We had a 35ft Jayco fifth wheel we were living in at the time and bought a truck camper to camp and travel in, as you would like to do.The difference is that here in the northwest they are a dime a dozen.I look at RV's every day out of boredom and Spokane/Missoula and Kalispel are loaded with truck campers, if you ever are out that way in your travels..Some really good buys,in my opinion..
It sounds like in your area there are few to be had.Craigs list is your friend...
Buying used can be a challenge but there are some out there that have been garaged or covered all there life without any signs of leakage or some old geezer that was anal about maintenance with his camper.
I had to travel for my last one,something it sounds like you will have to do for a really good used TC.
Good luck.
