When it comes to buying an RV, navigating the sea of brands and models can be overwhelming. Many prospective buyers seek advice on which brands deliver quality and reliability.
Based on discussions from various RV enthusiasts, here are some insights and recommendations that could help you make a more informed decision.
Arayder from Redditt initially asked:
“What brands are actually good? I’m looking into getting a trailer, and man it’s hard to find a brand/type that actually has good reviews and isn’t built sh***ily. What are good brands and good models for a 20-30ft camping trailer that I can feel confident buying new or used?”
Quality Brands and Models
One user, ldsupport, emphasized the importance of understanding what “good” means to you and your intended use. They highlighted brands like Airstream, Northwood, and Lance as top contenders, noting that these brands tend to hold their value well.
They also mentioned Grand Design and the newer Brinkley, created by the founders of Grand Design. According to ldsupport, it’s rare to find pre-owned units from brands like Lance and Northwood, as people who buy them usually keep them for a long time, indicating their lasting quality.
Fiberglass Trailers
Fiberglass shell trailers are often recommended for their durability. Brands such as Scamp, Cortes, Oliver, and Casita are mentioned favorably. base-scamp pointed out that molded fiberglass trailers tend to last longer and have less wood to rot, making them a reliable option.
User Experiences
UNMANAGEABLE vouched for Northwoods and Lance campers, praising their better material selection and meaningful insulation methods. Similarly, Accomplished-Cat-632 shared their satisfaction with their 19-year-old Northwood Arctic Fox, noting its longevity compared to their friends’ multiple unit replacements.
Seawolfe665 suggested that purchasing higher-end brands like Airstream, Oliver, Bowlus, or Scamp can minimize problems due to their build quality and value retention.
Budget Considerations
According to Rschwoerer, budget plays a significant role in determining quality. They noted that while there are no “good” RV trailers for $20k, brands like Airstream, Lance, OutdoorsRV, Oliver, and Host are worth the investment if your budget allows.
Maintenance and Repairs
Many users highlighted the necessity of regular maintenance and repairs with any RV. average_zen noted that owning a camper is as much about fixing issues as it is about camping. yukonnut shared their routine of checking and tweaking their camper during trips to ensure everything remains in good working order.
Avoiding Certain Brands
Several users shared negative experiences with certain brands. Winchery criticized Forest River and Thor, describing their units as poorly built. However, there were mixed reviews, as elephantbloom8 and mkunka had positive experiences with their Forest River RVs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right RV brand involves considering your budget, intended use, and willingness to maintain and repair the unit.
High-quality brands like Airstream, Northwood, Lance, and Oliver are often recommended for their durability and value retention. However, even within highly regarded brands, experiences can vary, so thorough research and inspections before purchasing are essential.
In conclusion, while there is no definitive “best” RV brand, prioritizing well-known, high-quality brands and being prepared for ongoing maintenance can help you make a more confident and informed decision when purchasing an RV.