I am doing research and looking into truck slide in campers. I have looked at video's about campers and the condensation problems. I was wondering about the aluminum slide-in's like Camplite. I like the idea of having nothing that can rot (no wood product or steel to rust), is this a good idea? Any thoughts would be appreciated.
The Schweitzers on the road said
08:04 PM Nov 28, 2017
I can highly recommend Northern Lite Campers and the Bigfoot. Both are clamshell designs and not prone to rot.
Both are not cheap but hold their value very well.
-- Edited by The Schweitzers on the road on Tuesday 28th of November 2017 08:07:06 PM
The Bear II said
12:16 PM Dec 1, 2017
Rot is a possible problem with any RV with wood components or structure if proper preventative maintenance is not performed on a regular basis. There are a lot of campers and RVs still on the road from the 50's and 60's that have little or no signs of water damage.
There are moisture prevention products to reduce or eliminate condensation problems.
Keep in mind most RV'ers end up buying 3 + RVs during their RV life. Usually, they start small like a slide in camper and move up in size until they reach a 30 feet or longer RV.
Here's what I always use when considering a new RV---- If I'm on a week long trip and the weather turns nasty and I'm stuck inside for 3 to 5 days how comfortable will I be in a small RV vs. a larger RV. It's very comfortable in our current 38ft 5th wheel when the weather prevents us from going outside. 400 square feet of living space is a lot better than less than 100 square feet.
Buy the largest RV you can afford, you won't regret it. They are intimidating at first but after a few trips you'll get very comfortable with it.
Good luck.
kb0zke said
07:48 PM Dec 2, 2017
Welcome, Jumpmaster. Choosing the right RV is based on intended use. Are you planning on full-timing, or just an occasional weekend trip? How many people and pets? Any mobility problems? Remember that the truck campers in the showroom are sitting on the floor, not three feet up. If you are thinking that you can drive to the campsite, unload the camper, and then use the truck, you can. Just remember that there is more to loading a pickup camper than just driving under it. That, in itself, can be a challenge for some people. Remember, too, that you are looking at something like an F350 dually.
A Class C probably a better pick for most people, as there is more room. The exception is if you are going to be going off-road. Then the pickup camper may make more sense, but remember that is will likely be somewhat taller and the center of gravity is much higher. Some travel trailers are designed for more off-road use than others, and one of those, coupled with a 4WD F250 might be a great off-road choice. No, it isn't going to places that require a Jeep set up for hard core off-roaders, but it might well be a good choice for getting to that secret hunting/fishing spot.
If you share your "mission profile" with us we can advise you better.
Jumpmaster said
08:37 PM Dec 3, 2017
Thanks for the responses. I am already questioning my choice of only looking at truck campers. I have no mobility issues, very healthy and I will have either 1 or 2 pets. Not sure why but I was concerned about towing another axeled vehicle behind my truck. My thinking was since I buying a new truck I could avoid some transportation issues. I am planning on full time RV’ing. A small travel trailer would solve some of my storage problems l think I would have with a camper and also the ability to unhook and use the truck for other things. I even looked up the factory location (Indiana) and was thinking about stopping by if I am ever in the neighbourhood.
I am thinking about a 3/4 ton Chevy/Ford truck, I do not want a dually. I have had trucks in the past so I know some of the issues.
Thanks again
I am doing research and looking into truck slide in campers. I have looked at video's about campers and the condensation problems. I was wondering about the aluminum slide-in's like Camplite. I like the idea of having nothing that can rot (no wood product or steel to rust), is this a good idea? Any thoughts would be appreciated.
I can highly recommend Northern Lite Campers and the Bigfoot. Both are clamshell designs and not prone to rot.
Both are not cheap but hold their value very well.
-- Edited by The Schweitzers on the road on Tuesday 28th of November 2017 08:07:06 PM
There are moisture prevention products to reduce or eliminate condensation problems.
Keep in mind most RV'ers end up buying 3 + RVs during their RV life. Usually, they start small like a slide in camper and move up in size until they reach a 30 feet or longer RV.
Here's what I always use when considering a new RV---- If I'm on a week long trip and the weather turns nasty and I'm stuck inside for 3 to 5 days how comfortable will I be in a small RV vs. a larger RV. It's very comfortable in our current 38ft 5th wheel when the weather prevents us from going outside. 400 square feet of living space is a lot better than less than 100 square feet.
Buy the largest RV you can afford, you won't regret it. They are intimidating at first but after a few trips you'll get very comfortable with it.
Good luck.
A Class C probably a better pick for most people, as there is more room. The exception is if you are going to be going off-road. Then the pickup camper may make more sense, but remember that is will likely be somewhat taller and the center of gravity is much higher. Some travel trailers are designed for more off-road use than others, and one of those, coupled with a 4WD F250 might be a great off-road choice. No, it isn't going to places that require a Jeep set up for hard core off-roaders, but it might well be a good choice for getting to that secret hunting/fishing spot.
If you share your "mission profile" with us we can advise you better.