didn’t have a seating area inside other than the dinette. Quickly found that there are nights you can’t sit outside (cold, wind, rain) and the dinette wasn’t comfortable for being inside for longer periods. Next Class C was bigger and had a nice sitting area but we quickly found there was not enough storage inside (ours had NO cupboards/storage in the bedroom area. Next Class C was bigger again and we loved the layout. We have now purchased a Class A and the only reason is because of the inside space (the cab isn’t sunk down like the Class C ) and the options available in a Class A that aren’t available in a Class C (washer/dryer, bath and a half, dishwasher).
My first was a 18 foot travel trailer, second was a fifth wheel switched to fifth wheel because of the ease of towing 3rd another fifth wheel then we went to a pop up because we weren't using it much. Then we went to another travel trailer 22 foot which we kept set up on our private lake lot then replaced that with a larger 36 foot travel trailer with so much more space and it's parked permanently on our lake lot with a huge deck and a RV carport over it to keep it protected. We will keep this as our summer home and plan I buy a class a to travel around
We started with a 28’ travel trailer and loved everything about it. Then we decided we wanted to pull an enclosed aluminum car hauler, so we got a class C because it fit our budget. Loved everything about it. Then we decided we wanted to get something bigger with more room and towing power. We kicked around a super C for a long time but was open to the right class A. We settled for a class A. We ended up with an Entegra Reatta XL. We love everything about it. No regrets and still like super C’s.
We are on our 2nd motorhome. We prefer the motorhome due to typically always towing something, whether it be our truck for family camping trips or one of our toys on a trailer. Our first was an older Chevy Super C gasser. Plenty of storage and towing capacity, but the gasser really drank the fuel. We recently upgraded to a Tiffin Open Road 35QBA, diesel. We needed a little more room inside with 2 kids, a dog and cats we always take. With the QBA we get the bunkhouse floor plan, meaning we don’t always have to tear down the couch and table to put the beds away and with the four slides, it has tons of room. The Cummins diesel has tons of torque and pulls our trailer. No problem even with the heavier class A chassis.
Great videos for the undecided beginners! In 2007 we bought our first new entry level Class C (Sunseeker, no slides), then in 2012 we bought a used 2010 Class C (Tioga Ranger 32‘, Ford chassis) where we had a leak issue at the front cap. No slides but quality was much better than the first one. In 2017 we bought our Newmar Canyon Star Class A gas motor home 38 ft since we have 2 large 130 lbs dogs needing more space. I agree with all the „good and the bad“ . Owning a Class A is much more expensive to maintain and you need a tow vehicle. At least for us, otherwise we cannot get to our trail heads for hiking and it would be a real nuisance to move/ setup the motorhome every day without having a tow vehicle. At the time we bought the Class A we also looked at the Seneca Super C which we really liked. Nowadays, there are a lot more Super C‘s out there. But we still like our Class A at least for now.
Great primer on the pros and cons of the different types of RV's, MJ and Izzy! Our first RV was a 5th wheel, which we owned for just 9 months. Right off the bat we noticed the build quality wasn't the best and, worse, trying to maneuver in tight campground spaces hitched to a one-ton crew cab dually was difficult. So, after some research we decided to trade it on a Class A diesel motor home, which we had for 2 years. A little experience showed it wasn't quite right for us - we got a great deal on it because it was a model year leftover, but I've learned there are some caveats with that idea; if the dealer doesn't properly maintain an RV that has been sitting on the lot for a year, there can be problems, expensive ones. We should have had an inspection done prior to purchasing! Finally, after more research, we traded that RV on another Class A, the Newmar Dutch Star - the build quality is head and shoulders above the other RV's we have owned. Also, the choice of the RV dealer is just as important. It took some time, expense (depreciation!) and experience to arrive with what we feel is the best RV for our needs. We're very happy with this coach and can't imagine a better one. My advice to folks is that no single RV can be all things to all people. Every type of RV is a compromise in one form or another, it can take time to figure out what the best type is for your family. Looking back, I think renting different types of RV's is a good way to try to make that determination.
We are on our 3rd travel trailer since retiring 13 years ago.. I like unhooking and having my 1/2 ton pickup to drive around. I use the truck as a daily driver at home.
Really enjoy your videos....We have a 2022 Jayco Redhawk 31f (class c), it's our first RV and I won it last year in a raffle. We really love it, and don't plan to change.
We have owned several different types of RVS. Class A, 5th wheel and now a super c. Super Cs seem to give you at least a chance, but they all have their draw backs. Great info!
Started with an H-1 Hummer overlanding with an Oztent in the deserts of Nevada and Arizona. Upgraded to a Winnebago 19' Sprinter 4x4 which was way too small for two of us and a large dog but we traveled the western states easily, then a 25' Class C which fit our needs pretty well but still a little small for our needs but crossed about a 60% of the country. Then I saw a Super-C and had to have one. We have a 40' Renegade Verona on a Freightliner M-2 Chassis. I'm very happy with the size, craftsmanship, amenities, and performance. We have over 10K miles in it and have traversed the country.
We bought a 30' Class C three months ago. After a 10 day vacation realized that it didn't have enough storage. Coupled with the fact we're thinking of retirement and possibly full timing we decided to go Class A. Going to Houston tomorrow to pick up our 2017 Anthem 44B. Your video on the Anthem helped in making our decision. Love your video's. Thanks Izzy & MJ.
Trucks, tents, camper shell, truck camper, 26’ TT, then we purchased a vacation home and we were RV less for almost 15 years. We have enjoyed a Class C for the past nine years and have been coast to coast along with annual treks to the Black Hills, we normally tow an enclosed trailer with at least one Harley. The house we are building has a large shop/RV Garage. My dream setup is an HDT Hauler and a three axle 5er Toy Hauler.
We went from a trailer to a class A. Our biggest negative was the ride. It was a 2005 Itaska gas 36ft with three slides. The swaying at corners and when being passed by commercial trailers on highways, plus the bumps on the bad road highways. Weather new or older class A's, the solution was to always "upgrade" add ons. WHY DID THE MANUFACTURES JUST NOT PUT THEM ON IN THE FIRST PLACE! $$$$
I always wanted to travel the country in an RV. I knew that I did not want to deal with leveling or hooking/unhooking work of a travel trailer. I knew that a class A is just too large to maneuver up in the northeast - also finding a place to park if I wanted to explore immediately and I did not want to tow a vehicle for same above reason hooking/unhooking. I chose a class B- there are only 2 of us and it is easy to get up and go-take our bikes with us to explore-boondock anywhere.
Love your videos! Single woman living in a Jayco 27’ travel trailer. 1st time, wishing I had taken my time and researched more. Not much storage. Thinking about a 5th wheel. Thanks guys
If you review the NHTSA crash statistics, you will find that you are automatically 3 times safer in a Class A (yes even a gas class A) than an average vehicle in a crash. This is a function of simple mass. You are heavier than most other vehicles on the road, so if you are driving down the highway in a Class A you are 3 times less likely to die in a crash than you are if you're driving down the road in a car or truck or SUV. People tend to lose sight of this, but that is what the data shows. We started with a Class A gas then a Class A diesel pusher, and then we ultimately switched to a fifth wheel that we pull with an F450, because we needed more space than any Class A could provide, but not for safety reasons.
I had a motorhome and now a trailer. I like the convenience of parking the house on wheels and use the truck to tour the region. It does take longer for set up and breakdown, but that is mostly at the hitch for safety.
We went from a 5'er to a TT for bed space in the truck. While we had a 43' 5'er, the basement space in our layout was awkward and you couldn't easily store certain items! Plus we were too long for National parks and a lot of state parks and some campgrounds. We switched to a 35' TT and put a cap on the truck and gained so much useable space! We do love the class C on the Ford F550 or F600 chassis with the 6.7 diesel, and the interior cab is just like our current F350 layout. While you don't have the towing capacity of a Super C, you do have more than the E chassis and the diesel gives you way more torque for Western mountain travel. It's probably in the cards for our 'golden years'! Keep up the great videos!
5th wheel, now. Much easier and more stable towing. Love the stand-up room inside and great storage. Automatic leveling system makes set up and break down a breeze
Great video for those just starting out. A lot of choices that can be daunting. We started with a 22' travel trailer and towed it with a 1500 Silerado. It gave me some towing experience without being overwhelming. After 6 years we moved up to a 33' travel trailer towed with an F-250. A lot of great memories but as I aged the workload became too much. Start as young as you can and enjoy it while it last.
We’ve a gulfstream class C model 6320 2021 year. Full body paint, satilite and upgraded suspension. Wife and I love it. Plenty of room inside and content with basement storage. Bout 8 mile to the gallon and has plenty of get up with the 7.3 engine on the e450 chassis. Next mod is 12 volt fridge. Factory is fine but hey, why not. We’ve had issues but we love it out here. Better than being home.
I am just in the process of looking for an RV and hoping to get into one and on the road in the early spring. Originally thought of a class B, van-type, but I quickly realized it was WAY too small for me and my pups and I know I'd hate it in no time, so am looking at a nice smaller sized Class C, 24 to 26 footers. Large enough to have room to move around and small enough where it doesn't feel too overwhelming. Thank you for this breakdown! It's a nice description of the pros and cons of each style.
love your stuff, started in tent, then pop up for 17 years with kids. when kids grown, old diesel class A . Got tired of fixing that, bought a Jayco Seneca Super C last year and love it. I do hate the gravel truck ride, but love having 3 doors.
Started with an old pick up camper remodeled the inside put a new flower in it think about it for $150 will use it for a couple of summers turn around and sold it for $500 and then purchased a 24 foot mallard I think it was camper pull behind And it was 24 foot biker thousand dollars. It was not winterized right and floors were rotted out but all new floors and chewed base and stuff and redid the inside and sold it $2500 and then bought a class a Winnebago State, 1972 motorhome with a 50,000 miles on it that has been laid over in a medium And so I replace the whole side of it repainted it and drove it for five years camp took it to Canada twice South Dakota camp it until I purchased a 88, 8288 Winnebago brave and Indian that had a generator in it had yet for a few years, had some trouble with the motor in it, and sold both of them, and then bought a 1988 Pesaro Motorhome 34 foot 32‘ 34 and it was a good unit took it to Canada had had 52,000 miles on it when I got it just cleaned it all up did a little repair work on the inside put a new roof on it And sold it for I bought it for 2500 and sold it for 5000 after driving it five years and then I bought a 88 payroll had it for several years but the kids are up and gone then they were all grown Camping part was over but I enjoyed working on them still so I had it for several years worked on it put new tires on it and got it all ready to go and was gonna sell it and I ran across a 1990 pace 37 foot I couldn’t pass up so I bought it also so I had two again and I got rid of the 88 sold it for 5000 and I bought this 89 or 90 is what it is Pay zero 37 foot and just got an iron in generator. I don’t know what I wanted, but it had some lines have been froze up had to replace those. They taken the bed out of it For reasons are known and put a desk last back there. I don’t know if they were working out of it so that’s what my project is now but I don’t do much camping anymore. I’m old, but I still enjoy tinkering with them and following RUclipsrs who are out running around the countryside, have a good day
I might differ on the safety thing JUST a tad. Mist OLDER Class A diesel pushers were built in a fashion similar to school buses. This means there's a reinforcing metal body frame along with the support hoops. There weren't slide outs, so the bodies are actually pretty rigid and hold up under impact. That, along with a genset in the nose, often make for better safety than even a diesel pusher school bus. Class Cs, on the other hand, have an open back cab and an intact camper on chassis rails. I can't tell you how many victims of head-ons I've seen, where the whole camper assembly separated from the chassis and crushed the cab from behind. One thing I would add is, obviously, you don't drive these things like you would a car or even a van. You have to be strategic and give yourself more room and a lower overall speed. The seats in my old 94 Navigator are so comfy, my back and butt won't hurt after even 4 hours in the saddle. So take your time and enjoy the journey!
Good information video!❤. My rv experience goes 20yrs now. 3 travel trailers,1 5th wheel (loved the space)and now on my 2nd class A. Both Fleetwoods (gas burner). Like I previously mentioned roomy 5th wheel just harder to get around city's in a large truck. Just found towing a smaller car with the motorcoach easier for my family and suited our needs better.
I have a 5th Wheel Toy Hauler and a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Crew Cab with Standard Bed and I've replaced the rear window twice, roof dent once, and the tailgate so many times I gave up and made a PVC Pipe and Netting Tailgate. If I do another 5th wheel I'll pull it with a SEMI-TRUCK RV HAULER.
My 1st RV was 25 foot travel trailer, no slides, 2nd RV was 33 foot 5th wheel, 3 slides. 3rd RV was a Class A MH 35 foot 2 slides, 4th was a 22 foot travel trailer, q slide and presently have a 27th foot 5th wheel, one slide. The class A MH was too over whelming to drive with the big windshield and no airbags. The travel trailers were easy to pull and inexpensive to maintain. The 5th wheels I always like the 2 I had, it seems that you would get more for your money. The class A MH was easier and didn't take long to setup. Having a 5th wheel or a MH you still need a vehicle to pull the 5th wheel or have a vehicle to go somewhere without the MH. I see for an entry level MH coasting twice as much as an entry level 5th wheel. So if money is an issue the 5th wheel is the biggest bang for your buck. If you sold your stick built home and have several hundred thousand laying around the MH is great minus no airbags.
We have the best of both worlds! 42 foot DRV pulled by a Freightliner Cascadia with a Smart car on back. Only negative is the length ( 70 foot ). Being able to separate when we camp does help.
We started looking at trailers in the beginning, but our intention was to get something that we could bring our two Rotties with us on our travels. The trailers were too small. The class B was out of the question, and the class C were just not flipping our switch, so you know the saying “Go big or stay home.” We elected to get a 40’ Class A diesel pusher. Ours is a 2004 Tiffin Allegro Bus which only had 7K miles on it. We’ve had our typical 20 year old bus issues, but the chassis, engine and suspension have been bulletproof so far. We put 9K miles on it in the last 2 months and ready to go again. Our next venture takes us to McKinney Texas for MCD blinds purchase and install. Safe travels to you two. BTW Izzy, #RetirementLife is great.
Over the past 43 years, We’ve owned every type of rv, from beginning with a tent, truck shell, pop up, slide in truck campers, travel trailers, 5th wheels, class c, gas class a, a few DP class A including our current Monaco Holiday Rambler 45’ Navigator w/4 slides. We loved each of them and they fit where we were in life with our family. We love our luxury DP but now we are empty nesters and I’m considering downsizing to a class B. My wife isn’t quite on board with that yet but we’ll see. Take care!
I have owned just about every configuration except a van B & a toy hauler. Each different for different phases of life. Started out with a pop up as a single parent, then a trailer with bunks/no slides. Then a used Bounder class A (loved driving down the road with a view!), then a 29 ft 5th (nice!). After being rv-less for a few years back to a pop up (no longer for me) then a class c/b+ (no bunk) . . That was my greatest joy. I would have kept it if it didn’t cost me $400/mo for storage (even when not using storage) . . Couldn’t keep on my property (would have made a difference!). Except for the 5vr, everything was used purchased. Boy did I learn a lot!! Still wanting another RV . . Thinking small class c with no bunk but I sure like small A’s. But a small c I could unhook & go into town & not worry about a toad. At 65 with arthritis, I worry about my ability to handle toad hookups.
❤ Good video. Very useful. Thank you. In August 2023 we bought a Class B Winnebago Travato Van. Loved, loved, loved it! Extremely functional. Incredibly well-designed, incredibly well-built. It is nimble. We even fit in one parking spot since it’s a van. It has four seatbelts. It even had solar and a nice back bathroom with a shower and a water flush toilet. However… four months later, in January 2024 we traded it in for a class C Integra Odyssey 30 Z. Although there are just two of us we found we needed more space. The Class B Van would be a better fit for a single or young couple with a love for mountain biking etc. Our class C is 32 1/2 feet. With the back slide out, it becomes 34 1/2 feet. It sleeps 6-8 if you want to also use the theater seats to sleep. Without the slide outs it is fully functional. It is amazingly easy to drive. Seems like we are driving our Ford F-150. Tons of storage. Our 2 electric bikes fit in the pass through storage. This C even has THREE TV’s. Crazy. The auto leveling system is magic. The floor plan is spacious and interior colors are bright and airy. Plus…a fireplace that is also a space heater. We are in love!
My first RV was a pickup truck with a camper on the back - you guys didn't mention that one. Second one was a gas Class A. Third one was a gas Class C and Forth one is a travel trailer. Next one will probably be another Class A but a diesel or Super C for full timing. Pick the right RV for the job. Some people think of RVs as 'moving up' but it really depends on how you are going to use it. If you only camp on weekends and don't have a large budget or huge truck, the travel trailer is a good choice. If you have a huge truck and camp for a week at a time or more in one place, the 5th wheel is the way to go. If you have a family and plan to 'hit the road' with multiple stops or stop and go travelling for a summer vacation, the Class C is the way to go. If you are just a couple with multiple stops and like to 'rough it' a bit more, a class B might work. If you are retired and you plan to full time and really put on the miles, the Class A is a good choice. Yes, budget is always a factor but how you use the RV is really the most important when it comes to satisfaction.
Started out with a 27' class A motorhome, gas engine, chevy chassis. Worked great for a young family. Not much storage. No slides. It did not handle well on the road and was tiring to drive. Very expensive to get any work done on it. I was able to find one regular auto shop that would do work on the engine, AC and trans, but often you are limited to higher shop rates for dealers or RV only service centers. The last 12 years have owned a 30' 5th wheel which I tow with a 3/4 ton diesel pickup. Much easier to drive, cheaper to maintain, much more storage and we always have the truck for side trips when not towing. Agree that the 5th wheel feels like our small home on wheels!
We started with a Forest River pop up camper in 2020 as that was the last option within 100 miles from our house. In a lot of ways we really loved it. Especially on nice days. However, setting and taking it down each time, not to mention having to pull 90% of our equipment out each time we stored it got really old. There are also a lot of parts that wear quickly as you’re dealing with buttons, Velcro, and zippers. We just bought a 29’ Coachmen Freedom and while not as airy as the pop up we can’t believe the amount of space we have. Set up and take down now happens in a quarter of the time. I’d still recommend a pop up to families, but I don’t think we’d ever go back.
Great video! I started with a 16’ travel trailer . Switched up to Class A then 5th wheel . Tired of A quickly to big for state parks so downsized to truck camper. Wanted more room and went to a 22 ft 4 season off road capable trailer. All have their negatives and positives. Our current trailer is fun but as I near 70 I must admit the motorhome has desirable features when it come to set up and tear down.
Well, I was a tent camper since childhood with the Boy Scouts. The DW and I bought a pop-up in 1999 just to get off the ground. We went back to tents (the same tent BTW) when we started boating. After that, we bought an older 5th wheel to see if it was still a fit for us. Then we researched and looked and planned. Finally, this year, we were able to upgrade to our current RV, a 2022 Keystone Montana. Finding a suitable tow vehicle greatly slowed that process down. But we upgraded the truck and the RV. We're thrilled and feel extremely blessed. Great information on your video. Well done.
I went with a Cargo Trailer that I converted into a Camper. Just a 3 k GVWR trailer towed with a Ram 1500 (> 8 k Tow Capacity),8 k solar on the roof, 6 k in solar generators, 2 - 15 amp shore power inputs, 5 k BTU AC, gymyour much hated cassette toilet, smart TV, microwave, induction cooktop, portable fridge;/ freezer (12 or 120 volt) raised full sized bed with sleeping underneath....and so forth.
We started out with a bumper-pull trailer, but we now have a 38.5' Montana High Country. It gives us the privacy and space we want. We are getting older, however, and the maintenance can sometimes be a pain, but Amazon delivers wherever we are, so it's all good.
I have a nineteen seventy-seven yes a 46 year-old Dodge mallard class C! Affectionately named Lucy, and has 91000 mi on it and everything is simple and everything has been redone mechanically! The interior has been freshened new wood floors new bathroom! 800 watts of solar 600-amp hours of lithium totally self-contained off grid very nimble and very comfortable! Initially I purchase Lucy for $3,000! Yes I have done a lot of upgrades and probably has somewheres around $30,000.. but that's with every single imaginable mod or accessory, it is literally a motor home. Plenty of storage and living space and comfort. So you don't have to buy something new in order to find something that is safe and comfortable. We Believe simple is better and function before fashion! Although Lucy's old she still looks good.
My husband and I started out with a Ford Econoline van that he tricked out with Bed and clothing space and everything we needed, basically Vanlife back in 1978. Then we had kids and eventually we ended up with a pop-up and after the pop-up we bought a very small 15 foot travel trailer when it was just the two of us and after that we went with what we have currently our class C and this will be our first winter wintering over full-time in the class C so hopefully it’ll be as big as an adventure as traveling cross country in that first van. I like the class c best now because it’s affords us enough room to go for longer times and the room for grandkids when we want them with us. Only time will tell if it’s our last rev or if we trade up again. Looking forward to the adventures though.
Of course you can be an injured in any accident. but for my money I would prefer a high-end Class A over a Super C. That means Newells and Prevosts. Also, even the most high-end fifth wheels do not match the quality of high-end classe A's. Great summarization. Thanks..
Hi Izzy & MJ! We started with a pop up which was old when we bought it, used it for about 4-5 years and then went to a Coachmen travel trailer that we loved, it was about 27'. We had that for 2 years then decided to go full time and got our Grabd Design Solitude 5th wheel and after 5 years we are still in love with it! We always call it our apartment on wheels. We were thinking of a class A when we went full time but couldnt find the right floorplan, plus i didnt want to look at a steering wheel and dashboard in my "home". Great video guys and safe travels!
We have a Super C and it is our first and last! We did lots of research before pulling the trigger. We went with the Super C because of the safety and maintenance ease.
Good video. I have a cab over truck camper. I love it and have the ability to tow a toy hauler. Or remove it, leave it at the campsite and go on day trips with the truck. Disadvantages are smallish holding tanks and you really should have at least a three quarter ton truck.
Hi Izzy and MJ. My wife and I started out with a Majestic 28A , which was a refurbished Cruise America, great for a first timer. We then bought a 27 foot travel trailer which was nice but not a lot of room or storage. We have just recently bought a 2006 Winnebago Outlook 31C, class C. The previous owner took excellent care of it. It is now our rig for retirement traveling. Thanks guys, excellent video as always.
My first RV was a B. It was so maneuverable and helped me get over my fear of driving something relatively “big” ( compared to my small car). However being stuck in a B, several times, due to bad weather made me feel very closed in. So I traded up to a C and have never been happier. With 2 slides I have plenty of elbow room, storage space, and power to tow my vehicle.
After owning a class b since the pandemic I think the most ideal class is c or b+ it has more room but still nimble enough to go around if is 24 ft class c.if I can get my next rv it will be something like wenniebago navion.
What a great comparison video!! One downside you didn't mention about Class A's is that you either need to tow a vehicle to drive around in once you're at your destination, or you need a Class A Toy Hauler. Either way, your ride is beautiful!
We have had 3 tag along and 1 class C. We now have a tag along tow hauler. If or when we change up I see an 5th wheel tow hauler. We like to take our motorcycle and the flexibility of separate vehicle.
Class C four winds, we put a bone warming radiant infrared fireplace in, and air cleaner and sleep like babies in the fall fun....white noise and ambience.....
1) Compact Camper (popups/A liners) 2) Campers (slide in's truck beds) 3) Trailers (bumper hitch towables) 4) Park Model's (compact mobile homes/long term setup) 5) Class A (cabover style chassis/body lines like a bus) 6) Class B (generally van conversions) 7) Class B+ (Van/truck front end with wider body) 8) Class C (generally having the shape of a slide in truck camper mounted on a van or truck chassis) 9) Class C+ (much like class c but with a larger power unit/diesel pick up truck chassis and generally much longer then class c's) 10) Class Super C's (these RV'S have semi truck or commercial truck power units with diesel engines with engine life of over 1 million miles before in frame rebuild is needed and have living space similar to the Class C of all the RV'S along with the Bus Class hold there value best) 11) Fifth Wheel Trailers (these RV'S are towed from the bed of a truck with the use of a fifth wheel hitch or a ball mounted in the bed of a truck often used on horse trailers) 12) Totor homes ( self contained tow unit often times a converted semi truck with the amenities of an RV but used to tow a trailer or fifth wheel) 13) Tent ( these can range from two sided a frames to multiply rooms with wood burning stoves) Whatever style or class you chose, like most anything in life. You can go just the basics or give me everything. Production models are most often readily available. Well custom built have up to two years out wait time for builds. Thanks for all of your great shows and helpful info. 👍👍
Just getting into camping with the family and are talking about whether RVs are the way for us to go. This video was super helpful just understanding the difference. Total newbies at all of this but are loving the options! Thanks for the video
great observations, looking into RVing and leaning towards entry level class A’s like a vegas but safety concerns push us towards C’s. we’ll see this fall
Wonderful breakdown. Bravo you guys. Started with 2 different lengths of toyhaulers. Tire of off-roading & uncomfortable setup of toyhaulers of the early/mid-2000s era. Went to a non-toyhauler 5th wheel as we wanted a lot more space & more comfortable furniture. Got tired of driving a 1-ton truck for a DD & tired of being in same cab as 1 or 2 dogs. Got a Class-C. Absolutely love the motorhome way of travel vs the trailers, especially as we're not full-timers. Traveling with pets, infinitely better via motorhome. OVN'ing while boondocking, infinitely better via motorhome. Class C was nice by price-point & ease of working on (oil changes & other routine service). Also much cheaper to say, replace a windshield if you end up needing to do that. Ultimately I'd like a Super-C for interior comfort, ruggedness, & as you guys mentioned, safety. Not sure that'll ever be in the financial cards though.
Awesome information. So many choices out there and so many things make you pick the “right” one for you. For us, starting with a 38’ travel trailer we loved the layout and all the things inside but we weren’t happy it’s the outside storage and all the set up. Next up, a Class C, at this point we knew we loved driving the RV instead of pulling it. But we knew right away that it was just too small, shower, bathroom, bed, living area. Tons of storage inside and out but just to small in the living area of the RV. Then.. We bought the “right” RV for us, our Class A, Newmar Canyon Star 3710. Has absolutely everything, after a few mods it’s perfect for us !!
We love our Leisure Tyme class B. I consider it a 4 nite camper as 19 gals fresh, 5 gals black and unknown grey. It feels more spacious than our old class A, which we enjoyed for years. Easy to drive and fits in cities so it is great for our needs now.
We started out with a 30’ class A with no slide outs. I loved the endless amount of storage inside and outside. But you’re right, I always thought of how unsafe it would be in an accident. Unfortunately the engine burned a hole in one of the pistons and it was to costly to repair. Engine had to come out of the bottom along with the entire front suspension. Now we own a 30’ class C with 3 slide outs. It has a V10 engine that can be pulled out easily if need be. I have mixed feelings about the transition. Not much storage inside and virtually none outside. However we feel safe driving it and it’s comfortable to drive as well. So only time will tell if we decide to change again.
Bought an entry level class c 10 years ago and love it, easy to work on. It’s a 28’ no slides but we are remodeling the dining area with recliners for retirement. My only complaint is limited towing. We have a jeep and 60-65 mph is about it
Years ago i worked as an RV Tech , my specialty was carpentry mostly, a gentleman had purchased a Prevost , really nice rig , the service writer handed me some blueprints, i looked at them and said your kidding right ? I had to gut the inside of that rig , and install 4 dog cages ? Well he was a champion dog handler and went to shows all over the USA , now those dogs had some nice kennels !!!!
We went from a toy hauler travel trailer to class A because I was doing most of the setup. Hubby has 13 bad discs and 5 fused so most of the work was on me. Now it’s a much easier setup and my stress levels are lower. We did some upgrades to make the drive better on the class A but plan on more. It’s much easier on me and my husband. I have no issues driving it. We actually camp more often because everything we need is stored in the coach except food. So when we want to go we just load food and hit the road!
17’ Casita travel trailer, lived in it for 9 months in our driveway after Tropical storm Allison flooded our house . To small but we’re both still alive we didn’t kill each other 😂🤣😂🤣! Soon to be will be a super C
Well done presentation. We started RVing with a 1990 conversion van, then a 2003 28' bumper pull trailer with one slide. Wanting more room, we traded for a 2013 35' 5th wheel with 3 slides. Our 5th wheel is now 10 years old, and our truck is 16 years old, both with a lot of miles. We are currently considering downsizing to a Class C so we can continue to RV without the stress of towing a large rig. We have always custom ordered new since we are picky about colors and options.
Izzy & MJ, great summary, thanks for posting. We've run the gamut, starting with a gas Class A, then a 38' fiver, then a borrowed 20'' no-slide bumper pull (which we lived in for a couple of months), now we have a super-C. The fiver was AWESOME but it pushed the limit of my one-ton single rear wheel RAM and backing it into a spot was a royal pain...almost led to divorce more than once, so we sold it. I'd love to have a larger trailer or a smaller fifth wheel, but not my spouse. The Super C is also AWESOME, but sometimes when I think of the space of the class A's I think we should have bought a diesel pusher. Then I take a breath and that thought passes; we're thru trading or going to RV shows. (Hope to see you on the road!)
I'm waiting on my Class B+ to arrive (motohome not campervan). I will be solo travelling. I can't wait for it to arrive. The bed raises up into the roof and doesn't take up any space in the lounge area. I've found this to be the most economical for me. Also I don't need a truck licence to drive it, just a normal car licence. It has an awning which rolls out (with side awnings). The only disadvantage is that I need to pack up in order to go anywhere (even local). But mine will be towing a toy trailer, where I will store my eTRIKE. Mine is a Avida Leura (built in Australia).
On point. I have drove a class A rv for work not bad but to big. Im looking for a used class c. Something me and my family can get in and take off. Mainly want it for the generator. We have pets and i can't stand leaving them behind. Or asking people to watch them while we drive to go visit family thats x hours away. I do think class c is the more bang for your buck. You could also do a hitch storage if your not pulling a car along with you for more storage. Just to say.
All the way up to a SpaceCraft with a HDT pulling it. I'm building my own. The wife and I just retired, we owned our own semi with a 53ft. Reefer trailer. Well all the insulation is done so just fix the inside. We have a ways to go.
Nice video but we went from a travel trailer to a 5er for more space then finally to a Truck Camper and it's by far the best RV. It uses your existing truck, just slides in, keeps your footprint small, allows for off grid and towing, doesn't require any extra insurance or registration or tolls while traveling! And, you can swap out the truck or camper at any time. Best of all, you can still live in camper if you need to get truck serviced at any normal garage! The only downside is the storage but becoming a minimalist is acceptable based on the other advantages!
Great analysis guys! Your perspective is spot on. We started camping part time, decades ago in an Aliner towed by our current toad. We are now FTers who boondock most of the time in a Class A. I feel much safer driving my Class A than my toad. Ask yourself, if your toad and your motorhome were to collide, which would you rather be in, a big heavy Class A or a litle compact car? Or how about a Class B (basically a heavy van) vs your MH? To me, it's a no brainer. The more mass you have the better, to absorb the impact of almost any collision. I went with an older, used Class A vs a TT or fiver because of affordability and suitability for FT use (more load and tank capacities, better insulation, sturdy bones, etc.). I had decided to go FT with a truck and trailer. I bought the diesel truck about a year ahead of time, but just before I was going to buy my FT trailer the diesel engine died on my low mileage 2008 Ford, and they wanted $15,000 to fix it. I got to thinking, what if this were to happen after I retired and didn't have that kind of money laying around for unexpected repairs? So, I sold it and bought a 1999 National Tropical Class A gasser with only 28,000 miles for the same $15,000 they wanted to fix my diesel truck. If this reliable v-10 engine ever breaks I can replace it for about 1/3rd the cost of a diesel motor. It's cheaper to operate and maintain too. Plus, it's nice being debt free. I was able to use the little 30 mpg Chevy Cobalt SS I already had as our toad, saving even more money, both in purchasing a new vehicle and in operating and maintenance expenses. If you have a fiver, you must press your 8-10 mpg tow vehicle into use as a daily driver, doubling the mileage and expense to use it every time you go to the store. It's much easier to drive and park a compact car when sightseeing and scooting around town than it is a diesel dually. Initially, even a good used diesel truck will cost you $40-$50k these days. Add another $50k+ for a good used fiver and you're looking at around $100k for truck and trailer combo suitable for FT living - double or triple that if shopping new. I also like the fact that my MH is a good foot lower in height (at 11' 9") than most fivers - more like a TT, making it easier to avoid hitting low hanging tree branches, lower gas station canopies and low bridges. I like being able to use our MH with the slide in, overnighting for free in rest areas, Walmarts, Cracker Barrels, Casinos, etc. Many fivers are unusable unless the slides are out, greatly restricting the places we can overnight in, often forcing you to overnight in expensive RV parks. And if you find yourself in a dangerous situation, or in bad weather you just press a button, your jacks retract, and you simply drive off without ever leaving the safety and comfort of your home. Not so towing a trailer. If you have animals like we do, it's nice not needing to remove them from their home when it's travel day. You don't have to expose yourself or them to rain, wind or temperature extremes, and your home is always at comfy cozy - no need to get it to the correct temperature after you're tired from a long day on the road, just so you can use it. But if you just want to stay in one spot for months at a time, and you can afford it, then a fiver is the way to go for a more homelike feel.
Excellent video, I love all the information. I'm a beginner and need information on what rv I should buy. This video explains everything and answers all the questions I had. Thank you.
We went back and forth on whether to get a class c or a travel trailer. In the end we chose a travel trailer because we already purchased a truck, something I had promised my husband years ago when we moved into a commuter car for him and the fact that insurance and maintenance of a travel trailer was less than a class c plus the fact that if we bought a class c and wanted to visit other places in the area we had to either tow a car or break camp each time. Well if we were towing a car, there is not much difference from having a truck and towing a trailer. In either case, I couldn't drive it myself. I am comfortable, a little, to drive only a class c but once it comes to towing something, I didn't want to do that. My husband really wanted the travel trailer, it was a little less money and we could get new instead of used, so that's what we went with. Will we switch in the future, maybe, lol!
As a retired driver with over a million miles, the best RV is the one someone else owns, I travel alot we drive a new SUV and stay in nice motels, truck drivers like me hated summer, I'd like to have the hours back I've spent sitting in traffic while they scraped one of these rolling death traps off the road, if you want to play trailer park go live in one😂
I've never heard anybody talk about RV Insurance. What are the different things to be concerned about insuring your rig or travel trailer or tow behind. In the event of loss of use of the vehicle do they include temporary housing to you find another vehicle
Of course we have a BIG DP but we started out tenting, then to 3 travel trailers, a class C then to 2 DPs. The reason for moving to the diesel pusher is how we travel. I got tired of driving a big gas hog when we went sightseeing. We stay in one location and use it as a base to go see stuff. Being able to take a car that is comfortable and gets decent mileage is a real plus. With a travel trailer or fifth wheel, you can't do that and a Class c has limited tow capacity.
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So do you guys have a "toad"? Because you talked about the ease of setup and breakdown when you're in a motorhome as opposed to a travel trailer or 5th wheel, but as a practical matter, you need to have a separate vehicle to get around in. You know, if you want to go into town, do some sightseeing, etc.
So what do you guys do?
@@Milesco yea we have a toad
@@EndlessRVing Thanks for the quick reply! 😊
@@Milesco have a great night
Your sponsor pads are very good I seen them before I was so impressed
My late husband and I started with an old Ford van that he built out. Moved up to a vintage Roadtrek, class B, on a Chevy chassis. For the two of us, retirees who liked to move a lot, it was great. After he passed away, while I loved our B, I soon discovered how expensive and time consuming it was for me to have to pay for the maintenance on the engine and systems my husband had taken care of. Also, I wanted to make a base camp and then go site seeing, which meant breaking camp every time. Sold the Roadtrek, found a lovely little vintage camper trailer that had been upgraded and restored. Bought a midsize SUV with more than enough towing capacity. She's easy for me, age 69 to set up and break down. Minimal systems to deal with.
Ever consider a camper van?
@@mannylupercio8194 that's what a Roadtrek is. A camper van.
@@lindafowlerjohnston Ohhh, gotcha. Thank you.
Good for you!!!❤❤❤
I’m confused what is a late husband 👀
I recently bought my 1st RV an 86 Winnebago 22' w/ a 350 Chevy and 50K original miles. It belonged to my daughters boyfriends parents I got a pretty good deal @ 1500$ US I bought it because of the rapidly rising rental costs, btw I'm divorced. It had been sitting for 5 yrs.I put a battery in it and it fired right up. Currently im parked on a friends lot in the country its so peaceful out here, best 1500$ I ever spent.Not much of a story but I thought Id throw it out there in case anybody was interested, Thanks
You're my Polish Hero! Basically, nobody has gotten into a camper/RV cheaper & more efficient than you Brother! What view I bet as well...Freedom!
Peace
Thanks for the kind words, BTW I'm Dutch not polish. 😅
Here's my $0.02, and I usually get change back. As a licensed bus driver of 26,001+ bus, I wish people driving a class A, B or C had to take and get certified to drive an A, B or C motorhome. I've seen way too many drivers of motor homes who should not be driving one. Driving an A, B or C is not like jumping into a Prius, you are driving a wind sail. Just be safe out there and watch for other drivers. I honestly believe a person who is new to camping should start out with a bumper pull travel trailer (TT). Find a nice used TT and use it for a couple of years. You will not know what you want until you have one. You don't want a rig with tons of storage because then you have to be cautious with what you are storing. A travel trailer will cost significantly less than a 5th wheel and 3 to 4 times less than a class A. With a TT, you will be able to pull that with, potentially, a slightly smaller pickup. Getting into a 5th wheel is going to set you back $80,000 to $140,000 for a dully pickup and another $80,000 to $300,000+ for your 5th wheel. Start small and see if you even like it in the first place. A LOT of people started rig camping during covid and there were a lot of damaged rigs during that time. Do research on a floor plan you would like, or even settle with. Do research for supplies you will need. Do research on places you want to visit. Do research on setup and teardown lists. Once you have your rig, Practice, Practice, PRACTICE! If you have a TT, Practice backing up a trailer, there are videos on YT to help you understand backing up a trailer, but practice as much as you can. Research campground edicits. Do you have children? Do you have pets? Do you have both? Quiet hours. Neighbors campsites. Handling your sewer hoses. NEVER put a sewer hose on a picnic table - DISCUSTING. Learn Everything about your rig. How to set it up, how to tear it down, how the holding tanks work, what treatments to use. Save yourself a LOT of money on RV treatment and toilet paper - Kleentank.com. How to, and when to, winterize your rig. Are you going to do it, or take it somewhere to have a shop do it for you? You can do it yourself, there are Many helpful videos on YT. How to De-winterize your rig. Water heater care. Window and slide care. If you want to go "rig camping," get to know your rig before you take it out. Another suggestion, Don't go far on your first trip. If you have a place that is less than 50 miles from your house, make sure to stay there your first trip. You don't want to be 3 to 400 miles from your home and something go wrong with your rig. Don't be discouraged about your camping neighbor who has a $300,000 rig beside you, the point is getting out and enjoying nature. You don't go camping to sit in your camper to watch t.v. and "play" on your laptop, like you do at home, this is the time to go on walks and visit places you have not been before. Get the rig and the truck you can afford and get out there and enjoy some tech-free time! Enjoy family time. Enjoy exploring. Enjoy your time off. When it comes time for another rig, and possible truck, that will come in time, but the first step is getting out there.
Brilliant! Thank you for your excellent words of wisdom!
Very sage advice and I think you hit the nail on the head on all of it. While we no longer own our pop up camper the experience I gained from using it was invaluable. Heck learning to back it up was a master driving class in itself 😂. I think half the fun in camping is the learning process and discovery.
Great advise!!
Thanks so much for this comment. We are a couple looking to buy our first RV and your comment was very informative and helpful.
Agree. Not to mention, unlike these people in the video most cannot afford anything BUT a travel trailer. I honestly don't know how people are so rich these days! haha
I bought a super low mileage, 2000, 24 c class.
No slides, super simple.
I've had it 14 years, and everything still works.
I maintain it, but not obsessive.
I have many friends that have gone the newest, greatest route, and have lost thier asses on them.
Greatest quote I ever heard was.."Don't spend money, you don't have, to buy shit you don't need, to try to impress people you don't like, and don't like you".
Campgrounds are horrible!!!
Go where people, ain't.....that's the point....isnt it??
We had a travel trailer for nearly 3 years. Two weeks ago, we purchased a class c, that has 50-amp service. We can now tow the small car we have owned for years. Trailor 32', class C 32'.
Pretty good for a quick overview - you did miss truck campers though. We went from a series of class As - from small up to a 40’ pusher over the years to a truck camper. We love the maneuverability, the safety and the heavy duty construction that allows you to go places no other rv can access. They certainly have their cons like every other, but it’s another type of rv that deserves consideration.
As a a lifelong camper, I prefer my 16ft canvas bell tent for cold weather and and the new pop up tents for warmer weather. I dont need to bring all the amentities from home to go out in the outdoors! I dont have to insure my camping gear, I dont have to store it in off seasons. Cooking on a stove in a camper doesnt compare to cooking over an open fire. I have a $250 Clam shelter to store gear and shelter against rain and bugs. I go camping to get away from a TV, microwave, toilet, heater, stereo, etc. Don't need to tow a thing. I just load everything up in my F-150 with a cap on it.
When I was first looking between motorized and towable I finally decided on towable. I had a truck and if truck needed work while on the road there are service places everywhere (live in a rural area and most places I go to are very rural with nowhere to have motorized to work on it) and I still have camper to live in while truck being worked on.
You guys are a RVers best friend bc you tell the truth. Not just what people and dealers want to hear. Thank you
Much appreciated.
One word " FrameFlex" Would not even look at a 5th wheel. I have a Ford Van, love it. Thx for sharing
We did bumper pulls and own a Mercedes sprinter passenger. We are retirement age and decided to buy a Mercedes class C. The Mercedes can get between 12 miles per gallon and up to 18 depending on many factors. Or sprinter with a 4 cylinder turbo diesel averages 16 and has gotten 20 gallons/mile.
You didn't mention truck campers. We have a Lance 650. The 650 is the smallest camper Lance makes. We love it because it has everything you need. It has a full queen-size bed, a bathroom with a shower, a stove, a refrigerator,and a dinette. It sets in the truck and requires no off-site storage. The truck is lifted with oversized tires, making it overland capable. It can go anywhere and park anywhere.
We are on our 4th RV. Love the look and space of fifth wheels but like to be able to get up and move while travelling and hated the set up upon arrival wherever you’re staying.
Our First RV was a small Class C and didn’t have a seating area inside other than the dinette. Quickly found that there are nights you can’t sit outside (cold, wind, rain) and the dinette wasn’t comfortable for being inside for longer periods. Next Class C was bigger and had a nice sitting area but we quickly found there was not enough storage inside (ours had NO cupboards/storage in the bedroom area. Next Class C was bigger again and we loved the layout. We have now purchased a Class A and the only reason is because of the inside space (the cab isn’t sunk down like the Class C ) and the options available in a Class A that aren’t available in a Class C (washer/dryer, bath and a half, dishwasher).
My first was a 18 foot travel trailer, second was a fifth wheel switched to fifth wheel because of the ease of towing 3rd another fifth wheel then we went to a pop up because we weren't using it much. Then we went to another travel trailer 22 foot which we kept set up on our private lake lot then replaced that with a larger 36 foot travel trailer with so much more space and it's parked permanently on our lake lot with a huge deck and a RV carport over it to keep it protected. We will keep this as our summer home and plan I buy a class a to travel around
You must be a lawyer or banker.
We started with a 28’ travel trailer and loved everything about it. Then we decided we wanted to pull an enclosed aluminum car hauler, so we got a class C because it fit our budget. Loved everything about it. Then we decided we wanted to get something bigger with more room and towing power. We kicked around a super C for a long time but was open to the right class A. We settled for a class A. We ended up with an Entegra Reatta XL. We love everything about it. No regrets and still like super C’s.
We are on our 2nd motorhome. We prefer the motorhome due to typically always towing something, whether it be our truck for family camping trips or one of our toys on a trailer. Our first was an older Chevy Super C gasser. Plenty of storage and towing capacity, but the gasser really drank the fuel. We recently upgraded to a Tiffin Open Road 35QBA, diesel. We needed a little more room inside with 2 kids, a dog and cats we always take. With the QBA we get the bunkhouse floor plan, meaning we don’t always have to tear down the couch and table to put the beds away and with the four slides, it has tons of room. The Cummins diesel has tons of torque and pulls our trailer. No problem even with the heavier class A chassis.
Great videos for the undecided beginners! In 2007 we bought our first new entry level Class C (Sunseeker, no slides), then in 2012 we bought a used 2010 Class C (Tioga Ranger 32‘, Ford chassis) where we had a leak issue at the front cap. No slides but quality was much better than the first one. In 2017 we bought our Newmar Canyon Star Class A gas motor home 38 ft since we have 2 large 130 lbs dogs needing more space. I agree with all the „good and the bad“ . Owning a Class A is much more expensive to maintain and you need a tow vehicle. At least for us, otherwise we cannot get to our trail heads for hiking and it would be a real nuisance to move/ setup the motorhome every day without having a tow vehicle. At the time we bought the Class A we also looked at the Seneca Super C which we really liked. Nowadays, there are a lot more Super C‘s out there. But we still like our Class A at least for now.
Great primer on the pros and cons of the different types of RV's, MJ and Izzy! Our first RV was a 5th wheel, which we owned for just 9 months. Right off the bat we noticed the build quality wasn't the best and, worse, trying to maneuver in tight campground spaces hitched to a one-ton crew cab dually was difficult. So, after some research we decided to trade it on a Class A diesel motor home, which we had for 2 years. A little experience showed it wasn't quite right for us - we got a great deal on it because it was a model year leftover, but I've learned there are some caveats with that idea; if the dealer doesn't properly maintain an RV that has been sitting on the lot for a year, there can be problems, expensive ones. We should have had an inspection done prior to purchasing! Finally, after more research, we traded that RV on another Class A, the Newmar Dutch Star - the build quality is head and shoulders above the other RV's we have owned. Also, the choice of the RV dealer is just as important. It took some time, expense (depreciation!) and experience to arrive with what we feel is the best RV for our needs. We're very happy with this coach and can't imagine a better one. My advice to folks is that no single RV can be all things to all people. Every type of RV is a compromise in one form or another, it can take time to figure out what the best type is for your family. Looking back, I think renting different types of RV's is a good way to try to make that determination.
Thanks for sharing Wes
We are on our 3rd travel trailer since retiring 13 years ago.. I like unhooking and having my 1/2 ton pickup to drive around. I use the truck as a daily driver at home.
Really enjoy your videos....We have a 2022 Jayco Redhawk 31f (class c), it's our first RV and I won it last year in a raffle. We really love it, and don't plan to change.
We have owned several different types of RVS. Class A, 5th wheel and now a super c. Super Cs seem to give you at least a chance, but they all have their draw backs. Great info!
Started with an H-1 Hummer overlanding with an Oztent in the deserts of Nevada and Arizona. Upgraded to a Winnebago 19' Sprinter 4x4 which was way too small for two of us and a large dog but we traveled the western states easily, then a 25' Class C which fit our needs pretty well but still a little small for our needs but crossed about a 60% of the country. Then I saw a Super-C and had to have one. We have a 40' Renegade Verona on a Freightliner M-2 Chassis. I'm very happy with the size, craftsmanship, amenities, and performance. We have over 10K miles in it and have traversed the country.
We bought a 30' Class C three months ago. After a 10 day vacation realized that it didn't have enough storage. Coupled with the fact we're thinking of retirement and possibly full timing we decided to go Class A. Going to Houston tomorrow to pick up our 2017 Anthem 44B. Your video on the Anthem helped in making our decision. Love your video's. Thanks Izzy & MJ.
Congrats and good luck!!
Trucks, tents, camper shell, truck camper, 26’ TT, then we purchased a vacation home and we were RV less for almost 15 years. We have enjoyed a Class C for the past nine years and have been coast to coast along with annual treks to the Black Hills, we normally tow an enclosed trailer with at least one Harley. The house we are building has a large shop/RV Garage. My dream setup is an HDT Hauler and a three axle 5er Toy Hauler.
We went from a trailer to a class A. Our biggest negative was the ride. It was a 2005 Itaska gas 36ft with three slides. The swaying at corners and when being passed by commercial trailers on highways, plus the bumps on the bad road highways. Weather new or older class A's, the solution was to always "upgrade" add ons. WHY DID THE MANUFACTURES JUST NOT PUT THEM ON IN THE FIRST PLACE! $$$$
I always wanted to travel the country in an RV. I knew that I did not want to deal with leveling or hooking/unhooking work of a travel trailer. I knew that a class A is just too large to maneuver up in the northeast - also finding a place to park if I wanted to explore immediately and I did not want to tow a vehicle for same above reason hooking/unhooking. I chose a class B- there are only 2 of us and it is easy to get up and go-take our bikes with us to explore-boondock anywhere.
Love your videos! Single woman living in a Jayco 27’ travel trailer. 1st time, wishing I had taken my time and researched more. Not much storage. Thinking about a 5th wheel. Thanks guys
If you review the NHTSA crash statistics, you will find that you are automatically 3 times safer in a Class A (yes even a gas class A) than an average vehicle in a crash. This is a function of simple mass. You are heavier than most other vehicles on the road, so if you are driving down the highway in a Class A you are 3 times less likely to die in a crash than you are if you're driving down the road in a car or truck or SUV. People tend to lose sight of this, but that is what the data shows. We started with a Class A gas then a Class A diesel pusher, and then we ultimately switched to a fifth wheel that we pull with an F450, because we needed more space than any Class A could provide, but not for safety reasons.
I had a motorhome and now a trailer. I like the convenience of parking the house on wheels and use the truck to tour the region. It does take longer for set up and breakdown, but that is mostly at the hitch for safety.
We went from a 5'er to a TT for bed space in the truck. While we had a 43' 5'er, the basement space in our layout was awkward and you couldn't easily store certain items! Plus we were too long for National parks and a lot of state parks and some campgrounds. We switched to a 35' TT and put a cap on the truck and gained so much useable space! We do love the class C on the Ford F550 or F600 chassis with the 6.7 diesel, and the interior cab is just like our current F350 layout. While you don't have the towing capacity of a Super C, you do have more than the E chassis and the diesel gives you way more torque for Western mountain travel. It's probably in the cards for our 'golden years'! Keep up the great videos!
5th wheel, now. Much easier and more stable towing. Love the stand-up room inside and great storage. Automatic leveling system makes set up and break down a breeze
Great video for those just starting out. A lot of choices that can be daunting. We started with a 22' travel trailer and towed it with a 1500 Silerado. It gave me some towing experience without being overwhelming. After 6 years we moved up to a 33' travel trailer towed with an F-250. A lot of great memories but as I aged the workload became too much. Start as young as you can and enjoy it while it last.
We’ve a gulfstream class C model 6320 2021 year. Full body paint, satilite and upgraded suspension. Wife and I love it. Plenty of room inside and content with basement storage. Bout 8 mile to the gallon and has plenty of get up with the 7.3 engine on the e450 chassis. Next mod is 12 volt fridge. Factory is fine but hey, why not. We’ve had issues but we love it out here. Better than being home.
I am just in the process of looking for an RV and hoping to get into one and on the road in the early spring. Originally thought of a class B, van-type, but I quickly realized it was WAY too small for me and my pups and I know I'd hate it in no time, so am looking at a nice smaller sized Class C, 24 to 26 footers. Large enough to have room to move around and small enough where it doesn't feel too overwhelming.
Thank you for this breakdown! It's a nice description of the pros and cons of each style.
love your stuff, started in tent, then pop up for 17 years with kids. when kids grown, old diesel class A . Got tired of fixing that, bought a Jayco Seneca Super C last year and love it. I do hate the gravel truck ride, but love having 3 doors.
We started with Class A gas 97 Winnie Adventurer to a Class A Deisel 07 Coachman Sportcoach Elite. We absolutely love our upgrade
Started with an old pick up camper remodeled the inside put a new flower in it think about it for $150 will use it for a couple of summers turn around and sold it for $500 and then purchased a 24 foot mallard I think it was camper pull behind And it was 24 foot biker thousand dollars. It was not winterized right and floors were rotted out but all new floors and chewed base and stuff and redid the inside and sold it $2500 and then bought a class a Winnebago State, 1972 motorhome with a 50,000 miles on it that has been laid over in a medium And so I replace the whole side of it repainted it and drove it for five years camp took it to Canada twice South Dakota camp it until I purchased a 88, 8288 Winnebago brave and Indian that had a generator in it had yet for a few years, had some trouble with the motor in it, and sold both of them, and then bought a 1988 Pesaro Motorhome 34 foot 32‘ 34 and it was a good unit took it to Canada had had 52,000 miles on it when I got it just cleaned it all up did a little repair work on the inside put a new roof on it And sold it for I bought it for 2500 and sold it for 5000 after driving it five years and then I bought a 88 payroll had it for several years but the kids are up and gone then they were all grown Camping part was over but I enjoyed working on them still so I had it for several years worked on it put new tires on it and got it all ready to go and was gonna sell it and I ran across a 1990 pace 37 foot I couldn’t pass up so I bought it also so I had two again and I got rid of the 88 sold it for 5000 and I bought this 89 or 90 is what it is Pay zero 37 foot and just got an iron in generator. I don’t know what I wanted, but it had some lines have been froze up had to replace those. They taken the bed out of it For reasons are known and put a desk last back there. I don’t know if they were working out of it so that’s what my project is now but I don’t do much camping anymore. I’m old, but I still enjoy tinkering with them and following RUclipsrs who are out running around the countryside, have a good day
I might differ on the safety thing JUST a tad.
Mist OLDER Class A diesel pushers were built in a fashion similar to school buses. This means there's a reinforcing metal body frame along with the support hoops. There weren't slide outs, so the bodies are actually pretty rigid and hold up under impact. That, along with a genset in the nose, often make for better safety than even a diesel pusher school bus.
Class Cs, on the other hand, have an open back cab and an intact camper on chassis rails. I can't tell you how many victims of head-ons I've seen, where the whole camper assembly separated from the chassis and crushed the cab from behind.
One thing I would add is, obviously, you don't drive these things like you would a car or even a van. You have to be strategic and give yourself more room and a lower overall speed. The seats in my old 94 Navigator are so comfy, my back and butt won't hurt after even 4 hours in the saddle.
So take your time and enjoy the journey!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. 😃
Went from 36ft gas class A to 41 ft diesel pusher. I just purchased the diesel pusher so more to follow.
Good information video!❤. My rv experience goes 20yrs now. 3 travel trailers,1 5th wheel (loved the space)and now on my 2nd class A. Both Fleetwoods (gas burner). Like I previously mentioned roomy 5th wheel just harder to get around city's in a large truck. Just found towing a smaller car with the motorcoach easier for my family and suited our needs better.
I have a 5th Wheel Toy Hauler and a Chevy Silverado 2500 HD Crew Cab with Standard Bed and I've replaced the rear window twice, roof dent once, and the tailgate so many times I gave up and made a PVC Pipe and Netting Tailgate. If I do another 5th wheel I'll pull it with a SEMI-TRUCK RV HAULER.
Just bought a 94 w 80k . Great shape, and EVERYTHING working! Stoked)) 30'
My 1st RV was 25 foot travel trailer, no slides, 2nd RV was 33 foot 5th wheel, 3 slides. 3rd RV was a Class A MH 35 foot 2 slides, 4th was a 22 foot travel trailer, q slide and presently have a 27th foot 5th wheel, one slide. The class A MH was too over whelming to drive with the big windshield and no airbags. The travel trailers were easy to pull and inexpensive to maintain. The 5th wheels I always like the 2 I had, it seems that you would get more for your money. The class A MH was easier and didn't take long to setup. Having a 5th wheel or a MH you still need a vehicle to pull the 5th wheel or have a vehicle to go somewhere without the MH. I see for an entry level MH coasting twice as much as an entry level 5th wheel. So if money is an issue the 5th wheel is the biggest bang for your buck. If you sold your stick built home and have several hundred thousand laying around the MH is great minus no airbags.
We have the best of both worlds! 42 foot DRV pulled by a Freightliner Cascadia with a Smart car on back. Only negative is the length ( 70 foot ). Being able to separate when we camp does help.
We started looking at trailers in the beginning, but our intention was to get something that we could bring our two Rotties with us on our travels. The trailers were too small. The class B was out of the question, and the class C were just not flipping our switch, so you know the saying “Go big or stay home.” We elected to get a 40’ Class A diesel pusher. Ours is a 2004 Tiffin Allegro Bus which only had 7K miles on it.
We’ve had our typical 20 year old bus issues, but the chassis, engine and suspension have been bulletproof so far. We put 9K miles on it in the last 2 months and ready to go again. Our next venture takes us to McKinney Texas for MCD blinds purchase and install.
Safe travels to you two. BTW Izzy, #RetirementLife is great.
I live in McKinney. Have you made your trip here yet?
@@suzannek3406 Yes. We are currently in Coweta, Oklahoma.
Over the past 43 years, We’ve owned every type of rv, from beginning with a tent, truck shell, pop up, slide in truck campers, travel trailers, 5th wheels, class c, gas class a, a few DP class A including our current Monaco Holiday Rambler 45’ Navigator w/4 slides. We loved each of them and they fit where we were in life with our family. We love our luxury DP but now we are empty nesters and I’m considering downsizing to a class B. My wife isn’t quite on board with that yet but we’ll see. Take care!
I have owned just about every configuration except a van B & a toy hauler. Each different for different phases of life. Started out with a pop up as a single parent, then a trailer with bunks/no slides. Then a used Bounder class A (loved driving down the road with a view!), then a 29 ft 5th (nice!). After being rv-less for a few years back to a pop up (no longer for me) then a class c/b+ (no bunk) . . That was my greatest joy. I would have kept it if it didn’t cost me $400/mo for storage (even when not using storage) . . Couldn’t keep on my property (would have made a difference!).
Except for the 5vr, everything was used purchased. Boy did I learn a lot!!
Still wanting another RV . . Thinking small class c with no bunk but I sure like small A’s.
But a small c I could unhook & go into town & not worry about a toad. At 65 with arthritis, I worry about my ability to handle toad hookups.
❤ Good video. Very useful. Thank you. In August 2023 we bought a Class B Winnebago Travato Van. Loved, loved, loved it! Extremely functional. Incredibly well-designed, incredibly well-built. It is nimble. We even fit in one parking spot since it’s a van. It has four seatbelts. It even had solar and a nice back bathroom with a shower and a water flush toilet.
However… four months later, in January 2024 we traded it in for a class C Integra Odyssey 30 Z. Although there are just two of us we found we needed more space. The Class B Van would be a better fit for a single or young couple with a love for mountain biking etc.
Our class C is 32 1/2 feet. With the back slide out, it becomes 34 1/2 feet. It sleeps 6-8 if you want to also use the theater seats to sleep. Without the slide outs it is fully functional.
It is amazingly easy to drive. Seems like we are driving our Ford F-150. Tons of storage. Our 2 electric bikes fit in the pass through storage. This C even has THREE TV’s. Crazy. The auto leveling system is magic.
The floor plan is spacious and interior colors are bright and airy.
Plus…a fireplace that is also a space heater.
We are in love!
Thanks for sharing!
My first RV was a pickup truck with a camper on the back - you guys didn't mention that one. Second one was a gas Class A. Third one was a gas Class C and Forth one is a travel trailer. Next one will probably be another Class A but a diesel or Super C for full timing. Pick the right RV for the job. Some people think of RVs as 'moving up' but it really depends on how you are going to use it. If you only camp on weekends and don't have a large budget or huge truck, the travel trailer is a good choice. If you have a huge truck and camp for a week at a time or more in one place, the 5th wheel is the way to go. If you have a family and plan to 'hit the road' with multiple stops or stop and go travelling for a summer vacation, the Class C is the way to go. If you are just a couple with multiple stops and like to 'rough it' a bit more, a class B might work. If you are retired and you plan to full time and really put on the miles, the Class A is a good choice. Yes, budget is always a factor but how you use the RV is really the most important when it comes to satisfaction.
Started out with a 27' class A motorhome, gas engine, chevy chassis. Worked great for a young family. Not much storage. No slides. It did not handle well on the road and was tiring to drive. Very expensive to get any work done on it. I was able to find one regular auto shop that would do work on the engine, AC and trans, but often you are limited to higher shop rates for dealers or RV only service centers. The last 12 years have owned a 30' 5th wheel which I tow with a 3/4 ton diesel pickup. Much easier to drive, cheaper to maintain, much more storage and we always have the truck for side trips when not towing. Agree that the 5th wheel feels like our small home on wheels!
We started with a Forest River pop up camper in 2020 as that was the last option within 100 miles from our house. In a lot of ways we really loved it. Especially on nice days. However, setting and taking it down each time, not to mention having to pull 90% of our equipment out each time we stored it got really old. There are also a lot of parts that wear quickly as you’re dealing with buttons, Velcro, and zippers. We just bought a 29’ Coachmen Freedom and while not as airy as the pop up we can’t believe the amount of space we have. Set up and take down now happens in a quarter of the time. I’d still recommend a pop up to families, but I don’t think we’d ever go back.
Great video! I started with a 16’ travel trailer . Switched up to Class A then 5th wheel . Tired of A quickly to big for state parks so downsized to truck camper. Wanted more room and went to a 22 ft 4 season off road capable trailer. All have their negatives and positives. Our current trailer is fun but as I near 70 I must admit the motorhome has desirable features when it come to set up and tear down.
Well, I was a tent camper since childhood with the Boy Scouts. The DW and I bought a pop-up in 1999 just to get off the ground. We went back to tents (the same tent BTW) when we started boating. After that, we bought an older 5th wheel to see if it was still a fit for us. Then we researched and looked and planned. Finally, this year, we were able to upgrade to our current RV, a 2022 Keystone Montana. Finding a suitable tow vehicle greatly slowed that process down. But we upgraded the truck and the RV. We're thrilled and feel extremely blessed. Great information on your video. Well done.
I went with a Cargo Trailer that I converted into a Camper. Just a 3 k GVWR trailer towed with a Ram 1500 (> 8 k Tow Capacity),8 k solar on the roof, 6 k in solar generators, 2 - 15 amp shore power inputs, 5 k BTU AC, gymyour much hated cassette toilet, smart TV, microwave, induction cooktop, portable fridge;/ freezer (12 or 120 volt) raised full sized bed with sleeping underneath....and so forth.
We started out with a bumper-pull trailer, but we now have a 38.5' Montana High Country. It gives us the privacy and space we want. We are getting older, however, and the maintenance can sometimes be a pain, but Amazon delivers wherever we are, so it's all good.
I have a nineteen seventy-seven yes a 46 year-old Dodge mallard class C! Affectionately named Lucy, and has 91000 mi on it and everything is simple and everything has been redone mechanically! The interior has been freshened new wood floors new bathroom! 800 watts of solar 600-amp hours of lithium totally self-contained off grid very nimble and very comfortable! Initially I purchase Lucy for $3,000! Yes I have done a lot of upgrades and probably has somewheres around $30,000.. but that's with every single imaginable mod or accessory, it is literally a motor home. Plenty of storage and living space and comfort. So you don't have to buy something new in order to find something that is safe and comfortable. We Believe simple is better and function before fashion! Although Lucy's old she still looks good.
She sounds beautiful❣️
That’s awesome!
My husband and I started out with a Ford Econoline van that he tricked out with Bed and clothing space and everything we needed, basically Vanlife back in 1978. Then we had kids and eventually we ended up with a pop-up and after the pop-up we bought a very small 15 foot travel trailer when it was just the two of us and after that we went with what we have currently our class C and this will be our first winter wintering over full-time in the class C so hopefully it’ll be as big as an adventure as traveling cross country in that first van. I like the class c best now because it’s affords us enough room to go for longer times and the room for grandkids when we want them with us. Only time will tell if it’s our last rev or if we trade up again. Looking forward to the adventures though.
Of course you can be an injured in any accident. but for my money I would prefer a high-end Class A over a Super C. That means Newells and Prevosts. Also, even the most high-end fifth wheels do not match the quality of high-end classe A's. Great summarization. Thanks..
We went from tent to tent trailers to camping trailer to our current class A (2016 Thor Hurricane). Best one by far!
Hi Izzy & MJ! We started with a pop up which was old when we bought it, used it for about 4-5 years and then went to a Coachmen travel trailer that we loved, it was about 27'. We had that for 2 years then decided to go full time and got our Grabd Design Solitude 5th wheel and after 5 years we are still in love with it! We always call it our apartment on wheels. We were thinking of a class A when we went full time but couldnt find the right floorplan, plus i didnt want to look at a steering wheel and dashboard in my "home". Great video guys and safe travels!
Thanks for sharing Erin
We have a Super C and it is our first and last! We did lots of research before pulling the trigger.
We went with the Super C because of the safety and maintenance ease.
Good video. I have a cab over truck camper. I love it and have the ability to tow a toy hauler. Or remove it, leave it at the campsite and go on day trips with the truck. Disadvantages are smallish holding tanks and you really should have at least a three quarter ton truck.
Hi Izzy and MJ. My wife and I started out with a Majestic 28A , which was a refurbished Cruise America, great for a first timer. We then bought a 27 foot travel trailer which was nice but not a lot of room or storage. We have just recently bought a 2006 Winnebago Outlook 31C, class C. The previous owner took excellent care of it. It is now our rig for retirement traveling. Thanks guys, excellent video as always.
Thanks for watching Jim.
My first RV was a B. It was so maneuverable and helped me get over my fear of driving something relatively “big” ( compared to my small car). However being stuck in a B, several times, due to bad weather made me feel very closed in. So I traded up to a C and have never been happier. With 2 slides I have plenty of elbow room, storage space, and power to tow my vehicle.
After owning a class b since the pandemic I think the most ideal class is c or b+ it has more room but still nimble enough to go around if is 24 ft class c.if I can get my next rv it will be something like wenniebago navion.
What a great comparison video!! One downside you didn't mention about Class A's is that you either need to tow a vehicle to drive around in once you're at your destination, or you need a Class A Toy Hauler. Either way, your ride is beautiful!
Started with a Class C and went to class A DP when we went full time. Love it!
We have had 3 tag along and 1 class C. We now have a tag along tow hauler. If or when we change up I see an 5th wheel tow hauler. We like to take our motorcycle and the flexibility of separate vehicle.
Class C four winds, we put a bone warming radiant infrared fireplace in, and air cleaner and sleep like babies in the fall fun....white noise and ambience.....
1) Compact Camper (popups/A liners)
2) Campers (slide in's truck beds)
3) Trailers (bumper hitch towables)
4) Park Model's (compact mobile homes/long term setup)
5) Class A (cabover style chassis/body lines like a bus)
6) Class B (generally van conversions)
7) Class B+ (Van/truck front end with wider body)
8) Class C (generally having the shape of a slide in truck camper mounted on a van or truck chassis)
9) Class C+ (much like class c but with a larger power unit/diesel pick up truck chassis and generally much longer then class c's)
10) Class Super C's (these RV'S have semi truck or commercial truck power units with diesel engines with engine life of over 1 million miles before in frame rebuild is needed and have living space similar to the Class C of all the RV'S along with the Bus Class hold there value best)
11) Fifth Wheel Trailers (these RV'S are towed from the bed of a truck with the use of a fifth wheel hitch or a ball mounted in the bed of a truck often used on horse trailers)
12) Totor homes ( self contained tow unit often times a converted semi truck with the amenities of an RV but used to tow a trailer or fifth wheel)
13) Tent ( these can range from two sided a frames to multiply rooms with wood burning stoves)
Whatever style or class you chose, like most anything in life. You can go just the basics or give me everything. Production models are most often readily available. Well custom built have up to two years out wait time for builds.
Thanks for all of your great shows and helpful info. 👍👍
Just getting into camping with the family and are talking about whether RVs are the way for us to go. This video was super helpful just understanding the difference. Total newbies at all of this but are loving the options! Thanks for the video
great observations, looking into RVing and leaning towards entry level class A’s like a vegas but safety concerns push us towards C’s. we’ll see this fall
Thank you so much for informing the public with your honesty and transparency.
I have one year of searching for information and you guys did this spectacular summary. Thanks so much!❤
Glad we can help
Wonderful breakdown. Bravo you guys. Started with 2 different lengths of toyhaulers. Tire of off-roading & uncomfortable setup of toyhaulers of the early/mid-2000s era. Went to a non-toyhauler 5th wheel as we wanted a lot more space & more comfortable furniture. Got tired of driving a 1-ton truck for a DD & tired of being in same cab as 1 or 2 dogs. Got a Class-C. Absolutely love the motorhome way of travel vs the trailers, especially as we're not full-timers. Traveling with pets, infinitely better via motorhome. OVN'ing while boondocking, infinitely better via motorhome. Class C was nice by price-point & ease of working on (oil changes & other routine service). Also much cheaper to say, replace a windshield if you end up needing to do that. Ultimately I'd like a Super-C for interior comfort, ruggedness, & as you guys mentioned, safety. Not sure that'll ever be in the financial cards though.
Awesome information. So many choices out there and so many things make you pick the “right” one for you. For us, starting with a 38’ travel trailer we loved the layout and all the things inside but we weren’t happy it’s the outside storage and all the set up. Next up, a Class C, at this point we knew we loved driving the RV instead of pulling it. But we knew right away that it was just too small, shower, bathroom, bed, living area. Tons of storage inside and out but just to small in the living area of the RV. Then.. We bought the “right” RV for us, our Class A, Newmar Canyon Star 3710. Has absolutely everything, after a few mods it’s perfect for us !!
And you customized it just the way you wanted.
We love our Leisure Tyme class B. I consider it a 4 nite camper as 19 gals fresh, 5 gals black and unknown grey. It feels more spacious than our old class A, which we enjoyed for years. Easy to drive and fits in cities so it is great for our needs now.
Awesome!
We started out with a 30’ class A with no slide outs. I loved the endless amount of storage inside and outside. But you’re right, I always thought of how unsafe it would be in an accident. Unfortunately the engine burned a hole in one of the pistons and it was to costly to repair. Engine had to come out of the bottom along with the entire front suspension. Now we own a 30’ class C with 3 slide outs. It has a V10 engine that can be pulled out easily if need be. I have mixed feelings about the transition. Not much storage inside and virtually none outside. However we feel safe driving it and it’s comfortable to drive as well. So only time will tell if we decide to change again.
Bought an entry level class c 10 years ago and love it, easy to work on. It’s a 28’ no slides but we are remodeling the dining area with recliners for retirement. My only complaint is limited towing. We have a jeep and 60-65 mph is about it
15:37 we are thinking of that recliner feature. Any tips to share?
Years ago i worked as an RV Tech , my specialty was carpentry mostly, a gentleman had purchased a Prevost , really nice rig , the service writer handed me some blueprints, i looked at them and said your kidding right ? I had to gut the inside of that rig , and install 4 dog cages ? Well he was a champion dog handler and went to shows all over the USA , now those dogs had some nice kennels !!!!
2019 colmen 30 ft got it new .sleeps 8 . Stayed 30 so get in natural parks .
We went from a toy hauler travel trailer to class A because I was doing most of the setup. Hubby has 13 bad discs and 5 fused so most of the work was on me. Now it’s a much easier setup and my stress levels are lower. We did some upgrades to make the drive better on the class A but plan on more. It’s much easier on me and my husband. I have no issues driving it. We actually camp more often because everything we need is stored in the coach except food. So when we want to go we just load food and hit the road!
17’ Casita travel trailer, lived in it for 9 months in our driveway after Tropical storm Allison flooded our house . To small but we’re both still alive we didn’t kill each other 😂🤣😂🤣! Soon to be will be a super C
Well done presentation. We started RVing with a 1990 conversion van, then a 2003 28' bumper pull trailer with one slide. Wanting more room, we traded for a 2013 35' 5th wheel with 3 slides. Our 5th wheel is now 10 years old, and our truck is 16 years old, both with a lot of miles. We are currently considering downsizing to a Class C so we can continue to RV without the stress of towing a large rig. We have always custom ordered new since we are picky about colors and options.
We are really loving our Class C
Thank you. I just started researching as I'm seriously considering rv life. You gave me much to consider
Izzy & MJ, great summary, thanks for posting. We've run the gamut, starting with a gas Class A, then a 38' fiver, then a borrowed 20'' no-slide bumper pull (which we lived in for a couple of months), now we have a super-C. The fiver was AWESOME but it pushed the limit of my one-ton single rear wheel RAM and backing it into a spot was a royal pain...almost led to divorce more than once, so we sold it. I'd love to have a larger trailer or a smaller fifth wheel, but not my spouse. The Super C is also AWESOME, but sometimes when I think of the space of the class A's I think we should have bought a diesel pusher. Then I take a breath and that thought passes; we're thru trading or going to RV shows. (Hope to see you on the road!)
I'm waiting on my Class B+ to arrive (motohome not campervan). I will be solo travelling. I can't wait for it to arrive. The bed raises up into the roof and doesn't take up any space in the lounge area. I've found this to be the most economical for me. Also I don't need a truck licence to drive it, just a normal car licence. It has an awning which rolls out (with side awnings). The only disadvantage is that I need to pack up in order to go anywhere (even local). But mine will be towing a toy trailer, where I will store my eTRIKE. Mine is a Avida Leura (built in Australia).
Started with a Class C, loved it, but went full time into a larger Class A gasser , love it !
On point. I have drove a class A rv for work not bad but to big. Im looking for a used class c. Something me and my family can get in and take off. Mainly want it for the generator. We have pets and i can't stand leaving them behind. Or asking people to watch them while we drive to go visit family thats x hours away. I do think class c is the more bang for your buck. You could also do a hitch storage if your not pulling a car along with you for more storage. Just to say.
All the way up to a SpaceCraft with a HDT pulling it. I'm building my own. The wife and I just retired, we owned our own semi with a 53ft. Reefer trailer. Well all the insulation is done so just fix the inside. We have a ways to go.
Started with a pop up by Thor and now have a 2017 Jayco jay fight 28bhs
Nice video but we went from a travel trailer to a 5er for more space then finally to a Truck Camper and it's by far the best RV. It uses your existing truck, just slides in, keeps your footprint small, allows for off grid and towing, doesn't require any extra insurance or registration or tolls while traveling! And, you can swap out the truck or camper at any time. Best of all, you can still live in camper if you need to get truck serviced at any normal garage! The only downside is the storage but becoming a minimalist is acceptable based on the other advantages!
I (MJ) really like truck campers. 👍
Great analysis guys! Your perspective is spot on. We started camping part time, decades ago in an Aliner towed by our current toad. We are now FTers who boondock most of the time in a Class A. I feel much safer driving my Class A than my toad. Ask yourself, if your toad and your motorhome were to collide, which would you rather be in, a big heavy Class A or a litle compact car? Or how about a Class B (basically a heavy van) vs your MH? To me, it's a no brainer. The more mass you have the better, to absorb the impact of almost any collision.
I went with an older, used Class A vs a TT or fiver because of affordability and suitability for FT use (more load and tank capacities, better insulation, sturdy bones, etc.). I had decided to go FT with a truck and trailer. I bought the diesel truck about a year ahead of time, but just before I was going to buy my FT trailer the diesel engine died on my low mileage 2008 Ford, and they wanted $15,000 to fix it. I got to thinking, what if this were to happen after I retired and didn't have that kind of money laying around for unexpected repairs? So, I sold it and bought a 1999 National Tropical Class A gasser with only 28,000 miles for the same $15,000 they wanted to fix my diesel truck. If this reliable v-10 engine ever breaks I can replace it for about 1/3rd the cost of a diesel motor. It's cheaper to operate and maintain too. Plus, it's nice being debt free.
I was able to use the little 30 mpg Chevy Cobalt SS I already had as our toad, saving even more money, both in purchasing a new vehicle and in operating and maintenance expenses. If you have a fiver, you must press your 8-10 mpg tow vehicle into use as a daily driver, doubling the mileage and expense to use it every time you go to the store. It's much easier to drive and park a compact car when sightseeing and scooting around town than it is a diesel dually. Initially, even a good used diesel truck will cost you $40-$50k these days. Add another $50k+ for a good used fiver and you're looking at around $100k for truck and trailer combo suitable for FT living - double or triple that if shopping new. I also like the fact that my MH is a good foot lower in height (at 11' 9") than most fivers - more like a TT, making it easier to avoid hitting low hanging tree branches, lower gas station canopies and low bridges.
I like being able to use our MH with the slide in, overnighting for free in rest areas, Walmarts, Cracker Barrels, Casinos, etc. Many fivers are unusable unless the slides are out, greatly restricting the places we can overnight in, often forcing you to overnight in expensive RV parks. And if you find yourself in a dangerous situation, or in bad weather you just press a button, your jacks retract, and you simply drive off without ever leaving the safety and comfort of your home. Not so towing a trailer. If you have animals like we do, it's nice not needing to remove them from their home when it's travel day. You don't have to expose yourself or them to rain, wind or temperature extremes, and your home is always at comfy cozy - no need to get it to the correct temperature after you're tired from a long day on the road, just so you can use it. But if you just want to stay in one spot for months at a time, and you can afford it, then a fiver is the way to go for a more homelike feel.
Excellent video, I love all the information. I'm a beginner and need information on what rv I should buy. This video explains everything and answers all the questions I had. Thank you.
We went back and forth on whether to get a class c or a travel trailer. In the end we chose a travel trailer because we already purchased a truck, something I had promised my husband years ago when we moved into a commuter car for him and the fact that insurance and maintenance of a travel trailer was less than a class c plus the fact that if we bought a class c and wanted to visit other places in the area we had to either tow a car or break camp each time. Well if we were towing a car, there is not much difference from having a truck and towing a trailer. In either case, I couldn't drive it myself. I am comfortable, a little, to drive only a class c but once it comes to towing something, I didn't want to do that. My husband really wanted the travel trailer, it was a little less money and we could get new instead of used, so that's what we went with. Will we switch in the future, maybe, lol!
Nice video! I would like to hear more about buying a used RV. Thanks, Paul.
As a retired driver with over a million miles, the best RV is the one someone else owns, I travel alot we drive a new SUV and stay in nice motels, truck drivers like me hated summer, I'd like to have the hours back I've spent sitting in traffic while they scraped one of these rolling death traps off the road, if you want to play trailer park go live in one😂
2021 Coachman Encore 355. First RV for us and loving it. Class A
I've never heard anybody talk about RV Insurance. What are the different things to be concerned about insuring your rig or travel trailer or tow behind. In the event of loss of use of the vehicle do they include temporary housing to you find another vehicle
Of course we have a BIG DP but we started out tenting, then to 3 travel trailers, a class C then to 2 DPs. The reason for moving to the diesel pusher is how we travel. I got tired of driving a big gas hog when we went sightseeing. We stay in one location and use it as a base to go see stuff. Being able to take a car that is comfortable and gets decent mileage is a real plus. With a travel trailer or fifth wheel, you can't do that and a Class c has limited tow capacity.