DutchmenSport wrote:
OK, here's my "rant" for the day! I just don't understand it, and every time I read a post it makes me cringe and sends spikes up my spine. Call it a "rant" if you want, but here goes.
We (all) spend a huge whopping amount of money for a decent RV, MH, TC, and tow vehicle for those with trailers of any kind.
But, when it comes to some thing, there's this on-going gnawing pain in my side when folks look for the cheapest way out. What do I mean?
"Cheap" weight distribution systems.
"Cheap" camping spots.
"Cheap" camping gear.
"Cheap" tires, but still want quality.
"Cheap" RV's but still want quality.
"Cheap" and easy meals.
You get the idea.
I just read a post where someone was wanting a "Cheap" weight distribution hitch system. And this got my feathers ruffled.
That word "Cheap" drives me crazy. "Cheap" (in my opinion) means lacking in quality or durability. It can also refer to the price of an item.
Face it... the RV lifestyle is not "Cheap" and it's definitely not "economical" either. From a financial perspective, RVing simply makes no sense at all. But neither does the cost of some other hobbies.
If someone is going to spend $70,000 for a really hefty tow vehicle and trailer, why "cheap" out with Weight Distribution.
If you are going on that 2 week annual vacation, why cheap-out at WallMart parking lots to avoid camping fees. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination?
I think you get my point. I think it's the choice of the word, "cheap" that irritates me. There REALLY is nothing "cheap" about the RV lifestyle. There may be better "economical" ways of getting the job done, but "cheap" is not the way to do it.
If you're going to RV, invest thousands of dollars in an RV and the machines to move them, and carry your family with you inside them, I would think everyone would want the absolute best, not something "cheap".
Everything from safety, to food, to entertainment, to location, to experiences, to the blankets and dishes you use in your RV, "cheap" is a word that should not be an option!
OK so much for my daily rant.
Just wait till I get on my soap box about that word, "upgrade!"
;)
Sorry and don't take this personally but your rant is just that. Not well thought out or sensitive to others who may have limited financial means but still want to get out and play.
Your whole rant is based on a straw man argument which is a false construct: If you spend all this money for X. Then why wont you spend the amount I think you should spend on everything else.
Well I see many many folks out here all over the country in small affordable, old and sometimes ancient RV's getting out and camping and travelling. They may not have the money to throw around and need to conserve it in any way they can.
Some may be like me. I have the resources to do this full timing in any manner I choose. What did I pick? I bought a very good used trailer and a New Dodge truck instead of one of those full bus chassis MH's. Why? we knew we wanted to spend a lot of time in National Parks campgrounds and I bought a trailer to match the longest average length allowable at MOST Nat'l parks. We also don't intend to do this for ever and will eventually move back overseas. I see no reason to take a huge hit on depreciation in doing that.
Making smart financial decisions is part of why I have the resources I do.
Did I "Cheap Out"?
I do stay at Wal marts on occasion when traveling from point A to B and that is a VALUE for money decision that is also a Convenience one for me. (and I suspect many others)
The decisions are often a VALUE decision...not jsut a COST one.
You are apparently bothered by those that make sound financial decisions (as I would describe them) I am bothered by those who throw money away needlessly with no regard for Value Achieved.
