Looking to downsize to an Airstream

[qbert10]

We currently have a Jayco 5th wheel that requires a very large truck to pull. We are considering downsizing to an Airstream Flying Cloud 30RB (would like to find a used one but no luck). Are they really a "lifetime" trailer and worth the money? The kids are growing up and we are looking for a low maintenance trailer for the next 30 years.

[goducks10]

Have you ever touched an aluminum canoe that's been in the sun all day? Imagine how hot an AS will be sitting out in direct sun lite all day when it's 90-100* out. No Dual pane windows either. Or when its 35* and raining. How good is the R value in the sprayed in insulation?

[JWRoberts]

I owned one long ago but when it came time to upgrade, I found I could buy two or three comparable TT's for the price of an Airstream.

And if you ever put a dent in the aluminum, it will never be the same because it can't be matched.

I think they are way overpriced and I'll never own another one.

[IdaD]

If you can live with the size and price tag they are nice trailers. You do pay a premium for the name, though.

[Campfire_Time]

I think they are beautiful trailers but even the largest ones feel claustrophobic to us. Going from a 5ver, I would look at new ones, not to buy, but to make sure you would be comfortable in one. One thing we noticed is that all the ones we've toured only have a double bed.

[hvac]

We had.a brand new 28/Safari for 4/years. Beautiful coach. 2004-2008. Clear coat was peeling.off. corrosion started to show on all leading edge. It still.has a wood floor. Moisture gets trapped in belly. Floor had soft spots. This can cause frame corrosion. I loved it but they have issues. Good luck as prices have skyrocketed..

[rbpru]

Airstreams are the answer to those who whine about conventional TT quality and construction. All it costs is money.

Personally they are not my cup of tea; but they do seem to live up to their reputation.

They developed a design and construction process that stands up to the riggers of RV service with cost as a secondary concern.

[rockhillmanor]

qbert10 wrote:
We currently have a Jayco 5th wheel that requires a very large truck to pull. We are considering downsizing to an Airstream Flying Cloud 30RB (would like to find a used one but no luck). Are they really a "lifetime" trailer and worth the money? The kids are growing up and we are looking for a low maintenance trailer for the next 30 years.

Try this guy!
I was at a CG for a couple of day when it was sold and the new owners had evicted all the residents. A nice airstream was left behind and the new CG owners where going to JUNK IT!

I called the well known "THE airstream guy" and he drove all the way out to rescue it! He sells them too. He has some very rare ones also.
If he doesn't have one you like he'd be the one to point you to where they can be found. :C
http://www.airstreamguy.com/

[ROBERTSUNRUS]

🙂 Hi, I have my one and only trailer; So far it is just over 11 years old (I bought it new) and I never plan to replace it. I will tow it until I can't do it any more.

[jmtandem]

We currently have a Jayco 5th wheel that requires a very large truck to pull. We are considering downsizing to an Airstream Flying Cloud 30RB (would like to find a used one but no luck).

Go to Airforums.

Are they really a "lifetime" trailer and worth the money? The kids are growing up and we are looking for a low maintenance trailer for the next 30 years.

Over 65 percent of all Airstreams made since the mid 1930's are still on the road. Of course, they will need to be maintained to last but are an investment (if any RV can be considered an investment). Compared to many other standard box trailers that barely last as long as the payments, the Airstreams have longevity.