Community Forums

MrWhipple · 11-10-2013, 07:39 PM

Hello. Looking forward to being a part of this forum. My wife and I are long-time campers, having graduated from tents to a pop-up to our current Toyota Tundra and Keystone Outback 268RL combo. Although we enjoy the comfort and amenities of the trailer, the process of mating and unmating it to the truck is getting old, as are we. Not that we can't do it... It's just that we would prefer not spending an hour or so on each end of a trip doing it. Backing is no fun, nor is maneuvering through tight campgrounds with a 50 foot articulated duo.

A month or so ago, our neighbors asked us about RVs. They are a young couple with two sons who travel quite a bit and enjoy the outdoors. One thing led to another, and we struck a deal with them to buy our trailer (we'll keep the truck since it's handy for hauling the kayaks). Since then, we have been researching motorized units.

Our research has led us to eliminate both Class A and Class B models. Our "musts" include:

-less than 30 feet long
-slide in main living area to increase space
-as much outside storage as possible
-Ford V-10 chassis (I have a Mercedes cabriolet for a "play car". Great car, but the brand requires frequent, and not inexpensive, care and feeding).
-separate sofa and dinette
-queen bed
-enough room in the galley area to put a coffee pot

This past Friday (I work a 4 day/10 hour a day schedule) we went to a large Camping World sponsored RV show, where they had every model of Class C and B+ that we were considering. After the show, we further reduced our long list down to only two: the Thor 28Z and the Thor 31L. The 28Z checks all our boxes, while the 31L misses only on length (should mention here that we rent a secure 30' ground space less than a mile from our house and would have to find another space if we went longer than 30') and storage (a lot of it, but split up among numerous locations--huge inside storage though).

Although we could buy now, we've decided to research these two specific models more completely and to ask for advice and opinions. In addition, if we've missed any models we should look at, that information would be equally appreciated.

Thanks, in advance, for any feedback.

Best Wishes--Carl and Margo Atlanta, GA

PS--A special word of appreciation to all current and former members of the military. Thank you for your service. -cgc- USRA (E-5 11B30) '69-'71

Jawja Sailor · 11-10-2013, 07:59 PM

Welcome y'all! We live in Macon, but will be moving to Hotlanta in three weeks. Both if our children and our grandchildren living there have proven an irresistible force!

I've learned a lot on this forum and there are lots of helpful folks here who are glad to share their experiences with types and brands of RVs. I'd like to help, but the only type of RV we haven't owned is a Class C.

Thank you for your service too, sir! I'm retired US Navy, 67-89. Ironically my best assignment was at Fort Gordon at the US Army Signal School where I taught Crypto Equipment Repair from 76-80. Again, welcome aboard.

**JohnRR** · 11-10-2013, 08:57 PM

Good luck with your search.

Dale Pruitt · 11-10-2013, 09:22 PM

MSHappyCampers · 11-11-2013, 08:09 AM

Hi Carl & Margo! Welcome to IRV2! It's great to have you join us!

Hope you find the right RV for your needs! Enjoy the forum!

Good luck, happy trails, and God bless!

Chiefbvfd · 11-11-2013, 08:09 AM

Welcome to the forum and good luck with your quest...

Gadget63 · 11-11-2013, 09:12 AM

Hello from SC and welcome to the forums! Not to throw a monkey wrench into the mix, but you already stated that a 31' is in the running and you would have to look for another storage yard. That being the case, why not look into some class A's in the 30-34 foot range?
Just saying.

Barbara S. · 11-11-2013, 09:33 AM

I just went from a 30 ft. class C to a 35 ft. class A. I had a 32 ft. enclosed storage and had to change to a 40 ft. covered space. The class C will not have as much storage as a class A. It is however, easier to drive. I do miss my completely enclosed storage unit but the covered space is ok. It is in the same storage facility so I like that (been there 20 years in 4 different spaces). It is all a matter of adjustment to get what you want.

virginiamtns · 11-11-2013, 01:43 PM

Welcome to iRV2!

We also had a Tundra and TT combo, and hitching and unhitching did get tiresome.

We explored our options and bought a 2014 Thor ACE 30.1. It has been an amazing summer and fall, and we look forward to every minute we get to spend motoring down the road or relaxing at camp. We keep it loaded to travel, so we can bug out with little additional preparation.

Again, welcome - post pics of your new rig when you decide on the one you want.

Medico · 11-11-2013, 03:35 PM

Welcome and glad to meet you!

There are many threads on this topic. Just look in some of the other categories.

bdickson · 11-12-2013, 04:10 PM

Oldme · 11-12-2013, 05:05 PM

Welcome.
Good to see more Southerners.

This forum is a great place to search for your answer. You will find many opinions.

If I remember correctly there is at least one RV rental in Atlanta. A few weekend in various sizes will give you a real hands on.

You will most likely be surprised at what you both do / do not feel you need, a well as the difference in handling.