I enjoyed you commentary very much. After 22 years with a 36’ Class A diesel pusher, last Fall I made the switch to a 25’ Airstream. My reasons for doing so parallel yours almost perfectly (trip preparation, maintenance expense and fear of upcoming failures of the aging chassis components) Dingy pulling has it own set of compromises. I have owned a 3/4 ton Diesel crew cabs for nearly two decades for towing a commercial tandem trailer so the transition from self propelled RV to towing the Airstream was seamless. The differences are, as you explained so well, are merely ‘adjustments’, not sacrifices. Thank you for your video, I am sure many will benefit from your discussion.
The logic of separating coach and power is older than the wheel itself. Even 10,000 years ago, you could swap out a new horse/dog for aging livestock/pet. A quality trailer like an airstream can last multiple generations. Repairs and maintenance are similar to updating a fixed house. But the tow vehicle? Tech is changing so rapidly that even a 5 yo vehicles is aging. Consider the next gen might be small elect drive motors for high torque starts coupled with a primary diesel/gas high mpg at cruising. What about safety and comfort? New features added every year. And dont forget leaving the "house" behind for periods of time without expensive running gear sitting idle. No, the smart way to approach this is TV and trailer.
Have a truck camper now but climbing in The bed for the wife is a challenge tuned dinette into bed and added addl 4 in foam for her hoping to get out this winter
I was on my way home today, on the highway, and got to follow an Airstream. It was an older model, but absolutely gorgeous. I was disappointed when I got to my exit and couldn’t see it anymore. Before turning off, I watched it go. I’m sure the owners loved buying it and never looked back.
My brother had an airstream trailer, fixed up by the previous owner. He lived out of it on his own land for a while before selling it once his house was completely finished. My male cousin still has his Airstream. He researched online for how much his make and model sold, and looked up the costs for upgrades, repairs, and “prepairs”, used that to haggle more off of the price, bought it at a heavily discounted cost, did the “prepairs” and upgrades himself, it’s doing great for him. He uses it to go on road trips, hang out up at the lake campgrounds, and as his “man cave camper”, or “Manper” at his home (but it’s not like that gross pop up “Manper” from “Here Comes Honey Boo-Boo”).
Traded our 37 foot diesal pusher and Jeep toad for a 27 foot AS and Dodge PU with 6.5 bed. We did this while on a 2 month trip in the western US. Our main concern was where to put everything that we had with us. (2) 100W solar panels that we had intended to install on the A, 2 foldable e-bikes with no bike rack (stored in the Jeep) and a huge closet of hanging clothes from the A. Everything fit and we did not use all of the space in the AS. We even moved from a residential frig (I had to store my beer in a cooler for the balance of our trip). Your concerns with maintenance, potential slide failure, leveling jacks and the many other systems issues (broken awnings) were too much for me to enjoy camping. I realized that my choices for camping spots were dictated by the size often finding ourselves in "parking lots" without any trees. It wasn't camping anymore - we were hauling an apartment around with us. I got to dislike driving the A. Driving has always been part of the camping experience that I enjoy. It is so much better with a pickup. The dash air works well, the comfort can't be compared. I enjoy driving once more. I am so glad that I took the hit and got my Airstream.
That is very well said and SPOT ON! We felt the exact same way. Thank you for sharing this because we Conor forgot to mention that. So happy for you as we know exactly how you feel.👍🏻🧡😊🤓
Motorhomes wear out (rust), license costs and mileage. With our trailer now better mileage once we unhook and life time license. If it wears out or we want to change, we still keep the truck and change the trailer. The best thing I liked about the motorhome was when it was raining, we did not have to go out in the rain, trailer you get wet running from truck to trailer.
Good points. We’ve been pretty lucky with the rain so far but we do have rain coats just in case. Something that doesn’t happen much at all for us. We all have different needs and need to focus on what we all know works best for us. 👍🏻😊🤓
Just wanted to take the time to say that you guys are so much fun to watch. I appreciate your channel because you are so real....not developing extra drama just for attention. Thanks!
One of my husband's first jobs was riveting Air Streams back in the '70s! We have a Bumper Pull with slide-outs. We really love it because it has tons of storage space, but cheap finishes. I would love to get an Air Stream someday just for the natural light, but I think I would miss the slide-outs. We watch RV shows and videos all the time and discuss pros and cons and agree that Bumper Pulls are the best option for us. We just paid off our Toyota Tundra and are looking forward to trading it in for a newer truck with a larger gas tank because we plan on taking much longer trips after I retire in 3 years!
I am glad you found the perfect RV for you. Everyone should get what they like and are happy with. As for us we love our class A. My wife is handicapped. She can't sit in a regular truck all day with her legs down. She needs to recline. Also she lives being able to go to the bathroom and make snacks while I drive. As for storage like you said the class A blows the Airstream away! There is no comparison. Fortunately we have a higher end RV. Our cabinets are solid cherry. None of our trim ever rattles let alone falls off. We are all electric so we have no propane problems. I like how we can pull in any larger parking lot and I can have our car unhooked in under a minute and we are.free to go to any restaurant or store we want. Our big diesel takes us right up the hills and the air brakes along with engine brake bring us back down safely without burning up our brakes like so many people with trucks talk about. At the end of the day I completely agree with you. Get what you like and can afford and go have fun.
Yes, you definitely need something like the Class A for your situation. But like so many do, people always forget about the storage you get in the back of a truck especially when you put a cap on the back like ours is. It’s not like a fifth wheel where you have the hitch back there. Very few people ever want to mention this. Your storage does not HAVE to be in or on your RV to “have storage” and our Airstream model does actually have more than you would think but no, not as much as our 40’ motorhome had. But again, we made up For that having the back of the truck and we can even increase that by putting the shelf system in if we wanted to. We had a Class A DP as well, and many other’s have too that we have talked to and they are all very similar as far as hills/mountains… depending on the engine and load. This truck we have cruises right up the hills pulling this AS like it is nothing. We can keep right at 62 mph easily which you can not do easily with most Class As. Semis always struggle too depending on their load. Our truck also has the exhaust brake/engine brake which has been common for quite a while and do not burn up the brakes. It works very similar to the Class A. Sorry if you felt like our video somehow was putting down the Class A but it was not at all. Our video was completely about OUR experience with our old Class A vs this particular model of Airstream and the reason it works so well for us is because of our work schedules and less to worry about. Nobody should take offense to us explaining our own personal experience because our situation is different than most people’s. I simply can not let others make a comment about something that simply is not true though and confuse others even more. The things about the truck is simply not true. Hope you don’t take offense. We just have to be very honest about this and make sure those that don’t know any better do know the truth so that they can make a good decision for themselves. 😊🤓
in 2018 we bought a brand new Class A Winnebago. Our first time on the road one of the wall panels came off (stapled) and knocked me on the head. The supposedly "locked" cupboards didn't stand all the shaking and came open dumping everything inside. When we reached our destination, it looked like an earthquake for sure. Within 6 months of driving it, one of the bathroom stopped working, one of he slides started to scratch the floor, several more panels came off, bathroom walls buckled and many more disasters. It was a money pit. We went to get it fixed with factory warranty 3 times within 1 year. Someone told us we should never buy brand new Class As. Well, after we get rid of that trap bucket, I want a smaller one. I enjoyed your video.
We paused this video about 2 dozen times while we discussed our opinions about the points that you raised. It brought out a lot of very good points - for you and for us - that helped clarify our position. Good information, good video, good job!
My most favorite RV channels in the order of Most smiles. #1 LivinRVision I'm smiling the whole dang time #2 Keep Your Daydream smiling most of the time #3 Changing Lanes lots of smiles Love You Guys
Good information. Thanks. I'm single & full-time in a 38 ft Ventana DP. I couldn't roll without a washer/dryer. But, that's me. I agree about the slides... fewer is better.
Awesome video about your preference for the Airstream over a class A, you're both very likable and I just really enjoyed watching this. I'm really thinking about buying one of these to take my wife on a road trip before she gets too far along with her Alzheimers disease.
We’re so sorry about your wife’s diagnosis. We’re sending prayers for some happy memories for the both of you in an Airstream or whatever you decide on. May you both make some very beautiful memories to cherish forever. 🧡
Love your video, all excellent points. As a teenager in the early 70's , my parents had a 31ft AIRSTREAM International Sovereign that still brings back memories (mostly good), I was the electrical, leveling and "T" handle guy if you get my meaning. Still to this day, I have a soft-spot. Now in my 60's, wish I could get my wife to go the AIRSTREAM route, I'd settle for a 25" Flying Cloud.
Thanks Michelle and Brian for sharing your thoughts on the switch from Class A to Airstream. You present your information clearly and with humor which I really love about you two. Safe travels!
We love our SMALL Class A gasser. 2017 Jayco Precept 31UL. We love the large windshield, plenty of storage, easy access to bathroom, easy toad hook up, automatic leveling, and with opposing slides, plenty of living space.
Thank you , I have been hoping that you would make this video . Lots of good information on what to consider when buying ! Safe travels to you two and thumbs UP !
We watch several travel blogs on RUclips. Each one imparts knowledge that we can use. For us your Q&A or informational videos far exceeds all the others. Thank you for your unbiased reports. They are concise, laced with humor and just what we need. We think you need a dog😜 Thanks keep ion RV'n!!
Just found your channel. Very happy you found an RV you like. We have had a class A 40’ diesel pusher for 3 years. We’ve done tent camping, truck cab over, and have had 2 fifth wheels. My husband loves driving our class A! I don’t worry about driving it! We feel very safe in it. Love the huge windshield! We know it’s big but we have always been able find a campsite for us. We do boondocking, , state, federal and national campgrounds and RV parks. Basically my husband got tired of the whole 5th hooking up. When he told me he wanted a class A diesel pusher I thought he was crazy. I love it! I love how while he is driving I can go back into the kitchen and make lunch. He loves the king size bed!🤣 Everyone’s RV experience is different. Safe travels!👋😁
Absolutely. I loved driving the Class A also and have expressed that many times. The things you love are the same that we loved about our Class A also as well as many other people. But after 2 years in the Class A…we realized due to OUR lifestyle, we knew we needed to make a change to lessen the stress and that is exactly what it did for us both. No fluff, no bull, straight honest truth of us sharing OUR experience. We have been asked to share our experience of both and how we feel. Sometimes people don’t like to hear that when they like what they have and that is simply because what they have works best for them but it doesn’t mean it works best for everyone, which is why we never suggest any RV for anyone because you have to figure that out yourself as so many things can change the experience that we may not know about with others lives. We are so very happy for you guys that you are enjoying your Class A. That is what is important. 🧡😊🤓
You 2 never fail to make me smile! Whats really funny is my daughter who normally ignores what I'm watching, laughs and talks to me about your videos every week. BONUS. Hahd!*
Aww that’s so cool! You’re daughter sounds like one awesome girl! Lol 😃 Thanks so much! We absolutely love to make others happy and smile and the beautiful comments that we get in return from so many others like yourself makes us smile as well! 🧡😊🤓
First let’s just get this out of the way: You two are ADORABLE. You have great followers too. The commenters are being easy on you. I’ve seen these vids before and omg, if you “dis” what they deem the best, they let you have it in the comments! Nice to see and you handled it perfectly. 🙂❤️ Everybody deserves the best rig for them!!!
Aww thank you! It’s always risky putting yourself out there, but we can’t be of any help either if we don’t. There will always be those that just have to disagree and feel that their way is the only way. Hearing from multiple sources helps us all make our own decisions.
I too was a custom home builder. One model I built and lived in four times with little iterations in each home until I had it perfect. It is that point the neighbor has a dog that barks 24 hours a day and then you have to move.
Hi Brian & Michelle, enjoyed the explanation for your RV swap. Luckily, my wife does not have any desire to drive like Michelle. She does think it’s important to know how, in case something happens where I cańt drive. Our first year of ownership was fraught with repairs, mostly by me. This was due to previous owner´s lack of knowledge and maintenance of this RV. The repairs have slowed down and I am less stressed than before.I find many of the class A pros you mentioned are true with ours also. We have a few other pros that were not true with your Ventana, such as solid oak cabinets and doors, no trim falling off, no washer/dryer (which I consider a pro) and my wife loves the RV. We also purchased our RV outright, so no payments to worry about and the longer we maintain and own it, the better payback we enjoy. Sometimes I think about downsizing, but that will be later on. Take care!
Yes, there’s just a lot to worry about with the Class A but we still enjoyed it. Actually our Ventana DID have solid wood cabinets, (Newmar’s are known to have solid wood, at least in the older years like ours) but the crown molding is what would occasionally fall.
Thanks for sharing this! Very good information to think about. My wife and I own a 2005 Beaver Patriot Thunder and have been living full time in it since 2014. We love it! But as you pointed out, there is no doubt in my mind it is much more expensive to maintain than your Airstream. I enjoy your weekly video blogs so much and look forward to watching more of your adventures! Thank you again for sharing!
That’s a very well built rig you have. That would be hard for me to get rid of, but for us it boiled down to the worries of maintenance. If we were retired, we may just keep something like what you have. Hard to say right now since we are not retired. Time will tell. Thank you so much for the kind words and thanks for watching! 😊🤓
Thank you both for your honest review of the first six months of Airstream living. Over the years I have owned travel trailers and I promised myself next RV would be a class A or B. After watching your travels and trailer adventures I’m convinced it back to a travel trailer period. Keep the great videos coming !!!
Hi Neal! Well we hope that is truly what you feel is best for you. We hope our videos like this makes a point to others that they should do what they feel is best for them and not feel what we do is best for them. We hope it truly helped you. Thanks so much fir sharing this. 👍🏻😊🤓
Sandra Westley from the Uk we have always had trailers, you cannot park RV over here, there are barriers that even with a top box on our 4x4 we cannot access, most people that have Motor homes here park up on site, and use the local buses to travel around, that to us is totally unacceptable as my husband is waiting knee replacements and waiting around for buses is not my idea of enjoying a holiday, especially in our climate of rain and occasional sun, that’s no fun at all, but loads of people do that so they don’t have to tow.
@@LivinRVision I hear you. Wife and I love the white interior so much we ordered a 2022 Classic with it. Meanwhile, we will still be enjoying our 2020 25 footer until the new one come in sometime later this year.
We own a 2018 35’ class A diesel pusher, and I agree totally with you about how expensive they are to own and operate. Annual Freightliner chassis service alone is between $2000 and $3000. We are Floridians, and leave Florida during the hot, humid, and hurricane months. We are currently 2 1/2 months into a four month trip visiting the western national parks. So far on this trip, one of our bedroom slideouts stopped working, we developed a leak in our hydraulic pump that powers the large forward slides and the levelers, and our 50 amp plug detached from the cord. For these and other reasons, we are considering trading for a Gretch Strada ion, like you have switched to. The limiting factor is the size: we have a rescue dog who is pretty big, and the class B is going to be tight for us.
It takes some getting used to but you soon start to realize how much more you are enjoying your travels when you lessen your headaches and worries which include the ease of getting into more places and not having to drag along a toad to explore in. Any Class B is not meant to live in full-time, but it sure has been nice these past 5 months. There’s always cons and pros to each and every one of them. Just gotta do what you feel is best for you. 👍🏻😊🤓
@@LivinRVision we do have a home in Florida, so we will not be full time. Our home is in a gated RV community, where all the homes have an RV garage or port.
Biggest problems we have with Airstreams r the inflated prices. They are also not near the same quality as they used to be, comparing what my parents had with what you buy now. If I could have theirs I'd be a happy camper. The ones now are so totally inferior to the older ones. They are also owned by a different company now which has dumbed down the quality but still banks on people buying them for the name & sleak different look.
Ours is a 2018 and the quality is still superior than any other we have seen. The reason why they are worth the money is because even if you spend $100,000 you can usually get most of that money back a few years later. You can spend half that of $50,000 on another make that will cause you to lose more when you sell it in the same amount of ownership time. As far as being “too pricey” (which they are pricey and for a reason), what really matters is how much money you lost after the time period of ownership. Believe it or not, you can lost more money buying something for 50k than you can buying something at 100k. But you also have to buy what you can afford and are happy with. I’m just giving a realistic example that so many people totally ignore or miss. As far as quality going down hill…yes, that has actually happened to not all, but almost all RV manufacturers in the past few years. Many that used to be good quality are now lacking in that department. Airstream are still high above most as far as quality…but AGAIN…you have to buy what works best for you not what others try to convince you to buy. Our video is NOT about trying to convince anyone what they should buy. It is simply a video about OUR comparison to this particular model compared to our Class A model. Nothing more.
We have been full time since 2017 and have a 1999Allegro Bay motor home. No slides and is gas. We love it. In our past we had a TT, and a class C. I do not think we would ever get an RV with slides. We boondocks a lot so a washer and dryer seems silly since water is at a premium. We went with a class A for safety reasons. It is a lot easier to leave a bad place if necessary.
Those are a very good coach. Would of loved to have one with no slides also. Still too much for me to keep up with though while working as much as I do and on weekends. We don’t boondocks much at all and when we do we try to pick places that seem more safe with plenty of others around. What you have sounds perfect for you. 👍🏻😊🤓
Another fun and very informative video! Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts on your Class A to truck and towable switch. You've really given us a lot to think about as we prepare for some RV travel in retirement which begins in June 2022. We won't be full time RV'ers, but do plan to take several multiple month trips to explore our beautiful country. Like you always say, "find out what works best for your own specific situation," well said! Enjoy and stay safe out there!
After much research and renting a Class C, we bought our 2020 27’ Globetrotter and have been full time for 13 months. We love it for most of your reasons (we don’t have the work station).
We’ve got a gas truck + Airsteam. Part of our consideration was one engine vs 2 engines (motor home + TV). Cheaper to maintain and insure. Also, when you have to do that engine maintenance, you don’t have to leave your “house”.
We too have sold our diesel pusher and are buying a travel trailer. Many of our reasons mirror yours. Looking forward to seeing more videos on your channel. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing your ideas. After three travel trailers and having owned a van now for nine years I can admit that I have not had the perfect RV yet. BUT: The manufacturing quality was MUCH better than what I see (thrown?) in the booming market today. I believe that my van and I will not divorce unless Diesel cars' use will be prohibited here in Europe. Greetings from Bavaria, Germany.
You’re very welcome. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a Class A. All RVs have their pros and cons and we all have to get what works best for us all. I LOVED driving our Class A but Michelle loves driving our truck and at least will drive now. If we didn’t work so much as mentioned in this video. Things may be different for us. My stress level has went down since we sold our Class A. Now I can focus on work better and travel days are less stressful for us. We both worried so much every time we had to put the slides in and out and every time we had to put the jacks up and down. Now we only have the stabilizer jacks which just does that…stabilize and much easier to work on if an issue. Less moving parts for leveling now too. That doesn’t make the Airstream better than a Class A though…. What makes one RV better than another RV is how well it fits your needs. Sounds like you found what is perfect for you and we support that 100%. Safe travels and we hope to meet you down the road sometime! 👍🏻😊🤓
Imagine stuff flying around in a US Navy Frigate during a typhoon at sea... and you can't just pull over if you get stressed! I learned to 'Tie stuff down'. 'Stow it , Sailor'. I can still hear my ol' Navy Chief yelling at us!
My only hang up I have is to long of a trailer can sometimes hinder you. We had a 30' foot and there were some places we could not get in. So after 3 years we traded in for a 23' much better in finding places and dont have to worrt about hair pin curves. I totally agree if you can buy a AirStream its a good investment, does not loose value all that much. Cheers.
Luckily we have not ran into any issues with our RV length in campgrounds or parks. Although we haven’t stayed right in a NP yet either because we need cell service/Internet for work and NPs don’t have that. Hopefully we won’t have any problems with our 33’. Thanks for watching! 🧡😊🤓
@Martin driver 602……perhaps you have noticed, but the most common freight trailers are ‘53 in length and usually pulled by tandem axle conventional cab tractors. Have you thought about how and where the truck drivers routinely make deliveries in congested commercial areas and terminals? They learned how to drive, use mirrors and judge distance. Glad you ‘23 is working out for you.
I drove a school bus in my 20s so driving the 30' class a wasnt a problem. We have on 08 rexhall aerbus, it was not put together with love, lots of crooked angles. Our slide buttons had to be replaced, the auto jacks have given us a little problem. It has 2 full wall slides so it has lots of room and storage.
I loved driving the Class A, just too much for us right now with all the maintenance. Maybe someday we’ll go back. Who knows. Wow, sounds like a nice floor plan!
Bumper pull travel trailers seem to be the best compromise. I have a 2020 Escape 19’ fibreglass trailer (like Casita), one of the best, no leaks, highly sought after. The only RV I would trade for would be a 25’ Airstream with twins. Great video.
@MarieLamour-cv1jc it depends on the size of AS you have plus how you utilize your storage in the back of the truck like we did with the topper. Many things to consider.
@MarieLamour-cv1jc it trying to “convince” you at all (and for what purpose??). Like we said earlier, you have to do what works for “you”. We never think what we do is best for someone else nor should anyone else. Many people get offensive about this subject for whatever reason. We were simply saying that with the truck storage the way we had it set up worked for us and how it works for others depends on what model AS you have and how you set up your truck storage. Please don’t take offense, keep doing what is best for you. 🧡😊🤓
Nice job guys. When we retired and went full time in 2018 we new we wanted a trailer having owned a Coleman Popup and a HI-LO for 30 years. The freedom of a tow vehicle and small trailer always attracted us. We looked at the Airstreams and loved them but the talk of leaks and rotted floors put us off. Having been in the siding business for 50 years I have seen my share of hail damage and the aluminum skin was another turnoff. We decided on an Oliver Travel Trailer and after 40,000 miles it tows beautifully and is built like a tank.
We went full time in 2018 also…on Thanksgiving Day due to the buyers wanting to close the day before. Lol As far as the Airstreams, the roof thing is something that I believe is an issue of a problem that was never checked to begin with. Once a pressure test is completed and any air leaks are sealed, you don’t hear of anyone having the problem. As far as the floors rotting out from a leak, has also been solved by a composite flooring that does not deteriorate/rot. I’m not sure what year it was that they started this but it’s been a while. As long as your are happy with you Oliver, that’s all that matters. 👍🏻😊🤓 They are a good trailer too.
God bless you guy's. There is definitely a RV for everyone. Personally we love our class A. We have a 2006 42' Monaco Dynasty diesel pusher. We level with our air suspension. We don't have jacks. Also our cabinets are solid cherry. No cheap particle board here. I really appreciate being able to do a load of laundry in the evening while watching a movie. I also like how on travel days we don't have to get out in the rain to use the bathroom or go to the kitchen. Of course our class A is definitely taller and linger then your Airstream. We definitely can't fit in the smaller sites like you can. Like I said there is a RV for everyone. Safe travels.
Enjoyed your comparison between the Class A you had, and the Airstream. As you say, each selection has it's pro's and con's. My wife and I have gone from tents, to pop-ups, to Travel Trailers, to a Fifth Wheel, and now a Class A. I personally loved sleeping in the pop-up and we haven't had any experience with a class B or C, yet... As we aren't full timers, we've only had gas vehicles, so no diesel. Totally agree with the maintenance, however there is one benefit that a Class A, or any motorized motor home has over a travel trailer and you mentioned, and that is the convenience of using the facilities while traveling. Restroom, and access to the fridge or couch, or... While I know you should do that only on a limited basis, if health wise, such as fibromyalgia , you need to get up and move frequently while traveling, a motorized vehicle is definitely the way to go. Thanks for your review.
True, but that doesn’t work so well for the driver. :) The driver still has to pull over to use the facilities. We have a fridge in the back seat area of the truck to keep drinks and food when traveling. A lot of times when we have to pull over to use the facilities, we also grab something else from the fridge. Also another benefit is no slides covering up any of the cabinets or even the fridge like some models. Like you said, they all have pros and cons and to each their own. 👍🏻😊🤓
@@LivinRVision what??! You mean cruise control doesn't mean automated driving? JK, but the wife has to get up way more frequently, and even when we use to drive down to Florida in a car, I still did 90% of the driving, so towing a car and having a motorized RV for us fits. Merry Christmas!
Lol Yes, it sounds like most of us women seem to get up more frequently then the guys. But the men still need to as well and still requires us to pull over. In our video that you were commenting to…this was the least of our concerns for us, it simply wasn’t a very big benefit (or disadvantage) to justify keeping a Class A when there were other things much more important TO US. That is what we both found and part of our decision to go with this particular Airstream floor plan. Happy Holidays! 😊🤓
Great video! We had to remove our washer/dryer combo unit in our Class A (I didn't like, and didn't need the weight - turned the space into a small closet). It took two men, completely disassembling it, to get it out the front door! Never again! Laudry facilities rock! LOL ~Lynette
They can be handy. We had an electric one too but since we went to the Airstream we got rid of it because we weren’t using ours. Ours was an induction type.
It depends! No matter how much time you spend researching and ruminating about what kind of RV you think you will love, the reality is often different. Especially if you live in it compared to spend 2 weeks and a couple of weekends a year in it. Let alone working in it 40 hours a week. One plus I see about your arrangement is you only have one engine transmission/ancillary system to repair versus two. Makes for a much light maintenance schedule. Plus that bendy in the middle would make it somewhat easier to drive. Diesel Pushers(DP) are probably the most expensive vehicle to repair especially when they get older. So moving away from such a beast and something newer is definitely better. Not that diesel trucks are cheap to repair compared to gas trucks but tiny compared to a DP. I remember listening to David Bott a DP owner saying he never has a problem getting into any campground he goes to. Well of course not, as he has eliminated 90% of the accommodations that the average RVer goes to. in other words "it depends". Not sure that having a 10,000 lbs lump of aluminium connected behind you by a few pieces of steel and chain that often outweighs your truck is all that much safer than a DP in a collision (this is probably easily countered by happywife/happylife). Airstream residual value is highly dependant on how many hail storms you drive through. I will never understand the "earthquake" thing. The reason it is that way is nobody rides in a trailer otherwise they would have to spend money at the factory and make it more compliant. Looking forward to you sharing your Airstream experiences in the future. As far as human body types go, your wife needs to realize she lives with a Ferrari and there is a lot of "class a" men body types out there she could be paired with.
Everyone always has their own analogy…or way of wording things to “make sense”. As far as the “10,000 lb (by the way is the GVWR)…I’d much rather be in a truck with air bags and built so it doesn’t basically disintegrate (as you see with so many Class A accident photos). Having the trailer behind doesn’t mean that trailer is going to likely crush “you” and in fact will more than likely jackknife or flip. A Class A, you not only will get ripped right through your seatbelt, have heavy items come flying towards you (everyone surely have kitchen knives too 😉) or thrown out of the Class A at the very least. Most are just not built for passenger safety as well as a 3/4 or 1 ton truck is. I must be a little slow because I didn’t get where you were going with your comment about “Class A” men body types that my wife could be paired with??
@@LivinRVision I was saying you in a lot better shape than most men your age. I was not talking about durability of either the truck or the class a in an accident. I was referring to the 10000 lb trailer causing the accident. As usually the trailer is heavier than the tow vehicle and it can be the tail waging the dog. It a less stable combination than a DP and a toad. Honestly being in an accident with either is pretty scary.
Ahh yes agree with the trailer, but we except other trailer brands give the word “trailer” a bad name when it comes to accidents. They just are not as stable as the Airstream…but it could still happen. People overloading the tail end weight also causes accidents. Then when people see those accidents they think it’s just because it’s a trailer. 🤷♂️
@@LivinRVision There is a skill level to driving both that is way beyond what I am comfortable with. Then their was the time I saw a fifth wheel with a boat attached to the rear bumper of the fifth wheel in Saskatchewan thinking luckily they don't allow that here. Two years later the changed the law. Most of these owners are way out of their depth with just the fifth wheel because they don't drive it enough. I always found that most accidents I avoided it was because of experience not reaction time. In other words I saw it coming before it happened.
Every different RV is just another adventure! Loved finding places to put stuff in all our RVs. Our 5th wheel is our 5th RV. Had fun with each one of them. Fun watching you two. 👍💕
Enjoyed your video. My wife and I have been rving since 1986. After 2 trailers (the second was an Airstream), a Class C and 2 Class As, I can relate to your comments about the Class A diesel pusher. There are many things that occupy my mind when I think about maintenance, particularly prior to taking a trip. And while the motor home is more involved, the stresses aren't much different to me as far as driving it or towing a trailer. And the quality of both really depend on the price point and the manufacturer. Sadly, some of the best builders are no longer in business. The Airstream we had was a great trailer but so is our current coach. Everything in it is solid as you could want. As you stated, everyone needs to evaluate their own pros and cons. Safe travels.
This has been so helpful. Plus your 100% correct, you should push someone to drive. My father did that with my mom when I was a little girl and she got so nervous that she hit the gas instead of the break and drove our van right into a tree. Never drove after that. It’s best to let folks do things at there own pace.
Thanks guys. Always interesting to hear your opinion and compare our experiences with different units. We chose the twin beds. Love, love love them. Regular size twins. We have a 22’ mini Rockwood. 2020. Love it but we’re not full time by any stretch. Safe travels!
To those who have an appreciation of “ Intrinsic Value” - The Airstream is Wonderful ! Bells and Whistles are Not their focus ? Simple but more elegant ! Discomfort will come from many folks who think you’re showing off ? If comfortable in your own skin - Go For It ! Happy Travels 🤗
I know 2 couples who bought that model a year apart, brand new. Both of them had problems with that hot water heating system. One of these couples finally got it fixed, the had to bring it to Ohio manufacturing plant. It was out of service for a while, about 4 months, The couple with the newer one (2018) never could get it working, AS literally took it back and refunded their purchase. They had to disassemble 60% of the trailer so they decided to scrap it and use the parts. These folks traded up for that AS Mercedes camper van.
Yikes! There’s really no reason that they should have went through that. The only time they have to tear the “60%” out is to get to the glycol lines. The lines only have glycol running through them and very simple. The only reason that we have heard that would be needed is if the system had “flocking” some call it “flaking” and then they have to do that because that’s the only way to get it all out of the lines. BUT, Truma told us that’s not true, as they would flush the entire system to clean it all out. Ours is a 2018 and there was absolutely no flocking in any of the lines. That all being said, I would not want the system again if I had a choice, only because there’s too many parts to the system and more to go wrong with all the glycol joints and having to relieve the air cushion every few days. Otherwise it works great and is a good system. The people in Europe love it! This all being said…something people have forgotten and looked past with our issue is this. We bought our Airstream WITH an issue from the start. We waited for a few months before having it fixed simply to take it directly to Truma/Alde to be sure they had ALL the parts if needed and especially if the entire system needed replaced. We called all the Airstreams across the country and they either didn’t have anyone that has ever worked on the Alde system OR they were booked up for months. Also, they don’t stick everything for the Alde systems. This would have been a nightmare and we would have had to wait longer for them to order. So we waited until the weather got warm enough in Elkhart, Indiana and drove to Truma/Alde. They scheduled us right in and ended up replacing the system with a new one. The only thing they didn’t replace was the Flow tank, which I knew would be a mistake, because I was confident that the previous owners didn’t relieve the air cushion ever and that tank was compromised/weakened. Sure enough it started leaking and once again Truma took care of it within a week. More to come on that in an upcoming video. So many people have it in their heads that we have had a “lot of problems” with the Alde system before knowing about the Flow tank, when in fact we just went a few months without the system working just so that we could get it fixed “right” at Truma/Alde in Elkhart, IN.
@@LivinRVision Ya I hear ya. Id like AS to stick to their ducted heating, maybe improve on that and start adding tankless water heaters as std equipment.
Funny that I found this video. We've owned Aistreams since '94. We are purchasing a Class A diesel pusher so we're doing the exact opposite. We'll see how it turns out. Safe travels!
We are sure you will love the Class A. You’ve probably came to a realization that you feel it may work best for you. I hope someday to go back to one but it just won’t work for our busy lifestyle right now. Enjoy your new Class A! 👍🏻😊🤓
Nice Jake Tapper impression by the way. Great review from a former ‘77 31’ International owner. Can’t beat the quality. Seriously considering a newer 26 or 28 footer soon. Good luck!
I am very impressed with the construction, reputation, customer satisfaction and longevity of the Airstreams, however, I really wish they would make a 5th wheel. You cannot beat the handling and safety of them, especially when you use a truck with dulles.
I've been camping for over 35 years and had a couple Motorhomes and several pull camper, a fifth wheel and now a truck camper. As you stated "to each their own" it's what you like that counts. Personally I prefer the truck / trailer (or truck camper) combo to a all-in-one motorhome. Reason being that if a truck has serious mechanical issues you can replace the truck without replacing the camper. Also I like having a vehicle to use while camping (grocery runs, propane etc). As I said to each their own. One thing that's proven true to me is a seldom used motorhome is a maintenance nightmare.
We are researching for our first RV and really appreciate you two sharing your thoughts. This video (along with others' comments) was very informative and gave us more things to discuss to narrow down what we think would be best for us. Have a great week & safe travels!
I've own two travel trailer and a 40' diesel pusher. Overall, the best of the three was our Airstream. Airstream fit and finish is the best. It's easier to travel compared to the diesel pusher. The air flow, whether head wind or side wind is never a problem with an Airstream. Downside was lack of outside storage. Airstream holds its value where the others drops like a falling knife.
Very true, and we don’t think the Airstream is best for everyone either but they sure are something to consider because of what you just said. Thanks for sharing! 😊🤓
Thanks for the great info. We purchased a 25ft flying cloud this spring and noted all the same pros to an airstream vs buying a Class A. Keep up the great videos!
Hi there Brian and Michelle. So pleased I've discovered your channel. Have been binge watching ever since, needless to say not much sleep last night, and no chores for today. 🙄 I'm a 77 year old lady from South Africa with cery 'itchy feet'. Thank you for the marvelous trip.
Great video! Am investigating our first RV and we love the design of Airstream. This video was very educational, so appreciate it. I also love the rapport between the two of you. I subscribed and will look at your channel to learn more before we make our purchase. Thanks!
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks! 😊🤓 We wish you the best of luck in your search for your first RV! 👍🏻If you would, let us all know what you end up getting and why you felt it worked best for you. 👍🏻
Airstreams are beautiful, but I will never own another RV that does not have slide outs. Airstream is basically the iPhone of RVs. Overpriced for a little bit of pretty engineering and flashy aluminum. Yeah the slow close cabinets are nice, and they are a thing of beauty engineering wise, but it just is not worth the trade off to me for more square space, 3 slide outs etc. I can always customize my cabinets and upgrade my RV to the quality I like. Fun video though guys, thank you.
Go to Ohio and take the Airstream Factory Tour. You will see from the inside out, how they are built. Not too far away is the Kitchenaid Mixer factory tour. Also a good trip.
😂🤣 Judith… we ARE always on vacation anymore, we just work still and enjoy that “vacation” time when we are not working. So taking “vacation days” for “us” sometimes is taken on purpose FOR our channel.
We went from a $850K class A to a 27' Airstream. Couldn't be happier. I hated having to have a vehicle behind it..... I'll never go back to a motorhome. And I have driven everything from a Tractor Trailer to a NASCAR racecar.
Thanks, very good description / explanation y'all. My Wife and I have always debated on going to a motorhome from travel trailering. We always end up realizing for us, the towable with a truck pulling just is simpler. I say we could drive a smaller motorhome without a dinghy tow, but I know we will not want to break down our setup just to go into town. For folks on a lower budget, I can attest that a small trailer 19' was surprisingly versatile (for a couple) and a relative pleasure to tow.....but our rig was more for 2 week vacations at a time not necessarily full timing. 😊
That was me (Michelle)! I keep seeing a few people make comments about how many years experience they have driving a truck/semi and it’s so frustrating because it has absolutely nothing to do with how someone feels as far as safety. My anxiety was just horrible in our Class A. Some things I liked of course but it also wasn’t practical for OUR needs. 🤷♀️ I absolutely LOVE driving our truck and I feel so much safer. At least we have air bags now too lol 🤓
Chalk full of great info! @airstream needs to scoop this video up! I have been using my “easy bake oven” for about a year now. Lol Oven broke and w kids gone, we just don’t need a big one! I would suggest this video to anyone considering getting into the RV life!
i love driving my blue bird wanderlodge, its a 36ft class A pusher, i dont like the idea of having to get out of a truck to walk back to the trailer to eat or use the bathroom in a 5th wheel or travel trailer setup.. The Blue Bird has a full steel roof with aluminum diamond plate over that, the only way the roof can leak is if a sunroof seal or bolt holding the spotlights or air horns let water in,, shes 32 years old and ive owned it for over 4 years, no roof leaks yet..
That’s awesome and a perfect example of there is an RV for everyone’s needs. As mentioned in the video, we went to this exact model of Airstream from our Class A for the reasons mentioned: if we were retired and still traveling full time, it’s hard to say what we would go with. Getting out of the truck wasn’t the deciding factor for us though, there were more important things to consider “for us”. The Bluebird is a great machine! Would love to have one someday! We’re so glad you are happy with it because that is what’s important.👍🏻🧡😊🤓
Wonder lodge was good but from my experience way under powered . Very loud inside like most class A's eventually. As far as , pulling over every once in a while to relieve yourself and stretch your legs it does have enormous safety advantages. I have 35 years of over the road trucking experience which includes nearly 2.75 accident free miles. Believe me the occasional stops may seem inconvenient but in reality they offer huge safety benefits in the long run. New fan of your channel because you guys keep it real. Keep the shiny side up and see you on the flip flop.
Loved this video! Just a nice casual conversation with $100,000 of good advice, comparing and contrasting what works and what you've found doesn't. 👍👍👍
I enjoyed you commentary very much. After 22 years with a 36’ Class A diesel pusher, last Fall I made the switch to a 25’ Airstream. My reasons for doing so parallel yours almost perfectly (trip preparation, maintenance expense and fear of upcoming failures of the aging chassis components) Dingy pulling has it own set of compromises. I have owned a 3/4 ton Diesel crew cabs for nearly two decades for towing a commercial tandem trailer so the transition from self propelled RV to towing the Airstream was seamless. The differences are, as you explained so well, are merely ‘adjustments’, not sacrifices. Thank you for your video, I am sure many will benefit from your discussion.
Thank YOU for sharing this. 👍🏻😊🤓
The logic of separating coach and power is older than the wheel itself.
Even 10,000 years ago, you could swap out a new horse/dog for aging livestock/pet.
A quality trailer like an airstream can last multiple generations. Repairs and maintenance are similar to updating a fixed house.
But the tow vehicle? Tech is changing so rapidly that even a 5 yo vehicles is aging. Consider the next gen might be small elect drive motors for high torque starts coupled with a primary diesel/gas high mpg at cruising.
What about safety and comfort? New features added every year. And dont forget leaving the "house" behind for periods of time without expensive running gear sitting idle.
No, the smart way to approach this is TV and trailer.
Have a truck camper now but climbing in The bed for the wife is a challenge tuned dinette into bed and added addl 4 in foam for her hoping to get out this winter
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They missed one "Pro"...... The Airstream is without any doubt the best looking RV out there.
I was on my way home today, on the highway, and got to follow an Airstream. It was an older model, but absolutely gorgeous. I was disappointed when I got to my exit and couldn’t see it anymore. Before turning off, I watched it go. I’m sure the owners loved buying it and never looked back.
They’re nice looking, all right.
I have an Airstream 15 years with ton of miles and it still looks and runs fantastic
My brother had an airstream trailer, fixed up by the previous owner. He lived out of it on his own land for a while before selling it once his house was completely finished.
My male cousin still has his Airstream. He researched online for how much his make and model sold, and looked up the costs for upgrades, repairs, and “prepairs”, used that to haggle more off of the price, bought it at a heavily discounted cost, did the “prepairs” and upgrades himself, it’s doing great for him. He uses it to go on road trips, hang out up at the lake campgrounds, and as his “man cave camper”, or “Manper” at his home (but it’s not like that gross pop up “Manper” from “Here Comes Honey Boo-Boo”).
Traded our 37 foot diesal pusher and Jeep toad for a 27 foot AS and Dodge PU with 6.5 bed. We did this while on a 2 month trip in the western US. Our main concern was where to put everything that we had with us. (2) 100W solar panels that we had intended to install on the A, 2 foldable e-bikes with no bike rack (stored in the Jeep) and a huge closet of hanging clothes from the A. Everything fit and we did not use all of the space in the AS. We even moved from a residential frig (I had to store my beer in a cooler for the balance of our trip).
Your concerns with maintenance, potential slide failure, leveling jacks and the many other systems issues (broken awnings) were too much for me to enjoy camping. I realized that my choices for camping spots were dictated by the size often finding ourselves in "parking lots" without any trees. It wasn't camping anymore - we were hauling an apartment around with us. I got to dislike driving the A. Driving has always been part of the camping experience that I enjoy. It is so much better with a pickup. The dash air works well, the comfort can't be compared. I enjoy driving once more. I am so glad that I took the hit and got my Airstream.
That is very well said and SPOT ON! We felt the exact same way. Thank you for sharing this because we Conor forgot to mention that. So happy for you as we know exactly how you feel.👍🏻🧡😊🤓
I've been really happy with my 75 Excella 500. 31'. I've lived and traveled all over the US for 13 years now.
Motorhomes wear out (rust), license costs and mileage. With our trailer now better mileage once we unhook and life time license. If it wears out or we want to change, we still keep the truck and change the trailer. The best thing I liked about the motorhome was when it was raining, we did not have to go out in the rain, trailer you get wet running from truck to trailer.
Good points. We’ve been pretty lucky with the rain so far but we do have rain coats just in case. Something that doesn’t happen much at all for us. We all have different needs and need to focus on what we all know works best for us. 👍🏻😊🤓
Just wanted to take the time to say that you guys are so much fun to watch. I appreciate your channel because you are so real....not developing extra drama just for attention. Thanks!
One of my husband's first jobs was riveting Air Streams back in the '70s! We have a Bumper Pull with slide-outs. We really love it because it has tons of storage space, but cheap finishes. I would love to get an Air Stream someday just for the natural light, but I think I would miss the slide-outs. We watch RV shows and videos all the time and discuss pros and cons and agree that Bumper Pulls are the best option for us. We just paid off our Toyota Tundra and are looking forward to trading it in for a newer truck with a larger gas tank because we plan on taking much longer trips after I retire in 3 years!
I am glad you found the perfect RV for you. Everyone should get what they like and are happy with. As for us we love our class A. My wife is handicapped. She can't sit in a regular truck all day with her legs down. She needs to recline. Also she lives being able to go to the bathroom and make snacks while I drive. As for storage like you said the class A blows the Airstream away! There is no comparison. Fortunately we have a higher end RV. Our cabinets are solid cherry. None of our trim ever rattles let alone falls off. We are all electric so we have no propane problems. I like how we can pull in any larger parking lot and I can have our car unhooked in under a minute and we are.free to go to any restaurant or store we want. Our big diesel takes us right up the hills and the air brakes along with engine brake bring us back down safely without burning up our brakes like so many people with trucks talk about. At the end of the day I completely agree with you. Get what you like and can afford and go have fun.
Yes, you definitely need something like the Class A for your situation. But like so many do, people always forget about the storage you get in the back of a truck especially when you put a cap on the back like ours is. It’s not like a fifth wheel where you have the hitch back there. Very few people ever want to mention this. Your storage does not HAVE to be in or on your RV to “have storage” and our Airstream model does actually have more than you would think but no, not as much as our 40’ motorhome had. But again, we made up
For that having the back of the truck and we can even increase that by putting the shelf system in if we wanted to.
We had a Class A DP as well, and many other’s have too that we have talked to and they are all very similar as far as hills/mountains… depending on the engine and load. This truck we have cruises right up the hills pulling this AS like it is nothing. We can keep right at 62 mph easily which you can not do easily with most Class As. Semis always struggle too depending on their load.
Our truck also has the exhaust brake/engine brake which has been common for quite a while and do not burn up the brakes. It works very similar to the Class A.
Sorry if you felt like our video somehow was putting down the Class A but it was not at all. Our video was completely about OUR experience with our old Class A vs this particular model of Airstream and the reason it works so well for us is because of our work schedules and less to worry about.
Nobody should take offense to us explaining our own personal experience because our situation is different than most people’s. I simply can not let others make a comment about something that simply is not true though and confuse others even more. The things about the truck is simply not true. Hope you don’t take offense. We just have to be very honest about this and make sure those that don’t know any better do know the truth so that they can make a good decision for themselves. 😊🤓
in 2018 we bought a brand new Class A Winnebago. Our first time on the road one of the wall panels came off (stapled) and knocked me on the head. The supposedly "locked" cupboards didn't stand all the shaking and came open dumping everything inside. When we reached our destination, it looked like an earthquake for sure. Within 6 months of driving it, one of the bathroom stopped working, one of he slides started to scratch the floor, several more panels came off, bathroom walls buckled and many more disasters. It was a money pit. We went to get it fixed with factory warranty 3 times within 1 year. Someone told us we should never buy brand new Class As. Well, after we get rid of that trap bucket, I want a smaller one. I enjoyed your video.
We paused this video about 2 dozen times while we discussed our opinions about the points that you raised. It brought out a lot of very good points - for you and for us - that helped clarify our position.
Good information, good video, good job!
That’s awesome, we’re so glad you found it helpful! 👍🏻🧡😊🤓
My most favorite RV channels in the order of Most smiles.
#1 LivinRVision I'm smiling the whole dang time
#2 Keep Your Daydream smiling most of the time
#3 Changing Lanes lots of smiles
Love You Guys
That’s very sweet! We love these guys too but don’t get a chance to watch anymore.
The only RV channel I'm subscribed to based on the personalities !!
That was so nice of you to say! 🧡😊🤓
Good information. Thanks. I'm single & full-time in a 38 ft Ventana DP. I couldn't roll without a washer/dryer. But, that's me. I agree about the slides... fewer is better.
Awesome video about your preference for the Airstream over a class A, you're both very likable and I just really enjoyed watching this. I'm really thinking about buying one of these to take my wife on a road trip before she gets too far along with her Alzheimers disease.
We’re so sorry about your wife’s diagnosis. We’re sending prayers for some happy memories for the both of you in an Airstream or whatever you decide on. May you both make some very beautiful memories to cherish forever. 🧡
Love your video, all excellent points. As a teenager in the early 70's , my parents had a 31ft AIRSTREAM International Sovereign that still brings back memories (mostly good), I was the electrical, leveling and "T" handle guy if you get my meaning. Still to this day, I have a soft-spot. Now in my 60's, wish I could get my wife to go the AIRSTREAM route, I'd settle for a 25" Flying Cloud.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed! The Airstream are a great choice. The 25’ Flying Cloud seems to be a popular choice.
Thanks Michelle and Brian for sharing your thoughts on the switch from Class A to Airstream. You present your information clearly and with humor which I really love about you two. Safe travels!
Thanks Nancy! So glad you enjoyed it. 😊🤓
We love our SMALL Class A gasser. 2017 Jayco Precept 31UL. We love the large windshield, plenty of storage, easy access to bathroom, easy toad hook up, automatic leveling, and with opposing slides, plenty of living space.
So glad you found a great RV that makes ya happy!! That definitely makes traveling enjoyable.
Thank you , I have been hoping that you would make this video . Lots of good information on what to consider when buying ! Safe travels to you two and thumbs UP !
Awesome, Thank you! 😊🤓
We watch several travel blogs on RUclips. Each one imparts knowledge that we can use. For us your Q&A or informational videos far exceeds all the others. Thank you for your unbiased reports. They are concise, laced with humor and just what we need. We think you need a dog😜 Thanks keep ion RV'n!!
How very kind of you. 🧡😊🤓 Here… 🐶 will that do? 😉
Just found your channel. Very happy you found an RV you like. We have had a class A 40’ diesel pusher for 3 years. We’ve done tent camping, truck cab over, and have had 2 fifth wheels. My husband loves driving our class A! I don’t worry about driving it! We feel very safe in it. Love the huge windshield!
We know it’s big but we have always been able find a campsite for us. We do boondocking, , state, federal and national campgrounds and RV parks. Basically my husband got tired of the whole 5th hooking up. When he told me he wanted a class A diesel pusher I thought he was crazy. I love it! I love how while he is driving I can go back into the kitchen and make lunch. He loves the king size bed!🤣
Everyone’s RV experience is different. Safe travels!👋😁
Absolutely. I loved driving the Class A also and have expressed that many times. The things you love are the same that we loved about our Class A also as well as many other people. But after 2 years in the Class A…we realized due to OUR lifestyle, we knew we needed to make a change to lessen the stress and that is exactly what it did for us both. No fluff, no bull, straight honest truth of us sharing OUR experience. We have been asked to share our experience of both and how we feel. Sometimes people don’t like to hear that when they like what they have and that is simply because what they have works best for them but it doesn’t mean it works best for everyone, which is why we never suggest any RV for anyone because you have to figure that out yourself as so many things can change the experience that we may not know about with others lives. We are so very happy for you guys that you are enjoying your Class A. That is what is important. 🧡😊🤓
What a great and realistic talk about the RV experience!
GOOD JOB !
You 2 never fail to make me smile! Whats really funny is my daughter who normally ignores what I'm watching, laughs and talks to me about your videos every week. BONUS. Hahd!*
Aww that’s so cool! You’re daughter sounds like one awesome girl! Lol 😃 Thanks so much! We absolutely love to make others happy and smile and the beautiful comments that we get in return from so many others like yourself makes us smile as well! 🧡😊🤓
First let’s just get this out of the way: You two are ADORABLE. You have great followers too. The commenters are being easy on you. I’ve seen these vids before and omg, if you “dis” what they deem the best, they let you have it in the comments! Nice to see and you handled it perfectly. 🙂❤️ Everybody deserves the best rig for them!!!
Aww thank you! It’s always risky putting yourself out there, but we can’t be of any help either if we don’t. There will always be those that just have to disagree and feel that their way is the only way. Hearing from multiple sources helps us all make our own decisions.
Don’t forget to visit Jackson Center, Ohio… a lot of Air Streams come home once a year
I too was a custom home builder. One model I built and lived in four times with little iterations in each home until I had it perfect. It is that point the neighbor has a dog that barks 24 hours a day and then you have to move.
Hi Brian & Michelle, enjoyed the explanation for your RV swap. Luckily, my wife does not have any desire to drive like Michelle. She does think it’s important to know how, in case something happens where I cańt drive. Our first year of ownership was fraught with repairs, mostly by me. This was due to previous owner´s lack of knowledge and maintenance of this RV. The repairs have slowed down and I am less stressed than before.I find many of the class A pros you mentioned are true with ours also. We have a few other pros that were not true with your Ventana, such as solid oak cabinets and doors, no trim falling off, no washer/dryer (which I consider a pro) and my wife loves the RV. We also purchased our RV outright, so no payments to worry about and the longer we maintain and own it, the better payback we enjoy. Sometimes I think about downsizing, but that will be later on. Take care!
Yes, there’s just a lot to worry about with the Class A but we still enjoyed it. Actually our Ventana DID have solid wood cabinets, (Newmar’s are known to have solid wood, at least in the older years like ours) but the crown molding is what would occasionally fall.
Thanks for sharing this! Very good information to think about. My wife and I own a 2005 Beaver Patriot Thunder and have been living full time in it since 2014. We love it! But as you pointed out, there is no doubt in my mind it is much more expensive to maintain than your Airstream. I enjoy your weekly video blogs so much and look forward to watching more of your adventures! Thank you again for sharing!
That’s a very well built rig you have. That would be hard for me to get rid of, but for us it boiled down to the worries of maintenance. If we were retired, we may just keep something like what you have. Hard to say right now since we are not retired. Time will tell. Thank you so much for the kind words and thanks for watching! 😊🤓
Thank you both for your honest review of the first six months of Airstream living. Over the years I have owned travel trailers and I promised myself next RV would be a class A or B. After watching your travels and trailer adventures I’m convinced it back to a travel trailer period. Keep the great videos coming !!!
Hi Neal! Well we hope that is truly what you feel is best for you. We hope our videos like this makes a point to others that they should do what they feel is best for them and not feel what we do is best for them. We hope it truly helped you. Thanks so much fir sharing this. 👍🏻😊🤓
Sandra Westley from the Uk we have always had trailers, you cannot park RV over here, there are barriers that even with a top box on our 4x4 we cannot access, most people that have Motor homes here park up on site, and use the local buses to travel around, that to us is totally unacceptable as my husband is waiting knee replacements and waiting around for buses is not my idea of enjoying a holiday, especially in our climate of rain and occasional sun, that’s no fun at all, but loads of people do that so they don’t have to tow.
We love our 2021 Classic 33 ft Airstream. I prefer to drive when we are pulling it. My husband doesn’t mind driving either.
We wish we had the 2021 ourselves. We really love the white interior one! Enjoy! 🧡😊🤓
@@LivinRVision I hear you. Wife and I love the white interior so much we ordered a 2022 Classic with it. Meanwhile, we will still be enjoying our 2020 25 footer until the new one come in sometime later this year.
We own a 2018 35’ class A diesel pusher, and I agree totally with you about how expensive they are to own and operate. Annual Freightliner chassis service alone is between $2000 and $3000. We are Floridians, and leave Florida during the hot, humid, and hurricane months. We are currently 2 1/2 months into a four month trip visiting the western national parks. So far on this trip, one of our bedroom slideouts stopped working, we developed a leak in our hydraulic pump that powers the large forward slides and the levelers, and our 50 amp plug detached from the cord. For these and other reasons, we are considering trading for a Gretch Strada ion, like you have switched to. The limiting factor is the size: we have a rescue dog who is pretty big, and the class B is going to be tight for us.
It takes some getting used to but you soon start to realize how much more you are enjoying your travels when you lessen your headaches and worries which include the ease of getting into more places and not having to drag along a toad to explore in. Any Class B is not meant to live in full-time, but it sure has been nice these past 5 months. There’s always cons and pros to each and every one of them. Just gotta do what you feel is best for you. 👍🏻😊🤓
@@LivinRVision we do have a home in Florida, so we will not be full time. Our home is in a gated RV community, where all the homes have an RV garage or port.
Very nice! 🧡
Biggest problems we have with Airstreams r the inflated prices. They are also not near the same quality as they used to be, comparing what my parents had with what you buy now. If I could have theirs I'd be a happy camper. The ones now are so totally inferior to the older ones. They are also owned by a different company now which has dumbed down the quality but still banks on people buying them for the name & sleak different look.
Ours is a 2018 and the quality is still superior than any other we have seen. The reason why they are worth the money is because even if you spend $100,000 you can usually get most of that money back a few years later.
You can spend half that of $50,000 on another make that will cause you to lose more when you sell it in the same amount of ownership time.
As far as being “too pricey” (which they are pricey and for a reason), what really matters is how much money you lost after the time period of ownership. Believe it or not, you can lost more money buying something for 50k than you can buying something at 100k. But you also have to buy what you can afford and are happy with. I’m just giving a realistic example that so many people totally ignore or miss.
As far as quality going down hill…yes, that has actually happened to not all, but almost all RV manufacturers in the past few years. Many that used to be good quality are now lacking in that department. Airstream are still high above most as far as quality…but AGAIN…you have to buy what works best for you not what others try to convince you to buy. Our video is NOT about trying to convince anyone what they should buy. It is simply a video about OUR comparison to this particular model compared to our Class A model. Nothing more.
I'm with you. I hated driving the class A. When my husband passed away
I downsized to. 24ft B+. Love it.
Sorry to hear about your loss. 🙏🏻
Glad you found what works best for you. 👍🏻😊🤓
Great review of your Airstream. I can tell you both are enjoying it. Many blessings and safe travels!! Always enjoy your videos
Thank you, yes we really are enjoying it! 🧡😊🤓
We have been full time since 2017 and have a 1999Allegro Bay motor home. No slides and is gas. We love it. In our past we had a TT, and a class C. I do not think we would ever get an RV with slides. We boondocks a lot so a washer and dryer seems silly since water is at a premium. We went with a class A for safety reasons. It is a lot easier to leave a bad place if necessary.
Those are a very good coach. Would of loved to have one with no slides also. Still too much for me to keep up with though while working as much as I do and on weekends. We don’t boondocks much at all and when we do we try to pick places that seem more safe with plenty of others around. What you have sounds perfect for you. 👍🏻😊🤓
@@LivinRVision Raving is so personal. That is why why when someone asks what they should get I always tell them it's personnel. Great video BTW
Agree 💯 Thanks! 😊🤓
Another fun and very informative video! Thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts on your Class A to truck and towable switch. You've really given us a lot to think about as we prepare for some RV travel in retirement which begins in June 2022. We won't be full time RV'ers, but do plan to take several multiple month trips to explore our beautiful country. Like you always say, "find out what works best for your own specific situation," well said! Enjoy and stay safe out there!
So glad you found the video helpful! Thanks for your feedback and we appreciate the kind words. Safe travels! 🧡😊🤓
Hi 👋🏻 guys!!! I am up early today… drinking my coffee while catching up with you. Great list of your pros and cons. Thank you for sharing! 💗
👋🏻 Jolene!! Yay! Cheers!☕️ ☕️ Thanks for watching! 🧡😊🤓
After much research and renting a Class C, we bought our 2020 27’ Globetrotter and have been full time for 13 months. We love it for most of your reasons (we don’t have the work station).
Congratulations finding what works best for you guys! 👍🏻😊🤓
We’ve got a gas truck + Airsteam. Part of our consideration was one engine vs 2 engines (motor home + TV). Cheaper to maintain and insure. Also, when you have to do that engine maintenance, you don’t have to leave your “house”.
We too have sold our diesel pusher and are buying a travel trailer. Many of our reasons mirror yours. Looking forward to seeing more videos on your channel. Thank you.
We hope you enjoy the new travel trailer!! We wish you safe travels and fun adventures with it!
Thanks for sharing your ideas. After three travel trailers and having owned a van now for nine years I can admit that I have not had the perfect RV yet. BUT: The manufacturing quality was MUCH better than what I see (thrown?) in the booming market today. I believe that my van and I will not divorce unless Diesel cars' use will be prohibited here in Europe. Greetings from Bavaria, Germany.
Agree, the decline in quality lately has been disappointing. Thanks for sharing your experience! 😊🤓
Thanks for that quick reply, and even though I prefer my class A, I still enjoy your videos and I will continue to be a fan.
You’re very welcome. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a Class A. All RVs have their pros and cons and we all have to get what works best for us all. I LOVED driving our Class A but Michelle loves driving our truck and at least will drive now. If we didn’t work so much as mentioned in this video. Things may be different for us. My stress level has went down since we sold our Class A. Now I can focus on work better and travel days are less stressful for us. We both worried so much every time we had to put the slides in and out and every time we had to put the jacks up and down. Now we only have the stabilizer jacks which just does that…stabilize and much easier to work on if an issue. Less moving parts for leveling now too. That doesn’t make the Airstream better than a Class A though…. What makes one RV better than another RV is how well it fits your needs. Sounds like you found what is perfect for you and we support that 100%. Safe travels and we hope to meet you down the road sometime! 👍🏻😊🤓
Imagine stuff flying around in a US Navy Frigate during a typhoon at sea... and you can't just pull over if you get stressed! I learned to 'Tie stuff down'. 'Stow it , Sailor'. I can still hear my ol' Navy Chief yelling at us!
My only hang up I have is to long of a trailer can sometimes hinder you.
We had a 30' foot and there were some places we could not get in.
So after 3 years we traded in for a 23' much better in finding places and dont have to worrt about hair pin curves. I totally agree if you can buy a AirStream its a good investment, does not loose value all that much.
Cheers.
Luckily we have not ran into any issues with our RV length in campgrounds or parks. Although we haven’t stayed right in a NP yet either because we need cell service/Internet for work and NPs don’t have that. Hopefully we won’t have any problems with our 33’.
Thanks for watching! 🧡😊🤓
@Martin driver 602……perhaps you have noticed, but the most common freight trailers are ‘53 in length and usually pulled by tandem axle conventional cab tractors. Have you thought about how and where the truck drivers routinely make deliveries in congested commercial areas and terminals? They learned how to drive, use mirrors and judge distance. Glad you ‘23 is working out for you.
I drove a school bus in my 20s so driving the 30' class a wasnt a problem. We have on 08 rexhall aerbus, it was not put together with love, lots of crooked angles. Our slide buttons had to be replaced, the auto jacks have given us a little problem. It has 2 full wall slides so it has lots of room and storage.
I loved driving the Class A, just too much for us right now with all the maintenance. Maybe someday we’ll go back. Who knows. Wow, sounds like a nice floor plan!
Thanks for the info. Good seeing you two again. You to are the best.
Good and honest video and having both view points is important !
Glad you enjoyed! Yes, VERY important to be honest!👍🏻😊🤓
Bumper pull travel trailers seem to be the best compromise. I have a 2020 Escape 19’ fibreglass trailer (like Casita), one of the best, no leaks, highly sought after. The only RV I would trade for would be a 25’ Airstream with twins. Great video.
Glad to hear you’ve found works best for you. 👍🏻Thanks for sharing.😊🤓
My Airstream has lasted 20 years while my friends have gone thru Class As, 5th wheels and travel trailers
@MarieLamour-cv1jc there are pros and cons to each and every RV. We could go back and fourth with each. Gotta do what works best for yourself. 👍🏻
@MarieLamour-cv1jc it depends on the size of AS you have plus how you utilize your storage in the back of the truck like we did with the topper. Many things to consider.
@MarieLamour-cv1jc it trying to “convince” you at all (and for what purpose??). Like we said earlier, you have to do what works for “you”. We never think what we do is best for someone else nor should anyone else. Many people get offensive about this subject for whatever reason. We were simply saying that with the truck storage the way we had it set up worked for us and how it works for others depends on what model AS you have and how you set up your truck storage. Please don’t take offense, keep doing what is best for you. 🧡😊🤓
Nice job guys. When we retired and went full time in 2018 we new we wanted a trailer having owned a Coleman Popup and a HI-LO for 30 years. The freedom of a tow vehicle and small trailer always attracted us. We looked at the Airstreams and loved them but the talk of leaks and rotted floors put us off. Having been in the siding business for 50 years I have seen my share of hail damage and the aluminum skin was another turnoff. We decided on an Oliver Travel Trailer and after 40,000 miles it tows beautifully and is built like a tank.
We went full time in 2018 also…on Thanksgiving Day due to the buyers wanting to close the day before. Lol
As far as the Airstreams, the roof thing is something that I believe is an issue of a problem that was never checked to begin with. Once a pressure test is completed and any air leaks are sealed, you don’t hear of anyone having the problem.
As far as the floors rotting out from a leak, has also been solved by a composite flooring that does not deteriorate/rot. I’m not sure what year it was that they started this but it’s been a while.
As long as your are happy with you Oliver, that’s all that matters. 👍🏻😊🤓 They are a good trailer too.
Well done, thank you for sharing. I had a 38' fifth wheel and it was more work than pleasure.
God bless you guy's. There is definitely a RV for everyone. Personally we love our class A. We have a 2006 42' Monaco Dynasty diesel pusher. We level with our air suspension. We don't have jacks. Also our cabinets are solid cherry. No cheap particle board here. I really appreciate being able to do a load of laundry in the evening while watching a movie. I also like how on travel days we don't have to get out in the rain to use the bathroom or go to the kitchen. Of course our class A is definitely taller and linger then your Airstream. We definitely can't fit in the smaller sites like you can. Like I said there is a RV for everyone. Safe travels.
Enjoyed your comparison between the Class A you had, and the Airstream. As you say, each selection has it's pro's and con's. My wife and I have gone from tents, to pop-ups, to Travel Trailers, to a Fifth Wheel, and now a Class A. I personally loved sleeping in the pop-up and we haven't had any experience with a class B or C, yet... As we aren't full timers, we've only had gas vehicles, so no diesel. Totally agree with the maintenance, however there is one benefit that a Class A, or any motorized motor home has over a travel trailer and you mentioned, and that is the convenience of using the facilities while traveling. Restroom, and access to the fridge or couch, or... While I know you should do that only on a limited basis, if health wise, such as fibromyalgia , you need to get up and move frequently while traveling, a motorized vehicle is definitely the way to go. Thanks for your review.
True, but that doesn’t work so well for the driver. :) The driver still has to pull over to use the facilities. We have a fridge in the back seat area of the truck to keep drinks and food when traveling. A lot of times when we have to pull over to use the facilities, we also grab something else from the fridge. Also another benefit is no slides covering up any of the cabinets or even the fridge like some models. Like you said, they all have pros and cons and to each their own. 👍🏻😊🤓
@@LivinRVision what??! You mean cruise control doesn't mean automated driving? JK, but the wife has to get up way more frequently, and even when we use to drive down to Florida in a car, I still did 90% of the driving, so towing a car and having a motorized RV for us fits. Merry Christmas!
Lol Yes, it sounds like most of us women seem to get up more frequently then the guys. But the men still need to as well and still requires us to pull over. In our video that you were commenting to…this was the least of our concerns for us, it simply wasn’t a very big benefit (or disadvantage) to justify keeping a Class A when there were other things much more important TO US. That is what we both found and part of our decision to go with this particular Airstream floor plan. Happy Holidays! 😊🤓
Great video! We had to remove our washer/dryer combo unit in our Class A (I didn't like, and didn't need the weight - turned the space into a small closet). It took two men, completely disassembling it, to get it out the front door! Never again! Laudry facilities rock! LOL ~Lynette
Thanks and thanks for sharing this! Sounds like a nightmare getting that our the door.
Your transition was a good decision, for all those reasons. Keep on rollin. :)
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We had an aha moment and bought an electric fry pan that we use when hooked to power, love it.
They can be handy. We had an electric one too but since we went to the Airstream we got rid of it because we weren’t using ours. Ours was an induction type.
That’s what a gentleman does for the woman he loves. Makes changes and sacrifices to cater to his woman!
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It depends! No matter how much time you spend researching and ruminating about what kind of RV you think you will love, the reality is often different. Especially if you live in it compared to spend 2 weeks and a couple of weekends a year in it. Let alone working in it 40 hours a week.
One plus I see about your arrangement is you only have one engine transmission/ancillary system to repair versus two. Makes for a much light maintenance schedule. Plus that bendy in the middle would make it somewhat easier to drive. Diesel Pushers(DP) are probably the most expensive vehicle to repair especially when they get older. So moving away from such a beast and something newer is definitely better. Not that diesel trucks are cheap to repair compared to gas trucks but tiny compared to a DP. I remember listening to David Bott a DP owner saying he never has a problem getting into any campground he goes to. Well of course not, as he has eliminated 90% of the accommodations that the average RVer goes to. in other words "it depends".
Not sure that having a 10,000 lbs lump of aluminium connected behind you by a few pieces of steel and chain that often outweighs your truck is all that much safer than a DP in a collision (this is probably easily countered by happywife/happylife). Airstream residual value is highly dependant on how many hail storms you drive through.
I will never understand the "earthquake" thing. The reason it is that way is nobody rides in a trailer otherwise they would have to spend money at the factory and make it more compliant.
Looking forward to you sharing your Airstream experiences in the future. As far as human body types go, your wife needs to realize she lives with a Ferrari and there is a lot of "class a" men body types out there she could be paired with.
Everyone always has their own analogy…or way of wording things to “make sense”. As far as the “10,000 lb (by the way is the GVWR)…I’d much rather be in a truck with air bags and built so it doesn’t basically disintegrate (as you see with so many Class A accident photos). Having the trailer behind doesn’t mean that trailer is going to likely crush “you” and in fact will more than likely jackknife or flip. A Class A, you not only will get ripped right through your seatbelt, have heavy items come flying towards you (everyone surely have kitchen knives too 😉) or thrown out of the Class A at the very least. Most are just not built for passenger safety as well as a 3/4 or 1 ton truck is.
I must be a little slow because I didn’t get where you were going with your comment about “Class A” men body types that my wife could be paired with??
@@LivinRVision I was saying you in a lot better shape than most men your age.
I was not talking about durability of either the truck or the class a in an accident. I was referring to the 10000 lb trailer causing the accident. As usually the trailer is heavier than the tow vehicle and it can be the tail waging the dog. It a less stable combination than a DP and a toad. Honestly being in an accident with either is pretty scary.
Ahh yes agree with the trailer, but we except other trailer brands give the word “trailer” a bad name when it comes to accidents. They just are not as stable as the Airstream…but it could still happen. People overloading the tail end weight also causes accidents. Then when people see those accidents they think it’s just because it’s a trailer. 🤷♂️
@@LivinRVision There is a skill level to driving both that is way beyond what I am comfortable with. Then their was the time I saw a fifth wheel with a boat attached to the rear bumper of the fifth wheel in Saskatchewan thinking luckily they don't allow that here. Two years later the changed the law. Most of these owners are way out of their depth with just the fifth wheel because they don't drive it enough. I always found that most accidents I avoided it was because of experience not reaction time. In other words I saw it coming before it happened.
😂 yes, we’ve seen that too with the fifth wheel and boat. I think I took a triple 👀 to see if my eyes were deceiving me. Lol
Great topic. Agree everything has its pros & cons. Whatever works for YOU is best.
Thanks guys! We were due for a “typical RV topic” 😉🤪
That’s exactly right.👍🏻😊🤓
Good video. Sure enjoy your channel and you guys look great. Thank you so much for sharing your adventures.
Thank you so much, Alan! 😊🤓
Every different RV is just another adventure! Loved finding places to put stuff in all our RVs. Our 5th wheel is our 5th RV. Had fun with each one of them. Fun watching you two. 👍💕
You are so right. We all find the RV that works best for each of us and sounds like you have found yours as well. Thank you very much!🧡😊🤓
Wow! Thank you for taking the time and effort to share your experience and observations, very helpful.
Enjoyed your video. My wife and I have been rving since 1986. After 2 trailers (the second was an Airstream), a Class C and 2 Class As, I can relate to your comments about the Class A diesel pusher. There are many things that occupy my mind when I think about maintenance, particularly prior to taking a trip. And while the motor home is more involved, the stresses aren't much different to me as far as driving it or towing a trailer. And the quality of both really depend on the price point and the manufacturer. Sadly, some of the best builders are no longer in business. The Airstream we had was a great trailer but so is our current coach. Everything in it is solid as you could want. As you stated, everyone needs to evaluate their own pros and cons. Safe travels.
This has been so helpful. Plus your 100% correct, you should push someone to drive. My father did that with my mom when I was a little girl and she got so nervous that she hit the gas instead of the break and drove our van right into a tree. Never drove after that. It’s best to let folks do things at there own pace.
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Sounds like you guys made the right decision on getting the Airstream for your situation. I do like the design of the Airstream.
Thanks Denny. We feel we have.👍🏻😊🤓
Thanks guys. Always interesting to hear your opinion and compare our experiences with different units. We chose the twin beds. Love, love love them. Regular size twins. We have a 22’ mini Rockwood. 2020. Love it but we’re not full time by any stretch. Safe travels!
Thanks for sharing that. Safe travels! 👍🏻😊🤓
I just found your channel a couple weeks ago. Yep I binge watched and caught right up. :) you guys are awesome, so funny and genuine. :)
Aww thank you so very much! Welcome to the Visionary Gang! 🧡😊🤓
To those who have an appreciation of “ Intrinsic Value” - The Airstream is Wonderful ! Bells and Whistles are Not their focus ? Simple but more elegant ! Discomfort will come from many folks who think you’re showing off ? If comfortable in your own skin - Go For It ! Happy Travels 🤗
Great airstream information! Thanks for deciding to do a video on things you like/dislike. Happy travels.
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I know 2 couples who bought that model a year apart, brand new. Both of them had problems with that hot water heating system. One of these couples finally got it fixed, the had to bring it to Ohio manufacturing plant. It was out of service for a while, about 4 months, The couple with the newer one (2018) never could get it working, AS literally took it back and refunded their purchase. They had to disassemble 60% of the trailer so they decided to scrap it and use the parts. These folks traded up for that AS Mercedes camper van.
Yikes! There’s really no reason that they should have went through that. The only time they have to tear the “60%” out is to get to the glycol lines. The lines only have glycol running through them and very simple. The only reason that we have heard that would be needed is if the system had “flocking” some call it “flaking” and then they have to do that because that’s the only way to get it all out of the lines. BUT, Truma told us that’s not true, as they would flush the entire system to clean it all out. Ours is a 2018 and there was absolutely no flocking in any of the lines. That all being said, I would not want the system again if I had a choice, only because there’s too many parts to the system and more to go wrong with all the glycol joints and having to relieve the air cushion every few days. Otherwise it works great and is a good system. The people in Europe love it!
This all being said…something people have forgotten and looked past with our issue is this. We bought our Airstream WITH an issue from the start. We waited for a few months before having it fixed simply to take it directly to Truma/Alde to be sure they had ALL the parts if needed and especially if the entire system needed replaced. We called all the Airstreams across the country and they either didn’t have anyone that has ever worked on the Alde system OR they were booked up for months. Also, they don’t stick everything for the Alde systems. This would have been a nightmare and we would have had to wait longer for them to order. So we waited until the weather got warm enough in Elkhart, Indiana and drove to Truma/Alde. They scheduled us right in and ended up replacing the system with a new one. The only thing they didn’t replace was the Flow tank, which I knew would be a mistake, because I was confident that the previous owners didn’t relieve the air cushion ever and that tank was compromised/weakened. Sure enough it started leaking and once again Truma took care of it within a week. More to come on that in an upcoming video.
So many people have it in their heads that we have had a “lot of problems” with the Alde system before knowing about the Flow tank, when in fact we just went a few months without the system working just so that we could get it fixed “right” at Truma/Alde in Elkhart, IN.
@@LivinRVision Ya I hear ya. Id like AS to stick to their ducted heating, maybe improve on that and start adding tankless water heaters as std equipment.
I’m with you 100% 👍🏻
Funny that I found this video. We've owned Aistreams since '94. We are purchasing a Class A diesel pusher so we're doing the exact opposite. We'll see how it turns out. Safe travels!
We are sure you will love the Class A. You’ve probably came to a realization that you feel it may work best for you. I hope someday to go back to one but it just won’t work for our busy lifestyle right now. Enjoy your new Class A! 👍🏻😊🤓
Nice Jake Tapper impression by the way. Great review from a former ‘77 31’ International owner. Can’t beat the quality. Seriously considering a newer 26 or 28 footer soon. Good luck!
😂 Hope you find what you want. 👍🏻😊🤓
I am very impressed with the construction, reputation, customer satisfaction and longevity of the Airstreams, however, I really wish they would make a 5th wheel. You cannot beat the handling and safety of them, especially when you use a truck with dulles.
Thanks for the tips…. Pro vs Con
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I've been camping for over 35 years and had a couple Motorhomes and several pull camper, a fifth wheel and now a truck camper. As you stated "to each their own" it's what you like that counts. Personally I prefer the truck / trailer (or truck camper) combo to a all-in-one motorhome. Reason being that if a truck has serious mechanical issues you can replace the truck without replacing the camper. Also I like having a vehicle to use while camping (grocery runs, propane etc). As I said to each their own. One thing that's proven true to me is a seldom used motorhome is a maintenance nightmare.
That’s exactly right. Motorhomes are nice/fun to travel in, but not the best choice for everyone. Thanks for sharing! 👍🏻😊🤓
We are researching for our first RV and really appreciate you two sharing your thoughts. This video (along with others' comments) was very informative and gave us more things to discuss to narrow down what we think would be best for us. Have a great week & safe travels!
Thanks so much for sharing how this another’s comments have helped you guys. That is so hood to know! Have a wonderful week as well! 😊🤓
I've own two travel trailer and a 40' diesel pusher. Overall, the best of the three was our Airstream. Airstream fit and finish is the best. It's easier to travel compared to the diesel pusher. The air flow, whether head wind or side wind is never a problem with an Airstream. Downside was lack of outside storage. Airstream holds its value where the others drops like a falling knife.
Very true, and we don’t think the Airstream is best for everyone either but they sure are something to consider because of what you just said. Thanks for sharing! 😊🤓
Thanks for the great info. We purchased a 25ft flying cloud this spring and noted all the same pros to an airstream vs buying a Class A. Keep up the great videos!
Awesome and congratulations on your Flying Cloud! 🎉 Thanks for your feedback that should also help others make a decision for themselves as well. 👍🏻😊🤓
we have a 37 foot camper with 3 slides. Love the room and creature comforts.
Hi there Brian and Michelle. So pleased I've discovered your channel. Have been binge watching ever since, needless to say not much sleep last night, and no chores for today. 🙄 I'm a 77 year old lady from South Africa with cery 'itchy feet'.
Thank you for the marvelous trip.
Welcome to our channel, Prudence! So happy you found us and enjoying our videos! We hope to come to South Africa someday…looks so beautiful! 🧡😊🤓
Hi Prudence- I’m also binging- I’m 73 yrs old living in Sacramento calif 💜🐾
Great video! Am investigating our first RV and we love the design of Airstream. This video was very educational, so appreciate it. I also love the rapport between the two of you. I subscribed and will look at your channel to learn more before we make our purchase. Thanks!
Glad you found it helpful! Thanks! 😊🤓 We wish you the best of luck in your search for your first RV! 👍🏻If you would, let us all know what you end up getting and why you felt it worked best for you. 👍🏻
Airstreams are beautiful, but I will never own another RV that does not have slide outs. Airstream is basically the iPhone of RVs. Overpriced for a little bit of pretty engineering and flashy aluminum. Yeah the slow close cabinets are nice, and they are a thing of beauty engineering wise, but it just is not worth the trade off to me for more square space, 3 slide outs etc. I can always customize my cabinets and upgrade my RV to the quality I like. Fun video though guys, thank you.
Go to Ohio and take the Airstream Factory Tour. You will see from the inside out, how they are built. Not too far away is the Kitchenaid Mixer factory tour. Also a good trip.
Planning on it. Did not know about the Kitchen Aid factory tour. Thanks. 👍🏻😊🤓
For Goodness sake! Do something more exciting for your vacation!!
I mean, really???
😂🤣 Judith… we ARE always on vacation anymore, we just work still and enjoy that “vacation” time when we are not working. So taking “vacation days” for “us” sometimes is taken on purpose FOR our channel.
I also love the airstream windows, that in the daytime people cannot see inside so you can keep all the blinds open and take in the full view.
We love that part also! 🧡😊🤓
Glad you guys are enjoying the airstream/ safe travels 🤙
Thank you! 😊🤓
We went from a $850K class A to a 27' Airstream. Couldn't be happier. I hated having to have a vehicle behind it..... I'll never go back to a motorhome. And I have driven everything from a Tractor Trailer to a NASCAR racecar.
Thanks for your honest opinions. Have a good week.
👍🏻😊🤓 You too!
Thanks, very good description / explanation y'all. My Wife and I have always debated on going to a motorhome from travel trailering. We always end up realizing for us, the towable with a truck pulling just is simpler. I say we could drive a smaller motorhome without a dinghy tow, but I know we will not want to break down our setup just to go into town. For folks on a lower budget, I can attest that a small trailer 19' was surprisingly versatile (for a couple) and a relative pleasure to tow.....but our rig was more for 2 week vacations at a time not necessarily full timing. 😊
Sounds like you have the best option for your situation…as the saying goes, don’t fix something that isn’t broke. 👍🏻
We have been with you for a long time. Love your channel. Thanks for sharing!
All good points we enjoyed your video and you said it several times. It’s got to fit your lifestyle and how you want to travel. Happy travels
Glad you enjoyed the video, thanks! 😊🤓
You always have great insight and are meticulous. I really like that. It's helpful for sure. Looking forward to your future videos! Safe travels!! 😁
Thanks Shane! 🧡😊🤓
Thank you. I’m in a class c now, but upgrading to a truck and airstream next year.
Sounds nice! Which Airstream model do you want to get?
I'm thinking of getting an enclosed car hauler or race trailer and build the inside plus have a garage in the back 😎
Really enjoy your channel - fun, but also real life!
Thank you very much!! 🧡😊🤓
We just bought a class A and I was shocked how much anxiety I have riding in it. All the things you mentioned. I sure hope I get over that lol.
That was me (Michelle)! I keep seeing a few people make comments about how many years experience they have driving a truck/semi and it’s so frustrating because it has absolutely nothing to do with how someone feels as far as safety. My anxiety was just horrible in our Class A. Some things I liked of course but it also wasn’t practical for OUR needs. 🤷♀️
I absolutely LOVE driving our truck and I feel so much safer. At least we have air bags now too lol 🤓
@@LivinRVision yeah. It’s so funny how people think anxiety is something easily dismissed lol. I’m happy you got fixed up.
Chalk full of great info! @airstream needs to scoop this video up! I have been using my “easy bake oven” for about a year now. Lol Oven broke and w kids gone, we just don’t need a big one! I would suggest this video to anyone considering getting into the RV life!
Thanks! 🧡 Time to make an easy bak pie! 👍🏻😊🤓
i love driving my blue bird wanderlodge, its a 36ft class A pusher, i dont like the idea of having to get out of a truck to walk back to the trailer to eat or use the bathroom in a 5th wheel or travel trailer setup.. The Blue Bird has a full steel roof with aluminum diamond plate over that, the only way the roof can leak is if a sunroof seal or bolt holding the spotlights or air horns let water in,, shes 32 years old and ive owned it for over 4 years, no roof leaks yet..
That’s awesome and a perfect example of there is an RV for everyone’s needs. As mentioned in the video, we went to this exact model of Airstream from our Class A for the reasons mentioned: if we were retired and still traveling full time, it’s hard to say what we would go with. Getting out of the truck wasn’t the deciding factor for us though, there were more important things to consider “for us”.
The Bluebird is a great machine! Would love to have one someday! We’re so glad you are happy with it because that is what’s important.👍🏻🧡😊🤓
Wonder lodge was good but from my experience way under powered . Very loud inside like most class A's eventually. As far as , pulling over every once in a while to relieve yourself and stretch your legs it does have enormous safety advantages. I have 35 years of over the road trucking experience which includes nearly 2.75 accident free miles. Believe me the occasional stops may seem inconvenient but in reality they offer huge safety benefits in the long run. New fan of your channel because you guys keep it real. Keep the shiny side up and see you on the flip flop.
Thank you for sharing this. Appreciate that. 👍🏻😊🤓
Great info on the Pros & Cons. Thanks for your honesty.
Absolutely! Thanks for watching! 😊🤓
Loved this video! Just a nice casual conversation with $100,000 of good advice, comparing and contrasting what works and what you've found doesn't. 👍👍👍
We appreciate this very much. We’re so glad you enjoyed the video! 👍🏻😊🤓