I hear this all the time. The national average wait time as of rn is about 71 days. People want me to have all their specific parts ready, available and in stock. But if youre going to use your warranty 1. We have to prove to the dealership that the parts are broken meaning you have to show us that meaning bring us the rv. 2. I have to order parts which is about a 2 week wait. 3 the warranty will have to approve the payment of the parts or we eat the cost if they dont which means we have to wait for that until i order. 4 other people are in line in front of you waiting for their unit to be fixed. Theres alot of impatient people and i hear "i paid yall alotta money!" On a daily basis but it just makes me hate them. Theres alot of really entitled old people that call every. single. day. Asking if their rv is done yet like thats going to speed up the process somehow. Incessant calls just slow us down from doing actual work. Im the assistant manager at an RV dealership and i hear so so many complaints and id say half of them are just nitpicks and whining. If youre going to get your RV fixed dont bring it in 3 days before you have a trip planned cause thats no where near enough time. No RV dealer is as streamlined as a car dealer because youre buying an entire house on wheels. Theres not 7 areas with a parts breakdown like a car theres like 35.
Solo full time traveler here. I haven't seen the improvements i expected for 30 years. In fact, they were built better back then then. #1 quality, drawers built to last and heavier duty slides to handle things bouncing in the drawer while driving. No staples and 1/4" screws hold. #2. Stand behind what they build/ sell. For every day it's in the shop, or waiting for a repair on warranty, it should automatically extend the warranty day for day. It would give them a push to solve this issue... which I also suspect has to do with them running the clock out on the warranty. If it's not fixed when they hand it back to the customer, then it's basically still waiting for the repair. Plus a part repaired or replaced under warranty, should be covered for 1 year from replacement/ repair date. The owner gave money for a working product with a warranty... but usually just gets a headache. The first company to respect the Customer will sail way beyond the rest. #3. Dinette/ booth is a waste of space... has been for a long time. How about something useable like a home office, or durable/ comfy theater seats that can also be a couch. Or customizeable options, I need a place to store an inflatable paddle board, but would rather that have an exterior access. #4. Storage, i want to take my shoes off at the door and have them out of sight. How about a little coat closet/ hook with shoe storage at the bottom. And storage in general, I want to be able to put everything in its spot, see the old class C lazy daze. #5. Comfort, what is up with furniture that looks nice, but after an hour the foam sinks and collapses, (and I'm underweight). And cover it with something that lasts. I'm also a little over 6 ft and in my Rockwood the medicine cabinet and windows are all hung 1-2 feet too low, how many people are 4 feet tall? The window in the door should have a deep tint like the windows, not textured so you can't see whose there!! #6. Security dead bolt, programmable code locks, camera at the door,... in fact, cameras have gotten so cheap. put 360 degree cameras with the option to record. There's no good reason these issues haven't been addressed yet. #7. Require the designers to go live in the rv for exetended periods of time, and use the product. And look at how far ahead the designs are in Europe. #9. Mini splits and solar, lots of solar. And large tanks. I like to travel slowly, and sitesee along the way... eventually find a town and start for a season before meandering again for awhile. #8. and just for fun...a side Patio with outdoor kitchen. It would be so much nicer to walk out and cook, or have coffee or just hanging out. Living in an RV full time can feel tight, but a patio that is just a wall that drops down could add so much usable space without adding a slide! Some designs came out with it 10 or 15 years ago... I'm surpassed it's still so hard to find, or possibly impossible on a unit under 30'. Love your videos Josh!
Point #8: they do make side patios! Stryker makes a 30 something footer with a side patio and the big behemoth GD momentum’s do as well. I totally agree with you on the solar. At this point in the evolution of how we use RVs, it really should be a standard. Or at least an offered package (and not the little stupid trickle panel that they call “solar”) 🙄
Manufacturers need to do a better job on Quality control. Dealers should not have to rebuild or fix a camper when it gets to the sales lot . Manufacturers all so need to pay up when Dealers repair or replace damaged or faulty equipment an supply said equipment to dealer in timely manner. That is why Buyers are upset an mad at Dealership who can't get parts
I'm currently working through NRVTA to get my certification. My current instructor just shared an actual service call he made recently. A woman of means had recently (less than a year) purchased a $300K coach. She went on a trip in Europe and when she returned her coach's electrical system was acting up, and the engine would not start. He arrived and discovered the fuel pump had gone bad. Upon informing her she insisted the pump was new as the previous technician had replaced it along with numerous other things. She handed him the service invoice from the previous tech and he found charges for parts the coach didn't even have! In all the total he charged her was $44K. He handed the invoice back to her and said for her to call her lawyer. He took pictures of the engine compartment and every part was still painted Cummings red. There wasn't even a single scratch on any of the bolts. He felt so bad he replaced the fuel pump and some fuses for free. Her case is still pending.
I just got back from the Coachmen Rally at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds. We had over 40 Class "B"'s there many of them were solo travelers. It is an ideal platform for solo traveling since it is easy to drive, no towing a trailer, easy setup, and basically park it anywhere. Many of these travelers were women. Two single bed models seem to be an ideal situation, using the second bed for additional storage or even a desk for working on the road. Many manufacturers are adding additional tech to making Internet access easier or having a way to add Starlink system or other 5G system. Many of these women also traveled with their pets. As far as pets are concerned; something as simple as a eye hook for a leash on the running boards or frame on an RV. Possible adding a drawer system at floor level that would have a food and water bowl available. Something really needs to be done as far as RV techs are concerned. Car dealers like to brag how many of their techs are certified either by the manufacturer or some other certification process. This is especially true with many of the newer high tech integration systems coming into the market place. Something needs to be done to increase this amongst RV dealers. I have had nothing but bad experiences with my dealer and I am currently looking for somewhere else to have my repairs and extended warranty inspections done. Thanks again Josh for being the lone honest voice on the web.
Josh, thanks for your content. You asked the question. The area that legislation could improve in the RV industry is consistent warranty responsibility to the end user. In the automotive business it is pretty simple in a legal sense, you break and the dealer fixes. The dealer is responsible for the repair. The manufacturer is responsible to pay the dealer a retail rate for the repair in most states. In the RV industry the dealer shrugs and blames the manufacturer, the manufacturer shrugs and blames the vendor/supplier and we stand in a circle and point fingers. I have paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for an RV and although they are nicer it still comes out the same. As a customer I do not care who, what, when or where just repair, my broken expensive RV in a reasonable amount of time. If the manufacturers had a decent dealer body it would not matter where the customer bought their RV. When I retired from the automotive industry over 60% of our operating profit came from service, parts and body shop. Service can be the most profitable part of the business and results in satisfied customers and repeat buyers. The RV industry operates in the 1970's methods, it is the 2020's, come on!
So I went by the Richmond VA location this week ready to buy from Bish based on your videos. I get there and only a few RVs are on the lot. A very nice man took his time to talk to us but told us you were moving out of the area. So the bottom line after getting crappy service from General RV and Campers world is I’m back to square one. It’s hard enough dealing with problems when the dealer is in your town but I couldn’t pull the trigger with an out of town dealer with no means to get it serviced. We need a lemon law for campers. I love camping and having a camper but it’s the most frustrating item I’ve ever owned. That said I’ve owned campers since1999 and the last 2, a 2020 and 2022 have been pure junk. Grand design imagine and coachmen spirit.
For twenty years, I've been camping with my dogs and my horse. (That's like camping with 3 toddlers.) As I've gotten older, the future looks different to me. The future now is solo camping in a TT under 25 feet with safety features for me and my dogs. Ventless floors are a good start. Pet friendly upholstery is another. A FULL bed would be great. Lots of drawers and maybe a small hanging wardrobe. Bedside tables for the necessities of solo women camping. A dinofa is fine. Or a bar seating/ office space for a desk is perfect. Lots of outlets, including inverter prepped. Kitchen storage, good pantry, no oven for me, and put that microwave/airfryer where i can reach it without a step stool. Have an appropriate backsplash behind the sink AND stove! Or how about the entire kitchen wall? So many things we solo women campers could tell the industry. Safety is important. I'd like an installed alarm and cameras on both sides of the trailer that i can check through my phone or tv. Interior Temp alarm for my dogs. Always a reciever hitch for toys and the dog fence. Two days of training in the "how toos and whatfors" would be brilliant. Thanks Josh for all you do and all you dhare and listening.
As a solo traveler many of the non bh “couples camper” can be modified for solo travel. Need two axles, greater than 1500 cc, dual fridges, . One thing bishs could offer especially for solo women rvers just starting out is to provide a two day training of how to take care of the trailer or mh. I think along with your new repair policy this would significantly steer customers to your company. We are kind of tired of being blown off by repair centers, mansplaining, condescension. We make up the majority of the solo travelers, start catering to us, we talk to each, good experiences as well as bad get around.
Women travel solo percentage is higher, but broken down more men solo camp than women, but the gap is closing for sure fyi. A training class for all is a good idea. Most companies will spend time going over everything before you leave the lot already,but any extra advice is always a good idea
BRAVO! This is all great stuff! As a solo, brand new rv owner the amount of things i DIDN'T know was astronomical. All of this information would have helped in my decision on purchase enormously! Im considering trading and upgrading my trailer now that i have a little more knowledge on what i need, want, and what i DONT want to repeat. Keep it coming Josh! This is great stuff. I have a 2023 and am looking forward to 2024 or 2025 upgrade. BUT..until the industry stops building crap and puts it together i wont purchase anything. Im looking and waiting!
I love how manufactures are starting to pay attention though. We I first started there was virtually nothing to choose from and you had to carve out a space for a workstation. Now, there are at least some with desks or multi-use areas (think mid-bunk rooms). Still, we do need more options!
I really appreciate you asking on behalf of the manufacturers about “what makes a solo camper” because I’ve been heavily considering a camper for primarily solo use for a few months now. For me what would make something a solo camper vs a couples camper would be a combination of things that A: save length/weight at the cost of 2 person comfort and B: increase single person utility at the cost of 2 person utility. For example I don’t want two tiny wardrobes on each side of the bed because that means less clothes per cubic foot and it means I have to walk around the bed just to get to all my clothes or potentially offering a full size bed instead of a queen bed especially if it was an east/west bed where those few inches can make big changes. The other thing I’d like to see to make a better solo camper is for manufacturers to get away from this mindset of “small camper are for short trips” especially when it comes to kitchen storage. If I’m going alone I don’t want something 30+ feet long because if I hit a tricky spot I don’t have someone with me who can spot for me trying to pull into a tight space or get around a tight corner so I really want the smallest camper possible but it seems like the kitchen space is the first to go when making a camper smaller and I don’t want to have to go to the store in the middle of a camping trip because there’s nowhere to put all the food I would need otherwise. I do like that many manufacturers have already moved out of the mindset that every unit needs a sofa and dinette and we’ve been seeing more and more dinofas and dinette/lounge convertible areas because that sort of combining duties that you won’t need at the same time to save length/weight is great but I’d still call most of those couples campers because it’s often clear that they were designed for two people and they either become more effort for one person or have a bunch of space that’s useless if there’s not a second person(I don’t really need to access both sides of the bed if I’m alone)
I am a solo camper and own a ‘22 Rockwood GeoPro 19fbs which is perfect for me and my schnauzers. I love it. But, there is one thing I would want no matter what kind of RV I had and that is proper plumbing with shut off valves and easy access to connections. I would be willing to pay a bit more for good, compatible water lines plumbed to code. Everybody knows water is the worst enemy of a RV. I check water connections every time I tow just to make sure something hasn’t jiggled loose and the hardest part of that process is getting to the connection. And, the fact my little Geo Pro does not have a dinette is my favorite thing. I made some small swivel side tables that fits into the jacknife sofa cup holders that work very well indeed.
As a future solo camper...and a male at that...I can potentially work with a fair amount of design stuff. I personally find booth dinettes to be a waste. I don't need to sleep 10 people. I would appreciate a focus on a theater seat or a couch that is long enough to be able to comfortably lay on long ways (not faux theater seat or love seat kind of thing). I am willing to accommodate the lack of a dinette with a table, TV tray, bar seating, etc. I think something that isn't dinette for 4 would be a useful option too...table with a chair or two. I often now just eat at my home desk watching Josh the RV Nerd videos on my desktop computer. I'm very ok with that. Bunks are useful, but not as sleeping space. They would be storage, or a la Ember, a convertible space. So fold up bunks with cargo doors are more interesting than bunks shoved in a corner with a single small access space from the middle of the RV. I'd love to see some sort of organized storage...I love the wicker baskets that some models have. A storage space that was a stack of 4 or 8 of those (floor to ceiling) would be useful as a future solo full timer. Thanks Josh!
Another home run Nerd. I watched most of your videos. We just bought privately a 21 Transcend 200mk that was barely used and got what I think was a good deal. Interest rates and fuel prices aside, the biggest shock is the prices the campground resorts are charging. $80-$100/night? Thats almost hotel pricing. These resorts are the same places not allowing units older than 10 yrs. Keep on keepin on Josh.
if you think 80-100 is hotel pricing, that tells me you don't stay in many hotels. RV parks have gone up, but hotels have also, and they had a head start.
I'm often a solo camper, and travel with my dog. One thing I find useful, and would like more of: cameras. I've got no one to assist when backing and such.
Thanks for the question of solo rv design. Women like feminine designs. Just because we're are rving doesn't mean we are not able to enjoy our comfort space. I'm going on my first travel trailer run to Georgia today. Overjoyed. Buying a Snoozy next year and will be creating a soft beautiful space away from homebase. Bringing my dogs and will be modifying it with leash rings outside and a sink in the wet bath. Your videos are so needed. Keep up the great work.
Hey Josh, Shopping for an RV now and taking my time. I would be a solo camper with two larger dogs. For me, the more floor space I can create the better. For those rainy days or at night when you want your pets inside with and don't want to step over them. Plus, the no sink in the bathroom on some models baffles me, and its usually because there's bunks. I do think the solo market with dog(s) floor plan is overlooked. More Murphy beds on smaller models would be great too! Oh, and tandem axles to please! Ok, I'm done. For now. Thank you Josh!😊
As a first time RVer and a solo female RVer who is not handy, the most important thing to me is reliability. I bought a new Jayco because of the 2 year warranty. I've already had a long list of warranty work done and she needs to go back for more. I haven't had any problem with the RV systems -- they've performed well. But the interior build out feels like the quality of a dollhouse. I'd like the RV manufacturers to consider putting out a basic, no frills line built out with sturdier materials and fasteners -- even if it means sacrificing the homey aesthetic. Another important thing to me is keeping the weight low so I can tow with an SUV with upgraded suspension. Knowing what I know now, I would be looking at a used Lance 1475 or a used Safari or Casita.
I am a solo camper and I don’t need every seating surface to convert to a bed. There is one van that is otherwise perfect but the only place to sit is a dinette for four. Ordinarily I would just rip it out and put in a recliner loveseat and some table mounts, but the seat bases are full of electrical equipment and the heater. I’ve looked at some other vans and at least they can rotate the front seats, so there are a few more options to sit. My opinion is that if many of the vans have beds where one person has to crawl over the other, it’s better as a single. I have seen a couple where the bed/couch could sleep one or pull out to be a crawl over double and those are the ones I like better. Otherwise a van with two twin beds is great for a couple, but it’s just wasted space that could be used for storing something. Something I really like that I have seen on some newer vans is getting rid of propane and generators. With induction stoves replacing built in propane inside freeing up counter space, and then the heat and hot water running off the gas tank, like the Aquahot system. Then also I like a lot some lithium battery systems that can turn on the gas engine to charge up when low via a second alternator. Without that generator under the van, you can go crazy and have a spare tire, or larger tanks. I also like the recirculating system that returns water to the tank until it’s hot enough to shower with, so the water lasts longer. Unfortunately I found two vans that each have some of those things, but not all of them plus be great for a solo traveler
I can’t commit to buying a camper from these mainstream manufacturers until the product offered is not only more robust but they support dealerships with warranty costs and pay for the labor they refuse to invest in on the assembly line. All the issues I’ve had have been from poor workmanship from the factory and dealers are left hanging with angry customers and new inventory that’s crap and destined to be needing repair immediately after leaving the lot.
You’re right on that. I went and got a camper one time the camper dealer sold my camper and wanted me to buy his new one and told me the contract was no good. I went to a lawyer. I told me the contract was good. What happened was that he kept pushing the issue so much Dumbass gave him I got the camper, but I repo it
As someone who bought an absolute lemon from normal stuff (speaker falling out of ceiling, bad trim etc) to major issues (it's currently in to have both front walls rebuild because a seal wasn't put in at all on a slide and a window was installed incorrectly) I have NO recourse to get it replaced and my warranty is almost out (it was extended). I can't sell it because of the current damage, I can't put it through any of the consignments because even though repaired, it has extensive water damage. I am totally stuck with an expensive (just under the 50000 needed for the federal lemon law) paperweight.
A couple’s camper should DEFINITELY not have an outdated uncomfortable “Denny’s” diner booth dinette as the only seating option😮Give me a comfortable sofa or theater seating or give me death😂
Smaller Brinkley 5th wheel checks a lot of boxes. Ideal RV -couples RV, has roomy theater seating across from TV, bar seating- no dinette, king size bed. Usable kitchen counter space.
A perfect solo camper would be like a casita? A wet bath, all 12V, propane if any for cooking only & a diesel type heater! Fiberglass or not for affordability & roughly a GVWR of 4Lbs. 🤷♂️ 35:18
So I feel I was scammed by the actual dealership! Made a deal with dealer 3 hours from home, for a model I couldn’t find locally. When I got there for the trade, they came up with excuses on my trade (front cap fade, new tires) granted it was 4 years old. Boosted the deal by $3k !! Should have walked, but was already feeling the pressure!! Anyway went through with deal. Through FB site learned of someone questioning about a trailer and with some questions learned it was my trade. We have become friends since then. They said they too were given the runaround about the trailer, said they would have to pay for cap to be painted! Dealer did paint. This past spring while on a trip they had both tires on one side blow out causing considerable damage to the Rv and causing them to cancel vacation. The tires were the original and had not been replaced!!! So buyer beware, individuals aren’t the only ones who can scam you!!!
This update was tailored for me. I am a solo male camper with two 50 lb Aussiedoodles. I currently have a small no bath model, and I honestly can't think of any extra design that is needed for pets, but I would love to hear from others. And, as a solo person, I believe some if not most "couple's campers" are pretty close to solo. But, as I think you said "Everyone camps different " and I firmly believe that!.
Toll roads now send you the bill in the mail. Also parking tickets get mailed too. A friend had to borrow a vehicle from us for a emergency trip out of state - we got a parking ticket in mail. Great video and lots of good information.
That’s a good reason you NEVER let anybody drive your car no matter what the reason let them rent one. That ticket is on your record because it’s your car and license plate on it. And if you don’t know Onstar or anything like it other manufacturers have track your driving data speed, fast starts & stops etc. which they sell to insurance companies then your insurance rates go up. Another reason NEVER to give your car to anybody ever no matter what the excuse is let them rent one.
I’m waiting till Sep to buy a small class C so hopefully prices drop more by then. I believe RV needs legislation to improve repairs and improve quality building standards. They had a long time to get there act together and all that matters is money. Doers do what the checkers check and right now there is no real organization checking or enforcing.
We do appreciate you, Josh. Thanks for putting in the long hours to get us the info we need. Female solo camper here -- resounding yes to the lack of solo camper configurations. I'd actually be ok with a "couple's camper" as long as it wasn't 30 feet long. At the local RV show back in the spring, there were tons of huge family/couple's campers, and a smattering of teardrop/A-frames, but not really anything in between. I've also perused local dealer web sites, and while they do have some models, the majority of the inventory is way bigger than I'd need.
Hi! Another female solo camper here, I'm currently in a minivan but in the market for an towable in the next couple of years. I actually disagree with solo campers being a missing segment. I went to Tampa this year with a list of 10 units that were "possibles". That got whittled down to 2 and I found another option I really liked. The biggest issue for me was storage and fridge space - I plan on full timing for a couple of years so I need both. But I don't think that market is underserved. I was looking small too - under 21' and 5000lb.
Thanks Nerd!! Woohoo 30% Solo travelers and so many women!! Yes - focus manufacturers, we are here 💃and we have been enjoying the couples campers. I personally would like and think most women would prefer: Full size bed options. Twin too small to have furry friends on the bed and Queen takes up so much space. Safety - I have seen where women are adding more latches and locks in addition to the deadbolt exit and interior doors. Eating area in maybe counter island or bar style and desk space. Many of us are still working. A desk that is at least 25 inches deep would be nice. Anything less and I am looking down at a severe angle on the laptop screen or monitors. The U-dinette can sometimes function here, but you have clear things off to eat sometimes with the table sizes and can't mount anything like additional monitors and docking stations without running into problems. Women typically are going to go for the more nimble sizes (I prefer under 30') for towing ease. The same with height, average woman height is less than 6' so while it can make it feel open to have barreled ceilings/roof, not only is it harder to clean/maintain those higher spaces but it can be scary towing.
Josh, being that im still looking (❤ is stuck on 24view) I PERSONALLY appreciate your educational videos. Every little bit i can absorb helps. Worked 30 yrs on the road as construction medic but lived in several different models over 10 yrs. Still like to be updated. THKS HERO! Love to you n the family.❤
The manufacturers are missing the boat when it comes to solo women campers. We want security cameras for visibility around the RV. And we do not need king size beds. Actually a single twin bed or full bed is perfect for the solo camera. Every RV should have a built in outdoor tether location for our pets. Solo females do not need a 3 or 4 eye cooktop. Usually a 1 or 2 eye cooktop is plenty. And put them front to back or use portable induction units. And, please use the tower of power and stop putting outlets on the side of kitchen counters. The cords are an accident waiting to happen.
DON’T BUY Let RV manufactures suffer. They screwed the consumer for three years now it’s time for them to pay. Crappy quality, over priced and no accountability. I say FU. I’m looking for a tiny piece of remote land that won’t loose 50% of its value in a year and if I build a remote camp on it I’ll save a ton of money and actually be able to use it without having to pay the campgrounds there exorbitant rates..
A lot of self building and custom local shops are going to get a bigger market share. Vans, Buses, used RVs etc. The pre-assembled and ready to assemble units to install ourselves but put together by artisans and professionals combined may take 50% of the market out put.
Mostly solo camper -- I would like a desk option and a separate seating option that turns into a single bed for my occasional guest. I don't like the convertible dinette because that means I have to empty off the table which is full of my desk stuff. Really a wider/longer bench seat would be fine. This would allow me to put my feet up when lounging. The desk option doesn't have to be much - just big enough to fit my legs under and use like a proper desk. Maybe just put in a counter that is adjustable right next to the kitchen. For some folks they could use it as counter space/bar seating and for others they can lower it and use it at a desk/table height. Actually now that I think on it a fold down bench/cot (another adjustable height) might be a better option too. That would allow you to open up the space when you want to haul some bulky stuff or stretch out on a rainy day. Things change - one trip it might be me heading off for a solo fishing trip and the next I'm hauling my grandkids to Jellystone for the weekend. For that type of trip I put them in my bed and I sleep on the cot. I never do long trips with them because they are exhausting.
Josh, as a military/government employee for 24 years, legislation and regulations are like food; you absolutely can have junk that is very flashy but just empty calories and actually terrible for you, or proper protein and vegetables that may not initially taste nice, but is actually working to better your life experience.
Hi Josh. On the crime thing, people should check locally with law enforcement for a “safe sale” exchange location. In Omaha, the Douglas County Sheriff’s office has set space aside in their parking lot to help dissuade online predators from taking advantage of sellers. We are in the process of selecting a travel trailer for the first time. The specific reason is so we can be more spontaneous because we won’t have to board our dogs. We have large dogs, so a slide is mandatory to be sure they (2 dogs) have sufficient space to lay down, four-to-the-side. It’s just my husband and me, plus the two dogs. The dinette is unnecessary and we are definitely more interested in the sofa with a footrest, or the theatre seats. We are also interested in the bunks in the event my niece, her husband, and their two kids would use the camper. We like the option of the Murphy bed, so long as it’s not the bendy mattress (seeing a few plans that have successfully implemented it). Not sure what we’ll find locally, as it seems the on-the-lot inventory includes dinettes. I like the idea of an owner training session - could include a lot of information that isn’t necessarily technical, too. We would be willing to pay a small stipend for it. Wish us luck! Thanks for your insight and humor. You’re on my UA-cam regularly. You’ve piqued my interest about the new floor plans.
While it may not be the best time to buy through a dealer, in our area used private sale prices are being slashed like a hot knife through butter. We just purchased an almost mint condition (couple very small cosmetic flaws on the inside) 2016 Grand Design Solitude 379FL for the JD Power low market price that had only been listed for a week! This is happening all over our area that is flooded with used rvs on the market. The deals are out there, you just gotta do the legwork to find them strawberry.
Thanks Josh, I am one of the people that would be a solo camper. To me it is an easier to tow unit with lots of cameras to backup and make sure I am not hitting something. It would be no slides option, and for me, it is a go anywhere type.
I would say consider maintenance and ease of use for one person to operate. Also, why have couches, large dinettes, ect, when you can have more storage or other uses for one person? For the Ember Overland one could take bunks out and use it for storage or an office space….
Great video, Josh. Thanks nerd. I think the most important decision about buying an RV is researching and going with the right dealer. Where I purchased (twice) wasn't the cheapest deal, but they treated me fairly and service has been great.
The '21 Forest River, Flagstaff 21DS was perfect for me as a solo camper but easily qualifies as a couples rig as well. Although it had a very comfortable queen short, Murphy bed - I found it more convenient to just stretch out on the couch for overnight or 2-night stays: my 67" frame fits nicely on a 72" couch!
Josh, when you brought up what distinguishes a solo RV from a Couples camper it reminded me of someone that irks me enough to mention it. Unless a couple is full-time RV-ing, what's the need for a king bed. When traveling together, we'd both happily take a few more inches of hanging closet over a king bed we won't be spending that much time in when a 60x80 queen is plenty. Obviously, when going solo the same remains true for me.
I just sold our TT private sale and hoping to get a new one in the Spring but we'll see. Interest rates, gas prices, awful dealerships (not Bish's), low quality, full campgrounds, expensive RV resorts, on and on. I love camping, just not all the challenges that come with it.
You get it, Josh. RV manufacturers should definitely be more inclusive to both pet owners and solo travelers. I wonder why they are so slow or resistant to 'reading the room' in order to serve a wider range of populations. It can be an awesome win-win.
When we look at campers we actually look at the floor plan and where to put crates for dogs. Some floor plans just don’t work. We found a way to make it work with our current 5th wheel with some modifications for our golden retriever’s large crate. We removed chairs by the dinette we hardly use and it slid right in.
We love camping because we can take our dogs with us. We chose our Ember 28MSL because it had a floorplan that worked perfectly for us and our pets. It has a camp side cargo door with a screen so the pups can keep an eye on us. How about a top list of Nerd Preferred campers for people with pets? (As if you don't have enough to do)
We traded up in March - we got a great deal for us - as far as couples camper vs solo, I think 1 bed is fine too sleep in either way - as far as legislation, I think there should be checks on quality since they do cost a good buck - you pay 150k for an RV and regulations are not there like you would have a home or car warranty
The local used RV Dealer has been going to RV auctions for 20 years in the DFW area. This year has been a flood of 2022-2024 foreclosures; most of them in good shape. That's where you can find a killer deal.
Good talk. I have said this before but I think it's high time that the RV industry be as regulated as the auto industry. If their "self-regulation" actually worked to the benefit of the consumer I would have a different opinion. However the fact is the RV industry has brought these changes on themselves by working to minimize costs to the point they don't really support their products or their customers. I'm not sure there is a lot of difference between a solo camper's needs and couples camping. If I were a solo camper I would still look for a queen bed, decent kitchen and a dinette or dinofa. Either our current GD 22MLE or our previous Micro Minnie 2106FBS would make good solo campers. Where there might be a difference is less to do with singles or doubles but how they utilize the trailer. People who work from their trailers will tend to want effective working space. This means having enough room for equipment, papers, etc without have to setup and tear down for each work session. Something our current and previous trailer don't excel at (though the 22MLE dinette might be ok for a solo camper). More single people might fit the working from trailer model but I think getting tied to how many people over how will the trailer be used will result a dead end. This is an area where I think Ember did a good job with their bunkhouse models that can be converted to office or storage space. Any one of them would work well for solo campers, couples or families.
Just took a new to me rv to a conference. The campground experience was incredibly claustrophobic. I had no idea rv’s were lined up with 5 feet between them.
Try a state or national park... they offer a much better experience. It's more like living in nature, but oftentimes, it'll have a separate dump station, as opposed to it being at your campsite.
It's like housing developments. The old time housing developments had a lot more room between houses than the newer ones. Same with RV parks. Look for some older Parks they probably have a lot more room.
Not only is interest rates cooling RV sales but equally damaging is hundreds of campgrounds gouging and unscrupulous tactics to get a site, especially koas charging 125 a night or those in Northeast IN where they ad last seasonal left only to find it's on such an incline that it snaps 2 of your jacks, then move u to a dirt site with broken meters and continue to charge $800 though you were supposed to get a concrete patio for that fee, or charge u on their broken meter to run their drainage pump, or the one in FL that calls in middle of year knowing everyone else is booked and says they raised their rent 200 and if you don't pay it they will cancel the reservation, or the recent one in in that stated rate in small fish only ( no amenities is $600 and accepts the ck, then waits until day you arrive and in site then says come to office to pay balance...oh he raised the rent but in four months forgot to mention it but waited til you were parked and switched his price. Bish got to bring the gouging to industries attention as many unhappy to continue, let alone buy another, and finance it to boot! Such as our Fr v21 only 2 yrs old and the vinyl clad counters are peeling, they put 2000 lbs jacks on a 6000 lbs RV, plus these horrible domestic awnings that tear in only mild wind leaving people no cover during rain where awnings were recognized a principle need during camping since medieva times but now so chinsy they have no weather shield , ley alone flip back destroying themselves simply cause they no longer attah to side of rv ne domestic and using other dometic problems sich as awning motor goes in firsy 2 years as well as hood fan loght and oven thermost where manu tells you there is no teplacement parts, instead you need to purchase $167 hood fan juzt to change a light bulb or their latest u jave to purvhaze a $500 oven just to teplace thermastat. Peoples once love of RV camping is just plain cooling due to interest rates and preditory industry tacts going unabated
It's interesting you mentioned the technician training program. If I were to buy an RV, I would like to be able to get some training so I could do my own minor repairs. That way, I could avoid the downtime and loss of use of my trailer. Maybe that already exists. I haven't looked that deeply into it.
NRVTA in Athans Texas has a one week owners course. NRVTA has home study or in-person. There are also some very good UA-cam channels like RV Repair Woman that gives information on what owners can do to diagnose their problems. If you where in the central Indiana area I as a certified mobile RV tech would be willing to give one on one time on how to use basic tools like the multi-meter, PEX crimper for plumbing, and some basic knowledge on your electrical system. I am sure there are other mobile techs that would be willing to give you some hands on tutorials.
I appreciate you so much for helping us! A word of caution please stay away from ( RV County sales )God bless you! Grand Design, imagine 2400bh stay clear Grand Design trailers 😊I hope this helps you. It took seven years for Grand Design to fix a trailer. The pull out hole was not cut out square major problems & headaches 😑
Thanks nerd! Absolutely love your content. My wife and I are currently doing research and renting RVs to get our first one. We’re definitely in that couples plus pets segment. We have two large dogs that don’t do well being boarded and we want them with us on our trips and honestly that’s part of why we’re getting an RV. And one with more space for them. I think a segment that I’m starting to see just a few models that you’ve been showing off start to serve, but it’s the, two remote working people and their dogs part time on the road 25% of the time kind of life. I would love a travel trailer that caters to that. We’re not living in it full-time, but we wanna be able to be gone for a week or two at a time and working and that means two people on zoom calls. So more office slide outs with a door and separate AC so that we can be somewhat separated and both be on calls. Integrated starlink, fewer bunks more desks, I’m starting to see this a little bit, I would love to see more of it. We’re not retired. We’re a couple with dogs who want to be on the road, but not living in it. We’ve got a house, you know we’re not gonna be in a motorhome or a fifth wheel but we want to get a ~30-34’ travel trailer that we can work in for a week at a time. That’s comfortable with two big dogs. And a king bed please and thank you! Hope this helps and thanks for all the content you create
Interesting to hear about Navarro College getting a RV tech program. It's about 10 miles from the Casita factory just north of Corsicana, Texas. An area I drive through quite a bit.
RV's a covered under a "redhibition" law in Louisiana and makes it much easier for new RV buyers here to get their money back if problems keep the RV in the repair shop for too long.
Traveling with my dogs was the main reason for originally buying a camper. I love my Alliance fifth wheel that is very pet friendly. No carpet anywhere and no vents in floor.
If anything to regulate are mandatory PDI of all campers at the manufacture before delivered to dealerships. The check list that’s delivered with the camper.
I almost always solo camp, i have a Grey Wolf 20 RDSE. It works just fine for me. When researching before i purchased the primary things I looked for was 2 axles, no bunk house, and nothing over 30ft. Im also not a fan of walk thru bathrooms, but that would not have been a deal breaker. With those parameters there was not a lot of options out there. I couldn't find anything local in stock that I liked. So I had to start looking further away, which further limited me to dealerships that had a local location for warranty purposes. The camper I ended up buying was 3ish hours from me. When I first started looking I wanted something that would allow me to easily take my kayak(s) with me, but thay was pretty much non existent. So yes, there is not a lot out there for solo campers.
After 40yrs in the automotive industry in a dealership setting. The industry regulations have improved our business. I've spent a number of years as a shop Forman and warranty administrator. And can although dealerships are not losing money on warranty repairs , they are not making nearly as much as they do on customer payed repairs. I do agree the parts situation has been the largest thorn in the side of the RV industries customer experience.
A pet skirt on the door side at least 3/4 the length of the camper. Our pets, that’s right two dogs, always seem to manage to get wrapped around the tires which are under the slide.
Warranty work - toyota makes dealer use toyota parts for warranty work. They usually are there overnight. Do not need a law for dealers to go anywhere for parts. Need a law for rv manufacturers to have timely replacements.
Great update Josh! I just soloed camped one night on July 25 at Patoka Lake in southern Indiana. My reason was to save a few bucks from getting a hotel but having a beverage around the fire pit in the evening can’t be beat! #camping 👏👏👏👏
Thanks for the info Nerd! Hey Josh, I think PA has a great idea for that bill. Put a little pressure on the manufacturers...it's wrong of them to keep warranty repairs held up for so long...with the quality of the current industry I think it's beyond time to have some legislation...I don't think people would want all the legislation on the car industry to go away in the name of their freedom.
As always, thank you for your thoughtful and informative videos! In response, it's a terrible time to buy. Prices keep dropping on the units I've looked at, and interest rates haven't budged. I appreciated your thought that when you've found the "one," it's a good time to buy. I've paid too much through COVID, and that gives me some solace 😊. Yes, we need regulations. Capitalism is great but has some flaws, including consumer protection. It doesn't take much time to read about how virtually every new RV owner loses out on camping for the first year while they're waiting for warranty and other repairs. I could definitely contribute to that anthology. My household expanded with COVID fur babies. I've specifically looked for units that can accommodate. Now if we can just convince RV parks that big and many dogs are ok... Thanks, again!
Solo RV-ers? . I'm one of those. June '23 I traveled 5,400 miles in 28 days through 33 states, my first time as a solo guy. Where were those 90% of females traveling solo - none were on my route.
Hello. I think any rig can work for a solo - with modifications.i.e. a bunk house convert to a desk. But.. that is too much to do and devalues the unit (IMO). So.. as a solo I look for the couples campers as they are the closest to what fits my needs. However, it would be nice - and there are more coming-out - that have desk set ups for workers... even a small one. I would like to see a W/D combo option in smaller rigs... not just the larger 5ers. (I would LOVE to have a W/D combo in under 30' rig.) Thats my 2 cents there. A w/d combo option, a desk option, and don't necessarily need a table & a couch, a desk can double as a table it needed, but an extra sleeping option - pull out couch would be good idea for random guests. Ok now I am done. Thank you.
Great update Josh. I am all for improving the overall service and warranty experience. I am never in favor of the government over regulating private companies but I am in favor of anything that will hold the manufactures accountable to both dealerships and consumers . Maybe structure more like the automobile industry with quicker service and warranty work. It's totally insane to think it's ok to keep someone's RV for a month or more to correct a failed component that you and I could buy (and in a lot cases install) and have delivered often "Overnight". I realize the dealerships are caught in the middle between their customers and how quickly a warranty issue is resolved. Maybe all the dealership across the country should get together and agree not to carry brands who's track record is only caring about the sales and could care less supporting their dealers and ultimately the consumer. If the manufactures spent more time building and equipping their units with only the best possible components, there would be happier consumers and way less warranty claims they would have to deal with. Would it make the units cost more, maybe but not necessarily but I'd be willing to pay more for quality. In the end the we the consumer is happy, the dealerships wins by offering better products and service experiences to their customers. Keep up the great work Josh... we're all frustrated.
Hey NERD! my wife and I have been watching your videos for a few years as we dream about getting on the road. I'm one of those 'slide skeptics' as I've seen so many failures and problems with them 'back in the day', my camping experiences go back to the 70's as a kid, and 90's as a young adult. Technology has come a LONG way, but unfortunately, from my intimate insider info from fleetwood/skyline in Oregon, the production quality VARIES, new hires, bad days, and bonuses to get 'units out the door', all add up. I appreciate these industry videos, as I know MOST people don't want to look behind the curtain. which is why I'm taking the time to comment, which I rarely, to help with the algorithm and stuff for ya, as I do appreciate what YOU do. I'd personally much rather build my own, schoolie or something, as I know what the quality of the build would be. Sadly, wanting to travel and NOT boondock all the time, that's getting less and less feasible.
I am a solo in a truck bed camper. I feel lucky in that all of my repairs have been done fast. I have only not had my camper for 1 week when the AC was replaced. I also camp with pets. I would like to see no vents in floors. This is also good for those with children. They DROP things everywhere. Solo campers don't need king-size beds or dinettes. Don't like the government involved in things, but car law would be great in the RV industry . Interest rate are killing us in every part of our lives. Thak you for your great videos.
Prepandemic, virtually everyone who traveled and stayed on the Texas coast had at least one pet for the winter there. That was in place when we first traveled their in 2009. Perhaps the longer time caused folks to take pets with them vs weekenders.
It's hard to define what makes a camper "solo-friendly", but one clear thing that isn't: having a dinette, a sofa, theater seats, and a bunkroom all at the same time. When I see bunkroom, I only care if it's useful as an office, or at least some kind of storage. I might want to have some friends over to play games or watch something, so having a dinette (preferably with an extending table) and sofa and a theater seat might be okay; though I would most likely pull out the theater seat and get a single recliner to save space and have a bit more room for shelves or something. If I wanted someone overnight, a single sleeper sofa would cover that.
Knowing you can get a better deal through a private sale vs knowing you can drop off at consignment and pick up a check... Sometimes the consignment is well worth the fees. How to know your in a country area... when there's a tractor driving down the road in the background.
My brother damaged his awning last year on the first camping trip of the season (May long weekend). He took it in for warranty service the same day. He got it back in September. Missed almost the entire season with their trailer. That’s not okay!
Personally....I would consider an rv where you can walk around a queen bed and get to the bathroom from either side a couple's camper and 1 where the bed is only accessible from 1 side a singles camper.
I would consider a couples camper that had a bed that when two people were sleeping in it an one person would have to climb over the other to get in or out of the bed a solo camper
Depends what you wanna buy. Seems like a lot of good deals on pop ups and small trailers. I wouldn’t do financing due to interest rates, but if you had 10-20k cash you could get something decent.
It’s a GREAT time to buy if you are disciplined and aren’t saddled with debt😮Unlike Covid full MSRP prices, you can now buy and pay cash for a new RV at a 30-40% discount👍
We actually found a solid deal on a one year old used fifth wheel and jumped on it. We had to drive 800 miles to pick it up but the unit was nicer than advertised (pretty much brand new) and we got a not terrible interest rate. And we had equity in our trade. Deals can be had but you need to move fast.
Im showing up late. Solo camping is my jam. You know who is making solo trailers? Scamp/casita and Nucamp. The T@B 400 is a fantastic solo camper. The design is great. Even for a properly proportioned human like myself at 5'17" I could see using one of those. The layout works with the arched "teardrop" by having the galley and head in the middle where there is the most headroom and there is more standing activity. the narrow ends are where the dinette and the bed are - sitting and sleeping activities. But it is not suitable for the kind of camping I want to do as far as locations and temperature ranges. But it does serve as a great example. Solo lady campers are gonna be a big pile of cash for an RV manufacturer and/or dealer that figures it out. From my own experiences having lots of lady friends get into motorcycles in the 90s and 2000s there is a unique set of desires there. The RV folks can learn a lot of lessons from that. And I will give a hint - Its got less to do with features and layout of the RV than it does with quality, service, and information/education. I dont speak for anyone, but I did notice things. For me as a soloist I want to see designs in which the form is following function. Instead of "How can we make this a suburban tract home on wheels", I want to see more "A machine designed to handle the rigors of moving down the roads and trails that provides shelter and comfort". Shipwrights have been doing it for centuries. In my new to me Northern Lite truck camper I find a lot that I like. But also a lot that makes no sense or is a shortcut. Being who I am dimensionally, getting onto the head to do my business resembles a hermit crab taking up a new residence. In such a small space *why the hell is there a sink in here?!*. Well everyone knows there is a sink in the bathroom at home so... But here I am sitting in a closet where precious space is taken up by a sink and countertop that has a basin the size of a cereal bowl, looking at the galley sink less than six feet away. This is dumb. I could go on...but...well its time for me to shut up :)
Love all the input ty! We actually have our own exclusive new series of RVs coming called the GO►LITE that will include some models made specifically to fit the type of RVers you've mentioned -- the folks the rest of the industry has forgotten The solo camper The tiny toy hauler Stuff like that
@@JoshtheRVNerd That will be awesome. Ive concluded that Im not a trailer camper, but I know lots of people who are. that will absolutely go big for the solo-ists.
Currently looking for a small motorhome probably a class C that we can also travel with our three Siberian huskies. They’re not small dogs one weighs 60 pounds another 55 pounds and the smallest at 50 pounds. So having a slide is important. Also having a place for 3 - 36 inch kennels is a must. We would love to be able to travel with them instead of kenneling them at $1000 a week. We took a break from RVing when our children became teenagers and sold our fifth wheel. But now that we’re empty nesters, we are ready to start traveling again. Except for having three children, we will have three puppers!
I bought a used Fifth wheel to live in to avoid homelessness during medical treatment. the guy could deliver since I didn't have a hitch, I literally was customer service for farmers specifically in RV policies. I knew what to look for as far as water damage, etc. It was stored inside, and looked almost brand new. The day he delivered it, he kept pulling me around and showing me all the storage outside etc. When he left I went inside and a post that was in a table wasn't there, had pictures from FB. The shower door was cracked had tape on it, the carpet was filthy, so many more things. I thought I was crazy until I looked back at the pictures, and then I remembered him saying the day I looked at it his daughter had one on the property like it, but not as nice. Then it was raining in the bathroom, the toilet had to be replaced, and so much more. It got to the point it was unlivable when the floor flooded from a water line and the leak started over my bed and ruined my $2000 mattress. Thankfully my dad agreed if I kept my cats caged I could stay in there unfinished basement while I deal with my medical needs. It wasn't a crazy price, but it was all I had. Now I don't know from one day or another if I say something wrong if my son, pets and I will have a place to stay. It's so embarrassing. I have always been able to make do. I bought some of the supplies I needed to repair the damage and seal the roof and seams, but I can't physically do it most days. I'm watching videos on UA-cam but tearing out walls, subfloor, reframing the ceiling is a little past my basic home improvement skills. People suck. Lol. Make sure you have someone with you so you don't feel like a crazy person if you notice something off.
I think Lemon laws need to apply to RVs nation wide to protect consumers from bad manufactures and dealerships. Just like they apply to car sales.
I think that’s one heck of a good call! With as much as these things cost, we should have some form of protection.
UA-cam LEHTO’s law.
no
I totally agree. There should be some kind of lemon law for all RVs, especially motorized RVs.
@@Grandma.Lilly. there are....duh
Poor quality and lack of good service is the main reasons the sales are down. People are tired of poor quality and waiting for months for service.
1,000,000%
100
Exactly
It is very much W A Y past time for nationwide lemon laws for ALL rv's/manufacturers.
I hear this all the time. The national average wait time as of rn is about 71 days. People want me to have all their specific parts ready, available and in stock. But if youre going to use your warranty 1. We have to prove to the dealership that the parts are broken meaning you have to show us that meaning bring us the rv. 2. I have to order parts which is about a 2 week wait. 3 the warranty will have to approve the payment of the parts or we eat the cost if they dont which means we have to wait for that until i order. 4 other people are in line in front of you waiting for their unit to be fixed.
Theres alot of impatient people and i hear "i paid yall alotta money!" On a daily basis but it just makes me hate them. Theres alot of really entitled old people that call every. single. day. Asking if their rv is done yet like thats going to speed up the process somehow. Incessant calls just slow us down from doing actual work.
Im the assistant manager at an RV dealership and i hear so so many complaints and id say half of them are just nitpicks and whining. If youre going to get your RV fixed dont bring it in 3 days before you have a trip planned cause thats no where near enough time. No RV dealer is as streamlined as a car dealer because youre buying an entire house on wheels. Theres not 7 areas with a parts breakdown like a car theres like 35.
Solo full time traveler here. I haven't seen the improvements i expected for 30 years. In fact, they were built better back then then.
#1 quality, drawers built to last and heavier duty slides to handle things bouncing in the drawer while driving. No staples and 1/4" screws hold.
#2. Stand behind what they build/ sell. For every day it's in the shop, or waiting for a repair on warranty, it should automatically extend the warranty day for day. It would give them a push to solve this issue... which I also suspect has to do with them running the clock out on the warranty. If it's not fixed when they hand it back to the customer, then it's basically still waiting for the repair. Plus a part repaired or replaced under warranty, should be covered for 1 year from replacement/ repair date. The owner gave money for a working product with a warranty... but usually just gets a headache. The first company to respect the Customer will sail way beyond the rest.
#3. Dinette/ booth is a waste of space... has been for a long time. How about something useable like a home office, or durable/ comfy theater seats that can also be a couch. Or customizeable options, I need a place to store an inflatable paddle board, but would rather that have an exterior access.
#4. Storage, i want to take my shoes off at the door and have them out of sight. How about a little coat closet/ hook with shoe storage at the bottom. And storage in general, I want to be able to put everything in its spot, see the old class C lazy daze.
#5. Comfort, what is up with furniture that looks nice, but after an hour the foam sinks and collapses, (and I'm underweight). And cover it with something that lasts. I'm also a little over 6 ft and in my Rockwood the medicine cabinet and windows are all hung 1-2 feet too low, how many people are 4 feet tall? The window in the door should have a deep tint like the windows, not textured so you can't see whose there!!
#6. Security dead bolt, programmable code locks, camera at the door,... in fact, cameras have gotten so cheap. put 360 degree cameras with the option to record. There's no good reason these issues haven't been addressed yet.
#7. Require the designers to go live in the rv for exetended periods of time, and use the product. And look at how far ahead the designs are in Europe.
#9. Mini splits and solar, lots of solar. And large tanks. I like to travel slowly, and sitesee along the way... eventually find a town and start for a season before meandering again for awhile.
#8. and just for fun...a side Patio with outdoor kitchen. It would be so much nicer to walk out and cook, or have coffee or just hanging out. Living in an RV full time can feel tight, but a patio that is just a wall that drops down could add so much usable space without adding a slide! Some designs came out with it 10 or 15 years ago... I'm surpassed it's still so hard to find, or possibly impossible on a unit under 30'.
Love your videos Josh!
Points #3,4,7,9 for me. You are spot on with your list.
Point #8: they do make side patios! Stryker makes a 30 something footer with a side patio and the big behemoth GD momentum’s do as well. I totally agree with you on the solar. At this point in the evolution of how we use RVs, it really should be a standard. Or at least an offered package (and not the little stupid trickle panel that they call “solar”) 🙄
Manufacturers need to do a better job on Quality control. Dealers should not have to rebuild or fix a camper when it gets to the sales lot . Manufacturers all so need to pay up when Dealers repair or replace damaged or faulty equipment an supply said equipment to dealer in timely manner. That is why Buyers are upset an mad at Dealership who can't get parts
I'm currently working through NRVTA to get my certification. My current instructor just shared an actual service call he made recently. A woman of means had recently (less than a year) purchased a $300K coach. She went on a trip in Europe and when she returned her coach's electrical system was acting up, and the engine would not start. He arrived and discovered the fuel pump had gone bad. Upon informing her she insisted the pump was new as the previous technician had replaced it along with numerous other things. She handed him the service invoice from the previous tech and he found charges for parts the coach didn't even have! In all the total he charged her was $44K. He handed the invoice back to her and said for her to call her lawyer. He took pictures of the engine compartment and every part was still painted Cummings red. There wasn't even a single scratch on any of the bolts. He felt so bad he replaced the fuel pump and some fuses for free. Her case is still pending.
That’s the stuff that makes everyone look awful
Name the person she went to that ripped her off so nobody else gets ripped off.
@@thestooges333 Our instructor didn't tell us, but he did say he made it known to the community and he's no longer in business.
I just got back from the Coachmen Rally at the Elkhart County Fairgrounds. We had over 40 Class "B"'s there many of them were solo travelers. It is an ideal platform for solo traveling since it is easy to drive, no towing a trailer, easy setup, and basically park it anywhere. Many of these travelers were women. Two single bed models seem to be an ideal situation, using the second bed for additional storage or even a desk for working on the road. Many manufacturers are adding additional tech to making Internet access easier or having a way to add Starlink system or other 5G system. Many of these women also traveled with their pets. As far as pets are concerned; something as simple as a eye hook for a leash on the running boards or frame on an RV. Possible adding a drawer system at floor level that would have a food and water bowl available.
Something really needs to be done as far as RV techs are concerned. Car dealers like to brag how many of their techs are certified either by the manufacturer or some other certification process. This is especially true with many of the newer high tech integration systems coming into the market place. Something needs to be done to increase this amongst RV dealers. I have had nothing but bad experiences with my dealer and I am currently looking for somewhere else to have my repairs and extended warranty inspections done. Thanks again Josh for being the lone honest voice on the web.
Man I try to do my best. Ty
Josh, thanks for your content. You asked the question. The area that legislation could improve in the RV industry is consistent warranty responsibility to the end user. In the automotive business it is pretty simple in a legal sense, you break and the dealer fixes. The dealer is responsible for the repair. The manufacturer is responsible to pay the dealer a retail rate for the repair in most states. In the RV industry the dealer shrugs and blames the manufacturer, the manufacturer shrugs and blames the vendor/supplier and we stand in a circle and point fingers. I have paid hundreds of thousands of dollars for an RV and although they are nicer it still comes out the same. As a customer I do not care who, what, when or where just repair, my broken expensive RV in a reasonable amount of time. If the manufacturers had a decent dealer body it would not matter where the customer bought their RV. When I retired from the automotive industry over 60% of our operating profit came from service, parts and body shop. Service can be the most profitable part of the business and results in satisfied customers and repeat buyers. The RV industry operates in the 1970's methods, it is the 2020's, come on!
So I went by the Richmond VA location this week ready to buy from Bish based on your videos. I get there and only a few RVs are on the lot. A very nice man took his time to talk to us but told us you were moving out of the area. So the bottom line after getting crappy service from General RV and Campers world is I’m back to square one. It’s hard enough dealing with problems when the dealer is in your town but I couldn’t pull the trigger with an out of town dealer with no means to get it serviced. We need a lemon law for campers. I love camping and having a camper but it’s the most frustrating item I’ve ever owned. That said I’ve owned campers since1999 and the last 2, a 2020 and 2022 have been pure junk. Grand design imagine and coachmen spirit.
Hadn’t heard. Ty for the update
For twenty years, I've been camping with my dogs and my horse. (That's like camping with 3 toddlers.) As I've gotten older, the future looks different to me. The future now is solo camping in a TT under 25 feet with safety features for me and my dogs. Ventless floors are a good start. Pet friendly upholstery is another. A FULL bed would be great. Lots of drawers and maybe a small hanging wardrobe. Bedside tables for the necessities of solo women camping. A dinofa is fine. Or a bar seating/ office space for a desk is perfect. Lots of outlets, including inverter prepped. Kitchen storage, good pantry, no oven for me, and put that microwave/airfryer where i can reach it without a step stool. Have an appropriate backsplash behind the sink AND stove! Or how about the entire kitchen wall? So many things we solo women campers could tell the industry. Safety is important. I'd like an installed alarm and cameras on both sides of the trailer that i can check through my phone or tv. Interior Temp alarm for my dogs. Always a reciever hitch for toys and the dog fence. Two days of training in the "how toos and whatfors" would be brilliant. Thanks Josh for all you do and all you dhare and listening.
Someone else mentioned full beds for solo campers too
As a solo traveler many of the non bh “couples camper” can be modified for solo travel. Need two axles, greater than 1500 cc, dual fridges, .
One thing bishs could offer especially for solo women rvers just starting out is to provide a two day training of how to take care of the trailer or mh. I think along with your new repair policy this would significantly steer customers to your company. We are kind of tired of being blown off by repair centers, mansplaining, condescension. We make up the majority of the solo travelers, start catering to us, we talk to each, good experiences as well as bad get around.
Agreed 💪 💐
Preach it!!
I would like more effort to owner education actually
Women travel solo percentage is higher, but broken down more men solo camp than women, but the gap is closing for sure fyi. A training class for all is a good idea. Most companies will spend time going over everything before you leave the lot already,but any extra advice is always a good idea
Love this idea
One reason We started camping was because We could take our dog with us. Boarding a pet is costly.
My dog wouldn’t do well in a place like that I fear
One of the biggest bennie is that your rv is “pet friendly”, unfortunately some parks are not.
My dog has enjoyed the past 10 years camping. He is older now and it’s a little harder on him but he’s loved his time on the road.
BRAVO! This is all great stuff! As a solo, brand new rv owner the amount of things i DIDN'T know was astronomical. All of this information would have helped in my decision on purchase enormously! Im considering trading and upgrading my trailer now that i have a little more knowledge on what i need, want, and what i DONT want to repeat. Keep it coming Josh! This is great stuff. I have a 2023 and am looking forward to 2024 or 2025 upgrade. BUT..until the industry stops building crap and puts it together i wont purchase anything. Im looking and waiting!
Glad to lend a hand. Ty for joining. More to come!!
I personally would like similar laws on RV sales that cars have. It needs to be more regulated only because so many people are getting hurt.
Hey Josh, another floor plan suggestion: we need more floor plans with a desk area!
I love how manufactures are starting to pay attention though. We I first started there was virtually nothing to choose from and you had to carve out a space for a workstation. Now, there are at least some with desks or multi-use areas (think mid-bunk rooms). Still, we do need more options!
Ty Rhonda
They’re happening slowly
its called a tv tray
I really appreciate you asking on behalf of the manufacturers about “what makes a solo camper” because I’ve been heavily considering a camper for primarily solo use for a few months now. For me what would make something a solo camper vs a couples camper would be a combination of things that A: save length/weight at the cost of 2 person comfort and B: increase single person utility at the cost of 2 person utility. For example I don’t want two tiny wardrobes on each side of the bed because that means less clothes per cubic foot and it means I have to walk around the bed just to get to all my clothes or potentially offering a full size bed instead of a queen bed especially if it was an east/west bed where those few inches can make big changes. The other thing I’d like to see to make a better solo camper is for manufacturers to get away from this mindset of “small camper are for short trips” especially when it comes to kitchen storage. If I’m going alone I don’t want something 30+ feet long because if I hit a tricky spot I don’t have someone with me who can spot for me trying to pull into a tight space or get around a tight corner so I really want the smallest camper possible but it seems like the kitchen space is the first to go when making a camper smaller and I don’t want to have to go to the store in the middle of a camping trip because there’s nowhere to put all the food I would need otherwise. I do like that many manufacturers have already moved out of the mindset that every unit needs a sofa and dinette and we’ve been seeing more and more dinofas and dinette/lounge convertible areas because that sort of combining duties that you won’t need at the same time to save length/weight is great but I’d still call most of those couples campers because it’s often clear that they were designed for two people and they either become more effort for one person or have a bunch of space that’s useless if there’s not a second person(I don’t really need to access both sides of the bed if I’m alone)
This is super handy info. Ty
I am a solo camper and own a ‘22 Rockwood GeoPro 19fbs which is perfect for me and my schnauzers. I love it. But, there is one thing I would want no matter what kind of RV I had and that is proper plumbing with shut off valves and easy access to connections. I would be willing to pay a bit more for good, compatible water lines plumbed to code. Everybody knows water is the worst enemy of a RV. I check water connections every time I tow just to make sure something hasn’t jiggled loose and the hardest part of that process is getting to the connection. And, the fact my little Geo Pro does not have a dinette is my favorite thing. I made some small swivel side tables that fits into the jacknife sofa cup holders that work very well indeed.
As a future solo camper...and a male at that...I can potentially work with a fair amount of design stuff. I personally find booth dinettes to be a waste. I don't need to sleep 10 people. I would appreciate a focus on a theater seat or a couch that is long enough to be able to comfortably lay on long ways (not faux theater seat or love seat kind of thing). I am willing to accommodate the lack of a dinette with a table, TV tray, bar seating, etc. I think something that isn't dinette for 4 would be a useful option too...table with a chair or two. I often now just eat at my home desk watching Josh the RV Nerd videos on my desktop computer. I'm very ok with that. Bunks are useful, but not as sleeping space. They would be storage, or a la Ember, a convertible space. So fold up bunks with cargo doors are more interesting than bunks shoved in a corner with a single small access space from the middle of the RV. I'd love to see some sort of organized storage...I love the wicker baskets that some models have. A storage space that was a stack of 4 or 8 of those (floor to ceiling) would be useful as a future solo full timer. Thanks Josh!
Deep storage spaces should be able to be utilized. Also outdoor redundant cooking arrangements to me serve no purpose.
Another home run Nerd. I watched most of your videos. We just bought privately a 21 Transcend 200mk that was barely used and got what I think was a good deal. Interest rates and fuel prices aside, the biggest shock is the prices the campground resorts are charging. $80-$100/night? Thats almost hotel pricing. These resorts are the same places not allowing units older than 10 yrs. Keep on keepin on Josh.
Yeah campground costs have gone up. Hotel costs were much higher for a while but have dipped recently
if you think 80-100 is hotel pricing, that tells me you don't stay in many hotels. RV parks have gone up, but hotels have also, and they had a head start.
I'm often a solo camper, and travel with my dog. One thing I find useful, and would like more of: cameras. I've got no one to assist when backing and such.
i like that idea. TY
Thanks for the question of solo rv design.
Women like feminine designs. Just because we're are rving doesn't mean we are not able to enjoy our comfort space. I'm going on my first travel trailer run to Georgia today. Overjoyed. Buying a Snoozy next year and will be creating a soft beautiful space away from homebase. Bringing my dogs and will be modifying it with leash rings outside and a sink in the wet bath. Your videos are so needed. Keep up the great work.
Hey Josh, Shopping for an RV now and taking my time. I would be a solo camper with two larger dogs. For me, the more floor space I can create the better. For those rainy days or at night when you want your pets inside with and don't want to step over them. Plus, the no sink in the bathroom on some models baffles me, and its usually because there's bunks. I do think the solo market with dog(s) floor plan is overlooked. More Murphy beds on smaller models would be great too! Oh, and tandem axles to please! Ok, I'm done. For now. Thank you Josh!😊
Good I put. Ty Dave
As a first time RVer and a solo female RVer who is not handy, the most important thing to me is reliability. I bought a new Jayco because of the 2 year warranty. I've already had a long list of warranty work done and she needs to go back for more. I haven't had any problem with the RV systems -- they've performed well. But the interior build out feels like the quality of a dollhouse. I'd like the RV manufacturers to consider putting out a basic, no frills line built out with sturdier materials and fasteners -- even if it means sacrificing the homey aesthetic. Another important thing to me is keeping the weight low so I can tow with an SUV with upgraded suspension. Knowing what I know now, I would be looking at a used Lance 1475 or a used Safari or Casita.
I am a solo camper and I don’t need every seating surface to convert to a bed. There is one van that is otherwise perfect but the only place to sit is a dinette for four. Ordinarily I would just rip it out and put in a recliner loveseat and some table mounts, but the seat bases are full of electrical equipment and the heater. I’ve looked at some other vans and at least they can rotate the front seats, so there are a few more options to sit.
My opinion is that if many of the vans have beds where one person has to crawl over the other, it’s better as a single. I have seen a couple where the bed/couch could sleep one or pull out to be a crawl over double and those are the ones I like better. Otherwise a van with two twin beds is great for a couple, but it’s just wasted space that could be used for storing something.
Something I really like that I have seen on some newer vans is getting rid of propane and generators. With induction stoves replacing built in propane inside freeing up counter space, and then the heat and hot water running off the gas tank, like the Aquahot system. Then also I like a lot some lithium battery systems that can turn on the gas engine to charge up when low via a second alternator. Without that generator under the van, you can go crazy and have a spare tire, or larger tanks.
I also like the recirculating system that returns water to the tank until it’s hot enough to shower with, so the water lasts longer.
Unfortunately I found two vans that each have some of those things, but not all of them plus be great for a solo traveler
I can’t commit to buying a camper from these mainstream manufacturers until the product offered is not only more robust but they support dealerships with warranty costs and pay for the labor they refuse to invest in on the assembly line. All the issues I’ve had have been from poor workmanship from the factory and dealers are left hanging with angry customers and new inventory that’s crap and destined to be needing repair immediately after leaving the lot.
And pause warranty until resolution is definite.
You’re right on that. I went and got a camper one time the camper dealer sold my camper and wanted me to buy his new one and told me the contract was no good. I went to a lawyer. I told me the contract was good. What happened was that he kept pushing the issue so much Dumbass gave him I got the camper, but I repo it
As someone who bought an absolute lemon from normal stuff (speaker falling out of ceiling, bad trim etc) to major issues (it's currently in to have both front walls rebuild because a seal wasn't put in at all on a slide and a window was installed incorrectly) I have NO recourse to get it replaced and my warranty is almost out (it was extended). I can't sell it because of the current damage, I can't put it through any of the consignments because even though repaired, it has extensive water damage. I am totally stuck with an expensive (just under the 50000 needed for the federal lemon law) paperweight.
28:25
My Mom's 2 Chihuahuas plus me and my cat!
That's the reason why we have the bunkhouse 5th wheel now!
A couple’s camper should DEFINITELY not have an outdated uncomfortable “Denny’s” diner booth dinette as the only seating option😮Give me a comfortable sofa or theater seating or give me death😂
Smaller Brinkley 5th wheel checks a lot of boxes. Ideal RV -couples RV, has roomy theater seating across from TV, bar seating- no dinette, king size bed. Usable kitchen counter space.
Stay tuned. They have some great stuff coming
A perfect solo camper would be like a casita? A wet bath, all 12V, propane if any for cooking only & a diesel type heater! Fiberglass or not for affordability & roughly a GVWR of 4Lbs. 🤷♂️ 35:18
Ty. Appreciate the ideas
So I feel I was scammed by the actual dealership! Made a deal with dealer 3 hours from home, for a model I couldn’t find locally. When I got there for the trade, they came up with excuses on my trade (front cap fade, new tires) granted it was 4 years old. Boosted the deal by $3k !! Should have walked, but was already feeling the pressure!! Anyway went through with deal. Through FB site learned of someone questioning about a trailer and with some questions learned it was my trade. We have become friends since then. They said they too were given the runaround about the trailer, said they would have to pay for cap to be painted! Dealer did paint. This past spring while on a trip they had both tires on one side blow out causing considerable damage to the Rv and causing them to cancel vacation. The tires were the original and had not been replaced!!! So buyer beware, individuals aren’t the only ones who can scam you!!!
4:48 "Cash in the pocket before you unlock it!" Said by Josh the RV nerd probably. Really good saying.
😆
This update was tailored for me. I am a solo male camper with two 50 lb Aussiedoodles. I currently have a small no bath model, and I honestly can't think of any extra design that is needed for pets, but I would love to hear from others.
And, as a solo person, I believe some if not most "couple's campers" are pretty close to solo.
But, as I think you said "Everyone camps different "
and I firmly believe that!.
Ty for this
Toll roads now send you the bill in the mail. Also parking tickets get mailed too. A friend had to borrow a vehicle from us for a emergency trip out of state - we got a parking ticket in mail.
Great video and lots of good information.
Wow nice 😆
That’s a good reason you NEVER let anybody drive your car no matter what the reason let them rent one. That ticket is on your record because it’s your car and license plate on it.
And if you don’t know Onstar or anything like it other
manufacturers have track your driving data speed, fast starts & stops etc. which they sell to insurance companies then your insurance rates go up.
Another reason NEVER to give your car to anybody ever no matter what the excuse is let them rent one.
I’m waiting till Sep to buy a small class C so hopefully prices drop more by then. I believe RV needs legislation to improve repairs and improve quality building standards. They had a long time to get there act together and all that matters is money. Doers do what the checkers check and right now there is no real organization checking or enforcing.
We do appreciate you, Josh. Thanks for putting in the long hours to get us the info we need.
Female solo camper here -- resounding yes to the lack of solo camper configurations. I'd actually be ok with a "couple's camper" as long as it wasn't 30 feet long. At the local RV show back in the spring, there were tons of huge family/couple's campers, and a smattering of teardrop/A-frames, but not really anything in between. I've also perused local dealer web sites, and while they do have some models, the majority of the inventory is way bigger than I'd need.
Hi! Another female solo camper here, I'm currently in a minivan but in the market for an towable in the next couple of years. I actually disagree with solo campers being a missing segment. I went to Tampa this year with a list of 10 units that were "possibles". That got whittled down to 2 and I found another option I really liked. The biggest issue for me was storage and fridge space - I plan on full timing for a couple of years so I need both. But I don't think that market is underserved. I was looking small too - under 21' and 5000lb.
Fair enough! Ty for the ideas
I have a trailer for sale and that scam was tried on me.
I know my RV never had rooftop damage. I sent them packing. Thx Sir Nerd. 🤓
Good for you
Thanks Nerd!! Woohoo 30% Solo travelers and so many women!! Yes - focus manufacturers, we are here 💃and we have been enjoying the couples campers.
I personally would like and think most women would prefer:
Full size bed options. Twin too small to have furry friends on the bed and Queen takes up so much space.
Safety - I have seen where women are adding more latches and locks in addition to the deadbolt exit and interior doors.
Eating area in maybe counter island or bar style and desk space. Many of us are still working. A desk that is at least 25 inches deep would be nice. Anything less and I am looking down at a severe angle on the laptop screen or monitors. The U-dinette can sometimes function here, but you have clear things off to eat sometimes with the table sizes and can't mount anything like additional monitors and docking stations without running into problems.
Women typically are going to go for the more nimble sizes (I prefer under 30') for towing ease. The same with height, average woman height is less than 6' so while it can make it feel open to have barreled ceilings/roof, not only is it harder to clean/maintain those higher spaces but it can be scary towing.
Yes, why a California King in a smaller camper?! I due prefer dueling twins or a full, excellent point!
Great comment! My solution - Camper Van.
@@auntied.3301 I like van furniture in a super c environment!
Some of the best feedback yet. Ty so much
Josh, being that im still looking (❤ is stuck on 24view) I PERSONALLY appreciate your educational videos. Every little bit i can absorb helps. Worked 30 yrs on the road as construction medic but lived in several different models over 10 yrs. Still like to be updated. THKS HERO! Love to you n the family.❤
The manufacturers are missing the boat when it comes to solo women campers. We want security cameras for visibility around the RV. And we do not need king size beds. Actually a single twin bed or full bed is perfect for the solo camera. Every RV should have a built in outdoor tether location for our pets. Solo females do not need a 3 or 4 eye cooktop. Usually a 1 or 2 eye cooktop is plenty. And put them front to back or use portable induction units. And, please use the tower of power and stop putting outlets on the side of kitchen counters. The cords are an accident waiting to happen.
Wait until you see the 2025 version.. OMGosh man
DON’T BUY Let RV manufactures suffer. They screwed the consumer for three years now it’s time for them to pay. Crappy quality, over priced and no accountability. I say FU. I’m looking for a tiny piece of remote land that won’t loose 50% of its value in a year and if I build a remote camp on it I’ll save a ton of money and actually be able to use it without having to pay the campgrounds there exorbitant rates..
If you want to camp in your back yard, than yes...do not buy. I agree.
A lot of self building and custom local shops are going to get a bigger market share. Vans, Buses, used RVs etc. The pre-assembled and ready to assemble units to install ourselves but put together by artisans and professionals combined may take 50% of the market out put.
@@sneidsontheroadit’s about having a home base , not everyone wants to be full time traveling/camping
Mostly solo camper -- I would like a desk option and a separate seating option that turns into a single bed for my occasional guest. I don't like the convertible dinette because that means I have to empty off the table which is full of my desk stuff. Really a wider/longer bench seat would be fine. This would allow me to put my feet up when lounging. The desk option doesn't have to be much - just big enough to fit my legs under and use like a proper desk.
Maybe just put in a counter that is adjustable right next to the kitchen. For some folks they could use it as counter space/bar seating and for others they can lower it and use it at a desk/table height. Actually now that I think on it a fold down bench/cot (another adjustable height) might be a better option too. That would allow you to open up the space when you want to haul some bulky stuff or stretch out on a rainy day.
Things change - one trip it might be me heading off for a solo fishing trip and the next I'm hauling my grandkids to Jellystone for the weekend. For that type of trip I put them in my bed and I sleep on the cot. I never do long trips with them because they are exhausting.
Josh, as a military/government employee for 24 years, legislation and regulations are like food; you absolutely can have junk that is very flashy but just empty calories and actually terrible for you, or proper protein and vegetables that may not initially taste nice, but is actually working to better your life experience.
Hi Josh. On the crime thing, people should check locally with law enforcement for a “safe sale” exchange location. In Omaha, the Douglas County Sheriff’s office has set space aside in their parking lot to help dissuade online predators from taking advantage of sellers.
We are in the process of selecting a travel trailer for the first time. The specific reason is so we can be more spontaneous because we won’t have to board our dogs. We have large dogs, so a slide is mandatory to be sure they (2 dogs) have sufficient space to lay down, four-to-the-side. It’s just my husband and me, plus the two dogs. The dinette is unnecessary and we are definitely more interested in the sofa with a footrest, or the theatre seats. We are also interested in the bunks in the event my niece, her husband, and their two kids would use the camper. We like the option of the Murphy bed, so long as it’s not the bendy mattress (seeing a few plans that have successfully implemented it).
Not sure what we’ll find locally, as it seems the on-the-lot inventory includes dinettes. I like the idea of an owner training session - could include a lot of information that isn’t necessarily technical, too. We would be willing to pay a small stipend for it. Wish us luck!
Thanks for your insight and humor. You’re on my UA-cam regularly. You’ve piqued my interest about the new floor plans.
Wow great tip on the safe sale thing
That row of Geo Pro campers down your main drive is gorgeous! I adore my G14FK. But it is time for an upgrade!
I love having them there to greet visitors
While it may not be the best time to buy through a dealer, in our area used private sale prices are being slashed like a hot knife through butter. We just purchased an almost mint condition (couple very small cosmetic flaws on the inside) 2016 Grand Design Solitude 379FL for the JD Power low market price that had only been listed for a week! This is happening all over our area that is flooded with used rvs on the market. The deals are out there, you just gotta do the legwork to find them strawberry.
Thanks Josh, I am one of the people that would be a solo camper. To me it is an easier to tow unit with lots of cameras to backup and make sure I am not hitting something. It would be no slides option, and for me, it is a go anywhere type.
I would say consider maintenance and ease of use for one person to operate. Also, why have couches, large dinettes, ect, when you can have more storage or other uses for one person? For the Ember Overland one could take bunks out and use it for storage or an office space….
Yeah that convertible setup is pretty slick
Great video, Josh. Thanks nerd. I think the most important decision about buying an RV is researching and going with the right dealer. Where I purchased (twice) wasn't the cheapest deal, but they treated me fairly and service has been great.
You really do buy both the rv AND the dealer
The '21 Forest River, Flagstaff 21DS was perfect for me as a solo camper but easily qualifies as a couples rig as well. Although it had a very comfortable queen short, Murphy bed - I found it more convenient to just stretch out on the couch for overnight or 2-night stays: my 67" frame fits nicely on a 72" couch!
It’s cool you found a way to worked nicely for you!
Josh, when you brought up what distinguishes a solo RV from a Couples camper it reminded me of someone that irks me enough to mention it. Unless a couple is full-time RV-ing, what's the need for a king bed.
When traveling together, we'd both happily take a few more inches of hanging closet over a king bed we won't be spending that much time in when a 60x80 queen is plenty. Obviously, when going solo the same remains true for me.
Ty Alan
I just sold our TT private sale and hoping to get a new one in the Spring but we'll see. Interest rates, gas prices, awful dealerships (not Bish's), low quality, full campgrounds, expensive RV resorts, on and on. I love camping, just not all the challenges that come with it.
You get it, Josh. RV manufacturers should definitely be more inclusive to both pet owners and solo travelers. I wonder why they are so slow or resistant to 'reading the room' in order to serve a wider range of populations. It can be an awesome win-win.
My experience has been many hindering rvs don’t camp so they’re not always in touch with current trends
When we look at campers we actually look at the floor plan and where to put crates for dogs. Some floor plans just don’t work. We found a way to make it work with our current 5th wheel with some modifications for our golden retriever’s large crate. We removed chairs by the dinette we hardly use and it slid right in.
We love camping because we can take our dogs with us. We chose our Ember 28MSL because it had a floorplan that worked perfectly for us and our pets. It has a camp side cargo door with a screen so the pups can keep an eye on us.
How about a top list of Nerd Preferred campers for people with pets?
(As if you don't have enough to do)
Oooh.. pet friendly layouts
Good request
We traded up in March - we got a great deal for us - as far as couples camper vs solo, I think 1 bed is fine too sleep in either way - as far as legislation, I think there should be checks on quality since they do cost a good buck - you pay 150k for an RV and regulations are not there like you would have a home or car warranty
The local used RV Dealer has been going to RV auctions for 20 years in the DFW area. This year has been a flood of 2022-2024 foreclosures; most of them in good shape. That's where you can find a killer deal.
Assuming the lenders who took back those units are reasonable, yes
Sometimes that’s not the case
Good talk.
I have said this before but I think it's high time that the RV industry be as regulated as the auto industry. If their "self-regulation" actually worked to the benefit of the consumer I would have a different opinion. However the fact is the RV industry has brought these changes on themselves by working to minimize costs to the point they don't really support their products or their customers.
I'm not sure there is a lot of difference between a solo camper's needs and couples camping. If I were a solo camper I would still look for a queen bed, decent kitchen and a dinette or dinofa. Either our current GD 22MLE or our previous Micro Minnie 2106FBS would make good solo campers. Where there might be a difference is less to do with singles or doubles but how they utilize the trailer. People who work from their trailers will tend to want effective working space. This means having enough room for equipment, papers, etc without have to setup and tear down for each work session. Something our current and previous trailer don't excel at (though the 22MLE dinette might be ok for a solo camper). More single people might fit the working from trailer model but I think getting tied to how many people over how will the trailer be used will result a dead end. This is an area where I think Ember did a good job with their bunkhouse models that can be converted to office or storage space. Any one of them would work well for solo campers, couples or families.
Just took a new to me rv to a conference. The campground experience was incredibly claustrophobic. I had no idea rv’s were lined up with 5 feet between them.
Try a state or national park... they offer a much better experience. It's more like living in nature, but oftentimes, it'll have a separate dump station, as opposed to it being at your campsite.
It varies by location. Some are super tight
It's like housing developments. The old time housing developments had a lot more room between houses than the newer ones. Same with RV parks. Look for some older Parks they probably have a lot more room.
Not only is interest rates cooling RV sales but equally damaging is hundreds of campgrounds gouging and unscrupulous tactics to get a site, especially koas charging 125 a night or those in Northeast IN where they ad last seasonal left only to find it's on such an incline that it snaps 2 of your jacks, then move u to a dirt site with broken meters and continue to charge $800 though you were supposed to get a concrete patio for that fee, or charge u on their broken meter to run their drainage pump, or the one in FL that calls in middle of year knowing everyone else is booked and says they raised their rent 200 and if you don't pay it they will cancel the reservation, or the recent one in in that stated rate in small fish only ( no amenities is $600 and accepts the ck, then waits until day you arrive and in site then says come to office to pay balance...oh he raised the rent but in four months forgot to mention it but waited til you were parked and switched his price. Bish got to bring the gouging to industries attention as many unhappy to continue, let alone buy another, and finance it to boot! Such as our Fr v21 only 2 yrs old and the vinyl clad counters are peeling, they put 2000 lbs jacks on a 6000 lbs RV, plus these horrible domestic awnings that tear in only mild wind leaving people no cover during rain where awnings were recognized a principle need during camping since medieva times but now so chinsy they have no weather shield , ley alone flip back destroying themselves simply cause they no longer attah to side of rv ne domestic and using other dometic problems sich as awning motor goes in firsy 2 years as well as hood fan loght and oven thermost where manu tells you there is no teplacement parts, instead you need to purchase $167 hood fan juzt to change a light bulb or their latest u jave to purvhaze a $500 oven just to teplace thermastat.
Peoples once love of RV camping is just plain cooling due to interest rates and preditory industry tacts going unabated
It's interesting you mentioned the technician training program. If I were to buy an RV, I would like to be able to get some training so I could do my own minor repairs. That way, I could avoid the downtime and loss of use of my trailer. Maybe that already exists. I haven't looked that deeply into it.
There's a lot more of that available now thankfully. Look into RVTI classes perhaps?
NRVTA in Athans Texas has a one week owners course. NRVTA has home study or in-person. There are also some very good UA-cam channels like RV Repair Woman that gives information on what owners can do to diagnose their problems.
If you where in the central Indiana area I as a certified mobile RV tech would be willing to give one on one time on how to use basic tools like the multi-meter, PEX crimper for plumbing, and some basic knowledge on your electrical system. I am sure there are other mobile techs that would be willing to give you some hands on tutorials.
You have to be hand on. Or rent a motel room.
The school of UA-cam is amazing!
I appreciate you so much for helping us! A word of caution please stay away from ( RV County sales )God bless you! Grand Design, imagine 2400bh stay clear Grand Design trailers 😊I hope this helps you. It took seven years for Grand Design to fix a trailer. The pull out hole was not cut out square major problems & headaches 😑
Thanks Josh, for doing your homework, then sharing everything with all of us!
You bet
Absolutely love your industry updates Keep keeping everyone informed and up-to-date NERD
You bet
Thanks again for more knowledge, I didn't find this video long at all. In fact it was over before I realized.
Well good! Glad you found value in it! I drop new industry update videos around the first of every month btw
My opinion on solo camper is small unit with a east/west bed because no one wants to climb over another person to get out of bed.
That’s a good point..
Thanks nerd! Absolutely love your content. My wife and I are currently doing research and renting RVs to get our first one. We’re definitely in that couples plus pets segment. We have two large dogs that don’t do well being boarded and we want them with us on our trips and honestly that’s part of why we’re getting an RV. And one with more space for them.
I think a segment that I’m starting to see just a few models that you’ve been showing off start to serve, but it’s the, two remote working people and their dogs part time on the road 25% of the time kind of life. I would love a travel trailer that caters to that. We’re not living in it full-time, but we wanna be able to be gone for a week or two at a time and working and that means two people on zoom calls. So more office slide outs with a door and separate AC so that we can be somewhat separated and both be on calls. Integrated starlink, fewer bunks more desks, I’m starting to see this a little bit, I would love to see more of it.
We’re not retired. We’re a couple with dogs who want to be on the road, but not living in it. We’ve got a house, you know we’re not gonna be in a motorhome or a fifth wheel but we want to get a ~30-34’ travel trailer that we can work in for a week at a time. That’s comfortable with two big dogs. And a king bed please and thank you!
Hope this helps and thanks for all the content you create
Ty. Every bit helps!
Thanks Josh, I look forward to seeing your update every month. Only 1 layer today, must be warming up!
Yeah thankfully
You’re such a good guy! And YES it is necessary to talk about scams!! Thank you!
You are so welcome
Interesting to hear about Navarro College getting a RV tech program. It's about 10 miles from the Casita factory just north of Corsicana, Texas. An area I drive through quite a bit.
👍🏻
We have been RVing since the early 80! Ready to get out! It’s been fun but getting WAY TO EXPENSIVE!
RV's a covered under a "redhibition" law in Louisiana and makes it much easier for new RV buyers here to get their money back if problems keep the RV in the repair shop for too long.
Traveling with my dogs was the main reason for originally buying a camper. I love my Alliance fifth wheel that is very pet friendly. No carpet anywhere and no vents in floor.
If anything to regulate are mandatory PDI of all campers at the manufacture before delivered to dealerships. The check list that’s delivered with the camper.
I almost always solo camp, i have a Grey Wolf 20 RDSE. It works just fine for me.
When researching before i purchased the primary things I looked for was 2 axles, no bunk house, and nothing over 30ft. Im also not a fan of walk thru bathrooms, but that would not have been a deal breaker. With those parameters there was not a lot of options out there.
I couldn't find anything local in stock that I liked. So I had to start looking further away, which further limited me to dealerships that had a local location for warranty purposes. The camper I ended up buying was 3ish hours from me.
When I first started looking I wanted something that would allow me to easily take my kayak(s) with me, but thay was pretty much non existent.
So yes, there is not a lot out there for solo campers.
Would an east west bed work in your case?
@@JoshtheRVNerd yes, an easy/west bed would have worked very well for me.
After 40yrs in the automotive industry in a dealership setting. The industry regulations have improved our business. I've spent a number of years as a shop Forman and warranty administrator. And can although dealerships are not losing money on warranty repairs , they are not making nearly as much as they do on customer payed repairs. I do agree the parts situation has been the largest thorn in the side of the RV industries customer experience.
This is amazing feedback and perspective. Ty
A pet skirt on the door side at least 3/4 the length of the camper.
Our pets, that’s right two dogs, always seem to manage to get wrapped around the tires which are under the slide.
I think the NuCamp Tabs would be great for solos. I know Bish doesn't have them, but they have all the needed parts in a smaller size.
Warranty work - toyota makes dealer use toyota parts for warranty work. They usually are there overnight. Do not need a law for dealers to go anywhere for parts. Need a law for rv manufacturers to have timely replacements.
Man. Preach
Great update Josh! I just soloed camped one night on July 25 at Patoka Lake in southern Indiana. My reason was to save a few bucks from getting a hotel but having a beverage around the fire pit in the evening can’t be beat! #camping 👏👏👏👏
Facts!!
“Beverage”
To much space taken up for the dinette more lounge area.
Thanks for the info Nerd! Hey Josh, I think PA has a great idea for that bill. Put a little pressure on the manufacturers...it's wrong of them to keep warranty repairs held up for so long...with the quality of the current industry I think it's beyond time to have some legislation...I don't think people would want all the legislation on the car industry to go away in the name of their freedom.
I think we may see more of it coming in time
As always, thank you for your thoughtful and informative videos! In response, it's a terrible time to buy. Prices keep dropping on the units I've looked at, and interest rates haven't budged. I appreciated your thought that when you've found the "one," it's a good time to buy. I've paid too much through COVID, and that gives me some solace 😊.
Yes, we need regulations. Capitalism is great but has some flaws, including consumer protection. It doesn't take much time to read about how virtually every new RV owner loses out on camping for the first year while they're waiting for warranty and other repairs. I could definitely contribute to that anthology.
My household expanded with COVID fur babies. I've specifically looked for units that can accommodate. Now if we can just convince RV parks that big and many dogs are ok...
Thanks, again!
Josh, keep the information flowing it helps. Law and legal "Slip and Slide" is all I can say.
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Solo RV-ers? . I'm one of those. June '23 I traveled 5,400 miles in 28 days through 33 states, my first time as a solo guy. Where were those 90% of females traveling solo - none were on my route.
Hello. I think any rig can work for a solo - with modifications.i.e. a bunk house convert to a desk. But.. that is too much to do and devalues the unit (IMO). So.. as a solo I look for the couples campers as they are the closest to what fits my needs. However, it would be nice - and there are more coming-out - that have desk set ups for workers... even a small one. I would like to see a W/D combo option in smaller rigs... not just the larger 5ers. (I would LOVE to have a W/D combo in under 30' rig.) Thats my 2 cents there. A w/d combo option, a desk option, and don't necessarily need a table & a couch, a desk can double as a table it needed, but an extra sleeping option - pull out couch would be good idea for random guests. Ok now I am done. Thank you.
Great update Josh. I am all for improving the overall service and warranty experience. I am never in favor of the government over regulating private companies but I am in favor of anything that will hold the manufactures accountable to both dealerships and consumers . Maybe structure more like the automobile industry with quicker service and warranty work. It's totally insane to think it's ok to keep someone's RV for a month or more to correct a failed component that you and I could buy (and in a lot cases install) and have delivered often "Overnight". I realize the dealerships are caught in the middle between their customers and how quickly a warranty issue is resolved. Maybe all the dealership across the country should get together and agree not to carry brands who's track record is only caring about the sales and could care less supporting their dealers and ultimately the consumer. If the manufactures spent more time building and equipping their units with only the best possible components, there would be happier consumers and way less warranty claims they would have to deal with. Would it make the units cost more, maybe but not necessarily but I'd be willing to pay more for quality. In the end the we the consumer is happy, the dealerships wins by offering better products and service experiences to their customers. Keep up the great work Josh... we're all frustrated.
I am in the market for a travel trailer, but the private sale prices are just as high as the dealerships.
Likely reflects people trying to “get what they owe on it” which sadly has nothing to do with what it’s worth
Thanks Josh. i really appreciate all the info you provide in these each month.
My pleasure!
Hey NERD! my wife and I have been watching your videos for a few years as we dream about getting on the road. I'm one of those 'slide skeptics' as I've seen so many failures and problems with them 'back in the day', my camping experiences go back to the 70's as a kid, and 90's as a young adult. Technology has come a LONG way, but unfortunately, from my intimate insider info from fleetwood/skyline in Oregon, the production quality VARIES, new hires, bad days, and bonuses to get 'units out the door', all add up. I appreciate these industry videos, as I know MOST people don't want to look behind the curtain. which is why I'm taking the time to comment, which I rarely, to help with the algorithm and stuff for ya, as I do appreciate what YOU do. I'd personally much rather build my own, schoolie or something, as I know what the quality of the build would be. Sadly, wanting to travel and NOT boondock all the time, that's getting less and less feasible.
Thank you for sharing all this. You’re right about production varying
I am a solo in a truck bed camper. I feel lucky in that all of my repairs have been done fast. I have only not had my camper for 1 week when the AC was replaced. I also camp with pets. I would like to see no vents in floors. This is also good for those with children. They DROP things everywhere. Solo campers don't need king-size beds or dinettes. Don't like the government involved in things, but car law would be great in the RV industry . Interest rate are killing us in every part of our lives. Thak you for your great videos.
Great insights. Ty!
Prepandemic, virtually everyone who traveled and stayed on the Texas coast had at least one pet for the winter there. That was in place when we first traveled their in 2009. Perhaps the longer time caused folks to take pets with them vs weekenders.
It's hard to define what makes a camper "solo-friendly", but one clear thing that isn't: having a dinette, a sofa, theater seats, and a bunkroom all at the same time. When I see bunkroom, I only care if it's useful as an office, or at least some kind of storage. I might want to have some friends over to play games or watch something, so having a dinette (preferably with an extending table) and sofa and a theater seat might be okay; though I would most likely pull out the theater seat and get a single recliner to save space and have a bit more room for shelves or something. If I wanted someone overnight, a single sleeper sofa would cover that.
Yeah bunks = family camper immediately
Couples vs solo camping is what has me curious
@@JoshtheRVNerd I guess there isn't much to differentiate between a solo with guests and a couple. Closet space, probably?
Knowing you can get a better deal through a private sale vs knowing you can drop off at consignment and pick up a check... Sometimes the consignment is well worth the fees.
How to know your in a country area... when there's a tractor driving down the road in the background.
My brother damaged his awning last year on the first camping trip of the season (May long weekend). He took it in for warranty service the same day. He got it back in September. Missed almost the entire season with their trailer. That’s not okay!
Personally....I would consider an rv where you can walk around a queen bed and get to the bathroom from either side a couple's camper and 1 where the bed is only accessible from 1 side a singles camper.
Thats called a North/south bed. Good to have!!!
@@dqsimpson5331 Not if you are both older and have to pee in the middle of the night....lol
I would consider a couples camper that had a bed that when two people were sleeping in it an one person would have to climb over the other to get in or out of the bed a solo camper
It's definitely not a good time to buy at all!
Depends what you wanna buy. Seems like a lot of good deals on pop ups and small trailers. I wouldn’t do financing due to interest rates, but if you had 10-20k cash you could get something decent.
the rates are making my decision to hold off
We are selling our trailers at cost. So if you don't need to finance and deal with interest rates, it's a good time to buy.
It’s a GREAT time to buy if you are disciplined and aren’t saddled with debt😮Unlike Covid full MSRP prices, you can now buy and pay cash for a new RV at a 30-40% discount👍
We actually found a solid deal on a one year old used fifth wheel and jumped on it. We had to drive 800 miles to pick it up but the unit was nicer than advertised (pretty much brand new) and we got a not terrible interest rate. And we had equity in our trade. Deals can be had but you need to move fast.
Im showing up late.
Solo camping is my jam. You know who is making solo trailers? Scamp/casita and Nucamp. The T@B 400 is a fantastic solo camper. The design is great. Even for a properly proportioned human like myself at 5'17" I could see using one of those. The layout works with the arched "teardrop" by having the galley and head in the middle where there is the most headroom and there is more standing activity. the narrow ends are where the dinette and the bed are - sitting and sleeping activities. But it is not suitable for the kind of camping I want to do as far as locations and temperature ranges. But it does serve as a great example.
Solo lady campers are gonna be a big pile of cash for an RV manufacturer and/or dealer that figures it out. From my own experiences having lots of lady friends get into motorcycles in the 90s and 2000s there is a unique set of desires there. The RV folks can learn a lot of lessons from that. And I will give a hint - Its got less to do with features and layout of the RV than it does with quality, service, and information/education. I dont speak for anyone, but I did notice things.
For me as a soloist I want to see designs in which the form is following function. Instead of "How can we make this a suburban tract home on wheels", I want to see more "A machine designed to handle the rigors of moving down the roads and trails that provides shelter and comfort". Shipwrights have been doing it for centuries. In my new to me Northern Lite truck camper I find a lot that I like. But also a lot that makes no sense or is a shortcut. Being who I am dimensionally, getting onto the head to do my business resembles a hermit crab taking up a new residence. In such a small space *why the hell is there a sink in here?!*. Well everyone knows there is a sink in the bathroom at home so... But here I am sitting in a closet where precious space is taken up by a sink and countertop that has a basin the size of a cereal bowl, looking at the galley sink less than six feet away. This is dumb.
I could go on...but...well its time for me to shut up :)
Love all the input ty! We actually have our own exclusive new series of RVs coming called the GO►LITE that will include some models made specifically to fit the type of RVers you've mentioned -- the folks the rest of the industry has forgotten
The solo camper
The tiny toy hauler
Stuff like that
@@JoshtheRVNerd That will be awesome. Ive concluded that Im not a trailer camper, but I know lots of people who are. that will absolutely go big for the solo-ists.
Currently looking for a small motorhome probably a class C that we can also travel with our three Siberian huskies. They’re not small dogs one weighs 60 pounds another 55 pounds and the smallest at 50 pounds. So having a slide is important. Also having a place for 3 - 36 inch kennels is a must. We would love to be able to travel with them instead of kenneling them at $1000 a week. We took a break from RVing when our children became teenagers and sold our fifth wheel. But now that we’re empty nesters, we are ready to start traveling again. Except for having three children, we will have three puppers!
And tow my 2024 Ford Bronco Wildtrak
Greyhawk and Alante may have some options
@@JoshtheRVNerd thank you!!
I bought a used Fifth wheel to live in to avoid homelessness during medical treatment. the guy could deliver since I didn't have a hitch, I literally was customer service for farmers specifically in RV policies. I knew what to look for as far as water damage, etc. It was stored inside, and looked almost brand new. The day he delivered it, he kept pulling me around and showing me all the storage outside etc. When he left I went inside and a post that was in a table wasn't there, had pictures from FB. The shower door was cracked had tape on it, the carpet was filthy, so many more things. I thought I was crazy until I looked back at the pictures, and then I remembered him saying the day I looked at it his daughter had one on the property like it, but not as nice. Then it was raining in the bathroom, the toilet had to be replaced, and so much more. It got to the point it was unlivable when the floor flooded from a water line and the leak started over my bed and ruined my $2000 mattress. Thankfully my dad agreed if I kept my cats caged I could stay in there unfinished basement while I deal with my medical needs. It wasn't a crazy price, but it was all I had. Now I don't know from one day or another if I say something wrong if my son, pets and I will have a place to stay. It's so embarrassing. I have always been able to make do. I bought some of the supplies I needed to repair the damage and seal the roof and seams, but I can't physically do it most days. I'm watching videos on UA-cam but tearing out walls, subfloor, reframing the ceiling is a little past my basic home improvement skills. People suck. Lol. Make sure you have someone with you so you don't feel like a crazy person if you notice something off.