New gypsy family

[maconswife]

LOL- I say gypsy because we're a military family and as such, move frequently. We have 5 boys and 2 cats that are members of our nomadic family. Right now, we're in shopping mode. I'm about to buy a 2008 Keystone Sprinter 311bhs with the extreme thermal package.

Any reviews on this model, brand, or the thermal package in general? I can't figure out exactly what is included in it. I guess it's not a big deal since this one is in the price range and size we need. But I would still love to hear comments and info on it.

We've never owned a travel trailer, but did rent one long ago for a weekend. Of course, that was more of a glorified tent- no slides, no bathroom, not much of anything other than a sofa and dinette that turned into beds and a mini kitchen. I feel like going from that to the Keystone will be a bit like going from a tricycle to 4x4.

We drive a 2006 E350 diesel 6.0, 9 passenger conversion van with super springs and well, I don't know what kind of hitch is back there. That's hubby's department. I need to decide on a weight distribution hitch and sway bars soon. Any suggestions? I'll pass them along to The Man. haha.

[mustang652]

Can't help you on the TT, but wanted to say Hello and Welcome from another "Gypsy", a retired one with 21 plus years. Figured it up once, including multiple residense at various assignments and through the 10 years of retirement I've had twenty eight residences since I my EAD date in Aug '66.

[MSHappyCampers]

Hi gypsies! Welcome to IRV2! By the way, you will probably get more responses to your questions if you post them in the TT section. Good luck & God bless!

[maconswife]

We decided to take the plunge and buy it. I *think* we're getting a good deal. Even if we aren't, it's what we needed with all the kids. They're throwing in an Equalizer 4pt hitch rated to 12k lbs (yay!) and the electric brake box thingy and installation. We're going to go pick it up this weekend.