Updated buying thread medium sized travel trailer

[buffaloslobber]

I've decided it is time to retire my trailer.  I tried looking for a thread on the subject, but couldn't find one that was recent, if I just didn't look in the right place please enlighten me.  If there isn't one then maybe this thread will be helpful to this years buyers.

I'm looking for a bunkhouse, around 25'.  Specifically I have been looking at Coleman and KZ.  Possibly new, definitely not more than 15 years old.

As far as i'm concerned I would rather have a trailer with the basic HVAC system, bathroom, galley, a place to sleep and no power features.  Features are just more stuff that will break, and the older I get the more I hate problems.

If you can help me avoid a lemon I would appreciate it.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

There are probably a zillion such existing threads, with titles related to some specific model or feature or maybe even some personal attribute, e.g. "trailer for expectant mother".    So yours maybe should be titled something like "looking for 25 ft bunkhouse trailer", but that's not a big deal.

"Features" are sort of an eye-of-the-beholder thing, since what one person considers a senseless extra may well be a minimum requirement for another.  Is an electric water pump instead of manual a "power feature"?  Vent fans?  What about a slide or two? Verboten or required space?

One of the problems with buying simple is that such models are typically at the very bottom end of the price tiers as well, so likely to be minimalist in construction and design as well as gee-gaws and extras.  There simply aren't enough buyers looking for a combination of simplistic and top quality. Further, everything in an RV is a tradeoff, so as you tend to lose living space and convenience along with those features you don't want.

I suggest you spend some time cataloging your wants and needs, e.g. main bedroom size & type, how many additional bunks,  size of bath area and shower stall, slide(s) or not, boondock capability or mostly RV park, 30A/50A shore power, size/type of fridge, etc. etc. etc.  Then start scanning manufacturer websites for models that come close.  No need to buy new, but you may be able to identify models to look for on the used market.

 

[SpencerPJ]

Most trailers are built the same, heck, many by the same plant.  It's a role of the dice to say, new trailer, a lemon, or no issues.  The ongoing discussion around this forum is, plan on issues with anything new. Some are minor and we fix them ourselves, some not.  RV warranties are not handled the same as car dealership warranties, don't let anyone tell you different.  Weeks are the norm.  That said, it also simply makes sense to buy something a few years old, that the previous owner had all the things fixed.  Personally, I'm a fan of finding the right gently used trailer off a private owner, I like the relationship, looking the owner in the eye, and have a true meaning for why it's being sold. Ya they can lie, but buying off a Dealer, you don't have a chance of knowing the history, and can almost guarantee that the used RV salesperson will use deceptive practices. .  Another ongoing discussion around here, you mentioned a bunkhouse 25'.  You are right at the max any 1/2 ton anything can or should pull.  RV salespeople tend to mislead people especially at shows that their tow vehicle is adequate, when indeed it is not.  So simply put, spend a lot of time reading threads on the forum, lots of great advise and you can't beat the price (free), and non of us have a special interest in selling you something.  Good luck, and ask as many questions as you like.  ps: crazy screen name 

 

[buffaloslobber]

Thanks guys.  This isn't my first rodeo in rv buying.  I have had 3 different ones over the years, and don't worry I have a 1 ton powerstroke that is plenty for a 25 footer.

All I am trying to figure out here is what companies have been producing crap in recent years....I guess I should have waited until a bit later in the morning to start writing stuff in an RV forum, it is easier to communicate when the early AM grogginess has worn off.

 

[Gary RV_Wizard]

To some degree, they all produce crap. Even the top line models have their share of mistakes and design shortcomings.

In the 25 ft range, most  all the RV makers are producing product geared to the price sensitive market, in other words cheap stuff.  Some of the more-often recommended brands are Arctic Fox &  Nash (Northwood Mfg) and Lance Campers. Hard to find on the East Coast, if that's where you are.
I'm pretty much out of date on what is currently in favor among small trailer buyers, so will leave it to others to make suggestions.

 

[SpencerPJ]

Ya, your question is like asking who makes the best 1/2 ton truck, or who makes the best motor oil.  Being a highly competitive market, price is a great indicator.  Not always foolproof.  For me, I bought a slightly shorter Puma BH, and I am pleased overall.  I do only use it maybe 12x / year, and mostly trips under 500 miles.  Jayco seems to still have a good reputation.  Take some time and read some threads.  As soon as someone says XYZ is junk, someone who owns XYZ gets all worked up    The last person I'd take advise from is a RV salesperson 

 

[Gizmo100]

Most of the trailers that will interest you will have the same core features.

It's really going to come down to you deciding what you want and then finding one that not been abused.

And Welcome to the RV Forum

 

[grashley]

Welcome to the Forum.

Spencer said everything I had in mind.  No need to retype what he said.

 

[BruceinFL]

What Gary said.