Forum Discussion

Away2Maine's avatar
Away2Maine
Explorer
Oct 20, 2016

Travel Trailer Recs under 5,000

Hey there!

We tented for 1 year, PUP for 2 years, TT for 2 years, and 5th wheeled for 10 years (mostly for long trips). The boys are older and our days of 2 or 3 week camping trips needing the packing space of a 5th wheel are likely behind us.

With that in mind, we were looking at possibly getting back into a PUP, but it appears that may be a tough transition for my lovely wife. With that in mind, we are considering moving back to a relatively light (under 5,000) hard-sided travel trailer. This weight may allow me to transition to a different vehicle from the Duramax down the line.

Here are some basic thoughts for your consideration...

1) Unloaded weight under 5,000
2) Would like to stay under 25 feet in length
3) Would like to have fixed/permanent beds for at least 3
4) Maximum we'll ever take is likely to be 6
5) Descent amount of storage is important

We have been quite happy with our Forest River products. My DW is curious about the possibility of the "Retro" brand lightweights as well.

Thanks in advance for your experience and insight!

Peace...Away...
  • Dick_B's avatar
    Dick_B
    Explorer
    Oct 20, 2016
    How do manufacturers make a lighter weight rig? What do they leave out or minimize? Think about this when considering a purchase.
  • Away2Maine's avatar
    Away2Maine
    Explorer
    Oct 20, 2016
    brdprey wrote:
    i have been told. once a diesel owner you never go back. in your case that does not seem to apply?
    why?


    If I make any changes, it will be practicality and entertainment to a large degree. I've been rolling in heavy duty trucks for the last 18 years or so and I'm ready and willing to downsize to something a little more intriguing. I cannot find a BMW M3 or M5 that has the towing capacity I need though ;-)

    In addition, although I love the Duramax, it has an LB7 under the hood known for pattern failure injectors. A few years ago I put $5,500 under the hood for new injectors and fuel rails. I've got 2 injectors leaking again, so another $4,000 or so may be in my future.
  • brdprey's avatar
    brdprey
    Explorer
    Oct 20, 2016
    i have been told. once a diesel owner you never go back. in your case that does not seem to apply?
    why?
  • coolmom42's avatar
    coolmom42
    Explorer II
    Oct 20, 2016
    Look at the Jayco SLX & Hummingbird lines; also the Forest River Wolf Pup. Don't know that you will fit 6 in any of those under 5000 lb, but you can get 3-4.

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