Newbies from Central California

[kitertwin]

Good Day to you all, My GF are looking at buying our first RV. We are in our mid 30's. We have looked at Trailers, Class C MH and Class A MH. We have decided on a class A MH (Not enough leg room in the class c mh). We are thinking about the Winnebago Vista 31KE. We want to do weekend trips and a 2-3 week long trip every year as well. Is that going to be a good rv for our needs, We are also planning to keep it and take trips once we start a family as well. Any information or advice would be great. We are looking to buy after the 1st of the year.

Thank you

Mike & Connie

[IMAGNLife_com]

Congrats on your decision. I'm new to So Cal & doing my research on buying a class a with the intention of full-timing with my Gf & dog. I'm also in my mid (late..) 30's, so it's great to hear we have some fellow younger couples (Gf is actually in her mid 20's) to meet on the road in the future. I've been doing a ton of homework online and visiting our local dealers to narrow down what we want & need. And I'm looking forward to the next RV Show to see a broader sampling, although I think I'm just about settled on which coach fits best. Best of luck, and please keep us posted on your progress - JB

[Ron3rd]

kitertwin wrote:
actually, we wont be using at the same time, we will be trading off. We are actually open to a good used rig if we can find one. We are talking about a bit of everything. One of the upgrades I would be doing is adding some solar panels. We are in no rush to buy till we find the right rig for the right price. I think we may be going to that one and see of they have any good deals on a left over model.

So Cal brother here; sounds like you're on the right track and are doing your homework, so if you find the right rig that works for you, go for it!

[kitertwin]

actually, we wont be using at the same time, we will be trading off. We are actually open to a good used rig if we can find one. We are talking about a bit of everything. One of the upgrades I would be doing is adding some solar panels. We are in no rush to buy till we find the right rig for the right price. I think we may be going to that one and see of they have any good deals on a left over model.

[Roy_Lynne]

Welcome, are parents going to go with you on these trips, if so a cab over Class C might be a good idea so both parties can have privacy. Think about the kind of Camping that you plan on doing. If you picture yourselves going to State/County and USFS campgrounds 30 is about as long as you want to go, 36 at most. If your thinking RV resorts, then you can go just about as long as you can manage. Plan to boondook, you might want something with a solar panel.
I would never by new, only because there are so many low-milage rigs for sale right now its rather a buyers market.
Right now there are a lot of RV shows going on and while it gets overwhelming to see them all, it might be a good idea The next one in your area is at the Alameda County Fairgrounds Jan 11 - 20th. It might be a good time for you all to go and see which one fits best for you.

[kitertwin]

Thanks for the welcome. We want something to grow into as we have a family. I grew up using tt and tents. We have friends that have rv's and tt they we have had the chance to use and spend time in. We know there is an investment involved and we plan to use it quiet a bit, and the other part I forgot to mention is my parents will be going in on halfs with it, so they can use it as well. 🙂 Works out good that way.

[wintersun]

I would check on the likely problems with this manufacturer and different models and model years. Google search and go to sites like irv2.com that have sub-forums for specific manufacturer's motorhomes.

In your place I would want to get an idea as to the amount of depreciation that would be likely during the time of ownership. It can be huge for new motorhomes and ones that are 10 years old can be very difficult to sell at a good price.

[John_Wayne]

Rent a few different models, floor plans, and decide what you have to have or can live with. Walk around bed corner bed, dinette or table and chairs etc. Look for used units and save some money.

[Finally_Time]

I think it is a very nice floor plan. It has a walk around full size queen bed and quite a bit of kitchen counter space. The u shaped dinette has a good amount of seating room. It looks like a good long term floorplan for a couple and for a growing family (especially with the loft bed.) I think you made a great choice. Winnebago has stood the test of time and makes a good coach. Enjoy!

[bdecker]

They already decided on a Class A. It's their money. Weekend trips and a 2-3 week vacation is a lot of use. Winnebago is a good brand. Enjoy your new RV whatever you decide.

[Peg_Leg]

MH's are nice for families taking trips. When there's to many people to fit in one vehicle, everyone can ride together and chat back and forth about the world passing by outside the window. A big investment for something that's only going to be used 2% of the time. Plus you have drive train maintenance and increased insurance cost. You'll probably want a toad to drag around also.

I would suggest visiting several RV shows. Walk through a few of every kind of rig you can find. Keep a open mind. Take spiral ring note book and make notes about pros and cons of each model you visit.

I've had MH's, TC's, TT's and my present 5er. Each one was great for the time we had them. I'm really glad I didn't have to pick one early in life and stick with it until trading it for a nursing home.

The bad news is that you've been infected with the RV bug. There is no cure, some obtain a bit of remission (maybe it's denial). You will be for ever plagued with memories of good times and bad. Just hope you can cry quickly and get over the bad ones. Always remember life could be worse, you live in CA and I'm in IN so our paths may not cross and you won't have to camp beside me. My plight is worse, I have to put up with me.

[donn0128]

Awfully expensive for that little use. Consider a small trailer as an introduction to RVing.