Hey guys back for some more advice. A few months ago we were looking at selling the 5th wheel and downsizing some to a small vintage type trailer... Well we looked at those and instead really liked the airstream units around 24 foot. I know there has probably been some questions before regarding these units. However does anybody have one? If so what are the pros and cons for airstreams? We are looking for 2010-2012 perhaps depended on price.... Still researching these out and seeing if we would be good for a family of 3. Any input appreciated.Thanks,Kris

We looked at them at one time. They're nice looking, stylish, and they let in a lot of light with all of the windows in the upper corners to call them corners. The problem was all of the windows that let in all of the nice light also eliminated a lot of storage space because they had to eliminate a lot of cabinets to get the windows in there. Just something to think about that before you buy one.Bill

They come in many configurations and don't always have the higher Windows. They do have less storage but we always got along fine in our two Airstreams. We have a 40' DP now and I'll let you in on a little secret; you fill available space with more stuff. We had just as much fun back then with the Airstreams than we do now with all the storage. They also don't have features like multiple water pump switches, aux cable outside for outside tv, etc. on purpose bLess is more. They are well made, easy to work on, no delamination issues and tow well Also retain value. Find the Airstream forums.

You'll need a lot of polish to keep it shinny! Any dirt on the body and it will stand out like a soar thumb. Part of the really great look of an Airstream is that absolutely spotless, shinny, reflective stainless steel look. I could never have one. Too much work, I'm sure.

Having owned an Airstream, I can tell you with all due respect the posts from DutchmenSport and Trackrig are not accurate. 1. They are incredibility easy to keep clean- the clear coat finish requires no polishing and road dirt blends into the grey aluminium colr, so it really is not very noticeable. Unlike all other RVs, you will never have black steaks that are difficult to remove. NO POLISHING NEEDED OR REQUIRED.2. The rounded corners does eat into some storage space, but the very efficient use of all available interior volume more than compensates for that loss. Example, under the sofa is a "blanket drawer" that has enough space to store volumes of stuff.

Here is a "con" you may not have considered -- Airstreams are so beautiful that you might not want to take it into a remote campsite and get it all scratched up with the branches and so forth! Seriously -- it is the same reason I would hate to take a Rolls Royce to the grocery store -- someone will ding it up with a cart.

Airstream | Good Sam Community

17 Replies

rbpru
Explorer II
Feb 28, 2016
In my opinion, the only important thing is floor plan. That is what you have to live with everyday. The box it comes in, the surface shine, honest wear and tears are secondary.

Next is tow vehicle, can you pull it?

Finally, cost, how much do you want to spend on a hobby or is it full time?

My DW took one look at an Air Stream and simply did not like the floor plan, or the shape. She never got to the cost.
rexlion
Explorer
Feb 28, 2016
You don't get hail very often in FL, do you? If you do, think what the hail could do to that nice aluminum.
profdant139
Explorer II
Feb 23, 2016
Robertsunrus, it sounds like you have the right attitude about your trailer -- Alaska and back in an Airstream -- wow! My little fiberglass-paneled boxy trailer already looks pretty scuffy after several years of dragging it through sticker bushes and so forth, but I guess you are right -- the trailer is meant to be used -- it is not just for display.

Plus, I bet you can buff an Airstream with rubbing compound to minimize those scratches. Just be sure to wear sunglasses and sunscreen while you are working on that project. ;)
Ivylog
Explorer III
Feb 23, 2016
Assuming you are keeping the GMC I would look for a 28 or 31 foot wide body. ...98 or newer. A longer trailer will be easier to back up with that big of a truck and you need the extra room for three people. The airstream is the only RV I've ever used for 10 years and sold for the same price.
hvac
Explorer
Feb 23, 2016
They are beautiful. Expensive ours was 2004 28 Safari. Sold it in 2008. Major issues were clearcoat was peeling. Corrosion. Plywood floor was getting soft from trapped moisture. They are fun but do dent easy and difficult to repair.

Be very careful with units near the ocean or have been towed in road salt. Good luck
2012Coleman
Explorer II
Feb 23, 2016
If you like retro, check into Riverside Retro Trailers. See this thread.

Check out the pictures - the OP of the thread posted them. Pretty cool.
ROBERTSUNRUS
Explorer
Feb 23, 2016
profdant139 wrote:
Here is a "con" you may not have considered -- Airstreams are so beautiful that you might not want to take it into a remote campsite and get it all scratched up with the branches and so forth! Seriously -- it is the same reason I would hate to take a Rolls Royce to the grocery store -- someone will ding it up with a cart.

:) Hi, my Airstream travel trailer has a few dings, but I use mine. I don't know about you, but my trailer has been to Alaska, (10,000 miles for 50 days) and across this country, (13,000 miles for 105 days) and many shorter trips. My trailer is still beautiful, but not perfect. People with Airstreams are not afraid to use them.
wrvond
Explorer II
Feb 23, 2016
Terryallan wrote:
Have a quest, cause I really don't know. Do they have slides? Never seen one with slides. But just because I haven't, don't mean they don't have them.
Reason I ask. there are lots of folks here who have a requirement for slides. I don't care one way or the other. But some do.

Yes, they have slides available.
kw_00
Explorer
Feb 23, 2016
Thanks for the replies so far, what years should I be looking at. I know that they are expensive so that is keeping me searching....
Terryallan
Explorer II
Feb 23, 2016
Have a quest, cause I really don't know. Do they have slides? Never seen one with slides. But just because I haven't, don't mean they don't have them.
Reason I ask. there are lots of folks here who have a requirement for slides. I don't care one way or the other. But some do.

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Airstream

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