Finding Our RV

 

We took our first RV trip in September 2021. We rented a 31-foot Coachman from Outdoorsy and traveled four hours to Pigeon Forge, TN.

While the first 24-hours were a bit uncertain, we made a few adjustments and discovered we loved the lifestyle. 

We returned four days later and immediately started looking for an RV of our own.

Our RV Hot Buttons

We knew from that first experience that Geoff wanted a diesel pusher. Not only does it provide extra horse-power for climbing hills, but it also provides a quiet ride (the engine is in the back). In addition, it gave us the option to pull a vehicle, if we wanted a car to drive into town from the campsite.

We also knew we wanted to purchase a used vehicle. In part because of the price, but also, new RVs require a breaking-in period to work out all the kinks. We would much prefer to know the kinks ahead of time. 

And we wanted a larger coach, between 35 and 40 feet. We have two large dogs and they take up a lot of space!

We had some specific ideas about floorplans too. We knew we wanted two couches rather than a recliner or theater seating. We preferred a dinette with bench seating rather than chairs. And we liked front seats that swivel to provide additional seating in the living room.

We wanted a queen-size bed that allowed us to walk around each side. And we wanted the option to go to the bedroom for a snooze while on the road (that is, the bed is usable with the slides in).

And while we do not need an extra half-bath, we like having the commode separate from the shower.

We immediately began scouring the listings on RV Trader and stalking local RV dealerships. But as soon as we found one we liked, we discover it already sold. Apparently, a lot of folks are looking to escape.

After three weeks of constant searching, we were ready to give up and try again in the spring. I took one last gander at the RV Trader website. I had searched just one hour before and found nothing. 

This post caught my attention. The RV had ALL of our needs and many of our wants. Perhaps it was meant to be(?!) I contacted the seller and made arrangements to visit the next day.

Our RV Purchase

While negotiations took the better part of a week (nothing is easy, is it?) it was well worth it!

Not only is the RV a 40-foot diesel pusher, but the seller also included a hydraulic motorcycle lift (we aren't sure we are going to take Geoff's bike, but it's nice to have options) AND a car dolly! Now we can tow a car as we travel the country.

The priceless part of the deal, however, is that the seller is a retired truck driver! He knows diesel engines and is willing to teach Geoff the ropes. We rely heavily on YouTube videos... but hands-on instruction with an experienced mechanic is pure gold.

The 2000 Holiday Rambler Imperial Class A motorhome is definitely an older coach, but not dated. The interior design is what I would call traditional decor with neutral tones. Not a fashion statement, but fits my style just fine.

The floorplan is exactly what we wanted. And so far, the dogs have acclimated well.

Not Perfect - but Perfect for Us

The older rig does have a few drawbacks. Cupholders are restricted to the front seats. We "only" have two smart televisions (which is one too many for us). USB ports are non-existent. And we must manually open and close the outside awnings. 

ALL minor imperfections as far as we are concerned.

The coach comes with a GREAT backstory, but I will wait and share that another day.

The odometer reads 28,500 miles, but we plan to add to that number in a very short while.

At times we wonder if we have lost our minds. After all, we preach (and try to model) practicality, responsibility, and developing a sense of duty. Buying an RV to travel the country seems a bit foolhardy and selfish.

But if we don't chase this dream now... when will we?  We are quickly running out of somedays...