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

Private deals could be a good deal, they have been for me.Walk away from any rig with mold, mildew or water damage of any kind. Repairing those is not worth your time.

Craigslist can be a******shoot for a novice. Dealers may be a bit higher priced, but if you buy from a reputable dealer you will at least have a fighting chance of getting a good one. Biggest thing to watch out for is signs of water leaks. Wood frames and water do not make a good match. Next is roof condition. Then all appliances work correctly. Insurance is what it is. Not expensive as most companies cover you full time but knowing it is not being used full time only charge you for part time.

First thing.......Find out WHAT you can actually tow with either one.Look at the data sticker (door jam, glove box etc.) and see what the GVWR.Go have the vehicles weighed 'camp ready' (you, wife, dogs, stuff)Subtract that weight from the GVWR----that's how much payload you have left for tongue weight.Look at the trailer GVWR and use 12% of that number for trailer tongue weight.Get the trailer that fits that number, in a floorplan you like, for the right price.......either private or dealer.Fall in love with one only to find out it's more trailer than truck equals bad towing ......bad towing means you go less....go less less enjoyment of that trailer you just love.

Also, ask yourself if you want to invest in something now, then move up into a nicer unit. Ie; Are you into camping for the long haul?How important is quality? Warranty? Fit & finish?WoodGlue

IF you are not sure about your camping future. I would suggest a used TT. AS mentioned, check for water damage, and function of appliances. Then in a few years. IF you like it. You can up grade. By then you will have a better idea of what you want.

Beginner seeking travel trailer advice | Good Sam Community

Old-Biscuit
Explorer III
Jan 21, 2014
First thing.......

Find out WHAT you can actually tow with either one.
Look at the data sticker (door jam, glove box etc.) and see what the GVWR.
Go have the vehicles weighed 'camp ready' (you, wife, dogs, stuff)
Subtract that weight from the GVWR----that's how much payload you have left for tongue weight.

Look at the trailer GVWR and use 12% of that number for trailer tongue weight.

Get the trailer that fits that number, in a floorplan you like, for the right price.......either private or dealer.

Fall in love with one only to find out it's more trailer than truck equals bad towing ......bad towing means you go less....go less less enjoyment of that trailer you just love.
donn0128
Explorer II
Jan 21, 2014
Craigslist can be a******shoot for a novice. Dealers may be a bit higher priced, but if you buy from a reputable dealer you will at least have a fighting chance of getting a good one. Biggest thing to watch out for is signs of water leaks. Wood frames and water do not make a good match. Next is roof condition. Then all appliances work correctly. Insurance is what it is. Not expensive as most companies cover you full time but knowing it is not being used full time only charge you for part time.
n7bsn
Explorer
Jan 21, 2014
Private deals could be a good deal, they have been for me.
Walk away from any rig with mold, mildew or water damage of any kind. Repairing those is not worth your time.

Forum Discussion

Beginner seeking travel trailer advice

About Travel Trailer Group

Related Content

Beginner Trailer Leveling Questions

Winterizing Travel Trailer for Beginners

Seeking sales advice

Mercedes Sprinter vs Ford E450 seeking opinions

Seeking Travel Partner(s)