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KRHODES7's avatar
KRHODES7
Explorer
Feb 02, 2014

Help: Military retiree w/ family temp living

I am 33, married with a 2 year old, and a new born (4 total). We currently live in Japan, where I will retire from the Air Force in 5 months, with disability. Looking to buy a travel trailer, and if need be trade in our 2006 Honda Ridgeline (5,000 lb tow capacity) to have a tow vehicle. We are looking to temporarily live in a travel trailer temporarily while I search for a job, as we don't know what state we will end up living in. We do not want to get an apartment in Oregon and then have me find a job in Massachusetts. Can someone make a travel trailer, and vehicle combination recommendation, we have $30K saved, and will clear approximately $2K a month in retirement/disability. Any tips, like good brands, brands to avoid, > this year, or sweet spot recommendations are greatly appreciated.

1. What is good mid-size travel trailer, and a reasonable cost?
2. What size is preferable?
3. What is a good/cheap vehicle to match that? That can drive into town.
4. Does this seem practical/feasible?

We appreciate your time, and insight.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Feb 02, 2014
    Welcome And thanks from a Vietnam AF vet.
    We are in the portland area so would be willing to give you a hand in your search. There is a dealer, rally auto mart in PDX that sells used everything from motor homes to tent trailers. How long do you think you will be full timing? Personally for your budget and family, you might be better off with a travel trailer around 30 feet long. Then shop for a full sized van. I know Ford made them with the diesel, but unless it was an older van with the 7.3L I would skip that choice. If you need help, or any questions, send me a PM.
  • HappyKayakers's avatar
    HappyKayakers
    Explorer
    Feb 02, 2014
    KRHODES7 wrote:

    ...4. Does this seem practical/feasible?

    We appreciate your time, and insight.


    What happens if you buy a TT, new tow vehicle, get all set up on a long term spot, then get a job across the country 2 weeks later? I assume you plan to get an apartment/house once you find a permanent job.

    Have you considered an extended stay hotel while you're job searching? Probably about the same amount of space but without the large down payment and maintenance. And when you find a job, you just check out.

    Of course, if you're considering staying in the RV even after you find a job and relocate, I would suggest a bunkhouse 5th wheel for the extra storage for a young family.
  • markandkim's avatar
    markandkim
    Explorer II
    Feb 02, 2014
    KRHODES7 wrote:
    Actually, I heard there was a job possibly opening that would be perfect for me at Hanscom, so that is exactly what I am considering. But I am an Oregon resident, so I dont want to move anywhere until I am locked into a job.


    If you do decide to come here, live in NH. Not far from the base. No income taxes. I would never recommend living in MA to anyone if they dont have to.
  • markandkim's avatar
    markandkim
    Explorer II
    Feb 02, 2014
    This is the only rv forum that I know of without a military forum. PM me for ones that do.
    A club to check out is called SMART. It is made up of retired military rvers. Mostly full timers too.
  • 1995brave's avatar
    1995brave
    Nomad
    Feb 02, 2014
    $30K is not going to get very much. Check out www.pplmotorhomes.com for units that are on consignment.
  • KRHODES7's avatar
    KRHODES7
    Explorer
    Feb 02, 2014
    Actually, I heard there was a job possibly opening that would be perfect for me at Hanscom, so that is exactly what I am considering. But I am an Oregon resident, so I dont want to move anywhere until I am locked into a job.
  • markandkim's avatar
    markandkim
    Explorer II
    Feb 02, 2014
    Hanscom AFB here has 2 famcamps. One on base and the other on the coast. Since you are retiring you can use military famcamps anywhere. Check military camping online. There are famcamps and cottages available everywhere.

    Let me know if I can be of further help.

    BTCS
  • WoodGlue's avatar
    WoodGlue
    Explorer
    Feb 02, 2014
    Do you want to go new or used?

    You can start by shopping here:

    RVT.com

    This will give you the best idea of what's available new and used, pricing and availability.

    You should be fine with a nice condition used F-150 and a trailer that weighs in somewhere around 5 to 6,000 lbs (loaded)

    If I were you, I'd stay away from "Stick and Tin" construction. That's where they use real wood and house insulation and then cover it up with ridged aluminum. It's a much heavier option than something like an aluminum caged w/ 2" block foam insulation.

    You should be able to find something nice for you to live in temporarily. The real question is are you going to keep it or sell it after you find regular housing?

    Good luck,

    WoodGlue

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