Newbie Qs about Trucks, Campers and Wives

[bravelion]

Hello! Aspiring future TCer here.

After all my research, reading, dreaming , wonderlust and hand wringing, I'm completely sold on the Pros of a TC, and adequately accepting of the Cons. Or so I think. This compared to all the other options available and based on the kind of urban/city AND nature adventure exploring of the U.S. my wife and I would like to experience. We love exploring downtowns and cities as much as we do nature hikes and beautiful scenery, so we want something that works well for both.

Some basics:
My wife and I will be cashing out of our business and hitting the road. Not retiring forever, but taking a major 1-2 year sabbatical followed by working again at some point in the future. Neither of us can envision 40 years of true "retirement". (We're in early/mid 50s).

We will start not as full timers, but with a lot of "out and back" trips to break ourselves in slowly, work out the kinks, etc., Going further and longer each time, but still keeping our home as a home base for the holidays.

Qs:
1) Does the "out and back" break in period of shorter test trips sound like a good plan for newbies, or is it better to jump in the proverbial deep end and just head out for 1 or 2 months, and return wiser, for better or worse? Neither of us have any experience other than weekend tent camping when the kids were little.

2) I own a 2008 Silverado 1500 CC, SB, 2WD with a 5.3L V8 .
This severely limits our candidate campers. But we already own this truck and it looks like a Lance 825 would fit, and we think we can handle that after crawling in and out of one at the dealer.

On the other hand, we can afford a better truck. I've budgeted $70K for a camper/truck combo, used if needed on one or both. We are willing to spend more on a setup that will provide additional comfort, to a point. It's just hard to know where that point is with no context and nothing to compare it to. And I don't want to let perfect be the enemy of good enough.
What questions should we ask ourselves about that?

3) More of a relationship question, and perhaps related to #2 indirectly, but has anyone had full buy-in from your old lady/man before taking the plunge, then when the reality of the cramped quarters sets in, the "WTH were we thinking?" conversation gets started and it goes downhill from there? My wife claims 100% "I'm in" but asks questions that make me wonder.
What sort of "I wish I had known ..." causes buyer's remorse with the first TC?

I know I can read up and research on these kind of questions, but I'd like to hear current thoughts from a real live community out doing it.

Thanks!

[Gripnriprod]

1. Some people start by just spending the night in the driveway. Your plan sounds good.
2. Match your truck to your camper. In other words make sure the truck you use will handle the camper you choose. Read all you can on how to do that and then decide.
3. Goes without saying, all wives are different. I started out wanting something for me to overnight or two at fishin' holes. Before I bought, she wanted in so that changed the deal significantly. Two seasons in that Angler and she was ready for the AF in our sig. She loves it. We have done two extended trips (11,400 mi. and 10,200 mi.) plus many shorter trips and she is always ready to go again.

[DutchmenSport]

I'm not a full timer nor am I a TCer, but I've been camping for 53 years now, so maybe can add a little insight.

#1. Go slow. I think your strategy to go week-ends and get longer and longer is an excellent way to do it. You may find that "full time" really is not the answer, but your "comfort" limit may be 2 weeks, or 3 weeks, and then you have a great need to hit the home-base for a while. You really won't know until you experiment.

My wife and I have dreamed of full timing, but the reality is, I don't think we ever will. After 2 weeks in the camper, we are both ready to come home for a while. After a couple days, we want to do it again, but we just need the stick-and-brick house for a base. We both work full time still, and quite frankly, I do enjoy my job. (I guess I'm fortunate there). So vacation time is nice, but an extended time would probably spoil the excitement of RVing. (too much of a good thing you know).

Only you will be able to make that decision, that's why I think your plan to start slow is a good one, extended the time out longer and longer. Besides, it will give you an opportunity to flush out bugs from your camper, give you a base to gear up again, and let you re-coup and plan for the next "outing". You will need to learn how to develop your camping strategy also, plan and research your camp sites, practice boon docking, and then have the assurance of returning home to analyze your experience, make adjustments, and plan ahead until you get into the "swing" of this life-style.

About #2: I do not know the weight limitations of your truck, nor do I want to throw out pros or cons nor make suggestions for something different. But one thing you do is go as economical as possible. If you can find a TC that fits your truck without creating a gigantic financial draw, then that is really the best way to do it.

Reason? Chance are, your first camper will not be your last one. You may find it's too cramped. You may find it's just not right. You may find you really do want a bigger truck and a bigger camper combination. By investing wisely the first time, and thinking "cost effective", if you DO decide to swap out for a larger truck or a larger camper, you will still get a decent return on the resale of your rig, then you can use the sale of that to purchase something that suits you better.

On the other hand, you may be perfectly fine with your first choice and may last you 30 years. If so, you are really a winner!

Remember "newbie" the RV "golden rule"... The 3rd camper will be the camper you really wanted first! Meaning, you will probably trade campers 3 times before you have the one that really works for you.

Another reason for considering 'economical' purchase? You may not like a truck camper at all once you actually get it. "Dreaming" and "Reality" are mostly 2 vastly different worlds. You may want to scrub the camper completely, in which case you have a moderate investment, you can sell, and then get a trailer, a Motor Home, or something else, and you won't be taking a serious financial "hit" (if) you change your mind later.

So... go moderate and practical with your truck-camper combination.

About #3. My wife and I never had a WTH moment that we both didn't agree on. Our 1st trailer became too small, and climbing over each other in a corner bed became a real PITA after 3 years. We both agreed it was time to trade.

The second trailer was 31 feet long... nice and long. Had it for 8 years. But we slowly quit using it. One day we asked why? And we both agreed we did not like the layout. We actually missed camping, but really, the trailer layout really stunk! But we had this WTH moment together and we were in perfect agreement.

Third Trailer now ... so for, it's perfect. We both agree. No surprises, and the "passion" for camping is back and we're are on the "go" again!

So to answer your question about #3 .... It all depends upon the wavelength you and your spouse are on. If you are compatable, think alike, and "communicate" about everything, then you won't have any surprises.

But by all means, do LISTEN to what she is saying RIGHT NOW before making the investment. Make sure you are both in 100% agreement and comparable with your decisions, otherwise, it simply will NOT work. You have to be 100% in tandem with each other! You must if you want it to work!

Good luck and I wish you well in your research and decisions.

[jmtandem]

Qs:
1) Does the "out and back" break in period of shorter test trips sound like a good plan for newbies, or is it better to jump in the proverbial deep end and just head out for 1 or 2 months, and return wiser, for better or worse? Neither of us have any experience other than weekend tent camping when the kids were little.


It probably does not matter. Since you have the time I would head out and take it from there. If you stay out a long time so be it, if not, that is OK too.


2) I own a 2008 Silverado 1500 CC, SB, 2WD with a 5.3L V8 .
This severely limits our candidate campers. But we already own this truck and it looks like a Lance 825 would fit, and we think we can handle that after crawling in and out of one at the dealer.


You will get lots of comments on this but realistically you don't have enough truck for extended trips and all the stuff you likely will carry. You might look into a pop up truck camper but even some of those are likely too heavy for your half ton. Size inside the camper is at a premium and a big, no, the biggest truck campers are still much smaller than a modest travel trailer or fifth wheel. One option is to look at a nice 28-30 foot travel trailer that your truck will be better suited for. Then, of course, there is the engine in the truck and it is not a powerhouse. So, get what you think you can live in for an extended period of time and then get the truck to handle it.

On the other hand, we can afford a better truck. I've budgeted $70K for a camper/truck combo, used if needed on one or both. We are willing to spend more on a setup that will provide additional comfort, to a point. It's just hard to know where that point is with no context and nothing to compare it to. And I don't want to let perfect be the enemy of good enough.
What questions should we ask ourselves about that?


"Perfect be the enemy of good enough". Well said. That is why many suggest finding a good used vehicle or truck camper. Something five years old is still quite new and has experienced about half it's depreciation from new especially the RV part of your combination. Most RV's depreciate about half in the first five years. And if you purchase 'new' do your due diligence and find out the real MSRP (not a vague number the dealer likes to use) and offer at least 30 percent off the real number.

3) More of a relationship question, and perhaps related to #2 indirectly, but has anyone had full buy-in from your old lady/man before taking the plunge, then when the reality of the cramped quarters sets in, the "WTH were we thinking?" conversation gets started and it goes downhill from there? My wife claims 100% "I'm in" but asks questions that make me wonder.
What sort of "I wish I had known ..." causes buyer's remorse with the first TC?


Interior size is everything in an RV. If you get along real well, a TC can work for full time living or long term extended living. If you both need your space, well...........

I know I can read up and research on these kind of questions, but I'd like to hear current thoughts from a real live community out doing it.

Thousands live full time in their RV. Most by choice. Check into Escapees, LoveYourRV, and many other webpages. Most RV's are made for recreational occasional usage not full time living. I would certainly try to find a TC that can be lived in full time. Look at Arctic Fox, Northern Lite, Host, Chalet, Lance, etc and do your homework well. Look for Four Season packages, real good insulation, tank sizes, weight, slideouts, storage, generator or solar, abiity for two people to pass in the asile, how the RV handles condensation, etc. Lots to think about, but more importantly go for it. You only live once!!!!

Thanks!

[trailgranny50]

We went used all the way. That being said our used truck is our 04 Chevy Duramax 3500 dually. It was designed for a camper from the factory but was a work truck for 10 years, low mileage and not many repairs along the way. Our camper is a 90 model Shadow Cruiser, no longer built, and was in pretty good shape, no rot just of road dings and some worn out things easily replaced here at home. We are older, supposed to be retired but.....that's another whole story, and have had everything but a motor home. I being the wife was the one that pushed for a TC as we wanted to be able to tow things and I'm glad we got it. It is a 9.5' and weighs right at 2900 loaded. I wouldn't want a smaller truck but that's just us. A long bed gave us the optional wet bath room space. I wouldn't want a smaller camper either as we drag three, yes three, small dogs along. I've overstocked with things and after every trip continue to pare down what goes along. Our old camper doesn't have a gray water tank and that's about all I'd have liked to had that we don't. Energy efficient smaller AC and a Honda 2000i were add ons and are nice. We also don't boondock big time nor do we unload the camper like many do. I don't know how long we'd be comfy but have taken month long trips and that's fine. Have homebase place too and lots family scattered around to hang out at to get out of the camper if we want, but I like having all my "things" handy. My only caution would be don't spend the bank all at once but a heavier truck, not necessarily a dually, would be a wise decision, but that's just my 2c. Storage for clothes and cooking items is something the wife will be appreciative of. Good luck and Happy Trails!

[handye9]

bravelion wrote:
What sort of "I wish I had known ..." causes buyer's remorse with the first TC?

I know I can read up and research on these kind of questions, but I'd like to hear current thoughts from a real live community out doing it.

Thanks!

1. The amount of space is limited to the point of, one of you must be sitting at the dinette, or, laying in the bed at all times. There's not enough floor space for both of you to stand up at the same time. The bathroom is barely big enough to change your mind, let alone change clothes. Bigger bathroom and more floor space, would be nice.

2. The weight adds up much faster than you think it will. If the dry weight says 2800 lbs, you're going to push that up to about 3500.

3. Lack of research on truck ratings (payload, GVWR, axle ratings) will get you in trouble, very fast. Your, payload rating, is your capacity to carry the TC, and everything and everybody you put in or on the truck. IE: If you have 2000 lbs payload and 500 lbs of people and cargo, your capacity to carry a loaded camper is 1500 lbs.

4. Listening to RV salespeople, regarding weights, can also get you in trounle, very fast. Many salespeople, only spout unloaded weights, and they have never actually carried a TC, pulled any kind of camper, or driven a motor home, other than around the dealer lot.

Wife and I have both TC and TT. We did a three week outing with the TC, along with a 5 X 12 utility trailer. I told everybody, we brought the trailer, so she could bring her shoes. Reality was, there was golf clubs, suit cases, camping chairs, BBQ grill, fishing gear, shoes, and tools, in the trailer. When we got home, she said never again, was she going camping for more than 2 - 3 days , in that TC.

[Old_Days]

We own a Lance 825 it is a great TC. But I would not put it on a 1500 pick up. Good Luck with your TC search.

[WNYBob]

I have a similar truck 2011 Silverado 1500 Long bed 2WD with a 5.3L V8. My TC is a Travel-lite Mountain Star 800 with a dry weight of 1440#. I added helper leaf. The truck rides level and I get about 10 mpg. I won't be going off road, so I am not going to upgrade my truck, no matter what the weight lords say, but as you can see I have not gone over board on weight. The camper has what we need, but lacks a indoor shower, but then again we are not planning on boondocking it for a week at a time.

[wcjeep]

A 1500 series truck with small engine would not be my first choice for a truck camper. A 3yr old truck should knock off alot of initial depreciation. You can never have enough truck with a truck camper. Diesel is not required. It's nice, but, not required.

I also like S&S Campers in addition to the Lance you mentioned. While I like my Arctic Fox 811, it's not light.

Check out Truck Camper Magazine. They have done numerous write ups over time of Full Timing in a Truck Camper. Be sure the wife is happy. Don't be afraid to upgrade the mattress to something she likes.

If buying used, be sure to swap all safety sensors. They are only good for upto 7yrs. I also prefer onboard generator and AC. Makes boondocking easier in hot weather.

[Winnebago_Bob]

Consider renting a camper and take a couple of trips close to home and see what you think. It'll give you a chance to see what you like and you don't.

[bcbouy]

regarding a truck,you really kicked the hornets nest.a lot of people on here will tell you to get a heavy duty diesel dually,but its not a good daily driver.but thats just my opinion. i drive one for work and i really hate it.my wife told me implicitly NOT to bring home a camper so of course i did.last year we missed just 2 weekends away from home between may and october,and this year she ordered a new camper instead of the new car she wanted and it should arrive in 2 weeks,so go figure.ease into the camping trips,you can travel a long way over a weekend.decide what you need,not want and try and find a used one.i sold my old camper for the same price i paid for it,and we knew what we wanted out of our next one.we don't spend a whole lot of time inside our camper and very rarely cook in it so for us an 8.5 was enough space.electric jacks and fastguns are great for dropping the camper and going exploring.

[Buzzcut1]

that 825 is going to weigh close to 2800 pounds loaded in the bed of that 1500 truc.

[Hiker_01]

MHO

1) as you seem to have some doubts, start small and work your way up from there. Start with shorter trips as it will mean less investment in all the ancillary stuff you would need. If you find you like it, go from there.

2) see note above. if you start small with less invested, you can always grow. Also, it allows you an opportunity to see what you like/don't like and make adjustments without sinking a lot of dollars into something and then changing your mind.

3) consider renting an RV to see if you like it or not. probably can't rent a TC, but small class c's can be easily rented and will give you a feel. My wife and rented a few years back and got hooked. A few years ago - with cash being limited, tried tent camping and my wife actually loved it. We then moved up to a popup until we can afford the class A we would really like.