Status, late 50s, retiring in June. We want a small TT under 2500 lbs if possible, with a Fixed bed so wife can crash early and I can sleep late.Dry bath ... We think so we do not have to wipe down commode after every showerRefrigerator ,maybe a small freezer, ac etc.Not interested in t. Or sound systemAbility to travel with our dogAbility to enjoy my incredible cooking and fine wineWill camp mostly in fall and spring as I hate summer heatLooking for dispersed camping or low volume CGWill travel light, basically glorified backpacking with a comfortable bedWill also park and use this for backyard camping in the woods on my property to live more in touch with nature in retirement.I think a 14db Livin Lite fits the ticket perfectly, maybe even a 13 ft LL. these are pricey but seem to be much better built than anything else.Also considering a Lance based on a posters advice.Ay links to valuable posts or advice welcome. I will read the compillation of the most FAQ in the next days, that seems to be an invaluable request.

I always suggest to people to go to a RV show so you can look at all the different offerings at once. Make a list like you've already started of the things you have to have (maybe a walk around bed, dry bath, seating area, etc) and then use that list to fine tune your choices.Good luck and have fun shopping!Scott

My recommendation would be a 17' Casita or Scamp. Both are moulded Fiberglass, pull easily and very tough little trailers. I would not want to get one smaller than a 17' model, however.

Good idea to find an RV show, if you can, to see the various options. One recent issue of Trailer Life also had a few ideas. Sounds like you're generally on the right track, looking at the 14' TT or a truck camper (as long as you have the appropriate truck for the latter). Under 2500 lbs is a tall order for all those things; if you're willing to forego the fixed bed or the bathroom, you could consider one of the small teardrop trailers. Forest River makes the R-Pod, which is a series of small trailers; I think their smallest is a 17' model, and they have a hybrid option, which can work well in nice weather (even if cool) and if you're not camping in bear country. :) In fact, if that will be true for you, you might look into one of the smaller hybrids - full-height trailers with popup-style beds.

You'll find a neat link here for small trailer lovers:small trailer supportAdding to the manufacturers mentioned above:Airstream- not sure about the dry bath; iconic, pricey yet holds it's value well. Alto Safari Condo- Also pricey but has a fantastic resale market when you can even find a used model. Evergreen- at least 2 lines that would prolly meet most of your criteria:I-Go and ElementAeroLite- saw this on a campground and was given a tour by the owners. Started me on my quest for smaller can be better:B HTH!

Rent a few in different sizes to see what you can live with and can't live without.

Suggestions for a Small TT to retiring backpackers

NYCgrrl
Explorer
Mar 22, 2014
You'll find a neat link here for small trailer lovers:

small trailer support

Adding to the manufacturers mentioned above:

Airstream- not sure about the dry bath; iconic, pricey yet holds it's value well.

Alto Safari Condo- Also pricey but has a fantastic resale market when you can even find a used model.

Evergreen- at least 2 lines that would prolly meet most of your criteria:I-Go and Element

AeroLite- saw this on a campground and was given a tour by the owners. Started me on my quest for smaller can be better:B

HTH!
kknowlton
Explorer II
Mar 22, 2014
Good idea to find an RV show, if you can, to see the various options. One recent issue of Trailer Life also had a few ideas. Sounds like you're generally on the right track, looking at the 14' TT or a truck camper (as long as you have the appropriate truck for the latter). Under 2500 lbs is a tall order for all those things; if you're willing to forego the fixed bed or the bathroom, you could consider one of the small teardrop trailers. Forest River makes the R-Pod, which is a series of small trailers; I think their smallest is a 17' model, and they have a hybrid option, which can work well in nice weather (even if cool) and if you're not camping in bear country. :) In fact, if that will be true for you, you might look into one of the smaller hybrids - full-height trailers with popup-style beds.
TECMike
Explorer
Mar 22, 2014
My recommendation would be a 17' Casita or Scamp. Both are moulded Fiberglass, pull easily and very tough little trailers. I would not want to get one smaller than a 17' model, however.
ScottG
Nomad
Mar 22, 2014
I always suggest to people to go to a RV show so you can look at all the different offerings at once. Make a list like you've already started of the things you have to have (maybe a walk around bed, dry bath, seating area, etc) and then use that list to fine tune your choices.

Good luck and have fun shopping!

Scott

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