Hi love this video .yall do great and informative video.the front window on the geo pro let's in lots of cold are hot tempetures not energy efficient. It let's in noise and bad stuff .I would love to have 30 lbs tanks and 1500 ac .I live in Texas and will not travel .just be my home .I have learned alot now. Thanks you help lot of people....
Hi! Glad you found the video helpful. Yes - that window does let in a lot of heat/cold. We put refletix behind the blind and find it helps keeping the sun and heat out! Thanks for watching!
Jayco floors and roof are 5/8 plywood construction.... Everything is plywood. No osb/particle board anywhere. No laminated floor construction which alot of people seem to have problems with. The plywood adds weight so thats likely why it weighs more. But.... The roof can handle more weight walking on it and so can the floors.
Hi, Great videos! I’m interested in Jayco 166FBS or GeoPro 19FBS. However, I have a Highlander SUV with tow package and 5000 lb tow capacity and 500 lb hitch weight capacity. Although the specs say these trailers are within the Highlander’s capacity, the hitch weight worries me since I read it can be over 600 lbs with propane and battery. Do you know your (loaded) hitch weight, or can you advise what trailer will work for me? Thanks!
Hi! Thanks for the watch - appreciate! So, the hitch weight was a concern of ours as well. We weighed it a few times once fully loaded and it comes in around 600-650lbs. And seems to be consistent what others have said as well. Most of the weight is at the front so it adds up quickly (batteries, storage area, bed area which we use to set things we don't want flying around lol). Was the main reason we switched to lithium - to save on weight. We did upgrade from a Tundra with 5300 lb capacity to our current Tundra which is 10,000 lb. The old Tundra pulled it on relatively flat areas but we notice a huge difference with the new one! You may also want to look at the 15TB. Believe it has a dry bath but is a popular model as well. Hope that helps!
The things that they're not doing which would turn this into a super Jayco: 1. We need the oven under the burner and we need the double burner with the grill with the forcible vent that vents everything out the Jayco Jenn-Air makes a perfect one takes up about the same room on the countertop instead of just the microwave we want both convention and microwave we want the bigger refrigerator in freezer or one that lays down in stores out of the way. Maybe a way to have both 2. You want all this to also run off of solar 3. You want the enhancement box that makes your cell phone signal and gives you a strong signal in your cell phone as well 4. 2-30 lb propane tanks 5. On the bottom of the camper that they have R50 insulation haven't completely covered 6 to have the Jenn -air grilling system Outdoors as well
Those would be very nice additions! Love the idea of a burner / grill cooktop - indoors and outdoors! Haven’t seen those in a camper and would be a very cool addition. Thanks for watching!
Possible video idea if you're interested.... For those of us who have never owned an RV/camper/trailer, it can be really hard to envision cargo weight. We can look up specs and calculate what we have to work with in terms of pounds, but what does that look like? What does a thousand pounds of cargo include? Know what I mean? By the time you add up full tanks plus your kitchen appliances, clothes, personal items, plus any extras like portable solar panels, outdoor chairs, or add an extra battery, etc...(or in my case, computer, camera and lenses, and art supplies), what does it weigh all together? I would love to see piles (or even just a list) of things most people have with them in a camper (especially for long term camping) and see what it weighs to get an idea of what I need for cargo carrying capacity. It can mean the difference between a comfortable camper with some storage space or a cargo trailer converted to be functional but not necessarily cozy, just to accommodate the things that are important to me. Just a suggestion. :) :) :)
So I have thought of this in the past. We talked about your suggestion and I think we may do a short video on our next long term trip that shows general packing and then we will way the camper to show how much going in. Thank you for the suggestion!! Love feedback on videos people would like to see. :).
We bought an E-Pro 19BH on sale about 2 weeks ago now. $7k under MSRP. I love the E-Pro. We went out for a week right when we bought it and again for this long weekend. Absolutely love it with our three kids and I tow with a Mid Sized SUV. With empty tanks it tows really well. The lighter camper did it for me and love the colours. I truly do not understand why so many companies make campers in these dark brown colours. I can't stand it.....Thank you for the review and walk through. Keep up the great videos. I really did like the light package on the fenders and under body by the stairs. I may look at installing something similar on my camper.
Congrats on the new camper! Glad you are getting to put it to good use! We also tow with pretty much empty tanks - maybe a little in the fresh just to stop and wash our hands but try and keep the weight down as much as possible. And yes - us too on the interior colors. I like the new GeoPro colors (well online - haven't been able to find in person!) but not fond of espresso colors in such a small space. Thanks so much for the feedback - appreciate you taking the time to watch the videos! Let us know how the 19BH does and happy camping!
I went with the Jayco over the geo pro, had to make this same decision different floorplan. Some positive things worth noting. The Jayco has 55 gallon fresh water tank which is the biggest made in class. It also has optional 12v fridge 8cubic feet, again biggest in class. Jay command optional panel that has tire pressure monitors and tank monitors that can be viewed from an app. 12v tv and outdoor TV mount. The ladder can be moved and attaches to the optional roof rack. You can also get 2 30lb of propane, I think you mentioned this. Cons for the Jayco, Outdoor fridge although nice, is not 12v. Price, the price on these started out in the 20k region and now I've seen upwards of 50k. The stock battery is laughable for an off grid trailer, they need upgrade options for this. Would like a shower miser option or knock off. Sorry for the lengthy comment, this was my condensed version 😬. Great video, enjoy the content.
Glad you enjoyed the video and it seems like you really enjoy the Jayco - it was a great looking camper! You are right - those pros are good ones. Did not know about the outside fridge being 110 - would be nice if it was a gas option as well. And yes - prices seem to be climbing up on these popular units but 50k seems a bit steep!! So Rockwood has the dealer install whatever battery the dealer chooses - which often leads to underperforming in boondocking. Does Jayco do the same or do they specify which is to be included? Thanks for watching! Appreciate it!
Spot on. I have the Highland Ridge version of this Jayco (clone with a few less features, also manufactured by Jayco). The 55 gallon tank is monumental if you boondock. No other trailer this size has greater than a 30-35 gallon fresh. Yeah the stock batteries suck for boondocking. I have upgraded to a 100ah lithium and might add a second. Overall, I like the looks of the GeoPro but feel this Micro (and associated 'clones' like mine) are the best couples 20' trailer.
I have a 21 19FBS with the 12v refrigerator. What they don’t tell you is that you need to run the inverter to power the fridge, which, as we all know sucks the life out of batteries. While the fridge is very energy efficient once it’s cooled off, there is just no way around the draw of the inverter when boondocking. I spent a long weekend in the redwoods, and the solar panel wasn’t able to get full sun. Luckily I brought my generator with me because after the first night I was down to 13% battery life. And that’s with 2x 6v batteries in tandem! After the 2nd night I was down to 2% because I couldn’t keep the generator running long enough to get back to a full charge. The first place I took it after that trip was to the dealership, because there has to be something SERIOUSLY wrong with my electrical system if it would even charge on the 8hr drive home. The trip was 23-26 July, and I haven’t gotten it back yet. Anyway, I think I’d rather have the gas/electric fridge back. Sorry for the book
The 12v fridge does not run off of the inverter. It is wired to the appliance circuit. I have a 2021 19bh and had to remove my fridge to re-connect the ground wire that had come out of it's connector. The fridge is definitely wired independently from the inverter. Also, do yourself a favor and get a couple hundred amp hours of lithium batteries. I know they're expensive but no more than buying golf cart batteries how many times over the next 7-10 years. Lithium charges much faster, is much lighter, and has way more USEABLE energy. Hopefully, the dealer gets your camper back to you soon!
@@falcomf77 that’s what I originally thought, but mine doesn’t turn on without the inverter on or shore power/generator power. When I first called the dealership after discovering no power to the fridge, they said I needed the inverter. Perhaps that is something they will correct while there.
@@davidhalen1198 I'm betting that you got a 2 way fridge as a substitution instead of the 12v fridge. If that's the case then you should be able to run it off of propane while boondocking. Maybe if you make enough noise with your dealer they can get you a 12v replacement. Good luck!
@David Halen - sorry to hear about all the trouble you have been having with the fridge! We have the two way but the 12V seems to have some great features (bigger, easier to cool, no need to run propane, easier to level) but we have been reading the issues some are having with battery draw. A few things we have learned over the past year in reading of others experiences in the GeoPro's with these. It is correct that you shouldn't need to run the inverter. BUT we have read that last year when there was a shortage of these 12V fridges, alot of manufacturers were shipping the units without fridges and the dealers were installing what they could get - typically 110V. If people never boondocked and stayed on shorepower, it wasn't obvious. Is it possible that your unit doesn't have a true 12V? Did they give you a fridge manual? Some owners had to go back to the dealer and request the 12V be installed once they were available. If your dealer is telling you that you have to run the inverter, I would recommend reaching out to Forest River customer service to see about talking to a tech because something does not sound right. Boondocking is never going to be an easy experience with having to run a fridge and an inverter 24/7. One question (sorry if I missed it) - what size / type of batteries did your dealer install? Please let us know how this moves forward!! You can also email us at winespinescanines@gmail.com if easier.
@@WinesPinesandCanines thanks for the information. I called and spoke to ForestRiver this morning. I have a 110 fridge! Turns out a lot of units were shipped with these because of Covid shortages, and the dealers were given the option of waiting or getting the units with the 110. My next step is to determine if it’s cheaper to swap out for a 12v, upgrade for the super modern batteries,or get more solar. This is only an issue obviously while boondocking, which is why I went with this trailer in the first place.
The Jay Command is a must-have option, although possibly more difficult to get with shortages. It adds the ability to dim both the living room main lights and the awning light, by the switches in the rv or on your smart device with app. This can also control HVAC functions, open and close the slide or awning, check tire pressure and more from smart device and more. Excellent option investment.
Would definitely like to have that as an option in the GeoPro. Ours being a 2019, does not. I think it does have something similar now but haven’t seen in person. The JayCommand sounds like an excellent option choice! Thanks for watching and the info!
We have heard that they are one of a few (or the only?) that do this extended warranty. Wouldn't be a deciding factor for us though - unless something major goes (appliance, roof, structure), we have found easier to deal with Forest River ourselves and pay for a part then to haul to our dealer for weeks or months!
Both of those campers are on our list as well! Linda has been wanting to see the new interior color upgrades for over a year and we haven’t been able to find one locally. But we are keeping an eye out and will bring it to you as soon as we find one! (We are also very interested in the new floorplan 19FDS)
Yes - good points! We did mention the warranty but the others are great features as well - this camper was packed with great options! Thanks for watching!
Congrats! Would love to hear how you like it once received. We have looked at a lot of campers over the years, lol, and rarely are you able to remember one over another. This one had some memorable features that we wished we had!
I'm probably an outlier due to where I live in the southwest, but I could actually see the 15k A/C option as being useful. I'm frequently out in 100 degree + temperatures with limited shade, and there have been times when my 13.5k unit won't get the temperature down below 85 inside. It also make the refrigerator problematic, even though I have dual cooling fans added to mine. On a related note, I think I'd prefer to stick with the gas refrigerator. I can envision that 12v one really killing the batteries when boondocking. About the only thing I like about the Jayco is the rear-mounted spare. I've never been a fan of the underside mount on the GeoPro. Fortunately, I haven't needed to use it yet. As you know, I bypassed flat tires and went straight to bent axles :). The brush guards and steel fenders are nice, but not at the addition of 6 inches in width. I can barely squeeze through the gate as it is. And I definitely don't want the additional weight. I'd probably have to upgrade my tow vehicle.
Yes - in heat like that, I could see every BTU counting! What fans did you add to yours? Have been looking at doing that. Ha! Hopefully the date when the axle is getting replaced is still on schedule? Agreed on the width - like the fact that this is easy to manuever and I can see around it without tow mirrors on the Tundra. Hope you have a good week - let us know how the axle replacement goes.
@@WinesPinesandCanines This is the fan I added to mine. Made a huge difference: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077TJCL3F/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 No date on the axle replacement yet. I imagine it'll be another 3-4 weeks before it arrives. Should be done just about in time to winterize the trailer for storage :(
Your comparison was done very well and very knowledgeable. For my money it would be the Jayco all day long! No Forest River products for me, they all look like they are cheaply manufactured and realizing all RV's have problems, searching RUclips reviews, Forest River really get's beat up I think.
Thank you - the Jayco was a very nice looking camper and had some features we wished ours had. So far, we are going on 3 years and very few issues with ours. There were always be little things but have used it about 7 months total during that time and nothing major - fingers crossed! Thanks for watching and Happy New Year!
Yes - good point! We have one and we were very pleased with what it could cook. I think where it makes a difference is if you were doing a lot of boondocking - typically the microwave won’t work on anything other than shorepower so you would be out of an oven. But we just plan arounf not having one (plus we recently bought an omnia stovetop oven for boondocking!) Thanks for watching!
Great comparison, I’m really enjoying your channel. We just downsized our F-350 to a Tacoma Pro and we sold our Jayco Jay Flight 28RLS so it’s a pretty big downsize! We are looking at the Geo Pro 19 FD but we haven’t settled just yet, I really appreciate all your research, tips, and information. New subscriber here 👋
Thank you for the nice comments! We have heard good things about the 19fd - owners seem very happy about it. Keep us updated on your search and reach out if you have any questions! Thanks for watching!
Excellent video, I'm in the process of comparing trailers and this Jayco is in the top 3 definitely. I've not looked at any in-person yet, but am sold on the storage room. Maybe most in it's class, still searching it all out.
Thank you! We love looking at other campers and this was a great looking camper. Let us know if you end up purchasing - would love to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for watching!
should have mentioned the geo has aluminum construction and 5/8 tongue n groove flooring.. im in the market.. is the shower in that jsyco same size as geo?
Good points! I think the Jayco is aluminum as well but not sure on the floor. It has been a while since we were in it, but do not remember the shower being noticeably bigger. Just a downside of 20 feet of length!
I am in Canada and yesterday looked at both....I found it disturbing in the Jayco O could see staples everywhere??? ROCKWOOD does not do this as everything is glued and screwed! How do you feel about this? Great video!!
Thank you - glad you enjoyed it! We didn’t notice staples or at least it didn’t jump out at us when we looked at it. As far as from a quality standpoint - we really didn’t see much of a difference between our GeoPro and this Jayco as far as the “fit and finish”. We have noticed in other campers we have toured little things like loose trim boards/ wallpaper…. But this unit may have been built on a Tuesday vs a Friday!
Hi! Not sure - we saw one on it and didn’t seem like it was a dealer installed. Fairly certain we saw that they are standard or an option so maybe it will be there when you receive the camper! Thanks for watching!
Great comparison - thanks for that! We also were going back and forth between the Jayco and GeoPro and purchased the Jayco - picking it up next Friday. As I'm new to RVing - can you please breifly explain what an inverter is - mentioned in the video?
Congrats on the new camper! Glad you found the video helpful. It has been a while since we did that video - I think the Jayco came prewired for an inverter although they may include it now or as an option. So the inverter allows you to use the outlets in the camper even when you are dry camping (not on shore power) but only up to the wattage the inverter is. For example, in our GeoPro, it has a 1000Watt inverter which when we turn the inverter on, we can use the outlets to power an item under 1000 watts (mostly computer or small kitchen appliance (typically not a coffee maker or instant pot, air fryer or heater). We find the 1000 watt isn't overly useful but think Jayco prewired for a 2000 watt which would be a bit more useful. BUT - it draws down a battery quick between the amps used by the inverter and then by the appliance so it is something we rarely use. And, we only turn the inverter on if we need to use an outlet, otherwise we have it off (button in our camper turns it on and off). Hope that helps! And would love to hear about your adventures going forward with the Jayco. Safe travels and Happy Camping!
I happen to own the jayco 166fbs and there is some pretty good space behind the TV when you unlatch it to swing it for viewing it while you are in bed. The outside fridge seemed like a good idea but you have to be hooked to shore power to use it. So I removed it and gained a large amount of storage space. And the I have came with a 14k furion ac unit.
Great points! That cabinet does come out about 2 feet if I remember correctly so imagine that would be great storage space. And yes - if you use the camper for its boondocking purpose, having a 110V fridge doesn't make much sense. Thanks for watching!
Good point - we didn't bring it up as that was changed in the later models on the geo pro (2020 or 2021). The awning was moved down closer to the end. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for sharing. We are picking up a Jayco 166FBS on Tuesday. In addition to what you mentioned, I like the 16 " wheels with light truck tires. One thing I don't like is the lack of a receiver hitch for a bike rack.
Ha! He prefers a Desi Den. Current camper does not have one - he had his eye on the space where those footstools go but we told him he would have to wait until the next camper and we would make sure he had a home to burrow into lol. Thanks for watching as always - appreciate it. Have a good week!
A couple of things not mentioned. The 166FBS is Azdel inside and outside, whereas most other trailers that have Azdel only have it on the outside. Another thing not mentioned is that it has a torsion axle instead of a the standard leaf spring axle.
I like the Brush Guards looks like the Winnibago Hike. But after having my GEO, the more metal, the more rust. I might look into converting the Spare location
P.S we were looking at the Jayco Jay Feather 19 FBS but it’s at the top end of our weight and we don’t want to be there, it does have some great features though and we loved our Jay Flight. I do prefer the lighter color scheme in the smaller trailers, I think it make a big difference plus I love the front window.Tfs🍂
Yes - being at 4995 with a 5000 lb towing limit is very close! And we agree - like the lighter colors and windows in smaller spaces. But it looked like a very nice camper.
The JFM 166FBS is a great little trailer. One thing that I think your GeoPro has, that I wish the JFM line would add, is the ShowerMiser. Also, the bed is just a little to narrow (at 54") in the Jayco.
Hi! Agreed - it is a great trailer but I do think the bed would have been a deal breaker for us. In the GeoPro we can also do the hack we had a video on where we turn it into a king at night. Wouldn’t be possible in this one so would have been stuck with the 54” width. And yes - forgot about our shower miser! Thank you for watching!
Our first was a class c that we remodeled but quite a bit older so no solar at all! Solar was always something we wanted as well which was one of the reasons we went with the Geopro. Thanks for watching!
Would like to know as well but hard to find locally. We have looked at them for upgrading some time in the future. Did they give you a time frame yet for arrival?
Oh - Troy does love an airstream. Looking forward to a tour someday! We have settled back in but now itching to go again lol. We planning our fall / winter trip and somehow that departure date just keeps getting earlier and earlier haha. Hope you guys are having a great time out west!
Well that, like the date is a moving target haha. Original plan was Zion and Grand Canyon but now we have expanded to Ouray/Silverton/Durango, Mesa Verde.... so much to see!!! So we have to narrow it down and decide where and when we are going - that is anywhere from 3 weeks from now to 3 months lol.
Does the Jayco have all aluminum frames including the dinette? We have a new GeoPro and really like it. It’s been back in for a couple things probably related to Covid related issues, but it’s so solid with some of the updates (floor), and standard rather than optional items we found in similar sized trailers. Thank you for your awesome videos! We enjoy you all!
Hi! Thank you for the watch. We agree that many of the standard items on the GeoPro are a great selling point! Glad you have been enjoying the camper and hope the issues were quickly resolved! I believe Jayco does have all aluminum framing similar to the GeoPro. Not sure on the dinette as we didn’t look at that model, but makes sense it would as much lighter than wood!
Great vidio. We purchased the geo pro fds. Almost purchased the jayco.what sold us was aluminium framing including trusses. The jayco is wood trussed.
Hi! Thanks for watching! How are you liking the FDS so far? We really liked that model!
Geo pro is the winner for me.
We do like ours! Thanks for the watch!
Hi love this video .yall do great and informative video.the front window on the geo pro let's in lots of cold are hot tempetures not energy efficient. It let's in noise and bad stuff .I would love to have 30 lbs tanks and 1500 ac .I live in Texas and will not travel .just be my home .I have learned alot now. Thanks you help lot of people....
Hi! Glad you found the video helpful. Yes - that window does let in a lot of heat/cold. We put refletix behind the blind and find it helps keeping the sun and heat out! Thanks for watching!
Hi I think the new geo pro has real wood cabinets...
I think the out side of the GeoPro looks better. If I was going to buy a single axle RV. It would be a Nucamp Tab 400. Better technology and build.
Thanks for watching! Will have to look into that one - always like to tour other campers!
Thanks for the detailed comparison, this is super helpful!!! comparing smaller rvs is very difficult and your efforts are awesome!
Thank you :). Very much appreciated and glad you found it helpful!
Jayco floors and roof are 5/8 plywood construction.... Everything is plywood. No osb/particle board anywhere. No laminated floor construction which alot of people seem to have problems with. The plywood adds weight so thats likely why it weighs more. But.... The roof can handle more weight walking on it and so can the floors.
Owning several campers, we found Jayco to have the best and most comfortable beds. Their mattresses are really great for sleeping!!
Good to know! May have to take a closer look next time we are in one! Thanks for watching!
Best review yet as I'm comparing your camper to this one! Perfect for me! Thank you
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for watching and good luck with your eventual purchase!
Hi, Great videos! I’m interested in Jayco 166FBS or GeoPro 19FBS. However, I have a Highlander SUV with tow package and 5000 lb tow capacity and 500 lb hitch weight capacity. Although the specs say these trailers are within the Highlander’s capacity, the hitch weight worries me since I read it can be over 600 lbs with propane and battery. Do you know your (loaded) hitch weight, or can you advise what trailer will work for me? Thanks!
Hi! Thanks for the watch - appreciate! So, the hitch weight was a concern of ours as well. We weighed it a few times once fully loaded and it comes in around 600-650lbs. And seems to be consistent what others have said as well. Most of the weight is at the front so it adds up quickly (batteries, storage area, bed area which we use to set things we don't want flying around lol). Was the main reason we switched to lithium - to save on weight.
We did upgrade from a Tundra with 5300 lb capacity to our current Tundra which is 10,000 lb. The old Tundra pulled it on relatively flat areas but we notice a huge difference with the new one! You may also want to look at the 15TB. Believe it has a dry bath but is a popular model as well.
Hope that helps!
Why not compare that grand design single axel 161 are something??
Thanks to your suggestion - we are looking for one in our area. Looks like a great camper!
I perfer the jaco over all
It is a nice looking camper and has some great features. Thanks for the watch!
The things that they're not doing which would turn this into a super Jayco:
1. We need the oven under the burner and we need the double burner with the grill with the forcible vent that vents everything out the Jayco Jenn-Air makes a perfect one takes up about the same room on the countertop instead of just the microwave we want both convention and microwave we want the bigger refrigerator in freezer or one that lays down in stores out of the way. Maybe a way to have both
2. You want all this to also run off of solar
3. You want the enhancement box that makes your cell phone signal and gives you a strong signal in your cell phone as well
4. 2-30 lb propane tanks
5. On the bottom of the camper that they have R50 insulation haven't completely covered
6 to have the Jenn -air grilling system Outdoors as well
Those would be very nice additions! Love the idea of a burner / grill cooktop - indoors and outdoors! Haven’t seen those in a camper and would be a very cool addition. Thanks for watching!
Possible video idea if you're interested.... For those of us who have never owned an RV/camper/trailer, it can be really hard to envision cargo weight. We can look up specs and calculate what we have to work with in terms of pounds, but what does that look like? What does a thousand pounds of cargo include? Know what I mean? By the time you add up full tanks plus your kitchen appliances, clothes, personal items, plus any extras like portable solar panels, outdoor chairs, or add an extra battery, etc...(or in my case, computer, camera and lenses, and art supplies), what does it weigh all together? I would love to see piles (or even just a list) of things most people have with them in a camper (especially for long term camping) and see what it weighs to get an idea of what I need for cargo carrying capacity. It can mean the difference between a comfortable camper with some storage space or a cargo trailer converted to be functional but not necessarily cozy, just to accommodate the things that are important to me. Just a suggestion. :) :) :)
So I have thought of this in the past. We talked about your suggestion and I think we may do a short video on our next long term trip that shows general packing and then we will way the camper to show how much going in. Thank you for the suggestion!! Love feedback on videos people would like to see. :).
@@WinesPinesandCanines Excellent! I will watch for that video! Thanks!
We bought an E-Pro 19BH on sale about 2 weeks ago now. $7k under MSRP. I love the E-Pro. We went out for a week right when we bought it and again for this long weekend. Absolutely love it with our three kids and I tow with a Mid Sized SUV. With empty tanks it tows really well. The lighter camper did it for me and love the colours. I truly do not understand why so many companies make campers in these dark brown colours. I can't stand it.....Thank you for the review and walk through. Keep up the great videos. I really did like the light package on the fenders and under body by the stairs. I may look at installing something similar on my camper.
Congrats on the new camper! Glad you are getting to put it to good use! We also tow with pretty much empty tanks - maybe a little in the fresh just to stop and wash our hands but try and keep the weight down as much as possible. And yes - us too on the interior colors. I like the new GeoPro colors (well online - haven't been able to find in person!) but not fond of espresso colors in such a small space. Thanks so much for the feedback - appreciate you taking the time to watch the videos! Let us know how the 19BH does and happy camping!
I went with the Jayco over the geo pro, had to make this same decision different floorplan.
Some positive things worth noting. The Jayco has 55 gallon fresh water tank which is the biggest made in class. It also has optional 12v fridge 8cubic feet, again biggest in class. Jay command optional panel that has tire pressure monitors and tank monitors that can be viewed from an app. 12v tv and outdoor TV mount. The ladder can be moved and attaches to the optional roof rack. You can also get 2 30lb of propane, I think you mentioned this.
Cons for the Jayco,
Outdoor fridge although nice, is not 12v. Price, the price on these started out in the 20k region and now I've seen upwards of 50k. The stock battery is laughable for an off grid trailer, they need upgrade options for this. Would like a shower miser option or knock off.
Sorry for the lengthy comment, this was my condensed version 😬. Great video, enjoy the content.
Glad you enjoyed the video and it seems like you really enjoy the Jayco - it was a great looking camper!
You are right - those pros are good ones. Did not know about the outside fridge being 110 - would be nice if it was a gas option as well. And yes - prices seem to be climbing up on these popular units but 50k seems a bit steep!!
So Rockwood has the dealer install whatever battery the dealer chooses - which often leads to underperforming in boondocking. Does Jayco do the same or do they specify which is to be included?
Thanks for watching! Appreciate it!
Spot on. I have the Highland Ridge version of this Jayco (clone with a few less features, also manufactured by Jayco). The 55 gallon tank is monumental if you boondock. No other trailer this size has greater than a 30-35 gallon fresh. Yeah the stock batteries suck for boondocking. I have upgraded to a 100ah lithium and might add a second. Overall, I like the looks of the GeoPro but feel this Micro (and associated 'clones' like mine) are the best couples 20' trailer.
That water tank sounds amazing! If combined with the shower miser that could make for seriously comfortable boondocking.
I have a 21 19FBS with the 12v refrigerator. What they don’t tell you is that you need to run the inverter to power the fridge, which, as we all know sucks the life out of batteries. While the fridge is very energy efficient once it’s cooled off, there is just no way around the draw of the inverter when boondocking. I spent a long weekend in the redwoods, and the solar panel wasn’t able to get full sun. Luckily I brought my generator with me because after the first night I was down to 13% battery life. And that’s with 2x 6v batteries in tandem! After the 2nd night I was down to 2% because I couldn’t keep the generator running long enough to get back to a full charge.
The first place I took it after that trip was to the dealership, because there has to be something SERIOUSLY wrong with my electrical system if it would even charge on the 8hr drive home. The trip was 23-26 July, and I haven’t gotten it back yet.
Anyway, I think I’d rather have the gas/electric fridge back.
Sorry for the book
The 12v fridge does not run off of the inverter. It is wired to the appliance circuit. I have a 2021 19bh and had to remove my fridge to re-connect the ground wire that had come out of it's connector. The fridge is definitely wired independently from the inverter. Also, do yourself a favor and get a couple hundred amp hours of lithium batteries. I know they're expensive but no more than buying golf cart batteries how many times over the next 7-10 years. Lithium charges much faster, is much lighter, and has way more USEABLE energy. Hopefully, the dealer gets your camper back to you soon!
@@falcomf77 that’s what I originally thought, but mine doesn’t turn on without the inverter on or shore power/generator power. When I first called the dealership after discovering no power to the fridge, they said I needed the inverter. Perhaps that is something they will correct while there.
@@davidhalen1198 I'm betting that you got a 2 way fridge as a substitution instead of the 12v fridge. If that's the case then you should be able to run it off of propane while boondocking. Maybe if you make enough noise with your dealer they can get you a 12v replacement. Good luck!
@David Halen - sorry to hear about all the trouble you have been having with the fridge! We have the two way but the 12V seems to have some great features (bigger, easier to cool, no need to run propane, easier to level) but we have been reading the issues some are having with battery draw. A few things we have learned over the past year in reading of others experiences in the GeoPro's with these.
It is correct that you shouldn't need to run the inverter. BUT we have read that last year when there was a shortage of these 12V fridges, alot of manufacturers were shipping the units without fridges and the dealers were installing what they could get - typically 110V. If people never boondocked and stayed on shorepower, it wasn't obvious. Is it possible that your unit doesn't have a true 12V? Did they give you a fridge manual? Some owners had to go back to the dealer and request the 12V be installed once they were available.
If your dealer is telling you that you have to run the inverter, I would recommend reaching out to Forest River customer service to see about talking to a tech because something does not sound right. Boondocking is never going to be an easy experience with having to run a fridge and an inverter 24/7.
One question (sorry if I missed it) - what size / type of batteries did your dealer install?
Please let us know how this moves forward!! You can also email us at winespinescanines@gmail.com if easier.
@@WinesPinesandCanines thanks for the information. I called and spoke to ForestRiver this morning. I have a 110 fridge! Turns out a lot of units were shipped with these because of Covid shortages, and the dealers were given the option of waiting or getting the units with the 110. My next step is to determine if it’s cheaper to swap out for a 12v, upgrade for the super modern batteries,or get more solar. This is only an issue obviously while boondocking, which is why I went with this trailer in the first place.
Did u miss the storage behind the tv? Both seem like good campers
I think we might have forgotten to mention it and you are correct - quite a bit of storage back there! Thanks for watching!
That Aloe plant is huge! Great video.
Ha! We were wondering if anyone would ever notice that is out of control! You win the prize for most observant!!
The grill where you can grill steaks in the salmon shish kabobs what have you
The Jay Command is a must-have option, although possibly more difficult to get with shortages. It adds the ability to dim both the living room main lights and the awning light, by the switches in the rv or on your smart device with app. This can also control HVAC functions, open and close the slide or awning, check tire pressure and more from smart device and more. Excellent option investment.
Would definitely like to have that as an option in the GeoPro. Ours being a 2019, does not. I think it does have something similar now but haven’t seen in person. The JayCommand sounds like an excellent option choice! Thanks for watching and the info!
I would highly suggest that one really checks out that Jayco warranty!!! Seems to be more to that then meets the eye!
We have heard that they are one of a few (or the only?) that do this extended warranty. Wouldn't be a deciding factor for us though - unless something major goes (appliance, roof, structure), we have found easier to deal with Forest River ourselves and pay for a part then to haul to our dealer for weeks or months!
if you happen to find a geo pro 20fbs woud love a video like this
or a Flagstaff E Pro 20fbs :)
Both of those campers are on our list as well! Linda has been wanting to see the new interior color upgrades for over a year and we haven’t been able to find one locally. But we are keeping an eye out and will bring it to you as soon as we find one! (We are also very interested in the new floorplan 19FDS)
You forgot about movable ladder, roof accessories and the large storage behind the TV. Not to mention the 2+1 warranty.
Yes - good points! We did mention the warranty but the others are great features as well - this camper was packed with great options! Thanks for watching!
@@WinesPinesandCanines I’ve ordered one and watched several reviews… thanks for the content.
Congrats! Would love to hear how you like it once received. We have looked at a lot of campers over the years, lol, and rarely are you able to remember one over another. This one had some memorable features that we wished we had!
I'm probably an outlier due to where I live in the southwest, but I could actually see the 15k A/C option as being useful. I'm frequently out in 100 degree + temperatures with limited shade, and there have been times when my 13.5k unit won't get the temperature down below 85 inside. It also make the refrigerator problematic, even though I have dual cooling fans added to mine. On a related note, I think I'd prefer to stick with the gas refrigerator. I can envision that 12v one really killing the batteries when boondocking.
About the only thing I like about the Jayco is the rear-mounted spare. I've never been a fan of the underside mount on the GeoPro. Fortunately, I haven't needed to use it yet. As you know, I bypassed flat tires and went straight to bent axles :). The brush guards and steel fenders are nice, but not at the addition of 6 inches in width. I can barely squeeze through the gate as it is. And I definitely don't want the additional weight. I'd probably have to upgrade my tow vehicle.
Yes - in heat like that, I could see every BTU counting! What fans did you add to yours? Have been looking at doing that.
Ha! Hopefully the date when the axle is getting replaced is still on schedule? Agreed on the width - like the fact that this is easy to manuever and I can see around it without tow mirrors on the Tundra.
Hope you have a good week - let us know how the axle replacement goes.
@@WinesPinesandCanines This is the fan I added to mine. Made a huge difference: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B077TJCL3F/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
No date on the axle replacement yet. I imagine it'll be another 3-4 weeks before it arrives. Should be done just about in time to winterize the trailer for storage :(
I agree on the 15k AC for the south, but with a soft start addition.
Your comparison was done very well and very knowledgeable. For my money it would be the Jayco all day long! No Forest River products for me, they all look like they are cheaply manufactured and realizing all RV's have problems, searching RUclips reviews, Forest River really get's beat up I think.
Thank you - the Jayco was a very nice looking camper and had some features we wished ours had. So far, we are going on 3 years and very few issues with ours. There were always be little things but have used it about 7 months total during that time and nothing major - fingers crossed! Thanks for watching and Happy New Year!
if you have a covection microwave you can bake in it you don't need an oven.
Yes - good point! We have one and we were very pleased with what it could cook.
I think where it makes a difference is if you were doing a lot of boondocking - typically the microwave won’t work on anything other than shorepower so you would be out of an oven. But we just plan arounf not having one (plus we recently bought an omnia stovetop oven for boondocking!)
Thanks for watching!
Great comparison, I’m really enjoying your channel. We just downsized our F-350 to a Tacoma Pro and we sold our Jayco Jay Flight 28RLS so it’s a pretty big downsize! We are looking at the Geo Pro 19 FD but we haven’t settled just yet, I really appreciate all your research, tips, and information. New subscriber here 👋
Thank you for the nice comments! We have heard good things about the 19fd - owners seem very happy about it. Keep us updated on your search and reach out if you have any questions! Thanks for watching!
Excellent video, I'm in the process of comparing trailers and this Jayco is in the top 3 definitely. I've not looked at any in-person yet, but am sold on the storage room. Maybe most in it's class, still searching it all out.
Thank you! We love looking at other campers and this was a great looking camper. Let us know if you end up purchasing - would love to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks for watching!
should have mentioned the geo has aluminum construction and 5/8 tongue n groove flooring.. im in the market.. is the shower in that jsyco same size as geo?
Good points! I think the Jayco is aluminum as well but not sure on the floor. It has been a while since we were in it, but do not remember the shower being noticeably bigger. Just a downside of 20 feet of length!
I am in Canada and yesterday looked at both....I found it disturbing in the Jayco O could see staples everywhere??? ROCKWOOD does not do this as everything is glued and screwed! How do you feel about this? Great video!!
Thank you - glad you enjoyed it! We didn’t notice staples or at least it didn’t jump out at us when we looked at it. As far as from a quality standpoint - we really didn’t see much of a difference between our GeoPro and this Jayco as far as the “fit and finish”. We have noticed in other campers we have toured little things like loose trim boards/ wallpaper…. But this unit may have been built on a Tuesday vs a Friday!
I just ordered one and.have heard nothing about a wifi booster?!
Was that just installed at the dealer?
Hi! Not sure - we saw one on it and didn’t seem like it was a dealer installed. Fairly certain we saw that they are standard or an option so maybe it will be there when you receive the camper! Thanks for watching!
Great comparison - thanks for that! We also were going back and forth between the Jayco and GeoPro and purchased the Jayco - picking it up next Friday. As I'm new to RVing - can you please breifly explain what an inverter is - mentioned in the video?
Congrats on the new camper! Glad you found the video helpful. It has been a while since we did that video - I think the Jayco came prewired for an inverter although they may include it now or as an option.
So the inverter allows you to use the outlets in the camper even when you are dry camping (not on shore power) but only up to the wattage the inverter is. For example, in our GeoPro, it has a 1000Watt inverter which when we turn the inverter on, we can use the outlets to power an item under 1000 watts (mostly computer or small kitchen appliance (typically not a coffee maker or instant pot, air fryer or heater).
We find the 1000 watt isn't overly useful but think Jayco prewired for a 2000 watt which would be a bit more useful. BUT - it draws down a battery quick between the amps used by the inverter and then by the appliance so it is something we rarely use. And, we only turn the inverter on if we need to use an outlet, otherwise we have it off (button in our camper turns it on and off).
Hope that helps! And would love to hear about your adventures going forward with the Jayco. Safe travels and Happy Camping!
@@WinesPinesandCanines Thanks very much; very helpful! Appreciate the quick response!
I happen to own the jayco 166fbs and there is some pretty good space behind the TV when you unlatch it to swing it for viewing it while you are in bed. The outside fridge seemed like a good idea but you have to be hooked to shore power to use it. So I removed it and gained a large amount of storage space. And the I have came with a 14k furion ac unit.
Great points! That cabinet does come out about 2 feet if I remember correctly so imagine that would be great storage space. And yes - if you use the camper for its boondocking purpose, having a 110V fridge doesn't make much sense. Thanks for watching!
you missed the handle at the door. the geo got in the way of the awning, the jayco didn't
Good point - we didn't bring it up as that was changed in the later models on the geo pro (2020 or 2021). The awning was moved down closer to the end. Thanks for watching!
Does the jayco have the special water system in the shower to preserve warm water like the geo pro?
Not positive but I don't remember seeing one. But, manufacturers update campers twice a year so that may change! Thanks for watching!
No, it doesn't, unfortunately. However, it has a huge 55 gallow fresh tank which can kind of make up for it.
Great video. One camper that fits your size criteria is a Kodak Cub. We have a 175BH and we love it.
Thanks for the suggestion. Not one we are familiar with so would definitely like to take a look! Thanks for watching!
If you can find one, Look at the RPod195 or 196
Will do! Thanks for watching!
Thanks for sharing. We are picking up a Jayco 166FBS on Tuesday. In addition to what you mentioned, I like the 16 " wheels with light truck tires. One thing I don't like is the lack of a receiver hitch for a bike rack.
Thank you for watching! Would love to know how you like it. Agree on the tires - really liked them - and on the receiver hitch. Happy camping!
All very interesting, but what does Desi prefer?
Ha! He prefers a Desi Den. Current camper does not have one - he had his eye on the space where those footstools go but we told him he would have to wait until the next camper and we would make sure he had a home to burrow into lol. Thanks for watching as always - appreciate it. Have a good week!
A couple of things not mentioned. The 166FBS is Azdel inside and outside, whereas most other trailers that have Azdel only have it on the outside. Another thing not mentioned is that it has a torsion axle instead of a the standard leaf spring axle.
Thanks for the info - did not know that on the azdel! And yes - upgraded axle is a good upgrade. Thanks for watching!
Geopro has asdel inside and out. Both the Geopro and Minilites are built this way.
@@WinesPinesandCaninesyou made a right choice. I don’t like the color of the jayco.
I like the Brush Guards looks like the Winnibago Hike. But after having my GEO, the more metal, the more rust. I might look into converting the Spare location
That is a good point regarding the rust - everything looks good on the lot! Let us know if you move the spare. Thanks for watching!
P.S we were looking at the Jayco Jay Feather 19 FBS but it’s at the top end of our weight and we don’t want to be there, it does have some great features though and we loved our Jay Flight. I do prefer the lighter color scheme in the smaller trailers, I think it make a big difference plus I love the front window.Tfs🍂
Yes - being at 4995 with a 5000 lb towing limit is very close! And we agree - like the lighter colors and windows in smaller spaces. But it looked like a very nice camper.
The JFM 166FBS is a great little trailer. One thing that I think your GeoPro has, that I wish the JFM line would add, is the ShowerMiser. Also, the bed is just a little to narrow (at 54") in the Jayco.
Hi! Agreed - it is a great trailer but I do think the bed would have been a deal breaker for us. In the GeoPro we can also do the hack we had a video on where we turn it into a king at night. Wouldn’t be possible in this one so would have been stuck with the 54” width. And yes - forgot about our shower miser! Thank you for watching!
Cool looking camper. It’s always fun to look and compare. We do the same!
You really don't have to twist our arm to go look at campers haha! Thanks for watching - safe travels out there!
Great job highlighting the features of this one. Our first travel trailer was a bit bigger, and we always wanted solar. ~ Brad and Diana
Our first was a class c that we remodeled but quite a bit older so no solar at all! Solar was always something we wanted as well which was one of the reasons we went with the Geopro. Thanks for watching!
Try a Keystone Passport.
Any particular model? Will put on the list!
@@WinesPinesandCanines any really. Great mid- grade trailer.
I’d keep what you have ….. no real upgrade, in my opinion.
We do think the GeoPro would have won out in the end! But, its nice to see competition! Thanks for watching.
@@WinesPinesandCanines ..yeah, we are waiting on the arrival of our Rockwood Mini Lite..I’m wondering about the differences from the 21 &22s
Would like to know as well but hard to find locally. We have looked at them for upgrading some time in the future. Did they give you a time frame yet for arrival?
@@WinesPinesandCanines..haven’t heard anything.
I think we will stick with our Airstream. 😂😂. Great tour though. Thanks. Hope y’all have settled in from your trip.
Oh - Troy does love an airstream. Looking forward to a tour someday! We have settled back in but now itching to go again lol. We planning our fall / winter trip and somehow that departure date just keeps getting earlier and earlier haha. Hope you guys are having a great time out west!
We are. I know what you mean about pushing things to earlier. Where are you planning on going this time?
Well that, like the date is a moving target haha. Original plan was Zion and Grand Canyon but now we have expanded to Ouray/Silverton/Durango, Mesa Verde.... so much to see!!! So we have to narrow it down and decide where and when we are going - that is anywhere from 3 weeks from now to 3 months lol.
You really have expanded, but all of these are awesome places so I can see why you want to move the date up.
😂 Well its a small size camper.. everything is design to be small 🤦🏻
Ha! Very true. Thanks for watching!
Does the Jayco have all aluminum frames including the dinette? We have a new GeoPro and really like it. It’s been back in for a couple things
probably related to Covid related issues, but it’s so solid with some of the updates (floor), and standard rather than optional items we found in similar sized trailers. Thank you for your awesome videos! We enjoy you all!
Hi! Thank you for the watch. We agree that many of the standard items on the GeoPro are a great selling point! Glad you have been enjoying the camper and hope the issues were quickly resolved!
I believe Jayco does have all aluminum framing similar to the GeoPro. Not sure on the dinette as we didn’t look at that model, but makes sense it would as much lighter than wood!
A deal breaker for us is not having a front window, we feel boxed in. And these dull lifeless colors make us feel like we’re in a funeral home 😜
Agreed. Less light and darker colors just made it feel a little smaller than ours. Thanks for watching!