Who builds a TC like an Airstream Nest??
Searching the Internet for a modern looking, light and airy feeling Camper with big windows, I found the Airstream Nest. They have bought a small TT company in Oregon, and are going to sell them start...
Forum Discussion
This was the main reason for our WC840 choice as well. Others decry the mid-bath as creating a cut off feeling in the cabover. I don't care about the cabover environment as long as the bed is comfy and I have enough room to stretch out and rest. Entry and exit is not a problem and the more disconnected sleeping area can actually be a benefit when privacy is desired.
The 180 degree view is something that actually drives the decision of how to orient the camper when parking. It is nice to have the view when eating or relaxing inside, but can also be a liability during the hotter part of the year/day. I also prefer to have an open area when entering the camper as opposed to squeezing by a bath or closet to get to the living space.
The older Alaskan campers do have that look of the Airstream aluminum shell, but I've never been in one to evaluate the finer points. I love the concept but stayed away from used of that era. Not sure what the current lineup looks like.
As far as streamlining campers for less wind resistance, I believe people value interior ergonomics more than exterior appearance. TC's are so boxy these days. I think that the clamshell models by Bigfoot and Northern Lite have a more pleasing appearance and there are definite benefits from that type of construction. Too bad they are so pricey and heavy.
As far as the comparison between the AF 865 and the WC 840 I see enough in common to suggest weight savings is a core difference. Of course there are trade offs -- the wall and roof thickness with their inherent insulation R-value difference probably being the most significant. As a snow plow driver I won't be out in the camper during the cold season so it is a moot point (for me).
Perhaps the reason the Airstream/aluminum aesthetic is missing from the TC world is based on sheer economics or market value? If enough people wanted that look and construction there would be a vacuum that some manufacturer would fill. However, living as I do in possibly the world's highest concentration of fifth wheels and toy haulers, I don't see the market changing away from the look of fiberglass-wrapped, stick-built boxes anytime soon. As a matter of fact, the latest offerings are noticeably devoid of the charm and personality that many older legacy models seemed to possess. I often wish my camper looked as sweet as an old Lance but retained the advances in modern construction where applicable.
And don't get me started on the gaudy modern graphics splayed all over the four sides of my WC. Not my favorite feature! Sometimes I feel like I should be paid for promoting the brand...
Thanks for an interesting topic!
The 180 degree view is something that actually drives the decision of how to orient the camper when parking. It is nice to have the view when eating or relaxing inside, but can also be a liability during the hotter part of the year/day. I also prefer to have an open area when entering the camper as opposed to squeezing by a bath or closet to get to the living space.
The older Alaskan campers do have that look of the Airstream aluminum shell, but I've never been in one to evaluate the finer points. I love the concept but stayed away from used of that era. Not sure what the current lineup looks like.
As far as streamlining campers for less wind resistance, I believe people value interior ergonomics more than exterior appearance. TC's are so boxy these days. I think that the clamshell models by Bigfoot and Northern Lite have a more pleasing appearance and there are definite benefits from that type of construction. Too bad they are so pricey and heavy.
As far as the comparison between the AF 865 and the WC 840 I see enough in common to suggest weight savings is a core difference. Of course there are trade offs -- the wall and roof thickness with their inherent insulation R-value difference probably being the most significant. As a snow plow driver I won't be out in the camper during the cold season so it is a moot point (for me).
Perhaps the reason the Airstream/aluminum aesthetic is missing from the TC world is based on sheer economics or market value? If enough people wanted that look and construction there would be a vacuum that some manufacturer would fill. However, living as I do in possibly the world's highest concentration of fifth wheels and toy haulers, I don't see the market changing away from the look of fiberglass-wrapped, stick-built boxes anytime soon. As a matter of fact, the latest offerings are noticeably devoid of the charm and personality that many older legacy models seemed to possess. I often wish my camper looked as sweet as an old Lance but retained the advances in modern construction where applicable.
And don't get me started on the gaudy modern graphics splayed all over the four sides of my WC. Not my favorite feature! Sometimes I feel like I should be paid for promoting the brand...
Thanks for an interesting topic!
