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5outta6's avatar
5outta6
Explorer
Jan 09, 2017

Cross Country Trip: RV or TT ?

We are thinking of a 8-9K mile trip this spring from California to the East Coast.

We have a TT that has worked well for trips as long a 10 days and 2000 miles so far.

We have been contemplating trading the trailer for a class c Rv. (we had a class c for about 8 years previously).

I think the RV would be alot easier driving , etc than towing.

The big 'but' is that I know what condition my TT and truck are in and if we buy a new RV, we probably will have warranty issues right off the start so we'd have to take small shakedown trips before the scheduled big trip and then hopefully the RV dealers could get you in for repairs.
If we buy a late model used Rv (I usually buy used) you hope it will function ok.

We would probably run about 300 miles a day. With many multi-day stops at relatives towns along the way.

Anyones opinions will be greatly appreciated.
Seeking Advice

18 Replies

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  • Jayco-noslide's avatar
    Jayco-noslide
    Explorer
    Jan 09, 2017
    You didn't mention if you would plan to tow a vehicle behind the MH. To me this would be mandatory on a trip that long in order to have transportation when parked at a campground. However, towing behind a MH is stressful whether with a dolly or flat towing because you can not back up so always have to be watching where you are pulling into. If you don't tow, then a MH is pretty easy, even driving through towns, etc. It accelerates and stops quicker and is maneurverable. I prefer MH because of the generator, larger tanks and easy access from the cab to bathroom, etc.
  • cruiserjs's avatar
    cruiserjs
    Explorer
    Jan 09, 2017
    TTs, 5th wheels, class Cs, Class As are ALL RVs!! Let's get rid of the so-called class distinctions please!
  • toedtoes's avatar
    toedtoes
    Explorer III
    Jan 09, 2017
    My vote is to stick with what you have. You're comfortable with it, it's in good shape, and you'll have more money to spend on the trip itself.

    I think when you are visiting relatives, the truck will be handy. Remember not every neighborhood allows RV parking - so with a Class C, you might have to have your relatives come and get you because you can't park at their house for an afternoon visit. With the truck and trailer, you can leave your trailer at the campground and drive the truck to visit the relatives.

    I also think that trying to get a new RV and getting it ready for a scheduled big trip is a recipe for disaster. Lots of posts from folks who had to cancel plans because warranty work was delayed, shop did a lousy job, unknown things went wrong at the last moment, etc.
  • trailertraveler's avatar
    trailertraveler
    Explorer
    Jan 09, 2017
    I made six trips from the East Coast to Arizona in a Class C with no toad. After switching to a travel trailer in 2007, We have made 10 trips from the East Coast to the mountain states and 9 trips South to Florida. Having the tow vehicle to sightsee, shop, etc. is to me far more convenient. It also allows family to stay in the trailer while the tow vehicle is used to run errands, get serviced or let one do things the other family member(s) may not wish to. For example, I can go fishing early in the morning while DW sleeps in. I have no idea what will work best for you.
  • PghBob's avatar
    PghBob
    Explorer
    Jan 09, 2017
    We have a 27 foot Class C that we have used to cross country travel a couple of times, and a 2015 trip to Alaska and back. We do not tow, and have not felt the need to tow. Once or twice, we have rented a car for certain things.

    I think you and your family should consider what you want to do on the trip. There are certain areas that a family car or tow vehicle would be better than the Class C. Perhaps a few.

    If you like your TT, and feel that it is in good shape, I'd say stick with it. You don't have to worry about new things to fix. You really want to enjoy the trip.
  • n0arp's avatar
    n0arp
    Explorer
    Jan 09, 2017
    Unless there is a problem with your setup, I fail to see how a Class C will be enough of an "easier driving" improvement to trade and deal with the downsides. Best of both worlds: move from a TT to a 5er.
  • prichardson's avatar
    prichardson
    Explorer
    Jan 09, 2017
    It is no harder to tow a TT 9K than 2K. Many of us have crossed the country several times with them. The big advantage of a TT on a long trip is that it can be parked and the tow vehicle used for sightseeing, errands, etc. With a class c you either have to constantly secure everything to move it or have a dinghy for side trips.

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