Toy Hauler Shopping: We're 100% New

I'm fine on going 1-ton, for sure. It's all about having "at least slightly more" truck than is base-spec and I'm happy to do exactly that.

... but KZ trailers are renowned for being made of CHEAP metals and configurations. We're looking to purchase something that is reliable.

Again, the truck we buy is an afterthought. First we need to know precisely what we're towing.

"You're going to want more space" is an individual perspective. We've lived compact before. Quite compact, actually and are hoping for 31' with pop outs, though willing to go to 35' (max).

Our concern, currently, is which brands are most RELIABLE and BUILT TO LAST.

Have at it.

I dunno, if you did a lot of research, as you say, you wouldn't be considering a 1/2 ton truck for a toy hauler. Toy haulers are big with huge pin weights compared to a 5th wheel. If it were me, I'd get a short Class A gasser like a Winnebago Vista or similar and get a trailer for the bikes. Same money as a truck and trailer.

Agree, bigger truck, you're looking at 3500 / F350.

Start by visiting RV dealerships and do some window shopping to get a good feel what you are dealing with. Internet searches are OK, and photos on-line are nice. But, until you actually step inside these units, you can only imagine.

The first thing you'll notice is how "glitzy" they are. And at first, may appear to be huge. But hang out in them a while and they begin to feel smaller and smaller. Add all your belongings, clothing, personal items, and all they can get very claustrophobic real fast.

Without previous camping or RV experience, you may be in for a real shock also until you figure things out. The logistics of just traveling from point A to point B, and setting up at your next campsite can be a bit daunting (at first). Not to mention the actual towing, driving in traffic, and parking the rig to include backing up. It's an experience awaiting you ... for sure!

So, really, the best thing you can do is visit RV dealerships and really study out those trailer... upfront and personal. Full timing RV may sound like a wonderful dream, you don't want it to turn into a horrible nightmare. Visit the dealerships, get inside, under, and around as many campers as you can! That will be your best initial introduction.

And get the bigger truck first, so when you take delivery of the camper, you have the right equipment to tow it with!

X2 on the “one ton” truck for any 5th wheel toy hauler. I think you might be a bit unrealistic on overall expectations unless you want to spend a lot of money. Like SDcamp said none are flawless. Good luck with your search.

SDcampowneroperator wrote:
Cant speak to TH brand, weve seen them all. None are flawless, unless you think of a New Horizon. I can suggest for whatever TH you get, get more truck, at least a SRW 3500. A TH with enough living space to full time is longer than you are looking at.

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Cant speak to TH brand, weve seen them all. None are flawless, unless you think of a New Horizon. I can suggest for whatever TH you get, get more truck, at least a SRW 3500. A TH with enough living space to full time is longer than you are looking at.