Quote:
Originally Posted by emij
This is EXACTLY why we are thinking and rethinking options. Currently we camp locally about 6-7 times a year - Colorado mountains, Utah, Nebraska. We take a 10-14 day trip once a year, which is typcially 2000-3000 miles round trip, depending on where we go (we are trying to visit all of the National Parks ) Our current, simple set up works for that.
That being said, as our kids graduate and move out, we plan to travel extensively, 2-3 weeks at a time, multiple times a year, possibly more like 2-3 months at a time once we retire. So the very things you've listed DO require more discussion. Thank you for sharing your point of view.
|
Emily,
We got our Scamp13-L1-BB about six months before my wife and I retired.
Our best tow vehicle at the time was a Honda CRV that Honda only rated to
tow 1500 pounds. Our Scamp13 omitted most of the heavier items and
aerodynamic drag items (AC, bathroom [incl backwater tank, hot water tank,
toilet/shower fixtures, etc.],
awning, wooden interior [only very slightly
heavier if at all],
furnace,
awning, etc. We splurged on
lighting,
electrical
outlets, upper cabinets for clothes, screen door, 12v fresh water pump, etc.
No regrets.
Even though our kids are/were already out of the house, we soon found out
that (with both of their parents working) our grandkids were very happy to
go on as many summer camping adventures as possible. Although it was
doable with the Scamp13, the Scamp16D-A is far less cramped with more
people and gear inside.
Once we bought a better tow vehicle, I told my wife that we were no longer
as
weight limited and that we could upgrade to a slightly larger trailer that
would be a little roomier and have a few more amenities.
In our Scamp13, we used campground showers and toilets and had a
porta-potti as a backup. In the Scamp16D-A, we still use campground
facilities when available. However, overnight stays at WalMart or truck stops
(i.e. Pilot/FlyingJ) are now much more doable. Sometimes, when traveling
in remote areas, it has been nice knowing that there was/is a clean restroom
about 15 feet behind us.
About once a year, we go to the Oshkosh air show and "boondock" with
no hookups for a week. The 16 foot trailer seems about equally suited to
hookups or
boondocking.
My wife loves the larger
refrigerator with the freezer compartment that
makes it easier to have iced drinks with dinner (we had to use bagged ice
before we had our own freezer with ice cube trays.)
I agree with others. Things change over time.
Everyone's needs, wants, and camping styles are different.
We are happy with our Scamp16D-A decision.
Best of luck with your decisions!
Ray