What we learned at the RV show
So, like I said, the RV show was a bit of a letdown. Local media was reporting that this year’s show was about half the size as previous ones. Overall, however, it was a beneficial trip that gave us a lot to think and pray about. Even though the show was smaller in scope than we were expecting, we were able to poke around several models of RVs we hadn’t seen before, including several Class C’s and smaller Class A’s.
The more time we spent in the Class C’s and small Class A’s, the more Hannah and I began to realize that with our family, the two of us and two toddlers, we didn’t NEED a large travel trailer to begin our journey. In fact, starting out smaller would actually beneficial because part of our reason for embarking on this journey is to reprogram our way of thinking regarding possessions and living space requirements. Buying a used Class C or small Class A would also let us get going with less money up-front, vs. buying a truck and trailer.
So when we got home I started surfing the net and found HUNDREDS of used Class A and Class C motorhomes that would cost us about HALF the expense of buying a truck and trailer would. With one of these, we would be able to pull a car behind us, and we happen to have a 1997 Saturn SL2 that gets 29MPG that would be the perfect “toad” car.
So right now, I’d say we are leaning 80% towards finding a used Class A or Class C motorhome and pulling our Saturn behind it.
There are several advantages to a motorhome over a travel trailer. For starters, the girls would be able to work on schoolwork, watch TV, or play games while we’re driving. While actual traveling on the road will be something we do only once a month or so, the girls will have more freedom when we do so. Boondocking would be easier because we just park, pull the curtains and sleep.
We already have a few Class A’s in mind that are in excellent shape that just need a little “decorating update” with their interiors. We’ll keep you updated!
If we can find the right RV at the right price, we’ll be able to hit the road in November, when our lease is up on our house!
Explore posts in the same categories: Planning
Loading ...
August 20th, 2008 at 1:51 pm
I didn’t say anything before when you mentioned motorhomes in your last post, but I think they are generally better all around. But it also depends on what you’re going to be doing. If you’ll be parked and camping for longish periods of time, a trailer might still be better.
But here’s why I think motorhomes are best. When my 4-yo decides he needs to use the bathroom, I say “go right ahead” and keep motoring down the road. No more urgent potty stops! If I want a drink, I don’t have to stop to fish one out of my trailer. When I stop for lunch, I can eat in my rig because it’s air conditioned going down the road. Note that all of those things have more to do with traveling than they do camping. If you don’t move a lot or move often, a trailer may be a better deal. Overall, I just like the idea of being fully self-contained. Like you said, park and pull the curtains.
There are lots and lots of motorhomes to choose from and many sources of information and support on the internet. But I have to put in a plug here for the Fleetwood Bounder. The Yahoo Bounder group is such a great resource that I’m not sure I would consider any other make at this point. I have already saved many hundreds of dollars by reading after the RV veterans on that group.
Happy hunting.
August 21st, 2008 at 7:31 am
John has given some very good reasons for motor coaches and I know there are more. I don’t want to start a RV war or anything but wanted to give some reasons for pull behinds.
My family decided on a 5th-wheel after about 6 months of shopping and research. We wanted something with a bunkhouse (three kids + dog) so each kid could have their own ‘personal’ space. We didn’t want to be folding out couches or tables each night and packing them back up every day. A bunkhouse was hard to find affordably in a used motor coach. I didn’t want to maintain, insure, and fuel two vehicles while on the road. Also, if my truck breaks down I’m without a vehicle for a few days, if your motor coach breaks down you are with out your home and stuff for a few days.
I would suggest getting a few books on the subject and really examine your needs and your travel style. We plan to travel little and stay longer in one spot. Each RV type has pros and cons, if you know what you want and are patient and you can find bargains out there. We were able to get a used ton truck and 5th wheel very affordably – we had to drive a bit to get them but it was worth the price. Now, when the kids move out I will definitely buy a motor coach!
Whatever direction you choose will be the right decision for you and your family. Good luck and enjoy the process! -=Bill
August 21st, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I tell ya — each day we lean a little one way or the other. The more research we do on TT’s the more we want one of those. Then we read up on Class A’s and C’s and we’re ready to go that route.
If I had to decide right now, we would probably go with a Class A to start out in, if only because our kids are really young (they will be 6 and 3 when we leave), and their “personal space” requirements aren’t that great right now. We’re also able to get a decent, used Class A for a lot less than the cost of a decent, used trailer and tow vehicle. We’ll be able to save money while we travel from my freelancing and our workamping jobs to be able to upgrade to something nicer in about a year, when our oldest is turning seven and will probably be yearning for a room of her own about that time.
Thanks for all the advice; we welcome it wholeheartedly!