Shopping for a camper...

JimK-NY wrote:
It seems that you are a first time TC buyer so I can warn you that weights get out of hand quickly. For example if you start with a Lance 850, Lance estimates the wet weight as 2835#. First that is the base unit and does not include options such as awnings. Almost all units are going to come with options that bump up the weight by several hundred pounds. Even tiedown brackets and a bed mat add a lot of weight. Next you need to consider the weight of heavy accessories. Unless you are going to have hook ups at almost all times, you will want to look at a generator, a second battery, and possibly solar panels. Maybe you want to consider a better foam mattress... they are also heavy. In any case the 2835# camper can easily grow to 3500#. Then there are all the other necessities: food, cooking and eating gear, a few tools, extra boots and clothing, bedding, laptop/camera gear, etc, etc. You may think I am exaggerating but count on 1000# for these items. My 2400# base weight camper jumped to 4400# and I have looked carefully and don't find much I can do to trim back on the weight. Sadly a short bed pickup greatly aggravates the weight issue.

Yes sir, good points all. I was adding 1,000lbs to the wet weight of any unit I shopped for and you are right...if you're not careful the weight gets away from you. There are, apparently from my research, many truck camper rigs that are overweight. I do not want to be one of them. I will weigh things like kitchen ware as I load them. I have a telescope that weighs 40lbs. After all is done, if I need to upgrade the tires I will do it.