Forum Discussion

Explorer

Jun 25, 2014

How to buy a travel trailer ?

We're trying to shop for a lightweight travel trailer. We have an F150 with a 5000lb tow capacity (it doesn't have a factory tow package and the manual states "without a factory tow package 5000, 500 tongue weight.) In looking at various forums and manufacturer's websites, there are many trailers that meet our weight requirement. We are hoping for an oven (we've owned two truck campers in the past and both had ovens and we used them A LOT) So I stopped by the local Camping World, and the salesman basically looked like he was going to cry and told me he didn't have anything on his lot and told me I need a new truck. Do RV dealers only stock big trailers and only sell the units they have on their lot the day you visit ? On the one hand all the mfgrs' say "buy from the local dealer", but the only way we could get what we want is travel out of state..... am I missing something here? I've purchased 2 new boats in the past, they either ordered it, or it was in a "pool" of inventory that the dealer's different locations could all sell from...

24 Replies

Heavy_Metal_Doc
Explorer
Jun 25, 2014
Keep looking. There out there. I think a lot of manufacturers are packing in as many features as possible even on small / light units. My buddy just got a Micro Lite that has more gadgets in an under 24 footer than we got on our "big" TT. We just got more "real estate" - bigger counters, more cabinets and living space and a bedroom separated by a wall / door.
FKT4387
Explorer
Jun 25, 2014
fla-gypsy wrote:
Not a lot of profit in small trailers. Find the right dealer and they will order what you want. This may not be the right time of year. You will find them much hungrier in the fall.

Great advice. We bought ours in October they stored until April. I got a great deal plus this would give you time to research.
Leo_Smith
Explorer
Jun 25, 2014
Visit Apache Camping Center in Everett. They carry a large inventory of trailers ranging from teardrops to fifth-wheels. Kevin, the salesperson I have met with, is a straight shooter and can give you some good options of trailers that will work within the capacity of your F-150.
fla-gypsy
Explorer
Jun 25, 2014
Not a lot of profit in small trailers. Find the right dealer and they will order what you want. This may not be the right time of year. You will find them much hungrier in the fall.