Finally! A fellow Michigander on the site other than John from Detroit! West MI resident here.
The best piece of advice I can give you is to take your time. Don't rush into buying something just because the camping season is right around the corner. A bad purchase can make your camping trips miserable and expensive. Research floor plans that will work for your family. A slide out is a great option that I recommend. You won't be sorry. The more room your family has to move around inside on the yucky days and in the evening before bedtime, the happier you all will be. I have a double bunk in my Jayco. My son, when he was still young, always wanted to bring along a friend or two. No problem because I had a couple extra beds for them. Bunk beds worked out great for the kids.
The question of what brands to stay away from?...
A loaded question to say the least. There are so many variables that I am guessing you will be sifting through the replies. I'm assuming you are looking for a nice, slightly used TT to fit the bill. They are out there. Again, take your time and do the research. Once you get something narrowed down, make darn sure your tow vehicle is equipped to handle it. Can't stess that enough! If your not sure, ask questions. That's why this forum is here.
FYI...
We started out doing the PUP thing also. Bought new and towed for quite a few years. Stuck with the same brand when upgrading. Due to a job I got later which involved delivering the metal for Jayco and Forest River manufacturing plants in Middlebury and Goshen, IN., I was glad I did. I was able to actually watch the manufacturing process and got to know a lot of the people involved. I stuck with a Jayco. JMHO.
Bottom line is you need to get a good handle on what your family will need to be comfortable and make the whole experience fun. Then figure in that the kids are going to grow like weeds within a few years. Add in future plans. All things to consider.
I am not trying to talk you out of anything or point you in a direction you will hate me for. I only want you to make a decision that will make your family camping the best you can afford. That's what it's all about for all of us.
