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The separate bedroom hasn’t bothered us…. We do both have the same sleep and awake schedules. It also makes the RV feel bigger being all one room. But if we did go with a bigger RV it would be nice to have separate rooms to give it a more homey feel and have some separation.
Get a toyhauler even if you don't have a toy to put in it. Most have 100 gallon fresh water, high ceilings and you can make a small office in the back. You can open the whole back end up with a patio on most. I have a wolfpack 23pack15 and love it. You can also add your own decent chairs vs the crappy RV ones. They also have more ground clearance for boondocking. Check it out!
Have you considered a toy hauler, which is what we are hoping to get! We don't plan on carrying anything, we will put furniture in that space to create out our living room! We want an all weather so we can boondock in all seasons!
That’s what I was going to suggest as well. The patio is great for workouts when you don’t want to be in the dirt. Also you can get them with off-road wheels and tires with a higher ride height, for off-road. But most of them have less storage compartments. Also, the bikes can be secured in the trailer when you’re away with the truck, doing other things.
Grand Design Imagine XLS 17 MKE is a great option that meets lots of your requirements. It is very spacious inside, not too heavy to toll, great kitchen, Murphy bed, good size tanks, etc. and tiger clearance
So many issues with AS quality. Also no ground clearance or insulation! Then there is the dreaded hail storm (from Hell).. Gameover! Check out the In-Tech Terra Oasis... ticks all your boxes
InTech Terra Oasis: You need to add this to your list of travel trailers. Modern like the Airstream, separate bedroom, split dry bathroom, U -Lounge with windows. Large 12v refrigerator. Ample kitchen countertop space, large sink, full aluminum cage construction, great ground clearance. This is the one!
I also agree with those saying Intech Terra Oasis. It's gorgeous and has everything you've mentioned. It's only 26ft long. I love the Nucamp Avia but it's 28ft long.
Congratulations on your new truck. It also took us some time to figure out the best trailer for us. We rented trailers to see how we liked the different layouts. It was helpful to rent and get a feel for what we liked and didn't like. We ended up having a custom trailer built for our needs - 16 ft toy hauler with 50-50-50 tank storage and no slides. Take care and look forward to seeing your new rig. Blessings.
We’ve owned a truck shell, a cab over camper, a class C, A towable trailer, and now a fifth wheel. The roomiest and easiest to tow is the fifth wheel. Just sharing experience..
given your requirements, a trailer is the only option. It is super-easy to unhook from your truck and, unlike a 5th wheel, doesn't block most of your truck bed. You can even fit a small popup tent on the bed of your truck and have a 'camper' for an overnighter in some really remote area (where none of the other options would be an option). a trailer also doesn't lock you in on just one type of towing vehicle, it is the most universal fit. And the opposite is true as well, you can tow a variety of trailers with your truck.
Fifth wheels are a lot easier to tow than a travel trailer. Having the pivot point right over the wheels makes a huge difference. I towed a 35' travel trailer with a Ford excursion (solid, heavy, long-wheelbase tow vehicle), and it was challenging. When ever anything larger than a passenger car passes you (or you pass it), there's a series of alternating side pressures pushing you around on the road. First, the high pressure zone in front of the other vehicle pushes against the side of the trailer behind the trailer wheels, which pivots the back of the trailer to the right, the front of the trailer to the left, which pulls the back of the truck to the left, and points the truck to the right. You have to react quickly to keep from driving off the road. Then when you get that under control, it eases up, but then the pressure zone is in front of the trailer wheels, and points you to the left. Then the front of the truck gets pushed back to the right as the vehicle passes. It's white knuckles on a high traffic road like an interstate. If you are in a middle lane, then you get the effect from both sides!
I’ve said this before....don’t forget the 25 foot Airstream with the rear bedroom..Chris you like to cook and you can get both the regular oven AND a convection microwave, plus the bigger bathroom to boot. Love ours.
We just got a 2021 25FB International Airstream w/ the hatch option and couldn't be happier. We've gone over 12 miles since December and we are towing it with our 2021 F-250 w/ the 7.3L Gas engine and we don't even notice it behind us 99.9% of the time. Love Love love it!!!! Good luck with the shopping!
I could see you getting an awesome storage system for your truck bed. With a rolling cover or a shell. That opens up options. Your rig is stout and can pull and carry most anything you could want. Airstreams have little storage for full timers and it is lower to the ground for boondocking. Plus $$ Everything is a compromise. One is easier to tow but difficult off road. Get too big and you have other issues. Start a check list of amenities. Maybe in priority. Solar with batteries has to be near the top. Large tanks and clearance. No one ever says: 'I am selling this RV, it has too much storage.' A quality build matters more with Full timers. Happy trails, good luck.
Hi guys, as outdoor vehicle owners for over 40 years, we’ve had them all. We’ve found good and bad in each type. For our full timing choice? We went with an Airstream (23 foot corner bed for the nice shower in the corner that allows my tall hubby a roomy shower with a bench to sit on-we removed the bathroom door and use the accordion room separator for privacy although when you are full timing with another person, there is never a lot of privacy). A few reasons for an Airstream: Nothing out there has the windows and light as an Airstream, nothing else is so versatile with being able to stop and use the trailer without having slideout considerations. Floor plans with a slide in other trailers sometimes have to be put out in order to use the trailer. Not great when it’s raining or snowing or a narrow parking place along a highway to run in and use the bathroom! As far as ground clearance-don’t let that deter you! We are staying in a dispersed camping area in Colorado and we’ve seen both a Bambi being pulled by an Audi car, and a 25 foot Airstream being towed by a 2 wheel drive van go past our camp site, which was a bit challenging in itself, in to areas with very large ruts and steep dirt/rocky/gravel hills to get deep in to private spots. Airstreams hold their resale value also! We know you will love whatever you choose, however, if you get a new trailer that is not an Airstream, the resale value plummets in normal non-Covid times! We know that from experience! Glad you are going for a new adventure-change is definitely why we all love full timing, right?
Before you completely decide against a 5th wheel, look at the Keystone Acadia (Arcadia?) 32ft. Since several feet of a 5th wheel is over your truck bed this would likely equate to about 25 to 27ft behind. The exterior is light and modern and this is a new plan for 2021. At one point General RV had these.
The Intech Terra pretty much has everything you have been talking about and has a great interior. It is a little less than 25’ long. If you hadn’t looked at it yet. It is made in Indiana so Florida should have them. The RV dealer close to my home in Indianapolis has them at their facility.
For truck campers (and your aspirations), suggest you mine some of the Stonyboot videos. W-A-Y too much 'stuff' on their rig, a trap door you must be aware of, but clever mods to make it practical. Trailer choice: Bias your shopping to those which are CAD/CAM designed and built as the box will be best built (e.g. Lance). Fifth Wheel choice: If you want to wrestle with something longer/taller, let the larger footprint allow you to consider trailers without slides (less weight & complication, e.g. Escape 5.0). But forget off-roading.
BTW you seem to be commenting about off-roading and boondocking as tho' they are synonymous. E.g. yes, Airstreams can be easily boondocked...but off-roading implies transiting more severe, irregular surfaces with more lift and tougher suspension assumed. WRT that Lance 2075, it's for tailgating and the galley is a joke. For a 'separate rooms' feel, take a look at the 2375.
Just a comment on the overall feel of this video. The combination of Chris’s hair being down with ambient lighting from multiple sources conveys a warmth and vulnerability to your current situation. Best wishes from Alabama for a great transition!
We have the 31MB grand design. It's 9,800 pounds dry. We pull it with a Three quarter ton diesel. We use the bunk house as our coffee bar and extra storage.
I think you will end up with an Airstream. It’s in your DNA. No slide is the way to go with a travel trailer and your travel style. Good luck! BTW that truck is EPIC!!!! The black series is nice and Grand Design 280RS is a nice higher end short 5th wheel with bathroom and bedroom access.
@@IreneIronTravels perhaps some “international” travel to regain your sense of serenity? 🤭 Can’t want to see what you choose and if you like having a travel trailer vs. motorhome.
Not sure if you did a new poll yet but we are in a class C (sometimes referred to as a B+), a Winnebago Fuse. They stopped making them in 2019 and brought the EKKO in. We love our Fuse. It’s exactly 24ft and we get great gas milage, around 16mpg. It’s diesel. We have 43 gal gray tank and 40 gal black tank that lasts us forever. We also have Jeep Renegade as our travel car that we take out and about places. I love Winnebago. I think they are made really well as far as motorhomes go. I also really like Lazy Daze. And my favorite trailers are airstream (except for the price 😜) which I’ll make a bet is what you end up with 😉
Don't dismiss the 5th wheel too fast! I have had both trailer with hitch and 5th wheel and I must say 5th wheel is much easier to hitch and pull! Plus all the extra ceiling space is great! Keep shopping, that's the best part! Can't wait for your next video!!
Great video guys. We are about to embark on owning a class B RV ourselves, and have learned a lot from you. We’ve enjoyed all of your videos in your van, and are still watching you because we think you’re the most pleasant RV couple on CZcams. I think you should get a 25 foot Airstream Globetrotter trailer, lift it 3 to 4 inches and put on bigger and gnarlier tires to match your truck, and pull it behind your pick up truck. This trailer has the size and layout, with queen size bed and a door that can be closed to the bedroom, that would satisfy your privacy and working needs. As well the combination would look great together. Avoiding a fifth wheel keeps the Pick up bed available for your E bikes which you could wheel on with a ramp. There are kits to secure the bikes to the floor of the truck and this would keep them much cleaner than hanging them off the back of the trailer and avoid a lengthening your total rig. Good luck with your shopping!!
We fulltime in a 19 ft travel trailer, we are kind of new about 1 year and a half. It's a 2020 lance model 1995. Full lenght incuding hitch its just under 25' Has 3 tanks at 45 gallon each we normaly boondock or dry camp. If we're careful we can last 14 days before we have to dump. I have a spare 12 volt pump which we can add water.
We have pulled 2 different 5th wheels over the last 22 years. After pulling the 5th wheel for the 1st 21 years we used a relatives 28ft travel trailer for 2 weeks. Was not my first choice after the 5th wheel. Good luck!!!
Hey guys - I love the idea of a truck camper, but - if you want to be off-grid for longer; as you said water capacity, etc will be an issue - so will fridge size, lithium batteries, and solar; space for extra fule and a possible generator - it's not so wonderful to go 100 miles off-road if you can only stay for 3 days. I'd look for a travel trailer or a small 5'ver. - you can beef up the suspension to make it more robust. Lance makes an awesome bumper pull as well. Airstreams are also totally awesome!
We predicted a travel trailer and probably Airstream. Before watching this last episode, I bet that you’d bought a truck. As you continued through the options I began thinking Lance 2075! We bought ours last Fall and love it. Every RV has trade offs including the 2075. We think it’s similar to Airstream without the aluminum shell and the PRICE. We love the Euro-styling, large windows and big skylights. Also true 4 season. The kitchen is small, but the dinette table can even move closer to the sink for extra counter. The bedroom is awesome. The Truma heating/water heater combo sips electricity and propane and is super quiet. Get the lift kit option for a bit more ground clearance, but it isn’t like the off-road brands. Check princesscraft and the Russo’s CZcams vids. Good luck!
In case you haven't seen a Newmar 2702 in person, you owe it to yourself before buying. We just purchased a new 2702 and couldn't be happier. We had a Winnebago 24V on the Sprinter chassis and we wanted something just a bit bigger in overall length, and the 2702 was perfect since it's only 2 and a half feet longer than the 24V. However, we feel like going from a one bedroom condo to a 2,000 square foot home.
I camp with a truck camper and love it, but it doesn't work for you. I have also traveled in a super c, a class c and class a. As I said in my last comment, most of my traveling has been in toolbox. The beds are permanent either with a front bedroom or a queen in the rear that raises and lowers. That leaves a lot of open plan area. You bikes can go inside. They are made to camp off road. If you want to boondocks with freedom, get built-in generator. Even if you get solar panels, having the built-in generator is amazing when it gets hot. They are not that annoying. I had one 21 foot one with oven, ac, microwave, ice maker and everything. Very nice. Rugged too.
You can pick out any "Trailer" you like and put a air ride suspension on it and with higher profile off road tires. Then when your going down that dirt road, with just a push a button you can raise your trailer for those rocky and bumpy road !!! Its not hard to do and any good "Off Road" shop can do it for you. !!!
If I had it to do over and with your having a great truck now, I'd consider the larger Oliver Travel Trailer. It has a good clearance with the dual axel and if you get a cap for the truck you can carry your toys like your electric bikes as well as generator, gas, and extra water plus you have the option to get rid of your black tank with a composting or cassette toilet. Good luck with your hunting.
If you haven’t bought anything yet ask any of them if they are doing a recirculating showers. Please feel free to look them up on youtube it is all over people making them for their campers for extra boon docking time. They call it the endless shower also.
We have been in a Little Guy Max for 2 years and are keeping our eye open for what our next rig might be! All the ones you’re seriously considering have been on our hot list too, esp the Black Series!! Just wanted to give you a heads up on the InTech Terra! The quality, inside appearance, and thoughtful design rival the others in our opinion. We were able to tour one at the Tampa RV show this year! Good luck on your quest!
Design and build your own!. I did. My wants and needs are quite different than most peoples certainly different than a couple or family. I had a custom cargo trailer built with dual axles off-road tires high clearance 7 foot ceiling and rear door that lowers to a ramp like a toy hauler. I ordered it with 1 inch insulation in all the walls and ceiling. Once I got the shell I started building what works for me. I put in a wood-burning stove a fresh tank and a gray tank, sink, a 12 V refrigerator and a 12 V freezer which also run-on 120 V shore power. On the roof I put five 100 W solar panels and inside I have the control unit and three 100 amp hour batteries plus a 2000 W inverter. Add to that a blue Eddie with another 2400 amp hours and I could probably run the air conditioning for at least a little while off of that. I couldn't find an RV with all the things I wanted and without all the crap I do not. I do not have an indoor shower but I have a composting toilet. Works for me.
I'll keep advocating for the Rockwood Minilite 2500 series. I indicted a bunch of advantages on your previous video but, I'll repeat just a few given comments on today's video: 1. Just under 26 ft total length and approx 10.5 Ft height. You will fit in 95% of the situations. 2. Freshwater tank 52 gals, 30 Gals grey, 30 gals black. 3. If you select 12V fridge option, these ridges come 10.CuFt., get cold 4 times faster than regular 3-way fridges, come with a 190 watts panel (enough for the fridge) with an option of a 2nd 190 watts solar panel. 4. If you select a model with an outside kitchen, 3 models come with a big fridge. Approx 3.5 CuFt camp kitchen fridge. For a total of approx 14 CuFt or more of cold storage. 5. Ceiling height of 6.5 Ft and many other options. 6. I think the Murphy Bed models are a great option and have a great advantage but for a separate bedroom, condo feel and multiple work areas; the Minilite 2516S, 2506S, 2511S, 2513S 7. The 2506S, 2511S, and 2516S models have 60 gals of greywater tank. With the off-road option, the 2nd 190W solar panel... extended dry camping anyone? 2506S and 2516S have huge front kitchens too. 8. All come with a metal counter for the exterior and a Blackstone-type griddle. 9. Two (2) 30 lbs propane tanks. You will have propane for months and don't need to find a specialized place to fill gas like with your van. If you messed up and forgot to fill the tanks on time, you can easily grab a 20 lbs tank and continue camping for weeks. 10. Standards wi-fi ranger 11. Heated tanks and other extended season camping features I suggest watching all the Minilite model videos from Haylett RV. The videos are very informative and with relevant data from the get-go. If 6'6" ceiling height isn't enough, I suggest looking at the Freedom Express and Freedom Express Liberty Edition. The ceiling height is 6'-9". A truck camper will not work. It will take you almost everywhere but too small to be productive.
I think a toy hauler travel trailer Grand Design, ATC toy hauler(Alum trailer Company) NO WOOD all aluminum inside and outside, Lance, type RV around 25ft,to 30ft. Big tanks plus a generator, Great for storing bikes and working out if the weather is bad.
Holy cow, super aligned with our thoughts. We just purchased a 2021 F-350 6.7L (non-Tremor so not as "badass" as yours, Chris) and we've 99.9% decided on an Outdoors RV travel trailer for many of the reasons you mention: large tanks, high ground clearance, very good off-road suspension, build quality, etc. And, as we're based in NV, in the (hopefully) unlikely event we have an issue that requires a trip to the factory eastern Oregon is way closer than Elkhart, IN. I optioned my truck with the fifth wheel prep package for flexibility and future-proofing, but we'll likely go travel trailer so we can retain truck bed storage. Fun fact: I traded in my 2019 F-250 6.2L and the dealership has it listed for $3,000 MORE than its MSRP; it's crazy out there. Many thanks for your awesome videos and good luck in your search!
Good combo your looking at! I have heard that about the used trucks and that's why so many are buying new now. Easy trade in!! Good luck in your hunt as well!!
I’m 9-minutes in, and wanted to answer your question. I’m fairly certain my goal is to find a beautiful used 30’ Airstream Classic, as I will be living in it with my three Dachshund girls in both Texas and Colorado, as well as visiting Arizona and New Mexico! Enjoy this adventure!
We full time and have had two Lances, a 1475 and 1995. We have loved both, but are now waiting for our airstream to be delivered next month. :). You can’t go wrong with either brand.
The truck looks great and the diesel gives you many options. I have a 2005 Airstream International 25SS and find the size big enough for full-timing (which I'm not doing!) and small enough to get into state and national parks. I pull it with a Toyota Tundra (much less capable than your new truck, but it works for me). I installed a Leitner Designs forged bed rack and have a James Baroud roof top tent on that. That gives me the option to get to more boondocking sites and camp in snowy areas during the Colorado winter. I installed a Decked system in the pickup for storage and carry a 1500 watt hour solar generator to run everything when I don't have the Airstream with me. Just sharing a few ideas.
Especially since Lance is on your list (love them), look at Princess Craft RV in Round Rock TX. They are great and have an awesome CZcams channel to show their different RVs. I would highly recommend them (and it’s not all the way across the US). I can’t wait to see what y’all decide on.
Nix on the truck camper. We sold ours and went to a class B because we were feeling we needed to be able to GET TO THE STEERING WHEEL WITHOUT GOING OUTSIDE. You never know anymore what situation might come up and the thought of someone getting into the cab with us sleeping in the back ... started to be an issue. We had an extended cab F-350 and had a break in while we were shopping for only 20 minutes. Found out that it only takes a punch or a screw driver to get the lock open.
Buying an F350 means you will have enough truck to safely tow a 5er or bumper pull. Good choice there! When I was researching our first RV purchase we were also leaning towards a travel trailer. But after texting and talking to long term RVer's, they convinced me that towing a 5er was much less stressful than a travel trailer. Since I too had never towed anything before it was a big concern. On at least 3 occasions last year we were towing in high winds and saw travel trailers swaying dangerously in front of us. Our 27ft 5er and truck had no issues in all those conditions and more. So I'm much more comfortable with a fifth wheel vs bumper pull. We now drive a 2020 F350 (7.3 gasser), and a Winnebago Voyage 2932 5er (32.5 feet). Best of luck on your search!
Nice! Good advice thanks! If there were more options available, I would have really considered the new 7.3. Plenty of power and I hear its a good engine so far. Get some extra payload and save some extra cash!
@@IreneIronTravels If you are traveling thru North Dallas in the near future, I would be more than happy to hook up our 5er and let you tow it around to see how it feels. Assuming of course we aren't somewhere in the Rockies on our own adventure... 😁
I have a pop-up truck camper, an Alaskan camper and then tow a trailer behind it. I plan to get a toy hauler instead of the travel trailer I have now and then I’ll have a very modular system. You should consider getting a light weight pop-up truck camper (FourWheel Camper, Alaskan Camper, Outfitter, Northstar, Hallmark) and then a travel trailer. It gives a lot of flexibility in your system and ability to go way off road when you want and then still have comfort in your trailer.
If your looking at a tow behind travel trailer I would go for an off road travel trailer I would look at Black Series. Truck Campers I am looking at a Host Cascade for a single wheel 3500 all you do it some airbags for the extra weight. Since you have a short bed you just get the shorter version. 5th wheels are roomy and gorgeous but all my friends that have them have suspension issues and end up spending a nice chunk of money getting independent suspension on them. Also take a look at 5th wheels with front kitchen if they make them small enough for you.
My son and D-in-L went from a tent trailer to a 5th wheel. She hated and had to sike herself out for days BEFORE driving the tent trailer with a one ton through the mountain passes of Southern BC anytime she and my 2 gsons went ahead of my son for many planned multi boondocking opportunities EVERYTIME. There's usually a big gang of them that meet up. The wives usually arrive first and husbands follow couple days later. When they bought a short used 5th wheel it was a game changer for her. Before you decide you should actually drive around in one in different scenarios. Women LOVE driving 5th wheels. As opposed to ANY towing rig. The gang of them (about 10+or- give or take at any given time) usually pick the most isolated and worse rugged roads to get to forestry camp grounds up mountain passes and switch before. They're all crazy. And they love they're fifth wheels. A couple of them have renovated shorter older models without the slide outs. Much lighter. Something to consider maybe if you're thinking of an interim camper. 5th wheelers don't go back to pulling it seems
Take a look at Outdoors RV in La Grange, Oregon. They make a true 4-season line of travel trailers, toy haulers and 5th wheels that are designed for off-roading in the rugged areas. Or take a look at Arctic Fox RV’s, they also have a line of off-road, 4 season capable RVs. With your F350 Tremor SRW, a truck camper isn’t an option as it won’t have the extra space you want and a SRW Tremor package doesn’t give you a whole lot of payload capacity. I’d suggest a rugged, off-road 5th wheel like the Outdoor RV Glacier Peak Series or a travel trailer of the size and length that suits you.
Sorry for all the comments but here is a beast you probably never thought of. A super C with 4X4 super rare but if you do your research on the very little maintenance on these you will be impressed. Class A’s are notorious for costing a lot to maintain. Check out this 2020 Dynamax DX3 34KD shared from the RVTrader iOS App.
Have had both travel trailer, and a fifth wheel......the fifth wheel is the way to go....easier hookup, better maneuverability, can turn 90 degrees to trailer, even hookup that way. Travel trailers are nice but harder to back in, turn etc.....Sold the travel trailer, still have fifth wheel, but I also have vanagon Westy, and that’s what I camp in now.
You two aren’t fooling me. Both of your eyes lit up when you did the video walkthroughs of the Airstream FC trailers. The only question is if you get the 25’ or the 28’. 😀. The only negative would be your desire to go more off road. It’s all about trade offs and what is most important. Good luck deciding!
That's exciting you're moving on with a new home. I did have bunch of suggestions but since you bought the truck, looks like a towable trailer will be your next home. I'm guessing an Airstream is on your list. You mentioned space was an issue. An option is a trailer with slide outs. Just my opinion after window shopping for a RV this year. Beware of the 2 companies start with a W and J. Because of the qualities. Also decide what kind of places you want to camp. Some places limits you so the length of your trailer is important. Can't wait to see your new home.
We love our Lance and the tank sizes. We have a 2285. And the Dometic hat would go well with it! Can get it with the lift kit and will be able get it off road a bit more. We did consider the Outdoors RV, but we live on the East Coast so that just didn’t make sense. The interior on the Lance is better than the Outdoors RV, but not as modern for most models as an AS.
I know you’ll get an airstream, but fingers crossed that it’s NOT an airstream, although given the options you considered, it’s the best looking. I guess I’m not a fan of trailers in general. We’ve had every kind of RV, including a couple of trailers, and my most favorites, depending on the use, have been our class A diesel pusher with a toad (FT work/live for 2 years), and our class B van (shorter trips). Our first was a truck camper - loved that for weekends & had that for at least a decade. Class C’s were just okay, and we least enjoyed our trailers. Good luck with your choices! I’m sure you’ll get what suits your needs best at this point in time!
Nice truck congrats. Having owned a truck camper I wouldn’t recommend one unless you want the towing capability. 5th wheel you lose most of the bed but they do tow and backup better. I’m quite bias on trailers so if it were me it would be a 20-22’ Airstream. The generic white box trailers are a cheaper option but AS’s are just so iconic and cool. Plus they hold their value, are generally better constructed and tow wonderfully. Good luck and happy shopping!
We bought our Outdoors RV in 2017 and love it. Our model is the 23 RKS. We were definitely sold on the trailer and it’s quality. My recommendation you can not live without is a tire pressure monitoring system. Major peace of mind. Oh and Anderson Levelers. Those are awesome when it comes to leveling your trailer.
Hi Chris and Aaron!! Congrats on your truck purchase! Being from CO, I probably should have ordered the Tremor package. And, I hope I don’t reach the point of regretting not getting a diesel. The one we ordered was the 7.3l gasser with 4.30 gears. It can still tow 15k on the bumper and 19.9k on a gooseneck. When it is all said and done, I suspect the diesel will get to the top of the pass 45 seconds before ours. Good luck on your continued camper hunt! I really liked your summaries of everything you are still seriously considering. They all have great aspects about each of them. Safe travels!!
Thanks Alan! If I were to order one I was really thinking hard on the new 7.3 with its 430 hp and 475 tourqe! Great reviews. Save 8 grand and 500lbs of payload! But for 350's it was slim pickins out here! And I kinda fell in love with the tremor package which made the pool even smaller. 🤣
Excellent decision guys!!! The truck is a great buy, not a good time to buy but a good decision to get a truck. NO truck camper. Save money and get a good, small, off road, off grid capable trailer. Something great for boondocking that fits your size needs but something you can park, lock up and leave in the woods while you go exploring in the truck. Our experience with 5th wheel was horrible and we hated it for traveling. For semi static living with very little traveling, they're great but suck for traveling and boondocking. Our opinion, get something medium sized, possibly 20 ft, easy to tow, easy to off grid boondocking, and easy to lock down and leave in the woods while you go hiking, running, exploring, easy to leave and go to town in the truck for date nights etc. Our only serious tip, Don't go too big. You'll regret it. If you're going to continue traveling and boondocking, don't go big. The first boondocking trip when you realize the thing is too big to park or go off road will seriously suck.
Thank you! Appreciate the feedback. We definitely want to stay small, but it is a ever constant battle to keep the "creep" down so don't just say..... what's an extra foot! We've been thinking 26 max, but a lot to consider, since we do 50/50 boonies, campgrounds.
Have you looked at the "Host" PU camper based in Bend Oregon? By far the best custom build in the world. New Mammoth runs close to $100K. Arctic Fox would be my 2nd choice. But they are over priced. Lance looks good and have come a long way but AF is far more of a true four season along with the Host which is the only one I am considering right now. Host is the Rolls Royce of pickup campers. You don't see as many of the Host units because of the high price and custom builds. The Host are by far more like a fancy upper crust home. When you are relaxing in a 3 slide Host you have to pinch yourself to realize your aren't in an upper crust condo on the lake.
Great choice on the 4X4 Ford......looks rugged, but classy. Since you hinted that 28ft was a tad to long, I'll have to adjust my prior guess of a 28ft Airstream Flying Cloud and now go with a smaller version, say the 25 ft Globetrotter (40 gallon black tank). Consider this, if you select a rig other than Airstream, you will always be comparing it with the Airstream quality your accustomed to. Good luck and keep us informed.
Aaron gets a new truck! Way cool! And I seem to remember Chris going with the goo goo eyes over the airstream trailer as I recall! Yup, airstream time for sure👍👍👍
You might need to get the HQ19, I hear that there are Quality Control issues with the HQ21, I don't even think you can find one. They are shipped from Australia and until they fix the problems, no luck. The best place to get the HQ. is at RV'S of America in Idaho. They specialize in them and they took the HQ 21 off of their website.
I suggest getting a goose neck hitch for your truck so you can pull a 5th wheel. A truck camper would be too small plus it would take a toll on your truck. That would be fine for part time RVing, not full time, IMO
Considering your list shared before I see something that you do not have to make and take down the bed and of course the a dry bath. Congratulations on the new truck. That will be awesome to pull with. We have pulled a full 4 horse 5th wheel with a F250 Diesel. Now that you have the F350 I see a new 5th wheel in your future.....those will give you a true home feel and much more space. Just a note - 5th wheels are easier than travel trailers as the turning points are different and much more friendly with a 5th wheel. Try to test drive both so you can get the feel for pulling, backing and turning before you make your final decision. Just a suggestion. Excited to see what you decide on! We go Wednesday to pick up our new Class A. I might just be right an airstream tt in your future....LOL
We started out tenting, then went to camper to a 24 ft 5th. Then to a 28 and now have a 33 ft 5th. A camper will be too small for you. With your short box truck a 5th is harder to get into small spaces. You would need a sliding hitch. 5th s have a ton more storage that you won't have in a trailer. With a trailer you need to watch out for sway. Driving in high winds will be more difficult with a trailer than a 5th. We love our Montana but it is high. Good luck with your decision. Ps we are part timers, still have sticks and bricks.
From the perspective of going further into the "wilderness" the Black Series is the one to get but, speaking from experience, while your new truck is very capable, it would not be very enjoyable experience. Sounds good in theory, but I think the reality would not meet your expectation. You mentioned several trailers that would be a good compromise in getting further off the beaten path and make it easy to stay longer. We have considered all the trailers you have, we ended up updating/remodeling the interior of our current trailer, our interior was similar to Outdoors RV, because we could find a better compromise of desirable features than our current trailer. Have fun finding your new rig. We will be watching!
Good advice! I agree, we're not going to want to beat down the brush on a small trail in a new truck!🤣 The middle ground is more likely the sweet spot, as you say! Thanks!
One of my favorite TT, is Grand Design 17MKE. Small size tt, good tank sizes & a murphy bed. To me the best designed small tt out there. Great kitchen and you can order one with a kitchen table vs the second couch.
@@IreneIronTravels we love following you guys and we appreciate all that you share. You have helped us to decide that a class b would be better for our situation. If you would like to look at a 2250RK, we have ours for sale since we are going to a class b. We have extensively upgraded it to be off grid capable and I know you would love the kitchen. Here's a link with all of the details. Feel free to reach out with any questions. hr4kf.app.goo.gl/KG4La
You may want to check out the Escape 5.0 5th wheel at 21ft. 5500 gvwr. Get into small sites, lift gives good clearance & more space than a ClassB with dedicated bedroom.
Thanks! We really wanted to like that 5.0 , but the tanks are too small And very similar to our van. Except the black was double which is nice. Also only about 1500 lbs of occc which is not much for full time living. Thanks 😊
Good luck with your search for your new home. One thing Airstream has is dealers nationwide whereas some of the others don’t. I really like the Black Series, but there are only a few dealers in the US. I had to cancel my airstream order due to having both knees replaced 3 weeks ago, but as soon as I’m able I’ll reorder. I’m going to look at all the options again though. It’s tough to narrow it down.
I have a 2000 Monaco Dynasty that I love after owning everything out there over the years. Quality built coach. It has lots of room and plenty of power to tow a car. Older quality built coaches are a much better buy. I bought mine for a lot less money then your truck.
@@IreneIronTravels Yep, I tow an AWD Pilot and E-bikes so we can go any where (just about) to see what we want. Good luck with what ever you choose. There is no perfect RV for everyone.
Highly recommend the Rockwood Ultra-Lite 2516S. Think it could be a fit for you two. Large kitchen, queen bed and good size bathroom with theater seating.
Absolutely love, love, love your tremor! For what y’all are gonna tow it is perfect! Manageable wheelbase, nice capacity, creature comforts, off road prowess. Based on video and Truck capacity truck campers are pretty much out. Which leaves me 2 thoughts. As I have stated before a 25 fbt, FC, Int, or GT especially with the hatch is fantastic, maneuverable, and iconic. A pricey option that retains its value nicely and is very long lasting. Obviously the 3 inch lift to match truck and boon docking abilities is a must. Airstreams tow nice and 25 feet is perfect for going just about everywhere! The other idea I have for myself and for you guys, is to consider a Grand Design Reflection150...260rd. It will tow great, has big tanks, lots of storage, great windows on all sides, great floor space, nice kitchen space, and best of all is 29’9” long so it will tow and feel like a 25 ft airstream, but is half the price and more maneuverable, and with 1 slide room bigger. It is a mid profile fifth wheel so it is a manageable height. Storage and overall practicality trump the iconic Tin Can(which I love as well). As far as looks, your new truck color will match GD perfectly...so as others have told me, if you look cool 😎, you are cool 😎! Happy travels...something to consider. Both of the aforementioned are winners. Cannot wait to see what you choose!
Thank you for all of your support and great comments! Keep em coming!! 😀
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do you regret not getting a walled off separate Bedroom ? My wife sleeps less than I do so we needed a second room.... so went with 25krs.
The separate bedroom hasn’t bothered us…. We do both have the same sleep and awake schedules. It also makes the RV feel bigger being all one room. But if we did go with a bigger RV it would be nice to have separate rooms to give it a more homey feel and have some separation.
Get a toyhauler even if you don't have a toy to put in it. Most have 100 gallon fresh water, high ceilings and you can make a small office in the back. You can open the whole back end up with a patio on most. I have a wolfpack 23pack15 and love it. You can also add your own decent chairs vs the crappy RV ones. They also have more ground clearance for boondocking. Check it out!
Have you considered a toy hauler, which is what we are hoping to get! We don't plan on carrying anything, we will put furniture in that space to create out our living room! We want an all weather so we can boondock in all seasons!
We just looked at a grand design M class, 26 ft I think. Pretty cool! I would want one with a deck!
That’s what I was going to suggest as well. The patio is great for workouts when you don’t want to be in the dirt. Also you can get them with off-road wheels and tires with a higher ride height, for off-road. But most of them have less storage compartments. Also, the bikes can be secured in the trailer when you’re away with the truck, doing other things.
Grand Design Imagine XLS 17 MKE is a great option that meets lots of your requirements. It is very spacious inside, not too heavy to toll, great kitchen, Murphy bed, good size tanks, etc. and tiger clearance
For some reason, we can picture you guys in an Airstream. You'll have fun no matter what you choose, and that's the most important thing.
We always pictured that as well, but just want to make sure we exhaust our options. Lots to consider! Thanks!
So many issues with AS quality. Also no ground clearance or insulation! Then there is the dreaded hail storm (from Hell).. Gameover! Check out the In-Tech Terra Oasis... ticks all your boxes
Sadly an airstream won't give them much clearance.
@@paulbailey5915 Sandra Westley from the UK are AS not insulated, I thought they were.
@@robwestley7370 Very limited insulation, but with so many windows and that aluminum, the heat or cold wins!
InTech Terra Oasis: You need to add this to your list of travel trailers. Modern like the Airstream, separate bedroom, split dry bathroom, U -Lounge with windows. Large 12v refrigerator. Ample kitchen countertop space, large sink, full aluminum cage construction, great ground clearance. This is the one!
I also agree with those saying Intech Terra Oasis. It's gorgeous and has everything you've mentioned. It's only 26ft long. I love the Nucamp Avia but it's 28ft long.
Congratulations on your new truck. It also took us some time to figure out the best trailer for us. We rented trailers to see how we liked the different layouts. It was helpful to rent and get a feel for what we liked and didn't like. We ended up having a custom trailer built for our needs - 16 ft toy hauler with 50-50-50 tank storage and no slides. Take care and look forward to seeing your new rig. Blessings.
Love the Tremor! That pretty much seals the deal for the airstream trailer!
Would be a good looking combo!
Have you considered a Intech Terra Oasis? We have a the Sol Horizon and it is so very well built.
We’ve owned a truck shell, a cab over camper, a class C, A towable trailer, and now a fifth wheel. The roomiest and easiest to tow is the fifth wheel. Just sharing experience..
given your requirements, a trailer is the only option. It is super-easy to unhook from your truck and, unlike a 5th wheel, doesn't block most of your truck bed. You can even fit a small popup tent on the bed of your truck and have a 'camper' for an overnighter in some really remote area (where none of the other options would be an option). a trailer also doesn't lock you in on just one type of towing vehicle, it is the most universal fit. And the opposite is true as well, you can tow a variety of trailers with your truck.
Just keep in mind what you will be comfortable in towing/driving especially if you pick up and move frequently.
Very true! We really want to keep small for that reason as we like to travel and have more options for places to stay!
Fifth wheels are a lot easier to tow than a travel trailer. Having the pivot point right over the wheels makes a huge difference. I towed a 35' travel trailer with a Ford excursion (solid, heavy, long-wheelbase tow vehicle), and it was challenging. When ever anything larger than a passenger car passes you (or you pass it), there's a series of alternating side pressures pushing you around on the road. First, the high pressure zone in front of the other vehicle pushes against the side of the trailer behind the trailer wheels, which pivots the back of the trailer to the right, the front of the trailer to the left, which pulls the back of the truck to the left, and points the truck to the right. You have to react quickly to keep from driving off the road. Then when you get that under control, it eases up, but then the pressure zone is in front of the trailer wheels, and points you to the left. Then the front of the truck gets pushed back to the right as the vehicle passes. It's white knuckles on a high traffic road like an interstate. If you are in a middle lane, then you get the effect from both sides!
I’ve said this before....don’t forget the 25 foot Airstream with the rear bedroom..Chris you like to cook and you can get both the regular oven AND a convection microwave, plus the bigger bathroom to boot. Love ours.
Yes! We still haven't seen one in person, but will keep it mind for sure! Thanks James!
I repeat. Airstream Classic 30. I almost posted Ford F-250 last week. Still my treat
Sounds like a good set up! And the price is right!🤣
We just got a 2021 25FB International Airstream w/ the hatch option and couldn't be happier. We've gone over 12 miles since December and we are towing it with our 2021 F-250 w/ the 7.3L Gas engine and we don't even notice it behind us 99.9% of the time. Love Love love it!!!! Good luck with the shopping!
Nice set up!!
I could see you getting an awesome storage system for your truck bed.
With a rolling cover or a shell. That opens up options. Your rig is stout and can pull and carry most anything you could want.
Airstreams have little storage for full timers and it is lower to the ground for boondocking. Plus $$
Everything is a compromise. One is easier to tow but difficult off road. Get too big and you have other issues.
Start a check list of amenities. Maybe in priority.
Solar with batteries has to be near the top. Large tanks and clearance.
No one ever says: 'I am selling this RV, it has too much storage.'
A quality build matters more with Full timers.
Happy trails, good luck.
Hi guys, as outdoor vehicle owners for over 40 years, we’ve had them all. We’ve found good and bad in each type. For our full timing choice? We went with an Airstream (23 foot corner bed for the nice shower in the corner that allows my tall hubby a roomy shower with a bench to sit on-we removed the bathroom door and use the accordion room separator for privacy although when you are full timing with another person, there is never a lot of privacy).
A few reasons for an Airstream: Nothing out there has the windows and light as an Airstream, nothing else is so versatile with being able to stop and use the trailer without having slideout considerations. Floor plans with a slide in other trailers sometimes have to be put out in order to use the trailer. Not great when it’s raining or snowing or a narrow parking place along a highway to run in and use the bathroom! As far as ground clearance-don’t let that deter you! We are staying in a dispersed camping area in Colorado and we’ve seen both a Bambi being pulled by an Audi car, and a 25 foot Airstream being towed by a 2 wheel drive van go past our camp site, which was a bit challenging in itself, in to areas with very large ruts and steep dirt/rocky/gravel hills to get deep in to private spots. Airstreams hold their resale value also! We know you will love whatever you choose, however, if you get a new trailer that is not an Airstream, the resale value plummets in normal non-Covid times! We know that from experience!
Glad you are going for a new adventure-change is definitely why we all love full timing, right?
Thank you for your insights! Yes! Adventure awaits!!
Yup you're getting that flying cloud
Before you completely decide against a 5th wheel, look at the Keystone Acadia (Arcadia?) 32ft. Since several feet of a 5th wheel is over your truck bed this would likely equate to about 25 to 27ft behind. The exterior is light and modern and this is a new plan for 2021. At one point General RV had these.
So after towing a bumper pull travel trailer and a 5th wheel, teth 5th wheel hands down tow a lot better. easier to manimover and lots of head room.
The Intech Terra pretty much has everything you have been talking about and has a great interior. It is a little less than 25’ long. If you hadn’t looked at it yet. It is made in Indiana so Florida should have them. The RV dealer close to my home in Indianapolis has them at their facility.
For truck campers (and your aspirations), suggest you mine some of the Stonyboot videos. W-A-Y too much 'stuff' on their rig, a trap door you must be aware of, but clever mods to make it practical. Trailer choice: Bias your shopping to those which are CAD/CAM designed and built as the box will be best built (e.g. Lance). Fifth Wheel choice: If you want to wrestle with something longer/taller, let the larger footprint allow you to consider trailers without slides (less weight & complication, e.g. Escape 5.0). But forget off-roading.
BTW you seem to be commenting about off-roading and boondocking as tho' they are synonymous. E.g. yes, Airstreams can be easily boondocked...but off-roading implies transiting more severe, irregular surfaces with more lift and tougher suspension assumed. WRT that Lance 2075, it's for tailgating and the galley is a joke. For a 'separate rooms' feel, take a look at the 2375.
Just a comment on the overall feel of this video. The combination of Chris’s hair being down with ambient lighting from multiple sources conveys a warmth and vulnerability to your current situation. Best wishes from Alabama for a great transition!
We have the 31MB grand design. It's 9,800 pounds dry. We pull it with a Three quarter ton diesel. We use the bunk house as our coffee bar and extra storage.
I think you will end up with an Airstream. It’s in your DNA. No slide is the way to go with a travel trailer and your travel style. Good luck! BTW that truck is EPIC!!!! The black series is nice and Grand Design 280RS is a nice higher end short 5th wheel with bathroom and bedroom access.
Thanks Tim! Soooo many options!
@@IreneIronTravels perhaps some “international” travel to regain your sense of serenity? 🤭 Can’t want to see what you choose and if you like having a travel trailer vs. motorhome.
Not sure if you did a new poll yet but we are in a class C (sometimes referred to as a B+), a Winnebago Fuse. They stopped making them in 2019 and brought the EKKO in. We love our Fuse. It’s exactly 24ft and we get great gas milage, around 16mpg. It’s diesel. We have 43 gal gray tank and 40 gal black tank that lasts us forever. We also have Jeep Renegade as our travel car that we take out and about places. I love Winnebago. I think they are made really well as far as motorhomes go. I also really like Lazy Daze. And my favorite trailers are airstream (except for the price 😜) which I’ll make a bet is what you end up with 😉
Don't dismiss the 5th wheel too fast! I have had both trailer with hitch and 5th wheel and I must say 5th wheel is much easier to hitch and pull! Plus all the extra ceiling space is great! Keep shopping, that's the best part! Can't wait for your next video!!
They are appealing!!!
Great video guys. We are about to embark on owning a class B RV ourselves, and have learned a lot from you. We’ve enjoyed all of your videos in your van, and are still watching you because we think you’re the most pleasant RV couple on CZcams.
I think you should get a 25 foot Airstream Globetrotter trailer, lift it 3 to 4 inches and put on bigger and gnarlier tires to match your truck, and pull it behind your pick up truck. This trailer has the size and layout, with queen size bed and a door that can be closed to the bedroom, that would satisfy your privacy and working needs. As well the combination would look great together. Avoiding a fifth wheel keeps the Pick up bed available for your E bikes which you could wheel on with a ramp. There are kits to secure the bikes to the floor of the truck and this would keep them much cleaner than hanging them off the back of the trailer and avoid a lengthening your total rig.
Good luck with your shopping!!
Thanks Donald, appreciate that comment! We do love that 25fb queen floor plan! GNARLY tires! Yesssss!
We fulltime in a 19 ft travel trailer, we are kind of new about 1 year and a half. It's a 2020 lance model 1995. Full lenght incuding hitch its just under 25' Has 3 tanks at 45 gallon each we normaly boondock or dry camp. If we're careful we can last 14 days before we have to dump. I have a spare 12 volt pump which we can add water.
We have pulled 2 different 5th wheels over the last 22 years. After pulling the 5th wheel for the 1st 21 years we used a relatives 28ft travel trailer for 2 weeks. Was not my first choice after the 5th wheel. Good luck!!!
Hey guys - I love the idea of a truck camper, but - if you want to be off-grid for longer; as you said water capacity, etc will be an issue - so will fridge size, lithium batteries, and solar; space for extra fule and a possible generator - it's not so wonderful to go 100 miles off-road if you can only stay for 3 days. I'd look for a travel trailer or a small 5'ver. - you can beef up the suspension to make it more robust. Lance makes an awesome bumper pull as well. Airstreams are also totally awesome!
We predicted a travel trailer and probably Airstream. Before watching this last episode, I bet that you’d bought a truck. As you continued through the options I began thinking Lance 2075! We bought ours last Fall and love it. Every RV has trade offs including the 2075. We think it’s similar to Airstream without the aluminum shell and the PRICE. We love the Euro-styling, large windows and big skylights. Also true 4 season. The kitchen is small, but the dinette table can even move closer to the sink for extra counter. The bedroom is awesome. The Truma heating/water heater combo sips electricity and propane and is super quiet. Get the lift kit option for a bit more ground clearance, but it isn’t like the off-road brands. Check princesscraft and the Russo’s CZcams vids. Good luck!
Thanks for the info guys!
In case you haven't seen a Newmar 2702 in person, you owe it to yourself before buying. We just purchased a new 2702 and couldn't be happier. We had a Winnebago 24V on the Sprinter chassis and we wanted something just a bit bigger in overall length, and the 2702 was perfect since it's only 2 and a half feet longer than the 24V. However, we feel like going from a one bedroom condo to a 2,000 square foot home.
That's awesome! I think we'd really like it. Thanks for sharing!!
I camp with a truck camper and love it, but it doesn't work for you. I have also traveled in a super c, a class c and class a. As I said in my last comment, most of my traveling has been in toolbox. The beds are permanent either with a front bedroom or a queen in the rear that raises and lowers. That leaves a lot of open plan area. You bikes can go inside. They are made to camp off road. If you want to boondocks with freedom, get built-in generator. Even if you get solar panels, having the built-in generator is amazing when it gets hot. They are not that annoying. I had one 21 foot one with oven, ac, microwave, ice maker and everything. Very nice. Rugged too.
You can pick out any "Trailer" you like and put a air ride suspension on it and with higher profile off road tires. Then when your going down that dirt road, with just a push a button you can raise your trailer for those rocky and bumpy road !!! Its not hard to do and any good "Off Road" shop can do it for you. !!!
That sounds pretty slick! Thanks for the thought!
If I had it to do over and with your having a great truck now, I'd consider the larger Oliver Travel Trailer. It has a good clearance with the dual axel and if you get a cap for the truck you can carry your toys like your electric bikes as well as generator, gas, and extra water plus you have the option to get rid of your black tank with a composting or cassette toilet. Good luck with your hunting.
If you haven’t bought anything yet ask any of them if they are doing a recirculating showers. Please feel free to look them up on youtube it is all over people making them for their campers for extra boon docking time. They call it the endless shower also.
We have been in a Little Guy Max for 2 years and are keeping our eye open for what our next rig might be! All the ones you’re seriously considering have been on our hot list too, esp the Black Series!! Just wanted to give you a heads up on the InTech Terra! The quality, inside appearance, and thoughtful design rival the others in our opinion. We were able to tour one at the Tampa RV show this year! Good luck on your quest!
Design and build your own!. I did. My wants and needs are quite different than most peoples certainly different than a couple or family. I had a custom cargo trailer built with dual axles off-road tires high clearance 7 foot ceiling and rear door that lowers to a ramp like a toy hauler. I ordered it with 1 inch insulation in all the walls and ceiling. Once I got the shell I started building what works for me. I put in a wood-burning stove a fresh tank and a gray tank, sink, a 12 V refrigerator and a 12 V freezer which also run-on 120 V shore power. On the roof I put five 100 W solar panels and inside I have the control unit and three 100 amp hour batteries plus a 2000 W inverter. Add to that a blue Eddie with another 2400 amp hours and I could probably run the air conditioning for at least a little while off of that. I couldn't find an RV with all the things I wanted and without all the crap I do not. I do not have an indoor shower but I have a composting toilet. Works for me.
I'll keep advocating for the Rockwood Minilite 2500 series. I indicted a bunch of advantages on your previous video but, I'll repeat just a few given comments on today's video:
1. Just under 26 ft total length and approx 10.5 Ft height. You will fit in 95% of the situations.
2. Freshwater tank 52 gals, 30 Gals grey, 30 gals black.
3. If you select 12V fridge option, these ridges come 10.CuFt., get cold 4 times faster than regular 3-way fridges, come with a 190 watts panel (enough for the fridge) with an option of a 2nd 190 watts solar panel.
4. If you select a model with an outside kitchen, 3 models come with a big fridge. Approx 3.5 CuFt camp kitchen fridge. For a total of approx 14 CuFt or more of cold storage.
5. Ceiling height of 6.5 Ft and many other options.
6. I think the Murphy Bed models are a great option and have a great advantage but for a separate bedroom, condo feel and multiple work areas; the Minilite 2516S, 2506S, 2511S, 2513S
7. The 2506S, 2511S, and 2516S models have 60 gals of greywater tank. With the off-road option, the 2nd 190W solar panel... extended dry camping anyone? 2506S and 2516S have huge front kitchens too.
8. All come with a metal counter for the exterior and a Blackstone-type griddle.
9. Two (2) 30 lbs propane tanks. You will have propane for months and don't need to find a specialized place to fill gas like with your van. If you messed up and forgot to fill the tanks on time, you can easily grab a 20 lbs tank and continue camping for weeks.
10. Standards wi-fi ranger
11. Heated tanks and other extended season camping features
I suggest watching all the Minilite model videos from Haylett RV. The videos are very informative and with relevant data from the get-go.
If 6'6" ceiling height isn't enough, I suggest looking at the Freedom Express and Freedom Express Liberty Edition. The ceiling height is 6'-9".
A truck camper will not work. It will take you almost everywhere but too small to be productive.
You should check out Oliver Travel Trailers. I also love the Airstreams.
I think a toy hauler travel trailer Grand Design, ATC toy hauler(Alum trailer Company) NO WOOD all aluminum inside and outside, Lance, type RV around 25ft,to 30ft. Big tanks plus a generator, Great for storing bikes and working out if the weather is bad.
Holy cow, super aligned with our thoughts. We just purchased a 2021 F-350 6.7L (non-Tremor so not as "badass" as yours, Chris) and we've 99.9% decided on an Outdoors RV travel trailer for many of the reasons you mention: large tanks, high ground clearance, very good off-road suspension, build quality, etc. And, as we're based in NV, in the (hopefully) unlikely event we have an issue that requires a trip to the factory eastern Oregon is way closer than Elkhart, IN. I optioned my truck with the fifth wheel prep package for flexibility and future-proofing, but we'll likely go travel trailer so we can retain truck bed storage. Fun fact: I traded in my 2019 F-250 6.2L and the dealership has it listed for $3,000 MORE than its MSRP; it's crazy out there. Many thanks for your awesome videos and good luck in your search!
Good combo your looking at! I have heard that about the used trucks and that's why so many are buying new now. Easy trade in!! Good luck in your hunt as well!!
What a team! Fun to watch the brain cells burning- in a good way.
I’m 9-minutes in, and wanted to answer your question. I’m fairly certain my goal is to find a beautiful used 30’ Airstream Classic, as I will be living in it with my three Dachshund girls in both Texas and Colorado, as well as visiting Arizona and New Mexico! Enjoy this adventure!
Sounds lovely! 😍
We full time and have had two Lances, a 1475 and 1995. We have loved both, but are now waiting for our airstream to be delivered next month. :). You can’t go wrong with either brand.
Thanks!
We have a 27 foot Shadow Cruiser, it has a push out and a king bed we love it It has a big kitchen
I knew a big truck was in your future! I’m still rooting for an airstream! 😆
The truck looks great and the diesel gives you many options. I have a 2005 Airstream International 25SS and find the size big enough for full-timing (which I'm not doing!) and small enough to get into state and national parks. I pull it with a Toyota Tundra (much less capable than your new truck, but it works for me). I installed a Leitner Designs forged bed rack and have a James Baroud roof top tent on that. That gives me the option to get to more boondocking sites and camp in snowy areas during the Colorado winter. I installed a Decked system in the pickup for storage and carry a 1500 watt hour solar generator to run everything when I don't have the Airstream with me. Just sharing a few ideas.
Nice setup you have! All sounds great and slick way to have some options!
Your so getting an Airstream! 😂
Especially since Lance is on your list (love them), look at Princess Craft RV in Round Rock TX. They are great and have an awesome CZcams channel to show their different RVs. I would highly recommend them (and it’s not all the way across the US). I can’t wait to see what y’all decide on.
Nix on the truck camper. We sold ours and went to a class B because we were feeling we needed to be able to GET TO THE STEERING WHEEL WITHOUT GOING OUTSIDE. You never know anymore what situation might come up and the thought of someone getting into the cab with us sleeping in the back ... started to be an issue. We had an extended cab F-350 and had a break in while we were shopping for only 20 minutes. Found out that it only takes a punch or a screw driver to get the lock open.
Fifth wheel all the way. Yes we have one. We are weekenders.
The best travel trailer out there is the Airstream. Don’t get the Flying Cloud boring!!! Make sure u get the Pro Pride hitch. We are in the Pendleton.
Buying an F350 means you will have enough truck to safely tow a 5er or bumper pull. Good choice there! When I was researching our first RV purchase we were also leaning towards a travel trailer. But after texting and talking to long term RVer's, they convinced me that towing a 5er was much less stressful than a travel trailer. Since I too had never towed anything before it was a big concern. On at least 3 occasions last year we were towing in high winds and saw travel trailers swaying dangerously in front of us. Our 27ft 5er and truck had no issues in all those conditions and more. So I'm much more comfortable with a fifth wheel vs bumper pull. We now drive a 2020 F350 (7.3 gasser), and a Winnebago Voyage 2932 5er (32.5 feet). Best of luck on your search!
Nice! Good advice thanks! If there were more options available, I would have really considered the new 7.3. Plenty of power and I hear its a good engine so far. Get some extra payload and save some extra cash!
@@IreneIronTravels If you are traveling thru North Dallas in the near future, I would be more than happy to hook up our 5er and let you tow it around to see how it feels. Assuming of course we aren't somewhere in the Rockies on our own adventure... 😁
I have a pop-up truck camper, an Alaskan camper and then tow a trailer behind it. I plan to get a toy hauler instead of the travel trailer I have now and then I’ll have a very modular system. You should consider getting a light weight pop-up truck camper (FourWheel Camper, Alaskan Camper, Outfitter, Northstar, Hallmark) and then a travel trailer. It gives a lot of flexibility in your system and ability to go way off road when you want and then still have comfort in your trailer.
If your looking at a tow behind travel trailer I would go for an off road travel trailer I would look at Black Series. Truck Campers I am looking at a Host Cascade for a single wheel 3500 all you do it some airbags for the extra weight. Since you have a short bed you just get the shorter version. 5th wheels are roomy and gorgeous but all my friends that have them have suspension issues and end up spending a nice chunk of money getting independent suspension on them. Also take a look at 5th wheels with front kitchen if they make them small enough for you.
Since you have the Pick up truck with you already It makes it Easy to Tow a Classic Airstream, for you Guys and will look perfect for your exploits.
You should look into Outdoors RV out of Oregon. They make solid travel trailers geared towards off-road, boondocking, etc.
Yes!! ORV!!
5th wheel easier to tow than a pull behind, we have had both. Please look at Grand Design, great company and service!
My son and D-in-L went from a tent trailer to a 5th wheel. She hated and had to sike herself out for days BEFORE driving the tent trailer with a one ton through the mountain passes of Southern BC anytime she and my 2 gsons went ahead of my son for many planned multi boondocking opportunities EVERYTIME. There's usually a big gang of them that meet up. The wives usually arrive first and husbands follow couple days later.
When they bought a short used 5th wheel it was a game changer for her. Before you decide you should actually drive around in one in different scenarios. Women LOVE driving 5th wheels. As opposed to ANY towing rig. The gang of them (about 10+or- give or take at any given time) usually pick the most isolated and worse rugged roads to get to forestry camp grounds up mountain passes and switch before. They're all crazy. And they love they're fifth wheels. A couple of them have renovated shorter older models without the slide outs. Much lighter. Something to consider maybe if you're thinking of an interim camper. 5th wheelers don't go back to pulling it seems
Take a look at Outdoors RV in La Grange, Oregon. They make a true 4-season line of travel trailers, toy haulers and 5th wheels that are designed for off-roading in the rugged areas. Or take a look at Arctic Fox RV’s, they also have a line of off-road, 4 season capable RVs. With your F350 Tremor SRW, a truck camper isn’t an option as it won’t have the extra space you want and a SRW Tremor package doesn’t give you a whole lot of payload capacity. I’d suggest a rugged, off-road 5th wheel like the Outdoor RV Glacier Peak Series or a travel trailer of the size and length that suits you.
Thank you for the suggestions!
I’m excited for you guys! Thanks for opening up your playbook to us!
Thanks Cole!
Sorry for all the comments but here is a beast you probably never thought of. A super C with 4X4 super rare but if you do your research on the very little maintenance on these you will be impressed. Class A’s are notorious for costing a lot to maintain. Check out this 2020 Dynamax DX3 34KD shared from the RVTrader iOS App.
Also, A good kitchen is a must, I love your healthy cooking sections :)
Have had both travel trailer, and a fifth wheel......the fifth wheel is the way to go....easier hookup, better maneuverability, can turn 90 degrees to trailer, even hookup that way. Travel trailers are nice but harder to back in, turn etc.....Sold the travel trailer, still have fifth wheel, but I also have vanagon Westy, and that’s what I camp in now.
Appreciate your first hand opinion on those! Sooooo many options!
You two aren’t fooling me. Both of your eyes lit up when you did the video walkthroughs of the Airstream FC trailers. The only question is if you get the 25’ or the 28’. 😀. The only negative would be your desire to go more off road. It’s all about trade offs and what is most important. Good luck deciding!
Thanks MIke! We do both really love the Airstreams! But, we just don't know quite yet!
That's exciting you're moving on with a new home. I did have bunch of suggestions but since you bought the truck, looks like a towable trailer will be your next home. I'm guessing an Airstream is on your list. You mentioned space was an issue. An option is a trailer with slide outs. Just my opinion after window shopping for a RV this year. Beware of the 2 companies start with a W and J. Because of the qualities. Also decide what kind of places you want to camp. Some places limits you so the length of your trailer is important. Can't wait to see your new home.
We love our Lance and the tank sizes. We have a 2285. And the Dometic hat would go well with it! Can get it with the lift kit and will be able get it off road a bit more. We did consider the Outdoors RV, but we live on the East Coast so that just didn’t make sense. The interior on the Lance is better than the Outdoors RV, but not as modern for most models as an AS.
I know you’ll get an airstream, but fingers crossed that it’s NOT an airstream, although given the options you considered, it’s the best looking. I guess I’m not a fan of trailers in general. We’ve had every kind of RV, including a couple of trailers, and my most favorites, depending on the use, have been our class A diesel pusher with a toad (FT work/live for 2 years), and our class B van (shorter trips). Our first was a truck camper - loved that for weekends & had that for at least a decade. Class C’s were just okay, and we least enjoyed our trailers. Good luck with your choices! I’m sure you’ll get what suits your needs best at this point in time!
I enjoy you guys SO much! So informative and honest.
Nice truck congrats. Having owned a truck camper I wouldn’t recommend one unless you want the towing capability. 5th wheel you lose most of the bed but they do tow and backup better. I’m quite bias on trailers so if it were me it would be a 20-22’ Airstream. The generic white box trailers are a cheaper option but AS’s are just so iconic and cool. Plus they hold their value, are generally better constructed and tow wonderfully. Good luck and happy shopping!
Thanks appreciate your feedback on the truck camper. We have mixed feeling about them for sure! Truck and tt seems like the right choice!!
Lance 2375 camp trailer. 45 black tank, check it out lots of benefits. We love ours. Great off road.
We were looking at Airstreams but decided on a Oliver Travel trailer. We have one on order. Only available from the factory. True 4 season.
We bought our Outdoors RV in 2017 and love it. Our model is the 23 RKS. We were definitely sold on the trailer and it’s quality. My recommendation you can not live without is a tire pressure monitoring system. Major peace of mind. Oh and Anderson Levelers. Those are awesome when it comes to leveling your trailer.
Hi Chris and Aaron!! Congrats on your truck purchase! Being from CO, I probably should have ordered the Tremor package. And, I hope I don’t reach the point of regretting not getting a diesel. The one we ordered was the 7.3l gasser with 4.30 gears. It can still tow 15k on the bumper and 19.9k on a gooseneck. When it is all said and done, I suspect the diesel will get to the top of the pass 45 seconds before ours.
Good luck on your continued camper hunt! I really liked your summaries of everything you are still seriously considering. They all have great aspects about each of them.
Safe travels!!
Thanks Alan! If I were to order one I was really thinking hard on the new 7.3 with its 430 hp and 475 tourqe! Great reviews. Save 8 grand and 500lbs of payload! But for 350's it was slim pickins out here! And I kinda fell in love with the tremor package which made the pool even smaller. 🤣
@@IreneIronTravels yes...definitely understand that you had to go after what was available. Great looking truck, nonethekess.
Excellent decision guys!!! The truck is a great buy, not a good time to buy but a good decision to get a truck. NO truck camper. Save money and get a good, small, off road, off grid capable trailer. Something great for boondocking that fits your size needs but something you can park, lock up and leave in the woods while you go exploring in the truck.
Our experience with 5th wheel was horrible and we hated it for traveling. For semi static living with very little traveling, they're great but suck for traveling and boondocking.
Our opinion, get something medium sized, possibly 20 ft, easy to tow, easy to off grid boondocking, and easy to lock down and leave in the woods while you go hiking, running, exploring, easy to leave and go to town in the truck for date nights etc.
Our only serious tip, Don't go too big. You'll regret it. If you're going to continue traveling and boondocking, don't go big. The first boondocking trip when you realize the thing is too big to park or go off road will seriously suck.
Thank you! Appreciate the feedback. We definitely want to stay small, but it is a ever constant battle to keep the "creep" down so don't just say..... what's an extra foot! We've been thinking 26 max, but a lot to consider, since we do 50/50 boonies, campgrounds.
Have you looked at the "Host" PU camper based in Bend Oregon? By far the best custom build in the world. New Mammoth runs close to $100K. Arctic Fox would be my 2nd choice. But they are over priced. Lance looks good and have come a long way but AF is far more of a true four season along with the Host which is the only one I am considering right now. Host is the Rolls Royce of pickup campers. You don't see as many of the Host units because of the high price and custom builds. The Host are by far more like a fancy upper crust home. When you are relaxing in a 3 slide Host you have to pinch yourself to realize your aren't in an upper crust condo on the lake.
Love the new truck! An airstream trailer seems like a good fit for y’all and less stressful to tow than a 5th wheel. Happy RV shopping!
Very true!! Thank you 😊
Great choice on the 4X4 Ford......looks rugged, but classy. Since you hinted that 28ft was a tad to long, I'll have to adjust my prior guess of a 28ft Airstream Flying Cloud and now go with a smaller version, say the 25 ft Globetrotter (40 gallon black tank). Consider this, if you select a rig other than Airstream, you will always be comparing it with the Airstream quality your accustomed to. Good luck and keep us informed.
"keep your daydream" on YT may give you guys some options, they had multiple rigs, also a lot of tips and tricks
Thanks! We did watch them a lot when we were planning out leave in 2017. Good advice and entertainment!
Aaron gets a new truck! Way cool! And I seem to remember Chris going with the goo goo eyes over the airstream trailer as I recall! Yup, airstream time for sure👍👍👍
I think it’s her truck lol she’s the driver 💪💪💪
You're right, Chris is the driver! Wait till she get that bad boy off road out west!!! Yay team!!!😎
You might need to get the HQ19, I hear that there are Quality Control issues with the HQ21, I don't even think you can find one. They are shipped from Australia and until they fix the problems, no luck. The best place to get the HQ. is at RV'S of America in Idaho. They specialize in them and they took the HQ 21 off of their website.
I suggest getting a goose neck hitch for your truck so you can pull a 5th wheel. A truck camper would be too small plus it would take a toll on your truck. That would be fine for part time RVing, not full time, IMO
Considering your list shared before I see something that you do not have to make and take down the bed and of course the a dry bath. Congratulations on the new truck. That will be awesome to pull with. We have pulled a full 4 horse 5th wheel with a F250 Diesel. Now that you have the F350 I see a new 5th wheel in your future.....those will give you a true home feel and much more space. Just a note - 5th wheels are easier than travel trailers as the turning points are different and much more friendly with a 5th wheel. Try to test drive both so you can get the feel for pulling, backing and turning before you make your final decision. Just a suggestion. Excited to see what you decide on! We go Wednesday to pick up our new Class A. I might just be right an airstream tt in your future....LOL
Hi from Ontario, Canada 🇨🇦 - great video - that truck is insane awesome! Looking forward to seeing your whole set up soon 👍🏻
Hello!! 👋
Thanks for watching!!
Lance are well made and have better insulation than many. Good luck!
Thanks!!
We started out tenting, then went to camper to a 24 ft 5th. Then to a 28 and now have a 33 ft 5th. A camper will be too small for you. With your short box truck a 5th is harder to get into small spaces. You would need a sliding hitch. 5th s have a ton more storage that you won't have in a trailer. With a trailer you need to watch out for sway. Driving in high winds will be more difficult with a trailer than a 5th. We love our Montana but it is high. Good luck with your decision. Ps we are part timers, still have sticks and bricks.
Thank you for the insight on the 5ers! Lots of decisions!!
From the perspective of going further into the "wilderness" the Black Series is the one to get but, speaking from experience, while your new truck is very capable, it would not be very enjoyable experience. Sounds good in theory, but I think the reality would not meet your expectation. You mentioned several trailers that would be a good compromise in getting further off the beaten path and make it easy to stay longer. We have considered all the trailers you have, we ended up updating/remodeling the interior of our current trailer, our interior was similar to Outdoors RV, because we could find a better compromise of desirable features than our current trailer. Have fun finding your new rig. We will be watching!
Good advice! I agree, we're not going to want to beat down the brush on a small trail in a new truck!🤣
The middle ground is more likely the sweet spot, as you say! Thanks!
One of my favorite TT, is Grand Design 17MKE. Small size tt, good tank sizes & a murphy bed. To me the best designed small tt out there. Great kitchen and you can order one with a kitchen table vs the second couch.
I would like to look at those and the 22 as well. Seems people like them! Thanks
@@IreneIronTravels we love following you guys and we appreciate all that you share. You have helped us to decide that a class b would be better for our situation. If you would like to look at a 2250RK, we have ours for sale since we are going to a class b. We have extensively upgraded it to be off grid capable and I know you would love the kitchen. Here's a link with all of the details. Feel free to reach out with any questions. hr4kf.app.goo.gl/KG4La
Thank you , appreciate that! Class B's have so many benefits for sure and we'll miss ours. We'll check out your rig, thanks 😊
Used a 40ft 5th wheel for 2 yrs and went eveywhere loved it, had everything we needed
You may want to check out the Escape 5.0 5th wheel at 21ft. 5500 gvwr. Get into small sites, lift gives good clearance & more space than a ClassB with dedicated bedroom.
Thanks! We really wanted to like that 5.0 , but the tanks are too small And very similar to our van. Except the black was double which is nice. Also only about 1500 lbs of occc which is not much for full time living. Thanks 😊
Good luck with your search for your new home. One thing Airstream has is dealers nationwide whereas some of the others don’t. I really like the Black Series, but there are only a few dealers in the US. I had to cancel my airstream order due to having both knees replaced 3 weeks ago, but as soon as I’m able I’ll reorder. I’m going to look at all the options again though. It’s tough to narrow it down.
Thanks Gregg! Bummer on the knees and canceling the order. I bet that was a tough descion! Hope you heal up fast!!
I have a 2000 Monaco Dynasty that I love after owning everything out there over the years. Quality built coach. It has lots of room and plenty of power to tow a car. Older quality built coaches are a much better buy. I bought mine for a lot less money then your truck.
Make sense! We were in RV loves 99 country coach and it seemed great! They loved it as well.
@@IreneIronTravels Yep, I tow an AWD Pilot and E-bikes so we can go any where (just about) to see what we want. Good luck with what ever you choose. There is no perfect RV for everyone.
we just purchased a Keystone Cougar 24RDS which is 28'...perfect for 2 people full time living.
oops...meant to mention it's a fifth wheel so more towing stability and more like a 22' pull behind trailer
Highly recommend the Rockwood Ultra-Lite 2516S. Think it could be a fit for you two. Large kitchen, queen bed and good size bathroom with theater seating.
LOL theater seating not in the bathroom!!
Absolutely love, love, love your tremor! For what y’all are gonna tow it is perfect! Manageable wheelbase, nice capacity, creature comforts, off road prowess. Based on video and Truck capacity truck campers are pretty much out. Which leaves me 2 thoughts. As I have stated before a 25 fbt, FC, Int, or GT especially with the hatch is fantastic, maneuverable, and iconic. A pricey option that retains its value nicely and is very long lasting. Obviously the 3 inch lift to match truck and boon docking abilities is a must. Airstreams tow nice and 25 feet is perfect for going just about everywhere! The other idea I have for myself and for you guys, is to consider a Grand Design Reflection150...260rd. It will tow great, has big tanks, lots of storage, great windows on all sides, great floor space, nice kitchen space, and best of all is 29’9” long so it will tow and feel like a 25 ft airstream, but is half the price and more maneuverable, and with 1 slide room bigger. It is a mid profile fifth wheel so it is a manageable height. Storage and overall practicality trump the iconic Tin Can(which I love as well). As far as looks, your new truck color will match GD perfectly...so as others have told me, if you look cool 😎, you are cool 😎! Happy travels...something to consider. Both of the aforementioned are winners. Cannot wait to see what you choose!
Thank you for all your thoughts and insight! Ill go with.... if you look cool you are cool!!😂
A Black Series trailer would look awesome behind that truck!
Sure would!!🤩