Interesting perspective from the OP and timely in my case. My truck and camper are now over 10 years old and past my comfort level for an upcoming trip out west.
I bought a 1/2 "grocery getter" truck earlier this year to use as my travel vehicle. On a trip to Florida I averaged 20mpg and stayed in motels. Not my favorite way to travel but was enjoyable. One thing I've really gotten used to is having my own bathroom with me.
So far I've considered and looked at 4wheel camper, Rory Willet's new Freedom camper and an Aliner Expedition along with several small travel trailers to pull with the 1/2 ton. I'm going to look at the R-Pod traler soon.
So many choices out there and no one solution.