Researching Before 1st Purchase
Hello All! Last year I started getting it in my head that I wanted to get a travel trailer, and have been doing a good bit of research. The wife has finally started coming around to the idea, and ...
Forum Discussion
Both our HTT and TT were brand-spankin new and we knew going in that we weren't going to love the depreciation. That said, in a used trailer, you can never be sure how it was maintained. We just felt better with new. Re your weights, if you determine that you have "x" payload, suggest you not even remotely consider filling it to " X minus a couple of pounds". Stuff will migrate in and you'll never notice it. Pretty quickly you can be over your limits. Suggest you allow yourself about 1000# wiggle room. Have you considered a smaller bunkhouse and using a tent for when the kids want to bring a friend? They usually think the tent is very cool and if you can find something you love and knock a few feet of length off, you'll be better. Our TT was a 26', up from a 23 HTT, and we felt that was plenty to tow safely. Best to err on the side of conservative. With this being a first, try not to get in above your skills in towing.
Re costs, remember if you camp 2 - 3 x a month, you'll have the fuel, campground fees, etc. We tended to visit state parks more often and found them more to our liking and less pricey. For winter storage, consider if you want a cover and consider those costs. Not too pricey, but something to add to the list.
Have to say I certainly envy the position you're in right now. We're trailerless for the first time in about 8 years and miss is terribly. Wait until you actually take your shopping list and head out...can't have much more fun that that! Congrats on doing your homework before rather than after purchase...you'd be surprised how often that has happened and had a most unhappy camper. Enjoy!
Re costs, remember if you camp 2 - 3 x a month, you'll have the fuel, campground fees, etc. We tended to visit state parks more often and found them more to our liking and less pricey. For winter storage, consider if you want a cover and consider those costs. Not too pricey, but something to add to the list.
Have to say I certainly envy the position you're in right now. We're trailerless for the first time in about 8 years and miss is terribly. Wait until you actually take your shopping list and head out...can't have much more fun that that! Congrats on doing your homework before rather than after purchase...you'd be surprised how often that has happened and had a most unhappy camper. Enjoy!
