Hi Everyone, We hope you enjoyed our video! Which small travel trailer perfect for beginners did you like best? Please say hello by leaving a comment below! Also, please feel free to ask any questions or just tell us about yourselves. We want to get to know you and share our RV experiences.
OMG Awesome. Thank you for sitting at the dinette! No one EVER sits at the dinette’s….it’s so hard to gauge the size in reviews without someone sitting in them 😀👍🏻
Thank you for letting us know the value of sitting at the dinette. We really try to keep the user (buyer) in mind when it come to practicality of a small camper. Thank you for watching and commenting.
The Grand Design is the winner for me and the 60"x80" will get me every time. I long for the day when a murphy bed model will be a full queen size. The bathroom sink is not a problem for us.
That last caravan is fantastic. I love the fold up hand basin, the large rear kitchen and all the storage. I think the prices are excellent, here in Australia you'd be adding 100k to the price at minimum.
The biggest problems with cheap trailers is moisture in the bathroom, put spray car wax on most bathroom surfaces, use the vent fan and when plugged in add a small electric space heater after taking a shower to speed drying. A trailer with only 2 tires is more of a problem with a flat tire, keep track of tire pressures, add shiny spray to the inner and outer sidewalls to help prevent aging cracks, lift the tires off the ground during long storage, and it is best to replace tires before they are 10 years old.
Thanks for all the hard work you put into this. It's much appreciated as my wife and I are actively looking for a small camper to tow behind our van that's already set up with pretty much all the solar you could need even for the added camper. We realize we will be needing more room and that a smaller camper is the way we want to go. I don't know that I can pick a favorite but we're going to watch your next video for RV NEWBIES.
We recently purchased Coachman Clipper 17FQF and love it. Perfect size for couple and easy set-up. Best features, though are walk around queen and BIG bathroom. Might want to show it in future video
So glad you love your Clipper. We'll have to look for that floor plan at our next RV show. Thanks for the tip! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
Great videos. Keep up great work. The Grand Design Imagine was the last trailer featured and my favorite. The bunk bed option and pull out sink in restroom set it apart.
Thank you so much for the kind words. I also loved that sink in the Grand Design. Very innovative! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
Currently I own a truck camper and out of the three choices, I'd have to settle for the third floor plan. The kitchen area is very nice and the fold down basin is great. Seems more spacious all around. Great video! 👍
I don't understand what the big deal is about washing your hands at the kitchen sink when there is no bathroom sink. I recently sold a trailer that had no bathroom sink and it was a total non-issue.
For the average person it may not be an issue then there are those of us who went through Serve-safe training to work in a restaurant and well....let's just say if I could I would have an additional sink in my kitchen JUST for handwashing! 😁😉
I'm in the market for a trailer less than 20'. My deal breakers are slide outs (leaks or failure) and those canvas expansion beds that stick out. Definitely dont care for oven's or microwaves. I think most beginners want the basics. 1. Comfy dedicated bed 2. A dinette with a window 3. A bath (preferably dry) 4. Clever storage
Hi Mike & Susan; I have been watching your videos now for over a year. I appreciate your in-depth reviews and have made many notes of what I want/need in a travel trailer. I liked the last trailer in this video the best of what you have presented. The Grand Design AIM 15BH. I like the bathroom sink design and the layout of the trailer. My wife would especially like the kitchen layout and all of the space. Thank you for your continued education of us newbies in this area of life that I hope to jump in soon to. James
Hi James! Thank you so much for your kind words. We love helping people see the variety of RV floor plans out there! We hope you jump in soon too! 😂 Best of luck researching. Thanks for watching and commenting.
That was a genius way to incorporate a sink without taking up so much space. Loved the Grand Design Imagine! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
I'm impressed with the third one, that sink in the bathroom is great, counter room in the kitchen wow. I really like, it's exactly what I'm looking for.😊
The 15BH is the best out of all of them. Still needs some changes to make it perfect. Take the dinette out and put a couch in that can seat 4 adults. Also put storage cabinets above that window (can make the window a little smaller). Shrink the bunk bed width down to 38 inches wide (38x80 is twin xl size). No need for bigger on bunk. With those changes I think that would be the perfect 4 family little travel trailer!
I liked the second one. As a single traveler this is best because I wear more dresses than pants and shorts. This has a hanging closet for them. I also use a shower stool so the lower control handles are in a good position for me
For sure The Grand Design would be my first choice. They build a high quality product and this is just packed full of features and great storage space too. The finishes are high-end for a more entry level trailer and they did a good job with the kitchen as well as the refrigerator space. I can't believe the amount of countertop space available in that kitchen; it's just amazing! The bathroom is large and has a lot of great features too. The drop-down sink is a wonderful idea. My second choice would be the Starcraft and the Forest River would be my last choice. Both of my second and third choices don't have any paneling in the shower but I think that's something you could remedy in a DIY project that wouldn't cost too much money and adding a retractable shower door would definitely be money well spent to eliminate a lot of aggravation. The Starcraft I think is just a better design and has both a better bathroom and kitchen than the Forest River does. That Forest River I know why it doesn't have a bathroom sink because they put it in the kitchen; that's about the size of the sink in the kitchen! 😂 I also don't like the tiny refrigerator in the kitchen and the fact that they put the cooktop east to west and not north to south to provide extra counter space. I don't really have a problem with the fact that they didn't put a microwave in and in fact I kind of like being able to choose my own. I guess I would probably just have to sleep with my pillows at the footboard of the bed if I really wanted to watch TV that badly and both the Starcraft and the Forest River campers. As far as the Great bathroom sink debate, I definitely prefer a sink in the bathroom if possible. If there are dishes in the kitchen sink and you go to wash your hands in there it is a little bit gross but I don't think the world would come to an end and I don't think a worldwide pandemic would start if you had to use the kitchen sink to wash your hands. The only thing is, if the bathroom is so small it can't support its own sink, I would be very concerned that the kitchen sink would be so small that it would be very unfunctional (is that even a word?) to use as either a kitchen or bathroom sink (see poor attempt at a joke above.)Thanks for bringing us some basic entry-level campers. I appreciate all the work you and Susan do to put the videos together! I hope you guys had great Christmas and a Happy New Year and looking forward to more videos in 2023!
Thank you! We try to point out features in an RV that could be challenging without completely shaming the manufacturer. Afterall, no RV is perfect! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
I just bought a 2023 Riverside retro 135 last march love it I'm single person 15'6 feet long and it weight 3600 pound load it and I put it with a Chevy Colorado with a V6 thanks for the videos
Love the Retro 135! It, too, is a great camper for beginners because you don't have the hassle with slide outs and has every feature you need to enjoy camping! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
My favorite is the Grand Design imagine AIM 15BH. I won't buy anything that is Forest River, and I am not sure about StarCraft. I am glad you saved the best for last.
A removable bunk would be ideal.. when travelling with 2.. take it out of the camper to save weight and space... allow the bed to fold into a couch too... then it could be a perfect trailer.
didn't really love any of them, but really loved the deer-in-the-headlights look on your face when you didn't know the name of the bed size, lol, classic. I like Erin Thor's comment; when I think of beginner things, I think "made easier to understand or handle", not made crappier.
I would think if talking about small campers for beginners, you should include the Coleman Lantern lt17B. It's only $15k so a beginner wouldn't feel like they spent too much if they don't like it.
The Coleman is a great beginner RV and there are many other great options too. We included these campers based on our current data. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Mike & Susan, Well done on the video! Thank you for sharing your height during your most excellent bathroom assessment... I presume you are 6'0" with sneakers on??? I greatly appreciate your PRACTICAL sit and elbow test of the throne! I'm most pleased with the Grand Design Imagine AIM15B, but my empty weight limit goal is
Apologies in advance if this sounds weird or rude, but what do you qualify as RV's for beginners? RV's that you won't plan on keeping? RV's that are cheap enough to throw away when you want to upgrade? RV's with entry level features that you will want to upgrade or replace? The terminology has me concerned as my goal is and has always been to buy my last RV first, a KEEPER. I’d like to buy a good RV of some quality that won't nickel and dime me to death, or work my patience too much. I would rather purchase smart than quick and dirty and end up wishing I had researched my purchase decision more. 😊
Approachable? These are all small, easy to tow and setup. It's up to the consumer to know their wants and needs when buying a rv based of their own research
Hi Erin. Our basic definition of a "Beginner RV" is one that it is small in length and weight (Not too intimidating to tow), doesn't have slideouts that requires additional maintenance and is reasonably priced. Price is a factor only because a beginner may decide RVing isn't really their jam. We don't look at a beginner camper as one that is disposable or has upgradable features.
@@AlaskaErik - This I know, thanks. There is a lot of junk out there, but there are also some that seem to be a better value than others, little things like aluminum frame and bed and bench supports not all wood. (I have sat down hard and cracked a bench seat support.)
These are great, kinda like my Wildwood FSX. I wanted my wife to have the Murphy but the kitchen bed was too short. I made the kitchen seat at the door slidable to extend the bed 6in. No climbing over anymore and we sleep great.
The Grand Design is by far the best. All three of these are definitely couples campers. Can you Susan do another video on small bunk houses? Thank y’all for the support keep up the good work 🤠👍
Grand Design does have an amazing floor plan. Are you looking for bunk beds or bunk houses, where they have a completely separate room? Bunk houses tend to fall out of the "small" category a bit. Thanks for watching and commenting Jellyfish.
Liked the last one except for that bed system. Crawling in and out of that would be a pain plus I hate that over the top bunk. Storage is great in it and set up good expect for that bed.
So glad you found a floor plan you liked! The Grand Design AIM 15BH is such a unique floor plan. Love what they've done! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
I liked the last one, but I only saw one receptacle 110v in the hold trailer. Did I miss them. Also hot water and soap does a good job washing hands. No matter where it come from.
We had a hard time finding receptacles in the Grand Design 15BH. I agree about the bathroom sink and hand washing system. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thank you for doing these videos! We are considering a camper and your channel is very helpful. Also, very classy and unbiased. We hope to purchase one for this summer but plan on renting for a couple weekend trips so we can actually try some out for towing and living. Is the idea of renting to try a decent idea??? Thanks again! Paul and Doreen from WI
Thank you so much for the kinds words. I hope we can help in any way!!! We always suggest renting before you buy. That way you can try different sizes and styles like travel trailers vs motorhomes! Great job for that idea! Reach out with any questions. Here's a link to Outdoorsy where you can search for RVs in your area and get a discount. Thnaks for watching and commenting.
The Grand Design does not have any receptacles in the kitchen area so how do you plug in anything? Also there is no drain in the bathroom sink so one would have to just dump the water when you raise it back up?? Did not like that.
This is my first time buying an RV, and I am going with a fifth wheel because I'm full time living, not BSing going with several travel trailers till I find out what I like, i know FW is a permanent solution
It's great that you are doing your research. A 5th wheel is a great RV for full-time living. Visit an RV show to get a good feel for size and floor plan. We also encourage renting an RV first to get the experience. Renting can be expensive but so can buying the wrong RV, right. Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting. We wish you the best of luck!
Hi Mike and Susan... I loved the Grand Design, it had some very interesting things.. I would like to see just a fabric headboard that tilts up.. The headboard in all 3 seemed like you lost vital inches in an already shorter bed Thanks for sharing
I liked the autumn Ridge the most. The setup was really nice. Not very fond of the walls in the shower being like that or that they were very sparse. I did fully like the corner bathroom sink. The last two I wasn’t very fond of. And fully didn’t understand the shower controls being so low on the second one. The bathroom on the third one was too weird. I like the shower, and the retractable sink, but the toilet set up was ridiculous. I’m not a fan of the bunkbeds, either, even though they were able to be stowed, but I would’ve liked to seen them be able to go fully against the wall. The huge L-shaped kitchen area was cool with plenty of counter space
You made a lot of really great points! Could possibly install shower walls in the Autumn Ridge if that's an option. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I’ll have to see if StarCraft does have a similar floor plan with a Murphy bed. We also always love the grand design layout. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thanks for the vid. Been looking for a vid just like this. Looking for a less than 20' single axle TT w/ shower & bath. Just me, retired, plan on doing some sight-seeing & traveling no longer than 2 weeks or so at a time. Towing with an AWD SUV - capacity is 5k#s w/ max tongue wt. of 500#s. Don't want to spend a fortune (+/- $20k) and would probably buy used. And NO SLIDE OUTS! 😁
You can definitely find some great deals on the used market. So many people have purchased RVs over the past few years and now realized they bought the "wrong" RV or camping just isn't for them. We actually bought a motorhome from Facebook Marketplace. I would recommend getting the RV inspected before buying just to be safe. Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting. We appreciate your support!
I really did not care for the designs of the first two; so by comparison, the third one (Grand Design Imagine AIM) blew me away. The shower and commode were good; loved the pull out sink--a great idea! The queen-size bed is much preferable to the more cramped designs in the first two trailers. The kitchen was fantastic. The whole thing "felt" spacious to me, as opposed to the cramped vibe I got from the first two. My wife and I will be retiring imminently (next year), and we are trying to get some ideas about how we will spend our golden years. I am CERAIN my wife will be THRILLED when I tell her we're going to start out by going to an RV show!! 😆
LOL! Going to an RV Show is a great way to begin your retirement! If you have never RV'd before maybe consider renting an RV for a week or two to try it out. Maybe your wife can ease into it that way. All the best! Mike
Liked the Starcraft because it is the shortest, and it has the best refrigerator. How do you use a shower that has no surround? Also, we would love to have a small travel trailer that has no dinetter....either nice easy chairs with trays, or a sofa with trays. Dinettes are so uncomfortable!
The walls of the shower are covered with a material that is safe to get wet, just have to make sure the seams are protected. Not the best option but it is an option...I'm guessing it's cost effective to the manufacturer. I also prefer dinette "alternatives". It's better to have flexible space in a small RV. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I'm really glad you saw some that you liked. There are so many floor plans to chose from. Hope we can help. Thanks for watching and commenting goofy girl! (😂)
Hi Larry. Thank you for the kind words. They all have awnings and AC. I suggest checking out the manufacturers website for construction material and insulation information. Thanks for watching and commenting.
So I guess if we want to get out in the woods we would need a big gas generator to run everything in the trailer?? I'm new at all this so I really don't know. So the generator is a another expensive item?
Yes, if you choose to camp without electric hook ups you will need a generator or solar power to run your appliances and lights. Some generators can be pricey but you can find a great one for a couple hundred dollars. We have a blog article that might be able to help you. rvblogger.com/blog/portable-quiet-generators-for-camping/ Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting. We appreciate your support!
Have you reviewed the r-pod 189? I think I like it best for a 1st time RV camper. My husband and I are thinking about purchasing one. I'd be interested to know your thoughts. HAPPY NEW YEAR YOU TWO!
We actually did tour that model almost 2 years ago (link included). For an RV that size and weight it has a good floor plan. My biggest consern is the bed. It will not be easy getting in and out of the bed based on location. Thanks for watching and commenting. ua-cam.com/video/gtFPebh02gY/v-deo.html
A sink in the bathroom is a necessity. I can't see stepping to the side while preparing dinner or whatever while you wash your hands in the kitchen sink. need to change the configurations of the beds. I wouldn't want to climb over someone or work my way to the end of the bed, not good for someone in my age group. I always loved the grand design, what I like about this one is the kitchen counter and the slide door in the shower. Unfortunately, these TT's were not made for the mature (elderly) folks. The video was great.
Great solution! We also invite you to join our Private Facebook Group called RV Camping for Newbies and if you supply your email address when you join you will also get our informative Newsletters every week and a FREE subscription to RV Today Magazine so you will be the most informed RVer on the planet! ( Just kidding but you can learn a bunch and meet some cool people!) Here's the link: facebook.com/groups/RVCampingforNewbies Thanks for watching and commenting! Mike
washing hands in the kitchen sink wouldn't bother me at all. We have a forest river Salem fsx 179 dbk, it has a sink in the bathroom. honestly It wouldn't bother me if it didn't, the extra room wouldn't be that bad lol.
Maybe they were hidden, but I didn't see any outlets in the kitchen area in the Grand Design. Also, the shotgun bathroom design set my claustrophobia alarm off just looking at it. And the sink looks like breakage waiting to happen. I didn't actually like any of these so much that I would buy one, but the Viking 16SFB was the best of the bunch.
That would depend on the size and weight you are looking to tow. Here is a link to smaller campers and larger campers with a bunkhouse ua-cam.com/video/JUtPYYM7Gp4/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/gjP3YKlu7cM/v-deo.html Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting.
The GD looks okay. Best idea for a silly sink in the head, lose the bunk and dinette and add theater seats with a removable table. Another axel would be good too. Also also, am I mistaken in not seeing a single outlet in the kitchen? No "tower of power"?
On the Grand Design Imagine AIM 15BH "last one" w/that huge amount of counter space, there are no outlets. Not one outlet from dining area into the roomy kitchen. What are you gonna do? Run extension cords for the coffee maker, toaster etc.? Designers at Grand Design were asleep on that one.
The tow vehicle is going to depend on the GVWR of your camper. You would need a truck or SUV that can tow that amount of weight. Towing a travel trailer will take some practice and there are course you can take to help with that. Set up isn't difficult at all. We made a video about setting up our motorhome that can provide some example. Thanks for watching and commenting. ua-cam.com/video/_RRXgWyIOX0/v-deo.html
Just beginning my search for a small lightweight trailer to be towed with my 2019 Nissan Frontier. Being retired and on a fixed income I'll most likely be looking at used. I noticed you mostly talk about new units. Ever do a video about used?
You have come to the right place to do your research. UA-cam has a great number of RV tour channels to help you see so many awesome floor plans on the market. Sorry we only tour new models but you can still find some amazing used RVs out there. We started shooting video in 2019 so some of our older videos could have used models for sale. Watching RV tour videos will help you determine some of your must have's and have not's. Best of luck to you. Feel free to ask any questions. We're happy to help!
Hi Everyone,
We hope you enjoyed our video! Which small travel trailer perfect for beginners did you like best? Please say hello by leaving a comment below!
Also, please feel free to ask any questions or just tell us about yourselves. We want to get to know you and share our RV experiences.
The 3rd one
#3 meets all my needs and the kitchen my wants as a cook
The Grand Design, it has a decent layout, a HUGE kitchen
Hope you guys have a happy new year
It does have a great kitchen! Thank you and Happy New Year to you as well!
OMG Awesome. Thank you for sitting at the dinette! No one EVER sits at the dinette’s….it’s so hard to gauge the size in reviews without someone sitting in them 😀👍🏻
Thank you for letting us know the value of sitting at the dinette. We really try to keep the user (buyer) in mind when it come to practicality of a small camper. Thank you for watching and commenting.
The Grand Design is the winner for me and the 60"x80" will get me every time. I long for the day when a murphy bed model will be a full queen size. The bathroom sink is not a problem for us.
Grand Design does an excellent job with their floor plans! Thanks for watching and commenting.
The Imagine is my favorite of these. I love the Kitchen and the layout would be great for me.
Grand Design did a great job with this floor plan. Thanks for watching and commenting!
That last caravan is fantastic. I love the fold up hand basin, the large rear kitchen and all the storage. I think the prices are excellent, here in Australia you'd be adding 100k to the price at minimum.
OMG! About the price. 😮 Thank you for watching and commenting.
My favorite was the one with bunk beds
It's a great feature in an RV! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Those bunk beds are too tight
I like the Grand Design. The bunk beds are nice feature. And the frig with the freezer draw is nice.
It's a pretty great floor plan! Thanks for watching and commenting.
I liked the last trailer the best myself. The way that the sink folded up was really neat. Plus all the kitchen counter space that was a nice feature.
We think it was a pretty cool floor plan too. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I like the last one. It provides all i need minus a slide yet making comfortable room to bring someone with. Thanks for sharing.
You are welcome! Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching and commenting.
The biggest problems with cheap trailers is moisture in the bathroom, put spray car wax on most bathroom surfaces, use the vent fan and when plugged in add a small electric space heater after taking a shower to speed drying. A trailer with only 2 tires is more of a problem with a flat tire, keep track of tire pressures, add shiny spray to the inner and outer sidewalls to help prevent aging cracks, lift the tires off the ground during long storage, and it is best to replace tires before they are 10 years old.
Those are a lot of great tips! Thanks for sharing. And thanks for watching and commenting.
So far the first one was great w the large sink in the kitchen love it.
The Starcraft is a really good floor plan! Thanks for watching and commenting Lb L!
Thanks for all the hard work you put into this. It's much appreciated as my wife and I are actively looking for a small camper to tow behind our van that's already set up with pretty much all the solar you could need even for the added camper. We realize we will be needing more room and that a smaller camper is the way we want to go. I don't know that I can pick a favorite but we're going to watch your next video for RV NEWBIES.
So glad we can help Tim! Thank you for the kind words and for watching our videos! Please reach out if you have any questions.
I ACTUALLY LIKE THE LAST TRAILER. NICE REVIEW.
The Grand Design Imagine AIM 15BH is a great floor plan!!! So glad you liked the review. Thank you for watching our RV tour and commenting!
I like the grand design imagine 15bh for the bunk bed and the front kitchen
They did a great job with the layout! Thanks for watching and commenting
First is better than others. Thanks for video!
You are welcome! Thanks for watching and commenting
Number 3 is my choice. The first two are going to fall apart just going down the road. Enjoy your video 👍 thanks
That's a great choice. Sure hope the others don't fall apart! LOL Thanks for watching and commenting.
I liked the beds in the Grand Design and all that kitchen space. The Forest River had the great closet and the best TV placement. Thank you
Glad you found value in some of these floor plans. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Grand design was perfect!
Glad you liked that one. Thanks for watching and commenting.
We recently purchased Coachman Clipper 17FQF and love it. Perfect size for couple and easy set-up. Best features, though are walk around queen and BIG bathroom. Might want to show it in future video
So glad you love your Clipper. We'll have to look for that floor plan at our next RV show. Thanks for the tip! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
Great videos. Keep up great work. The Grand Design Imagine was the last trailer featured and my favorite. The bunk bed option and pull out sink in restroom set it apart.
Thank you so much for the kind words. I also loved that sink in the Grand Design. Very innovative! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
Currently I own a truck camper and out of the three choices, I'd have to settle for the third floor plan. The kitchen area is very nice and the fold down basin is great. Seems more spacious all around. Great video! 👍
We like the third truck camper in this video too! Glad you liked the video!
Mike and Susan
Oh yeah the second one was my favorite I like the price
The Viking has a great floor plan!
I don't understand what the big deal is about washing your hands at the kitchen sink when there is no bathroom sink. I recently sold a trailer that had no bathroom sink and it was a total non-issue.
Use toilet, shower (hands washed), no problem!
For the average person it may not be an issue then there are those of us who went through Serve-safe training to work in a restaurant and well....let's just say if I could I would have an additional sink in my kitchen JUST for handwashing! 😁😉
I agree!
Poop particles are a thing
@@CoryFugger Be a little more careful when wiping.
I'm in the market for a trailer less than 20'. My deal breakers are slide outs (leaks or failure) and those canvas expansion beds that stick out.
Definitely dont care for oven's or microwaves. I think most beginners want the basics.
1. Comfy dedicated bed
2. A dinette with a window
3. A bath (preferably dry)
4. Clever storage
Let me know the models you find that meet your criteria. Maybe we will find them and make some video tours.
Thanks very much!
Mike
@@RVBlogger
Yeah... *The Forest River Aurora 13RDX* . I can't find any YT videos covering it.
Hi Mike & Susan; I have been watching your videos now for over a year. I appreciate your in-depth reviews and have made many notes of what I want/need in a travel trailer.
I liked the last trailer in this video the best of what you have presented. The Grand Design AIM 15BH. I like the bathroom sink design and the layout of the trailer. My wife would especially like the kitchen layout and all of the space.
Thank you for your continued education of us newbies in this area of life that I hope to jump in soon to.
James
Hi James! Thank you so much for your kind words. We love helping people see the variety of RV floor plans out there! We hope you jump in soon too! 😂 Best of luck researching. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Happy New Year 2023!
Mary Jane Florida
Thank you! Happy New Year to you too!
Imagine all the way! Best floor plan good quality and I love that flip down sink
That was a genius way to incorporate a sink without taking up so much space. Loved the Grand Design Imagine! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
I'm impressed with the third one, that sink in the bathroom is great, counter room in the kitchen wow. I really like, it's exactly what I'm looking for.😊
Awesome! Glad we found a camper you really like!
The Autumn Ridge would have been a great camper for your video of mid-size towable campers also. I like it.
True. Many of the RVs we tour can fit a multiple of categories. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Great video! Thank you for the tours and information. Will definitely consider this video when I'm ready to purchase. Keep up the good work!
Thank you so much for the kind words. We love helping. Thanks for watching and commenting.
The 15BH is the best out of all of them. Still needs some changes to make it perfect. Take the dinette out and put a couch in that can seat 4 adults. Also put storage cabinets above that window (can make the window a little smaller). Shrink the bunk bed width down to 38 inches wide (38x80 is twin xl size). No need for bigger on bunk. With those changes I think that would be the perfect 4 family little travel trailer!
Those are some really great re-design ideas. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I liked the second one. As a single traveler this is best because I wear more dresses than pants and shorts. This has a hanging closet for them. I also use a shower stool so the lower control handles are in a good position for me
The Forest River Viking has a great floor plan! So glad you liked it. Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
For sure The Grand Design would be my first choice. They build a high quality product and this is just packed full of features and great storage space too. The finishes are high-end for a more entry level trailer and they did a good job with the kitchen as well as the refrigerator space. I can't believe the amount of countertop space available in that kitchen; it's just amazing! The bathroom is large and has a lot of great features too. The drop-down sink is a wonderful idea. My second choice would be the Starcraft and the Forest River would be my last choice. Both of my second and third choices don't have any paneling in the shower but I think that's something you could remedy in a DIY project that wouldn't cost too much money and adding a retractable shower door would definitely be money well spent to eliminate a lot of aggravation. The Starcraft I think is just a better design and has both a better bathroom and kitchen than the Forest River does. That Forest River I know why it doesn't have a bathroom sink because they put it in the kitchen; that's about the size of the sink in the kitchen! 😂 I also don't like the tiny refrigerator in the kitchen and the fact that they put the cooktop east to west and not north to south to provide extra counter space. I don't really have a problem with the fact that they didn't put a microwave in and in fact I kind of like being able to choose my own. I guess I would probably just have to sleep with my pillows at the footboard of the bed if I really wanted to watch TV that badly and both the Starcraft and the Forest River campers. As far as the Great bathroom sink debate, I definitely prefer a sink in the bathroom if possible. If there are dishes in the kitchen sink and you go to wash your hands in there it is a little bit gross but I don't think the world would come to an end and I don't think a worldwide pandemic would start if you had to use the kitchen sink to wash your hands. The only thing is, if the bathroom is so small it can't support its own sink, I would be very concerned that the kitchen sink would be so small that it would be very unfunctional (is that even a word?) to use as either a kitchen or bathroom sink (see poor attempt at a joke above.)Thanks for bringing us some basic entry-level campers. I appreciate all the work you and Susan do to put the videos together! I hope you guys had great Christmas and a Happy New Year and looking forward to more videos in 2023!
😂 Rosemary, we always love your insight and tips!!! Mixed with humor! 😂 Thank you always for your support!
I really appreciate your honesty!!
Thank you! We try to point out features in an RV that could be challenging without completely shaming the manufacturer. Afterall, no RV is perfect! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
I just bought a 2023 Riverside retro 135 last march love it I'm single person 15'6 feet long and it weight 3600 pound load it and I put it with a Chevy Colorado with a V6 thanks for the videos
Love the Retro 135! It, too, is a great camper for beginners because you don't have the hassle with slide outs and has every feature you need to enjoy camping! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
I’m one of “those people”. I want a sink in the bathroom not just a kitchen sink 😏😀
Still happy to hear from you...even though you're one of "those people"😂 Thanks for watching and commenting.
My favorite is actually the BH model. Even though we wouldn’t use the bunk normally!
I always think bunk space can be great additional storage space too. Thanks for watching and commenting.
#3 has EVERYTHING that meets my needs and the kitchen my wants as a cook
Yes! We love the Grand Design floor plan! Thanks for watching and commenting.
I like the last one
I love Grand Design! Thanks for watching and commenting!
My favorite is the Grand Design imagine AIM 15BH. I won't buy anything that is Forest River, and I am not sure about StarCraft. I am glad you saved the best for last.
Grand Design does do an amazing job! Thanks for watching and commenting.
My favorite is the Grand Design. The Kitchen!! Not crazy about the bunk. Maybe a Murph bed.
I agree! Replacing the bunk with a Murphy bed would be a great idea! Thanks for watching and commenting.
I love the last one, but what I would do with the last one I would remove the top bunk and tell them to put some cabinets up there❤❤
Not a bad idea! Create a lot more storage options! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting.
A removable bunk would be ideal.. when travelling with 2.. take it out of the camper to save weight and space... allow the bed to fold into a couch too... then it could be a perfect trailer.
@@pesto12601 that’s an awesome idea!!
12:35 LOL!! I agree wholeheartedly!
😂 Sometimes he's very honest! Thanks for always supporting us!
#3 for me
Great choice! Thanks for watching and commenting.
Grand Design hands down for me. Obvious quality.
Grand Design does an amazing job with their floor plan design. Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting.
Cool video I will not have problem washing my hands in the kitchen sink. They should have put a little sink inside the shower
That's a great idea! Thanks for watching and commenting!
The grand design one is a refreshing new take on a compact unit. Bathroom is a little tight but it seems like it’s the only drawback
I agree about GD - very inventive! Thanks for watching and commenting.
i like this one star craft
Agree! Has everything you need and yet small and no slideouts! Thank you for watching and commenting!
didn't really love any of them, but really loved the deer-in-the-headlights look on your face when you didn't know the name of the bed size, lol, classic. I like Erin Thor's comment; when I think of beginner things, I think "made easier to understand or handle", not made crappier.
Made "crappier" wasn't the angle we were taken😂. Thanks for watching and commenting.
@@RVBlogger sorry, I should have found a nicer way to say that. Have an awesome week.
@@gigi3242 no worries. Wishing you a great as well.
I would think if talking about small campers for beginners, you should include the Coleman Lantern lt17B. It's only $15k so a beginner wouldn't feel like they spent too much if they don't like it.
The Coleman is a great beginner RV and there are many other great options too. We included these campers based on our current data. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Mike & Susan,
Well done on the video!
Thank you for sharing your height during your most excellent bathroom assessment... I presume you are 6'0" with sneakers on???
I greatly appreciate your PRACTICAL sit and elbow test of the throne!
I'm most pleased with the Grand Design Imagine AIM15B, but my empty weight limit goal is
Thanks Eric. We always appreciate your support! Sounds like you are narrowing down your search for sure. Hopefully we can help you find something.
Apologies in advance if this sounds weird or rude, but what do you qualify as RV's for beginners? RV's that you won't plan on keeping? RV's that are cheap enough to throw away when you want to upgrade? RV's with entry level features that you will want to upgrade or replace? The terminology has me concerned as my goal is and has always been to buy my last RV first, a KEEPER. I’d like to buy a good RV of some quality that won't nickel and dime me to death, or work my patience too much. I would rather purchase smart than quick and dirty and end up wishing I had researched my purchase decision more. 😊
Approachable? These are all small, easy to tow and setup. It's up to the consumer to know their wants and needs when buying a rv based of their own research
Good luck finding a good quality RV. Spending more doesn't equate to better quality when it comes to RVs.
Hi Erin. Our basic definition of a "Beginner RV" is one that it is small in length and weight (Not too intimidating to tow), doesn't have slideouts that requires additional maintenance and is reasonably priced. Price is a factor only because a beginner may decide RVing isn't really their jam. We don't look at a beginner camper as one that is disposable or has upgradable features.
@@AlaskaErik - This I know, thanks. There is a lot of junk out there, but there are also some that seem to be a better value than others, little things like aluminum frame and bed and bench supports not all wood. (I have sat down hard and cracked a bench seat support.)
@@RVBlogger - Apologies, I’ve been to too many RV shows and see people buying stick and tin RV’s that I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.
These are great, kinda like my Wildwood FSX. I wanted my wife to have the Murphy but the kitchen bed was too short. I made the kitchen seat at the door slidable to extend the bed 6in. No climbing over anymore and we sleep great.
What a great idea! Thanks for sharing! And thanks for watching and commenting.
For what it's worth, I would be very comfortable washing my hands in the kitchen sink. If I wasn't, I probably wouldn't be out camping anyway.
AGREE!!!! Thanks for watching and commenting.
The Grand Design is by far the best. All three of these are definitely couples campers. Can you Susan do another video on small bunk houses?
Thank y’all for the support keep up the good work 🤠👍
Grand Design does have an amazing floor plan. Are you looking for bunk beds or bunk houses, where they have a completely separate room? Bunk houses tend to fall out of the "small" category a bit. Thanks for watching and commenting Jellyfish.
Liked the last one except for that bed system. Crawling in and out of that would be a pain plus I hate that over the top bunk. Storage is great in it and set up good expect for that bed.
That's fair. Bed positioning is very important. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Grand Design: fold up bunk, front kitchen, and fold out sink in bathroom.
Pretty cool stuff huh? Thanks for watching and commenting
That grand design trailer is the best one here. They have a lot to offer in that small frame. I think I may look into that one.
So glad you found a floor plan you liked! The Grand Design AIM 15BH is such a unique floor plan. Love what they've done! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
I enjoy your videos and newsletter and have learned a lot
Awesome, thank you! We are so happy we can help! Thank you for your support!
I liked the last one, but I only saw one receptacle 110v in the hold trailer. Did I miss them. Also hot water and soap does a good job washing hands. No matter where it come from.
We had a hard time finding receptacles in the Grand Design 15BH. I agree about the bathroom sink and hand washing system. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thank you for doing these videos! We are considering a camper and your channel is very helpful. Also, very classy and unbiased.
We hope to purchase one for this summer but plan on renting for a couple weekend trips so we can actually try some out for towing and living. Is the idea of renting to try a decent idea???
Thanks again!
Paul and Doreen from WI
Thank you so much for the kinds words. I hope we can help in any way!!! We always suggest renting before you buy. That way you can try different sizes and styles like travel trailers vs motorhomes! Great job for that idea! Reach out with any questions. Here's a link to Outdoorsy where you can search for RVs in your area and get a discount. Thnaks for watching and commenting.
I would actually take any of them. My 1973 Holiday camper is "getting old" lol.
WOW! 50 years old that's incredible. You must've taken great care of her! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
The Grand Design does not have any receptacles in the kitchen area so how do you plug in anything? Also there is no drain in the bathroom sink so one would have to just dump the water when you raise it back up?? Did not like that.
I re-watched the video and did see a drain hole in the shower. His foot nearly covered it. I agree with you, on the no outlets in the kitchen.🥴
I agree about the kitchen with no plugs plus why such a big kitchen but such a small refrigerator/freezer?
I believe the sink has a drain within the wall. There is no exterior plumbing. Thanks for watching and commenting.
This is my first time buying an RV, and I am going with a fifth wheel because I'm full time living, not BSing going with several travel trailers till I find out what I like, i know FW is a permanent solution
It's great that you are doing your research. A 5th wheel is a great RV for full-time living. Visit an RV show to get a good feel for size and floor plan. We also encourage renting an RV first to get the experience. Renting can be expensive but so can buying the wrong RV, right. Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting. We wish you the best of luck!
Liked the last one the best except for booth on wrong side of camper.
We like a booth on camp side too. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Hi Mike and Susan...
I loved the Grand Design, it had some very interesting things..
I would like to see just a fabric headboard that tilts up..
The headboard in all 3 seemed like you lost vital inches in an already shorter bed
Thanks for sharing
That is a great point Richard! Thanks for sharing that insight!
I liked the autumn Ridge the most. The setup was really nice. Not very fond of the walls in the shower being like that or that they were very sparse. I did fully like the corner bathroom sink.
The last two I wasn’t very fond of. And fully didn’t understand the shower controls being so low on the second one. The bathroom on the third one was too weird. I like the shower, and the retractable sink, but the toilet set up was ridiculous. I’m not a fan of the bunkbeds, either, even though they were able to be stowed, but I would’ve liked to seen them be able to go fully against the wall. The huge L-shaped kitchen area was cool with plenty of counter space
You made a lot of really great points! Could possibly install shower walls in the Autumn Ridge if that's an option. Thanks for watching and commenting.
The StarCraft should have been a Murphy bed. Love the Grand Design bathroom sink and outside griddle. Grand Design was the best of the three models.
I’ll have to see if StarCraft does have a similar floor plan with a Murphy bed. We also always love the grand design layout. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thanks for the vid. Been looking for a vid just like this. Looking for a less than 20' single axle TT w/ shower & bath. Just me, retired, plan on doing some sight-seeing & traveling no longer than 2 weeks or so at a time. Towing with an AWD SUV - capacity is 5k#s w/ max tongue wt. of 500#s. Don't want to spend a fortune (+/- $20k) and would probably buy used. And NO SLIDE OUTS! 😁
You can definitely find some great deals on the used market. So many people have purchased RVs over the past few years and now realized they bought the "wrong" RV or camping just isn't for them. We actually bought a motorhome from Facebook Marketplace. I would recommend getting the RV inspected before buying just to be safe. Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting. We appreciate your support!
The last one!!
That's a good one!
I really did not care for the designs of the first two; so by comparison, the third one (Grand Design Imagine AIM) blew me away. The shower and commode were good; loved the pull out sink--a great idea! The queen-size bed is much preferable to the more cramped designs in the first two trailers. The kitchen was fantastic. The whole thing "felt" spacious to me, as opposed to the cramped vibe I got from the first two.
My wife and I will be retiring imminently (next year), and we are trying to get some ideas about how we will spend our golden years. I am CERAIN my wife will be THRILLED when I tell her we're going to start out by going to an RV show!! 😆
LOL! Going to an RV Show is a great way to begin your retirement! If you have never RV'd before maybe consider renting an RV for a week or two to try it out. Maybe your wife can ease into it that way.
All the best!
Mike
Liked the Starcraft because it is the shortest, and it has the best refrigerator. How do you use a shower that has no surround? Also, we would love to have a small travel trailer that has no dinetter....either nice easy chairs with trays, or a sofa with trays. Dinettes are so uncomfortable!
The walls of the shower are covered with a material that is safe to get wet, just have to make sure the seams are protected. Not the best option but it is an option...I'm guessing it's cost effective to the manufacturer. I also prefer dinette "alternatives". It's better to have flexible space in a small RV. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I liked the last one the best for the features. I also liked the first one for a budget friendly option. The second one I did not like.
I'm really glad you saw some that you liked. There are so many floor plans to chose from. Hope we can help. Thanks for watching and commenting goofy girl! (😂)
Do any of these these have AC, awnings? And what is the insulation system/shells made of? THank you, good info!!
Hi Larry. Thank you for the kind words. They all have awnings and AC. I suggest checking out the manufacturers website for construction material and insulation information. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Great video once again! Any idea what the weight limit is on the upper bunk?
Thank you! I haven't been able to find that weght spec. Might have to reach out to Grand Design
Grand Design needs to give you the option to totally remove the bunk.
That might be a possiblity. Thanks for the suggestion, watching and commenting.
I love the big kitchen in the grand design, but want a bigger refrigerator to go with it! SKIP THE TV!
Great point! A larger fridge is a better option. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Happy New Year!
Thank you and same to you!!!
thanks people for (washing poopy hands in kitchen sink) info! I'll add it to my paranoia list! I'll def have 2 sinks for traveling!🌟
That's fair. To some having a bathroom sink is very important. Thank you, we appreciate you watching our RV tour video and commenting!
So I guess if we want to get out in the woods we would need a big gas generator to run everything in the trailer?? I'm new at all this so I really don't know. So the generator is a another expensive item?
Yes, if you choose to camp without electric hook ups you will need a generator or solar power to run your appliances and lights. Some generators can be pricey but you can find a great one for a couple hundred dollars. We have a blog article that might be able to help you. rvblogger.com/blog/portable-quiet-generators-for-camping/ Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting. We appreciate your support!
Have you reviewed the r-pod 189? I think I like it best for a 1st time RV camper. My husband and I are thinking about purchasing one. I'd be interested to know your thoughts. HAPPY NEW YEAR YOU TWO!
We actually did tour that model almost 2 years ago (link included). For an RV that size and weight it has a good floor plan. My biggest consern is the bed. It will not be easy getting in and out of the bed based on location. Thanks for watching and commenting. ua-cam.com/video/gtFPebh02gY/v-deo.html
@RVBlogger I agree, but there is the sofa bed, too. Thanks for the link!
A sink in the bathroom is a necessity. I can't see stepping to the side while preparing dinner or whatever while you wash your hands in the kitchen sink. need to change the configurations of the beds. I wouldn't want to climb over someone or work my way to the end of the bed, not good for someone in my age group. I always loved the grand design, what I like about this one is the kitchen counter and the slide door in the shower. Unfortunately, these TT's were not made for the mature (elderly) folks. The video was great.
All fair points! So many small travel trailers sacrifice bed and bath features. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Wash hands at shower. I also keep wet wipes in the bathroom.
Great solution!
We also invite you to join our Private Facebook Group called RV Camping for Newbies and if you supply your email address when you join you will also get our informative Newsletters every week and a FREE subscription to RV Today Magazine so you will be the most informed RVer on the planet! ( Just kidding but you can learn a bunch and meet some cool people!) Here's the link: facebook.com/groups/RVCampingforNewbies
Thanks for watching and commenting!
Mike
washing hands in the kitchen sink wouldn't bother me at all. We have a forest river Salem fsx 179 dbk, it has a sink in the bathroom. honestly It wouldn't bother me if it didn't, the extra room wouldn't be that bad lol.
Agree. I understand the value in a home but not necessarily in an RV. Thanks for watching and commenting.
i like the simplicity of these models but i dont like the under bed storage, might introduce expsoure from outside temp
That's good point. Might have to insulate or include a product like damprid to reduce moisture. Thanks for watching and commenting.
There's always going to be something we as buyers will need to do to make a difference depending on what we buy and where we are going with it.
Maybe they were hidden, but I didn't see any outlets in the kitchen area in the Grand Design. Also, the shotgun bathroom design set my claustrophobia alarm off just looking at it. And the sink looks like breakage waiting to happen. I didn't actually like any of these so much that I would buy one, but the Viking 16SFB was the best of the bunch.
Hi Paula,
We like the Viking too!
Thanks for watching!
Mike
I noticed that the Grand Design had no electrical outlets in the kitchen area. Where would you plug in the coffee maker and toaster?
Good question. Not sure we overlooked them but couldn't find any either. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Where r the outlets for the grand design in the kitchen counter top
We weren't able find any. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Another great video but I would say hard pass on the first two and maybe on the third. Happy new year to you 🎉🎉
Just not feeling it this time huh? Happy New Year to you too! Thanks for watching and commenting.
What would you recommend for a family of 5 with pets?
That would depend on the size and weight you are looking to tow. Here is a link to smaller campers and larger campers with a bunkhouse ua-cam.com/video/JUtPYYM7Gp4/v-deo.html ua-cam.com/video/gjP3YKlu7cM/v-deo.html Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting.
The GD looks okay. Best idea for a silly sink in the head, lose the bunk and dinette and add theater seats with a removable table. Another axel would be good too. Also also, am I mistaken in not seeing a single outlet in the kitchen? No "tower of power"?
You are not mistaken. We didn't see one either. Love the idea of replacing dinette with theater seating. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I'm Ok washing my hands in the kitchen.
Us too! 🙌 Thanks for watching our RV tour video and commenting Maritza!
So many dinettes .. do people still want them on these small trailers?
Some love them some hate them. Luckily we can provide enough content for both categories. Thanks for watching and commenting.
On the Grand Design Imagine AIM 15BH "last one" w/that huge amount of counter space, there are no outlets. Not one outlet from dining area into the roomy kitchen. What are you gonna do? Run extension cords for the coffee maker, toaster etc.? Designers at Grand Design were asleep on that one.
We noticed that too. Not sure if it was a manufacturer oversight or what. Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting.
What tow vehicle do you need? How hard is it to tow a travel trailer? Is it hard to set up at a campsite?
The tow vehicle is going to depend on the GVWR of your camper. You would need a truck or SUV that can tow that amount of weight. Towing a travel trailer will take some practice and there are course you can take to help with that. Set up isn't difficult at all. We made a video about setting up our motorhome that can provide some example. Thanks for watching and commenting. ua-cam.com/video/_RRXgWyIOX0/v-deo.html
Just beginning my search for a small lightweight trailer to be towed with my 2019 Nissan Frontier. Being retired and on a fixed income I'll most likely be looking at used. I noticed you mostly talk about new units. Ever do a video about used?
You have come to the right place to do your research. UA-cam has a great number of RV tour channels to help you see so many awesome floor plans on the market. Sorry we only tour new models but you can still find some amazing used RVs out there. We started shooting video in 2019 so some of our older videos could have used models for sale. Watching RV tour videos will help you determine some of your must have's and have not's. Best of luck to you. Feel free to ask any questions. We're happy to help!
Grand design has the best floor plan
The GD AIM 15MH is a really awesome, unique floor plan for sure! Thank you for watching our RV tour video and commenting!
The last one for space.
We love Grand Design floor plans! Thanks for watching and commenting.
Are these the cheapest options for new models?
No. This video wasn't based on the price of travel trailers. Thanks for watching and commenting.