New to this...buying a travel trailer
Currently own a Jayco tent trailer and looking to move into a smaller TT. The local dealer has me interested in the Starcraft Extreme AR-One 17RD model. Also like the Rpod RP-180. I want to stay <$22K...
Forum Discussion
The Rpod trailers have a fiberglass roof and the Starcraft has a rubber roof. I'd do some research on the fiberglass roof, but it could be a major advantage for the Rpod. Our previous travel trailer as well as our Minnie have rubber roofs, and if you maintain them and keep the seams caulked, they will last a long time, but if I had an option for a fiberglass roof, I'd be very interested. We saw quite a few Rpods on our trip out west last summer, and they look like pretty nice trailers. On the other hand, Starcraft has a good reputation and the company treated us very well when we had problems witn one (of three) Starcraft pop-ups that we owned in the 80's and 90's.
Before buying anything, take your time and look at other trailers and compare floorplans and features. Since you are looking at a Starcraft, look at the Jayco trailers also as they also have the 2 year warrant. Winnebago has also come out with a line of smaller lightweight trailers that could meet your needs.
And, make sure you know what your Suburban or Jeep can safely tow. Make sure you understand that tow ratings are only based upon one driver in a vehicle and no cargo. So, add the wife, cargo and any kids, and your towing capacity goes down.
Since it is your first trailer, buying a really good slightly used trailer could be a good idea as you need to travel/camp for a while to see what you really want in a trailer. If you buy used and decide to trade it in after a season or two, you'll lose less money.
Good luck in your search, and I hope you're enjoying an rv soon!
Edit: On the other hand, the Starcraft can be purchased new at a fairly low price and that would make it very attractive when you consider the 2 year warranty.
Before buying anything, take your time and look at other trailers and compare floorplans and features. Since you are looking at a Starcraft, look at the Jayco trailers also as they also have the 2 year warrant. Winnebago has also come out with a line of smaller lightweight trailers that could meet your needs.
And, make sure you know what your Suburban or Jeep can safely tow. Make sure you understand that tow ratings are only based upon one driver in a vehicle and no cargo. So, add the wife, cargo and any kids, and your towing capacity goes down.
Since it is your first trailer, buying a really good slightly used trailer could be a good idea as you need to travel/camp for a while to see what you really want in a trailer. If you buy used and decide to trade it in after a season or two, you'll lose less money.
Good luck in your search, and I hope you're enjoying an rv soon!
Edit: On the other hand, the Starcraft can be purchased new at a fairly low price and that would make it very attractive when you consider the 2 year warranty.
