Travel Agents and Disney

We bought an RV. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img] [i]We are our own travel agents[/i]. We like. We fix most all of our food, or at least have a place of recourse if "safe" options are not available. Have you looked into Disney's Fort Wilderness?

I agree RV's are great! We rented a 39' trailer at a campground last summer and loved it.An RV is on my wish list but first we need a newer vehicle that can tow. Fort Wilderness is a little rich for our blood right now. We are considering Caribbean Beach Resort in June of '04.

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]I agree RV's are great! We rented a 39' trailer at a campground last summer and loved it.An RV is on my wish list but first we need a newer vehicle that can tow. Fort Wilderness is a little rich for our blood right now. We are considering Caribbean Beach Resort in June of '04.[/b]

ya know, the *other* reason (aside from food allergies) we purchased a modest RV was the cost of *other* vacations. Traditional Disney hotels being one of them. found the nightly rate at Fort Wilderness to be about twice that of some full service campground hookups, but [i]with soooooooo much more[/i]. (no guarantees from me tho [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]) The priciest thing was the "hopper passes". Next time I think we will just pay for the day at a theme park since we felt obligated to attend after purchasing the passes. Fort Wilderness was a hoot. Loved it (can't guarantee a similiar experience, but *personally* don't think we will leave the "Fort" much for the parks in April. )Well, maybe the light show at Magic Kingdom and a water park. Maybe. There was much to do at the "Fort" and much of it free. Very Family oriented, IMPHO. We brought Grandma with, and needed to rent a Golf Cart for transportation (we liked it too [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]) Figured we were staying for close to a month next year and purchased a golf cart when we came home (used). Most likely, it will pay for itself. We now use it at our summer home.

Funny, never needed it before, but now find it hard to get along without it. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/wink.gif[/img]

We estimate our vacation next year to cost around $3,000 for a family of 5. (Hopefully, God willing, Grandma will be there with us next year). Considering we would spend money for various things at home, and some of the cost will "wash" out........ Not bad for a vacation bordering on a month's stay. (Again, no guarantees of similiar experience or cost)

Our RV, brand new, with twin bunks, queen bedroom, full bath, full service kitchen, awning, trailer package, delivered ready for pickup: 12,004.00 (rounded cents). We hope for many years of faithful service. Our vehicle: (which we were told is a nice "match" for the trailer) 1996 dodge extended cab pickup (we took turns in the jump seat from IL to FL) now has over 120,000 miles. Did a lot of mechanical work (brakes,air, shocks, air,trans, air, water pump, air, alternator, air, suspension, air, window tint, air, belt and hoses, air............. prior to take off, (still need to fix the air. again) but think we will look at a F-350, or the like in the spring. It is time. Plan on keeping the old girl, just not traveling cross country in her. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

Guess the mountains creeped me a bit. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/tongue.gif[/img]

I like your idea of being your own travel agent. Your RV sounds perfect. What kind did you buy if don't mind sharing that info?
Your experience with camping at Disney is making my wheels spin.

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]I like your idea of being your own travel agent. Your RV sounds perfect. What kind did you buy if don't mind sharing that info?
[/b]

A Coachman Spirit of America. 2003. 24TB (twin bunk, 24 feet long.)

We got a [i]deal[/i]. Ordered it in even. Chose our colors.

While I refuse to guarantee similiar happiness in any manner or form, *my family and I* enjoyed the trailer and the experience. No regrets here.

Just to clarify: we stayed at "Fort Wilderness". Not "Wilderness Lodge". Both on Disney. One has cabins and camping grounds, the other has a hotel.

My family just got back from Disney, and we planned it all ourselves. There are many websites with good information, like mousesavers.com, disboards.com, and themeparks.com. The last few times we have been there, we have stayed at timeshare resorts with full kitchens. IMHO they are just as nice as the Disney hotels, but you need your own transportation to the parks. Some people really prefer onsite, though.

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]Your RV sounds perfect.[/b]

LOL! [i]we thought it was too[/i].

Took it in to have it winterized. Service guy said "I can do it while you wait, why don't you look around a bit."

It was like [b]hook, line, and sinker.[/b]

Wow didn't see it comming. LOLOLOL.

Our 24 foot Coachman is now a 30 foot Gulfstream. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img]

Hopefully, our previous trailer will make dreams come true for another family.

The new trailer has an extra bedroom with [i]four [/i] bunks and closet in addition to the main bedroom. We now also have a couch. (Cubs previously would lay claim to the kitchen table.) Thomas the train, action figures, and Hotwheel [b]everywhere[/b]. Still, [i]it was cozy[/i].

New trailer is roomy enough now, but [i]who knows how fast we will fill it[/i].

Again, can't make recommendations for other families as needs and preferences can be highly individual and personal, but *I* know what works for us.

MommaBear [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

Thanks a whole lot, people.I am upset at all of you. You've all been making Disney sound so great that I called today and booked us a vacation there! We will be staying at the Wilderness Lodge as we have no RV and if we did I would be a menace, anyway (I hit my mom's van backing out of my own driveway last week).

I AM SO EXCITED!

We are going in August 2004. We did not make dining reservations yet, but I wondered who you tell about the PA thing. How do I make sure DDs meals are safe??

Anything I should know? Do they have double or triple strollers for rental? Can under 2s ride anything or do anything?

For vacation planning info, you should look at the Disney Web site. They will show you the requirements for the different attractions so you can plan out what your little ones will enjoy. I have seen double strollers for rent, but not triple that I recall.

Disney reservations for charactor dining or special dinners can be made in advance (forget the number, the web site will give it to you) 60 days in advance. If you want to do anything unique, like eat in the Cinderella castle, you will need reservations. In MGM, the Sci Fi diner is really cool.

There are plenty of tips on the boards already regarding Disney dining - do a search - it is fairly easy to keep safe.

If you don't have cooking options, for breakfast we just buy fruit, Nutri Grain bars etc... I also bring some safe candy so if dessert does not turn out to be an option, she knows she has a treat in the room. We have eaten with dd at many of the Epcot countries with the only disappointment being that no dessert at "Italy" was safe - but she was so full of pasta, dessert was really not needed.

Hope you have a great time.

[This message has been edited by Chicago (edited November 07, 2003).]

Pgrubbs, So exciting! My kids loved the Wilderness Lodge - beautiful, fun theming, so impressive when you walk in, with the music playing. You could look into the "flag family" activity, which I heard from a friend who did this, that it's fun - they toured the hotel and then participated in the flag raising ceremony.

If you call for meal reservations, it is to a central booking place, and they will make a note of the allergy. They gave me the phone number of the restaurant to speak to the chef as well, but sometimes I couldn't get through. Even so, when we arrived, the restaurant staff knew all about it. It was like a dream come true. No vacant stares from servers, or the famous..."uh, I don't think it has nuts". Chefs came out to speak with us. People smiled. I think what I appreciated is that they offered the information to me, low key and factual, and I didn't have to go into any lengthy explanation or discussion, and my son's allergy was just a small part of the experience and for once, not the main event.

There is a Disney thread in Travel, with specific restaurants noted, and some restaurants do serve pb&j's and more entrees with nuts, so it's good to adjust according to your own comfort. But Disney has so many options and they are so aware, it was just very relaxing and enjoyable.

Lucky you! Have fun!

Quote:Originally posted by pgrubbs:
[b]
We are going in August 2004. We did not make dining reservations yet, but I wondered who you tell about the PA thing. How do I make sure DDs meals are safe??

Anything I should know? Do they have double or triple strollers for rental? Can under 2s ride anything or do anything?

[/b]

Did you check out the cabins at Fort Wilderness? I think they each have a kitchen. I could be wrong. It is my understanding there is Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge.

Well, we WERE planning a Disney trip in June '04 or April '05. We were going to fly down and stay at Carribean Beach but NOW we are looking at trailers. I guess I've been bitten by the RV bug.

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]Well, we WERE planning a Disney trip in June '04 or April '05. We were going to fly down and stay at Carribean Beach but NOW we are looking at trailers. I guess I've been bitten by the RV bug. [/b]

not that you asked, [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img] but we thought maybe we could done with less options or a smaller RV when we purchased our first. However.......... less than 6 months later we [b]traded up[/b].

Some things *we* found really to "be worth it": automatic pilot on the water heater, outside shower (in addition to inside shower), a couch, an oven (pizza), [b]a private bedroom[/b] ie: [i]a door on it[/i] [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/tongue.gif[/img], an area for the cubs to play and keep their toys, (as well as play video games in poor weather---- boy will poor weather make it seem small in there)........ well, this translates to a room with a door on it for the cubs as well. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img] The awning is soooooooooo worth it! Built in jack stands. SWAY CONTROL AND A WEIGHT DISTRIBUTING HITCH. Jealousy windows, so you can open them if it is raining without letting rain in. Vented air as opposed to one outlet for the air. OH, Yeah. AIR is nice.

Not saying this makes for the *perfect* RV, or that you will even like those kinds of options, just saying what *works* for us. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

Cost of second RV, 2004 30 foot long: 14,800, U.S. (price of first RV listed in thread as well for comparison) It was on a "special" as was most everything in the lot. Apparently the dealer was anxious to get rid of stock before winter. This means it "sits" another winter as opposed to ordering in "new" in the spring, but hey, we are [b]already[/b] thinking of the next move up.

Not saying you will be able to find a similiar deal, but who knows, you may find an even better deal. Got to admit, I teared up clearing out the *first* trailer. Had it for such a short time, but [i]wow[/i], the memories. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]

Shirley -

We went to Disney this past summer and I found the website [url="http://www.tourguideMike.com,"]www.tourguideMike.com[/url] to be invaluable. You have to pay $21.95, but that gives you unlimited access to TONS of useful information. The site is run by an actual (former?) Disney tour guide so he knows his stuff.

Good luck!

Jackie

[This message has been edited by jh5000 (edited December 03, 2003).]

Quote:Originally posted by jh5000:
[b]Shirley -

We went to Disney this past summer and I found the website [url="http://www.tourguideMike.com,"]www.tourguideMike.com[/url] to be invaluable. You have to pay $21.95, but that gives you unlimited access to TONS of useful information. The site is run by an actual (former?) Disney tour guide so he knows his stuff.

Good luck!

Jackie

[This message has been edited by jh5000 (edited December 03, 2003).][/b]

Jackie,
Thanks for the tip. I'll check it out.
Shirley

reraising to compliment other discussions about rv's and disney and vacations.

reraising. (Our new Disney Goal is Spring 2005) [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img]

Mommabear, sounds like you are a bit of a Disney-fan. Me, too (although less so than I used to be.) I've been about 15 times. Not bad for someone who has never lived within 1,000 miles of WDW!

------------------
Jean

Quote:Originally posted by jeancbpugh:
[b]Mommabear, sounds like you are a bit of a Disney-fan. Me, too (although less so than I used to be.) I've been about 15 times. Not bad for someone who has never lived within 1,000 miles of WDW!

[/b]

our goal is 3-4 weeks. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img] (does still count for one trip?) I'm pulling the cubs outta school for the trip. I mean, I [i]homeschooled[/i] for nearly two years.........I bet I can handle 3-4 weeks. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img] (don't wanna catch hurricane season, think May is a good time to go?) I just got another box of "Disney" checks to spend while I'm there. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/tongue.gif[/img] I'm thinking: diamond neck charm of Mickey...........

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b] (don't wanna catch hurricane season, think May is a good time to go?) [/b]

We went one year in early June. The weather was PERFECT.

------------------
Jean

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b]reraising. (Our new Disney Goal is Spring 2005) [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img][/b]

MommaBear,
Our Disney goal is June 2006.
Our used/ new to us travel trailer is in winter storage as we speak. This June is too soon as hubby wants to get used to pulling a trailer before trekking from NH to Fl.
Yippee!

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b] MommaBear,
Our Disney goal is June 2006.
Our used/ new to us travel trailer is in winter storage as we speak. This June is too soon as hubby wants to get used to pulling a trailer before trekking from NH to Fl.
Yippee![/b]

Our next trip goal is when youngest son is 48". He is just 44" now, did his first ride on Space Mountain last week and loved it. (Dragged DH there the last day and rode it 9 times!!) We'll go back when he is tall enough to ride Rockin Rollercoaster (my fav ride).

------------------
Jean

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b] MommaBear,
Our Disney goal is June 2006.
Our used/ new to us travel trailer is in winter storage as we speak. This June is too soon as hubby wants to get used to pulling a trailer before trekking from NH to Fl.
Yippee![/b]

*[i](squeal!!!!!)[/i]*

Tell me whatcha decided on!!!!!! (how did I miss this post?????) Has he towed before? [i]Have *you* towed before?[/i] Are ya gonna shake things up with a few weekend trips before Disney?

reraising.

Thanks MommaBear.
A 30ft Gulf Stream. I wish. I have found my dream trailer too. The only problem is having to get the appropriate vehicle to tow it. My youngest keeps asking me when winter is going to be over so we can go camping again. I wish I knew too. We do love to camp....
We have a Rockwood pop-up trailer. We do love it too but would love something with a little more room and a washroom.

Happy Trails
Pam
Maybe we will bump into each other on our camping trails..LOL

Quote:Originally posted by leers:
[b] I have found my dream trailer too. The only problem is having to get the appropriate vehicle to tow it. [/b]

[i]Is it a Cedar Creek Fifth Wheel? With full size bunks, plasma tv, wine bar and tripple slides? [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img] Cuz if it is, I know the feeling. Currently shopping for one ton, diesel 4X4 with four doors and an eight foot bed.

Quote:[b]
My youngest keeps asking me when winter is going to be over so we can go camping again. I wish I knew too. We do love to camp....[/b]

I'm torn. Wet snow comming down all around me today (I'm a Christmas child), new snowball makers, hoping the tobaggan slides open tonight, and staring at the travel trailer parked outside our bedroom window. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img]
Quote:[b]We have a Rockwood pop-up trailer. We do love it too but would love something with a little more room and a washroom.[/b]

The washroom was my biggest demand. (When discussing a purchase with hubby) But I'd still prefer a Rockwood pop-up to a first class hotel room anyday (The pop-ups I've seen are pretty nice---if we wouldn't have had a hearty tow vehicle, it's what we would have purchased). But maybe it's just me. Not as advice, just my own personal quirks.

Quote:[b]Maybe we will bump into each other on our camping trails..LOL[/b]

Our plans are to inhabit Fort Wilderness for at least three weeks in spring/summer 2005. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img]

.......and I have tent camped. when I was dated my hubby. Now that I'm married to him......[i]I don't[/i]. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

We have friends that actually camp in the winter. I think that would be fun too. Some campgrounds are open all year around. You can toboggan, ski. Our tent trailer isn't appropriate for winter camping. Need your trailer MommaBear.....LOL

Pam

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b]
*[i](squeal!!!!!)[/i]*

Tell me whatcha decided on!!!!!! (how did I miss this post?????) Has he towed before? [i]Have *you* towed before?[/i] Are ya gonna shake things up with a few weekend trips before Disney? [/b]

We decided on a 2003 Sunline 2553. It's a 25' trailer with a front kitchen. Just perfect for the 3 of us and a friend for DD.
It's used but you would never know it. Funny thing is that we started looking a year ago and ended up buying the same brand from the same place that we started at. The only difference was the model. We also had to buy a tow vehicle first which ended up being a 2001 Chevy 1/2 ton Tahoe.
We will be doing a lot of weekend trips this year and a week long trip to Lake George, NY and somewhere in Maine for another week. Neither one of us towed before that's why we are waiting a year to go to Disney in 2006.
Is it spring yet?

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b] We decided on a 2003 Sunline 2553. It's a 25' trailer with a front kitchen. [/b]

with double doors????? ([b]squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeel!!!![/b]) [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img]
Quote:[b]It's used but you would never know it. [/b]

I know exactly what you are talking about. I mean, if we wouldn't have gotten such good deals on our first two trailers..........we would probably have purchased something very similiar. I mean, there's a lot of "two-foot-itis" going on out there. People trading up all the time. (my family being some of them. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]) I always found myself asking "is this new or used?---I can't tell." [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img]

If you end up doing Disney in 2005, that's our target date too. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b]

If you end up doing Disney in 2005, that's our target date too. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]

[/b]

but God willing, we'll be there in 2006 too. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b]
but God willing, we'll be there in 2006 too. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img][/b]

Yes, double doors.
We like it because it feels like you have 3 separate areas.
Kitchen up front, living room middle, then split bath and then the rear bedroom. Another nice feature is the switch back dinette bench. You can swing the bench around to have it face the TV and create a nice area for conversation.
Just couldn't see us with those tiny all in one bathrooms so the split bath was important.
Have you been to Disney in June?
Just wondering what to expect weatherwise.

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]Have you been to Disney in June?
Just wondering what to expect weatherwise.[/b]

I've been the first week in June. The weather was gorgeous, nice and warm but not hot. There were daily afternoon showers that didn't slow us down a bit.

------------------
Jean

Quote:Originally posted by jeancbpugh:
[b]
I've been the first week in June. The weather was gorgeous, nice and warm but not hot. There were daily afternoon showers that didn't slow us down a bit.

[/b]

Holy ............[i]this helps me!!!!![/i] No guarantees, understood, but I was still thinking of all the rain we had comming home the season before this last summer. We're trying to pick between march, may, and june to spend three weeks. All three weeks can't be solid rain, right?

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b]reraising. (Our new Disney Goal is Spring 2005) [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img][/b]

target complete. weather..[i]perfect[/i].

[b]Magical[/b]. (brushing pixie dust off shoulders.)

[url="http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/Forum22/HTML/002665.html"]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/Forum22/HTML/002665.html[/url]

LOL. I think we're gonna buy a bigger trailer. Again. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b]LOL. I think we're gonna buy a bigger trailer. Again. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img][/b]

we did. [i]Just traded *that* one up today on a new travel trailer.[/i] Dealers must not be rolling in the dough, since this deal was beyond fantastic. (still catching my breath!)

36 feet, two slides on the cubs den (complete with entertainment center and double bunks on both sides. eight by nine play area not including bunks and entertainment center. Queen Master with double doors and tv console. Living room with full slide and queen sofa bed. Entertainment center with surround sound and patio speaker with 21 foot patio awning. Outside shower (hot and cold). Black on Stainless appliances. I feel so [i]lucky[/i].

Disney here we come. Now praying for a safe trip. (crossing self)

[This message has been edited by MommaBear (edited March 08, 2007).]

Hey MommaBear,
Congrats on the new trailer!
Would you believe that we haven't made the trip yet?
Although we've had our trailer for 2 seasons now I don't think hubby is really ready to tow from NH to Disney. We would have to use 2 weeks of vacation to do it. 6 of the days would be for travelling.
But.... I got him to commit to fly out of Boston so we can get a direct flight to Mickey's town . Looks like it might be JetBlue. Target date is June '08.
Enjoy!
Say hi to Mickey for me next time you go.
Shirley

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]
Although we've had our trailer for 2 seasons now [/b]

and??? (howz it going? Fill us in!!) Did y'all get your feet wet or what? [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

Quote:[b]I don't think hubby is really ready to tow from NH to Disney. We would have to use 2 weeks of vacation to do it. 6 of the days would be for travelling.
[/b]

Did I ever mention we made in under 36 hours to Orlando from Florida? That's not advice, that's just a fact. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/wink.gif[/img] Breaks were strictly "mil-spec". We could have made better time if we had avoided two stops at Wal-mart. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/tongue.gif[/img]

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b] Neither one of us towed before that's why we are waiting a year to go to Disney in 2006.

[/b]
awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww, it's 2007 now, and you're not going?? We'll be there soon......I'll say "hi" to Mickey....

Quote:Originally posted by leers:
[b] Our tent trailer isn't appropriate for winter camping. Need your trailer MommaBear.....LOL

[/b]

missed this first time around, it's been a while, but here goes:

Actually, our travel trailer isn't appropriate for winter camping either. It's winterized right now. My hubby uses it "cabin" style with the heat on, but it's usually too freezing out to roll out the slides (hard on gaskets) and no water or toilet in the winter, since, like I mentioned....[i]winterized[/i]. The connectors would freeze with water. Even with the heat running, it's get's to freezing fast when the heat is off. Needs to run almost constantly, so the breaker trips sometimes. (very sensitive for safety/fire reasons....it's designed that way).

So. We bought an "outfitter tent" with a wood stove and stove jack for the winter months. Basically hubby, lol, but I come along in the early fall and late spring. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/tongue.gif[/img] The boys do too, but now, small baby, no way. Too exposed, don't like baby smelling like birch, so, I'll pass this spring......

Hmmmmm....this is our *forth* trailer, caved and traded the last one off, since it got crowded despite two bedrooms, and two slides, because of the travel crib and a play yard. LOLOLOL.

New trailer floorplan (not the rv we bought, but almost identical):

[url="http://www.rvsearch.com/findrv/index.cfm/a-d/tc-36261/vid-266358/"]http://www.rvsearch.com/findrv/index.cfm/a-d/tc-36261/vid-266358/[/url]

there's a link to "more pictures". I'm telling ya, I wouldn't trade it for a [i]hotel room[/i]. It's MINE MINE MINE. I know who's been in the tub. Sat on the toilet. Slept in the bed. No packing/unpacking. My fridge. I can sit on the porch with a glass of vino....Listen to the rain piddle on the roof. Blast my surround sound. Watch my Dish.....

Even the travel crib is MINE...um...HERS!! [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

General Disclaimer: I am not offering advice in any manner or form. Just my tastes. I do not guarantee the accuracy, currentness or content of the link in this post. Individual [i]Mileage[/i] May Vary. Happy Trails. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]

Hi MommaBear,
It's been really great. We have had loads of fun camping in Maine & NH ( home state) and went as far as Lake George,NY. We've gone back and forth on Disney and we have decided when (June '08 ) it's the mode of transportation that I can't seem to get hubby to decide on. It's getting around that crazy DC area that's making us crazy when we start mapping our way to FL. If only we could win the lottery !LOL
Do you use your camper for other trips?

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:

[b] Did I ever mention we made in under 36 hours to Orlando from Florida? That's not advice, that's just a fact. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/wink.gif[/img] Breaks were strictly "mil-spec". We could have made better time if we had avoided two stops at Wal-mart. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/tongue.gif[/img]

[/b]

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]It's getting around that crazy DC area that's making us crazy when we start mapping our way to FL.[/b]

have you considered looping around the east coast (completely bypassing it) and driving through Indianna and down on through 65? Just think, you could make a side trip to camp in the Adirondacks, or Dutch Country! [i]Dollywood[/i]. Pigeon Forge. TVA. Have you ever camped on Chickamaugua Lake? Nickajack?

[url="http://www.lakegeorgervpark.com/index.cfm"]http://www.lakegeorgervpark.com/index.cfm[/url]

[url="http://www.tva.gov/river/recreation/camping.htm#chicka"]http://www.tva.gov/river/recreation/camping.htm#chicka[/url]

Quote:[b]Do you use your camper for other trips?[/b]

Weather permitting? Usually about every week. Or more. It's why we've never felt hesitant to trade up. We generally stage it at our summer place in Indiana. Honestly, tho, it's only possible since we've invested in an excellent tow vehicle. It takes the worry and sweat off trips. We almost forget we're towing. Our Dodge (96) half ton Ram Magnum was a good vehicle, but when towing a small RV like our Spirit of America (24 foot), it sounded like it was in high idle the whole way. Back end pitched down like a wet apron. And that means the front end [i]pitches up[/i]. That you have less control manuevering. Steering. Breaking. Turning. The tow vehicle, ideally should should be balanced all wheels evenly. Or at least I'd think it should be. Right after our first round trip to Florida, the transmission needed to be rebuilt.

Of course, the truck had probably 120,000 miles on it when we returned, but I couldn't help but wonder about the timing. Hubby nursed it all the way to Florida on *that* trip. At the time, I thought *all* tow vehicles whined like that when towing. I've come to find it needent be so. And what a relief that is. It makes for a much more relaxed trip.

But prior to that, prior to replacing the transmission, we replaced/repaired quite a bit on it as well. Brakes, suspension, hoses, belts, fluids, tires, cooling system, etc....We even purchased "helper springs". In retrospect, I'm not sure I'd get the "helper springs" again, since I can now appreciate having a vehicle in which all parts are engineered to coordinate with the others. ie: does having "helper springs" contribute to my possibly "overdriving" the ability of other parts, like brakes, that weren't intended to handle the weight "helper springs" facilitate me loading/towing? KWIM?

Prior to purchasing our current tow vehicle (F-350 Super Duty), we were squeemish about taking certain trips (ie: mountains, trips west, etc....) Now, it's just a matter of where we want to go. And of course, relatively new vehicle or not, we *still* prep it mechanically. We weren't due to change the trans fluid, serpentine belt, or hoses, but we did anyway, since we're going to soon be travelling a long distance again. Rather not find myself on a back road in Georgia looking for a mechanic or waiting for a double tow. I rather just concentrate on my job as navigator and concierge. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/cool.gif[/img] KWIM? Oh, and back roads. I can't tell you just how important having a tow vehicle with four wheel drive is, even if it's only to help work you past a muddy patch, backing in.

What are you currently towing with? It would greatly affect the route *I* took. Especially if it meant having to keep pace with traffic.

No advice, just wondering, I don't guarantee the accuracy of the links. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/smile.gif[/img]

We are towing with a 1/2 ton Chevy Tahoe.
Hubby's choice to limit weight of camper we bought.
It does the job w/ our 25' camper but I would not want to tow anything heavier.
I do wish we has a 3/4 ton. Extra power would be good on long hills.

Quote:Originally posted by Rosie's Mom:
[b]I do wish we has a 3/4 ton. Extra power would be good on long hills.
[/b]

We bought a 1 ton Super Duty. If we hadn't, we couldn't be towing the travel trailer we purchased this month. If you find you like rv'ing, trading up will probably be inevitable. No advice, but if [b]I[/b] we're in the market to purchase a new tow vehicle, I'd overbuy in the towing capacity department.

We're trading off my Jeep Liberty this month and I can't decide if I want a 1/2 ton van or a one ton. The money is about the same. I can't stand mini-vans, so it's a full size twelve seater I guess. Tell me, have you purchased (or did your trailer come with) a patio enclosure? I'm thinking it might be something I'd enjoy since we tend to eat outside the camper more than inside. I'm just wondering if it's a little too much hype and not really as useful as it looks.

We always set up a dome tent outside on extended stays to hold items like jackets, shoes, supplies, and a [i]cot[/i]. Privacy. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/wink.gif[/img] Just lending some camping experience here. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img] Ours has a little window on top so you can see the stars.

Quote:Originally posted by MommaBear:
[b]

Tell me, have you purchased (or did your trailer come with) a patio enclosure? I'm thinking it might be something I'd enjoy since we tend to eat outside the camper more than inside. I'm just wondering if it's a little too much hype and not really as useful as it looks.

We always set up a dome tent outside on extended stays to hold items like jackets, shoes, supplies, and a [i]cot[/i]. Privacy. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/wink.gif[/img] Just lending some camping experience here. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img] Ours has a little window on top so you can see the stars.

[/b]

Hi MommaBear,
We thought about this. In fact my cousin and I were trying to get the guys to buy them for our campers. Here's what we learned. They are good for long stays. We do 2 1 week trips and many week ends so we decided that it might not cost effective in money or aggrevation for us. They are alot of work to put up.
You also have to install something on your camper that they snap on to. Not too sure if I want holes in the camper. They are tricky to put up but like anything some people have no problem with them. I try not to give my husband any extra aggrevation.LOL
I am hoping to buy some kind of shelter that screen sides can be attached to for times when we have a site large enough to put one up for the table . I like your idea of the tent as a storage place.
What month do begin camping?
Our first planned trip is 3rd week of June for a few days at the ocean. It gets windy there so we will probably not even use the awning.
Hoping for a nice spring w/o floods this year.
Shirley

MB: We camp quite frequently at Harrison Bay State Park on Lake Chickamauga. Is this where you go? I was reading about "the loop around the eastern side" to avoid the DC area. That was a great suggestion as we have done this many times. I just wanted you to be aware that the Atlanta area can be just as bad or sometimes even worse than driving through DC. We plan our trips as to what hour we arrive in these traffic challenged cities. Always avoid rush hour!!! we usually try to pass through 2 hours before and 2 hours after.

Another place of interest is Chattanooga. The aquarium is fun but we had an awful time trying to find a parking space when we were towing our boat....

We usually rent a very large houseboat (last one was 63' with 4 bedrooms) on Dale Hollow Lake in Tennessee/Kentucky. The boat is big enough to accomadate 10-12 people. most of the time it is just us 4 and the in-laws. We leave the camper at home and take the boat and kayaks. The Disney thing gets old after a while.

[url="http://www.hendrickscreekresort.com/houseboats2-70.html"]http://www.hendrickscreekresort.com/houseboats2-70.html[/url]

PP

[This message has been edited by perpetually perplexed (edited March 18, 2007).]

If any of you are from the northeast and trying to avoid the DC area., skip I95 altogether. We drove the loop around DC at Thanksgiving and it was HORRIBLE. My husband LOATHES I95 in general...way too many cars! I95 is so overrated.

We drive every year from NY to Florida and we take I81 through PA and VA and somewhere in NC we get on I77, then I26 then eventually on I95, I believe somewhere in SC. The only traffic problem we've ever encountered is in the Charlotte NC area...boat watchers gazing at Lake Norman can cause traffic.

It's a much prettier ride that way in my opinion, very mountainous, don't recommend in the winter months. A lot less travelled. You won't have any tolls! It will take you about the same amount of time!

Quote:Originally posted by Timmysmom:
[b]If any of you are from the northeast and trying to avoid the DC area., skip I95 altogether. We drove the loop around DC at Thanksgiving and it was HORRIBLE. My husband LOATHES I95 in general...way too many cars! I95 is so overrated.

[/b]

nonono....I was talking driving through ohio, michigan (?), Indiana, Kentucky, Tenn, Georgia, THEN Florida. [img]http://uumor.pair.com/nutalle2/peanutallergy/biggrin.gif[/img]

[i]That loop[/i]. Will come back to answer other posts....