Matching Towing Vehicle and TT Beginner

[cinker]

Hi,
We have had park model, seasonal trailers and have never towed anything.
Now in retirement we are planning on buying a 24 to 27 foot travel trailer for towing to spend time between Ontario and Alberta as well as see the Maritimes, BC rest of Canada and the U.S. So it's just the wife and I and 2 large size ie Golden Retriever dogs.
So, we have the choice of starting from scratch in buying a TT and a Truck / SUV.
However, being retired, budget is an obvious consideration as is burning fuel. So, di I get a Diesel or Gas?, 1/2 ton, 3/4 ton truck or SUV? We will be pulling up into the mountains of B.C and western States.
Although its obviously a personal decision, I would like to bounce around the question to get inputs from others.
We have bounced around the ideas of motor coach, 5th wheel and keep coming back to TT due to investment cost and the pushing towards a 1 ton.
We welcome your thoughts and inputs, thanks in advance,
Most appreciated.
P.S. I know this is probably an old aged question but would like to get your inputs.

[Grit_dog]

You can't really get many/any SUVs with good payload, power and towing capacity in new or newer models. Actually payload and axle capacity is the limiting factor since 400hp is readily available.
Clean slate, figure out what camper you want first or at least narrow it down and size the truck accordingly. But if you have the means, just skip all the calculating and get a 3/4 - 1 ton pickup. Diesel if you want effortless towing, gas if you want safe,but slow once you get in the mountains. Doesn't matter brand, if going new, just pick one. All are solid and pull like a semi. (The diesels anyway)