Making it easy

toedtoes wrote:
When I had my trailer, the one thing that really made it easier for me (camping solo) was the mirror on the magnetic stick - I was able to stick it right behind the hitch on the trailer and could back up quickly and easily by viewing the hitch and ball in the mirror as I backed up.

On my clipper, the black tank valve was way under the chassis - I had to practically lay down on the ground to reach it. So I had it moved forward to the edge (like the grey already was). Now, I barely have to bend to reach it.

How I store my plastic leveling blocks has changed as well. I used to keep them in the outside storage compartments. That meant when I arrived somewhere, I had to get out of the vehicle, open the compartment, bend over to get out the blocks fighting with other supplies usually, close the compartment, lay out the blocks, get back in the vehicle... Now, I keep them under the cab seats - I get out of the vehicle, grab the blocks, lay them out, get back in the vehicle. Much easier with less bending (only have to bend to lay them out and pick them up).

There are some things that can be done to minimize physical limitations. But if the mental limitations are there (as in "I don't like doing it anymore"), then there really isn't anything that's going to change it. And there is always a compromise going from one type of RV to another so that doesn't always solve the problem either (I got the clipper because I got tired of hitching - but now I have another engine to deal with).

For some in Margaret's situation, going to a class B might be a solution - no hitching, no toad necessary, and a vehicle that is really no different than your daily driver in regards to getting repair work (rather than a large class A that needs a special tow truck and not every shop can fix). But, if the person is a worrier by nature (as it appears Margaret's husband is), then the best thing may be to leave RVing behind and find another way of travel that better suits - again, physical limitations can often be worked around; mental limitations are much more difficult.

Your system sounds so easy! We get out, go into the trailer for the leveler, check the interior levels, get the blocks out of the hatch, set them up, drive up on them, recheck the level... We check the interior level because of the fridge. The hitch level isn't as precise.

I love Class Bs but they are prohibitively expensive, even used. We've found that we can get a lot more for our money with an A or a trailer.

And you are entirely right about the mental aspects. I listened as he grumbled and yelled about not being cut out for this and feeling incompetent and all the rest of the swearing that accompanied routine tasks, and suggested that if he was so upset every time, we should think about selling it. He nearly kissed my feet. And a huge weight immediately lifted for him and he actually enjoyed the rest of our trip. So in addition to the constant reminder of physical aging, the mental and emotional component is very powerful. That's why although I truly do appreciate everyone's suggestions on ways to make it physically easier, I appear to be playing "Yes, but..." We've done what we can do to make it easier and it's still a schreck for him. So it's time...