Beginner seeking travel trailer advice

dstrauss666 wrote:
Hello all:
My wife and I are considering purchasing a travel trailer, and I'm looking for any advice from experienced RVers. We enjoy road tripping with our 2 dogs, and have decided that we want something basic but good quality, probably around 20', with a toilet and shower, as well as simple but solid cooking facilities. We would tow it with either my F150 or her Toyota Sequoia. I have been advised to buy used, and I have only looked around a bit on Craigslist. We would like to spend under $10K if possible. What are the additional costs that I may not be aware of? Insurance, registration, maintenance, etc. Any suggestions as to where and how I might buy to get the best deal for the best product? I know these are vague and open-ended, but we're just starting out and I have no real experience or knowledge, other than some motorhome trips as a kid and casual tent-camping every once in a while. Thanks in advance for any help, Dave

The wife and I bought a used 1997 24ft Innsbruck trailer last year that we found on Craig's list for $2700.00 as test to see if we would enjoy the lifestyle (no slide out). While the trailer was in decent shape, (all appliances and systems worked, and no major leaks), I think I probably overpaid by about $200 or so. We just recently purchased a new Keystone Hideout 280lhs with a slide out to give us more room, and I was able to sell the old trailer again last Saturday using Craig's for $2500.00 within 5 days of my posting. So in our case we were able to get an entire season out of it and still recoup most of my investment. So my advice is not to be afraid of Craig's list but be careful. Make sure you test the brakes, systems, and inspect the roof and interior for leaks before buying.