Making the jump from tent camping to RVing

AmongTheTrees wrote:
I'm a lifelong tent camper, but my partner and I are interested in switching to an RV for added convenience and comfort during our trips. I'd be happy to get some feedback on traveling in a small travel trailer.

A fifth wheel or Class C might be in our future a few years down the line, but I think we'd like to experiment with a smaller travel trailer in the meantime. It's just the two of us for now (hopefully with a canine friend in the near future!), so we don't need a whole lot of space. We like to visit National Parks and camp off-grid.

Right now, I'm thinking that a small travel trailer with a kitchen area and bed would be great for us. I've seen various teardrop designs and other small campers that fit this description.

But what's it like to stay in these? Do you feel cramped and crowded? Do you bring along a tent/shelter to give you more space to spread out on bad weather days? Happy to hear your thoughts on the matter!

First, think twice about the dog. Rules vary, but for most national parks, dogs are not allowed on trails or anywhere except campgrounds and paved areas such as overlooks. Leaving a dog in the campground is often prohibited and even if allowed would not work well for a small RV. Boondocking opportunities can also be limited with a dog. You will likely do fine in national forest, many State campgrounds and on BLM lands. Plenty of people enjoy camping with pets but others are seriously disappointed when they show up at a national park and learn about the restrictions.