New RVer Choosing a Used Travel Trailer for an F-150

[FLBuckeyefan]

So,

I have a 2026 F-150, crew cab, 5.0L. My wife and I are looking to buy a "tow" trailer. It is just the 2 of us. I know ABSOLUTLEY NOTHING about RVs. I have been reading a lot, but many questions still linger. Assumptions: 2 axle "lite" trailer. Queen Bed. I would like an electric "jack" on front for the hitch ball.. Don't know how difficult it is to install and how it's wired (through the truck or trailer). I intend on buying used and very much would appreciate "brands" to stay away from and "brands" that have a pretty good reputation. Another question. After reading, it is my understanding that the refrigerators "can" be powered by 3 sources (understand not all), 12V, 120V and propane. What is the typical set up and how does the frig get power as we are going down the road? I have watched some videos, so I have an understanding of emptying the gray/black waters. I really don't understand the big distinction between "partial hook ups" and "full hook ups". Is it that full hook ups have sewage for each spot? Any quick tips, recommendations, tell my I'm crazy, etc. would be appreciated. I intend on retiring in the next 6 months and our plan is to drive Route 66 (with a camper). Of course, we will do some test runs down here in Florida a few times before taking off for the Route 66 adventure. Thanks for any info!!! Mike

 

[Mark_K5LXP]

would like an electric "jack" on front for the hitch ball.. Don't know how difficult it is to install and how it's wired

Might be bolt-on, might need welding. Depends on the trailer. Typically wired to batteries on the tongue, or wherever they're installed.

"brands" to stay away from and "brands" that have a pretty good reputation.

Yes/All of them. If it was that easy we'd all have the same one.

refrigerators "can" be powered by 3 sources (understand not all), 12V, 120V and propane. What is the typical set up

It would have to be a 3 way fridge to start, some are electric only and some are regular residential.

and how does the frig get power as we are going down the road?

Propane one can run off that. For electric, it comes down to what power it needs (12/120v) and if that exists in your trailer either through solar, batteries or tow vehicle connection. Any/all are possible but not necessarily stock. A fridge can stay cold a long time, do you even need it running while moving?

I really don't understand the big distinction between "partial hook ups" and "full hook ups".

There are several things to hook up - electric 30/50A, water, sewer, and TV cable. "Partial" means you gotta look or ask.

Any quick tips, recommendations,

Everything takes longer than you think it will, they're more complicated than they should be, and it all runs on money.

our plan is to drive Route 66

I've done sections but not the whole length. Get one of the guides that gives locations of the "good stuff" and also consider side trips/detours along the way. See if they're still doing that passport thing. With the anniversary some places are hosting events and updating attractions so you picked a good time.

Mark B.
Albuquerque, NM

 

[DutchmenSport]

Welcome to the forums and it's good you are asking questions about the RV lifestyle. Just for what it's worth, every one of us on these forums started from "ground zero, " total complete new to this stuff. And you will get lots of suggestions and things to consider. It might get frustrating, perhaps overwhelming, and maybe even make you angry. But in the end, it will come down to your final decision what happens. So, don't get discouraged or overwhelmed at any response. Many of us started out tent camping, migrated through pop-up campers, hard shelled travel trailers of all sized, fifth wheels, truck campers, and eventually motor homes of all types, sizes, and shapes. Each step is a learning experience, and every day brings new learning opportunities.

I like to add this bit of sage advise: "There is no right or wrong way to do camping. It's just different for each person."

The second bit of advise I can lend is simple: If you are serious about purchasing a towable trailer of any sort, be sure your tow vehicle can do it. So often folks get caught up in the selection of the actual RV or the actual trailer that they overlook the limitations of their vehicle. Understand your tow vehicle and then select a trailer that it can comfortably tow (and stop) without experiencing "white knuckle" experiences every time you hit the brakes.

And third, you need to determine what type of camping you are going to do. Boondocking? Full hook-up? Partial hook-up?

FYI, a "full hook-up" campsite will provide electricity, water, and sewage. A partial hook-up site will not have all 3.

Good luck, enjoy the moment. The decision to get an RV the first time is exciting, daunting, and marvelous all the same time.

 

[FLBuckeyefan]

Might be bolt-on, might need welding. Depends on the trailer. Typically wired to batteries on the tongue, or wherever they're installed.


Yes/All of them. If it was that easy we'd all have the same one.


It would have to be a 3 way fridge to start, some are electric only and some are regular residential.


Propane one can run off that. For electric, it comes down to what power it needs (12/120v) and if that exists in your trailer either through solar, batteries or tow vehicle connection. Any/all are possible but not necessarily stock. A fridge can stay cold a long time, do you even need it running while moving?


There are several things to hook up - electric 30/50A, water, sewer, and TV cable. "Partial" means you gotta look or ask.


Everything takes longer than you think it will, they're more complicated than they should be, and it all runs on money.


I've done sections but not the whole length. Get one of the guides that gives locations of the "good stuff" and also consider side trips/detours along the way. See if they're still doing that passport thing. With the anniversary some places are hosting events and updating attractions so you picked a good time.

Mark B.
Albuquerque, NM

Thank you Mark....I am now a whole lot "smarter" than I was an hour ago. As far a Route 66 we have bought books (with pictures for me...LOL) and are about to start "planning" the adventure. Our intention is to go "camp" at some sites throughout Florida well prior, to get our feet wet and I am sure learning some hard lessons. As far as brands, I see something I like, google the reliability of the RV and they all pretty much read the same. Some do state that the manufacturer did a poor job doing this or that, but for the most part, about the same. I KNOW cars/trucks. I know which ones to stay away from and which ones are a good buy (for reliability). Was just looking for a bit of that insight from people who have been doing this for years...the horror stories and the good stories concerning manufacturers. Thanks so much for the input!!! It is much appreciated..

 

[Firstime RVer]

I couldn't agree more with what DutchmenSport posted!
Stop and think about the kind of camping you think you would prefer.
Once you think you know what you would like, try renting a unit to just try it out.
Your tow vehicle would be limited to a TT that should not weigh more than 6,000 lbs or so, and at that, it would require a weight distribution hitch.
We tow a pre COVID 2016 Aspen Trail 1900 RB that weighs in at just 6,600 lbs fully loaded with our Chevy silverado 1500 with a 5.3 liter engine and tow package.
We're happy with the floor plan and typically go on trips from 3 days to 2 weeks comfortably and it has proven to be very reliable over the last ten years. With dual axles it handles a 3,400 lb cargo carrying capacity comfortably. That my sound like a lot but you would be surprised how fast you reach your cargo limits.
You can find specs online and review the layout drawings, as well as weights, dimensions, and included features, for just about all the TTs that are currently available.

Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you go thru the entire trailer with the seller and make sure he shows you that everything works!! My motto is "simple is reliable"

All I can say is that this is our first TT and we got lucky with its features, design and reliability.

Best of luck
Safe travels and all the best.

 

[FLBuckeyefan]

I couldn't agree more with what DutchmenSport posted!
Stop and think about the kind of camping you think you would prefer.
Once you think you know what you would like, try renting a unit to just try it out.
Your tow vehicle would be limited to a TT that should not weigh more than 6,000 lbs or so, and at that, it would require a weight distribution hitch.
We tow a pre COVID 2016 Aspen Trail 1900 RB that weighs in at just 6,600 lbs fully loaded with our Chevy silverado 1500 with a 5.3 liter engine and tow package.
We're happy with the floor plan and typically go on trips from 3 days to 2 weeks comfortably and it has proven to be very reliable over the last ten years. With dual axles it handles a 3,400 lb cargo carrying capacity comfortably. That my sound like a lot but you would be surprised how fast you reach your cargo limits.
You can find specs online and review the layout drawings, as well as weights, dimensions, and included features, for just about all the TTs that are currently available.

Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you go thru the entire trailer with the seller and make sure he shows you that everything works!! My motto is "simple is reliable"

All I can say is that this is our first TT and we got lucky with its features, design and reliability.

Best of luck
Safe travels and all the best.

Pat and Barb,
Thanks so much for your input.!!!

Mike

 

[DutchmenSport]

If you have not decided on your style of camper yet, your head is still probably spinning. RV's and campers come in different sizes, shapes, and styles and there is something for everyone. In my opinion, one of the best places to get good overviews of all the different styles of RV's (not specifically models, manufacturers, or year of camper) is the website: GoRving.com (click here). This site will give you some good basic comparisons between all the different types and styles of campers, including "Ice Houses" ... which I'm glad to see they've included. Also, don't rule out School Bus (or bus) conversions, utility trailer conversions, or horse trailers. Horse trailers are always overlooked, but a new horse trailer has all the comforts of any RV for human living, but also the end for transporting horses. Why a horse trailer if you don't have a horse? They are built solid as a rock, reinforced miniature tanks able to withstand a 2000 pound horses kicking the sides. No horse, the horse cargo area is perfect for transporting ATV's, bicycles, and any other human "toy", often carried in Toy Haulers.

What I'm saying is, it's OK to think outside the box. Once you settle on a specific style of camper, then the selection narrows down as you begin to make comparisons, your finances, and how the REST of your family traveling with you feels. A has very little space, and there is NO privacy in a camper. If your family members are not 100% in agreement, you will be in for a very brutal experience.

 

[weighit]

Well welcome to the forum, lots of folks here that have all kinds of experiance in "camping", whatever that means. We never stayed in rest areas or parking lots overnight, always plugged in at an rv park. You get to decide when pricing the nights stay at a rv park, full hook up or partial. Normally partial is water and power but no sewer. But could also be power only, no water or sewer.
What ever type of RV you think will fit your needs, do not rush into the purchase. Private owner may give you a better feel for if it is well cared for, and if the seller is helpful walking you through the entire rig. How to operate things, what everything does and where things are, fuses, pumps and hook ups. Sit in the chairs, walk in the shower, sit at the kitchen table. Look at the tv and see if your going to end up with a crooked neck watching it. Ask question and see what others are suggesting. Look at You Tube videos on those out there Rving. Best of luck to you.

 

[Larry N.]

Welcome to the forums, FLBuckeyefan.

Horse trailers are always overlooked, but a new horse trailer has all the comforts of any RV for human living, but also the end for transporting horses

Yes, many horse trailers do have the amenities for people, though of a smaller area than so many other units, but there's no way that an F-150 can pull one of those well. A friend of mine has a similar size trailer, with the amenities, that is fully enclosed for hauling his race car (and tools and supplies), too, but it needs an F-350 dually.

 

[Seilerbird]

Might be bolt-on, might need welding. Depends on the trailer. Typically wired to batteries on the tongue, or wherever they're installed.


Yes/All of them. If it was that easy we'd all have the same one.


It would have to be a 3 way fridge to start, some are electric only and some are regular residential.


Propane one can run off that. For electric, it comes down to what power it needs (12/120v) and if that exists in your trailer either through solar, batteries or tow vehicle connection. Any/all are possible but not necessarily stock. A fridge can stay cold a long time, do you even need it running while moving?


There are several things to hook up - electric 30/50A, water, sewer, and TV cable. "Partial" means you gotta look or ask.


Everything takes longer than you think it will, they're more complicated than they should be, and it all runs on money.


I've done sections but not the whole length. Get one of the guides that gives locations of the "good stuff" and also consider side trips/detours along the way. See if they're still doing that passport thing. With the anniversary some places are hosting events and updating attractions so you picked a good time.

Mark B.
Albuquerque, NM

In 1959 my family migrated from Chicago to LA via route 66. One of the worst weeks of my life. Middle of June with no a/c in a 1956 Chrysler, mom and dad, two teen aged sisters, a 3 year old brother and a full sized Collie, like Lassie.

 

[bigbAZ]

In 1959 my family migrated from Chicago to LA via route 66. One of the worst weeks of my life. Middle of June with no a/c in a 1956 Chrysler, mom and dad, two teen aged sisters, a 3 year old brother and a full sized Collie, like Lassie.
View attachment 2485871View attachment 2485874

We followed you 10 years later but stopped in Tucson. Left Crystal Lake in 1969 in a 1966 Chevy Belair station wagon and never looked back. Our dog was a Beagle.

 

[FLBuckeyefan]

In 1959 my family migrated from Chicago to LA via route 66. One of the worst weeks of my life. Middle of June with no a/c in a 1956 Chrysler, mom and dad, two teen aged sisters, a 3 year old brother and a full sized Collie, like Lassie.
View attachment 2485871View attachment 2485874

That is awesome!! Thanks so much for sharing...Mike

 

[FLBuckeyefan]

I couldn't agree more with what DutchmenSport posted!
Stop and think about the kind of camping you think you would prefer.
Once you think you know what you would like, try renting a unit to just try it out.
Your tow vehicle would be limited to a TT that should not weigh more than 6,000 lbs or so, and at that, it would require a weight distribution hitch.
We tow a pre COVID 2016 Aspen Trail 1900 RB that weighs in at just 6,600 lbs fully loaded with our Chevy silverado 1500 with a 5.3 liter engine and tow package.
We're happy with the floor plan and typically go on trips from 3 days to 2 weeks comfortably and it has proven to be very reliable over the last ten years. With dual axles it handles a 3,400 lb cargo carrying capacity comfortably. That my sound like a lot but you would be surprised how fast you reach your cargo limits.
You can find specs online and review the layout drawings, as well as weights, dimensions, and included features, for just about all the TTs that are currently available.

Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you go thru the entire trailer with the seller and make sure he shows you that everything works!! My motto is "simple is reliable"

All I can say is that this is our first TT and we got lucky with its features, design and reliability.

Best of luck
Safe travels and all the best.

I am thinking along the exact same lines in reference to size. I wouldn't go any heavier than what you have listed and don't think my truck will have any issues pulling it. I do like the dual axels and consider that a REQUIREMENT, not a nice to have. Does your trailer have brakes and if so, electric or hydraulic? (again, my ignorance is showing). What is the norm for trailer that size when it comes to brakes? As far as what type camping? That is a good question. Of course I have stated the "big" trip (route 66) but before/after that, I think we will stay in the Florida/Georgia area and probably camp by water, where we can fish.

 

[Rene T]

I’ve never seen a camping trailer with hydraulic brakes. Always electric. There may be some with hydraulic brakes but I’ve never seen one in 46 years.

 

[FLBuckeyefan]

I’ve never seen a camping trailer with hydraulic brakes. Always electric. There may be some with hydraulic brakes but I’ve never seen one in 46 years.

I am totally ignorant on campers.... :0( Thanks so much!!!! Do pretty much all dual axle trailers have electric brakes? Mike

 

[Kirk]

Do pretty much all dual axle trailers have electric brakes?

In the RV world any trailer that has no brakes is very rare and only the smallest, lightest weight. Even single axle trailers have electric brakes and on larger trailers most are electric and a few are electric actuated hydraulic brakes. The hydraulic brakes are mostly on the largest trailers.

 

[FLBuckeyefan]

In the RV world any trailer that has no brakes is very rare and only the smallest, lightest weight. Even single axle trailers have electric brakes and on larger trailers most are electric and a few are electric actuated hydraulic brakes. The hydraulic brakes are mostly on the largest trailers.

Thank you so much!!! Mike

 

[Firstime RVer]

I am thinking along the exact same lines in reference to size. I wouldn't go any heavier than what you have listed and don't think my truck will have any issues pulling it. I do like the dual axels and consider that a REQUIREMENT, not a nice to have. Does your trailer have brakes and if so, electric or hydraulic? (again, my ignorance is showing). What is the norm for trailer that size when it comes to brakes? As far as what type camping? That is a good question. Of course I have stated the "big" trip (route 66) but before/after that, I think we will stay in the Florida/Georgia area and probably camp by water, where we can fish.

Our TT has electric brakes. FWIW once each year I have the roof checked for leaks, the wheel bearings repacked and the brakes checked. I consider the cost cheap insurance to avoid surprises on the road. FWIW our boondocking experience has been on relatively flat local grass covered pastures, generally limited to 3 or 4 days. We try to avoid deeply rutted or bare, potentially muddy locations.
Safe travels and all the best.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

In general, any trailer rated at over 2000 lbs gross weight (GVWR) will have brakes because most state and provincial laws require them at or near that figure. The brakes are usually either electric or surge types. Surge brakes are hydraulic but they aren't common on RV trailers other tan the smallest ones. Very big utility or equipment hauler trailers may have air brakes, but I've not encountered an RV trailer equipped like that.

 

[Compadre1]

It's pretty rare that people buy the Travel Trailer they're happy with the first time around. Were I you, I'd be looking for a small affordable trailer to get your feet wet. Do a little research and find a trailer that holds its resale value. We started with a small Aliner type, moved to a Casita fiberglass trailer and both sold for close to or more than original purchase price. Now have a 19' Airstream that is tiny by this forums standards but does well for two older campers. Each trailer will give you a bit more experience. It's not overwhelming but might seem so for you now. Go to a few RV shows and look , don't buy. Go to one of the fabulous Florida state parks and walk around to see what people are camping in and ask questions, likely you can't shut up a camper talking about their trailer. We've been to Anastasia SP just south of you which might be a good start. If you see a trailer you like, go on the forum for that trailer and get real feedback including what tow vehicle they're using.

Then think about where you're going to keep it when not camping. I've got a little property and put my trailer behind a barn, many people cannot keep them at home for one reason or another so give it some thought. Big thing is don't stress. So long as wheel bearings are greased trailers do well, the rest is keeping batteries charged, propane tanks filled and figuring out the systems which are pretty easy with a trailer. BTW, I finally have a battery powered jack but lived with a manual for some time, its not so bad even good to experience just in case a battery dies and you need to go old school.

Best of luck