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RVing 101: Considerations for Choosing a Small Towable RV
Smaller towable RVs are a popular choice among campers. This type of RV is growing in appeal, and it’s easy to see why.
Pros
1. Kinder price tag. There can be cost benefits right up front as you look to purchase an RV. Smaller RVs are typically more cost-effective, and that goes for used RVs as well. You may be able to purchase a smaller RV for cash, thereby
not needing to take out a loan. However, some of the new teardrops hitting the market are so engineered that the cost per square foot is higher than an ultra-light trailer.
2. Better drivability and maneuverability. Smaller RVs are typically more comfortable for drivers to handle when traveling. They’re easier to get used to and handle differently than a larger RV when on the road. Gas stops will be less frequent as smaller RVs are a little easier on the gas mileage due to the low profile and overall design.
3. Smaller tow vehicle needs. If you already own an SUV
or even a minivan, then you may not need to purchase a vehicle to tow your new RV. Check your existing vehicle’s weight limitations. Of course, if your wish list for an RV leads you to an RV that is outside the limits of your current vehicle, you will need to refine your search, or consider changing your tow vehicle as well.
4. More camping options. Smaller RVs offer you more flexibility for campsites and camping destinations because of their small footprint.
5. Easy for set-up and take-down. Even with slideouts or pop- up roofs, smaller travel trailers don’t take much extra time to set up.
6. Easier to store. Some smaller RVs can be folded up to be short and flat, or the lower ceiling height may still be low enough already to fit into a standard garage. Smaller trailers are also generally shorter. This saves on finding another place at which to store the RV, as well as the potential cost of the space.
7. Gets you outside. Although there is some space for eating and hanging out in a smaller RV, the reduced footprint will encourage you to get outside for more reasons and more often. For example, some small RVs come with
easier to break into. For expensive items such as electronics, if you’re going to be away from the campsite, it’s a better idea to store and lock those items into your tow vehicle.
But not all intruders walk on two legs. Bears and racoons are some of the worst bandits in soft-sided units. To
help avoid creature break-ins, additional food storage is important. Keep it out of your RV but in an enclosed space. Noise can also be a problem, whether you’re the cause or the listener, so it’s important to keep your activity levels at a reasonable decibel.
4. Double duty. You likely will need to share space with other functions and purposes, such as the dining room table flattening into a bed. Stationary spaces
are less likely. Some bins used for storing gear and supplies and other items may need to be stored in the trailer and take up floor space, then you’ll need to remove them before you can enter or use the RV.
Useful Definitions
As you embark on your search for the ideal small travel trailer for your camping needs, you’ll encounter various types of RV. We’ve collected the most useful definitions here so that you know which terms to utilize in your search, or when speaking with a dealer or seller.
• Ultralight travel trailer: Towables that are under 2,500 pounds. There are a select few that are less than 1,000 pounds.
• Lightweight travel trailer: Under 6,000 pounds dry weight.
• A-frame travel trailer: A hardsided, compact pop-up camper that has a signature “A” roof when expanded.
• Pop-up camper: “...a lighter weight RV that allows for towing behind many typical family vehicles, including some small cars. Pop-ups are folded down to a more compact size for easy storage and travel.” GoRVing.com
• Teardrop travel trailer: “... compact in size, [it] has
foldout outdoor kitchens. And you get the added benefit of spending more time outside.
Cons
1. Size. If you have a larger family or want more room to spread out, then a smaller towable RV might not be the best choice for you.
2. Amenities. Many small towables are very comfortable and offer the most important aspect of camping: shelter from the elements. Soft-sided RVs can be more difficult to insulate from heat or cold, and some don’t come equipped with a bathroom; however, manufacturers are increasingly adding this function to smaller units so you don’t have to skimp on this function.
3. Privacy and security. Even though you can lock the door of a smaller trailer, if you have soft-sided slideouts, it may be
traditionally been designed with a back section that
curves downward to close into a point, giving the RV the recognizable shape. These small travel trailers can be pulled by the family car or a small SUV equipped with a hitch but have a basic kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area.” GoRVing.com
When it comes to choosing an RV, you have a lot of options. As you make your wish list and think about what kind of camping you’re going to do, whether you’ll be camping a lot or a little, budget, and how many campers will be coming along, then you’ll be able to narrow down your search.
Ready to start looking? Visit a local dealership – our dealer members are the perfect place to start – and look around at RV forums. Join one to ask the community for advice – most RVers are more than willing to help and can offer insight as to which direction to take as well as other considerations.
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