Is Trailer Life a Recommended Read?

I subscribed to Trailer Life for several years, then one day realized there was really nothing "new" or "fresh" in it any more. I let my subscription die then but occasionally pick one up from the book store magazine section. Maybe I've been an RVer too long, but I don't find too much really "new or fresh" even now.

I think if you are new to RVing and travel trailers, it's a pretty good magazine to have for a couple or three years. As you age in experience with your RV, you'll find surfing the internet and watching YouTube videos much more beneficial, because after 2 or 3 years of RVing, you'll interests and needs will begin to become more single focused, and the internet will let you search for those specific things you're looking for. Where as, the magazine is still general attempting to reach a wider audience.

So if you are a new RVer, yes, Trailer Life has a lot of value for a while. You can learn a lot and pick up a lot of ideas and find it very interesting. But don't be surprised or disappointed when all of a sudden it doesn't reach your needs of interest any more. When that happens, let the subscription die. Look for another source of "stimulation."

I subscribed to TL for several years. I let it go this year because we won't be home enough to make it worth while. If you are looking for the in depth info some people seem to expect, I suggest getting a few of those fascinating engineering text books. If you just want a light read with some opinions and floor plans, a few ideas on fun things to do and places to go then it's pretty good, IMO. There are a lot of letters on things that some may find elementary, but it helps some people. I don't think it's meant to be a technical publication and to me they don't try to be, just try to answer a few simple questions. I find it entertaining

I agree with the comments. If your subscription is free or fairly low it is worthwhile. Some issues better than others. Until I find a better magazine that caters to RVing this is for me. It is a good easy read.

Too much advertising and then articles praising TL and CW.

I let my subscription go years ago. Last time I saw a copy, it was no better.

Ken

Not much to it now other than GS and CW ads.

I'd say that if you're a beginner RVer Trailer Life would be of interest to you for a year or two. It would probably also make you want to get a new trailer by looking at the ads and articles of new ones that come out. :)

Hey folks, have you forgotten the "Problem Resolution" section? They (Trailer Life) have helped many people (myself included) obtain help or recoup money from dishonest companies. I get kick out of how cooperative some companies are when this magazine goes public with our otherwise ignored letters.

I don't mind the advertising in this and Motorhome Life but they will have articles about where to visit and never talk about the campgrounds to stay in for that area or the RV/TT friendliness of the area - parking, roads, etc. Any travel magazine can tell you to go and visit X but I expect a trailer or motorhome mag to tell you how to visit X in a trailer or motorhome - both always fall short in this.

Reading it for free is ok. Do not expect any journalism. Mainly fluff articles supporting an advertiser.
I am apparently one of the few that is happy with what I have,looking at new models and floor plans does not excite me.
If you recognize it for what it is,(another form of advertising)and accept that it is worth reading.
Matter of fact I just put my new issue into my work bag to peruse during lunch today!

BarneyS wrote:
I have been a subscriber for many years and get enjoyment out of it. Some of the technical pieces are very well done and others not so much.
It will most often feature one review of a trailer and tow vehicle combination, tech articles about tires, engine improvements, GPS, etc. and usually at least one about a travel destination.

I don't find the advertising annoying, nor is it any more in abundance that any other magazine of the type. I actually learn quite a bit from the ads and will frequently go to a website suggested to learn more. :)

So, in my opinion, YES, Trailer Life would be a recommended read.
Barney

Agree. A lot of advertisements, but you might see something you're interested in. Some good travel information..and they do show new products, from MH's, TT's, 5er's, etc...and things you can purchase for said RV's...

I've been camping for over 45 years and it seems like a nice bit of entertainment for RV'ers....for no more than it cost, if you have to pay at all, the wife and I like like it.