Forum Discussion

NYCgrrl's avatar
NYCgrrl
Explorer
Mar 12, 2014

Opinions on Alto Safari Condo and Vehicle

I decided to put our summer tenting to the side, buy a small modified tear drop and tour the US for several months as a retirement present. It'll just be 2 of us and because we live in NYC this will be the first time we will own a car since..the mid '70's. As such we'll be buying not only a TT but a car at the same time. Strange how life goes isn't it?...content being car-less for decades and then BAM,change up LOL.

So this is the style we are prolly going to buy:

ALTO CONDO SAFARI R1723

Dry weight: 1725

I'm thinking a car with a towing capacity of 3000-3500 lbs would be about right. Haven't picked a car yet though I know of someone with a similar model that uses a Golf.

Anyway back to the TT.....any deficiencies noted in the layout or specs? Do the solar panels seem to provide a nice amt of power for infrequent TV use(maybe once a wk) and constant radio as well as charging smartphones and a tablet? I've done a lot of reading on te subject but I'm sure there are areas I've missed.

TIA!:)

42 Replies

Show More
  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    Mar 12, 2014
    Is definitely a nice looking TT....very unique design.

    I've read blogs of folks who fulltime in smaller teardrops so it can be done.

    As you consider what to get, please keep in mind most RV'ers start out using tents, move up to a small TT, van or MH and then upgrade to a 25 foot to 30 foot RV with a 35 to 40 foot RV (MH, TH or 5th wheel) as a final choice. They go through 3-4 RVs until they get to one that really fits. Why not skip the small ones and go for true comfort.
  • donn0128's avatar
    donn0128
    Explorer II
    Mar 12, 2014
    Personally I would forget cars, get a minivan or one of the mid sized SUV's as your TV. You will find that space is at a premium and you will want every inch of it for extended travels. Now to the small trailer idea, where are you going to bathe? Wash clothes? Most of us full timers, or extended travelers can find 350 square ft rather cramped for two let alone 100 square ft. While it. Might be adequate for weekend use extended use I think you will find it very difficult. But that's just me. Due to my connection speed I could not access your link, so I have to assume it is a tear drop type of trailer?

About RV Newbies

4,031 PostsLatest Activity: Jul 26, 2025