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TheLostOne's avatar
TheLostOne
Explorer
May 29, 2013

First time buyer needs advice

I am looking for a well built travel trailer for full time living. The minimum length of 25+. i would like to have something with a good track record of not leaking. As i look around i see trailers i like but all are out of my price range. Northwood Manufacturing, Evergreen etc. i feel these would be good but against leaks. it will be only me living in the unit. i prefer the rear entertainment style units. i would like a trailer that i could get after haggling and discounts under 40,000 i know add tax and all. just a little leary of buying something like this and not getting something good. i worry about good insulation, high energy costs and staying warm in winter and cool in our hot summers. Any advice would be appreciated.

added note Rear entertainment is my preference
  • Look at Outdoor RV as well. They have some very well insulated units geared for 4 seasons.
  • Arctic Fox 25Y or 27T looks good, maybe 30U. All should be had for under $40k out the door. I hope you have a 3/4+ ton vehicle to tow it.
  • There are very few TTs that cost more than $40k new. There aren't even that many with MSRPs over $40k. Northwoods Artic Fox is a very favorable reputation. What kind of floorplan are you looking for? Rear living, rear kitchen, bunks, etc. What do you plan to tow with? Something like an Arctic Fox 27T has an MSRP in the low to mid $40k range. Typical RV discounts are in the 30-40% range, so that should be had for about $30k.

    There are not that many RVs that leak. You should spend a little time inspecting any RV while you own it as most leaks can be prevented and repaired prior to normal damage.
  • For 40k, I would think you could get a very nice TT. I would not limit my list to only new trialers. I would look at used also.
  • .

    Will you be doing lots of towing or very little towing and more sitting?

    If very little towing and lots of sitting, do investigate Trailer Park Model designs. They tend to be build stronger, have higher roofs (which is great for tall folks), take more weather exposure and tend to need less fixings. Trailer Park models are heavier weight but if sitting more than driving, Park Models might fit your needs (much better than a TT).

    Also... Do investigate pre-owned - for huge cost savings as well. I bought my TT 1.5 years old and got an amazing discount. Going pre-owned to save lots of dollars might work for you as well.

    If into DIY fixings, then buy an older Park Model and apply your own upgrades. My one buddy bought a Park Model for $1,500 and replaced its flooring, installed better electrical wiring, install better 12V wiring, installed better kitchen layout, insulated ("contractor grade" Closed Cell spray foam) the inside walls, applied new outer wall paneling and applied new roof layer. Simple DIY fixing - if paced over several months. Today, his Park Model is amazing. It takes very little heat or AC power, its electrical is safe (compared to older wiring) and its plumbing is new PEX lines as well. At times, I wish I had his older Park Model - for near 25% cost that I paid for my 1.5 year old TT model.

    Hope this helps...
  • We have only had two trailers, but are pretty impressed with our Outback. Reasonably price, and seems better built than some others we have looked at. We especially like that it is high enough that the wheel wells do not intrude on the inside of the trailer and you can get underneath to work on it. The "vaulted" ceiling/roof allows quick run off, and makes for a strong roof and spacious interior. The roof membrane wraps down the sides a few inches which seems like a more weather proof joint. The roof has a nice clean look with a minimum of penatrations to keep caulked up. The fiberglass front end eliminates any delamination problems.

    Just my two cents ...