Q: When do you know it's time to move into a larger, "better",
RV?
A: When you tell people the one thing you miss most about living in a
house is "the space," and when you're sure you're going to spend ALOT more time traveling.
But, just how do you pick the one? After almost a year in a class
C, I knew what I wanted, and LOTS of the big names in RVs came out with similar floor plans (Itasca, Winnebago, Gulf
Stream, Fleetwood, and Georgie Boy) - all had models with BUNK BEDS, as well as the queen bed. I viewed every model
and went off a check list for the options I wanted, like 1) lots of inside overhead storage as well as wardrobe cabinets
for all four peoples' clothes, b) an easy-to-open jackknife sofa with removable facing so kids can get their toys out
easier, c) a space for my desk top computer to be permanently installed (my brother and I replaced the one extra easy chair
behind the passenger seat, and used the bolts/pre-drilled holes to install a computer cabinet). Then, the rest
of the features (larger generator, larger and lighted undercarriage storage, a fantastic draining system, etc) were "bonus."
We also jumped from 29 ft. to 35 ft., and moved into a class
A (or "bus" as a friend calls them). Why? I simply wanted more space. Some cool "space increaing options"
are that both front seats swivel so there's even more room up front (the cab-overhead bunk in the class C used up at least
four feet). Both slide-outs in this RV are longer and deeper than our old class C, in both the Kit/LR area and bedrooms.
We also have a bigger fridge, a "real" oven, and two pantries for food storage (not under my bed anymore :)
I am very glad we initially got the smaller class C as our
"test" home on wheels. I would reccommend to anyone who hasn't RV'd to start small (and even buy used) to give it a
run, at least for a couple months. Or, rent a few to check them out.
With kids, I knew I wanted something that I could drive while they
could have immediate access to a rest room - without pulling over. Or, to get snacks, watch TV, and even play board
games (in both RVs the booth seats have seat belts!) Plus, I've had enough road trips to know that having them sit next
to each other in a big deisel truck while towing a trailer or 5th wheel wasn't going to be a sanity-keeper.
It took me almost a year to make up my mind on our first one, and only
about two weeks to find this one. And, we love our Georgie Boy! Even after a month, the kids are sitll mentioning
the things that are "better." We're ready for another year of adventure - with more... everything!
