Travel Trailer Questions

[Stinkerbe11]

I am a travel trailer newbie and have many questions. Most of the trailers that I like are on the longer side (around 35') and we are planning to visit state and national parks. Some won't allow trailers that large onsite, so is it a big deal to stay outside of the park or is it worth it to go shorter? Also, is it a problem hauling something that large on most roadways?

Sorry for the questions, I am literally starting at square one here

 

[CamperMomma]

We ran into the same issue. We had a 31' Bunkhouse (Keystone Premier) that we loved...but ran into a heck of a time getting it into some spots, and hubby is a pro at backing long trailers. This last winter, we downgraded (or upgraded, depending how you look at it) to an Outback 250RS. The king bed slides out the back, extending it to 30+ feet, so you still have the length when it's parked, but closed up and towing/backing it's only about 26'. Makes a HUGE difference! Good luck and happy shopping!!

 

[tiggerdad]

I have a Jayco 32BHDS, so total length is around 35. I have camped local and took it from MS down to the fort. Honestly, if you have a strong enough truck hauling it isn't that bad at all. I use a f250, so I consume diesel that can be hard to get to at a normal gas station, especially with a large camper. So I stuck to the chain truck stops like Pilot and use the same pumps as the large rigs which is super easy.

On the order of size, it deals with what you want. With two younger girls (7 & 2), we knew we would need room to grow. I really like to cook. So I got the outdoor kitchen which is easier for me and the camper doesn't smell like what you cooked. Also, when we camp local we have a lot of family show up, so we need the room. We looked for two years before we decided, so I know where you are in your decision.

There are plenty of good people on here who will also post and tell you what works for them. You really have to consider needed space, tow vehicle, and where you camp. Good luck and keep us up to date.

 

[TheRustyScupper]

it worth it to go shorter?
. . . if you want state parks, then yes
. . . when visiting a state park, always nice to camp within it
. . . as long as you can manage within the space, go shorter

Also, is it a problem hauling something that large on most roadways?
. . . not if you have a proper tow vehicle AND A GOOD SWAY HITCH
. . . an anti-sway hitch (like a Hensley) is really important
. . . select your camper, then check the tow/hitch requirements
. . . you might have to downsize due to your tow vehicle

 

[Stinkerbe11]

We don't currently own a truck, but we are looking at 250s and 350s. The particular trailer that's at the top of my list is the Keystone Sprinter 316BIK. It's pretty intimidating for a first timer but I do like privacy as well as family time. The dealer's MSRP is 33,000 but their online price is 29,000. What is a reasonable "out the door" offer on this? I am also looking at used trailers, but I really like this new one if I can get a decent deal.

 

[North of Mouse]

I am a travel trailer newbie and have many questions. Most of the trailers that I like are on the longer side (around 35') and we are planning to visit state and national parks. Some won't allow trailers that large onsite, so is it a big deal to stay outside of the park or is it worth it to go shorter? Also, is it a problem hauling something that large on most roadways?

Sorry for the questions, I am literally starting at square one here

There may be some national parks that could accommodate that length, but most of them we have been to would have limited sites. They can be reserved 6 months in advance and any longer sites go quickly. We have always tried to keep our pull trailers under 30' for that reason. Our current MH is 33' and even at that in the Smoky Mtns. we have access to only about 1/2 the sites at Elkmont CC.

It would be a big deal to us, because inside the parks at the CC's is where we love, and have always stayed. But, that is a personal decision only you can make.

The best of luck in your decision, and in your camping trips!