Old versus New

Well, when we started looking to get a TC again after many many years of other camping modes the cost of new campers was way beyond sticker shock. We too have an older, 2004, Chevy 3500 dually 4x4 that we bought new in 03 while still running our Masonry business, had a good trade in and timed it when there was a $10,000 rebate. Worked like dogs and paid it off, took care of it and kept the miles down. It's a hauling machine but the camper we eventually bought is not a jumbo size but old, older than yours, it didn't have the rot issue where yours does but someone had left the escape vent open and the ceiling paneling needed replaced, the framing was fine. I sealed the roof and the entire camper, not a perfect pro Fix but it's sealed up. It gets new pin striping this summer ala my artist son, added AC, new WH, Fantastic fan in Bath, I made all new insulated curtains, added the TV mount, cable connection and shelf for receiver, new shelf in pantry, new rear window trim and glass, carpet and replaced cushions with chairs and reoriented the table, added more shower curtains and privacy curtains, made a rear door awning and installed it as well, had actual professional mobile camper guys replace stool shower combo with one I bought at less than half price online, fought tooth and nail with online retailers and secured a side awning for under $300. There is more but the big deal is I did 90% of the required work myself, bought carefully and we only have a total of $6,400 invested in it total. We not only wouldn't pay the price for a new vehicle or camper, we couldn't. We'd rather spend what we have available traveling and living. This is not to say anything negative in any way about folks who can and do buy new everything because they can and choose to. We just can't and wouldn't if we could. The instant depreciation sucks. In the end each of us has to do what we're comfortable and happy with and don't fret over "the Joneses". Only you live your life in your space, no one else's opinion matters...... unless they want to pay your way. That's my story and I'm stickin to it and not getting drawn into extended dialog either way.