Forum Discussion

Herd_Fan's avatar
Herd_Fan
Explorer
Aug 29, 2014

Downsizing

So, now that the kids are all in college now, we've been looking at new travel trailers. I never thought I'd say this, but we've been seriously thinking of going to a smaller trailer. I know, I know....there will still be times when all the planets align correctly and the whole family still goes on a trip together....but 90% of the time it will be just the wife and me. So we may have to use the dinette as a bed once in a great while. We were checking out the Salem Cruise Lite series at our local dealer...nice trailers, and surprisingly big inside considering no slideouts (never thought I'd entertain that concept either).

Decisions, decisions.......anyone else go through this thought process?
  • We owned a Bigfoot 21.5 ft. trailer without a slide and found that it was a perfect size for our camping style.
  • We also looked at, and considered TTs with slides, but bought a bunkhouse model without a slide. My biggest concern coming from a 2100 lb popup and a 2400 lb hybrid,and towing with a 14 year old 1500 Silverado, was keeping the weight down. Seems like what we saw was the slides added 300-400-500 more pounds to the dry weight. We settled on a 25 ft,4200 lb TT.
  • Community Alumni's avatar
    Community Alumni
    Take a look at the Forest River's Rockwood's Mini Lites and Flagstaff Micro Lites. We downsized from a moho and bought a Flagsatff 21DS.

    Good luck!
  • Yes. Likewise empty nesters returning to RV after a few years off.

    Went with a 19' travel trailer. Seemed to be much more storage space in that extra 2' from a 17'

    Specifically wanted one without a slide out. Did not seem to be worth all the trouble. Prior RVs were popups and taking down and setting up in inclement weather was the worst part. Also did not want to have to worry about malfunctions, space intrusion if slide-out not out, and leakage/debris issues.

    Looked at some R-Pods and they were just too cramped, wet bath, and at 6'5" a little short on head space.

    Ended up with an Ascent 191RB, but there are a number of units with identical floor plans. We liked the fiberglass sides and aluminum frame to avoid water issues.

    The only thing I would have liked are a couple of easy chairs. Now we have to use the dinette or outdoor chairs. But it was not worth a huge jump in size and $ to get this.

    À chacun son goût
  • If it fits your needs, go for it. In your case the smaller unit may mean more enjoyable times. The kids can bring tents to the next big outing, they need the experience.
  • I have had TT without a slide. I cant imagine doing it again.