When I bought my pop-up camper several people suggested I would outgrow it. Still, I went for it. For a first camper I wanted something new since I knew nothing, and I wanted lightweight since I never towed anything. This was a good choice for me. However, I am thinking of an upgrade by next spring.
Limitations of the pop up:
- port-a-potty that you carry to an outhouse or other toilet to empty
- no shower
- no gray water tank (drains to the outside)
- extra mechanical system to raise and lower the pop up top (my only two serious problems on the road have been with this system)
- super cold in winter
Advantages of a pop up
- ultra light, under 2000 pounds
- great storage (in my model)
- fabulous windows and tent-like feel when sleeping in bunk ends
Another problem: pop ups are not well made in general. Materials are flimsy. Every time I go camping, something falls off or breaks, including:
- refrigerator latch broke 1st time out
- assorted bolts and screws appear here and there
- original curtain fabric extremely thin
- switch to activate motor that raises and lowers pop up top is funky
- one window zipper pulled away from fabric
- mattresses are awful
- etc
- etc
- etc
The quality issue could be true for trailer-type campers in general. Regardless, I am now confident when towing a trailer and know more about what I want. The options I am considering over the winter are:
- Hybrid (regular trailer with fold down tent bunk ends). I love love love sleeping with windows unzipped in warm weather. The bunk ends fold down; no funky mechanism to raise and lower.
- Classic camping trailer, ultralight. This is one of my faves
- Class B – I could only afford an older one, like a 2002 Road Trek. Beautiful, no towing, but small living space and big for everyday driving.
If I tow something it must be light. The van is rated to pull 5000 pounds. Of course, the van is getting old and has 100,000 miles but should last a while longer. When needed, I will replace with another cargo van (hoping to wait long enough for the Transit to come into my price range.
Why a cargo van? When I am retired and traveling more, the van offers great storage. Also, I can keep a bed set up on top of the storage bins for quick stops on long haul trips.
Any suggestions? I am equally attracted to each option at this point. The camper upgrade will likely be as intense as the last time!
Thanks for your quick response, Jane, to my most recent comment…..yes, I believe we will meet “in this life” :)
I am from Iowa and plan to RV that way soon to reconnect with dear cousins and visit Mom and Dad’s graves.
Finding the right RV borders on self indulgence, I believe. I really spoiled myself with a chunk of me retirement and purchased a Class C 24′. Through the years I have owned the Casita, rpod, motorhome, but never one of those delightfully cute trailers at which you are looking. I was unsuccessful in hooking up the trailers so opted for my Class C and absolutely love it! The longest I have lived in it has been 5 months and, quite frankly, I could easily be a full timer except for my love of piano and my grand! I currently do not tow a vehicle but recently bought a towable manual Scion for that purpose when it arises. I have a folding electric bike which fits into my side storage and use it for transportation. Of course there are many times I just unhook and take my house with me…..don’t like leaving the dogs for that long anyway.
These are just thoughts; I will enjoy your hunt with you!!
joan
Love the electric bike idea. That is awesome. I am sure you love the Class C! Thanks for commenting. Let me know when/if you are coming to this area. You are welcome anytime!