16 Tips and Tricks for a New RV Owner | What You Need to Know

16 Tips and Tricks for a New RV Owner | What You Need to Know

by | RV Tips, Travel | 8 comments

2020 has been an interesting year for everyone with all the issues causing travel to be halted.
 
Cruise lines have shut down and they keep pushing back their sail dates.
 
Hotels have limited their occupancy.
 
Flights have presumed to full capacity but under strict restrictions of sanitation and mask coverings.
 
Countries have put 14-day quarantines on travelers or shut down to any outside visitors entirely.
 
All this combined has brought many people to buy RV’s so they can further their summer travels and avoid staying in Hotels. These unfortunate events have also allured people in lowering their living costs.
 
All these reasons could be why RV sales have skyrocketed. New RV owners are growing faster than ever before. 
 
The inspiration for this post came after a conversation I had with my sister-in-law. She and my brother recently decided to purchase an RV themselves.
 
After shopping at many RV dealerships they found that the industry is in high demand. One dealership, in particular, had 60 KZ Travel Trailers on order and 51 of them were already sold. The used lots couldn’t even keep an RV on it for a day before it was sold.
 
This makes me wonder how many New RV owners are starting their RVing journeys for the first time. Maybe they need little tips and tricks to make it easier.
 
If you’re visiting our blog for the first time, we have lived in our RV for over two years now. So, you could say we know a bit about RVing. We know how to make it a comfortable transition.
 
So, let’s get into the tips and tricks that you need to learn as a new RV owner.

Tip #1 – Learn to Hook up your RV

 
When we purchased our RV, we also purchased Husky Sway bars (we have a travel trailer, not a fifth wheel or motorhome). The guys at Route66 in Oklahoma hooked up our trailer for the first time for us and quickly ran through it with us.
 
However, when we got to our destination we ended up having to watch Youtube Videos on how to unhook and hook up our RV with the Sway Bars. It takes practice and time to get it down.
 
At the beginning it took us 30 minutes or more to hook up our RV, but now that we know how it’s much easier and quicker.
 
Also, don’t forget your plug, locks, pins, and chains when hooking up your RV. Make sure the ball is locked, the pins are in place, and the chains are crossed (it is illegal in some states to not have your chains crossed if you have a travel trailer/bumper pull).
 

Tip #2 – Drive Cautiously

 
Towing an RV of any size requires additional safety precautions on the road. As a new RV owner make sure you know your blind spots, give yourself space to brake, make wide turns, and take routes that allow you to clear any bridges.
 
I’ve seen some horrific pictures of brand-new RV’s in a ditch because the driver didn’t make a wide enough turn. There’s also some bad stories of RV roofs being ripped off due to not clearing a bridge.

Tip #2.5 – Learn to Reverse

 
In addition to driving cautiously, you will want to learn how to reverse your new RV. You can take the RV in an empty parking lot and practice there before you hit the RV park or national park.
 
Also, your reversing methods and maneuvering abilities will be different if you have a fifth wheel versus a travel trailer. So, having patience and learning is key.
 
Our Travel trailer is 32 ft long and it is a pain to reverse. Therefore, I let my husband do it every time as I’m better as the lookout to keep him from hitting trees or poles.

Tip #3 – Learn your weight capacity

 
Before you even pick up your RV, you’ll want to learn the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), dry weight of the RV, and your tow vehicle towing capacity. Learn how much you can tow and carry inside your vehicle before you reach your max.
 
We have a Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel that has a towing capacity of 14,000lbs. Our RV is about 10,000 lbs, so we have room to add items in the truck like dogs, and other camping gear before we reach our capacity.

Tip #4 – Read your Manual

 
I’m notorious for trying to figure things out before I open the manuals but reading your manual is important.
 
After all, it’s a home on wheels, and learning how things work as a new RV owner is essential. Many manuals are online so knowing where yours is and how to access it is important.

Tip #5 – Purchase the Needed Equipment

 
While many RV dealerships will give you a new RV owner starter pack, those items are only the minimal essentials. There are many more items you will need to purchase in order to stay safe and enjoy your RV trips.
 
I have provided an entire list of items on a related post here. 
Related Post: “12+ Items Needed for New RV Owners”.

Tip #6 – Learn to level Your RV
 
There are little sticky green levelers you can purchase to stick on your RV. This will make it easier to level your RV if you don’t have automatic levelers.
You will also want to get some leveler blocks just in case you have an RV spot that’s really unlevel. You’ll want to be able to put them under the tires or stabilizers. 
 
Important: Always level by the tire’s first, before you level the length of the RV. Also, if you have slides level the RV with the slides in, not out.

Tip #7 – Learn your Black and Grey Tanks

 
As a new RV owner, it’s understandable that you may be unaware on how the black and grey tanks work. But learning how they work should be a top priority. I can’t tell you how many stories I have read on Facebook RV groups of people flooding their bathrooms because they didn’t release their tanks. This can cause significant damage if not properly cared for.
 
If you have a washer or an outdoor kitchen learn which tank the water goes to. Depending on the RV, some might release in the Grey tank and some might release in the Blank tank.
 
Usually, though your Blank Tank is reserved for human waste and the grey is for everything else like the sink, washer, and shower water. Read your manual to locate the release valves and always hook up the sewer hose to the dump before releasing the valves. 
 
Also, use a tank deodorizer to prevent unwanted smells from the beginning. The best on the market is Happy Camper.

Tip #8 – Plan Ahead

 
Taking a Road Trip and planning on bringing your New RV, you will want to plan ahead. Figure out where you’re going to stay. Many RV parks require reservations and some parks fill up months to even a year in advance.
 
Another thing to plan for is your route. When you’re pulling an RV you’ll need to make sure you avoid roads or bridges that you can’t easily drive through. There are apps that will help you plan like Roadtrippers. Use this code BTR5QTP for a special $5 off!
 

Tip #9 – a dehumidifier and moisture absorbents

RVs tend to accumulate moisture so having a dehumidifier and moisture absorbents is going to help prevent mold growth

Mold is a huge problem that happens in RVs often, so this is a preventative measure that every RVer does.

Tip #10 – Clean you’re A/C Filter once a month

If you want to keep you A/C running, especially during the heat of the summer months, then cleaning your filters monthly is essential.

Ours are pretty easy to clean, we remove them and shake them out outside. Sometimes we clean then with water and let them dry as well.

Tip #11 – Learn Where your GFI and Fuse Box is located

 
Usually, the GFI reset plug is in your bathroom, at least that is where ours is located. You’ll only need to know where this is if you notice other plugs are not working. This usually means it’s been overpowered and the GFI prevents damage with the electrical system and will just need to be reset.
 
You’ll also want to know where your fuse box is. If you blow a fuse to your A/C or your lights aren’t working, chances are you’ll just need to change a fuse out. These are pretty cheap and can come in a pack to keep in your RV.

Tip #12 – Learn to hook up your propane properly

 
Hooking up your propane properly is essential and can mean safety for all parties. The last thing you want to do is fail and have a propane leak. Propane leaks can be harmful to your health and potentially disastrous is there is fire around.
 
Our Propane tanks run one at a time, once one is empty, we close the valve and open the other tank. It’s easy, but everything must be learned.

Tip #13 – Learn to lubricate your slides (if you have them)

 
If you have slides, it’s important to learn how to lubricate the rubber and metal portions.
 
Lubricating the rubber seals on the slides will keep them from drying out and cracking. This further prevents unwanted leaks when it rains.
 
Of course, lubricating the metal rods and chains under the slide will keep them from rusting and sticking.

Tip #14 – Learn to clean your hot water heater

 
This is important and super easy to do. The reason you want to learn how to clean your hot water heater is that sediment can accumulate at the bottom and you’ll need to remove it.
Another reason is if you have an anode rod, you will need to know how to replace them at least once a year.

Tip #15 – HAVE FUN and Stay Safe!!!

 
I know this seems like a lot of tips and things to learn and remember. However, don’t let them keep you from enjoying your new RV.
Traveling and Camping in your RV is a great experience for the whole family. They allow you to visit and explore places you may not have considered before RVing.

Tip #16 – BE PATIENT

 
Owning an RV and taking your RV out for the first couple of times is going to be a learning experience. So, the most important thing you must do is BE PATIENT.
 
Be patient with yourself, your significant other, and your family as a new RV owner. RVing will become easier the more experienced you get. So, don’t expect the first time you go out to be smooth.

Final Thoughts

 

These 16.5 tips are for the first time new RV owner that is just getting started. The longer you own your RV there are going to more things you will need to maintain like your roof, seals, etc.
 
However, if you just purchased your RV then I hope you’ve enjoyed these tips and HAVE FUN!
 
Happy RVing! 

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The Best RV Kitchen Necessities!

The Best RV Kitchen Necessities!

by | Products We Love, RV Tips

As you may know, an RV kitchen is tiny compared to your average house kitchen.

RV Kitchens have less storage space, smaller ovens, smaller fridges, and a pantry that is tiny or somewhat nonexistent.

However, that shouldn’t stop anyone from utilizing your RV’s kitchen just as you do at home kitchen.

We live full-time in our RV, therefore, we cook in our kitchen on a daily basis.

There is nothing we cannot cook or bake, except baking is done on a much smaller scale.

After a full year of living in our RV, there have become essentials that we have used to make our life easier in our small kitchen. 

RV Kitchen must-haves

1. Slow Cooker / Crockpot

Slow cookers have been around forever and I feel like they are still an amazing investment. We absolutely love cooking roast, slow-cooked brisket, soups, and so much more in our slow cooker. 

Plus, the recipes are pretty much endless when it comes to what you could make in a slow cooker. Another thing I love about the slow cooker is it can make meals that last for days and it is an easy cleanup.

2. NuWave 14QT Air Frying Oven

This incredible machine will have you baking, frying, roasting, slow cooking, pressure cooking, and more in your RV.

The NuWave oven has made it to our RV Kitchen Must-have list because it is that AMAZING!!


3. French Press Coffee Maker

Making coffee in an RV seems to be a big question on a lot of people’s minds.

The French Press is one of my favorites because you can measure exactly how much coffee you want and make your coffee as strong or weak as you’d like.

Using a French press doesn’t require any electricity which is a huge plus if you’re Dry Camping.

Curious about other ways to make coffee while camping, check out “The Best Ways to Make Coffee While Camping” post!

4. Keurig Single Serve Coffee Maker

If you’re not interested in the French Press way of making your coffee, then maybe a Keurig is what you need.

To save counter space, I recommend the Single-Serve Keurig K-Cup Mini to save space but will give you that delicious cup of joe.


5. Hot Water Kettle

Speaking of Hot Water Kettle, this is my third favorite item we have in the RV kitchen.

I love making coffee and hot tea to wake me up in the morning or calm me down at night. Having the ability to boil hot water in a kettle is super convenient.

6. Cast Iron Skillet or two

Cast Iron skillets are the best! Seriously, the variety of meals you can make in a cast-iron skillet is endless.

You can even make some delicious desserts!

I love having our cast iron skillet because of the versatility it has when cooking.

RV kitchens are tiny, therefore anything that you are able to use in multiple ways is a huge plus.

7. Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Just like the Skillet, having the Cast Iron Dutch oven opens up a variety of dishes you can cook in your RV Kitchen.

The wonderful thing about cast iron products is you can use them over a campfire too and not just on your stove or in your oven.

8. Personal Smoothie Maker

The majority of blenders use too many electrical watts, therefore, the smaller personal blender is perfect for the RV life.

We personally love making protein shakes and fruit smoothies. However, the use of the Personal Smoothie Maker is endless.

If you want to whip up a coffee frappuccino or a delicious margarita, then you definitely need to get one for your RV Kitchen.

9. Mounted Paper Towel holder

Surprisingly this is a common question that many RVer’s have, is “where do you put the paper towels?”

We had the same question and with very little counter space I was determined to find a solution.

Therefore, we purchased a mounted Paper towel holder. This thing saves space and gives us easy access to towels when they are needed to clean up spills or wipe your hands.

10. Dish Drying Rack 

This is a must because the majority of RV’s do not have a dishwasher.

I love the ones that are over the sink because they save so much counter space. Plus, when you’re dish drying rack is in one portion of the sink, this prevents dirty dishes from piling up.

It also forces you to clean the dishes and set them to dry almost immediately. I don’t know what I would do without this in my RV Kitchen. 

11. Ice Making Trays

We live in Texas and the summer heat can be brutal! Having an ice-cold glass of water or tea is highly desired.

Now there are many people who love the portable ice makers, however, when you’re limited on counter-space, going for the old fashioned ice-making trays can be more convenient.

You just have to make sure you re-fill them. 

12. Utensil Holder

Just like counter-space, drawer space is also limited in an RV. We opted to use up a tiny portion of the counter space to hold our larger cooking utensils like the spatula and ladle. I love having them in their designated holder because it has relieved the utensil drawer for other items like forks, can opener, and more. 

13. Magnetic Knife Holder 

This is one of the first things we purchased when we moved into our RV back in April of 2018.

I saw how much space they saved because you were able to utilize the vertical wall space in your kitchen.

Plus, it provided easy access when cooking. I do recommend that if you plan on traveling, that the knives be removed and placed in a drawer before moving. 

14. Pizza Stone for Oven 

If you love to bake, then you definitely want to get a pizza stone to place at the bottom of your little oven.

This helps regulate the heat of the oven so whatever you are baking, bakes evenly.

I have heard many stories of RV ovens burning the sides of dishes and leaving the middle raw.

The pizza stone will help you make those perfectly baked cookies, cakes, pizza, and more! 

Final Thoughts 

These are just the top 14 items that we definitely love using in our RV Kitchen. They have made our journey of living Full-time easier.

Living or traveling in an RV is a different lifestyle than living in a home, so some things have to be adjusted.

By having kitchen items that are versatile is our top priority. If we cannot use an item in the kitchen multiple ways, then it’s out!

I hope this list helps you decide on what to bring along on your RVing journey. Maybe one day we will invest in the famous Insta-pot that most RVer’s swear by.

Thanks for stopping by and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to get updated on new blog posts with amazing RVing and Camping information.

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RV Kitchen must-haves

How to Find Free Camping in the USA

How to Find Free Camping in the USA

by | Camping, RV Tips, Travel | 12 comments

Free Camping! Doesn’t that sound amazing?

Well, if you’re here you either love to camp or maybe you actually live full-time in an RV like us. I am sure you have come to notice that camping in many places can either cost you $10 a night for a tent camping site or the upper cost of $110 for a full hook-up RV site.

When you’re on a budget, like we always are, finding anything for ‘free’ is a huge win!

Now, can you imagine being out on the road and spending on average $20 to  $35 for a full hook up for your RV? That’s about $1000 a month and for us, that was a month’s rent on a 1 bedroom apartment. We moved into an RV to eliminate those costs. We were tired of spending over $1000 a month to live in a 700 sqft apartment. It made us feel stuck and we were working to just pay the basic rent and food. I don’t know about you, but for us, that just wasn’t worth it.

Therefore finding camping spots for free was a no brainer for us. But how is that possible? Is it possible?

It totally is possible!!

You just have to research it out. Luckily we have put together our knowledge from our research right here for you! Whether you are looking to boondock in your RV, van, car,  or bus aka dry camp or enjoy the week or weekend tent camping.

You can camp for FREE!

Option 1: National Parks

 As of 2019, America has a total of 61 National Parks. The newest national park added to the list is the Indiana Dunes National Park along Lake Michigan. If you’re objective or goal is to see them all, just know you only have to go to 29 states and two U.S. territories.

Within these National Parks, you will find the beauty of this Great Nation, amazing Wildlife, Mountains, and Beaches. In order to camp for free, be prepared to boondock or dry camp. National parks do not have the same amenities as RV parks such as your full hookups. That means no running water and no power.

Also, if you are in an RV and plan on finding a spot in a national park to stay it is advised that you plan out your route. Many places in the parks can be tight fits, winding and/or narrow roads. Also, keep in mind the size of your RV, this will help determine where you can go in the park with your rig.

Although camping is ‘free’, many National Parks may not allow Dispersed Camping, meaning camping outside of a designated campground area. To determine designated campsites there will be fire pit rings and/or picnic tables. Check the website for the park you are going to be visiting to see what that specific park allows and ensure yourself that you know the rules.

 

What kind of camping is allowed: RV, Tent, Van, Car, or Converted Bus
How long can you camp: The length of dry camping in one site on National Park land is 14 days.
How you can find National Parks and get more details just visit: https://nps.gov

Option 2: Bureau of Land Management or BLM

What is it? BLM or Bureau of Land Management is defined as undeveloped public land. They are great camping spots for your campers who love solitude and enjoys the great outdoors. The majority of camp spots found on BLM is dispersed camping sites.

However, if you’re lucky you could find a spot someone has camped before by simple markers like a fire pit ring. Every free campsite on BLM grounds is first come, first serve. This is your true 100% boondocking on remote sites. This allows you to find some hidden gems and explore areas many people don’t even think about.

If you don’t like the first come, first serve option you can reserve a campsite on the BLM land for a price at recreation.gov.

 

What kind of camping is approved? RV, Tent, Van, Car, or Converted Bus
How long can you stay? The maximum time one can stay on BLM land is 14 days.
How you can find BLM camp areas: BLM areas include National Wild and Scenic Rivers, Historic Trails, Landmarks, Recreation Trails, and National Wilderness Areas. You can find BLM campsites at recreation.gov

Option 3: Parking Lots & Small Town Venues

There are many different options you can stay at if you are in a Car, Van, or an RV. These are free short-term overnight options and we highly suggest always asking management before spending the night. Another great tip to find free overnight rest areas when traveling in an RV, Car, or Van is to stop by the local Sheriff office.

Also, keep in mind these are free one night stays, so don’t set up camp, and leave your slides in (if possible). If you have a fifth wheel, bumper pull, or towing anything keep everything hooked up. Also, always park in the far back away from general parking or traffic.

Here is a list of potential parking lots you could stay overnight at:

  • Truck Stops
  • Casinos
  • Walmart
  • Nightclubs
  • Cemetery
  • Fairgrounds
  • Parks
  • Churches
  • Hotel Parking Lots
  • RV Dealerships
  • Cracker Barrel
  • Movie Theaters
  • Highway Rest Stops
  • Big Box Retailers: Sams Club, Costco, ect.
  • Roadside Parks and Picnic Areas


What kind of camping is approved?: RV, Car, Van,  or Converted Bus …. Sorry no tent pitching
How long can you stay?: 1 night (Depending on Management)
How can you find these spots?: Google Maps or stop by the local Sheriffs office.

Option 4: Google “Free Camp Spots Near Me”

I know it may seem obvious but I’m serious, sometimes just googling something can bring up places that you never even thought of. For example, I just googled “Free Campsites in Texas” because that is where we live and actually found a free RV site with hookups. Those are completely unheard of, but it has great reviews and can exist anywhere.


Here are some Online Resources to find great camping spots for free:

There you have it! If you enjoy camping, are on a strict budget, and don’t mind “roughing” it, then Boondocking aka dry camping is right up your ally. If you have an RV, investing in solar panels is a great idea if you still want electricity and don’t want to burn up a loud generator and gas.

To sum this all up, if you don’t want to spend over $1000 a month just to stay at the campsite every night, you don’t’ have too. You can travel the nation and visit all the amazing scenery and not pay a single dime on a site. It does take some planning and adjusting to the Boondocking lifestyle, but the amount of money you will save is amazing.


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7 Ideas To Create Extra Wall Storage In Your RV

7 Ideas To Create Extra Wall Storage In Your RV

by | Minimalism, Organization, RV Tips, Storage | 45 comments

Wall Storage Ideas | Living and traveling in an RV can be chaotic at times.

Stuff can accumulate and with the little storage space available it can become cluttered quickly.

The small space almost always requires better organization.

Living full-time in our Travel Trailer, we have re-organized our space so many times.

Now, that we are expecting our first child, I really want to find some creative ways to use our vertical wall space for extra storage.

We all have bags, keys, hats, and other items that could potentially be hung and stored in a creative way right on the wall.

Therefore, I’ve put together a list of great items that would work amazing for extra storage right on your walls.

1. Floating Shelves

I love the look and functionality of floating shelves. They work great in the bathroom or bedroom to add some extra shelf storage for miscellaneous items.

For RV’s I do recommend getting shelves that have a barrier to hold things in place when traveling.

2. Wired Baskets

Wired Baskets are fantastic because it allows a more secure fit for extra items.

You can put books, mail, fruit, veggies, and much more in the wire baskets.

These baskets are the best for fruits and veggies because it allows space for the fruit and veggies to breath and prevents them from rotting too soon.


3. Over the Door Organizers

Over the door, organizers are fantastic to add more storage in your pantry, bathroom or closets.

Since we are expecting a new baby, they are even great to store all the baby items like diapers, clothes, and much more.

The potential for the over the door organizers is limitless.

You can use them for extra shoe storage, hat storage, coats, bath products, and so much more. They are definitely worth every penny!

Over the Door OrganizerOver the Door Basket OrganizerShoe Organizer over the door

4. Hanging Woven Baskets

I love the look of the hanging woven baskets. They add great style while also creating functionality.

When living or traveling in a small space, functionality is key to successful trips.

The hanging woven baskets can be used to store a multitude of items including the ones that are less pleasant to look at.

We all have a miscellaneous drawer that has everything from birthday candles to pens to tape. The hanging woven baskets are great to items like those.

Hanging Woven Baskets for Extra Storage


5. Hanging Spice Racks

These are phenomenal to add in the kitchen, pantry, or bathroom area.

Our RV actually has a built-in spice rack, however, it doesn’t fit all the spices we enjoy using to cook and bake.

The hanging wooden spice racks are great by saving space in your pantry for other food items.

Spice Racks can also be used for Bathroom items to add extra storage and organization for all the face and makeup products.

6. Expandable Peg Rack for Coats/Hats

These always remind me of the ’30s and ’40’s era when men wore fedora hats every day.

They are making a comeback and a lightweight option to hang hats and coats on the wall.

If you and your significant other enjoy wearing hats and struggles to find a storage option, this is a great idea.

Wooden Peg Hat Rack

7. Command Strip hooks

When living in an RV, hanging anything on the walls can be a challenge.

One of the best items are the command hooks. They are great for hanging hats, coats, keys, and even pictures.

Command Hooks


Final Thoughts

I hope you now feel inspired to add some extra storage space in your RV or tiny home by utilizing your walls. They have helped us in so many ways and I know that once we are ready to have our new baby in October, we will utilize more wall storage space for the baby.

If you would like to know where to purchase these items, all images are clickable and directed to Amazon.

If this helped you in any way, please share on Pinterest and other Social Media platforms so others can feel inspired as well! Thanks for stopping by!


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Travel Trailers Overview: A Guide for Beginners

Travel Trailers Overview: A Guide for Beginners

by | RV Tips, RV Types | 31 comments

Out of the many types of RVs including Pop Up Campers, Fifth Wheels, and Motorhomes, Travel Trailers take the lead as the most commonly purchased style of RV. They are also the cheapest way to get into RVing. So, if you are on the market then this Travel Trailer Overview will help you get started in your RVing Journey! 

First, what exactly is a travel trailer? A travel trailer, also known as a camper trailer, has the same amenities as a brick and mortar home, just on a smaller scale. They have sinks, bathrooms, beds, dining, and of course kitchens. Travel Trailers provide a much more comfortable and secure sleeping arrangement, compared to a tent.

All travel trailers both large and small require a tow vehicle that is adequate in size and always hooks to the bumper or tow hitch. This is what they call a “bumper pull”. Due to the fact that they require an SUV or Pick up truck to tow, this allows you to continue to use your vehicle while the Trailer sits during off-seasons or at the campground. If you are in a great area and need to run to the store or want to explore, you don’t have to completely unhook everything from the trailer just to pick up some milk or go hiking. Whereas in a motorhome (unless you tow a lightweight vehicle with your motorhome) you will have to unhook the entire motorhome to go anywhere.

Another great advantage of the tow vehicle is the safety features including crash protection, blind spot detection, and more. Tow vehicles also allow you to safely travel with children and their car seats, which is not usually available with motorhomes.

When did the Travel trailer first make an appearance?

Travel trailer first appeared in the 1920s. Those who enjoyed them were often called “tin-can tourists”. Throughout the decades, travel trailers became a livable option for many people, and this sparked the nickname “house trailers” by the 30s and 40s.

However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the demand for a full hard-shell travel trailer rose to new heights. This was when the modern-day fiberglass body made its first appearance. The travel trailer industry boomed, as more North American and Canadian families enjoyed taking road trips for their vacations.

How has travel trailers changed over the years?

The Travel Trailer industry has continued to grow. Manufacturers began to build a smaller class, called Light Weight travel trailers, that are under 3,000 lbs. and average 11 to 18 feet in length. There are also mid-size trailers usually about 18 to 25 feet in length that weigh around 5,000 lbs or more. The mid-size and lightweight trailers are easily towed with a 1/2 ton pick up truck or SUV. Both trailers have many of the same amenities as the larger trailers but tend to sleep fewer people.

Larger travel trailers generally ranging from 25-40 feet are designed for seasonal and even full-time users in mind. The weight of the larger travel trailers can range from 9,000 lbs. to 12,000 lbs. These trailers usually need a heavier tow vehicle that is built to pull the required amount of weight such as the 3/4 ton or even a 1-ton pickup truck.

The larger style travel trailers also boast more variety of options, including multiple slide outs to open the space up. They fit more people for sleeping by including pull out couches and bunkhouses.

Who are the top manufacturers?

There are many manufacturers today that specialize in travel trailers, one of the most popular is the Airstream.

Other manufacturers include;

  • Coachman
  • Forest River Inc.
  • Palomino RV
  • Dutchman
  • Heartland
  • Jayco
  • Winnebago Industries
  • Keystone
  • Grand Design
  • And more…

Each Manufacturer has its own styles, amenities to choose from, quality of products, and much more. For us, the floorplan was the most important, then we began our search for Manufacturers that had the plan or similar plans and compared the quality.

What are the different styles and amenities to choose from?

Here are just a few of the options for style and amenities you can choose from.

  • 1 to 3 Slides to open the spaces.
  • Outdoor Kitchen and Entertainment Areas
  • Bunkhouse for extra sleeping space for families
  • Stainless Steel Appliances
  • Solar Ready Equipment
  • Electric Fireplace
  • Kitchen Island
  • Washer & Dryer Prep
  • Dining booths or Table with Chairs
  • Theater Seating
  • Variety of Colors and Styles/Floorplans to Choose

As you can see there are many choices to make when choosing the right Travel Trailer. When we decided on what amenities we wanted, we tried to make sure it was amenities that would make us happy and enjoy the full-time RV lifestyle.

For you, the amenities can vary depending on what you are planning to use your Travel Trailer for. If it’s just weekend camping trips, the smaller lightweight trailers are a great option! However, if you’re seasonal, or full time like us, there are larger options that work great for singles, couples, or families!

What are the Pros and cons of a Travel Trailer?

Pros

    • Lightweight options
    • A large variety of styles, manufacturers, price, and sizes
    • Lower price compared to fifth wheels and motorhomes
    • Better Insulation than a popup camper or tent
    • Easy setups

Cons

    • Needs a tow vehicle adequate to the size of the trailer.
    • Difficult to park and back up. Takes practice.
    • Some large trailers can be too big for campgrounds
    • Depreciate in value

Quick Travel Trailers Overview

  • Travel trailers range from 8 ft to 40 ft.
  • Weight averages from less than 3,000lbs up to 10,000lbs.
  • They have the ability to sleep either 2 to 10 people.
  • Average price starting under $10K for your small lightweights and can skyrocket to $200K
  • Great to take camping and will keep you more secure than a tent.
  • Larger Travel Trailers can even be used for seasonal or full-time living.

What We Chose

Our journey to finding our Travel Trailer took almost a year of research and planning. We shopped and compared an endless amount of floorplans and amenities before we made our final decision. We also had to make sure that our Tow Vehicle was the adequate size to pull whichever trailer we chose.

After all the research we decided on the Palomino Puma 31 RLQS. Our travel trailer is about 9,000 lbs, 32ft long, and we chose the 3/4 ton Dodge Ram 2500 Diesel with a Max tow of 10,750 lbs.

For us, the floor plan was the most important. We wanted the couches/living area to be a true living space with the T.V. in front of the couches. We also loved how the three slides opened up the area for a more comfortable living.

The final and most important feature we needed was a washer and dryer prep. Surprisingly, there are not many options for Washer and Dryer preps in Travel Trailers, so with that being a number one must have, it cut our options quickly to the Palomino or Jayco. We chose Palomino, which is owned by Forest River Inc., but handle their own manufacturing and have a great price point.

Travel trailers are great options for anyone looking to live a life of adventure while also maintaining the comforts of modern technology. As technology increases so does the RV industry.

We chose to purchase a travel trailer due to floor plan and price. They are usually cheaper than fifth wheels and many have the same amenities.

I hope this travel trailers overview helped you on your journey of searching for the perfect RV.

Whatever you fancy, there is bound to be a travel trailer out there that has it all for you.

Do you have a Travel Trailer? If so what is something you enjoy about it? Comment below! Also, don’t forget to share so others can learn more about Travel Trailers!

 

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