I’ve learned a lot about RVs with your videos over the years and bought an RPod 180 in June 2017. Had a great camping season (mostly boondocking) and enjoyed the craftsmanship and features of the RPod. The wife and I smiled as you described us and our lifestyle in your video.
Love my entry level single axle small bunkhouse TT that bought a year ago. Looked at many models with the same floor plan including the Jayco 174BH, Coachmen Clipper 17BH and its twin the Viking 17BH but chose a 2017 Keystone Hideout 175 LHS. It's an 8 foot wide TT so it has the widest dinette (42"), widest bunks (32"), and 60" wide Queen bed that other models just did not measure up to or even come close to. Has the largest B & G tanks at 30 gallons each. The best part is the bathroom with the tub & shower surround, skylight above the tub, power vent fan above the toilet, and a bath sink with a decent sized cabinet & counter along with a mirrored medicine cabinet and 2 GFI outlets. Most other single axle TT's with this same floorplan, their baths didn't have half these amenities. Almost all have no bath sink, including Winnebago's 1700BH that costs about $5K - $6K more. This TT also had a storage access door (aka "Pack N' Play" door) at the lower bunk that flips up for larger items. To make my TT better, installed 2 additional RV windows for more cross ventilation and natural lighting; at the upper bunk and at the foot end of the front queen by the entry door. Also added privacy curtains for both bunks and the queen bed up front, easily done with tension rods and a curtain rod. Just installed the "Hott Rod" electric hot water heating element and an exterior shower, both also relatively easy to do for this model. The 2018 model is not as good as took away some of the features so glad I got it then instead of waiting as my wife had suggested. Compare the many RUclips dealer videos for the 2017 & 2018 models and you'll see the differences.
A single axle and no slides is the way to go when off-roading with an camper trailer set-up. I added wider / bigger tires to give more flotation when dragging our Keystone 1900RD down the beach. Generator stays in back of truck, we can boondock for weeks in our "small trailer" set-up.
Thank you. I've been looking at small travel trailers for a year now and looking to buy 1. I've been tent camping for 30+ years now and it's time to get off the ground..lol.. I didn't know much on trailers but with your knowledge I'm learning a lot about them now. Thank you
I've been Rving for over 20 years my last one was a 31ft 5ver. I got sick of moving that behemoth around. It was major work just to deal with all that was involved with it. Keeping all the brakes synchronized, maintaining an extra axle, wearing out shackles and bolts, leaking slides and the list goes on. I down sized 4 years ago to a 22ft single axle travel trailer. It's never been as much fun. So simple to maintain, so much easier to heat and cool. And literally twice the gas mileage. Kid are grown, so it's just me and the wife so we don't need or want the extra space. I'll never go big again. I haven't missed the 5th wheel for a minute.
We have a 2016 Keystone Springdale Mini 1800 BunkHouse. Our F150 pulls it (3200lbs) effortlessly. The only caveat is that the unit is a full 8' wide. We love that extra foot in width that is absent in many other small units, but I need mirror extensions (don't have tow mirrors). We have paneling in our shower - it is fully caulked and hasn't leaked. I asked about that, and they said most small units are that way. It works just fine. And I definitely recommend upgrading the toilet during negotiations. We did, and it is MUCH more comfortable and sturdy. For our small family, a small unit is great!
These last a long time if taken care of. We have a 25' 1998 Aerolite that's been use a lot, still in good shape. Single person can live full time in these.
You could make a ton of content on the different types of campers, duel hybrid, single hybrid, pop up, A frame pop up so on and so on. I think it would be good for your channel.
There is something to be said about tent trailers as well. My Families trailer is 12 foot while packed (plus hitch and bumper) but 24 feet when set up. Two queen beds in there as well. We can jam this thing in areas that a regular 24 foot trailer cant get to
You know what’s funny? I always have a hard time backing up small trailers like this. The longer ones are just easier for me to move around. Thanks for the video.
Well done review. The cheap one will cause you nothing but headaches with water problems. The R-Pod is much better but still a bit too small. I don't like to crowd the towing capacity of my half ton ford pickup. Just a little bit bigger than those two is allot better. If you only have a SUV keep it small but expect to cary extra ice chests and lawn chairs etc.
As a single guy anticipating full timing in 10 years or so, I look forward to your review of a smaller 5th wheel (25'?) IF my lady friend joins me in this endeavor, we'll get something larger of course. Right now, the thought is a Super C. Love the Jayco Seneca with a bath and a half floor plan. 10 long years out...lol...wonder what they will come up with by then........ Great series...thanks!
These are both nice travel trailers, just a little to small for my taste. What I do like about both of these though is that they don't have murphy beds, which seems like a lot of lightweight tts are going to nowadays. Personally I'd prefer a camper that has a couch that sort of sections off the front bedroom, like the Jayco Jay Flight SLX 264BH. Plus that adds extra sleeping space for friends and family if they were going camping with me
The R-Pod is a very popular line. Forest River now also offers the Rockwood Geo Pro and Flagstaff E-Pro lines (same trailers with different interior fabric choices and external graphics) that are becoming very popular with boondockers.
Happy New Year BTBRV! Now once again you put out a good video with info a new camper needs to hear. It’s been three years this coming April we bought our first little camper, after years on tents on the ground to an upgrade tent in the truck bed. But now that we’re older? We need a bathroom and real bed. I knew enough when I started looking, I would want a walk around queen bed and dry bath. So I did my homework, after dreaming of an Airstream, then bought a Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pup 16 FQ. That has been trouble free, other than a bad battery that would not recharge after three months usage. I have to also add RUclips has been a great asset to learn about all the issues you will need to deal with! Especially the black and grey tanks to fresh water tank and hot water heater and the propane systems. Along with shore power and 12 Volt. While looking, I did take a good look at the R Pod at our dealer, but I found the fiberglass smell and heat from the sun a turn off, along with price. Now as far as the shower lining, that’s how mine is, the shower is mainly a convenience, that I only use while boondocking or dricamping. But all we do is wipe it down after using and it still looks like new! I have upgraded to a bigger battery box. But our little trailer has all the accessories we need. We can tow it effortlessly with our Colorado Z71,4x4, V6 Ext Cab just fine, while getting decent mileage. If we were to upgrade, it would be to a travel trailer no bigger than 24’ or so, with ducted AC and a cable tv hookup.
the reason the clipper doesn't have a shower wall surround is because of the price point. The r-pods also started out without surrounds but within the last few years added them.
I have been researching SUV's and towing capabilities before buying my 2018 Jeep Cherokee with 3.2 liter V6 and factory tow package that can tow up to 4500 lbs with a tongue weight of 450 lbs. This is the best in its class for towing. Every other one in its size range, plus many in the next size range can only tow a maximum of only 3500 lbs with a 325 lb tongue wt limit. To get decent towing capability in an SUV you have to up to the size of the Explorer/Grand Cherokee/Traverse size and up and both the Traverse and Explorer with tow package can only tow up to 5000 lbs. (The larger than Cherokee Ford Edge is also limited to 3500 lb max tow. The Grand Cherokee rules this size category for towing also with a max tow capability with factory tow package of over 6000 lbs) To really tow you need to go to the Durango/Tahoe/Yukon/Expedition/Suburban sized SUV's. I am using my Jeep to tow a KZ Escape 201RB with a dry weight of 3530, Hitch weight of 370 and a GVWR of 4500 lbs. Fully loaded put on the scale and it weighed in at 4230 with a tongue weight of 440 lbs with the equalizer hitch. I barely notice it is behind me.
Good information on your channel, my wife and i own a cadet, after some slight mods like solar and an inverter the little cadet goes great with our Jeep JKU used it on the "mountains to sea" JKX without any issues what so ever, after our mods the cadet is great for boon dock camping, we looked at an Rpod and picked the Cadet Because of price a greater ground clearance and it's Metal siding ( we pulled it along Forrest roads as well as highways rock throws and tree branches we an issue), We got it for that single trip but ended up keeping the little trailer until we traded it for a 2019 Cadet just like the one you show here .It too will do mountains to sea in the 2019 JKX and the Jeep Invasion at the GSM National Park in late 2018. Both trailers are great for Jeep wrangler JKU The truck pulls it like its not there " kinda spooky it so light"
Weight is very important for those who would buy these, should be the first thing you talk about. Thanks for the tire recommendations. The comparison was helpful. RPods are teardrops. Clipper Cadets are more traditional.
May I make a small correction? You mentioned in the first trailer that the A/C was also the heater for that unit. It actually had a regular fan-forced furnace in it for heating as well (most do). It ws under the kitchen counter and could be seen at 3:00, the exhaust is just to the left of the main door .At the bottom of the counter that blackish looking grill is the furnace grill. So you have a heater other than the A/C heat cycle that runs on propane and 12 volt for boondocking. The A/C is 110 volt only.
My buddy just got a Coachman Clipper nice rig think he paid 16k. He has a dinette slide and his shower has sides.Also has power awning outside shower and outside speakers.
Enjoy your channel very much, would you address issues related to a owning a vehicle with a diesel engine. Specifically, importance of a fuel filter(after market?), fuel/water separator, importance of good quality fuel, caution "filling up at a low lying gas station after rain", traveling in rural area/foreign country, etc.
Thanks for the nice video. It would really help me out if you gave details about the beds. I believe the beds in this video are 60”x74” long. Not a true Queen. As I am 74” tall myself, this detail is significant to me and other taller viewer. Especially because I plan to use my small trailer primarily to sleep in doing as much of everything else outside. Thanks again for your quality videos.
I've bought a few trailers, I have found, owning an Rpod and the MPG, the MPG was better built with that said, usually these little units are built very shoddily, basically throw away when done.
Id like to retract my comment on your previous video . You do a great job of informing people with the right information and do it from a honest consumer point of view . Keep up the good work
I bought a jayco around this size and the only thing I wish I did was got a little bit longer to have the layout with the rear bunks, small dinette and the queen bed. The one I have is the table that folds down for the queen which I find very inconvenient.
i actually just purchased the 2018 jayco jay flight SLX 174bh...very happy about the purchase to fit the wife and I and daughter and 2 german shepherds either using the bottom bunk or the floor or dinette. our first trailer so were very excited. i believe you might be talking about the 154?
HAPPY New Year. Thanks for all of your great info this year. My 2018 upgrades will be new stairs and a new toilet. Can't wait to see all of the new things I learn.
I own a 2013 lance 1575 not in the same price range as the CADET or Rpod but only weighs 2575 including a slide out. For those who are interested check out the 2018 model..
hey great video, not to take away from what you are saying but we had purchased a 2017 viking 17bhs which is the same thing as coachman clipper but with a slide out. what a nightmare the slide out leaked badly open and closed. and the insulation on the underbelly was all soaking wet and actually started sagging i had to take it 5 times to the dealer to get it fixed right..every seal was replaced and it still leaked i mean puddled up on the floor. still wasn't right i think its a design flaw. after that the we used the heater and 5 minutes into using it the camper filled up with smoke and it burned up the furnace and the wires going to it. we only had it 3 months. long story short after a lot of fighting the dealer completely bought the camper from us in full.. its been over 7 months and they still haven't posted it up for sale yet.. just thought i would chime in..have a great day hope this helps some people
A second axle is more weight and expense. It would be better if they just put heavier duty tires on them. RVs typically put the bare minimum on from the factory and tires lose a significant portion of their load capacity every year after they are manufactured. No other vehicle runs down the road at 100% of it's tire capacity all the time. It should be illegal.
Terry Waters we build these campers and utitily trailers and no it don't cost much more to add a extra axle we get our axles for $107 and yes they are Dexter the best in the business so you add 2 extra tires for the complete set up for the extra axle max $375 that is it and yes tires also
I like the size, but not amenities. I found the Heartland Prowler 18LX is the same size, same floor plan, tandem axle, two propane tanks, battery, shower with wall surround, PORCELAIN toilet, full fridge/freezer, three burner stove with oven, stainless double basin sink, electric/gas water heater, outside shower, electric awning, optional electric jack, four stabilizer jacks, house is built on top of fender wells (no fender boxes inside house), passthrough front storage, 4,000lbs. All for $13,000.
The one unit that didn't seem to have sides, doesn't make any sense, maybe the put in the sides later. I can't believe that fabric would hold up long term.
+A good review of your thoughts and comments as usual. They don't really impress me though. The RPOD looks to be the best. I think though that the little ones like these are just built to cheaply by ALL the manufactures though. They seem to feel like only a beginner, -or a person just wants a roof over their head or is a seldom user is all they have to please. In other words screw them who cares! Example no battery, no furnace no gas tanks. Does the frig work on gas even? Don't even remember seeing a battery rack on the one, I even would be surprised to see more than one LP tank on the RPOD, That shower on the one bothers me too,(I could tell it bother you too!). It just looks to cheap to me! Their relying on some type of a coating on that wall. Bet the guarantee is all the way out to the street corner, one year or one Minute which ever comes first. LOL it would be if they could get away with! The single axle is bad also. Not good for capacity of the unit, puts to much of the percentage of the weight on the tow vehicle as well. That cargo capacity is using the tow vehicle a LOT in its measurement LOOK under the trailer and check the AXLE rating and you'll see what I mean! I know you know the formulas, check it. You need to look at the whole picture here! They're pushing every thing to the limit (they do it with all size trailers I know). Their goal is build them cheap, cheap and even CHEAPER only. I realize profit is the name of the game. A company is just an entity though it has no sole and could care less about you. Profit margin is the only reason it exists along with protection from liability to its owners! I know, long winded and I got on my high horse too, Sorry about that!
Would you consider making a video showing viewers some of the not so well built travel trailers that are out there in the market. I recently went to a RV show and sale and seen some pretty poorly built units . For example roofs that have a thin (non walkable) soda can construction to them . Seems some of the not so popular brands are out to take your hard earned money in turn for a trailer that may last only a few years. Just an idea I thought you might consider. Thanks.
I had to laugh when the door opened and the weight sticker is stuck on slanted....you get what you pay for, except with rv's...great video love to watch and weep..
Your videos are very helpful and fun to watch, and your F450 King Ranch is a good looking truck. I love the intro you do In every video u make. Happy New Year Big Truck.
Love the way a compact caravan in the US would be a large heavy caravan in the UK. Compact caravans in the UK are 12 ish feet long and weigh in at about 1750lbs...
First thing is. Looks like clipper is junk. No tv/radio. No microwave no freezer and no black tank clean out or tank levels indicator. (If the clipper has them,he didn’t show it) Both rpod and clipper will need better mattress than what’s put in. In my opinion all rv’s sold should come with propane tanks and battery installed. My 2015 Rpod 179 was pretty much ready to go when I bought it. Nice to see the put a window in the door! My year doesn’t have it. And I wish it did.
Another great video look at small RV's this time???? Instant thumbs up! Happy New Year! And I don't know that I would risk towing one of those things with my ole' 04' Ford Ranger lol. 😀😀😀😀😀😀😀
I looked long and hard at hybrids 5 years ago. I was in a Coleman Cheyenne pop up at the time (The Big Boy). I ultimately picked a Class C as I was unsure if my 94 E150 was going to last much longer...sadly it did not. Three pop outs...great for larger families with many smaller children. I looked at many during camping trips....folks love showing off their rigs...very nice units.
You need a F450 to pull those trailers any other size truck will be overloaded lol. The Rpod trailer would be good for a guy/gal that does field work something like a forester or a geologist etc somebody that works in the bush.
It's strange that the one for $11k doesn't have shower walls. I would try to get a discount and get plain shower surround walls from Lowe's. NICE units, and the prices are reasonable.
Tina Gallagher - really not that big of a deal. We have basically same trailer. Just wipe down wall with towel after showering. Shower surround add additional weight and can also end up with mold if water get trapped between it and the wall behind it :)
Great video, very informative for people like me that are looking to get their first RV. What I am looking for is a little different though, I am looking for a small toy hauler (inside or front deck), have you done any videos for those?
On the 'R POD' unit how the heck can you 'make the bed' with it completely filling up the front end of the unit? Must be a nightmare changing the sheets.
Just bought a 2021 keystone hideout and it has the same wall panels as the rest of my camper in the shower also. I’m wondering if I can use a plastic type stick on panels over it.
I like that it has plenty of upper wall space to put a mini split in. AND I THINK all CAMPERS AND RVs should come with a mini split installed in them. The ones they put in now. are TOO LOUD and are cheaply made break.
I like flexibility of the new Murphy bed campers. Living room by day, then Bedroom at night. BTBRV, see if you can find one for a review and your opinion.
Have you looked at the Oliver brand of compact (17 ft) fiberglass RVs? They look to be on the upper end of trailers that size and the construction seems to be really durable, I'd love to get your opinion on one of those.
Hi, your videos have been very informative. I would like your opinion on something . Would a Ford Ranger or a Toyota Tacoma be able to pull a pop-up trailer. My family are considering buying one and do not want a large truck. The smaller ones are a better choice at this current time for us.. we’re budgeting and love camping with tents. We decided to add a pop-up to our camping adventures. Thanks in advance for any advice.
twinx70 - that was my first choice also. Ended up buying one of these a year ago because got it for a good price. In hindsight, glad we got this type vs. A frame. First trip was raining a lot. With this type, no assembly required. Just got out of our tow vehicle and into this. With an A frame would have gotten soaked. Another time, we experience dogs and wont have been able to set up and A frame. On the flip side, with an A frame you probably get better gas mileage. Just our experience so far
Diamond plate rock guard on the back of the first unit, why? 11k for cardboard box on wheels, with no bottles or shower walls, thats going to be an issue. Rpod is much nicer. Do they make the cheaper unit to compare and promote the better models? No freezer no furnace, may as well buy a nice tent. Happy new year, from indiana.
Driver fatigue where you have a truck that yes can tow your towable but not well, so driver is always adjusting his acceleration, deceleration etc. Something many don't think about... Trailer places are bad for over selling weight to truck ratio.
I have a 2016 Ram 1500 with a 5.7 Hemi that I pull a Cougar xlite that weighs about 5200 lbs. I’m thinking about upgrading and was wondering what gear to shoot for keeping the same engine. I think I have a 3.21 now Great videos. Lots of good information.
Charlie Wing I’d have to agree that 4.10’s are a great option. First and foremost it’s the fact that FCA options 4.10 for the axle, so its even something that you can purchase from FCA. But, also I have 3.73’s on my 2500 (I know, comparing Galas to Granny Smiths) and I regret not having the 4.10’s. I would imagine that the real world MPG trade off would have been negligible. BUT If you have a 4wd, SERIOUSLY consider the cost associated with regearing both axles. You money may be better spent upgrading the truck elsewhere instead of pulling both pumpkins. This is doubly true if there is a carrier break in the gear options. You may have to replace more that a ring and pinion if the carrier for the 4.10 is different than the 3.21 carrier. You may be replacing the carrier, spider gears, ring, pinion, bearings, basically all the internals to regear for the relatively few times you’ll be pulling; which can easily be overcome by manually downshifting to get that 5.7L back in the meat of its powerband.
I wasn’t clear on my upgrade. I’ll be looking for a new truck. I think Rams offerings are a 3.21, 3.55, and a 3.92. Considering it’s my daily driver, and I’ll be towing roughly 6000 lbs, would the 3.55 be sufficient or would you recommend the 3.92? The 3.21 I presently have does alright, but I’m concerned about excessive wear and tear on the motor and trans.
You mentioned that just about any tire on this trailer would be sufficient for it’s length and weight. I have a Rockwood Mini Lite 1905. 20’ long single axle. 4100 lbs GVRW. Are the Castle Rock tires that came on my trailer going to be fine?
If I was shopping for a trailer and saw the haphazard positioning of the yellow payload sticker I would run away from the Clipper. Wow what has happened to Quality control?
I’ve learned a lot about RVs with your videos over the years and bought an RPod 180 in June 2017. Had a great camping season (mostly boondocking) and enjoyed the craftsmanship and features of the RPod. The wife and I smiled as you described us and our lifestyle in your video.
Love my entry level single axle small bunkhouse TT that bought a year ago. Looked at many models with the same floor plan including the Jayco 174BH, Coachmen Clipper 17BH and its twin the Viking 17BH but chose a 2017 Keystone Hideout 175 LHS. It's an 8 foot wide TT so it has the widest dinette (42"), widest bunks (32"), and 60" wide Queen bed that other models just did not measure up to or even come close to. Has the largest B & G tanks at 30 gallons each. The best part is the bathroom with the tub & shower surround, skylight above the tub, power vent fan above the toilet, and a bath sink with a decent sized cabinet & counter along with a mirrored medicine cabinet and 2 GFI outlets. Most other single axle TT's with this same floorplan, their baths didn't have half these amenities. Almost all have no bath sink, including Winnebago's 1700BH that costs about $5K - $6K more. This TT also had a storage access door (aka "Pack N' Play" door) at the lower bunk that flips up for larger items. To make my TT better, installed 2 additional RV windows for more cross ventilation and natural lighting; at the upper bunk and at the foot end of the front queen by the entry door. Also added privacy curtains for both bunks and the queen bed up front, easily done with tension rods and a curtain rod. Just installed the "Hott Rod" electric hot water heating element and an exterior shower, both also relatively easy to do for this model. The 2018 model is not as good as took away some of the features so glad I got it then instead of waiting as my wife had suggested. Compare the many RUclips dealer videos for the 2017 & 2018 models and you'll see the differences.
A single axle and no slides is the way to go when off-roading with an camper trailer set-up. I added wider / bigger tires to give more flotation when dragging our Keystone 1900RD down the beach. Generator stays in back of truck, we can boondock for weeks in our "small trailer" set-up.
Thank you. I've been looking at small travel trailers for a year now and looking to buy 1. I've been tent camping for 30+ years now and it's time to get off the ground..lol.. I didn't know much on trailers but with your knowledge I'm learning a lot about them now. Thank you
Thanks for checking out the smaller travel trailers!
I've been Rving for over 20 years my last one was a 31ft 5ver. I got sick of moving that behemoth around. It was major work just to deal with all that was involved with it. Keeping all the brakes synchronized, maintaining an extra axle, wearing out shackles and bolts, leaking slides and the list goes on. I down sized 4 years ago to a 22ft single axle travel trailer. It's never been as much fun. So simple to maintain, so much easier to heat and cool. And literally twice the gas mileage. Kid are grown, so it's just me and the wife so we don't need or want the extra space. I'll never go big again. I haven't missed the 5th wheel for a minute.
We have a 2016 Keystone Springdale Mini 1800 BunkHouse. Our F150 pulls it (3200lbs) effortlessly. The only caveat is that the unit is a full 8' wide. We love that extra foot in width that is absent in many other small units, but I need mirror extensions (don't have tow mirrors).
We have paneling in our shower - it is fully caulked and hasn't leaked. I asked about that, and they said most small units are that way. It works just fine. And I definitely recommend upgrading the toilet during negotiations. We did, and it is MUCH more comfortable and sturdy.
For our small family, a small unit is great!
Thanks for this. My wife and I have been looking at smaller trailers just to try out boondocking to see if we like it.
Thumbs up. When it comes to travel trailers I would only buy an Oliver which is more expensive, but I like the quality.
These last a long time if taken care of. We have a 25' 1998 Aerolite that's been use a lot, still in good shape. Single person can live full time in these.
You should really have your own television show on top of your RUclips channel. So much information . Thank you.
Before buying a trailer I would go to a major RV show and check out what’s available from several manufacturers. Be sure that small isn’t too small.
You could make a ton of content on the different types of campers, duel hybrid, single hybrid, pop up, A frame pop up so on and so on. I think it would be good for your channel.
There is something to be said about tent trailers as well. My Families trailer is 12 foot while packed (plus hitch and bumper) but 24 feet when set up. Two queen beds in there as well. We can jam this thing in areas that a regular 24 foot trailer cant get to
You know what’s funny? I always have a hard time backing up small trailers like this. The longer ones are just easier for me to move around. Thanks for the video.
Well done review. The cheap one will cause you nothing but headaches with water problems. The R-Pod is much better but still a bit too small. I don't like to crowd the towing capacity of my half ton ford pickup. Just a little bit bigger than those two is allot better. If you only have a SUV keep it small but expect to cary extra ice chests and lawn chairs etc.
As a single guy anticipating full timing in 10 years or so, I look forward to your review of a smaller 5th wheel (25'?)
IF my lady friend joins me in this endeavor, we'll get something larger of course.
Right now, the thought is a Super C. Love the Jayco Seneca with a bath and a half floor plan.
10 long years out...lol...wonder what they will come up with by then........
Great series...thanks!
These are both nice travel trailers, just a little to small for my taste. What I do like about both of these though is that they don't have murphy beds, which seems like a lot of lightweight tts are going to nowadays. Personally I'd prefer a camper that has a couch that sort of sections off the front bedroom, like the Jayco Jay Flight SLX 264BH. Plus that adds extra sleeping space for friends and family if they were going camping with me
We have an rpod 182g and absolutely love it. The outdoor kitchen/garage is awesome. Great video!
The R-Pod is a very popular line. Forest River now also offers the Rockwood Geo Pro and Flagstaff E-Pro lines (same trailers with different interior fabric choices and external graphics) that are becoming very popular with boondockers.
Happy New Year BTBRV! Now once again you put out a good video with info a new camper needs to hear. It’s been three years this coming April we bought our first little camper, after years on tents on the ground to an upgrade tent in the truck bed. But now that we’re older? We need a bathroom and real bed. I knew enough when I started looking, I would want a walk around queen bed and dry bath. So I did my homework, after dreaming of an Airstream, then bought a Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pup 16 FQ. That has been trouble free, other than a bad battery that would not recharge after three months usage. I have to also add RUclips has been a great asset to learn about all the issues you will need to deal with! Especially the black and grey tanks to fresh water tank and hot water heater and the propane systems. Along with shore power and 12 Volt. While looking, I did take a good look at the R Pod at our dealer, but I found the fiberglass smell and heat from the sun a turn off, along with price. Now as far as the shower lining, that’s how mine is, the shower is mainly a convenience, that I only use while boondocking or dricamping. But all we do is wipe it down after using and it still looks like new! I have upgraded to a bigger battery box. But our little trailer has all the accessories we need. We can tow it effortlessly with our Colorado Z71,4x4, V6 Ext Cab just fine, while getting decent mileage. If we were to upgrade, it would be to a travel trailer no bigger than 24’ or so, with ducted AC and a cable tv hookup.
the reason the clipper doesn't have a shower wall surround is because of the price point. The r-pods also started out without surrounds but within the last few years added them.
The nice thing about those tires, on each trailer... You can use a car tire (if situation dictates) rather than a trailer tire, as a replacement.
I have been researching SUV's and towing capabilities before buying my 2018 Jeep Cherokee with 3.2 liter V6 and factory tow package that can tow up to 4500 lbs with a tongue weight of 450 lbs. This is the best in its class for towing. Every other one in its size range, plus many in the next size range can only tow a maximum of only 3500 lbs with a 325 lb tongue wt limit. To get decent towing capability in an SUV you have to up to the size of the Explorer/Grand Cherokee/Traverse size and up and both the Traverse and Explorer with tow package can only tow up to 5000 lbs. (The larger than Cherokee Ford Edge is also limited to 3500 lb max tow. The Grand Cherokee rules this size category for towing also with a max tow capability with factory tow package of over 6000 lbs) To really tow you need to go to the Durango/Tahoe/Yukon/Expedition/Suburban sized SUV's. I am using my Jeep to tow a KZ Escape 201RB with a dry weight of 3530, Hitch weight of 370 and a GVWR of 4500 lbs. Fully loaded put on the scale and it weighed in at 4230 with a tongue weight of 440 lbs with the equalizer hitch. I barely notice it is behind me.
Absolutely love how all these trailers have a hot water heater. :)
I've used the plastic toilet in my 2015 Jayco Jay Feather for 3.5 winters, November-March. Works great. I only weigh 160 though.
Good information on your channel, my wife and i own a cadet, after some slight mods like solar and an inverter the little cadet goes great with our Jeep JKU used it on the "mountains to sea" JKX without any issues what so ever, after our mods the cadet is great for boon dock camping, we looked at an Rpod and picked the Cadet Because of price a greater ground clearance and it's Metal siding ( we pulled it along Forrest roads as well as highways rock throws and tree branches we an issue), We got it for that single trip but ended up keeping the little trailer until we traded it for a 2019 Cadet just like the one you show here .It too will do mountains to sea in the 2019 JKX and the Jeep Invasion at the GSM National Park in late 2018. Both trailers are great for Jeep wrangler JKU The truck pulls it like its not there " kinda spooky it so light"
Weight is very important for those who would buy these, should be the first thing you talk about. Thanks for the tire recommendations. The comparison was helpful. RPods are teardrops. Clipper Cadets are more traditional.
May I make a small correction? You mentioned in the first trailer that the A/C was also the heater for that unit. It actually had a regular fan-forced furnace in it for heating as well (most do). It ws under the kitchen counter and could be seen at 3:00, the exhaust is just to the left of the main door .At the bottom of the counter that blackish looking grill is the furnace grill. So you have a heater other than the A/C heat cycle that runs on propane and 12 volt for boondocking. The A/C is 110 volt only.
Good catch... I saw it too. The A/C probably has a light weight heater setting.
My buddy just got a Coachman Clipper nice rig think he paid 16k. He has a dinette slide and his shower has sides.Also has power awning outside shower and outside speakers.
On the clipper - There's a LPG furnace right inside the door, the exhaust was to the left of the entrance door on the outside shot.
ib516 - agree. ours is a 16bh with furnace exhaust on the otherside which i think is better
Enjoy your channel very much, would you address issues related to a owning a vehicle with a diesel engine. Specifically, importance of a fuel filter(after market?), fuel/water separator, importance of good quality fuel, caution "filling up at a low lying gas station after rain", traveling in rural area/foreign country, etc.
Thanks for the nice video. It would really help me out if you gave details about the beds. I believe the beds in this video are 60”x74” long. Not a true Queen. As I am 74” tall myself, this detail is significant to me and other taller viewer. Especially because I plan to use my small trailer primarily to sleep in doing as much of everything else outside. Thanks again for your quality videos.
Batteries and a filled LP tank or tanks comes standard on all TT's. No point in mounting these until it's sold and ready for pick-up.
Love the idea of the r pod but the lack of interior storage is a deal breaker. I'll take the Clipper.
I've bought a few trailers, I have found, owning an Rpod and the MPG, the MPG was better built with that said, usually these little units are built very shoddily, basically throw away when done.
Another excellent video.
Thank you.
🐾🐾
Nice comparison,the Rpod is very nice upgraded small trailer.
Id like to retract my comment on your previous video . You do a great job of informing people with the right information and do it from a honest consumer point of view . Keep up the good work
It would have been nice to see if the bed in the 1st trailer folded up into a couch area. Kinda funky to walk into a bed as you enter a trailer.
So many times I wish I didn’t have such a big camper, I always think I could just park one of these anywhere even at a tent site.
H&P Customs
How long is the trailer ? I am researching.
Went from a 32 ft to a 2021 clipper and it’s awesome, can park anywhere
I bought a jayco around this size and the only thing I wish I did was got a little bit longer to have the layout with the rear bunks, small dinette and the queen bed. The one I have is the table that folds down for the queen which I find very inconvenient.
mikeZinck - agree with you. our viking 16bh is the same. We leave i bed set up all the time and use a separate folding table instead.
i actually just purchased the 2018 jayco jay flight SLX 174bh...very happy about the purchase to fit the wife and I and daughter and 2 german shepherds either using the bottom bunk or the floor or dinette. our first trailer so were very excited. i believe you might be talking about the 154?
HAPPY New Year.
Thanks for all of your great info this year. My 2018 upgrades will be new stairs and a new toilet. Can't wait to see all of the new things I learn.
May I ask you to do an update on this subject? I have a truck with a 5,000 lb. GVWR.
I own a 2013 lance 1575 not in the same price range as the CADET or Rpod but only weighs 2575 including a slide out. For those who are interested check out the 2018 model..
Very nice. Wife fell in love with the Lance, but we cant afford it, LOL.
Thank you, have been waiting and asking for this!!!
More of these please!!
Greetings from Sweden!
hey great video, not to take away from what you are saying but we had purchased a 2017 viking 17bhs which is the same thing as coachman clipper but with a slide out. what a nightmare the slide out leaked badly open and closed. and the insulation on the underbelly was all soaking wet and actually started sagging i had to take it 5 times to the dealer to get it fixed right..every seal was replaced and it still leaked i mean puddled up on the floor. still wasn't right i think its a design flaw. after that the we used the heater and 5 minutes into using it the camper filled up with smoke and it burned up the furnace and the wires going to it. we only had it 3 months. long story short after a lot of fighting the dealer completely bought the camper from us in full.. its been over 7 months and they still haven't posted it up for sale yet.. just thought i would chime in..have a great day hope this helps some people
from what I hear it is a miracle that you got the dealer to buy your unit back. congratulations!!
That is why you buy a Jayco
Talk about a quick response! You must have had this one in the can with your last video. Love your channel and keep up the good work. Happy New Year!
The sidewall material is basically paper covered luaun. If you squeegee it, it will be ok.
Thank you for continuing to do the RV reviews! Happy new year!
I’m not a fan of single axle trailers. I wish they would go over kill encase you get a blowout. Having that 2nd axle is just peace of mind.
A second axle is more weight and expense. It would be better if they just put heavier duty tires on them. RVs typically put the bare minimum on from the factory and tires lose a significant portion of their load capacity every year after they are manufactured. No other vehicle runs down the road at 100% of it's tire capacity all the time. It should be illegal.
Terry Waters we build these campers and utitily trailers and no it don't cost much more to add a extra axle we get our axles for $107 and yes they are Dexter the best in the business so you add 2 extra tires for the complete set up for the extra axle max $375 that is it and yes tires also
This RV does NOT have a hot water heater.
Terry Waters what about the weight and the space taken up on a small 20’ camper.
I like the size, but not amenities. I found the Heartland Prowler 18LX is the same size, same floor plan, tandem axle, two propane tanks, battery, shower with wall surround, PORCELAIN toilet, full fridge/freezer, three burner stove with oven, stainless double basin sink, electric/gas water heater, outside shower, electric awning, optional electric jack, four stabilizer jacks, house is built on top of fender wells (no fender boxes inside house), passthrough front storage, 4,000lbs. All for $13,000.
The one unit that didn't seem to have sides, doesn't make any sense, maybe the put in the sides later. I can't believe that fabric would hold up long term.
Great video, happy New year to you and your family and all of your subscribers.
+A good review of your thoughts and comments as usual. They don't really impress me though. The RPOD looks to be the best. I think though that the little ones like these are just built to cheaply by ALL the manufactures though. They seem to feel like only a beginner, -or a person just wants a roof over their head or is a seldom user is all they have to please. In other words screw them who cares! Example no battery, no furnace no gas tanks. Does the frig work on gas even? Don't even remember seeing a battery rack on the one, I even would be surprised to see more than one LP tank on the RPOD, That shower on the one bothers me too,(I could tell it bother you too!). It just looks to cheap to me! Their relying on some type of a coating on that wall. Bet the guarantee is all the way out to the street corner, one year or one Minute which ever comes first. LOL it would be if they could get away with! The single axle is bad also. Not good for capacity of the unit, puts to much of the percentage of the weight on the tow vehicle as well. That cargo capacity is using the tow vehicle a LOT in its measurement LOOK under the trailer and check the AXLE rating and you'll see what I mean! I know you know the formulas, check it. You need to look at the whole picture here! They're pushing every thing to the limit (they do it with all size trailers I know). Their goal is build them cheap, cheap and even CHEAPER only. I realize profit is the name of the game. A company is just an entity though it has no sole and could care less about you. Profit margin is the only reason it exists along with protection from liability to its owners! I know, long winded and I got on my high horse too, Sorry about that!
Solid surface and a laminated wood surface are very different countertops, you can have one or the other, but not both
Good info cant wait to get my first RV and take my son out.
Would you consider making a video showing viewers some of the not so well built travel trailers that are out there in the market. I recently went to a RV show and sale and seen some pretty poorly built units . For example roofs that have a thin (non walkable) soda can construction to them . Seems some of the not so popular brands are out to take your hard earned money in turn for a trailer that may last only a few years. Just an idea I thought you might consider. Thanks.
Nice looking travel trailer. About what I would like for if and when I ever down size.
Clipper bed is much better. If it had a murphy it would be great. The rpod sideways bed is a no sale for older couple
I had to laugh when the door opened and the weight sticker is stuck on slanted....you get what you pay for, except with rv's...great video love to watch and weep..
Can you look at the Winnebago micro minnie please?
Nice!! I really liked the R Pod!
Better than a tent!
Bob Smith
Especially when it rains. It always rains when i camp.
Your videos are very helpful and fun to watch, and
your F450 King Ranch is a good looking truck. I love the intro you do In every video u make.
Happy New Year Big Truck.
Love the way a compact caravan in the US would be a large heavy caravan in the UK.
Compact caravans in the UK are 12 ish feet long and weigh in at about 1750lbs...
beccabeme Yeah I wish we had European travel trailers in North America
First thing is. Looks like clipper is junk. No tv/radio. No microwave no freezer and no black tank clean out or tank levels indicator. (If the clipper has them,he didn’t show it) Both rpod and clipper will need better mattress than what’s put in. In my opinion all rv’s sold should come with propane tanks and battery installed. My 2015 Rpod 179 was pretty much ready to go when I bought it. Nice to see the put a window in the door! My year doesn’t have it. And I wish it did.
Another great video look at small RV's this time???? Instant thumbs up! Happy New Year! And I don't know that I would risk towing one of those things with my ole' 04' Ford Ranger lol. 😀😀😀😀😀😀😀
Love these videos. I'd love to see a review of half ton slide in camper options. I know there isn't alot for half ton size but they do make them.
Rockwood Roo is the way to go, three slides and you can move in it.
drayhazel Just looked that up and that is a nice setup.
I looked long and hard at hybrids 5 years ago. I was in a Coleman Cheyenne pop up at the time (The Big Boy).
I ultimately picked a Class C as I was unsure if my 94 E150 was going to last much longer...sadly it did not.
Three pop outs...great for larger families with many smaller children.
I looked at many during camping trips....folks love showing off their rigs...very nice units.
Forest River is headquartered in my home state of Oregon
Thoughts on which one is easier and more efficient to tow? Rounded front and rear or box?
The heat does not come from the A/C unit you can clearly see the furnace
Happy New Year from Halifax 👍
Happy New Year keep the videos coming
Not sure if you'll see this, but is this capable of using solar power and a couple of 12 volt batteries? Also a compost toilet?
You need a F450 to pull those trailers any other size truck will be overloaded lol. The Rpod trailer would be good for a guy/gal that does field work something like a forester or a geologist etc somebody that works in the bush.
I was hoping he would do a video on the smaller ones
It's strange that the one for $11k doesn't have shower walls. I would try to get a discount and get plain shower surround walls from Lowe's. NICE units, and the prices are reasonable.
Tina Gallagher - really not that big of a deal. We have basically same trailer. Just wipe down wall with towel after showering. Shower surround add additional weight and can also end up with mold if water get trapped between it and the wall behind it :)
The walls are vinyl coated and water proof with water seals at the the tub and corners! Very effective and easy to maintain!
Thumbs up. Great Job! Happy New Year.
Great video, very informative for people like me that are looking to get their first RV. What I am looking for is a little different though, I am looking for a small toy hauler (inside or front deck), have you done any videos for those?
On the 'R POD' unit how the heck can you 'make the bed' with it completely filling up the front end of the unit? Must be a nightmare changing the sheets.
Just bought a 2021 keystone hideout and it has the same wall panels as the rest of my camper in the shower also. I’m wondering if I can use a plastic type stick on panels over it.
Thanks for the video , that's interesting to see how small those are lol ..anyway HAPPY NEW YEAR take care and be safe
The wolf pup is much better equip than the cadet. Same layouts.
You need to do a review on the new 2018 f450 to compare and contrast with yours
Do a video on a truck camper
I like that it has plenty of upper wall space to put a mini split in. AND I THINK all CAMPERS AND RVs should come with a mini split installed in them. The ones they put in now. are TOO LOUD and are cheaply made break.
I like flexibility of the new Murphy bed campers. Living room by day, then Bedroom at night.
BTBRV, see if you can find one for a review and your opinion.
Review a Micro Minne please
Have you looked at the Oliver brand of compact (17 ft) fiberglass RVs? They look to be on the upper end of trailers that size and the construction seems to be really durable, I'd love to get your opinion on one of those.
Hi, your videos have been very informative. I would like your opinion on something . Would a Ford Ranger or a Toyota Tacoma be able to pull a pop-up trailer. My family are considering buying one and do not want a large truck. The smaller ones are a better choice at this current time for us.. we’re budgeting and love camping with tents. We decided to add a pop-up to our camping adventures. Thanks in advance for any advice.
I've been thinking about an A-frame pop up with the front deck for toys
twinx70 - that was my first choice also. Ended up buying one of these a year ago because got it for a good price. In hindsight, glad we got this type vs. A frame. First trip was raining a lot. With this type, no assembly required. Just got out of our tow vehicle and into this. With an A frame would have gotten soaked. Another time, we experience dogs and wont have been able to set up and A frame. On the flip side, with an A frame you probably get better gas mileage. Just our experience so far
Diamond plate rock guard on the back of the first unit, why?
11k for cardboard box on wheels, with no bottles or shower walls, thats going to be an issue.
Rpod is much nicer. Do they make the cheaper unit to compare and promote the better models? No freezer no furnace, may as well buy a nice tent.
Happy new year, from indiana.
Great Report, hit all the right topics. :-)
Excellent!! Thank you
Driver fatigue where you have a truck that yes can tow your towable but not well, so driver is always adjusting his acceleration, deceleration etc. Something many don't think about... Trailer places are bad for over selling weight to truck ratio.
C Steele - agree. Been there. more truck is always better ;)
I have a 2016 Ram 1500 with a 5.7 Hemi that I pull a Cougar xlite that weighs about 5200 lbs. I’m thinking about upgrading and was wondering what gear to shoot for keeping the same engine. I think I have a 3.21 now Great videos. Lots of good information.
Charlie Wing I’d have to agree that 4.10’s are a great option. First and foremost it’s the fact that FCA options 4.10 for the axle, so its even something that you can purchase from FCA. But, also I have 3.73’s on my 2500 (I know, comparing Galas to Granny Smiths) and I regret not having the 4.10’s. I would imagine that the real world MPG trade off would have been negligible.
BUT
If you have a 4wd, SERIOUSLY consider the cost associated with regearing both axles. You money may be better spent upgrading the truck elsewhere instead of pulling both pumpkins. This is doubly true if there is a carrier break in the gear options. You may have to replace more that a ring and pinion if the carrier for the 4.10 is different than the 3.21 carrier. You may be replacing the carrier, spider gears, ring, pinion, bearings, basically all the internals to regear for the relatively few times you’ll be pulling; which can easily be overcome by manually downshifting to get that 5.7L back in the meat of its powerband.
I wasn’t clear on my upgrade. I’ll be looking for a new truck. I think Rams offerings are a 3.21, 3.55, and a 3.92. Considering it’s my daily driver, and I’ll be towing roughly 6000 lbs, would the 3.55 be sufficient or would you recommend the 3.92? The 3.21 I presently have does alright, but I’m concerned about excessive wear and tear on the motor and trans.
Nova Man thanks for the input. That’s probably the route I’ll go. Besides, who knows when I might decide to upgrade trailers too.
I have a motorcycle. Can I tow this RV from Florida to Alaska?
You mentioned that just about any tire on this trailer would be sufficient for it’s length and weight. I have a Rockwood Mini Lite 1905. 20’ long single axle. 4100 lbs GVRW. Are the Castle Rock tires that came on my trailer going to be fine?
Probably for a while. I always prefer better tires if you can swing them though.
If I was shopping for a trailer and saw the haphazard positioning of the yellow payload sticker I would run away from the Clipper. Wow what has happened to Quality control?
I've been thinking about a 2020 Viking 17fq or 17fqs. Do you have any thoughts (or video) on those? Thanks. Greg in TN