Looking for feedback...TT vs Class C

msubryan · 07-12-2016, 03:19 PM

I am currentlyin the market for an upgraded camper. I am currently in a 2006 Rockwood Freedom with DW and 4 kids. We camp 40 to 50 days a year typically travelling 4 to 12 hours away.

We thought that we were set on stepping up to 8 to 12 year old class C. Walked in dealershipto look at floor plans for class c, and stumbled onto Rockwood Roo 23IKSS. We fell in love with the layout in the hybrid.

Looking feedback on thoughts on the 2 options.

Really like the ease of travel with Class C, but the amenities of hybrid are enticing.

msubryan · 07-13-2016, 08:03 AM

Most Class C's are missing power awning, outside shower, grill, radio, internal and external speakers, and other small amenities.

Jim34RL · 07-13-2016, 09:58 AM

Also remember you need to tow a TOAD with a class c vehicle if you want to go anywhere. Unless you like to break cramp and pack up the Class C every time you want to leave the camp ground for sight seeing or shopping with the DW.

msubryan · 07-13-2016, 10:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim34RL

Also remember you need to tow a TOAD with a class c vehicle if you want to go anywhere. Unless you like to break cramp and pack up the Class C every time you want to leave the camp ground for sight seeing or shopping with the DW.

Agree...I have a Jeep Wrangler for that very reason!

CaptnJohn · 07-13-2016, 01:26 PM

I'm so not a fan of a hybrid that I never owned one BUT I'd sure consider that before another Class C or even a super C. Just the 2 of us and 2 small dogs now but never felt comfortable in the C.

If it were me ~ get the TT now and when finances permit upgrade the TV to diesel. When just the 2 of you a 5er is in order.

OKpete · 07-13-2016, 01:35 PM

We currently have a Sunseeker 3170DS and love it. With 2 grand kids the bunk beds are terrific. The bottom bunk is also a couch where they can sit and watch TV, play music and games while going down the road. With the class C the bathroom can also be utilized while moving so there is no more need to be stopping all the time. We have had pull trailers, a fifth wheel and a class A. By far the class C is the best for our situation. It drives great, parks easy and offers lots of storage. But, there is somethingfor everyone, that is why there are so very many types and styles of RV's to chose from. Good luck and happy travels

PenJoe · 07-13-2016, 01:39 PM

We currently have a class C primarily because we tow a boat. We will be taking an extended trip to Florida this winter and will be considering a toad for convenience. We have seen several RVs towing specifically designed trailers stacking a boat/motor/trailer over the top of a vehicle.

So, which way to go? The class C can be more homey while travelling. But if you are not towing a boat or ATV and doing shorter trips. I would definitely consider staying with a TT. Overall, it would be less expensive and more convenient.

timfromma · 07-13-2016, 01:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim34RL

Also remember you need to tow a TOAD with a class c vehicle if you want to go anywhere. Unless you like to break cramp and pack up the Class C every time you want to leave the camp ground for sight seeing or shopping with the DW.

Alot of Class C's aren't powerful enough to tow a vehicle behind them.

oldsmasma · 07-13-2016, 01:54 PM

We have run the gamut of campers in order (I think) small bumper tow, small MH, fifth wheel and diesel three quarter ton combo and now a pretty nice gas class C. We love it. We can fit into any state/provincial park site and with 3 slide outs it's roomy enough to make a 2 month snowbird Florida stay comfortable. We like to keep things tidy inside anyway and can unplug and be off exploring in just a few minutes. We have slept an extra 3 adults once when necessary but roll in comfort when it is us and our 75 lb fur kid. As you have learned what rv you buy changes with your needs. Buy what fits your budget and current needs and have fun.

ilmor · 07-13-2016, 02:09 PM

I've owned 1 class A, 1 travel trailer, 1 popup and 3 class c's. After all that experience my preference is class C any day of the week. But like anything else, there are so many variables. I like a small class C, which is perfect for 2 or 3. My current new E-450 V-10 can easily tow my Wrangler. I despise hooking and unhooking and maneuvering trailers, personally.

KMP44 · 07-13-2016, 02:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by msubryan

Looking feedback on thoughts on the 2 options.

This is an interesting choice of options. We are on our 4th year with a 23IKSS and couldn't be happier with it, and as a kid, my parents had a class C that we camped a ton in - including a 7 week trip from NY to CA and back.

I think the choice probably comes down to preference and lifestyle. The hybrid is pretty easy to manage as far as getting packed and setting up/tearing down, but probably not as convenient as the Class C. However, it has a ton of room and sleeping space.

I would think the key points to think about:

Are you "hybrid people" - meaning do you like the canvas ends and the tent feel? If you camp in places where the sites are spread out, this can be great. If you are in places where the sites are very close, it might be an issue. Or if you camp in very hot or very cold weather, a hybrid has some drawbacks. We're good from 25 degrees to 95 degrees in our Roo, but something to consider. Search the hybrid section of the forum for some of the threads on pros/cons of a hybrid.

The class C can be a lot more comfortable for the kids if driving a lot. Certainly a plus for the MH.

The IKSS is pretty heavy for a hybrid - our loaded tongue weight is in the neighborhood of 850 pounds. To carry that plus 6 people, you need the right tow vehicle.

Cost of buying and maintaining - my parents kept their C for 18 years - but the last 5 or 6 involved a lot of maintenance - finally sold it when working on it involved more time than camping in it. New hybrid comes with a warranty and (hopefully) less maintenance - but the cost of ownership could really jump if you need to upgrade the tow vehicle.

Good luck in your search! Either way your kids will have some great adventures to remember.

itat · 07-13-2016, 03:54 PM

With 4 kids it'll be hard to find a Class C floorplan that will work for you.

If you're looking at hybrids, look a the 233S with 3 bed tipouts. It may work better for your larger family especially as they start to grow taller. I don't like bunks because they are typically too small for teens so you outgrow them fairly quickly (JMO). Keep in mind that hybrids with tent ends are not for everyone or every place. Plus hybrids have a higher chance of leaking by virtue of the extra holes in the walls.

jjuscg · 07-13-2016, 06:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ilmor

I've owned 1 class A, 1 travel trailer, 1 popup and 3 class c's. After all that experience my preference is class C any day of the week. But like anything else, there are so many variables.

I, too have owned many types. None was the perfect solution. For motor homes, I agree with the preference for the small class C. HOWEVER, we have landed on our preference being the travel trailer for the following reasons:

You're going to be towing SOMETHING, whether a car or a trailer.
The trailer is more comfortable once you arrive.
My Expedition tow vehicle is more comfortable to drive than any motorhome I've driven
Last, and for me, most important, you don't have an extra engine, transmission, and other running gear components to maintain.

msubryan · 07-13-2016, 08:42 PM

Thanks to all for feedback. I have a very good tow vehicle (tahoe z71) and am now strongly leaning towards the hybrid. I do love the tent feel and while the class c would be Excellent traveling, the hybrid will be much better once we get to the destination. Would be awesome if someone made a class c with twin slides like 23 ikss. And similar amenities.

mtnlvr · 07-13-2016, 09:28 PM

I chose a Class C because you don't have to exit your vehicle to use your bathroom or grab a drink and snack while on the road. (4 kids would appreciate this aspect.) It can also be a safety issue, not having to exit your vehicle in "undesirable" places.

41ford · 07-15-2016, 09:58 PM

We bought a Class C Jayco last year, just didn't like the way it handled in the wind and when any semi-truck passing in either direction.

This year we bought a 5th wheel and 1 ton Chev pickup, then sold the Class C. I couldn't be happier. The pickup is comfy to travel, easy to drive with 5'er and the comforts of the 5'er top the motorhome in my opinion.

CaptnJohn · 07-15-2016, 10:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 41ford

We bought a Class C Jayco last year, just didn't like the way it handled in the wind and when any semi-truck passing in either direction.

This year we bought a 5th wheel and 1 ton Chev pickup, then sold the Class C. I couldn't be happier. The pickup is comfy to travel, easy to drive with 5'er and the comforts of the 5'er top the motorhome in my opinion.

Also having had them all a 5er is much preferred over all others. We use our 5er most of the year. Never had a hybrid as always hated the thought of leaking canvas and wondered about long term heating and cooling during extreme temp periods. For that reason and others I'd take a TT in OPs circumstances.

n-e-d · 07-22-2016, 05:41 AM

Just my $.02 but DW and I have found the C convenient for the daily runs we make to visit relatives and travel to bike trails. I can only imagine with 4 kids it would be nice to have a changing room and restrooms in the parking lot

logspec1 · 07-30-2016, 02:54 PM

My DW and I just went through the same thing. We wanted to upgrade from our TT and we spent 3 months looking and test driving. After all that we decided the extra cost and insurance of a C or A was not worth it. We traded in for a new Rockwood 8329SS. It depends on how you are going to camp. Are you willing to have $70,000 to $130,000 just sitting in your backyard 70% on the year?

ToniandSal · 10-10-2016, 10:19 AM

For us it was a matter of space on our driveway, vehicles we already own, and cost. Our new Forester MH was less money than purchasing a new TT and a truck big/powerful enough to safely pull it. And, we don't need a truck. We have a Honda Pilot which I will keep forever. MH made the most sense to me. But, everyone's situation is personal.

Toni and Sal
2016 Forester 2291S
Sent from my iPad using Forest River Forums

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