The Quest for My Perfect Camper
Thought this would be a good spot for this as would could help those along the path of purchase. I will start by saying there is no one size fits all and to each their own. These are my observation...
Forum Discussion
Decision was made today. We decided to go with the RPOD 182g. Our order is in place and will deliver next Spring (as we requested).
http://www.forestriverinc.com/product-details.aspx?LineID=173&Image=5054&ShowParent=1&ModelID=976#Main
Main deciding factors:
1) Decided we want to be able to place the trailer and drive around the area we're camped at.
2) Weight of trailer. For the size and accommodations, it fit what we're looking for.
3) Has the outside living we want. The Garage may seem weird too most, but the interior kitchen to us is a place to make coffee and breakfast.
4) Size/layout. It fits the basic requirements of giving me a spot to work and Wife a space to relax while I do. The added R-Dome gives us more!
5) Size again. It fits in the barn when stored.
6) Value. I've researched re-sale and see it really would cost me to re-sell in a couple years if indeed we wish to move up to a Class 3 or the boat I really want. Both is not beyond the idea!
7) Warranty. This came from my Dealer I bought it at. Forest River only goes a year, but my Dealer, $1600 extended it to 5yrs. Get this, Bumper to Bumper. I spent 1hr going over this and when I asked for it in writing, he handed me a pre-printed warranty. He will fix or replace for 5yrs Bumper to Bumper. Not sure why Forest River won't do that, but very happy my Dealer will.
8) Cost. This is small enough dollar to test the adventure and have value if it goes south on us. Buying at this time of year is where the good pricing happens.
The RPOD rally is nothing more than a pregnant Teardrop. You can stand and move around, has a shower and the typical outside kitchen area. Yet has much more. The slide out of the kitchen gives the added space, but more is the outside kitchen (with BBQ) to really give the camping experience. U-shape front dinette gives not only the dinette, but a single bed or a queen with setup. Rear bunks (of which the top will be removed) allows for the second bed/workspace and additional storage over. Basic exterior shape is aerodynamic, I do like the look and should allow for better gas milage then a square front. Diamond plate lower front to take the road abuse. The R-Dome add to me is a must! The awning they offer is just to small. All it really is is a sun shade. Any wind at, and we all know that comes wth rain, and you're wet! The R-Dome is bigger, has sides that can be placed (one or both) and a entrance front to make it a tent.
Cons:
1) Wet bath.. What can I say here.. Straddling a toilet, that Don't want in there (I know you folks think I'm nuts on this) is killing' me, but makes Wifey happy happy.
2) A few more opening windows. Windows are slides vs lifts. Lifts give the entire area to flow, slides, well you have to close in a driving rain..
3) Front window. I don't know if this is really a Con or not.. I like having one, but at the same time, what kind of road abuse is it going to take?
Well, I found my almost perfect trailer.
Wish you all the best on your quest of yours and hope some of my journey helps along the way.
Here if you have questions.
http://www.forestriverinc.com/product-details.aspx?LineID=173&Image=5054&ShowParent=1&ModelID=976#Main
Main deciding factors:
1) Decided we want to be able to place the trailer and drive around the area we're camped at.
2) Weight of trailer. For the size and accommodations, it fit what we're looking for.
3) Has the outside living we want. The Garage may seem weird too most, but the interior kitchen to us is a place to make coffee and breakfast.
4) Size/layout. It fits the basic requirements of giving me a spot to work and Wife a space to relax while I do. The added R-Dome gives us more!
5) Size again. It fits in the barn when stored.
6) Value. I've researched re-sale and see it really would cost me to re-sell in a couple years if indeed we wish to move up to a Class 3 or the boat I really want. Both is not beyond the idea!
7) Warranty. This came from my Dealer I bought it at. Forest River only goes a year, but my Dealer, $1600 extended it to 5yrs. Get this, Bumper to Bumper. I spent 1hr going over this and when I asked for it in writing, he handed me a pre-printed warranty. He will fix or replace for 5yrs Bumper to Bumper. Not sure why Forest River won't do that, but very happy my Dealer will.
8) Cost. This is small enough dollar to test the adventure and have value if it goes south on us. Buying at this time of year is where the good pricing happens.
The RPOD rally is nothing more than a pregnant Teardrop. You can stand and move around, has a shower and the typical outside kitchen area. Yet has much more. The slide out of the kitchen gives the added space, but more is the outside kitchen (with BBQ) to really give the camping experience. U-shape front dinette gives not only the dinette, but a single bed or a queen with setup. Rear bunks (of which the top will be removed) allows for the second bed/workspace and additional storage over. Basic exterior shape is aerodynamic, I do like the look and should allow for better gas milage then a square front. Diamond plate lower front to take the road abuse. The R-Dome add to me is a must! The awning they offer is just to small. All it really is is a sun shade. Any wind at, and we all know that comes wth rain, and you're wet! The R-Dome is bigger, has sides that can be placed (one or both) and a entrance front to make it a tent.
Cons:
1) Wet bath.. What can I say here.. Straddling a toilet, that Don't want in there (I know you folks think I'm nuts on this) is killing' me, but makes Wifey happy happy.
2) A few more opening windows. Windows are slides vs lifts. Lifts give the entire area to flow, slides, well you have to close in a driving rain..
3) Front window. I don't know if this is really a Con or not.. I like having one, but at the same time, what kind of road abuse is it going to take?
Well, I found my almost perfect trailer.
Wish you all the best on your quest of yours and hope some of my journey helps along the way.
Here if you have questions.
