Which RV Fifth Wheel Floorplan is BEST & Why, Best Brands Compared!

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Which RV fifth wheel floorplan did we like the best? and why? What are the things we must have and what are the things we don't want?
We compare several manufactures:
@KeystoneRVCompany @BrinkleyRV @alliancerv @KZRV1972 (KZ is Marc's brand @GrandAdventure)
We didn't see all the floorplans we wanted at the Florida RV SuperShow - so we will tour more RVs soon. (there's a show in Ocala in February) @FRVTA #floridarvsupershow
Let us know in the comments what you think of each floorplan and our likes and dislikes.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Intro
01:08 Why Shopping for a new RV
02:32 What We WANT in an RV
15:34 What We DON'T Want in an RV
20:34 The Floorplans & Brands We LIKE
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We are a married couple in our mid 50s who downsized & sold our house so we can see the sights & enjoy every day to live deliberately as full time RVers - traveling with our dog Scruffy, in our Grand Design Solitude 310 GK fifth wheel.
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#rvliving #rvfloorplans #bestfifthwheel

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8 авг 2024

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Комментарии : 370

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We appreciate all the suggestions. However, we are only looking at fifth wheels and those that are smaller than our current 35’ 13’ 6’ wide Grand Design. We know we won’t get all our “wants” - we will compromise and then customize

@krisbeaver2901 6 месяцев назад

Here's a question.. since your planning on doing more boondocking, is there an option where you can put the 3D printers outside of the RV and run them off of a external outlet? Then store them inside when your not using them in the pass through, or the rear seat of your truck? or is that too much of a theft risk to put them outside?

@annagerus4613 6 месяцев назад

We lived full time in our 41' 2020 373RD Montana High Country (3rd RV, with 4 slides) while we were buying and remodeling our new fixer upper house and I could NOT wait to downsize. After being weekend warriors in our first two travel trailers, we discovered how hard it is to move a giant trailer/tow vehicle. We are now full-timing in our 4th RV.... A 19' 2023 No Boundaries 19.2 off road trailer with ZERO slides. We are SOOO happy with our downsize. We were able to downsize from a 2020 F350 DRW to a 2023 Jeep Gladiator. Again, what an awesome downsize. I agree that no matter the size of the RV, the most important thing is to learn to maximize storage.... We have become literal masters at it. Good luck with your future purchase!!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

@@krisbeaver2901 Kris, you don’t want a chance for something to land in the area where you are 3D printing Alice

@krisbeaver2901 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents ok.. then how about using one of the collapsible octagon enclosures everyone raves about? I'm just spitballing ideas to help you minimize your remodeling efforts :)

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

@@krisbeaver2901 Appreciate it. We do have a quick clam. But will our “neighbors” appreciate the noise 😁

@joychancellor2598 6 месяцев назад

We downsized from 36' 5th wheel to a truck camper, loved it! Then I had a stroke and things changed. We now have a 22' class c motorhome and love it! Life changes and going with the flow can either be a challenge or an adventure. Good luck getting all you both want. Travel on!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Joy, So sorry to read about your health. We know all too well how quickly things can change. Larrys Neuro disease is incurable and he can relapse at any time. Larry still wants a fifth wheel - whether we stay full time or get a homebase and go 6 months at a time. We hope life hasn’t slowed you down too much, Alice

@joanjackson2170 6 месяцев назад

You made this struggle to find the perfect RV pretty humorous. You also made a lot of good points for others looking for one to consider.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Joan, We try to laugh at ourselves though we are actually in a very stressful situation. And thank you. We do think some of the points we went over are not covered by RV salesman. And frankly, not by many RU-vidrs? Alice

@greghomestead8366 6 месяцев назад

Wife and I have been Rving since 1992. We've had 6 Rvs over that time. Never had a 5th wheel, never will. I won't give up 8' of covered with a cap, dry and Secure bed in our pickup. Waaaaaay too much storage to give up. Now we have a 30' Rockwood 2606ws and love it. We have a house we love but still spend 3 to 4 months a year in it. Looking forward to seeing what you get. Have a Jesus filled day everyone Greg in Michigan

@annagerus4613 6 месяцев назад

We're on our 4th RV.... 3rd one was a 5th wheel.... The space you give up in your truck bed, you gain from all the storage in your 5th wheel. Best thing about a 5th wheel is that 4 ft of your trailer is over the bed of your truck.... Which makes a bigger RV much more controllable....

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Greg, Glad you found a rig set up that’s right for you. We actually store quite a bit in our 3500 longbed crewcab dually. Safe travels, Alice

@jmanatee 6 месяцев назад

having a 5th wheel I can tell you, you do not give up the entire bed. you do have to keep things you want to keep dry in boxes or bins but you can pretty much use the entire bed below the rails and not near the hitch.

@greghomestead8366 6 месяцев назад

@jmanatee with our travel trailer we have the entire bed up to the cap roof 4 foot above the floor plus 8 ' x 5' bed. Also it's dry with no dry boxes needed.👍 Happy camping

@jmanatee 6 месяцев назад

@@greghomestead8366 I understand how a cap works and that you have more storage then if you have a 5th wheel hitch. I was responding to your comment "Waaaaaay too much storage to give up" I was simply stating the fact that you do not give up the entire bed. Further, every 5th wheel camper I have seen has tons more storage then every TT have have seen. I would guess that you gain storage by going 5th wheel

@susandumais8563 6 месяцев назад

We have had a Cougar 29rli 5th wheel for 2 years and love it. We will be going full time in it in August. Since we purchased ours, Keystone has made some necessary changes... they redid the wardrobe configuration and they reduced the profile of the medicine cabinet in the bathroom. We have made these exact improvements ourselves. One other thing that we want to do is to change out the double bowl kitchen sink for a larger single bowl. All in all we are very happy with our rig. We've been to several RV shows, including Tampa and Hershey, since we bought ours and we still feel that we for the best unit for us!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Susan, That’s great to read. But I am worried about full time or 6 months in it with such a small fridge 😳 Plus, I was looking forward to having more sites available if we got a 30’ or less rig. But it just doesn’t look like that size is out there for us. Good luck on the full time. And thanks for sharing your experience with us, Alice

@user-xo8ge5id6v 6 месяцев назад

I have a Montana High Country 310RL and have pulled from eastern Canada to Alaska with minimal issues. We love it.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

That’s awesome to hear. We are leaning towards a Keystone, Alice

@PaulAdair-ue4uu 6 месяцев назад

You have a lot of good ideas from experience regarding want and don't want. I'm noticing some brands going to cable driven slides. I'd research further before buying an RV using them. Maybe they have improved, but removing interior trim around the slides to adjust or repair seems intrusive. Also not all brands are using quality plumbing parts, way too many plastic fittings and high pressure tubing rather than PEX. I strongly support your insistence on a beefed up suspension! Good luck with your shopping and happy travels!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Paul, We are a bit worried about cable driven slides. But our Schwintek bedroom slide has been nothing but trouble. And the cable ones are not as complicated to fix. And we know all too well about plumbing issues unfortunately- plastic breaking, etc. if we buy used, we would have more money to do something with the suspension All great thoughts. Thanks, Alice

@janicecrockett1400 5 месяцев назад

We had a Keystone Cougar 5th wheel for 3 years and loved it. There was not one, single problem with that 5th wheel the whole time we had it. The only time it was back to the dealer was the first year to have them winterize and inspect it for us. The rest of the time we took care of it ourselves.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

Janice, That’s awesome. However, we didn’t go with the Cougar for a few reasons. Check out our latest video 🤗 Alice

@michaelgregg9139 6 месяцев назад

We purchased a 2017 Keystone sprinter. The suspension was under sized, broke a spring on each axle on one trip to Florida. Outriggers on frame were showing signs of fatigue after 50,000 miles. That was when we traded it off. Just saying, if you are looking at a Keystone product I would really do my homework.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Michael, Sorry you went through that. Grand Design Solitude had similar issues Alice

@jneihart2 6 месяцев назад

We have a 2012 Keystone Alpine fifth wheel with over 150,000 miles on it.... and it is tighter than a snare drum! Now, we looked at the Keystone Couger half ton fifth wheels at Christmas and could not have been more dissapointed in the fit and finish!!! The salesman was very embarrassed. Thank you for another wonderful vlog!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Wow that is a lot of miles, I would love to see what your travel map looks like. Like they say, they dont build them like they used to. Larry

@mikemiller9119 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents I don't intend to be mean, but Solitudes are mid grade trailers. Not every brand has issues, and not every model out of every brand has issues. Some more than others and some larger issues than others. Keystone has a new styrofoam flooring with almost no cross members. They make it 100% clear it is not a full time RV. This is because when the floors are walked on as much as someone that lives in their RV, the floor sags because the styrofoam compacts. Once this happens, everything from the rig has to be pulled out and the floor has to be removed. That's right, your entire rig would have to be gutted to fix the issue. So you think you have issues with the Solitude, you'll just trade it for a different serious issue. But don't take my word on it, do your own research and you'll learn all about it.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@mikemiller9119Thanks for the info. No RV is truly built for full time even if they market it that way

@mikemiller9119 5 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents just wanted to add more to my response. The reason RVs are not built for full time living is due to the materials they use and they are not up to building code of a full time structure. If they built them to code, they would be way too heavy to go down the road.

@bookooc5605 5 месяцев назад

I really love your channel. I am also really jealous of you two's relationship. You are blessed!

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

Awww. Thanks so much 🤗 Alice

@thetravelingbrowns 6 месяцев назад

I can tell you few key points why we love our Alliance 310rl...Access to Fridge, Bathroom and Bedroom, flush floor slides, lighter wood, 101" wide body, plenty of storage, and for Larry, spare under the rig.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We looked at Alliances but didn’t find the floorplan for us, Alice

@bethb5076 6 месяцев назад

So many great observations! I can’t wait to see who compromises on the new RV. Good luck choosing!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks Beth, hopefully it will be a draw! We have different ins and outs but comprimises will have to be made. Larry

@Ima-hoot 6 месяцев назад

I did a elaborate spreadsheet when we bought our RV pre-pandemic in 2020. I also added color and shades of color. This made it easier to figure out the pros and cons of each Good luck in your adventures and wish u both good health

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Great idea. Unfortunately, very few floor plans have even our basic wants. I don’t want over 30’ but it looks like we may have no choice Alice

@Ima-hoot 6 месяцев назад

Unfortunately buying an RV is full of compromises. There is no perfect RV. Find one that you can live with and modify as needed. A bunk house converted to an office could work. I’m surprised most RV manufacturers don’t offer options like this and you have to do the conversion.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@Ima-hootThey haven’t caught up with the latest consumers - those that work remote in their RV. Look how long it took to get rid of carpet 🤣 Alice

@mischiefroadtripadventures 6 месяцев назад

I know you are focused on a fifth wheel - but for a robust frame, a super C on a Freightliner chassis would be great! But...I get it! I agree about the cabinet colors! And the awning not covering the entry is ridiculous. I haven found a good solution yet for that. The island in ours is too large. We all know these things are not designed by real RVers! You might search JD Power (formerly NADA Guides) for older reviews of specific models you find in older years. You both make really good points.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

I would love to have a Super C. But Larry prefers a fifth wheel. When a new floorplan is made into a prototype, the designers should have to travel in it for months. I bet the floorplan would change 😁 We definitely want to buy used. So the JD Power is a great tip. Thanks Alice

@christopherwhyte2360 6 месяцев назад

Oh the fun of balancing and compromising likes and dislikes. You guys are clearly up to the task. Good luck, love your channel.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks Chris, we try hard to accomodate each others ins and outs, but I think that is why we haven’t decided on a rig yet. Larry

@rickburkhalter5448 6 месяцев назад

Hey guys, absolutely love your rv considerations. We had a Northwood Fox Mtn 235 RLS 5th wheel and we loved it. I believe it will check many of your boxes. Northwood is a midsized privately owned RV manufacture in La Grande, OR. They fab their own frames, are all season (La Grande gets cold), under 30’, 3,200# cc, no island, windows open trailer. Northwood also builds the Outdoors RV line. The only big negative is I’m not sure if the slide is a blocker. That said I really suggest you take a look. Oh, and there are a few used ones out there.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Rick, Appreciate the suggestion. We looked and either couch is on “ wrong side” and or it has a bed in a slide. We are willing to compromise on a lot of other things, but those are biggies. Maybe I’m missing one? Not tall - under 13’. Not long - under 33’ Alice

@rickburkhalter5448 6 месяцев назад

Alice. Our Fox Mtn 235 had couch along the rear wall and no bedroom slide. Under 30 ft long and under 13 ft high. Unfortunately the kitchen is on camping side. Ordered Larry’s window wedge today. :) All the best to you and Larry.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@rickburkhalter5448Awesome. Thanks for the support on the window wedge. If you use Facebook or Instagram, I would love to see a picture of it in your rig and tag us 🤗 Alice

@michelmichael8957 6 месяцев назад

You made some very good points. That’s because you lived in it. Most people look at the beauty of it and not practicality of it. If I may mention two things. Corian counter tops a must. Also keep an eye on the plumbing. All of them are not done right. They use the wrong tubing clamps and mix match them. Bad news. Stay away from slides with cables. OMG. It’s the worst ever. You got this Larry. Ps. Are you forced out of your Rv by a certain time by the insurance company. I hope they are giving you time See you on the next video

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Michel, Great tips. We have already found the plumbing issues in our GD. We are lucky that we were given time. Still looking for land. Who knows what will come first. Thanks for keeping up with us 🤗 Alice

@twoblah1 6 месяцев назад

we are not full timers although we now go more often b/c i retired a year ago. we went through 3 campers before we found the perfect one for us and our 4 boston terriers. we now have a 2021 rockwood 2608bs. it checked all the boxes except i had to compromise a shower with a seat for a round shower. it is 30feet , well built and with 2 slide outs it feels very roomy. the best thing i love is the front kitchen with the front large window. good luck with your next camper. God bless

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

I haven’t looked at the rockwoods well, i will look at them today to see if there is something that checks all of our boxes. Larry

@skiimountaineer 6 месяцев назад

Hi guys, love the reviews! I would really check out the RV that Chris and Aaron bought they are “Irene iron travels”. They also have a desk area couch and off grid constantly. and not to mention a washer and dryer hook up all for 33 feet.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks for the suggestion but it’s the height we are trying to get away from. Not much clearance below. Bed in slide. I’m glad it’s working for them. But it would be like buying another Solitude with all the same issues. Alice

@user-lo4de2pi1w 6 месяцев назад

Look at toy hauler, we down size from 42 garage, to 36 open box. They have built generator, 150 gal of water, tie down in the rig for our toys, and the back door makes a deck. They have high clearance.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks. But mainly back into sites in state and national campgrounds. How do you do that with a toy hauler? Alice

@yvetteneshilokotz2655 6 месяцев назад

Thanks for such a good video and entertaining too! Sounds like after much thought you both decided not to make a Big change to get a coach drivable just in case Larry has to be hospitalized. Wishing you both all the best and finding your next perfect for you RV.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Yvette, I was out voted 😁 Alice

@bobgrimm3030 6 месяцев назад

Good luck finding your next RV. So glad your at a campsite that puts you in a good weather area.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Bob, Thanks. At least something is working out 😁 Have we asked before, are you related to Larry? 😉 Alice

@bobgrimm3030 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents not sure about the relationship, but the same last name for sure.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@bobgrimm3030Well, let’s just assume we are family 🤗 Alice

@marksr8784 5 месяцев назад

I really like the Couger half tons..they are under 30 ft for that sweet campsite that your old Rig misses 😊 good luck ✌🏿🏕

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

Mark, Unfortunately, we couldn’t find one that had most of our ins. I wish we found a 30’. But we did find shorter, not as tall and not as wide 🤗 Alice

@lisamcgrath3132 6 месяцев назад

Hey guys, hope you find the best RV for you both. One thing I wish we had more of in our Forest River Rockwood 5th wheel is kitchen counter space. But we make it work.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Lisa, I’m willing to give that up / give up the kitchen island. Like you wrote, you make do, Alice

@markwitkop7022 6 месяцев назад

On your list. It may be helpful to notate the things that are just nice, not must halves. Just in case it comes down to making choices. Thanks for good videos. !!!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Mark, I’m working on that right now 😉 Alice

@mikedorothys1025 6 месяцев назад

I just started watching your video's recently and I find them very enjoyable. You two are such a likeable couple. Larry, I hope you have the best possible outcome for your medical condition. My wife is a cancer survivor so we can relate to your circumstances. We have been traveling in a 5th wheel for about 5 years now. We have a 30' cougar half ton towable with the artic package. Like everyone we have had repairs but nothing major. For the two of us we think it's the perfect size. Best of everything to you. Sincerely, Minnesota Mike

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Hey Mike, thanks for the compliments. We are looking at a couple of cougars but none of them check all the boxes, eventually we will have to make some compromises. What model and year do you have. Larry

@mikedorothys1025 6 месяцев назад

We have a 2008 276RLS. It's been one of my retirement hobbies. We replace all the furniture. I reconfigure the cabinets. I also painted the cabinets. It's got new tires, brakes, springs, and wheels. I replaced the kingpin with an Airborne sidewinder. It has an airbag in it and a shock. To date I have about $ 13K in it. That's most of what we have done to it. We love using it. @@DownsizingMakesCents

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

@@mikedorothys1025 Mike, Sounds like you have truly customized 😁 We have so many mods we have to pull off our current RV - including a $10,000 solar system we installed ourselves. Maybe next time we are in Minnesota, we will come by for some help 😉 Alice

@user-nj3il8jp4i 5 месяцев назад

Going to miss my outdoor kitchen that’s on our cougar. Our new rv is going to be quality…..his it’s made from the ground up. Going Brinkley. Love your videos!

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

Hope you enjoy your Brinkley- it’s too big and too heavy for what we need

@anthonybrown618 5 месяцев назад

I was looking at the Cougar 27SGS a couple days ago there was actually 2 on the lot I looked at, but the better of the 2 sold last month un fortunately i was informed that the couple that bought the RV got it to Canada and filed a warranty claim for frame failure(dreaded FRAME FLEX) and the one I was looking at the other day has some serious issues possibly frame failure as well all signs point that direction plus other issues caused by lot rot. How ever they are a very nice unit in my opinion. So just be careful and get a pre purchase (POST DEALER PDI) inspection. Great video by the way I am new to your channel and enjoy your videos. God bless and be safe.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

Anthony, Glad you found us 🤗 This will be our fourth RV. And Larry does a thorough inspection and pays for N independent inspection. Good point. Frame flex seems to be happening across manufacturers- perhaps because most frames are Lippert? Alice

@concreteguyjd 6 месяцев назад

A lot of your needs/likes match ours. We’ve been wanting to upgrade to a 30’ 5th wheel. The more we look, the more I want a super C.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

I know what you mean. 🤗 Alice

@johnlagrega4435 6 месяцев назад

Nap couch a absolute must 😎👌🏼

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

John, Larry appreciates the vote 😁 Alice

@lilylangman5620 6 месяцев назад

Your right the island makes camper feel like you have less living space. But love it too. Lol

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

If we get rid of the island, im not sure where we are going to put all the crap we usually have on it, Larry

@seagullm6string 6 месяцев назад

Many of your ins and outs match ours. My issue with 1/2 tons is ccc is smaller and wheels/tires are 15". I recommend 16" at least for the travel you do. Suspension, I have Morryde full independent suspension and no suspension issues related to brackets and equalizers. They also raised the 5th wheel up when it was installed, so I recommend that to resolve Larry's suspension issues.Thanks for the ideas. We head to our local RV show next week.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

How do you like the moryde, that would be an obvious choice for us but not really in our budget, as it would add about 10k to the price. But you are right about wheel size, i want as big as possible, at least 16 inch bettter travel and higher clearance than the 15s, it should have been on my in list. Larry

@seagullm6string 6 месяцев назад

@DownsizingMakesCents I love the Morryde full independent suspension. I know it costs a lot, but for me it's worth it. Every summer we spend 3-4 weeks from CA to our club annual rally - so lots of miles in a few days. It resolved the chucking problem we had (I also have the Morryde rubber pin box). The before and after was so noticeably better. With all your miles over your 6 months on the road, I highly recommend it. I did not go for the disc brakes. Because the suspension has more up and down movement, they had to raise my trailer to accommodate the increased suspension travel. We have a 2013 Laredo 5th wheel about 32 ft and we just keep maintaining it. So every winter it goes to the shop and all the lube spots on the Morryde get lubed - no service issues on it. All the best for your in your search.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@seagullm6stringGlad your MorRyde is working for you and you can get regular maintenance. That’s one of the things I’d like to be able to do when we get a homebase. Keep enjoying your rig. And stay tuned to see what we buy 😉 Alice

@sandramcfarland2704 6 месяцев назад

Good luck with whatever you decide! 😊

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thank you! 😄 Alice

@timf6916 6 месяцев назад

Good luck. Our last 3 was from 24 to 30 to 35. Wildcat, Arctic Fox, Solitude. The Arctic Fox was the 27-5L, Very Nice. We have the 2930 S class Solitude now, Love it. And all of your wants is VERY IMPORTANT. Holding tanks was my biggest challenge. You guys know what you want, and the bathroom and access to the bathroom and refrigerator is a dealbreaker. GOOD LUCK. And, how much does he pay you to say with him hehehe

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Tim, I actually liked a lot about the S Class. But we already had the Solitude And to answer your question? He doesn’t pay me enough 😉 Alice

@marthaharris3334 6 месяцев назад

We have the Cougar 29RLI and love it. The only thing I did not like was the spare tire in the front basement so we moved it to the back bumper. Ours is a 2022, has the light wood decor with the north-south queen bed and wardrobe slide. It does have the island kitchen but it has lots of kitchen and pantry storage because of that. I love all of the windows on the camping side and the fireplace (which I thought at first was a waste of storage space......boy was I wrong) I am not crazy about the bathroom sink but that is a minor thing to me personally. I am confident you will find the right RV for you since you are being very thoughtful in your decision. I hope you find one that makes you as happy as our Cougar makes my husband and me.

@susandumais8563 6 месяцев назад

Keystone has fixed the medicine cabinet issue, as well as the wardrobe configuration.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Martha, Love reading about personal experience. That cougar is high on our list, Alice

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Susan, thanks for adding that info, Alice

@larrylofton1959 6 месяцев назад

We had travel trailers for years, but I wanted a fifth wheel. Took nearly 4 years, and multiple rejections from my wife, but I found the Alliance Avenue 30RLS, which finally checked the boxes (mostly hers), but it does have a nice nap couch. It is 33' ish, 10K lbs +-, and I tow it easily with a 2500hd 4wheel drive, using a Curt Crosswing Hitch (20k capacity, 65# & removable, with hitching capabilities at odd angles ++!). Good Luck in your journey.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Larry, The only one we consider from Alliance is the 29RK. Issues? Very little storage in bedroom and it has a kitchen island. We need to see it in person. Thanks, Alice

@baseball373 6 месяцев назад

Glad your insurance covered your issue...and your rig lasted as long as it did. Been in the industry for 37 years and your issue is very common with Full Timers. Any of the rigs you have chosen will eventually have similar issues. The problem is full timers keep their trailers at or above the trailers Max rated weight and it is just a matter of time when the suspension or frame fails. My suggestion here has helped many .... Sell your Truck...buy a smaller Truck Buy a 32' - 37' used Super C and pull your smaller Truck. Stick with an international or Freightliner Truck frame. This option should allow you to pay for most of the Super C in cash

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thank you for the information However, grouping all full timers is not helpful. See our very popular video about the importance of weighing at a Cat Scale. The real problem is the RV industry. Rigs labeled “full time” or “extended stay” are inaccurate. How much weight they can hold is inaccurate. I know that’s a generalization just like yours, but most people will agree that the RV industry needs a complete overhaul. Alice

@baseball373 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents I agree the RV industry should use heavier duty truck frames and suspension in their trailers. They know about the issue but they don't care.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

@@baseball373 Frankly, until the consumer demands better, why should they change? They need to lose money before they will change, Alice

@michaelpowell9164 6 месяцев назад

I have a Keystone Cougar tt and it's been a great unit, but I've been eyeing the Rockwood fifth wheels.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Michael, Many people have recommended Rockwell - we just couldn’t find a floorplan that could we customized for our wants, Alice

@tomquinn8474 6 месяцев назад

We have never downsized cause we bought small to begin with, our compromise was a corner bed to have a larger lounge in our airstream.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Tom, Glad to read you are happy with your set up. However, I’m sure there is an RV smaller than the one you have now 😉 Alice

@ralphp3057 6 месяцев назад

Good Video with your RV thoughts . I really don’t have a opinion on whatever you buy . I just like my small home base in Florida. Getting ready to go Camping again for three weeks. Good luck moving forward! 😁👍

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Ralph, Hope to have a homebase like you soon Alice

@ralphp3057 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents 👍😁

@robmcneill2967 6 месяцев назад

You made some very good points. We cant help much because we are hunting the perfect toy hauler (Larry toys are a must...I agree...maybe not wifey) Communication & compromise are the se rets to a successful purchase & marriage. Our manufacturers that we like are Forest River, Alliance, Brinkley, keystone & maybe Grand Design. There worth a look Cheers 🍺

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks rob, I think working on a good marriage is the most important job we have. We are trying to accommodate each others ins and outs in the rv choice but it is hard. Larry

@cosmodegennaro111 6 месяцев назад

Ok you guys I just finished watching this episode and yes it’s hard to find the perfect rv, so the conclusion to us has been the perfect rv for us was the Cougar 32RLI because all windows slide open for that cross ventilation this also includes the bedroom windows plus this Rv came with two ac-fireplace for those chilly days or nights. The only thing is that the slides the living and kitchen makes it hard if we park by we leaned that if we just slide the out about foot out on each side it ok, we also have easy access to the bathroom in case of a emergency poop lol on the road. Plus we haven’t had any any issues with the rv and also my wife loves it. And you know what they say happy wife happy camping. Oh yes here is a tip for the awning we have the slip awning by the steps and this was my solution get some Velcro around the gap on each awning and put a small piece of black tarp and this will keep you from getting wet around the steps. We love you guys videos and stories. Good luck on your new RV see you around about…

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Cosmo, Thanks so much. Looks like you have learned to compromise and customize 😉 Only Cougar for us might be a 29RL - though still issues of course. Again, thank you for watching and great info in your comment, Alice

@sherriweber7105 6 месяцев назад

Hi Larry and Alice! Glad you are narrowing it down to a few. I get an Alliance but that’s just me. For you I think the Keystone would be fine. I think either the Cougar or Arcadia would fit you both. I Remember your slide issues with your solitude. I hope I helped you. I want to see you in something you’ll be happy in. Keep us informed of your decision. Love you both and I’ll be happy with whatever you get. See you both soon have a great week.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks Sherri, we still have a lot of looking ahead of us to find something that check both of our ins and outs. Larry

@sherriweber7105 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents No problem! Anything to help you out. Or try too!

@brucefranklin6765 6 месяцев назад

When we downsize next year from our 40 ft 5th wheel, we’re going with a Super C. Setup and breakdown is a lot easier than a 5th wheel.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Bruce, Larry prefers a fifth wheel and loves his dually. Either set up, there’s hitching and unhitching - at least that’s what Larry told me when I said I wanted a Class C 😁 Good luck, Alice

@donitaarender7839 6 месяцев назад

Rockwood makes a 30ft. Travel trailer. Also artic fox fifthwheel. But please ask around and check into the keystone products. I've always loved keystone floor plans but I also know that keystone is notorious for leaking and delamination. So please check into that and let me know if you've found out things have changed. Best of luck to y'all. Looking forward to the next video

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We are only looking at fifth wheels. And the Arctic Foxes are hard to find around here and most are very tall - we are trying to get away from tall Not just Keystone with leaks - we have tons. And GDs have been delaminating too Thanks for the tips, though. Alice

@rickgriffith1 6 месяцев назад

Good luck with the search. We’ve got our fingers crossed for you. What about a toy hauler?👍🏼😎

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Rick, I like your wife’s comment better 😉 Alice

@SmallSpaceLiving 6 месяцев назад

Good luck in your search. I say go with that Class C. Much easier. lol Really get what you like and makes you happy. I would say go for the home base first. Hope you had fun at the show and everything is going well for y'all. I still say a home base here in TN is what you really need. Then just RV in FL and pay much less overall. lol Later y'all

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

William, it all depends what we find first - RV or land. Gainesville has to be our homebase though we loved Tennessee. You guys got lucky with your slice of paradise, Alice

@pistolcutler4874 6 месяцев назад

My friend bought a Rockwood to live in with her kids after the lady she was renting from kicked them out so she could sell it. It seems to be really nice.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Several people have recommended rockwood, and somehow we missed it at the show. We will have to look at the floor plans available. Larry

@pistolcutler4874 6 месяцев назад

@DownsizingMakesCents they might have something that works for you, and you like or them might not. Who knows?

@stevejonhson4947 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents Flagstaff is the same thing with a different name.

@jjones5424 6 месяцев назад

Alice, I think the Rockwood 301RK is a great choice that meets your needs. ( and the kitchen windows open! ) I sold Rockwood trailers for quite a few years and I would say that it is one of the top 3 brands for quality of construction. Flagstaff makes a duplicate of this model in their line up also. Also, let Larry know that a 2 - 3 inch lift ( like on the KZ ) could be added to the frame if needed.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Appreciate the suggestions but couldn’t find floorplan for us. I’ll tell Larry about the lift - I’m sure Texas Trailers that fixed our bumper, installed new leaf springs and looked at our broken frame could do almost anything, Alice

@orangecrocks 6 месяцев назад

good luck in your choice and finding what fits your needs best. From looking at your list it seems very heavily slanted towards Keystone. I will say that both Alliance and Brinkley both seem to be better made than GD. My wife bought a Brinkley so I am a little biased, our needs and desires were different than yours, i had been leaning towards Alliance, but I also had a Riverstone which was awesome, i regret selling, but the Brinkley is as well made or better. I also have 3D printers , in our basement at home and I cant imagine travelling with them in a small rig so more power to you! I very much agree with what you said about refrigerators, but our beast has a full size unit. good luck will be looking forward to see what you go with! I also think having the larger truck towing the smaller rig is probably just safer! looking forward to future videos

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Alliance is pretty much a kissing cousin of GD - many used to work for GD. The Brinkley is nice but too young a company to know their tract record. Plus pricey for us. We are still looking. Will it be land for homebase first or RV? Who knows. Thanks so much. Whatever we pick, we have a lot of mods to deal with 😁 Alice

@markhaney7332 6 месяцев назад

I would not rule out an RV if you wanted different windows (ones that open). You can replace windows with ones that open using a mobile tech or possibly yourself. The Arcadia has some nice unique features with how they run their utilities up the center …. We have an S-2930RL - I have seen several used ones up for sale that look virtually brand new. Essentially like your current camper but a little shorter without the dreaded bed slide. Also has electric slides/jacks instead of hydraulic and a beefy frame with excellent cargo capacity. The Influence 2939RL is similar but without the drop frame. For you if you did get a 2930RL used you could add MorRyde independent suspension and end the frame concerns …

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Mark, We went through every Keystone make. Because of size and other floorplan issues, we are looking at Cougars. Ones we can customize. We thought about replacing windows - that’s a major customization. If we bought used and researched the exact size we need, maybe that would work. But the KZ with the bad windows really were ALL the windows. Do we want to replace every single window? We would rather take on a smaller customization Thanks for all the great info and suggestions, Alice

@MargeMMM 6 месяцев назад

I have narrowed our search down to the Alliance Avenue All Access 29RL. I want the rear living area in a short/lighter fifth wheel with a north/south bed and no bedroom slide. Upgrading from a 31’ travel trailer toy hauler.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Marge, We are looking at that one. We worry about the lack of storage in bedroom for clothes. If we continue to travel full time or for 6 months at a time, that’s an issue Alice

@ayranmcintosh 6 месяцев назад

What about having/not having a washer and dryer? It looks like some of the RVs you're interested in aren't prepped for one. That was one of my ins. I know you'll find the right one.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Washer/dryer is not at all important to us, we have always found somewhere close by to do laundry, and can do everything in about two hours at a laundromat. When we can have 4 high capacity washers going at once, a dishwasher is more important to us. Larry

@msherman944209 6 месяцев назад

2 ins for me the fire place and outside kitchen

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thats funny, neither of us want an outside kitchen, but that may be because we have never had one, maybe I would love it if I tried it, Larry

@GrandAdventure 6 месяцев назад

Decisions, decisions! Wishing you the best of success in your final decision.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks, Marc. We do tag you a lot - are we “fanboys” 😆 Hope to camp with you again, Alice

@GrandAdventure 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents sooner rather than later.

@cpwatching5647 6 месяцев назад

We watched and cannot add to the conversation. We do the same thing when we shop. Sounds like you guys down sizing and making cents!! Good luck.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Awww. Thanks. Love how you added our channel name in there 🤗 Alice

@briancgotcher4397 6 месяцев назад

Have you investigated Outdoors RV in La Grande, Oregon? These are stout travel trailers & fivers. Thompson RV are specialists in Outdoors RV, but there are several dealers in the US and Canada.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We love the artic fox 5ers but it is really hard to find them in the eastern us. The 275L was on our list 4 years ago but the couch is on the wrong side. The Oregon RVs need to do a better job of getting units to the east. larry

@allan6021 6 месяцев назад

Cougar has some of the nicest floor plans but I won’t buy a trailer with a cable slide and I’d rather not have Furrion appliances. Did you look at Forest River’s Rockwood and Flagstaff brand fifth wheels? They sit fairly high with 4-step entry stairs and they have Dexter Torflex axles. Also, if you’re going to boondock I would look seriously at Northwood Manufacturing’s fifth wheels. I think they now offer a lighter wood for their cabinets. And I think they have a dealer as far east as PA now.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Allan, Appreciate the suggestions. But we looked at all of those and they were too long, or too tall, or couch in wrong place, or TV in wrong place. Some things you can move around - but not size 😁 Alice

@BarbMMH 6 месяцев назад

Fun to be able to start over when you already have experience. Where do washer, dryer, and dishwasher rank on y’all’s wish list?

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Barb, We have a dishwasher, but I can live without. And a washer and dryer would just be too heavy and take up a lot of room. It’s rare for us to be on full hookups so these didn’t make our list Great question. We forgot about them because none of the plans we looked at had them 😁 Alice

@waylonhartwell 6 месяцев назад

Nice thing about a half ton. Towable behind your current truck is you will be super comfortable towing it and it'll be a lot Kinder on the truck

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Waylon, We might be the only dually towing a half ton 😁 Alice

@waylonhartwell 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents he'll be able to go faster and consume less fuel than before and I don't think the wind will be as much of an issue if you do end up with a half-time model

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@waylonhartwellexcellent points

@Theo8863 6 месяцев назад

You need a toy hauler so there is a room dedicated to your work. Storage also with the height. It would have a nap bed above your work. Using a happy jack bed lift. You’re gonna need a dually truck so it can haul this 34’. It will have a big roof and full size appliances. When my slide is in I can thru the whole length. Spare tire stored underneath. No heat vents on floor. No island. Only 11’2” tall. I gave up my wish of 27’ to 29’. Had to buy another camper in a week before a scheduled trip. Ended up with 17’ Forest River Hyperlite XLR. Same floor plan still in newer.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

I think i would like to try a toy hauler someday, but there are very few in the size we are looking at around 30 feet. Larry

@glendalab7567 6 месяцев назад

We have a 2022 Cougar SGS. Storage: fair Table: awful. I replaced it with a narrow table so you face the window when you eat (let me know if you'd like a picture) Build quality: could be better but I couldn't afford a more expensive 5er. Bed: we replaced the short queen with a 60x80 and it fits fine. Might need to upgrade the struts but we haven't yet Bathroom: sink clearance for brushing teeth stinks but I think they fixed that in the newer models. Towel storage is small and hard to reach Keystone: we bought a model with 200W panel and planned to add the solar "stuff" from our last rig. Keystone was VERY uncooperative. They would not provide a roof plan (the manufacturer of our last rig did) and they would not help us when I had questions about putting in another solar port on the roof. Boo hiss Keystone. We did it all anyway. Can't beat the dual slides in the living area. Easy to tow. Overall grade: B-

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Glenda, We actually are returning to that model - TV and couch placement ruled it out. But we are thinking how to move that all around - customize Sorry to hear about solar issues. Larry installed our system himself and will transfer it himself. Hopefully Weill get more cooperation if we need it. Thank you for such a detailed review. We really appreciate it, Alice

@janieparedes 6 месяцев назад

My husband wants you add one to the Cart when you find the RV you are describing. I think you are describing a 5 bedroom, four car garage on Wheels😂 Crazy Crazy list, No downsizing on this Video At All! ! !

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Janie, There are many rigs that are 40’ plus foot Not sure why ours is unrealistic? We showed specific floor plans that work. Talked about a smaller bedroom than what we have? We specifically showed how any of these rigs would be downsizing what we have? Sorry that there was a miscommunication somewhere 🤔 Alice

@robertburns5145 6 месяцев назад

Based on your selections I would go with the Alliance Avenue. It may be just a tad long but it has the north/south bed, no floor vents in the main living area, it has Azdel which none of the others have. I have a mid profile Cougar but it’s 13-7 in height with the front a/c.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Robert, I thought tallest legally allowed was 13’ 6”? That’s what our rights now is, Alice

@robertburns5145 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents actually you’re correct. I guess my thumb was too big when I was pressing the buttons 😆

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@robertburns5145🤣 That and spell check. Ugh.

@sshultz8121 6 месяцев назад

Just watched an RV Miles video short on the Ember RV model that had windows you may love

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks, but we are only looking at fifth wheels. I saw only travel trailers on their website, Alice

@keithbar19741974 6 месяцев назад

Love your videos, your list is great and very similar to my excel. What about Washer and Dryer. I know in the size you are looking at it is rare but as full time people how do you feel about that on a in or out list?

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Keith, Thank you so much. We are getting some flak for our list. Thanks for “getting it” We haven’t had one for 4 years 😁 We didn’t even consider it. We also are giving up a dishwasher. We rarely have full hookup so both of these would we difficult Plus, we are trying to cut down on weight as well as size. I know some full timers have them. We just use the ones in the neighborhood. Or often, there are ones in the state and national campgrounds we have stayed at. Alice

@JonnyDIY 6 месяцев назад

19:26 Larry!!!! 🤣

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Don’t encourage him, Jonny 😖😆

@livinganewdream3682 6 месяцев назад

I think you guys are looking for the Tardis for an RV, LOL 😄Big rig features, but in a small rig.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Exactly 😆 Actually, we are drawing up our own floorplan. We have most of what we mentioned in our 35’. Now we are looking at 32’ or 33’. Wanting a smaller bedroom. So, why not? Alice

@SevenBears1 6 месяцев назад

Surely there is no perfect RV for both of you. My best suggestion is for Larry to put his foot down and get the rv that is perfect for him.. Larry has to hitch it pull it maintain it so it should be all about Larry.. I know when I purchased my KZ it was all my decision.. Thanks DMC (Alice is going to hate me)

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

He’s already getting his way. I wanted a Class C (so I would drive). I wanted 30’ or less. Larry wants his couch. More examples. And yes. I hate you 😉 I do have to live in it and help maintain it, etc. Alice

@petermichelson3865 6 месяцев назад

You should look at the new fleet wood models where the fleet wood diesel truck is all in one, and you tow your drive car. Or sell your truck to invest in a Volvo Automatic real private owned fifth wheel designed for private rv towing use. Then you have have dump tanks installed in the back of side panels to flush you rv tanks to take to the dump station. In that model you can take a travel car for two and mount the tow carriage to the flatbed of the truck. Service to your Volvo is easier & less expensive then a duelie of one ton truck.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Peter, Larry wants a fifth wheel and to keep his dually. We don’t want to go larger in truck or RV. Plus, all you described is way out of our budget. But thanks for the suggestion Alice

@ellengriffith4424 6 месяцев назад

Hi first huge fan!!! I watch all of your videos with my husband Rick. So for us the Brinkley toy hauler is on our short list, but you said the Brinkley is impractical. We would be buying our first RV and your opinion carries a lot of weight with me. So I need to understand why you think it’s impractical? Please elaborate if you have time. Thank you so much.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Hey Mrs. Rick 🤗 Brinkley is pricey because it’s “fancy” - we fell for that with the Solitude that is supposedly “luxury.” That’s what we meant. We don’t need crown molding in an RV😁 Plus, the Brinkley company is very new - so how do we know how they will last? We will always have time for the people that have time for us. 🤗 Alice

@texasmamaw6555 6 месяцев назад

Good luck !,,

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thank you 🤗 Alice

@allanwarmflash4440 6 месяцев назад

we have a grand design 337 2019 it a good rig but i want to be able to get to plumbing and electric sys a little easier we are looking to repl,ace our rig in about a year aliance and columbus are both in the runing with there 34 to 37 foot fith wheels happy hunting for your next rig safe travels

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Allan, Larry looks at access, too. Good luck with your hunt as well, Alice

@glamphiker 6 месяцев назад

I found a Keystone fifth wheel that checked almost all the boxes we need, but I just can't get past the fact that it has floor vents, especially next to the toilet. No vents in the floor is the main reason we bought our Grand Design, but we now need to move up to a larger size and none of the Grand Design fifth wheels have the floor plan we need. I really wish Keystone would stop putting the heat vents in the floors. Good luck on your journey.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

I totally get it. The vents and windows in the Grand Design is what sold me. But we have different needs now. I figure we can completely cover vents until we need them for heat. Did you look at Brinkley? It’s not for us, but you may like them. Next video will be about the smallest Brinkley - 33’ Alice

@Bigsky1886 4 дня назад

Don’t come knocking if the Schwintek is rocking

@spudbudy 6 месяцев назад

I find many of your must have & have not to be true, especially the comment about rain on the bedroom slide roof, I installed carpet padding and some shiplap on the ceiling and back wall. It's much quieter now. Good luck finding an RV without floor vents 98% have them even the expensive units, Most RV's have removed the skylights in the main area making them darker, some even removed the power vents, losing a vent source is not a good idea. We agree the single door fridge is too small but going to a double door residential is just too much space in a RV, removing the island would give you a lot of room but then you lose valuable storage and a big sink. You are correct about the windows, any dual pane and they just don't open enough need that cross ventilation. Access to the fridge, bathroom, bedroom without opening any slide is the only RV we will ever buy. Going smaller means losing a lot of overall storage and cargo capacity, We agree about the bedroom but smaller means less clothes, rooftop real estate is obviously going to be limited for solar panels as well as the front storage being smaller and a much lower basement area. toys just won't fit. Best of luck to you

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts. You obviously know what you are taking about. Going smaller means fitting in more places - state and national are so hard to get, opening up more available sites is a must. The floor vents, fridge, storage, all that we agree we need to adjust. We will downsize. We will definitely get a homebase - just not sure when. So why buy another large rig when it could be a year or months when we own land. As we continue to research, we are deciding on the priorities in the rig. If only manufacturers made a prototype of a new floorplan and made them live and travel in it for months. I bet the floorplan would be tweaked then instead waiting for customers to tell them what’s wrong Thanks again. Well thought out comment, Alice

@mikelayow815 6 месяцев назад

We have an Arcadia 3250 closet slide in bedroom couldn't get a bigger mattress because of the slide. Not enough storage, built a 4' sliding drawer under dinette also counter space by kitchen sink built a counter extender flip up with the cutting board that went on the sink. Bathroom does have a little sink but good size shower. The height of the unit is 13'4" anything lower than that cuts height down inside of bedroom. Happy rv hunting.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Mike, We will have to customize anything we get like you had to. Didn’t see any Arcadia’s fit for us. There are a few Cougars that might work, Alice

@janehargis9301 6 месяцев назад

Schwintek slides are dying out! Yay!

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Jane, will cables be better? We shall see Alice

@raoulroberts2024 6 месяцев назад

Check out the Cougar 25FKD. Got a bed slide, but it has some of your ins as well.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Raoul, appreciate the suggestion but we are only looking at fifth wheels, Alice

@raoulroberts2024 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents Yes, you did specify that. The search continues.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@raoulroberts2024We think we found the one. Stay tuned 😉 Alice

@raoulroberts2024 5 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents YAY! 🤞🏾 I am tuned in!

@rickpatterson4495 6 месяцев назад

I think we got lucking when we bought our 2016 GD 27RL (last year they made them good) not to big not to small just right. and i notice GD was not on your list.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Rick, We own a Grand Design Solitude- looking for something else, Alice

@TheKenchambers 6 месяцев назад

What would make a good video is to explore good used units

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We are going to look at used RVs. But which models? Years? It would be just the ones that might work for us, Alice

@cooperdstravels3547 6 месяцев назад

You mentioned the alliance 29rl what did you not like on that rig We had seen that one and the 32 rls We really liked both Just wondering why u did not

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

I really like the 29rl, but there is really limited closet, clothing storage because it does not have a wardrobe slide like many similar units. Larry

@lifeisgood15 6 месяцев назад

Sounds like you need a toy hauler/office option.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We mostly back into sites in state and national parks. We only need a small Section for his updesk. Appreciate the suggestion, Alice

@vancandew7375 6 месяцев назад

Your partner!! Lol😂😂😂

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Which one? 🤔 Alice

@StacyAnneH 2 месяца назад

The only ones I would consider are the Brinkley or Alliance. Cougar is made by Keystone and Keystone is part of THOR. All of the Thor RVs are having frame issues. And the fact that you are looking for a lightweight makes it worse. The problem is, to make them lighter they are using thin steel for the frames. I've seen some as thin as 1/8 inch. They of course all have a Lipportt frame. Brinkley does use Lipport, BUT it is built to their specs. More cross beams and heavier steel. I've heard reports but can't confirm that LIpportt uses lower quality steel to keep the price down. Thor also owns Airstream & Winnebago, which used to be THE brand to own, but they are having frame problems too. It can't be the slides because Airstream doesn't have them. You can't build these big frames out of thin steel to keep cost and weight down and think they won't break. If you are boondocking, you REALLY need a sturdy frame like the Brinkley. I don't know much about Alliance other than I'm not hearing negative stuff and they aren't owned By Thor. Anything Thor owns is pretty much crap now. They own all the ones that used to be quality, like Starcraft, Winnebago, Coachmen, Airstream and Keystone. Another one I hear good things about is Oliver. You might check them out. Basically stay away from Thor for sure. Pretty much anything built in Elkhart has a Lipportt frame, BUT they build what the RV company orders. So check and see what problems others are having! ie the Brinkley is a Lipportt, but they didn't cheap out on it. Alliance seems to build their own frame, so that may be a plus.

@kcsmpatter 6 месяцев назад

If a 4 season rig is a priority, I can’t imagine any half ton towable will come close to fitting that bill. They are way too light to have proper insulation to keep the hot and cold out/in like your Solitude does.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thats a good point, but for us, we try to avoid Really cold temps, some winter days in florida get into the 20s but that is pretty rare. All of our winters have been in florida and probably always will. Im still in with solitude but Alice wants lighter and smaller. Larry

@dbsimmons 6 месяцев назад

I have a 2023 Grand Design 2670mk for sale. It is a 32' and has lots of improvements.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks, but we are looking at fifth wheels. Plus, we showed in the video we want the couch on the camping side. But good luck. Join the GD Imagine Facebook page and see if you can sell it there. Alice

@dbsimmons 6 месяцев назад

Thank you, I posted it there. They thought I was selling it too cheap. Lol

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

@@dbsimmons What? So raise the price 😂

@dbsimmons 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents we ordered a new rv that will be in mid February so we want to sold so we don't have to pull it to pick up the new one to trade in. I'm selling it just above trade in.

@mitchmead5772 6 месяцев назад

Grand Design Reflection 270BN

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Only reflection we considered was the 303 - others had too many issues

@luminousveiws 6 месяцев назад

From your lists to Elkhart board rooms! We do months at a time also. Our 1/2 ton is too lightly built. Those are OUT for me.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

I wish we had more say in the way RVs are designed and built, Alice

@rickrios9521 6 месяцев назад

I remember when Larry got sick, in one of the videos Alice was concerned about being the driver of the rig. Alice are you comfortable driving this type of rig and threading a needle with it? It’s a concern that we are discussing in our rig hunt.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Rick, Short answer? No. I wanted a Class C But we are members of the Motor Coach which will help you get your rig “home” if need be. If Larry were so sick he couldn’t tow? Even if I “could” I would be too upset. Alice

@xtrlo 6 месяцев назад

Have you guys checked Live Oak for land?

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We have looked everywhere within an hour of UF Shands hospital. Thanks Alice

@bayarea6464 6 месяцев назад

Check out outdoors rv made in Oregon all those other rvs are made with the same frame they bend and brake they are all cheap made with a hefty price tag

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Thanks. We looked. Alice

@peterdragonz4219 6 месяцев назад

Just curious, why Arctic Fox didn’t make the list? I’m also looking to buy a new 5th wheel this year. I keeping coming back to Arctic Fox. I know I’ll have to go west to get it because of their dealer locations. I’ve spent a lot time in forums and RU-vid looking for issues. If I do buy 1st thing will be the MoRide independent suspension up grade and then that new flex armor roof replacement. I’m guessing about $15000 in upgrades right of the bat. But, when I sale my home to full time I think they are worth the cost. Any thoughts?

@j.l.salayao8055 6 месяцев назад

Arctic Fox(es), OutDoorsRV, Nash, Wind River, and any Northwood Manufacturing products our fine rigs but have a few selected dedicated buyers for their practical intended use. We full-time on our current OutDoorsRV 25RDS 31 feet travel trailer with one slide in the living room for the past six years and counting. We have driven it to washboards, rugged terrains, and places that are questionable for this rig but it keeps on impressing me every time. Never visited a dealer lot or repair shop since day one. There are few things to fix and replace but, are simple and nothing major. The Arctic Fox line up 5th wheel, truck campers, and travel trailers are nicely built product but only a couple selected buyers and owners who truly appreciate the quality, finish, and durability of the rig. I say, go for it! Now, in our six years anniversary on the road as a full-time RV dwellers, we are pushing the cash envelope a little as we are going to try to purchase our replacement rig which is a 2023 DRV FullHouse 5th wheel toy hauler to keep on our journey on the road. Safe travels and happy trails!

@KenandCarla 6 месяцев назад

Getting the flex armor on our arctic fox 25y in march

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

We originally looked at Arctic Foxes. But couldn’t find any near us to check out in person. Plus, there are features we are moving away from. I agree they are solid rigs. Good luck with your new rig if you get it. But never thought of a DRV going off road 😁 Alice

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Ken, That’s a serious upgrade. Not one we can afford 😁 Alice

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Peter, Arctic Fox is a great rig. Built solid. There are just some floorplan issues we can’t see work around. Plus, very hard to find one near us. We have heard good and bad about MoRide - we don’t see affording it right now. Plus, is there a long wait? Our solar system that Larry installed himself was about $10,000 - but we did that before he quit his high paying job. Keep cash in reserve. Because of all we have gone through - especially Larry’s rare incurable neuro disorder - we are still prioritizing getting a homebase. Just some thoughts, Alice

@danielwessinger1495 6 месяцев назад

Have you considered the Lance 2465

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Daniel, No. Because it isn’t a fifth wheel. And it has more of what we don’t want than what we want. We wish Lance made fifth wheels now, Alice

@pvf1799 6 месяцев назад

We had our North Point in for service last summer. While there, there were many Alliance 5’ers in the service center. I was STRONGLY advised by the service manager and service provider to avoid Alliance at all costs. They are plagued with issues. Felt you should know.

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Oh, wow. Thanks for that info, Alice

@davidnoyes3373 6 месяцев назад

If you want one that doesn’t fall apart buy the brinkley

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

David, It’s a new company that still needs to be tested. The price is much like our GD Solitude- paying for more because it’s pretty. Maybe in a couple years, when we see how they last? And can buy used Alice

@davidnoyes3373 6 месяцев назад

@@DownsizingMakesCents you should check out the frames and suspension on the brinkley. They are the only manufacturer that oversizes their frames and add summo springs. In addition they plump. Everything like a house unlike others who use wrong pex fittings and inevitably have leaks. Grand design is a prime example of cheaping on frames . They have hendreds of broken frames because of frame flex.

@DownsizingMakesCents 5 месяцев назад

@@davidnoyes3373Our expert welder / custom frame builder company said that Sumo caused our bent frame?

@mitchmead5772 6 месяцев назад

New 2024 Alliance PARADIGM 310RL Most of bells and whistles

@DownsizingMakesCents 6 месяцев назад

Mitch, appreciate the suggestion. Taller than what we want. Too close to the size we have now, Alice