Need help selecting new Travel Trailer

These are worth a look, IMO. Livinlite Camplite They are available on the east coast.

I keep returning to the Escape for consideration. One thing that discourages it, Vermilye, is driving across country from New Jersey to hook up. I like the sleekness and apparent solid construction of the trailer. As xteacher mentioned the wind drag of the wider trailers is an important item. We're having an RV show here in downstate New York next week. Too bad those great products don't seem ,IMHO, to make it to the East Coast. This forum has been a wealth of information. Thank you, all!

As an owner of a 2010 Pathfinder (6000 lb. tow limit), I understand trying to stay within your tow limits. I'd try to make sure you pick a TT that is less than 8 feet wide, to reduce the wind drag. That's as important as the weight.

CharlieWhiskey wrote:
I've considered the Escape. It's a bit above my priceline and it seems there would be a considerable hassle in the logistics bringing it into the states for me to take possession and title. I've taken a serious look at the Coleman CTS16QB. Can anyone volunteer an opinion on that TT? The frustrating thing here in New Joisey is that RV dealers who represent the various brands apparently give most attention to the larger models. Their inventory of TT's is generally limited.

While the Escape trailers run a bit more than Scamps or Casitas, I feel they are well worth it. The company is willing to make modifications, much of what is included with the standard trailer are options on the other fiberglass trailers, and the build quality is excellent. I've pulled an Escape 17B over 55,000 miles over the last 3 1/2 years with a RAV4 (3500/350lbs) up & down the mountains of the East & West with no problems.

There are no problems importing the trailer. They sell a number of their trailers to the US & actually haul it across the border for you; you take delivery in Washington state. As to full timing in a small trailer - I just finished a 305 day trip in mine.

One point - they are only available from the factory, and there is a long waiting list for each model - if you are interested, they keep a list of owners willing to show their trailers. Contact the factory to find someone in your area.

Depending on when you want to buy, it might be worth waiting until late winter or spring and catch the RV shows. Many different brands will come to you. You may have to drive a few hours but it could be worth it. Happy shopping.

FrankShore wrote:
Lance Trailers are available from coast to coast, even though they're built here in California. OP take at look at the Lance 1575 or even the 1685 - I thnk they would be below your tow limits.

Also the Palomini is another well made smallish TT and people seem pleased with Rockwood MiniLites too. Maybe even a Chalet.

Go to YouTube and put in "small travel trailer" and see what pops up, you'll find names of smaller trailers that you've never even thought about!

I second the Lance 1575. Love that trailer.

If your going it solo try looking at the Riverside White Water retro. Lite weight and low profile on the Retro 177. Made in Indiana by the Amish. It also has a walk around queen bed.

Lance Trailers are available from coast to coast, even though they're built here in California. OP take at look at the Lance 1575 or even the 1685 - I thnk they would be below your tow limits.

Also the Palomini is another well made smallish TT and people seem pleased with Rockwood MiniLites too. Maybe even a Chalet.

Go to YouTube and put in "small travel trailer" and see what pops up, you'll find names of smaller trailers that you've never even thought about!

coolbreeze01 wrote:
Out West I see people camp out of their 4-Runners. Car trip-it out here and buy the trailer you want :C

That's a serious thought, coolbreeze01. My hope is to camp my way out to the San Francisco Bay area by mid May to visit my kids and new grand daughter. Rates for RV sites are out of sight out there!

fx2tom wrote:
Hows your Toyota's resale value doing? You may want to look at replacing it with a truck with a little more capability if you plan on doing much travelling. Beyond the "tow capacity" you have to look at tongue weight and payload. I know some models of 4Runners don't even allow for a Weight Distribution Hitch. Something to consider.

My 4RUNNER is new with only 5000 miles on it. Trading it in would be a painful loss. As can be seen on this thread alone, the choices are overwhelming. I will be full timing. I imagine the Casita or Scamp would be claustrophobic. I got a very good price on a 2015 Coleman CTS16QB. Two concerns. 1. Made by Dutchman. 2. So many nooks and crannies to develop leaks.