Hi DIS board camping experts! Our family is looking to embark on some camping adventures of our own.
My MIL is going to purchase the travel trailer and we are going to purchase the truck to pull it. Our big question is: What size truck do we really need? We are looking to get a travel trailer trailer in the 28 - 30 ft. range. Will a Ford F150 (or something comparable) do it? Or do we need the F250 (or something comparable)? Thanks so much for any advice you can give! I'm so excited about the prospect of getting to spend some time at the Fort!
We used to spend spring break there every year when I was growing up (in the old Terry trailers they used to rent before they had cabins) and I can't wait to take my kids.
This is a great question. I am not a truck expert, but I am happy to share what I learned.
First, you need to know what you plan to pull. Travel trailers vary quite a bit in weight. Take a look at the specs for a few of your favorites. But, don't just look at the dry weight. You should factor in an estimate of your gear - think bicycles, a bbq grill, clothes, food, camp chairs, etc. I find that adding it up is too much, so an easier way is to go with the max weight for the trailer. You will also need to know the tongue weight.
Now, add the people who are going and what they weigh along with anything you plan to put in the bed of the truck.
Trucks also vary. How much can a 150 tow? It depends on the engine, axle ratio, and tire size. It could be 5,000 pounds or 11,000. Tongue weight it can support will also vary.
The advantages you will get with a 250 tend to be that it has a stronger suspension and so it can support more tongue weight while also enabling you to put more in the bed of the truck.
Last point to consider is gas vs. diesel. Either will work. Think about the conditions in which you are likely to drive. Any mountains or hills? Does it tend to get windy?
From what I have read, stories from friends, and my personal experience, a diesel may provide you with a more comfortable experience. It has more torque so it will tow in windy or mountainous conditions without having to stay in a lower gear. It will also likely return somewhat better miles per gallon. For example, my Ram 2500 diesel gets about 12mpg towing a 26 foot travel trailer at 60 mph and it very comfortable to drive. I have heard gas pickups often return 5-8 mpg and work much harder - that is much higher rpm - to climb hills or drive into a headwind.
Downside to diesel is that it is a higher up front cost and the price per gallon is currently somewhat higher than gas.
If you want to hear many other opinions, head to the Trailer Life forums and go into the Tow Vehicles forum.
Happy camping.
the eman