Airstream Owner - Upgrade or Not Upgrade

[MinnesotaDreami]

We have a dilemma. We own a 2014 Airstream International 27FB, being pulled by a 2017 F250 (gas) Crew Cab. We have had various other RV’s from popups to 5th wheels over the years. Currently we are both edging into retirement and find ourselves spending more and more time (1 - 2 months last winter) traveling and staying in our Airstream.

Next year is our “big trip” to Alaska. So we are starting to plan and think about it in earnest, asking questions, etc.. As we travel and visit with other RV’ers, many have suggested a larger unit may be a good option.

On a side note - I also heard an earful about the current state of gas absorption refrigerators, but that is another question for later.

Right now, our Airstream seems to work fine. We don’t seem to be heavy packers, and the wife is a very minimalist packer. Most of the time we are boondocking or off-the-grid. Other than the Airstream’s ground clearance, we have not run into to many problems, even at some of the National Parks sites.

Wondering if there are any Full-Time RV’s folks out there (Airstream or non-Airstream owners) that have an opinion or suggestions. Do we keep the Airstream, or upgrade to a larger RV?

[MNRon]

You might want to view some "Long Long Honeymoon" videos on YouTube. They have a few on traveling Alaska in an Airstream

[Nodaker]

I would lean toward keeping the Airstream for the Alaska trip. As Trackrig said, you will have more flexibility in campgrounds and boondocking with the moderately sized trailer.

We went to AK in 2016 with our signature rig and, while it was fine and we had not major problems related to size, there would have been some convenience in having a little smaller rig for that long a trip.

Then after AK, if you want more space for long-term camping you can look at a bigger rig then.

PS: If you slow down and enjoy the trip there is no problem with rough roads!

[hokeypokey]

We pulled a 12 foot A-Liner to Alaska. We moved often and it was a dream to set up. Even if campgrounds were full, we got in. To each his own, but the little camper served us well.

[Mr_Mark1]

I, too, would keep the Airstream if it is working for you. After the trip to Alaska, then I would see if your needs might be different and then revisit the idea for a change.

We were thinking of taking our coach to Alaska this year but opted for an Alaskan cruise instead. I just didn't want to damage the paint/windshield and there is so much beauty in Alaska from a ship that you could not get to by road.

The glaciers are breathtaking along with the misty fiords. The two week cruise started in Seward, AK, and ended in Vancouver, BC. The temps were generally in 50's and 60's... perfect for July! I had forgotten that the sun in Anchorage only goes to dusk, it's daylight for 24 hrs. at that time of year.

In 1997, we took a motorcoach tour from Vancouver to Anchorage traveling through the Yukon that stopped every evening at hotels. This trip also included a train trip then ended with a one week cruise down the inside passage back to Vancouver, BC. (trains, planes and automobiles).

Safe travels,
MM.

[bgum]

We owned 3 Airstreams. Started off with a 25 next a 19 and lastly a 23. In between the different lengths we owned a motorhome and a 5th wheel. Wish we had kept the 25. To each his own.

[ford_truck_guy]

^^^^ X2 . .

[ScottG]

I'd keep the AS for the Alaska trip and not subject a new rig to the roads up there.

[Trackrig]

Because you said you like to boondock, keep the trailer for the trip to Alaska.

I've lived in Alaska for 50+ years. Five years ago in prep for retirement, I bought a DP and brought it north so that I had a year to get familiar with it before retirement. After retirement we took it south and have left it south since then as planned.

In the year we had it here, we used it, did modifications, and so on. In that time I decided it was too big for everyday use in Alaska. It was fine if you wanted to stay in RV parks, but not for boondocking. Last year I bought a Nash 26' TT and brought it north. There are so many more places you can get into with the TT than the DP for boondocking.

Keep the trailer.

Bill

[Ivylog]

I marvel at folks that can spend months in something that small BUT for a trip to AK I would keep it. Selling something that new will be expensive so another reason for keeping. With your gas F250 you can go bigger, but not that much bigger. So for now keep it.

[Lwiddis]

"Right now, our Airstream seems to work fine"

I'd replace it when the AS doesn't meet your needs and wants. Two iconic names in RVs....Airstream and Winnebago.