Travel trailer questions from an RV newbie

chschen wrote:
Hi Everyone,

My husband and I are contemplating purchasing a travel trailer in which to tour the U.S. with our baby and our cat. We'll be traveling for an indefinite period of time. Initially we were looking into getting a Class B or Class C RV, but we were lured by the much lower price of the travel trailer and the fact that we could put our baby's car seat safely in our regular car (it doesn't seem like there are very many good options for strapping a car seat into a motorhome). Anyway, since we're just getting started, we thought we would try to plumb the wisdom and generosity of others.

A few questions to begin:

1) We have a 2006 Acura MDX. Right now it doesn't have a tow package installed, so we would have to get that done. The tow capacity of the car is 3,500 pounds. We're worried that the car is not strong enough or is too old to reliably pull a travel trailer. What do you think? Though it's nine years old, it's in pretty good shape and has pretty low mileage (less than 60,000 miles).


2) We are very minimalist people and prefer to get a small, light trailer. What are your favorite make & models for trailers that are space efficient, lightweight, and affordable?

3) Are there any elements of a floor plan that you find indispensable? For example, having a permanent bed or dinette? We noticed that some travel trailers don't have ovens. Do you feel an oven is necessary for long-term living or just a hassle/waste of space?

4) It seems like travel trailers have less to maintain than motorhomes do since they don't have the vehicle parts. What do you find are the first parts of the trailer to break down? Is there anything in particular we should look out for when examining a used trailer?

That's all I can think of for now. We would also welcome any other advice you might have!

1.Your Acura will limit your trailer choices. Few trailers fall in the 3500 lb. range. your car's capability for towing is questionable. If all the roads you travel are flat and you have no head winds, maybe?? Climbing hills or grades puts stress on the tow vehicle.All things being equal, I would look for 1/2 truck. Some trailers might want to look at are: R-POD, Casita, Scamp. It sounds like you are thinking of 16 to 20 ft. trailer. Most of them will weigh in the 3500 to 4000 lb. range, then you have to add in all the RV junk we all carry:) Most RV's well add about a 1000lbs.
Your other choice would be to look at Pop Up types of trailers but keep in mind the set up and tear procedures. Takes extra time and space is limited and weather conditions could restrict your rv travels. Pop Up trailers don't have toilets or showers. The positive is that they are light and your Acura might suffice.
2. You haven't really described what your RV trips will look i.e many 1 or 2 day trips, trips where you will be parked for a week or two or longer. Small trailers are really limited in living space if you can't be outside because of weather.
3. Be sure and pick up an Emergency Road Side Service policy.