As I plan for retirement, I have this thought in my head that I would like to make provisions for 2 or 3 annual trips around North America, each lasting from 30-45 days.
Conceptually, I think I'm rejecting "car & motels" because I think it would be limiting and expensive, and I'm rejecting a motorhome because I don't want to be burdened with a huge vehicle once I reach a destination. "Motorhome & Toad" also seems a bit much, although if I went that route I would want to try to tow a MC and/or a car. At the other end of the spectrum, I personally would be content with a conversion van in which we could sleep about half the time, but that's a bit more primitive than the Old Ball & Chain would tolerate.
So it seems like a modest-sized RV trailer and a tow vehicle would be the Sweet Spot that I want to explore. It seems like a 17' trailer is about the smallest one can have that is still livable for a few days at a time. That size - if properly designed - is big enough for sleeping, cooking, eating, relaxing, toilet functions and an 'emergency' shower. I've also seen some units of this size that have heat and A/C, which I think will be mandatory. A bigger trailer would be nicer - obviously - but would demand a bigger towing vehicle than I want to have. I think a Silverado 1500 or comparable would be about as big as I would want.
My preference would be to use a mid-size SUV as a tow vehicle. My first thought would be a Touareg diesel, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee Hemi is also attractive. On paper, these vehicles would seem to be satisfactory, but I haven't looked at the details of towing capacity, tongue weight, and other towing esoterica.
Fortunately or un, my knowledge basis is akin to that of the late John Banner (aka 'Sgt Schultz'): "I know NOTHING!"
Is there anyone here who has any first hand knowledge of this stuff? What am I missing? What else do I need to think about?
RV Trailering
Re: RV Trailering
Having done one 45+ day trip around North America, the car/motel/upper end camping route really isn't that limiting. With a car you can travel further, faster, more efficiently and more pleasurably. I did a mix of camping and inexpensive hotels, plus a few "stay with friends" deals. While I'm guessing tent/sleeping bag camping isn't at the top of your list (or your wife's list), there are some decent options out there that are less rustic than tent camping but cheaper than a hotel. About half-way through my trip I discovered the KOA campgrounds, many of which have private cabins with individual beds, and indoor plumbing. Just roll out the sleeping bag, sheets, pillow, comforter, and you're all set. I'm sure I spent no more than $30/night on these little gems -- some times with a big camp-style breakfast included.
If you're determined to trailer something, I'd avoid a VW vehicle.
If you're determined to trailer something, I'd avoid a VW vehicle.
“I ask no favor for my sex. All I ask of our brethren is that they take their feet off our necks.” ~ Ruth Bader Ginsburg, paraphrasing Sarah Moore Grimké
Re: RV Trailering
We did New Zealand in a campervan, it was great fun. We're going to be buying one when we retire.
As we'll possibly/probably be back in the UK then, we'll be touring GB and Europe in it.
We'll add on a couple of postie bikes for mobility.
As we'll possibly/probably be back in the UK then, we'll be touring GB and Europe in it.
We'll add on a couple of postie bikes for mobility.
“If you trust in yourself, and believe in your dreams, and follow your star. . . you'll still get beaten by people who spent their time working hard and learning things and weren't so lazy.”
Re: RV Trailering
Your collective inability to acknowledge this obvious truth makes you all look like fools.
yrs,
rubato