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Scotty092278's avatar
Scotty092278
Explorer
Apr 09, 2017

Advice on buying a new travel trailer on a budget?

Hello, I'm a young husband and father of two in Idaho. A little over a year ago, my family and I spent a small amount of money on a 1971 Road Ranger 16 ft. travel trailer. It was simply a way to dip our toes into trailer camping without breaking the bank. (We spent considerable time going through the trailer and giving it a good "refresh" with things like new brakes, tires, wiring, floor, wheel bearings, etc. To date, we've invested only about $1800.)

After trips around Idaho and to Yellowstone last year, it's become clear this is something my family and I really enjoy and are now willing to invest more resources in it. The idea of having a brand new trailer that no one else has stayed in, along with some of the more modern creature comforts, appeals to us. We're blessed with moderate income to be able to consider this upgrade.

But I admit to being very new to the game and therefore very green on the RV buying process. We are fortunate to have numerous dealers in our area. They range from the smaller family operations to the giant, national companies.

That said, what should we be on the lookout for? Are there brands to stay away from? We're willing to camp this season again in our current trailer if getting the best deal means waiting till fall or winter. We're looking at $13K or less, most likely. And based on the layout of our property, it needs to be 18 ft. or shorter. There are four people in our family.

Any advice would be very much appreciated. I'd love to hear what lessons you all have learned in this arena over the years. Thank you very much.

29 Replies

  • Spend your money on a used Northwood Mfg product. Nothing like going quality vs new.
  • 18 feet maxmm and four people, oh my. My TT is 22 feet...26 with bumper and tongue...and there hasn't been a campsite I couldnt get into with ease. Additionally the smaller TTs generally have small water tanks and one propane bottle.
  • Thanks, everyone. I agree on the value of a used unit but we're interested in a warranty and something that shouldn't need a lot of attention for several years. We may end up with used, but our search now is focused on new.

    We're good on tow capacity up to 8,000 lbs. So far, nothing I've seen in this price range/length comes close to that.

    This is one, a Keystone HIdeout 175LHS, that fits our criteria. I've seen several Keystone models that would seem to work. Buying at an entry level price, we're obviously not expecting the very best. But I don't want to end up with junk, either. Are there any prevailing thoughts on Keystone? Thanks again!

    https://www.rvtrader.com/dealers/Imperial-RV-Center-2968308/listing/2017-Keystone-Rv-Hideout-175LHS-120011523
  • Welcome to the forum.

    I agree with buying a nice, used unit. You will get more bang for your buck.

    Before you buy anything, make sure your tow vehicle has the capacity to pull the TT and your family/cargo.

    Ask lots of questions on the forum before you sign any agreements or give the seller any money.
  • If it HAS TO BE new, try to find a "last years model". Always the best bang for the buck.
  • U and I RV in Logan is listing a KZ Sportsmen Classic 19BH for a hair under $13K. That is a bit too long for your requirements, but you could ask them about ordering you a 150BH (and it might be less money, since it's shorter). I had a 14RB for about 3 years and it was decent. None of the trailers at that price point are anything great quality-wise, but they are serviceable as long as you keep them maintained, including a roof inspection every year.
  • your still very new to this and a growing family .look for a great used unit. buying new you,ll loose 5k right as you drive it of the dealers lot, a good used rv is not hard to find might be some right on your street . very very important check the ceiling for water marks if it has one RUN ,be very patient and the right one will show up.
  • A quick search to keep it under 18ft found this Keystone Passport 145EXP. Link
    It's a hybrid that has canvas beds on both ends. Might be able to get it under $13,000.00, maybe not.
    Maybe Jayco has something similar.
    The 18ft max and $13K you put on it is severely limiting your choices. I bought 3 years used and for my 33ft Bullet I was able to stay under $13K.
  • I would go to a RV show so you can see many models at once. Then make a list of the things you must have and things you just want.
    For instance, we wanted a walk around bed and to be under 28'.
    Once you have your requirements it will narrow the field down some.