Making it easy

[TomG2]

Someone listed their trailer as being for sale recently and hinted at the reasons why. What have you done to make your travel trailer easier to use? My biggest was to purchase a HD pickup that did not require a weight distributing hitch. I am as lazy as the next person and always looking for ways to avoid work.

[MargaretB]

We have friends who swear by their truck campers. We looked at them briefly when we were doing our research but wanted more space and fewer steps. And by now, my husband is already looking down the road to our next trailer-free trip. "Yes, but..." Sorry!

[TomG2]

Thanks Muddy, some good ideas. Even power stabilizer jacks can save a little effort. I don't have them but remote waste valves would eliminate bending down to work them.

To Margaret, there is one other choice and that is a truck camper. Unfortunately your F150 will only haul the smallest models but a pickup truck and truck camper can be a very versatile combination and no towing required.

[Muddydogs]

To reply to the OP's question of what I find makes RV life easy.
I use the Andersen no sway hitch which is way easier than moving around a standard WD hitch.

I keep my chocks and stabilizer blocks in the front of the storage compartment, first out last in, so I don't have to remove a bunch of stuff.

A small cheap carabiner attached to the hitch where the chains hook up makes an easy and quick place to attach the breakaway cable.

I put a giant level front and center on the toy hauler so I can see the side to side level of the trailer from the driver's seat.

Added hooks to the front wall of the passthrough to hang propane lines, extension cord and other things that I use often.

Keep the junk out of the trailer that's not needed or hardly used so I don't have to sort through a bunch of useless stuff.

Probably the biggest thing is if something is needed for the trailer we purchase it and don't take it out of the house so we're not packing extra stuff back and forth. In the spring the trailer is stocked with dry goods, canned goods and paper products so it's in there. The wife and I can be ready to go camping in less then a half hour and it takes us about a half hour once we get home to be unloaded and done. 10 minutes of that 1/2 hour is me loading and unloading the ATV's.

I'm only 48 years old and can still hold my own but I like things organized and easy as I have better things to do then spending my time walking back and forth from the house to trailer or wasting precious camping time messing around with stuff. My wife might say I'm a little anal on the organized deal but I know were most everything is unless I put something in that one special spot.

[Trackrig]

MargaretB.

A small item, but they all help. You said "We get out, go into the trailer for the leveler, check the interior levels". I use a 6"-8" bright orange level, but I leave it on the floor of the trailer right inside the door. It travels there all of the time. For front to rear level I use the metal door sill and for side to side there's a spot about 8" in from the door sill that I use. This cuts down getting in and out of the trailer several times cuts down using the steps several times if there area bad knees or hips and speeds up the over all process.

I also use two little magnetic levels on the tongue. No they aren't as accurate, but they get me in the ball park, then I'll go back and forth to the trailer door to use the larger level for the final check.

Bill

[toedtoes]

MargaretB wrote:

toedtoes wrote:
When I had my trailer, the one thing that really made it easier for me (camping solo) was the mirror on the magnetic stick - I was able to stick it right behind the hitch on the trailer and could back up quickly and easily by viewing the hitch and ball in the mirror as I backed up.

On my clipper, the black tank valve was way under the chassis - I had to practically lay down on the ground to reach it. So I had it moved forward to the edge (like the grey already was). Now, I barely have to bend to reach it.

How I store my plastic leveling blocks has changed as well. I used to keep them in the outside storage compartments. That meant when I arrived somewhere, I had to get out of the vehicle, open the compartment, bend over to get out the blocks fighting with other supplies usually, close the compartment, lay out the blocks, get back in the vehicle... Now, I keep them under the cab seats - I get out of the vehicle, grab the blocks, lay them out, get back in the vehicle. Much easier with less bending (only have to bend to lay them out and pick them up).

There are some things that can be done to minimize physical limitations. But if the mental limitations are there (as in "I don't like doing it anymore"), then there really isn't anything that's going to change it. And there is always a compromise going from one type of RV to another so that doesn't always solve the problem either (I got the clipper because I got tired of hitching - but now I have another engine to deal with).

For some in Margaret's situation, going to a class B might be a solution - no hitching, no toad necessary, and a vehicle that is really no different than your daily driver in regards to getting repair work (rather than a large class A that needs a special tow truck and not every shop can fix). But, if the person is a worrier by nature (as it appears Margaret's husband is), then the best thing may be to leave RVing behind and find another way of travel that better suits - again, physical limitations can often be worked around; mental limitations are much more difficult.

Your system sounds so easy! We get out, go into the trailer for the leveler, check the interior levels, get the blocks out of the hatch, set them up, drive up on them, recheck the level... We check the interior level because of the fridge. The hitch level isn't as precise.

I love Class Bs but they are prohibitively expensive, even used. We've found that we can get a lot more for our money with an A or a trailer.

And you are entirely right about the mental aspects. I listened as he grumbled and yelled about not being cut out for this and feeling incompetent and all the rest of the swearing that accompanied routine tasks, and suggested that if he was so upset every time, we should think about selling it. He nearly kissed my feet. And a huge weight immediately lifted for him and he actually enjoyed the rest of our trip. So in addition to the constant reminder of physical aging, the mental and emotional component is very powerful. That's why although I truly do appreciate everyone's suggestions on ways to make it physically easier, I appear to be playing "Yes, but..." We've done what we can do to make it easier and it's still a schreck for him. So it's time...

The simple truth is that if someone is enjoying what they are doing, they will find ways to work around what they can and they will struggle with everything for as long as they possibly can. And other than the pain caused by doing those things, they will get a lot of satisfaction out of it all.

If they aren't enjoying what they are doing, no amount of work arounds will change that.

[coolbreeze01]

On many trips, we don't bother to un-hook. Just park and enjoy.
I do understand the simplicity of just car trips. We talk about a B occasionally too.

Was surprised you weren't given the opportunity to edit your post.

Gotta love the wanna be mods.

[MargaretB]

toedtoes wrote:
When I had my trailer, the one thing that really made it easier for me (camping solo) was the mirror on the magnetic stick - I was able to stick it right behind the hitch on the trailer and could back up quickly and easily by viewing the hitch and ball in the mirror as I backed up.

On my clipper, the black tank valve was way under the chassis - I had to practically lay down on the ground to reach it. So I had it moved forward to the edge (like the grey already was). Now, I barely have to bend to reach it.

How I store my plastic leveling blocks has changed as well. I used to keep them in the outside storage compartments. That meant when I arrived somewhere, I had to get out of the vehicle, open the compartment, bend over to get out the blocks fighting with other supplies usually, close the compartment, lay out the blocks, get back in the vehicle... Now, I keep them under the cab seats - I get out of the vehicle, grab the blocks, lay them out, get back in the vehicle. Much easier with less bending (only have to bend to lay them out and pick them up).

There are some things that can be done to minimize physical limitations. But if the mental limitations are there (as in "I don't like doing it anymore"), then there really isn't anything that's going to change it. And there is always a compromise going from one type of RV to another so that doesn't always solve the problem either (I got the clipper because I got tired of hitching - but now I have another engine to deal with).

For some in Margaret's situation, going to a class B might be a solution - no hitching, no toad necessary, and a vehicle that is really no different than your daily driver in regards to getting repair work (rather than a large class A that needs a special tow truck and not every shop can fix). But, if the person is a worrier by nature (as it appears Margaret's husband is), then the best thing may be to leave RVing behind and find another way of travel that better suits - again, physical limitations can often be worked around; mental limitations are much more difficult.

Your system sounds so easy! We get out, go into the trailer for the leveler, check the interior levels, get the blocks out of the hatch, set them up, drive up on them, recheck the level... We check the interior level because of the fridge. The hitch level isn't as precise.

I love Class Bs but they are prohibitively expensive, even used. We've found that we can get a lot more for our money with an A or a trailer.

And you are entirely right about the mental aspects. I listened as he grumbled and yelled about not being cut out for this and feeling incompetent and all the rest of the swearing that accompanied routine tasks, and suggested that if he was so upset every time, we should think about selling it. He nearly kissed my feet. And a huge weight immediately lifted for him and he actually enjoyed the rest of our trip. So in addition to the constant reminder of physical aging, the mental and emotional component is very powerful. That's why although I truly do appreciate everyone's suggestions on ways to make it physically easier, I appear to be playing "Yes, but..." We've done what we can do to make it easier and it's still a schreck for him. So it's time...

[TomG2]

MargaretB wrote:

Yes, it could be. But it's still necessary to get down under the bumper to attach it. The issue is partly with his arms, so reaching without lying under it is not possible.

A short piece of chain could be permanently attached to the hitch and that could be connected to the trailer chain without too much effort. I don't aim to quibble and like others have said, if he doesn't want to RV, then he shouldn't RV.

This post was supposed to be about tips and equipment that make life easier for those who choose to tow a travel trailer.

[MargaretB]

Gdetrailer wrote:

darsben1 wrote:

Gdetrailer wrote:

MargaretB wrote:


...I posted another statement about selling the trailer, which someone saw fit to report without telling me why. Shortly thereafter, it was removed, again without a word to me - it just disappeared. Those kinds of treatment aren't conducive to encouraging people to post here. So I'm posting this reply because TomG2 was kind enough to encourage me to do so. I hope our experiences, both with the trailer and here, are helpful to others.

MargaretB, Don't remember who mentioned reporting your post.. Sadly, I think if you had rewritten it a bit differently leaving out some of the selling details it would not have been removed.

You had stated some very good reasons as to why you were moving on and that to me said all that was needed to be said. The other stuff looked a lot like a sales ad which is not allowed per the TOS of the forum..

I would have hoped that the Mods would have at least sent you a PM to explain but I understand they are busy keeping the forum tidy, sometimes they may not be able to send PMs to all that have bent the rules.. They get no pay and it is a thankless job..

Sad to see a fellow RVr call it quits, but everyone here some day must face the harsh reality that camping is not physically or mentally easy anymore.

While one chapter of your life has come to a close, another chapter is ready to be written.. Go and find another adventure that you and your better half can enjoy together!

I reported it.
Seven years a member and never read the rules there is no excuse for that.

Sometimes when one is in a position of "distress" one might not fully "remember" all the rules..

A PM to the OP suggesting to edit and remove a few things, explaining the rules might have been a nice gesture 🙂

Amen, bro!

I understand that when the rules are broken, someone needs to take action. But along with that should go the obligation to let the rule-breaker know what the sin was. i'd already edited my post when it disappeared. So removing it without notice doesn't provide any useful information that might prevent future infractions.

[MargaretB]

darsben1 wrote:

Gdetrailer wrote:

MargaretB wrote:


...I posted another statement about selling the trailer, which someone saw fit to report without telling me why. Shortly thereafter, it was removed, again without a word to me - it just disappeared. Those kinds of treatment aren't conducive to encouraging people to post here. So I'm posting this reply because TomG2 was kind enough to encourage me to do so. I hope our experiences, both with the trailer and here, are helpful to others.

MargaretB, Don't remember who mentioned reporting your post.. Sadly, I think if you had rewritten it a bit differently leaving out some of the selling details it would not have been removed.

You had stated some very good reasons as to why you were moving on and that to me said all that was needed to be said. The other stuff looked a lot like a sales ad which is not allowed per the TOS of the forum..

I would have hoped that the Mods would have at least sent you a PM to explain but I understand they are busy keeping the forum tidy, sometimes they may not be able to send PMs to all that have bent the rules.. They get no pay and it is a thankless job..

Sad to see a fellow RVr call it quits, but everyone here some day must face the harsh reality that camping is not physically or mentally easy anymore.

While one chapter of your life has come to a close, another chapter is ready to be written.. Go and find another adventure that you and your better half can enjoy together!

I reported it.
Seven years a member and never read the rules there is no excuse for that.

My post wasn't about selling. It was about acknowledging the help we've gotten from the people here. Yes, I did encourage interested parties to contact me. If that constitutes "selling," so be it.

[MargaretB]

TomG2 wrote:

MargaretB wrote:
Thanks for all that information. We appreciate your goodwill. To respond -

Yes, it's the chain that goes between the trailer and truck. Because of where it attaches to the truck, it's necessary to get under the bumper. That's the main issue. Ours have carabiner-type closures. We thread the brake wire into the chain before attaching it.

.

There are workarounds for just about everything. The end of the chain could be fitted with a large open ended hook to facilitate that part of the process, for instance.

Yes, it could be. But it's still necessary to get down under the bumper to attach it. The issue is partly with his arms, so reaching without lying under it is not possible.

[Gdetrailer]

darsben1 wrote:

Gdetrailer wrote:

MargaretB wrote:


...I posted another statement about selling the trailer, which someone saw fit to report without telling me why. Shortly thereafter, it was removed, again without a word to me - it just disappeared. Those kinds of treatment aren't conducive to encouraging people to post here. So I'm posting this reply because TomG2 was kind enough to encourage me to do so. I hope our experiences, both with the trailer and here, are helpful to others.

MargaretB, Don't remember who mentioned reporting your post.. Sadly, I think if you had rewritten it a bit differently leaving out some of the selling details it would not have been removed.

You had stated some very good reasons as to why you were moving on and that to me said all that was needed to be said. The other stuff looked a lot like a sales ad which is not allowed per the TOS of the forum..

I would have hoped that the Mods would have at least sent you a PM to explain but I understand they are busy keeping the forum tidy, sometimes they may not be able to send PMs to all that have bent the rules.. They get no pay and it is a thankless job..

Sad to see a fellow RVr call it quits, but everyone here some day must face the harsh reality that camping is not physically or mentally easy anymore.

While one chapter of your life has come to a close, another chapter is ready to be written.. Go and find another adventure that you and your better half can enjoy together!

I reported it.
Seven years a member and never read the rules there is no excuse for that.

Sometimes when one is in a position of "distress" one might not fully "remember" all the rules..

A PM to the OP suggesting to edit and remove a few things, explaining the rules might have been a nice gesture 🙂

[gbopp]

TomG2 wrote:

gbopp wrote:
Maybe djgarcia means safety is better than trying to 'convince' the insurance company you did something correctly. (even if you didn't) :B

Is that your suggestion for making a travel trailer easier and more fun for those who suffer with less physical ability?

GM will have to "convince" the insurance company since they are willing to put it in writing and back it up in such cases. They have a little more invested than us forum experts.

There are thousands of posts about WD hitches if that is an argument you want to follow.

Sorry, I didn't realize the humor police were working today 🙂
I felt that everyone knew that djgarcia wanted to say 'convenience' but his auto correct made the change.

Have a nice Labor Day.

[toedtoes]

When I had my trailer, the one thing that really made it easier for me (camping solo) was the mirror on the magnetic stick - I was able to stick it right behind the hitch on the trailer and could back up quickly and easily by viewing the hitch and ball in the mirror as I backed up.

On my clipper, the black tank valve was way under the chassis - I had to practically lay down on the ground to reach it. So I had it moved forward to the edge (like the grey already was). Now, I barely have to bend to reach it.

How I store my plastic leveling blocks has changed as well. I used to keep them in the outside storage compartments. That meant when I arrived somewhere, I had to get out of the vehicle, open the compartment, bend over to get out the blocks fighting with other supplies usually, close the compartment, lay out the blocks, get back in the vehicle... Now, I keep them under the cab seats - I get out of the vehicle, grab the blocks, lay them out, get back in the vehicle. Much easier with less bending (only have to bend to lay them out and pick them up).

There are some things that can be done to minimize physical limitations. But if the mental limitations are there (as in "I don't like doing it anymore"), then there really isn't anything that's going to change it. And there is always a compromise going from one type of RV to another so that doesn't always solve the problem either (I got the clipper because I got tired of hitching - but now I have another engine to deal with).

For some in Margaret's situation, going to a class B might be a solution - no hitching, no toad necessary, and a vehicle that is really no different than your daily driver in regards to getting repair work (rather than a large class A that needs a special tow truck and not every shop can fix). But, if the person is a worrier by nature (as it appears Margaret's husband is), then the best thing may be to leave RVing behind and find another way of travel that better suits - again, physical limitations can often be worked around; mental limitations are much more difficult.

[darsben1]

Gdetrailer wrote:

MargaretB wrote:


...I posted another statement about selling the trailer, which someone saw fit to report without telling me why. Shortly thereafter, it was removed, again without a word to me - it just disappeared. Those kinds of treatment aren't conducive to encouraging people to post here. So I'm posting this reply because TomG2 was kind enough to encourage me to do so. I hope our experiences, both with the trailer and here, are helpful to others.

MargaretB, Don't remember who mentioned reporting your post.. Sadly, I think if you had rewritten it a bit differently leaving out some of the selling details it would not have been removed.

You had stated some very good reasons as to why you were moving on and that to me said all that was needed to be said. The other stuff looked a lot like a sales ad which is not allowed per the TOS of the forum..

I would have hoped that the Mods would have at least sent you a PM to explain but I understand they are busy keeping the forum tidy, sometimes they may not be able to send PMs to all that have bent the rules.. They get no pay and it is a thankless job..

Sad to see a fellow RVr call it quits, but everyone here some day must face the harsh reality that camping is not physically or mentally easy anymore.

While one chapter of your life has come to a close, another chapter is ready to be written.. Go and find another adventure that you and your better half can enjoy together!

I reported it.
Seven years a member and never read the rules there is no excuse for that.